Over the past week, I have had the wonderful opportunity to visit and enjoy numerous events happening in our community. It seems this time of year there is always something going on and I enjoy being out in the district spending time with the fine citizens I meet along the way.
I attended the Howell-Oregon County Chamber of Commerce Legislative Breakfast on Oct. 2. I really appreciate the Chamber hosting this event and I was very impressed with the large turnout. It was a great opportunity for me to share this year’s legislative accomplishments and to net with local business people.
That was a busy day in the community. I also attended the West Plains Rotary Club Luncheon, which was held at the Greater Ozarks Center for Advanced Technology (GOCAT). This is a great facility, which I am proud to say myself and fellow lawmakers played a role in securing funding for the technology center. One of the governor’s priorities is jobs and job training. This facility will put our area in an excellent position for future funding for new jobs. It was a pleasure attend the luncheon with Allison Wilson, general manager and managing editor of the West Plains Daily Quill.
On Sept. 26, I was able to attend the dedication and ribbon cutting of the Hass-Darr Hall at Missouri State University – West Plains. This 18,000 square-foot facility formerly served as the West Plains Post Office, but now promises to house important campus services, such as the Darr Honors Program, the Carol Silvey Student Union, tutoring services and additional classroom space. I am excited to see the University continue to grow, while it works to meet the needs of the students throughout our community.
I encourage all art students in the 33rd District to speak with their teachers about submitting art work for the 2019 Senate Art Exhibit. Entries are due Nov. 30. Winners will be recognized at an awards ceremony at the Capitol building in March and the art work will be displayed in the Capitol throughout 2019. More information can be found at www.maea.net/senate_art_exhibit.
As always, I appreciate it when groups from around Missouri and from our community back home come to visit me at the Capitol. If you would like to arrange a time to come and visit me in Jefferson City, or if you ever have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact my Capitol office at (573) 751-1882.