In My Opinion in Alton

Stimulus Package a Sham

2009-02-04T11:37:00.001-08:00

It is time for me to weigh in on the stimulus package. As of today it appears the package has now neared $900 billion dollars and filled with so much pork loaded up by our Democrats. Democrats and Republicans boasted how they were going to change, and all they are doing is setting up failure for our future generations. The current package will spend money we do not have and we need to curtail it and stop giving money to large greed corporations!

If I was in US Congress I would push more efforts onto targeting the mortgage industry and help people on the verge of foreclosures. Adjust the mortgages to allow people to stay in their homes and find a way to reassess homes due to the decline in property value so mortgages can be renegotiated.

Secondly I would drop the $2 billion dollar for clean coal plants. Clean coal is an oxymoron and we should invest this money into our infrastructure such as mass transit and also into alternative energy solutions.

Third, NO TAX CUTS for greedy corporations. They got us into this mess, and it is time to stop rewarding bad business practices. We also need to remove the $1.6 billion dollar tax cut for Verizon! This is to be used for bringing Internet to the rural area, but why don't these companies use their own money, not the taxpayer? After all they will benefit from the growth, not the taxpayer.

And finally, give the American Taxpayer immediate relief by cutting taxes and ensuring all Americans have medical coverage at no cost. There are 43 million people today with out health care coverage, including myself, and it is totally unacceptable to continue to allow this in the greatest country in the world! There is much more that needs to be eliminated, but these items I listed I would target immediately!

I spoke about making changes by voting Green Party in 2008, and I did get 11, 000 votes. If we could hold an election today, I am sure this number would be greater. It is my will to continue voicing my concerns and stay on top of the issues that effect the everyday citizens. I will be running again in 2010, but to do this, I must have volunteers and financial support as well. If you can help, please pass this onto your friends, and to volunteer, send me an email back to your commitment. If you can click here: Online Donations Accepted.

I want to be your Congressman in 2010, but until then I will run with the banner to keep our Congressional leaders honest! Let's make change happen!

Rodger Jennings

www.rodgerjennings.org
www.metroeastgreenparty.org

Lighthouse Media Center Open For Business In Alton, IL

2009-02-04T08:06:00.001-08:00

Alton, IL, February 4, 2009: Jennings Properties, Inc., locally owned and operated by Rodger Jennings and his son, Anthony are proud to announce the opening of the Lighthouse Media Center at 115 Market Street in Alton , Illinois . The Lighthouse Media Center now offers an alternative to help individuals and small businesses, including bands, to cope with rising prices to rent a facility for private functions. The facility will hold up to 75 people. The Lighthouse Media Center offers a stage area for speakers or performers for an event with a full sound system available to rent. Prepared food maybe be brought in or have your event catered. Also being offered will be projection capabilities to allow for presentations done by DVD or laptops.

It can be rented by the hour or a special rates to rent the facility for a day, weekend or longer. For pricing and scheduling call the Jennings Properties, Inc. at 618-670-4711 or send an email to Jenningsproperties@sbcglobal.net.

Email your Congressman today!!!

2009-01-27T10:30:00.001-08:00

We must change the Economic Recovery Plan from 1/3 tax cuts for the Middle Class to Jobs, Jobs and Jobs!!! Only 1/5 of the money is going to Jobs per Rep.
Defazio, (http://www. defazio. house. gov/).
We have already done tax cuts recently and they did not work! Why because the Middle Class does not go out and spend that money they get it entangled with the Financial Services Industries through their mortgages and debt, we all know that throwing money at those institutions is like throwing a water balloon at a burning house!
I Love the Middle Class but we need Jobs!!!! Infrastructure, the Greening of our Energy Grid, Mass Transit, retrofitting buildings for conservation, these are good investments at this time, not tax cuts! Obama will just have to pay his donors and voters back later in his term, when the economy has recovered a bit!
Also Food Stamps, Unemployment Insurance, Medicaid spending, these expenditures will help those amongst us who are falling off the cliff, to hang on, they also help the states with their budgets.

What we don't need is 50 Million to the National Endowment for the Arts, I love the arts but not right now, things are too dire!
We don't need 200 Million to Rehabilitate the lawn of the National Mall, unless Obama means to grow organic fruits and veggies on the Mall for the poor, there is just no reason to spend money on that right now!!!
We don't need 500 Million for bomb detectors in the airports for the TSA, isn't it funny how there has not been another attack like 9/11 since 9/11? Any one questioning the War on Terror right about now? I digress, my apologies.

Please pick up the phone and demand a better deal for America;
More Green for our Buck! More Bucks for our Poor!

Change Gonna Come!

2009-01-20T07:48:00.000-08:00

Today, January 25, 2009 is a great day for the American people. As I sit here watching the Obama Inauguration I am proud to be an American citizen. I was just a child when JFK was elected and remember how the country and the world swirled around that administration and now we are seeing it again, perhaps even more as we have seen the media refer to this a Obama Fever.

However all is not good in our country and especially in our great state of Illinois. We must as people of this state take control of our civil servants and demand that they begin to work for us. Many of the elected officials feel that we owe them the job, but they are very mistaken as they owe us to be our servant that will listen to what our needs are. Millions are out of work, including myself, and though this is a festive day, many of our citizens are suffering while we spend billions of dollars for a bail out of the banks who refuse to turn around and help people.

US Congress needs look at the people, listen to the people, and work for the people in this country. The American people need to demand change. The American people need to understand the change only happens when they make it happen. Sure we elected a new President, and I pray he does the job, but this is not change. They only handed the reins over from the Republicans to the Democrats. If the American people want to demand real change, it is time to force the political scene to accept a third party. In Illinois we have a three party system but many people are not aware of this because the media will not give the Green Party the respect they deserve. Rise up people and start demanding to know more about the Green Party and ask the news media to start giving equal coverage to a party that has equal status in Illinois.

Rodger Jennings

Chairman of the Metroeast Green Party

www.metroeastgreenparty.org

METROEAST GREEN PARTY TO MEET

2009-01-19T07:35:00.000-08:00

The Metroeast Green Party will hold its first meeting of 2009 on January 25, 2009. It will be held at the Lighthouse Media Center, 115 Market Street, Alton, Illinois at 2 pm. It is open to the public and all ages are welcome to attend.

The agenda for the meeting is as follows:

2:00 pm - 2:15 pm Social time
2:15 pm - 3:00 pm Party business
3:00 pm - 3:30 pm Open Discussions

If you are interested in changing the fate of our citizens in the state of Illinois, consider attending the Green party meeting on January 25. We offer people a third party choice and we will be working to bring in new members to help grow our cause. For more information about the Metroeast Green Party, please go to www.metroeastgreenparty.org or visit the Green Party of Illinois at www.ilgp.org.

If you have any questions, please respond to this email.

Rodger Jennings
Chairman of the Metroeast Green Party
www.rodgerjennings.org
www.metroeastgreenparty.org

Project Manager Job Seach

2009-01-15T13:44:00.000-08:00

I am searching for a job in the field of PROJECT MANAGEMENT. I was laid off from my job in June, 2008.

I have established a proven track record of developing and implementing strategic process enhancements that drive operational efficiency, significant cost savings, and business growth in my 25+ years as a leader in the areas Process Improvement and Project Management. Skilled in managing projects from inception to implementation, identifying IT solutions, and building and leading high-performing teams, I am confident in my ability to generate superior results for your organization.

In leadership positions with Western Union, I have consistently enabled success by leading business units to implement process improvements that save money, eliminate waste, and enhance productivity. My most valuable accomplishments include:

• Recommending and leading call change project that provided Western Union agents access to make system changes to non-financial areas of money transfers. Result: Project has saved company $12 million to date and continues to save an average of $3-4 million/year.
• Spearheading compliance and subpoena project to reduce paper handling and manpower. Result: Saved company $250,000/year. (Savings are ongoing.)
• Overseeing move of 200 employees and equipment to new building. Result: No business delays. Move was completed over 1 weekend.
• Managing transition of reports from old image system to new system and directing customization of new system for worldwide users. Result: Successful new OnDemand system is still in use and expanding.
• Oversaw Change Management Processes for the building population.
• Receiving numerous awards, including: 1st Quarter Accelerator Award for Team Work (2008); Team of the Quarter Award (2005); CFO Team of Excellence Award (2002 and 2001).

RODGER W. JENNINGS
Alton, Illinois 62002
rwjsr2220@sbcglobal.net

PROJECT MANAGER / SIX SIGMA BLACK BELT / IT MANAGER

I am a seasoned, award-winning Project Management leader and IT Manager with more than 25 years of experience developing and implementing process enhancements that drive operational efficiency, cost savings, and business growth. Expertise in spearheading complex, large-scale projects that require expert facilitation of communications between business units. Proven track record of identifying IT solutions, streamlining processes, and building and leading high-performing teams that enable optimum bottom-line results.

Technical Skills
Certified Six Sigma Black Belt • Project Management • IT Systems & Solutions
Team Leadership • Systems Implementation • Operational Streamlining • Disaster Recovery
Computer Operations Management • Vendor Relations • Strategic Planning
Staff Management • Training • Cost Avoidance • Change Management Process • MS Software Proficient • Project Management Software Tools

Achievements
• Spearheaded Process Improvement Projects - Recommending and leading call change project that provided Western Union agents access to make system changes to non-financial areas of money transfers saving an average of $3-4 million/year. Also headed a compliance and subpoena project to reduce paper handling and manpower resulting in $250,000/year savings.
• Installed Change Management Procedures to align building practices to accept continual change occurring in the workplace.
• System Migration from paper to an online document solution to reduce cost of paper and increase production time to retrieve information via online solutions.
• Development of Software leading teams to develop software for process improvements.
• More achievements available upon request.

Education
• AA in Computer Technology Control Data Institute, St. Louis, Missouri
• BA in Information Technology Rochelle University, Clearwater Florida
• Certified Six Sigma Black Belt First Data Corp, Denver, Colorado

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

WESTERN UNION
Senior Manager, Black Belt Quality and Process Improvement

Senior Manager, Data Center

Computer Operations Manager

Computer Operations Supervisor

EDS
Computer Operations Supervisor at Western Union Facility

Early Career or detail information on professional experience is available upon request.

Pro Active Leadership

2007-07-26T07:37:00.000-07:00

If there is one book leaders need to read I would suggest reading “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Steven R. Covey. In this book there are seven points that can make one effective, something anyone in an influential position should consider.

The topic “Being Proactive” is discussed in the first chapter. How fitting is this when it comes to being a leader. Do we see any of our leaders out on a regular basis being proactive in meeting the public? When there is a problem to address, are they there side by side with the people being affected?

In Steven Covy’s book, language is just one way to be proactive, or in many cases not. For example how many times have you heard from our leaders, “There’s nothing I can do.” As a change manager expert in my job, that sentence makes no sense to me, as my response would be, “There must be an alternative and we need to explore all possibilities.” There are many ways to address an issue; just saying no is not an option to me.

An additional way to look at problems in our community is from a proactive focus. Many times concerns will drive a focus on a problem, for example, the loss of businesses has be driving the focus to get more business. But the alternative to this is to have a proactive focus to increase population which will drive down concerns of businesses and allow for the city to flourish. Of course it is much more complex that just a few words in a sentence as you have to be proactive on many fronts such as crime, racial issues, and much more.

Until our leadership learns how to be proactive, the circle of concerns will inherent all the issues and make it very difficult to focus on making this the city it can be. Stop waiting for things to happen and make them happen in a positive manner. Check out www.citizensforalton.com or www.metroeastgreenparty.org.

R. Jennings
Chairman Metro East Green Party
Citizens for a Better Alton

TIme For New Leaders in Alton

2007-07-16T07:36:00.001-07:00

LEADERSHIP - (noun), 1. ability to lead: the ability to guide, direct, or influence people 2. guidance: guidance or direction

In the city of Alton, the above definition has been lost. In fact I think the word may be gone in the vocabulary of our elected officials. The city is moving towards crises and yet they quietly hide behind their titles and lock themselves behind closed doors, in effect the “ostrich syndrome”. When are the elected officials going to stand up and take responsibility for their lack of action? The city is being drained of good citizens as they leave, giving corruption, drug dealing, prostitution, and murder more control of our streets. Looking at the definition of “Leadership” it is for certain we have no person in office that has the ability to influence our citizens. The mayor and aldermen have no creditability any more after letting the streets become a Wild West scene. It is obvious they have no “guidance” as they have no sense of vision for the future.

In recent weeks we have seen senseless murders, death threats, and local businesses go out of business only to be replaced by pay day loan companies and minimum wage jobs. We see the city in the middle of a battle with one of the areas worse slum lord as people continue to get hurt from his action. So how did this happen, lack of “Leadership” is the only answer. Our elected officials have worried too much about what is important to them, not listening to their constituents and their concerns that are changing our culture and environment of this city. Our elected officials have no visionary goals, except for the riverfront area, but there is much more to this city than the riverfront.

Better leadership is needed now at all levels of our city government. New trust must be instilled in our police force that will allow people not afraid to give facts that are crucial to a case. Today’s police force is intimating and instills fear in the regular citizen of Alton. Maybe a smile or a wave would do wonders to help bring back a little trust. But that is just the tip of this ice berg. We need tough laws on drug dealing, prostitution, use of fire arms, and tougher housing guidelines. We need to make our young teenagers who deface property learn a lesson by requiring all kids to give community time to keep our city clean! Maybe they would appreciate what they have. The city needs to work stopping racism and we all become one group of people, ALTONIANS! It will not be easy, but we must put a stop to racism in this city to allow it to flourish again.

It is time to step up and educate everyone that people are people, and color or race makes no difference. People need to register to vote, and tell our officials that we are tired of the status quo. We should be there for our neighbors, even if the neighbor is 10 miles across town. It is obvious our elected officials have no leadership skills so we need to step up and take control of our own destiny and work towards a united city front. Effective changes do not happen by accident. It will require a focused and deliberate effort from leaders to move forward and in doing so; we must use an approach that can accommodate different personalities and cultures. Join me in this urgent need to make our city a better place to live!

People Watching at the Bank

2007-05-17T06:07:00.001-07:00

Have you ever wondered why people do what they do? Lately I have been analyzing how people do business at a bank teller drive up window and the ATM. I discovered there are several categories of people that use the bank services.

The Unprepared banker is in my opinion difficult to understand. It never fails I get behind one of these people the majority of the time I go to the drive up at the bank. Why is it they wait till they are at the drive up to write a check or fill in their deposit slip? Did they not know that is needed when you go to the bank? I find myself watching these curious types thinking, they are hogging my time at the drive up. Which brings me to the next type.

The Prepared banker is what I am. Before I leave home, I know that all my slips or checks are properly filled out. I am in and out in less than a minute, minus the time the Unprepared banker makes me sit there. I don’t understand how I can do this in record setting time, and the person in front of me doesn’t understand the concept of being prepared.

Commercial Bankers are businesses that have an exclusive line at many banks. When they roll up, they look around, as to say, “Hey I am special and have my own personal lane.” And rightfully so, they are busy and time is money!

Then you have your sneakers. These are people who roll up in the commercial lane to conduct person business. They seem to drive up slowly as though they are sneaking in, and never look around. I would one time like to see a bank tell them to go around and get in the proper lane. That would be stunning surprise, but we all know banks are there to server their customers, and even the individual banker is important.

Then you have your ATM people. They are in a class to themselves. They are the typically fast past individuals, perhaps they do not like personal interaction, or they had enough of the Unprepared Banker. But there are different groups within this unique group such as hanging out my widow to reach or the person who tries to set a record for fastest withdrawal. But there is always the Unprepared ATM person who has graduated from the role of Unprepared Banker at the drive up. My most curious ATM person is the one who drives up to the machine and gets out of their vehicle to use the ATM. What is up with that? Are they that bad of driver they are afraid they may hit the machine?

All in all, bank watching has turned into a game for me. Each visit is different every time. Take the opportunity to see how many different things you see at bank drive ups or ATMs. Instead of being frustrated waiting in line like I was once, I now play the game of People Watching at the Bank.

Time to Act Green Instead of Think Green

2007-04-25T12:28:00.000-07:00

Global warming is not a myth! It is happening and now is the time to act. Just as a team, it takes individual efforts to fight this battle. The city of Alton has virtually done nothing to address our environmental issues. Yes they offer recycling, but only the minority does it. We need to make it manadatory. The city needs to look at assisstance business into converting to solar power, and as new homes are built, give incentives to put in thermo-geo energy.

Each generation has always tried to make the world a better place and the baby boomers must lead the way. First easy step is to replace your light bulbs. Not only using energy efficent light bulbs help the environment, is saves you money in the long run. Up front costs of purchases may seem expensive but the lights can last up to 5 years.

Our city leaders are certainly not interested in our next generations or else they would be leading the way. Step up and act to make our city a better place to live!

Madison County Green Party Affiliated With State Party

2007-04-20T11:49:00.000-07:00

On April 16, 2007, the Illinois Green Party announced that the Madison County Green Party was officially affiliated with the state party. Over the last few weeks, a small group of Madison County citizens have been meeting to formalize the Madison County Green Party.

The following positions were filled by the Madison County Green Party:

Chairman of Madison County Green Party – Rodger Jennings, Alton
Treasurer of Madison County Green Party - Keith Powell, Alton
Secretary of Madison County Green Party – Danielle Swan, Edwardsville
Representative to State Party (LGP) – Mark Mallion, Edwardsville

Trustee 1 – Mike Toje, Edwardsville
Trustee 2 - Erick Gates, Edwardsville
Trustee 3 – Tim Bethel, Alton

The Madison County Green Party passed by-laws in accordance to the requirements to become affiliated with the state Illinois Green Party.

“We have made an important step in Madison County allowing the voters another choice to represent them”, said Jennings, Chairman. “It is our goal next to identify key races to focus on in 2008 and announce our candidates for these races.”

Currently the Madison County Green Party has been alternating places to hold meetings but is looking for a home. The next meeting which is open to the public will be held Tuesday, April 24, at 7:00 pm at the public library in Edwardsville, Illinois. Anyone interested in more information about the Green Party can go to www.ilgp.org. or call 866-752-3540 which is Jennings’ office phone.

Citizens for a Better Alton

2007-03-30T10:50:00.000-07:00

Come all and let's make a better city. I am working with several people at this time and we have formed a group called "Citizens for A Better Alton". It is time to look towards 2009 and supply candidates that will bring the government back to the people. No more do we need city leaders to sit back and not listen to ideas from the public. More jobs are needed, more business are needed, less talk is needed!

I am a man of action, and I have worked in forming this group. Now is the time for action. If you want to join our cause, send me an email at rwj4green@sbcglobal!

Alton Crime Statistics for 2006

2007-03-06T09:55:00.000-08:00

In the recent days The Telegraph has reported statistics on the crime rate in Alton. The Alton Police Department deserves a lot of credit in helping towards making Alton a safer place, but we have a long ways to go to make it safer. The APD is only as good as the citizens reporting crime and standing up as witnesses. They cannot do the job by themselves. Additionally, if our police department needs more equipment and/or manpower, then the citizens of Alton need to be willing to put up the money to make this happen. On the other hand, I think our mayor has made an effort to use the figures to be more positive. It is always good to show the positive and use it as a stepping stone, but the mayor needs to acknowledge that in reality the numbers should be looked at cautiously. I am not resisting any changes the mayor or APD have put in place, but we need to dissect the numbers more efficiently.

The Illinois State Police indicated that crime was down 9.3% which was .7% higher than Mayor Sandidge reported. That sounds like a great figure, but you need to dig deeper to understand those results. Burglary and theft took significant drops, but murder and arson reports remained the same. Criminal sexual assault reports were up 21% and arrests up 63%; robbery reports up 3% and arrests up 22%; aggravated assault reports up 88% and arrests up 3%; motor theft reports up 11% and arrests up 44%.

If you look at the statistics individually as they should be, the citizens of Alton should be demanding to see a plan on reducing these crimes. The Weed and Seed Program is an excellent example of gaining control of areas that are blighted by drug dealings and I commend everyone involved in the program. Burglary and theft were down significantly, but why? Was it because business and residents installed more alarms, video systems? Or was it because of more police presents to deterring the crime. The facts of lower crime are not really sufficient to say Alton made a significant reduction in the crime rate. In fact the more critical crimes indicate the city is less safe than a year ago. All of these numbers need to be drilled down to understand why it is happening. It is easy to speculate, but the truth of the fact is that numbers drive the story, and until you totally analyze the statistics, we will not know the underlying story. This is a basic business methodology that is used in process improvement on any type of study, and can be used in this quandary as well.

I am not being critical of the reduction of crime in what I consider less serous crimes. However as a citizen of Alton, I like to understand why the other more serious crimes took such significant jumps in the last year. We still have a long way to go, and the citizens need to stand up and help make changes by getting involved.

Corporate Corruption In Our Society

2007-02-19T09:26:00.000-08:00

I have been sitting quietly reading editorials, sound off, and talk back columns in regards to the Ameren electrical rates. Frankly, I blame the Democrats and Republicans for this complete mess with the rates, but Ameren has it share of blame as well. Rates should have never been frozen for ten years. I am not employed by any utility nor do I like to pay for higher rates, but I could have better afforded it gradually instead of a 300% rate increase in which I had this month! Yes, 300% for an all electric home.

I sent email to voice my concern with Senator Haine and Rep. Baiser, but guess what, I was ever contacted. I can only assume since I told them both I held them and their fellow politicians responsible, that I struck a nerve. And now that the media has exposed the contributions they got from Ameren. It is important to recognize that corporations dominate our political system which is the root of many of our society and economic problems. Corporations corrupt the political system by making such donations to our politicians. Corporations have forced many families to poverish conditions, raising prices, polluting our environment, and out sourcing to other countries for cheap labor.

It is time for the American people to take note of all this corporate corruption to our society and environment. We must send a message to all levels of government, local, regional, state, and federal, NO MORE! It is time for citizens to change how we run the government, and the only way is to get involved.

I invite everyone 16 years old and up to join our cause and come to the Madison County Green Party meeting on Tuesday night, February 27 at 7 PM at the Religious Center of SIUE. I am working to help make some significant changes and the Green Party is just the party to help bring the government back to the people. Stand up and stop corporate domination in our society, and bring the control back to the people, for the people, and by the people! Feel free to call me at 1-866-752-3540, leave me a message and I will contact you personally.

February 14, 2007

2007-02-14T07:51:00.000-08:00

Happy Valintines Day everyone. This is a day for all lovers, and maybe a day people who have disagreements to look at a way to resolve them especially parents with children. It is so sad to see parents separate and / or divorce with chidren, espcially young. I am experiencing this first hand as my grandchildren suffer through what I see as inmature parents. For the newlyweds and lovers to married soon, please make sure this is the right step. I was married for 29 years until my wife passed away. We had hard times, but we stuck with it. Today people are just a throw away society. If it doesn't come easy, throw it away.

February 9, 2007

2007-02-09T06:40:00.000-08:00

Time to think about where we are in our life and careers. I myself have been with a world wide company for 27 years now soon to be 28 years in May. I hope my trek into the political arena will be succesful so I can retire from my current job and move into a new career.

So why am I talking about careers? It is a given fact that in today's world seldom will you see anyone dedicated to one company for as many years I have given. The younger generation today have no loyalty to their employers, but understanding how employers treat their employees is probably why. You will not find many companies today helping employees through tradegies in their personal life. Or will you find companies today make them feel like they are part of a family. Today most people are just a number to a company so they meet the bottom line forecast so shareholders are happy. Even the company I work for has drastically changed in the last 2 years. I feel very loyal to them even though I feel like they have withdrawn their "good feeling" as an employee. After my wife passed away nearly 4 years ago, if they had not given me the support, I am sure I would have been fired or I would have quit. They gave me the support to work through my issues which took nearly 3 years.

I would hope that as the younger generation grows older that they can learn to committ to long terms, perhaps move into upper and executive management where policies can be changed to make people feel like a team or family again. I know I have a small business and mainly hire contractors in my business, but I treat them like a team player, as if the team does not function well together, you will never win.

February 7, 2006

2007-02-07T09:03:00.000-08:00

From reading the article in the Telegraph about the “State of the City” it sounds like kudos is in order for the mayor. I think it is great that the city has made progress in reducing crime by 24% in a ten year period and that we now have over $5M in reserve. However, there is still a lot that the city of Alton needs to do, such as bringing in new businesses that pay more than minimum wage. The reports indicated sales taxes were up, which is good, but look at the new businesses brought into Alton. To my knowledge none of these are highly skilled or paid positions.

Most of the article focused on traffic violations, the park facilities with the highlight being centered on the renovation of city hall. No doubt that city hall needed renovation, but the citizens of Alton are demanding more. Involving citizens in decisions needs to be a high priority instead of just listening to consultants present their data analysis. The consultants bring value as far as analyzing financial data and impact, but there is more to understand by analyzing the impact of any change that will affect the citizens. The only way to understand impact to the citizens is open the communications line both ways.

I have made challenges to citizens of Alton in the past few months, and now is the time for people to stand up and make Alton a better place to work and live. Even though the election for mayor and aldermen are 2 years away, now is the time to start looking for candidates that will listen to the citizens of Alton. With that said, I have decided to challenge people to meet with me and review my plan on improvements of Alton as I have decided to run for Mayor of Alton in 2009. This city needs to be run by a person with experience in financial funding and savings techniques, which I have under my belt. I have a long career with my employer, certified in business methodology to improve processes and save money. I am a small business owner in the city of Alton. Additionally I volunteer for the Alton Volunteer Emergency Corps for 7 years in which I have been Treasurer and been successful in keeping the organization in the black in most years. I am for the citizens for Alton; truly believe that the government needs to be brought to the people, not that the people need to come to the government. I will be holding meetings soon, and hope you can be there to learn more about my ideas for the future of this historic city. In the meantime, any comments or ideas can be sent to me via email to: jennings4mayor@sbcglobal.net.

My final thought is I want to pat our current mayor and aldermen on the back as they have made good strides with their efforts, but the city now needs a new infusion of leadership that have fresh ideas to continue the effort in place today. We need someone from the outside to bring those ideas to the people of this community which I feel I can supply. Thank you Mayor Sandidige for your community efforts in the last 10 years.

Green Party Meeting February 27

2007-02-02T12:36:00.001-08:00

The next Green Party meeting for Madison County is set for Tuesday, February 27 @ 7 PM. It will be held at SIUE Religious Center. Directions from Alton are below. Please spread the word to get more folks to attend. If anyone wants to put up flyers, please contact me and I will supply them.

The agenda for that night will include the showing of the documentary called "Iraq for Sale", which is about how companies in the US are profitizing from the war and our government is doing nothing to stop it.

AGENDA:

7 pm - Meet and Greet for new people joining the group

7:30 PM - Green Party discussions - 10 core values

8 PM - Show the "Iraq for Sale" documentary - it is approximately 1 1/2 hours long. If you wish to leave when it starts, that is not a problem, but it is a very intriguing documentary.

Any questions, do not hesitate to contact me. Directions:

Take Route 3 to New Poag Road. Turn left. Follow New Poag to Bluff Road and turn Right. Turn left into the SIUE entrance across from the soccer fields and Korte Stadium. Turn right at the first stop sign on campus. At the next stop sign, turn left into the Visitor Lot (Lot B). It is a pay lot ($1.00 per hour). On the other side of the Visitor Lot, across from the entrance gate, is the Religious Center. It’s the building with the geodesic dome on top.

Green Party Meeting February 27

2007-02-02T12:36:00.000-08:00

Punxsutawney Phil

2007-02-02T12:34:00.000-08:00

GREAT NEWS! Punxsutawney Phil did not see his shadow. As the official National Groundhog, that means spring is on its way!

John McCain

2007-01-29T19:42:00.000-08:00

Look out America! Beware of John McCain. Check out this video of apperances he has made and how is double talking! http://therealmccain.com/

January 22, 2007

2007-01-22T10:53:00.000-08:00

In Monday’s Alton Telegraph someone called in Sound Off and blasted another person for criticizing the mayor and other public officials. This person mention to look around and see the new businesses and the Weed and Seed program and how successful things have been in the last ten years.

I am not critical of our mayor or city officials. They have done the best they could, but it is just not enough. They are working hard with the Weed and Seed program, and businesses coming in are minimum wage jobs. This is great, but a lot more needs to be accomplished. When was the last time this caller had an opportunity to join in a round table meeting with the mayor or alderman? It is my belief the government needs to be brought back to the people for the people. Additionally, the city needs to look how it runs and become more business orientated. There are many techniques out there to stream line the government to save money which in turn can offer more things for the community. Businesses need to be offered reasons to stay in Alton, and we need to show how Alton is willing to except a company other than stores or fast food.

No, our mayor and aldermen have not done a bad job, but it is time for fresh ideas, and this should include the every day citizen in making recommendations to our leaders.

My goal, if people are willing to accept it, is to be that mayor of Alton, and I will bring more open meetings to every part of this city. I do not expect the people to come to me; I expect that I should have to meet with the people in their part of town. Listen to their concerns, and find ways to get more citizens pro active in improving our city. I think there are great ideas out there just waiting to be unveiled.

We also need to look new strategies to bring high paying jobs into Alton, and also companies who sell high ticket items which bring in revenue on sales tax.

I have an entire list of things to look into, but it will take a good 10 years to put in place. But my hat is off to our current city leaders for their hard work in the past, but we need to bring new and progressive ideas to the table with new blood in our city government. Watch for more information from me and soon I will be holding some meetings with citizens of Alton.

January 21,2007

2007-01-21T18:05:00.000-08:00

As the tresurer of AVEC, I am inviting everyone to join our Trivia Night on Friday, January 26. Check out all the information at www.avecsar.net.

Green Party

2007-01-16T05:06:00.000-08:00

As a local member of the Green Party, I am working with several other folks to organize the Green Party of Madison County. Go to their website, www.ilgp.org and see what they are all about. The biggest item I am in favor of is no corporate donations. Corporations today is one of the biggest causes of pain for the average citizen. They do not care anything about the average citizen. Take the oil industry. They get millions of dollars in aid for exploration and alternative fuel ideas, but do they help out the average ciziten? Oil has drop 19% in the first weeks of January while gas only dipped 12%. Why is that? Corporate greed! Plain and simple fact.

Soon the Green Party will be meeting at SIUE. We will be showing the film "Iraq for Sale" which is about the profiteering of the war by greedy corporations. It is time to take a stand against corporate greed!

Check back as it will be posted when our next meeting is to be held.

Alton Challenge # 2

2007-01-15T08:30:00.000-08:00

In reference to Abe Lee Barham, Jr.’s letter to the Telegraph editor on January 15, 2007, is a prime example of the challenges the city of Alton needs to address. Mr. Barham is right that we do have economic development, housing, and political empowerment, and needs to be addressed as a whole, not buy just one group of concern citizens. His comment that the most powerful way to fight these challenges is to vote, and that is exactly what I have been saying now for months. We the citizens need to stand united not matter the race. Until this happens, we will never see any changes to these challenges.

I am for the everyday working person I Alton, and think it is high time we develop a strategy to find new ways to relinquish the inadequacy we have today in local governments. If interested, email me at rwj4green@sbcglobal.net.

January 15, 2007

2007-01-15T05:25:00.001-08:00

It was interesting to see Godfrey reach out to the business and community by forming committees to help build a strategy for the community in the coming years. This is one of the ideas I have had for years that Alton needs to be doing. Not only in Alton itself, but it needs to identify itself with other communities as well and discuss the things that work for them, and things that don’t.

I am considering running for the office of Mayor in Alton in 2009. If this surfaces, I have many areas that we can touch to make this a better place to live, and the first thing would be giving the government back to the people! Secondly, I have no ill feelings with our current government as they are trying the best they know how. Bringing in new blood and thoughts is what we need now as progressive thinking is a requirement today to keep our city in good standings. I am not saying I can do this alone. We need the community involved much like Godfrey has enlisted.

Political Orphans

2007-01-05T08:15:00.000-08:00

Are you a political orphan? I once was, but find a new direction to fill the void. But before I explain the new direction let me define to you what political orphan is. Have you been let down by your political party’s guidance? Is your political party taken a stance of violence instead of diplomacy? Is our party known for its power because of the social and monetary support it receives from corporations? Is your party known for taken personal responsibility of mistakes or problems?

Well the questions are only a few you need to ask yourself. I myself have become so disheartened by how the two major political parties run our country and even local politics. As US citizen, we all have rights to vote any way we feel, and in 2006, I decided enough was enough. The majority of my life I voted Republican, but never voted a straight ticket. But I am now changing my views on the political scene. In doing so, I have become a member of the Green Party of Illinois. Before going off on a tizzy, you need to understand party’s ten key values which you can find on their web site at www.ilgp.org. It is time for this area, and the country to begin taking steps to turn our society around and bring the government back to the people, all of the people. Many people associate the Green Party with Ralph Nader, but the party is not about Ralph Nader, it is about you, the American citizen! The key values of the party is what really made me sit up and pay attention to this party, so now it is time for me to issue my first challenge to the fine citizens of Madison County.

I was approached by the co-chairman of the Illinois Green Party to assist in organizing the party in Madison County, which I have agreed to. I have held a brief meeting with a few people in late December and are moving forward soon to hold a public meeting. I urge you to take the challenge and at least research and come to some meetings to see what this is all about. If you are interested, please send me an email to RWJ4green@sbcglobal.net.

Thank You Alton Police Department

2007-01-02T12:43:00.000-08:00

I was impressed today with the Alton Police Department. I had written to them about an incident that occurred at one of my rental properties. It seemed they may have caused some damage to the door of the apartment, and I wanted to express my concerns on the way they knock on doors and how they treat innocent people. In this case, they really scared the tenant and has threaten to move, but that is not my major issue, it was the dimples they left on the door.

Well this afternoon I received a call from the APD, asking how to resolve this issue. My only response was to please refrain from knocking on doors with instruments other than their hands. I was not trying to get anything free from them. I only wanted a policy reinforced with their police force. Many landlords would take this to the point of wanting a new door, I just want the respect from the police and know that I respect them as well.

Thank you so much!

January 2, 2007 - HAPPY NEW YEAR

2007-01-02T09:25:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to everyone and hoping that you had a very happy holiday not matter what faith you believe in.

In the past week I have been actively busy in the forming of the Green Party in Madison County, Illinois. The party has done all the necessary work to be recognized as a political party in Illinois. Now the next step is bring it to the people. In Champaign County, the party was quite successful in the 2006 elections. Even though they did not win that had very strong showings. In Madison County, where there was no establish leadership for the Green Party, estimated votes on various offices had 3 to 4%. Considering there was no real effort to recognize the party, I think this can be good base in the county.

Hopefully within 12 to 18 months, we will see the results of forming the Green Party in Madison County, which will help me in my aspirations to enter the political arena by 2009. A lot has to be done, but if you live in Madison County, Illinois, and are interested in an alternative political party, email me at rwj4green@sbcglobal.net.

December 27, 2006

2006-12-27T19:50:00.000-08:00

As the year of 2006 comes to a close, I think it is only right to reflect on the good that has been done in our community. Too many people are always quick to condemn or complain, and only a few will voice the good things. As a citizen in Alton, I can see many things that need to be changed, but that is not a problem, it is a challenge for our community to work through. But let’s look on the bright side of things for a change. Our city has great drawing attraction of the antique shops, and soon the eagles will be soaring over the city bring in tourists to see them.

We have an excellent police force that is very professional. Yes, mistakes are made, but they are human too. They have added more equipment that many think is frivolous, but if you analyze the threats in our society, the costs can be justified. It is pleasant to see a police officer drive by and wave and smile as they have done with me. Then there is our fire department that protects us and is there to help in emergencies. Like the police department the equipment they have is necessary, and I am sure both agencies need more, and as a citizen, we need to help ensure this happens.

Doctors are returning to the area, and our hospitals have grown to help keep people in the community healthy. Alton School test scores are up, and this could not happen without the help from teachers, school officials, and most of all the parents. Our city has just completed the Hellrung Park and places for the children to play and we have many other parks as well. Gordon Moore Park is a magnificent specimen and many people from different parts of the county come here to play in tournaments.

These are just a few things that make me happy about our community. I totally agree with people that things need to be fixed, but instead of seeing the negative side all the time, try looking at the positive side of accepting a challenge. More can be done if we would gather as a team and work as a team. Unity is just another challenge to look at, but with positive outlook it can be a trip to take that could change your complete lifestyle. Be proud of where you live and look to make a difference. Give it a try, and join me in 2007 to make a difference in the city of Alton. Happy Holidays everyone.

December 22, 2006

2006-12-22T05:18:00.000-08:00

Kudos to the Allstate agents that help give away free gas in Godfrey! What a wonderful thing to find out when you pull up to the pump and they say they are going to give you 10 gallons of gas. Happy holidays all.

ARTICLE ON THETELEGRAPH.COM

Free gas!

It wasn't hard to find a smile Thursday at the Godfrey Moto Mart on Godfrey Road where Max Heinz, left, was one of 100 people to get an unexpected gift of free gasoline pumped by Allstate Insurance agent Angela Grote, right. Several agents were on hand to give away 10 gallons of gas to people who happened to stop at the station, starting at 10 a.m. and lasting about two hours. Allstate has been conducting the giveaway at selected stations during the holiday season. "It is one of our random acts of kindness, early holiday gift promotions," spokesman Eric Scott said.

December 20, 2006

2006-12-20T09:07:00.002-08:00

Happy Holidays everyone. I am trying very hard to be sensitive to every one's prospective of the season. I respect every one's right in how they celebrate the season.

As we approach the end of 2006, I wonder how many people reflect on the past year. Many make New Years Resolutions and wonder how many succeed. My person opinion is many people set unrealistic goals at the new year and set themselves up for failures. That is why I never have a New Years Resolution. I do set goals and review them periodically, but I make them attainable.

Every since I was a teenager, I have set goals, short range, medium range, and long term. For example short range goal today is helping in setting up meetings to organize a Green Party delegation in Madison County. Medium range is to enter the political arena in the next 2 to 3 years. And my long term goal which I set in place when I was 12 years old, was I am going to live to be 100 or more. Now that may be a challenge, but I am up for that. With today's medical technology, it is a very attainable goal. And to help get there, I am at my doctor's office every six months and get a physical every year. So many men do not do this, and could live longer if they would do this.

December 2006

2006-12-05T08:19:00.000-08:00

Another storm, wow. I was lucky this time and kept my power. But the city seems to be doing very little to help its citizens again. Where is our mayor? Not one word has come out of his office on any assistance, or how to get help. Such a sad state our city is in these days.

Letter to the Editor - The Telegraph

2006-08-30T08:51:00.000-07:00

I think the letter written by Scott Darr recently about the golf course, and how it is an entity that should be treated as a business, is just the surface of the iceberg. Ideally, it would be great to keep the golf course, but financially it may be too late. This should have been addressed years ago, but our city leaders had no foresight.
The city government needs to look at their practices and learn how to run it like a business. The citizens of Alton would be the shareholders and have more input in the decisions of running the city. Too many times have occurred when citizens have voiced concerns and the city leaders listened with deaf ears and proceeded in what they perceived to be the right way. What this city really needs is a businessperson to run Alton, and that includes our mayor all the way down to aldermen and positions that make an impact on our citizens.

The government today is more of a "good ole boy" system, even though elected. Many times I have considered running for alderman or mayor, but the problem lies within our voters. The citizens of this city need to raise the bar in expectations of our government. A "people" mayor or alderman would set examples by holding public forums at least quarterly for input. I can't even get my alderman to respond to me, let alone hold a meeting for a group of people.
It is time for the citizens of Alton to unite and decide how they want this city to be run. Until we put new blood in with the aldermanic system, nothing will change, as not every decision is a mayoral decision. We have another year before we elect some of the aldermanic representation, and three years for the other half and mayor. Now is the time to start organizing strategy to make changes happen. Until a group begins to learn how to strategize, and band together to run only one person against the incumbents, the odds of changing things are severely tilted in the incumbents' favor. Only you, the voters can make it happen, no one else!
RODGER JENNINGS
Alton