Those final words of the classic poem, “T’was the Night Before Christmas,” also known as “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” never fail to evoke a feeling of wonder that goes with the holiday season. I have felt the satisfaction of spending time with family and friends while surrounded by homemade treats combined with the sounds of classic holiday specials on television. However, once the hustle and bustle have slowed, we are left with the good fortune of celebrating both the reason and season with family and friends. In the end, that is the greatest gift each of us could each receive.

During this holiday season, I’d like to take the opportunity to say thank you to the citizens of the 21st Senatorial District. I am honored to serve as your voice in the Missouri Senate and to continue to work toward goals to benefit the 21st District and all of Missouri. Education is a priority that I will continue to stress, including higher education funding, and the issue of school accreditation and student transfers.

I look forward to taking on a leadership role within the Midwestern Higher Education Compact. In fact, I visited Minneapolis the week before Christmas to assume the responsibilities as treasurer of the compact to better serve the higher education needs in the state of Missouri.  Additionally, I am also privileged to be able to work with the Missouri Veterans Commission and the amazing things they accomplish for the many veterans who call our state home.

The new year promises to be a proactive and exciting one, as we’ll all face a long list of legislative priorities we want to accomplish. The Second Regular Session of the 97th General Assembly will get underway Jan. 8, 2014, and my colleagues and I will again pick up the mantle of considering legislation to improve life and business in Missouri.

Thank you again for the chance to serve you. Thank you for the many citizens I have been able to visit. Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of the future of our state.

From my family at home and my family in the Capitol office, I want to wish each and every one of you a safe and happy holiday season. Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night.