KLPW News Franklin County Missouri and Surrounding Counties

Local News Items

St. Louis Circuit Attorney Gore to Run for Election
12/7/2023
St. Louis Circuit attorney Gabe Gore has ended speculation over his future career plans. Gore announced this morning he's going to seek election to become permanent circuit attorney for St. Louis. Gore took over the office this year after Governor Mike Parson appointed him to succeed Kim Gardner, who resigned over criticism that she was not fulfilling her duties. Yesterday, Gore held a news conference to tout his accomplishments during his six months in office, including more efficiency in the office's operations. He also said he's added staff and claims he's rebuilt relationships with the mayor's office and the St. Louis Police Department.

St. Louis County Council Proposes $14M in Budget Cuts
12/7/2023
In a counterproposal to St. Louis County Executive Sam Page's budget, the St. Louis County Council is proposing 14-million dollars in cuts. The council sasy the cuts would help tackle the county's projected 27-million dollar deficit. The cuts would bring the total budget to just under 580-million dollars. The county's health department would take the biggest hit -- 8-point-2 million dollars would be slashed from the department's budget. Budget cuts would eliminate the need for a tax hike. The county council also proposes restoring funds for the county's ShotSpotter program that helps alert police to reported shootings.

Mayor Signs ""Trigger Law" to Ban Open Carry Firearms, Just In Case
12/7/2023
St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones has signed a law that could ban openly carrying guns in the city if a state law is ever revoked. Ward 14 Alderman Rasheen Aldridge says he proposed the original bill and intended it to be a so-called "trigger law," in case state law would change to allow cities to ban open carry. Should St. Louis's new open-carry ban be triggered, violators would face penalties that could include a up to a 500-dollar fine and 30 days in jail.

MU Lab Ships First Order of Commercially Produced Isotopes for Cancer Treatments
12/7/2023
A lab at Missouri University is now providing weekly deliveries of its created radio isotopes for use in cancer treatments. Officials announced Wednesday that the university's Research Reactor division has sent its first commercial shipment of no-carrier-added lutetium-177 for human use by the drug company Novartis. The shipments mark the beginning of a multi-year deal that was launched after the drug's production was given FDA approval over the summer. School officials say MURR is the only U.S. producer of four critical radioisotopes that are used to treat liver, thyroid, pancreatic and prostate cancers.

St. Clair Teen Arrested for Making a False Bomb Threat
12/7/2023
Early in the morning of Wednesday, December 6, 2023, St. Clair officers received information of a possible bomb threat against the R-13 School District. The threat was not directed at a particular school district building, so it was decided to cancel school until this threat could be investigated. The St. Louis County Bomb and Arson K-9 Unit was called to search all district buildings. All buildings were searched and cleared. The scene was released to school authorities. A text message had been received through an internet app. The origin of the text was tracked by St. Clair detectives and a juvenile suspect was taken into custody. During an interview with detectives and juvenile authorities, the juvenile confessed to sending the text and the only explanation as to why was because they did not want to go to school today. The St. Clair Police Department and the St. Clair R-13 School District would like the public to know that the safety of our children and schools is a TOP PRIORITY! Anyone attempting to jeopardize that safety will be fully investigated and brought to justice. It does not matter who the suspect is, they will be arrested, and the highest level of charges will be sought.

Governor Parson Declares December as Christmas Tree Month in Missouri
12/7/2023

Today, Governor Mike Parson hosted a ceremony proclaiming December as Christmas Tree Month in Missouri. The proclamation was presented to winners of the Missouri Christmas Tree Association’s annual wreath and tree contests, held earlier this year at the association’s annual convention.

“On behalf of all Missourians, The First Lady and I recognize these farm families and their passion for Christmas trees – classic symbols of the holiday season,” Governor Parson said. “Places like Pea Ridge Forest and Meert Tree Farm represent the hard work and grit of all Missouri farmers and ranchers who have stayed the course and weathered every challenge, especially this year with the effects of severe drought. Congratulations again to this year's winners."

Pea Ridge Forest in Hermann won the Christmas tree contest, and has provided an 8-foot tree to the Missouri State Capitol. Located on the second floor outside Governor Parson’s office, the Canaan fir tree has been growing at Pea Ridge Forest for eight years. LeRoy and Mary Rood established Pea Ridge Forest in 1972, and the farm is currently owned by their sons, Mike and Scott. Pea Ridge Forest is truly a family business with three generations working on the farm. Pea Ridge Forest offers "choose and cut" Christmas trees in addition to being a wholesale nursery. The farm offers a variety of activities during the holiday season, including a gift shop, hay rides, and complimentary hot chocolate.

The 2023 winning wreath comes from Meert Tree Farm in Festus. The Meert family established Meert Tree Farm in 1963, and the farm is now operated by their daughter, Jennifer Sommerkamp, with the help of their other children and grandchildren. Meert Tree Farm offers cut-your-own Christmas trees, a sunflower maze, and a pick-your-own pumpkin patch throughout the seasons. During the holiday season, the farm has a Christmas shop and children’s train rides.

Students from Happy Hearts Child Development Center, the Special Learning Center, and Special Olympics Missouri joined Governor Parson to light this year's Capitol Christmas tree.

To plan your family’s visit to a Christmas tree farm in your area, visit MissouriGrownUSA.com or MissouriChristmasTrees.org.

Changes Now In Place For Commercial Driver License Tests
12/6/2023
Changes are now in place for the process to get a commercial driver's license in Missouri. The state Department of Revenue says the revisions that took effect Monday include a more streamlined pre-trip examination and a more efficient basic skills course. Officials also say the revisions have been made to stay current with advancing technologies. The changes are now being used by all CDL testing sites around the state, including at all Patrol sites and third-party exam locations. A PDF version of the new CDL manual is available in the forms section on the Department of Revenue's website.

Dispensary Workers Frustrated at Hampered Efforts to Unionize
12/6/2023
Marijuana manufacturing employees in Missouri say they are stuck in a "gray area." KCUR reports that some employees who want to form a union say they're not able to do so because they might be considered agriculture workers. Those who've taken their case to the National Labor Relations Board say they've been hampered by employers who emphasize their agricultural duties. Agricultural laborers aren't protected under the 1935 National Labor Relations Act. Workers at some stores in Kansas City and St. Louis have been able to receive authorization for union representation, but the labor board still needs to conduct elections among employees on whether or not to join.

Candidates Vow Farmland Protection From Foreign Ownership
12/6/2023
Foreign ownership of Missouri farm land is a big topic of concern among candidates who are running to be the state's next governor. The politicians also sounded off on rural land development during a recent Missouri Farm Bureau candidate forum. State Senator Bill Eigel accused China of manipulating its currency to drive up the market value of Missouri farmland. Republican candidate and Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft said he helped to craft legislation that would have protected the state's ag industry, but says it failed due to lack of action by the state Senate. House Minority Leader and Democratic candidate Crystal Quade says the issue is a priority for her.

Republican State Senator Karla Eslinger Named as Missouri's Next Education Chief
12/6/2023
A Republican state senator from Wasola has been appointed as Missouri's next commissioner of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The state board of education announced at its meeting Tuesday that Karla Eslinger will take over from current commissioner Margie Vandeven. That will happen in June of next year after the legislative session ends. Vandeven announced in October that she's retiring after more than seven years in the job.

Trustees Vote to Place No-Tax Increase Levy Issue on Ballot
12/6/2023

East Central College Trustees voted Monday to place Proposition ECC — a no-tax increase tax levy issue — on the ballot in April 2024.

The Board of Trustees reviewed recommendations from a citizens committee and ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer proposing the ballot measure. Voters will be asked to approve the transfer of the existing debt service levy to the operating levy. This transfer aims to address necessary capital improvements, deferred maintenance, and operational needs.

The current debt service levy is 9.9 cents per $100 of assessed valuation, utilized to provide tax revenue for retiring general obligation bonds which were used to build the Health Science Building.

If Proposition ECC is approved, the 9.9-cent debt service levy will be reallocated to the college's operating levy, serving as a crucial funding source for deferred maintenance and campus improvement projects. It will also help mitigate potential tuition increases resulting from rising costs.

A simple majority is needed to approve the levy.

Trustees have also approved the ballot language for Proposition ECC, which reads:

Shall the Board of Trustees of The Junior College District of East Central Missouri (aka East Central College) be authorized to increase the operating property tax levy ceiling to $0.4472 per one hundred dollars of assessed valuation, the increase of $0.0990 from the current operating property tax levy of $0.3482 is to be offset by an expected $0.0990 decrease in the debt service property tax levy, for the purpose of funding operations, facility maintenance, staffing, capital improvements, and safety/security measures within the College District.

Approval of this question is expected to result in zero increase of the College District's current total property tax levy, which is estimated to remain unchanged at $0.4472 per one hundred dollars of assessed valuation.

Flexibility

Bauer highlighted the importance of financial flexibility to address immediate needs, particularly deferred maintenance.

“By transitioning the bond levy to an operating levy, we will have the flexibility to utilize the revenue for immediate needs, such as deferred maintenance,” he said. “Relying solely on tuition revenue is not sufficient to guarantee a sustainable funding model.”

Existing bonds will be retired in 2026.

Bauer recommended the College place the ballot measure on the April 2, 2024, Municipal Election. Historically, the April election is when school districts pose ballot measures to voters.

Voters approved a similar levy transfer in the mid-1980s, with five cents moved from debt service to the operating levy in 1986. Like the proposal being considered now, the 1986 transfer did not raise the overall levy.

Citizens Committee

A citizens committee met three times this past summer to review ECC budget data, enrollment trends, tuition, deferred maintenance, personnel recruitment and retention challenges, tax levy structure, general obligation bonds, and options for the debt service levy.

The Board of Trustees appointed the committee to obtain public input on options concerning the debt service levy. Committee members are civic and business leaders from communities throughout the ECC District.

The members were: Chuck Ray, Bourbon; Dorothy Schowe, New Haven; Kyle Kruse, St. Clair; Tony Schwarm, Sullivan; Mike Elliott, Union; Steve Campbell, Union; Susan Miller Warden, Washington; and Susie Eckelkamp, St. Albans.

Learn about winter hiking at MDC virtual program on Dec. 13
12/6/2023

Walking a trail in winter is a great way to see the outdoors, relieve stress, and stay in shape.

People wanting to learn more about winter hiking and get ideas about where to go should sign up for the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) virtual program “Hiking – Explore Winter Hiking.” This free online program will be Dec. 13 from noon-1 p.m. The program is being put on by the staff of MDC’s Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center in Joplin and is open to all ages. People can register at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/196572

At this program, MDC Naturalist Jessie Ballard will discuss what you can see outdoors during winter. She’ll talk about what to take and how to dress for a trek on the trails at this time of year. She’ll also have information about southwest Missouri areas that are good for winter hikes.

MDC’s Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center is located at 201 W. Riviera Drive. People can stay informed about upcoming virtual and in-person programs at the Shoal Creek Center by signing up for text alerts and e-mail bulletins. They can sign up for Shoal Creek Center text alerts by calling 417-629-3434.

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.

Lindenwood University Cuts Some NCAA Athletic Teams
12/6/2023
Lindenwood University is doing away with nine of its NCAA Division One athletic teams. The school says in a statement that leaders realize its athletics department has "become too large to sustain the quality of the student experience that Lindenwood expects." The cuts include nine teams, as well the men's and women's cycling program. The NCAA men's sports being eliminated include lacrosse, swimming and diving, tennis, wrestling, and indoor and outdoor track and field. The cut women's sports include gymnastics and swimming and diving. The women's field hockey program has been cut already and the remaining sports will be gone at the end of the spring 2024 season.

St. Louis Circuit Attorney Touts Take-Over Success
12/6/2023
St. Louis' Circuit Attorney is touting improvements to the office he took over six months ago. Gabe Gore on Tuesday cited statistics he says show improved efficiency that's happened since the governor appointed him June 1st. Those improvement include prosecuting nearly 50-percent more cases than were pursued during the same time period last year. Gore also said he's added staff and claims he's rebuilt relationships with the mayor's office and the St. Louis Police Department. Former Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner abruptly resigned over criticism that she was not fulfilling her duties. Gore is not yet saying whether he'll run for election to become the permanent circuit attorney.

Accident
12/5/2023
A Gerald man was injured in a one car accident in Franklin County. The state patrol says it happened at 3:45 Monday afternoon on Highway 50 at Flint Hill Road. The patrol says 29-year old Gregory Vanover was Westbound when he ran off the left side of the highway and overturned. Vanover was airlifted to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries. The patrol says he was not wearing a seat belt.

Tie lures that catch fish with MDC’s free virtual Fly Tying For Everyone, Even Beginners course
12/5/2023

Learn how to tie fishing flies with the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) free Fly Tying for Everyone, Even Beginners course from 6 to 8 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays from Jan. 4 through Feb. 1. Fly tying for fishing is a mix of skill, creativity, and knowledge about what sight-feeding fish eat. This class will teach beginners how to get started tying flies and sharpen the skills of experienced lure makers.

Participants will be expected to log on for all eight sessions. MDC instructors will be available early and late for participants to make up for any missed classes. The class is skills based, and each class builds on what was learned in the previous class. Each fly will be tied three times. Participants will finish the course with a nice collection of flies to catch trout and panfish.

Students in the class will need obtain or purchase basic fly-tying tools. MDC will provide materials such as hooks and feathers. The tools needed include a fly-tying vice, thread bobbin, black tying thread 140 (2/0), and black 210 Denier (6/0), bobbin threader, Dr. Slick Rotary whip finisher or a Cabela’s or Bass Pro brand, dubbing brush, fly tying scissors, tying wax, hackle pliers, and a bodkin. Optional additions include head cement, multiple bobbins, other colors of thread (red, white, olive, and tan), a wine cork for displaying tied flies, and a small block of wood with 1/8-1/4-inch holes drilled in it for tools.

MDC will send emails to all registered participants to confirm their email and postal mail address. Participants will receive a package of fly-tying materials at the address they provide.

For questions about the class, or questions about tools or difficulty finding tools, contact TJ Peacher, MDC education district supervisor, at Thomas.Peacher@mdc.mo.gov.

The class is open to participants ages 14 and older. Registration is required. Space is limited. To register, visit http://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZBd.

St. Louis Man Charged with Assault in Franklin County
12/5/2023
On Sunday, December 3, 2023, approximately 12:00 noon, St. Clair officers were dispatched to the Super 8 Motel (1010 S. Outer Rd.) in reference a peace disturbance in progress. Communications confirmed that a physical altercation was taking place between employees of the motel and a customer, later identified as Louis Finocchio, W/M 37, of St. Louis, MO. Upon arrival, officers made contact with Finocchio in the lobby of the motel. He was described as very agitated and sweating profusely. Officers had been looking for Finocchio earlier in the day in reference to a check the wellbeing. When Finocchio was asked questions concerning the incident, he became defensive and stated he believed the officers were "out to get him". Officers observed that Finocchio's hands were swollen and had blood on them. When asked about the blood, Finocchio told officers that he cut his foot. At this point in the investigations, officers told Finocchio he was going to be detained while further investigation was conducted. Upon hearing this, Finocchio sprinted pass officers out of the lobby and on the motel parking lot. He was told numerous times to stop by officers giving chase. Officers deployed their department issued taser, with the probes striking Finocchio twice with negative results. Deputies from Franklin County assisted in searching the area and Finocchio was located and taken into custody. Two victims were located on the second floor of the motel. Both were housekeeping employees, a male victim, 60 years of age, and a female victim, 56 years of age. Both had suffered life threatening injuries from a violent assault. Both were transported by St. Clair EMS, the male to Mercy-Washington, and the female to Mercy- Creve Coeur. At the time of this release, the female was listed in critical condition and the male was listed in critical, but stable condition. St. Clair detective arrived to process the scene and piece together what had happened.

Further investigation on the scene revealed, Finocchio contacted the male victim in a room and began an altercation. The female hearing the altercation, entered the room. A few seconds later, the female comes out of the room as if she was thrown, striking her head and body on a door jamb across the hallway. Finocchio comes out of the room, finding the female on the hallway floor, he begins to strike her numerous times with his closed fist, in the head, face and then kicks and stomps on her head and body. The male comes out of the room and attempts to stop Finocchio. Finocchio strikes the male victim with a closed fist in the face with such force, the male came off the hallway floor and landed on his back. The male apparently lost consciousness, because he did not move as the assault on the female continued. Finocchio then turned his attention back to the female. He again kicked her in the face and body and at one point, pointed his finger at her and seemed to be yelling. Finocchio then drug both the male and female into a room, placed then in the bathroom, closed the room door, and walked down the hallway and exit the motel to the back parking lot. Further investigation revealed that Finocchio entered the lobby, hopped over the front desk, forced open the money drawer, and stole approximately $300 in cash from the drawer. As Finocchio attempted to leave the lobby, St. Clair officers made contact. Finocchio was placed under arrest and transported to Mercy-Washington for a fit for confinement and transported to the Franklin County Adult Detention Center, pending application of warrants. The report and evidence were presented to the Franklin County Prosecutor's Office for review. A warrant was issued on Finocchio for two counts of Assault First Degree, Class A Felony, one count Robbery First Degree, Class A Felony, and one count of Resisting/Interfering with Arrest of a Felony, Class E Felony. He is still in custody at the Franklin County Adult Detention Center with no bond.

Board of Education Expected to Announce New DESE Appointee
12/5/2023
The State Board of Education is scheduled to meet in Jefferson City today where an announcement is expected on a new appointee to head the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Current Commissioner Margie Vandeven had previously announced she will be stepping down effective July 1, 2024. State Senator Karla Eslinger is reportedly a front-runner to head the department. Previously, she served as an assistant commissioner of education for the DESE. She is a former school superintendent in southern Missouri who was elected to the State House in 2018, and the State Senate in 2024. Her term ends in 2025.

State Senate Bill Would Increase Penalties for Injuring, Killing Police Dogs
12/5/2023
A bill that's been pre-filed in the State Senate for the upcoming session would increase penalties for people who injure or kill a K-9 officer. State Senator Tony Luetkemeyer, a Republican from Northwest Missouri, says in a news release that he wants to make sure killing a police dog is punishable as more than just property damage, which is what current state law reflects. His proposal would increase penalties for assaulting a K-9 officer from a Class C misdemeanor to a Class A charge, and a class D felony if the animal dies. The bill called "Max's Law," is named for a St. Joseph K-9 officer who was killed in the line of duty three years ago.

Priority Legislation Focuses on Childcare, Early Education
12/5/2023
The Missouri Champion of Children coalition, which includes child advocates, law enforcement, military, and business and healthcare leaders, is praising bipartisan efforts in the Missouri legislature to provide solutions to address Missouri's childcare and early education accessibility and affordability crisis. Recent polling shows that Missourians overwhelmingly support investments in childcare and early education. Polling from October showed 86% of Missourians believed early childhood education supports kids’ success in school, 89% believed affordable childcare helps parents succeed at work, and 90% believed having childcare options for families supports businesses and local economies. On Friday, December 1, the first day of bill filing for the 2024 legislative session, Sen. Lauren Arthur (D-Kansas City) filed SB 742 and Rep. Brenda Shields (R-St. Joseph) filed HB 1488 which would provide tax incentives for businesses that provide childcare to employees and provides a tax incentive to individuals who make charitable contributions to child care providers. The October 2023 polling showed that 84% of Missourians support a tax incentive for businesses that provide childcare benefits while 74% support tax incentives encourage charitable contributions to child care providers.

Meet live amphibians and reptiles with MDC and DOE Dec. 16 at the Weldon Spring Interpretive Site
12/5/2023

Amphibians and reptiles make up some of the most fascinating animals in Missouri. These “herps” (short for herpetology) include frogs, toads, salamanders, snakes, lizards, and turtles.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) are teaming up to host a free event to help attendees learn about and appreciate these amazing creatures. Live Animal Encounter with Amphibians and Reptiles! will take place Saturday, Dec. 16 from 1-2:30 p.m. at DOE’s Weldon Spring Interpretive Site in St. Charles. The event is open to all ages and no reservations are required.

The program includes a presentation that will explore the different herps found in the Show-Me-State, which will be held in the interpretive center’s auditorium. Following the presentation, attendees will have the chance to meet and greet some of the animals they’ve learned about in person. Naturalists will have a live snake, turtle, and some amphibians for participants to see up close.

The event will also feature an educational touch table with a variety of props and interesting facts about reptiles and amphibians.

Live Animal Encounter with Amphibians and Reptiles! will also be open to the public on a walk-in basis for the animal meet and greet and touch table.

The Weldon Spring Site Interpretive Center is located at 7295 Highway 94, approximately two miles south of I-64/40.

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.

Accidents
12/4/2023
A St. Clair man was injured in a one car accident in Franklin County. The patrol says it happened at 10:35 Sunday night on 66 East of the I-44 Loop. 46-year old Jamie Hampton was Westbound when he fell asleep at the wheel, ran off the road and struck a highway sign and two trees. Hampton was taken to St. Clare Hospital in Fenton with minor injuries.

A man from Manchester was taken to the hospital following a one car accident in Franklin County. The state patrol says it happened at 3:20 Sunday afternoon on Highway N North of Highway O. 42-year old Charles Bird was Southbound when he lost control and ran into the ditch. Bird was taken to Mercy in St. Louis by Meramec Ambulance with minor injuries.

Fire at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Washington
12/4/2023
The Washington Fire Department was dispatched to a report of an unknown type of automatic alarm at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 1000 Madison Avenue at 11:13 AM on December 1, 2023.

Upon arrival, there was nothing showing from the exterior.

Crews made entry and found moderate smoke in the building a single sprinkler operating in a rear sacristy. The sprinkler system was shut down once the fire was confirmed out.

Crews quickly performed ventilation and salvage operations to remove the excess water. Fire crews assisted with contacting restoration services as well as the Franklin County Health Department as some water ran through the floor and into a kitchen below.

Fire crews started to be released approximately 45 minutes after the time of alarm. The fire was found to have started in a trash can in an unattended room after a funeral service.

The fire was unintentional in nature.

The room has approximately 14 foot ceiling and the fire was completely extinguished by a single sprinkler approximately 6’ from the wall where the fire was located.

The fire damaged the carpet, part of a wall and a door. There was smoke staining in fire room, however, a majority of the church was untouched by smoke or water damage.

Mayor Jones Works on Regional Crime-Fighting Strategy
12/4/2023
Mayor Tishaura Jones is meeting with area leaders today to further work on combating crime at the regional level. The gathering follows a meeting of law enforcement, business and elected leaders held last May to collect input on available resources. The mayor's office says that while the City of St. Louis has seen about a 20 percent drop in homicides so far this year, city leaders believe developing a regional crime strategy is the key to continuing to reduce violence.

Ethics Investigation Into House Speaker Dean Plocher to Continue This Week
12/4/2023
The Missouri House Ethics Committee is set to reconvene for a third time this week for closed-door hearings. The committee is reportedly looking into allegations of misconduct by House Speaker Dean Plocher. The public notice says the committee is discussing a "personnel inquiry" and an ethics complaint. Plocher is reportedly being investigated for airfare, hotels and other travel costs that were already paid for by his campaign. The hearing will re-convene December 6th.

State Findings Show Increase in Number of Infants, Juvenile Deaths
12/4/2023
Missouri is seeing an alarming rise in the number of infants who have suffocated during sleep, and children poisoned by fentanyl. The findings from 2022 were released last week in the annual Missouri Child Fatality Review Program report. The state's Department of Social Services says about 80 children under the age of 18 died in Missouri last year from accidental suffocation or strangulation in bed, mostly when they were sleeping with their parents. Ten children died from ingesting fentanyl or fentanyl with other drugs, and 21 teens died from the drug. The numbers of fentanyl-related child deaths nearly double figures from last year.

Accidents
12/2/2023
Four injured in a two vehicle accident in Franklin County. The state patrol says it happened at 6:15 Friday evening on Highway A North of Julie Lane. The patrol says 19-year old Jason Cox of Union lost control, crossed the center line and collided with a car driven by 65-year old Karla Terschluse of Washington. Karla Terschluse and three passengers, 64-year old Donald Terschluse and two juvenile girls, ages 12 and 14, suffered minor injuries and were taken to Mercy in Washington.

Two injured in a three vehicle accident in Franklin County. The patrol says it happened at 1:45 Friday afternoon on Highway 100 at Highway T. The patrol says 67 year old Paul Brinson of Owensville pulled into the path of a vehicle driven by 21-year old Blake Lister of Mokane. They collided and Lister then collided with an SUV driven by 61-year old Walter Polanski of Villa Ridge. Lister and a passenger in Brinson's car, 63-year old Carol Brinson of Villa Ridge were taken to the hospital. Lister had minor injuries, Brinson serious.

Robertsville woman taken to the hospital following a one car accident in Franklin County. The patrol says it happened after eight o'clock Friday morning on Highway N North of Mohican Drive. 37-year old Krista Smith was Northbound when she lost control, slid off the road and struck an embankment. Smith was taken to Mercy Hospital with minor injuries.

St. Clair woman was injured in a two vehicle crash in Franklin County. The patrol says it happened at 7:15 Friday mornign on Highway P at Lake Shore Drive. A 17 year old juvenile from St. Clair failed to yield while making a turn and pulled into the path of 39-year old Angela Kiefer of St. Clair. Kiefer suffered moderate injuries and was taken to Mercy in Washington by St. Clair Ambulance.

Fontbonne U. Making Major Cuts
12/2/2023
In what is being called a "retrenchment plan" Fontbonne University is eliminating programs and faculty positions to compensate for two-million-dollars in budget cuts. The university announced yesterday that 21 academic programs and 19 faculty positions are being cut. The affected programs include communications, fine arts, healthcare management and global studies.

Man Convicted Of Teen's Overdose Death
12/2/2023
One of two men charged in the overdose death of a Washington, Missouri teen has been found guilty. Andrew Amelung was convicted this week and will be sentenced in February for the 2021 death of 13-year-old Zackary Foster. The boy was sleeping over at a friend's house when he was found deceased in a bedroom. Methamphetamine was found in the home and it's believed the boys were experimenting with the adult's drugs during the night. A second defendant Thomas Noonan who reportedly owned the home is awaiting trial.

Mabe Hired as Union's Next Superintendent
12/2/2023
The Union R-XI Board of Education has approved the hiring of Dr. Mike Mabe, Current Deputy Superintendent, as the 24/25 District Superintendent.

Officials say Dr. Mabe has been in education for 23 years and has been an instrumental part of Union's success over the past several years.

Dr. Mabe was hired nine years ago as the Assistant Superintendent of Operations and was promoted to Deputy Superintendent three years ago.

Prior to that, Dr. Mabe was a Superintendent in Diamond Missouri and an elementary principal and teacher in Sullivan, Missouri.

Dr. Scott Hayes, current Superintendent, is retiring after 31 years in education and three years as Union's Superintendent.

Dr. Mabe's duties as Superintendent will begin July, 1st, 2024.

Accidents
12/1/2023
Three injured in a one car accident in Franklin County. The state patrol says it happened at 10:30 Thursday night on Rye Creek Road South of Hampton Lane. 25-year old Kristopher Hogue of Lonedell was Southbound when he ran off the road and struck a tree. Three passengers were injured, 18-year old Chrissie Richards of Lonedell and two juvenile girls, both 14, from St. Clair and Lonedell. They were taken to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan with minor injuries.

A Hermann woman was injured in a two vehicle crash in Franklin County. The state patrol says it happened at 4:45 Thursday afternoon on Highway 100 East of Vossbrink Drive. 84-year old Velma Banken of New Haven slowed for traffic and was struck in the rear by a car driven by 49-year old Tracy Vance of Hermann. Vance was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington with minor injuries.

Online Shopping Means Spike In Package Thefts
12/1/2023
The porch pirates have returned to wreak havoc on the holiday shopping season. St. Louis is one of the top city's for the theft of delivered packages in the country. Governor Parsons signed legislation earlier this year making stealing a package from a porch a Class E Felony. As a safety measure St. Louis Metropolitan Police is reminding online shoppers to plan to be home if possible to accept deliveries or have them delivered to the workplace or a friend's house.

"All I Want For Christmas Is You" Is Favorite Christmas Song Among Missourians
12/1/2023
Mariah Carey's "All I Want For Christmas Is You" is the favorite Christmas song among Missourians. That's according to new research by CasinosSweeps.com, which examined the top Christmas songs by analyzing Google search data. "Silent Night" by Bing Crosby came in second, followed by "Somewhere Only We Know" by Lily Allen.

Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Scheduled Tonight At Governor's Mansion
12/1/2023
The annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony will be held tonight at the Missouri Governor's mansion. This will be followed by Candlelight Tours, where visitors will have the opportunity to walk through the Governor's mansion. This year's theme is "Standing United: A Salute To Christmas." The tree lighting ceremony is set for six this evening.

Governor Parson Names Acting Director For MO Department Of Corrections
12/1/2023
Governor Mike Parson has named Trevor Foley as acting Director of the Missouri Department of Corrections. His appointment will become effective on December sixth upon the departure of Director Anne Precythe from state government. Meanwhile, Valarie Moseley and Travis Terry will serve as deputy directors for the Department of Corrections.

Learn to make venison burger and sausage at MDC’s Busch Shooting Range class Dec. 11
12/1/2023

Part of the satisfaction of hunting is knowing exactly where your meat has come from. If you’re a successful deer hunter, you’ve already taken that first step in procuring healthy, naturally sourced protein. The next step is to also learn how to get that meat ready for the table.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is offering a free class to help get you from field to fork by demonstrating how to create two of the most popular meats. MDC’s August A. Busch Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center will host a Venison Burger and Sausage Making class Monday, Dec. 11 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. It will take deer hunters through the step-by-step process needed to process fresh venison into ready-to-eat delicacies.

This event will provide instruction on how to grind and season your harvested deer meat to make it into tasty burgers and sausage. Besides traditional hamburgers, hunters will find low fat ground venison to be an excellent and healthy base for other dishes too, such as spaghetti sauce, chili, tacos, sloppy Joes, pizza topping, meat loaf, and casseroles.

“After processing your harvest, making your own sausage and burger is a great way to season to your own taste and save money,” said MDC Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center Manager, Bryant Hertel.

Hunters will learn how to make sure burgers and sausages created with their venison are the best quality possible at this special Field to Fork event, held at the Busch Shooting classroom.

Venison Burger and Sausage Making is a free program open to all ages, but advanced online registration is required at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/Zuk for each person attending.

The August A. Busch Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center is located at 3550 Route D, approximately five miles west of Highway 94, in Defiance.

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.

Pacific Man Charged with Stealing a Motor Vehicle
12/1/2023

On November 25th, 2023, the Franklin County Sheriff's Office was contacted regarding a Motor Vehicle Theft. The victim reported, during the night of November 23rd, a suspect had stolen a 2010 Hyundai Accent from his residence in the St. Clair area. The victim noticed the vehicle missing upon returning from holiday activities on the November 25th. He contacted the Sheriff's Office to file a report and upon reviewing surveillance footage, he caught the suspect in the act of the theft and recognized the suspect. The vehicle was ultimately entered as stolen.

During the night of November 29th, Pacific Police Officers encountered the stolen vehicle occupied at the Pilot Gas Station located within their venue. A female passenger was found in the vehicle and the male driver was located inside the establishment. Both parties were ultimately detained by Pacific Officers. The male suspect was ultimately one of the same which was involved in the theft of the vehicle. Franklin County Sheriff's Deputies responded to the scene to take investigative authority relating to the vehicle theft investigation.

Upon taking custody of the male suspect and conducting a search incident to arrest, a plastic bag containing a large quantity of capsules which held a white powdery substance was found on his person.

The suspect was taken into custody and transported to the Franklin County Detention Facility.

On November 30th, Franklin County Deputies applied for and received in custody warrants through the Franklin County Prosecuting Attorney's Office for the suspect identified as Joseph Weatherby a 30-year-old male from the Pacific area on charges of Stealing Motor Vehicle with a bond of $25,000.

The seized bag of capsules was forwarded to the Missouri State Highway Patrol Laboratory for further analysis before further charges are filed.

I would like to thank the Pacific Police Department for their assistance in the investigation.

SkillUp Information Sessions for SNAP Recipients
12/1/2023

East Central College will be presenting information sessions for SNAP (food stamp) recipients to learn more about the opportunity to receive an education for free.

The sessions will be held Dec. 12-14 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Washington Job Center, 1108 Washington Square Center. Eligible SNAP recipients will be able to use the SkillUp program that provides free tuition and support services to complete a short-term (12 months or less) training program at no cost. The programs will provide individuals with a new career path and the opportunity to begin a career in a high demand industry.

ECC offers several SkillUp eligible programs, including Fast Track Welding, Heating and Air-Conditioning, Industrial Maintenance, Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA), Certified Medication Technician (CMT) and Medical Assistant. The Welding, CNA and CMT programs can each be completed in 16 weeks or less.

No reservations are needed for the sessions. Those interested need to ask for Melissa Schall-Willmore at the Washington Job Center.

For more information about the SkillUp program, visit www.eastcentral.edu/SkillUp or call 636-584-6530.

MDC to remove Howell Island Causeway and convert area to boat-in only access
12/1/2023

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is removing the causeway to Howell Island Conservation Area on the Missouri River in St. Louis County. The causeway currently sits atop a Corps of Engineers’ water control structure and spans the Centaur Chute, connecting the island to a parking lot on North Eatherton Road.

MDC is removing the causeway due to increased flooding over the past 15 years, that has resulted in costly repairs and increased maintenance. The underlying water control structure will remain in place. The removal project is currently underway and being performed by an MDC contractor. Once the causeway is removed, Howell Island will offer boat-in access only from the Missouri River.

The island has been accessible by foot only when the Missouri River level was 16 feet or lower on the St. Charles gauge. However, prolonged high river levels have greatly reduced the opportunity for walk-in access across the causeway. According to MDC, during a recent 12 ½-year period, water covered the causeway 49% of the time, and 60% of the time of the last 4 ½ years of that period. The area was inaccessible by foot during those times.

High river events in 2019, 2020, and 2021 have destroyed a large portion of the concrete covering, causing MDC to restrict public access across the causeway.

The concrete causeway structure along with the metal culvert pipes will be removed. After the project is completed, the underlying rock foundation will remain and will resemble its original state before the concrete cap was added.

The removal of the causeway will eliminate walk-in access, but the area will remain open for access by boat. Those looking to access the island can utilize the Weldon Spring Conservation Area Boat Ramp off Highway 94 in St. Charles County.

The 2,547-acre Howell Island Conservation Area was purchased by MDC in 1978. The island is mostly forested with bottomland trees such as cottonwood and sycamore and shrub/grass fields. Howell island continues to provide essential wildlife habitat.

Three Men Charged In Horrific Kidnapping Case Of Indian Student In St. Charles County
12/1/2023
Three men accused of holding a student from India captive and beating him are facing several charges in St. Charles County. St. Charles County Prosecuting Attorney Joe McCulloch said the three men held a 20-year-old student against his will for several months, where he was repeatedly beaten and forced into labor. He was also allegedly sleep deprived and endured limited food rations. McCulloch said authorities learned of the allegations during a recent wellness check at a home in Defiance. The suspects have been identified as Venkatesh Sattaru, Sravanvarma Penumetcha, and Nikhil Penmatsa. All three have been charged on multiple counts, including trafficking for the purpose of slavery, kidnapping, and domestic assault. The victim is said to be Sattaru's cousin.

Cortex Gets $7M For Training
12/1/2023
The state of Missouri is investing in St. Louis's tech industry. The city's technological hub -- The Cortex -- is the recipient of seven-million-dollars awarded to train workers to step into tech jobs here in the Gateway City. No college is required for the 15-week training course which is free. Information about the program is posted at: CortexSTL.org/media.

Learn how to turn wild game into tasty meals at Dec. 9 program at MDC's Andy Dalton Range
12/1/2023

Part of the enjoyment of hunting is to provide tasty table fare.

People can learn more about how to turn wild game into a flavorful meal at the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) Dec. 9 free program “Learning to Hunt: Wild Game Prep.” This program, which will be from 8:30-10:30 a.m. at MDC’s Andy Dalton Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center, will include both in-person and virtual options. The Dalton Range is located near Ash Grove at 4897 N. Greene County Farm Road 61. People can register for the in-person option at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/194914

People can register for the virtual option at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/194913

The wild game that will be covered by MDC Outdoor Education Center Specialist Ali Cannefax at this program will include deer, turkey, rabbit, and squirrel. She will cover proper seasoning, cooking techniques, and all the procedures that are involved in turning wild game into delicious meat for the table. Participants are welcome to bring their own recipes to share at the program.

People can stay informed about upcoming programs at MDC’s Andy Dalton Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center by signing up for text alerts and e-mail bulletins. People who have questions about upcoming events or how to sign up for text alerts from the Dalton Range 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.

Governor Parson Responds To Representative Dinkins Letter About Palestinian Refugees
11/30/2023
Governor Mike Parson is responding to a call by a group of GOP lawmakers to ban Palestinian refugees from coming to Missouri. State Representative Chris Dinkins sent a letter to Parson earlier this week, asking him to sign an executive order to prohibit the resettlement of Palestinian refugees. More than thirty-five House Republicans signed on to the letter. Parson said the state shouldn't be characterizing "all Palestinian people as bad people." He added that there's a "huge difference between Palestinian people and Hamas."

Accident
11/30/2023
Two injured in a two vehicle accident in Franklin County. The state patrol says it happened at 11:25 Wednesday morning on Highway 50 at Highway 47 South in Union. The patrol says 51-year old Jeffrey Hudder of St. James failed to stop for a red light and pulled into the path of a vehicle driven by 37-year old Kevin Williams of Marthasville. Hudder was taken to Mercy in Washington with moderate injuries and Williams was taken to a private doctor with minor injuries.

Missourians recognized for making trees work in their communities
11/30/2023

For more than 30 years, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and the Missouri Community Forestry Council (MCFC) have partnered to recognize Missourians who are outstanding stewards of community trees.

At this year’s Missouri Community Forestry Council Conference, a new group of recipients were given Missouri Arbor Awards of Excellence. The awards were presented by MDC Community Forestry Coordinator Russell Hinnah.

“The Missouri Arbor Awards of Excellence highlight the people and organizations working to provide sustainable, long-term efforts to care for trees,” said Hinnah. “Their work is extremely important to assure the many economic, social, and environmental benefits of a healthy community forest.”

No matter what size the community, trees are visible and valuable assets, contributing to the appearance and character of the town. They are also part of the public infrastructure and play an essential role in the community by reducing stormwater runoff, providing cooling shade during hot weather, improving air quality, making neighborhoods safer and improving property values.

Nominations for this year’s awards were evaluated based on sustainability, innovation, the use of sound tree management principles, the impact on the community, and the effectiveness of the activity. Statewide, a total of five award winners were recognized.

Individual Category

Troy Powell

Troy Powell has led the MCFC Arbor Day Poster Contest in Springfield for over 10 years and in 2022 he led the effort for the entire state of Missouri. In Springfield, Troy works with volunteers who visit area schools to present the poster contest to 5^th grade students and teachers. Each school event includes a tree planting session and a presentation on the history of Arbor Day. By taking his work statewide and working with new partners, Troy’s work led to more cities and schools participating in the program than ever before. Troy has also been instrumental in leading multiple workdays to weed, prune, and mulch the planting beds at the Springfield Veteran’s Cemetery and Trail of Honor.

David Ball

David Ball spends his days working for a local non-profit organization, but he always finds time to help with planting projects. This includes serving on the St. Joseph tree board and helping to revise the City of St. Joseph’s tree ordinance. David has also coordinated planting projects for other non-profits and city divisions. David has made it his mission to remove invasive bush honeysuckle in city parks. He works with the parks director to identify the problem areas and organizes workers to do the work. In the past couple years David has worked on multiple projects removing invasives and helped plant 30 trees in five different pocket parks throughout St. Joseph.

Organization Category

Tower Grove Park

In 2021, Tower Grove Park in St. Louis realized their tree canopy was in decline and number of species was getting very limited, with only 21 species represented in the park’s 3,500 trees. This meant the landscape had become increasingly distanced from the historic plan, compromising the history and character of the park. Park leadership initiated a tree restoration master plan that not only included a plan to plant 1,000 new trees over the next five years, but also included a more comprehensive framework to guide tree planting and removals to refocus the park around its original historic framework. They convened a tree expert panel to determine species that will perform well in a rapidly warming climate and set the entire plan using ArcGIS to assure accurate tracking and implementation.

Business/Institution Category

MD-Kinney, a division of Ingersoll Rand

Over the last few years the Southwest Missouri Community Forestry Council has worked with a veterans group at MD-Kinney in Springfield. Council members provided the know-how and coordination for workdays to prune and mulch around trees and shrubs. During the workdays the veterans learn how to care for the trees and plants in Springfield’s Veterans Cemetery and along the Trail of Honor, located on the north edge of the cemetery. These workdays have provided the service members a way to give back to their fellow service members and learn about tree care.

Municipality/Government Category

City of Grandview

The City of Grandview has consistently demonstrated the value of the trees in their community. Grandview has been designated a Tree City by the Arbor Day Foundation for the last 28 years. Tree City designation requires communities to spend at least two dollars per capita on tree care, have a tree ordinance, tree board and an annual Arbor Day celebration and dedication. This year Grandview held their 35th Arbor Day celebration and tree dedication. Using MDC cost-share funding, the city also completed two critical tree projects, including a tree inventory for all parks and city properties and a tree planting project that put 29 trees throughout the community. The tree inventory will help the city better manage their trees and provide up-to-date tree information that their residents can view at any time. Grandview has plans for years to come for additional projects to preserve and add trees to their city.

For more information about improving trees and green space in Missouri communities, visit https://mdc.mo.gov/community.

St. Louis Man Accused Of Using Social Media To Lure Underage Girls For Sex
11/30/2023
A St. Louis man is accused of using social media to solicit sex with underage girls. Twenty-five-year-old Curion Turner is charged on several counts, including second-degree statutory rape and endangering the welfare of a child. Police say Turner allegedly used Instagram to lure teenage girls to his apartment, claiming to be 17. Two of the victims are 14 and a third is thirteen. According to a probable cause statement, Turner used a rideshare to pick the girls up and bring them to his apartment. Each girl told police they had sex with him. Turner is jailed without bond.

Stratford Inn Set For Demolition
11/30/2023
A former hotel that operated for nearly fifty years along I-44 in Fenton has a date with the wrecking ball. Fenton city leaders say the Stratford Inn is slated for demolition in the coming months. The demolition is expected to be completed by mid-March.

St. Louis Area Public School Enrollment Stabilizes
11/30/2023
Public school officials in the St. Louis area say enrollment has stabilized after years of losses caused by the pandemic, though student numbers are still down. Several schools have seen an increase in enrollment since the pandemic began. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports most districts have plateaued or lost fewer students this year during an overall downward slide in enrollment. Private schools are also seeing their enrollment slide. The Archdiocese of St,. Louis is expected to announce closures and consolidations among its 82 grade schools by the end of the year.

Silver Dollar City Among Best Theme Parks In America
11/30/2023
Silver Dollar City is among the best themed parks in America. That's according to new research conducted by Westgate Palace Hotel at Universal, which ranked the theme park in Branson at fifth place. The rankings were based on Instagram hashtags, Google searches, and TripAdvisor reviews.

MU Researcher Receives $1.6 Million Federal Grant To Study Correlation Between Diet And Alzheimer's
11/30/2023
The MU School of Medicine has received a federal grant for Alzheimer's research. The university announced that one of its researchers, Dr. Ai-Ling Lin was awarded a two-year, one-point-six-million-dollar grant from the National Institutes of Health to study the correlation between diet and Alzheimer's Disease. Lin says the goal is to increase understanding of how lifestyle and dietary interventions could slow the progression of Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.

MO Dept. Of Commerce And Insurance To Reduce Workers' Compensation Rates In 2024
11/30/2023
The Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance will reduce workers' compensation rates for employers in 2024. This marks the third consecutive year these rates have been decreased. The National Council on Compensation Insurance recently proposed a decrease of 7.5-percent for 2024 workers' compensation loss costs.

MDC needs birders to help with Audubon Christmas Bird Count
11/30/2023

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) encourages experienced Missouri birders to become citizen scientists by helping with the National Audubon Society’s 124th Christmas Bird Count (CBC) between Dec. 14 and Jan. 5, 2024.

The CBC is an annual bird census where thousands of volunteers across the U.S., Canada, and other countries go out over a 24-hour period on one calendar day to count birds between Dec. 14 and Jan. 5. The data on winter bird populations helps track the long-term status of species and large-scale trends. Each CBC has a coordinator who assigns portions of a 15-mile diameter count circle to participants to count all birds seen and heard over a 24-hour period.

Missouri hosts about 20 CBCs. Learn more at audubon.org/conservation/join-christmas-bird-count and contact the CBC organizers listed for details on the specific count circles.

Learn about trout fishing in Missouri at MDC virtual program on Dec. 7
11/30/2023

Trout fishing makes headlines on March 1 in Missouri because it’s the opening day of the summer catch-and-keep season for the state trout parks. However, fishing for trout is more than a one-day event in the Show-Me State.

People wanting to learn more about trout fishing in Missouri should sign up for the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) virtual program “Where Can I – Trout Fish.” This free virtual program will be Dec. 7 from noon-12:30 p.m. The program is being put on by the staff of MDC’s Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center in Joplin. It is part of the Shoal Creek staff’s “Where Can I?” series of programs, which will be held the second Wednesday of each month. The Dec. 7 program is open to all ages. People can register at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/195277

At this program, MDC Administrative Assistant Tim Smith will have information about locations where you can fish for trout in winter and at other times throughout the year. He’ll also discuss the regulations for fishing at each site.

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.

Efforts Underway For Casino At Lake Of The Ozarks
11/29/2023
A casino could be coming to the Lake of the Ozarks. Yesterday the Missouri Secretary of State's Office signed off on language for a proposed ballot initiative, which asks voters if they want to amend the state Constitution to allow for a 14th gambling boat license. The next step is for supporters to select one of four proposed petitions and collect at least 170-thousand signatures to get the measure on the 2024 ballot. If voters approve the measure, the casino will operate on the Osage River below the Bagnell Dam.

Discover how animals survive winter this Saturday, Dec. 2 at MDC’s Howard Wood St. Louis Urban Outreach Office
11/29/2023

Modern humans are lucky to have homes, heaters, and high-tech clothing to make the colder months bearable. But how does Missouri’s wildlife survive the challenges of winter?

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is presenting a program this Saturday, Dec. 2 that will help reveal the answers to that mystery. M.A.D. Wildlife is a free event that will be held from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at MDC’s Howard Wood Urban Outreach Office in St. Louis City. The program will focus on the unique strategies that animals use to survive winter, such as Migration, Adaptation, or Dormancy.

Winter is one of the most stressful times of the year for most organisms. Participants will engage in fun activities to learn how different species use migration, adaptation, dormancy, or other strategies to survive during these seasonal changes. These will include “Cozy Cup” experiment to see how animal coverings help animals maintain body heat.

Part of the program will also take place outdoors as participants explore where animals might go for winter during a scavenger hunt in the next door Brightside St. Louis demo garden.

“I am hoping participants leave understanding and appreciating how nature is awesome at adapting to change and life in Missouri,” said MDC Naturalist, Rebecca Rodriguez.

M.A.D. Wildlife is a free program open to ages seven and up, however advanced online registration is required at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZBA. Attendees should come prepared for the weather as portion will be held outdoors.

The MDC Howard Wood Urban Outreach Office is located at 4640 Shenandoah Ave, just east of the Vandeventer Ave./South Kingshighway Blvd. intersection, and next to Brightside St. Louis.

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.

MDC reports hunters harvested 11,705 deer during new CWD portion
11/29/2023

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows that hunters harvested 11,705 deer during the state’s new chronic wasting disease (CWD) portion of the firearms deer-hunting season, Nov. 22-26, in CWD Management Zone counties. Of the 11,705 deer harvested, 4,707 were antlered bucks, 1,074 were button bucks, and 5,924 were does. Get harvest numbers for the new CWD Portion by county at extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/

According to MDC, the CWD portion was timed to occur during the end of the primary rut when deer movement is typically good and hunter interest remains high. Hunters were allowed to use any unfilled firearms deer hunting permits during the CWD portion and had to abide by the statewide limit of one antlered deer during the firearms deer season, all portions combined. Hunters also had to abide by county-specific firearms antlerless permit numbers. CWD testing was not required during the CWD portion, but voluntary CWD testing is available through the entire deer season. Learn more at mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/deer/chronic-wasting-disease/voluntary-cwd-sampling.

MDC initiated the new portion to increase deer harvest in the CWD Management Zone to help slow the spread of the disease. The CWD Management Zone consists of the following counties in or near where CWD has been found: Adair, Barry, Barton, Bollinger, Caldwell, Camden, Carroll, Cedar, Chariton, Christian, Clark, Clay, Clinton, Crawford, Dallas, Franklin, Gasconade, Greene, Grundy, Hickory, Howell, Jasper, Jefferson, Knox, Laclede, Linn, Livingston, Macon, Madison, McDonald, Mercer, Montgomery, Oregon, Ozark, Pemiscot, Perry, Polk, Pulaski, Putnam, Ray, Ripley, Schuyler, St. Charles, St. Clair, St. Francois, Ste. Genevieve, Stone, Sullivan, Taney, Vernon, Warren, and Washington. Learn more about CWD at mdc.mo.gov/cwd.

Archery deer hunting continues through Jan. 15, 2024. The late antlerless portion of firearms deer season runs Dec. 2-10 in open counties and the alternative methods portion will occur Dec. 23 through Jan. 2, 2024.

Get more information on Missouri deer hunting from MDC’s 2023 Fall Deer and Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information booklet, available where hunting permits are sold and online at mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/deer.

Blood Drive
11/29/2023

Monday, December 4th by the Washington School of Practical Nursing at Four Rivers Career Center in Washington.

It is from 1 to 6 pm.

Long sleeve Red Christmas themed T-shirt give away saying: (Blood Donors are the Sweetest.)

Accident
11/29/2023
Traffic accident in Warren County sends a Wright City woman to the hospital. The patrol says it happened just before 6pm Tuesday evening on the I-70 South Outer Road. The patrol says 19-year old Ryder Dixon of Warrenton was distracted by a navigation device and failed to notice a car stopped in front of him driven by 37-year old Silkence Simpson of Wright City. Simpson was taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

Harris Stowe Accreditation On The Line
11/29/2023
Harris-Stowe State University is in danger of losing its accreditation with the state Department of Education. The St. Louis Post Dispatch today says the school has received a letter of noncompliance from the education department. It means the university has not met the standards for training new teachers, including inadequate tracking of student academic outcomes. Their accreditation status will be taken up at the February meeting of the Missouri State Board of Education.

Oversight Board To Tour City Jail
11/29/2023
Members of the Detention Facilities Oversight Board are getting their first look at the St. Louis City Justice Center. The jail has been the scene of several controversies in the last few years including the deaths of at least nine inmates. Board members have been trying to gain access to the Justice Center for over a year but authorities said members lacked some specific training. They recently received the necessary training and will have a site visit today.

MO AG Joins 19 States Opposing Proposed Transgender Rule For Foster Families
11/29/2023
Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey is joining nineteen states to oppose the Biden Administration's proposed rule that would require foster care agencies to place foster children with families who promise to promote transgender identity. Bailey says this is unconstitutional and would result in a loss of foster families. Bailey released a statement, which reads in part, "As a foster parent myself, I am deeply invested in protecting children and putting their best interests first. Biden's proposed rule does exactly the opposite by enacting policies meant to exclude people with deeply religious beliefs from being foster parents."

ECC to Host Holiday Open House & Santa Visit
11/28/2023

Let East Central College help you get into the holiday spirit on Thursday, Nov. 30, during a Holiday Open House.

From 5-7 p.m., College staff will be on hand in Buescher Hall in Union to discuss all things ECC, and the Means Library and Learning Center will be open to the public.

Children are welcome to visit with Santa Claus, and cookies will be provided by ECC’s Culinary Arts program students. Enjoy Christmas music and a coffee and hot chocolate bar.

Outside, there will be marshmallows to roast for S’mores, and a snow machine will be running. ECC is located at 1964 Prairie Dell Road, Union. For more information about the college, visit www.eastcentral.edu/.

Annual MO Report Shows Increase In Sleep-Related Infant Suffocation & Fentanyl Related Child Fatalities
11/28/2023
An annual report finds an increase in sleep-related infant suffocation and Fentanyl related child fatalities in Missouri. The report by the Missouri Child Fatality Review Program shows 79 infants in the state died from sleep related suffocation in 2022. That's a 22-percent increase from 2021. The report also found that the deaths of 43 children in the state last year were linked to Fentanyl. That's nearly double from the previous year.

MO Traffic Fatalities Over Thanksgiving Weekend Down This Year
11/28/2023
Traffic fatalities over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend are down this year. The Missouri Highway Patrol says there were four deaths in traffic crashes over the long holiday weekend. That's compared to eight deaths during last year's Thanksgiving holiday weekend. There was also 103 DWI arrests and ten drug arrests. During last year's holiday weekend, there were 113 DWI arrests and 35 drug arrests.

Discover Nature with MDC through Eagle Days
11/28/2023

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites people to discover nature through Eagle Days events and by watching bald eagles around the state.

From December through February, Missouri's winter eagle watching is spectacular. Because of Missouri’s big rivers, many lakes, and abundant wetlands, the Show-Me state is one of the leading lower 48 states for bald eagle viewing. Each fall, thousands of these great birds migrate south from their nesting range in Canada and the Great Lakes states to hunt in Missouri. Eagles take up residence wherever they find open water and plentiful food. More than 2,000 bald eagles are typically reported in Missouri during winter.

Watch for eagles perched in large trees along the water's edge. Early in the morning you can see them flying and fishing. Be sure to dress for winter weather and don't forget cameras and binoculars.

MDC is again offering various Eagle Days events around the state. Some will include live eagle programs, exhibits, activities, videos, and guides with spotting scopes. Some require registration. Get more information on MDC Eagle Days events at mdc.mo.gov/events/eagle-days.

Can't make an MDC Eagle Days event? Here are some hot spots for winter eagle viewing:

Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area on Route K southwest of Columbia,
Lake of the Ozarks at Bagnell Dam Access east of Bagnell,
Lock & Dam 20 in Canton,
Lock & Dam 24 at Clarksville,
Lock & Dam 25 east of Winfield,
Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge south of Mound City,
Mingo National Wildlife Refuge northwest of Puxico,
Moses Eagle Park in Stella,
Old Chain of Rocks Bridge south of I-270 off of Riverview Drive in St. Louis,
Riverlands Environmental Demonstration Area east of West Alton,
Schell-Osage Conservation Area north of El Dorado Springs,
Smithville Lake north of Kansas City,
Stockton Lake near Stockton,
Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge south of Sumner,
Table Rock Lake, and
Truman Reservoir west of Warsaw.

Learn more about bald eagles in Missouri from the MDC online Field Guide at mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/bald-eagle.

ECC Launches Rolla Advisory Council to Shape Future Expansion
11/28/2023

Rolla area civic, business and community leaders are serving as ambassadors for East Central College as it prepares to expand its footprint in the region.

Recruiting the ECC Rolla Advisory Council was a crucial step before significant expansion begins in the form of a new, comprehensive facility to enhance educational and workforce opportunities for central Missouri.

The ECC Rolla Advisory Council will serve as a collaborative platform for college leadership to engage with key community leaders in the region. The council's objective is to ensure that the upcoming expansion aligns with the needs and aspirations of the local community.

The ECC Rolla Advisory Council will include representatives from diverse sectors, including business, industry, education and community leadership.

Council objectives include:

Providing guidance and support consistent with ECC's mission, vision, and values for its Rolla operations.
Offering insights on regional workforce needs, including current job skills and employment trends.
Assessing the relevancy and delivery of current programming.
Exploring new opportunities for growth and expansion, including facilities and fundraising.

ECC has a longstanding presence in Rolla, initially offering courses in 1997 to support the demand for Licensed Practical Nursing to Registered Nursing (LPN-RN) bridge programming.

Over the past 25 years, ECC has expanded its programming to include career-ready certificates and degrees in Allied Health, Early Childhood Development, Industrial Maintenance Technology, and Law Enforcement, among others.

The College is now taking a bold step forward with the development of a comprehensive campus in Rolla. This transformative facility, projected to be 50,000 - 75,000 square feet at a cost of $25 to $36 million, will significantly improve student and academic services, enhance existing offerings, and increase enrollment capacity.

ECC has secured $13 Million in State of Missouri American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and $3 Million from federal omnibus spending, demonstrating its commitment to the Rolla expansion.

The ECC Rolla Advisory Council is comprised of community leaders who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table:

Jessica Beucler, Chief Risk Officer, Phelps County Bank
John Butz, City Administrator, Rolla City Government
Dr. Kyle Dare, Superintendent, Rolla Public Schools
Karen Davis, Financial Investment Advisor, Town & Country Bank
Donald Dodd, President, Salem Publishing Company
Stuart Gipson, CEO, Four Rivers Community Health
Tracy Jenkins, Corporate Relations, Brewer Science
Stevie Kearse, Executive Director, Rolla Chamber of Commerce
Ernest Kost, President, First State Community Bank
Dale Martin, Executive Director, Rolla Regional Economic Commission
John Money, Sr. VP of HR & Philanthropy, Phelps Health
Bonnie Prigge, Executive Director, Meramec Regional Planning Commission
Sherry Stites, Associate Commissioner, Phelps County Commission
Joy Tucker, Owner, Hutcheson Ford

For more information about ECC’s expansion plans in Rolla, visit www.eastcentral.edu/rolla/new-rolla-facility/.

Missouri students invited to participate in No MOre Trash! contest Trash-can-decorating contest runs through March 15
11/28/2023

The Missouri Department of Transportation invites Missouri students in grades K-12 to help fight litter in Missouri – and to have creative and educational fun – by participating in the 2024 “Yes You CAN Make Missouri Litter-Free” trash-can-decorating contest. The contest is part of MoDOT’s annual “No MOre Trash!” statewide litter campaign, which is held in April.

The contest encourages school-aged kids to join in the fight against litter by decorating a large trash can with the “No MOre Trash!” logo and a litter prevention message using a variety of creative materials. Schools, or home school programs, may submit one trash can entry in each competition category: grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8 – and new this year is grades 9-12. Entries are judged based on creativity, adherence to the contest rules and effective use of the theme and logo.

First-place winners from each competition category receive $200 awarded to the sponsoring schools. All first-place winners are then eligible for a grand prize of $600 and a trophy awarded to the sponsoring school.

There is no entry fee for the contest. Participating school groups must submit a completed entry form online with up to three photos and a release form by March 15. Contest rules, entry forms, release forms, logos, past winners and educational information can be found at modot.org/trash-can-contest.

MDC reports young hunters harvested 3,574 deer during late youth portion
11/28/2023

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows young hunters ages 6-15 harvested 3,574 deer during Missouri’s late youth portion of the 2023 firearms deer hunting season, Nov. 24-26. Of the 3,574 deer harvested, 1,697 were antlered bucks, 361 were button bucks, and 1,516 were does.

Top counties for the late youth portion were Texas with 77 deer harvested, Pike with 62, and Callaway and Morgan, each with 61. For more information on this season’s harvest totals, visit the MDC website at extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/.

Last year’s harvest total for the late youth portion was 2,870 deer. For more information on harvest summaries from past years, visit MDC online at mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/deer/deer-reports/deer-harvest-summaries.

Accident
11/27/2023
A three vehicle accident in Franklin County sends an Arkansas teenager to the hospital. The state patrol says it happened at two o'clock Sunday afternoon on Interstate 44 East of Sullivan. 38 year old Peter Sand of Indiana failed to stop for traffic and struck the rear of a car driven by 44 year old Wayne Irelan of Charleston, Arkansas. A 15-year old girl in Irelan's car suffered minor injuries and was taken to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan.

St. Louis Among Top Most Dangerous Cities
11/27/2023
St. Louis is considered the third most dangerous city in the country. That's according to new research from California-based Norada Real Estate Investments. The rankings were based on several factors including gang violence, poverty, and overall violent crime rates. Detroit topped the list followed by Baltimore.