The Governors of the U.S. Postal Service have approved a 2-cent increase in the price of a First Class stamp. Postal rates are reviewed annually and updated every May. This year's rate changes will go into effect May 11, according to a news release.
The price of a First Class 1-ounce stamp will be 44 cents. Forever Stamps can be purchased at the current price until May 11. Postage for a 1-ounce large envelope will go up 5 cents to 88 cents, and postage for a 1-ounce parcel will go up 5 cents to $1.22. Postcard postage will go up 1 cent to 28 cents. The price for each additional ounce will remain at 17 cents.
State revenue drops 2% in January
Missouri's net general revenue collections fell nearly 2 percent in January and are down a half-percent for the year to date. Collections in January were $722.8 million, compared to $736.6 million in January 2008. For the year so far, collections are at $4.44 billion, compared to $4.46 billion at this time last year. The fiscal year ends June 30.
Sales and use tax collections fell 12 percent in January and are down 5 percent for the year, at $1.12 billion. Individual income tax collections increased 0.8 percent for the month and are up 4.1 percent for the year, at $3.24 billion. Corporate income and corporate franchise tax collections grew 24.7 percent the month but are down 4.4 percent for the year, at $283.1 million.
All other collections fell 31 percent in December and are down 0.9 percent for the year, at $245.8 million. Refunds dropped 6.6 percent for the month but climbed 19.8 percent for the year, at $445.9 million. State Budget Director Linda Luebbering said January's collections were impacted by two fewer working days and the recession, according to a news release.
In class with Bass Pro
Time's running out for local teachers to be nominated to head back to school with Bass Pro Shops. Through the month of February, a $2 donation and a nomination card will put local teachers in the running to be chosen for Bass Pro Shops/Safari Club International Foundation's American Wilderness Leadership School July 15-22 in Bridger-Teton National Forest near Jackson, Wyo.
A minimum of $1,800 must be raised to send a teacher, and any funds collected over that amount will also be donated to the wilderness school. One teacher from this area will be selected to attend this accredited school that provides educators with hands-on experience teaching students about nature.
Luck o' the Irish
Entries are being accepted now for Springfield's 29th annual St. Patrick's Day Parade and Celebration, to be held March 14 in downtown Springfield. Lee Worman, who plays the Irish flute and tinwhistle, and host of Celtic music program "The Gold Ring" on KSMU-FM, is the 2009 parade grand marshal. Parade registration is free, but all participants must pre-register. Prize categories this year include best Irish family, best individual costume, best Irish pet, best float, best musical entry and best youth entry. Parade registration is available online at www.springfieldstpatsparade.org.
This installment of Springfield Business Journal’s Architects & Engineers Project Report showcases 26 endeavors by area design and engineering professionals.
