Welcome back to school to all administrators, teachers and other employees and students in Jackson. I know it will be another exciting, successful year for all Jackson area schools.

Jackson Homecomers was a booming success again this year. Over 10,000 were in attendance and were treated to great weather, great shows, our new mural dedication, the introduction of our K-9 drug unit dog, great food stands and of course, the midway rides, etc.

The same weekend as Homecomers, the local Knights of Columbus organization held the state of Missouri KC horseshoe tourney in Jackson. This was a huge, successful event that brought over 2,000 visitors to Jackson. I enjoyed being a part of their opening ceremonies.

Our city library, which has been in the new city hall since late this spring, was recently officially dedicated. State librarian Sara Parker was on hand for the event. 1996 is the 70th anniversary for our public library in Jackson.

The council recently passed an annual property tax rate that is the same as last year's rate. There has been no increase in property tax rates in Jackson for 11 years.

Several city asphalt streets will soon be getting a face-lift with some new overlay. Please pardon our progress while these improvements are being made. The parking lot in Brookside Park will also be overlaid for the convenience of the people who visit the park.

Much has been said and written about a possible curfew in Jackson. The council will soon address this issue. Please remember that no matter what decision is made that responsibility for our children starts at home. Curfew or no curfew, all of us who are parents have the main responsibility for the whereabouts of our children.

I will be conducting a tour of all city departments on Sept. 10-12. Several council members and administrator Steve Wilson will join me for this three-day tour. I feel it's important to visit with employees, look at ongoing projects and get a firsthand look at our city facilities on a regular basis. We all are on the same progressive team in Jackson. The council and I take pride in taking a day-to-day interest in our city departments.

Steve Compas is our employee of the month. Steve is a 22-year veteran in our police department.

The council meets every Monday night at 7:30 at city hall. We welcome your ideas and suggestions to make Jackson a better place.