House commemorates Lincoln with music, humor

The House got to experience the musical talents of a number of its members today, as part of the chamber’s annual Lincoln Day Program. A vocal group consisting of Reps. Kelley Packer, R-McCammon; Luke Malek, R-Coeur d’Alene; John McCrostie, D-Boise; and House Appropriations Committee Secretary Christi Cox performed “Heal Our Land,” to the piano accompaniment of Rep. Wendy Horman, R-Idaho Falls. After the program, Speaker Scott Bedke, R-Oakley, told the House, “I look forward to these, I look forwarding to hearing you all share your talents with us.”

Today’s ceremony also included an array of state representatives sharing stories and humor about President Abraham Lincoln, including Rep. Linden Bateman, R-Idaho Falls, in an antique stovepipe hat bedecked with stars and stripes; Rep. Clark Kauffman, R-Filer, served as narrator.

Both houses hold commemorative Lincoln ceremonies each year; the Senate’s is scheduled for tomorrow.