Local News Items



New hunters can get firearm and ammunition tips at three MDC virtual programs in October
9/29/2023

One firearm does not fit all hunts. Knowing the characteristics of firearms, the types of ammunition available, and the types of optics to put on your firearm can make the difference between a successful hunt and a long day in the field.

New hunters can get information on firearms, ammunition preferences, and optics selection at three virtual programs being put on by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) in October. All of these programs will be conducted by MDC Conservation Educator Jordan Poe.

The first of these virtual programs is “Firearm Selection for the Beginner” on Oct. 11. The program will be from 6-7 p.m. People can register at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/195114

At the Oct. 11 program, Poe will talk about how to select the appropriate firearm for a hunt. He will discuss the differences between hunting with rifles and hunting with handguns and will also discuss the various types of shotguns. The discussion will cover the types of firearms that are legal, ethical, and practical for specific types of hunts.

The next virtual program, “Firearm Selection: Ammunition Selection for the New Hunter,” will be from 6-7 p.m. on Oct. 13. People can register at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/195117

At this virtual program, Poe will cover the differences between target ammunition and hunting ammunition, different calibers, cartridges, and bullet types for rifles and handguns. He will also discuss the different gauges, shot size, and shot materials in shotgun shells. He will discuss the differences between lead shot and non-toxic shot. He will also discuss the regulations and hunting ethics involved with each type of ammunition.

The final virtual program in this series, “Firearm Optics: Optics and Sights for the New Hunter,” will be from 6-7 p.m. on Oct. 16. People can register at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/195119

At this online program, Poe will discuss basic information about firearm sights and optics. This class will also cover the basics of mounting a new optic on your firearm and how to sight in a firearm.

Though these programs are free, registration is required to participate. Use the links above for each program registration. Staff at MDC facilities across the state are holding virtual and in-person programs. A listing of these programs can be found at mdc.mo.gov/events.




Concerns Rise Over Possible Catholic School Closures
9/29/2023
The Archdiocese of St. Louis says it will be meeting with its catholic schools soon. Church leaders will be talking about long-term sustainability for the schools, which reportedly are experiencing less than 65 percent enrollment. Bob Onder, a former Republican state senator, tells KTVI-TV that up to a third of catholic grade schools could close next year. The activity comes after the archdiocese implemented its All Things New plan, which closed or consolidated many parishes in the region earlier this year.



St Louis County to offer Emergency Management Alerts
9/29/2023
People in St Louis County will soon be able to receive alert notices from the county's emergency management system. Starting Monday, residents can get notices on information such as severe weather alerts, road closures and missing persons notifications. Signing up for the Emergency Alert Program is free and can be done through the county's website.



Special Events To Mark Adam Wainwright's Retirement
9/29/2023
The Cardinals are holding several events this weekend to celebrate Adam Wainwright's career. The 42-year-old right-handed pitcher, who marked his 200th win earlier this month, will retire from baseball after this season. Commemorations include t-shirts celebrating Waino's 18-year career with the Cardinals and a special pregame ceremony Sunday with several former teammates. After Saturday's game, the pitcher will perform three new original songs from his upcoming country album. The two-time Golden-Glove winner is expected to retire to his hometown of St. Simons Island, Georgia.



Hawley, Schmitt Cite Racial Favoritism in Voting Against new Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair
9/29/2023
Missouri's two GOP U.S. senators are among nine Republicans who have voted not to approve the country's new Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman. Senators Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt say they were opposed to Air Force General Charles Q. Brown Junior's appointment because they believe Brown wants to politicize the military by focusing on diversity, equity and inclusion. Brown, who was approved for the post by the Senate late last week, is only the second Black person to hold the position. General Colin Powell served as chairman in the early 90s.



Missouri Teacher On Leave After Porn Site Discovered
9/29/2023
A Missouri high-school teacher in Franklin County has been placed on leave after she created content on a private pornography site. St. Clair High School teacher Brianna Coppage tells the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that she performs on the private subscription site "OnlyFans" to supplement her teaching salary. She says she made an average of nine-thousand-dollars per month since she began posting this summer. The 28-year-old teacher says she and her husband were told about two weeks ago that people were finding out about her content. She says she misses her students but is preparing herself to not return to teaching after she was put on leave Wednesday.



State Recognizes First Responders with Public Safety Awards
9/29/2023
Nearly 20 first responders have been recognized by the state for their heroic acts. Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe distributed the state's Public Safety Awards during a ceremony Thursday. Ten Missouri Medals of Valor were given for exceptional courage and heroism for live-saving or protective actions. Three Red, White and Blue Heart Awards were also given to first responders who were seriously injured in the line of duty; six were given posthumously. Other first responders received public safety medals for heroic acts in 2022 that officials say went above and beyond the call of duty.



Accidents
9/29/2023
Lonedell woman injured in a one car accident in Franklin County. The state patrol says it happened at 6:50 Thursday evening on Project Road West of Highway FF. The patrol says 55-year old Patricia Reeves was Westbound when she ran off of left side of the road, struck a tree and flipped over. Reeves was taken to Mercy in Washington with minor injuries.

One car accident in Gasconade County sends a man from Bland to the hospital.  The patrol says 32-year old Matthew Karkellie was Northbound on Highway EE Thursday afternoon when he ran off the road, struck an embankment and overturned.  Karkellie was treated at the scene for minor injuries.  It happened at 4:25 a half mile South of Hecker Road. 



MDC provides drop-off sites in St. Louis region to aid hunters in voluntary CWD testing-Deer head drop-off sites are located in Crawford, Franklin, St. Charles, Warren, Jefferson, and Washington counties.
9/28/2023

To make it easier for deer hunters to help monitor Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) has deployed deer head drop-off sites in six counties in the St. Louis region.  Each site has a freezer that will preserve the samples, which will be picked up later by MDC staff for CWD testing.  To submit a deer head for testing, hunters will be required to cut off the head in advance, so it can be left in the freezer.

The goal is to provide hunters an additional way of submitting their harvested deer for voluntary CWD testing.  These self-serve drop sites will enable hunters to submit deer heads for sampling at their convenience throughout the 2023-2024 fall deer hunting season.

The sample drop-off sites in the St. Louis region include:

  • Crawford Co.City of Bourbon-Road Maintenance Building, 325 Merkel St. in Bourbon
  • Franklin Co.—MDC’s Meramec Workstation, 3220 S. Hwy 185 at Meramec Conservation Area
  • Franklin Co.—East Central College, 1964 Prairie Dell Road in Union
  • St. Charles Co.August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area, 2360 Highway D in St. Charles
  • Warren Co.MDC’s Warrenton Office, 26620 State Highway U in Warrenton
  • Washington Co.—U.S. Forest Service Office, 10019 West Highway 8 in Potosi
  • Jefferson Co.— Festus/Crystal City Conservation Club, 2567 U.S. Highway 61 in Crystal City

For an interactive map showing all voluntary CWD testing drop off sites throughout the state, go to https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZCH.

Hunters should cut off the deer head (and antlers for any bucks) while leaving about six inches of neck attached before coming to the drop-off location.  Materials will be available at the freezer sites, such as trash bags, zip ties, and data sheets, that hunters can use in labeling the heads. 

Hunters will need to record their name and contact information, as well as their Telecheck ID numbers and the location the deer was harvested.  They can then simply leave the head in the freezer.  Staff will collect the head and pull the samples to be submitted for testing. 

The drop-off sites will not be available for use during the opening weekend of the firearms deer season (Nov. 11-12) in counties where mandatory CWD sampling is required, which includes Crawford, Jefferson, Washington, and Franklin counties.  Hunters harvesting deer in mandatory CWD sampling counties must use the MDC staffed sampling locations normally used for CWD Mandatory Sampling during the opening weekend. The drop-off sites will still be open in St. Charles and Warren counties, as these have been excluded from mandatory sampling during the 2023 season. The sites in these counties will provide a voluntary sampling option for those hunters who would still like to get their deer tested.

Hunters will be able to check the results themselves online using their Telecheck ID at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZuE within three weeks.  MDC will notify a hunter directly if their sample returns a positive result.  The Centers for Disease Control does not recommend consuming meat from a deer that has tested positive for CWD.

CWD is a neurological disease that is fatal to deer.  A deer may be infected with no visible symptoms.  The only way to positively identify the presence of CWD is to extract lymph nodes from the animal’s neck.  The disease has been confirmed in Jefferson, Franklin, Washington, and Crawford counties in MDC’s St. Louis region, as well as counties elsewhere in the state.  Hunters can play an important role in helping MDC monitor and track the disease in Missouri by providing this valuable data.

Hunters who harvest deer from any of the CWD Management Zone counties are reminded that they must follow carcass transportation restrictions when traveling to CWD testing sites. Visit  mdc.mo.gov/cwd, or see the 2023 Fall Deer & Turkey Hunting Information and Regulation booklet for details.

The drop-off sites will be available to accept samples until the conclusion of the 2023-2024 archery deer season, Jan. 15, 2024.




Wreaths Across America’s FREE “TEACH” Program Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
9/28/2023

In 1968, President Lyndon Johnson established Hispanic Heritage Week to honor and celebrate the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. Twenty years later, President Ronald Reagan expanded it to a month, from September 15 through October 15. Wreaths Across America’s (WAA) “Teach” program Curriculum Developer Cindy Tatum is excited to share new, free-to-download educator lesson plans for grades K-12 in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.
 

This curriculum is designed to teach the next generation about the value of their freedom. Retired educator and Gold Star Mother Cindy Tatum encourages you to “Celebre el Mes de la Herencia Hispana” (Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month) by sharing these free lesson plans with the teachers, homeschoolers, and young people in your life!

“Being a part of helping Wreaths Across America teach younger generations about the value of freedom and the importance of honoring those who sacrificed so much to protect those freedoms is something I know I am supposed to be doing, and I know my son Daniel would want me to do,” said Tatum, a Gold Star Mother who lost her son on Christmas Eve while serving in the U.S.M.C. “I want America’s youth to learn that as citizens of this world, there are things they can do to lift the human spirit, things that are easy, free, and that they can do every day.”

Since the introduction of the WAA “Teach” program, it has become wildly popular with professional educators and homeschoolers, resulting in thousands of downloads of these lesson plans, which are consistently updated to celebrate and embrace American holidays and other important events.

The lesson plans for the “Teach” program consist of stories of courage focusing on character development and service projects for young people of all ages. This program is FREE to download from www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/teach.

This service-based curriculum is designed to share educational materials from philanthropic and patriotic organizations like The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration, Random Acts of Kindness FoundationThe Congressional Media of Honor Society, and IKEducation at the Eisenhower Foundation.

To learn more got to https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/Home/News/1016 

or to download WAA’s TEACH materials for FREE here www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/teach.

This curriculum is also available to all educators and homeschoolers on the website Teachers Pay Teachers.

“As a volunteer, founding family member, and mother of six kids and grandmother to nine, whose lives have been greatly impacted by the opportunity to meet so many in the military community, I know that the teaching aspect of our mission is the most important,” said Karen Worcester, Executive Director, Wreaths Across America. “Finally, this long-standing desire to develop a more robust education program took a giant step forward with the launch of this expanded program. I am thrilled that so many educators are already seeing value in the materials and hope that more will be able to utilize these important lesson plans in their classrooms.”

National Wreaths Across America Day is Saturday, December 16, 2023. For more information on volunteering locally or sponsoring a wreath for an American hero, please visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org.




Centene to Lay Off 2,000 Workers
9/28/2023
A St. Louis-based company that manages government-subsidized health insurance plans has announced huge layoffs. Centene says some two-thousand workers across the nationwide company will lose their jobs next week. Company officials haven't announced exactly where say the layoffs will occur yet but say the employees' last day of work will be December 8th. Centene says the layoffs are needed for cost-cutting efforts amid what they call "headwinds" from government programs, reportedly involving Medicaid renewals.



Over 90K Missourians in SNAP, WIC Programs Would Feel Shutdown
9/28/2023
Nutrition programs for women and children across the St. Louis area and the rest of Missouri could be greatly affected if there's even a partial federal government shutdown. The White House is warning that people who received SNAP and WIC benefits, which help them afford healthy food, could see substantial cuts. Officials say in Missouri, a shutdown could impact benefits for nearly 91-thousand people.



Missouri Teen Makes Impression on National TV Show
9/28/2023
A 16-year-old girl from Foley, Missouri has landed a partnership with country legend Reba McEntire. Ruby Leigh was chosen during a blind audition Tuesday night on the TV show "The Voice," on NBC. The teen had wowed all four coaches with her yodeling voice and all four turned their chairs around to coach her. In the end, Ruby Leigh chose McEntire. The young singer says not many celebrities come to Foley -- a town of less than a hundred people in Lincoln County.



State Senator says She'll Try Again to Eliminate State Grocery Sales Tax
9/28/2023
A Republican state senator from Arnold says she'll try again to eliminate Missouri's grocery sales tax when lawmakers reconvene in January. Senator Mary Elizabeth Colman has filed measures twice before to end the tax and says reintroducing another bill will be one of her top priorities in the new session. Critics of eliminating the tax say communities will have to make up the revenue in some other way, and that could come through increased property taxes or cuts in services. Missouri is one of 13 states that charges a grocery sales tax . Groceries are taxed at just under one-and-a-quarter percent by the state, but cities and towns can raise that up to eight percent.



Governor, Wife to Travel on State Trade Mission Trip to Japan
9/28/2023
Governor Mike Parson and his wife, First Lady Teresa Parson are getting ready to go to Japan on behalf of the state. The governor's office says Japan is a key trade partner for Missouri, with more than 455-million dollars in exports last year. The trip that's set for October 7th through 12th will including meetings with Nagano Prefecture University, which works with the University of Missouri. Corporate meetings on the agenda include those with Hitachi, Kawasaki, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Panasonic. The trade mission will be paid for by the non-profit Hawthorn Foundation.



Missouri Supreme Court Weighs Three Cases
9/28/2023
The Missouri Supreme Court is hearing arguments in three integral cases. It did not render any decisions in any of them Wednesday, including one case that revolves around people sleeping, camping or setting up shelter on state-owned land. The other two cases involve a "bill of rights" law for St. Louis police as well as a police funding mandate in Kansas City. That case involves state legislation that forces Kansas City to spend at least 25 percent of its budget on policing.



Oct. 13 program at MDC's Springfield Nature Center to focus on bats
9/28/2023

Bats have a reputation as being one of the frightful animals associated with Halloween. However, a bat’s voracious appetite for flying insects is one reason it’s good to have these unique flying mammals around.

People can learn more about bats and the benefits they provide to humans at the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) program “MDC Science: Bats of Missouri.” This free program will be from 6-7 p.m. on Oct. 13 at MDC’s Springfield Conservation Nature Center, which is located at 4601 S. Nature Center Way in southeast Springfield. This program is open to people ages 16 and up. This program will have both in-person and virtual options for attendance. People can register at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/194860

At this program, MDC Policy Coordinator Jordan Meyer, who is MDC’s former bat ecologist will discuss the species of bats that can be found in Missouri, their physical characteristics, and how a bat uses echolocation (high-frequency sound emissions that can locate objects in total darkness) to be an effective hunter. One bat can eat up to 3,000 flying insects in a single night. This can have both comfort benefits (think less mosquitos) and financial benefits (think fewer moths to lay eggs that will develop into crop-pest and garden-pest caterpillars the following summer). Meyer will discuss the conservation concerns surrounding some species of bats, the research projects underway to learn more about bats, and things we can do to help bats. The Oct. 13 program is part of an ongoing series of programs at the Springfield Nature Center that highlights the work of MDC’s scientists.

The Oct. 13 program is free, but registration is required. To participate, use the link above. People who wish to attend virtually must provide an e-mail, so a program link can be sent to them.

People wanting more information about this program or other upcoming events at MDC’s Springfield Conservation Nature Center can call 417-888-4237. People can also call this number to get signed up for text alerts and e-mail bulletins about upcoming programs at the Springfield Conservation Nature Center and other nearby MDC facilities.

Staff at MDC facilities across the state are holding virtual and in-person programs. A listing of these programs can be found at mdc.mo.gov/events.




Union License Office Contract Up For Bid
9/28/2023

The Missouri Department of Revenue is announcing the upcoming Request for Proposal (RFP) of the license office in Union, Missouri, located at 105 S Oak St, Union, Mo., 63084. Bids will start being accepted October 11, and must be submitted by October 24.

For a list of bid opportunities and bid response instructions, please visit Missouri’s statewide electronic procurement system, MissouriBUYS, at https://missouribuys.mo.gov/. Interested groups or individuals who wish to bid to operate the Union License Office must have an active Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) and must submit the proposal under the legal entity name for which the FEIN was assigned. The Missouri Department of Revenue, through the Office of Administration, is posting an RFP for the Union License Office contract, since the current contract is close to expiring. Interested bidders have approximately 10 business days to submit their proposal for the operation of the license office in the competitive bid process, as outlined in the RFP. A scheduled tour of the current location may be requested by emailing the procurement contact listed on MissouriBUYS.

Proposals will be evaluated on items as outlined in the RFP. All of the proposals will be evaluated by a review team at the Department of Revenue, and the proposal that scores best in the areas outlined in the RFP will be selected to operate the office.

Resources to Help Guide Potential Bidders:

 

License offices are operated by independent contractors and are overseen by the Missouri Department of Revenue. All license office contracts in Missouri are awarded through a competitive bid process.




St. Louis City Attorneys to ask State Supreme Court to Overturn Police Protection Law
9/27/2023
Attorneys for the City of St. Louis will ask the Missouri Supreme Court today to reject a 2021 law that boosts protections for police who are being investigated for misconduct. The law was passed in response to the 2020 death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police. It not only offers police protections but, in some cases, also increases penalties for protesters. It includes a police officer "Bill of Rights" that gives them written notice of an allegation before a formal inquiry can begin and also places a 90-day limit on misconduct investigations. The Missouri law was sponsored by Republican state Senator Bill Eigel, who is from St. Charles County.



Fatal Accident
9/27/2023
Fatal traffic accident in Franklin County Tuesday afternoon. The state patrol says it happened at 3:20 in the five thousand block of Highway K. 60-year old Jasmin Isak was Southbound when he missed a curve, ran off the road, struck a culvert, a sign and a tree. Isak was dead at the scene. The patrol says he was not wearing a seat belt.



Over 90K Missourians in SNAP, WIC Programs Would Feel Shutdown Impacts
9/27/2023
Nutrition programs for women and children across Missouri could be greatly affected if there's even a partial federal government shutdown. The White House is warning that people who received SNAP and WIC benefits, which help them afford healthy food, could see substantial cuts. Officials say in Missouri, a shutdown could impact benefits for nearly 91-thousand people. The WIC program is funded by the U.S. Agricultural Department's appropriations bill, which hasn't been passed by Congress. It provides support for low-income women who are pregnant or nursing, as well as for children up to five years old.



Budweiser Agrees to Stop Docking Clydesdales' Tails
9/27/2023
The parent company of Budweiser says it has agreed to stop docking the tails of its Clydesdale horses. The animal rights group PETA says Anheuser-Busch InBev announced that it's ending the practice after the activist organization pressured the beer maker. PETA says it launched protests, nationwide ads and a video against the company for altering the Clydesdales' tailbones for cosmetic reasons. PETA contends the docking practice is a permanent disfigurement that leaves a horse unable to swat flies or use his tail to communicate. The news of Budweiser ending docking has come in conjunction with an announcement last week that the company's care and treatment for its Clydesdales and Dalmatians has been certified by the American Humane organization.



Iowa Doctor Sues Missouri Hospital Over COVID Vax Mandate
9/27/2023
An Iowa physician who has been critical of the COVID-19 vaccine is now suing a Missouri hospital system over its staff-vaccination requirements. Dr. Mollie James is suing Mercy Health in the Circuit Court of St. Louis County. Her lawsuit seeks unspecified damages for religious discrimination and retaliation after she resigned in 2021, when Mercy St. Louis mandated that all employees receive a COVID-19 vaccination. The lawsuit also claims Mercy intentionally discriminated against James for associating with Christians who oppose vaccination as a matter of their religious faith. The physician has spoken publicly about the issue on social media, talk radio and conservative podcasts.



Missouri AG Sues Wentzville School Board
9/27/2023
The Missouri state attorney general has sued the Wentzville School Board for reportedly violating the state's open meetings law. A-G Andrew Bailey says the school board was not in a public meeting session when it discussed its transgender bathroom policy. The lawsuit was filed after two new school board members filed a complaint. Renee Henke and Jennifer Olson were elected in April. Officials with Wentzville Schools issued a statement saying they haven't received a copy of the lawsuit but are committed to transparency and complying with the state's sunshine laws.



MDC offering in person hunter education skills session at the Cuba Police Dept. Oct. 12
9/27/2023

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will offer a Hunter Education Skills Session Thursday, Oct 12, at 6 p.m. in Crawford County at the Cuba Police Department, 602 South Franklin Avenue.  This will enable students who have completed the online or classroom portion of the program to complete their certification for fall hunting seasons.

Hunter Education (HED) certification is required for all hunters born on or after January 1, 1967, and who are 16 years of age or older.  There is an 11-year old age minimum requirement to take the Missouri HED Class.  The HED program can serve as a refresher for seasoned hunters as well. 

Missouri’s HED offers two components.  The knowledge portion can be completed by taking an online/mobile course, using a self-study guide available at MDC offices, or in a traditional in-person classroom setting.  The hands-on skills session enables students to demonstrate their understanding of the concepts taught in the knowledge portion.

The Hunter Education Skills Session is free, however advanced online registration is required at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/4ev.

Those age 11-15 must complete either the self-study guide, online, or classroom portion, and attend a skills session.  Anyone 16 and older may complete the book or classroom portion and attend the free skills session or complete the class exclusively online for a fee which is paid to the online vendor.  Those wanting a copy of the self-study guide can also contact Conservation Agent Ryan Catron at ryan.catron@mdc.mo.gov.

Participants should bring their skills session qualifier certificate or a student manual with the review questions completed. Students 15 and under must also bring a copy of their birth certificate or other proof of age. The final exam will be administered at the end of the skills session.

Hunter education has reduced hunting accidents and deaths by more than 70 percent since it became mandatory in 1987.




UM Recognizes Bass Pro Shops Founder for Conservation Efforts
9/27/2023
The University of Missouri is recognizing the founder of Bass Pro Shops for his conservation efforts. The school's board of curators have approved the naming of an institute in honor of Johnny Morris, who started the outdoor company in Springfield in 1972. The university says the Johnny Morris Institute of Fisheries, Wetlands and Aquatic Systems will work to cultivate conservation professionals through research and workforce development. They add that the institute will be a national center for knowledge and best management practices for fisheries, wildlife, wetlands and aquatic systems.



DOR Officials Start New Wait Time Limits at Driver's License Offices
9/27/2023
The Missouri Department of Revenue is trying to cut customer wait times at its state driver's license offices. Starting October 1st, the DOR will launch a wait time compliance program with the goal of getting customers get in and out within 15 and 30 minutes. The program also applies to privately-run licensing offices that have contracts with the state. The move comes with some oversight; field coordinators will check on overall performance of the offices each quarter. Failure to abide by the state's contract time could result in penalties or a contractor possibly losing the office.



Schnucks Hosting Company-Wide Career Fair on September 28
9/26/2023
What: St. Louis-based and family-owned Schnuck Markets, Inc. is hosting a company-wide career fair at all 115 stores across Missouri, Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin on Thursday, September 28. Schnucks plans to hire for a variety of positions offering flexible schedules, career advancement, the option to be paid after each shift, health benefits (after a qualifying period) and other teammate perks. Part-time positions and full-time department manager positions (at select locations) are also available. When: Thursday, September 28 1 - 5 p.m. Where: All Schnucks Store Locations Note: To expedite the process, prospective teammates planning to attend the fair should visit www.schnucks.com/careers and complete the online application prior to attending. About Schnucks Founded in St. Louis in 1939, Schnuck Markets, Inc. is a third and fourth generation, family-owned grocery retailer committed to nourishing people’s lives. Schnucks operates 115 stores, serving customers in Missouri, Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin and employs 12,000 teammates. According to Forbes’ 2022 rankings, Schnucks is the 178 th largest privately-owned company in the United States and the 14 th largest privately-owned grocer. Schnucks is committed to helping communities thrive and as a champion for reducing hunger, the company annually donates more than $14 million in food to pantries that help those in need. 



MDC asks turkey hunters for input on possible changes to hunting regulations Possible changes include all-day spring hunting and reduced harvest limits for fall seasons. Comment online by Oct. 6.
9/26/2023
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is seeking input from turkey hunters on possible changes to spring and fall wild turkey hunting seasons, including all-day spring hunting and reduced harvest limits for fall seasons. “In the nearly 20 years since the last significant regulations change for turkey hunting, much has changed for both hunters and wild turkeys,” explained MDC Wild Turkey Biologist Nick Oakley. “Turkey populations across the country and in Missouri have declined, predictably, after a post-restoration boom. Turkey hunting participation, over time, has also declined.” According to MDC, Missouri’s spring turkey hunting season, specifically the start date, was designed to take place after the peak in turkey breeding had occurred. Additionally, MDC research indicates that the current season structure, combined with the reproductive ecology of turkeys, has resulted in relatively low harvest rates on juvenile and adult gobblers over the years. “This means that a small increase in the total number of the males harvested each spring would be sustainable,” explained Oakley. “Extending shooting hours during the spring season may expand the opportunity for individuals to take up turkey hunting or offer more time for others to return to the field while maintaining a healthy turkey population.” Oakley added that MDC is considering changes to fall turkey hunting regulations that aim to balance the wellbeing of the turkey population while trying to maximize hunting opportunities. “Considering the increase in stakeholder concern over hen harvest in the fall, we are considering several possibilities that may reduce hen harvest while maintaining as much of the fall hunting tradition as possible,” he said. “Information gathered during this input period will be used by MDC as we consider ways to reverse declining hunter participation.” MDC encourages turkey hunters to go online to?mdc.mo.gov/turkey-regs for more information on potential regulation changes and to provide comment. The comment period closes Oct. 6. The webpage also has information on the history and structure of Missouri turkey hunting and possible effects of regulation changes on turkey numbers and hunter opportunities.



Missouri Treasurer's Office Unclaimed Property Auction Starts Wednesday
9/26/2023
Missouri's unclaimed property auction starts tomorrow in Cape Girardeau. The state treasurer's office says the property is from abandoned safety deposit boxes and includes stamps, coins, baseball cards and a journal from the Civil War. People can preview the goods in person at the Drury Plaza Hotel today. The auction begins at 9:00 a.m. Wednesday and continues Thursday.



City Holds First Public Meeting on Rams' Settlement Money
9/26/2023
The city's board of alderman held a public zoom meeting about how St. Louis should best spend 250-million-dollars received as Rams' settlement money. Discussion on Monday night mostly centered on the process for spending the funds but didn't specifically address how the community thinks the money should be used. City officials say they'll decide in November on the feasibility and costs of the ideas that have been presented and then hold additional hearings next spring about which ones to fund. So far, no specific plans have been released and an online survey to gather ideas continues until mid-October. The settlement money has gained seven-million-dollars in interest in the two years since the money was awarded in the NFL settlement over the Rams' move to Los Angeles from St. Louis.



Accident
9/26/2023
Gray Summit man seriously injured in a one car accident in Franklin County. The state highway patrol says it happened at 11:20 Monday morning on Highway MM and Maple View Lane. The patrol says 60-year old Paul DeClue was Northbound when he ran off the road and struck a tree. DeClue was taken to Mercy in St. Louis by Meramec Ambulance with serious injuries.



Nurses' 24-hour Strike Demonstration Ends Today
9/26/2023
Saint Louis University Hospital nurses say they'll end their 24-hour strike today. The union members of National Nurses United say they've been protesting what they say are hospital administrators not caring about patient care, nurse recruitment and workplace violence. The union says SLU Hospital nurses have been in contract negotiations since May with little success.



Study Cites Deficiencies in Rural Health Care
9/26/2023
A new University of Missouri study is looking at rural health care in Missouri and across the country. Researcher Julie Kapp says her work shows that health care providers need to change their approach for rural residents. Her study recommends providing basic support and social issues that are often not thought of as being health care-related. Those issues include creating a transportation system for getting rural patients to appointments, as well as a wider focus on implementing more broadband internet for telehealth services and partnering with food banks.



State Senator Bill Eigel Officially Now Candidate for Governor
9/26/2023
A Republican State Senator from Weldon Spring has officially launched his campaign to run for governor of Missouri. Bill Eigel, who lives in St. Charles County, formally filed for office Monday. Eigel said during his announcement speech that Missouri isn't providing "the right environment" that helps businesses grow and or attracts families. He's also promised to cut taxes. Two other Republicans, Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft and Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe, have also declared they're running for governor. Missouri House Leader Crystal Quade is the only Democratic to announce a run so far.



Cole County Judge Rejects Secretary of State's Summary Of Abortion Initiative Petitions
9/26/2023
A circuit judge in Cole County has re-written ballot question summaries crafted by the Missouri Secretary of State's office. In a ruling Monday morning, Judge Jon Beetem wrote that the summaries crafted by John Ashcroft completely ignored the initiative proposals' protections for contraceptives and other reproductive health needs. The judge's decision will likely result in appeals and more reviews, further delaying the final decision on which summaries will be used. But to get the summaries on the 2024 ballot, backers must first secure more than 170-thousand signatures from registered voters by early May.



Governor Parson Announces Two Judicial Appointments
9/25/2023

Governor Mike Parson announced judicial appointments to the Missouri Court of Appeals, Eastern District and the 16th Judicial Circuit.

The Honorable Michael S. Wright, of Warrenton, was appointed to the Missouri Court of Appeals, Eastern District.

Judge Wright currently serves as an associate circuit judge in Warren County. He holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration from the University of Missouri–Columbia and a Juris Doctor from Washburn University. He will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable Sherri B. Sullivan.

The Honorable Jessica Agnelly Krawczyk, of Lee’s Summit, was appointed as Circuit Judge for the 16th Judicial Circuit.

Judge Agnelly Krawczyk serves as an associate circuit judge in Jackson County. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Avila University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri–Kansas City. She will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable Marco A. Roldan.




Overdose Data Now Available on City Website
9/25/2023
The city of St. Louis has relaunched their Overdose Data page on the city's website. Promoters say having the information available will allow people to get an understanding of past and current overdose trends in the city, as well as efforts toward preventing future overdose fatalities. The web pages feature overdose fatalities by year, month and race. The data is provided by the M-E's office.



Three People Die In Head-On Collision On Interstate 44
9/25/2023
Three people have been killed after a head-on collision on Interstate 44. It happened Sunday morning about 10:00 near St. Clair, Missouri. Officials with the state highway patrol say a Jeep Cherokee, driven by 64-year old Tina Degonia of House Springs, was driving the wrong way and struck the first car. Two people, 26-year old Sabrina Sutton and 27-year old Rachel Worley of Indiana, were killed. Degonia then went on to hit a third and fourth car - but the people inside weren't seriously hurt. Degonia died at the scene. Investigators are trying to piece together why she was driving the wrong way.



Group That Works to Eliminate Feral Hogs Says Population Is Down By 65%
9/25/2023
Promoters for the Missouri Feral Hog Elimination Partnership say they've helped reduce the wild pig population in the state by 65 percent. They say they're trying to kill off populations of these hogs because they're invasive animals and threaten Missouri's hay, beef and forestry industries. The feral pigs spread diseases like swine brucellosis to humans and livestock. There are 48 elimination specialists focused on finding the feral hogs in Missouri forests and watersheds, which are mostly south of Interstate 44.



State Sues Provider for Giving Puberty Blockers to Minors Without Mental Health Assessment
9/25/2023
Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has filed suit against a non-profit healthcare company for providing gender transition drugs. The actions came Friday against Southampton Community Healthcare, Incorporated, which practices in St. Louis. The state's suit claims the provider gave puberty blockers or cross-sex hormones, to minors without comprehensive mental health assessments. The attorney general says such testing was required, even before a new state law came about. The Missouri Save Adolescents from Experimentation Act went into effect in June.



St. Louis Pledges To Manage, Protect Water From Mississippi River
9/25/2023
Mayors up and down the Mississippi River have taken steps to protect the water in the historic waterway. St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones was among the Attendees at last week's annual meeting of the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative. The group passed a resolution toward developing a multi-state agreement to keep western states from diverting water in the Mississippi to dry southwestern states. The resolution called the Mississippi River Compact was agreed to by lawmakers in all ten states that border the Mississippi. Its proposed compact would protect not only the water within the Mississippi River Basin but also the ecosystem and environmental services that it provides. The group also signed an agreement to collaborate with Indigenous nations in the effort.



MDC confirms 117th confirmed mountain lion sighting in Missouri
9/23/2023

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) confirms that an adult elk was killed by a mountain lion in Shannon County on Sept. 12.

Reports of a mountain lion sighting were sent to MDC staff early on Sept. 12, and members of MDC’s Large Carnivore Response Team responded to the area later that same day to confirm the sighting. Trail camera images were used to confirm that a mountain lion was in the area and had returned to the elk carcass to feed. “Mountain lions are natural predators to elk, and this scenario is nothing to be concerned about,” says MDC Furbearer Biologist Nate Bowersock. “Here in Missouri, we have an abundant of natural foods for mountain lions. While we do get questions regarding livestock, there has never been a confirmed instance of a mountain lion killing livestock in Missouri.”

Mountain lions are known to travel through Missouri, but there is no known breeding population in the state. MDC staff did collect genetic samples from the site which are in the process of being analyzed to provide further information about the animal such as the sex of the animal. Most confirmed sightings of mountain lions in Missouri are males.  

MDC continues to monitor confirmed mountain lion sightings in the state, and this sighting marks the 117th confirmed sighting since 1994. Suspected mountain lion sightings can be reported to MDC by emailing photos, video, or physical evidence to mountain.lion@mdc.mo.gov. More information about mountain lions in Missouri can be found at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/4eV.





Nurses To Strike Monday At St. Louis University Hospital
9/22/2023
As many as 500 nurses at a St. Louis-area health care system say they'll be on the picket lines Monday morning. Union nurses at SSM Health St. Louis University Hospital have called for the strike after they say months of contract negotiations have come up empty. The hospital nurses say the facility is short-staffed, which poses safety concerns for patients as well as employees. The union also contends the hospital hasn't addressed various complaints and additional concerns about workplace violence. A statement from SSM Health says that the hospital is "well-prepared" to ensure there's no disruption in care or service.



Guns N' Roses Concert At Busch Stadium Canceled
9/22/2023
A postponed Guns N' Roses concert set to be held at Busch stadium has now been officially canceled. The concert was planned for September 9th before being postponed, with Busch Stadium announcing it had been officially canceled, as event organizers were unable to find a new date. Lead singer Axl Rose said in an emailed release that both himself and the band were "really bummed." Those who purchased tickets through the St. Louis Cardinals will be issued a refund through the original payment method.



Inmate Who Escaped St. Louis Hospital Captured
9/22/2023
A manhunt is over for a convicted child sex offender who escaped custody. St. Louis County Police posted on social media Thursday night that Tommy Wayne Boyd had been captured. Boyd is serving a 30-year sentence at Potosi Correctional Facility for enticement of a child, and escaped while receiving treatment at a St. Louis hospital. Two Missouri Department of Corrections officers were guarding Boyd, and an investigation is underway as to how he managed to just walk out of the hospital.



UAW Strike Enters Final Day
9/22/2023
The United Auto Workers' strike against the Big Three U.S automakers is now entering it's final day. Today is the deadline set by UAW President Shawn Fain that will see more workers heading to the picket lines if progress isn't made. Nearly 13-thousand auto workers remain on strike at three plants in Ohio, Michigan and Missouri. Auto workers are demanding better pay and pension benefits.



Arrest In Robertsville Thursday Morning
9/22/2023

On August 19th, 2023, at approximately 4:00pm, a Franklin County Deputy responded to the area of Circle Drive in Robertsville, MO for a report of a suspicious vehicle.  The reporting party stated a white male and female occupant were parked on and walking around her property.  Upon the arrival of the deputy, he contacted a white male who hurriedly walked around the vehicle from the passenger side and got into the driver’s seat. The vehicle was disabled with a flat tire. Once the suspect was contacted, the deputy asked for identification however, the subject stated, he didn't have any.  As the deputy was at the driver’s door, the suspect put the vehicle in drive, spinning its tires and fleeing eastbound on Circle Drive towards Hwy AK.  The deputy was able to follow gouges in the pavement eastbound on Hwy O to Nike Base Road to an address in the 3700 block of Windfall Place. Deputies were unable to contact anyone at the residence.   After viewing bodycam footage of the incident, deputies were able to positively identify the driver who fled as Joseph Weatherby a 30 year of age male.  Weatherby at the time had numerous active warrants for traffic violations through other agencies. 

 

At approximately 1:30am on September 21st, 2023, Franklin County Communications received a report of a dark colored SUV travelling eastbound on Hwy AT from St. Mary’s Road throwing a shower of sparks. Upon the arrival of deputies in the area, they located the suspect vehicle which had a flat tire on the lot of Petro Mart at the intersection of Hwy AT and Hwy 100.  The deputies pulled in behind the vehicle and engaged their emergency lights. Upon deputies exiting their patrol unit, the vehicle fled eastbound on Hwy 100 driving in the opposite lane of traffic. Deputies conversed on the area of Hwy 100 and I44 in Gray Summit.  The vehicle was located at a residence on Arft Lane. Deputies were able to locate a male and female suspect who fled into a wooded area. It was found male suspect was the same as the suspect from the previous incident. A deputy suffered minor injuries from a fall while attempting to take the suspects into custody.  

 

Weatherby was taken into custody for multiple active warrants through Pacific and Eureka Police Departments. Charges are being sought through the Franklin County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for Resisting Arrest by flight, Driving While Revoked, and Assault 3rd Special Victim as a result of the deputy being injured.

 




Sullivan Man Charged with Assault and Kidnapping
9/22/2023
On September 19th, 2023, at approximately 4:30pm, Franklin County Deputies responded to a residence in the 300 block of Hwy 185 in Sullivan, MO for a welfare check of a female subject due a past and present history of domestic violence occurring in the residence. Upon arriving in the area, a Franklin County Deputy met with the victim nearby. The victim reported, on September 17th, 2023, she was involved in a physical altercation inside the residence with her husband. The victim reported, she had been struck numerous times in the upper body. The suspect would not allow the victim to leave their bedroom at which time further assaults on the victim took place. The suspect eventually departed the residence. Upon contacting deputies on September 19th, 2023, she reported soreness that may have occurred from the alleged assault. After speaking with the victim and checking past reports involving the suspect, they located past incidents of domestic violence involving the same suspect and victim. Deputies later responded to the residence to make contact with the suspect who had returned home. The victim had left the residence. The suspect refused to exit the residence to speak with deputies. Deputies sought and were issued warrants through the Franklin County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for the suspect. After warrants were obtained, deputies returned to the residence and effected an arrest on the suspect identified as Matthew Nolie a 38-year-old from the Sullivan area. Charges were issued for Domestic Assault 2nd degree and Kidnapping 2nd degree with NO BOND.



Federal Government Approves Governor Parson’s Request For Major Disaster Declaration
9/22/2023

Today, Governor Mike Parson announced that President Joe Biden has approved his request for a major disaster declaration to help local governments and nonprofit agencies in 33 counties in response to multiple severe weather systems that impacted Missouri from July 29 – August 14.

The declaration makes federal public assistance available for the repair of damaged roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure as well as reimbursement of associated emergency response and recovery costs. The Governor’s September 5 request included more than $14 million in qualifying expenses that had already been identified.

“This is important news for the communities that have been repeatedly impacted by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding this summer,” Governor Parson said. “We appreciate the President making federal assistance available, which will provide millions of dollars in much needed support to help repair roads, bridges, and other vitally important infrastructure across the state.”

The following counties are included in the President’s disaster declaration: Adair, Barry, Barton, Bates, Benton, Bollinger, Camden, Christian, Clark, Crawford, Dade, Gentry, Greene, Grundy, Henry, Iron, Knox, Madison, Maries, Mississippi, Morgan, New Madrid, Ozark, Perry, Scotland, Scott, Shelby, St. Clair, Ste. Genevieve, Taney, Vernon, Wayne, and Worth.

The disaster declaration also makes assistance available statewide through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Hazard Mitigation Program, which assists with cost-effective measures to reduce the potential for future damage to public infrastructure as a result of natural disasters.

Individuals with unmet needs should contact United Way 211. Call 2-1-1 for assistance or visit http://211helps.org. For additional resources and information about disaster recovery in Missouri, please visit recovery.mo.gov.




President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Missouri
9/22/2023

FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Missouri to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from July 29 – Aug. 14, 2023.

Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding in the counties of Adair, Barry, Barton, Bates, Benton, Bollinger, Camden, Christian, Clark, Crawford, Dade, Gentry, Greene, Grundy, Henry, Iron, Knox, Madison, Maries, Mississippi, Morgan, New Madrid, Ozark, Perry, Scotland, Scott, Shelby, St. Clair, Ste. Genevieve, Taney, Vernon, Wayne and Worth counties.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

Andrew P. Meyer has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.
 


 




State Capitol Renovations On Hold From Challenges With MoDot Building Next Door
9/21/2023
Plans to renovate the Missouri Capitol are on hold. The long-planned 755-million-dollar expansion and upgrades were set to start last week. But the work has been paused to try to resolve longtime questions about the headquarters of the Missouri Department of Transportation, which is next door. MoDOT would have been moved out of the building so that its offices could be used during the capitol renovations, but the state might not have the authority to make that happen. That's because of an ownership question and whether the building has already been paid for by the state. The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission controls funding for the MoDOT building, not the state, as mandated in the Missouri constitution.



Regional GM Plant Affected by Wentzville Strike
9/21/2023
The impact of the GM Strike at its stamping plant in Wentzville strike is reaching further across the region. An official with the General Motors plant in Kansas City, Kansas, confirms that their facility is being idled. They say that the United Auto Workers' strike in Wentzville has led to a critical shortage of stampings supplied to GM Fairfax and two-thousand employees are being laid off there. GM officials said in a statement Wednesday that they'll continue to try to reach an agreement with the union as quickly as possible. Their website says the company's current proposal includes a 20-percent raise for employees. That reportedly would allow about 85-percent of union employees to earn a base pay of 82-thousand dollars per year.



State Voters Can Now Register Or Change Party Affiliation Online
9/21/2023
A recent change to Missouri law makes it easier to note your party affiliation when you register to vote. Secretary of State John Ashcroft also says on the state website that you can additionally note your preference or change your party affiliation by completing an online form. Officials say the information will be used to determine your identity. Once you fill out the information online, your responses will be submitted to local election authorities.



University Of Missouri Gets Midwest's First Autonomous Tractor
9/21/2023
The first self-driving tractor in the Midwest is being used at the University Of Missouri. Researchers say the Monarch MK-V tractor was funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It can run on electricity or a biofuels generator and be used autonomously or driven by a person. The tractor will be used for teaching and research in MU's agriculture and engineering programs.



Low Water Levels On Mississippi Could Lead To Higher Grain Prices
9/21/2023
Economists are predicting a rise in grain prices due to the cost of transportation on a Mississippi River. The great continent-spanning waterway is threatened by low water levels, especially in Missouri. When river levels drop, barge navigation is impacted. According to the UDSA AMS Grain Transportation Report, barge freight rates on river have increased by over 50 percent. The National Weather Service says river levels won't likely improve through the end of the month.



Debate Over Banning Books At Public Libraries Continues
9/21/2023
The debate over the appropriateness of a library book some view as pornographic continues in St. Charles County. Supporters say the book "Bang Like a Porn Star: Sex Tips from the Pros" should stay on the shelves of the St. Charles County Library as a matter of free speech. Opponents say the shelves are accessible to kids and the book should be removed because it contains graphic language and images. Another book some parents want banned by the library board is "It's Perfectly Normal: Changing Bodies, Growing Up, Sex, Gender and Sexual Health."



Nurses To Strike Monday At St. Louis University Hospital
9/21/2023
As many as 500 nurses at a St. Louis-area health care system say they'll be on the picket lines Monday morning. Union nurses at SSM Health St. Louis University Hospital have called for the strike after they say months of contract negotiations have come up empty. The hospital nurses say the facility is short-staffed, which poses safety concerns for patients as well as employees. The union also contends the hospital hasn't addressed various complaints and additional concerns about workplace violence. A statement from SSM Health says that the hospital is "well-prepared" to ensure there's no disruption in care or service.



Missouri Misses Out On Federal Funds At Historically Black University
9/20/2023
Missouri is one of 16 states that are missing out on federal funding for historically Black land-grant universities. The U.S. Secretaries of Education and Agriculture have sent a letter to Missouri Governor Mike Parson stating that Lincoln University in Jefferson City has been severely underfunded. It says in the last 30 years alone, over 361-million-dollars would have been available for the school if equitable funding had been applied. The letter also said the Education and Agriculture Departments would welcome the chance to work with the state budget office to increase funding.



Accidents
9/20/2023
A St. Louis man is dead, killed in a motorcycle accident in Franklin County.  The patrol says it happened at 6:20 Tuesday evening in the 51-hundred block of Oak Grove Church Road.  The patrol says 39-year old Michael Roberson was Westbound on a Harley when he ran off the road, overturned and struck a tree.  Roberson was taken to Mercy in Washington where he died. 

Four injured in a three vehicle accident in Jefferson County.  The patrol says it happened at three o'clock Tuesday afternoon on Highway 30 at Local Hillsboro Road.  78-year old Walter Venable of Sullivan failed to stop for a red light and struck the rear of a car driven by 18-year old Carmen Schmidt of Cedar Hill, knocking Schmidt into a car driven by 58-year old Carl Brenner of Kansas.  Walter Venable and passenger, 70-year old Sharon Venable of Sullivan, suffered moderate injuries.  Schmidt sustained minor injuries and a passenger in Brenner's car, 60-year old Mary Brenner of Kansas suffered minor injuries.

A Warrenton woman was injured in a one car crash in Lincoln County.  The patrol says it happened at 1:25 Tuesday afternoon on Jacks Road at Highway KK.  64-year old Mary Richey was Southbound when she ran off the road on a curve and overturned.  Her injuries were minor.  



Ring Video Doorbell Company Coming to St. Louis
9/20/2023
A personalized home security company will soon move to St. Louis. The incoming CEO of the Ring Video Doorbell says the newest version of the company, Door dot com, will be based in a new warehouse off North Price Road later this year. Jamie Siminoff says the company's focus is smart doorbells, home security cameras and alarm systems as well as electronic locks for apartment buildings. He says the company chose St. Louis for its "amazing" people," diverse workforce and low cost of living.



Mountain Lion Seen In Shannon County
9/20/2023
A mountain lion has been seen in Shannon County. The sighting a week ago has been confirmed by the Missouri Department of Conservation Wednesday as photo evidence showed the big cat killed an adult elk. Over the past 30 years, the department has confirmed just under 120 mountain lion sightings all over Missouri. Shannon County is located in the Ozark Mountains in the southern part of the state.



Missouri Colleges Expand Cannabis Growing Programs
9/20/2023
The number of cannabis certificate programs at Missouri state colleges is rapidly expanding due to more workers being needed. The recreational pot industry was made legal in Missouri last November and officials say there are now more than 17-thousand cannabis-industry workers. Beginning this semester, students can get a bachelor's degree in cannabis and natural medicinals at Truman State University in Kirksville. Most state courses are offered online. But some programs, including the one at Truman and one at St. Louis Community College at Meramec, provide hands-on instruction, using hemp plants instead of marijuana.



Extreme Drought Conditions Expand Across Some Parts of Missouri
9/20/2023
Extreme drought conditions are growing across some parts of Missouri. The latest figures from the U.S. Drought Monitor summary for the Midwest show the extreme conditions categorized as D-3 have expanded across southwestern Missouri. Officials say that data is based on soil moisture samples and Standard Precipitation Indexes over the past 120-days. Forty percent of the state's corn crop was classified as poor or very poor, according to the drought monitor.



ECC to Celebrate Manufacturing Week with Industry Leaders and Business Event
9/20/2023

East Central College will celebrate the importance of the Manufacturing industry in the region through several events during the first week of October. 

Manufacturing Summit: Oct. 4

There will be two discussions held in the ECC Business and Industry Center on Wednesday, Oct. 4, as part of a Manufacturing Summit. A Workforce Training and Retention Panel will be held 10:30 a.m. to noon with representatives from the U.S. Department of Labor, Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development, Missouri Department of Economic Development, Connections to Success and the Jefferson/Franklin Workforce Investment Board.

The panel will discuss workforce retention solutions, employment services, the value of apprenticeships, state of Missouri workforce training funding and workforce initiatives.

A State of Manufacturing discussion will be hosted by Jeff Pinkerton, the Director of Economic Research from the Missouri Department of Economic Development, from 1-2:30 p.m. The discussion will center on the current industry and will provide an analysis of future Manufacturing trends for the Franklin County region.

A free lunch will be provided from noon to 1 p.m. Those interested in attending the Oct. 4 events must RSVP at www.eastcentral.edu/cwd/.

Business After Hours: Oct. 5

ECC is partnering with five area Chambers of Commerce to host a Business After Hours on Thursday, Oct. 5, 4:30-7 p.m., also at the Business and Industry Center. The Union, Washington, Pacific, St. Clair and Sullivan chambers will assist in the outreach and marketing of the event to their members.

Complimentary food and adult beverages will be provided. Tours of the Advanced Manufacturing programs will be provided as well as the opportunity to experience a virtual training environment using virtual reality headsets. ECC’s Business and Industry Center is located at 42 Prairie Dell Plaza in Union, near the Great 8 Cinema. Contact Todd Tracy at 636-649-5807 or Todd.Tracy@eastcentral.edu for additional information.

 




MoDOT to close ramps between I-270 and I-44 September 22-25
9/20/2023

Drivers who use Interstate 270 near I-44 in St. Louis County should allow extra time or consider alternate routes to avoid ramp closures this weekend.

Weather permitting, crews will close the ramp from southbound I-270 to westbound I-44 (Exit 5B) Friday, September 22 at 8 p.m. to place a protective epoxy overlay on the ramp. The ramps to eastbound I-44 will remain open.

During that time, crews will also close the right lane on southbound I-270 near I-44.

All lanes and ramps will reopen by 5 a.m. Monday, September 25.

To detour around the southbound to westbound closure, drivers can continue southbound on I 270 to Route 30 (Gravois Road/Exit 3), cross over the interstate and take northbound I-270 to westbound I-44.




MDC asks public to report hemorrhagic disease in Missouri deer
9/20/2023

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reports moderate levels of hemorrhagic disease (HD) activity in Missouri’s deer population this summer. HD is a general term for epizootic hemorrhagic disease and the bluetongue virus.

MDC has recently confirmed HD in deer in Cole, Greene, Howell, Miller, St. Louis, and Webster counties. MDC has also received at least 305 reports of additional suspected HD cases from locations throughout the state. 

“Hemorrhagic disease is a naturally occurring virus that infects deer through the bite of a native midge commonly called no-see-ums or gnats,” explained MDC Wildlife Health Program Supervisor Deb Hudman. “HD outbreaks are most common in Missouri between July and October and HD transmission ends after a heavy frost kills the midges.”

Clinical signs of HD in deer vary but may include an unwillingness to move, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the head, neck, or tongue.

“HD can cause a high fever, prompting infected deer to seek water,” Hudman said. “Deer that are sick may appear dazed, lethargic, and nonresponsive. Deer that die from HD usually do so in a matter of days following infection and are often found dead in or near water with no outward signs of illness.”

Hudman noted that not all deer die from HD and those deer that survive develop immunity. There is no cure or vaccine for HD and not much can be done to stop the disease from running its course. However, reports of deer with HD can help MDC biologists determine the impacts of the disease on deer numbers in specific areas.

“We receive reports of suspected cases of HD every year and ask the public to report suspected cases of HD to their local MDC office, conservation agent, or to email the information to WildlifeHeath@mdc.mo.gov,” said Hudman.

Hudman noted that humans do not get HD, so handling and consumption of meat from deer that have recovered from the disease poses no health hazard.

The most significant HD outbreak recorded in Missouri occurred in 2012 during an extreme drought.

“Outbreaks tend to be more severe in drought years because deer congregate near the limited water sources where midges are more likely to be present, thus increasing the likelihood of disease transmission,” said Hudman.

Hunters harvested just shy of 300,000 deer during the 2022-2023 deer season – one of the highest harvests on record.

MDC Private Lands Deer Biologist Kevyn Wiskirchen indicated that there may be some impacts during this year’s hunting season in localized areas that have experienced significant deer deaths from HD, but the overall hunting outlook remains good.

“For landowners that have found numerous dead deer this summer because of HD and are concerned about deer numbers on their property, reducing harvest pressure on does will help to mitigate the effects of HD,” said Wiskirchen.

Based on the number of suspect HD reports received by MDC so far this season, Wiskirchen indicated that the locations where taking such measures are needed will likely be very limited.

MDC asks the public to report suspected cases of HD to a local MDC office, conservation agent, or email information to WildlifeHealth@mdc.mo.gov.

Learn more about HD and view of map of suspect HD reports by county at mdc.mo.gov/wildlife/wildlife-diseases/hemorrhagic-disease.

HD or CWD?

HD and chronic wasting disease (CWD) both occur in Missouri and can show similar signs and symptoms.

CWD is a 100%-fatal illness in white-tailed deer and other members of the deer family, called cervids, and is slowly spreading in Missouri.

HD has periodically affected deer in Missouri for decades. HD can have significant short-term impacts on local deer numbers but has never been shown to have a long-term impact on the overall population.

Learn more about the comparison of HD and CWD symptoms, spread, and causes of the two diseases at mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/deer/chronic-wasting-disease/cwd-vs-ehd.



Roadwork to Close Ramps on I-270 near I-44 This Weekend
9/20/2023
Drivers who use Interstate 270 near Interstate - 44 in should allow extra time this weekend. MoDOT engineers says ramps in the area will be closed to coat them with a protective epoxy overlay. Crews will close the ramp from southbound Interstate 270 to westbound Interstate-44, Exit 5B, beginning Friday night at 8 p.m. The ramps to eastbound I-44 will remain open. The right lane on southbound I-270 in the same area will also be closed. All lanes and ramps are set to reopen by 5 a.m. Monday morning.



Video of Missouri Lawmakers Using Flamethrowers Goes Viral
9/20/2023
A video showing two Republican state senators from St. Charles County using flamethrowers is going viral on social media. Some users had claimed the lawmakers' actions were examples of taking book-burning to the extreme. State Senators Nick Schroer and Bill Eigel tell KTVI-TV they were asked to demonstrate the flamethrowers at a Republican fundraiser and say the boxes burned were simply made of cardboard and were not books. Eigel, who is also running for Missouri governor, has posted video that he says shows the full context of the event.



Missouri State Archives, Crider Family, and Fort Leonard Wood to be Represented at Annual History Fair
9/19/2023
The Franklin County Historical Society will be once again hosting the Annual History Fair on October 29th at the Knights of Columbus Hall at 700 Clearview Dr. The event will take place from Noon to 4PM. The Missouri State Archives will be in attendance as a vendor. Area residents will be able to ask the Archives and other vendors questions about local history and genealogy as well as learn about the history of Franklin and Gasconade County. Vendors for the Fair this year include Authors Ross Malone and Robert Muenz, Missouri Pacific (railroad) Historical Society, Four Rivers Genealogy, Meramec Valley Genealogical Society, Francis Wilhelmi Camp 17 Sons of Union Soldiers, Daughters of the American Revolution, Washington Historical Society, newcomers Mid Missouri History Associates, and Blacksmith Allen Verman. It would not be a history fair without the longstanding vendor of the Laubinger brothers and their antique tools. Auntie Jen’s Family Trees will not only be back with her genealogy table, but she also will have many yearbooks from Fort Leonard Wood. There are many people from the area that went to Basic Training at this base. Returning for a second year is Patty Eggers who will not only bring items from her private collection of New Haven, but also her collection of Martin Schuster postcards. She is the granddaughter of Schuster who was a well-respected Hermann photographer famous for his postcards, especially of Route 66. Quilts of Valor- Show Me Chapter and the VFW Post 2661 Auxiliary will be represented for the first time alongside St Clair Historical Museum and Harney Mansion of Sullivan MO, who have supported the fair for over two decades. To round out the list of interesting organizations, we have Gasconade County Historical Society and the Franklin County Historical Society. The latter will have an array of items on display and a table with over 20 family books from the area including the famous House of Crider books depicting the lineage of the extensive Crider family. Over the last several years, the Fair has hosted a few area residents with vintage and antique cars. This year the Society is inviting those with classic, vintage, and antique cars to show them off in a Cruze In on the lot of the KC Hall. There will be a silent auction, drawing for the raffle of a night’s stay at Steeple View Manor at McKelvey Vineyards for those wishing to support the FCHS Museum located at 300 E Locust in Union. Lunch will be sold by Jeffriesburg 4H. The Annual History Fair is a free event for the community to allow guests to make connections and foster a love for history in our younger generations, so grab grandma and the kids and stroll down memory lane at this unique event on October 29th in Union Missouri. For more information, contact the Franklin County Historical Society at 636.583.3247 or franklincountyhistorical@gmail.com

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Apr 2023
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      1
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May 2023
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 123456
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Jun 2023
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    123
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Jul 2023
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      1
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3031     
Aug 2023
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  12345
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Sep 2023
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     12
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Oct 2023
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1234567
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293031    
       
Nov 2023
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   1234
567891011
12131415161718
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Dec 2023
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     12
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31