We all survived the early morning earthquake to make it to the JCGDA Legislative Update in the Viking Room at the Hillsboro campus of Jefferson College. :) Mixing and mingling has begun.
We've enjoyed a tasty breakfast and expect the speakers to begin soon. This event is also being live broadcasted on 1400 AM KJFF. I am paraphrasing the speakers unless direct quotes are used.
Chris Hagen is introducing the event. Each legislator is given five minutes to speak. Rep. Tim Meadows, Rep. Paul Curtman, Rep. Ben Harris, Rep. Paul Wieland and then Rep. John McCaherty is the order of the speakers. Hagen commented on how this year is different as the legislators are not primarily from one party.
Representative Meadows - This is his seventh year reporting at the legislative update. This is his final term and he is the senior legislator for Jefferson County. It's been an honor serving with fellow legislators from Jefferson County. In this session we didn't complete a lot of things. One of the bad things in his opinion is that we didn't deliver on the trade / jobs package. He was a supporter of the airport trade package. "You have to spend money to make money." The airport trade bill would have been a huge step forward. He was saddened by the AmerenUE bill not passing - 25,000 jobs were at stake. Supplies would have been brought in by truck and that would have been 175,000+ truckloads of men and material. The jobs and the energy source would have been a positive. Jefferson County is "God's Country" and it hurt to see it cut in three with the redistricting plan. Hard to single out one good thing and don't want to be negative. It's been an honor to serve you and be one of your representative in Jefferson City.
Hagen extended well wishes to the Mayor of Hillsboro who is in the hospital recovering.
Representative Paul Curtman - He represents the 105th district. Only has 9 voters in St. Louis County, also covers parts of Jefferson County and Franklin County. This is his first legislative session. Purpose of government is to protect individual liberties. "Fix the Six" economic bills were passed by the House and some were killed by the Senate. Checks and balances are good because keeps government power in check. Economic development was the focus for this year - he serves on the economic development committee. There was a lot of bipartisan cooperation at work. Everyone does come together to try and make things better for their lives. Primary focus was personal freedom and sound financial principles. Worked on bills for economic freedom for family owned business. Looking forward to next session - now we know what to expect and how the process works a whole lot better. We all work together well for the betterment of Jefferson County.
Hagen discussed the movement of businesses from the St. Louis area to China and how it affect the commuting business people of Jefferson County. He supports a movement to make more clear in advertising where products are made so people can be more aware of job loss. JCGDA has a support local buying program where you can get a banner for $55 that says "Shop Jefferson County - It's All Right Here." Keep your money in the county when you can. Sales taxes supports local organizations like Comtrea.
Representative Ben Harris - It was his first year but had a great teacher in the 8 years his mom was up there. Supported passage of MO Rx bill. Extends to 2014 subsidies to elderly and disabled to help pay for prescriptions. Served on four committees and much of his work focused on agricultural issues. Was born and raised on a farm and these issues are close to his heart. Supported bills to benefit the small family farmer. Against eliminating the franchise tax. MO will lose over 80 million dollars in revenue that was coming from businesses with assets over 10 million dollars. Biggest challenges are balancing the budget and creating jobs. We will have less revenue in the coming years due to elimination of franchise tax and not passing the tax amnesty.
Hagen thanked the sponsors and other officials from community organizations.
Representative Paul Wieland - He served previously and some has changed but some has not. He was in the minority and now in the majority - is better to be in the majority to get things done. He was able to get a bill passed dealing with the insurance industry - nice to see it done. Also was able to get a bill passed that doubled the renewable tax credits to businesses which helped make it so Doe Run could finance their expansion in Jefferson County. It saved jobs here now and created new jobs for construction. Estimates are up to 400 million dollars of investment. A lot was left on the table with regards to economic development. That hasn't changed unfortunately. At the end of the session it is House versus Senate as opposed to issues related to partisanship. The Ameren plant passed out of the House was killed by the Senate. The House members need to "work better with the Senate colleagues to get things done." There were 70 freshmen in the legislature and all did a fantastic job. Was very proud until last day - tradition is to throw papers in the air when session closes. One legislator forgot to unstaple the bills and Wieland was bonked in the head by a thick one.
Hagen mentioned that Senator Ryan McKenna is on vacation. He discussed the Joplin tornado tragedy and how it affects us all. Take the opportunities you can to help - it is well needed.
Representative John McCaherty - It's a privilege to serve with guys like this. It all comes down to both sides working together especially with Jefferson County legislators. The budget was a huge crunch this year - came out with bipartisan support. Balanced it without raising taxes or placing undue burdens on schools, libraries, seniors and other programs. Still helped the people that need helping even with the balanced budgets. Do these community agencies like the libraries need this money? Yes. Also did small business tax reform - small business is the key to economic growth. We put money back in the pockets of small businesses to reinvest in their businesses. Another great thing is the expansion of the MO accountability portal. You can go online to see where your tax money is going. Has expanded to include local governments and school boards. A lot of economic development like the air trade package didn't work but we hope to get them addressed next session.
Hagen highlighted the JCGDA Golf tournament on 6/13 at Deer Creek Golf Course. $100 a golfer or $400 a team.
Ken Waller, County Executive - Ron Casey is ill and can't talk. We wish him well. We're doing our best everyday to lead this county in a direction it hasn't been before. It's about what is best for the county. Taking it one day at time and make good relationships with people. Charter government is a brand new government and it is different path for this county. County Council is the legislative branch for the county and they represent their districts well. It's been fun and interesting. We've done good things. We are getting a merit system for employees - will protect employees. Hired a new HR director. What can you do to help? Pray that more businesses decide to relocate to Jefferson County. Working on small business development to help them with online presences. I believe Doe Run will build the plant and that will be the linchpin for development such as the Port Authority. Not happy with the congressional districting that splits up Jefferson County. We would have had better representation with one district. Will work with the three now to get things done. Jefferson County's best days are yet ahead.
Hagen thanked the sponsors along with Jefferson College for hosting the event. This is all about Jefferson Countians reinvesting in Jefferson County.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Monday, June 6, 2011
ReferenceUSA as a Job Search and as a Business Tool: Free Webinars @ Arnold Library
The Arnold Branch of the Jefferson County Library (1701 Missouri State Rd., at the corner of Astra Way and Hwy. 141) will offer two free informational webinars in June covering how to get the most out of the library’s subscription to the online resource ReferenceUSA as a job seeker and as a business person. “Uncovering the Hidden Job Market: Career Search Strategies using ReferenceUSA” will be offered Wednesday, June 22nd at 2:30 p.m. and “ReferenceUSA Search Essentials” will be offered Friday, June 24th at 11:00 a.m.
During the “Uncovering the Hidden Job Market” webinar on June 22nd, attendees will learn how to use ReferenceUSA as part of their Career Searching Strategy. Included will be the importance of having accurate information for applications and resumes, creating engaging cover letters, assembling a network of references and referrers, finding key persons at a business to act as mentors, building datasets of potential employers based on skill set, work history and preferences as well as how to prepare for interviews and interactions through thorough research.
The “ReferenceUSA Search Essentials” webinar on June 24th is designed for the person new to using the database, this free webinar will cover all the basics of ReferenceUSA. The training will cover the four essentials anyone, particularly anyone new to ReferenceUSA, would want to know in order to be successful in using the resource. Lots of time will be reserved at the end of the session for questions.
Registration is required to attend these webinars and priority for the 6/22 event will be given to Jefferson County Library district residents as seating is limited in the Computer Lab. Please call 636-296-5171, email mmccarthy@jeffcolib.org, or visit the Information Desk at the Arnold Branch as soon as possible to register. Access to ReferenceUSA is available through the library’s website, www.jeffersoncountylibrary.org, through the Find Databases button to those with a valid JCL library card.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Upcoming: Live Blog of the JCGDA Legislative Forum
If you can't make the JCGDA Legislative Forum we will be live blogging it again on this site starting at 7am on June 7th.
When
Tue, June 7, 7am – 9am
Where
Jefferson College, Hillsboro, Viking Room (map)
Description
FREE Breakfast
Come out and hear what has been happening at the Capitol
Contact Sarah Davis at 314-210-0211 if you are interested in attending in person!
When
Tue, June 7, 7am – 9am
Where
Jefferson College, Hillsboro, Viking Room (map)
Description
FREE Breakfast
Come out and hear what has been happening at the Capitol
Contact Sarah Davis at 314-210-0211 if you are interested in attending in person!
Learn how to use ReferenceUSA - Free with your library card!
ReferenceUSA is an online resource that the library subscribes to that can be of great help to the business community. It is available free through the library's website with a valid Jefferson County Library card.
ReferenceUSA is the leading provider in business and consumer research! Offering a full-service platform, ReferenceUSA helps users create marketing plans, conduct competitive analysis, raise funds and locate people. The database selections and real-time access to more than 20 Million Businesses and 222 Million Consumers make research easy and fast! ReferenceUSA’s quality information helps researchers, students and job-seekers...
ReferenceUSA is the leading provider in business and consumer research! Offering a full-service platform, ReferenceUSA helps users create marketing plans, conduct competitive analysis, raise funds and locate people. The database selections and real-time access to more than 20 Million Businesses and 222 Million Consumers make research easy and fast! ReferenceUSA’s quality information helps researchers, students and job-seekers...
ReferenceUSA can be accessed through the Jefferson County Library website from your home or office through these steps:
1. Go on the Internet to www.jeffersoncountylibrary.org
2. Click on Find Databases in the left hand navigation menu
3. Click on the General Reference tab
4. Scroll down to the ReferenceUSA icon and click on it
5. Enter your library card number without any spaces
ReferenceUSA has made available two free informative webinars in June to make sure you get the most out of the resource. We hope to also be able to offer these webinars at the library as well. Check our calendar of events at wwww.jeffersoncountylibrary.org.
Topic: Uncovering the Hidden Job Market: Career Search Strategies using ReferenceUSA
Day/Dates: Wednesday ( June 1,8,15,22,29)
Time: 2:30 PM CENTRAL
In this hour-long, inter-active session, attendees will learn how to use ReferenceUSA as part of their Career Searching Strategy. Included will be information on the importance of having accurate information for applications and resumes, creating engaging cover letters, assembling a network of references and referrers, finding key persons at a business to act as mentors, building datasets of potential employers based on skill set, work history and preferences as well as how to prepare for interviews and interactions through thorough research. Requirements are internet access and a dedicated phone line. Seating is limited.
To register for any of the five session dates, follow the link below.
Topic: ReferenceUSA Search Essentials
Day/Dates: Friday (June 3, 10, 17, 24)
Time: 11:00 AM CENTRAL
Designed for the person new to using ReferenceUSA, this hour-long session will cover all the basics ReferenceUSA. Attendees will only require an internet connection and phone line to participate. The training will cover the Four Essentials anyone, particularly anyone new to ReferenceUSA, would want to know in order to be successful in using the resource. Lots of time will be reserved at the end of the session for questions.
To register for any of the four session dates, follow the link below:
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Help Joplin Recover
The City of Arnold has been contacted by Joplin asking for help. The Meramec/Arnold Elks are sending a truck down on Thursday, May 26 with emergency supplies. They are looking for blankets, bottled water and monetary donations. The Meramec/Arnold Elks Lodge is located at 1515 Miller Road, Imperial. Phone: 636-464-8960 for more information.
The Greater Ozarks Chapter of the American Red Cross has opened a shelter in Joplin at Missouri Southern State University, Young Gymn, 3950 East newman Road. Joplin residents are being encouraged to register on the American Red Cross "Safe and Well" web site to let family and friends know how they are. If you wish to check on loved ones who may have registered on this site, log on to the American Red Cross web site at www.redcross.org. Then click on the "List yourself as safe and well" link wnich will provide you with information on how to find someone who has registered on the list.Donate to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund. You can donate by calling 1-800-REDCROSS, mail your donation to American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington DC 20013, or make a secure online donation by visiting www.redcross.org.
Friday, May 6, 2011
Free Marketing Your Business Website Class @ the Arnold Branch
Marketing Your Business Website
(Hands - On in the Computer Lab)
Friday, June 10th
9:30 a. m. to 11:00 a.m.
(Hands - On in the Computer Lab)
Friday, June 10th
9:30 a. m. to 11:00 a.m.
*The same class will also be offered
Wednesday, June 29th from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.*
Wednesday, June 29th from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.*
Join local Search Engine Optimization expert Will Hanke to learn how to revive a "dead" website in this free seminar. Topics covered include Search Engine Optimization (SEO), online advertising tips and avenues, along with ways to increase your website traffic and offline marketing ideas.
Suggested prerequisites include: a business website (currently or planned), knowledge of basic HTML, and basic understanding of internet searching. Registration is required! Registration preference given to residents of the Jefferson County Library District. Call 636-296-5171.
Suggested prerequisites include: a business website (currently or planned), knowledge of basic HTML, and basic understanding of internet searching. Registration is required! Registration preference given to residents of the Jefferson County Library District. Call 636-296-5171.
Friday, January 28, 2011
State of the County
I'm live blogging today from The State of the County, presented by the Jefferson County Growth & Development Association.
Please excuse any lapses of grammar, spelling, and so forth. It's a beautiful (but frosty) morning--the location is the new Antonia Middle School on St. Luke's Church Road in suburban Barnhart. This is a beautiful new building; thanks to the Fox School District for hosting the event. The Fox High School Jazz Band, under the direction of Matt Rice, is providing music while the group is gathering, meeting and greeting. The student council is providing assistance with the event—helping make things run smoothly.
This is the first State of the County event under the Council Council/County Executive system, under the Home Rule Charter of Jefferson County, MO, enacted on Nov. 4, 2008. The gym is full—a lot of people have turned out this morning. Sponsors of the event include Ameren Missouri, Trumpet Land Services, Chapel Hill Mortuary and Memorial Gardens, Sheet Metal Workers International, Kevin's Car Care, Hovis Associates, Doe Run, First State Community Bank, Jefferson Regional Medical Center, Bayer Garden Shop, Jewel Box Florist, LCSI, Comtrea, Govero Land Services, Fireworks City. KJFF & JCTV are covering the event. Thanks to Sarah Davis, JCGDA director, for organizing the event.
Opening ceremonies included Boy Scouts presenting the Colors. Seckman High School Choir sang the National Anthem beautifully-did a great job. The Fox High School Jazz Band, under the direction of Matt Rice, is providing music for the event.
Program today will include a presentation by the JCGDA president, Dan Govero, a speech by Chuck Banks, and by Ken Waller, the first Jefferson County Executive. Our county council members, Don Bickowski-district 1, and Renee Reuter-district 2, both came over to say hi to the library group.
Event is well organized; thanks to the Antonia Middle School staff who provided assistance getting me on line – thanks guys!
The student body president and vice president, David Belleville and Caleb Doyle, officially welcomed us. Fox C-6 district administrators and board members are attending this event, which showcases this brand new middle school.
Dan Govero, JCDGA president, in opening remarks, recognized the sponsors of the event. Encourages membership in the Jefferson County Growth and Development Association, and participating in Shop Jefferson County. Attendance of county officials, fire and ambulance district personnel, Jefferson College administrators, and other city elected officials. He noted that due to the change of government both the outgoing person and incoming person will talk about the situation of the county. Presented a plaque to Chuck Banks from Growth and Development for past services as president of the association.
Chuck Banks thanked the sponsors and school district; discussed the challenges faced by the board of executives during the transition to the county council form of government; challenges with the budget caused by the falling sales tax revenue; problems nationwide with the recession. The current office holders were overseeing the transition to the new form of government. Included establishing merit system for employees; planning and zoning; balancing budgets. Thanks to county employees for work; noted new responsibilities and powers with charter government. Fund 4+ million of improvements in county buildings with stimulus funds; transportation stimulus dollars; improvements to I-55 - the port study work- assistance to Jefferson College.
Ken Waller, the first County Executive, was introduced by Chuck Banks, the last county commission and board of executives preparing transition. Ken Waller introduced the new county council members in attendance. Said it has been noted 5 of the new council members are Republican, and also noted they have own ideas for serving their districts - have diverse opinions despite shared political party. Acknowledged and thanked wife, children, parents for their support. Thanked people who had helped him - Mark Mertens, Darrell Missey, among others.
Speech: Discussed the transition to new form of government - knows people wondering what's happening. Said change is not going away and must succeed for good of county. Executive and council completely separate - first year will involve developing procedures and policies - they are striving for transparency and responsibility to citizens. Encourages public engagement in political process - wants people to get involved in discussion of the major issues such as county building codes, red light cameras, and county plan. Emphasized that the river port mentioned will affect Herculaneum, Crystal City and all of Jefferson County by providing opportunity for new jobs in Jefferson County. Noted opportunities in strategic metal refining in Jefferson County, since it has a prime location on Mississippi river. The introduction of a merit system for Jefferson County employees will provide more stability and pay equity. That commission will have report for the Council to approve by July 1 of this year. Jobs are essential to stability; job creation/retention is job one for the administration. The recent 9.3 percent unemployment rate in Jefferson County - is now at 10 percent. Which is why the port project is so important, and it is important to work with Doe Run, Jefferson Memorial Hospital, and other county employers. Council will encourage and work with local employers = more jobs in the county. Ken Waller says he is an eternal optimist - sees best days as yet ahead. Recognized we have had four years of tough economy - Noted previous executives did good job - and that better days will come again. Said he felt humbled/honored to serve as county executive, and ended his remarks with a quote from George Washington about the importance of building a good foundation for a government.
In closing, students David Belleville and Caleb Doyle thanked the sponsors; the Antonia Middle School staff, especially Joe Willis the principal, and the Seckman student council. They invited the guests to attendees to take tours of the new building.
Blogged by Elizabeth Link, Jefferson County Library-Arnold.
Please excuse any lapses of grammar, spelling, and so forth. It's a beautiful (but frosty) morning--the location is the new Antonia Middle School on St. Luke's Church Road in suburban Barnhart. This is a beautiful new building; thanks to the Fox School District for hosting the event. The Fox High School Jazz Band, under the direction of Matt Rice, is providing music while the group is gathering, meeting and greeting. The student council is providing assistance with the event—helping make things run smoothly.
This is the first State of the County event under the Council Council/County Executive system, under the Home Rule Charter of Jefferson County, MO, enacted on Nov. 4, 2008. The gym is full—a lot of people have turned out this morning. Sponsors of the event include Ameren Missouri, Trumpet Land Services, Chapel Hill Mortuary and Memorial Gardens, Sheet Metal Workers International, Kevin's Car Care, Hovis Associates, Doe Run, First State Community Bank, Jefferson Regional Medical Center, Bayer Garden Shop, Jewel Box Florist, LCSI, Comtrea, Govero Land Services, Fireworks City. KJFF & JCTV are covering the event. Thanks to Sarah Davis, JCGDA director, for organizing the event.
Opening ceremonies included Boy Scouts presenting the Colors. Seckman High School Choir sang the National Anthem beautifully-did a great job. The Fox High School Jazz Band, under the direction of Matt Rice, is providing music for the event.
Program today will include a presentation by the JCGDA president, Dan Govero, a speech by Chuck Banks, and by Ken Waller, the first Jefferson County Executive. Our county council members, Don Bickowski-district 1, and Renee Reuter-district 2, both came over to say hi to the library group.
Event is well organized; thanks to the Antonia Middle School staff who provided assistance getting me on line – thanks guys!
The student body president and vice president, David Belleville and Caleb Doyle, officially welcomed us. Fox C-6 district administrators and board members are attending this event, which showcases this brand new middle school.
Dan Govero, JCDGA president, in opening remarks, recognized the sponsors of the event. Encourages membership in the Jefferson County Growth and Development Association, and participating in Shop Jefferson County. Attendance of county officials, fire and ambulance district personnel, Jefferson College administrators, and other city elected officials. He noted that due to the change of government both the outgoing person and incoming person will talk about the situation of the county. Presented a plaque to Chuck Banks from Growth and Development for past services as president of the association.
Chuck Banks thanked the sponsors and school district; discussed the challenges faced by the board of executives during the transition to the county council form of government; challenges with the budget caused by the falling sales tax revenue; problems nationwide with the recession. The current office holders were overseeing the transition to the new form of government. Included establishing merit system for employees; planning and zoning; balancing budgets. Thanks to county employees for work; noted new responsibilities and powers with charter government. Fund 4+ million of improvements in county buildings with stimulus funds; transportation stimulus dollars; improvements to I-55 - the port study work- assistance to Jefferson College.
Ken Waller, the first County Executive, was introduced by Chuck Banks, the last county commission and board of executives preparing transition. Ken Waller introduced the new county council members in attendance. Said it has been noted 5 of the new council members are Republican, and also noted they have own ideas for serving their districts - have diverse opinions despite shared political party. Acknowledged and thanked wife, children, parents for their support. Thanked people who had helped him - Mark Mertens, Darrell Missey, among others.
Speech: Discussed the transition to new form of government - knows people wondering what's happening. Said change is not going away and must succeed for good of county. Executive and council completely separate - first year will involve developing procedures and policies - they are striving for transparency and responsibility to citizens. Encourages public engagement in political process - wants people to get involved in discussion of the major issues such as county building codes, red light cameras, and county plan. Emphasized that the river port mentioned will affect Herculaneum, Crystal City and all of Jefferson County by providing opportunity for new jobs in Jefferson County. Noted opportunities in strategic metal refining in Jefferson County, since it has a prime location on Mississippi river. The introduction of a merit system for Jefferson County employees will provide more stability and pay equity. That commission will have report for the Council to approve by July 1 of this year. Jobs are essential to stability; job creation/retention is job one for the administration. The recent 9.3 percent unemployment rate in Jefferson County - is now at 10 percent. Which is why the port project is so important, and it is important to work with Doe Run, Jefferson Memorial Hospital, and other county employers. Council will encourage and work with local employers = more jobs in the county. Ken Waller says he is an eternal optimist - sees best days as yet ahead. Recognized we have had four years of tough economy - Noted previous executives did good job - and that better days will come again. Said he felt humbled/honored to serve as county executive, and ended his remarks with a quote from George Washington about the importance of building a good foundation for a government.
In closing, students David Belleville and Caleb Doyle thanked the sponsors; the Antonia Middle School staff, especially Joe Willis the principal, and the Seckman student council. They invited the guests to attendees to take tours of the new building.
Blogged by Elizabeth Link, Jefferson County Library-Arnold.
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