Remarking that it was his first time "back on the trail" after recent open heart surgery, Lt. Gov. Mike Parson was the featured speaker Saturday for the Moniteau County Republican Club Lincoln Day Dinner.
Lt. Gov. Parson was elected Missouri state representative in 2002. He lived in Polk County, where he had been sheriff, after being an investigator for the sheriff's department, following several years as a deputy sheriff. He started on his law enforcement career in the U.S. Army, where he served as a military police officer. He was later elected Missouri state senator. In 2016, he ran a hard campaign to win the chance to run for Missouri lieutenant governor - a race which he won.
Speaking of a reporter who called after he won the race for lieutenant governor, he said, "I'm not going to gloat." Instead, he talked about the direction the Republicans Party should take, now that it is in control of Missouri state government.
"Responsibility of government is on our shoulders today," Parson said. He went on to say it is time to bring back the core of the party - religion, moral values and love of country should be at the forefront of every decision made. The main concern of many Missourians is the overreach of government, especially in regulations about values, prayer and the flag.
"This election year is about the next generation," Parson said. "Our job is not over. Politicians always worry about themselves and the next election. Statesmen worry about the next generation."
He said that what the forefathers did was to preserve the freedom for the American people. He then went on to recognize veterans in the audience, and commented that only one percent serve in the military. "This is the first time in more than half a century that both the governor and lieutenant governor are former military," Parson said. His object is to help make Eric Greitens the best governor, by Republicanism and Conservatism. Parson commented that some would think that it is a real since of achievement to step up and take the oath of office. "It was one of the most humbling experiences I've ever had," he said. "It has never been about myself. It's always been about Missouri. The office is about the people and the state."
He also said that former Rep. Kenny Jones is one his best friends. He met him when they were both serving as sheriff in different counties, and later served with him in the Missouri House.
The Lincoln Day event was held at Centennial Hall facility at the Moniteau County Fairgrounds. Tom Huhmann prepared the meal. The Republican of the Year plaque was presented to Judge Peggy Richardson. Winner of the drawing of the traveling George and Barbara Bush House slippers was Jamestown kindergartner Isaiah Heimericks, proud caretaker of the rotating door prize for the next year. He is a cousin of last year's winner, Landon Leonard, St. Louis.
Following the welcome, and the Pledge of Allegiance, the Sounds of Joy provided entertainment. The California High School vocal musical group sang "The Star-Spangled Banner" at the beginning of the event. For the entertainment portion, the group sang "Freedom," "Sixteen Tons," "The Missouri Waltz." The group finished its performance with "Praise His Holy Name."
Republican Club President Sarah Jones introduced the Republican of the Year by reading many of the person's selflessness acts and accomplishments, attempting to keep the audience in suspense.
One of the first clues was that the recipient was originally from Syracuse, Missouri. One of the final clues was that the person donated a kidney to a complete stranger - narrowing the possibilities down to one - Circuit Judge Peggy Richardson.
As she was presented with the award, family members who had been waiting in the back came forward. The group included all but two of her siblings and many nieces and nephews. Richardson said she really appreciated being presented the award, especially since she was the one who started the Republican of the Year award. Richardson was recently appointed to the office of the third District 26 circuit judge. She served as associate circuit judge for several years before being appointed to her new job by former Gov. Jay Nixon.
Following the bestowing of the honor of Republican of the Year, a live auction was held.