Vicky Hartzler: “Father's Day was this past Sunday, and I am very thankful that I had an opportunity to spend some time with my father…”

“Father's Day was this past Sunday, and I am very thankful that I had an opportunity to spend some time with my father, with my sister and her family. Everybody was there. I had an opportunity to thank him for the role that he has meant and continues to mean in our lives, and to thank him for that. It was also an opportunity for my daughter and I to do something special for my husband. But, you know, Father's Day also presents us with the great opportunity to focus on the importance of fathers in this country. The presence of a father has such a tremendous impact on the life of each and every child and adult in America. A father serves to provide a sense of protection, guidance, and above all, love for their child. Fathers also push their children to pursue their dreams and to never give up. I think of my own father, Ted Zellmer, and the profound influence that he has had on my life. Not only has he taught me the meaning of hard work and dedication, but he has supported me throughout my entire life to where I am today, representing the good people of Missouri. That's what good fathers do and why they are so important. We learn a lot from fathers--whether it's how to drive a tractor and shoot a free throw, like my dad showed me, or how to fix an engine or play baseball. Dads teach us. They also show us how to live by example. Children learn the importance of work and dedication to providing for the family when they see their dad leave for his job each day.…”