Suspect Beat Down

The Saint Joseph police department has started an internal investigation into the apparent excessive force of a suspect on New Years Eve this year. While a community never wants its officers involved in such a matter we should happy the department is try to cut off any controversy or accusation of a cover up by being proactive with its officers conduct. We will keep you posted with any updates to this investigation.

Altec Industries - Business Profile

Saint Joseph has a very proud history of entrepreneurs, dreamers, and doers. Today we profile Altec Industries. Altec is a family owned business first started by Lee Styslinger, this year it celebrates its 80th anniversary. Since 1929, Altec has been a world leader in providing products and services for the electric utility, telecommunications, and contractor markets. They provide products and services in over 100 countries throughout the world. Altec, Inc. is the holding company for Altec Industries, Global Rental, National Utility Equipment Company, Altec Worldwide, Altec Capital and Altec Ventures, LLC.

Altec is the forth largest employer in Saint Joseph with a 950 employee workforce. Only the Heartland Medical Center, Triumph Foods, & Saint Joseph School District have more employees.

Two generations later, Lee Styslinger III, now the companies President and CEO says, "In 1929, my grandfather founded a company based on values that place the customer first and view people as our greatest strength. My father continued to grow the company utilizing the same basic principles and, over the years, those values have helped us earn the trust and confidence of our customers worldwide.

At Altec, we listen and create solutions for the challenges our customers face and remain committed to total customer satisfaction in all aspects of our business. However, to be truly successful, we believe there must be a set of clear and understood values. We consider the Altec Values to be critical to our long-term success. It allows us to create an environment that is focused on team, not individual success.

By following these same basic principles my grandfather established, Altec has grown to become an innovative, financially sound company that is leading the industry and setting the standard of excellence in design, manufacturing, sales and service."

Altec successfully operates manufacturing and services facilities out of the following locations.
United States; Saint Joseph, MO - - Birmingham, AL - - Waxahachie, TX - - West Palm Beach, FL - - Creedmoor, NC - - Burnsville, NC - - Frederick, MD - - Elizabethtown, KY - - Plains, PA - - Millbury, MA - - Ashland, OH - - Indianapolis, IN - - Daleville, VA - - Duluth, MN - - Aurora, CO - - Phoenix, AZ - - Pomona, CA - - Dixon, CA - - Portland, OR - - Canada; Surrey, BC - - Winnipeg, MB - - Milton, ON

Levy, Bond Issues

Nearly every day we readers of the St Joe News Press are bombarded with articles, letters, "It's Your Call" comments, and polls about the school district's recent bond and levy proposals. It's becoming wearisome.

I truly understand that there are voters on all sides of the measures who are passionate about their beliefs. This is what makes America such a wonderful country - the ability to vote in a private booth any way our heart leads us, and live with the outcome of the majority's feelings. I think rarely do voters actually vote on facts, best interests, long-term planning, or truly for what is in the best interest of the people as a whole. All too often do voters vote with their hearts and their passions in the moment. Which is, again, what makes our country great.

But on the flip side, I am so sick of reading these article comments, blogs, letters to the editor trying to sway voters to one side or the other. It actually aggravates me beyond belief that someone is honestly trying to get me to vote their way. To be frank, I don't give a damn what someone else thinks. I don't care that Daniel Nowalk, executive director, human resources and public relations, Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Inc. thinks that new schools are going to produce better students than old schools.

I've got my mind made up and the more propaganda I see, the more I hate that we can be bombarded with false truths and be expected to vote on issues that are clearly undefined. I am frustrated that ballot issues can be placed in front of voters without agencies being required to produce all factual information available. I wish those asking for money could be prosecuted for failing to disclose financial information, withholding information and straight up lying about anything.

Twisted, tainted propaganda won't win the District my vote this go-around. I'm sure if they don't get both the bond and the levy this year, they'll keep throwing it out there every year until they do get it. And they'll always say the losses are affecting our children. Always the poor children, who are already getting the short end of the stick. The administrators will never suffer.

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Reasons to vote 'no':
a) Infrastructure surrounding the proposed school sites are sorely lacking. Narrow roads+ increased car traffic+ increased pedestrian traffic+ no sidewalks = a bad combination. There has been no communication between the City and the District to confirm that one will build if the other does. Assuming is a bad thing.

b) District's failure to provide a long-term plan (10 yrs, please). Neely got a new library 7 years ago, and now is slated for closure. New windows and media centers/libraries that were recently installed in potential closing schools is a WASTE of taxpayer $$. Foresight would have prevented this.

c) Dr. Melody Smith's comment that the District is flying by the seat of their pants in concentrating in the northeast just because of a population shift/bump is s c a r y. What happens when Downtown is revitalized and more students are located down there? Time for a new school again?

d) District's failure to provide a backup plan should one or both measures fail, and unwillingness to provide said plan after repeated attempts from taxpayers (obviously not accountable to the voters).

e) District's failure to invest in student growth. Shiny new schools do not equal better achievers. Additional teacher training, school programs, and extra curricular activities do.

f) District has said repeatedly that the proposed closures are in buildings that are structurally sound. Administrators have said that with renovations, these schools would be fine. Last time I checked, renovations would be cheaper that building anew. Continued maintenance would prevent the "failing" of our schools. Invest some money in our existing buildings!

g) The City has some major overhauling to do of their sewer system. This will assuredly bring increased fees from taxpayers, whether in the form of bills, bonds, or taxes. These school measures are raising my annual property tax bill, and I worry that the sewer bill will raise my bill also, leaving me with little to no money at the end of the year. Long-term planning folks. How much more can these public entities suck from me?

h) I, as a taxpayer, am expected to live within a budget - - why isn't the District?

i) This is the personal one for me, which likely won't mean anything to other voters. The District's failed assumption that voters will give them anything they want. Several months ago, before the bond issue was even an issue, Dr. Smith was quoted in the paper as trying to purchase potential land sites to build a new school. Wait... there was no approval from voters? No feedback even from voters? She said that "WHEN THE BOND IS PASSED...". When the bond is passed?! What the heck! Who said I would give you anything? I hate giving to an open hand that continues to beg for money but fails to work for it. People announce they want accountability. I want my voice to be heard! I want this woman to know that she works for me. And I want my children to be all the better for it.

j) $32,000,000,000. $32MM dollars, folks, sitting in reserves. I don't have $32MM in the bank, but if I did, I wouldn't be asking for more.

Required Drug Tests for Welfare Recipients

I have long wondered why a requirement for drug testing was never incorporated into welfare bills. I believe that many recipients are drug users and should not be entitled to government care. (Read the entire AP article here)

I'm glad Kansas has taken some initiative and appears to be serious about moving forward with the testing: "On Wednesday, the Kansas House of Representatives approved a measure mandating drug testing for the 14,000 or so people getting cash assistance from the state, which now goes before the state senate."

While I'm impressed to hear that "similar bills have been introduced in Missouri and Hawaii", I don't hold my breath that Missouri is serious about passing any health or wellness laws. Perhaps it is because it would diminish their love of the social services programs. I think, without them saying it aloud, our representatives enjoy being known as a state that panders to the desires of the needy. We have too many social services programs established to "help those in need". Economic need, health needs, whatever your "need", our state can help.

It's a pity, really, to be a crutch for folks all the time. At some point they need to learn to stand on their own two feet. They have to want to. They need to know that someone is not always going to be there to catch them when they fall. How else can they learn from their mistakes and make lemonade out of lemons or to be independent?

Positive Quote of the Day

Children need models rather than critics.

-- Joseph Joubert (1754-1824) French Philosopher

We The People

"I believe that banking institutions are more dangerous to our liberties than standing armies. If the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their currency, first by inflation, then by deflation, the banks and corporations that will grow up around the banks will deprive the people of all property until their children wake-up homeless on the continent their fathers conquered."
– Thomas Jefferson in 1802

I believe Mr. Jefferson was correct and so were our other founding fathers. It’s time for We The People to rise up and take our country back! It’s time that we start making the leaders of this country feel that wrath of We The People. Watch the video below to get some ideas.

Visitors Bureau

St Joe is lucky to have such a terrific promoter as is found in the St. Joseph Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Their website lists a community calendar, photos, dining info, things to do, places to stay and more, which makes it ideal for tourists (and new residents). I believe this organization's services will be invaluable when the Chief's training camp comes to town. The Bureau has money invested in making our town marketable. A billboard visible to I-29 travelers advertises Jesse James' home in St Joe.

While I maintain that our city has yet to make some progress in luring (and keeping) visitors, I think this organization is forward-thinking and truly acting in the best interest of our citizens.

So, the Chief's have done their part in committing to come to St Joe, and the Visitor's Bureau has done it's part by marketing, the City is adding new tourist destinations (Riverfront Nature Center), and museums are adding value, now I am awaiting an overhauled downtown that will lure families and create a resident and visitor friendly atmosphere.

Keep up the great work everybody!

Positive Quote of the Day

It is the nature of man to rise to greatness if greatness is expected of him.

-- John Steinbeck (1902-1968) American Novelist

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This quote really needs no explanation; however, I wanted to elaborate by saying that I expect great things from our community leaders... our mayor, our city manager, our school teachers, superintendent, and more... I hope these individuals will deliver great things and become role models for youth and adults alike. If they do their jobs correctly, we will all want to become civic-minded individuals with aspirations to become as good or better than those who encouraged us to lead.

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Blue Margaritas

When I first moved to Missouri, a friend invited me over to his house and the directions given to me included the phrase "turn left just past the blue margarita".

Huh? What the heck was the blue margarita? A bar? Restaurant? Nope. It was a water tower! Ever since that day, I've never looked at water towers the same. They've all been blue margaritas to me (except the one that looks like a circus near Worlds of Fun).

Coming from a state that did not have the same looking above-ground water towers, I wondered a) why there were so many in our region and b) how exactly do those suckers work?

So, for those people wondering the same thing... this one's for you. Apparently, water towers continually "suck up" and store water for times when "extra" distribution may be necessary. These towers always suck up the same amount of water all year long. They help increase water pressure and ensure that we will always have water when we turn on the faucet. In the winter, obviously, the towers become more full than in the summer, when they are almost always running on low simply because we consume more water in the hotter months watering our lawns and gardens, washing our cars, etc;

In larger cities, in big buildings, contractors are required to install water reservoirs underneath or within the building itself (mostly just to save space). Some states have large round reservoirs that appear to be on the ground itself. Ours just happen to be flying high in the sky. Our water towers that are above-ground are more cost-effective to install and are highly popular in rural areas because they can sustain smaller populations. You will rarely, if ever, see water towers like ours in major cities (New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Phoenix) for two reasons: a) they only produce a relatively small output, and b) they are considered an eyesore. One rural town found itself installing a blue margarita nearly every mile as the town grew and grew. The residents began complaining that the city needed to upgrade it's water system; however, to date, nothing has changed. At least those people have water to take their daily shower.

I feel a sense of relief after traveling when seeing the blue margarita near my house. Although it is in dire need of a paint job, it still reminds me that I am almost home.

Happy Happy Happy

Breitbart.com published an AP article outlining the states with the best "well-being". Utah topped the list because it "boasts lots of outdoor recreation for its youthful population." A comparative map is also available for those interested in finding out how Missouri ranks in comparison to other states. Sadly, the numbers do not reflect the "St Joe Proud" mentality that many boast about.

Missouri lacks in mental well-being, physical well-being, access to basic needs (such as housing, food, jobs, etc;), and health well-being.

I think the physical and health topics go hand in hand, and are extremely indicative of the lazy mentality that has taken over our region. Too many times I have asked my neighbors and friends what their weekend plans are and have been told that they are going to a friend or relative's house and will play cards, watch movies or otherwise be sedentary. Rarely, if ever, do I hear about any physical activity that may occur.

With our City pumping the benefit of the parkway system so heavily, I would think that our citizens would be encouraged to be more active. I understand it can be difficult to get off the toosh in the freezing winters or the hot summers to be outside. I think we need to lobby for indoor options.

A City-sponsored park & rec program coupled with various institutions (MWSU is one that comes to mind) could be instated that would allow residents to take part in reduced-cost recreational programs. Okay, folks, I'm not talking about MORE for the adults to do. We need to start with our youth. And not the YMCA (can anyone say "pricey"?). Discounted karate lessons, racquetball, badminton, dance, and swimming are some physical activities that can be held indoors. Instructors teaching classes at discounted rates would encourage parents to get their kids involved. Classes should be year-round (I've never understood why nearly all youth events stop during the summer months - but that is a whole other discussion).

Thinking to the great outdoors - why not encourage walkers to log their distances? The City should provide maps (readable, coherent maps) to hikers, mountain bikers, and walkers. A sidewalk system should be implemented to make it easier to travel throughout the city. I have found that there are several places throughout our town that are completed disconnected from any recreation (the northeast being one), and it can be difficult for both youths and adults to even GET to a recreational area. I detest having to load my bike in my car to take it to the parkway just to ride it, and would rather ride around my neighborhood. I cannot get to a local park without having to drive a minimum of 15 minutes. Whatever happened to neighborhood parks that residents could walk to?

I even think doctors and hospitals would rally together to promote a healthier lifestyle. The pound plunge is only one example, and a pretty poor one at that... really - encouraging walkers to walk around our mall? Puh-lease. Get these folks an indoor track or at least let them use the university's facilities.

Heck, maybe a non-smoking initiative would get Northwest Missouri to be leaders in the healthy lifestyle department.

Positive Quote of the Day

Nobody grows old merely by living a number of years. We grow old by
deserting our ideals.

-- Samuel Ullman

Statewide Smoking Ban In Our Future?

Missouri State Sen. Joan Bray, a Democrat who represents St. Louis County, has filed a bill to enact a STATEWIDE smoking ban in public places or public meetings.

"The bill (SB309) modifies the provisions of the Missouri Indoor Clean Air Act to prohibit smoking in a public place or a public meeting or within fifteen feet of any entrance to a public place or public meeting. The definition of public place has been amended to include any building or vehicle owned, leased or operated by a governmental entity as well as bars and restaurants. The provision allowing for a designated smoking area in public places has been repealed.

This act also specifies that a person commits the crime of littering if he or she throws on the ground any cigarettes, cigarette packages, or other smoking-related items. The crime of littering is a Class A misdemeanor."

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I found that the bill has been sent to the Missouri State Senate
Health, Mental Health, Seniors and Families Committee, which includes the following representatives:
# Norma Champion, 30th, Chair
# Eric Schmitt, 15th, Vice-Chairman
# Jane Cunningham, 7th
# Tom Dempsey, 23rd
# Bill Stouffer, 21st
# Jolie Justus, 10th
# Jeff Smith, 4th
# Yvonne Wilson, 9th

I contacted each committee member and even Sen. Bray herself expressing my support for this bill. I have received only one personalized response, which was from Ms. Justus. Ms. Justus advised me that the bill was second read and was sent to the committee noted above, which has taken no further action.

These idiots arbitrarily decided that the people of MO are not deserving of a clean breathing environment. These representatives refuse to at least take the vote of a state-wide smoking ban to the voters.

I discovered that the tobacco tax in MO is one of the lowest in the nation. I believe that if our reps are not going to enact a smoking ban, they should double the tobacco tax. In light of the recent local discussion regarding money for education, this would be an ideal way to procure additional funding for our youth. In addition to educating the public about the harmful effects of smoking, in the long run, our state healthcare system would not be so impacted with smokers health problems.

A recent study indicated that 1/2 of smokers in St Joseph alone WANT to quit, but feel the cannot. This bill would be a step forward for these folks by eliminating other smokers in their midst, thus temptation.

I have written to each of the representatives listed above telling them how outraged I am that they have chosen to do nothing with this bill. If you feel the same way, let them know YOUR opinion also.

Mother Nature

I love the four seasons. I think most would agree with me when I say that spring and fall are the most enjoyable times of the year in our region. Not only because the foliage blooms or turns color, but because the climate is conducive to outdoor activities. From gardening to biking to walking, Mother Nature is beckoning for everyone to enjoy the wide open spaces. Beautiful skies with little to no pollution, moderate temperatures, and the soft ebb and flow of the landscape are pleasing to the eye.

My ONLY gripe is the thunderstorms. WHY oh WHY do the thunder, lightning, and showers have to primarily come during the evening hours when it is dark outside? I love the rain! I wish it would downpour during daylight more often! Too bad I get to listen to the pitter patter only in the dark with my outdoor lights on.

I think I'll write Mother Nature a letter asking her for less daylight drizzle and more daylight downpours. While I'm at it, I'll ask for a little consistency, too. How about an entire day of rain, an entire day of sunshine, and temps in a similar range? This back-and-forth snow, rain, and 80-degree temps just doesn't find me singing Mother Nature's praises.

Rubbish

One of my first posts on this blog condemns the amount of trash found throughout Krug Park. Another post mentions how we are not a "green" community. But with spring fast approaching and mother nature providing ample time for me to explore my town by foot, I am appalled by how much litter is spread throughout our city. This problem of trash everywhere is not isolated to our parks ~ it's everywhere! I think it is saddening that the residents of St Joe care so little about our environment that they continue to litter and destroy the beauty of our home. Yes... OUR home. Home to each resident.

Recently, I collected a full trash bag of garbage I collected from my neighborhood just by walking around. I'm sure if I had saved it all, I would have amassed several piles of rubbish in my yard alone - from the oodles of fast food trash to the landscaping materials bags that "blew" into my yard to regular old kitchen trash that somehow never makes it into my neighbors garbage cans. Perhaps it "accidentally" blows out of the rumbling uncovered garbage haulers. Whatever the reason, it is simply unacceptable.

I fail to understand why any person believes it is okay to throw litter on the ground or flick a cigarette butt out of the car window! What is the benefit? Because we are too lazy of a society to take our fat butts to a garbage can? Somehow, while I don't understand it, I certainly believe it. I just pity those who have so little consideration for their neighbor that they would freely dispose of their rubbish anywhere they see fit.

It certainly explains a lot about my neighborhood.