The old whistle lets off some steam. The Veterans of Foreign Wars present the colors. The crowd is silent. Voices sing. Everyone stands with their hats and hands over their hearts, facing the flag. We are respectful, proud, and united. The heart of the Midwest is at the 59th annual thresher’s event in Rosebud. Kids, big enough to reach the clutch of the antique tractors participate in the parade. Old-timers share their skills and their stories.

On the same Saturday afternoon, the 4H’ers bring their hand-raised livestock to the Belle fair. Every year volunteers give of themselves to continue a community tradition. A familiar auctioneer interacts with the bidders. Buyers give a premium in support of the kids and the community. The 4-H motto comes to life, “to make the best better”

After Church on Sunday, families from St. Alexander travel to Jefferson City to visit the Missouri State Capitol. The People’s house is open to the public. 200 years of Missouri history is on display. A spontaneous national anthem sweetens the quiet sounds of the whispering gallery. The steep staircase continues to the top of the dome. A doorway at the top opens to views of the sprawling panorama of a river town. God and country are the focus of the day.

County fairs and church picnics rule the summer. Fish sandwiches and fried chicken draw the crowds. Auctioneers volunteer to sell livestock and handmade quilts. The families come together as a community in a way that is felt but not easily explained. That’s the way we do it in the heartland.

I am honored to be a representative of the people in rural Missouri. I hope we have a chance to visit this summer. I hope you’ll call me to arrange a tour of the Capitol. My office number is 573-751-1344, and my email is Bruce. Sassmann@house.mo.gov. I hope we continue to keep the heartbeat alive.

Working on your behalf.