Nodler: Stay Smart with Water Usage

Water is one of our most basic necessities, and this is increasingly evident as temperatures rise. There have been concerns in the past about long-term water quality and supply in our area. Water conservation is an effort that every member of the community can contribute to, and it can make a significant difference in water supply throughout our area.

For southwest Missouri, the Ozark Aquifer serves as the water supply source for cities, rural water districts, agriculture, and industry, as well as for communities in southeast Kansas and northeast Oklahoma. Concerns rose as water supply wells in some areas of the aquifer began experiencing declining water levels. In an effort to address water supply and quality issues, the U.S. Geological Survey initiated a multi-year study in August 2005. In a report issued in 2009, researchers found that water levels have declined as much as 400 to 500 feet in some parts of the Ozark Aquifer since 1960. The information acquired through the report is helping water managers make decisions about the long-term viability of ground water as a source of water supply for the area.

As large-scale work relating to the water supply continues, small adjustments in households throughout the area can also positively affect water supply. Here are some suggestions from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources on how you can conserve water:

• Use dishwashers only when they are full. Washing dishes by hand saves about 25 gallons.
• Turn off faucets while brushing teeth. This saves about 5 gallons per day.
• Use sink and tub stoppers to avoid wasting water.
• Keep a bottle of chilled water in the refrigerator for drinking.
• Find and fix leaks in toilets, faucets and appliances that use water.
• Adapt plumbing with flow-restricting or other water-saving devices.
• Learn to read your water meter to judge how much water you use.
• Take shorter showers and shallower baths. This saves about 25 gallons.
• Water your lawn before 10:00 a.m. to prevent evaporation, which occurs during the hottest part of the day.
• Water only when your lawn shows signs of wilt.
• Do not let the sprinkler run any longer than necessary. In an hour, 600 gallons can be wasted.
• Use pistol-grip nozzles on hoses to avoid waste when watering flowers and shrubs.
• Aerate lawns by punching holes 6 inches apart. This allows water to reach roots rather than run off surfaces.
• Know how to turn off an automatic sprinkler system in case of rain.

Even when an area is not in a drought, water conservation is a cost-effective way to help the environmental heath of the community. Saving water can also save you money on your monthly water bill. As the hot weather continues to hamper southwest Missouri, I encourage you to stay safe in the extreme heat and use water wisely.

Keaveny: Quality Mentors Needed

Big Brothers Big Sisters Amachi Missouri

Statewide Program Needs Quality Mentors

Serving as a mentor is one of the most important roles you can play in a child's life.  The Big Brothers Big Sisters Amachi Missouri Statewide Mentoring Partnership Program is a network of quality mentors who work with children of incarcerated parents.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Amachi Missouri strives to make sure that each child, no matter where they live or move, has the opportunity to be matched with a caring Big Brother or Big Sister mentor who can help them with the ups and downs of daily life.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Amachi Missouri is the only mentoring program that serves children of incarcerated families in our state's largest populated cities, including St. Louis.  Approximately 45,000 children in Missouri have a parent in prison.  These children need guidance and support to help mold them into the responsible adults and productive citizens.  It is estimated that 70 percent children of incarcerated parents are at a high risk of one day becoming imprisoned themselves unless they receive the positive intervention that they need.

Programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters Amachi Missouri have proven to be cost-effective.  It costs approximately $14,300 to house an inmate each year.  However, it only costs around $1,200 each year to fund a mentor for a child of incarcerated parents.   In addition, the program has produced impressive results for the children:

• 79 percent experienced an increase in self confidence
• 58 percent improved in academic performance
• 58 percent improved their sense of the future
• 43 percent improved their behavior in the classroom

We need quality individuals in our area to serve as mentors for this wonderful organization.  If you are interested in becoming a mentor, please contact Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri by calling (314) 361-5900, or going online to www.bbbsemo.org.

Tishaura Jones to Receive Lewis & Clark Statesman Award from St. Louis Regional Commerce and Growth Association

The St. Louis Regional Commerce and Growth Association (RCGA) has chosen Representative Tishaura O. Jones as one of the recipients of their annual Lewis and Clark Statesman Award. This year’s legislative sessions in Missouri and Illinois faced unprecedented challenges; however, even as both states grappled with dramatic budget shortfalls, several legislators continued to work hard to improve business climates, create new economic development tools, and expand proven programs. These efforts continue to build on previous advances that have strengthened the bi-state regional economy, and are appreciated by the business community.

The RCGA believes that Representative Jones’ strong leadership on behalf of the region deserves special recognition, and is honoring her with the Lewis and Clark Statesman Award. “In tough budget times like the one Missouri is currently facing, I realize that everything must be on the table. However, the Historic Tax Credit program has been the major catalyst to the revitalization and restoration of several neighborhoods that I represent, including Downtown St. Louis. Many developments would not have been possible and many people would not be employed without this program. Furthermore, the Historic Tax Credit program has now become a national role model for other states to follow. I am honored to receive this award for my staunch defense of the Historic Tax Credit program in the State of Missouri and look forward to working hard for St. Louis in the next legislative session,” said Representative Jones.

Joe Smith: New Signal on Route 94

http://www.modot.org/stlouis/news_and_information/District6News.shtml?action=displaySSI&newsId=58653

ST. LOUIS – Drivers on Route 94 need to be ready to stop at a recently activated traffic signal between Mid Rivers Mall and Kisker Road.

After Monday, August 16, the new traffic signal on Route 94 will start cycling between 7 p.m. and 5 a.m. Monday through Friday nights for the next six weeks. This will let construction traffic safely move excess dirt as crews work on the new outer roads for Route 364.

Joe Smith: MoDot to close Woodstream Drive at Route 94

http://www.modot.org/stlouis/news_and_information/District6News.shtml?action=displaySSI&newsId=58654

ST. LOUIS – Residents of subdivisions off Woodstream Drive in St. Charles will no longer be able to access Route 94 after the Missouri Department of Transportation and its contractor, Fred Weber, Inc., close off access to Route 94 at 9 a.m. August 16.

Access to Centre Pointe Drive will remain, so residents can still access Route 94 at Harvest.  Centre Pointe Drive is one way between Jungermann and Harvest, so residents must use Jungermann to access Center Pointe Drive from Route 94.

This closure is permanent.  Crews are starting work on the north outer road for the Route 364 project in that area.  Due to differences in road levels, drivers will no longer be able to safely access Route 94 from Woodstream.

This work is part of an overall project to complete the second section of Route 364 between Woodstone Drive and Mid Rivers Mall Drive.  The project is scheduled to be complete in summer 2012.

Davis: August Primary

Community Living, Inc. Ribbon Tying

This event celebrated the merging of Community Living, Inc with Family Support Services to serve persons with disabilities. Instead of doing a “ribbon cutting”, they did a “ribbon tying”.


It was my great pleasure to present a House Resolution to Barb Griffith, President/CEO of Community Living, Inc.

What Happened last Tuesday?

Thanks to each of you who came out and voted. I will not be moving to the Senate, but I will continue to serve my district with the same amount of gusto to which you have been accustomed for the past eight years until I leave this office at the end of December. You can be confident that the same quality service which has been my hallmark will continue through the end of my term. I was honored to know that the residents of our district overwhelmingly supported the idea of my continued service as a senator. Unfortunately, there were more people outside our district who were unfamiliar with me and were easily misled by all the negative campaigning.

The reason my Capitol Report didn’t arrive yesterday is because my good assistant fell and shattered her wrist. We should pray for her. I will still continue to send out my report as long as I am in office because informing you of your government is one of our most important functions.

Here is what I still hope to accomplish:

Accountability in government, limitations on government and prudent spending in government on causes that fit the true purposes of government.

Thank you for the confidence you have placed in me. You have depended on me to represent you in a noble manner that reflects the correct priorities of government: Communicating with our citizens and voting for that which is in the best interest of our district and our state. I am satisfied that we have upgraded this office from what it was when I was first elected to this position eight years ago.

Is there anything more I can do for you?

You can send me your opinion by clicking here: Cynthia Davis

A Little Bit of Humor…

HEAVEN ON EARTH?

A young lady came home from a date rather sad. She told her mother, "Anthony proposed to me an hour ago."

"Then why are you so sad?" her mother asked.

"Because he also told me he is an atheist. Mom, he doesn't even believe there's a Hell."

Her mother replied, "Marry him anyway. Between the two of us, we'll show him how wrong he is."

Nodler: Missouri Says ‘Yes’ to Proposition C

Missourians throughout the state went to the polls on Tuesday and made their voice heard. The federal health care bill that will impose an unprecedented violation of personal freedom and raise costs for individuals, businesses, and states has been rejected by the people of our state.

When Congress passed the health care bill and it was signed into law earlier this year, citizens throughout the country expressed their concern, disappointment, and outrage at this violation of personal freedoms. On August 3, for the first time since the federal bill’s passage, citizens had the opportunity to make their opinions heard at the polls. The result is an overwhelming majority—71 percent—of Missourians standing up to say that they do not want the federal government to violate their personal freedom. In the 32nd District, the average support for the proposition in Dade, Newton, and Jasper counties was more than 80 percent.

Proposition C, also called the Health Care Freedom Act, was passed by the Legislature during the 2010 legislative session and placed on the ballot. With its passage, Missouri statute is amended to make sure the government may not “penalize citizens for refusing to purchase private health insurance or infringe upon the right to offer or accept direct payment for lawful health care services.” This solidifies the right of Missourians to choose their health care, whether that be a government plan, private plan, or no plan at all.

In November, two more states—Arizona and Oklahoma—will vote on a measure similar to the one approved in Missouri. At least 20 individual states, including Missouri, have also taken action to challenge health reform in the courts. States throughout the country are proposing or have passed changes to law or their constitution to fight these federal health care mandates. While Congress ignores the will of the people, Missouri voters have made their voice heard.

I applaud the voters of Missouri for taking this opportunity to speak out against the actions of the federal government and support health care freedom in our state. Our message to Washington, D.C. is clear: we do not want government mandates and will speak out to protect our personal freedoms.

Nance: District Update, Tips to Beat The Heat

At Left: Governor Nixon signing the “Manufacturer’s Job Act” [HB2]

“The impersonal hand of government can never replace the helping hand of a neighbor.” –Hubert H. Humphrey

In the District

Congratulations to all primary winners.

I attended the Northland Coalition luncheon last Wednesday. I thank the coalition for staying active in our state government.

On Thursday MoDOT had a presentation of the bridge improvements coming to Ray County.

Cappi Darnell invited me to lunch with her daughter, Haley, at Triality in Liberty. This trip gave me an opportunity to see first hand how the state works to provide assistance and a purpose for clients that receive community-based care.

Hardin firefighters served a fish dinner during Skeeterfest in Hardin on Friday.

The Lawson CIA (C-2000) met August 2^nd to discuss plans for the 2010 school year. Their theme is “Under Age Drinking, What Are You Thinking?”

Route A Bridge in Hardin will be open today.

During this period of extreme heat, please check on your neighbors and family members who are at high risk:

Although anyone at any time can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others.

• Infants and young children are sensitive to the effects of high temperatures and rely on others to regulate their environments and provide adequate liquids.
• People 65 years of age or older may not compensate for heat stress efficiently and are less likely to sense and respond to change in temperature.
• People who are overweight may be prone to heat sickness because of their tendency to retain more body heat.
• People who overexert during work or exercise may become dehydrated and susceptible to heat sickness.
• People who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation, may be affected by extreme heat.

Visit adults at risk at least twice a day and closely watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Infants and young children, of course, need much more frequent watching. (Source: CDC)

Keaveny: Decades of Excellence at Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club

At left: Fair St. Louis Mount Rushmore Float featuring costumed members of
Mathews-Dickey.

When St. Louis bands together, great things happen. One of the prime examples of this is the Mathews-Dickey Boys' & Girls' Club, which recently celebrated 50 years of educational, cultural, and leadership training to more than 40,000 young men and women.

Mathews-Dickey started as a facilitator for organized sports, and while that is still part of its mission, it's not all the club now does. There's a real focus on building self-esteem, while allowing for personal growth, emphasizing the importance of becoming literate and educated citizens, and a focusing on respect, restraint and responsibility in athletic competition.

Throughout the years the club has undertaken efforts to improve literacy, teach computer skills, and deter gang activity. Recent efforts include programs that address the area's drop out rate. As a result of their efforts to improve lives, the community has supported the club as it has grown to include an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a major restoration, and the In the Footprints of Jack Buck Walk of Fame that is set to be finished this year.  The facilities have grown right in step with the community impact.

Alumni of the Mathews-Dickey Boys' & Girls' Club have gone on to become professional athletes, doctors, lawyers, educators, clergymen, business executives and entrepreneurs. Founder Martin Mathews [pictured right] is quoted as saying, "The future of our country rests with the successful development of our young people."

I couldn't agree more. Thank you Mathews-Dickey, and here's to the next half century of success.

Rupp: Saving Money While Shopping for Back-to-School Items

Sales Tax Holiday Will Put Money Back Into Citizens' Pockets

As the summer rolls into August, many families are getting ready for their children to go back to school.  It's hard to believe that many retail outlets already have their back-to-school supplies on display, and by the looks of it, parents have been preparing to send their little ones back to the classroom.

I'd like to take this time to remind those living in the 2^nd District about Missouri's sales tax holiday for back-to-school items.  This three-day event begins Friday, August 6, and runs through Sunday, August 8.  Those out shopping for back-to-school supplies, including clothing, computers, and other classroom items, are exempt from sales tax during this timeframe.

More specifically, the sales tax exemption is limited to:

• Clothing – any article having a taxable value of $100 or less.  Clothing includes any article of wearing apparel, including footwear, intended to be worn on or about your body.  This also includes material used to make school uniforms or other school clothing, and items normally sold in pairs will not be separated to qualify for the exemption.  This does not include watches, watchbands, jewelry, handbags, handkerchiefs, umbrellas, scarves, ties, headbands, or belt buckles.
• School supplies – not to exceed $50 per purchase.  School supplies are defined as any item that is normally used by students in a standard classroom for educational purposes, including, but not limited to, textbooks, notebooks, paper, writing instruments, crayons, art supplies, rulers, book bags, backpacks, handheld calculators, chalk, maps, and globes.  These do not include watches, radios, CD players, headphones, sporting equipment, portable or desktop telephones, copiers or other office equipment, furniture, or fixtures.
• Personal computers and peripheral devices – not to exceed $3,500.  These devices are defined as a laptop, desktop, or a tower computer system containing a central processing unit, random access memory, a storage drive, a display monitor, a keyboard, and other items used in conjunction with a personal computer.  Computer software is also included in the exemption — taxable value of $350 or less.

Cities and counties in our state have the choice to participate in this sales tax holiday.  Most of Lincoln and St. Charles counties in the 2^nd District are participating.  To see a complete list of cities and counties who have opted out of this year's tax holiday, visit the Missouri Department of Revenue's website (www.dor.mo.gov) and click on the Back To School Sales Tax Holiday Information link.

During a time when families all across our state are pinching pennies to stay on top of their budgets, every little bit helps.  Make sure you take advantage of this event and help keep more of your hard-earned dollars in your wallet.

If you have any questions or comments about this or any other topic regarding state government, please visit my website, e-mail me, or call my office at (866) 271-2844.

Stouffer: Make Your Voice Heard on Health Care

You will see a very important question on your August 3 ballot. Proposition C came about as a result of work done by the Missouri General Assembly during this year's regular session.

The Health Care Freedom Act was added to House Bill 1764. Predictably, some folks tried to keep this from appearing on the ballot, but their demands were thrown out by a judge.

Here is what you will see on your ballot:

Shall the Missouri Statutes be amended to:

• Deny the government authority to penalize citizens for refusing to purchase private health insurance or infringe upon the right to offer or accept direct payment for lawful healthcare services?
• Modify laws regarding the liquidation of certain domestic insurance companies?

It is estimated this proposal will have no immediate costs or savings to state or local governmental entities. However, because of the uncertain interaction of the proposal with implementation of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, future costs to state governmental entities are unknown.

Fair Ballot Language:  A "yes" vote will amend Missouri law to deny the government authority to penalize citizens for refusing to purchase private health insurance or infringe upon the right to offer or accept direct payment for lawful healthcare services. The amendment will also modify laws regarding the liquidation of certain domestic insurance companies.

A "no" vote will not change the current Missouri law regarding private health insurance, lawful healthcare services and the liquidation of certain domestic insurance companies.

If passed, this measure will have no impact on taxes.

The bottom line is, you will decide whether or not Missouri should prohibit any law from forcing a patient, business owner or health care provider to take part in any health care system, be it government or privately run. At least 42 other states are working to enact similar legislation, but we are the first to let the voters make the decision. The entire country will be watching the Show-Me State to see what will happen.

Unfortunately, only around 24 percent of voters are expected to go to the polls on August 3, according to the Secretary of State's office. I understand that it is tough to get folks out to vote with so much going on this time of year, but it is vitally important to exercise our civic duty and right.

I believe the vote on Proposition C will do a lot to reinforce support for sovereignty and give a message nationwide that states are tired of being told what to do by bureaucrats in Washington, D.C. This is our opportunity to take control and reaffirm our rights as Americans.

Joe Smith: August Primary: What Your "Yes" Vote Means on Proposition C

During the course of the year, I received several phone calls, letters and emails from Missouri citizens expressing their outrage with the health care legislation that President Obama, Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid have pushed through Congress.  I want my constituents to know that I share that outrage.

Under the health care bill passed by the federal government, ALL citizens must have health insurance and the type of insurance they must carry is very detailed and specific.  If a citizen refuses to purchase the plan, he or she is penalized.  I stand in utter disagreement of the federal mandate.  We should be free to make our own health care decisions, not be forced by the federal government or anyone else.  Last session, the Missouri House passed the Health Care Freedom Act on the very first day we convened in the Chamber.  This Health Care Freedom Act preserves the rights for our citizens to keep their own health insurance plan, choose the federal plan or choose any other private plan – even if that choice is to have no plan at all.  No one will be mandated and no one will be penalized.

The Health Care Freedom Act doesn't simply depend on our approval; it must be approved by a vote of the people.  Next week, you will have an opportunity to join us in our fight as you go to the polls.  A "Yes" vote on Proposition C is a "Yes" vote for freedom.  The ballot language reads:

Shall the Missouri Statutes be amended to:

1. Deny the government authority to penalize citizens for refusing to purchase private health insurance or infringe upon the right to offer or accept direct payment for lawful healthcare services.
2. Modify laws regarding the liquidation of certain domestic insurance companies?

For more information on the Health Care Freedom Act, please visit: http://www.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills101/biltxt/truly/HB1764T.HTM

On August 3rd, Missouri will be the first state in the nation to have a vote on this issue, and everyone will be watching.  This will be an opportunity for us to stand up to Nancy Pelosi and President Obama and make it clear that we cherish our freedom and want to keep it.  It will also allow Missouri to serve as a role model for other states around the country who oppose the federal health care mandate.  If approved by Missouri citizens, it will become a statute and will be upheld, regardless of the federal mandate.  Please join me in voting "YES" on Proposition C this Tuesday, August 3rd.