The curious activities at the Capitol create an atmosphere of political adventure.

Monday ended the ethics committee persecution of the Speaker of the House. During the last seven months the chairman of the committee attempted to use her platform to discredit the speaker. Her prolonged attempt failed when an overwhelming bipartisan majority finally voted to dismiss any allegations of wrongdoing. The outcome left some scars and has for the last seven months distracted the membership from more important work.

An early dismissal of our legislative session on Monday gave the Governor his last opportunity to socially engage with the legislators and their families. The annual BBQ was held on the lawn of the Governor’s Mansion and is always a well-attended event. Gov. Parson and First Lady Teresa are personable and gracious host. I wish them the best as they plan for their retirement from state government.

Tuesday morning began with a Tourism committee meeting. At this late stage in the session there was only a promise that our work would make it across the finish line. The work of the committee continued through the week as the members continued to doubt the value of the back door promises. A lot or a little could happen in the last weeks of session.

At one o’clock Tuesday, Speaker Dean Plocher introduced a new member to the hall of famous Missourians. A bronze bust on a granite pedestal will join 50 other memorials celebrating two centuries of celebrated Missourians. The latest entry is “Stormin’ Norman,” the University of Missouri legendary basketball coach Norm Stewart. Family and fans filled the Chamber as the aging basketball coach shared his stories and appreciation for the recognition.

It is not unusual for the legislators to be lobbied by a variety of advocacy groups. Tuesday was Grocer’s Day at the Capitol. The visits with the various industries and organization can fill the voids of available time slots. The evening ended with the second social of the week, a planned gathering of Republican members of the House of Representatives.

One of my favorite activities in this role as State Representative is leading tours in the Capitol. Wednesday the 3rd and 4th grade students from Immaculate Conception parochial school in Loose Creek began their tour with the long hike to the top of the Capitol dome.

A Missouri State Park docent shared some of the history of the building before bringing the students to the House Chambers. The House was moments away from beginning the morning session when the students were invited to enjoy the unique perspective from the side gallery. A quick trip across the hall from the Chambers, the students entered the Thomas Hart Benton gallery and a chance interaction with the Missouri Lt. Governor Mike Kehoe.

The finale of their visit was the students’ presentation of a framed certificate and a medallion acknowledging the U.S. Tiger Foundation. It will be one of my life’s treasured moment to receive the honor from the students.

The Lt. Governor’s time in the Capitol was extended on Wednesday for the “Buy Missouri” annual array of business exhibits and awards. “Buy Missouri” is an initiative created to recognize and promote Missouri companies and manufacturers to the public, and strengthen our state’s economy.

And all the while we do our work in the House, the Senate continues yet another filibuster. I take a moment to sit in the gallery of the Senate to listen to a Senator read from a book. It’s ironic, democracy and the majority rule is held hostage by a group that calls itself the Freedom Caucus.

The work of the House may never be realized because of the inaction of the Senate. Rumors fill the halls of a special session to complete the work the Senate has inconveniently stalled.

I write this after a quick in and out from Thursday morning’s session. The House journal reports of changes in membership of the Ethics Committee. We’ve come full circle in one week.

I look forward to hearing from you. Please email me with any questions or concerns @ bruce.sassmann@house.mo.gov or call Jill Ryals in the office at 573-751-6668.