Road Closures
4/28/2025
Wilson Bend Road (Sullivan) will be closed as follows:
- Tuesday, April 29, 2025 from 8am to 3pm for cross culvert replace. The closure will be between 5481 Wilson Bend and 5601 Wilson Bend Road.
- Wednesday, April 30, 2025 from 8am to 3pm for cross culvert replacement. The closure will be between 5623 Wilson Bend Road and 5925 Wilson Bend Road.
- Thursday, May 1, 2025 from 8am to 3pm for cross culvert replacement. The closure will be between 5623 Wilson Bend Road and 5925 Wilson Bend Road.
- Friday, May 2, 2025 from 8am to 3pm for cross culvert replacement. The closure will be between 5925 Wilson Bend Road and Jakes Prairie Road.
The road will be closed each day to all traffic, including emergency vehicles.
If you have any questions, please contact the Franklin County Highway Department at 636-583-6361.
Learn to ID trees on MDC forester-guided hike May 13 at Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area
4/28/2025
A forest full of trees can seem almost impossible to sort out. Yet, by learning to look for and identify some key characteristics, the forest and its trees can become a familiar place.
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is hosting a Tree ID and Guided Hike Tuesday, May 13 from 10 a.m. – noon at Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area in Franklin County. The hike will be guided by MDC Forester Cody Baily. This is a free event and open to anyone 15 years of age and up.
Participants can Improve their tree identification skills while enjoying a short hike at Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area. Baily will explore the unique identifying characteristics of more than 20 of Missouri’s most common tree species.
“This program is perfect for families, hikers, and nature lovers who want to connect with the forest in a whole new way,” said MDC Conservation Educator Kayla Rosen.
Hikers will discover how to seek out and get to know the key tree identifiers, such as leaf shape and arrangement, bark texture and color, tree size and shape, and flowers. Participants will also learn to look for habitats where various tree species are found.
Baily will discuss the important benefits each tree provides to people as well as animals and habitat.
Participants should dress for outdoor weather and wear good hiking socks and footwear.
The Tree ID and Guided Hike at Caldwell Wildlife Area is free; however, advanced online registration is required at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4CG.
To reach Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area from Washington, take Highway 47 south 1.50 miles, then Bieker Road south 2 miles.
This program is one of several in a new MDC Outdoor Skills series. These free classes are for anyone seeking to connect more to nature or hone their outdoor skills. Upcoming programs include:
- Outdoor Cooking at Rockwoods Reservation, May 7
- Discover Nature Fishing 1 at Shaw Nature Reserve, May 9
- Tree ID + Guided Hike at Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area, May 13
- Knot Tying, at Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area, May 23
- Primitive Camping 101 at Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area, May 23
- Archery at Rockwoods Reservation, June 10
- Atlatl at Rockwoods Reservation, June 10
To learn more about these programs or to register, find them at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4sg.
![Late afternoon sunlight filters through the trees of lush, green forest in spring.]()
MDC is hosting a Tree ID and Guided Hike Tuesday, May 13 from 10 a.m. – noon at Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area in Franklin County. The hike will be guided by MDC Forester, Cody Baily.
Teacher Survey Conducted
4/28/2025
A new survey is showing that most Missouri teachers have considered leaving the field. The Missouri State Teachers Association Survey showed that 71-percent of Missouri educators seriously considered leaving the profession in the past year. Student behavior, stress, and pay are the top reasons why Missouri teachers have contemplated quitting.
Memorial Mass Held For Pope
4/28/2025
Missouri Catholics are remembering Pope Francis. A memorial mass was held for the Pope at the Cathedral of St. Joseph in Jefferson City on Friday. The Jefferson City mass, which was led by Archbishop-designate Shawn McKnight and priests from the Diocese of Jefferson City, was held on the eve of the Pope's funeral at the Vatican.
Heathcare Town Hall Event Held
4/28/2025
A healthcare town hall meeting is held in Columbia. KMIZ reports a town hall event took place at the American Legion in Columbia on Saturday to place pressure on Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Missouri after thousands of Anthem-insured MU Health Care patients lost their coverage earlier this year. The contract dispute between Anthem and MU Health Care has impacted more than 90-thousand mid-Missouri residents.
Child Care Providers Receive Financial Boost
4/28/2025
Missouri childcare providers are getting a financial boost. State lawmakers are adding 107-million-dollars to the state budget for childcare providers who get a subsidy payment from the government. The new subsidy program would pay providers at the beginning of each month based on the number of children enrolled.
Woman's Death After Being Hit By Firetruck Under Investigation
4/28/2025
Authorities are investigating the death of an 18-year-old that fell off a vehicle and was hit and killed by a firetruck this past weekend. St. Louis Metropolitan Police said Nyla Simmons was dancing on the roof of a Cadillac Escalade at the intersection of South Compton and Chouteau Saturday night when she lost her balance and fell onto the road. Simmons was then fatally struck by a fire engine responding to an emergency. Officers said all drivers involved in the crash are cooperating with the investigation.
Former Cardinals GM Walt Jocketty Dies At Age 74
4/28/2025
Former longtime Cardinals general manager Walt Jocketty has died. His family says he passed following years of battling an illness at the age of 74. Jocketty served as the general manager for the St. Louis Cardinals from 1994 to 2007, and is credited with building the team that won the 2006 World Series. Cardinals Chairman and CEO Bill DeWitt Junior said Jocketty will be "sorely missed, but long remembered for his distinguished career in baseball."
Traffic Crashes
4/28/2025
Fatal traffic crash in Franklin County Saturday morning. The patrol says it happened at 11:47AM on Pottery Road at McMahon Automotive Drive when a 16 year old from Washington was riding a motorcycle too fast through a curve, laid on its side and slid into the path of a pick-up truck driven by a 59-year old man from Washington. The teenager was dead at the scene.
Single vehicle traffic crash in Franklin County Friday morning. It happened at 1:50AM on Highway N near old Jeep Trail. A 37 year old man from Villa Ridge was southbound in a truck when he ran off the road and struck a utility pole. He was taken to Mercy in Washington with moderate injuries.
One injured in a two vehicle crash in Franklin County. The patrol reports it happened at 11:15 Sunday morning on Eastbound Interstate 44 west of Highway 50. The patrol says a 69-year old man from Michigan came to abrupt stop in traffic and was struck in the rear by a pick-up driven by a 55 year old man from Pacific. The pick-up travelled off a small cliff and overturned. The driver was taken to Mercy in St. Louis with moderate injuries.
Six vehicle pile-up on Interstate 44 in Franklin County Sunday morning. It happened at 11:25AM east of Highway AH. A woman from Crown Point, Indiana was taken to Mercy in Washington by Union Ambulance with minor injuries.
From Coaching to Championing Students: Mehrhoff Earns NJCAA Loyalty Award
4/25/2025
For more than two decades, Jay Mehrhoff has been the driving force behind East Central College athletics—building teams, mentoring students, and championing a culture where academic and athletic excellence go hand in hand.
This spring, that dedication was recognized on a national scale. Mehrhoff, ECC’s Director of Athletics, has been named the 2025 recipient of the NJCAA Loyalty Award, one of the most selective honors in the association.
Awarded only 22 times in the Association’s history, the Loyalty Award is given to an active athletic director in the NJCAA who has worked to uphold the ideals of the organization. Significant to this award is leadership in an athletic program exemplifying excellence both on the field or court and in the classroom.
Mehrhoff’s connection to ECC runs deep. He joined the college in 1997 as head coach of the men’s soccer team, leading the program to national recognition. In 2000, he brought his passion for student development into the classroom as a physical education instructor. Just three years later, he was named Director of Athletics— a position that allowed him to reimagine and expand ECC’s athletic programs.
“Over his tenure at East Central College, Dr. Mehrhoff has been a tireless advocate for our student-athletes,” said Dr. Jon Bauer, ECC President. “From working to expand athletic opportunities at ECC to chalking the fields and everything in between, he has focused on doing whatever is necessary to help our students grow and succeed.”
Under his leadership, ECC has added sports, improved facilities, and elevated its competitive performance—garnering championships and making regular appearances in NJCAA National Tournaments. Beyond campus, Mehrhoff has played a key role in collegiate athletics across Missouri and the country.
He has led the Missouri Community College Athletic Conference since 2003, serving as Vice President, President, and chair of the NJCAA Division II Men’s Soccer Committee.
“No vision has been too grand, and no task has been too small,” Bauer added. “He epitomizes what the NJCAA Loyalty Award is all about.”
MoDOT and MSHP Team Up to Reduce Litter from State Highways
4/25/2025
The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) and the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) Troop C.
MoDOT spent $12 million in 2024 to remove litter on state highways and roadsides. MoDOT St. Louis spent an additional $2 million in contracted services in 2024 removing debris and litter just in St. Louis, St. Charles, Franklin and Jefferson counties and the City of St. Louis. Often, loaded trucks and trailers aren’t covered, and residual trash blows out.
It is MoDOT’s desire for all vehicle operators and associated businesses to follow the law which will help keep Missouri Beautiful. Revised Statutes of Missouri 577.070 addresses littering on the highway and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration states that “Cargo must be firmly immobilized or secured on or within a vehicle by structures of adequate strength.”
To ensure all loads are secure and not blowing onto the highway, the MSHP is scheduling a saturation patrol, April 27 through May 10, focusing on the litter problem.
MDC to host wild Turkey Management Workshop for landowners June 7 near Bourbon
4/25/2025
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) invite the public to a Turkey Habitat Management workshop on Saturday, June 7 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. The workshop is free and will take place at a private farm near Bourbon in Crawford County.
“This workshop focuses on wild turkey nesting and brood-rearing,” said MDC Regional Resource Management District Supervisor Jeff Esely. “It offers an excellent chance for landowners and enthusiasts to learn more about these popular gamebirds, their habitat requirements, and best management practices to help improve turkey populations.”
Participants will delve into various aspects of turkey habitat creation and management. These include the biology of turkeys, and what characteristics are best for nesting and brood-rearing conditions. It will also cover state and federal cost-share programs available to assist landowners in developing habitat.
The workshop will feature a field tour on a private farm that showcases turkey habitat improvement practices, such as woodland thinning, prescribed burning, pollinator habitat, and more.
The Turkey Habitat Management workshop is free, and lunch is provided. Space is limitedand advanced online registration is required at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/49t. Registered participants will receive detailed directions to the site of the workshop via email.
Participants are asked to bring a lawn chair and wear appropriate clothing for the weather. Closed-toe shoes designed for walking in the field are recommended.
For more information about this event, email Jeff.Esely@mdc.mo.gov, or call 636-300-1953, ext. 4162.
Ribbon Cutting for the new Ted and Pat Jones Welcome Center on the Katy Trail
4/25/2025
Special ribbon cutting event being held at the Treloar Trailhead in Marthasville, MO on Saturday, April 26, hosted by Edward Jones. The event will be celebrating the new Ted and Pat Jones Welcome Center on The Katy Trail (the country’s largest continuous recreational rail trail) and is named in honor of the visionary creators of the trail: Edward “Ted” Jones Jr. and his wife Pat.
The celebration will highlight the impact and success of the firm’s commitment to promote healthier futures. Guests may also take home an Arbor Day Foundation tree to plant in their own yard or community.
Full details can be found here and below:
- Who: Edward Jones leaders, associates, and their families; staff and guests of Missouri State Parks and Magnificent Missouri; Edward Jones Principal and Head of External Affairs Ken Cella will be available on-site for interviews.
- Where: Treloar Trailhead, Katy Trail, Marthasville, MO 63357
- When: Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 9:00 am CT
- What: Ribbon cutting event celebrating the opening of the new Ted and Pat Jones Welcome Center on The Katy Trail. The event will include family fun, live music, branded giveaways and lunch.
Traffic Crashes
4/25/2025
A Robertsville woman was injured in a vehicle crash in St. Louis County. The patrol says it happened at eight o'clock Thursday morning on Interstate 44 West of Antire Road. The patrol says the 42 year old woman was cut off by another vehicle. She swerved to avoid a collision and struck the median wall. She was taken to Mercy in Washington with minor injuries.
A Sullivan man was injured in a traffic crash in Crawford County. The state patrol says it happened at 11:00 Thursday night on Cartwright Road at Gerth Road. The 22 year old man was driving a pick-up truck when he missed a curve, ran off the road and struck the ditch. He was taken to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan with moderate injuries.
Introduction to Fly Fishing class to be held April 28 at Busch Conservation Area
4/25/2025
Fly fishing isn’t just for catching trout. It also is an excellent and relaxing method for catching a wide variety of fish, including bluegill, catfish, and bass too. Of course, Missouri’s beautiful trout parks and trout stream management areas are also calling this time of year.
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is offering an Introduction to Fly Fishing class Monday, April 28 from 5 – 7:30 p.m. at Lake 2 on the August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area in St. Charles. The class is free and open to anyone age 11 years and up.
The class we will cover the fundamentals required to get started fly fishing, including safety considerations. Participants will learn about the essential gear like how to select a rod, line, backer, leader, and tippet. The class will include the basic knots needed and good fly-casting techniques.
“Attendees will learn all the basics of fly fishing,” said MDC Outdoor Education Center Manager Bryant Hertel. “Missouri has numerous opportunities to fly fish around the state for a number of different species including trout, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, bluegill, and more.”
Participants will need a valid Missouri fishing permit for this class (participants 15 years of age or younger are exempt). To purchase permits, see, http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4Cq.
Bringing a hat, eye protection, and a folding chair. MDC will provide all equipment needed; however, participants may use their own fly rod if they prefer.
Introduction to Fly Fishing is a free program; however, advanced online registration is required at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4C3.
The August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area is in St. Charles at 2360 Highway D, two miles west of Highway 94.
Sign up for email or text alerts to stay informed of MDC’s latest programs and events by going to https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZoP.
St. Charles Co. Man Wins $6.3M Lottery Prize
4/25/2025
A St. Charles County man says he's in shock after winning millions of dollars from a Missouri lottery ticket. The unidentified winner says he bought the Quick Pick ticket in Lake St. Louis, and later realized he was worth six-point-three million dollars. He adds that he triple-checked the ticket before believing the news.
Real ID Deadline Approaching
4/25/2025
Less than 50 percent of people with a Missouri ID are ready for the Real ID deadline. Governor Mike Kehoe's office announced yesterday that about 45 percent of the Missouri Department of Revenue's total document holders have a Real ID. A Real ID or passport will be required to fly and enter federal buildings effective May 7th.
Judge Orders Return Of Visas For International College Students
4/25/2025
A judge is ordering in favor of five international college students in Missouri who had their visas recently revoked. KMIZ reports a restraining order was signed yesterday by Missouri Western District Judge Stephen Bough to have the visas temporarily reinstated. Five students had sued U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, the DHS, and the US Immigration Customs and Enforcement alleging a violation of constitutional due process and violations of the Administrative Procedure Act.
Filibuster Held For Paid Sick Leave
4/25/2025
A filibuster is held by Missouri Senate Democrats in favor of paid sick leave. The filibuster, which was an attempt to protect the paid sick leave portion of Proposition A, lasted until early yesterday morning. A bill that would remove paid sick leave from Proposition A was approved by the Missouri House earlier this month. Missouri voters approved Proposition A, which mandates paid sick leave and a minimum wage increase to 15-dollars per hour, last November.
Governor Signs Senate Bill 22 Into Law
4/25/2025
A bill is signed into law by Governor Mike Kehoe that could result in a challenge of an amendment to the Missouri Constitution on abortion. KMIZ reports Kehoe signed Senate Bill 22 into law, which would allow the Missouri Attorney General to appeal preliminary injunctions issued before August 28th. A preliminary injunction issued in Jackson County earlier this year allowed abortion access to resume in the state after voters last year approved Amendment Three, which overturned the state's near total abortion ban.
$50,000 Powerball Double Play Prize Surprises Player in Pacific
4/25/2025
A
Missouri Lottery player who won a $50,000 Powerball prize from a Double Play
drawing on Nov. 23, 2024, came forward to claim his prize after realizing he
had won months after the fact.
The
player purchased the ticket at Sam’s Market, 1280 Highway 100 in Pacific, but
he didn’t claim his prize until April 7 after stopping at a Missouri Lottery
retailer to claim what he thought was a free ticket.
“I
actually thought that I had won a free ticket,” the player explained. “When I
had the clerk scan it and he told me how much I won, I told him to check it
again.”
He
shared that when he originally scanned the ticket on the Missouri Lottery app
to check if it was a winner, he only saw the winning message and didn’t think
anything of it.
“All
it said was that I had a winner,” he laughed.
Double
Play is an add-on feature for Powerball, which automatically enters the
player’s numbers into a second drawing conducted after the main Powerball
drawing. The winning numbers for the Nov. 23 Double Play drawing were 36, 40,
41, 50 and 60 with a Powerball number of 13. The winner’s ticket matched four
of the five white-ball numbers, as well as the Powerball number drawn.
Powerball
is a multi-state Draw Game with drawings held on Mondays, Wednesdays and
Saturdays at 9:59 p.m.
In
FY24, players in Franklin County won more than $24.6 million in Missouri
Lottery prizes, retailers received more than $2.1 million in commissions and
bonuses, and more than $5.9 million in Lottery proceeds went to education
programs in the county.
Road Closure
4/25/2025
- Old Cove Road (Union/St. Clair) will be closed Monday, April 28, 2025, from 8am to 3pm for cross pipe installation. The closure will be 0.1 mile north of Mill Hill Road (0.4 mile south of Gratzer Lane). The road will be closed to all traffic, including emergency vehicles.
- Old Cove Road (Union/St. Clair) will be closed Wednesday, April 30, 2025, from 8am to 3pm for cross pipe installation. The closure will be 0.6 mile north of Mill Hill Road (0.1 mile south of Cove Gate Lane). The road will be closed to all traffic, including emergency vehicles.
Join MDC on a hike though LaBarque Creek Conservation Area April 26
4/24/2025
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites trekkers
to a hiking event on one of the St. Louis area’s most choice hiking
destinations this Saturday.
Join MDC for a guided Hike
at LaBarque Creek Conservation Area in Jefferson County this
Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. The event is free and open to
ages 15 years and up.
The hike will traverse the area’s three-mile trail through
forests and glades. Hikers will see rugged hills, valleys, bluffs,
canyons, and shelter caves carved from St. Peter sandstone. The LaBarque
Creek, which runs along the area’s north border, is an aquatic gem and home to
54 species of fish. LaBarque Creek Conservation Area will also challenge
bird and plant ID skills with its incredible natural diversity.
Hikers will take a scenic break with a relaxing lunch near the
midway point.
Due to the trail’s winding paths, uneven surfaces, and steep
terrain, participants should dress for outdoor weather and wear good hiking
socks and footwear. Bringing a packable lunch is also recommended.
Hike at LaBarque Creek Conservation Area is free;
however, advanced online registration is required at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4CT. The program
is open to ages 15 and up.
To reach LaBarque Creek Conservation Area from Eureka, take
Highway 109 south to Route FF west, then Route F south approximately 100 feet,
then Doc Sargent Road west, then Valley Drive south about a half mile to the
parking lot. For more information, call 636-441-4554.
This program is one of several in a new MDC Outdoor Skills
series. These free classes are for anyone seeking to connect more to
nature or hone their outdoor skills. Upcoming programs include:
- Outdoor Cooking at
Rockwoods Reservation, May 7
- Discover Nature Fishing 1 at Shaw Nature Reserve, May 9
- Tree ID + Guided Hike at Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area, May 13
- Knot Tying,
at Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area, May 23
- Primitive Camping 101 at Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area, May 23
- Archery
at Rockwoods Reservation, June 10
- Atlatl
at Rockwoods Reservation, June 10
To learn more about these programs or to register, find them at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4sg.
State FFA Convention Underway
4/24/2025
The 97th annual Missouri Future Farmers of America Convention is underway in Columbia. The event started last night, and students are expected to take part in agriculture-based competitions, career development and leadership activities. Nearly 10-thousand people will attend the convention, which runs through tomorrow.
Gaming Commission Warning Of Scam
4/24/2025
The Missouri Gaming Commission is warning of a scam. The nationwide gambling scam involves accounts posing as casinos in Missouri that have started online gaming platforms. Online casinos are currently illegal in Missouri, and officials say the scams put people at financial risk.
Missouri Chamber Of Commerce Optimistic
4/24/2025
The Missouri Chamber of Commerce is optimistic about the state's tech manufacturing future. The chamber presented its Technology 2030 report to the General Assembly yesterday. The report predicts Missouri will rank in the top 10 in tech manufacturing within five years. According to the report, the tech industry added more than 14-thousand jobs in the state within the past five years.
Public Service Commission Approves New Ameren Rates
4/24/2025
The Missouri Public Service Commission is agreeing to new electric rates for Ameren customers. KMIZ reports the public service commission approved two agreements yesterday that will raise Ameren Missouri's rates by 355-million dollars. Ameren had sought a 446-million-dollar rate hike originally.
American Lung Association Ranks St. Louis One Of Most Polluted Cities
4/24/2025
St. Louis is one of the most polluted cities in the U.S. That's according to the latest State of the Air Report by the American Lung Association, which said the St. Louis-St. Charles-Farmington metro area is one of the 25 worst in the country for ozone and particle pollution. Each county in the region also received an "F" grade for having a large number of high ozone days. The report found about 156-million people across the U.S. live in places with at least one failing grade for air quality.
Traffic Crashes
4/24/2025
Three vehicle chain reaction traffic crash in Franklin County. The state patrol says it happened at 9:50 Wednesday morning on Stuetermann Road at Highway 47 in Washington. A pick-up and SUV were stopped at a red light when a 57-year old man from Sullivan crashed into the rear of the SUV knocking it into the pick-up. A 27 year old man from Union was taken to Mercy in Washington with minor injuries.
Chain reaction crash on Highway 47 north of the Interstate 44 outer road in St. Clair. It happened at 5:00 Wednesday evening. The patrol says a Sullivan man was behind the wheel of a pick-up truck. He failed to slow down for traffic and struck the rear of a car knocking it into a third vehicle. A 49-year old woman from Gerald was taken to Mercy in Washington by St. Clair Ambulance with minor injuries.
Boil Water Advisory
4/24/2025
A boil water advisory remains in effect following repairs to the system in the Beaufort/Leslie Water District number 4.
Officials say repairs have been made, but as a precaution, residents should boil water before drinking or using it for cooking for at least two more days.
If anyone has questions, call the water district at 573-484-3291.
At Least Ten Tornadoes Confirmed In Easter Storms
4/23/2025
The St. Louis region is continuing to recover after the severe weather on Easter Sunday. The National Weather Service has confirmed at least ten tornadoes during the storms, the strongest being an E-F-Two twister that touched down near Guthrie. E-F-One tornadoes with speeds up to 100-miles-per-hour were confirmed near Madonnaville and Columbia in Monroe County, Illinois. However, there were no reports of injuries.
Former School Bus Driver Sentenced For Recording Sexual Abuse Of Minors
4/23/2025
A former school bus driver in St. Charles County will spend decades in prison after pleading guilty to recording himself sexually abusing two minors. Sixty-seven-year-old Robert Stillwell was sentenced to 30 years behind bars yesterday in federal court. Prosecutors said Stillwell abused the victims while they were both awake and asleep, and coerced one of the victims by promising her toys and money. The judge in the case called it one of the most vile and despicable he has ever seen.
Meramec River at Pacific
4/23/2025
Meramec at Pacific-Flood Stage is 15 feet.
The river topped out at 16.35 feet Tuesday and is now receding.
The river is forecast to drop below flood state early Wednesday morning.
Lawsuit Against SLMPD Takeover Dismissed
4/23/2025
A federal lawsuit filed by the City of St. Louis against the impending state takeover of the Metropolitan Police Department is being dismissed. KMOV reports U.S. District Judge Matthew T. Schelp dismissed the case without prejudice yesterday after the city failed to meet Monday's deadline to explain why the state was not protected by sovereign immunity. The lawsuit filed on April 14th was one of the final actions taken by then-Mayor Tishaura Jones before she left office the following day. Mayor Cara Spencer said the city is evaluating its options and weighing the merits of refiling what she called a "sound suit" in state court.
Road Closure
4/23/2025
The Franklin County Highway Department will be closing Project Road (Lonedell area) on Friday, April 25, 2025, from approximately 8 AM until 3 PM for cross pipe installation. The closure will be approximately 0.3 mile east of Diamond School Road, or 0.5 mile west of Fairview Church Road. The road will be closed to all traffic, including emergency vehicles.
If you have questions, please contact the Highway Department at 636-583-6361.
Flooded Roads
4/23/2025
- Robertsville
Road, Robertsville/Villa Ridge area, closed at the gates due to flooding
- Hoemann
Road (Gerald/New Haven) is closed at slab due to flooding
- Detmold
Road (New Haven) is closed at slab due to flooding.
- Shawneetown
Ford Road is closed at the river due to flooding.
- Old Cove Road (Moselle end) is closed due to water over
road.
Traffic Crash
4/23/2025
Two vehicle crash in Franklin County. It happened at 3:40 Tuesday afternoon on Highway K at Meramec View Estates. The patrol says a 50-year old St. Clair woman was behind the wheel of a car. She slowed to make a turn and was struck in the rear by a motorcycle ridden by a 61-year old Sullivan man. He suffered minor injuries.
Officials Praise Hands-Free Law
4/23/2025
Missouri officials are praising the state's new hands-free law. KMIZ reports the law has prevented more than one-thousand crashes and reduced distracted driving by more than five percent in its first year. The Siddens Bening Hands Free law bans drivers from using handheld cellphones while driving.
Bill Would Allow Concealed Firearms On Public Transit
4/23/2025
A bill in the Missouri General Assembly would allow people with concealed carry permits to bring guns onto public transit. The Missouri Senate held a hearing for the bill yesterday. The measure would also lower the age requirement for a concealed carry permit from 19 years old to 18.
Governor Faces Deadline To Appoint Transition Director
4/23/2025
Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe is facing a deadline of tomorrow to name a transition director for the state takeover of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. KMOV reports the governor is required by state statute to appoint a transition director within 30 days of signing the police department takeover legislation. The transition director would move the police department under the control of the state oversight board.
Archbishop Of St. Louis Responds To Pope's Death
4/22/2025
The Archbishop of St. Louis is responding to the death of Pope Francis. The Vatican announced this morning that the Pontiff has died at the age of 88. In a statement released today, Archbishop Mitchell Rozanski said that Francis' "unceasing concern for the poor demonstrated to us how we may live out of the Gospel in our world." He held a Mass in the pope's honor earlier this afternoon at the Cathedral Basilica.
University Approves Tuition Increase
4/22/2025
Students at a Missouri college will be paying higher fees. KMIZ reports that the Lincoln University Board of Curators has approved a five-percent tuition increase for the next school year. The university says mandatory fees including activity fees, athletic fees and building maintenance fees will not change.
Initial Unemployment Claims Increase
4/22/2025
Missouri is seeing a rise in the number of initial unemployment claims. The Missouri Department of Labor says nearly 49-hundred claims were filed during the week ending on April 12th. That marks an increase of more than two-thousand claims from the previous week.
Emergency Declaration Signed Following Severe Weather In Columbia
4/22/2025
An emergency declaration is issued following severe storms that struck Columbia on Sunday. Columbia City Manager De'Carlon Seewood signed the declaration yesterday. An EF-one tornado struck the city causing widespread damage. The storm damage has caused the city's recycling program to be indefinitely suspended.
National Weather Service Evaluating Tornado Damage
4/22/2025
The National Weather Service is evaluating tornado damage after severe storms moved through Missouri on Sunday. An EF-one tornado struck Columbia causing widespread property damage, and an EF-two tornado was reported in Callaway County. No fatalities have been reported in Boone County following the storms.
Leaders React To Pope's Death
4/22/2025
Missouri political and religious leaders are reacting to the death of Pope Francis. Jefferson City Bishop Shawn McKnight says Francis lived the Christian virtues of humility, authenticity, openness, and hope. Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe says Francis devoted his life to serving God and the Church. Francis passed away yesterday at the age of 88 following a stroke.
Traffic Crash
4/22/2025
Two vehicle traffic crash in Franklin County. The state patrol says it happened at 7:40 Monday morning on Old Gray Summit Road south of Freund Lane. The patrol reports a 63-year old Union man failed to drive on the right half of the road and collided with a vehicle driven by a 45-year old Pacific woman. The Union man taken to Mercy in Washington with minor injuries.
Flooding on Local Rivers
4/22/2025
Bourbeuse River at Union-Flood Stage is 15 feet.
Forecast to crest at 16 feet Tuesday morning and fall below flood stage by 1:00AM Wednesday morning.
Meramec at Sullivan-Flood stage is 11 feet.
The river topped out at 14.9 feet Sunday and is receding.
Forecast to drop below flood stage Tuesday afternoon.
Meramec at Pacific-Flood Stage is 15 feet.
Forecast to crest at 17 feet at 1:00PM Tuesday afternoon and fall below flood stage Wednesday afternoon.
Missouri at Hermann-Flood Stage is 21-feet.
Forecast to crest at 21 feet Tuesday afternoon.
Missouri at Washington-Flood Stage is 20-feet.
Forecast to remain below flood stage and top out at 18.9 feet Wednesday.
Learn the basics of firearms care at May 1 MDC virtual program
4/22/2025
Whether you’re a hunter or a recreational shooter, learning how to keep your firearms in good working order is important.
People can learn more about the basics of cleaning and caring for a firearm at the May 1 Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) virtual program “Firearms Basic Care and Cleaning.” This free online program will be 6-7:30 p.m. on May 1 and is being put on by the staff of MDC’s Andy Dalton Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center.
At this program, MDC Assistant Outdoor Education Center Manager Steve Govero will discuss cleaning, storage, and all aspects of firearms maintenance. People can register for this event at:
https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/204188
MDC’s Andy Dalton Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center is located at 4897 Greene County Farm Road 61. People can stay informed about upcoming programs at the Dalton Range by signing up for text alerts and e-mail bulletins. People who have questions about upcoming events or how to sign up can call 417-742-4361.
Staff at MDC facilities across the state are holding in-person and virtual programs. A listing of these programs can be found at mdc.mo.gov/events.
Roads Closed Due to Flooding
4/22/2025
Franklin County maintained roads/areas are closed due to flooding:
- Robertsville Road, Robertsville/Villa Ridge area, closed at the gates due to flooding
- Hoemann Road (Gerald/New Haven) is closed at slab due to flooding
- Detmold Road (New Haven) is closed at slab due to flooding.
- Boeuf Lutheran Road (New haven) is closed at low water bridge due to flooding
- Beemont Road (Gerald) is closed at the slab due to flooding.
- Shawneetown Ford Road is closed at the river due to flooding.
- St. John’s Creek Road (Washington) is closed at the slab due to high water.
- Old Cove Road (Moselle end) is closed due to water over road.
Bend Road (Pacific) is closed at the gates due to flooding.
If you have questions, please contact the Franklin County Highway Department at 636-583-6361.
MDC reports 243 new cases of CWD found during past year
4/22/2025
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reports it has confirmed 243 new cases of chronic wasting disease (CWD) in Missouri deer in 35 counties. Seven of those counties had their first CWD-positive case: Audrain, Callaway, Lewis, Marion, Miller, Morgan, and Texas.
The CWD-positive cases were found through sampling and testing of more than 36,000 deer during the past deer-hunting season and post-season targeted-removal efforts with most cases being from hunter-harvested deer submitted for sampling.
Missouri has an estimated population of more than 1.5 million white-tailed deer in the state. CWD is a 100% fatal disease in white-tailed deer and other members of the deer family. The disease has been attributed to significant deer population declines in other states and threatens Missouri’s deer population, hunting culture, and economy.
Most of the new CWD positive cases were from the more than 276,000 deer harvested during the 2024-2025 deer-hunting season.
MDC confirmed an additional 70 cases of CWD found through its targeted-removal efforts of 4,768 deer after the close of the deer season in localized areas near where CWD has been found.
“The goal of targeted removal is to remove CWD-positive deer and reduce deer density in these localized areas to slow the spread of CWD and protect Missouri’s deer herd,” explained MDC Wildlife Health Program Supervisor Deb Hudman. “Targeted removal is a proven method to slow the spread of CWD and Missouri is one of several states that uses it to manage the disease.”
For more details on Post-Season Targeted Removal, visit mdc.mo.gov/cwd.
Those new cases bring the total number of CWD positives found in the state to 815 over 46 counties since the first positive CWD case was found in wild deer by MDC in early 2012.
Although the number of CWD-positive counties increased, Hudman noted that CWD management efforts have kept infection rates low.
“Less than 1% of samples tested positive for CWD,” said Hudman.
According to MDC, hunters and landowners are critical partners in the fight against CWD and can assist the Department by continuing to deer hunt, by participating in CWD sampling, by following regulations designed to slow CWD spread, and by cooperating with targeted removal efforts. Learn more about CWD at mdc.mo.gov/cwd.
Flooding on Local Rivers
4/21/2025
Bourbeuse River at Union-Flood Stage is 15 feet.
Forecast to crest at 16.5 feet Monday afternoon.
Meramec at Sullivan-Flood stage is 11 feet.
The river topped out at 14.9 feet Sunday and is receding.
Forecast to drop below flood stage Tuesday afternoon.
Meramec at Pacific-Flood Stage is 15 feet.
Forecast to crest at 17.8 feet Tuesday morning.
Missouri at Hermann-Flood Stage is 21-feet.
Forecast to crest at 21.4 feet Tuesday.
Missouri at Washington-Flood Stage is 20-feet.
Forecast to remain below flood stage and top out at 18.9 feet Wednesday.
Hundreds Without Power After Storms
4/21/2025
Hundreds of residents in the St. Louis area are still waiting for electricity to return after the storms on Sunday. According to Ameren Missouri, most of the outages are in St. Louis and Jefferson Counties. The extent of the damage from the severe weather remains unknown, but so far, there are no reports of injuries.
Crash That Injured Eight Caused By Racing Cars
4/21/2025
St. Louis police now say a crash that injured eight people was caused by two cars that were racing. It happened last night Enright and North Vandeventer. Three vehicles were involved in the accident, with one of them slamming into a building. No word on whether any arrests have been made, but officers say those involved were "hostile" after the crash.
Three More States Report Measles
4/21/2025
Three more states are reporting their first measles cases of the year. Louisiana, Virginia and Missouri reported cases over the weekend, all linked to international travel. There are now 27 states with confirmed measles, with some 800 cases reported in total. Most of those are in Texas, where the outbreak has claimed two lives.
Ceremonial Groundbreaking Held For Lab
4/21/2025
A ceremonial groundbreaking ceremony is held for a lab at the University of Missouri. The Michael L. Parson Meat Education and Training Laboratory is expected to open next year. Former Governor Mike Parson made the project possible when he promised 35-million-dollars in funding for the meat sciences lab. A groundbreaking ceremony for the project took place Friday in Columbia.
State Sees First Measles Case
4/21/2025
A measles case is confirmed in southwest Missouri. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services says a child who recently traveled to Taney County has contracted measles. KMIZ reports exposure has been limited and known contacts have been notified. The case is Missouri's first of 2025.
Damaging Storms Impact Missouri
4/21/2025
Damage cleanup is underway after severe storms moved through central Missouri. KMIZ reports one person was injured following a reported tornado in Callaway County yesterday afternoon. Storm damage was also reported in Columbia, and thousands of homes and businesses in the region lost electricity.
Body of Missing Franklin County Man has been Found
4/21/2025
The body of a Franklin County man has been found after being reported missing three years ago.
37 year old Aaron Duenke was last seen floating on an ice floe on the Missouri River near Washington in December of 2022.
He was seen on video and showed no signs of distress. Family members lost contact with him.
Family members told authorities Duenke used the river for recreation on a regular basis.
After being reported missing, The State Patrol and volunteers searched the river for weeks.
Duenke's remains were found April 13th. A citizen reported finding his body along the Missouri River in Chesterfield.
ECC Students Earn Coca-Cola, All-USA Academic Awards
4/19/2025
East Central College student Kylie Napier has been named a 2025 Coca-Cola Academic Team Gold Scholar and awarded a $1,500 scholarship for her academic achievement and leadership. She is one of just 50 students nationwide to earn this prestigious recognition, which is sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation and administered by the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society.
Napier, a student at ECC’s main campus in Union, was selected based on scores earned in the highly competitive All-USA Academic Team competition, which drew nearly 2,100 applicants nationwide. As a Gold Scholar, she was recognized during the Parade of Scholars at PTK Catalyst, the organization’s annual convention, held April 3–5 in Kansas City, Missouri.
In addition to Napier’s recognition, several other ECC students were named to the All-USA Academic Team and honored by the Missouri Community College Association (MCCA) and PTK for their academic and leadership excellence:
- David Harper, Union – Coca-Cola New Century Workforce Scholar
- Phillip North, Union – All-USA Workforce Pathway
- Latisha Graham, Union – All-USA Transfer Pathway
- Mae May, Rolla – All-USA Transfer Pathway
- Moriah Mankin, Rolla – All-USA Transfer Pathway
These students were selected for their outstanding academic records, leadership, and community involvement. ECC annually nominates students from its campuses for the All-USA Team, which automatically qualifies nominees for the All-Missouri Academic Team. Nominees complete a rigorous application process that includes academic achievements, campus and community involvement, and a detailed account of a significant endeavor during their time at ECC.
All-state honorees are recognized at a ceremony sponsored by the MCCA and receive a commemorative medallion and certificate, along with a $250 scholarship funded by the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority (MOHELA).
The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation awards nearly $200,000 in scholarships annually to PTK members through the Coca-Cola Academic Team program, celebrating students who are leading the way in their communities and academic programs.
Learn about turtles at April 29 MDC virtual program
4/18/2025
Turtles are a long-time and fascinating resident of Missouri’s outdoor world.
People can get information about the species of turtles that reside in Missouri at the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) virtual program “Amphibians and Reptiles: Turtles,” April 29. This free online program, which is being put on by the staff at MDC’s Springfield Conservation Nature Center, will be 6-7 p.m. People can register at:
https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/206894
At the April 29 program, MDC Naturalist Morgan Wyatt will discuss the variety of species of turtles found in Missouri and how they’ve been able to be part of our outdoors world for approximately 200 million years. Wyatt will also discuss what people can do to be sure these remarkable reptiles continue to be a part of Missouri’s outdoors world.
Though this program is free, registration is required to participate. Use the link above. Registrants must provide an e-mail, so a program link can be sent to them. This program will include a chat-based question-and-answer period where participants can interact with the presenters.
MDC’s Springfield Conservation Nature Center is located in southeast Springfield at 4601 S. Nature Center Way. People can stay informed about upcoming programs at the nature center by signing up for text alerts and e-mail bulletins. People who have questions about how to sign up for text alerts from the nature center can call 417-888-4237.
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.
![Ornate box turtle picture for news release]()
People can learn more about the ornate box turtle (pictured above) and other species of turtles found in Missouri at an April 29 MDC virtual program.
Road Closure
4/18/2025
- Klemme Road (Gerald) will be closed Monday, April 21, 2025, from 8am to 3pm for cross culvert replacement. The closure will be between 3287 Klemme Road and 3327 Klemme Road. The road will be closed to all traffic, including emergency vehicles.
If you have any questions, please contact the Franklin County Highway Department at 636-583-6361.
Eight Injured In St. Louis Crash
4/18/2025
St. Louis police say eight people were injured in a multi-vehicle crash last night. Officials said three vehicles collided at the intersection of Enright and North Vandeventer, causing one of the cars to slam into a building. Six of the victims reportedly sustained serious injuries. The crash is being investigated.
Purina Farms Visitor Center Closed For Rest Of Year Following Tornado
4/18/2025
The Purina Farms Visitor Center in Franklin County will stay closed for the rest of the year due to the damage caused by a tornado last month. Purina said it is still assessing the full extent of the property damage caused by the Category Two twister on March 14th. The visitor center was one of several buildings on the Gray Summit campus significantly damaged in the storm. However, no employees or animals were injured.
Donor Saves Holocaust Museum From Funding Cuts
4/18/2025
An anonymous donor is making sure the St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum can continue its work in the face of federal funding cuts. According to the "St. Louis Business Journal," a 125-thousand dollar donation will ensure the museum can continue digitizing its collection of survivors' stories. Officials began an "emergency fundraising campaign" after they say a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services was cut by the Trump Administration.
Lane Closure Planned For I-70
4/18/2025
Road construction is continuing to impact traffic on I-70. The Missouri Department of Transportation says a westbound lane of I-70 at the Millersburg exit will be closed on Monday from 5:00 a.m. until noon to allow for crews to make pavement repairs. The closure is a part of the Improve I-70 Project.
Board Of Curators Discuss NIH Funding
4/18/2025
The University of Missouri Board of Curators is discussing federal funding for research. Potential federal funding cuts could lead to a 22-million-dollar loss in National Institutes of Health grants for the university. Officials say any cuts could impact all colleges in the university's system. KMIZ reports the university is urging the National Institutes of Health to continue its support of research projects.
Abortion Access Measure Advances
4/18/2025
Abortion could be back on the ballot in Missouri. KMOV reports the Missouri House advanced a measure yesterday that would put abortion access back on the ballot in 2026. The resolution calls for banning abortion except in the cases of rape, incest or a medical emergency. Missouri voters approved Amendment Three last November, which overturned the state's abortion ban.
Traffic Crashes
4/18/2025
One car crash on Interstate 44 in Pacific Thursday morning. The patrol says it happened at 3:20 AM when the driver, a 39-year old woman from Washington, lost control and struck the guardrail. She was taken to Mercy in Washington by Meramec Ambulance.
One Vehicle crash in Franklin County. The patrol reports it happened at 12:50 Thursday afternoon on westbound I-44 in Pacific. A 42-year old St. Clair man lost control and struck the concrete median. He was taken to Mercy in St. Louis with minor injuries.
Single vehicle wreck in Franklin County sends one to the hospital. The patrol reports a 48 year old St. Clair woman was eastbound on Interstate 44 west of Highway 50 when she hydroplaned on wet pavement and slid into the median wall. She was taken to Mercy in Washington by Union Ambulance with minor injuries.
A traffic crash on I-44 in Stanton sends a Rolla man to the hospital. The patrol says he was westbound when he traveled off the road and overturned. The 26 year old man was taken to Mercy in St. Louis with moderate injuries following the crash at 1:35 Thursday morning.
March 2025 Monthly Jobs Report
4/17/2025
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March
2025 Monthly Jobs Report
Missouri
nonfarm payroll employment increased by 13,900 jobs in March 2025, and
the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased by one-tenth of a
percentage point. Private industry employment increased by 12,600 jobs
and government employment increased by 1,300 jobs. Over the year, there
was an increase of 20,200 jobs from March 2024 to March 2025, and the
unemployment rate increased by two-tenths of a percentage point, from
3.6 percent in March 2024 to 3.8 percent in March
2025.
EMPLOYMENT
Missouri's
nonfarm payroll employment was 3,006,300 in March 2025, up by 13,900
from the revised February 2025 figure. The February 2025 total was
revised downward by 1,500 jobs from the preliminary estimate.
Goods-producing
industries increased by 1,600 jobs over the month, with all of that
increase occurring in mining, logging, and construction. Private
service-providing industries increased by 11,000 jobs between February
2025 and March 2025. Employment increased in leisure and hospitality
(5,800 jobs); private education and health services (1,800 jobs);
trade, transportation, and utilities (1,500 jobs); other services
(1,500 jobs); and financial activities (700 jobs). Employment decreased
in professional and business services (-200 jobs) and information (-100
jobs). Total government employment increased by 1,300 jobs over the
month, with an increase in local government (1,600 jobs) and decreases
in both in federal (-200 jobs) and state government (-100 jobs).
Over the year,
total payroll employment increased by 20,200 jobs from March 2024 to
March 2025. Employment gains were in private education and health
services (20,400 jobs), other services (2,600 jobs), and financial
activities (1,900 jobs). Employment decreased in leisure and
hospitality (-4,200 jobs); professional and business services (-2,500
jobs); information (-1,800 jobs); trade, transportation, and utilities
(-1,800 jobs); mining, logging, and construction (-1,000 jobs); and
manufacturing (-900 jobs). Government employment increased by 7,500
jobs over the year, with increases in local (4,200 jobs) and state
(4,100 jobs) government and a decrease in federal government (-800
jobs).
UNEMPLOYMENT
Missouri's
smoothed seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased by one-tenth
of a percentage point in March 2025, rising to 3.8 percent from the
revised February 2025 rate of 3.7 percent. The March 2025 rate was
two-tenths of a percentage point higher than the March 2024 rate. The
estimated number of unemployed Missourians was 120,849 in March 2025,
up by 3,182 from the revised February total of 117,667.
The state's
not-seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate remained at 4.4 percent in
March 2025. A year ago, the not-seasonally-adjusted rate was 3.9
percent. The corresponding not-seasonally-adjusted national rate for
March 2025 was 4.2 percent.
Missouri's
labor force participation rate was 63.4 percent in March 2025,
nine-tenths of a percentage point higher than the national rate of 62.5
percent. Missouri's employment-population ratio was 60.9 percent in
March 2025, one point higher than the national rate of 59.9 percent.
Missouri's unemployment rate was 3.8 percent in March 2025, four-tenths
of a percentage point lower than the national rate of 4.2 percent.
Missouri's unemployment rate has been at or below the national rate for
more than nine years.
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