Newly elected U.S. Rep. Vicky Hartzler is headed to Washington this week - not to take office, but to learn about the place.
Hartzler, a Republican, defeated longtime Democratic Rep. Ike Skelton in the Nov. 2 elections. She won't officially replace him until January.
But Hartzler is going to Congress this week for new member orientation. She'll get an office and participate in the Republican leadership elections for the House.
Hartzler says she plans to meet soon with leaders from Fort Leonard Wood and Whiteman Air Force Base - both of which are located in west-central Missouri's 4th Congressional District. She says she wants to hear their concerns and suggestions for strengthening national security and improving conditions for troops.