JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Gov. Mike Parson kicked off a week with the delivery of a 40-foot Christmas tree that now adorns the front lawn of the People’s Mansion where Missouri’s chief executive resides.
The Governor’s Mansion itself has been a flurry of activity as crews decorate it and prepare for the annual lighting ceremony on Friday.
Christmas decorations are going up at the People’s Mansion in preparation for the Candlelight Tours this weekend. pic.twitter.com/foTwhG4tK1
— Governor Mike Parson (@GovParsonMO) November 26, 2018
THANK YOU to our incredible staff who have brought Christmas to the Governor’s Office & People’s Mansion! We cannot wait to show off all their hard work tomorrow at the start of the Candlelight Tours. #DownHomeMissouriChristmas pic.twitter.com/63cwYZyhnq
— Governor Mike Parson (@GovParsonMO) November 29, 2018
This week, Parson also called on State Auditor Nicole Galloway to investigate the Missouri Department of Public Safety’s Director Officer after an internal audit raised some concerns.
Parson requests audit of Department of Public Safety Director’s Office
…That’s why under these circumstances we have requested a state audit.
Director Karsten is doing a great job leading @MoPublicSafety & has a clear understanding about the importance of keeping government accountable to the people of Missouri.
— Governor Mike Parson (@GovParsonMO) November 28, 2018
He also signed an executive order declaring the first week of December as Computer Science Education Week.
“In 2017, Missouri had approximately 10,000 computer science jobs left unfilled. Recognizing Computer Science Education Week is a further step Missouri is taking to encourage and promote these fields and secure more of these jobs as we continue to improve our economy and provide Missouri students with the skills needed to secure high-paying jobs,” said Parson.
Governor Parson announces December 3-9 as Computer Science Education Week
Parson signed an executive order on Friday declaring that state offices would be closed on December 24, 2018.
“As we begin the Christmas season with the lighting of the People’s Mansion, let us take time to rejoice, give thanks, and help those in need. May we also pause to reflect on the important relationships that we have in our lives. For it is our family and friends close to our hearts who make this a joyful season. With Christmas Eve falling on a Monday, I have signed Executive Order 18-11 declaring state offices to be closed on December 24, 2018, so that our state employees will have time to celebrate and be with their loved ones. From my family to yours, we wish everyone peace, joy, goodwill, and a very Merry Christmas,” said Parson.
Alisha Shurr was a reporter for The Missouri Times and The Missouri Times Magazine. She joined The Missouri Times in January 2018 after working as a copy editor for her hometown newspaper in Southern Oregon. Alisha is a graduate of Kansas State University.