Missouri Times Magazine - Spring 2019

MAGAZINE

SPRING 2019

freshmen to watch

2019

100 list ON THE COVER:

Sam Licklider,

lobbyist for the Missouri REALTORS©, marks this year as his 51st year in the Missouri State Capitol. It is an honor to feature him on this year’s 100 List cover.

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Org. 1960 www.mrta.org 1-877-366-6782

MRTA gives almost $18 million back to Missouri!

The Missouri Retired Teachers Association and Public School Personnel (MRTA) presented a check representing $17,823,538 in community service hours donated in 2018 to Missouri’s citizens at its annual Unit President Summit in Jefferson City on March 12-13, 2019. MRTA members reported volunteering 721,893 hours back to their communities during 2018. Washington D.C.’s Independent Sector places a value of $24.69 per hour for community volunteers. In addition to hours of service, members also reported donating 58,081 food items and cash donations exceeding $729,490 to food pantries and food banks within their communities.

Community Service plays an important role in the activities of MRTA’s 145 local units and its more than 28,000 members across the state of Missouri. MRTA members participate in statewide community service projects including, Community Hunger Action Program and the Ronald McDonald Tab Top Collection Program. They also donate their time working at soup kitchens, local churches, charity events, senior centers, visiting patients in hospitals and nursing home residents, and mentoring students.

MRTA, organized in 1960, is a grassroots not-for-profit corporation working exclusively for retired school personnel. MRTA members strive to uphold and improve the integrity, value, and mission of our public schools, so that all school personnel may live healthy, vital lives and be secure economically, socially, and professionally in retirement. MRTA works with government and its entities for beneficial legislation, and encourages its members to be involved in community affairs and to work for worthy educational causes. MRTA’s mission is, “To serve and not to be served.”

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TABLE OF CONTENTS PERSPECTIVES

Trump has changed the way companies view US investment (by former U.S. Sen. Jim Talent) 4 Let’s give local business a level playing field with out-of-state companies (by Missouri Budget Project Executive Director Amy Blouin) 5 Grain Belt Express approval by PSC benefits all Missourians (by Hannibal Mayor James Hark) 6 Ready for School, Ready for Work, Ready for Service (by KidsWin Executive Director Brian Schmidt) 7

2019 100 list 9 Forces 10 PLAYMAKERS 21 LIFESAVERS 29 INSTITUTIONS 36 NAVIGATORS 41

freshmen to watch 50 20 QUESTIONS 58

Thank you to The Missouri Times and to all my AUBUCHON THANKS FOR THE CLIENTS clients who trust and honor me with their work.

225 Madison, Jefferson City, MO | (573) 746-2912

@MissouriTimes

Scott Faughn, Publisher | scott@themissouritimes.com | @ScottFaughn Rachael Herndon Dunn, Editor | rachael@themissouritimes.com | @TheRachDunn Alisha Shurr, Reporter | alisha@themissouritimes.com | @AlishaShurr Kaitlyn Schallhorn, Reporter | kaitlyn@themissouritimes.com | @K_Schallhorn Aaron Basham, Multimedia Producer | aaron@themissouritimes.com Kaden Quinn, Reporting Intern | kaden@themissouritimes.com

Richard M. AuBuchon Lawyer - Lobbyist 573.645.9760 rich@rmalobby.com

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PERSPECTIVES

Trump has changed the way companies view US investment Missouri Times The

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by former U.S. Sen. Jim Talent Until recently, the American government made it immensely difficult for major corporations to hire and invest in this country — but now that attitude is starting to change.

Before Donald Trump took office, complex bureaucratic hurdles and high corporate taxes discouraged firms from hiring American workers and opening new facilities in the country,

since it was easier and cheaper to expand productive capacity in other countries and then export the resulting products to the American market.

This pessimistic view of America on the part of business owners was perfectly exemplified by the chief executive of Emerson Electric, David Farr, who once boldly declared that he would

not expand his business in the U.S. because misguided federal policies made investment here too expensive and risky.

“I’m not going to hire anybody in the United States,” he said in 2009. “I’m moving. They are doing everything possible to destroy jobs.”

As a direct result of President Trump’s economic policies, however, this characterization of America is now thoroughly out of date, and Farr has accordingly become considerably more bullish about investing in the United States.

“For the first time now, I’m looking for best-cost U.S. locations,” Farr said in a recent interview with Reuters, confirming Emerson’s plan to invest $250 million in new U.S. facilities.

According to the report, Emerson has already spent $407 million on U.S. operations in 2018, and plans to invest another $425 million this year.

In order to restore America’s image as a land of opportunity, President Trump had to change the way Washington looked at trade and government regulations.

Starting shortly after his inauguration, for instance, the President has followed through on his promise to renegotiate NAFTA and other unfair trade agreements, replacing them with reciprocal trade deals designed to empower U.S. workers.

Likewise, President Trump has placed strategic counter-tariffs on China — a bold response to Beijing’s aggressive trade manipulations that is already squeezing China’s economy and giving China an incentive to comply with its commitments to open its markets to American firms.

Of course, there are still many more impediments to prosperity that remain to be removed, but the progress we’ve made in such a short period of time is nothing short of remarkable, and the results are already becoming apparent in the form of robust job creation and strong GDP growth.

The White House economic agenda is not a one-step solution to fix the U.S. economy overnight — it’s a long-term strategy designed to strengthen the private sector and restore the levels of job-creation and economic growth that this country has enjoyed historically.

In just a little over two years, though, President Trump has made giant leaps toward achieving his ultimate economic vision, giving major corporations such as Emerson a strong incentive to invest in America.

Emerson is hardly alone in embracing America’s new progrowth political climate, though.

John Ferriola, the chairman and CEO of Nucor, America’s largest steel producer, recently announced that the company will be investing $3.2 billion to

expand and upgrade its facilities, $1.3 billion of which will go toward constructing a new steel plate mill in the Midwest.

Ferriola specifically credited the President’s trade policies for the decision, saying the company can increase production with much greater confidence now that it doesn’t have to worry about foreign rivals swooping in and undercutting its prices. Other steel producers have reached similar conclusions about our expanding economy as well.

Big River Steel unveiled a $1.2 billion project to double the capacity of a facility in Arkansas.

Steel Dynamics, the third-largest U.S. steel producer, announced in November that it will be investing up to $1.8 billion to construct a new steel mill, and #2 producer U.S. Steel revealed in August that it plans to spend $750 million on revitalizing one of its plants in Gary, Indiana.

Finally, manufacturers have one thing that business leaders seek more than any other regardless of their industry or size: business certainty.

The days of anti-business policies and job-killing regulations are over. America is fast becoming a country that creates jobs, rather than outsourcing them, and the business leaders making those decisions are investing in American workers and communities once again as a result.

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Arnold Associates For all of your governmental consulting and lobbying needs,

contact Charles Andy Arnold

(314) 971-1000 | caarnold@arnoldlobby.com 4

Member of the Missouri Times’ “The 100 List: Best Lobbyists & Consultants in Missouri”

PERSPECTIVES

Thank you

for your service to the people of Missouri’s 98th House District.

You are a lifesaver, Wanda!

Paid for by Citizens for Dogan, Joe Freund, Treasurer

Pro-life Missouri A Legacy A Promise A Future Where every life, born and unborn, is protected and respected.

Join our Pro-Life family!

P. O. Box 651 Jefferson City MO 65102 573.635.5110 www.missourilife.org The Missouri Affiliate of National Right to Life

Let’s give local business a level playing field with out-of-state companies

by Amy Blouin, Executive Director Missouri Budget Project With spring comes an iconic image: teams of youth baseball or softball gathering for pizza after a game, jerseys adorned with the logos of local businesses that support these tried and true traditions.

But while Missouri’s businesses contribute to their communities through jobs, sponsorships, and community partnerships, our state’s tax structure puts them at a competitive disadvantage compared to out-of-state retailers that sell to Missourians.

Local Mom & Pop shops across Missouri are required to collect sales taxes every time a purchase is made, yet out-of-state online retailers aren’t. Although sales taxes may be owed, under our current law, it’s the burden of taxpayers to track their purchases and remit what they owe. While our roads and bridges get the wear and tear of delivery, money leaves the state and our communities see little from these companies in return for their business.

Fortunately, legislators have the power to level the playing field – and to protect the resources our communities need to prosper.

The “Wayfair Fix,” named after a recent United States Supreme Court decision, would implement the specific mechanisms needed to collect taxes from out-of-state retailers.

Not only would this remove the competitive advantage currently enjoyed by companies based

out-of-state, but it would provide much-needed resources to our local communities.

Missouri has been missing out on these resources for far too long. Legislators could use these funds for school transportation, sending more dollars into our classrooms.

They could restore prescription drug assistance to struggling seniors, letting families across the state breathe easier. Or they could use this revenue to support plans to fix roads and bridges using an already cash-strapped General Revenue budget.

It’s important to note that none of this involves any new taxes.

Implementing the Wayfair Fix simply puts into place a way to collect tax that is already owed, but rarely paid.

Efforts to use funds that were already owed to our state to further cut taxes are shortsighted and irresponsible, particularly at a time when our budget situation is volatile, at best, and lawmakers are looking at an additional $100 million in General Revenue spending for roads and bridges.

Legislators owe it to their constituents to work towards a state that offers strong schools, safe roads and bridges, and a safety net that’s there when families falter.

By enacting the “Wayfair Fix” without irresponsibly throwing away the much-needed revenue, legislators can level the playing field for Missouri businesses and promote the quality of life our families need to build a better tomorrow.

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Grain Belt Express approval by PSC benefits all Missourians

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by Hannibal Mayor James Hark

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As the mayor of Hannibal, “America’s Hometown,” I have seen my fair share of proposals, plans and ideas come across my desk. The same small-town values that my father raised me on, are the same ones that allow me to be optimistic about a project that stands to benefit not only my town, but communities across our great state. The project is called the Grain Belt Express.

This week, the Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC) voted to approve the Grain Belt Express transmission project. This decision clears the path for the transmission line to bring lowcost, clean energy into Missouri.

The PSC decision is welcomed by communities across the state, both on the proposed path and elsewhere, like Hannibal. It advances a process that began back in 2016, when the Missouri Joint Municipal Electric Utility Commission (MJMEUC) approved a proposal to lower wholesale costs and increase the public power agency’s renewable energy supply.

Now, by purchasing long-term transmission service on the Grain Belt Express transmission project, municipal utilities can replace more costly power contracts set to expire as the transmission project comes online. The Grain Belt Express transmission project will deliver low-cost renewable electricity to Missouri homes and businesses. Today, 39 Missouri communities serving a population of greater than 350,000 people are signed on to realize at least $12.8 million in annual savings for their customers through an agreement between Grain Belt Express and MJMEUC. Specifically, to Hannibal, a community of just under 18,000 residents, it would mean approximately $750,000 in savings annually for our town.

The approved transmission route in Missouri will benefit the state through approximately $500 million in direct investment to develop and build the project. It will put more than 1,500 Missourians to work building the line and generate more than $7.2 million in new tax revenue for eight Missouri counties. But make no mistake, the project is poised to benefit the entire state.

From Hannibal to Lamar, Rock Port to Thayer, and communities in-between like Columbia, Kirkwood, and Rolla, cities with municipal utilities are adding to their energy diversity and cost-savings.

A municipal utility is owned and operated in the public interest, for the benefit of the residents of the city. It exists to provide a public service to the citizens, businesses, and industries of the community.

Service, not profit, is the utility’s mission and local ownership means that customers’ utility dollars stay in the community, creating jobs and supporting the local economy.

Currently, 39 Missouri municipal utilities will diversify their energy portfolio and receive a cost-effective hedge against changing fuel prices and environmental regulations with the GBX project. The energy delivered will provide a high capacity factor that can be produced for approximately 2 ¢/kilowatt hour (kWh).

The project will not require extra government subsidies or incentives. This transmission project, along with a power purchase wind energy agreement, will save Missouri’s non-profit municipal utilities more than $10 million annually. It is timed to replace more costly power contracts set to expire as this transmission project is scheduled to come on line.

With this PSC decision, the energy path forward for Missouri is clear, clean, and cost-effective.

CONGRATS, ALEX! You are absolutely a lifesaver in the Capitol.

Thank you for serving the people of the Missouri’s 19th Senatorial District.

Paid for by Friends of Caleb Rowden, Kat Cunningham, Treasurer

PERSPECTIVES

Ready for School, Ready for Work, Ready for Service

by Brian Schmidt, Kids Win Missouri Last year, four retired military leaders in Missouri wrote a letter to policymakers that stated, “Ensuring young children have a strong start in life can generate many benefits in the years to come, including preparing more young people to serve our nation.”

Military preparedness can serve as a proxy for college and career readiness and can also be a predictor of future success. The recent work of Missouri policymakers has and will continue to make great strides in improving the well-being of children. However, policymakers need to continue this comprehensive approach to meeting kids’ needs to ensure children and families have the supports they need for success in service or in the workforce.

Recent Wins for Kids Over the past few years, Mis-

souri policymakers have adopted and implemented policies that will help Missouri kids succeed.

To support healthy newborns, Missouri implemented Show-Me Healthy Babies in 2016. The program covers prenatal and pregnancy-related services for women with low incomes. Last year, the General Assembly extended its commitment to newborns and mothers by approving legislation that extends MO HealthNet coverage for mothers with a substance use disorder.

In 2016, Representative Donna Pfautsch led efforts to repeal a statutory ban on quality improvement systems for early care and education providers and create a pilot program, Quality Assurance Report, which takes the necessary first steps to help early childhood educators standardize, measure and improve the quality of services they deliver. Representative Kathy Swan led the

charge to put Pre-K funding in the state’s education funding formula.

Many school districts across the state, most notably Springfield Public Schools, are tapping into these new funds to expand their Pre-K education offerings. The combination of these two policies culminated in Governor Parson’s

application for and award of a $6.5 million grant from the federal Office of Child Care to conduct a needs assessment, develop a strategic plan for Missouri’s early care and education system and engage with parents to gather feedback on what policies would best support the needs of families.

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The federal government recently increased its investment in its Child Care Development Block Grant funds allocated to states. Missouri expects to receive a total of $41 million over two years, which the state plans to invest in quality initiatives and critical system supports. These investments will help improve the quality of child care for thousands of Missouri families.

Readying Missouri Kids for Life-Long Success These actions have given Missouri a great start toward system improvements for our youngest

citizens. But more can and must be done to give our current and future workforce the supports necessary for success. Families will benefit from evidence-based home visiting resources, affordable quality child care, children’s health insurance coverage, easy access to health care and community-based support services made available through public schools.

Evidence-Based Home-Visiting Programs Evidence-based home visiting services provide education and support to parents as they nav-

igate the challenges of raising a Times challenges for families and potenMissouri Publishing tial workforce gaps for employfamily. They also can help prevent child abuse and neglect and ers. For many areas of the state, improve children’s well-being. In there are few to no quality child Missouri, there are a variety of care options. The needs assessmodels, programs and organizament, strategic plan and parent tions that provide these services engagement from the new federal in communities throughout grant and the continuation of the the state. As recommended by Quality Assurance Report pilot Children’s Trust Fund, Missouri’s program will help provide critical home visiting programs could guidance on next steps in building more effectively serve parents and upon Missouri’s early childhood children with increased coordinasystem. Policymakers should caretion and standardization of target fully consider recommendations outcomes by the state agencies that result from these activities. implementing and funding home visiting. Adopting these Children’s Health Coverage recommendations will help give Last year, the Department of Social Services (DSS) implemented a combination of procedural, technological and administrative changes that contributed to more than 50,000 children losing their health coverage. This is a staggering statistic and yet the statistic does not do justice to the challenges that families face and the impact on kids. To succeed in school and to prepare for future economic and workforce challenges, kids need to be healthy. Health coverage gives kids access to preventative services and treatment.

DSS needs to make the administrative modifications necessary to allow easy and burden-free access to and retention of health coverfamilies the support they need for age for all eligible children. children’s lifelong success.

School-Based Health Early Care and Education Health coverage, however, Two-thirds of children under is only one piece of the puzzle. age five live in a household where Children need to be able to easily both parents work. However, the access health care. One health cost of full-time, center-based access avenue that is growing in child care is $10,000 per year, Missouri is school-based health higher than the average cost of incare. Under this health care destate tuition at the University of livery model, schools can partner Missouri. To put it another way, with a health care provider such parents who work have to finance as a community health center, the equivalent cost of a college hospital or other health agency education right when their child is to deliver health care services to born or limit their involvement in students, and in some cases, the the workforce, creating financial broader community. Services proThe

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vided include well-care visits, sick visits, oral health care, behavioral health counseling, immunizations and chronic disease management.

The model is widely utilized across Missouri as such services are available in more than 120 school districts and in more than 50 counties. MO HealthNet has provided crucial leadership and support to schools in this exciting work and it will be great to see the model evolve and grow in utilization, providing new avenues for children and also adults to get and stay healthy.

Wraparound Services Similar to school-based health care, many schools are starting to partner with organizations in their communities to offer services, beyond academic support, to help meet students’ needs so they are better prepared to learn in the classroom. These services, often referred to as wraparound services, can include high quality afterschool and summer learning programs, providing access to basic necessities like food, clothing and hygiene resources and year-round school-based meal programs. Supporting and providing incentives to support these partnerships will be critical to students’ success in the classroom and in the workforce.

Ready for School, Ready for Work, Ready for Service Continuing to focus on areas such as these will ensure that children go to school ready to learn, parents go to work confident that their kids are in a safe and nurturing educational environment and Missouri’s economy and the nation’s defense organizations have the workforce supports they need to succeed.

Thank you, Rachel for your service to the people of Missouri’s 21st Senatatorial District.

You are definitely someone to know in the Capitol.

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PAID FOR BY CITIZENS FOR HOSKINS, STORMY TAYLOR, TREASURER

2019

100 list Every odd year, the Missouri Times releases the 100 List. The 100 people you need to know in the Missouri State Capitol. The 100 people who are most influential, the most effective, and the most relied on in the building. Narrowing it down to 100 is always painful, but this year, we asked 100 people - From current and past governors, company presidents, clients, friends, past and present (and future) legislators, and more - to write about those nominated and chosen for the 100 List.

For 2019, here are the 100 people you must know in the Capitol.

The list does not include those currently elected.

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Once someone has been in the building for so long, there are certain people who seem to always be the first person to be called when something doesn’t make sense or when help is needed. They not only play well with others, they’re the first kids chosen for the softball team - sometimes literally.

FORCES

RICH AUBUCHON

BY JEFF DAVIS

Integrity, tireless, strategic – those three qualities best describe Rich.

When Rich speaks, legislators and lobbyists listen. The hardest working lobbyist in the Capitol, Rich gets things done in a shrewd and thoughtful manner. He has spearheaded the tort reform effort while managing a dozen other complex issues for utilities, insurance companies, the Kansas City Chiefs and various other clients. Rich is one of the most accomplished lobbyists in the Capitol and will be a force in Missouri politics for years to come.

BURTON-LIESE

BY TIM GREEN

Over the past 15 plus years, Burton-Liese Government Relations has grown to be an influential and effective organization in the Missouri Capitol. Burton-Liese’s partners, Chris Liese and James Foley, are experts in numerous areas and have utilized their knowledge to forge strong working relationships with legislators and staff. With expertise in finance and insurance, municipalities, political subdivisions, economic development and public education, there are few areas of legislation in which Burton-Liese is not involved. Members of Burton-Liese have over 3 decades of capitol experience, with solid reputations as honest, hardworking and trustworthy.

A main element of Burton-Liese’s effectiveness is their ability to capably reach out to both sides of the aisle. The associates of BurtonLiese come from both Republican and Democrat backgrounds, and this balance helps the firm in communicating with legislators on

contentious and divisive issues. Firm associate Andrew Foley is an expert on Missouri’s budget, with both R and D legislators regularly seeking his counsel on various areas of state spending. Former state representative Tony Dugger has become a vital member of the Burton-Liese team, taking on such issues as municipal policy and utility regulation, and has become very trusted by members of both parties.

Over the years, Burton-Liese has worked hard to ensure openness with both parties.

Burton-Liese represents a wide range of subject areas, and has lengthy tenures representing some the largest and most prominent professional associations in the state. Burton-Liese’s ability to expertly and compressively cover numerous legislative subjects make it a key, go-to organization in the Missouri Capitol.

ST. LOUIS - KANSAS CITY CARPENTERS REGIONAL COUNCIL

BY VICTOR CALLAHAN

The Carpenters have proven to be an effective and successful political force on the issues that affect the lives and well being of the working people of Missouri. Because of a strong leadership tradition, starting with the late, great Terry Nelson and continuing today with Al Bond,the Carpenters have been at the fulcrum of advocating on behalf of the men and women they represent. They also have the distinguishing quality of supporting and advocating for those who support them. Their impact on issues ,either at the Capitol or at the ballot box is always constructive,practical and productive.

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CATALYST GROUP

BY RICH CHRISMER

Powerhouse: The Untold Story of Hollywood’s Creative Artists Agency by James Andrew Miller is required reading at Catalyst. The book chronicles the rise of young upstart Michael Ovitz who built an empire with Creative Artists Agency (CAA). Years later, CAA remains the dominant talent and sports agency in America.

Catalyst is one of the fastest growing influence management firms in the country. Entering the government relations scene thirteen years ago, Catalyst founder Danny Pfeifer has worked hard to build a company culture that carries the banner of youth and energy where everyone stays hungry for client success and continued growth.

Catalyst’s brand is disruption. Specializing in multi-state government affairs, public affairs, and corporate strategy, the firm represents clients that are producing large-scale disruptions in their industries and emerging businesses facing regulatory challenges and marketplace entry barriers.

The driving force behind Catalyst and its Strategist in Chief is Danny Pfeifer. His ability to engage with clients at an executive level has made him one of the most sought after government relations specialists. Business executives want Pfeifer in the boardroom for his thoughtful, candid strategic advice. With his years of experience in managing complex government affairs, Pfeifer is more than a lobbyist for his clients. He’s become a strategic partner, evaluating challenges, identifying opportunities and offering solutions to help clients accomplish their goals. Under Pfeifer’s leadership, Catalyst has become a national powerhouse in government relations.

GREG PORTER

As the son of a single mother, Greg Porter faced near homeless experiences growing up hopping from place to place, but never understanding what was happening until he was older. These brushes with poverty inspired him to become involved in his community and not-for-profit causes to help address homelessness in the Kansas City area. Porter recognized a breakdown in communication between government agencies and not-forprofits and worked successfully to connect these entities to better serve the homeless.

Porter has taken the same approach on behalf of his clients, helping them make lasting connections with the government officials

and agencies that regulate their businesses to help policymakers better understand the impact their decisions have on jobs and the economy.

Porter is a passionate advocate for greater diversity and inclusion in government and the private sector, including his work on behalf of Native American tribes where he has helped create a more positive and collaborative working environment between tribes and regulators.

Porter has cultivated a vast personal network of government officials, their senior staff and the thought-leaders who shape public opinion with over a decade of experience in public service, politics and government relations at the federal, state and local levels.

ALEX EATON

Alex Eaton’s love of sports is an ideal match for a firm representing the MLB, NBA and PGA, three of the largest sports franchises in the world. His Twitter feed is a mixture of wry observations on sports and sharp analysis on public policy. A relentless advocate for sports betting legislation, he’s also commissioner of more than one fantasy sports league. “Did you fill out a Catalyst bracket?” is a common question every March.

With over a decade of experience, Eaton specializes in providing trusted, high-level government relations advice to corporations and trade associations drawing on his extensive experience in government, politics and the private sector. Eaton has helped dozens of clients navigate the legislative process, including businesses facing unique regulatory challenges such as sports betting.

Before joining Catalyst, Eaton advocated for multiple trade associations where he directly lobbied the legislative and executive branches of government. He was also a key advisor to several leaders in government and politics.

He provided strategic and tactical counsel to United States Senator Jim Talent and served as Director of Policy for State Senator Mike Parson, the current Governor of Missouri.

BECKY LOHMANN

When her youngest sister was diagnosed with epilepsy six years ago, Becky Lohmann shifted into the top gear of big sisterhood.

She became absolutely invested in researching treatment options from the most effective

doctors to experimental breakthroughs.

The experience taught Lohmann that government is often an unnecessary barrier to helping the people it purports to help. So she became an advocate on behalf of her sister and others like her. It was here she learned that advocating for issues across all levels of government is where meaningful change happens. Lohmann wanted to get more involved in the legislative process, and there was no turning back.

Since that time, Lohmann become one of the most respected government relations professionals in Jefferson City. Known for her ferocious work ethic,Lohmann takes pride in outworking the competition on behalf of her clients at Catalyst. In an era of Republican supermajorities in the Missouri State Capitol, her personal support for free market competition and less government is aligned with many legislators who are considering policy impacting the disruptive businesses Catalyst represents.

Becky’s sister is doing great and continues to have one of the best advocates in Jefferson City on a pro bono retainer.

DAVID WILLIS

Nobody knows more about the intricacies of Missouri state government than David Willis.

If it was an unassembled computer, Willis could assemble it without the directions.

Willis’ understanding of the legislative process and trusted counsel is highly valued in the Missouri State Capitol where he worked for four Speakers of the Missouri House including service as Chief of Staff for Speaker Steven Tilley and Speaker Todd Richardson. His service is unprecedented for a leadership staff member in the Missouri House.

As chief of staff to the House Budget Chairman, Willis helped craft budget policy across diverse areas of state government earning him a razor-sharp understanding of the nuances and details of the Missouri budget process.

Working for years to help craft complex public policy, Willis has extensive experience on issues involving education, higher education, agriculture, economic development, Medicaid, disruptive technology and a variety of regulatory issues impacting businesses large and small.

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CHARLES ANDY ARNOLD missouritimes.com

BY STEVE CARROLL

The old famous Speaker of the US House, Tip O’Neil, used to say, “All politics is local”. He was an old school politician and knew how to play the game. Well, Andy Arnold is an old school lobbyist for sure. He grew up around politics and government and he knows how to play the game the right way. I have known Andy since I first was elected to the House in the early 1980”s. He has been around the Capitol a long time.

He has the institutional knowledge and knows the legislative process as well if not better than anyone in the building.

Andy has the unique ability to take a complex issue and break it down in his mind and understand it completely. He is an encyclopedia of knowledge and a master of the facts on issues he works on for his clients. The nice thing about Andy is that he doesn’t take himself too seriously in this business we are in as some of us do sometimes. Andy plays his cards close to his vest but when he speaks and acts, he is worth listening to and watching. His honesty, ethics and the way he treats others is refreshing and admirable. Working with him on issues has made me a better lobbyists and it is an honor to call him my friend.

The Capitol and the legislative process of which we work, is better off because Andy Arnold is a part of it.

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I first became acquainted with Jane over two decades ago. 1992, I was elected State Treasurer of Missouri. A friend in the legal profession, informed me that Jane Dueker was an attorney in the Missouri Attorney Generals Office and recommended her as Legal Counsel for the State Treasurer's Office. I reached out to Jane and she agreed.

The last two years of my term as Governor, Jane served as my Chief of Staff. As in her role for the State Treasurer's Office, Jane was certainly up to the task for this challenging position. She did an excellent job. She was tough but fair; loyal; receptive to new ideas; and she was an excellent negotiator. Jane viewed public service as an honor.

Jane Dueker is totally committed to any cause or issue she undertakes.

BY RICHARD MCINTOSH

Chuck was responsible for helping launch the careers of a tremendous number of highly successful individuals. You would be surprised to see the who’s who list of individuals, both past and present

BY GOVERNOR BOB HOLDEN

A good example of Jane's exemplary service to the job, I often reflect on a certain event. There was a particular piece of legislation that some of Jane's close friends supported but I did not.

I decided to veto it. Jane carried the message of my veto back to her friends while she wholeheartedly supported my position.

CHUCK HATFIELD I have literally known Chuck Hatfield since the beginning of his career in Missouri government. I first meet him when I came over on the transition team with Attorney General Nixon. I cannot begin to fully describe the complete and total chaos we walked into with during that transition.

As Jay’s chief of staff, I saw him handle some of the most complex, politically complicated, public policy issues with intelligence, prudence, patience, compassion and humor. Chuck had a barrel of oil in his office to smooth the waters and keep a complete team of Alpha’s (as if Jay would hire any other kind of individual) working together and achieve a simply incredible number of successes in a very short period of time. All the time managing and advising Jay himself.

JANE DUEKER

involved in and around Missouri government.

The depth and breathe of the complexities of the issues which Chuck handled through his tenure as the AG’s Chief of Staff more than prepared him for his leap to private practice. I saw Chuck build his private practice from literally ground zero to become a brand in amongst himself. There are simply certain issues you go to Chuck, period. It should not be surprising to anyone that given his knowledge of the law, state government experience, work ethic, faith and commitment to his family that Chuck would have an out-sized influence on the course of public policy in the state of Missouri. You can see Chuck’s fingerprints over a broad swath of public policy, which is a fitting legacy.

It has been an honor and privilege to count Chuck as a friend, not just in business, but also and in particular, the times he was there for me and my family. I have never forgotten his loyalty.

HUSCH BLACKWELL STRATEGIES

BY PHIL SCHNEIDERS Husch Blackwell Strategies is a well-rounded firm, from top to bottom. Every member of their team brings something to the table that makes them an indispensable part of our legislative strategy. Starting with Chris Moody, who is impressively thorough and reliable. I can send him to any hearing or seminar and I know he will deliver. Angie Schulte is the glue of the firm, not only keeping them together,

GIBBONS WORKMAN

but keeping them on time. She’s an absolutely great lady. Noel Torpey provides a vital inside look, having crossed over from the legislature. He gets along with everyone in the Capitol, on both sides of the aisle. Ginger Steinmetz is the personality of HBS and a great lobbyist.

She’s puts her social butterfly tendencies to work planning fantastic dinners and events. I wouldn’t trade Jay Reichard for

anybody in the Capitol - he’s the hardest working lobbyist in the building, burning the candle at both ends. He knows where everything is as far as the workings of a bill and knows every aspect of the Capitol inside and out. Andy Blunt is the name and face of the firm with instinctual political knowledge.

His connections strengthen every aspect of the firm.

BY RALPH BROWN

It’s always so interesting how life plays out. When I was younger, I envisioned my future as many others do, without accounting for the curveballs life throws your way. If someone had told me six years ago that I would be working with Tricia Workman and Mike Gibbons on tobacco issues in the state of Missouri, I never would have believed it. Yet here I am today, working side by side with the wonderfully brilliant attorneys at GibbonsWorkman. It’s amazing how things can change. As someone who’s career and background was non-political, I can attest to the fact that working with the right team through important political processes is critical. There is not a more fitting team for that task than Tricia and Mike. They have helped me manage, and dare I even say excel, through the legislative arena all while becoming very dear friends and members of the Cheyenne family in the process.

Working exclusively with the legislative and executive branches, Tricia and Mike are two of the most genuine and respected lobbyists in the state of Missouri. They consistently bring insight and wisdom to any issues that arise. Their innate ability to dissect a problem into fundamental parts makes that problem easier to understand and easier to manage. It’s a talent that many possess but not one that many have perfected.

Tricia and Mike “know their stuff ” in the political arena and aside from having great respect for that, I also truly admire the way they’ve chosen to carry out their personal lives, always thinking of others along the way. It would be easy to become selfish or biased, working in the arena that Tricia and Mike work in, but they’re not.

Instead, they’re consistently making sure that everyone they engage with is treated fairly and equally which speaks volumes about their character. Living their lives for the good of others, Tricia and Mike are gifted, talented and passionate about their work. I’m fortunate that our paths crossed six years ago and that I have the opportunity to call them my friends in Jefferson City.

Congratulations, Gibbons Workman, LLC cheyenneintl.com 701 SOUTH BATTLEGROUND AVENUE GROVER, NORTH CAROLINA 28073

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THE GOVERNOR’S TEAM

BY GOV. MIKE PARSON

GATE WAY GROUP

BY RACHAEL DUNN

Gate Way Group is truly an interesting and dynamic force in the Capitol, beginning with their clients and ending with their professionalism. DeAnna Hemphill was one of the first lobbyists I met when I came to the building and she has set the bar. At the same time, Tom Dempsey was Senate Pro Tem and when I joined this paper, he made me realize what a true open door policy is for those in leadership. Tracy King joined the team, bringing a wealth of business advocacy experience with her. Dave Berry always exceeds expectations on Gate Way Group’s always-evolving portfolio of issues. Travis Brown might be Missouri politics’ most interesting man. He’s written a book on state tax policy - and it is actually interesting. He advocates on behalf on many developing industries and several Missouri staples, so casinos must hate him - he sets the line and knows where every card is on the table.

In my opinion this is the most talented group of people we have in the state and I am incredibly proud not only of their character, but the dedication they have to making Missouri better. When I took office we made a pledge that we would do things differently, be willing to take on tough issues, and propose bold ideas that benefit Missouri both now and in future generations - that commitment is something 'Team 57' takes very seriously every single day and why they will always be special to me.

BY AARON WILLARD Most administrations are built right after a campaign, so the tendency is to utilize people that helped you through that battle. The inherently unique thing about 'Team 57' is that these are people that all stepped away from what they were doing and raised their hand to help the State of Missouri at a pivotal time. That type of commitment to our state is what stays at the forefront of everything we do and a big reason why I believe we will be able to generate a tremendous number of opportunities for Missouri.

GREGG KELLER

BY DANNY PFEIFER

Most people know Gregg (yes, 3 G’s) from his clever, provocative, but always astute and relevant Twitter (@RGreggKeller). Or his hair. But I knew him before Twitter and before almost anyone in politics (the only thing that hasn’t changed is his hair). We were 23, recent college grads, had fantastic first jobs in finance, and for whatever reason had decided to leave to work on a U.S. Senate campaign for Jim Talent.

One thing that’s really amazed me over the years about Gregg professionally is his versatility. People know Gregg’s conservative

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credentials and tireless work in building effective coalitions for some of the world’s leading companies and top national associations. But what they forget or never knew is the guy has done just about everything in politics, and at the highest level. He’s great on strategy, comms, grasstops, coalitions and more. The guy just does a bunch of things really, really well.

When you’re in D.C. with Gregg (as I have been a bunch of times) two things are obvious: first, the guy knows seemingly everyone there and, second, they all know about his Missouri connectivity and that he’s managed

to keep one foot firmly planted here. Back home in Missouri everyone seems to know Gregg or know of him, too (thanks, Twitter), and they know how effective he is in D.C. Making him a go-to guy to get things done in DC and back home.

It’s true, time flies. We’ve come a long way from standing in the back of a sale barn in Saline County in 2002, listening to campaign speeches and wondering if we had could get our old jobs back if things went bad in November.

JOHN BARDGETT AND ASSOCIATES

BY BILL DEWITT

If you don’t know John, you haven’t spent time in Jefferson City.

In the fast-paced, evolving arena of Missouri state politics, John Bardgett and his team at John Bardgett & Associates remain the essential government affairs consultants for the St. Louis Cardinals.

I’ve known John for more than two decades. He and his team continue to support our 11-time World Champion Cardinals with legislative information and influence, helping us maintain and grow a successful sports franchise which draws more than 3.4 million fans through the turnstiles annually.

He’s a big personality who is plugged into the political scene. It doesn’t matter which side of the isle you’re on, his success as a bipartisan influencer derives from the ability to make connections through shared, common interests. He’s a thorough, attentive advocate for his clients who doesn’t cut corners. His friendliness and genuine passion for the legislative process makes him the “must know” player in Jefferson City. His firm’s decades of experience in Jefferson City and keen sense of our business model ensure legislative issues impacting our club are top of mind. Though our statewide elected officials and other power brokers can change with each election cycle, John and his team remain consistent, steadfast partners of the St. Louis Cardinals.

Bill DeWitt III is the President of the St. Louis Cardinals.

Congrats, Chase!

YOUR TALENT AND PASSION FOR POLITICS DESERVES THIS RECOGNITION.

I APPRECIATE YOUR COMMITTMENT TO SERVING THE PEOPLE OF THE 97TH DISTRICT.

You are a lifesaver.

Chase Campbell has been named to the 2019 Missouri Times 100 List in the Lifesaver category.

PAID FOR BY FRIENDS OF MARY ELIZABETH COLEMAN, LUCAS NULL, TREASURER

LATHROP GAGE CONSULTING

BY JEAN MANEKE

With a diverse mix of experience, expertise, and personal backgrounds, the partners at Lathrop Gage Consulting have all of the tools necessary to navigate the complex field of government consulting. Their continued success can be easily measured by their length of service with clients, some lasting for over forty years.

Harry Gallagher, Heath Clarkston, Doug Nelson and Kurt Schaefer all have varying professional backgrounds and relationships that are leveraged daily to move their clients’ interests forward. The relationship with Lathrop Gage, one of the leading law firms in Missouri, lends expertise to understand any issue that is brought to them. Their firm is not partisan in nature and this allows them to fully represent clients and not be subject to the ever changing winds of leadership and administrations.

In addition, Lathrop Gage Consulting continues to excel as a consistent voice in promoting professional ethics. The Lathrop Gage Consulting team easily fits on the 100 list for the Missouri Times, and in fact is at the top of my list.

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MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES (MAC)

BY WENDY NORDWALD, WARREN COUNTY ASSESSOR One of most powerful voices in politics within the State of Missouri is The Missouri Association of Counties (MAC).

For over 30 years, the man at the helm is Director Dick Burke, who has provided a steady foundation and leadership for the Association. Burke. has established networks of diverse county elected officials from Sheriffs, County Commissioners, County Clerks, Assessors and Collectors. He has commanded a large army of elected officials, which over the decades led a vast collection of legislative efforts. His unprecedented legislative accomplishments are the staple of county government today. Communications Director, David Owen, spearheads the legislative efforts on many diverse fronts facing counties throughout the State. Deputy Director, Bev Cunningham plays a vital role by assisting with the day to day operations and a multitude of issues across the state daily.

SHARON JONES & THE MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF TRIAL ATTORNEYS

BY MIKE GROTE

Jones is one of the most intelligent and hard working lobbyists in the Capitol. Jones entered the political sphere while working on campaigns and transitioned into the Capitol as a lobbyist with Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys (MATA). While many find it hard to balance the multiple issues in the capitol, Jones decided it wasn’t challenging enough and graduated law school while still working to protect the interests of her client's full time. Jones is the wisdom and architect behind numerous policy developments. She is artful in her legislative drafting. Jones is always quick with an immensely witty comment even in the most dire of circumstances. While many have knowledge of the Capitol and their issues, Jones has a deep understanding and comprehension that makes her an incredible asset to her clients and a nemesis to her opponents.

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The Missouri Association of Counties is very fortunate to have the savvy and talented, Trent Watson, inside the Capital on a daily basis addressing County Government issues. Trent’s background and knowledge on a wide variety of issues facing county governments renders him the ideal fit. With the ever-changing dynamics of term-limits and Trent’s ability to impact public policy due to his vast knowledge of the legislative

process and ability to convey even the most difficult issues in an effective manner, makes Watson a gentleman within the Missouri lobby core and a real asset for MAC.

MAC’s members are all county elected officials from every corner of the State and each one contributes their own expertise and talents to advocate as a collective voice in the state on public policy. These members are hard-working exemplary public servants who work to enhance best practices and advocate for cost effective solutions to government issues.

Other state associations will be hard pressed to match the grassroots network of these individuals. Some current members include former legislators; Steve Hobbs (current MAC 3rdVP), Tom Flanigan (State Senator), and Dave Hinson (State Representative).

In addition, MAC has bridged the gap to the state legislature for prior members such as: Senator Lincoln Hough and Representatives Dean Dohrman, Peggy McGuagh and Rodger Reedy. Rep McGuagh and Rep Reedy, both were at one time MAC’s President. Roots run deep in the MAC, how deep do you ask? The highest office in the State and Governor Mike Parson was a member of MAC. Which is why all members of MAC are proud to call Governor Mike Parson as one of our own!

MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF CAREER FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICTS

BY RYAN MCKENNA

I was a House member and Senator for most of my adult life and I remain so thankful for the support from the firefighters. The work, effort and class they have shown over the years representing first responders is unparalleled in Jefferson City.

The firefighters have maintained a solid reputation with legislators of both parties. I am honored to be able to call our firefighters my brothers and sisters. Thank you to Gary Donovan and Dave Tilley for their hard work on behalf of the membership.

MISSOURI AUTOMOBILE DEALERS ASSOCIATION

BY DUSTY SCHNEIDERS

Growing up watching my dad at the Capitol had always fascinated me and sparked my interest in politics. He has always been a great role model and someone I look up to when needing advice. Most people around the building would say the same thing about him. He is a very likeable, honest, and a respected lobbyist. He is one of the most professional people at the capitol and has helped build Missouri Automobile Dealers Association (MADA) into one of the most influential associations. It’s easy to say he has built a reputation of getting things done and he always has the best interest of his dealers in mind.

MISSOURI SOYBEAN ASSOCIATION

BY TOM RAFFETY

A soybean might not be the first thing that comes to mind as a mover and shaker in the Capitol – but if you’re not thinking of the Missouri Soybean team, it’s time to open your eyes.

The Missouri Soybean Association has proven itself as an organization making great moves – including clearing the final $4 million of a decade-old debt in the Missouri Qualified Biodiesel Producer Incentive Fund in 2018. They were instrumental in establishing the Fertilizer Control Board and giving teeth to the Missouri Department of Agriculture’s pesticide program, too. They’re consistently part of the solution for managing Missouri’s land and water resources, working alongside state agencies and conservation groups. The team has also driven smart legislation protecting disaster and emergency loss programs, and ensuring farmers aren’t subject to unreasonable tax increases on ag land.

On top of all that, they’re accessible and intentional – making good on commitments to transparency and communication, and staying focused on their mission. They support their supporters and aren’t hamstrung by affiliations, whether from political parties or preferred tractor color.

Their secret to getting it all done may be that they aren’t familiar with the word ‘impossible’ – and aren’t burning time worrying about who gets the credit for good policy. Smart money says their leadership, including CEO Gary Wheeler, has his eyes toward the future. He’s one we know has the vision to tackle those big challenges.

MISSOURI RETIRED TEACHERS ASSOCIATION & JIM KREIDER

BY TIM GREEN

Jim Kreider has been a lifelong supporter of public education and educators. His experience serving as the Missouri Speaker of the House and as a State Representative for 10 years serves him well as Executive Director of Missouri Retired Teachers Association and Public School Personnel. Since 2003, he has grown the association from just 8,000 members to over 28,000 and 148 Local MRTA Units throughout the state. Under his leadership, the organization has become independent, nonpartisan and has chosen to not endorse candidates.

His knowledge of campaigns and philosophy has assisted him to be inspiring and motivational with his grassroots organization which in turn has made them very effective with the legislature. Jim has educated and organized MRTA’s members well - when he calls them to action they respond in droves! Once called the “silver tsunami” by legislators MRTA members are known for their huge rallies at the Missouri State Capitol every February, for filling hearing rooms on a moment’s notice and inundating legislator email inboxes.

When defending your pension system against billionaires and political agendas you have to have “Strength in Numbers” you can often hear Jim saying those words to his members. “We do not have the money to fight the millions of dollars spent on lobbying and legislation but we have 28,000 retirees who are educated, who care, who vote, and who will SHOW UP!” MRTA has been effective because of Jim’s philosophy of: “The world is run by those who show up.” MRTA members believe in Jim’s sincere dedication to them as retirees and to public education.

Members recognize his unwavering and vast knowledge of the legislative process and support his strategies of dealing with legislation. Jim’s strategy is to deal with legislation, positive or detrimental, early in the process, at the committee level.

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NEXUS GROUP

BY SCOTT CARTER, PRESIDENT OF SPIRE When I first met Rodney Boyd, co-founder of Nexus Group, I started to see things that, just five minutes before, I hadn’t considered. When we work with Rodney, we discuss different perspectives, possibilities, and potential outcomes of legislative opportunities. He helps our regulatory team see the challenges ahead, understand who the key stakeholders would be and, perhaps most importantly, assess the long-term impact of our efforts.

As president of Spire Missouri, that insight is invaluable to me and our business. Part of Spire’s mission is to advance the communities where we live and work, and to do that, we work closely with Missouri’s state leaders to positively impact the lives of our employees and customers.

Rodney helps us accomplish that objective.

Adding to Rodney’s own well-rounded perspective are the three other people who make up the Nexus Group: Brain Grace, Kate Casas and Kelvin Simmons. They also bring their expertise to the table, blending their knowledge of the political environment with the needs of their clients to achieve success.

In my experience, our mission becomes their mission, and Nexus Group works tirelessly to help us achieve it. For Spire, that means we can bring the full strength of our energy to the customers and communities we serve.

LOWELL PEARSON

BY ANDY BLUNT

When I first met Lowell Pearson he was an attorney in the administration of Missouri’s new Secretary of State, the up and coming Matt Blunt.

Over the years, Lowell’s steady approach and friendly demeanor made him both a trusted advisor and personal friend to his peers and superiors in the Blunt Administration. Lowell steadily rose through the ranks and eventually became General Counsel in the Office of the Governor.

Since leaving state government and joining Husch Blackwell, Lowell quickly became the “go to” attorney in Jefferson City. On all the major issues of the day, Lowell is the attorney who can be relied on to honestly explain the intricacies of legislation to policy makers. Lowell is a master of Missouri’s initiative and referendum process, from writing the ballot language to post-passage litigation, he flawlessly gets the job done. However, it is in the courtroom where Lowell’s greatest capabilities are on full display.

Long before I was affiliated with Husch Blackwell, there was never a doubt in my mind where to send a client who needed a lawyer.

Lowell is always effective in achieving his client’s objectives and capable of explaining the landscape so that the client feels like they understand and are a part of the legal strategy.

Most of us in Jefferson City are working the hallway or the phones to advocate for our

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clients. What makes Lowell Pearson a “must know” in Jefferson City is that for him it is just the opposite. From Governors to county officials, Lowell’s phone is always ringing and the people calling are the ones responsible for solving some of Missouri’s most pressing challenges.

STRATEGIC CAPITOL CONSULTING

BY JACK OLIVER

If you want something done in Missouri, all roads lead to Steve Tilley; and now his partner Tom Robbins. Tilley and Robbins have made Strategic Capitol Consulting the foremost choice for lobbying, public affairs and business development in the state.

Steve Tilley is a Perryville native and former Speaker of the Missouri House of Representatives. His institutional knowledge of the legislature and understanding of each region in the state allows him to outflank his competition and connect with the rural vote. SCC also has the home court advantage. Tom Robbins is an attorney and Jefferson City native. His connections and understanding of what makes Missouri’s capital city tick and the law gives him the advantage. Tilley-Robbins partnership has made this lobbying firm a powerhouse in Missouri politics.

Notable successes include securing funding for nurses attending to special needs children, workforce development programs for non-profits such as Mission: St. Louis, protecting Missouri’s franchise law and free market values for local dealers like Tesla, Inc. and Senate Bill 919 (2016) which allows brewers and liquor producers to place advertisements on retail refrigerators. To contact Steve Tilley or Tom Robbins, go to www.strategiclobby.com.

SPIRE

BY RODNEY BOYD As the country’s fifth-largest publicly traded natural gas company in the country, Spire continuously makes a positive impact on Missouri.

From delivering safe, reliable natural gas to generously supporting programs that advance Missouri’s communities, Spire’s commitment to our state is noteworthy.

Under the leadership of Spire’s president in Missouri, Scott Carter, the company has helped reshape the natural gas distribution landscape in Missouri. With the acquisition of Missouri Gas Energy in 2013, they now serve 1.1 million homes and businesses across our state.

Spire’s continuous commitment to providing those homes and businesses with affordable natural gas, in addition to their dedication to advancing the state of Missouri, makes Spire one of our top 100.

SCOTT SWAIN

BY CASEY WASSER

The first visit I had to The Swain Group was for an interview with one of his clients—the Missouri Soybean Association. What I came to learn about Scott was that he wasn’t just a contracted lobbyist for the Soybean Association, but instead he was a strong, passionate advocate for our interests and a loyal member of our team and our mission. Scott truly cares about his clients and works extremely hard to continue to learn about their needs and make sure they get the best service possible. Scott relies on several decades of expierence and relationships that make him a go-to lobbyist in tough situations and on controversial issues.

In a short time, Scott has taught me a lot about our profession. I am not only a better lobbyist because of him, I am also a better advocate for our members. Anyone who knows Scott knows he is a great guy, a hard worker, and perhaps most importantly a grill master. If you haven’t had a steak grilled at The Swain Group, you’re missing out! There is no doubt that he is very deserving of this recognition.

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TRISH VINCENT

BY GOV. MATT BLUNT

Everybody in Missouri government and politics knows Trish Vincent.

She is the highly sought-after administrator you want on your team. On paper, Trish has more than 16 years of high-level management experience in state and federal government. Those of us who have hired Trish will tell you no curriculum vitae can fully communicate the steady and calm leadership she brings to the job.

PAT THOMAS

BY BRIAN MUNZLINGER Pat Thomas is a definite asset in Missouri politics. Aside from being a political wonk having served on county committees and the state party committee, she and her husband, Doug, have also been very involved in races, such as mine. She is very astute to the issues at play in local politics all the way to national politics. Pat understands what it will take to be effective.

One amazing trait about Pat is the amount of contacts and information she has saved over the years. If I needed to know who to get in contact with to help with an issue or what happened even ten years ago, she always had a way to get answers.

In addition to competent leadership, Trish always focuses on solutions no matter how difficult the challenge. In the highest levels of state government where one must make thoughtful, often swift decisions, she is always willing to execute orders, but never hesitant to suggest alternatives and ensure that the best decision is made.

When she was my Director of Revenue and later my Chief of Staff in the governor’s office, I could always count on Trish to ensure I had all of the information I needed to make the best decision. Trish Vincent is honest, loyal and relentlessly committed to Missouri. Missourians are blessed to have her as a public servant and I am fortunate to count her among my friends.

Pat Thomas has always been extremely helpful to myself and other colleagues in the Senate and even House members, no matter what side of the aisle. Pat is probably one of the most organized people in the Capitol, and she shares that experience with others. I would venture to say that she likes to see things operate efficiently. Truly, Pat Thomas is a person to know!

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WE KEEP LIFE FLOWING™

There are some bills, articles, or campaigns that you just know who is behind them. Their work is distinct, yet its their professionalism and effectivenss that keeps them at the top of the game, whether its passing bills, whipping votes, electing members, re-electing other members, pulling strings on leadership races, drastically altering a bill on behalf of a client, influencing a caucus, or researching, these people know their work like the back of their hands.

ARMSTRONG TEASDALE

BY CHRIS LIEVSAY

It is no secret that some lobbyists do little more than just cash your check and list your name as a client on their website. What you get instead with Armstrong Teasdale and their government affairs arm of AT Government Strategies is a tireless advocate for the issues important to who they work with. Their team provides an exponential increase in the impact their clients have in the halls of the General Assembly and help deal with any government or regulatory agencies that may affect their objectives.

For the Missouri Municipal League, working with Shanon Hawk, their Director of Legislative Affairs, has provided a strong voice to help protect and advance the issues important to our members, and provides confidence that we are fulfilling our responsibility to be the best stewards of our resources. Shannon provides regular contact throughout the session on anything that might be related to our priorities, she is fully and quickly responsive to any requests, and is intentional about physically being at board meetings and events where legislative updates are given. Along with Jon Dalton as the CEO of ATGS, their extensive network of contacts and relationships built over decades of experience in this industry are a benefit to any organization.

PLAY MAKERS Clout Public Affairs

BY BECKY WILLARD

There are 962 individuals registered to lobby in the state of Missouri – no shortage of options if you’re looking for help with your issue. There is one team, however, that stands out from the pack in terms of tenacity, responsibility, dedication, and institutional knowledge: Clout Public Affairs.

DAVID BARKLAGE

Represented inside the Capitol by Aaron Baker and Hannah Beers, Clout doesn’t shy away from tough issues. Clout has been involved in the some of the most contentious legislative battles our state has seen and is sought out because this firm get results. They understand that there is more to a winning strategy than just shepherding legislation through the committee process, and they will bring every weapon in their arsenal to your fight. And as part of the Axiom Strategies network of companies, the weapons at their fingertips are formidable – each priority is treated like a campaign, using data to drive decisions at every level.

Politics today are big. Big budgets, big companies, big personalities and a focus, primarily, on the big elements of a campaign. But David Barklage is a guy that knows better than anyone the importance of the fundamentals – the small things – of politics. How words make a difference. How individual people react to events, ideas and messages. And how politics, ultimately, is all about people.

The big (not so) secret to their success? They understand people. They understand what motivates people to stand up and take action, to make their voices heard, to become part of the legislative process. Both Aaron and Hannah come from small towns in Missouri, and they stay connected and grounded through their communities still today. (Seriously, check out Aaron Baker’s Facebook page – I think he might be the Godfather of Northeast Missouri.) And when you couple that with their savvy inside-the-building operations? Priceless.

BY JOE LAKIN

Few have had a greater impact on the landscape of Missouri politics than David Barklage. Even after years of winning some of Missouri’s toughest campaigns, David’s hometown of Cape Girardeau is never far from view in his work. David has made it big without forgetting where he came from. He never fails to check on friends and provide a wise word of counsel when needed.

Every Missouri Republican in the business today stands on his shoulders and owes him a debt of gratitude for his work. After devoting decades of his life building the engines that power Republican majorities in the legislature and in statewide offices, the impact of his work is seen each and every day in the work of our elected leaders.

More than any of this, though, Aaron and Hannah are good people who know there is more to life than what happens in Jefferson City. It’s clear talking to either of them that it’s their personal values that drive their dedication to their work.

Their friends, their families, their faith – these are the things that matter. Sometimes we all need a reminder to step back and remember why we do what we do; Aaron and Hannah keep this front-of-mind every day.

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Rich Chrismer

BY GREGG KELLER If Missouri politics were the film industry, Rich Chrismer might hold a record for the most un-credited roles. Present at most political occurrences of import in the state over the last twenty years, he prefers to shine the spotlight on his clients. This old-school professionalism has earned him the trust of the many who seek his communications counsel and mastery of message development.

A twenty-year communications veteran, Chrismer has built a wildly successful public relations consultancy. His firm, Seen Read Heard, a name that stems from the polling question, represents Fortune 500s, CEOs, start-ups, issue campaigns, candidates and more. Seen Read Heard reached the ten-year milestone in March.

Chrismer’s mentor Senator Jim Talent said he is “one of a short list of PR professionals whose advice and counsel is in constant demand from business and political leaders who need strong relationships with the media, outstanding social media platforms, cool and effective advice in a crisis, and purposeful, powerful communications programs.”

Shawn Furey

BY KATE CASAS I first met Shawn Furey when he was chief of staff to then Senator Eric Schmitt and I was a new lobbyist. As a new lobbyist, Shawn was always open to giving me advice when I asked, gently telling me when I was about to make a mistake and encouraging me when something went right. It was soon after he left Schmitt’s office to join the Axiom Strategies team that I learned he had not just been doing those things for me but that he was one of the most trusted advisors among many of Missouri’s politicos and a truly talented strategist.

To this day, if there is something big happening in Missouri politics or policy, you can be confident that he is involved. I now have the privilege to work with Shawn daily in his role as a Senior Vice President at Home State Health. Shawn not only knows everything there is to know about delivering high quality health care in the most efficient way to Missouri’s citizens, he has a breadth of experience and a track record of success that is unparalleled.

Jeff Roe, my generation’s Karl Rove, has called him “the best communicator in the country west of the Mississippi.”

On a personal level, Chrismer is intellectually curious and creative with a wide range of interests outside of politics that make him better at his job. He will continue to be an influential communications force in Missouri and beyond for years to come.

Gateway Government Relations

Giddens Group

When looking for lobbying firms, there are always the basics that you look for. Is the firm strategic? Are they effective? Do they have the requisite relationships to shepherd complex (and sometimes not so complex) legislation to enactment? Gateway Government relations checks all those boxes easily.

BY MIKE DEERING

The dynamic duo that is “The Giddens Group” is undoubtedly a force in Missouri politics. Nancy and Shannon have formed strong relationships with legislators on both sides of the aisle. They care about people and don’t give a damn about the letter behind their name. They shoot from the hip and they shoot straight. It’s that straightforward honesty and integrity that has made this group successful over the last 13 years.

They fight like they don’t know how to lose. They do not quit. If a committee hearing runs long or if either chamber stays in session all night, they do not leave. They have danced the dance of Missouri politics long enough to know bad things happen when you look away. You must be present.

They love what they do, and their passion is unwavering. They have a lot of fun doing what they love. You have to admire that.

The other thing worth noting is they believe in their clients and won’t take on just anyone with a checkbook. They truly put themselves into their work and believe in the issues they are fighting for and the people impacted by those issues. Every client is their only client, if that makes sense. This association wouldn’t have been able to lead four veto overrides in one session without the unwavering dedication and relentless efforts of Nancy and Shannon. Their work ethic is unparalleled; perhaps that’s because they both grew up on cattle farms.

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BY KEVIN GUNN

But what sets them apart and why should they be on this list? The answer in my mind is simple: Irl Scissors and Sarah Wood Martin. I’ve known them both for years and consider them to be great friends and experts in their field.

In many ways, the only real thing that a lobbyist brings to the table is their reputation. With 30 years of combined experience, Irl and Sarah bring exactly the kind of reputation that you want to be affiliated with in Jefferson City. They are relentless in their advocacy for their clients, yet they understand when to raise the profile of an issue and when to work behind the scenes. They are recognized by their peers as well as legislators that they can both provide trusted information as well as be trusted with information.

They have been involved in some of the highest profile legislative battles in the Capitol, but also know how to handle the everyday tasks that clients require. Their diverse client list also demonstrates that they can manage any issue at any level of government no matter the complexity.

And, if those reasons aren’t enough, they know where to get the best Mexican food in Jefferson City

Michael Hafner

BY BRIAN GRACE

Mike Hafner began his political career by working on the campaigns of many of this century’s most stalwart Missouri Republicans: former Sen. Jim Talent, former Gov. Matt Blunt, and former Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder.

In 2014 he began working for Eric Greitens who was exploring a yetto-be-determined campaign for statewide office. In 2015, as Greitens’ campaign for Governor evolved, Hafner began raising questions about the use of a 501(c)(4) to raise funds outside of campaign contribution limits. Shortly thereafter, he was asked by Greitens to leave the campaign. Last year Hafner became a central witness in five separate investigations into the actions of the Greitens campaign – putting him at odds with Greitens’ inner circle. A Greitens campaign advisor proclaimed that Hafner would never work in Missouri Republican politics again. Now, nine months after Greitens’ resignation, Hafner is thriving. He is engaged as a campaign consultant, media relations consultant, and fundraiser for several Republican elected officials. He is also doing PAC advising and lobbying for conservative coalitions.

JAMES HARRIS

BY TIM JONES

Perseverance, Patience, Purpose From his early days of cutting his political teeth during the euphoric days of Governor Matt Blunt, when Missouri Republicans gained control of the House, the Senate and the Governor’s office for the first time in decades, to the present day of Governor Mike Parson’s calming, steady hand after several years of conflict and turmoil, James Harris has been a consummate presence, counselor and advisor to these leaders and to many others at all levels of Missouri State Government…and beyond.

The Game of Thrones of politics, political gamesmanship and the complicated labyrinth of the legislative and executive branches is often a high octane and cutthroat business; yet it is one that James constantly navigates with unflinching patience and constant perseverance. And you never see him sweat.

James’s connections are prolific and extend across the State of Missouri.

He has the keys to unlock doors for hard-working and willing candidates to some of the most powerful decision-makers and political donors in the Show-Me State. But the most valuable lesson I learned from James, and one that he impressed upon me often during my legislative years as he escorted me to a humble office cubicle to make my weekly maintenance calls to supporters across the state, was that although he could provide me the road map and the tools, he could not do the work for me. A consultant can open doors, but it is the candidate who must walk through them and prove his or her own mettle to the people within.

James has that rare combination of perseverance and patience that has honed his political intuition to a keen edge, providing him the ability to identify those aspiring politicians and public servants who have that intangible quality of capable leadership at the highest and most demanding levels.

And if you’re willing to bear down, listen to his advice and do the hard work he demands, James Harris can open the doors to public service at the highest levels, if you’re willing to walk through them.

HRCC & CASEY WHEAT

BY SCOTT DIECKHAUS

To understand how Republicans transformed a purple state with a slight blue lean into a dark red state in just a few short decades, you really only need to look to one organization – the Missouri House Republican Campaign Committee (HRCC). Modern political history in Missouri is more than dotted with the names of the tremendous leadership that has often originated from the political arm of the House Republicans; names like Jim Talent, David Barklage, Mark and Todd Richardson, Catherine Hanaway, Steve Tilley, Dave Hageman, Robert Knodell have led the charge to a general decimation of once prominent rural Democrat leaders.

The basic formula established early on by HRCC is still intact today – recruit quality candidates who fit district ideals, work tirelessly to raise money to support the candidates via independent expenditures, train both candidates and staff on the basics of campaigning, and base messaging and targeting decisions on solid polling. While nothing here is necessarily revolutionary in modern campaigning, the precision and consistency of HRCC is nearly mythic.

The history and success of HRCC continues today with Executive Director Casey Wheat. In addition to being the first woman to lead the organization, Casey grabbed the reins of HRCC relatively late in the 2018 cycle and was still able to navigate the House Republicans to an impressive election feat – stopping the national blue wave at the ShowMe State’s borders; the House Republicans had as many members at the swearing-in ceremony this past January as they had going into election night last year – 116.

As the chain of success goes at HRCC, Casey was added to the HRCC family in 2012 by then Political Director Jonathan Ratliff and myself. Over the years, she ascended the ranks as a Regional Staffer, Political Director, and ultimately her current role as Executive Director. In her current role, I am certain that Casey has continued the legacy of the HRCC family tree and that many of the fine young staffers of the organization from the 2018 and 2020 cycles will eventually be main characters in its future successes.

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WILLIS JONES AND CAPITAL CITY RESEARCH

BY PETER KINDER

Willis Jones has established himself as Missouri’s ace opposition researcher.

Willis is diligent, thorough, efficient and has assembled a great team to handle his growing portfolio. He’s the best.

THE KELLY GROUP

BY MIKE LOUIS

The most important thing that Labor can do is to keep our members up to date on everything we are doing to fight for working families. Times have change as to how we best do that. It has become paramount to keep Union members and their families updated in real time. That is where the Kelly Group comes in for the Missouri AFL-CIO. Doing a great job in both consulting and managing our social media outlets.

JOSH HAYNES

BY DAVID WILLIS Josh Haynes has left his permanent trademark on the southeast Missouri political landscape. Though originally from the Kansas City area, Josh spent more than a decade working in the 8th congressional district for Congresswoman Jo Ann Emerson and later for Congressman Jason Smith. Despite a number of the biggest names in Missouri politics being from southeast Missouri, Josh’s impact cannot be understated, he helped Jo Ann navigate through tough primaries and well-funded opposition in some very difficult political climates.

When Jo Ann announced her retirement after the 2012 election, every Republican heavyweight from the 8th congressional announced they were running to replace her. Josh was one of the first people that candidates turned to for information and advice because of his deep knowledge of the district and the region. Despite having many of his friends enter the field, Josh was able to maintain his relationships and navigate a difficult special election with finesse.

Today, Josh has taken his skills to the private sector and has become one of the more influential people in Jefferson City. As the Senior Director for Government Affairs for MissouriCare Health Plan Josh has proven he is capable of tackling complicated public policy problems. Josh has developed a reputation of being a capable strategist, an honest broker and fiercely loyal to his friends.

Josh and his wife Heather and their two children Molly and Henry now live near Springfield. While no longer directly involved in the political side Josh remains helpful to his friends, providing advice and help where appropriate.

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The hard work and the 24-7 availability for consulting and advice of the Kelly Group is invaluable. Their dedication to the Missouri AFL-CIO in our efforts to represent the best interest of Missouri’s Working Families is what makes the Kelly Group so deserving of this award.

IAFF AND MARK HABBAS

BY SAM WILES

The speciality that Mark Habbas has brought to the table on behalf of the state’s firefighters, is being effective in his position while being one of the nicest people in the building.

But what is truly unique is the passion he brings to the table, particularly on behalf of firefighters. He is just advocating for a client, but rather for a cause he truly believes in. He brings an openness and honesty to conversations that is truly refreshing. You always know where Mark stands and where you stand with him.

Because of the work done by the two Marks — Woolbright and Habbas, the firefighters have maintained a solid reputation with both political parties. They aren’t looking at the R or D following a legislators name, they work with everyone and just want what is best for the group they passionately represent.

Mark, Habbas that is, always says that “your reputation is all you ve” and, I think I can speak for those that know him, his reputation is certainly one to stand the test of time.

JOE LAKIN & VICTORY ENTERPRISES

BY DAN KLEINSORGE

If you call Joe Lakin today, you’ll often catch him at an airport between flights but Joe earned his stripes running campaigns for HRCC when the House Republicans were first breaking records for the size of their majority. Now Joe is involved in campaigns across the country while still maintaining clients across Missouri.

Joe is the first person to call if you are thinking about running for office because he knows as much about local politics in Greene County as he does about digital ad buys. A proven winner, Joe is worth knowing if you care about politics in Missouri.

RON LEONE/MPCA

BY TRICIA WORKMAN

Smart, direct, prepared, a contrarian at times, and someone certainly not afraid to voice an unpopular but accurate point of view.

Ronald J. Leone has been a fixture in the Missouri Capitol for decades with his start as a Senate research staff member and later serving as Chief of Staff to two Senate President Pro Tems.

Ron is a fierce ally and a worthy opponent. Due to his work on behalf of the Missouri Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Store Association most everyone in the building has had the opportunity to experience both. He is a tough negotiator who has a strong pride of ownership and keen attention to detail.

MCTA

BY KEVIN ENGLER Over the years as I served in the state House and Senate, we saw all kinds of battles with telecommunications companies. To make a decision, you need to have accurate information — especially as each side can skew facts to make their case — to find out what the net effect of legislation will be. And that’s where the MCTA comes in.

Nowadays, the MCTA has quite a few people working for them who I respect and have put my faith in — including some of my former staffers.

The average person who gets cable might not understand how vulnerable they can be, and they need someone who will stick up for them in Jefferson City. That’s what MCTA’s role is: to defend Missourians who have cable.

He represents his association and its members well. He is not afraid to go to battle for his clients whether in the Capitol or in the field of public opinion. He enjoys the art of debate, oral or written, and is a gifted spokesperson known for his willingness to tell it like it is.

Behind that tough New Yorker exterior, Ron is also a loyal friend who often has a kind word to say when you need it the most.

ROB MONSEES & MHA

BY CHUCK PRYOR

I first became acquainted with Rob while serving as Secretary of State Matt Blunt’s legislative liaison.

I quickly learned that Rob was the go to guy in the Mo. Senate.

Rob was a key player in Secretary Blunt’s successful efforts to update election laws in Missouri.

His political experience proved invaluable during Governor Blunt’s election and was again at the heart of the transition into the Governor’s office.

Rob was deputy chief of staff over policy while I served as director of legislation, his experience at the federal and state level combined with his vision made my job much easier and our time on the second floor very

successful with a long list of legislative wins.

In his current role at the Missouri Hospital Association, Rob works on the front lines of health care policy in Missouri and Washington DC on behalf of hospitals across Missouri. From access to health care issues to tort reform and regulatory relief, Rob can be found tirelessly advocating to create an environment where hospitals can provide high quality health care to patients and serve as a foundational member of their communities.

So if you need to know about a policy issue from agriculture to health care to education to transportation or you want to talk strategy about an upcoming election campaign, Rob Monsees is definitely a great person to know.

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BY JEREMY LAFAVER

Both famed, and feared, for their fierce advocacy on behalf of progressive tax policy, The Missouri Budget Project is consistently among the top advocacy and non-profit lobby organizations in Missouri. MBP, as they’re often referred to in the hallways of the state capitol, has built a reputation for fair and accurate budget analysis and economic forecasting that makes them a go-to organization for lawmakers, media outlets and partner organizations across the state. A prominent political blog once quipped of the Missouri Budget Project, “you can disagree with the messenger, but you can’t disagree with their math.”

Founded in 2003 by Amy Blouin, who still leads the organization, MBP’s mission is to improve the quality of life for all Missourians by informing public policy decisions through objective research and analysis of state budget, tax and economic issues. Over the past 15 years, Amy and her

team have worked tirelessly at the forefront of some of the biggest public policy discussions in Missouri using their objective research and analysis to build a rock solid reputation.

I’ve had the pleasure to work alongside Amy and her team in a couple of different capacities, and there are few, if any, organizations that do it better than they do. Amy has recruited an exceptionally talented and hard-working team of high-level professionals who know their stuff and can be trusted to produce honest, accurate policy analysis.

Love them or hate them, folks know that MBP is a certain force in Jefferson City that will be at the table during any big tax and budget discussion.

SEAN SOENDKER NICHOLSON

BY LAURA SWINFORD

MISSOURI NURSES ASSOCIATION

BY KYNA IMAN

Nurses are educated and trained to care for and address their patients’ needs. However who is taking care of the nurses?

The Missouri Nurses Association is dedicated to being the strong voice for all Missouri’s nurses. They work tirelessly (just like nurses do) to promote and enhance safe and accountable professional nursing practice.

Missouri is a huge state with many diverse healthcare settings – ranging from small rural health clinics to large urban hospital environments.

MONA is there to work with leaders in the healthcare industry on student loans, workplace safety issues, and nurse reimbursement equality, to name just a few issues on their legislative agenda.

I am so proud to work with such a visionary group of advocates to help break down barriers to healthcare access across our state, and to enhance the health and well-being of all Missourians.

Sean is always in motion. He eats fast, walks fast, talks fast, works fast-and thinks even faster. He multi-tasks like a line cook during a dinner rush, and only requires reliable wifi, decent coffee and a good lunch (preferably Mexican) to keep him going. Combine all this with a just-shyof-insane work ethic and a moral compass that never veers from true north, and depending what side of history you’re on, you’ve either got a very big problem or a very helpful ally.

What makes him so dangerous and frustrating to some, and so admired and trusted by others, is that he never allows credit, ego or partisanship to come before the work. And the work is always about making Missouri a more just, fair and equitable place.

The work he’s done for years to fight for workers’ rights, reproductive justice, Medicaid Expansion, LGBTQ equality, economic dignity and fairness in our democratic process has been significant and lasting. Some of his contributions are known, some are not. (He’s more comfortable with the latter.)

Sean is no bleeding heart, and he’s not intimidated by odds, titles or bankrolls. He’s been doing this work for over a decade--and he’s only getting better. (One word: CLEAN)

HAHN O'DANIEL

BY JIM BOO FOLEY

In my 26 years of lobbying, I have seen numerous lobbyists and government relations firms come and go. I can honestly say I have never seen anyone build such an impressive operation like the one Jay Hahn has built with Hahn|O’Daniel. Over the years, we have begun sharing clients and closely working together. After working with Jay, I can tell you that Hahn|O’Daniel integrates just the right amount of “old school” style with a modern, cutting-edge approach to government affairs. At the helm of Hahn|O’Daniel, Jay’s instincts as a government relations strategist have led the firm to become one of the fastest growing government relations practices under the Capitol dome. Jay and his firm are more than just a face in a crowded hearing room, they work tirelessly to build relationships and educate lawmakers on the views and concerns of their clients. Jay’s word is his bond.

He is a young man of honor and integrity. If the next generation of lobbyists and advocates are as honest and as principled as Jay, our state will be in a better place.

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JEWELL PATEK

BY TODD GRAVES

Jewell Patek is known for leading in a way that combines his family values and government experience to help promote positive change for the state of Missouri.

Owner of Jefferson City-based Patek & Associates, Jewell doesn’t seek out the spotlight but tirelessly works as a conservative activist and remains an unquestionable asset to the state. He previously served three terms in the Missouri House of Representatives for District 7, which encompasses all or part of Carroll, Linn and Livingston counties.

During his time in office, Patek served on seven House committees and sponsored or co-sponsored numerous House bills aimed at improving education and social services and promoting economically beneficial tax policies.

Patek has remained true to his rural hometown roots in Chillicothe, while serving as a military police officer in the Missouri National Guard, pursuing a career in law and fulfilling his duties of public office.

These experiences shaped his approach to leadership and advocacy as a respected voice in Missouri’s political scene.

As a recent example of his impact, Jewell supported Senate Bill 73, which would require all Missouri schools to have reading intervention programs in place for grades kindergarten through four as well as screening for and treatment of dyslexia. He is a parent of two daughters with dyslexia and truly understands the need to promote literacy efforts in the state.

This sums up Jewell’s political advocacy. He is truly informed, experienced and aligned with the voice of Missouri’s voters. We are lucky to have him provide an impassioned voice with the best interest of this state’s people in mind.

PALM STRATEGIC GROUP

BY STUART MURRAY

Only a few years ago Jonathan Ratliff and Scott Dieckhaus launched Palm Strategic Group out of their living rooms. Many victories later Palm counts among its clients a United States Congressman, the Majority Leaders of both the Missouri House and Senate, countless legislators, judges, local officials, ballot measures, and Missouri businesses.

How do they deliver one victory after another? Hard work. Plain and simple. (I’m also pretty sure Ratliff hasn’t slept in at least a decade).

Nobody works harder for their clients than Ratliff and Dieckhaus. You’d be hard-pressed to find a lawmaker in Jeff City who hasn’t called either of them at 2am for advice—and gotten a real conversation instead of a voicemail.

You need a team to knock doors for you? They’re there—coffee in one hand, iPad in the other. You need people to walk with you in a parade on the other side of the state and on short notice? Somehow they marshal their friends out of bed at 5am on a Saturday to make it in time for an 8am start. You need three more direct mail pieces designed, printed, and in the mail by the end of the week? The get it done.

Ratliff and Dieckhaus’ record of victories, and the talented team they’ve built at Palm, speaks to their incredible generosity and unmatched work ethic.

Murray, a former Chief of Staff to Senator Caleb Rowden and Vice President at Palm Strategic Group, currently serves as the Communications Director for the Senate Majority Caucus.

TRENT WATSON

BY DICK BURKE

You always want someone on your side at the Capitol. That is one of the reasons Trent Watson is a person you should know. Having worked with him on common issues prior to him coming on board with us, I knew he was trustworthy and highly respected, qualities that are essential to being successful in that environment, but he was also extremely effective. That fact was very prominent in the decision to hire him as our consultant. Trent knows the process, the players and has the political instincts needed to make the right move at the right time. Much of what makes him successful is the fact that he loves what he does! There will always be some pretty rough days over there, but good lobbyists keep an even keel. Trent certainly does. It is not a job for everyone but he definitely has found his niche.

We have been extremely happy with what he brings to our legislative program. There is better communication and engagement with our leadership and membership as a whole. It is also evident that he is always looking for ways to improve how we interact with the General Assembly. He’s made a remarkable difference for our association in just his second session with us. We hope he will be our point person at the Capitol for many years to come.

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BY IRL SCISSORS

BY RODNEY BOYD

If you work in Missouri politics, you are well aware of Show Me Victories. Every election cycle SMV engages in Missouri’s fiercest political battles. And they usually win.

Whether it’s a multi-million dollar statewide campaign or a local bond issue, they attack with the same vigor.

From direct mail to multi-platform digital media, SMV succeeds. They challenged a long-time incumbent county executive and won. They ran the race to elect St. Louis’ first female mayor, she won. And as significant, if not as important, they convinced the Piasa Township Sanitary District voters to sell their sewer system by a vote of 50-0. Whatever the mountain, or hill, SMV climbs it.

Though proudly based in St. Louis City, SMV’s team hails from Kansas City, Jefferson City, St. Charles, St. Louis, and beyond. They are keenly aware of their roots and stay fiercely loyal to them. They understand Missouri voters, too.

keeps SMV at the top.

SPIRE

Powered by their fearless leader, Michael Kelley, King of all Missouri Media, SMV takes on his larger than life persona. Staying out of the spotlight (usually) is Michael’s right arm, Patrick Lynn. Patrick, an encyclopedia of Missouri politics, in many ways has seen it all. His instincts, sharp wit, and perfectionism are what

SMV’s team blends old school, with new starting with Megan McBride. Megan is not afraid to mix it up with politicos often times twice her age on radio, television, or in St. Louis City Hall. She’s campaigned all her life and is NOT to be underestimated.

The control room of SMV is quietly where much of the action takes place. Lead by digital strategist Braxton Payne and research and polling guru Bryce Summary, SMV provides clients with creative and state of the art digital options driven by critically focused data collection. Summary, plucked by Kelley as a newly minted UMSL Ph.D., is one of the sharpest minds in his field. His focus on data driven results serves as the backbone for all SMV campaigns. Payne and his deputy Tom Platten then transform it into a winning message to view on any platform.

As the country’s fifth-largest publicly traded natural gas company in the country, Spire continuously makes a positive impact on Missouri.

From delivering safe, reliable natural gas to generously supporting programs that advance Missouri’s communities, Spire’s commitment to our state is noteworthy.

Under the leadership of Spire’s president in Missouri, Scott Carter, the company has helped reshape the natural gas distribution landscape in Missouri. With the acquisition of Missouri Gas Energy in 2013, they now serve 1.1 million homes and businesses across our state.

Spire’s continuous commitment to providing those homes and businesses with affordable natural gas, in addition to their dedication to advancing the state of Missouri, makes Spire one of our top 100.

The most impressive quality about SMV is that they are family. They see each other as equals from the top down.

They eat together, they vacation together, they celebrate, and mourn together. To many, their experience and success is what makes them, but their bond is why Show Me Victories stands above the rest.

RYAN ROWDEN

BY MARK RHOADS

Ryan “Rowdy” Rowden is a foremost expert on oil and gas issues in Missouri. What makes him special is his passion for policy development and his willingness to go to great lengths to provide information and answers. His personality guarantees some fun when working with him. He’s definitely in the top 100 (probably in the top ten).

Ryan needs no introduction in the Capitol because he knows virtually every legislator and lobbyist.

Those who know him well know his passion for outdoor activities.

TIGHTLINE STRATEGIES

BY MARK REARDON

When I was looking for a bigger bench for my Reardon Roundtable on KMOX a few years back someone suggested Jack Cardetti and at that point I didn’t even know him. We had an instant connection because he lives in Columbia, MO a place I called home for 13 years—we know many of the same people and share many similar MId-Mo experiences. But beyond that Jack was a great fit for my Roundtable because of his sharp intellect, handle of the issues on both Missouri and National politics and his quick wit.

Those are some of the same qualities that make Jack easy to work with and so successful with the numerous campaigns and public officials he’s over the past decade at Tightline Strategies.

Steady, articulate, thoughtful, strategic and passionate…that’s Jack Cardetti.

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When considering who would be amongst the first 100 people you would introduce a new hire to, it would be a joke to act as if integral legislative staff would not be on the list. Every other year when the Missouri Times does the 100 List, the most nominations always come in for staff - and this year, we’re including them. These individuals love this state, know the legislative process, and never put themselves first. They embody all the noble traits of a political role model and at some point in time, it will feel as if they save your life, whether they send an unexpected amendment, ensure your meeting is not forgotten, or somehow always make coffee at the right time. Every day, they balance the demands of constituents, lobbyists, other legislators, other staff, and more.

lifesavers Drew Adkins

by Rep. Cody Smith Over the years, Drew has been dependable, honest, and maintained a strong work ethic. He’s always up for a new challenge in an environment where those are abundant.

He has a continued commitment to self improvement through education that I really admire. He brings that same natural curiosity to his role in the Capitol, whether it is learning the appropriations process or seeking to understand the many policy issues that are relevant to our office.

Ashley Bax

by Sen. Doug Libla Ashley Bax has been with my Missouri Senate office since 2015, the past 2 years as Chief of Staff. She has the reputation in the senate as being friendly, dependable and insightful on many topics and legislative procedures.

Her concern for our constituents, and passion to learn more about the 25th district makes her a go-to person for those in need of help. Her quick and reliable follow-up of many inquiries make her presence in the office so very rewarding. Personally, I enjoy working every day with Ashley as she makes the long days, fun and exciting.

Shana Beasley

by Rep. Randy Pietzman In a building that was designed around serving people, Shana Beasley exemplifies that role.

Everyone from the maintenance workers, constituents, other LA’s and elected officials, can all expect the same treatment from this young lady. She’s professional, polite and courteous to all visitors, staff and members.

Freddy Barnes

by Sen. Tony Luekemeyer Freddy may be relatively new to the building, but he has already proven himself as an exemplary staff member in my office. He is eager to learn and has a keen work ethic that justifies his place on this list.

At the Capitol where a lot of times people aren’t what they appear to be, Shana is consistent and honest. Whether you are a senior representative or a newly elected freshman she is always eager to help with anything without expectations or reward.

As an LA for two difficult representatives, myself and Rep. Remole, she has the task of communicating with 75 thousand constituents, and sometimes I think she is more popular than I am in district. As someone who intercepts calls and emails, she has a personality that relates to everyone. She can do that because she’s never fake or presumptuous with people.

Whether you are 9 or 90, her infectious smile, warm and sometimes psychedelic personality will always brighten your day. She is also a great source of information for new LA’s.

Her office is decorated to reflect her warm and caring personality, and dozens of people come by daily to say hi and receive encouragement from Shana. Both Rep. Remole and I agree that she makes our job much less burdensome. Shana’s the next best thing to chicken soup for the soul!”

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Amanda Bell

by Sen. Bob Onder When Amanda joined our office as Legislative Assistant she already had extensive valuable experience.

An experienced and professional firm proudly providing these in-house services to our clients: Government Advocacy Association Management Database Management Grassroots Activism Digital Media Direct Mail

This included work in information technology for the public safety sector, then as section supervisor for the Missouri Department of Revenue.

She has been indispensable to keeping the “trains running on time” in our very busy office. She does outstanding work on consitituent service, scheduling, committee and hearing preparation, and on any other task she tackles. We are truly blessed to have Amanda as part of Team Onder!

Patrick Baker

by Dan Kleinsorge

“With more than four decades of political experience and using our own technology in new and innovative ways to maximize our clients’ efforts, we execute quality legislative strategy and provide sound policy advice to our clients.”

- Jay Hahn, Managing Partner

Congratulations to Ryan DeBoef and all those recognized on the 100 List!

Whitney O’Daniel Partner

Stephen Nittler Associate

100 E. High Street, 2nd Floor, Jefferson City, MO 65101 573-635-6944

www.hahnodaniel.com

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If people knew how many random things the Senate Administrator has to deal with on an average week they would be shocked that any one person could keep a handle on the job. Patrick’s wealth of experience (a former senate staffer, senate leadership staffer, legislative liaison, lobbyist, senate staffer again, and an executive agency staffer before becoming Senate Administrator) pays dividends every day as he meets challenge after challenge to keep the Senate nonpartisan offices running smoothly. Patrick is someone worth knowing because he is one of the unsung heroes that keep the wheels turning behind the scenes so legislators can focus on lawmaking.

Rachel Bauer

by Sen. Denny Hoskins

As my Chief of Staff, Rachel has worked with me for the 21st Senatorial District as well as in the House of Representatives during my tenure as Speaker Pro Tern. In fact, she was the first female chief of staff to serve for a member in Republican House Leadership. She is a superior communicator, successful at working cohesively with members, staff, citizens and lobbyists alike. She is a proven, results-oriented leader and unparalleled asset to District 21.

Rachel has been an important member of staff in the Capitol for many years. Starting as an intern for Representative Ward Franz, she was immediately hired in June after her internship finished. Representative Franz was Majority Caucus Chair, and Rachel was vital in implementing the mentor program among House members and worked on the development and application of the Speaker’s Series educational seminars.

Hahn | O’Daniel Leadership:

Jay Hahn Managing Partner

Some jobs are so thankless you only know they are being done well when things don’t break. Senate Administrator is one of those jobs and Patrick Baker makes sure things don’t break behind the scenes.

Outside of the Capitol, Rachel is the devoted wife and mother of two children. She serves as an advisory board member for the Immaculate Conception Parish School and is also a member of the steering committee for the Immaculate Conception Parish 175th Anniversary Celebration. Rachel is also active with the Leadership Missouri Alumni Board, previously participating in the Missouri Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Missouri Program and elected president of her class.

I congratulate Rachel on being selected for the Missouri Times’ 100 List. She is definitely someone to know when it comes to passing legislation in the Missouri Senate.

Joe Bruns

by Rep. Jack Bondon You’ll be hard pressed to see me without my legislator assistant Joe Bruns nearby, and for good cause. He’s not only one of my closest friends, he is indispensable to my service to the 56th District. I would never have been as successful as I have been without Joe guiding the ship. He has worked incredibly hard to help me serve the people of the 56th District and we are eternally grateful.

Joe was born and raised in Jefferson City. He graduated from Helias Catholic High School and earned a degree in aviation management from The University of Central Missouri.

Growing up in a politically involved family, his knowledge in policy and of the political process began at a young age. He has assisted with numerous campaigns and has worked in the Capitol for six legislative sessions, with also assisting former Reps. Molendorp and Guernsey.

Joe is married to his wife Kaylea, who is a kindergarten teacher. He is known for having a big heart.

Whether it be a mission trip to Haiti or helping his wife set up her classroom, he is always willing to lend a helping hand.

He enjoys hunting, hiking and camping and also holds a pilot’s license and real estate license.

Chase Cambell

by Rep. Mary Elizabeth Coleman Chase Campbell’s efficiency, dedication, and abilities set him apart from most other men and women in the capitol, but his passion and enthusiasm for our state and for our people is beyond compare. In his current role as legislative assistant Chase puts the needs of constituents above all else, always donning a smile and ready to help. Chase has also become a reliable asset to the Republican party working tirelessly in grassroots outreach and opposition research. Each week, his Rolodex grows a little more, aligning himself with longtime operatives he not only helps other Republicans, but he helps himself professionally while doing so.

He is a rising star and I couldn’t be happier to partner with someone of such high caliber to in my first term serving the 97th district.

Lisa Buhr

by Rep. Wiley Price With term limits and the constant churn of new lawmakers coming into the Capitol, institutional knowledge of how this place works (and where the bodies are buried) is critical.

For that reason, Lisa Buhr is definitely among the top people in the Capitol that folks need to know.

Friends with seemingly everyone, Lisa has connections all over the Capitol making her a wealth of knowledge on the legislative process, Capitol politics, and how to make my way around this place. Not only that, her connections to the lobby corps make her an invaluable resource as we’re trying to figure out who we can trust and who’s just out to play games.

Lisa balances her work in the Capitol while being a mother to 4 and a local political force in her own right. Lisa has been around Jeff City for years, learning the ropes and taking care of countless others. People should know her for what she does not and should get to know her for what she’s going to do in the future.

Ryan Clearwater

by Paul Curtman Ryan Clearwater first came to work as my legislative assistant in 2014. I had known him from his time working for Representative Casey Geurnsey and later for the MO Cattlemen and I thought he would be a good fit for the office.

Since then, Ryan has worked for the RNC, other candidates and even with me on my recent statewide effort and there are several reasons why everyone should get to know him.

Ryan is one of those people who seems to know everybody. He knows how to work with anybody also, regardless of their politics. Political work is a game of influence and it helps to be likeable and approachable – two words which perfectly describe Ryan Clearwater. I can’t tell you how many times constituents or other elected officials would call the office upset about an issue and Ryan was so good at disarming them either by clear explanations of issues or by simply being professional and courteous.

He takes a genuine interest in people and his work and his follow through is impeccable. Ryan isn’t satisfied with moderate performance and it was always great knowing I had someone working for me who was set on excellence. Being a military man myself, I can see how Ryan’s discipline as an Army officer carries over into his civilian work.

I was always afraid that other people would see how great an asset Ryan was to my office and recruit him away and, as it turned out, he had his chance one more than one occasion but stayed. I asked him about this once and he said he wanted to see me through the end of the session. I really appreciated that.

Since I termed out, I’ve found out just how in demand he is becoming and I feel really fortunate I was able to work with him for the better part of my time in office.

I know he has people calling him to help them get some things done and I expect the more does for people the more others will be calling.

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Brad Green

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by Casey Wheat In 2012 when I walked into the Capitol for my very first day as a legislative intern, I was quickly introduced to Brad Green. Brad worked as the Chief of Staff to Senator Kevin Engler, who I was interning for, and taught me a great deal about the legislative process. Brad’s work ethic and attention to detail quickly became qualities of his that I admired. During the legislative session, Brad never hesitated to explain at length anything I was interested in and answered all the questions I pelted him with. The patience that Brad showed me allowed me to learn so much and fostered my interest in the political process.

Alex Cypert

by Sen. Caleb Rowden Alex is an incredible asset to my office for a number of reasons. As the first female Chief of Staff to a Majority Leader in the Senate’s history, she brings fresh eyes and a fresh perspective to the job. She isn’t afraid to tell me “no” when I need it, and isn’t afraid to push back when I need it. The worst thing we can do in the legislature is surround ourselves with people who will tell us what they know we want to hear. Alex brings a really good balance of confidence and humility to her position and to our office.

During the 2012 election cycle Brad was also my boss on the first political campaigns I worked on.

The summer of 2012 was brutally hot and dry. I tell my version of a “we walked five miles to school, up hill both ways…” story to prospective field staff in reference to my first campaign gig. Brad ran these campaigns like a well-oiled machine, managing a group of early 20-something college kids and somehow motivating us to phone bank and door knock every day. While Brad was only a few years older than the staff working for him, his knowledge of campaign strategy and commitment to bringing home a win would have left you assuming that he’d been doing this for decades. I had no clue at the time that this tough summer would instill in me a love for the craziness that is campaign life.

Brad may be known for working hard, but when he does get a free minute you can catch him hanging out with friends or spoiling his nieces and nephew. Brad has been a trusted friend and mentor to me throughout my time in Missouri politics and I consider myself so fortunate to have learned from him.

Congrats to those recognized on the 100 List.

PAID FOR BY HOUSE REPUBLICAN CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE INC, EDDY JUSTICE, TREASURER.

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Kari Hoelscher

by Rep. John Weimann Kari Hoelscher has gained significant state government experience since 1998 with a variety of positions working for Missouri Consolidated Health Care Plan, Missouri Supreme Court, Missouri Senate and House of Representatives. Prior to her newest position with the office of Speaker Pro Tem John Wiemann, Kari served as Executive Assistant to Senator Ryan Silvey. Kari has accumulated many friends and colleagues over the years in the capitol building and in both legislative chambers. Her out-going and helpful personality along with an uncanny ability to interact with people has served her well with getting things done. Kari is a consummate professional that keeps the Speaker Pro Tem office running smoothly. When Kari is not busy in the capitol, she stays active with her two sons, Colton and Dillon.

Tom Hoppe

by Sen. John Rizzo Any person worth their salt in the Missouri Capitol will tell you a good Chief of Staff in the Missouri Senate is an essential part of being a successful Senator. As a State Senator I know firsthand how important this position is and how fortunate I am to have Tom Hoppe working for the people of the 11th Senatorial District.

The biggest commodity in the age of term limits has become institutional knowledge. Having been a State Representative, former local government chair in the Missouri House of Representatives, and Chief of Staff to former Senator Callahan, and Senator Holsman Tom has the experience and a knowledge of the process to get things done that most envy. Working in a business where you have to traverse half-truths, misinformation, and sometimes outright lies to get your agenda passed it’s crucial to have someone that you can bounce ideas off. Someone that you can trust, someone that will give you an honest opinion and not just tell you what you want to hear. These things are all important parts of the growth of a Senator. I am a firm believer that very few people are born to do the job of a Senator it’s something that you grow into and how quickly or even if that happens depends on the people you surround yourself with.

Even when he is grumpier than usual I still believe that he is the best Chief of Staff in the building. We are both also very fortunate to have former Senator Callahan to lean on from time to time when we get stuck, need a tiebreaker opinion, or simply just want to bounce an idea off of. As a Senator we are all products of the people that surround us and keep close to us. I was once told the secret isn’t having all the answers but knowing where to find them and I am fortunate that I can usually find the right answer with a quick question to Tom in the office or a short phone call to Senator Callahan. I never take for granted the trust given to me by the people of my district and the opportunity to work with great people in the building like Tom Hoppe.

Heather McKnelly

by Rep. Tom Hannegan Heather McKnelly serves as Legislator Assistant to Representatives Elaine Gannon (115) and Tom Hannegan (65). She has also worked on campaigns in both the 2016 and 2018 election cycles. Before she got involved in politics, Heather worked as a medical assistant and as an athletic trainer for Lincoln University. She decided to make the switch to politics in 2015 and—thankfully for us—hasn’t looked back since.

Ly Syin Lobster

by Rep. Steven Roberts “Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others.” This quote has been ascribed to Booker T. Washington and aptly describes Ly Syin, who serves as my legislative assistant. She is a hard worker and the first point of contact for many St. Louis residents looking for help from the legislature. From providing tours to students visiting the capitol, to scheduling meetings with the directors of our state agencies, Ly Syin is always ready to tackle any challenge before her.

I met Ly Syin three years ago, when she was hired to help on my first campaign.

She ran her own online secretarial business at the time. After working with her, I knew she was the best person to join me in Jefferson City as my legislative assistant. It took some persuading, as this required her to move to Jefferson City, but Ly Syin agreed and we were both quickly thrown into the rigors and responsibility of serving in our state’s capitol. Ly Syin and I share the same feeling of honor and privilege to be able to advocate for the needs of everyday Missourians. This is best reflected in her unwavering work ethic, her persistence and her ability to go above and beyond to help address the needs of anyone who looks to us for assistance. Residents of the district and community organizers routinely praise Ly Syin. All representatives would agree, that our assistants are an invaluable part of our ability to address the changing and ongoing needs of our districts; our capitol is better off with people like Ly Syin, working hard for others behind the scenes.

Heather is extremely hard-working and will always go out of her way to help her bosses and colleagues. She is always the first to offer her help and has even begun mentoring others in the building. She has a passion for policy and finds fulfillment in helping constituents navigate their way through the bureaucratic process. She will go above and beyond for the voters and truly puts her heart and soul into helping others.

Heather is an exemplary employee and we are extremely lucky to have her in the House of Representatives.

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Wanda Mehrhoff

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by Rep. Shamed Dogan Wanda Mehrhoff is one of the busiest, most dedicated staffers in the Capitol. As one of only a handful of LAs who works for 2 committee chairs (Reps. Shull & Dogan), she manages to balance her two bosses’ very different committees and districts while also being a knowledgeable resource about state government. She has mentored several other LAs and interns who have gone on to tremendous success, including our former part-time LA Markus Vest who now serves as LA for Reps. Chipman and Dohrman.

Wanda is always quick with a smile and a helping hand to anyone who needs one. She constantly goes the extra mile for her bosses—like the time I forgot to bring packets for a school visit and she drove the 2 hours to Ballwin on short notice to deliver them.

Wanda is a tremendous asset to the House and a friend to many who work in and visit the Capitol.

She has thrived on using her connections and her Southern charm to get things done for the people of Missouri. She is a perfect example of the importance of having good friendships, and I’m proud to not only be her boss but her friend.

Jay Nelson

by John Gaskin III Statistics and other data guide nearly everything in our lives. From policy initiatives, philanthropic causes, elections and even marketing, statistics and data remain the common denominator in nearly all things. Based upon statistics, my friend, colleague and brother in the movement, Jay Nelson should not be where he is today!

Like his boss, Jamilah Nasheed, he is one who is beating the odds daily. A young black man, born in the city of St. Louis in a housing project, around people who were breaking laws, is now working on the staff of one of the state’s most influential law maker’s in the State Capital.

Jay works tirelessly to ensure that the needs of the 5th senatorial district are met, and that constituents know that their voices are heard. Jay’s genuine personality and true passion for public service are what makes me still have faith in politics. Jay’s willingness to serve is the epitome of why public service can be the key to the reversal of urban decay in America. I am proud of Jay’s accomplishments and I know that he will continue to make our State and Region proud.

Chris Schappe

by State Sen. Shalonn “Kiki” Curls A fixture in the Missouri Senate for a decade and a half, Christopher Schappe serves as the legal counsel for the Senate’s Democratic Caucus. Since joining the Caucus in 2004, he has provided advice and counsel to six different Democratic leaders in Missouri’s upper chamber.

Shelly St. Clair

by Rep. Bob Burns Shelly sits at the desk outside my office in room 105 D. That desk is at the base of the steps in our complex, which means with 10 Representative upstairs and downstairs, Shelly helps a great deal of visitors.

Shelly is always helping anyone who needs help. She has been employed in the Capitol for over twenty five years. She is so knowledgeable about the Capitol, procedures, legislation, and history, that she is more than my Legislative Assistant, she’s my partner.

In that time he has garnered a wealth of experience, helping the caucus navigate difficult negotiations on compromise bills and, when needed, grinding the Senate to a halt with parliamentary procedures if negotiations fail.

Shelly gives tours of the Capitol to any of our Constituents who are visiting, and all the way up to the Whispering Gallery (the top of the Capitol). She puts all the State Resolutions together that I present to people, which is a lot.

Respected by Senators on both sides of the aisle for his intelligence, wit, and institutional knowledge, he is known to friends and colleagues as simply “Schappe”. When he’s not working through all-night filibusters in the Senate, he is an avid fisherman, plays softball, and enjoys watching the St. Louis Cardinals and St. Louis Blues in Jefferson City’s finest pubs.

People throughout the Capitol come and ask Shelly for help in planning all kinds of events. She is always a smiling and willing helper. Her planning is totally professional, and especially her artwork.

Shelly St. Clair is a wonderful Human Being, who is a giver, never a taker.

Shelly should be the first on the list of the top 100.

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Theckla Spainhower

Janson Thomas

by Sen. Bob Onder

by Sen. Gina Walsh

The granddaughter of state treasurer Jim Spainhower, government and public policy are in Theckla’s DNA. By the time I entered the Missouri Senate in 2015, Theckla had extensive experience in the legislature, including work for the Missouri Education Reform Council, Representative Casey Guernsey, and Senator John Lamping. She is universally popular in both chambers of the legislature and with the constituents whom she serves.

Now in her second year as my Chief of Staff, she had done outstanding work on a wide variety of issues including health care, taxation, labor, and public safety. While our office sometimes tackles controversial issues, Theckla is universaly liked and respected by both sides of the aisle. We are privileged to have her on our team!

People go to Janson because he has an unprecedented depth of knowledge. He helps all – on both sides of the aisle – without playing games. He not only helps all, he treats all the same. He is sincere, welcoming, funny, and genuinely nice.

He’s very good at everything he does: he’s thoughtful, welcoming, kind, and patient. He’s a consummate professional when handling constituent concerns. Everyone’s issues are his number one priority. He does not rush through issues. I gladly offer his services every day.

Who ever Janson decides to work with after my departure will be very lucky. He is a good friend and has taught me a lot over the years. I value him as a coworker and a friend.

Speaker’s Team

by Shawn Rhodes Speaker Elijah Haahr has assembled a great team, from top to bottom. He retained the talented chief of staff of Speaker Richardson, Kenny Ross, who knows the House inside and out. He pulled longtime Capitol veteran Ryan Nonnemaker, who has been instrumental in assisting the Speaker’s charge for bold solutions. My former assistant, Erica Engleby, keeps growing as a political professional, working to execute creative communications for the caucus while working to become a master of prioritization. Of course, Marietta Rutledge has been with the Speaker since Day One, an administrative soldier that any staffer can turn to for a smile or insight. The Speaker surrounds himself with tenacious staff who truly love Missouri, which echoes in every successful task the office completes. There isn’t one person on his staff who will not have a long future in politics.

Auditor’s Team

by Jack Cardetti It took me less than a single workday when I started at the Attorney General’s Office back in August 2000 to realize I needed to be more like Scott Holste. Amongst a hugely talented staff, his unique qualities stuck out. Scott listened more than talked. Reporters trusted and relied on him. The more frantic the situation, the calmer he got. And above all, he was fiercely loyal, and proud of it.

Many believe nice guys finish last in politics. Scott Holste defies this axiom, and in doing so makes everyone around him better. The fact that State Auditor Nicole Galloway has surrounded herself with talented, loyal staff like Scott bodes well for Missourians, and not so well for thieves. Since taking office only a few years ago, Auditor Galloway’s work has already resulted in 38 criminal charges against public officials.

Any notion that our State Auditor would coast after amassing these early victories was upended in January with the hiring of former McCaskill advisor David Kirby as senior counsel. His knowledge of the law, policy, politics and business make him the political equivalent of a unicorn. Auditor Galloway has a tremendous future in Missouri because she quickly figured out that surrounding yourself with the best and brightest and excelling in your elected position are the best politics of all.

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INSTITUTIONS

There are some in the Missouri State Capitol who were clearly born here. The Capitol would not be the same without them - their presence is always felt or missed. Whether a group or a longtime lobbyist or a multifaceted firm or an administrator, these Institutions are the exact parties you want to pick the brains of - and pray they like you.

Betsy AuBuchon

by Judge Patricia Breckenridge

Growing up in the small, southern Missouri town of Alton, Betsy AuBuchon told a high school friend she was thinking about becoming a lawyer. He responded, “Betsy, you are the smartest person I know but no one from Oregon County has ever become a lawyer.” Betsy proved him wrong. She not only became a lawyer but, at age 41, went on to become the first female Clerk of the Supreme Court, the administrative head of Missouri’s judicial branch of government.

As a leader of Missouri courts, Betsy exemplifies the highest personal and professional ethics to which we all aspire. She is passionate that our courts exist to serve Missouri citizens and that treating all who come to our courts respectfully and fairly under the law is paramount to ensuring their faith and confidence in our courts. Betsy acts with courage when it is necessary to take unpopular positions required by the law and uses her sense of humor to defuse the tensions inherent in dealing with difficult issues. She developed her strength of will and character early in her life when, at age 10, a serious car wreck left her in a full body cast for nearly a year.

Betsy is universally respected by those in all three branches of our government because of her honesty, integrity, and ability to get things done.

Her effectiveness is enhanced through her relationships. She knows everyone, having far more friends than acquaintances. But whether a friend or acquaintance, if Betsy AuBuchon gives you advice, pay attention. Her candor might be uncomfortable to hear but if you follow her advice you will be better for it.

Cozad & Company

by Sam Licklider

I’m weak; I admit it. When Rachael contacted me and asked me to do a brief piece for the Missouri Times, on why Cozad Company was someone to know in the Capitol, “just 400 words or so” she said, I foolishly said yes. It really would take several thousand words, and I’ve not done an essay that long since college. Well, here goes!

Cozad Company with Woody Cozad and Ward Cook represents a range of clients from Praxair to Powell Gardens, including the MRACJ, I had to ask about that one.

Woody has been interested in politics, elections, and policy, as long as I’ve known him, I remember discussing the first Eisenhower election with him, on the playground at Hale Cook Elementary School in Kansas City, so that’s a very long time. It shows in his public service; Chairman of the Missouri Health and Educational Facilities Authority; Chairman of the Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission; member of the University of Missouri Board of Curators and Chairman of the Missouri Republican Party.

The latter, Chairman of the Missouri Republican Party, was foreordained. Look on, roughly page 70 of the 1965 Blue Jay you’ll find Woody kneeling, looking very serious for the photographer as the President of the Westminster Young Republicans. For those interested in what kind of school Westminster was in those days, there were 26 Young Republicans and 13 Young Democrats. The Young Democrats had one future member of the Missouri House; the Young Republicans had two future lobbyists.

Fascinating to talk to with a broad knowledge of both history and current events, it’s just fun to start a conversation with him and see where it leads.

He gets very focused on issues that he cares about; transportation comes to mind as does tax policy and education.

Ward, on the other hand, I’ve not known nearly as long, though, in an early conversation, we discovered that his mother and I were at Shawnee Mission East High School at the same time, I entered in fall, ‘59, and she was in the class of 1960.

Ward will fool you, under that quiet, somewhat self-effacing exterior, there’s an accomplished political operative that spent years in DC both in fundraising and event organizing including a stint with the Republican Leadership Council as well as five U.S. Senate and congressional campaigns.

Both work diligently for their clients but remain, gentlemen, while doing so. Good people to know.

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Jennifer Durham

by Ted Powers

Jennifer Durham has been a fixture with John Britton Associates and the Britton Group for many years, and needs no introduction to those who have been in the capitol for any length of time. Her insights into the legislative process, priorities and personalities are amazing. She has represented a wide and impressive range of clients and organizations that show her flexibility and breadth of knowledge. She adds a sense of humor to wrap up the whole package too. It is no accident that she prospered alongside the legendary John Britton.

As to the industry with which I am most familiar, her knowledge of the beer industry and all associated aspects is beyond impressive and lurches over into being somewhat scary. Quite amazing to have that range of information and knowledge filed away. She has had the misfortune to work with me starting back in 2008 when I became the Government Affairs contact in Missouri for Anheuser-Busch. Despite that, she is always willing and able to cheerfully give good and sage advice to the dork from corporate, even when he is slow on the uptake.

In short, Jennifer certainly doesn't need my imprimatur to be in the list of top-100 since it is her impressive career that does the talking, but I am happy to be able to chime in and second the thought that she is someone to know in Missouri Politics and in the Capitol.

Kathi Harness

by James Harris

I have known Kathi Harness for fifteen years and shared an office with her for ten. Her disciplined work ethic and her frank, straightforward way of doing business have never ceased to impress me.

Kathi consistently represents her clients in a professional manner, which she pairs well with her pleasant, positive attitude and upbeat sense of humor. Even with the most complex of issues, she knows every detail about the bills she is working, and she clearly and compellingly voices her clients’ position.

Kathi is a solid source of information for many lobbyists in the Capitol, myself included. May lobbyists over the years have benefitted from her willingness to lend her time and her knowledge when needed even though she may gain nothing from sharing it. She is strong, confident and not threatened by other competition--even helping train a number of fledgling lobbyists over the years, taking them under her wing and making sure they know what they need to be effective and grow in this field.

Kathi has earned the trust of committee chairs and members of leadership by being honest and direct, which makes her very effective for her clients.

She has worked hard to earn a reputation as a lobbyist who can be relied on because she is dependable, provides accurate information, and she doesn’t play games.

Whenever I need an extra voice on an issue, I know I can trust Kathi. I am always comfortable recommending her to those needing an effective lobbyist.

Flotron McIntosh

by Kit Crancer

While previously working as a staffer in the senate, it was always fascinating to watch the differing styles offered by longtime and new lobbyists alike. A decade later, one approach that I’ve tried to mimic in my own career in government affairs is what’s displayed daily in the capitol halls by the lobbyists at Flotron McIntosh. The firm prides itself on being a “resource” and employing knowledge-based lobbyists. They care about what individual legislators care about, and they do the hard work to earn trust by providing guidance and dedicating themselves to the development of sound public policy.

The firm’s principals, Franc Flotron and Richard McIntosh, are pillars in the capitol and have served as mentors and partners for many in public policy, including me. Countless times over the years I have cornered Franc, a former state senator, to ask about the genesis of the state’s original charter school law, which he had largely written. Furthermore, there are few that know more about the state’s appropriations and procurement process than Richard McIntosh. The firm’s more recent addition of former senator Bill Stouffer only reinforces the group’s commitment to promoting serious public policy makers as the foundation of their business.

The firm’s vice presidents, Zach Brunnert and David McCracken, are simply never not working on building relationships and are continually planting the seeds for sustained success. Given that their firm is widely regarded as the first bi-partisan lobby shop in Jefferson City, it shouldn’t be a surprise that they have friends in all corners of the building and successfully represent clients in nearly every sector of business interests. Furthermore, they are never ones to shy away from a worthy fight, and they live for the tough issues.

Institutional knowledge is a powerful thing in an era of term limits, and Flotron McIntosh couple knowledge and experience with hard work to provide remarkable results on behalf of their clients. There are few lobbyists, in any state, which match the efficacy of their approach.

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The Missouri AFL-CIO has been active in Missouri’s Capitol for over 100 years, making it one of the Legislature’s oldest influencers. The organization serves 56 Missouri unions. The traditional union issues are a priority but often overlooked is the organization’s efforts to improve all Missourian’s lives. You do not have to be a member of a union to benefit from the AFL’s work on issues around worker’s compensation, access to Missouri’s courts, and a living wage for all just to name a few. Working women are well represented with the organization’s fight for paid leave. Last year the AFL-CIO joined like minded organizations to beat back mandatory arbitration for victims of sexual harassment in the workplace. The AFL’s team balances these efforts while remaining strong outside of the Capitol. The Missouri AFL-CIO is the only affiliate to beat Right to Work at the ballot box not once but twice, both in 1978 and 2018. The latest referendum sent a message that Missourians value all workers’ right to collectively bargain. This is a message that cannot be ignored back home for most legislators.

Caleb Jones & Missouri’s Electric Cooperatives

by David Steelman

It is hard to imagine any organization or team in the Missouri Capitol that is more important to know than the team Caleb Jones has put together at the Missouri Electrical Cooperatives Association. Their success starts with the organization, which has built a grassroots network that understands Missourians and the issues we care about. Because of that constant attention to its membership, the Rural Electric Co-ops have direct access to more influencers, activists, and voters in the heart of the majority than any other organization I can think of.

In addition their CEO, Caleb Jones is not only a skilled leader, but as a former legislator and staffer at both the state and federal level, he not only knows how to put a team together, but he also has firsthand knowledge of the people and personalities in the Capitol. He knows exactly what it takes to make the Missouri Electrical Cooperatives successful, and he is backed by an experienced team. Zach Pollock is a former Nixon staff member, while Rebecca Knipp was on the staff of Senator Roy Blunt. Together they provide balanced insights and are a constant presence in hearing rooms or in the hallways visiting one on one with legislators. They are all supported by a general counsel, Brent Stewart, who was staff

Missouri Farm Bureau

by Estil Fretwell

In the first public opinion survey that I recall of its kind about four decades ago, Missouri Farm Bureau (MOFB) was identified as one of the “state’s most effective organizations in positively influencing public opinion,” an accolade supported by more contemporary surveys. MOFB is the oldest state Farm Bureau in the nation. Its history, member-involvement and statewide composition all contribute to the major influence it has today in Missouri politics.

“Grassroots” is a common term associated with MOFB for good reason. All 114 Missouri counties have active county Farm Bureau organizations with locally elected officers. Among their responsibilities is the origination of MOFB policy positions. From the county to the state to the national level, this issue development process makes for a representative and effective lobbying presence at the State and U.S. Capitols.

MOFB created a political action committee in the 1970s, leading the way nationally in supporting candidates and ballot initiatives relating to agriculture and other rural issues. Again, the grassroots involvement of county leaders in endorsing candidates and engaging in their subsequent campaigns has helped build MOFB’s political influence and a reputable track record.

The MOFB leadership and board are elected by its membership and are engaged with many other statewide organizations and issues. Blake Hurst, its current president and a farmer, is nationally revered as an articulate and well-published spokesman on agriculture and related issues. MOFB’s state and national lobbyists are knowledgeable and respected by policy makers.

Numerous individuals involved in MOFB have also become leaders in local, state and federal positions such as Congressman Sam Graves, DOA Director Chris Chinn and FSA Administrator Richard Fordyce, all three who served as chair of the state or national Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee.

A look at some of the major issues MOFB has championed begins in the 1910s with the promotion of agricultural education and University Extension, followed shortly thereafter by the successful “lift Missouri out of the mud” highway bond issue in the 1920s. Other issues involving MOFB include creation of the School Foundation Program, achieving tax limitation reform, increasing state parks and soil conservation funding, protecting landowner rights, reforming eminent domain authority, increasing agricultural markets and many more.

In joining MOFB, Missourians know they have a legislative voice speaking out for them at all government levels. At 130,856 members strong, Missouri Farm Bureau is truly the state’s largest and most influential agricultural organization.

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Missouri Realtors Association

by David Barklage

The best word to describe Missouri REALTORS® is powerhouse. The National Association of REALTORS® is America’s largest trade association and one of the most impactful organizations in the country. Of their 54 state and territory associations, Missouri REALTORS® is one of their strongest membership groups. With over 20,000 members in every corner of the state. Missouri REALTORS® aren’t just active within the organization – they’re also networked into every chamber, rotary club, and civic organization in the communities where they live and work.

They have strong leadership throughout their membership and their dedicated, professional staff. CEO John Sebree has extensive government relations experience and worked for NAR in Washington, DC for over a decade. Sam Licklider has served as their Chief Lobbyist for 50 years and is considered among some as a dean of his profession. There are no doors San cannot open in state government.

Missouri REALTORS® have been served well by their elected leadership, including several who have gone on to serve as NAR President, an extremely rare honor. Those include R. Layne Morrill, Richard Mendenhall, and most recently Elizabeth Mendenhall in 2018. Elizabeth was an extraordinary innovator, not only as Missouri REALTORS® President but also during her time on the national level. She is a young leader who will continue to be a powerful advocate for REALTORS® in Missouri and across the country.

Missouri REALTORS® proved their muscle through successfully passing two state constitutional amendments, one of which passed by 83.7 percent to ban transfer taxes. The other overwhelming passed amendment placed a prohibition on sales taxes on services. Both campaigns were shepherded by Larry Keating, a highly respected member within NAR and a former Missouri REALTORS® President.

With all their assets, expect Missouri REALTORS® to stay at the top of the list of the most powerful groups in the state.

Wiles & Associates

by Mark Habbas

Richard Wiles and Sam Wiles of Wiles & Associates are two people everyone in the building should know. Not only are they serious lobbyists, they’re amazing men who can make anyone smile.

It seems like Richard has been in the building since it was built, representing and maintaining impressive clients. Sam has risen in his father’s shadow, bringing in more relationships, clients, and a new look at thing.

Wiles & Associates is a double threat of old school and new school. The Wiles men have a great reputation for tirelessly advocating for their clients and building strong relationships. It’s hard to find anyone who doesn’t smile when they talk about either Richard or Sam.

Setting a new standard.

Government Affairs • Strategic Communications & Crisis Management • Procurement & Lead Generation Coalition Management & Grasstops Advocacy • Compliance & Campaign Finance • Campaigns & Elections

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Missouri Right to Life

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by Sam Lee missouritimes.com

Susan Klein with Missouri Right to Life (MRL) is a pro-life mover and shaker with over 20 years’ experience lobbying at the State Capitol. And Dave Plemons with the MRL Political Action Committee (MRL PAC) has been a high-energy political campaigner for even longer than that.

MRL is the oldest and largest state-wide pro-life organization in Missouri. And the MRL Political Action Committee (MRL PAC) has consistently helped elect and re-elect a high percentage of its endorsed candidates during each election cycle – including the election last year to the U.S. Senate of challenger Josh Hawley over the incumbent and Planned Parenthood Action Fund-endorsed Claire McCaskill.

In addition to serving as MRL’s Chief Lobbyist, Susan is also the organization’s Executive Director and works closely with the MRL PAC. Dave is the longtime MRL PAC Chairman.

Any pro-life candidate or elected official who needs support would be well advised to first contact Susan Klein and Dave Plemmons with MRL.

Gamble & Schlemeier – Governmental Consultants

by Steven Tilley

Gamble & Schlemeier is to Missouri government affairs as America is to apple pie. As a former Speaker of the House, you remember how you were treated as you climbed the ranks of leadership, your tenure on the dias, and what it is like when you leave public office.

When I reflect, a few people stick out and Jorgen Schlemeier is one of them. He’s always prepared and always professional. But most notably what comes to mind is how be treats people and how he treated me. He has always treated me the same – with respect, honesty and integrity regardless of my position or role in the Capitol.

It’s leadership and character such as Jorgen’s that is key to his success. It’s a pleasure to work with him and alongside him

Mark Rhoads

by Trent Watson Tenacious, relentless, unyielding… bulldog. Bulldog is how I describe Mark Rhoads. In my 21 sessions at the Capitol, I have witnessed few lobbyists with the dedication and devotion to their clients as Mark J. Rhoads. He never gives up on his client’s objectives, no matter how daunting the task. I have witnessed Mark over the years use his brain and his brawn to out whit and out work his opponents. In short, he works harder than most of his peers, myself included.

When I transitioned from being a staffer to a lobbyist, I really thought I had a handle on how the legislative processes worked, but I was wrong. It was not until I went to work for Mark that I really understood the intricate role that lobbyists play in the legislative process.

The relationships and trust you build with legislators is the key to any lobbyist’s success and Mark has built his reputation over the last 20 years as a lobbyist on that one simple word – Trust.

But, Mark being a great lobbyist is only one of many reasons he is on the list of top 100 people you should know in the Capital. I think most us like to think that what we do for a living doesn’t define us as a person and I think that rings true for Mark as well. Like most of us lobbyists Mark didn’t just appear one day in the Capital and decide to lobby. He has a long history of work in politics. One of my favorite things is to catch him back in the office after a long day and get him to tell me a story about when he worked in the Senate, or his time at Eco Devo, or his work with Bill Webster. Let me tell you, things got done a lot differently back then.

Four paragraphs in not sufficient for me to describe Mark Rhoads, what he means to me or what he has accomplished as a lobbyist and a person.

I will leave you with this, next time you hear the gavel bang calling the Senate to order, think of Mark Rhoads…Ask him why.

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NAVIGATORS

It takes a special kind of political operative to know the waters and measure the sky when it comes to monitoring, killing, and passing legislation. If these people in the room, you know something is about to go down.

JEFFREY ALTMANN

BY ANDY ARNOLD When I first met Jeffrey Altman I was struck by his go-getter gregarious attitude, the ease at which he meets people and cultivates friendships and his total naivete about the legislative process. As someone who spent nearly 10-years working as a House/Senate staffer before transitioning into consulting and lobbying, I was astonished at the size of this kids’ balls moxie.

However, having gotten to know Jeff over the last 2-years, it’s that force of character, drive and purpose, the ability to make friends feel at ease that will ultimately make Jeff successful in the lobbying business. Jeff is quickly learning the process and always has a question to affirm a belief or to form an opinion on a legislative action.

Jeff’s client portfolio is diverse and like any good salesman, Jeff understands his client’s business interests, knows how to articulate those interests and advocate for legislation change. Like many of us in this business, he doesn’t always agree with the outcomes, but respects the process and is determined to make a positive impact.

I once told Jeff that he reminded me of “Freddy Bauer”, the John Candy character from the movie “Splash” that was in theaters before Jeff was born. Having never watched the movie, he went home and watched it over the weekend and when we talked again the next week said, “I watched Splash and I can see how you could see me as Freddy. His methods may have been unconventional, but he was a hell of a salesman”. And that my friend’s is my colleague Jeffrey Altman.

BY TREVOR CRIST

My friend and once mentee Jeffrey Altmann is funny, clever, charming, creative, and effective. He also has the ability and more importantly desire to learn and adapt. This

may be most evident by his accomplishment of bravely overcoming the curious Australian accent he sported during our initial encounters.

Jefferson City and Missouri politics have seen interesting and exciting developments over recent years. None may be as swift and disrupting as Jeffrey’s rise in the world of Government Relations. He once told me, “I need to find a way to spend more time in Jefferson City.” An ideal companion for his entrepreneurial spirit and ability to establish relationships. From that point, his purpose was established and its realization in his crosshairs.

In short order he has acquired a portfolio of impressive clients, represented both specific and statewide issues, collaborated with colleagues, and established relationships with legislators and Leadership. The result is a respected firm with presence in St. Louis, Jefferson City, and Springfield.

The latter motivated by his connection to 417 land as an Alumnus of Missouri State University and his desire to leave his mark on the area by helping to positively shape legislation for Springfield and Greene County.

I’m eager to see what this “mate” accomplishes next…

PHIL ARNZEN BY HANNAH BEERS

So much of what makes us good at our jobs is the ability to connect with people. Those that can connect in a genuine way are few and far between. Philip Arnzen is one of those people.

I met Phil as a college sophomore, intimidated by his political knowledge and wondering how I’d ever keep up.

We served together in a political organization, feeling much more important than we were, but dedicated to the cause regardless. Fast forward to today, Phil now serves the people of Missouri as the legislative liaison to the Department of Insurance and Professional Registration, a title as vital as it is lengthy. I was impressed by his commitment to now Speaker Elijah Haahr’s constituency and continue to appreciate his steadfast protection of his department’s interests.

In this small world of public service, we all know each other in one way or another. For me, I’m lucky to have called Phil a friend throughout our college years and now as young professionals. His service to the state will be remembered well, and I’m quite certain he’ll be a presence in the Missouri Capitol for years to come.

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BY TOMMY ROBBINS missouritimes.com

He once infiltrated the Oyotunki Village to expose animal and child abuse, he is a former stockbroker, the author of “The Misuse of Drugs in Horse Racing” and the executive director for the Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation. Bob Baker is a nationally recognized authority on animal welfare and cruelty and has been advocating for our pets and farm animals for over four decades.

Baker brings extensive experience to the Alliance, having worked for both national and local humane organizations during his career. His investigations, legislative initiatives, and his advocacy efforts on behalf of animals have been widely reported.

He spearheaded an extensive investigation into Missouri’s commercial dog breeding industry and has personally inspected and help shutdown shut down hundreds of abusive puppy mills. These efforts generated a tremendous amount of national publicity, the closing of numerous puppy mills, probes by the federal government’s General Accounting Office and the Office of Inspector General, and the closing of the nation’s largest pet store chain, “Docktors Pet Center”. Baker’s investigations into animal fighting ventures have led to more than 1,000 arrests.

In 2019, the Alliance is fighting efforts to weaken animal welfare laws and eliminate the authority of counties and local municipalities to regulate the care and welfare of animals.

MELISSA BOYD

BY ZACH BRUNNERT

Melissa Boyd specializes in economic development, tax, and employment policy for Cerner where they have large employee populations (MO and PA state and local) as well as health policy across the upper Midwest. She enjoys working with folks (even those who prefer pork steak and Cardinals to ribeyes and Royals) to make her home state the best place to work or run a business. She’s also pretty cool to hang out with too.

ANDY BRISCOE BY PAT THOMAS

Andy Briscoe was a legislative liaison for a democrat governor when I first met him. He introduced himself and kept asking questions about my life.

We realized that he had attended high school with my sister. From there, as they say, the rest is history, and we’ve been fast friends.

SCOTT CHARTON BY JON RATLIFF

In todays world of “fake news” and “biased gotcha reporters” it is nice to reminisce about days gone by. Back when an Arkansas boy with a little southern twang, a big cigar, and a great story would roam the halls of the Capitol or travel the then less pot-hole filled roads and back roads of our state in search of fair and honest reporting.

As an Arkansas newsman turned Show-Me State AP reporter he can bend your ear about the Clintons, the Carnahans, the Ashcrofts and the Blunts.

He’s a modern day political historian and communications maestro for both Missourah and Missouri. He’s a consummate professional and an invaluable part of any political team either side of the aisle. He can teach you more about political communications and the press over a glass of scotch than a semesters worth of lectures at one of our state’s finer institutions.

More than anything though, Scott Charton is loyal friend and the communications professional I want in my war-room when scandal breaks.

KIT CRANCER BY TODD SCOTT If Jefferson City had a list of the most politically astute and interesting people, Christopher “Kit” Crancer would surely be on it. In fact, during a brief survey of colleagues from around the capitol city I collected the following tributes and adulations (many of them offered in a respectful, barely audible whisper): His passport requires no photograph He can speak Russian . . . in French He once brought a knife to a gunfight. . . just to even the odds.

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He has never waited 15 minutes after finishing a meal before returning to the pool He bowls overhand His shadow has been on the ‘best dressed’ list twice His shirts never wrinkle His business card simply says “I’ll call you” OK, I’ll admit that I may have borrowed the quotes above from a popular ad campaign but if Dos Equis hadn’t already coined them, I’m sure they

From one riverboat town to another, Andy was raised in Hannibal but his engaging personality and wit, brought him to the Capitol city after an election; or perhaps he wanted a new audience for clothing style.

Left, right or middle, political leanings doesn’t matter to Andy, he works squarely with everyone, while searching for a positive outcome. He’s a hard worker who managed to balance getting his master’s degree while being a fulltime liaison. He keeps his sense of humor around him when others are maybe losing their cool. He keeps a great perspective on what goes on in the building.

Andy is organized, knows the history on many issues (or at least where to find it) and just how to balance the want of perfect legislation with the need to move an issue forward.

Quoting Mark Twain, “There are basically two types of people. People who accomplish things, and people who claim to have accomplished things. The first group is less crowded.” Andy is definitely someone you want to know who is a member of the first group.

would’ve eventually about Kit.

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Kit possesses a rare blend of charm and charisma backed up by real deal political savvy. No matter what political current may be coursing through the capitol, Kit is always “in the know” with a quick assessment of the players, the pitfalls and the potential opportunities.

During the time I have known and worked with Kit I’ve observed him in all sorts of situations and in each of them he has excelled. He’s has been a key advisor to some of Jeff City’s most

influential leaders and shares much of the credit for their accomplishments.

As I’ve observed Kit across the years, I’ve noticed something else. He’s not only a really good guy to have on your side but he’s just a really good guy.

We’ve endured some late night senate filibusters, plotted and planned and picked our way through a few political minefields and have lived to tell about it. I guess if I had to sum it all up I’d say that if you ever expect to find yourself hunkered down in some sort of political skirmish, Kit’s the kind of guy you’d want in your foxhole.

RYAN DEBOEF

FRED DREILING BY NOEL TORPEY

BY JAY HAHN

Fred Dreiling has been a staple in the capital for over 25 years prior to becoming a leading voice for Kansas City. He was a chief of staff for over 10 years in the Senate. Fred is a man of his word and is loyal to a fault he represents his clients as well as anyone in the building. He continues to be a strong voice for all his clients across the state of Missouri, especially the Kansas City area. His institutional knowledge is impressive and his ability to adapt on the fly is just one of the reasons that make him a top lobbyist in the building.

When I first met Ryan, he was a novice – new to representing Missouri State University in the halls of the State Capitol, and new to the culture of Jefferson City. However, it was only a few minutes into our first conversation that I began to realize that he had an expert grasp on both the political landscape and the inner workings of the State Capitol. His insights and understanding of Missouri’s political process made it seem like he had been doing this his entire career.

As Ryan and I began working together more often, I have been incredibly impressed with his ability to be a workhorse for Missouri State University. And yet, despite all of his abilities, Ryan is one of the most humble people I have ever met during my time working in state government. So humble, it’s almost to a fault. While it would be easy for someone in Ryan’s shoes to boast of his legislative accomplishments, Ryan realizes that it more than just winning and losing. His successes are built off of hard work, dedication and intellectual integrity. When MSU succeeds, it means success for Missouri.

In his role as chief of staff to President Cliff Smart, Ryan not only ensures that the University is running smoothly, but he also works to maintain MSU’s legislative presence in Jefferson City. Many universities have several individuals on their payroll that perform all of the duties and functions that Ryan accomplishes on a daily basis. I am fortunate to call Ryan a client and a friend, and MSU is fortunate to have Ryan on their team. Our University and our state both benefit from Ryan’s hard work and his selfless dedication to the Show-Me State.

BRENT HEMPHILL

BY STEVE AHRENS

Brent Hemphill and Associates provides professional, comprehensive advocacy for the Missouri Propane Gas Association. Our members are represented by a legislative liaison who understands our industry, uses our product and can anticipate our interests as bills move through the process. His presence in the halls and relationships with both leadership and rank-and-file has made the difference for our members, both in passing important legislation and voicing our concerns on other bills.

An unappreciated part of our partnership is that we were on opposite sides at one point, when our bosses both ran for the same office in 1992. Yet 10 years later, when Brent began his lobby firm and we were looking for representation, none of that mattered. Brent’s credibility with elected officials and his knowledge of the process have been an immense benefit in crafting our future. It also reminds us that there is more to be gained by working together than by nursing old grudges.

In our business, as in so many others, the future means change—and change requires a nimble and responsive professional who understands the needs of our industry. Brent and his staff remain committed to helping our members remain productive and successful, today and in the foreseeable future. I have only one hesitation in endorsing Hemphill and Associates to others, and that is I don’t want to have to share his skill ad insights with others.

ENTERPRISE HOLDINGS

BY MIKE GIBBONS

Enterprise Holdings is a great Missouri success story. It was founded by Jack Taylor, a decorated Navy pilot who flew off the deck of the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise during World War II. He followed his dream and established Executive Leasing in St. Louis in 1957 with a fleet of seven cars to lease. In 1969 he changed the name to Enterprise Leasing in honor of the service of the USS Enterprise. Today, it is a global company operating in more than 90 countries with over 100,000 employees and 2 million vehicles, is the largest car rental provider in the world, and is ranked by Forbes as one of America's largest privately held companies.

Enterprise' long history of success is built upon a foundation of excellence in all aspects of its business, especially their customer service, dedication to their employees, maintaining a great place to work, and their positive impact on their community both through its civic involvement and philanthropic efforts. Enterprise is a great corporate citizen.

Enterprise is a philanthropic leader globally, but nowhere more so than their home city, St. Louis. Enterprise amd the Taylor Family in recent years has made the Arch grounds renovations possible and the restoration of the Soldiers Memorial to name just two, and there are many more. The effort to bring Major League Soccer to St. Louis is the Taylor Family’s latest effort to improve life in St. Louis.

As a family-owned and operated company, Enterprise takes care of its employees, its customers, and its communities. This simple formula makes Enterprise a top company to know in the Capitol.

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BY CYNDI GAMBLE

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Susan Flanigan has spent her life working to end the stigma of mental health and advocating for people with disabilities. She has been all over the country, serving people in when they are in the most dire circumstances and time of need.

Today, Missouri is fortunate that she has chosen to serve us, as legislative liaison for the Dept. of Mental Health. Susan is a master at building relationships with legislators and their staff. Her charm and acute sense of humor will disarm you. But, you quickly realize the depth of her passion for helping others. She is totally dedicated and driven to help others. Most, if not all, legislators receive constituent calls regarding mental health issues. Susan has made a deliberate effort to make sure they know to call her when these families and individuals reach out of help. Five years ago, she even created the Director’s Mental Health Ambassador’s Academy. Held in the fall, The Academy brings together legislators, their staff, DH leadership and other colleagues to share information about basic mental health services and provide a broader understanding of how to handle constituent calls. Legislators and staff have to opportunity to ask questions and discuss mental health issues that are specific to their district. This one on one time helps builds relationships that legislators will need and definitely appreciate. Susan’s vast experience and knowledge are as asset to Missouri’s General Assembly, and she is absolutely a person you should know!

ELLIE GLENN

BY CASEY MILLBURG

There is no shortage of posturing, grandstanding, and "right at all costs" mentality in Jefferson City. Ellie Glenn bucks the trend and stands out in the crowd as someone whose career has succeeded because of, not in spite of, her relentless commitment to the kind of person she wants to be. Where others wield the idea of authenticity as a take-it-or-leave-it political bludgeon, Ellie's innate authenticity is unpretentious. Hers serves as a bridge rather than a barrier, grounded in caissons of curiosity, fierce intelligence, and critical assessment. The hallmark of her authenticity is that anyone who engages her, regardless of stature, is always well-advised by her. Ellie has held multiple roles in Missouri politics: campaign worker, legislative staff, departmental liaison, lobbyist. She knows a great deal about what it takes to succeed and how things and people work. It would be easy for someone with her resume to dispense knowledge only to the extent it overtly furthers her career. However, her priority is providing savvy guidance rather than promoting her personal stature, and she provides consistently good counsel to interns and seasoned politicos alike. The end result of this equitable approach is an ironclad reputation as someone who is as trustworthy and sincere as they are impressive.

If you are fortunate enough to know Ellie, you should be smart enough to learn from her, and if you do not yet know her you will find her to be an invaluable contact once you do. She knows programs and people, what issues you're likely to run into and who can help. She is transparent about when she is offering advice and when she is offering opinion. She eschews sugarcoating and glossing-over in favor of doing the hard work of persuading. Her career is a blueprint for how to succeed in politics while remaining authentic, and a reminder that there is a meaningful difference between authenticity and the idea of it.

CARA HOOVER

BY JASON KLINDT

Cara has strong relationships on all sides of the aisle and from the first floor to the fourth. She is one of the few people in the building who is genuinely interested in you. She loves people and people love her.

That was apparent to me early on when a few years ago on our first joint trip to the Capitol. Our plan was to visit with several House and Senate members but she never made it out of the rotunda as a stream of lawmakers, staffers and lobbyists stopped by to catch up.Its those deep relationships that allow Cara to be the eyes and ears of her clients. She does more than just hear the information. She’s sharp and strategic.

She understands the building and its flow which has allowed her to pass landmark legislation in a body that is not easy to get complicated ideas through. But she is also adept at helping mitigate or end threats for her clients.

She does it all with that trademark smile. You might be fooled by it. Don’t be.

KYNA IMAN

BY MICHAEL SEAN KELLY

Kyna Iman is a master in Missouri politics. I have known Kyna for many years both professionally and personally and I cannot think of a fighter that I would rather have on my side of an issue and in the Missouri capital. Kyna’s determination on behalf of her clients sets her apart from others. She has a unique mix of both honestly and humor that aids her in providing real results.

Kyna knows her way around both policy and politics. She is well-versed in not only her client’s issues but those of all the bills in the capital. Kyna always knows where to turn and which legislator to go to in order to get something done on behalf of her client. Her knowledge and experience gives her the edge in the Missouri capital. Regardless of party affiliation, Kyna can get things done. She gets results.

It evident to most that women rule the world and Kyna is on the forefront of that being a fact. Proud to call Kyna a friend and a colleague.

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MISSOURI BANKERS ASSOCIATION

BY HEATH CLARKSTON

The Missouri Bankers Association (MBA) remains an outspoken voice for the state banking industry and continues to successfully promote their membership in the ever-changing world of term-limits. The Missouri Bankers legislative team guided by the steady hand of Craig Overfelt has been very successful for several decades in moving complicated and transformational legislation through the process and onto the Governors desk.

DANA MILLER

BY BOB PRIDDY

The first item of business for the Missouri House of Representatives, meeting in St. Louis for the first session of the General Assembly of the State of Missouri was the first roll call. The second item of business was the election of a clerk. John McArthur was chosen over two other candidates on September 20, 1820, with twenty of the thirty-four votes cast. Only after the election of the person who would keep a true and faithful record of the proceedings of the House was the state’s first Speaker of the House chosen.

The MBA team also includes David Kent and Emily Lewis who both have a deep understanding of the legislative process as they insure their legislation remains on track and at the forefront of debate. On a weekly basis, you will see the MBA team providing visiting bankers with tours and full access visits to the state Capitol to advocate on issues. The relationships between MBA members and their state lawmakers run deep and their association has mastered the utilization of grassroots for advocacy.

Other trade associations will find no better partner than the MBA as they maintain a global view of working with other interested parties in finding solutions.

MBA President Max Cook and their Board have continued to not only provide time and funding, but also have taken a leading role on finding solutions to issues important not only to their industry, but to the state of Missouri.

When the 100th General Assembly of the State of Missouri next year observes the bicentennial of its first meeting, Dana Rademan Miller will be the 64th Clerk of the House, the latest person to make sure the records are truly and faithfully kept, that parliamentary inquiries are handled properly, that procedures are followed for the advancement of legislation, and the behind-the-scenes day-to-day operations of the House go smoothly. Being chosen the Chief Clerk meant a vote of confidence from both sides of the aisle after her nomination by a bipartisan committee.

Miller, who has a master’s degree in public affairs, brings nineteen years of experience to the job, starting her career as the chief legislative specialist in the House Procedures Office. She has been the Director of Procedures for seven years in her previous job as assistant clerk.

DAWN NICKLAS

Unlike the proceedings of the first session of the House of Representatives of the State of Missouri (about eleven months before Missouri actually was admitted to the union), when the election of the clerk was the first order of business after the first quorum was established, the election of Dana Rademan Miller as Chief Clerk on January 9, 2019 was not the first formal action of the House after an adequate number of members were certified to make a quorum. Her appointment does not show up until the eighteenth page of the House Journal, after three speeches, the election of the Speaker and the Speaker Pro Tem, and adoption of rules. Only after her election was the governor told that the House, indeed, was in properly organized and in session.

Dawn Nicklas has all the qualities you want in a lobbyist. She knows everyone, more importantly she’s liked and respected by all who know her. Dawn understands how things work under the dome and can produce an accurate vote count – even if it’s not the vote count you want to hear. I like working with Dawn because I never have to doubt the accuracy of the information she shares.

And Dana Rademan Miller is the new person who will make sure the House does its work within the Missouri Constitution and the House rules.

Her undergraduate degree in history has made her a leader in efforts to preserve the state capitol as a working historical building. As chairman of the Capitol Commission she has headed an organization with growing responsibilities not only in preserving the capitol as a structure but as the state’s most important symbol and as one of its foremost historic sites. Her leadership has energized the commission and developed it into an organization that fixes leaks, replaces stone, preserves the priceless art that distinguishes this building from all other state capitols, and more. The House clerkship is her occupation. The Capitol is her passion. Both are in capable hands.

BY M’EVIE MEAD

Dawn has impeccable taste and even better judgement. She’s generous with her convenient and stylish office space hosting meetings and fundraisers. She’s also generous with her time and expertise serving as a mentor to many in the building.

Dawn is deeply committed to maintaining professionalism as a lobbyist and is not afraid to call attention to unfair or unprofessional practices in Jefferson City.

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BY GUY BLACK missouritimes.com

I believe Brandon and the Missouri Insurance Coalition do a terrific job representing the insurance industry in Missouri. Brandon has done a great job building on a longstanding public policy organization which fights hard to protect an important economic engine for the state.

Congratulations to Brandon and MIC for being named to the 2019 Missouri Times 100 List.

JESSICA PABST

BY CHRISTINE PAGE

When you picture a successful corporate lobbyist, you probably think of someone who can adeptly explain complex issues, build strong relationships, navigate the policymaking process, and adapt to the ever-changing power dynamics in the Capitol.

However, you may not have immediately pictured a woman who is personable, funny, wears four-inch heels and juggles life as a mother of two in addition to her successful day-job advocating for SSM Health Care. But Jessica Pabst is all of these things and so much more.

Jessica’s years as a contract lobbyist and Senate staffer have given her great insights into the policymaking process and power structures of the Capitol. But perhaps more important is her innate ability to connect with people from different backgrounds, forging key relationships across the state. And while she can go toe to toe with adversaries in a heated debate, she can also break tension when needed and put people at ease in uncomfortable situations.

She is fierce, loyal, and very hard-working. Her friends and colleagues say that there’s no one they’d rather have in their corner. I couldn’t agree more.

CHRISTINE PAGE

BY JESSICA PABST

When I think of Christine Page, I think of the ultimate professional. She is always polished, poised, and knowledgeable all while having a smile on her face.

Speak to Christine for just a few moments and there is no denying she knows what she is talking about and willing to put in the work. Christine is not one to shy away from doing her homework. You can tell she has read every detail of a bill because she has a way to take an extremely difficult issue and break it down so anyone can understand, ultimately leading to passage of significant legislation.

Christine also truly cares about her colleagues, legislators, staff, interns, and future folks who have an interest in politics.

This became apparent when she became the brains behind the Women’s Policy Network. This is a true passion for Christine and it clearly shines through with the success of the program. I feel lucky to call this ultimate professional my friend.

GUY BLACK & BRYAN CAVE LEIGHTON PAISNER

BY SCOTT FAUGHN

The Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner law firm is one of the largest in the world with offices spanning the globe. However there is no office held in higher esteem by their peers than their Jefferson City office. Their legislative team does an outstanding job representing and supporting its clients in Missouri. Between Guy Black and Frank Plescia, the team has been a leader and championed causes across the spectrum including Utility, Healthcare, Transportation, Insurance, Economic Development, Environmental and Agricultural issues. Their team stands out because they have the resources and support staff of a leading global law firm with the attention to detail and client relationships of a family shop.

They can easily walk into any Capitol office, rural or urban and strike up a conversation. Black started in the Missouri State Senate and has nearly two decades of experience lobbying legislators in Missouri. Plescia has successfully made the transition from corporate government affairs work taking him to every capitol in the nation to lobbying for multiple clients in Missouri. When clients turn to this team, their interests will be defended and advocated by seasoned professionals with a reputation for being loyal, dependable and successful.

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MELISSA PANETTIERE

BY ANGELA NELSON

Millions of people float through our daily lives over the course of a lifetime. We will remember a special few of them as we walk through the autumn of our lives. But an even smaller number of people, the truly remarkable ones, leave an indelible mark on us. They touch our hearts and even our souls, and a part of them remains a part of us.

I could fill an entire page by just simply listing all the words in the Merriam-Webster Dictionary that describe Melissa Panettiere. But that would make this fairly unreadable and rather long. So here are a just a few: wicked smart, honest, dependable, compassionate, loyal, strategic. And, oh, yes, she’s also that friend who is drop dead model gorgeous (seriously). But none of those words can even come close to capturing who Melissa really is as a person.

Melissa is a fighter, in the truest, most sincere sense of the word. She is as tough as nails. In life, one’s mettle is tested when we face adversity. My friend has looked into the eyes of some of the toughest adversity life can deal; faced it head on and never blinked. Melissa is not only still standing, she is taking the hands of others, standing beside them as they make their own journeys. Some days, she is an inspiration. On other days, she gives strength as she leans in to help others stand tall.

Melissa Panettiere is one of those truly remarkable people who touches the lives of everyone she meets. I know this because she has left an indelible mark on mine.

THE PENMAN GROUP

BY SHANON HAWK

It starts with a passion for their clients’ issues and often ends with a silent, personal victory for them. Kaycee and Scott have a classic lobbying style that ensures everyone has a voice while trying to achieve a win for all involved. You can be assured that they have always done their research in advance and their list of people to talk with is usually quite long. They never underestimate an opponent and strive to find consensus on issues rather than trying to steamroll their legislation.

If you have spent any time in the capitol, you likely know that there has been an effort to update the 911 system across the state for at least 20 years.

Scott became involved in working on the legislation six years ago and Kaycee has worked on it with him for the last three years. Their persistence paid off in 2018 when the bill was “truly agreed to and finally passed.” Thanks to them, our entire state stands to benefit from a quality 911 system. In recognition of their work on this legislation, they received special recognition in MoScout for being the best lobbyists on a single bill. More recently, they received the Public Safety 9-1-1 Communications President’s Leadership Award for their support and commitment to 911 across the state.

DUSTY SCHNEIDERS

BY JEFF BROOKS

Effective, competitive, and loyal best describe Dusty Schneiders and his work in the Missouri capitol. From his years of dedicated service to Senator Ron Richard, to his tenacious advocacy protecting and promoting the University of Missouri, Dusty is the leader you want on your lobbying team.

Dusty knows the process, he knows the decision makers, and he wins. Growing up around the business, he learned Missouri lobbying from the best, his father Phil and many, many close family friends in the profession. His knowledge of the legislative process and well established relationships in the capitol made Dusty ideal to serve as Chief of Staff to Senator Ron Richard during some of his most demanding years as Majority Floor Leader and then President Pro Tem. The challenges faced and successes achieved by Dusty as Chief of Staff further honed his skills as a talented Jefferson City advocate, today diligently serving the University of Missouri, one of our state’s truly critical institutions.

Although driven and competitive, Dusty conducts his business in Jefferson City professionally and ethically.

His relationships are sincere and his word is true. Pairing character with ability, Dusty has quickly vaulted into the top tier of Jefferson City’s most influential lobbyists.

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BY NANCY GIDDENS

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She’s diligent. She’s thorough. She’s targeted. She’s kind. She’s compassionate.

Tina Shannon is the perfect balance of quiet tenacity and ease. As Ameren’s government affairs team leader, she has mastered knowledge and understanding of the environment in which she works. She is well versed in all things energy and works well with those opposing her. The integrity she brings to her job and the Capitol building is unsurpassed. Knowing Tina is to know the standard of professionalism.

So much could be said about Tina’s work ethic and job performance, but Tina’s best attributes are personal. Despite working in an environment that thrives on conflict and dividedness, Tina remains a truly genuine, lovely, and charming soul. She doesn’t take herself too seriously and rocks gorgeously colored suits.

I am fortunate to know Tina, but I’m most grateful to call her my friend.

JEFF SMITH

BY JEFFREY ALTMANN

A wise man once told me it takes three things to be a great lobbyist.

1. Relationships within the building to articulate your issues.

2. The moxie or fearlessness required to get in and talk about your issues.

3. Knowing the actual issues.

While many have mastered one or two of these skillsets, Jeff Smith possesses all three. If he doesn’t have a relationship that began back during his time as a Senator, he sets out to forge a new one, based on mutual interest and genuine rapport. Moxie is never in short supply, but then it takes moxie to serve as Executive Director of Missouri Workforce Housing Association, comprised of over 190 organizations dedicated to developing safe, quality affordable housing throughout the state. Finally, his knowledge on issues is unmatched by most who walk the halls. Time and time again I have seen Jeff articulate and explain in depth and great detail the complex nature of the LIHTC program. When followed up by questions he always has the answers. Armed with facts, figures, truth, and knowledge he has become a valuable resource and subject matter expert who shares his knowledge with all who seek it.

He has written more published books then most people recreationally read, his TED talk has had more than a million views, and his commitment to our great state has never been stronger, his poker game might be weak, but I have a feeling Missouri will continue to see amazing things from Jeff Smith.

MIKE TALBOY

BY RYAN SILVEY

Mike doesn’t come to town as often as he used to, but make no mistake, he is a force in Missouri business policy.

Mike has always been a powerhouse of pragmatism. During his time as Minority Leader in the Missouri House, which seems ages ago in the era of term limits, Mike eschewed the bomb throwing tactics of his predecessors. Embodying the role of worthy adversary, he would resist the Majority when necessary, but didn’t allow that to cloud his judgment of working with the Majority when it made sense. It’s that discernment that has made him so successful in his current role.

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s

Director of Government Affairs for Burns & McDonnell, Mike has created and an in-house lobbying shop from nothing and grown it into a respected voice in both State and Federal affairs. As a former member of the legislature, he knows precisely how to communicate with them, but was never so abrasive or blindly partisan as to burn bridges and have his message immediately dismissed. An unlikely rise from lowly Minority House member, to Minority Leader to business policy advocate.

Oh, and if you ever wanna see Mike when he’s not around, just walk up to the Thai place on High St. He’s on the Wall of Flame, having finished a 150.

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STATELINE STRATEGIES

BY RYAN SILVEY

Two different backgrounds, one common goal. In some ways, Salvatore (Sammy) Panettiere and Jeremy LaFaver are the odd couple of Missouri lobbying teams. Sammy is the impeccably dressed, organized, Republican Felix to Jeremy’s college professor, laid back, Democratic Oscar.

Together, however, they make a formidable team on any issue.

Sammy comes from the political family tree of Kit Bond, having once served as his KC District Office Director. His reputation in KC was so strong that the Democrat Mayor, Sly James, hired him to be his liaison to the Republican controlled legislature in Jefferson City. Over the years, he worked to navigate numerous sticky issues for the City through the rural dominated body. For a few of those years he had a trusted ally; and that’s where Jeremy comes in.

Jeremy went from children’s advocate to legislator and back to lobbyist. During his time representing a KC district in the House, he demonstrated a thoughtful approach to issues and built relationships on both sides of the aisle.

His sense of humor and easy going style make him hard to dislike, even if you don’t agree with his position. As we all know, likability, many times, will at least get you through the door.

The partnership is still young, but don’t sleep on these two. They’ve already accumulated a diversified list of both business and non-profit clients, including some specifically focused on appropriations. Each is capable enough to make it on his own, but when their Wonder Twin powers activate, they become a Jeff City Juggernaut.

CASEY WASSER

BY GARY WHEELER

A standout golfer in his younger days, Casey Wasser hasn’t lost his swing.

Now a high-energy advocate in the Capitol, Wasser channels his passion and competitive nature into moving the needle for Missouri’s soybean farmers, along with his other clients.

He learns from what’s been done in the past, without being bound by it. Working with him means there’s no question of where you stand or the end goal, and you’re going to move quickly. Wasser brings the proactive approach of a well-trained athlete, presenting challenges in the same breath as possible solutions. And perhaps most importantly, he brings a level of commitment and discipline that regardless of the task upon his shoulders, it’s accomplished.

Wasser is truly a student of the game, and his handicap continues to make him a guy you want on your team – from the first hole to the 19th.

JASON ZAMKUS

BY CHRIS PIEPER

From his humble beginnings in the bowels of Senate Research to the highest levels of the executive branch, Jason Zamkus gained an unparalleled breadth of public policy expertise and a keen insight into the process and the players who make it. That’s why it’s no surprise that Jason has become one of the most effective and well-respected lobbyists working in the Capitol today, with a growing number of clients and litany of outstanding results.

To paraphrase one former Senator, the deep end of the pool is where Jason likes to swim. Over his career, Jason has thrived in deep waters—at the epicenter of some of the most significant and contentious public policy issues facing our state. His easy-going demeanor may make it seem as though even the toughest of battles is just a day on the river or the golf course, but it conceals an intensity and competitiveness that his clients are fortunate to have working for them rather than against them.

But one Jason’s greatest assets is his integrity. He is a man of his word—he says what he does and does what he says. With his combination of experience, intensity and integrity it’s no wonder that Jason has an outstanding reputation and is well-respected by legislators, colleagues and friends on both sides of the aisle and in all the branches of government.

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REP. LAKEYSHA BOSLEY Freshman Rep. LaKeySha Bosley has a refreshing take on why she chose to run for office: By becoming part of the legislature, Bosley hopes not only to be a proper representation for both her district and the state of Missouri, but also someone who can unite the young and old.

For Bosley, the importance of public service was instilled in her as a child. And as an adult, she felt it was time to put those values into practice.

“I think, more so than anything, I ran because there is a need for us to have representatives to look like the state of Missouri,” Bosley said.

Bosley, who is in her 20s, has made it her mission to be representative of Missourians who feel their voice might not count.

After hearing so many young people voice their discontentment with the system, Bosley said she hopes she can encourage voters

to see the positive outcomes their decisions hold.

“I think it was essential for me to run for office to give people that voice people have been looking for for so long. I know that a lot of my generation doesn’t necessarily like to vote. They don’t like to be a part of politics whatsoever because it seems like such a tricky business,” Bosley said. “I got tired of listening to 18- to 36-year-olds saying that ‘the system’s broken, they don’t care about us,’ and so on. At that point, I thought, ‘Let me show you what voting really does. It does have a really positive effect.’”

Bosley has had strong influences when it comes to public policy in her own life. Her father, Freeman Bosley Sr., is the longest standing alderman in the city of St. Louis, giving her a firsthand look at the dedication and work that comes along with being a public servant.

“This is a thankless job sometimes, and to see him so motivated to continuously [want] to serve, that was an inspiration,” Bosley said. “To see him stop in the middle of the street to want to talk to constituents and wave them down — for me he was my superhero.”

But Bosley said as a kid she didn’t plan on becoming involved with politics because she saw with her father how public service “takes you away from everything.”

She didn’t change her mind until she saw the need for her generation to be represented.

“We hear that the older generation sometimes doesn’t want to listen to us or that we don’t want to listen to them. And I have a unique perspective because I come from an older family, and I am young. I’m trying to bridge the gap,” Bosley said.

Despite her father’s political background, Bosley said she

didn’t inform her family when she decided to run for office.

“A lot of people get things mistaken and think that because I come from a political family they put me up to it,” Bosley said.

“I didn’t tell [my family] I was going to do it. I had no interest in letting them know because I really wanted to make sure that this was something I was doing for the right reasons in my own heart.”

Now that Bosley is in office, she already had her work cut out for her. She is currently working on legislation for the St. Louis city and county merger as well as sponsoring a bill increasing daily restitution rates, saying “it’s the right thing to do.”

“When you take someone’s life, you need to give it back to them or restore it back to before they were convicted or wrongfully convicted,” she said.

Bosley said she remains committed to serving people in her

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REP. JON PATTERSON Elected in November 2018 and representing the 30th District is Rep. Jon Patterson. Patterson is a doctor and a surgeon whose time as a physician has led him to step in the political ring. His work in medicine broadening his view of how he can be of service to others.

“It’s my work, I enjoy helping people. And I saw this as an opportunity to help an even greater number of people,” Patterson said. “They’re both different in their own ways so you get to take a break from one and go to the other. So it’s fun, it’s challenging and I’m actually really enjoying it.”

Patterson has also been on several medical missions that have brought him throughout the world including Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and Jordan, where he performed surgery on those who could not acquire it.

“I have been on a few medical missions and we do surgery on people that would have no access to any kind of surgical care where they live,” Patterson said. “The last place I went was Amman, Jordan, and I actually helped operate on Syrian refugees who had injuries from the humanitarian crisis that’s going on Syria right now.”

It was through this work that Patterson saw how important health care is nationwide and what it means for Missouri.

“You realize how very lucky we are to live in the United States, to have all of the equipment and technology that’s available to us,” Patterson said. “They don’t have anywhere near that in other countries so we have to bring a lot of our own equipment and supplies. But most of all, you just realize how lucky we are to live where we do.”

Transitioning from a doctor to a lawmaker, Patterson was impressed by the motivation from his peers, seeing as they are also hoping to help the people of Missouri, despite political differences.

“My first impressions are that every single member of the House, whether they’re Republicans or Democrats are here for the right reasons,” Patterson said.

“They want to and are here to help the constituents back home that they represent. They all come from different backgrounds and have different experiences but I have no doubt that they are all here with the truest intentions.”

Patterson’s committees are tailored to him and his endeavors.

With that in mind, his goal is to

make sure that the state takes care of its most vulnerable citizens.

Children, elderly, and disabled are all part of Patterson’s focus as a health care provider and as a politician. As a part of the workforce development committee, he believes that the best things that we can do for health care is get good, high paying family-supporting jobs to move to the state.

One way Patterson believes the legislature can improve health care is through HB 678, tweaking the MO ABLE program. This would help the disabled invest in accounts designated to cover qualified expenses.

“The ABLE account stands for Achieving a Better Life Experience. These are accounts that disabled folks are able to invest in. The money grows tax-free and then they can use it tax-free for qualified expenses,” Patterson explained. “This is a great thing that we do for our neighbors and our friends and I’m proud to be working on legislation to improve it.”

Patterson also sponsors HB 667 to have the state continue to invest in regional tourism infrastructure. This money would go to the Jackson County Sports Authority and the Enterprise

REP. WILEY PRICE Representing the 84th district of Missouri, freshman Rep. Wiley Price brings his unique skills as a marketing director and his personal worldview to make a positive impact on the legislature.

For Price, there were many factors in his life that inspired him to run for office. But after witnessing events that led him to believe the law needed some changes, Price took it upon himself to get close to those representing the state of Missouri — before he became a state lawmaker himself.

“Prior to me getting to [a] running date, I was just trying to get into position to make actual change. The world is run by law, and I was in several situations where I felt that the law wasn’t on my side or the side of the very people it was built to protect,” Price said. “So I started getting friendly with my state [representatives].” “[I]t was just time for me to get in here and try to do something for the common man,” Price said.

Price was exposed to politics

at an early age. With his father, Wiley Price III, working as a photojournalist for more than 40 years documenting city and state politics, Price was able to observe the political process from a close distance — influencing him in aspects that he had not realized until he decided to pursue a role in government.

“My whole life has inspired me up to this point. In fact, I would go as far to say this is a position that I had to mature into,” Price said. “Sometimes when you’re getting [dragged] into these meetings, and your dad’s a photographer, and he’s got to take you down to City Hall, you kind of pick up a lot of this stuff. I picked up a lot of decorum, and the way I take my angles or how I make my point was learned in those times.”

Price credits his father as an inspiration — in more ways than one — over the years, teaching him to always do what feels right while remaining humble. He said his father had to overcome adversity in his career and was

eventually added to the Missouri Photojournalism Hall of Fame with his photographs placed in Smithsonian museums.

“I feel like I’m really making a change, and I’m really following in the footsteps of great people like my father,” Price said. “I have a lot of motivation not to fail up here. I have a lot of motivation not to besmirch my name, and I have a lot of motivation to stand in values and what I believe in.”

“My dad showed me how to stay focused, that whatever your position is, just play it,” Price continued. “You can’t be all five men on the court, and that’s what I’m trying to do up here. I’m not trying to be the speaker of the House, the leader of the Democratic Party, and the leader of the Black Caucus. I’m trying to be as effective as possible here.”

Price’s background as a marketing director has also proved valuable as he’s pushed for legislation. Price said he’s adamant about being able to find an issue both sides of the political aisle can

agree on so laws can be passed that unite people.

Price has already sponsored a number of bills he believes will enhance the state of Missouri — from legislation pertaining to voter registration to a dedicated day to celebrate Dred and Harriet Scott. Dred Scott was an enslaved man who sued for his and his wife’s freedom, taking his case all the way to the Supreme Court.

Price said he’s also focused on early voting and no excuse absentee balloting.

“I have some things I’m working on for the unhoused or the homeless, juror compensation, and I also have some things on the books for a day for Dred and Harriet Scott because I think it’s critical to remind people that it wasn’t the state of Missouri that convicted that man,” he said.

“Just common man legislation and things that affect our everyday [life].”

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REP. DOTTIE BAILEY With her previous work as a grassroots lobbyist and Tea Party member, freshman state Rep. Dottie Bailey proves to be a someone for her constituents to keep an eye on.

With the departure of incumbent Rep. Kirk Matthews, Bailey was contacted to see if she would consider running in his place.

Aware of her time in the political realm, the committee believed in her ability to represent the 110th district — especially after she’s spent so much time trying to get others to run for office.

“I’ve always said to other people ‘I wish you would run and take up this office.’ So I kind of had to do what I’ve asked other people to do, and I’m very honored and humbled to do so,” Bailey said.

As she took office, Bailey knew she had to be knowledgeable of the mechanics of both the U.S. and Missouri governments. So Bailey pulled from influences from the likes of the Founding Fathers, and she believes she has a solid basis from which to work as a state representative.

“I’ve always been of the mind that it’s a government of the people, for the people, and by the

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people. We’re a republic,” Bailey said. “I’ve always been in that process at some level — never at this level — but I’ve been a grassroots lobbyist and a former Tea Party person. So I’ve been in the realm a lot, and I understand our founders and what they mean by a representative republic. That’s kind of why I’ve decided to do this. I’ve always been in it in some way, shape, or form.”

With her background in the political realm as well as in banking for about two decades, Bailey said she’s combined both aspects of her career in order to gain a better grasp on the kind of work she will tackle in office as well as navigating Capitol culture.

From her time in banking, Bailey said she learned about the free market and gave her the ability to be “business savvy,” she said.

“I’ve learned to get along with people — even people I don’t agree with. And obviously we don’t agree on everything, but we can still get along. I still respect the people on the other side of the aisle or even people in my own party that I don’t agree with. I can still respect them, and we can still have a debate without gouging

each other’s eyes out. Business has taught me that a lot,” she said.

Her interests as a legislator include: free market issues, downsizing government, and truly helping those in need, she said.

She’s also hesitant about issues regarding regulations or government spending.

“Our rights don’t come from government — they come from God — and our purpose as legislators is to secure those rights,” Bailey said. “All this regulation all the time, and all these fees pile up, and then we don’t have the money to pay for the things that we really need to pay for.”

As a lawmaker, Bailey said most of the bills she’s worked with have been brought to her by constituents — including a reform bill on the guardian ad litem, Senate Bill 88, which was brought to her by a group of fathers.

“It’s in the Senate right now, and if it comes over to House, I will sponsor it,” Bailey said. “It’s funny because it’s a thing where there’s no regulation. But some of that needs to be pulled back in and other things need to be gotten rid of just to make things more efficient and fairer between parents

in a divorce situation.”

Looking ahead, Bailey plans to take on archaic issues Missouri doesn’t need anymore, she said.

Bailey hopes to throw away heavy regulations, allowing businesses to flourish.

Despite the demanding hours that being a representative entails, Bailey is proud of her work in office and is honored to have been chosen for the position. She aims to keep the needs of the people in the forefront of her mind as she grows as a lawmaker.

“They say it’s a part-time job, but it’s actually 24/7, 365 days a year. You really never stop, and I knew that going in,” Bailey said.

“But when you’re here working with public policy, you realize the brevity of the responsibility you have. I think about that all the time.”

“I always try to take everybody’s opinions and thoughts and wants and needs into effect — not just my own,” she continued. “That’s why this is such an important job, and I just really appreciate it more than I did before.

It’s a lot of responsibility which I’m very humbled to have.”

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REP. ASHLEY BLAND MANLOVE With the inspiration of her grandmother and mother guiding her, state Rep. Ashley Bland Manlove brings another generation of public service to the legislature. And at times, she still gets emotional as she remembers she is walking in the footsteps of her family.

Manlove’s interest in politics began with her family: her grandmother, Mary Groves Bland, served as both a state representative and senator; her uncle, Craig Bland, served in the state House.

With that notable history of public service in her family influencing her, Manlove is already familiar with the sense of duty that comes along with being a representative. Combining that with her time in the National Guard, Manlove makes it known that state government is in her mind, and she is glad to serve.

“There’s always been a strong sense of community service in my family. Of course with the lineage of my grandmother and my uncle both holding seats in the House and in the Senate, community service has always been in the forefront of my mind,” Manlove explained. “So when I was approached to run, I gladly said, ‘yes.’ I like to use the phrase that ‘I served the great state of Missouri

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once in the National Guard, and I’m happy to serve it again.’”

According to Manlove, her grandmother’s influence was only second to that of her mother’s.

Spending a great deal of time with her grandmother as a child, Manlove was exposed to Capitol culture and the legislative process at a very young age.

“My mother was sick when I was young so my grandmother helped raise me. So I was with my grandmother daily, and even as a child I traveled around with her a lot to conventions and different legislative events,” Manlove said.

“So I was always exposed to it; she was always trying to show me that there are bigger and better things out there than what’s just on our block. You have to think locally but then you also have to think globally.”

Manlove’s praise for her grandmother doesn’t end there.

She continued with a few more kind words directed towards the kind of woman her grandmother was to both her and the legislature.

“She was amazing. She was just the kindest, most loving, and most respectful woman. Even here in the legislature, one of her favorite phrases was, ‘You might not like me but you will respect

me and I will return the same,’” Manlove said. “I think that is a mentality that you have to have.

Every day there’s something that I do where I can think of a quote that came from my grandmother or some life lesson that she taught me.”

Having worked as an accountant and as an intelligence analyst for the National Guard, Manlove believes she has made a good transition into her office — particularly with her seat on the House Budget Committee and other groups dealing with financial institutions.

“It’s been great actually having a research and accounting background — research being from the National Guard as an intelligence analyst,” Manlove said. “In [the] budget, that’s all it is — numbers — and even though I’m still learning how all the numbers fit together, I could read it, and I could follow what the chart was saying. From a numbers perspective, I’m learning how that all translates into human capital.”

Manlove has identified voter registration as a significant part of her work. The most important part of the political process is voting, she said, making it clear she’s happy to sponsor legislation that would improve the process.

“The best part of politics for me is Election Day, voter registration, and engaging people and getting them involved in the process of democracy. Sometimes you get to change somebody’s perspective about how important their voice is,” Manlove said. “Right now I’ve got HB 731 that focuses on automatic voter registration specifically to include felons. It started as wanting to change the notification process, and it blossomed into a full automatic voter registration.

So criminal justice reform which ties into that bill ... is very dear to my heart as well.”

While this is Manlove’s first year as a representative, she is proud to say she did have some idea of state government even before entering office. With that in mind, she says while she is honored to be working in office and can at times get overwhelmed.

“Luckily I did have a bit of perspective beforehand. I understood that it would be tenuous, and I understood that it was going to be hard work — which are all things that I am capable of. So it’s been an amazing experience, and I’m honored to be up here,” Manlove said. “I still get a little choked up when I walk into my office and see this portrait of my grandmother that I have with me.”

REP. DALE WRIGHT REP. ADAM SCHNELTING With his strong religious sentiments driving a pro-life agenda, state Rep. Adam Schnelting has a vision for how to propel Missouri forward.

Schnelting, a former pastor and legislative assistant, hopes to bring a more traditional perspective, coupled with a strong economic presence, to Missouri during his time in office. He vowed to defend the traditional values he deems pertinent as a lawmaker.

“I ran for two reasons. The first is to defend our values, and the second is to make Missouri competitive again,” Schnelting said. “We’re living in a time [when] some of our politicians would rather change our values than defend them. I disagree with that approach.”

Schnelting isn’t the first in his family to be a part of government.

His 10th great-grandfather, Augustine Warner, was the Speaker of the Virginia House of Burgesses in 1676.

Aside from his family background, Schnelting can point to a number of things that served as a catalyst for his decision to run for office — including his faith.

“One of the things that’s

important to me as a Christian is that I believe my faith should inform everything that I do, and politics or policy is not exempt from that,” he said.

With that in mind, Schnelting has made an effort to focus on conservative issues including pro-life legislation. Schnelting has steadfastly kept an eye on HB 126, a bill that would limit abortion services upon the appearance of a fetal heartbeat, as it passed out of the House and was sent to the Senate. Schnelting worked on the bill with Reps. Nick Schroer and Mary Elizabeth Coleman, he said.

Schnelting is also co-sponsoring HB 643 which would allow individuals with concealed carry permits to bring firearms on public transit.

Legislation aside, Schnelting said he’s come to know many people in state government who he is happy to serve alongside with.

“You hear a lot of talking points outside of politics about how all these politicians are so terrible, but in getting to know so many people on either side of the aisle, you realize we’ve got some very decent, good-hearted people in this building,” Schnelting said.

From ambulance driver to health care executive to the Farmington City Council and now the Missouri House of Representatives, freshman Rep. Dale Wright is a freshman representative to keep an eye on as he begins his career in Missouri state government.

Replacing term-limited Rep. Kevin Engler to represent the 116th House district, Engler was very active in getting Wright to run for office. Engler approached Wright about taking his place after the end of term as representative for the 116th district.

“He actually talked me into doing this a couple of years ago,” Wright said. “I’ve been on quite a few campaigns over the years, national, regional, local, but they were always about other people. That’s when Kevin Engler approached me and let me know that he was being termed out and said that I was one of the people the party would like to see consider running.”

Even Engler could not convince Wright to make a swift decision to jump into the race.

“It took me a year and a half to see if this is something that I should really do, but once I was in, I was in, and I’m really excited about serving,” Wright said. “I actually went to get my physical for military service and I didn’t pass it because of asthma. So I never did get to serve in the service. I feel like this maybe my way of serving our state and serving our community.”

A lifelong Missourian, Wright lived in Farmington for the major-

ity of his life, with the exception of his five years in Rolla where he worked in hospital administration.

Working in health care for 47 years, Wright garnered his reputation as “the health care guy” during his time on the Farmington City Council. Beginning his career in 1970 as an 18-year-old orderly, he later worked as an ambulance driver and eventually in hospital administration.

Wright also spent most of his time purchasing and selling medical supplies throughout the years, which gives him insight into the business-centric side of health care.

Wright already has a bill that he has an eye on in promoting.

“It’s an important one and it has to do with expanding nurse practitioner privileges,” Wright said. “It’s something that I truly believe will provide more access to health care to out-state citizens, it will reduce health care costs, and then it will also improve patient outcomes.”

Meeting with several health care groups including Missouri Hospital Association, Wright decided that it was the right bill to pursue. The biggest concern is in figuring out whether nurse practitioners would report to the Board of Healing Arts or the Board of Nurses.

Wright detailed his experience in public service and in the health care industry in an interview with the Missouri Times’ #moleg podcast, which can be listened to at missouritimes.com or on any podcast application.

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20 QUESTIONS FOR...

Alisha and Kaitlyn

Why did you want to become a writer?

Kaitlyn Schallhorn: I always blame becoming a reporter/writer on my grandparents. They used to send my sister and I newspapers when we were children and hid money in the pages to encourage us to actually read them so I think they (falsely) conditioned me to believe there’s money in newspapers.

Alisha Shurr: Writing is not a career I intended on entering, but now it is not profession I can’t imagine leaving.

Why politics?

KES: Why not? But really — there’s never a dull moment in politics, and it’s incredibly important as it impacts everyone’s daily lives.

AJS: What can be more fascinating than the interwoven statutory makeup that governors aspects of the life we live? From the moral role model politicians play in society to laws on how fast you can drive a car, politics affects everyone.

What story have you had the most fun writing?

AJS: It was a blast talking to farmers from around the state and learning about a crop I had limited knowledge of. Legislation would open doors for Missouri farmers to grow a new — old — crop.

KES: All of them! With each one, I’ve gotten to learn more about my new home.

What story are you most proud of writing at the Missouri Times?

AJS: Budget markup because the budget is complicated and it was an experience unlike any other.

KES: So far, all of them!

Who do you enjoy interviewing (on the record) the most?

AJS: Blake Hurst.

KES: I don’t think I’ve been here long enough to have a favorite — yet!

You kind of landed in Missouri. What do you think?

KES: I was born in Missouri but moved to the East Coast as a child. It was a whirlwind and quick decision moving back earlier this month, but it certainly feels as though I’ve come home.

AJS: I love it. I’m an Oregonian born and raise, so

of the Missouri Times while Missouri doesn’t have the mountains, the people bring an unmatched charm.

Where is your favorite place to visit in Missouri?

AJS: Macon, Missouri.

KES: Kansas City — but I’m biased; that’s where my husband lives!

If you couldn’t be a writer, what would you do?

AJS: Cattle rancher.

KES: I spend most of my free time developing new recipes and hosting friends at my house for events, so I would probably be happy as a chef, party planner, or bed-and-breakfast owner.

What job would you be terrible at?

KES: Cattle rancher.

AJS: Chef, party planner, or bed-and-breakfast owner.

What skill would you like to master?

AJS: Drawing a straight line without the use of a ruler.

KES: The ability to unpack after a trip right away instead of waiting for approximately three weeks.

What could you give a 40 minute presentation on with no preparation?

KES: I could easily give a detailed presentation on the collective history of special, limited-edition Taco Bell menu items.

AJS: There are several topics I can give a 40-minute presentation on with no preparation including, but not limited to, why coffee makes the world go round, the Star Trek v. Star Wars debate, and the stock show industry.

What book impacted you the most?

AJS: Heart of a Champion: The Dominique Dawes Story KES: I feel like my answer to this changes weekly.

But for today I’ll go with “The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto” by Mitch Albom.

What is your favorite drink?

KES: I’m a sucker for a large glass of red wine.

AJS: Coffee. No question.

Editor’s Note: The subjects of this questionaire were very nicely asked if they wanted to be the subjects, because this editor is incredibly proud of these writers and wants all readers to know them better.

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What fast food joint can you be found at?

KES: Taco Bell, aka the greatest restaurant in the world.

AJS: Panera or Dutch Bros (The greatest drive-thru coffee shop in existence) What is your favorite Netflix show?

KES: My sister-in-law turned me on to Schitt’s Creek, which might be one of the funniest shows I’ve ever seen. I also love that it’s a Levy family affair.

AJS: Supernatural. Or Friends. Or Grey’s Anatomy. Or Tidying Up. Or The Crown. Or The Last Kingdom. Or Series of Unfortunate Events. Or The Great British Baking Show. Or any of the Defenders series. Or Fearless (the bull riding documentary)...

What is your favorite Instagram account?

AJS: Sure Champ KES: @foodsofjane. She shares many interesting recipes I end up trying, but also posts saved stories of recipes which are fun to follow.

What website, other than the MissouriTimes.com, do you visit the most often?

KES: Admittedly, I’m very addicted to Twitter.

Follow me for news about Missouri politics, details on my clumsy moments, and Taco Bell updates: @K_Schallhorn.

AJS: Kindle — Does that count as a website?

What is something you are certain you’ll never experience?

AJS: Jumping off a waterfall KES: Ever falling out of love with Taco Bell What is your spirit animal?

AJS: According to an online quiz — which is obviously never wrong — a wolf.

KES: BuzzFeed told me it’s a teacup pig because of my efficiency as well as my “can-do attitude and constant positivity.” Clearly BuzzFeed has never seen me at 6 a.m. before I’ve had coffee.

If you were a fighter, what would your walk out music be?

AJS: Lose Yourself by Eminem.

KES: Bright Lights by Gary Clark Jr.

Richard M. AuBuchon Lawyer - Lobbyist

573.645.9760 rich@rmalobby.com

I appreciate all you do in service of the people of the 56th District.

Congrats to all of those recognized on the 100 List!

THANK YOU, JOE! Congratulations on being recognized as one of the people to know in the Capitol.

Paid for by Bondon For Missouri Ryan O’Hanlon, Treasurer

Always keeping members first!

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