First, we send our thanks and good cheer to Sen. Grassley’s office. He was receptive to our Iowa members earlier this week, and we are told he will allow S 3250 SAFER Act to move forward. The bill is a major step in the right direction to processing an estimated 400,000 rape kits currently collecting dust either at the crime labs or in local law enforcement agencies and will force them to use existing government grants as intended when originally authorized. Read more at ConcernedWomen.org. You may wish to call Sen. Grassley’s office 202-224-3744 or drop him and e-mail and thank him for his help in making women safer.CWA of Iowa is grateful for leaders like Congressman Steve King who took the time to honor the birth of Christ in a video Christmas card to Iowans. With the heart of a joyful giver, Rep. King is asking you to let him know what you might like on your Christmas list from D.C. this year. Use the Hashtag #DCWishList and tweet it to the Congressman and his staff and perhaps we might be so fortunate to receive some of the items from your wish list in the coming year. It’s been a busy, busy year. It seems the battles rage with greater force as the principalities war with one another (Ephesians 6:12). Yet, we know that Jesus Christ came to earth as a babe in the manger for the purpose of dying on the cross that we might be forgiven of our sins and live with Him in eternity if we simply repent and honor Him with our daily lives. Christianity is the one faith that not only offers forgiveness of sins simply because we ask, but God also promised us a way out before we sin if we call on the Name of Jesus. Let us remember that this year. Let us call on Him to give thanks, to find forgiveness, to ask for direction, to grant courage, and to seek protection. Let us remember with full assurance He will never leave us nor forsake us, and He longs to bless us if we’ll live obediently. We have much to do in the New Year! We’re starting 2013 in full force. Please save the date to join us at the Airport Holiday Inn, January 21, 2012, for a premier evening event with Juda Myers who was conceived in a gang rape and celebrates that her mother did not give her the death penalty for the sins of her father. Then plan to join Juda and CWA at the State House for our Annual Day on the Hill, January, 22, 2013, with a special emphasis on the unfortunate 40-year anniversary of Roe v. Wade. Plan to pick up your Encourage-A-Legislator packet. Merry CHRISTmas and may the Lord richly bless your home throughout the New Year. CWA of Iowa Steering Committee Tamara Scott State Director Linda Chisolm Administrative Director Matt Floyd Legislative Liaison Denise Bubeck State Outreach Coordinator Legislative Liaison & 535 Lobbyist Diana Cummins-Bates Webmaster and Grassroots Joselyn Williams Social Media Kay Ealy EAL Prayer Chaplain Linda Holub 535 Lobbyist