It’s time, it’s time to begin again…

    It’s time! Rep. Tim Jones’ bill on the sunshine law, House Bill 1445, will be heard by the House Committee on General Laws next Tuesday night (2/16) at 5 p.m  The process begins.  Last year it was incredible to have this same bill reach the House floor and be passed by a unanimous vote of the state’s representatives. Unfortunately, that’s just half the battle.  This year we need to get the bill all the way!  If you are free to come to the hearing, come!  It’s fascinating to watch your state legislators in action.  And your state legislators need to understand the public interest in this bill.  So if you can be there, let your voice be heard!

    Meanwhile, the Missouri Sunshine Coalition is looking for local heroes to recognize during Sunshine Week, March 14-20.  If you or someone in your community is tireless in reminding public bodies that following the sunshine law is part of their duties, nominate them!  (Self-nominations are encouraged, also!)  The coalition will highlight these local heroes.

    And the coalition will select one or more persons to submit to the national competition, being sponsored by the American Society of News Editors.  The ASNE will select the top three Local Heroes of 2010, who will receive an all-expenses paid trip in Aprilto Washington, D.C., to be honored at the 2010 ASNE convention. Thesecond- and third-place winners will receive $500 and $250,respectively. All of the local winners will receive national recognition. To read more about the event, check out the Missouri Sunshine Coalition website.  Send your nominations tomdaugherty@socket.net and they will be forwarded to the coalition.  Doit now!  The selection must be made shortly!