Olive Business Association January 2003 meeting

By Willa Boisseau, Scanews Senior Editor

	The January meeting of the Olive Business Association featured Nancy Otte, Missouri Division of Workforce Development, and Larry Lieberman, Councilman from University City.

       	Mr. Lieberman brought members of the OBA up to date on U. City activities of particular interest to the business community.  He said the northwest corner of Olive Street Road and North and South has been purchased by Aldie's  for a new building and parking lot to replace its present grocery store.
       
	The Cardinal Care Foundation (our own St. Louis Cardinals baseball foundation) will soon start construction of its new high school baseball field for U. City in Heman Park.  Lighting, fencing, seating and all related facilities should be ready for use by summer.

	A new U. City Children's Center will be developed by the present Center in Cooperation with Washington University.  Local children and those of Washington U. faculty and employees will be served.
       
	Grant money is being received for construction of intersection lights, sidewalks, bus shelters and bike paths.  Tree planting will be part of the landscaping project. 
       
	Mr. Lieberman said his report was only part of the many items on the City Council's agenda at its meetings.  Interested citizens are welcome at City Council meetings.  The public should call City Hall for dates and times of meetings. 
       
	Ms. Nancy Otte, Business Representative of the Missouri Division of Workforce Development, explained her organization's function.  She said it assists both employers seeking workers and job hunters themselves in getting together to find work in the St. Louis area.  All types and levels of positions are included.  Ms. Otte urged employers and potential workers to use the extensive services of her agency.
       
	Mr. Bill Soss from The Shirt Guy, located on Olive, offered hats, shirts and other printed articles as PR aids for OBA ventures.
       
	Mrs. Willa Boisseau encouraged business owners and managers to help keep Rotary International alive in the University City/Olivette area.  She said the organization, a business-oriented charitable group, has too much to offer to be lost in our area.  
       
	Mrs. Boisseau reminded businesses that the Chinese New Year celebrations begin on February 1 this year.  Advertising can be directed toward the Asian business community.      
       
	Mr. Tom Moton, Assistant City Manager of University City, attended the OBA meeting.  He will continue to be present to assist members in their business connections with City Hall.  He will be a great asset for the group.
       
	Co-Chair Lynn Rossel announced that the speaker on February 11 will be Ms. Pam Northcross, Manager of the University City U.S. Post Office. Members are encouraged to present their problems with mail and deliveries to Ms. Northcross at the meeting.  A light dinner and meeting will begin at 6:00 P.M. at the Heman Park Community Center.  All Olive area business owners and other interested persons are urged to attend.