Summer is flying by, and now that we’re in August most members of Congress have headed back to their hometowns for the District Work Period. This time allows me to travel extensively around the district to meet with families, groups, and businesses and hear what is going well in the Third District and what areas can be improved upon. Your input is invaluable, and I always look forward to this time to connect and catch up with the Missourians I serve in Congress. 

One of my first stops during the District Work Period was the Callaway County Chamber’s Teacher Appreciation Breakfast. It was an honor to speak to teachers and business owners about the upcoming school year and thank these teachers for everything they do for our students. Teachers have always been valuable members of our communities, but the pandemic and subsequent challenges have created an even deeper appreciation for the work they do and lengths they go for their students. With the start of the 2021 school year coming right up, it was great to be able to check in with so many teachers and discuss how we can make this school year both productive and safe for all Missouri students, teachers and families. 

Checking in with small business owners around the Third District has always been an important part of my job, but especially now with my new role as the leading Republican on the Small Business Committee. One of my recent meetings was a visit to Newco Enterprises in St. Charles, a beverage service company started by two families in 1974. This Missouri small business has created about 130 Third District jobs and serves nearly every state in America as well as Canada and parts of Europe. Like so many of the small businesses I visited this summer, they are a prime example of a small business that has created a widespread, loyal customer base through hard work and great customer service that only a small business can deliver. 

And throughout this summer, we are celebrating our Bicentennial and 200 wonderful years of Missouri statehood. Last week, Governor Parson officially declared August 10^th to be Bicentennial Statehood Day and there were celebrations of all kinds statewide. The Missouri National Guard Band performed on the capitol steps, bicentennial trees were planted on the capitol lawn, a Missouri Bicentennial commemorative stamp was unveiled, and Missourians of all ages enjoyed ice cream cones at Central Dairy in Jefferson City. While the actual anniversary was a great day, the celebrations are not over yet. For information on upcoming events where you can celebrate this historic Missouri milestone, please visit Missouri2021.org.

Summer in Missouri is one of my favorite times of year. It’s the perfect opportunity to get out and enjoy the warm (sometimes too warm!) weather and take in all our area has to offer. And this year – our state’s 200^th birthday – is an extra special moment to pause and reflect on how blessed we are to be Missourians. There’s nowhere else in the world I’d rather be than right here in the Third District.