EMPLOYEE BENEFITS IS THE TOPIC OF EDWARD D. JONES PROGRAM

Albert Fisher, vice president and senior account manager of Johnson and Higgins, a privately-held insurance-brokerage and employee-benefit consulting firm, and Gary Siddens Jr., benefits consultant at the firm, will be guests on a satellite employee benefit program to be offered by Edward D. Jones and Co. in Cape Girardeau and Jackson.

"This program is timely and designed specifically for small-business owners," said Bob Etherton, an investment representative for Jones and Co. in Cape Girardeau. "The topics of the program will be `Tackling the Rising Cost of Employee Benefits.'"

Programs will be held from noon to 1 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at three sites in Cape County: 211 N. Sprigg, Bob Etherton, Edward Jones representative; 1749 Independence, Joe and Donna Domian, Edward Jones representatives; and 515 W. Main in Jackson, Steve Elefson, Edward Jones representative.

"Business owners are particularly vulnerable to skyrocketing insurance costs, so developing affordable benefits programs that will attract and retain key employees has become a challenge," said Etherton. "Our program experts will discuss this challenge and offer suggestions on group health plans, flexible benefit plans, paid leave and vacations, and retirement plans."

There is no fee, but seating is limited and reservations are suggested.

"Those who attend the program will have an opportunity to ask questions," said Etherton.