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Eight More Kids Could Be Facing Assault Charges In Teen's Beating
3/29/2024
St. Louis County officials say eight more teens could be facing assault charges in the brutal beating of a girl near Hazelwood East High School. The River Front Times reports that four boys and four girls, are being referred to St. Louis County Family Court for the incident on March 8th. The teens range in age from 14 to 17 years old. It's now up to juvenile prosecutors to decide whether to proceed with charges. None of the teens are in custody. The one 15-year-old girl who is charged with the main beating is in custody at a county juvenile facility.



Earthquake Confirmed near St. Louis
3/29/2024
An earthquake felt by hundreds in St. Louis Thursday night has now been confirmed by the U.S. Geological Survey. The agency's website says it happened just before 7:00 p.m. and was centered near Germantown, Illinois, which is a little to the east of the metro area. The quake has been confirmed as having a two-point-eight magnitude and officials say it originated about 14 miles below ground.



Seven ECC Students Visit London in Return of Spring Break Trip
3/28/2024

Seven students from East Central College embarked on an enriching Arts and Humanities Spring Break experience in London, England.

 

Led by ECC Associate Professor of English, Leigh Kolb, and ECC Title III Program Coordinator, Carson Mowery, the group delved into a nine-day exploration of London's cultural landmarks and artistic treasures. The group left for the trip on March 6 and returned March 15.

 

During their time abroad, the students visited iconic attractions such as Westminster Abbey, the British Museum, the National Portrait Gallery, Shakespeare's Globe Theater, Tate Modern and Tate Britain galleries, the British Library, and the historic Tower of London. They also had the opportunity to witness a production of "The Picture of Dorian Gray" in London's esteemed West End theater district.

 

The students and their advisors ventured beyond the city limits to explore the picturesque landscapes of Canterbury and White Cliffs of Dover, adding a touch of natural beauty to their journey.

 

ECC Early College Academy alum Melaina Pellin, who is pursuing studies at Aberystwyth University in Wales, joined the London group and provided valuable insights and perspectives on life as a student abroad.

 

The London Spring Break experience has a rich history at East Central College, originally initiated by former ECC Art Professor Adam Watkins in 2008. Over the years, the program has evolved to encompass a broader spectrum of disciplines, with Kolb assuming the role of co-advisor in 2016, welcoming English and Media Studies students to join Art students on this journey.

 

Mowery, who participated in the London trip as a student in 2018 and 2019, now serves as co-advisor alongside Kolb, continuing the tradition of offering this unique opportunity to students in the Arts and Humanities Pathway, the ECC Art Club or student publications.




Protestors Demonstrate against Gun Violence at State Capital
3/28/2024
Dozens of people have clamored to the state capitol to demand Missouri lawmakers do more to advocate for gun safety. The group Moms and Students Demand Action for Gun Sense sent representatives from across the state to demonstrate Wednesday. Their key issues include implementing stronger laws for background checks and purchase permits, banning assault weapons and improving requirements firearm storage. The group says nearly 14-hundred people are killed by guns in Missouri each year with over 23-hundred injured by gunfire.



MDC April 4 virtual program offers tips on cooking fish
3/28/2024

Part of the enjoyment of fishing is being able to provide a meal for the dinner table.

People who want to learn more about how to turn the fish they’ve caught at area lakes and streams into tasty table fare should register for the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) program “Pond to Plate: Virtual Fish Cooking: Equipment Needed,” a free online event from 2:30-3 p.m. on April 4. This online program is being put on by the staff of MDC’s Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center in Joplin. At this event, MDC Education Administrative Assistant Tim Smith will talk about the equipment needed for frying, grilling, and other fish preparation methods. People can register for this program at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/197911

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 Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center is located at 201 W. Riviera Drive. People can stay informed about upcoming programs at the Shoal Creek Center and other MDC facilities by signing up for text alerts and e-mail bulletins. People who have questions about how to sign up for text alerts from the Shoal Creek Center can call 417-629-3434.

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.



Get mushroom hunting tips at April 11 program at MDC's Andy Dalton Range
3/28/2024

Morels and some other types of mushrooms that are found in the outdoors can be a tasty addition to the dinner table. However, there are also mushrooms that should be avoided.

People can get information on how to tell edible mushrooms from mushrooms you should steer clear of at the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) program “Learning to Hunt: Mushrooms.” This program will be 6-7:30 p.m. on April 11 at MDC’s Andy Dalton Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center and will have virtual and in-person options for attendance. MDC’s Andy Dalton Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center is located at 4897 Greene County Farm Road 61.

People can register for the virtual attendance option at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/197170

People can register for the in-person attendance option at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/197168

At the April 11 program, MDC Outdoor Education Center Specialist Ali Cannefax will provide tips on how to find and identify edible mushrooms. Morel mushrooms are a popular spring mushroom and will be included among the mushrooms Cannefax will discuss.

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.

People can stay informed about upcoming programs at MDC’s Andy Dalton Range and Outdoor Education Center and other nearby MDC facilities 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.




Join MDC and MU Extension for a field day for landowners focusing on forest health April 13 near Steelville
3/28/2024

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and MU Extension will host a field day that will focus on forest health and related topics on Saturday, April 13 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. near Steelville. 

This field day is a free event.  Participants will meet at a site on private property and will receive specific directions after registration.  Subjects covered during the workshop portion will include invasive species, forest pests and disease, forest management and wildlife habitat management.

The landowner, along with experts from MDC and MU Extension, will guide participants through field sites with active forest management activities and demonstrate how practices impact wildlife and forest health.  MDC will shuttle participants to each tour location.  Walking on trails that may feature some uneven terrain will be required.  MDC can provide a UTV to assist participants if needed.

A complimentary lunch will also be provided. 

Registration is required in advance through MU Extension's website at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4B2 or at Phelps County Extension Office (200 North Main, Rolla, MO 65401).

Contact Sarah Higgins with any questions at 573-458-6260, or sarah.higgins@missouri.edu.  

Stay informed of MDC latest programs by going to the MDC St. Louis regional events page at  https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZP6.




State House Passes Measure To Benefit Remote Employees Of City Businesses
3/28/2024
Remote workers who don't live in the City of St. Louis but work for businesses in the city say they've gained a victory in the Missouri House. A bill approved there Wednesday would free them up from paying the city's one-percent earnings tax that they're currently required to do. The tax is the city's largest source of revenue and makes up 37 percent of the general fund. The House sent the bill to the state Senate, where other similar measures have died in the past. A state appeals court has not yet issued its ruling on case that deals with a similar case on the earnings tax.



Deadly Crash Closes I-44
3/28/2024
A fiery crash on I-44 in Franklin County has claimed the life of a Sullivan woman. 

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says a tractor-trailer crossed into oncoming traffic and hit a car head-on. 

The crash happened near Sullivan around 6:30 Wednesday morning and set the semi on fire. 59-year old Edith McKee was dead at the scene. 

The truck driver, 28-year old Manpreet Singh of Elmont, New York, suffered minor injuries. 

Eastbound I-44 was closed all morning as crews worked to clear the wreck and reconstruction teams worked the scene.



State Senator Abandons U.S. House Race To Run For Secretary Of State
3/28/2024
State Senator Mary Elizabeth Coleman has abandoned her run for the U.S. House of Representatives. Instead, she's filed to run in the GOP primary for Missouri Secretary of State. Coleman is an attorney and first-term Republican from Arnold. Her announcement Wednesday comes hours after House Speaker Dean Plocher announced that he, too, was changing direction to run in the secretary of state race. He had originally filed to run for lieutenant governor.



House Speaker Dean Plocher Now Running for Secretary of State
3/28/2024
House Speaker Dean Plocher has announced that he's now running for secretary of state instead of lieutenant governor. The Republican leader from Des Peres who's being investigated for ethics concerns joins a crowded field of other candidates running for the position. Five other Republicans have also announced their candidacy.



Accident
3/27/2024
A man and woman from St. Louis were injured in a one car accident in Franklin County. The state patrol says it happened at 1:40 on Highway 50 near Pecan Tree Lane. The patrol says 72-year old Bruce Canan was behind the wheel when he suffered a medical emergency, lost control, ran off the road, struck a rock wall, went airborne and landed upside down. Bruce Canan and Passenger, 70-year old Donna Canan, were taken to Mercy in St. Louis by Union Ambulance with serious injuries.



Washington Man Charged with Leaving the Scene of a Motor Vehicle Accident
3/27/2024
On Sunday, April 2, 2023, at approximately 1:40am, a Washington Police Officer, while conducting routine patrol, located a pedestrian lying on the shoulder of the roadway in the 1400 block of Jefferson St. The pedestrian had been out jogging and was struck by a motor vehicle that had left the scene. The pedestrian had sustained serious physical injuries. Medical aid was rendered to the pedestrian by patrol officers until medical personnel from the Washington Area Ambulance District arrived on scene. Upon their arrival, further medial aid was rendered, and they transported the pedestrian to the Emergency Department of Mercy Washington. Due to the pedestrian’s injuries, the pedestrian was later transported by ambulance to Mercy Creve Coeur for further medical treatment. Detective Mike Wissbaum began a long and extensive investigation into the accident was conducted. During this investigation Detective Wissbaum developed a suspect and the suspect the suspect’s vehicle. Upon completion of the investigation, it was sent to the State Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review. On March 8, 2024, an arrest warrant was issued for Jeffrey D. Gardner II, age 40 of Washington Missouri, for Leaving the Scene of an Accident Involving Physical Injury. Gardner’s bond was set at $100,000 cash or surety. On March 25, 2024, Gardner was arrested on that warrant. He is currently incarcerated at the Franklin County Correctional Facility pending bond. This agency would like to thank the Washington Area Ambulance District, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the St. Charles County Crime Laboratory for their assistance with this investigation.



Learn about warblers at MDC virtual program on April 9
3/27/2024

Warblers are brightly marked birds that are heard much more often than they are seen. Because of their striking coloration and secluded habits, sightings of these birds are always notable events – even among experienced birders.

People can learn more about these interesting birds at the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) online program “Naturalist Notes: Wild Warblers Virtual Program.” This virtual program will be from 6-7 p.m. on April 9 and is being put on by the staff of MDC’s Springfield Conservation Nature Center. This program will not be recorded. People can register for this program at:

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/199085

At this program, MDC Naturalist Morgan Wyatt will talk about the species of warblers that can be seen in Missouri, where they can be seen, and what part of the year they are here. This program is for all ages.

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 and other nearby MDC facilities by signing up for text alerts and e-mail bulletins. People who have questions about how to sign up for text alerts from the Springfield 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.




Column by Dr. Jon Bauer-President of East Central College in Union
3/27/2024

March 25, 2024

As the buds form and days get longer, those in higher education feel the pulse quicken a bit. Graduation is just around the corner, our most exciting day. For many looking forward to their high school graduation, college is also top of mind. This is the season when college plans become real and students look forward to their next step.

These are the days. And for more than five decades, these powerful transitions have involved East Central College.

Since opening our doors in temporary facilities in 1969, well over 90,000 students have enrolled at East Central. More than 20,000 degrees and certificates have been awarded. Thousands of others have been to East Central for job training, summer camp, a play, a concert, or perhaps lunch prepared by our culinary students.

As I reflect on both the history of ECC and the future that lies ahead for our students, I consider the reach and impact of this institution.

Our students have performed in Carnegie Hall, played in the World Series, worked on Capitol Hill, and served in the state legislature. They provide care in the ER, teach in the classroom, respond on the ambulance at a moment’s notice, and work diligently in fields such as manufacturing, computers, skilled trades, banking, not-for-profits, local government, and so much more.

Our graduates likely include your nurse, teacher, banker, employee, coworker, friend, or family. Perhaps you are a graduate yourself.

I reflect on the hopes and dreams of those who formed the college decades ago, and I think daily about the responsibility held in public trust as we lead the institution.

One of those involved with the college’s founding told me in the last few weeks that every goal they had for the college in the 1960s had been met, every promise had been kept, every dream surpassed. Stirring words. And motivation to do it again today.

As I have met with leaders throughout the district and discussed the proposition that is on the April 2 ballot, I have heard firsthand the impact that ECC has had on individuals and the community.

But it was a discussion in St. Clair that provided one of the most striking moments. Dr. Kyle Kruse, superintendent of schools, spoke about his work with the college over this past summer. He was part of a citizens committee that considered whether to recommend placing a proposition on the ballot. That work, he told the school board, led to an interesting thought experiment. What if East Central College had not been here for the past 55 years, serving this community? Or what if the ECC had been around, but in some diminished form? Where would we be as a community? Where would our students go? What opportunities would they have?

That is more than just a thought experiment. In Missouri, there are only 12 community colleges statewide. Many communities are not located in a college district. Those that exist are here because the people wanted it to be so. For East Central, that compact was formed in 1968. We agreed as a community that a college was important, and the compact formed around the triad of support from the community, students, and the state.

Those who voted 56 years ago made a commitment to each other and those that would follow. That commitment was made on another April 2 election…in 1968.

We benefit from that foresight and vision. Today, we have an opportunity to renew and reenergize that compact.

In 2006, upon passage of Proposition RN, we publicly thanked the community and wrote this: “Your investment in your college is paying off.” That’s still true today.

I have the good fortune to see it daily on our campus. But the impact goes even further and is even more personal. I am a community college graduate. I have had the rare privilege of handing degrees to my two sons who then transferred and now are off on their own careers. And I have the privilege of seeing my daughter study and perform on our campus, a freshman who plans to make a difference in the classroom.

My story is not unlike countless others in this community, and it is why I see this trust we hold not only professionally, but personally.

As the calendar turns and the winds warm, the morning breeze reminds me of this vision, this trust, this commitment.

These are the days. This is our time.




ReDiscover Union Meeting Postponed
3/27/2024
The Missouri Main Street Connection / ReDiscover Union Town Hall Meeting scheduled for April 2, 2024 has been postponed. The meeting date and time, which falls on election day, has created issues for a number of residents who work out of town, but would like to attend the meeting. Our goal is to have as many people attend as possible. A new date is yet to be determined. ReDiscover Union Inc and Missouri Main Street Connection will host the future Town Hall Meeting. The purpose of the Town Hall meeting is to share with the community the Main Street Four Point Approach that will be implemented to help revitalize Union’s downtown commercial district and to gather community input. To learn more about ReDiscover Union Inc and Missouri Main Street Connection, please email info@rediscoverunion.com. You can also follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ReDiscoverUnionMO ReDiscover Union 

Paul Arand, President 
Mike Elliott, Vice President 
Kathryn Gaither, Secretary 
Rita Koritz, Treasurer



Get an introduction to fly casting April 2 at Henges Shooting Range
3/27/2024

Fly fishing can be a relaxing and rewarding pursuit.  But beginning fly anglers can struggle with fly casting, which is both an art and a technique.  Even experienced fly fishers who’ve learned the skill in the past can grow a little out of practice if they haven’t done it in a while.  The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is offering a class that can help beginners and experienced anglers alike.

MDC’s Jay Henges Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center is hosting an Introduction to Fly Casting program Tuesday, April 2 from 4:30-7:30 p.m.  The class is free and open to ages 11 years and up.

“The program will help anglers learn, or maybe relearn, the basics of fly casting,” said MDC Assistant Outdoor Education Center Manager, Kurt Otterstein. 

The class will focus on the mechanics and techniques of fly casting. It will also cover rod and line selection considerations that relate to casting.  Afterward, participants will have the chance to practice their new skills, which is the best way to truly master the art and techniques of fly casting.

“Participants should bring a hat, eye protection, and a folding chair,” Otterstein said.  MDC will provide all equipment needed for the program.  However, participants can bring their own fly rods if they have them.

The Introduction to Fly Casting class is free, but advanced online registration is required at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4BP.

The Jay Henges Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center is at 1100 Antire Road, just off I-44, exit 269 in Eureka. 

Stay informed of MDC latest programs by going to the MDC St. Louis regional events page at  https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZP6.




MDC invites shooters to a nighttime Glow Clays event at Henges Shooting Range April 3
3/27/2024

What could possibly be more interesting for a shotgun enthusiast than spending a day shooting clay birds?  What about shooting them at night, as they glow under a blacklight?

The Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Jay Henges Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center will hold a Glow Clays shooting event Wednesday, April 3 from 7:30-9:30 p.m.  The program is free and open to ages 16 years and up.

Henges Shooting Range has added ultraviolet lighting to the trap field at night. Using the same effect as a blacklight, this causes the factory paint on the clay pigeons to fluoresce or “glow” in the dark as they are thrown from the trap house.  The clays are transformed into a unique, glowing target.

“Are you a trap shooter looking to spice up your game in a new and exciting way? Then join us for our Glow Clays program where we put a new spin on this classic game,” said MDC Assistant Outdoor Education Center Manger, Kurt Otterstein.  “Think ‘Cosmic Bowling’, only for trap.”

Participants should be at least 16 years of age and be familiar with and have previous experience with classic trap shooting and safe firearms handling.  Additional range safety officers will be available if assistance is needed.

Glow Clays is a free event, but advanced online registration is required at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4BW.

The Jay Henges Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center is at 1100 Antire Road, just off I-44, exit 269 in Eureka. 

Stay informed of MDC latest programs by going to the MDC St. Louis regional events page at  https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZP6.




House Republicans Cut Governor's Spending Request
3/26/2024
Republicans in the Missouri House have pared-down Governor Mike Parson's 52-billion-dollar budget plan but also voted to increase spending in some areas. The House Budget Committee reduced a proposed increase for colleges and universities from three percent down to two percent. They also took out a 52-million-dollar proposal to make the vacant Missouri State Penitentiary into a tourist attraction. Increased spending would include eight-million-dollars to send the Missouri National Guard to the border, work on Interstate-44 and a new state park in McDonald County. That county would also get one-million-dollars to help it recover from the shutdown of a Tyson chicken processing plant. It had employed 15-hundred workers.



Accidents
3/26/2024
Interstate 44 in Franklin County was closed due to two traffic accidents Monday afternoon. The state patrol says the accidents happened at Highway AH between St. Clair and Highway 50, the first accident happened at 2:45 when a tractor trailer traveling too fast for the wet conditions traveled through the median cable into the Eastbound lanes.  Two Eastbound cars crashed into the side of the tractor trailer.  62-year old Steven Donnell and 62-year old Holly Donnell of Wildwood suffered serious injuries and were taken to Mercy in St. Louis.  

Another accident happened seconds later, when a car stopped and was struck in the rear by a tractor trailer.  The driver of the car, 63-year old Amanda Irwin of Salem, was taken to Mercy in Washington with minor injuries.  

Crews will return to the scene for clean-up today.



Republican Abortion Activist Files To Run For Secretary Of State
3/26/2024
A woman who has campaigned to legalize abortions has filed to run in the GOP primary to become Missouri's next secretary of state. Jamie Corley, a Republican from University City, had headed a campaign to legalize the procedure up to 12 weeks and also wanted to add exceptions for victims of rape and incest. The secretary of state campaign is her first time running for public office. She joins four other Republicans and two Democrats in the race. Current Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, a Republican, is leaving office to run for governor.



Ameren Missouri Gets Approval For 3 Solar Projects
3/26/2024
Ameren Missouri says it has received approval from state regulators to build or acquire three solar farms in Missouri. Officials with the electric company announced plans for the projects that they say will produce about 400 megawatts of solar energy. That's enough to power nearly 70-thousand homes. The solar farms include Split Rail Solar, a project in Warren County, the Vandalia Renewable Energy Center in Vandalia and Bowling Green Renewable Energy Center, in Bowling Green. All of these projects would come on line within three years.



Results Of State Democratic Presidential Primary Expected Before Thursday
3/26/2024
Democratic party organizers in Missouri say they'll know the results of Saturday's state-wide presidential primary voting by tomorrow. Votes will be counted, and the announcement will be made by Thursday, March 28th. Saturday's primary saw Missouri Democrats filing their choices for president in-person due to the state not offering a presidential primary this year. It was the first party-run presidential contest since the a new state law took effect in August of 2022.



House Ethics Committee Resume Plocher Hearing Today
3/26/2024
The House Ethics Committee is scheduled to hold its fifth closed-door meeting Tuesday. The panel is investigating the actions of House Speaker Dean Plocher, who is facing a litany of allegations of misconduct. The timeline for the committee to issue its final report is unclear. However, political analysts say if the committee concludes the Speaker engaged in unethical conduct, the fight over whether he should keep his job could derail the session as lawmakers try to finalize the budget.



ECC Marketing Team Recognized Nationally
3/26/2024

East Central College's Marketing team was honored with a prestigious national award for their postcard featuring photos of a local graduate taken during the College’s 2023 Commencement. The team clinched the 2023 Gold Paragon Award in the “Postcard” category from the National Council for Marketing & Public Relations (NCMPR) at the council’s annual conference in Seattle on March 15.

The award-winning postcard was mailed to potential students who had initiated the application process to ECC but had yet to submit their completed applications. It featured three photos of ECC graduate Carly Hamlyn as she crossed the stage to receive her diploma.

Hamlyn, an ECC Early College Academy and Washington High School graduate, symbolized the journey prospective students could embark on.

NCMPR judges praised the postcard with “Great photography! Strong message and visuals." They particularly commended the call to action, emphasizing its role in motivating prospective students to take the next step toward their academic goals.

Gregg Jones, Director of Communications and Marketing, accepted the award at the NCMPR conference, acknowledging the collective effort of ECC's communication and marketing team.

The 2023 Paragon Awards received over 1,500 entries from 210 community and technical colleges nationwide, highlighting the stiff competition.

ECC’s communication and marketing team includes:

  • Cynthia Cubas, External Relations Executive Administrative Assistant
  • Joel Doepker, Vice President of External Relations­
  • Gregg Jones, Director of Communications and Marketing
  • Andy Kolb, Coordinator of Web Services
  • Abby Stanfield, Multimedia Assistant
  • Amanda Studdard, Multimedia Speciali­st


The National Council for Marketing & Public Relations (NCMPR) is dedicated to communication professionals at two-year community and technical colleges, providing invaluable opportunities for professional growth, advocacy, and recognition of excellence.

 

 




MDC urges motorists to give turtles a brake!
3/26/2024

Motorists may see some reptilian friends on the roads this spring season. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) urges drivers to be cautious and give turtles a brake! These reptiles are often hit by cars during warmer months but are at special risk this time of year because they are more active.

Common turtles spotted on roads include three-toed box turtles, ornate box turtles, red-eared sliders, painted turtles, Mississippi mud turtles, and even snapping turtles.

Turtles emerge from their winter burrows and begin to hunt for food and mates during warm and wet conditions, which can lead them to cross roadways, oftentimes resulting in their death. Thousands of box turtles are killed each year by vehicles.

Young males make up most of the travelers. They sometimes wander as many as six-miles searching for territories and mates. Females are also crossing the roads in search of nesting areas.

Turtles are ectothermic, or cold-blooded, and depend on external sources of heat to determine their body temperatures. This is why they are seen on warm asphalt during cool, spring days.

Vehicles are one of the leading threats box turtles face in Missouri, and MDC encourages motorists to be cautious and slow down if they see a turtle in the road. If helping a turtle make it safely across, check for traffic and always move the turtle in the direction it is traveling.

MDC also urges the public to leave turtles in the wild. Taking a wild animal, whether a turtle of other species, and keeping it as a pet normally ends in a slow death. Turtles have an extremely low survival rate if taken from their original habitat. Leave turtles in the wild, follow the speed limit, and keep your eyes on the road.

For more information on Missouri’s turtles, visit the MDC online Field Guide at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4Bc/




Missouri's A.G. Launches "Investigation" Into Fight At Hazelwood East
3/26/2024
Missouri's Attorney General has launched an investigation to see if D-E-I "contributed" to a violent attack near Hazelwood East High School. The incident, which went viral on the Internet, involved 16-year-old Kaylee Gain being beaten by another girl who pounded her head into the pavement. A.G. Andrew Bailey claimed in a recent news release that the school district's diversity, equity, and inclusion programs contributed to the incident. St. Louis County Police are disputing his claim, not only because several parts of the release have the wrong dates and information, but also because they say investigators who presented evidence to a juvenile court saw nothing to corroborate that idea. It's still not been decided whether the 15-year-old suspect will be charged as an adult.



Accidents
3/25/2024
Five injured, two seriously, in a one car accident in Franklin County. The patrol says it happened at 2:30 Sunday afternoon on Eastbound Project Road West of Harry Maupin Road. 20-year old Landon Mikel of Dittmer was behind the wheel driving too fast when he lost control, skidded off the road, struck a tree and overturned. Mikel suffered serious injuries. Passengers, 66-year old Merton Henning of Cedar Hill suffered serious injuries, 22-year old Jacob Fritz of Lonedell-minor injuries and two 10 year old boys from Cedar Hill and House Springs sustained minor to moderate injuries.

Union man injured in a motorcycle accident in Franklin County.  The patrol says it happened at 4:40 Sunday afternoon on highway 47 South of Myrick Manor.  29-year old Christopher Marrow attempted to pass other vehicles, lost control and overturned.  Marrow was taken to Mercy in Washington by Union Ambulance with moderate injuries.  



Third Adult, Third Juvenile Charged In Kansas City Chiefs Parade Shooting
3/25/2024
Prosecutors have now charged a 20-year-old who was arrested last week for his alleged part in Chiefs parade shooting. Terry J. Young is facing two counts of armed criminal action and unlawful use of a weapon. He is the third adult charged in the fatal shooting of Lisa Lopez-Galvan and the injury of 24 others during the rally following the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl victory parade in February. Lyndell Mays who is 23, and 18-year-old Dominic Miller have also been charged and are being held on a one-million-dollar-bonds. Miller is still hospitalized. Authorities also announced Thursday that they had detained and charged a third juvenile, a 15-year-old, with two felonies.



Lincoln University President Being Brought Back After Bullying Review Completed
3/25/2024
Lincoln University president John Moseley is being brought back from his leave of absence. That's after the school cleared him of bullying and harassment claims by a vice president who committed suicide. The Jefferson City-based university hired a St. Louis law firm to conduct the review after university Vice President of Student Affairs Antoinette Candia-Bailey took her own life in January. She had claimed in a lengthy e-mail that Moseley made her mental health struggles worse. A news release says after an independent review over several weeks, the firm found no evidence of bullying that can be substantiated. Former and present students and staff members rallied for an investigation just days after Bailey's death. Lincoln is one of two HBCUs in Missouri.



Autopsy Being Done On Body Of Mizzou Student From Springfield
3/25/2024
Even though Nashville authorities say there likely was no foul play, a complete autopsy is being conducted on the body of Riley Strain. The 22-year-old Missouri University student from Springfield was recovered from the Cumberland River on Friday. Strain was found eight miles down from where he was last seen in downtown Nashville after he was kicked out of a bar March 8th. Metro Nashville P.D. Chief John Drake says toxicology results are still pending, but he says there is no apparent foul play evident. The autopsy is expected to be complete sometime this week.



State House Reconvenes This Afternoon
3/25/2024
Lawmakers in Missouri's house are set to come back to Jefferson City today from their spring break. The state House will stand adjourned until 4:00 p.m. Bills expected to be presented include sports wagering, concealed carry permits and another that would deal with sales tax exemptions for firearms and ammunition. Bills the Senate is working on this week include one that would exempt food sales from being taxed.



Beaten Teen's Family Says She's Out Of ICU
3/25/2024
A teenager who suffered a serious brain injury during a fight outside a St. Louis high school is doing better. Her family said Friday that Kaylee Gain has been moved out of ICU and is breathing on her own. Her doctors say she suffered a fractured skull that resulted in brain bleeding and swelling after her head was repeatedly bashed against the concrete by a fellow Hazelwood East High School student. The off-campus beating March 8th was recorded by other students and quickly went viral on social media. Two GoFundMe accounts set up to raise money to cover Gain's healthcare cost total more than 440-thousand-dollars, as of Monday morning.



F/A-18 Fighter Jet Production To Continue At Boeing In St. Louis
3/25/2024
Boeing's Super Hornet will continue to be produced in St. Louis for nearly two more years. The company has signed a one-point-three-billion-dollar contract to build F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jets for the U.S. Navy. That's after the company speculated earlier this year that the Navy planned to end production in late 2025. The contract award now takes production of the Block III Super Hornets into spring 2027. The 17 fighter jets are in addition to the 78 Super Hornets currently being built at Boeing's operations in north St. Louis County.



New Food, Agricultural Outlook Report Cites Downturn In Farm Income
3/25/2024
A new report by an agricultural research center at the University of Missouri reflects downward shifts in commodity prices and farm income. The findings of Mizzou's Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute's latest baseline report suggests that downward pressure on prices could continue throughout 2024 and beyond. The study cites the declining price of crops as one of part of a summary for several economic projections. Other factors include farm income and program spending and domestic commodity markets.



Mizzou Student's Body Recovered From Nashville River
3/23/2024
The body of University of Missouri student Riley Strain has been recovered from the Cumberland River near Nashville. The 22-year-old's body was found around 7:30 this morning in the West Nashville neighborhood about eight miles from downtown. Strain went missing two weeks ago after being escorted out of Luke Bryan's bar in Nashville. He was visiting Music City with fraternity brothers. An autopsy will be conducted to determine his cause of death.



ECC Phi Theta Kappa Chapters Excel at Heartland Regional Convention
3/23/2024

Students and advisors from Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) at East Central College were recognized for their hard work and dedication at a regional convention where they received chapter and individual awards. The Chi Delta PTK Chapter at the Union campus and the Beta Omicron Phi Chapter at ECC in Rolla earned “5-Star Status” with recognition as Five Star Chapter programs during the Heartland Regional Convention in Overland Park, Kan.

The annual convention provided a platform for members to learn about Phi Theta Kappa programs, hear from esteemed guest speakers, and delve into the new Honors Study Topic, “The Power of Stories,” said Kevin Dixon, Union PTK advisor.

PTK is an international honor society for two-year colleges. Members pursue activities that fall under the direction of the society’s hallmarks of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Fellowship.

Throughout 2023, both chapters dedicated themselves to activities aligned with these core hallmarks. Members engaged in comprehensive research on the previous Honors in Action topic, "The Art and Science of Play," and undertook a community service project.

Additionally, they collaborated with college leadership to design and execute a College Project aimed at directly benefiting ECC students. In mid-January, after meticulous preparation during the semester and holiday break, the chapters submitted their Hallmark Awards applications.

With 64 chapters in the Heartland Region, spanning Missouri, Kansas, and Nebraska, the competition was formidable. Alongside nominations for officer and member awards, chapters had the opportunity to submit various art and media items for recognition.

Union Chapter

The Union Chi Delta Chapter earned first-place honors for their College Project Award and a second-place Distinguished Chapter award for the Heartland Region. The Chapter received an Honorable Mention for the Honors in Action Project Award.

Distinguished Chapter Officer awards were presented to Chi Delta members Sarah O’Bannon, second place; and Nicholas Rucker, fourth place.

Rolla Chapter

Beta Omicron Phi chapter advisor Dr. Elizabeth Rozema was recognized as a 5-Star Advisor and for completing the PTK Advisor Edge program.

Individual awards were presented to members Justin Heberlie: Achievement in Photography, fifth place; and Briannah Tiarks: Distinguished Chapter Member, Honorable Mention.

“Congratulations go to the students who put in so much time and dedication to prepare these award applications, and a big thank you goes to my fellow advisors for all the work they’ve done on behalf of our Phi Theta Kappa students,” Dixon commented.

In addition to Kevin Dixon, Wendy Pecka and Melanie Dixon advise the Union Chi Delta Chapter.

To be eligible for PTK, students must maintain a grade point average of at least 3.4 for one semester and maintain a 3.2 GPA after their induction. Students can be pursuing any major, degree or certificate.

To learn more about PTK and to find contact information for advisors, visit East Central College Student Activities.




Road Closure
3/23/2024
Roller Road (St. Clair) will be closed Wednesday, March 27, 2024, from 8am to 3pm for crosspipe installation. The closure will be .2 mile south of Wild Fox Road (.2 mile north of High Pass Lane). The nearest address is 896 Roller Road. The road will be closed to all traffic including emergency vehicles.



DC offers free virtual These Are the Spiders in Your House class April 4
3/23/2024

Spiders are versatile creatures, abundant and important in the wild, and commonly seen by people. Learn the names and habits of common house visitors with a free virtual These Are the Spiders in Your House program offered from 7 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, April 4, by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC).

Missouri has more than 300 species of spiders. They are found in grasslands and forests, backyards and sometimes in bathrooms. Spiders can startle, but most are harmless. They are valuable eight-legged predators of crop-damaging insects when they weave webs in gardens and crop fields.

This program will focus on the most common spiders that people see in and near homes. Stephanie Kemp, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center assistant manager, will talk about the role spiders play in nature and offer tips on how to identify them.

The program is open to participants ages 12 and older. Registration is required. To register, visit http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4XE.




St. Clair Man Charged with Assault
3/23/2024
On Tuesday, March 19, 2024, approximately 5:50 pm, St. Clair officers were dispatched to contact a victim of a domestic assault. Officers contacted a female victim who reported that her boyfriend threw her out of a mobile home window, located at a residence on E. Springfield Rd. The victim did have bruising in various stages of healing, her right eye was black and swollen, and other cuts and bruises. The victim was unable to speak clearly and only stated that her boyfriend threw her out the window and choked her. The female was then transported to the hospital by St. Clair EMS. The officers responded to the suspect’s address and contacted the boyfriend, identified as Bradley D. Mahurin W/M 37 years of age. Mr. Mahurin was located in a back bedroom and intoxicated. A broken back window was also located, along with broken glass on the ground outside. When asked about what had happened, Mr. Mahurin stated that the victim would not leave him alone and that she is intoxicated all of the time. He stated that they got into a fight and that during the fight the window was broken. Officers told Mr. Mahurin that the victim reported to them that he threw her out of the window. Mr. Mahurin denied that and stated that the victim "falls down a lot". Based on evidence located on the scene and the injuries on the victim, Mr. Mahurin was arrested for domestic assault and transported to our station for booking. Mr. Mahurin was booked and transported to the Franklin County Adult Detention Center for a 24 hour hold pending application of warrants. On March 20, 2024, a warrant was issued on Mr. Mahurin for the charges of Domestic Assault 2nd degree (Class D Felony) and Domestic Assault 3rd degree (Class E Felony). His bond was set at $50,000 cash only. He is still being held at the Franklin County Adult Detention Center.



Drug Possession Charges Filed Against a St. Clair Man
3/23/2024
On 03-21-2024 at approximately 1:45 PM, the Franklin County Sheriff's Office SWAT team, Franklin County Narcotics Detectives, Franklin County Deputies and St. Clair Police Department executed a drug distribution search warrant in the 900 block of Virginia Street in St. Clair, MO. The resident, Phillip J. Sohn, age 38 was arrested on an outstanding felony warrant for Assault 2nd Degree on Law Enforcement. The search of Sohn's residence yielded a seizure of approximately 5 ounces of suspected crystal methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. Sohn is currently being held on his active warrant at the Franklin County Adult Detention Facility. The Franklin County Narcotics Unit will be seeking additional charges on the narcotics located.



"Revitalizing Downtowns and Main Streets Act" Progresses In State Legislature
3/22/2024
The Senate Economic Development Committee has given approval to a measure that would revitalize cities' downtown areas. The Revitalizing Downtowns and Main Streets Act would establish a state program to incentivize converting vacant office space in Missouri's downtowns and along its Main Streets into residential space. The legislation makes available a 25 percent credit for qualifying conversion projects. The credit could be combined with the federal and state Historic Tax Credit programs, as well.



U.S. Supreme Court Hears Missouri-Filed Case On Free Speech
3/22/2024
The U.S. Supreme Court has heard oral arguments this week on a case brought forward by attorneys general in Missouri and Louisiana. The lawsuit filed in 2022 by Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey claims the federal government colluded with social media platforms, such as Twitter and Facebook, to suppress freedom of speech concerning public health disinformation and election conspiracies. Attorneys for President Biden's administration have argued that federal officials don't have the authority to order content removed from social media platforms and say the plaintiffs have exaggerated the government's abilities. A ruling on the case is not expected for several months.



MDC holds landowner pond management workshop April 11 at Powder Valley Nature Center
3/22/2024

If you’re a landowner and have questions about building a new pond, or enhancing an existing pond on your property, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) can help.  A pond can enhance your property’s fishing and wildlife watching opportunities. 

MDC is holding a free pond management workshop for landowners Thursday, April 11 from 1-4 p.m. at Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center in Kirkwood.  The workshop is open to all ages. This pond management workshop is designed to help landowners make the most of their private lakes or ponds. 

“We will cover managing small ponds and lakes and their fisheries,” said MDC Fisheries Management Biologist John Schulte. 

The workshop will offer a chance to learn best practices for building and maintaining a healthy pond on your property.  Participants will learn directly from MDC experts in private lands and fisheries management.  The workshop covers a wide variety of topics, including site selection, pond construction, fish stocking, creating fish habitat, and controlling aquatic vegetation.  There will also be a question-and-answer opportunity after the workshop.

“We will focus on the needs of private landowners as well as homeowner associations,” Schulte said.  “Topics in the presentation will include new pond site suitability, fish stocking recommendations, and vegetation management, and more.”

The Landowner Pond Management workshop is free, but advanced online registration is required at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4XA.

Powder Valley Nature Center is located at 11715 Cragwold Road, near the intersection of I-270 and I-44.

To learn more about pond management on your property, go to http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4Ys.




Some Schools Closing For Eclipse
3/22/2024
The upcoming total solar eclipse has prompted some school districts to cancel classes for the day. The eclipse is Monday, April 8th and will begin shortly before 2 p.m. More than 20 districts in the Metro are closing school including Belleville, Waterloo, Alton and Centerville in Illinois and Festus, Farmington, Jefferson R-7, Perry County and Crawford County in Missouri. St. Louis won't be in totality but several cities within an hour will be. The Gateway City will experience 99-percent coverage of the sun by the moon during the eclipse.



8K Claims Made To Just 1 Insurer For Hail Damage
3/22/2024
Insurance adjusters expect to be busy for several weeks processing claims from the devastating storms that hit St. Charles County, especially O'Fallon. Hail ranged from quarter-size to tennis ball and baseball size and did extensive damage to vehicles and homes. About 85-hundred claims have been filed with State Farm Insurance alone. Adjusters with American Family and Farmers Insurance are also on the ground and based at Home Depot.



Voting Held Saturday for Democratic Presidential Primary
3/22/2024
St. Louis and state residents will be casting their ballots Saturday for Missouri's Democratic Presidential Primary. Residents need to come to various sites from 8 a.m. until noon to vote and aren't restricted to the county they live in for doing so. The Democratic primary voting is in response to state officials choosing not to hold primaries in this presidential election-year. Unlike Republican meetings a couple of weeks ago, Saturday's Democratic voting is not a caucus event. An announcement on the final results is expected by March 28th.



State of Missouri to hold Spring Hiring Event April 4 in Jefferson City
3/22/2024
The State of Missouri is holding a hiring event in Jefferson City on April 4, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. The event will take place at the Capitol Plaza Hotel and Convention Center and will feature 20 state employers looking for candidates to start or further their career in public service. Throughout the hiring event, there will be on-site interviews, representatives to discuss and explain state benefits, and resume support. If you know of anyone looking to make a difference every day in serving our Missouri citizens and customers, please have them check out the hiring event on April 4.



Accidents
3/22/2024
Two seriously injured in a two vehicle accident in Franklin County. The state patrol says it happened at 7:20 Thursday morning on Highway H. The patrol says a 17-year old juvenile from Sullivan failed to yield to a car driven by 48-year old Angela Ewanchen of Bourbon and they collided. Ewanchen and a passenger, 67-year old Anna Hager of Bourbon, were injured. Ewanchen was taken to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan and Hager was airlifted to Mercy in St. Louis.

Two vehicle accident on Westbound Interstate 44 in Pacific sends a St. Louis woman to the hospital.  The patrol says it happened at 6:50 Thursday morning when and car driven by 33-year old Kyeisha Grimes of St. Louis and a tow truck driven by 43-year old Joshua McCalister of Festus collided.  Grimes was taken to Mercy in Washington by Meramec Ambulance with moderate injuries.





Accident
3/21/2024
A Union woman was injured in a one car accident in Franklin County. The state patrol says it happened at 11:40 Wednesday morning on Highway 185 North of East Casco Road. 33 year old Sarah McGuire was Northbound when she lost control on a curve, ran off the road into the ditch. McGuire was taken to Mercy in Washington by Gerald Ambulance with minor injuries.



Measure on Sex and Human Trafficking Passes State House
3/21/2024
A state representative from Warrenton has introduced legislation to combat sex and human trafficking. Representative Jeff Myers says what he saw when he was a Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper prompted him to try to help child trafficking in both urban and rural areas. He says many parents use their children to pay for rent or to get drugs, in addition to seeing how adults are abused. Myers' House Bill 17-06 would require court and law enforcement officers, as well as paramedics and social workers, to receive training about trafficking. He says people in those jobs need to know how to intervene and be able to identify warning signs. The legislation would also establish a statewide council on the matter within the attorney general's office.



State Supreme Court Rules Brian Dorsey's Execution Should Proceed
3/21/2024
The Missouri Supreme Court says it won't stop the execution of Brian Dorsey. He is scheduled to die April 9th for killing his cousin and her husband 18 years ago. The decision Wednesday centered around the judges' belief that Dorsey hadn't demonstrated that he is actually innocent of their murders. Dorsey's execution would be Missouri's first one this year. Four people in the state died by lethal injection last year.



St. Louis Selected To Be One Of Bloomberg's Sustainable Cities
3/21/2024
St. Louis has been chosen by Bloomberg Philanthropies to be one of its 25 U.S. "sustainable cities " in efforts to combat climate change. The 200-million-dollar initiative will provide funding and resources to help St. Louis develop sustainable practices. A news release says Bloomberg's planned projects include affordable energy-efficient housing, increasing access to clean energy and investments in electric vehicles and infrastructure. Bloomberg says it chose St. Louis because of the city's persistence in advancing community prosperity and economic development despite it facing "significant vulnerabilities."



Toddler Finds Uncle Officer's Gun, Shoots Himself
3/21/2024
A St. Louis City deputy is in police custody after leaving a gun in an area where a two-year-old boy found it and shot himself. A city sheriff's department spokesperson says the incident happened over the weekend and that boy was the off-duty officer's nephew. Officials say the child was in critical condition but is now recovering. The deputy was arrested by the Ferguson Police Department.



Search for Riley Strain Intensifies Near Cheatham Dam
3/21/2024
The search for missing Mizzou student Riley Strain is expanding to the counties around Nashville. The Cheatham County Sheriff's Office says their search of the area near the county dam Wednesday didn't turn anything up. Officials had closed off the dam and started it back up a couple of times in hopes of any sign of the 22-year-old rising to the surface. The dam is about 40 miles downstream from Nashville. Officials say other teams continue to search the banks of the Cumberland River closer to the city. The Springfield man's bank card was found there last week.



Bi-Partisan Measure would Eliminate Child Marriage Law
3/21/2024
A Republican state Senator from Sikeston wants to eliminate child marriage in Missouri. The measure by Senator Holly Thompson Rehder would prohibit marriage licenses being issued for anyone under the age of 18. Current state law says 16-and 17-year-olds can get married to someone who's under 21 with parental consent. Thompson Rehder says Missouri is one of the worst states in the country for sex trafficking and child exploitation because of its marriage laws, which she says promote child rape. She says the issue is personal for her because she was 15 when she married her 21-year-old boyfriend and wasn't able to divorce him for seven years. Democratic Senator Lauren Arthur, who is from Kansas City, has co-sponsored the measure.



Airport Plans Highlighted in Annual Report
3/21/2024
The annual report for St. Louis Lambert International Airport has been released. Officials say some of the accomplishments covered include Boeing's planned expansion at the airport, a nearly nine-percent increase in total passengers and continuing progress on plans to combine operations into one terminal in the near future. The report is available electronically in a new flip-page format on the airport's website. For the first time, it also can be accessed through a Q-R code available in posters on display at both county and city libraries.



Ashcroft Proposes Eliminating State Income Tax
3/20/2024
Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft wants to eliminate the state's income tax. He says budget cuts can make up for the income tax revenue, which provides two out of every three dollars in the state's general fund. That's a total of almost ten-billion-dollars. The state constitution also mandates that 25-percent of state revenue be applied annually to support public schools.



State Hosting Buy-Back Program To Help Get Rid Of Invasive Trees
3/20/2024
The state is hosting a buy-back program to help get rid of Bradford Pear trees. Thought they're pretty, officials with the Missouri Department of Conservation say the trees are invasive because they don't allow native species to grow. They also say Bradford Pear trees, which are sometimes called Callery Pear trees, aren't good for wildlife. Any state resident who shows the conservation department proof that they've cut down their Bradford Pear can get a native Missouri tree in return, free of charge. Registration is open until April 15th. More information is available on the Missouri Department of Conservation website.



Missing Mizzou Student's Family Launches Own Search Effort
3/20/2024
The family of missing Mizzou student Riley Strain is organizing their own search party in Nashville through the efforts of the United Cajun Navy. The non-profit group was formed after Hurricane Katrina and provides help in search and rescue as well as in missing persons cases. The 22-year-old from Springfield has been missing a week and a half and his parents say they're frustrated that Nashville Metro Police haven't been able to do anything more than they have. Strain disappeared March 8th after he was asked to leave Luke Bryan's downtown bar. City investigators say there has been no evidence to show that he was chased or followed that night.



ReDiscover Union Meeting-April 2nd
3/20/2024
Missouri Main Street Connection Inc. (MMSC) has announced that ReDiscover Union Inc and Missouri Main Street will host a Town Hall Meeting on Tuesday, April 2, 2024 at 5:30 pm. The meeting will be held at City Hall, 10 E. Locust Street. Light refreshments will be served. The purpose of the Town Hall meeting is to share with the community the Main Street Four Point Approach that will be implemented to help revitalize Union’s downtown commercial district and to gather community input. MMSC Senior Program Specialist, Ben White, will make a public presentation to community representatives explaining how they can become involved in establishing a sustainable, volunteer-based organization that will carry out an economic development program based on the preservation of historic assets in the downtown, using the Main Street 4-Point Approach® to Revitalization. Attendees will also have an opportunity to share their suggestions and ideas for downtown revitalization and future projects. Members of the community are encouraged to attend the Town Hall to learn how the Main Street Program will benefit Union and learn how they can become involved. ReDiscover Union Inc recently received a competitive Community Empowerment Grant that will provide services such as this for a period of two years. During this time ReDiscover Union Inc and the City of Union will receive on-site training and mentoring from MMSC that will engage the entire community. Citizens will also have an opportunity to attend regional revitalization workshops and conferences conducted by MMSC. To learn more about ReDiscover Union Inc and Missouri Main Street Connection, please email info@rediscoverunion.com. ReDiscover Union Paul Arand, President Mike Elliott, Vice President Kathryn Gaither, Secretary Rita Koritz, Treasurer



Blue Bell Releases St. Louis-Influenced Ice Cream Flavor
3/20/2024
A Texas ice cream maker that's recently moved into the St. Louis market is launching a new flavor with a taste of St. Louis. Officials at Blue Bell Creamery say their Gooey Butter Cake is fashioned after the dessert that was made famous in the Gateway City. The flavor is made from cake batter ice cream, cream cheese and pieces of gooey butter cake. It's only available for a limited time.



State House Approves Measure To Require Licenses To Denote Citizenship
3/19/2024
State Republican House members have given initial approval to a measure aimed at keeping non-citizens from voting. State Representative Dan Stacy of Blue Springs presented HB 1413 on Monday. It would require that Missouri driver's licenses be labeled with a stamp to indicate whether or not a driver is a U.S. citizen. Conservative lawmakers say the label is needed because of an increase in illegal border crossings. But, Representative Bridget Walsh Moore, a Democrat from St. Louis, says non-citizen voting is already federally prohibited. Federal law also requires states to regularly remove anyone ineligible from voter rolls, a process that identifies immigrants who are in the country illegally.



MDC and MPFC ask those doing prescribed burns to “Log Your Burn”
3/19/2024

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and the Missouri Prescribed Fire Council (MPFC) encourage landowners, land managers, and others who conduct prescribed burns on private land to “Log Your Burn” through the MPFC website at moprescribedfire.org.

Prescribed fire, or controlled burning, is an affordable and effective management tool to accomplish land management goals including: reducing fuel loads to reduce the chance and intensity of wildfire; restoring native plant communities; enhancing wildlife habitat for wild turkeys, deer, and other game species; improving livestock forage production; regenerating trees; and controlling invasive species such as bush honeysuckle.

“Prescribed burning can be effective in meeting various land management goals in the summer, fall, and winter, but early spring is that time of year when we tend to see the greatest number of smoke columns rising into the air from prescribed burns on private land,” said Wes Buchheit, Missouri Prescribed Fire Coordinating Wildlife Biologist with Pheasants Forever, Inc. and Quail Forever.

“After the prescribed burn is complete, there is one more quick step that can support the continued and expanded use of prescribed fire – Log Your Burn,” Buchheit added.

Visit the MPFC website at moprescribedfire.org to Log Your Burn. This is a voluntary and anonymous entry for prescribed burns completed on private land in Missouri.

The Log Your Burn questions ask the date, county, acres, and habitat type burned, along with identifying if a prescribed burn association or landowner cooperative was used to provide assistance. The last questions ask if any fire occurred outside the burn unit, and if so, to what extent. Each completed burn should be its own entry, not a sum of all the burns that day on the property. To avoid multiple submissions for one burn unit, the landowner or the contractor leading the burn should be the one completing the entry.

“This information is useful in charting the use of prescribed fire across the state and is key in demonstrating the safe use of this critical land management tool with insurance providers, legislators, and Missourians,” explained Buchheit.

MPFC and other conservation partners such as MDC are seeking opportunities for insurance providers to offer affordable insurance policies for prescribed burning, especially for contractors who have identified this as a major hurdle.

“Please add this step to your prescribed burning process,” he added. “Submissions can be made at any time but doing it soon after the burn is best, so you don’t forget. It only takes a few minutes, and with your help, we can collectively add supporting information to those smoke columns.”

Learn more about using prescribed fire from MPFC at moprescribedfire.org/ and MDC at  mdc.mo.gov/your-property/fire-management/prescribed-fire.



Accident
3/19/2024
A Washington woman was injured in a vehicle accident in Franklin County. The state highway patrol says it happened at 3:30 Monday afternoon on Westbound Interstate 44 in Pacific. The patrol says 73 year old Jolene Patterson of Washington was inattentive when she merged left into a tractor trailer. Patterson was taken to Mercy in Washington with minor injuries.



Family of Beaten Teen Releases Statement on Condition
3/19/2024
The family of Kaylee Gain says she has suffered a fractured skull and hasn't regained consciousness. The teen was critically injured during a fight March 8th near Hazelwood East High School. An attorney spokesperson for Gain's family said in a statement that the full extent of her injuries and prognosis for recovery can't be determined until she returns to consciousness. An internet video shows the 16-year-old being punched, thrown to the ground and her head slammed into the pavement several times during the fight. Police have not publicly identified those involved but a 15-year-old girl is being held as a suspect on assault charges.



Abortion Groups Requested Not To Hand Out Emergency Contraceptives
3/19/2024
Local abortion rights groups will no longer hand out free emergency contraceptives at Olivia Rodrigo concerts. That's due to the nationwide publicity of the singer's recent concert in St. Louis where that was done. Her management team has requested that future abortion rights groups refrain from handing out the materials at upcoming shows. They cited children being present at Rodrigo's concerts as the reason. In a statement to Rolling Stone, the Missouri Abortion Fund said that Rodrigo invited the group to have a booth at her performance, but it was their decision to pass out the free contraceptives.



Missing Rolla Teen Found Safe In Kansas
3/19/2024
A 13-year-old Rolla girl who was reported missing Monday night has been found safe. The Phelps County sheriff announced early Monday morning that Amara Keyes was found unharmed in Atchison, Kansas. A 20-year-old man has been detained in connection with the case. Officials had believed she might have been in the company of someone she met online, but it's not known if the person detained is the same man. The sheriff says the investigation continues.



Lawmaker Wants To Pass Measure On Epi-Pens At Childcare Facilities
3/19/2024
A bill has passed a House Committee that would allow doctors to prescribe "epi-pens" to childcare facilities. It would also make the facilities ensure their staff members know how to use them. The proposal is fashioned after "Elijah's Law" in New York. It was enacted after the death of a boy who had food allergies, whose childcare providers didn't know how to use the epi-pen that his mother had given them. The Missouri House Healthcare Reform Committee voted to advance the bill last week before the legislature adjourned for spring break.



Missouri Senate President Pro Tem Not Running For Secretary Of State
3/19/2024
The Missouri Senate president pro Tem says he won't run for office this year. Columbia state Senator Caleb Rowden had earlier announced his intention to run for Secretary of State. The Republican made the announcement via social media Monday morning. He cited changing values in state politics as one of the reasons for him not to seek office again this year. Rowden was first elected to the Missouri House in 2012 then to the state Senate in 2016.

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Events This Month:



3/16/2024 to 10/19/2024
Small Animal Swap and Farmers Market ...More

3/29/2024
Women of the Moose Bake Sale ...More

3/29/2024
Fish & Chicken Dinner ...More



3/30/2024
Easter Bake Sale and Bazaar ...More

3/30/2024
Union Moose Lodge Easter Egg Hunt ...More


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