2014 July Issue

A tribute to Allen Cassens and Joe Meyer    The Edwardsville business community recently lost two of its leaders — Allen Cassens and Joseph E. “Joe” Meyer. Both were men of integrity and honesty. Not only were they successful in business, but they were involved in local clubs and organizations.    Cassens, 77, died June 13.…

    BELLEVILLE — Lindenwood University-Belleville says it’s had a nearly $1 billion impact in the surrounding community the past four years, and with plans to expand to Collinsville, it will add to that number.    The school recently conducted an economic and social impact study to explore the effect of its students, employees, facilities and services.…

Guide to Fine Dining in Southwestern Illinois MADISON COUNTY 1.    1818 Chophouse         (Steaks, chops, seafood)         “Great choice for special occasions”         (www.tripadvisor.com 2/16/14)        210 S. Buchanan St.        Edwardsville, IL        618-307-9300        www.1818chophouse.com    2.    Andria’s Countryside Restaurant         (Steaks)         “Highly recommended”       …

    Even knowing the drumbeat that exists among constituents for construction-related jobs, state Sen. Kyle McCarter said he couldn’t bring himself to support the $1.1 billion capital spending bill that passed in the legislature at the close of the spring session.    His conservative nature couldn’t see the wisdom.    “If you can’t pay your light bill,…

    Travis Akin gets a lot of feedback from businesses concerned about the state of the Illinois legal environment and its impact on the economy.    “Last year, I talked to a grocer in Rockford, and he gets sued all the time,” he said. “One woman passed by a refrigerated unit and there was water leaking…

    IBJ: What is your background coming into this job?        Maisch: Twenty years ago, I started  out as a junior lobbyist and built myself up to bigger roles. I eventually became executive vice president and will make the final transition to president and CEO on July 1.        IBJ: Where are you from originally?  …

Encourage collaboration, discourage outsourcing, support research     As a candidate for Congress, I often get asked two important questions as I travel the district. First, why would you want to be a part of the dysfunction in Washington? And second, what is the most important issue that people care about in your district?    The answer…

Tackle over-regulation, adopt a new road bill, encourage training     The state of Illinois is the poster child for what not to do to attract, retain and grow businesses in this country. The high cost of living, government rules and regulations, high taxes, and out-of-control government spending and debt are destroying this state.     But…

Resignation clouds plans for IDOT     The sudden resignation of the head of the Illinois Department of Transportation, coming even as she was planning for massive revamps at the agency, puts plans for the department into question.    Ann L. Schneider’s resignation was announced June 30 after longtime anti-patronage crusader Michael Shakman called for a federal…