Lichtenegger: Knowing Your Missouri State Departments: Department of Transportation

There most likely is not a single Missourian that is not affected by the Department of Transportation. Even if you’re too young to drive, traveling safety depends in part on safe roads and highways. We came by most of our possession and commodities -from our beds to the food on the dinner table- as a result of transportations of these products from the manufacturer to stores to our homes.

Of course the focus of this Capitol Report is on the Missouri DOT – commonly referred to MODOT. As citizens of a highly industrialized nation we depend on the state and federal departments of transportations to work together to maintain interstate highways; and we depend on our county commissions and city municipalities to do their part with respect to the roads under their governance. However, when it comes to our state roads MODOT is the “go-to” department. And with winter fast approaching you’re going to want quick access to road conditions, lanes closures, construction locations and bridge work.

The Department of Transportation has a lot to live up to considering its Mission Statement: Our mission is to provide a world-class transportation experience that delights our customers and promotes a prosperous Missouri.

One central office oversees ten regional districts. My constituents reside in MODOT’s Southeast District 10. Our District Engineer, Mark Shelton, and our Community Relations Manager, Nicole Thieret, both have been very helpful in explaining the department’s new Bolder Five-Year Direction initiative. They both serve the district tirelessly and efficiently.

You might be surprised at just how much information and insight you can gain by visiting the department’s website. There you can view state wide projects, services, dozens of links to other Modes of Transportation.

And link here to view the various MODOT Services. You’ll find details regarding many of the support functions the department provides to agencies, communities and people of the state. Engineering services like value engineering, research reports and environmental studies can be found here. Also included is information on travel services like Motorist Assist and community service programs such as Adopt-A-Highway, work-zone safety and scenic byways.

Need quick information on road conditions? The Missouri Traveler's Map will give you a full scope of state-travel. Interested in a specific location? Right-click and select Show Zoom Controls. A menu box will appear wherein you can select the city, county or region of interest and the map will auto-zoom to it. Be sure to notice the icons on the map, which if you hover over you can read –to the right- what is the road construction or condition and whether you can expect a travel delay.

Constituent Corner

SYNCARE UPDATE

Most of you have heard the news that the Department of Health and Senior Services has taken over the duties of the Home Health Care assessments previously conducted by SynCare. This past week I visited SEMO Alliance for Disability Independence (SADI) to help my understanding of how the assessments were previously handled by the home health care providers; what improvements need to take place in future assessments; and how the accuracy of these assessments affect home care services allowed for Medicaid recipients.

It was a very profitable meeting, and I plan to make several recommendations; offer suggestions for improved home health care assessments; and communicate what I’ve learned to my legislative colleagues and to the Appropriations Committee for which am Vice-Chair. I would like to thank SADI RN, LaRue McAllister, for setting up this meeting and other SADI employees for taking the time out of their busy schedule to accommodate me.

Davis: The Summer That Never Was

“How did it get so late so soon? Its night before its afternoon. December is here before its June. My goodness how the time has flewn. How did it get so late so soon?” –Dr. Seuss How true is that statement. Time sure flies the older we get. This summer has gone by sooooo fast, thanks to the tornado. The tornado has cause the saying “the summer that never was” to be nothing but the truth. It has forced Representative Bill White and myself to spend much more time helping people that the summer normally requires. I have enjoyed helping the people of the 128th district, and many times other districts, with problems they face. We have such great people in SW Missouri that I couldn’t be prouder to serve anyone or anywhere. My daughter Jennifer started OTC in Springfield a few weeks ago and she seems to really love the education. She spent 2 years at FTC in culinary arts classes and now will spend the next few years studying at OTC. I am really proud of her and her work ethic. My 14 year old son started Webb City Jr. high 8th grade class on Aug 17th and really enjoys school. We simply have great schools in Webb City, Joplin, Carl Junction and Carthage. Football season has started and boy is it exciting. The Webb City Cardinals are 2-0 so far this season and I look forward to presenting them with another resolution honoring their accomplishments. It is so much fun spending time with neighbors at the games, and I believe it is a needed activity to recover from what our area has gone through over the past few months. My 5 yr old son, Robbie, has started kindergarten at home. My wife has done an awesome job with home schooling Jennifer for 12 years and Timothy for 7 years and simply loves teaching Robbie. Now, on to business ;) The Missouri Constitution requires that, each year, the legislature convene a ‘Veto Session’ in September. The purpose of the session is for the legislature to consider overriding any bills that were vetoed by the Governor. However, this year will be unlike any other veto session as the legislature will also return to hold a special session concurrent with this year’s veto session. The purpose of the special session, which was called by Governor Nixon, will be to pass a number of important bills. Most importantly, though, the legislature will consider a major job creation proposal that will help revamp our state’s economic incentives and create tens of thousands of new, family-supporting jobs. *The bill [SB2], which has received support from some Democrats and some Republicans in the House of Representatives and the Senate, will be an important step in getting Missouri’s economy moving again. The major provisions of the innovative jobs package are incentives that will help create high-tech jobs, attract amateur sporting events, spur the creation of data centers throughout the state, and bring tens of thousands of new jobs to the state by making the St. Louis Airport an international cargo hub for Chinese trade. In addition to creating these new incentives, the state will overhaul the existing incentive programs that we currently use. These changes could create a savings over 1.5 billion dollars over the next fifteen years that can be used for other important priorities such as education. The jobs package will also create new accountability measures that will include periodic review of these programs and sunset dates that will end the programs if not renewed by the legislature. While this major jobs package will help jumpstart our state’s economy and create the kind of jobs our state so desperately needs right now, we will also consider a number of other important bills during the special session. The bills will: Change the date of Missouri’s Presidential Primary in 2012 to comply with rules established by the national parties to ensure our state does not lose delegate representation at the nominating conventions [HB3] Create a tax amnesty program that allows forgiveness of penalties on delinquent taxes in exchange for paying all back taxes and remaining up-to-date on taxes in the future [HB4] *End state control of the St. Louis Police Department that began during the Civil War by returning it to the City of St. Louis [HB1] Provides a commercial property tax abatement for businesses destroyed in a natural disaster [HB5] Fix the Facebook issue with the schools to allow communication between teachers and students. [SB1] *I have some issues with these particular bills and will have to wait until the final draft to see if I can fully support them or not.

Way to go Joplin Schools superintendant CJ Huff and the entire administrative staff on getting the schools open right on time. Congratulations to Chick-Fil-A on their record breaking rebuild in Joplin and now open serving the people of Joplin. From This: To this (or like this) In 2 months. Great job Wal-Mart, opening Nov 9th (or earlier)

Stouffer: Lawmakers and Courts Send an Indirect Message on Facebook

There has been a lot of talk about a new law in Missouri. This bill, aimed at student safety, has become the centerpiece of conversations between students, teachers, and parents.

When the Missouri General Assembly passed and the governor signed Senate Bill 54, most folks were happy to see an end to a common practice. For years, teachers who got into trouble in one district could move onto another without their past becoming known. If the same situation would arise, the teacher would move on, again, without any question from a different district.

This is what prompted the “Amy Hestir Student Protection Act.”

Simply put, the new law keeps tabs on teachers who are accused of inappropriate behavior, with the goal of letting other districts know this person has been in trouble for wrongful actions. The days of looking the other way are expected to come to an end, under the new law.

However, there is another aspect of the law that has many folks talking. The legislation states that teachers are not allowed to establish, maintain, or use a work-related website unless it is available to school administrators and the child's legal custodian, physical custodian, or legal guardian. This includes private messages sent via popular social media sites like Facebook and Twitter.

In the days prior to SB 54 becoming law (Aug. 28), a judge blocked this portion of the bill from taking effect. Several groups have questioned the merit of the proposal and have worked to keep it from becoming law — I am disappointed they did not provide such input while the law was being formed. This issue has gathered so much attention that the governor has extended his call for special session.

Proponents of the law argue limiting “off campus” contact between teachers and students is a good idea. The act reduces the opportunity of inappropriate communication from occurring between students and teachers. Many school districts or individual teachers and administrators already limit such activities to avoid issues from arising.

Opponents argue limiting electronic communication is behind the times and part of “nanny-state” efforts to protect children en lieu of good parenting. Some argue Facebook and other forms of social media are the new norm of communication and that certain circumstances merit their use. This includes normal conversations between relatives who happen to be students and teachers, youth pastors communicating with their students, or extra-curricular advisors or coaches needing to keep in touch with members or athletes. New media also allows students and teachers to connect after natural disasters (such as the Joplin tornado) or illness strike.

My hope is that we can find a better way to help teachers and students. I am confident that my colleagues in the Legislature will work together and make this an even better piece of legislation. This would allow us to continue to ensure Missouri’s classrooms are the safe, world-class learning environments they need to be.

Korman: Town Hall Meeting

Missouri Farmers Care Town Hall Meeting – HSUS and the attack on Missouri agriculture

Wednesday, September 21 at 7 PM at the Bowling Green High School Gymnasium

Featured Speakers
Sen. Brian Munzlinger
Rep. Jay Houghton
Rep. Ed Scheiffer
Rep. Bart Korman

For more information email dan{at}mofarmerscare{dot}com or visit www.MOFarmersCare.com

Paid for by Missouri Farmers Care – Dale Ludwig, Treasurer

Berry: Special Session, WOW Kansas City

As many of you already know, Governor Nixon has called for a special session of the legislature to convene on September 6^th. There are four subjects that we will be addressing.

1. Local control of the St. Louis police force [HB1]: Since the civil war the state of Missouri has had control of the police force. The bill that we will discuss, and most likely pass, will restore to St. Louis control of its police force. This action will put pressure on Kansas City request the same thing. Kansas City does not have control of its police force because of corruption during the Pendergast era of the 1920's and 30's.
   
2. Tax amnesty [HB2]: The state will forgive individuals and businesses that have failed to pay their taxes on time. If they pay their taxes now they can forgo the penalties they have accrued. While I am not against this amnesty, I do have a problem with the state counting on these assumed payments to bring in additional revenue to keep our budget in balance.
   
3. Sporting events tax credits [SB2]: The thought behind this bill is that large, one-time events like the NCAA tournament are going to states that provide these credits.
   
4. Economic development: Some people refer to this as job creation. Jobs and job concerns were the number one subject noted as I polled constituents on their doorsteps last year. Constitutions questioned how they were they going to get or keep a job to support their families. This topic should have been the number one thing that we discussed and worked on; unfortunately, it was not. That brings us to September and special session. We will have the opportunity to create new tax credits for three business ideas. The hope is that these new tax credits will encourage businesses to locate here and, consequently, employ more people. Three ideas/thoughts stem from this proposal:
   
   1. Aerotropolis is a development around Lambert airport in St. Louis. The expectation is to attract Chinese companies to create a freight hub. The projected cost to the state is 360 million dollars. The hope is that this investment would create 10,000 jobs.
      
   2. Idea two is giving tax credits to companies that would create Data Centers in Missouri. Data centers are locations that store the information content of the internet. Missouri has a competitive advantage compared to most states because of the price of power in Missouri. This idea will not create lots of jobs, but it does have the potential to create a cluster of technology jobs.
      
   3. MOSIRA (Missouri Science & Innovation Reinvestment Act) is the third idea. MOSIRA would create a funding source to spark growth in research and technology enterprises. This is accomplished by capturing a small percentage of growth in state revenue over a base year from a designated group of Missouri science and innovation companies. The monies would then be transferred into the Missouri Technology Investment Fund. The Missouri Technology Corporation (MTC) will administer the funding created by MOSIRA.
      

I am currently trying to decide if the benefits of Data Centers and MOSIRA are enough for me to vote yes on the bill. Aerotropolis, in my opinion, is a risk for the state of Missouri. All three items will be packaged in an Omnibus bill. That means I have to vote yes on all of them or no on all of them.

Please give me your thoughts.

WOW Kansas City will be held in Swope Park Sept. 23-24

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., Aug. 25, 2011 – Have you ever wanted to learn skills that will enhance your outdoor adventures? If you answered yes, then WOW Kansas City is for you. WOW Kansas City will be held in Swope Park Sept. 23-24 and registration is open now.

The WOW National Outdoor Recreation and Conservation School is packed with opportunities for people of all ages to learn outdoor recreation skills. The event is sponsored by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources; Kansas City, Missouri, Parks and Recreation; Bass Pro Shops; U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Missouri Department of Conservation; Wonders of Wildlife; the National Park Service and Missouri State University. The event will begin on Friday evening with a camping opportunity, and will continue from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday.

WOW Kansas City is designed to teach participants how to enjoy a wide range of outdoor recreation activities while practicing personal safety and outdoor responsibility. WOW will offer classes in a variety of outdoor skills including archery, fishing, canoeing, campfire cooking, camping and more. Participants will camp at Swope Park and participate in Saturday classes at James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area. Transportation to the wildlife area will be provided from Swope Park.

Classes are open to anyone age nine or above; however, nine to 12 year olds must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to classes. The trained professionals provide hands-on instruction for people who may not be familiar with the outdoors and children who may be experiencing nature for the first time. The workshop is a great opportunity for families to learn activities together and take the "Children in Nature Challenge."

The cost to attend is $15 per person or $30 per family, making it an affordable day of family fun. Financial assistance is also available. Advance registration is required and the deadline to register is Sept. 9.

Camping on Friday night will be held at Camp Lake of the Woods in Swope Park and will begin at 4 p.m. with tent setup and a hands-on outdoor cooking experience (food is provided). Evening activities will include an owl program and family activities and hikes. Tents will be available to those who do not have one and can be reserved through the registration process.

For more information or to request a registration packet, contact the Missouri Department of Natural Resources by calling toll free 800-334-6946 (voice) or 800-379-2419 (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf) or sending an email to moparks{at}dnr{dot}mo{dot}gov. Registration information and forms are also available on the web at mostateparks.com/wow.

Kraus: Remembering 9/11

Ten years ago, the United States of America suffered perhaps the most devastating blow in our nation’s history. Wars have been larger and more lives have been lost, but on the morning of September 11, 2001, our sense of safety and security was forever skewed in just a few moments. Looking back, we can see the weave of change in the fabric of our nation — all of which began that day.

Many of us felt those changes personally, as your sons or daughters, husbands or wives, relatives or friends went to protect our freedoms, either in Afghanistan or in Iraq. As I rode with the first wave of troops into Iraq, I knew our purpose had become larger than just protecting our shores. We had a responsibility to fight back against terrorism at all levels, not just for ourselves, but for the world.

Many of us felt those changes as our concept of protection changed. New laws have been passed; new procedures put in place. None will ever guarantee our safety, but they may decrease the odds of repeating that horrifying morning. The struggle to find the right balance between liberty and protection may never end.

Many of us felt the nation come together in the days following 9/11 in an incredible, but brief, feeling of shared vision. While that may not have lasted, it did give us a glimpse at what could be.

As we pause to remember, whether at official ceremonies or in solitary moments, I hope that we remember those who lost their lives and their families. I pray that we remember how we felt that morning and reflect on those emotions today. I ask that you somehow honor my fellow armed forces members who have served nobly in the time since, continue to do so today, and the many who have given the ultimate sacrifice.

9/11 Ceremony

The City of Lee’s Summit is hosting a 10-year memorial ceremony for 9/11 called “A Time of Reflection.” The event will be held at the Lee’s Summit City Hall Plaza, 220 SE Green Street from 7-7:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 11, 2011. For more information, call 816-969-1000 or go to www.cityofls.net.

Kelley: Special & Veto Session Cap Report

The Missouri Constitution requires that, each year, the legislature convene a ‘Veto Session’ in September. The purpose of the session is for the legislature to consider overriding any bills that were vetoed by the Governor. However, this year will be unlike any other veto session as the legislature will also return to hold a special session concurrent with this year’s veto session.

The purpose of the special session, which was called by Governor Nixon, will be to pass a number of important bills. Most importantly, though, the legislature will consider a major job creation proposal that will help revamp our state’s economic incentives and create tens of thousands of new, family-supporting jobs.

The bill [SB2], which has received broad support from both Democrats and Republicans in the House of Representatives and the Senate, will be an important step in getting Missouri’s economy moving again. The major provisions of the innovative jobs package are incentives that will help create high-tech jobs, attract amateur sporting events, spur the creation of data centers throughout the state, and bring tens of thousands of new jobs to the state by making the St. Louis Airport an international cargo hub for trade.

In addition to creating these new incentives, the state will overhaul the existing incentive programs that we currently use. These changes could create a savings over 1.5 billion dollars over the next fifteen years that can be used for other important priorities such as education. The jobs package will also create new accountability measures that will include periodic review of these programs and sunset dates that will end the programs if not renewed by the legislature.

While this major jobs package will help jumpstart our state’s economy and create the kind of jobs our state so desperately needs right now, we will also consider a number of other important bills during the special session. The bills will:

• Change the date of Missouri’s Presidential Primary in 2012 to comply with rules established by the national parties to ensure our state does not lose delegate representation at the nominating conventions [HB3]
  
• Create a tax amnesty program that allows forgiveness of penalties on delinquent taxes in exchange for paying all back taxes and remaining up-to-date on taxes in the future [HB4]
  
• End state control of the St. Louis Police Department that began during the Civil War by returning it to the City of St. Louis [HB1]
  

Ridgeway: What's Next in the Health Care Debate? Health Insurance Exchanges

As the past legislative session came to a close, I was appointed to serve on the Missouri Senate Interim Committee on Health Insurance Exchanges. This committee’s task is to examine the issue of whether Missouri should set up health insurance exchanges in line with the new federal health care law and if so, how best to do it.

As a state and nation we are poised at the crossroads of the future of health care. Passage of the federal health care act was contentious and arguably led to the change in party control of the House of Representatives. There is no question it played a major role in the election to fill the United States Senate seat of the late Edward Kennedy in Massachusetts.

The contention has not ended with passage of the new law. Money is available for which states may apply to help pay for start-up costs. Kansas made headlines recently when Governor Sam Brownback announced the state would send back a $31.5 million grant to the federal government. In a press release, Governor Brownback expressed concern as to whether future money would be available from Washington D.C. to continue the programs. Kansas follows Oklahoma as the second state to refuse the money.

As a member of the State Senate and the interim committee, I am committed to listening to testimony with an open mind. At the same time I am acutely aware of the direction our country has been heading the last couple years and I am very concerned. The citizens of this great nation are being coached to look to Washington D.C. for their survival and happiness. When this happens, the results can be anything but good. Our country was founded on self-reliance, hard work, and innovation. Lately we seem to be headed in the direction of entitlement programs and reliance on government. No matter how many times you hear differently, government cannot create wealth, it can only redistribute it. At some point, redistribution leads to a loss of incentive, both on the part of those producing wealth and those receiving the fruits of someone else’s efforts.

I will keep you updated as work on this issue continues. If you would like to share your views on this matter, please do so before September 15^th, as this is currently the date of the last meeting of the interim committee.

Newman: What I Did On My Summer Vacation

Friends, neighbors and constituents keep asking me what I'm doing with my time since the 2011 legislative session ended this past May in Jefferson City. A few aren't sure if I work in Washington D.C or the state capitol so I wanted to bring you up-to-date. It feels like I haven't slowed down all summer!

My biggest joy since adjournment has been watching our youngest graduate from high school and prepare for her next chapter. After wonderful celebrations with family and friends, our daugher is now a freshman at the University of Missouri - quite thrilling for her father, a double Mizzou alum. This summer I have been busy spending time with her and all the preparations required for freshman orientation/moving her into her tiny dorm room in Columbia. I'm pleased to report the empty nest transition is going well as Tiger fever completely envelopes our family.

Hope you have a safe and relaxing Labor Day weekend.
Stacey

MAY

Although I'm working fulltime back in the district with the aid of my legislative assistant, Carla Leubbert in my Capitol office, constituent concerns and legislative research is ongoing. My days include meetings with various constituents, community events, talking with the media often on short notice and sorting through the mountains of files that came home with me.

The week following session I had fun working with the 21st Century Leadership Academy fellows through the Sue Shear Institute for Women in Public Life at UMSL. I co-hosted a dinner with a group of young college women who already are leaders and learned way more from them than they know.

In addition I was excited and proud to see my former seat mate and close colleague, Rep. Jean Peters Baker sworn in as the new Jackson County Prosecutor. Her swearing in ceremony at the county courthouse in Kansas City mid-May was packed with her family, supporters and numerous elected officials. I will miss her in the legislature but we need her more where she is - pursuing criminal justice and making our lives safer.

JUNE

I presented my annual post-legislative updates to the Richmond Heights and Clayton City Councils (Maplewood - stay tuned) and at various events with N.O.W./PROMO/St. Louis Women's Political Caucus and the Jewish Community Relations Council. It's vital that our local community and groups stay in tune with bills that have passed, those which didn't and our efforts.

I made my first trip back onto the floor of the House of Representatives since adjournment working with over 150 high school juniors and seniors (from all parts of the state) at the annual Missouri Girl's State on their mock legislative day. I have worked with MO Girls State since 2002 so it was invigorating to see how professional the girls were in arguing with passion on many serious issues. Can you find Rep. Mary Still and me here?

Occasionally my events involve theatrics. No really! I was a special guest at the original performance of the "Big Fat LGBT Show" at Monsanto's Creve Coeur campus in recognition of equality month. Monsanto was designated a "Best Place to Work for LGBT Equality" by the national Human Rights Campaign in 2010. The show, created by local award-winning director Joan Lipkin, is designed as a new tool for diversity training specifically for corporations, which include Brown Shoe and Ameren Corp. http://www.stltoday.com/business/local/article_c131e0dd-123f-5721-90d4-6476651019f0.html

And occasionally my life involves parades. I joined with colleague Rep. Tishaura Jones in riding in the 31st annual St. Louis Gay Pride Parade. The festival drew record crowds (it was hot of course) and a record number of supportive companies, religious organizations and elected officials.

At left: Me and a couple of green Energizer Men at Pride Fest in Tower Grove Park in St. Louis following the parade.

JULY

I was fortunate to escape St. Louis' intense summer heat as my work took me on the road. With a small bipartisan group of legislators, I spent several days in San Jose CA at Cisco's Executive Briefing Center, EMC and VMware headquarters. We were given extensive tours and thorough presentations regarding the future of telecommunications as it affects Missouri. I saw tech communications of the future and learned that our state already is a leader as we bring our state communication systems into the 21st century and beyond.

A day later I flew to Washington D. C. where I was selected to participate in a strategy session hosted by the Center for Women Policy Studies. With 18 women state legislators representing 15 states (including Alaska, Hawaii, Arizona and Kansas), we developed collective strategies (and terrific friendships) to combat future legislative assaults on women's rights.

At right: My bipartisan "sister" women legislators from all parts of the United States.

With little time to unpack, I then participated in a day long summit on state revenue at Lincoln University in Jefferson City hosted by Jobs With Justice. The summit involved almost 100 statewide activists who are concerned with the decline of state revenue as it impacts many programs and services our citizens dependt on, particularly with disasters and high unemployment in Missouri.

However the highlight of the month was my first in a series of "Farm to Table" dinners as personal research for my Urban Agriculture Committee. I created, shopped for and cooked an entire meal with as many local products/produce as possible to determine how accessible local foods are.

At right: Hands down, the best local organic fried chicken this side of the universe,compliments of Thomas Keller's "Ad Hoc at Home" recipe

AUGUST

Hot days of summer continued with a 2 day House Democratic Caucus Summer Caucus in Jefferson City. We met with statewide officials and various issue representatives as we worked on 2012 agendas and enjoyed being together as "family".

St. Louis ALIVE magazine called and wanted to photograph my home office for a feature series on local professionals and their offices. I wasn't allowed to clean up much (what do you think I did?) but their beautiful photograph actually made me want to spend more time working at home.
http://www.alivemag.com/people/sub_people_article.cfm?ref=641&ref2=4

I participated in my first appearance on "Capitol Dialogue" with fellow legislators. A monthly series by the capitol communications staff, it was fun to rehash the previous session as we look towards special and veto session.
http://missourisenate.blogspot.com/2011/08/capitol-dialogue-for-august-2011.html

The month continued with the Springfield venue for our interim joint Urban Ag committee statewide hearings. We toured a local food market, elementary school and even an urban farm (just blocks from downtown Springfield) prior to the three hour public hearing with fascinating testimony. And just a few days ago I was a panelist at Congressman Russ Carnahan's well-attended 2012 Farm Bill event hosted by Maplewood-Richmond Heights high school. MRH high school will also host the Urban Ag Committee St. Louis hearing on October 4th - so mark your calendars for a truly fascinating community event.

At left: With commmitte members at Adam and Melissa Millsap's Urban Roots Farm in Springfield. Their children provided a precious unrehearsed photo op.

This month I celebrated the 91st anniversary of women gaining the right to vote at the MO Women's Network luncheon and presented a governor-signed copy of the new 2011 domestic violence law to executive director Susan Kidder of Safe Connections (women's equality/issues are major issues for me), but my most favorite activity was working with a very young activist.

Maddie Goldberg, a 5th grader at Reform Jewish Academy in St. Louis and I are working together on new legislation to help those with epilepsy be able to adopt children. Maddie works closely with the national Epilepsy Foundation, has lobbied Congress /the Missouri State Legislature and is at her age an expert on what she advocates. Our collaboration promises great things for next session - including perhaps my future replacement in the State House.

WHAT'S NEXT?

Summer is almost behind us as Special Session begins on Sept. 6 with Veto Session following on Sept. 14 in Jefferson City. I will be involved this week as a member of the Elections Committee on the bi-partisan presidential primary bill and also working to keep the Missouri Film Office/state film industry alive during the assuredly lively committee and floor discussions on economic development and jobs.

Yes, a woman's work in the House is never quite done.

Keaveny: Special Session and Veto Session Approaching, Open Enrollment Event Approaching, Remembering 9/11

Special Session and Veto Session Approaching

My colleagues and I will collaborate again soon for the First Extraordinary Session of the 96th General Assembly, and when we meet for our annual veto session. Our special session is scheduled for Sept. 6, and veto session is scheduled for Sept. 14.

While in Jefferson City, one of my top priorities is to focus on returning control of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department back to the city. Fortunately, the local control matter was included in the governor's call for special session.

This is a matter that I have been working on since I was elected to the Senate — it's about time we update the current governance structure to be more efficient and increase collaboration among departments. Local control of the police department will save the City of St. Louis money and increase safety.

A delicate compromise was reached between the city and the St. Louis Police Officers Association, which sets the stage to return control of the police department back to the city. With many citizens and lawmakers backing the passage of the local control measure, it is my hope that we will be able to take the steps necessary to return control to the City of St. Louis.

For my complete interview regarding special session and local control, please click on this link or visit my Missouri Senate website at www.senate.mo.gov/keaveny and click on "Multimedia" under the "Media" tab. You can also follow the progress of special session and veto session by visiting the Missouri Senate website.

Take Steps to Prevent Becoming a Victim of Crime

Nothing is more important than your family's safety — there are many steps you can take to prevent becoming a victim of crime. Please take the time to review these important safety tips, provided by the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department.

Preventing Crime at Home

• If you don’t belong to a Neighborhood Watch Program, join one, or form a new group if your neighborhood doesn’t have one. Contact the Community Outreach officer in your district for more information.
• If you’re going out of town, load luggage into the car inside your garage. Don’t advertise you are going out of town.
• Install quality dead bolt locks with one-inch bolt lengths on each door in your home.
• Use an alarm system. While no system will make your home 100 percent safe, a quality alarm system can be an excellent crime deterrent.
• Install a wide angle (180 degree) peephole on doors. This will allow you to see those outside your door but prevent anyone from seeing you.
• Make sure your street address number is clearly visible from the street, especially at night, in case you require police service.
• Illuminate your residence at night and regularly replace bulbs. Use timers and motion detectors if possible.
• Don’t leave spare keys in recognizable spots.

Personal Safety Tips

• Trust your intuition. If you feel threatened or something doesn't feel right, take action immediately.
• Pay close attention to your surroundings.
• Know safe places in the areas where you live, work, and play.
• Don’t let strangers get too close to you, even if they seem to have a reason.
• Walk with a purpose. Know where you are going ahead of time.
• Avoid shortcuts that take you through alleys, gangways, and other unlit, isolated areas.
• Have a plan before you see trouble. Be prepared to cross a street or duck into a store, if needed.
• Carry a small amount of cash, and only the credit cards that you intend to use.
• If carrying a wallet, carry it in a front pocket.
• Leave your expensive jewelry at home.

Please click here for more safety information, or visit the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department website at www.slmpd.org.

Open Enrollment Event for Seniors and Disabled Citizens

Click on picture at right for a larger image.

I will be hosting a FREE Medicare Open Enrollment event for senior citizens and citizens with disabilities:

Tuesday, Oct. 18., from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Friendly Temple Missionary Baptist Church
5515 Dr. Martin Luther King Dr. in St. Louis

There, you will be able to:

• Learn more about your Medicare options.
• Enroll in a new prescription drug plan for 2012.
• Visit with senior services organizations.
• See if you qualify to pay less for Medicare.

Medicare experts will be available to answer any questions you may have — counseling is FREE and confidential.

Organizations interested in participating in this event are absolutely welcome — if you would like to participate and provide your services to seniors and disabled citizens, please call my office at (573) 751-3599.

For more information regarding this open enrollment, please visit www.missouriclaim.org or call 1-800-390-3330.

Click here to view my postcard for the event and click here for further information regarding senior assistance.

Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents, and Survivors

Please read over the 2011 Edition of the Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and Survivors guide to review your benefits.

The 2011 Edition of the Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and Survivors guide is now available on the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' website. This guide serves as an overview of benefits you and your family may be eligible for. The 2011 version also contains any changes in these benefits in the past year.

I strongly encourage you to take a look at this online guide. You will be able to review information regarding:

• Heath care benefits
• Pensions
• Education and Training
• Life insurance
• Burial and memorial benefits
• Home Loan Guaranties

Please click here to go directly to the guide, or visit www.va.gov/opa/publications/benefits_book.asp.

BIO Benchmarking 2011 Event

At left: My friends and I at Gallus BioPharmaceuticals, located 4766 LaGuardia Dr. in St. Louis. Click on picture above for a larger image.

The Missouri Biotechnology Association (MOBIO) recently launched its "BIO Benchmarking 2011" event, in which I was happy to participate.

The program lasts four months, and is a "four-phase, nonpartisan legislative leadership education initiative and fact-finding tour."

The program’s objectives are to:

• Promote engagement between Missouri’s policymakers and the state’s biotechnology leaders.
• Broaden awareness of biotechnology’s economic impact across Missouri.
• Share experiences from other states engaged in the biotechnology sector.
• Sustain informed, open dialogue to facilitate bipartisan development for long-term and sound public policy.

We had the pleasure of touring many locations, including:

• Boehringer-Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc.
• Missouri Western State University’s Institute for Industrial & Applied Life Sciences
• University of Missouri - Kansas City
• Children’s Mercy Hospital
• MU Life Science Incubator at Monsanto Place

Click on this link to learn more about the event. To learn more about MOBIO, please visit www.mobio.org or call (573) 761-7600.

Recap of the August Health Fair

I'd like to thank everyone who volunteered and participated in the health fair that was held on Aug. 13. We had more than 45 organizations present at the fair that offered valuable health information. Some of the participating organizations included:

• Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services — provided disease prevention education, tips on how to handle tick and mosquito bites, information regarding safe swimming, and more.
• City of St. Louis Department of Health — provided lead screenings, as well as information regarding HIV and hepatitis (314-877-2800).
• St. Louis Women on the Move — conducted stress management workshops.
• American Home Care — offered information regarding veterans' programs and seniors who need long-term home care (314-367-0600).

I'd also like to send my gratitude to members of Friendly Temple Missionary Baptist Church — you were very gracious hosts, and I appreciate your hospitality.

If you weren't able to attend the health fair and would like information regarding health services, please don't hesitate to call my office at (573) 751-3599.

Help Your Child Develop Good Homework Habits

As a lawmaker and parent, the quality of our children's education is of utmost importance. To help our kids succeed, we need to encourage them to make wise academic decisions, starting with focusing on homework.

Here are some tips you can use with your child to ensure he or she focuses on schoolwork.

• Create an environment that is conducive to doing homework. Youngsters need a permanent work space in their bedroom or another part of the home that offers privacy.
• Schedule ample time for homework.
• Establish a household rule that the TV set stays off during homework time.
• Supervise computer and Internet use.
• Be available to answer questions and offer assistance, but never do a child's homework for him or her.
• Take steps to help alleviate eye fatigue, neck fatigue, and brain fatigue while studying. It may be helpful to close the books for a few minutes, stretch, and take a break periodically when it will not be too disruptive.
• If your child is struggling with a particular subject, and you aren't able to help him or her yourself, a tutor can be a good solution. Talk it over with your child's teacher first.

(The tips above were provided by the American Academy of Pediatrics. You can visit its website at www.aap.org.)

I have the pleasure of serving on the Senate Joint Committee on Education — our goal is to provide our kids with the best opportunities available by monitoring the progress of our public schools throughout the year. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have questions regarding our public schools or your child's education.

Memory Care Home Solutions

At left: Senator Keaveny visits with Memory Care Home Solutions staff. Click on picture above for a larger image.

According to the Alzheimer's Association, there are an estimated 5.4 million people living with Alzheimer's disease in the United States, and every 69 seconds, someone develops the disease. (Click here for more facts about Alzheimer's Disease.)

Memory Care Home Solutions was created to accommodate this high number of adults who need care and family support. The non-profit organization was established to extend and improve quality time at home for families caring for loved ones with memory loss, dementia, or Alzheimer’s disease.

Memory Care Home Solutions operates three programs: Customized Caregiver Training & In-home Consultation, Education & Outreach, and Geriatric Care Counseling.

Customized Caregiver Training is the primary direct service program, and was created to reduce caregiver stress, promote the functioning ability of the person with dementia, and reduce the cost of health care. The Education & Outreach program offers free workshops and seminars for the community, and the Geriatric Care Counseling program provides on-demand, short–term telephone counseling and referrals for clients and the general public who are facing immediate elder-care crisis regarding memory impairment, or who need guidance in securing community services.

It was my pleasure to visit Memory Care Home Solutions — this organization is an excellent resource for families helping loved ones with memory loss.

To learn more about how you can help, please click on this link, and for more information about Memory Care Home Solutions, please visit www.memorycarehs.org.

Ensuring Quality Health Care for Missourians

Missouri's federally funded, high-risk health insurance pool recently announced that it would reduce its customer rates by 23 percent. The pool guarantees health care coverage for Missouri citizens with pre-existing medical conditions who are often unable to purchase a policy from a private insurance company.

The Missouri Health Insurance Pool stated in a press release, "Our aggressive rate reduction is intended to make this much-needed health coverage more affordable. This pool is now insuring more than 550 Missourians who previously had no health coverage because they could not find affordable coverage in the commercial market. This premium reduction will make comprehensive health care coverage more accessible to Missourians with pre-existing medical conditions."

The quality of Missourians' health care is a vital issue. Last June, the Senate Interim Committee on Health Insurance Exchanges was created, and I was happy to have been chosen to serve on the panel.

The committee is responsible for researching Missouri’s options regarding the establishment of a health insurance exchange and to study its effect on existing state laws. Health insurance exchanges are required under federal law — states may decide whether they would like to form their own health insurance exchange, team up with neighboring states to form an exchange, or join an exchange established by the federal Department of Health and Human Services.

The Senate Interim Committee on Health Insurance Exchanges will share its recommendations on the establishment of Missouri’s health insurance exchange and its effect on state law to the General Assembly.

Please click here to listen to my full interview regarding the Senate Interim Committee on Health Insurance Exchanges.

Remembering the Victims of September 11, 2001

It's hard to believe that 10 years ago, we were attacked by terrorists who killed nearly 3,000 American men, women, and children. I think we can all remember where we were that day when we heard the awful news.

So many feelings went through our heads — shock, fear, disbelief, anger, sadness, and the list goes on. We will never forget that horrible September day in 2001, but I believe our resolve is stronger than ever, and Americans stand even taller than before. The spirit of our country can never be diminished or destroyed.

I am so proud to be a citizen of this great nation and to represent you in state government. God Bless you and God Bless America.

Allen: State Terminates Contract with SynCare, LLC.

Yesterday, August 31^st, the Interim Committee on Budget Transparency met with the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) to discuss the failing contract with SynCare, a provider of third party assessment services. Bowing to legislative pressure, the Department announced today that the SynCare contract has been terminated.

SynCare began its contract with the State last May. SynCare was contracted to screen over 53,000 Medicaid clients statewide to determine their eligibility for home care services and assess appropriate levels of service. Almost immediately, I heard from multiple sources that SynCare was not doing its job properly or handling cases in a timely manner. Representative Tom Flanigan, Chairman of the Appropriations Committee for Health, Mental Health, and Senior Services, and I have been meeting with DHSS Director Margaret Donnelly and Division Director Celesta Hartgraves since early July about this issue and raising concerns about Syncare.

It was also found by the committee that DHSS “loaned” upwards of 33 state employees to do SynCare’s job to make the contract work. State employees were answering SynCare related calls and helping to complete the assessment process.

With the SynCare contract disbanded, the State will temporarily take over the role of performing all assessments until a new contractor can be found or new procedures can be put in place. The Budget Transparency Committee will now focus on ensuring that the taxpayers of Missouri are reimbursed for the unnecessary expenditures incurred by the State as well as any additional penalties against SynCare for breach of contract.

Next Thursday, September 8^th during our Special Session, the Appropriations Committee on Health, Mental Health, and Senior Services will conduct a public hearing regarding the Home Care Services Program.

Rupp: Keeping Synthetic Drugs Out of Missouri

In our great state of Missouri, it is important that we keep our citizens safe and prevent harmful substances from entering into our midst. My colleagues and I heard countless stories of people who had their lives turned upside down because of dangerous drugs masked as ordinary household items, such as synthetic cocaine, marketed as bath salts and selling under the names “Ivory Wave” and “Vanilla Sky.” These products were selling in local stores and drew buyers in with brightly colored packaging. The fact that this dangerous and deadly substance has been sold at local businesses is disturbing, to say the least.

To prevent synthetic drugs from entering the hands of our friends, family, and children, HB 641 was passed by the Legislature and signed by the governor, and took effect on Sunday, Aug. 28. The bill changes the laws regarding controlled substances, and states that it is illegal to sell, distribute, or possess synthetic cannabinoids (K2 and K3, used for synthetic marijuana), synthetic cocaine (bath salts), and other similar drugs. These synthetic drugs can now be found under Missouri’s Schedule I list of controlled substances, and a person who possesses any of the chemicals used to create these synthetic drugs will face the same charges as the illegal drugs the substances imitate.

Many people who take synthetic drugs aren’t aware of the danger they possess. Synthetic cocaine contains the chemical methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) and can be deadly — side effects of this element have included paranoia, seizures, kidney failure, and hallucinations. And the number of people taking synthetic drugs is increasing — according to a report published by The Associated Press, the American Association of Poison Control Centers determined that throughout the first several months of 2011, there were more than 2,700 cases of people falling ill from synthetic drugs. In all of 2010, there were less than 3,200 such cases.

As you can see, these dangerous drugs have caused serious problems for Missourians, and I am thankful that a measure like HB 641 was enacted into law. Young people especially will be tempted to try drugs, and aside from educating our kids to just say “no,” we need to do what we can to keep these substances out of sight. As always, if you have any questions regarding this or any other governmental matter, please don’t hesitate to contact me and the information below.