Show-Me Autumn
Although you couldn’t tell it by the warm days we’ve had lately, summer has ended and fall is upon us. Before we know it, Missouri’s landscape will be painted in hues of red, yellow and orange. Harvest-themed decorations are appearing everywhere, and a parade of ghosts and goblins will soon arrive on our doorsteps in search of sweet treats.
It’s hard to imagine a more pleasant season than autumn in the Ozarks. The days get shorter, the nights are cool and there is a briskness in the air. It’s a time of celebration as farmers look back on their labors and take satisfaction in the bounty they’ve brought forth. It’s also a time for rituals that bind generations and strengthen families.
Hay is mostly cut, corn harvest is well under way and the soybean crop is beginning to come in. Before long, they’ll be picking grapes at vineyards and walnut hulling stations have sprung up throughout Missouri. Once the work is done, we’ll mark the season with fall festivals and harvest celebrations. These months provide constant reminders that we are truly blessed.
For many families, this is a season to revel in their children’s accomplishments. High school and college football seasons are in full swing. We cheer on our young athletes and take pride in the dedication of budding musicians as they perform with the marching band. The memories formed watching our children grow remain with us our entire lives. These days will not pass again, so I hope everyone takes time to be there for their kids.
It’s also the beginning of hunting season in Missouri. Weeks of preparation, scouting the woods, hanging tree stands and sighting in rifles will all culminate in a few short days that create lifelong memories. As we look back on our lives, it is often these simple moments we spend at the edge of a field or along a clearing in the woods that touch at our heartstrings the most. Missouri is fortunate to have nearly unlimited opportunities for sportsmen, and our Conservation Department is among the best in the nation. If you’d like more information about enjoying these fall outdoors traditions, please visit mdc.mo.gov.
I encourage everyone to get out and enjoy all that Missouri has to offer this autumn. For information about fall festivals, and other events, log onto the Missouri Division of Tourism’s website at www.visitmo.com. Here, you’ll find a calendar of events, as well as listings of lodging, attractions and other destinations throughout the Show-Me State. You can also request a free copy of the Missouri Travel Guide. The Missouri Department of Conservation’s website also provides updates on fall colors. You’ll learn the best times and places to see the annual kaleidoscope of leaves and foliage at nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/fall-colors.
As you plan your own fall festivities, I hope you’ll consider including Missouri-grown products on your table. The Missouri Department of Agriculture offers a listing of home-grown producers at missourigrownusa.com. For a complete listing of Missouri wineries, including fall celebrations at the vineyards, visit the Missouri Grape and Wine Board at missouriwine.org.
These are just a few state resources to assist you in planning a fall outing or activity. We are fortunate to experience the change of seasons here in Missouri, and fall is the most glorious season of all. I hope we can all find time to get out and enjoy it. We’ve earned it.
It’s my honor to serve as your senator for the 16th District. If you have questions or need any assistance, please call my office at 573-751-5713 or log onto my webpage at https://www.senate.mo.gov/brown for more information.