JACKSON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE UPDATE

Congratulations to Jackson's athletes!

The girls basketball team's performance in Columbia last weekend once again illustrated that Jackson athletics are among the best in the state. Their fine finish made us all proud.

In addition, the football and wrestling teams' state finishes should make our community proud.

Many of our young athletes have participated in programs sponsored by Jackson's service clubs. There is Optimist Youth Basketball, Optimist Youth Soccer, Safety City and Rotary Lake.

Thanks to these programs, children have developed their skills in athletics and learned sportsmanship. Safety City taught them how to avoid accidents and stay healthy.

Due to the Rotary Club's efforts, there is a beautiful lake in Jackson City Park. Club members also paved trails throughout the park, allowing for safe, scenic walks or jogs through nature. The park is a great place to exercise.

Other students distinguish themselves through music, and the American Legion recognizes Jackson musicians with savings bonds every month.

These are just some of the organizations I know are working with Jackson young people. I'm sure there are many more helping our community's children grow into mature, responsible, well-rounded adults.

Several business leaders helped in this effort by participating in the Future Business Leaders of America's shadowing program last month. The Jackson Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club and FBLA worked together so students could spend a few hours learning about their future careers by "shadowing" adults already in them. Thank you to all the businesses and students who participated.

Congratulations to the FBLA winners who participated in district competition Feb. 24 at Southeast Missouri State University. Judging from the list of contest winners, Jackson businesses have a bright future ahead!

The polls will be open April 2, and local voters are reminded to get out and vote for the school board members and aldermen of their choice.

Incumbents Vicky McDowell, T. Wayne Lewis and Darrell Hanschen, along with challengers Ron Lowes and Tom Ludwig are running for school board. Incumbents David Reiminger, Fred Leimer, Kerry Hoffman, Glenn Oldham and David Ludwig are seeking election to the Jackson Board of Aldermen, along with John Powers, Larry Cunningham and Donna Langford.

I am sure all candidates have the welfare of the city at heart and wish to serve their communities as much as possible. It is up to the voters to decide who gets the opportunity to do so.

Also, it is time for everyone to get out and sign up for the Jackson Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, scheduled for April 19.

The event will be a four-man scramble, with lots of prizes and lots of fun guaranteed. To sign up your team, call Patty Reisenbichler at the chamber office, 243-8131.

Your participation is appreciated, because the tournament is one of the chamber's most productive fund-raisers of the year.

Larry Hall is president of the Jackson Chamber of Commerce.