Thankful to Serve

Happy Thanksgiving to the great people who call the 26th Senatorial District home. Since session concluded, I’ve enjoyed attending multiple community events, touring area schools, celebrating the selfless service of our brave veterans and watching your impressive deer harvest posts on social media. We truly have so much to be grateful for as Americans and Missourians, and I could not be more thankful for the honor of serving our community in the Missouri Senate. 

While I thoroughly enjoy working with my colleagues to pass meaningful legislation in Jefferson City, spending time in the district visiting with the people who make our district extraordinary is my passion. I will share a few of these highlights in this week’s column. Remember, if you are planning a civic event, please invite me. The more I can learn about our community’s unique needs and issues, the better I can represent you at the State Capitol. 

A Salute to Service

On Veterans Day, I had the privilege of joining nearly 100 “freedom-loving” residents of Franklin County for the annual Veterans Appreciation Dinner. During the event, we honored my good friend Sgt. Robert Schulte, a decorated Army veteran who served in both Iraq and Afghanistan. I salute all those who have answered the call to national service and have laced up their boots for freedom!

Senator Brown salutes veterans and the service of Robert Schulte.

Parental Supports

My three beautiful children are the motivating force behind my fierce advocacy for parental rights. On Oct. 1, I joined other lawmakers at an event sponsored by Americans for Equal Shared Parenting to celebrate the passage of Senate Bill 35. In effect since Aug. 28, this new law authorizes responsible, fitting parents to have equal parenting time and shared custody of their child. This policy has been years in the making, so I’m thankful to see it finally cross the legislative finish line.

Senator Brown explains the merits of SB 35 to equal parenting advocates.

Showing You the Show-Me State

On Nov. 13, I was thrilled to speak to some eager second graders from Clearview Elementary School and teach them how a bill becomes a law. I love visiting my son’s school and encouraging aspiring young students to aim high and stay involved in our democracy.

Clearview Elementary students learn about the policymaking process from Sen. Brown.

The Future Is Bright at State Tech

Back in September, I had the opportunity to tour State Technical College of Missouri in Linn and see the innovative ways they are preparing young people for future success in the workforce. We are extremely fortunate to have this state-of-the-art college in our community, and it is easy to see why they continually rank as one of the top trade schools in the country.

Senator Brown tours State Tech on Sept. 19.

Business Is Open

I was honored to attend the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony of Schnucks Oak Grove Village in Sullivan on Oct. 25. This family-owned business has been providing quality foods and services at over 100 stores since its inception in 1939 in north St. Louis.

Senator Brown congratulates the team at Schnucks during its grand opening ceremony.

It is an honor serving those who call the 26th Senatorial District home. If you need assistance with navigating state government or the legislative process, please reach out by calling 573-751-3678 or emailing Ben.Brown@senate.mo.gov.