Schupp: "Putting People First" Core Principle, Advocating for Alzheimer's

Last week, we passed a bill that raises the burden of proof for employees who assert discrimination in firing or lack of promotion, and undermines protections for "whistle blowers." Additionally, the House passed the bill requiring a state issued photo ID to be shown at the polls.

I heard from many of you about these bills, and your input is always welcome and helpful...even when we disagree. One of the principles I adhere to is "Putting People First." What policies will make our government work for its people?

You let me know that you enjoyed hearing from interns Nick, Nora and Drew. Someone even commented that she felt as if she was on "the inside" participating in a staff meeting. We will move forward with their reports in order to let you know what is going on in our busy office.

Have a safe and warm week. Please let us know how we can serve you.

Truly,
Jill

Drew Stiehl… working on building a "Green Future" for Missouri

One of my assignments in Representative Schupp's office is to find ways to update and re-formulate a green purchasing plan for the state. For those of you who aren’t invested in environmental policy, what this plan would do is increase the amount of recycled, environmentally-friendly, and EnergyStar compliant products the state would purchase in its normal course of business. Each state department could then conduct its business in more environmentally friendly ways, reducing long-term costs and increasing technical efficiency. Savings would allow the state to re-allocate funds being wasted on inefficient products and services towards more productive uses.

I have been working closely with the Office of Administration, Department of Natural Resources, and the Environmental Improvement and Energy Resources Authority (EIERA; try saying that 10 times fast) trying to formulate a plan that fits the needs and capabilities of our great state. This plan would have potential to place Missouri at the forefront of a burgeoning and innovative sector of the economy. It is often said that creating or facilitating the growth of jobs should be a top priority of government, and this plan would support a field that is literally built on entrepreneurship and innovation. If you have any questions, suggestions, or critiques, don’t hesitate to call me at Rep. Schupp's office at 573 751 9762 or 314 616 5009

Finally, Go Tigers! Nicholas and I are proud of our University for (possibly) ending the Border War rivalry with class, style, and, of course, a victory!

Visitors Tout St. Louis Tourism

I was pleased to introduce Linda Eise (center) of Drury Hotels and Tami Goldman of the Missouri History Museum on the House floor during their visit to the Capitol in support of St. Louis's many tourism opportunities.

Nicholas Arroyo… beginning work on Missouri Veterans History Project (MVHP)

I was thrilled to get the opportunity to meet with Teri Miller, the St. Louis MVHP scheduler, as I learn the complexities of the early stages of a non-profit organization and the steps to follow as I begin my new role as a schedule for the Missouri Veterans History Project.

The MVHP was created to capture the stories of veterans of all ages, tours of duty and lengths of service, whether combat or non-combat. The organization partners with The State Historical Society of Missouri and the Veterans History Project at the Library of Congress in its efforts to capture and preserve these oral histories. Once we have recorded a veteran's story, we provide a DVD to the veteran and send copies to The State Historical Society and the national collection. These stories will be preserved for family members and historians for generations to come.

Chances are, you know a veteran with a story to tell! Just as importantly, you or someone you know may wish to volunteer for MVHP. There is great need for interviewers, camera operators, schedulers and others positions that all contribute to the success of MVHP statewide.

For more information on preserving veterans' stories or volunteering for MVHP, please call me at 573 751 9762 or 314 616 5009. I look forward to hearing from you.

On a personal note, I am a Detroit native who just attended my first St. Louis Blues game with members of my sales and marketing fraternity. I was fortunate enough to see a Blues victory from the front row!

Advocating for Alzheimer's

Stacy Tew-Lovasz [at right] visited the Capitol recently to advocate for Alzheimer's patients in her role as the president of the Alzheimer's Association,
St. Louis chapter.

If your group or organization is visiting the Capitol to advocate for an issue, please contact my office! It's my privilege to meet with constituents and stay informed on important issues.

Nora Geary on Fall Prevention for Senior Citizens

At left: Nora with Representative Schupp and her Washington University Brown School of Social Work professor Tim McBride

In last week’s newsletter, I wrote about improving the quality care of older adults in nursing homes. In the United States, falls are a serious public health problem for older adults living in the community. Injuries that result from falls, such as fractures and head injuries, need serious medical attention and individuals are often admitted to hospitals or nursing homes. Physical injury and fears of subsequent falls can threaten an individual’s independence, which have long-term impacts on overall well being.

So, what are some strategies to protect oneself from falls? There is strong evidence that exercise reduces the risk of falling among older adults. In particular, exercises that build endurance, flexibility, and balance are effective at reducing falls for older adults. Examples of exercise include walking, gardening and yard work, t’ai chi and moderate weight lifting. In fact, most exercises can be done from your own home--no need for a fancy gym or expensive equipment.

More tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

• Get a lot for a little: Older adults can obtain significant health benefits with just a moderate amount of physical activity daily or almost-daily. Walking, stair-walking, or low-intensity aerobics are all great options.
• Get tough: Older adults can benefit from muscle-strengthening activities. Stronger muscles help reduce the risk of falling and improve the ability to perform daily tasks.
• Stay social: the CDC says social support from family and friends has been consistently and positively related to regular physical activities.