Memo 8/25/08

Freedom from Smoking program offered

Saint Francis Health and Wellness Center and Services to Business are offering the American Lung Association Freedom From Smoking program. The program will be held at the worksite, with classes at a time appropriate for the employer and employees. The ongoing nicotine-replacement therapy program will help the participant cope with stress, learn weight management, offer encouragement and provide necessary tools to quit smoking. The program includes seven weeks of classes, free nicotine replacement therapy for 12 weeks or a voucher for the cost of a Chantix prescription for up to three months and a pulmonary function screening that will give participants a predicted lung age. Participants are required to make a $50 deposit at the first class. Staff members will conduct three-, six- and 12-month followups. If the participant is smoke-free at the six-month followup, the deposit will be fully refunded. For more information, call 275-2177.

Entrepreneurs graduate from business training

Eighteen entrepreneurs recently graduated from the Operation Jump-Start training course taught by staff members at Southeastern Illinois College's Workforce and Illinois Small Business Development Center of Harrisburg, Ill. A partnership between Southeastern Illinois College and Southeast Missouri State University, the program trained participants in all areas of small business development. The graduates soon will compete for seed capital by submitting feasibility plans of their business ventures to a Southern Illinois business committee. The most viable business plans could be awarded up to $3,500 to be used in the start-up or expansion of their small businesses.

Business training course scheduled in Perryville

The Southeast Innovation Center at Southeast Missouri State University will offer a free six-week small business training course in Perryville, Mo. Held at the Career Center, the course will be taught Tuesday and Thursday evenings starting Sept. 23. The program will teach participants business planning and preparation skills with non-academic, practical training. For more information and to receive an application, contact Gina Harper at 651-2929 or gharper@semo.edu. Seating is limited and an application is required.

— From staff reports