Rep. Onder Newsletter: District Wrap-Up!

MUNIBIT - DOWNTOWN SAINT CHARLES

This past week, I had a great conversation with Randy Schilling about his background as an entrepreneur in Saint Charles. Randy is the founder of Munibit, a platform that helps local governments better manage their operations, and leads OPO Startups, an entrepreneurship and innovation center housed in the historic Old Post Office in downtown Saint Charles. We also discussed the important role OPO Startups plays in supporting local entrepreneurs, helping Missourians turn their ideas into successful businesses, and ensuring our community continues to benefit from the investment and growth happening throughout Saint Charles.

MAIN STREET - DOWNTOWN SAINT CHARLES

Exciting progress is taking shape across the City of Saint Charles, and it was great to join Mayor Dan Borgmeyer and State Rep. Colin Wellenkamp for a firsthand look at some of the new developments underway along Main Street! I also had the opportunity to speak with the hardworking Missourians who are helping bring the C3 project to life, an effort focused on improving our infrastructure, bringing more foot traffic to local businesses, and laying the groundwork for continued and responsible growth in Saint Charles.

JEFFERSON COUNTY FARM BUREAU ANNUAL DINNER - DESOTO 

I am grateful I had the opportunity to speak at the Jefferson County Farm Bureau Annual Dinner at LaChance Winery in DeSoto and spend time with the farmers whose hard work helps feed our local communities and Americans across the country. I was especially glad to catch up with my friend Mike Huskey, whose family owns a “Century Farm,” a designation recognizing farms that have remained in the same family for at least 100 years. Families like the Huskeys represent generations of hard work, dedication, and a real commitment to sustaining Missouri agriculture.

ST. ANTHONY’S CHURCH - HIGH RIDGE

It was an honor to visit St. Anthony’s Church in High Ridge, Missouri, where I learned more about The James II Project from its founder, Karin Kostich, and met the incredible team working alongside her to support local veterans and community members through some of life’s most difficult challenges. It was inspiring to see firsthand the impact their work has on individuals and families throughout #MO03. Thank you to Karin and the entire team for welcoming me and, more importantly, for your continued commitment to serving those in need. 

LALA'S ROAST AND BISTRO - HILLSBORO

Small business owners are the backbone of our economy. In many cases, these are family enterprises where everybody contributes, putting in long hours to keep their doors open, serve our communities, and create more job opportunities. I was glad to stop by Lala’s Roast and Bistro in Hillsboro, MO, to see firsthand how owner Leigha Gaston operates her business and discuss how I can continue working in Washington to help small businesses thrive. 

CONGRESSIONAL APP CHALLENGE REMINDER

#MO03 students! The deadline to apply for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge is October 26! The Congressional App Challenge is open to middle and high school students interested in STEM, coding, robotics, and technology. Don’t miss your chance to participate! Click the graphic below for more information and submission details.

SOCIAL MEDIA WRAP-UP

1. As a physician, I know firsthand how important it is for patients to have quality care within reach.
2. Scott Jennings Show.