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May 16, 2025

May 17-23 Is National Safe Boating Week!

Colonel Michael A. Turner, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, would like to stress the importance of safe boating and make the public aware of National Safe Boating Week, which takes place May 17-23, 2025, National Safe Boating Week is purposefully scheduled just prior to Memorial Day weekend, which many people consider the kickoff to the boating season.

Weather, time, and other elements may affect the readiness of your boat. Before taking that inaugural 2025 summer boat cruise, boaters are encouraged to make time for a thorough inspection of their boat. The Patrol’s marine operations troopers make boating safety a priority and are available, at your request, to inspect the required equipment on your boat to make sure you’re in compliance with state law. To help facilitate these inspections, marine operations troopers will be at the following locations on Saturday, May 17, 2025:

TROOP B

Mark Twain Lake ― 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Ray Behrens Boat Ramp

42991 Ray Behrens

Perry, MO

TROOP F

Lake of the Ozarks State Park Public Beach #2 ― 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Old U.S. Highway 54

Osage Beach, MO

Mari-Osa Access ― 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

10599 Marina Road

Jefferson City, MO

 

 

 

Governor Kehoe Announces Appointments to Missouri School Funding Modernization Task Force

Building on the education priorities outlined in his inaugural State of the State Address in January, Governor Mike Kehoe has announced the full slate of members appointed to the Missouri School Funding Modernization Task Force. The Task Force, established by Executive Order 25-14, is charged with reviewing and recommending changes to Missouri’s K-12 school funding model and providing a final report to the Governor by December 1, 2026.

The 16-member body represents a broad range of voices—urban and rural, traditional and nontraditional, academia and industry—who will help build a model that delivers results for every Missouri student. The Task Force will operate under core guiding principles that promote equal access for students, local flexibility, performance accountability, and long-term funding sustainability.

Governor Kehoe’s appointments include the following individuals:

These ten appointments will be joined on the Task Force by two members of the State Board of Education.

Missouri Senate President Pro Tem Cindy O’Laughlin and Missouri House Speaker Jonathan Patterson have also appointed Senators Rusty Black and Travis Fitzwater as well as Representatives Ed Lewis and Marlene Terry to serve on the Task Force.

Senator Black, a former educator, will chair the task force. 

Daily’s Premium Meats to expand in St. Joseph, investing $95 million and creating 115 new jobs

Daily’s Premium Meats, a leading provider of high-quality smoked and processed meats, has announced  that it will expand in St. Joseph, investing $95 million and creating 115 new jobs. The company will construct another production bay on the east side of its facility, more than doubling its current production capacity.

The expanded Daily’s facility will have greater smokehouse, food service, and retail capacity in addition to new press technology. The location currently manufactures 2.5% of the nation’s bacon and will increase output to 5% through its expansion.

Since 2016, Daily’s has held a strong presence in St. Joseph as a top employer. The company is owned equally by Seaboard Foods and Triumph Foods. All products are marketed and sold by Seaboard Foods. In addition to the St. Joseph plant, the company owns bacon processing plants in Missoula, Montana, and Salt Lake City, Utah.

 




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May 15, 2025

Governor Kehoe Signs Senate Bill 1 Into Law, Supporting Fair Compensation and Access for County Officials

On Tuesday, Governor Mike Kehoe signed Senate Bill (SB) 1 into law, supporting fair compensation and access for county officials.

“I am pleased to stand behind this commonsense effort to strengthen local leadership across Missouri,” said Governor Kehoe. “This legislation is about supporting the hard-working officials who have stepped forward to serve our communities—whether they're keeping our counties safe, providing oversight for public funds, or protecting our most vulnerable citizens. It's about giving them the tools and recognition they deserve, and ensuring the stability of local communities.”

SB 1, sponsored by Senator Sandy Crawford and Representative Rodger Reedy, modifies provisions relating to county officials.




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May 14, 2025

Conagra Brands to expand in Macon, investing $29.1 million and creating 26 new jobs

Conagra Brands, a leading foods manufacturer, has announced that it will expand in Macon, investing $29.1 million and creating 26 new jobs. The company’s expansion includes the replacement of outdated equipment and the addition of new equipment to increase cooler and preparation space, enhance production capacity, and improve sustainability.

“It’s great to see Conagra continuing to invest, expand, and create jobs in Macon,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “This company’s more than 100-year presence in the area is a prime example of how business growth benefits communities. We congratulate Conagra and look forward to its ongoing success in northern Missouri.”

Equipment that will be replaced through Conagra’s expansion includes bake ovens and freezers, dewatering process equipment, and raw meat inspection process equipment. New raw meat processing equipment will be added to expand the variety of products produced at the facility. This will allow the company to better meet consumer demand for healthier items like Healthy Choice and Marie Callender’s meals.

“We value our strong partnership with the City of Macon and look forward to expanding our operations,” said John Phipps, Manager of the Conagra Brands Macon facility. “This expansion represents a meaningful investment in both our business and the local community, and we’re proud to continue building our presence here.”

Conagra’s expansion also includes the retention of 340 existing positions, preserving the company’s status as Macon County’s largest employer. Both the existing positions and new jobs added as part of Conagra’s expansion will pay average wages well above the county average.

For this expansion, Conagra will benefit from the Missouri Works program, a tool that helps companies expand and retain workers by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation. The company may receive assistance from Missouri One Start, a division of the Department of Economic Development. Missouri One Start assists eligible businesses with their recruitment and training needs.

Planned Roadwork for Northeast Missouri

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Audrain County

Route HH – May 13 – 14, CLOSED for patching operations from Route D to U.S. Route 54 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Clark County

Route V – May 14 - 15, CLOSED for asphalt pavement repair operations from the Iowa State Line to Missouri Route 81 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route V – May 19 - 20, CLOSED for seal coat operations from the Iowa State Line to Missouri Route 81 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route Y – May 12 – 13, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route HH to Missouri Route 81 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route HH – May 12 - 13, CLOSED for seal coat operations from CR 252 to Route Y between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Knox County

Route E – May 13 – 16 & 19 - 20, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 156 to Missouri Route 6 at Knox City between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route J – May 23, CLOSED for asphalt pavement repair operations from Missouri Route 11 to Route Z between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route T – May 21 – 22. CLOSED for patching operations from Route E to Missouri Route 6 at Knox City between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Lincoln County

Missouri Route 79 – May 13, LANE RESTRICTION for grading ditches/drainage work from Route Y to Cardinal Hill Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route PP – May 13, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Corso Road to Liberty Church Road near Silex between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Macon County

Missouri Route 3 – May 12 – 16 & 19 - 22, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.50 mile before and after the Silver Creek Bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Montgomery County

Route J – May 12 - 15, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from Whiteside School Road to Delgman Road over Clear Creek between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. daily.

Route K – May 13, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from Missouri Route 19 to Route HH over Dry Fork between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Pike County  

Route PP - May 13 - 14, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 338 to CR 323 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Randolph County

U.S. Route 24 – May 14, LANE RESTRICTION for core drilling operations from 500 feet west and continuing to 500 feet east of Business Route 63 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Governor Kehoe Reports on Success of Operation Relentless Pursuit One Month After the Anti-Crime Effort Began Operations

In its first four weeks of operations across Missouri, Operation Relentless Pursuit (ORP) has arrested or assisted in the arrest of 148 fugitives wanted for outstanding felony warrants. One-hundred twelve of the arrests were made by ORP officers, and ORP officers assisted other law enforcement agencies in the arrest of 36 other wanted fugitives. The 148 arrests resulted in clearing 251 outstanding arrest warrants.  

Original arrest charges have included rape, kidnapping, voluntary manslaughter, sex trafficking of a child under 18, sexual misconduct involving a child, possession of child pornography, drug trafficking, domestic assault, assault, burglary, felony stealing, unlawful use of a weapon, unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a controlled substance, and probation violation.

ORP is a component of Governor Kehoe’s Safer Missouri public safety initiative announced on his first day in office, January 13, 2025. As outlined in Executive Order 25-02, it is a regional anti-crime effort that emphasizes intelligence-led policing and cross-jurisdiction collaboration to apprehend the most dangerous fugitive felons.

Data analysis showed there were over 17,600 active felony arrest warrants across Missouri in January, which poses a significant threat to public safety since studies show that individuals evading felony warrants are likely to engage in additional criminal activities, further endangering Missourians.   

Public Comment Period Opens on 2026-2030 Draft Statewide Transportation Improvement Program

The draft FY 2026-2030 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) has been presented to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission, kicking off a 30-day public review and comment period. 

The draft STIP makes available $13.2 billion of federal and state revenues for all modes of transportation over the next five years. Of the $13.2 billion, the draft STIP details $9.5 billion in road and bridge construction contractor awards, averaging approximately $1.9 billion per year. It also contains programming details for the remaining $1.7 billion of General Revenue for the Improve I-70 program, which in full includes $2.8 billion for the costs to plan, design, construct, reconstruct, rehabilitate and repair three lanes in each direction on nearly 200 miles of the corridor. This year’s STIP also makes available $577.5 million for I-44 as part of the Forward 44 effort to study and bring improvements to the corridor. Other General Assembly funded projects account for another $118 million programmed into this year’s STIP.

In the past 10 years, MoDOT and its construction partners have completed 4,099 projects worth $10.1 billion, and delivered them $385 million below budget and 93% on time.

The draft FY 2026-2030 STIP lists transportation projects planned by state and regional planning agencies for fiscal years 2026-2030 (July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2030) and reflects the transportation needs of communities across the state.

The proposed program is available for public review. Those interested in seeing the program or offering comments can contact MoDOT by email at STIPcomments@modot.mo.gov, by calling customer service at 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636), or by mail to Transportation Planning, Program Comments, P.O. Box 270, Jefferson City, MO 65102. The program is also available on MoDOT's website: modot.org/DRAFTSTIP. The formal comment period ends June 6, 2025.

A summary of the comments will be presented to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission following the public review period. After reviewing the summary and the final transportation program, it will be considered for approval at the July 9 MHTC meeting.

 




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May 13, 2025

Man injured in Boone County accident

A 40 year old Columbia man was injured in an accident that occurred at around 9:15am Sunday in Boone County. The patrol says that he was on Route VV when he attempted to avoid an SUV which was improperly parked in the roadway, but was unable to do so as his vehicle crossed the center and then struck the rear of the SUV and then it traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned. He was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

Woman hurt in Saturday night incident

A 55 year old Unionville woman was hurt in a Saturday night incident in Putnam County. The highway patrol said it happened at 8:45pm Saturday as she was on Highway 5 when her car struck a deer in the road. She sustained minor injuries and was taken to Putnam County Hospital for treatment. 

Driver hurt in early Monday morning wreck

A driver was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck early Monday morning in Knox County. MSHP stated that a 38 year old Kirksville man was on MO 15 when his car ran off the roadway and struck a ditch. He was taken to Scotland County Hospital in Memphis for treatment of minor injuries. The wreck happened at 6am Monday.

 

 





 






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May 8, 2025

Woman seriously injured in Adair County accident

A 61 year old Greentop woman was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 11:40am Tuesday in Adair County. The patrol says that she was on MO 6 when her car traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck an embankment and a tree. She was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

Driver hurt in Tuesday afternoon crash

A Brookfield driver was hurt in a Tuesday afternoon crash in Livingston County. The highway patrol said it happened at around 2pm as a 49 year old woman was on Business 36 when her SUV was struck by a car driven by an 87 year old Chillicothe woman who failed to yield. After impact the SUV went off the north side of the road, struck a ditch, utility pole and a sign before coming to rest facing west. Meanwhile the car crossed the center line and came to rest in the westbound lane facing north. The Brookfield woman sustained minor injuries and was taken to Hedrick Medical Center in Chillicothe for treatment.

Man killed in Tuesday morning incident 

A Morrison man was killed in a Tuesday morning incident in Gasconade County. MSHP stated that the 78 year old man was on State Route N when he suffered a medical condition, causing his UTV to run off the left side of the roadway, struck a utility box and then a tree. He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia where he died a short time later. The incident happened at 9am Tuesday.

 



 
 

 




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May 7, 2025

MoDOT Extends Weight Allowance for Truckloads of Aggregate Used in Flood Relief and Levee Repair

The Missouri Department of Transportation has announced an extension of an allowance for heavier-than-normal truckloads of rock, sand and gravel on Missouri highways for flood relief, levees and other public infrastructure flood repair. The waiver allows private and for-hire motor carriers to haul up to 10% more than their licensed weight on Missouri highways.

The waiver will remain in effect through May 14, 2025. While the waiver is in effect, participating motor carriers must abide by the following limitations:

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/ 






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May 6, 2025


Planned Roadwork for Northeast Missouri  


The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.


All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.


Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.


Audrain County


Missouri Route 15 – May 6 - 7, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 22 to Route D in Mexico between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. daily.


Clark County


Route Y – May 12 – 14, CLOSED for patching operations from CR 161 to Missouri Route 81 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.


Route HH – May 5 – 6, CLOSED for seal coat operations from CR 238 to Route Y between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Knox County


Route E – May 5 – 7, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 15 to Missouri Route 156 at Newark between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Route E – May 13 – 16, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 156 to Missouri Route 6 at Knox City between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Route U – May 12 – CLOSED for patching operations from Route D to Route E near Newark between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Route KK – May 9, CLOSED for patching operations from Turtle Avenue to Missouri Route 156 at Newark between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Lincoln County


Route O – May 15, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route D to Missouri Route 161 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.


Route BB ­– May 7, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route H to Ridgemount Drive between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.


Route PP – May 13, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Corso Road to Liberty Church Road near Silex between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.


Route TT – May 5 – 6, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Stanek Road to Mary Jo Road between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.


Route TT – May 13 - 14, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route D to Mary Jo Road between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.


Macon County


U.S. Route 63 – May 6 - 7, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Walnut Street to Kohl Street over BNSF Railroad between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.


Marion County


Missouri Route 168 – May 6 – 7, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from Route C to CR 230 over the North River between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.


Montgomery County


I-70 Eastbound – May 5 - 10, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Route F at High Hill to Route E at Jonesburg between 8:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. daily.


Route J – May 5 – 7, 9 & 12 - 15, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from Whiteside School Road to Delgman Road over Clear Creek between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. daily.


Route K – May 13, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from Missouri Route 19 to Route HH over Dry Fork between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.


Pike County  


Missouri Route 79 – May 9, LANE RESTRICTION for shoulder work from CR 219 to Fox Creek Bridge near Clarksville between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Missouri Route 79 – May 12, LANE RESTRICTION for shoulder work from Old Highway 79 to Cedar Drive at Elsberry between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Route PP - May 13 - 14, CLOSED for culvert replacement from CR 338 to CR 323 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.


Randolph County


U.S. Route 24 – May 12 & 14, LANE RESTRICTION for core drilling operations from 500 feet west and continuing to 500 feet east of Business Route 63 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.


Business Route 63 – May 5 - 7, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route A to U.S. Route 63 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.


U.S. Route 63 – May 5 - 6, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Route M to Business Route 63 over U.S. Route 24 at Moberly between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. daily. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.  


Shelby County


Route E – May 5 - 7, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 15 to Missouri Route 156 at Newark between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Warren County


Route W – May 5 - 7 & 12, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from I-70 NW Service Road to Route A at Warrenton between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.  


Missouri Selected as Finalist for Emerging Location at Global Production Awards


 


The Missouri Film Office announced today that the state of Missouri has been selected as a finalist for Screen International’s Global Production Emerging Location Award. This award is given to a film commission “demonstrating an increased number of productions, attractive incentives, improved levels of service, growing crew base and infrastructure, and great variety of filming spots,” according to the Global Production Awards website


Missouri is among seven locations that have been shortlisted for this international honor, including two other locations in the United States - Broward County, Florida, and El Paso, Texas - as well as four international locations: Canterbury, New Zealand, Wexford County, Ireland, Frøya, Norway, and the Ȧland Islands, Finland. 


“Missouri was an incredible place to film,” said producer David Wulf in his testimonial for the award. “I completed two films in the state – Holiday Touchdown: A Chief’s Love Story, for the Hallmark Channel and Don’t Move, an indie horror film. Both required varied landscapes, locations, and varied expertise from a wide range of crew. Missouri delivered on every front. While some infrastructure is still being built out, the film commission was immensely helpful in helping us source those individuals we could train and work with locally.”


The awards ceremony will take place on May 19 in Cannes, France, during the 78th annual Cannes Film Festival. 


MDC advises boaters to beware of hitchhikers


 


As boat owners and water enthusiasts are getting ready to hit Missouri lakes and rivers, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) warns boat owners to be on the lookout for the infamous invasive zebra mussel.


Zebra mussels are an invasive species that came to North American waters in international shipping ballast water and were first discovered in Lake St. Clair near Detroit in 1988. Zebra mussels were first reported in Missouri in 1991 in the Mississippi River near St. Louis. They have spread to the Missouri, Osage, and Meramec rivers, and streams downstream of infested lakes. They have also been found in the following Missouri lakes: Blue Springs Lake, Bull Shoals Lake, Carrollton Recreation Lake, Lake Jacomo, Lake Lotawana, Lake Taneycomo, Lake of the Ozarks, Longview Lake, Prairie Lee Lake, and Smithville Lake. Just because a river or lake does not have a known infestation of zebra mussels does not mean that they are immune, and the public is encouraged to watch for the invasive mussels.


Invasive zebra mussels hurt native fish numbers and disrupt aquatic ecosystems. They decimate populations of native freshwater mussels and other aquatic animals. Zebra mussels can clog power plants, as well as industrial and public drinking water intakes, foul boat hulls, and motors. One of the greatest risks for spreading the invasive mussels to other lakes and rivers is overland transport on boats, motors, trailers, docks, aquatic plants, pumps and other equipment. Larger adult zebra mussels can live several days out of water in moist, shaded areas. Microscopic zebra mussel larva can survive in boat bilge water, livewells, bait buckets, and engine cooling-water systems.


MDC urges boaters to keep their crafts and equipment free from hitchhiking zebra mussels -- especially when moving between waterbodies -- by completing the following steps:



Learn more about zebra mussels at https://mdc.mo.gov/fishing/protect-missouri-fishing/zebra-mussels.


MDC asks boaters and others to report zebra mussel findings to their nearest MDC regional office, including from known infested lakes and rivers. 





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May 5, 2025

Two injured, one seriously in Scotland County accident

A man and woman from Lancaster were injured, one seriously in an accident that occurred at around 12:15pm Saturday in Scotland County. The patrol says that the 77 year old man was on Route H when his car traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned. He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries. Meanwhile his 76 year old female passenger was transported by ambulance to Scotland County Hospital in Memphis for treatment of minor injuries.

Man seriously injured in UTV crash

A 54 year old Frankford man was seriously injured in a UTV crash Saturday afternoon in Pike County. The highway patrol said it happened at 4:10pm as he was on Highway 61 outer road south of Route B when he swerved to the right to miss an animal, causing it to travel off the right side of the road, overturned and ejected him from it. He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

Teen hurt in Saturday morning wreck

A Columbia teen was hurt in a Saturday morning wreck in Boone County. State troopers stated that the 19 year old boy was on Route E and going too fast to safely negotiate a curve, which caused his motorcycle to cross the center of the roadway and struck the front driver side of an SUV  driven by a 53 year old woman from Harrisburg and after impact the motorcycle ran off the right side of the road and overturned, ejecting the teen from it. He sustained moderate injuries and was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment. The wreck happened at 9:55am Saturday.

 

 

 




 




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April 29, 2025

Birdwatch with MDC in northeastern Missouri this spring

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites birders of all ages and skill levels to join MDC staff at two separate birdwatching events in northeastern Missouri this spring. MDC staff will be present at each of these free events to answer questions, provide binoculars, field guides, and more. The event location and times are as follows:

Registration for these events is not required, and participants are encouraged to attend as their schedule allows. Questions about these events can be sent to Conservation Agent Kevin Powell at kevin.powell@mdc.mo.gov.

Governor Mike Kehoe Reminds Missourians of May 7 REAL ID Deadline

 

With less than two weeks until the federal REAL ID enforcement deadline of May 7, 2025, Governor Mike Kehoe is encouraging Missourians do their part in improving the security of state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards by obtaining a REAL ID-compliant identification card.

"Starting on May 7, a REAL ID, passport, or another approved identification will be required to fly and enter federal buildings," said Governor Mike Kehoe. "This is about keeping our state and country safe by preventing fraud and enhancing security. We appreciate the Trump Administration and Secretary Noem for enforcing federal law to help keep American travelers safe. The Missouri Department of Revenue stands ready to assist Missourians with obtaining a REAL ID."

Beginning May 7, 2025, residents of every U.S. state and territory will be required to present a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card, or another form of ID accepted by the Transportation Security Administration, to board federally regulated domestic flights. Also beginning May 7, 2025, individuals must present a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card, or another form of acceptable ID, to access federal facilities and to enter nuclear power plants.

Currently, just over 45 percent of the Missouri Department of Revenue’s total document holders have a REAL ID. A Missouri-issued REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card will have a star, in the upper right-hand corner. A driver license or ID card that is noncompliant with REAL ID will have “NOT FOR REAL ID PURPOSES” in the upper right-hand corner.

The Missouri Department of Revenue continues to provide resources and information to Missourians ahead of the May 7 enforcement deadline. Refer to the questions and answers below to learn more:

Who will need a REAL ID?

Under Missouri law, applying for a REAL ID is a choice, and is not mandatory. However, individuals will soon be required to present a REAL ID-compliant document for official purposes including, but not limited to, entering nuclear power plants, accessing federal facilities, and boarding federally regulated domestic flights.  If you plan on flying in the future but do not want to apply for a REAL ID, you can present another Transportation Security Administration approved acceptable form of ID such as your U.S. passport.

A noncompliant driver license or ID card is, and will continue to be, acceptable for verification of identity, driving privileges, verification of age, voting and registering to vote, and other purposes not limited by the REAL ID Act.

What documents do I need to obtain a REAL ID?

To apply for a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card, Missourians will need to submit valid, original documents verifying their identity, lawful status, Social Security number, proof of residency, and official name change if needed. For a full list of acceptable documents, click here. Anyone wishing to apply for a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card must notify the person assisting them at the start of their transaction.

When will REAL ID requirements start being enforced?

REAL ID will start being enforced on May 7, 2025.

Where can I apply for a REAL ID?

Residents can apply for a REAL ID-compliant driver license or non-driver identification card at one of Missouri’s many contract license office locations. The transaction and processing fees for a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card, new or renewal, are the same as for a license or ID card that is noncompliant with REAL ID. Detailed fee information can be found at dor.mo.gov/driver-license/resources/license.html#fees.  Duplicate transaction fee waiver provisions may apply for an otherwise eligible first-time REAL ID-compliant card applicant, currently holding a valid document with more than six-months remaining until expiration. 

Why are these changes being made?

The REAL ID Act was passed by the U.S. Congress in 2005 after the 9/11 Commission recommended the federal government set new standards for the issuance of identification to achieve enhanced security. Missourians can learn more about REAL ID at dor.mo.gov/driver-license/issuance/real-id/. Information is also available on the TSA website at tsa.gov/real-id and on the DHS website at dhs.gov/real-id.

Planned Roadwork for Northeast Missouri

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Audrain County

Missouri Route 15 – May 5 – 6, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 22 to Route D in Mexico between 8:00 and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route E – April 28 – 29, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 15 to Route T between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route E – April 30 – May 1, CLOSED for patching operations from Route T to Missouri Route 22 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Clark County

Missouri Route 27 Outer Road – April 28, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 27 to end of state maintenance near Wayland between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route B – April 30 - May 1, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 27 to U.S. Route 136 near Wayland between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route HH – May 5 – 6, CLOSED for seal coat operations from CR 238 to Route Y between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Knox County

Route A – April 28, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 156 to Missouri Route 6 near Hurdland between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route E – April 29 - May 1, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 15 to Missouri Route 156 at Newark between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route E – May 6 – 7 & 9, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 156 to Missouri Route 6 at Newark between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route U – May 5 – CLOSED for patching operations from Route D to Route E near Newark between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route KK – May 2, CLOSED for patching operations from Turtle Avenue to Missouri Route 156 at Newark between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Lincoln County

Route BB ­– May 7, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route H to Ridgemount Drive between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route PP - April 30, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Corso Road to Liberty Church Road near Silex between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route TT – May 5 – 6, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Stanek Road to Mary Jo Road between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Macon County

U.S. Route 36 Eastbound – April 28, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Route W to Missouri Route 129 over the Brush Creek between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 36 Eastbound – April 28, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Eagle Avenue to Fireworks Avenue over the Chariton River between 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 36 Eastbound – April 29, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Eagle Avenue to Fireworks Avenue over the Chariton River between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 36 Eastbound – April 29, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Route W to Missouri Route 129 over the Brush Creek between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 36 Westbound – April 28, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Eagle Avenue to Decal Place over the Old Chariton River between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 36 Westbound – April 29, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Atlantic Loop to Missouri Route 129 over the Mussel Fork Creek between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 36 Westbound – April 30, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Route C to Missouri Route 3 over BNSF Railroad between 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 36 Westbound – April 30, LANE RESTRICION for bridge maintenance from Route K to Business Route 36 over the Middle Fork Salt River between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 63 – May 1, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Walnut Street to Kohl Street over BNSF Railroad between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Monroe County

Route D – May 5, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 15 to Route B between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Montgomery County

I-70 Eastbound – April 28, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Mile Marker 167 to Mile Marker 169 over the Loutre River between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

I-70 Westbound – April 29, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Mile Marker 169 to Mile Marker 167 over the Loutre River between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

I-70 Eastbound – May 5 - 10, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Route F at High Hill to Route E at Jonesburg between 8:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. daily.

Route J – May 5 – 9 & 12 - 15, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from Missouri Route 19 to Route HH between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. daily.

Pike County  

Route PP - April 30 – May 1, CLOSED for culvert replacement from CR 338 to CR 323 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Randolph County

Business Route 63 – April 28, 30 & May 5 - 6, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route A to U.S. Route 63 between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.

Business Route 63 – April 29 & May 1, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from U.S. Route 63 to Route A between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.

Shelby County

Route E – April 29 - May 1, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 15 to Missouri Route 156 at Newark between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY  

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                  … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

April 25, 2025

Marked by Decisive Action and Meaningful Progress: Governor Kehoe's First 100 Days

Tuesday marked 100 days of the Kehoe Administration, a milestone defined by decisive leadership, principled action, and meaningful progress on the issues that matter to Missouri families.

 

Since taking the oath of office on January 13, 2025, Governor Mike Kehoe has pursued a conservative, forward-thinking agenda focused on strengthening public safety, expanding educational opportunities and workforce availability, stimulating economic growth, and bolstering agricultural resilience.

 

Governor Kehoe's inaugural State of the State Address outlined his administration's priorities, setting the tone for a results-driven, people-first approach. The Governor proposed a conservative and fiscally responsible budget that leaves a significant balance of funds while providing historic support for K-12 education and school choice, public safety, child care, and state team members.

 

“As we reach this milestone of 100 days in the Governor's Office, I am humbled by and proud of the progress we’ve made in a short time,” said Governor Kehoe. “Our focus remains on delivering practical, commonsense solutions that improve the lives of Missourians across our state—and we’re just getting started.”

 

Highlights from Governor Kehoe’s first 100 days include:

 

Executive Actions: Governor Kehoe moved quickly to establish key priorities through executive action, reinforcing public safety and streamlining operations to better serve Missourians. 

Legislative Achievements: Working in partnership with the General Assembly, the Kehoe Administration has already secured several legislative wins to enhance the lives of Missourians across the state. 

Gubernatorial Appointments: In his first 100 days, Governor Kehoe has made nearly 100 appointments to boards, commissions, the judiciary, and county-level positions—demonstrating a commitment to experienced leadership, efficient governance, and balanced representation.  

 

Governor Kehoe and his administration will continue to advance policies grounded in accountability, opportunity, and service to all Missourians.

For more information on Governor Kehoe’s initiatives and accomplishments, visit governor.mo.gov.

DED awarded more than $2.9 million in SSBCI funding for statewide expansion of entrepreneurial support services

The Department of Economic Development (DED) has announced that it has been awarded more than $2.9 million in State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) funds for a statewide expansion of entrepreneurial support services. The funding, provided through the U.S. Department of the Treasury as part of the American Rescue Plan Act, will be used to create the Missouri Technical Assistance (MOTA) Program. DED selected Missouri State University to administer the program on its behalf following a competitive grant application process.

Missouri State University’s efactory will partner with codefi and others to use the SSBCI funding to expand existing services such as training programs, in-person and virtual classes, one-on-one consultations, and more. As a result, support will be provided for entrepreneurs across the state and in rural areas outside of the southern counties currently served by efactory and codefi. Expanded services will benefit economically disadvantaged and very small businesses in historically underserved areas. Services will include legal, accounting, and financial advisory assistance that improves businesses’ credit profiles, operational stability, and access to capital.

The MOTA Program will build upon the success of the Southern Missouri Innovation Network (Innovate SOMO), led by efactory and codefi, who work together to expand business support programs, entrepreneurial services, and network of partners. The program will also support the existing SSBCI Capital program by better preparing small businesses to apply for IDEA Funds, administered by the Missouri Technology Corporation (MTC), and IgniteMO, administered by Justine Petersen.

To culminate Innovate SOMO Week, DED will join Missouri State University, efactory, codefi, and other partners on April 25 for an event celebrating their expanded support for small businesses. The event will be held at codefi’s Cape Girardeau location.

MDC reports 243 new cases of CWD found during past year

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reports it has confirmed 243 new cases of chronic wasting disease (CWD) in Missouri deer in 35 counties. Seven of those counties had their first CWD-positive case: Audrain, Callaway, Lewis, Marion, Miller, Morgan, and Texas.

The CWD-positive cases were found through sampling and testing of more than 36,000 deer during the past deer-hunting season and post-season targeted-removal efforts with most cases being from hunter-harvested deer submitted for sampling.

Missouri has an estimated population of more than 1.5 million white-tailed deer in the state. CWD is a 100% fatal disease in white-tailed deer and other members of the deer family. The disease has been attributed to significant deer population declines in other states and threatens Missouri’s deer population, hunting culture, and economy.

Most of the new CWD positive cases were from the more than 276,000 deer harvested during the 2024-2025 deer-hunting season.

MDC confirmed an additional 70 cases of CWD found through its targeted-removal efforts of 4,768 deer after the close of the deer season in localized areas near where CWD has been found.

For more details on Post-Season Targeted Removal, visit mdc.mo.gov/cwd.

Those new cases bring the total number of CWD positives found in the state to 815 over 46 counties since the first positive CWD case was found in wild deer by MDC in early 2012.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY  

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                  … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

April 24, 2025

Planned Roadwork for Northeast Missouri

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Audrain County

Route A – April 23 - 24, CLOSED for patching operations from Route U to U.S. Route 54 at Benton City between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route E – April 28 – 29, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 15 to Route T between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route E – April 30 – May 1, CLOSED for patching operations from Route T to Missouri Route 22 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Clark County

U.S. 61 Outer Road – April 24, CLOSED for seal coat operations from U.S. Route 61 to end of state maintenance near Wayland between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 27 Outer Road – April 28, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 27 to end of state maintenance near Wayland between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route B – April 30 & May 1, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 27 to U.S. Route 136 near Wayland between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Knox County

Route E – April 23 – 25, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 15 to Missouri Route 156 at Newark between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route E – April 30 – May 2, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 156 to Missouri Route 6 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route U – April 29 – CLOSED for patching operations from Route D to Route E between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route KK – April 28, CLOSED for patching operations from Turtle Avenue to Missouri Route 156 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Lewis County

Route U – April 29 – CLOSED for patching operations from Route D to Route E between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Lincoln County

Route PP - April 30, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Corso Road to Liberty Church Road near Silex between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Macon County

U.S. Route 36 Eastbound – April 28 - 29, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Eagle Avenue to Fireworks Avenue over the Chariton River between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 36 Westbound – April 28 - 29, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Atlantic Loop to Missouri Route 129 over the Mussel Fork Creek between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 36 Eastbound – April 28 - 29, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Route W to Missouri Route 129 over the Bruch Creek between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 36 Westbound – April 30, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Route C to Missouri Route 3 over BNSF Railroad between 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 36 Westbound – April 30, LANE RESTRICION for bridge maintenance from Route K to Business Route 36 over the Middle Fork Salt River between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 63 – May 1, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Walnut Street to Kohl Street over BNSF Railroad between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Montgomery County

I-70 Eastbound – April 28, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Mile Marker 167 to Mile Marker 169 over the Loutre River between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

I-70 Westbound – April 29, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Mile Marker 169 to Mile Marker 167 over the Loutre River between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Pike County  

Route PP - April 30 – May 1, CLOSED for culvert replacement from CR 338 to CR 323 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Randolph County

U.S. Route 63 Northbound – April 23 - 24, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance over St. Louis District Railroad from Old U.S. Route 63 to CR 237 between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 63 Northbound – April 23 - 24, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance over U.S. Route 24, from Route EE to Business Route 63, between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 63 Southbound – April 23 - 24, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance over U.S. Route 24, from Business Route 63 to Route EE between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Business Route 63 – April 28 & 30, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route A to U.S. Route 63 between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.

Business Route 63 – April 29 & May 1, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from U.S. Route 63 to Route A between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.

Schuyler County

Route K – April 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Grand View Avenue to Keim Avenue near Greentop between 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily.

Shelby County

Route E – April 23 – 25, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 15 to Missouri Route 156 at Newark between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Warren County

Route H – April 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Stuermann Road to Sturbridge Drive in Wright City between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

MoDOT Urges Drivers to "Work with Us" in Busy Construction Season

As a historic construction season ramps up in Missouri, and as part of National Work Zone Awareness Week this week, the Missouri Department of Transportation is reminding motorists to ‘work with us’ by making safe and responsible driving choices behind the wheel. These efforts are essential to protect motorists and workers inside the hundreds of work zones expected across the state this construction season – more than ever.

In 2024, 23 people were killed in Missouri work zone crashes. Distracted driving contributed to at least four of those fatalities as well as more than 350 work zone crashes overall. Distracted driving and driving too fast for the conditions remain the top contributors to work zone crashes.

It’s not just a courtesy to slow down and move over for these work zones—it’s the law. Missouri’s Move Over law requires drivers to change lanes, if safe to do so, when approaching MoDOT vehicles, law enforcement vehicles and any other emergency vehicle with lights flashing. If drivers can’t change lanes safely, they must slow down as they pass the emergency vehicles. Drivers should be aware of changing traffic conditions, observe warning signs and merge before reaching lane closures.

While distracted driving remains a concern in Missouri, the state’s recently passed cell phone law represents a positive step forward.

Drivers can visit MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map at www.traveler.modot.org and find out what work zones they’ll encounter along the trip this construction season.

Mexico Public Safety Department Report

On Sunday, April 20 at approximately 5:35PM the National Weather Service issued a tornado warning for central Audrain County. This was due to radar showing a storm near Mexico, which had increased in strength and started rotating. The Mexico outdoor warning sirens were activated along with all other state and national warning systems.  Mexico Public Schools opened the storm shelter at Hawthorne Elementary and several people in that area moved to that location. As the storm moved through, there was some heavy rain and strong wind gusts. A utility pole became unsecure in the 1600 block of Lakeview Road and was leaning towards private property. No residents lost power and Ameren responded to make temporary repairs until the pole could be replaced. A large portion of a tree came down across the sidewalk and into the roadway of the 900 block of W Boulevard. Mexico Streets responded and cleared the sidewalk and street. There were no injuries from the weather event.

March 2025 Monthly Jobs Report

Missouri nonfarm payroll employment increased by 13,900 jobs in March 2025, and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased by one-tenth of a percentage point. Private industry employment increased by 12,600 jobs and government employment increased by 1,300 jobs. Over the year, there was an increase of 20,200 jobs from March 2024 to March 2025, and the unemployment rate increased by two-tenths of a percentage point, from 3.6 percent in March 2024 to 3.8 percent in March 2025.   





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY  

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                  … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

April 23, 2025

Man injured in Scotland County accident

A 25 year old Memphis man was injured in an accident that occurred at 5:10pm Monday in Scotland County. The patrol says that he was on MO 15 when his car struck a jeep driven by a 63 year old Memphis man who was stopped waiting to turn. He was taken to Scotland County Hospital in Memphis for treatment of minor injuries.

Woman hurt in Sunday morning wreck

A 53 year old Kirksville woman was hurt in a Sunday morning wreck in Sullivan County. The highway patrol said it happened after 8am as she was on MO 6 when her truck traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a road sign and a culvert. She was transported by ambulance to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville for treatment of moderate injuries.

Driver injured in Schuyler County crash

A driver was injured in a Sunday morning crash in Schuyler County. MSHP stated that a 60 year old Greentop woman was on US 63 and stopped waiting to make a left turn when her jeep was struck in the rear by a truck driven by a 23 year old Kirksville man. She sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center for treatment. The crash happened at around 11:45am Sunday.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY  

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                  … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

April 17, 2025

MDHEWD launches free courses to help Missourians find and prepare for jobs, build personal finance skills

The Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (MDHEWD) has partnered with Coursera to launch three new courses to help Missourians strengthen their job search, job readiness, and finance skills at no cost.

The three new courses are now available online and include:

Coursera, which provide over 168 million learners worldwide with job-relevant education, offers a self-paced learning model and can be downloaded through a mobile app to allow individuals the flexibility to learn anywhere, anytime. Participants will receive a certificate once each individual course is completed, or they can choose to combine the courses and earn a Missouri Career Success Certificate.

Missourians can apply for a free course through Coursera at jobs.mo.gov/coursera. After MDHEWD receives your application, a team member from one of their job centers will reach out to you to help you enroll. Individuals must apply and enroll for Coursera through the specific steps provided by the department to access free courses.





MDC and partners host a Callery pear buyback event April 22 in Kirksville, Hannibal, and Moberly


The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) has partnered with the Missouri Invasive Plant Council, Forest ReLeaf of Missouri, and Forrest Keeling Nursery to host a Callery pear buyback program in Kirksville, Hannibal, and Moberly on April 22, from 3-6 p.m. at the MDC Northeast Regional Office in Kirksville, Central Park in Hannibal, and Rothwell Park in Moberly.


The buyback program involves landowners removing one or more Callery pear trees in exchange for receiving one free, native tree. To be eligible for one free native tree, participants must register by April 17 and submit a photo of their cut down Callery pear. One free native tree will be provided to each registered participant at the pick-up event on April 22 with a limit of one free tree per household. Register at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4jf.


Mature Callery pear trees can reach heights of 30-40 feet, and their limbs generally grow vertically, forming a pyramid or egg shape. During their blooming period, often in early April, the trees will have very dense clusters of white flowers that cover the tree before leaves form. Learn more about Callery pear trees at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4MJ.


Northeast Regional Office is located at 3500 South Baltimore Street in Kirksville, Hannibal’s Central Park is located at the corner of Broadway and 4th Street in Hannibal, and Rothwell Park is located at 109 Rothwell Park Road in Moberly.

Schools in Glasgow, Union, Mountain View and Ellsinore win MoDOT’s “No MOre Trash!” contest 

The Missouri Department of Transportation congratulates Shelly Jensen and her 1st graders at Immaculate Conception Catholic School in Union, Bailey Wagner and her 4th grade Science Club students at Mountain View Elementary School, Sara Hoefer and her 6-8 grade students in the East Carter R-II School District in Ellsinore, and Rex Beltz and his 9-12 graders in the Glasgow School District on being selected as winners of the 2025 “No MOre Trash!” trash-can-decorating contest. 

MoDOT sponsors the contest as part of Missouri’s “No MOre Trash!” campaign to raise awareness about and discourage littering. The contest encourages students from kindergarten through 12th grade to join the fight against litter by decorating and displaying a large trash can with the “No MOre Trash!” logo and a litter-prevention message using a variety of creative mediums. 

These first-place winners from each of the four competition categories (K-2, 3-5, 6-8 and 9-12) receive a $200 award. All first-place winners are then eligible for the $600 grand prize and trophy. Entries are judged by MoDOT staff. 

Glasgow School District Wins 9-12 Grade Category 

Congratulations to Rex Beltz and his 9-12 graders in the Glasgow School District in Glasgow on winning the 9-12 category for their “River Recycle” entry. 

“The ‘River Recycle’ project is a community-focused environmental initiative designed to keep our local river clean and healthy by preventing trash from polluting its waters,” Beltz wrote in their submission entry. “These uniquely designed trash cans will encourage residents, visitors and tourists to dispose of their waste responsibly, ensuring that the river remains free from harmful trash and debris.” 

The school will receive a check for $200 for the category win. 

The winners were among 24 entries from Missouri students. See images and information on all entries online at modot.org/trash-can-contest








LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY  

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April 16, 2025

MISSOURI CORN SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS ANNOUNCED

The Missouri Corn Foundation is proud to announce the 2025 Missouri Corn Scholarship recipients. Each student will be awarded a $1,000 scholarship to contribute to their college education.

 

Missouri high school seniors and college students entering their senior year pursuing a degree in an agriculture field were eligible. Candidates were scored by the Missouri Corn Scholarship Committee and evaluated on essays, applications, letters of reference, current grades, and activities.

 

Congratulations to the following 2025 Missouri Corn Scholarship recipients:

 

 

The slate was approved by the Missouri Corn Foundation board of directors. This is the twenty-ninth year Missouri Corn Scholarships have been awarded to students studying agriculture. Applications for the 2026 Missouri Corn Scholarship Program will be available online on or before Dec. 15, 2025.

 

Missouri’s Tax Holiday Creates Savings and Generates Business Growth

 

The Show Me Green Sales Tax Holiday returns this spring giving Missourian’s the opportunity to save money on select purchases while stimulating economic activity in the state.

According to Missouri statute, from April 19 through April 25 state sales tax will be waived on qualifying ENERGY STAR® certified appliances. This certification indicates that a product has been independently verified to meet strict standards – which can mean superior performance and long-term energy savings.

Clothes washers, dryers, dishwashers, air conditioners, and refrigerators with the Energy Star certification are just some of the items that are exempt from state sales tax on the first $1,500 of each appliance purchased.

For more information on the sales tax holiday, a list of qualifying items, and frequently asked questions, visit dor.mo.gov/taxation/business/tax-types/sales-use/holidays/show-me-green/.

Apply for MDC elk and bear hunting permits in May

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds Missourians interested in hunting black bear and/or elk in the state this fall that they need to apply for a limited number of hunting permits for each in May.

The Missouri Conservation Commission approved recommendations from MDC for upcoming seasons for each species at its April 4 meeting.

MDC will offer 600 permits for the taking of a maximum of 40 black bears from three MDC black-bear management zones in the southern part of the state during the 2025 Missouri black-bear hunting season, Oct. 18-31. MDC increased the number of available permits from 400 to 600 for additional hunter opportunities and lengthened the season to incorporate an additional weekend for hunting. Missouri hunters harvested 15 black bears during the 2024 season with five being females and 10 being males.

MDC will again offer a “Discover Nature: Bear Hunting Basics” virtual program on April 30 at 6 p.m. for anyone interested in hunting black bears in Missouri. The introductory program will teach about Missouri black bears and what it takes to have a successful bear hunt. Topics will be black bear biology, permit application process, and general black bear hunting strategies. Register in advance at mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/207426. A link to participate will be emailed to registered participants on the date of the program.

Get more information on black-bear hunting in Missouri and apply during May at mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/bear

MDC will again also offer five permits to hunt bull elk in Missouri this fall with at least one permit designated for qualifying landowners who own property in Carter, Reynolds, or Shannon counties and the remaining permits for qualifying residents. MDC has designated the elk archery portion to run Oct. 18-26 and the elk firearms portion to run Dec. 13-21. Missouri hunters harvested five bull elk during the 2024 season.

Get more information on elk hunting and apply during May at mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/elk.  





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April 15, 2025

MDC reports young hunters took 4,428 turkeys over youth weekend

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows young turkey hunters in Missouri harvested 4,428 birds over the past youth weekend, April 12-13. Top harvest counties were Osage with 107 birds harvested, Gasconade with 105, and Texas with 94.

Young hunters checked 3,721 birds during the 2024 spring youth weekend.

This spring’s harvest of 4,428 birds is the second highest harvest since the youth season began in 2001, behind only 2015 at 4,449 birds.

Get more harvest information by county at extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/.

The regular spring turkey season runs April 21 through May 11. For more information on spring turkey hunting in Missouri, visit mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/seasons/turkey-spring.

Missouri Youth Safety Initiative Receives National Grant

The Missouri Department of Transportation was recently awarded a national grant to help fund a youth safety initiative known as “traffic gardens.” The grant, awarded by the Governors Highway Safety Association and the National Road Safety Foundation, includes $25,000 to increase the use of the traffic gardens across the state.

Traffic gardens are small-sized streets with scaled-down traffic features where children practice and learn safety skills in an area free from motor vehicles. MoDOT plans to host at least ten traffic garden events at rural or high-priority elementary schools across the state.

This grant will help MoDOT fund the implementation of traffic gardens across the state throughout the year. There is funding for an estimated 10 communities, and five communities are firmly committed. Communities interested in implementing a traffic garden can contact the MoDOT Highway Safety and Traffic Division at 800-800-BELT. For more information about traffic gardens and other highway safety initiatives in Missouri, visit www.savemolives.com 



MDC reminds people to “Be BearWise” to avoid conflicts with black bears


The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds people that Missouri is home to an estimated 1,000+ black bears with most being in the southern part of the state. As spring gets underway, these magnificent mammals leave their winter dens in search of food. MDC reminds Missourians to “Be BearWise.”


MDC Furbearer Biologist Nate Bowersock said it is important that residents consider removing or securing bear attractants from their property, such as bird feeders, trash, barbeque grills, pet food, and food waste.


He noted intentionally feeding bears can be dangerous. It makes them comfortable around people. It can also lead bears to cause significant damage to property while searching for food.


Food is usually a bear’s main motivator, but that also means it can be a main source of conflict. MDC offers the following tips to avoid attracting black bears to possible food sources:



While black bears are generally a shy, non-aggressive species and bear attacks are rare, follow these tips when outdoors in bear country:



For more information on how to Be BearWise and to report a bear sighting, visit mdc.mo.gov/bearwise.






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April 14, 2025

Planned Roadwork for Northeast Missouri

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Audrain County

Route A – April 14 – 16 & 21 - 22, CLOSED for patching operations from CR 756 to U.S. Route 54 at Benton City between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Missouri Route 15 – April 23 - 24, LANE RESTRICTIN for patching operations from Route D to Wade Street in Mexico between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Clark County

Business Route 136 – April 14, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 81 to Route EE in Kahoka between 7:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Knox County

Route A – April 14 – 18 & 21 - 22, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 156 to Missouri Route 6 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Lewis County

Missouri Route 16 – April 15, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route B to Missouri Route 6 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 6 – April 16, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Lewistown to Knox City between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

U.S. Route 61 Outer Road – April 21, CLOSED for patching operations from Route B to the end of state maintenance between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Marion County

U.S Route 24 – April 14, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.50 mile before and after Bear Creek Bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. An 11-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Monroe County

Missouri Route 107 – April 14, CLOSED for patching operations from U.S. Route 24 to CR 480 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Missouri Route 107 – April 15 - 16, CLOSED for patching operations from CR 480 to Route U between 7:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. daily.

Missouri Route 107 – April 21, CLOSED for patching operations from Route U to Missouri Route 154 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Route D – April 22 - 24, CLOSED for asphalt pavement repair operations from Missouri Route 15 to Route B between 7:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. daily.

Route AA – April 15 – 16, CLOSED for asphalt pavement repair operations from U.S. Route 24 to Route C South between 7:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. daily.

Route AA – April 21, CLOSED for asphalt pavement repair operations from Route C South to Missouri Route 15 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Route AA – April 22 - 24, CLOSED for seal coat operations from U.S. Route 24 to Missouri Route 15 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. daily.

Route JJ – April 14, CLOSED for asphalt pavement repair operations from U.S. Route 24 to CR 130 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Route JJ – April 14, CLOSED for seal coat operations from U.S. Route 24 to CR 130 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Montgomery County

Missouri Route 19 – April 15 – 16, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Missouri Route 94 to Missouri Route 100 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Missouri Route 161 – April 14, LANE RESTRICTION for culvert replacement operations from Route CC to 2000 feet south of Goldenrod Road near Wellsville between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Schuyler County

Route K – April 15 – 17, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Grand View Avenue to Keim Avenue near Greentop between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily.

Shelby County

Route E – April 23 – 25, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 15 to Missouri Route 156 at Newark between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Warren County

Missouri Route 94 – April 14, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 19 to Missouri Route 47 at Marthasville between 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Missouri Route 94 – April 15, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 47 at Dutzow to the St. Charles County line between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Route H – April 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Stuermann Road to Sturbridge Drive in Wright City between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

 

Department of Natural Resources awards $30,000 grants to Livingston County Public Water Supply District No. 1 and Asbury

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded $30,000 Drinking Water Engineering Report grants to Livingston County Public Water Supply District No. 1 and to the city of Asbury. Both the district and the city will use the funding to evaluate their drinking water systems.

Through its Drinking Water Engineering Report Grant program, the department offers funding to qualified communities to help cover costs of evaluating public drinking water system improvements. The district and the city will use their grants to identify drinking water system improvements that will enable the system to continue meeting drinking water quality standards and providing reliable water service.

Water and wastewater systems are essential infrastructure that support the health and economic vitality of every community. Through this grant, qualified communities like Asbury and Livingston County can thoroughly assess their drinking water systems and identify improvements for better efficiency, effectiveness and service. During the assessment, communities can determine what actions are needed to address current drinking water needs and plan for future growth and development.

The Department of Natural Resources is committed to assisting Missouri communities with water and wastewater infrastructure improvement projects. Through its Financial Assistance Center, the department provides funding opportunities for qualified communities with water quality, wastewater and drinking water infrastructure needs. This project will be funded wholly or in part with monies received from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

For more information on wastewater and drinking water funding opportunities, visit dnr.mo.gov/water/what-were-doing/state-revolving-fund-srf.

 

 

 

Governor Kehoe Seeks Joint Damage Assessments in Preparation for Second Federal Disaster Declaration Request within Four Weeks

Governor Mike Kehoe has announced the state has requested the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) participate in joint preliminary damage assessments (PDAs) in 20 counties following the severe storms and flooding that began impacting Missouri on March 30. This request begins the process of obtaining a federal disaster for the second time in less than a month.

“Missouri has again been battered by severe storms and significant flooding, causing widespread destruction and disrupting the lives of many families and businesses across the state,” Governor Kehoe said. “The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and local emergency management officials have been working tirelessly to assess impacts, and we believe the extent of the damage clearly meets the threshold for FEMA to again participate in joint damage assessments.”

Joint PDAs are being requested for the following counties: BollingerButlerCape GirardeauCooperCarterDunklinHowellIronMississippiNew MadridOregonOzarkReynoldsRipleyScottShannonStoddardVernonWashington and Wayne. Additional counties may be added as more damage information is received from local officials.

Joint PDA teams are made up of representatives from FEMA, SEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and local emergency management officials. Beginning Tuesday, April 15, six teams will survey and verify documented damage to determine if Individual Assistance can be requested through FEMA. Individual Assistance allows eligible residents to seek federal assistance for temporary housing, housing repairs, replacement of damaged belongings, vehicles, and other qualifying expenses. 

Damage assessments for roads, bridges and other public infrastructure are ongoing, likely resulting in a request for additional PDAs for Public Assistance next week.

SEMA continues to coordinate with volunteer and faith-based partners to identify needs and assist impacted families and individuals over the coming days. Missourians with unmet needs are encouraged to contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767.





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April 11, 2025

Join MDC and the Missouri Master Naturalists at an interpretive nature hike in Hannibal Saturday

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and the Mississippi Hills Master Naturalists Chapter will host an interpretive nature hike at Steyermark Woods Conservation Area in Hannibal on April 12. The hike will begin at 1 p.m. and focus on spring wildflower identification.

The hike will be led by MDC staff and members of the Missouri Master Naturalists. Participants will observe and learn about the conservation area, woodland habitat, flowering trees, and spring ephemeral wildflowers in bloom.

Participants should wear good hiking shoes, clothing appropriate for the weather, and they should consider bringing a camera, water, and snacks.

PSC Sets Intervention Deadline for Ameren Missouri Electric Rate Adjustment Request

 

The Missouri Public Service Commission has established the deadline for those wishing to intervene and participate in a revised fuel adjustment rate proceeding filed by Union Electric Company d/b/a Ameren Missouri. Applications to intervene and participate in this case must be filed no later than April 16, 2025, with the Secretary of the Missouri Public Service Commission, P.O. Box 360, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102, or by using the Commission’s Electronic Filing and Information System (EFIS) at www.psc.mo.gov.

Individual citizens wishing to comment can click the link below or contact the Public Service Commission Staff (P.O. Box 360, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102, telephone 1-800-392-4211, e-mail pscinfo@psc.mo.gov) or the Office of the Public Counsel (Governor Office Building, 200 Madison Street, Suite 650, P.O. Box 2230,

Jefferson City, Missouri 65102-2230, telephone 1-866-922-2959, e-mail opcservice@opc.mo.gov). The Office of the Public Counsel is a separate state agency that represents the general public in matters before the Commission.

On April 1, 2025, Ameren Missouri made two filings. In its first filing (Case No. ER-2025-0262), Ameren Missouri proposes to adjust its fuel adjustment clause (FAC) to reflect changes in its fuel and purchased power costs, net off-system sales revenues, and associated transportation experienced during the period of June 2024 through January 2025. The second case is Ameren Missouri’s true-up filing (Case No. EO-2025-0263).

MDHEWD highlights free resources for students and job seekers in honor of Financial Literacy Month

In recognition of Financial Literacy Month, the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (MDHEWD) joins other state agencies, financial institutions, and national organizations to help promote the importance of money management and planning as Missourians pursue their education and career goals.

MDHEWD offers a variety of free financial resources online and in person. These resources offer information about building and managing a budget, which can be especially challenging while attending college, as well as training to help establish long-term financial plans. To learn more, individuals can: 

MDHEWD also offers free resources and support to counselors, teachers, and career access professionals at Missouri high schools to help support students planning their next step. Publications can be accessed online, speakers can provide presentations, and one-on-one support is available through the department’s outreach professionals throughout the state.

In addition to MDHEWD’s resources, the Missouri Treasurer’s Office also maintains the Missouri Financial Literacy Portal to help with financial success. These resources help Missourians take control of their finances and learn skills to help them succeed.

To learn more, MDHEWD encourages Missourians to follow MDHEWD’s social media pages. The department will share helpful tips and resources all month long as we celebrate Financial Literacy Month.

 




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April 10, 2025


Utility work planned on Business Loop Route 240 in Howard County

Single-lane closures in Glasgow thru April 25


Utility work has required single-lane closures on Route 240 in Howard County which began Tuesday. Contractors working under a Missouri Department of Transportation permit have closed one lane of Business Loop Route 240 for line maintenance at various locations from Saline Road to Route 8. Flaggers will be in place to guide motorists through the work zone between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m., daily. All work is expected to be complete by April 25, 2025.

All work is weather permitting and schedules are subject to change.


DED celebrates EquipmentShare’s headquarters expansion and decade of growth in Missouri


EquipmentShare, an integrated equipment rental and equipment asset management company, announced Wednesday the opening of a new, state-of-the-art Technology Development Center (TDC) at its Columbia headquarters. The company commemorated the expansion and 10-year anniversary with a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by Governor Mike Kehoe, Director Michelle Hataway, and various community partner organizations.

The opening of EquipmentShare’s Technology Development Center marks a major milestone in the company’s 10-year history. Located adjacent to the company’s main campus building on Bull Run Drive, the modern facility brings together key innovation teams - including Research Development, Engineering, and Learning Development - focused on designing next-generation technology and training a nationwide workforce. The center features a high-tech Uptime Center, an operations hub where teams monitor EquipmentShare’s fleet in real time to reduce downtime and enhance performance.

The facility also offers collaborative spaces for prototyping, technology incubation, and cross-functional innovation, uniting software, hardware, and operational teams under one roof to support continued growth and transformation of the construction industry. Jobs created through TDC are part of the company’s campus expansion first announced in November 2022. In total, EquipmentShare expects to create more than 500 high-paying jobs along with an investment of nearly $100 million.

EquipmentShare helps contractors work smarter with solutions that optimize job sites - including cloud-based tools, tracking hardware, machinery rentals, and more. Since beginning in Columbia in 2015, the company has grown in Missouri and beyond, with a total of more than 6,500 employees and 300 locations nationwide. EquipmentShare’s Missouri locations include Columbia, St. Louis, Eldon, Kansas City, Joplin, Springfield, Cape Girardeau, Lebanon, and Moberly.

DED’s support for EquipmentShare began in 2019 when the company established its headquarters and created 150 new jobs. A significant expansion followed in 2022 with the creation of more than 500 additional jobs. Since then, EquipmentShare opened the industrial and upfitting center in Moberly, which included a more than $46 million investment and 151 new jobs.

EquipmentShare’s ongoing growth in the state, including the headquarters expansion, has been supported through the state’s Missouri Works program, a tool that helps companies expand and retain workers by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation. The company’s Columbia and Moberly locations are receiving assistance from Missouri One Start, a division of the Department of Economic Development. Missouri One Start assists eligible businesses with their recruitment and training needs.








Governor Kehoe Signs SB 4 into Law, Securing Missouri's Energy Future and Economic Growth

On Wednesday, Governor Mike Kehoe signed Senate Bill (SB) 4 into law, taking a major step forward in strengthening Missouri's energy infrastructure and supporting long-term economic development.

"With this legislation, Missouri is well-positioned to attract new industry, support job growth, and maintain affordable, reliable energy for our citizens," said Governor Mike Kehoe. "This is about powering Missouri for Missourians and not relying on other states and countries to produce our power. This legislation strengthens our economic development opportunities, helps secure our energy independence, and provides consumer protections to build a resilient energy future for generations to come."

The legislation is designed to respond to skyrocketing energy demand and outdated energy policy, introducing vital reforms to ensure Missouri can meet its growing electricity needs and includes some of the strongest consumer protections in the nation. SB 4, sponsored by Senator Mike Cierpiot and Representative Josh Hurlbert, includes the following provisions:

The bill's significance is further emphasized by the Missouri's recent selection by the National Governor's Association and the U.S. Department of Energy to convene an in-state nuclear summit, underscoring Missouri's commitment to develop new reliable energy.

 








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April 9, 2025

Fayette man hurt in Howard County accident

A 31 year old Fayette man was hurt in an accident that occurred at around 5:20am Tuesday in Howard County. The patrol says that he was on MO 5 when his vehicle struck a deer in the roadway. He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries.

Three teens injured in Monday afternoon crash  

Three Bosworth teenage girls were injured in a Monday afternoon crash in Carroll County. The highway patrol said it happened at 4:30pm as the driver a 15 year old girl and her two passengers' aged 13 and 14 were on County Road 194 when she lost control of the UTV and it traveled off the right side of the road and overturned. All three were taken to Carroll County Memorial Hospital for treatment of minor injuries. 

KIRKSVILLE AREA DESERVES HIGH QUALITY RADIATION ONCOLOGY: HANNIBAL REGIONAL MOVING FORWARD ON CONSTRUCTION OF STATE OF THE ART CANCER CENTER IN KIRKSVILLE 

For nearly three years, Kirksville area residents have faced major hurdles in accessing radiation oncology care.  The lack of this life-saving service in the Kirksville community has left a healthcare void that has forced hundreds of area residents to travel nearly 200 miles roundtrip daily (5 days a week, typically 6-8 weeks total) for cancer treatments when they received a diagnosis that requires radiation oncology.  Hannibal Regional has been working to address this need and has moved a step closer in the planned construction of the new, state-of-the-art cancer center in Kirksville.  Monday, April 7, a Missouri circuit court judge ruled in favor of the Missouri Department of Social Services and Hannibal Regional in a case dealing with the $15,000,000 state appropriation signed in June of 2024 by Missouri Governor Mike Parson for Hannibal Regional to build a new cancer center in Kirksville. 

Hannibal Regional, over the last year has been planning and designing the new cancer center, and plans to break ground soon on infrastructure at the site of the new cancer center.  The planning and design of the cancer center has been a collaborative effort involving a dedicated team of architects, engineers, and healthcare professionals. From the earliest stages, the focus has been on creating a state-of-the-art facility that supports both advanced cancer treatment and patient-centered care. The design process included careful coordination of site access, construction staging, and long-term operational needs—ensuring the center will serve the community for generations to come.  With this, significant progress has already been made. Site logistics and access planning are well underway, and architectural drawings have been developed to guide the next phases of work as Hannibal Regional works to fulfill their commitment to delivering state of the art cancer care to the Kirksville region.

Since purchasing the Complete Family Medicine clinics in the Kirksville/Highway 63 market, Hannibal Regional has seen rapid growth in the services they provide, and through discussions with the community Hannibal Regional quickly identified the pressing need for radiation oncology services for cancer patients in the Kirksville market.   Hannibal Regional has been offering compassionate, expert radiation oncology services to the Hannibal community at the Cary Cancer Center since 2003, which reinforced Hannibal Regional’s understanding of what a void Kirksville is facing without these services in the region. 

 

For more information on Hannibal Regional and Complete Family Medicine, or questions regarding the cancer center, call 573-629-3577.



   

 


 







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April 8, 2025

Man injured in Sunday night wreck

A 47 year old Troy man was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday night in Cooper County. The highway patrol said it happened at around 5:15pm as he was eastbound on I-70 when his car ran off the right side of the road, became airborne and came to rest in a ditch. He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

Columbia driver hurt in Audrain County accident

A Columbia driver was hurt in an accident that occurred at 4:30pm Saturday in Audrain County. The patrol says that a 39 year old man was on Route Y and driving too fast for conditions when he lost control on a sharp curve, causing his vehicle to travel off the right side of the roadway, struck an embankment, rotated clockwise and came to rest in a ditch facing north. He was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries.

Man hurt in early Saturday morning crash

A man was hurt in an early Saturday morning crash in Shelby County. MSHP stated that a 45 year old man from Barnhart was on US 36 half a mile east of Clarence when his truck traveled off the roadway, struck a stump and overturned. He sustained minor injuries and was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment. The crash happened at 2am Saturday.

Driver injured in Saturday afternoon mishap

A 43 year old Hale driver was injured in a Saturday afternoon mishap in Carroll County. State troopers said that it happened at around 4:10pm as a man was on Route J when he swerved to avoid hitting a raccoon in the road, which caused his truck to run off the left side of the road, returned to the roadway, overturned and came to rest off the right side of the roadway. He was treated for minor injuries and released at the scene.

 



 


 

 




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April 7, 2025

Settlement reached in wrongful death lawsuit in Brookfield truck driver’s 2022 death in train collision

The widow of a truck driver who died in a crash in 2022 and the railway company she sued in a wrongful death lawsuit have agreed to a settlement. According to KMIZ, Erin Barton, of Brookfield had sued Burlington Northern Santa Fe in July 2022 after her husband, Billy Barton II, was killed on June 27, 2022. An Amtrak train slammed into Barton’s vehicle at a Chariton County crossing. Details of the settlement were not published in documents dated on March 20, 2025. Court documents state that the settlement will be given to Erin Barton and her five adult children. They also state that the crossing where Billy Barton II died had a steep incline, poor visibility because of its angle and overgrown brush and no active devices to warn drivers. Those documents claimed Barton could not hear or see the train coming. He was driving a dump truck for an excavating company when the collision occurred. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Three passengers were killed and about 150 people were injured.

Auditor Fitzpatrick gives Linn County a rating of "good" in audit

A new audit report by Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick gives Linn County a rating of "good" while finding a few issues that need to be addressed in the offices of the Sheriff and the Prosecuting Attorney. The "good" rating is the second highest rating given by the State Auditor's Office and indicates the county is well managed and officials are already working to implement the recommendations contained in the report.
The review of Linn County was part of a regularly-scheduled audit that primarily looked at the year ended December 31, 2023. The report found the Sheriff's office needs to improve its accounting controls and procedures as the office does not ensure personnel prepare accurate
monthly bank reconciliations, maintain accurate book balances, or
properly monitor its bank account. A review of 2023 deposits found the office made 1 to 3 bank deposits each month, regardless of the total receipts collected. As a result, cash and checks are sometimes held for extended periods of time, which increases the risk that loss, theft, or misuse of money received will occur and go undetected. Additionally, a
review of monthly bank reconciliations for 2023 determined the ending
reconciled balances were understated by amounts ranging from $117 to $6,220 for 7 months and overstated by amounts ranging from $50 to $4,543 for 4 months. Only 1 month was accurate. The office also failed to enter into written agreements with other counties or cities that provide
prisoner board for the county, which is a violation of state law.

The audit similarly found accounting controls and procedures in the Prosecuting Attorney's office need improvement. The Prosecuting Attorney did not reconcile the bank accounts during the year ended December 31,2023. Instead, on January 22, 2024, the Prosecuting Attorney performed bank reconciliations for all 12 months for the restitution account after the initial site visit from the State Auditor's Office. The report also found the Prosecuting Attorney does not maintain a list of outstanding restitution balances. The Prosecuting Attorney indicated he tracks outstanding restitution in individual spreadsheets and a review of those individual spreadsheets determined outstanding restitution balances totaled $67,742 as of December 31, 2023. The report notes that a complete and accurate list of unpaid restitution would allow the Prosecuting Attorney's office to more easily review the amounts due, take appropriate steps to ensure amounts due are collected, and determine disposition of any amounts considered uncollectible. The final finding in the report notes the County Commission authorized
mid-term salary increases totaling $11,685 to the Sheriff in violation
of constitutional provisions. Article VII, Section 13, of the Missouri Constitution prohibits an increase in compensation for state, county, and municipal officers during their term of office.

MoDOT Issues Weight Allowance for Truckloads of Aggregate Used in Flood Relief and Levee Repair

The Missouri Department of Transportation has announced an allowance for heavier-than-normal truckloads of rock, sand and gravel on Missouri highways for flood relief, levees and other public infrastructure flood repair. The waiver allows private and for-hire motor carriers to haul up to 10% more than their licensed weight on Missouri highways.

The waiver will remain in effect through May 5, 2025. While the waiver is in effect, participating motor carriers must abide by the following limitations:




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April 4th, 2025

Fulton Man Injured in Montgomery Co. Wreck

A Fulton man was injured in a single vehicle accident that happened early Wednesday morning in Montgomery County.  According to the Mo State Highway Patrol crash report, the accident occurred along I-70 Westbound at the 181.6 mile marker at 2:34 AM Tuesday.  A Westbound vehicle driven by a 51 year old unnamed Fulton man ran off the left side of the road and struck the concrete barrier, returned to the roadway, ran off the right side of the roadway again and overturned.  The driver was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident and was transported by Montgomery Co. EMS to Lake St. Louis West for treatment of moderate injuries

Fatal Camden Co. Wreck

 A two vehicle accident Thursday morning on the toll bridge on Westbound route MM in Camden Co killed a Lake Ozark man.  According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol online crash report, the accident happened when a 2013 Mazda CX-5 struck the right rear of another vehicle that was stopped in traffic facing South on Westbound route MM.  Both vehicles began to slide as the Mazda travelled off the right side of the roadway, returned to the road, and crossed the center of the roadway.  The other vehicle also crossed the center of the road and both vehicles came to rest facing East in the middle of route MM.  The driver of the Mazda an unnamed 20 year old Lake Ozark man was pronounced dead at Lake Regional Hospital.  The other driver was not injured.   

 




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April 3, 2025

Mexico Public Safety Department News

On Friday, March 7th, the Mexico Public Safety Department became aware of a group of people going to pharmacies in various mid-Missouri cities with fake prescriptions, trying to get drugs illegally. On Wednesday, March 26th, at approximately 1:56PM, an alert employee at a pharmacy in Mexico notified MPSD of someone attempting the same thing. Officers located Michael J Hoeppner, age 41 of Wisconsin, nearby. Hoeppner was arrested and taken to MPSD for processing, and later transported to the Audrain County Jail for Fraudulent Attempt to Obtain Controlled Substance, Possession of Controlled Substance, and an arrest warrant out of Wisconsin.  

Parks and Recreation Master Plan Public Presentation

Moberly Parks and Recreation wants to hear from you! Join them on Tuesday April 8 at 6pm for their master plan public presentation at the Lodge in Rothwell Park. For specific questions please call 660-269-8705 ext. 2040, visit their website at cityofmoberly.com or their facebook page.

What consumers need to know about the MU Healthcare and Anthem impasse

MU Healthcare and Anthem have failed to reach an agreement by the contract’s end date of March 31. The Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance (DCI) wants policyholders to know the facts about where they stand with their coverage.

“We want to emphasize to consumers that there is no reason to panic,” said DCI Director Angela Nelson. “This situation does not mean that you have lost your insurance, nor does it mean that you can no longer see your health care providers at MU Healthcare. However, until Anthem and MU Healthcare establish a new network agreement, individuals may face higher out-of-pocket expenses, such as copays and deductibles, for services received.”

When a provider goes “out of network,” they no longer have an agreement with your insurance company for payment terms. Depending on your insurance plan, this could result in higher out-of-pocket costs if you see a physician not in your network.

“Understanding the complexities of insurance networks can be confusing for many consumers, particularly those receiving treatment for serious illnesses,” Nelson noted. “We are committed to helping policyholders navigate these challenges.”

For consumers undergoing ongoing treatment, it is important to note that you may be eligible for 90 days of in-network coverage, provided you meet the criteria for “continuing care.” This designation includes patients being treated for serious conditions, those who are terminally ill, or individuals currently undergoing inpatient care. There are also no network restrictions for emergency medical care. Policyholders are encouraged to discuss their eligibility with their health care provider.

For more information about out-of-network care, visit insurance.mo.gov or call the DCI Consumer hotline at 800-726-7390.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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April 2, 2025

MAN HURT IN ADAIR COUNTY ACCIDENT

A 38 year old Kirksville man was hurt in an accident that occurred at 2:25pm Monday in Adair County. The patrol says that he was on MO 11 when his concrete truck traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned. He was transported by ambulance to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville for treatment of minor injuries.

DRIVER INJURED IN MONDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

A driver from Kansas City was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Monday afternoon in Randolph County. The highway patrol said it happened at 2pm as a 92 year old man was on MO B when his car ran off the right side of the road and overturned. He sustained moderate injuries and was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

TWO MEN INJURED IN MONDAY MORNING CRASH

Two men were injured in a Monday morning crash in Schuyler County. MSHP stated that a 28 year old Green City man was on Rising Sun Drive 4 miles north of Lancaster when his tractor trailer failed to make a turn due to equipment failure and then went off the south side of the road and overturned. Both the driver and his passenger a 34 year old Novinger man was taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville for treatment of moderate injuries. The crash happened at 10:30am Monday.

THREE HURT IN MARION COUNTY INCIDENT

Three people were hurt in an incident that occurred at around 5:15pm Monday in Marion County. State troopers said that a truck driven by a 71 year old Canton man was on Veterans Road in Hannibal when he failed to yield and it was struck by a car driven by a 65 year old Hannibal woman. The man suffered minor injuries while the woman and a passenger in the man's truck a 69 year old Canton woman sustained moderate injuries. All three were taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment.

 







 






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April 1, 2025

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SUNDAY NIGHT ACCIDENT

A 30 year old Winfield man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 8:50pm Sunday in Lincoln County. The patrol says that he was on Missouri 47 and following too close to a jeep driven by a 22 year old Wright City man when the jeep slowed to make a left turn and his truck struck the jeep in the rear. The Winfield man was transported by ambulance to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis with serious injuries.

TEEN INJURED IN RALLS COUNTY WRECK

A 17 year old Hannibal boy was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday night in Ralls County. The highway patrol said it happened at 8:25pm as he was on Route F when his car traveled off the roadway and struck a culvert. He was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

TWO HURT IN SUNDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

Two people were hurt in a crash Sunday afternoon in Callaway County. MSHP stated that a 73 year old Jefferson City man was on US 63 when he failed to negotiate a curve, causing his vehicle to run off the right side of the road, struck a fence and propane tanks. He sustained moderate injuries, while his passenger a 30 year old woman from Linn Creek suffered minor injuries. Both were taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment. The crash happened at 3:05pm Sunday.

 
 

 









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March 31, 2025

TEEN INJURED IN MACON COUNTY ACCIDENT

A 17 year old Excello girl was injured in an accident that occurred at around 11:25am Friday in Macon County. The patrol says that she was on MO 3 at Old US 36 when her car struck a truck driven by a 77 year old Ethel man who turned into her path. She was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

MAN HURT IN EARLY SATURDAY MORNING WRECK

A 40 year old man from Omaha, NE was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck early Saturday morning in Callaway County. The highway patrol said it happened at 12:27am as he was on Route O when his truck ran off the right side of the roadway, struck a guardrail, returned to the road and then went off the left side, struck an embankment, began to roll and came to rest on its side. He suffered minor injuries and was taken to Capital Region Hospital for treatment.

DRIVER HURT IN ROLLOVER CRASH

A driver from Labadie, MO was hurt in a rollover crash Friday afternoon in Franklin County. MSHP stated that the 81 year old man was on Route N when his vehicle traveled off the right side of the road, struck a tree, went across the road and then overturned. He was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of minor injuries. The crash happened at 2:10pm Friday.

 



 
 


             




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY  

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March 27, 2025

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Monday, March 24 at approximately 3:53PM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 1400 block of S Coal Street in reference to a fire. Responding personnel found grass and leaves burning along a property line between two city lots. The fire had reached unattached garages on each property and was contained and extinguished with each garage having minor fire damage. Investigation indicated the fire was caused by juveniles playing with a lighter. MPSD is continuing to investigate what occurred. There were no injuries from the incident.

ANNUAL FIRE FIGHTERS DAY AT THE CAPITOL IS SET FOR THURSDAY

On Thursday at 12PM, firefighters from across Missouri will gather at the Capitol for Fire Fighters Day, an annual recognition of the importance of the fire service in protecting Missourians and their property. This year’s ceremony follows the heroic and indefatigable efforts of fire fighters across Missouri to battle hundreds of wildland fires as dry vegetation, low relative humidity values and strong winds fanned far more natural cover fires than in any year in recent memory. Strong mutual aid cooperation among fire service agencies was essential in fighting the fires. Incident support teams organized to relieve overburdened personnel also played an important role.

Thursday’s ceremony will also celebrate the essential roles of 911 telecommunicators and fire fighter spouses in supporting the fire service.   

 

FEBRUARY 2025 MONTHLY JOBS REPORT

 

Missouri nonfarm payroll employment increased by 12,500 jobs in February 2025 and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained at 3.7 percent. Private industry employment increased by 12,200 jobs and government employment increased by 300 jobs. Over the year, there was an increase of 10,300 jobs from February 2024 to February 2025, and the unemployment rate increased by two-tenths of a percentage point, from 3.5 percent in February 2024 to 3.7 percent in February 2025.






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March 26, 2025

CHARITON VALLEY ENABLES RANDOLPH COUNTY AREA FIRST RESPONDERS TO DELIVER LIFESAVING SERVICES WITH SMARTTOWN FREE WI-FI

Chariton Valley remains dedicated to enhancing life in rural Missouri by providing complimentary SmartTown Wi-Fi to area first responders in Randolph County. SmartTown provides a secure and reliable connection during emergencies when traditional communication methods like cell service or radio communication may be
limited or unreliable.
The Randolph County Ambulance District, the first emergency unit
introduced to SmartTown, has been utilizing it for a couple of months.
Chariton Valley plans to extend SmartTown to all volunteer firefighters and first responders in the communities it serves. This initiative aims to enhance communication for vital emergency services, benefiting Chariton Valley customers during critical times when every minute and
second counts.
First responders who Chariton Valley has not contacted yet are
encouraged to call 660-395-9636 to get SmartTown started today.

RED CROSS GIVING DAY IS WEDNESDAY

The American Red Cross of Central and Northern Missouri is issuing a call to help ensure no one faces a disaster alone by donating on Red Cross Giving Day, March 26.

 

During the first 60 days of 2025, Red Cross volunteers responded to more big disasters in the U.S. than days — including the wildfires in Los Angeles and flooding in Kentucky, along with the severe storms in Missouri over the last two weeks. And that’s on top of everyday crises like home fires that have upended lives here in Central and Northern Missouri. Meanwhile, more Red Cross blood donations have gone uncollected so far this year due to weather than throughout all of 2024.

 

“This year’s disasters have set a whirlwind pace, displacing thousands of people from their homes across the country and disrupting the nation’s blood supply for patients,” said Rebecca Gordon, Executive Director, Red Cross of Central and Northern Missouri. “As we enter spring disaster season, families are relying on us to come together as a community and support them when help can’t wait during future crises. Join us today by making a financial donation or giving blood.”

 

 

GOV. KEHOE ANNOUNCES SEVEN APPOINTMENTS TO VARIOUS BOARDS

Governor Mike Kehoe has announced seven appointments to various boards.

Mason Bell, of Williamsville, was appointed to the Missouri Veterinary Medical Board.

Dr. Bell currently serves as the chief financial officer and veterinarian at Bell Veterinary Services, LLC DBA Hillcrest Animal Hospital. He is a member of several professional organizations including the American Veterinary Medical Association, Missouri Veterinary Medical Association, American Association of Beef Cattle Practitioners, American Association of Equine Practitioners, and the Society for Theriogenology. Dr. Bell earned his Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Oklahoma State University and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Missouri-Columbia College of Veterinary Medicine. 

Mark Ellebracht, of Excelsior Springs, was appointed to the Missouri Board of Probation and Parole.

Mr. Ellebracht is a principal partner at The Injury Council, a personal injury law firm in Clayton, Missouri. Ellebracht formerly served in the Missouri House of Representatives from 2017 to 2023 for District 17 and later worked as an assistant prosecuting attorney for Clay County. He also served as a squad leader for the United States Army. Mr. Ellebracht earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from William Jewell College and his Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri School of Law in Columbia.

Marcy Hammerle, of Troy, was appointed to the Missouri Veterinary Medical Board.

Dr. Hammerle is an associate veterinarian at Elm Point Animal Hospital. She previously served as board chair and president of the Missouri Veterinary Medical Association and is an active member of the Missouri Veterinary Medical Foundation, Therapeutic Horsemanship Board, and the Greater St. Louis Veterinary Medical Association. Dr. Hammerle earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Missouri-Columbia College of Veterinary Medicine.

Jeremy Manley, of Springfield, was appointed to the State Board of Mediation.

Mr. Manley is the president and business representative of Teamsters Local 245. From 2017 to 2019, Manley served as a Democrat, Republican, Independent Voter Education (DRIVE) representative for International Brotherhood of Teamsters in Washington, D.C. Prior to working with Teamsters, Manley worked as a delivery driver for the United Parcel Service.

Michael Pfander, of Clever, was reappointed to the Missouri Veterinary Medical Board.

Dr. Pfander is a small animal veterinarian at Cottage Veterinary Hospital in Springfield, Missouri. He has served on the Missouri Veterinary Medical Board since 2012. Outside of veterinary medicine, Dr. Pfander also worked as an adjunct professor at Drury University from 1996 to 2012. He is a member of several professional organizations including the American Veterinary Medical Association, Missouri Veterinary Medical Association, Southwest Missouri Veterinary Medical Association, and the University of Missouri-Columbia Veterinary Medicine Alumni Association. Dr. Pfander earned his bachelor's degree in agriculture and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Missouri-Columbia. 

Christopher Rohlfing, of Fayette, was reappointed to the Missouri Veterinary Medical Board.

Mr. Rohlfing is the owner and operator of Production Agriculture. He has been a public member of the Missouri Veterinary Medical Board since 2014. Prior to starting his own business, Rohlfing worked as the member services manager at Boone Electric Cooperative before retiring after 33 years. He's also worked as an independent crop insurance agent since 1983. Mr. Rohlfing is as a member of the Deans Strategic Advisory Committee for the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Veterinary Medicine and is the president of the Howard County Farm Bureau. He earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Education from the University of Missouri-Columbia and his Master of Business Administration from William Woods University in Fulton, Missouri.

Rodney Schad, of Versailles, was appointed to the State Environmental Improvement and Energy Resources Authority.

Mr. Schad is the owner and operator of Schad Farm where he raises cattle, corn, soybeans, and wheat. He formerly represented the 115th District in the Missouri House of Representatives from 2005 to 2012 and later as the Morgan County Commissioner from 2012 to 2020. Schad is an active member of the First Christian Church of Versailles and the Missouri Farm Bureau. He also serves as a board member for several organizations, including Quality Industries, Show Me Christian Youth Home, Highland Mutual Insurance Company, and the Missouri Public Defender Commission. 





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY  

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March 25, 2025

SCHEDULED RAILROAD WORK ON US ROUTE 24 IN MONROE CITY

Weather permitting, March 31, U.S. Route 24 will be reduced to one lane from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. between Lawn St. and S. Border St. in Monroe City for work at the Norfolk Southern railroad crossing.

 

MODOT CELEBRATES SECOND IMPROVE I-70 PROJECT GROUNDBREAKING

The groundbreaking of the second project within the Missouri Department of Transportation’s Improve I-70 Program kicked off with an official ceremony Thursday March 20, in Foristell. MoDOT, joined by state and local elected officials, along with members of the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission and its contractor team gathered at the closed eastbound I-70 weigh station to break ground on Improve I-70: Warrenton to Wentzville.

Improve I-70: Warrenton to Wentzville is one of several projects that will expand and improve I-70 across the state. Missouri’s FY2024 budget approved through the state legislative process and signed by the governor provides $2.8 billion in General Revenue for the costs to build a third lane in each direction on nearly 200 miles of I-70, from Blue Springs to Wentzville. This project includes the Improve I-70 and additional legislatively designated General Revenue funding. It also includes previously allocated funds in the state’s program for other I-70 and I-64 projects for a total contract cost of $600 million, the largest single contract in MoDOT’s history.

 

Construction will begin in spring 2025 and completion is anticipated in late 2028. This project was awarded to the Design-Build contractor team the Improve 70 Alliance (Emery Sapp and Sons, Clarkson Construction, HNTB, and Bartlett and West) and includes the following improvements:

Those interested in receiving construction details and other updates for this project can sign up for project e-mails at www.modot.org/improvei70/warrentonwentzville.

Motorists traveling on I-70 across the state should note that this project will be in construction concurrently with Improve I-70: Columbia to Kingdom City, which will add a third lane to I-70 between Columbia and Kingdom City. Cross-state I-70 travelers should plan ahead, allow for extra time, and be vigilant in work zones. Buckle Up. Phone Down.

 

MDHEWD REMINDS STUDENTS TO FILE A FAFSA AHEAD OF ACCESS MISSOURI GRANT FINAL DEADLINE

The Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (MDHEWD) is reminding students to file their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the April 1 Access Missouri Grant deadline to qualify for the most financial aid possible and help broaden their higher education opportunities.

The Access Missouri Grant provided over $81 million to more than 40,000 students during the 2023-24 academic year, including awards of up to $2,850. Access Missouri can combine with other federal and student non-loan aid, such as the Pell Grant, to help cover a student’s cost of attendance. Awards are need-based and eligibility is determined using the information provided on the FAFSA form. 

Eligible students who complete the FAFSA before the April 1 final deadline may receive an Access Missouri award, subject to available funding, and will have until July 31 to make any needed FAFSA corrections. Information about Access Missouri eligibility and award amounts are available on the MDHEWD website.

More information about other Missouri grants and scholarships, federal grants, and grants and scholarships offered by schools is available at dhewd.mo.gov/ppc/grants. Student specific eligibility information is available in the DHEWD Student Portal at https://web.dhewd.mo.gov/studentportal/.

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY  

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March 24, 2025

SCHEDULED CLOSURE ON ROUTE ZZ IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY FOR BRIDGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT

Weather permitting, as early as March 24, Route ZZ in Montgomery County is scheduled to close, over Little Loutre Creek, 0.46 mile south of Route RA near Wellsville, as work begins on a bridge replacement project. Work is anticipated to be complete by mid-June. Included in this contract is an additional bridge replacement project, located on Route K in Audrain County, over Hickory Creek, 1.74 miles west of Route W near Farber. This bridge is currently in progress with an anticipated completion date of late-May. All work is weather dependent and schedules are subject to change.

GOV. MIKE KEHOE NEWS

Governor Mike Kehoe has announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will participate in joint Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDAs) of public infrastructure in 25 counties following the deadly tornadoes and severe storms that devastated much of Missouri March 14-15.

“These devastating storms and tornadoes not only destroyed hundreds of homes and businesses, but also severely impacted roads, bridges, and other critical public infrastructure,” Governor Kehoe said. “The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has been on the ground for several days helping local officials document damage, collect cost estimates and substantiate the need for federal Public Assistance. Initial damage reports clearly warrant a formal review by FEMA as part of the disaster declaration process.

Joint PDAs are being requested for the following counties: BentonBollingerButlerCallawayCarterDentDunklinFranklinGentryHowellIronMadisonNew MadridOregonOzarkPerryPhelpsReynoldsRipleyStLouisScottShannonStoddardWayne and Wright. Additional counties may be added as damage information is received from local officials.

Joint PDA teams are made up of representatives from FEMA, SEMA, and local emergency management officials. Beginning TuesdayMarch 25, six teams will verify documented damage to determine if Public Assistance can be requested through FEMA. Public Assistance allows local governments and qualifying nonprofit agencies to seek federal assistance for reimbursement of emergency response and recovery costs, including repair and replacement of damaged roads, bridges and other public infrastructure.

These PDAs will be in addition to those that began today for Individual Assistance, which allows eligible residents to seek federal assistance for temporary housing, housing repairs, replacement of damaged belongings, vehicles and other qualifying expenses.

Clean-up and recovery efforts are ongoing across the state, and the State Emergency Operations Center remains activated. SEMA continues to coordinate with local officials, other state agencies, and volunteer and faith-based partners to identify needs and assist impacted families and individuals. If you have damage, you should contact your insurance company and file a claim as soon as possible. Multi-Agency Resource Centers (MARCs), one-stop shops for recovery resources, will be scheduled in the coming days.

Missourians in need of debris removal services can call the Crisis Cleanup Hotline at (844) 965-1386 to be connected with volunteers from local relief organizations and community and faith-based groups who may be able to assist. All services are free, though assistance is not guaranteed due to the overwhelming need. This hotline will remain active through Friday, March 28, 2025.

 

 

 

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Governor Mike Kehoe has signed Executive Order 25-20 in response to the severe weather that has impacted communities across Missouri. This order grants the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) discretionary authority to temporarily waive or suspend specific environmental rules and regulations to facilitate storm debris removal and recovery efforts.

"The recent storms have left widespread damage that requires a swift and coordinated response," said Governor Kehoe. "By signing this order, we are ensuring that local jurisdictions have the flexibility to expedite cleanup efforts while maintaining public safety and health." 

The Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has reported significant storm damage across multiple regions resulting in excessive debris accumulation from high winds and tornadoes. The waivers authorized under Executive Order 25-20 will help streamline debris disposal and recovery operations, reducing administrative delays. DNR has issued waivers that immediately apply to Missouri communities affected by the storm, covering the following areas:

·  Disposal of yard waste and major appliances in sanitary landfills

·  Burning of woody vegetation

·  Asbestos abatement and demolition

·  Discharge of wastewater

These temporary waivers will allow local and state agencies to act quickly, ensuring cleanup efforts proceed efficiently and without unnecessary regulatory delays.

This order will remain in effect until April 14, 2025, unless extended or otherwise modified. 





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY  

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March 21, 2025

CHARITON COUNTY ROUTE 11 BRIDGE NOW OPEN

The Chariton County Missouri Route 11 bridge over Salt Creek, located south of Mendon, is now open following a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle project. The Capital – Horner & Shifrin team, working with the Missouri Department of Transportation through a design-build contract, reopened the bridge on  Wednesday.

The Northwest Bridge Bundle is a Design-Build project which will replace or rehabilitate 31 poor-condition bridges in north central Missouri. The full list of bridges to be replaced can be found on the Northwest Bridge Bundle web page.

TEEN INJURED IN BOONE COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Sturgeon teen was injured in an accident that occurred at 10:50pm Wednesday in Boone County. The patrol says that the 18 year old boy was on Highway OO when his car slid off the roadway, struck a concrete culvert and overturned. He was taken to Boone Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

NEW BUSINESS COMING TO ST. JOSEPH, CREATING 138 NEW JOBS

Nortian Foodtech, an innovative food manufacturer, has announced that it will establish a facility in St. Joseph, investing more than $22.2 million and creating 138 new jobs. The company will construct a 160,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility to produce high-quality, food-grade protein from meat byproducts.

Nortian Foodtech is a startup company that transforms meat byproducts that would typically be discarded into high-value, food-grade ingredients. The company’s strategic decision to open its first U.S. location in St. Joseph will provide opportunities to partner with other food manufacturers in the area.

Nortian Foodtech is focused on solving the hard underlying problems in food and farming by creating new technology rooted on scientific discovery and solid engineering. By implementing cutting-edge technology and efficient manufacturing processes, the company maximizes resource utilization while reducing environmental impact.





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March 20, 2025

TWO INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN AUDRAIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two people from Centralia were injured, one seriously in an accident that occurred at 3:10am Tuesday in Audrain County. The patrol says that a 45 year old man and his passenger a 22 year old woman were on N. Rangeline Road when their UTV crossed the center of the roadway, ran off the left side of the road, he overcorrected, causing it to overturn and sliding to a stop. The man sustained serious injuries, while the woman suffered moderate injuries. Both were transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

TEEN HURT IN TUESDAY MORNING CRASH

A 19 year old boy from Bonnots Mill, MO was hurt in a Tuesday morning crash in Audrain County. The highway patrol said it happened at around 9:40am as he was on MO 15 when his vehicle crossed the center of the road, went off the left side and struck a culvert before coming to a stop. He was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries. 



MDC STAFF FOUGHT MORE THAN 80 WILDFIRES AROUND MISSOURI LAST WEEK


Dry conditions and high winds sparked hundreds of wildfires around Missouri last week, primarily on March 13 and 14 before severe thunderstorms and tornados swept into the state and quenched many of the blazes. According to the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), partnering fire departments and MDC staff reported 224 wildfires covering more than 15,500 acres between March 10-16. While more than 20 homes and numerous vehicles and outbuildings were lost to the flames, there were no reported injuries or deaths.


More than 90 specially trained MDC staff responded to 83 of the wildfires around the state, covering nearly 9,000 acres.


“We are so very thankful for everyone’s efforts in fighting these fires,” said MDC Fire Program Coordinator Ben Webster. “We greatly appreciate the expertise, hard work, and long hours from our staff, the U.S. Forest Service, the National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and especially the many rural fire departments who are such vital partners in these efforts.”


According to MDC, the Camdenton area in central Missouri had 42 fires with a total of 6,086 acres burned, including 761 acres on Granny’s Acres Conservation Area in Benton County. More than 30 MDC staff responded.


Several dozen MDC staff assisted with a 150-acre fire on private land near Milan in northeast Missouri. They also fought a 78-acre wildfire on Big Creek Conservation Area in Adair County and a one-acre fire on nearby Sugar Creek Conservation Area.


MDC staff fought 19 fires in the Ozark region of the state covering nearly 1,500 acres, including nearly 300 acres of conservation lands. MDC reported that extreme weather conditions had one of its teams fighting a fire one minute and then taking shelter in a Dent County homeowner’s basement for a tornado warning the next.


MDC staff in the St. Louis region assisted with six separate fires covering nearly 300 acres, including in Davisville, on Highway 47 near Potosi, and on 178 acres at River 'Round Conservation Area in Franklin County, and on nearly 80 acres on the Glassberg Family Conservation Area in Jefferson County.


MDC staff in southwest counties responded to nine wildfires that consumed 583 acres, including 75 acres on Comstock Prairie Conservation Area in Barton County with the rest on private land. Staff also assisted the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) on a 173-acre fire that burned part of its Seligman Hollow area and private land.


More than two dozen MDC staff in southeast Missouri responded to five fires that consumed more than 300 acres, including a 115-acre blaze on USFS and private land south of Flatwoods Conservation Area in Wayne County and a fire on 110 acres of private lands northeast of Des Arc in Iron County. Staff contained a 26-acre fire on Magnolia Hollow Conservation Area in Genevieve County. Staff also assisted local fire departments in containing a 48-acre fire on private land in Ste Genevieve County and a 12-acre fire on private land in Reynolds County north of Current River Conservation Area.


While these fires have been contained and extinguished, the National Weather Service still has Red Flag Warnings for parts of Missouri. A red flag warning is issued to inform the public, firefighters, and land management agencies that conditions are ideal for wildfire ignition and rapid spread. These include drought conditions or warm weather with very low humidity and high or erratic winds. Learn more at www.weather.gov/.


Some wildfires are set by vandals. Help stop arson by calling Operation Forest Arson at 800-392-1111. Callers will remain anonymous and rewards are possible.


Learn how to help prevent wildfires at mdc.mo.gov/your-property/fire-management/wildfire-prevention.


 



 



 






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY  

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March 19, 2025

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Saturday, March 15 at approximately 9:47PM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 200 block of S. Alabama in reference to a shooting. Upon arrival, officers learned that a 46-year-old man had been shot while in the front yard of a house, by the people in a white Lincoln sedan. This was part of a dispute which had been going on throughout the day at various locations. Audrain Ambulance District responded and took the man to University Hospital, where he was admitted for non-life-threatening injuries. At approximately 9:56PM, a deputy with the Audrain County Sheriff’s Department stopped the suspect vehicle on S Clark St. near Oak Lane. Monterio M Truss, age 25 of Mexico was arrested. Branden J Truss, age 28 of Mexico, ran from the traffic stop and was not located. Monterio Truss was processed at MPSD and eventually transported to the Audrain County Jail for Assault 1st degree, Assault 4th degree, and Unlawful Use of Weapon. An arrest warrant has been issued for Branden Truss. The Missouri State Highway Patrol also assisted with the investigation. Anyone with information about this incident and / or the current location of Branden Truss, is asked to contact Mexico Public Safety at (573) 473-5800 or (573) 581-2100 or CRIMESTOPPERS at (800) 392-TIPS or (800) 392-8477.

GOV. MIKE KEHOE NEWS

Governor Mike Kehoe has announced the state has requested the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) participate in joint preliminary damage assessments (PDAs) for Individual Assistance in 23 counties following the severe storms and deadly tornadoes that devastated Missouri March 14-15. This request begins the process of obtaining federal disaster assistance.

"As I observed during my visit to impacted areas this weekend, these storms and tornadoes caused widespread, devastating destruction and disrupted the lives of families and business across the Missouri," said Governor Kehoe. "The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has been working closely with local emergency management officials, and we are confident the damage meets the threshold for FEMA to participate in joint damage assessments." 

Joint PDAs are being requested for the following counties: Bollinger, Butler, Camden, Carter, Franklin, Howell, Iron, Jefferson, Laclede, New Madrid, Oregon, Ozark, Pemiscot, Perry, Phelps, Pulaski, Reynolds, Ripley, St. Louis, Stoddard, Wayne, Webster, and Wright. 

Joint PDA teams are made up of representatives from FEMA, SEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and local emergency management officials. Beginning Thursday, March 20, six teams will survey and verify documented damage to determine if Individual Assistance can be requested through FEMA. Individual Assistance allows eligible residents to seek federal assistance for temporary housing, housing repairs, replacement of damaged belongings, vehicles, and other qualifying expenses. 

Initial damage assessments estimate approximately 368 houses were destroyed356 with major damage and 1,058 with minor damage. Damage assessments for roads, bridges and other public infrastructure are ongoing, likely resulting in a request for additional PDAs for Public Assistance later this week.

The National Weather Service (NWS) continues to survey damage and debris patterns to determine the total number and strength of tornadoes. NWS has preliminarily confirmed the following 12 tornadoes as of March 16:

EF1: Franklin County (Elmont to Union)

EF1: Jefferson County (Klondike Rd)

EF1: Webster County (near Seymour)

EF1: Oregon County (near Rover)

EF2: Franklin/St. Louis counties (Villa Ridge to Fox Creek)

EF2: Jefferson County (Hillsboro to Arnold)

EF2: St. Louis County (Bridgeton)

EF2: Phelps County (Doolittle to Rolla)

EF2: Dunklin/Pemiscot counties

EF3: Iron County (Des Arc)

EF3: Butler County (Poplar Bluff)

EF3: Ozark County (Bakersfield)

 

Volunteer and faith-based organizations also continue to support response efforts and provide support services to those in need. The Red Cross of Missouri continues to provide meals and emergency supplies and operate shelters. Missouri Baptist Disaster Relief is assisting individuals and families with debris removal. Convoy of Hope is providing water and other emergency supplies, and the Salvation Army also continues to provide meals to those in impacted counties.

Missourians with unmet needs are encouraged to contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767. For additional resources and information about disaster recovery in Missouri, including general clean-up information, housing assistance, and mental health services, visit recovery.mo.gov.

 

 

Governor Mike Kehoe signed the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 supplemental budget bill, HB 14, that was passed by the General Assembly last week. The bill allows for current operations of state government to continue through FY 2025. 

"This supplemental bill reflects our commitment to ensuring critical services continue uninterrupted for Missourians," said Governor Kehoe. "From strengthening education and special needs services to supporting law enforcement and senior care, this funding will make a meaningful impact on communities across our state."

HB 14 totals over $1.9 billion, including $391.5 million in general revenue, $1.4 billion in federal funds, and $183.4 million in other funds. The supplemental budget bill includes funding for several high priority areas:


Following the devastating storms that struck Missouri on March 14, 2025, Governor Mike Kehoe and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) took immediate action to support impacted school districts and ensure students can safely return to the classroom as soon as possible.

Early assessments show the storm impacted nearly two dozen school districts, with many sustaining damage to buildings, including:


         Significant power loss

“While I am disheartened to see the damage that a number of Missouri schools faced from Friday night’s storm, I am incredibly grateful that these storms did not hit while school was in session,” said Governor Kehoe. “Now that the storms have passed and we are turning our attention to recovery, we must prioritize ensuring our children can safely return to school to continue their education and prevent any academic delays.”

As part of this response, DESE is working closely with impacted school districts as they identify alternative education sites and work to secure transportation for students. The department is also working to ensure impacted districts are not financially penalized under the state education foundation formula for days they are unable to operate.

“We began working on this issue early Saturday morning and have been in close contact with Governor Kehoe since the very beginning,” said Commissioner Karla Eslinger. “Our top priority is ensuring students and educators can safely return to learning environments. I am speaking directly to impacted school leaders to ensure we’re making rapid progress to help schools recover. We appreciate Governor Kehoe’s leadership and support during these challenges.”

School districts are encouraged to contact their DESE Area Supervisor of Instruction to report needs or request assistance.

 





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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March 18, 2025

COLUMBIA MAN INJURED IN BOONE COUNTY ACCIDENT

A 32 year old Columbia man was injured in an accident that occurred at 6am Monday in Boone County. The patrol says that he was on US 63 when his car traveled into the path of a van driven by a 49 year old man from Altamont, MO and the van struck the car in the rear. The Columbia man was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

WOMAN HURT IN SUNDAY MORNING WRECK

A 28 year old woman from Quincy, IL was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday morning in Marion County. The highway patrol said that it happened at 6:30am as she was on US 61 when her vehicle ran off the right side of the road, struck a ditch and partially overturned. She sustained minor injuries and was taken to Blessing Hospital in Quincy for treatment.

GOV. MIKE KEHOE PROVIDES UPDATE ON MISSOURI’S STORM RESPONSE AND RECOVERY EFFORTS

Governor Mike Kehoe provided an update on Missouri’s recovery efforts following the devastating tornadoes that struck on March 14, leaving widespread destruction across 27 counties.

The storm has resulted in 12 confirmed fatalities, with one person still missing. Hundreds of homes, schools, and businesses have been either destroyed or severely damaged. At the height of the storm, more than 140,000 homes and businesses were without power, and 101 roads were closed due to debris, flooding, and structural damage. While significant progress has been made, approximately 47,000 customers remain without power as crews continue restoration efforts. The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) also had reports of over 130 wildland fires on Friday, some of which damaged homes and structures.

"The scale of devastation across our state is staggering," said Governor Kehoe. "While we grieve the lives of those lost, we are also focused on action—getting power restored, clearing debris, and ensuring our communities have the resources they need to recover. The strength and resilience of Missourians are already on display, and we will be with them every step of the way." 

Ahead of the storm on Friday, Governor Kehoe issued a State of Emergency declaration, which allowed first responders, road crews, and emergency management officials to move quickly. The Missouri's State Emergency Operations Plan remains in effect. 

   



 

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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March 17, 2025

MAN INJURED IN MACON COUNTY ACCIDENT

A 76 year old Ewing man was injured in an accident that occurred at 2:05pm Saturday in Macon County. The patrol says that he was on US 36 Three miles west of New Cambria when his tractor trailer struck a bridge, traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a tree and a creek bed. He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SATURDAY NIGHT WRECK

A driver was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday night in Lincoln County. The highway patrol said it happened at 11:35pm as a 22 year old Hawk Point man was on Missouri 47 and driving too fast for the road conditions when he failed to negotiate a curve, causing his truck to travel off the right side of the road and overturned, returned to the roadway, coming to rest on it's top. He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN EARLY SUNDAY MORNING CRASH

A 38 year old Hannibal woman was seriously injured in a crash early Sunday morning in Marion County. MSHP stated that she was a passenger in a car driven by a 50 year old Hannibal man. They were on US 61 when he lost control on a snow covered bridge and it traveled off and struck a ditch and overturned. She was taken to Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL with serious injuries. The crash happened at 3:55am Sunday.

 



 

 






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY  

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March 14, 2025

CHILLICOTHE POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS

The Chillicothe Police Department began an investigation of domestic violence at the beginning of March. On March 11, the Chillicothe Police Department executed multiple search warrants within the city limits following an investigation into illegal weapons possession and drug distribution. During the execution of these warrants, officers recovered:14 firearms Large quantity of ammunition Illegal controlled substances Evidence of drug distribution As a result of this investigation, a 35 year old male was taken into custody and transported to the Caldwell County Detention Center pending
the filing of formal charges.
Unlawful Possession of Firearms
Unlawful Use of Weapons
Assault
Possession of Controlled Substances
Delivery of Controlled Substances

The investigation revealed the suspect was prohibited from possessing firearms due to prior convictions and an active protection order. Evidence indicated the suspect had been obtaining firearms illegally and
was involved in the distribution of controlled substances.
The Chillicothe Police Department remains committed to the suppression of criminal activity at every level in our community. We encourage anyone with information about illegal weapons or drug activity to contact the Chillicothe Police Department at 660-646-2121.

INVESTIGATION INTO HUMAN REMAINS FOUND IN PIKE COUNTY

On December 21, 2024, the Pike County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a missing man, identified as Nathanial C. Mueller, 23, of Hannibal, MO. On February 28, 2025, authorities located human remains in rural Pike County. The remains were confirmed to be Mueller’s.

On March 3, 2025, at the request of the Pike County Sheriff’s Office, the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control will take over the investigation into Mueller’s disappearance and death.

The investigation is ongoing, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol requests anyone with information related to this case contact Troop C Headquarters at (636) 300-2800.

PRINCETON AND SOUTH LINEVILLE ADA PROJECT PROPERTY OWNERS AND COMMUNITY INVITED TO PUBLIC MEETING

The Missouri Department of Transportation and consultants from Affinis are designing a project to upgrade sidewalks in Princeton and South Lineville along U.S. Routes 136 and 65 in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). MoDOT will host a public meeting for property owners and community members to learn about the project and provide feedback. A public open-house meeting will be held at the Princeton High School, 1008 E. Coleman St., Princeton, MO 64673, on Wednesday, March 26.
Attendees are welcome to visit any time between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. to view project plans and speak with project leaders. No formal
presentation will be made.
Affected property owners have been contacted by MoDOT's Right of Way staff to schedule a meeting between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. to discuss
temporary easement needs for the project. Walk-ins are also welcome. Property owners must bring a valid driver's
license. If you are unable to attend the public meeting, two other opportunities
for public comment are available through Wednesday, April 9.
View the project website at Missouri Route 136 and U.S. Route 65 Sidewalk/ADA Improvements in Mercer County | Missouri Department of
Transportation [2]. While there, sign up to receive updates about this project via email and/or leave comments.
Mail your comments to:

Mercer County ADA project
Missouri Department of Transportation
3602 North Belt Highway
St. Joseph, MO 64506
All comments must be postmarked by Wednesday, April 9, 2025.

GOV. KEHOE ORDERS FLAGS TO FLY AT HALF-STAFF IN HONOR OF JOHNSON COUNTY FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT CAPTAIN VERNON COLLETT

On Thursday, in honor of Johnson County Fire Protection District Captain Vernon Collett, Governor Mike Kehoe ordered U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff at government buildings in Johnson County, the Fire Fighters Memorial of Missouri in Kingdom City, and firehouses statewide on Friday, March 14, 2025, from sunrise to sunset.

“Vernon Collett’s full-time job was with the Johnson County Road and Bridge Department, but he also had a calling to serve his community as a volunteer firefighter with the Johnson County Fire Protection District,” Governor Mike Kehoe said. “For over 29 years, Captain Collett responded to countless fires, vehicle crashes, and other emergencies. He died fulfilling the responsibility he had taken on in order to protect others. We will remember Captain Collett as a model public servant who selflessly supported his community.”

On March 8, Captain Collett, 60, responded and was extinguishing a controlled burn that had grown out of control when he collapsed from a medical emergency and died at the scene.





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March 13, 2025

MAN INJURED IN TUESDAY AFTERNOON ACCIDENT

A 27 year old man from Westville, OK was injured in an accident that occurred at 4:10pm Tuesday in Gasconade County. The patrol says that he was on Missouri 19 when his vehicle traveled partially off the right side of the roadway and the towed unit struck a guardrail and then it began to travel down an embankment and the towed unit overturned, coming to rest on its top. He was taken to Mercy Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

SCHEDULED CLOSURE ON ROUTE ZZ IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY FOR BRIDGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT

Weather permitting, as early as March 24, Route ZZ in Montgomery County is scheduled to close, over Little Loutre Creek, 0.46 mile south of Route RA near Wellsville, as work begins on a bridge replacement project. Work is anticipated to be complete by mid-June. Included in this contract is an additional bridge replacement project, located on Route K in Audrain County, over Hickory Creek, 1.74 miles west of Route W near Farber. This bridge is currently in progress with an anticipated completion date of late-May. E & C Bridge, LLC was awarded the contract in December 2024 in the amount of $2M. All work is weather dependent and schedules are subject to change.

 

 

MDC WANTS PUBLIC COMMENTS ON RESIDENT AND NONRESIDENT HUNTING

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is interested in learning more about the experiences of Missouri residents and nonresidents who hunt deer, turkey, and waterfowl in the state -- three of Missouri’s most popular game species. To learn more, MDC is conducting a survey of a sample of resident and nonresident hunters who purchased permits for deer, turkey, or waterfowl in the past two years. In addition to the surveys, MDC is requesting public comment on the topic online. MDC created the survey and public comment opportunity in response to public feedback it has received from resident hunters regarding increased hunting pressure in Missouri by nonresident hunters. MDC is emailing the survey to 56,000 resident hunters from around the state and 1,800 nonresident hunters. According to MDC, 542,532 Missouri residents and 84,568 nonresident hunters purchased one or more of the related hunting permits over the two years. In addition to the survey, MDC will be accepting public comment on the topic online through March 24 at moconservation.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6KEkmFst4NyA9oy . MDC is considering a range of potential regulatory changes regarding nonresident hunting. They could include limiting nonresident hunting during portions of the deer, turkey, and/or waterfowl hunting seasons; changing the price of nonresident permits; restricting nonresident hunting in portions of the state; and/or restricting nonresident hunting on MDC conservation areas.





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March 12, 2025

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT REPORT

On Saturday, March 8 at approximately 1:37pm, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 1500 block of Kent Rd in reference to a fire. The residents reported their house filling with smoke from an unknown source. Responding personnel found a fire in the utility room, located in the basement of the home. The fire was contained and extinguished in that area with the utility room suffering moderate fire and water damage. The fire started in the area of a recently washed pile of laundry covering an old electronic device similar to a Blackberry. There were no injuries from the incident.

COMMISSION AWARDS CONTRACTS FOR PROJECTS IN NORTHEAST DISTRICT

During its regular meeting on March 5, the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission awarded the following contracts for bridge replacements, bridge painting, and resurfacing projects in the Northeast District. 

MDC REMINDS SNAGGERS PADDLEFISH SEASON BEGINS MARCH 15

Missouri’s official state aquatic animal is a giant, prehistoric fish whose ancestors swam during the time of dinosaurs. Thousands of snaggers look forward to encountering this ancient sport fish during Missouri’s annual spring paddlefish season.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds anglers the season for the major paddlefish waters – Lake of the Ozarks, Harry S. Truman Reservoir, and Table Rock Lake – along with most other waters in Missouri runs March 15 through April 30. The season for the Mississippi River is March 15 through May 15 with a fall season of Sept. 15 through Dec. 15.

Paddlefish, named for their large, paddle-shaped snouts, can grow to seven feet and weigh more than 100 pounds. Paddlefish swim slowly with their mouths wide open, collecting tiny crustaceans and insects in their elaborate, closely-set gill rakers. The paddle-shaped snout functions as an electrosensory organ that allows it to sense plankton as it swims through water.

Because the giant fish eat crustaceans and insects, they do not bite on traditional fishing hooks. They are usually caught through the practice of snagging, where anglers drag large, triple-sided hooks through the water to “snag” a fish in the body with the hooks.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY  

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March 11, 2025

DRIVER HURT IN EARLY MONDAY MORNING INCIDENT

A driver was hurt in an early Monday morning incident in Putnam County. The highway patrol said that it happened at 4:40am as a 25 year old Unionville man was on Route U when his truck struck a cow in the road. He suffered minor injuries and was taken to Putnam County Memorial Hospital for treatment.

TWO INJURED IN BOONE COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two people were injured in an accident that occurred just before 10pm Sunday in Boone County. The patrol says that a 20 year old Kansas City woman and her passenger an 18 year old boy from Hallsville were on Route B when their car traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned. Both were taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries.

THREE INJURED IN HEAD-ON COLLISION

Three people were injured in a head-on collision Sunday night in Warren County. MSHP stated that a car driven by a 41 year old Troy woman was on Route D when her car crossed the center line and collided head-on with a car being driven by a 44 year old Marthasville man. Both drivers and a passenger in the man’s car, a 10 year old boy also from Marthasville were transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of moderate injuries. The collision happened at 6:15pm Sunday.

LEARN HOW TO USE AN ATLATL WITH MDC IN HANNIBAL THIS WEEK

Learn the history of the atlatl and how it is used today with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) in Hannibal. The atlatl is a primitive way of hunting that has been utilized in Missouri throughout history. MDC invites the public ages 10 and older to learn how to use an atlatl at three events in Hannibal this week. The dates and times are as follows, and all events will be held at J. Thad Ray Memorial Wildlife Area:

All equipment for these events will be provided, and participants are encouraged to bring a camp chair or be prepared to stand for the duration of the event. They also are asked to wear closed toed shoes. To find J. Thad Ray Memorial Wildlife Area from the junction of Route W and Highway 61, take Route W west approximately one mile. The events will be held off the mowed trail to the left of the parking lot. Questions about these events should be sent to Kathi Moore at kathi.moore@mdc.mo.gov.

 

 

 




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March 10, 2025

 

MAN HURT IN LINCOLN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A 55 year old Troy man was hurt in an accident that occurred at 6pm Friday in Lincoln County. The patrol says that he was on Route U when his motorcycle traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a culvert. He was taken to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of minor injuries.

DRIVER INJURED IN EARLY SATURDAY MORNING CRASH

A driver was injured in an early Saturday morning crash in Gasconade County. The highway patrol said it happened at 1:10am as a 27 year old Owensville man was on Missouri 28 when he failed to negotiate a curve, causing his truck to run off the right side of the road, he overcorrected, went back across the road, went off the left side of the roadway and struck a driveway embankment. He sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment.

Serious Injuries in Thursday Night Wreck

 

A single-vehicle accident in Chariton County Thursday evening sent  four people to the hospital with serious injuries.  According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred about 8:53 pm on Highway 11, two miles north of Rothville. According to the crash report, the driver of a Ford Mustang, a 20-year-old Brookfield man, was southbound when he ran off the left side of the road and the car overturned.  The driver was taken to Pershing Memorial Hospital in Brookfield.  An 18-year-old Brunswick woman was taken to Hedrick Medical Center in Chillicothe, and two other men from Brookfield, 22 and 25 years old, were flown to University Hospital in Columbia.  They were not wearing seat belts at the time of the crash.

 

Planned Roadwork for Northwest Missouri, March 10-16

 

St. Joseph, Mo. – The following is a list of general highway maintenance and construction work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northwest Missouri region for the week of March 10-16.  There also may be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below. Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. Check the MoDOT Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org, or download the app for updated information.  MoDOT asks drivers to work with us by buckling up, putting your phone down, slowing down and moving over in work zones.

Carroll County

Route J - CLOSED at the Bridge Creek Bridge for a bridge replacement project through May 2025. (Capital-Horner & Shifrin).*1

Chariton County

Route 11 – CLOSED at the Salt Creek Bridge for a bridge replacement project through March 2025. (Capital-Horner & Shifrin).*1

Route D – CLOSED at the Mussel Fork Creek Bridge for a bridge replacement project through July 2025. (Capital-Horner & Shifrin).*1

Route 11 – Shoulder work from U.S. Route 24 to Route M, March 10-14.

Livingston County

U.S. Route 36 – Pavement repairs under the U.S. Route 65 Bridge and the Canadian Pacific Railroad Bridge in Chillicothe, March 10-13. The roadway will be narrowed to one lane and a 16-foot width restriction will be in place (Contractor: Magruder Paving, LLC).

Mercer County

Route J – CLOSED for a culvert replacement from Route JJ to Jockey Street, March 11, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 

 

 




LOCAL AND REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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Friday March 7, 2025

 

Purdin Driver Injured in Tuesday morning Wreck

A 50 year old Purdin man received minor injuries in a single vehicle wreck along Hwy 5 about 5 miles South of Milan early Tuesday morning.  According to the Mo State Highway Patrol the driver was travelling Northbound when they travelled off the right side of the roadway and struck a tree at 3:30am.  He was transported by private auto to Sullivan County Memorial Hospital for treatment.

 

Vandalia Driver Injured Wednesday in Audrain County

A 65 year old Vandalia man sustained moderate injuries in a wreck that happened at 8:00am Wednesday morning on Route j in Audrain county.  According to the Mo State Highway Patrol the accident happened at county road 448 when a Northbound vehicle failed to negotiate a curve during hazardous weather conditions, travelled off the right side of the roadway and struck a culvert.  The driver was transported to University Hospital by Audrain County Ambulance. 

 

Red Cross Encourages Missourians to  check Smoke Alarms

Missourians will turn their clocks forward one hour this weekend as daylight saving time begins.   The American Red Cross also encourages Missourians to test their smoke alarms this weekend to make sure they're working properly and change the batteries if needed.  Studies show working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a house fire in half.   In January, Red Cross volunteers responded to help more than 920 people affected by house fires in Missouri.  Fires account for the majority of the nearly 65,000 disasters the Red Cross responds to nationwide.




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March 3, 2025

Chillicothe Shooting Incident

Chillicothe police are investigating a shooting incident that occurred in the early morning hours of Sunday March 2nd leaving once person hospitalized.  At 2:11 a.m., officers were made aware of a gunshot victim who had been taken to Hedrick Medical Center.  The victim, identified only as an 18 year old male was being treated for injuries but the extent of those injuries has not been released. A male acquaintance of the victim was taken from the hospital to the Chillicothe police department where he was taken into custody.  During the investigation, a traffic stop was conducted where officers found evidence related to the shooting. The driver of that vehicle and her child were transported to the Chillicothe Police Department.  The child was released to a family member.   Following the initial investigation, a search warrant was executed in the 400 block of Walnut Street. As a result, an adult female and an adult male were taken to the Caldwell County Detention Center and placed on a 24-hour hold pending charges of unlawful use of a weapon, tampering with physical evidence, and endangering the welfare of a Child.  Authorities say they believe this to be an isolated incident and that it’s an active, ongoing investigation.  The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office and the Missouri State Highway Patrol assisted in the investigation.​ No additional details have been released.  Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Chillicothe Police Department at (660) 646-2121.​

 

 




LOCAL AND REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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February 28, 2025

Upcoming Roadwork

All Counties

Moving operations such as pothole patching, brush cutting, and pavement repairs continue in various locations. Motorists should travel with care and be alert for slow-moving equipment.

All work is weather permitting, and schedules are subject to change.

BOONE COUNTY

U.S. Route 63 – Bridge construction continues on U.S. Route 63 between the Broadway overpass and Conley Road underpass in Columbia. U.S. Route 63 will remain open but in a head-to-head configuration with narrowed lanes and reduced speeds. This traffic pattern is expected to be in place through late 2025. The bridge construction is part of the Improve I-70 program. Learn more at modot.org/improvei70/columbiakingdomcity.

Interstate 70 – New pavement construction continues in Columbia from Route B (Paris Road) to U.S. Route 63 through January 2027 as part of the Improve I-70 program. Motorists can expect intermittent and long-term lane closures for the duration of the project. Learn more at modot.org/improvei70/columbiakingdomcity.

Callaway County

Route A – Culvert replacement underway today from County Road 1006 to County Road 1011. The road will be CLOSED 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

I-70 – Work under the railroad bridge in Kingdom City began Feb. 26. One lane of I-70, in both directions, will be closed nightly 7 p.m. to 6 a.m., Monday through Saturday, between mile markers 147.4 and 148, immediately west of U.S. Route 54. Nightly lane closures will continue through the end of March.

I-70 – New pavement construction continues from the Boone County line (near mile marker 136.6) to Kingdom City (near mile marker 145) as part of the Improve I-70 Program. Motorists can expect intermittent and long-term lane closures for the duration of the project. Learn more at modot.org/improvei70/columbiakingdomcity

Cooper County

I-70 – Core drilling planned through today Feb 28 on westbound I-70 from mile marker 113 to 113.2. The driving (right) lane will be closed nightly, 8 p.m. to 7 a.m.

Route Z – Brush cutting underway through today the 28th. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone.

Howard County

Routes H and O – Roadside work Underway throuth Feb. 28. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone.

 

MoDOT asks all motorists to work with us by buckling up, putting your phone down, obeying all traffic signs, and slowing down and moving over in work zones.  

For more information about MoDOT projects, traffic updates, or other transportation–related matters, please visit our Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/ or call our 24–hour Customer Service Center at 1–888–ASK–MoDOT (888 275–6636). While at modot.org, sign up for work zone updates sent directly to your inbox. Information is also available 24/7 by connecting with us on social media:

 

FROM KTVO.com

A northeast Missouri man will spend 40 years in prison after pleading guilty to a throat-slitting death that happened in Kirksville in April 2021.  As part of a plea deal, Brendon Lene, 21, of La Plata, pleaded guilty Friday to second-degree murder and armed criminal action in the death of Jared Newman, 49, of Kirksville.  The proceeding took place in Adair County Circuit Court.  A third charge of resisting arrest was dismissed as part of the plea bargain.  Judge Corey Moon sentenced Lene to 30 years for the murder charge and 10 years for armed criminal action.  The sentences will be served consecutively, meaning Lene’s total sentence is 40 years.  He will be transferred from the Adair County jail to the Missouri Department of Corrections in the coming days.

 




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February 27, 2025

Man seriously injured in Boone County accident
A 59 year old Clark man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 9:50am Tuesday in Boone County. The patrol says that he was on Route NN when his jeep traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a small grove of trees and a culvert before coming to rest in a ditch. He was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

Driver hurt in Tuesday morning wreck
A driver was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday morning in Knox County. The highway patrol said it happened at 9:45am as a 68 year old Hannibal man was on Missouri 156 when his vehicle ran off the right side of the road and overturned. He suffered minor injuries and was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment.

Motorcyclist injured in Tuesday afternoon incident
A motorcyclist was injured in a Tuesday afternoon incident in Franklin County. MSHP stated that a 26 year old Sullivan man was eastbound on I-44 when he lost control of his motorcycle, causing it to overturn, ejecting him before traveling off the left side of the roadway. He was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of moderate injuries. The incident happened at 1:10pm Tuesday.




  


 


 





February 25, 2025

ADAIR COUNTY CRASH INVOLVING A BICYCLIST AND PICKUP RESULTS IN SERIOUS INJURIES

The Highway Patrol reports a 48 year old Kirksville man sustained serious injuries after the bicycle he was riding was struck by a northbound pickup on Route H, ½ mile north of MO Route 11 in Adair County around 8:30 pm, Monday. The pickup was driven by a 39 year old Kirksville man who was not injured. The man riding the bicycle was transported by Ambulance to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville with serious injuries.

MEXICO MAN ACCUSED OF BURGLARY AND MORE AFTER BREAK IN AT MEXICO BUSINESS

On Friday, February 21, 2025 at approximately 6:52AM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to a business in the 600 block of West Jackson in Mexico in reference to an alarm and property damage.  Responding personnel found that a subject had broken a window with a rock and taken numerous items from the building.  Video and information from alert and cooperative residents led to the arrest of Wyatt J Bradley, age 19 of Mexico. Bradley was arrested a short time after the break in in the 2100 block of Jubel Drive.  After processing, the subject was taken to the Audrain County Jail for Burglary 2nd degree, Property Damage 1st degree, Stealing over $750 along with a Bond Condition Violation.

BROOKFIELD POLICE K9 WIILL SOON HAVE A PROTECTIVE VEST

The Brookfield Police Departments K9 will soon receive a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from a non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9’s, Inc. Delivery is expected within the next ten weeks according to a post on the departments social media page.  Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, and National Institute of Justice (NIJ) certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 5,882 vests valued at $6.9 million to K9s in all 50 states made possible by both private and corporate donations.

NEW SCHOLARSHIP AVAILABLE THROUGH HANNIBAL REGIONAL

Hannibal Regional and Complete Family Medicine are excited to announce a new scholarship opportunity available for high school seniors in northeast Missouri - the Hannibal Regional Healthcare Careers Scholarship. After receiving exceptional care during a recent visit to Hannibal Regional, James and Doris Lierheimer decided they wanted to give back. After expressing this desire to their team of nurses, they were directed to Hannibal Regional Foundation, where they set up an endowment for two annual $750 scholarships that will offer lasting community support. These scholarships will be offered yearly to two high school seniors planning on pursuing a degree in a healthcare field. The scholarship application is open until March 31 and permanent residents of Adair, Audrain, Lewis, Linn, Livingston, Macon, Marion, Monroe, Pike, Ralls, Randolph, Schuyler and Shelby counties are eligible to apply. A scholarship committee will review all applications and two local students will be awarded the scholarship. For more info and a link to apply, go to hannibalregional.org or call (573)-629-3577.

MODOT ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR SUMMER YOUTH TRANSPORTATION CONFERENCE

The Missouri Department of Transportation is inviting students across the state to apply for the 2025 Youth Transportation Conference in Jefferson City. Each year the department sponsors the annual conference where students can apply STEM-related concepts learned in school to transportation-related issues. The conference will be held July 7 - 11 on the campus of Lincoln University and is free to students in grades 9-12. Students finishing 8th grade this school year and graduating seniors are also eligible to apply. Applications are currently being accepted through March 17. Up to 40 students will be selected to attend. To apply, students must complete an application accompanied by at least one and up to two letters of recommendation. You can find more information on the MoDOT website at modot dot org

POLAR PLUNGE RAISES OVER $17,000 FOR SPECIAL OLYMPICS MISSOURI

The 18th Annual Kirksville Polar Plunge on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at Thousand Hills State Park in Kirksville was a splashing success, raising $17,500 and additional funds are still being collected. A total 89 brave men and women from around the area participated in what was a chilly dip into the water. Their Reason for Freezin’ was the athletes of Special Olympics Missouri. Individuals and teams from all over the area participated in this year’s event hosted by the Linn County Sheriff’s Department, MO Department of Conservation, and the Department of Natural Resources Online fundraising is still ongoing. Organizers of the Plunge still hope to raise an additional $8,000 to reach the goal of $25,000.




 

LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS

 

 

                              ,,, from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

February 24, 2025

 

Columbia Police arrest suspect in assault

Columbia Police arrested Briana Boone, 35, of Columbia, on Feb. 23 in connection with an assault.

At about 5:15 a.m., officers responded to an assault in the 2700 block of Mayflower Drive. Upon arrival, they found an adult male with serious injuries. He was transported to a local hospital in serious condition. During the investigation, police identified Boone as the suspect and arrested her for first-degree domestic assault, armed criminal action and unlawful use of a weapon. This is an ongoing investigation
 

Four injured, one seriously in Howard County accident

Four people were injured, one seriously in an accident that occurred at around 1:10pm Friday in Howard County. The patrol says that a 19 year old Farmington boy was on MO 240 when he failed to stop at the intersection of MO 240 and US 40 when his car was struck by a car driven by a 43 year old Marshall woman. The boy sustained serious injuries, while his passenger a 19 year old girl from High Ridge sustained moderate injuries. Both were taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment. Meanwhile the woman and her passenger a 39 year old Marshall man were taken to University Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

Man hurt in early Saturday morning crash

A 27 year old Hermann man was hurt in an early Saturday morning wreck in Gasconade County. The highway patrol said it happened at 4am as he was on Route Z when his car traveled off the left side of the roadway and overturned. He suffered minor injuries and was taken to Hermann Hospital for treatment.


MISSOURI GOVERNOR APPOINTS NEW ADMINISTRATOR IN CALDWELL COUNTY

This past Friday, Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe appointed Crystal McBrayer, of Kingston as the new Public Administrator of Caldwell County. McBrayer is a longtime resident of Caldwell County and is a graduate of Penny High School. As Public Administrator, she will serve as the court-appointed guardian and conservator for individuals deemed incapacitated or disabled by the 41st Judicial Circuit. In addition, she will also act as a personal representative for descendent estates and oversee the management of assets when no other responsible party is available.

EXPANSION PROJECT AND 241 NEW JOBS MAY SOON BE COMING TO COLUMBIA

As Boone County is considered by Schneider Electric as a location for a major expansion project, the State of Missouri has announced support for the project. Schneider Electric operates a plant in Columbia that has manufactured industrial circuit breakers and circuit breaker accessories since 1978 and now Schneider Electric is working on a potential expansion at its existing facility in Columbia that would include the addition of a new warehouse and other improvements amounting to a $73.6 million dollar investment and the creation of 241 new jobs in the community. The Department of Economic Development is among multiple organizations working to support the expansion project, which includes the City of Columbia, Boone County, and Columbia REDI. The Missouri Development Finance Board has approved the use of $2 million in incentives through the BUILD Program. Schneider Electric would also benefit from just over $2.1 million from the Missouri Works Program and an additional  $150 thousand from the Missouri One State Program.




LOCAL AND REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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              ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom


February 21, 2025

Louisiana man killed in Pike County accident

A 66 year old Louisiana man was killed in an accident that occurred at 5:20am Wednesday in Pike County. The patrol says that he was on Highway 54 west of the exit ramp to Highway 61 when his car crossed the center of the roadway, began sliding on the snow covered road, traveled off the south side, continued sliding, struck an embankment and overturned. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Women hurt in Wednesday morning crash

Two women were hurt in a Wednesday morning crash in St. Charles County. The highway patrol said it happened at around 10:45am as a 40 year old woman from East St. Louis, IL was on Highway 61 when she failed to yield and pulled into the path of a vehicle driven by a 56 year old Moscow Mills woman. Both were taken to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of minor injuries.

Gov. Kehoe issues Executive Order to Eliminate DEI Programs in Missouri State Agencies

Gov. Mike Kehoe has signed Executive Order 25-18, directing all Missouri state agencies to eliminate Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives and ensure compliance with the constitutional principle of equal protection under the law. The order bars the use of state funds for DEI and prevents agencies from considering DEI in their hiring decisions.

 

 


 





from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

February 20, 2025

Check our Cancellations Page for the latest Announcements!

Dangerous Cold Continues Today – Sub Zero Temps early - 15-30 Below Wind Chills

Cold Weather Advisory through Noon-Extreme Cold Warning for NW MO/NE KS 

                                Much milder temperatures expected next week!

TWO INJURED IN MACON COUNTY CRASH
Two females from Forest Park, IL were injured in an accident that occurred at 8:45pm Tuesday in Macon County. The patrol says that a car driven by a 25 year old woman was on US 36 when it traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a group of trees. She sustained moderate injuries while her passenger a 9 year old girl suffered minor injuries. Both were transported by ambulance to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment.

MAN HURT IN TUESDAY NIGHT RANDOLPH COUNTY WRECK
A 24 year old Jefferson City man was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday night in Randolph County. The highway patrol said it happened at 7:20pm as he was on Route CC when his car slid off the road and overturned. He was taken to Moberly Regional Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries.

DRIVER INJURED IN MONDAY NIGHT CRASH
A 65 year old driver from Gurnee, IL was injured in a Monday night crash in Clark County. MSHP stated that he was on US 136 when his vehicle ran off the left side of the road and overturned. He was taken to Scotland County Hospital in Memphis for treatment of moderate injuries. The crash happened at 8:05pm Monday.




February 19, 2025

 

SCHOOL CLOSINGS, DELAYS & MORE

    ….  are posted on our Cancellations Page!!!

 

TWO PEOPLE INJURED IN LINN COUNTY CRASH

Two people from Bloomington Illinois were injured in a Monday night crash in Linn County.  According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol the accident happened on highway 36, one mile east of the Bucklin Junction.  Troopers say the minivan driven by a 55 year old un-named man, traveled off the right side of the roadway where it struck a ditch and overturned due to the driver’s vision being obstructed as a tractor trailer attempted to overtake the van.  Both the driver and his passenger, a 56-year-old woman, also from Bloomington, suffered minor injuries and were taken by the Linn Co Sheriff’s Deputies to Pershing Hospital in Brookfield for treatment. 

AUDIT UNDERWAY IN CHULA AT REQUEST OF RESIDENTS

State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick is honoring the request of residents of the City of Chula, located in Livingston County, to perform a thorough review of city operations. Fitzpatrick announced Tuesday  that his office is conducting a performance audit of the city after residents of the municipality gathered 39 verified signatures to trigger the review. The audit officially began with an entrance meeting with the city council on Monday, February 10.  The State Auditor's Office last conducted a petition audit of the City of Chula in 2011. The report gave the city a rating of "fair" and found it did not obtain required annual audits of its water and sewer systems, properly prepare and monitor budgets, or prepare required financial reports.  Individuals may provide confidential information for consideration during the audit to the State Auditor's Whistleblower Hotline at 800-347-8597, by email at moaudit@auditor.mo.gov or by visiting www.auditor.mo.gov/hotline.

 

 

FIRE CREWS BATTLED RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURE FIRE

Earlier this week, the Westran Fire Protection District responded to a residential structure fire on Hwy 24, west of Huntsville. A report posted on Social Media said upon arrival firefighters found a fully involved structure fire and with the strong winds and brutal cold, fighting the fire was very challenging. All the occupants of the structure made it out safely. Several other Fire Protection Districts assisted at the scene along with Ambulance Personnel and the Sheriff’s Department. No other information was provided.




LOCAL AND REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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February 18, 2025

CHECK OUR CANCELLATIONS PAGE FOR SCHOOL & OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS!

Scheduled Closure on Route K in Audrain County for Bridge Replacement Project

Weather permitting, as early as Monday Feb. 24 Route K in Audrain County is scheduled to close over Hickory Creek, at around 2 miles west of Route W near Farber, as work begins on a bridge replacement project. Work is anticipated to be complete by late May. Included in this contract is an additional bridge replacement project, scheduled to begin in late March, located on Route ZZ in Montgomery County, over Little Loutre Creek, about half a mile south of Route RA near Wellsville with a mid June estimated completion date. All work is weather dependent and schedules are subject to change.

DED awards more than $7.6 million in tax credits to organizations through the Neighborhood Assistance Program

The Department of Economic Development has announced that it will award more than $7.6 million in tax credits to organizations throughout Missouri through the Neighborhood Assistance Program's Fiscal Year 2025 - Round 2 cycle. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, educational institutions and businesses that meet program requirements. During the Fiscal Year 2025 cycle, tax credits were reserved for organizations providing critical services, with priority given to projects located in previously underserved areas of the state.

Made In Missouri films spent more than $33 million in 2024

The 39 productions that qualified for Missouri's film incentive spent more than $33.5 million while filming in the Show-Me State in 2024. The Missouri Film Office and the Business Opportunities Division of the Missouri Department of Economic Development has announced that the Motion Media Production Tax Credit Program authorized nearly $12.4 million in production incentives for 39 projects. These included 15 narrative feature films, 4 documentary feature films, 2 narrative shorts, 2 documentary shorts, 9 unscripted TV series, 1 scripted TV series pilot, 1 animated TV series, 4 commercials and 1 web series. The $33.5 million of in-state spending supported hundreds of Missouri vendors and small businesses that served the production. In addition to the monetary spend, these projects employed Missouri residents in 1,437 cast and crew positions.

 





LOCAL AND REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY  

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February 17, 2025

Driver killed in Friday morning crash

A driver was killed in a Friday morning crash in Macon County. The highway patrol said it happened at 10:55am as a 52 year old Anabel man was on US 36 at Anabel when he failed to yield and his car was struck by a truck driven by a 49 year old Atlanta man. The Anabel man was pronounced dead at the scene while the Atlanta man suffered minor injuries and was taken to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment.

Man hurt in Knox County accident

A 61 year old Knox City man was hurt in an accident that occurred at 4:50pm Saturday in Knox County. The patrol says that he was on MO 6 when his car traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a ditch. He was taken to Northeast Regional Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

Woman injured in Saturday morning wreck

A 33 year old Eldon woman was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday morning in Boone County. MSHP stated that she was a passenger in a car driven by a 32 year old Columbia man. They were on US 63 and traveling in the left lane when he swerved to the left after being passed by another motorist on the right, which caused it to run off the left side of the road and struck the cable barrier. She was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries. The wreck happened at 8:50am Saturday.





LOCAL AND REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY  

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February 14, 2025

Moberly woman injured in Randolph County accident

A 56 year old Moberly woman was injured in an accident that occurred at 10:15am Wednesday in Randolph County. The patrol says that she was on Route A when she lost control of her jeep and it traveled off the left side of the roadway and overturned. She was transported by ambulance to Moberly Regional Medical Center for treatment of moderate injuries.

Driver injured in Wednesday morning wreck

A driver was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Wednesday morning in Callaway County. The highway patrol said it happened at 10:50am as a 35 year old woman from Kansas City, KS was eastbound on I-70 and driving too fast for conditions when she lost control on the snow covered road, causing her truck to run off the road and struck an exit sign post. She sustained moderate injuries and was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

Two hurt in Wednesday afternoon crash

Two Palmyra residents were hurt in a Wednesday afternoon crash in Marion County. MSHP stated that a 68 year old woman was on MO 168 when her truck slid on the ice covered road, crossed the center line and was struck by a car driven by a 50 year old man. The woman was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of minor injuries, while the man was taken to Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL for treatment of moderate injuries. The crash happened at 3:30pm Wednesday.

Man hurt in Livingston County mishap

A man was hurt in a Wednesday morning mishap in Livingston County. State troopers said it happened at 11:40am as the 74 year old Chillicothe resident was on MO 190 when his truck went off the north side of the roadway, returned to the road, ran off the south side of the road and struck a tree. He suffered moderate injuries and was taken to Hedrick Medical Center for treatment.





February 12, 2025

Check our Cancellations Page for the latest Announcements!

Winter Weather Impacting Missouri –

Winter Storm Warnings and Advisory issued by National Weather Service

Do to the Winter Storms impacting Missouri, Motorists are encouraged to postpone travel if possible. If you must travel, use extreme caution and check road conditions before driving to help determine if your trip can be completed safely. The  MoDOT Traveler Information map is the best source for the latest road conditions and can be found at  https://traveler.modot.org/map/ or www.modot.org

Governor Kehoe Signs Executive Order Ahead of Hazardous Winter Weather 

Governor Mike Kehoe signed Executive Order 25-17 as a precautionary measure to prepare for hazardous winter weather expected to impact the State of Missouri which started Tuesday. The Order waives certain hours of service requirements for commercial vehicles transporting residential heating fuel and activates the Missouri National Guard for state and local response efforts, if needed. 

 Moberly woman injured in Randolph County accident

A Moberly woman was injured in an accident that occurred at around 7:50pm Monday in Randolph County.  The patrol says that the 36 year old female was on US 63 when her car struck a truck driven by a 16 year old boy from Centralia who was crossing US 63.  The woman was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

Driver hurt in Monday night wreck

A driver was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Monday night in Howard County. The highway patrol said it happened at 9pm as an 83 year old woman from New Franklin backed out of her driveway and lost control of her vehicle as she began to drive forward, causing it to run off the right side of the road through a field and struck several trees. She was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries.

Woman hurt in Monday evening crash

A 37 year old Villa Ridge woman was hurt in a Monday evening crash in Franklin County. MSHP stated that she was on Route H when she failed to negotiate a curve and her van traveled off the left side of the roadway, struck a utility pole and personal property before coming to rest against a tree. She sustained minor injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital for treatment. The crash happened at 8:55pm Monday. 




LOCAL AND REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY  

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                  … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

February 11, 2025

Commission Awards Contracts for Projects in Northeast District

During its regular meeting on February 5, the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission awarded the following contracts for bridge projects in the Northeast District. 

Complete Family Medicine and Kirksville R-III Raise $5,000 for Local Cancer Fighters

Complete Family Medicine continues to support local cancer patients. This time, with a contribution of $5,110 to the Inspire Hope campaign, which helps offset costs for those forced to travel for radiation oncology services.

Partnering with Kirksville R-III Schools, Complete Family Medicine put on a Pink Out event as the Kirksville Tigers girls’ and boys’ basketball teams took on the Moberly Spartans.

The event played host to three local cancer survivors and their families as guests of honor: Robert Moots, with his wife, Elaine, and daughter, Veronica; Cindy Craggs and her daughters Tanya Tipton, Shona Lene, and Kayla Western; and Jeremiah Billington with his wife Cortney, and son, Dax.

A moment of recognition took place just before the boys' varsity game and included a heartfelt message from Complete Family Medicine's Keaton Wagner. "Cancer does not care. It only destroys,” said Wagner. “It's up to us as a community to care and to build up.”

Complete Family Medicine’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Justin Puckett, added: “The Inspire Hope fund is a necessary stopgap to care for our friends and neighbors battling cancer until we’re able to bring modernized, best-in-class radiation oncology services back to Kirksville. That’s what this community deserves and that’s what we’re building towards.”

Continuing the evening’s events, Kirksville High School’s Levi Martin and Ryan Kelly participated in halftime events that resulted in a $3,000 gift from the physician team at Complete Family Medicine. It should be noted that Martin, on his own, raised more than $700 selling Pink Out shirts and collecting donations.

Conservation Federation of Missouri Expands Share the Harvest Program with New Partnerships

The Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM) is celebrating another great year for its Share the Harvest program, thanks to significant contributions from the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council (MSMC) and MFA Incorporated. These generous donations expanded the program’s capacity, enabling hunters to donate more venison than ever before to families in need throughout Missouri.

Share the Harvest connects hunters with local food banks by facilitating venison donations through approved meat processors. This year, the program saw a remarkable increase in participation, with hundreds of additional deer harvested and processed. The result was thousands of pounds of high-quality venison distributed to food-insecure Missourians. The program also helped mitigate crop damage caused by deer in some of the state’s top row-crop regions, benefiting both agriculture and local communities.

Agricultural organizations are pleased to play a critical role in this success, showcasing the power of partnerships between farming and conservation groups.

Donating venison through Share the Harvest is simple. Hunters can bring their deer to any participating processor and choose how much meat to donate. With this year’s expanded capacity, the program provided more venison than ever before, delivering critical resources to food-insecure communities and addressing agricultural challenges in rural areas.

Since its inception in 1992, Share the Harvest has provided nearly 5 million pounds of venison to families in need. CFM, MSMC, MFA, countless hunters, and other partners such as Feeding Missouri and the Missouri Department of Conservation have also played a critical role in the program's success over the years. Share the Harvest exemplifies the power of partnerships to make a meaningful impact across Missouri.

For more information about Share the Harvest and how you can get involved, visit https://confedmo.org/share-the-harvest/


 







 






 




LOCAL AND REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY  

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                  … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

February 10, 2025 

Macon man killed in Macon County accident

A 45 year old Macon man was killed in an accident that occurred at 4:05pm Saturday in Macon County. The patrol says that he was on Highway PP when his vehicle traveled off the right side of the roadway, overcorrected, causing it to slide off the left side of the road, struck a fence, slid into a pond and became submerged. He was transported by ambulance to Samaritan Hospital in Macon where he died a short time later from his injuries.

Driver killed, another seriously injured in Saturday night crash

A man was killed, while a teen was seriously injured in a Saturday night crash in Lincoln County. The highway patrol said it happened at 10:10pm as a 19 year old boy from Foley was on MO 47 when he struck a deer in the road and his truck crossed the center line and struck an SUV driven by a 25 year old man from Troy. After impact, the SUV began to rotate clockwise and went off the left side of the road and came to rest down an embankment. Meanwhile the truck came to rest in the center of the roadway.  The man was pronounced dead at the scene, while the teen was taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.

DED awards more than $25 million through the Community Development Block Grant Program to community improvement projects

The Department of Economic Development (DED) has announced it has awarded a total of more than $25 million to projects through its Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program to assist with various improvement projects.

Funded projects include street and roadway repairs, stormwater and drainage improvements, demolition of dilapidated structures, and construction of new public facilities. A full list of recipients and projects is available below.

About the Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG)

CDBG programs are designed to support the well-being of Missouri communities and create greater capacity for growth, whether by addressing local health and safety concerns or improving local facilities, such as senior centers and community centers. Grants are available in a variety of categories and can be utilized for a variety of community development initiatives.

For questions or to learn more about the CDBG program and CDBG categories, visit ded.mo.gov/cdbg or contact mocdbg@ded.mo.gov.

  • City of Bevier – Demolition - $189,088.00

  • City of Bland – General Infrastructure – Street Repair - $591,170.00

  • City of Boonville – Community Facilities – Kemper Campus Renovations - $500,000.00

  • City of Chillicothe – Demolition - $268,000.00

  • City of Clifton Hill – Demolition - $94,150.00

  • City of East Prairie – General Infrastructure – Street/Drainage Improvements Phase 2 - $634,000.00

  • City of East Prairie – General Infrastructure – Street/Storm Sewer Repair Phase 1B - $625,300.00

  • City of Edina – Demolition - $347,350.00

  • City of Fulton – General Infrastructure – Storm Sewer Replacement - $530,000.00

  • City of Green City – General Infrastructure – Street/Drainage Improvements - $497,500.00

  • City of Higbee – Demolition - $259,000.00

  • City of Paris – General Infrastructure – Bridge Replacement - $346,328.00

  • City of Russellville – General Infrastructure – Streets/Drainage - $267,886.03

  • City of St. Clair – General Infrastructure – Street Repair - $500,000.00

 

Mexico Public Safety Department Report

On Thursday, February 6 at approximately 8:39am, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to a report of a vehicle fire in the parking lot of the West Plaza Shopping Center. Responding personnel found Leslie G Rosenthal, age 58 of Mexico, near his red, 1996, Ford Thunderbird. There was light smoke in the area, but no fire. Investigation indicated that Rosenthal had been intentionally spinning his vehicle’s tires, leaving black marks on the parking lot. Rosenthal was arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (Aggravated Offender). He was processed at MPSD and eventually taken to the Audrain County Jail. There were no injuries from the incident.

 

 




LOCAL AND REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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            ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom


February 7, 2025

Teens hurt in Macon County accident

Two Callao teens were hurt in an accident that occurred at 5:50pm Wednesday in Macon County. The patrol says that a 17 year old boy was on Old US 36 at Harvest Road when he lost control on the ice covered roadway and his truck traveled off the south side of the road. The driver along with his passenger a 15 year old girl were taken to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment of minor injuries.

Woman injured in Wednesday night wreck

A 49 year old Warrenton woman was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Wednesday night in Lincoln County. The highway patrol said it happened at 8:10pm as she was on Missouri 47 when her van ran off the right side of the road, she overcorrected, causing it to overturn on its side. She sustained moderate injuries and was taken to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital West in Lake St. Louis for treatment.

Man injured in Wednesday morning crash

A man was injured in a Wednesday morning crash in Pike County. MSHP stated that a 47 year old driver from Goddard, KS was on Highway 79 when his truck traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned. He was transported by ambulance to Pike County Memorial Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries. The crash happened at 7:45am Wednesday.

 



 

 




LOCAL AND REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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February 5, 2025

MSHP confirms suspect in Moberly homicide shot and killed by Columbia Police Officer

Here is an update on the story that we reported on Tuesday about a homicide that occurred on Saturday in Moberly. According to KOMU in Columbia, the suspect in the Moberly homicide investigation was killed by police in Columbia Saturday night, the Missouri State Highway Patrol has confirmed. 37 year old Timothy Turner of Columbia was shot and killed by Columbia Police Department SWAT members after a standoff on Raleigh Drive in Columbia. He was wanted in connection to the shooting death of 37 year old Donald Gene Hickem in Moberly Saturday morning, Moberly police said Monday afternoon. The CPD SWAT team and Crisis Negotiation Team attempted to make contact with Turner around 9pm. He left the residence around 10pm armed with a knife, according to MSHP. Law enforcement deployed "less-lethal devices" and a police K-9 after Turner reportedly did not comply with orders to drop the knife. Shortly after, SWAT members shot Turner. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Postponed pavement repairs on US 36 in Livingston County

Pavement repairs on U.S. 36 in Livingston County which were scheduled to begin Tuesday, Feb. 4, have been postponed until spring. Magruder Paving, LLC, working with the Missouri Department of Transportation, has postponed the project until approximately mid-March. The repair project will take place on Route 36 in both directions under the Canadian Pacific Railroad Bridge and the U.S. Route 65 Bridge in Chillicothe. A rescheduled date will be provided once determined.

 

Woman seriously injured in Monday night accident

A woman was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 6:10pm Monday in Ralls County.  The patrol says that a 45 year old woman from Grand Island, Neb. was on US 36 one mile east of Monroe City when she failed to negotiate a curve, causing her jeep to travel off the right side of the roadway, struck an embankment, became airborne, struck a tree and then came to rest.  She was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

Man injured in Callaway County wreck

A Fulton man was injured in a motorcycle wreck Monday night in Callaway County. The highway patrol said it happened at 5:05pm as the 26 year old man was on Route UU when his motorcycle ran off the left side of the road and struck a tree. He was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

Ameren Missouri hosts open houses for public input on Montgomery-Callaway Connector Project

Ameren Missouri is strengthening the reliability of our region's energy grid, improving energy flexibility and growing economic development opportunities with the proposal of the Montgomery-Callaway Connector Project. The project team is hosting public open houses this week in Montgomery and Callaway counties to gather input from local stakeholders.

The open houses are set for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 4, at Legends Rec-Plex, 808 State Street, Fulton, and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 5, at Montgomery City Lions Club, 1200 Farnen Street, Montgomery City. More details are available at Ameren.com/MontgomeryCallaway.

The Montgomery-Callaway Connector Project includes approximately 30 miles of double circuit, 345-kV transmission line in Montgomery and Callaway counties. The proposed transmission line will run between the Burns Substation in Callaway County and the Montgomery Substation in Montgomery County. The goal is to have this project complete and delivering benefits to the local community by 2030.

Members of the public are encouraged to attend the open house sessions to learn more and share feedback.

At each open house, the Ameren team will include project overview information and answer questions. All open house sessions will include the same information with no formal presentation. There is also a self-paced, virtual engagement and comment map available on the project website, Ameren.com/MontgomeryCallaway.

  



 



 




LOCAL AND REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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February 4, 2025

Two hurt in Putnam County accident

Two women were hurt in an accident that occurred at 8:15am Monday in Putnam County. The patrol says that a 46 year old woman from Centerville, IA was on MO 5 when her truck crossed the center line and struck a truck driven by a 28 year old Unionville woman.  Both sustained minor injuries and were taken to area hospitals for treatment.

Driver injured in Saturday morning wreck

A 24 year old Moberly woman was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday morning in Ralls County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 9am as she was on US 36 two miles east of Monroe City when her car traveled off the roadway and overturned. She was transported by ambulance to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

Moberly Police investigating homicide that occurred on Saturday morning 

The Moberly Police Department is asking anyone with information on a homicide that took place Saturday morning to contact the department.

According to KMIZ, just before 7am Saturday, Moberly Police responded to a reported shooting in the 500 block of North Moulton St. When officers arrived, they found a 37-year old man deceased.

The Randolph County Coroner has ruled the death a homicide.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the department either in person by coming to the station or by phone.


 



  




 


 





LOCAL AND REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

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February 3, 2025

Man injured in Macon County accident

A 78 year old Queen City man was injured in an accident that occurred at around 7:15pm Friday in Macon County. He was a passenger in an SUV driven by a 77 year old Queen City woman. The patrol says they were northbound on US 63 near the KLTI Radio Station just south of Macon when the SUV traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck several fixed objects. The man was transported by ambulance to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment of moderate injuries.

Driver seriously injured in Friday morning wreck

A Sumner driver was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Friday morning in Chariton County.  The highway patrol said it happened at around 7:45am as the 20 year old man was on Highway 139 when his car ran off the road and struck an embankment. He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

Man killed in Saturday night crash

A New London man was killed in a Saturday night crash in Ralls County.  MSHP stated that the 27 year old man was on New London gravel road when he failed to negotiate a curve, causing his UTV to travel off the left side of the roadway and struck a tree. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash occurred at 9:30pm Saturday.

 





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January 31, 2025

Trenton woman killed in Sullivan County accident

A Trenton woman was killed in an accident that occurred at 11am Wednesday in Sullivan County. The patrol says that the 75 year old female was on Highway C when her vehicle traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a fence. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Pedestrian seriously injured after being struck by car Wednesday night

A pedestrian was seriously injured after being struck by a car Wednesday night in Audrain County. The highway patrol said it happened at 5:10pm as an 89 year old Vandalia woman was on West State Street in Vandalia when her car struck a 60 year old Vandalia woman. She was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

Public hearings scheduled for second Improve I-70 construction project from Warrenton to Wentzville

The public is invited to public hearings regarding the Improve I-70: Warrenton to Wentzville project from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 3, in Warrenton, and from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 6, in Wentzville. This is the second construction project in MoDOT’s Statewide Improve I-70 Program and will add a third lane of travel in each direction to Interstate 70 from Warrenton to Wentzville. The Warrenton to Wentzville project includes the Improve I-70 funding and additional legislatively designated General Revenue funding. It also includes previously allocated funds in the state’s program for other I-70 and I-64 projects for a total contract cost of $600 million.

These meetings will highlight the basic design plans, construction phasing, schedule, and other detailed information about the project. Construction is expected to start in Spring 2025 and be completed by late 2028.

The open house-style hearings will provide the opportunity for nearby residents, businesses, and travelers to learn about and provide comments regarding the planned improvements. No formal presentation will be made. The public can attend the meetings any time between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. The information will be the same at each meeting location. Engineers from the Missouri Department of Transportation and the Improve 70 Alliance contractor team of Emery Sapp and Sons, Clarkson Construction, HNTB, and Bartlett and West will be on hand to answer questions.

Written and recorded oral statements and exhibits can be submitted at the hearing. People can also review materials and make comments on the project website beginning on Monday, Feb. 3, at www.modot.org/improvei70/warrentonwentzville All comments must be received by Thursday, March 6.

The meeting details and locations are:





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January 30, 2025

Woman hurt in Boone County accident

A Mexico woman was hurt in an accident that occurred after 9pm Tuesday in Boone County. The patrol says the 20 year old female was on Route WW when her vehicle traveled off the left side of the roadway and struck a fence. She was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries.

Woman killed in Tuesday morning wreck

A woman was killed in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday morning in Franklin County. The highway patrol said it happened at around 9:25am as the 28 year old from Eureka was on Route A when her car ran off the right side of the road, struck a culvert/drive way and overturned, ejecting her as it came to rest on its top. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

One killed, two seriously injured in Tuesday morning incident

An elderly man was killed, while two others were seriously injured in a Tuesday morning incident in Gasconade County. MSHP stated that a 70 year old man from New Haven was on MO 28 when his dump truck went off the right side of the roadway, struck a utility pole, a concrete parking post, a tree and a house.  He was taken to Mercy Hospital with serious injuries. An 84 year old Owensville man who was in the house was killed, while an 82 year old woman who was also in the house was taken to Mercy Hospital with serious injuries. The incident occurred after 9am Tuesday.

SECURING MISSOURI'S FUTURE: Governor Kehoe Delivers First State of the State Address

Governor Mike Kehoe delivered his first State of the State Address Tuesday to the Missouri General Assembly, outlining his legislative and budget priorities for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26).

Governor Kehoe opened his first address to the 103rd General Assembly by reflecting on lessons learned to stay humble from his mentor, Dave Sinclair, with a commitment to working with the members of the legislature during his time as governor.

"I said earlier that I will never forget my roots. Well, I’ve sat where you sit. I understand the pressures you face. And I want to work with you—not against you—because I believe we can only secure Missouri’s future if we work together," said Governor Kehoe.

Governor Kehoe's speech focused on the policy priorities that have remained a central focus at the start of his administration, beginning with public safety.

"Any efforts we may make to improve the lives of Missourians–whether it be education opportunities, cutting taxes, or expanding childcare–none of it matters if Missourians aren’t safe," Governor Kehoe said. "Securing Missouri’s future begins with public safety."

Public Safety

During his speech, Governor Kehoe discussed the actions his administration took on Inauguration Day, signing six executive orders developed based on input from law enforcement to launch the Safer Missouri initiative. 

To support law enforcement recruitment and retention efforts, Governor Kehoe's budget recommends funding to bolster the existing Missouri Blue Scholarship Program for law enforcement basic training and $10 million in new funding to assist local communities who prioritize public safety with equipment and training needs through the Blue Shield Program.

The budget also includes $2.5 million to support the sheriff’s retirement system for another year, and funding for a new crime lab in Cape Girardeau, serving the Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop E region.

As part of the Safer Missouri initiative, Governor Kehoe urged the General Assembly to pass a comprehensive crime bill that includes increasing penalties for crimes like violent rioting and fleeing from law enforcement in a vehicle, cracking down on criminals who participate in reckless stunt driving and street racing, and efforts to increase oversight and accountability of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department.

To combat the fentanyl crisis and identify areas of high fentanyl use in schools across the state, Governor Kehoe's budget includes a $4 million investment for fentanyl testing in wastewater systems at schools. Governor Kehoe also encouraged the legislature to take action on increasing penalties for fentanyl trafficking. 

Economic Development

Governor Kehoe emphasized his efforts to make Missouri a welcoming state for business investment. From manufacturers, to retail, to Missouri’s sports teams: businesses who provide jobs and opportunities to Missourians are an important part the state's economic success.

In order to compete with other states, the Kehoe Administration will focus on reducing taxes and cutting regulations, so families keep more of their own money, and so job creators look at our state to expand and hire more hard-working Missourians.

Governor Kehoe announced that he has directed the Missouri Department of Revenue to work with his staff on a sustainable and comprehensive plan to eliminate the individual income tax once and for all.

And, knowing that infrastructure and economic development go hand in hand, Governor Kehoe's budget includes a reappropriation of last year’s 100 million dollars for rural road improvements to ensure all of those funds are invested in rural infrastructure.

Governor Kehoe's speech focused largely on solving the biggest challenge to the child care crisis: addressing the current regulatory environment.

In an effort to make the child care regulations easier to understand and navigate, Governor Kehoe issued Executive Order 25-15, charging the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education-Office of Childhood with a complete re-write of the child care regulations. 

The budget also includes $10 million to offer grant funding opportunities to support partnerships between employers, community partners, and the child care industry to make more child care slots available for Missouri families.

In an effort to provide timely payments for the child care providers who partner with the state to provide care, providers will receive payments from the state at the beginning of the month on enrollment, starting in fiscal year 2026.

To build on Missouri's career and technical education opportunities, Governor Kehoe's budget includes $15 million in new funding to address equipment, space, and operational needs of career and technical centers across the state, as well as an increase of $5 million on an annual basis to support increased operational costs.

The budget includes increased funding to expand career counseling to more high schools across the state, so that students can talk to school counselors about their future career path, whether that includes college or not. 

Governor Kehoe also signed Executive Order 25-16 establishing the Governor’s Workforce of the Future Challenge, instructing DESE to put a plan in place for better coordination among key stakeholders, including K-12 schools, local business and industry, and higher education to improve the state’s career and technical education programs and infrastructure.

Agriculture

Securing the future of agriculture also means investing in the next generation. Governor Kehoe's budget includes $800,000 in permanent funding for Missouri FFA.

Additionally, the budget includes $55 million in new bonding to support the construction of a 40,000 square foot covered multi-use livestock barn and 80,000 square foot stalling barn to house equine and other livestock at the Missouri State Fair’s new arena, which was previously supported by the legislature and is now under construction.

Education 

Governor Kehoe is a proud supporter of education in all of its forms–public schools, private schools, charter schools–as long Missouri’s children are getting a quality education that best meets their needs.

To expand school choice, Governor Kehoe urged the General Assembly to pass voluntary open enrollment in public schools.

Governor Kehoe's budget also includes $50 million in general revenue funding to bolster the ESA program.

This year, Governor Kehoe's budget recommends a $200 million increase for the Foundation Formula, the largest increase since the current Formula was created. And, over $370 million to fully fund the state’s commitment for school transportation needs. For teachers, the budget includes $33 million to fund teacher salaries. Additionally, the budget includes $30 million for Small School Grants to support the continued success of our small rural school districts, the heartbeat of their communities.

Governor Kehoe also signed Executive Order 25-14 establishing the School Funding Modernization Task Force to recommend changes to the Foundation Formula to better serve students and families.

Government Improvements 
To continue to recruit and retain quality state team members, Governor Kehoe announced a statewide time of service pay plan increase for state employees.

Governor Kehoe also previewed action on DEI programs in state government and support for creating Missouri's own version of a DOGE initiative. He committed to working with the General Assembly on these efforts in the coming weeks.

 

During his speech, Governor Kehoe recognized special guests for their achievements and commitment to the people of Missouri:

Special Guests of the Governor





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January 28, 2025

Bridge in Putnam County now open

The Putnam County Route M bridge over Medicine Creek Fork, located near Powersville, is open following a replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle project. The Capital – Horner & Shifirin team, working with the Missouri Department of Transporation through a design-build contract, were able to reopen the bridge Friday afternoon, Jan. 24.

The Northwest Bridge Bundle is a Design-Build project that will replace or rehabilitate 31 poor-condition bridges in north central Missouri. The full list of bridges to be replaced can be found on the Northwest Bridge Bundle web page.

Design-build is a project delivery method in which one contracting team is selected to design and build the highway improvement under one contract. MoDOT provides the project goals, budget and schedule and the contractor team completes the work. This technique has been known to significantly save time and provide cost savings.

Single Lane of US Route 63 in Columbia to close for pavement repairs

U.S. Route 63 in Columbia will narrow on Tuesday for pavement repairs. Construction crews working with the Missouri Department of Transportation will close one lane in each direction through the work zone between the Conley Road underpass and Broadway overpass from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Jan. 28 for pothole repairs. The lane closure could extend into Wednesday, Jan. 29, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., if necessary to complete the repairs.  

Drivers traveling in Columbia on U.S. Route 63 south of Interstate 70 should consider alternate routes or allow extra time to travel through this area as backups are expected.  

This work is in addition to the nighttime closure of Conley Road taking place 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. thru Wednesday. 

Planned Roadwork for Northeast Missouri 

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below. 

Lewis County

Missouri Route 156 – January 27 – 28, CLOSED for brush cutting operations from Route D to Route KK at Newark between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Marion County

Route CC – January 28 – 31, CLOSED for brush cutting operations from Route K to CR 209 between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

U.S. Route 61/24 – January 29, LANE RESTRICTION for sign installation from Route F to Business Route 61 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

U.S. Route 61 Southbound – January 30, LANE RESTRICTION for sign installation from Route V to U.S. Route 61/24 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Scotland County

Route U – February 3 – 4, CLOSED for brush cutting operations from CR 412 to CR 500 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route U – February 5 – 6, CLOSED for brush cutting operations from CR 166 to CR 165 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Warren County

Missouri Route 94 – January 27 – 31, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.50 mile before and after bridge near the Katy Trail between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.


 


 

 

 


 






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January 27, 2025


Man injured in Sunday morning accident

A Bosworth man was injured in an accident that occurred after 7am Sunday in Carroll County. The patrol says that he was on MO 139 when his vehicle struck an animal in the roadway and after impact traveled off the left side of the road, struck a post and came to rest in a creek bed.  He was taken to North Kansas City Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

Driver hurt in Audrain County wreck

A Thompson driver was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday afternoon in Audrain County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 4pm as the man was on Route FF when his SUV ran off the right side of the road, striking a fence and a tree. He was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

Two injured in Friday night crash

Two drivers were injured in a Friday night crash in Callaway County. MSHP stated that a Mexico man was on US 54 eastbound on overpass ramp 699 when he ran a red light and his truck struck a car in the intersection driven by a Lake St. Louis man. Both were taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor to moderate injuries respectively. The crash happened at around 6:15pm Friday.

 



 



  

 




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January 24, 2025

Governor Kehoe Signs Three Executive Orders to Enhance Government Accountability, Efficiency, and Ethics

On Thursday, Governor Mike Kehoe signed three executive orders aimed at streamlining government operations, improving stakeholder engagement, and ensuring ethical conduct within the Kehoe administration. The orders reflect the Governor's commitment to fostering more effective, transparent, and accountable government.

"These executive orders demonstrate our administration's commitment and dedication to responsible governance and meaningful reform," said Governor Kehoe.

The executive orders are as follows:

Executive Order 25-11 delegates supervisory authority over specific departments, divisions, and agencies to designated members of the Governor’s staff. This measure is intended to enhance oversight and ensure that critical state functions are managed efficiently.

Executive Order 25-12 establishes a comprehensive code of conduct for the Office of the Governor’s staff, setting clear ethical standards to ensure integrity and professionalism throughout the administration.

Executive Order 25-13 directs all executive department directors and commissioners to dedicate a minimum of eight hours per month to engaging with their agency’s stakeholders. This initiative seeks to ensure that decision-making processes are informed by input from those directly impacted by government actions. Additionally, the order prohibits the issuance of new rules without prior approval from the Governor’s office, a move designed to reduce red tape, improve government efficiency, and ensure regulatory decisions align with the needs of stakeholders and the state’s overall priorities.

December 2024 Monthly Jobs Report

Missouri nonfarm payroll employment increased by 11,200 jobs in December 2024, and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained at 3.7 percent. Private industry employment increased by 8,400 jobs and government employment increased by 2,800 jobs. Over the year, there was an increase of 84,700 jobs from December 2023 to December 2024, and the unemployment rate increased by four-tenths of a percentage point, from 3.3 percent in December 2023 to 3.7 percent in December 2024.    

New Grant Brings Conservation Program To Missouri Corn Growers 

Precision Conservation Management (PCM), in collaboration with the Illinois Corn Growers Association (IL Corn), Kentucky Corn Growers Association, and Missouri Corn Merchandising Council (MCMC), has received new grant funding from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) to bolster regenerative agriculture practices. This grant is part of the $14.7 million NFWF awarded nationwide to advance soil health and improve water quality on working lands. It provides the first opportunity for Missouri farmers to participate in PCM.

 

The awarded funds will expand PCM program availability to row crop farmers in northern Missouri, focusing on adopting cover crops, no-till, strip-till, and nitrogen fertilizer recommendations. Through this expansion, enrolled farmers will receive technical assistance, data analysis, and access to incentive programs that support their operations as they improve water quality and soil health in these watersheds.

 

PCM was initially launched by IL Corn in 2015 as a farmer-focused program that provides customized, data-driven guidance on conservation practices to improve profitability and environmental outcomes. Through a unique collaboration with commodity groups and industry partners, PCM has already helped hundreds of farmers in Illinois, Nebraska, and Kentucky implement climate-smart farming strategies.

 

For more information on Precision Conservation Management, please visit precisionconservation.org.


 













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January 23, 2025

Columbia man injured in Tuesday morning accident

A Columbia man was injured in an accident that occurred at 11:50am Tuesday in Cooper County. The patrol says that he was on County Road Big Lick Road when his vehicle began to slide on the ice covered road and it ran off the road and overturned down a creek embankment.  He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

Learn to use prescribed fire as a land management tool with MDC Feb. 1 in Edina

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites landowners to a prescribed burn workshop Feb. 1, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Knox County Community Center in Edina.

Prescribed burning can be a valuable tool for managing native plant diversity and controlling undesirable vegetation, but it can be dangerous and ineffective when not used properly. This workshop will provide basic information on how to plan and execute a prescribed burn for land management.

Registration for this event is required and can be done at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4HT. Upon registration, participants will be asked to complete the virtual/online portion of the prescribed burn course. This online course is a mandatory prerequisite to the workshop, and there is a $25 fee to complete the online training. Participants are asked to bring their certificate of completion to the workshop. To find the online learning portion, go to http://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZoU.

Should weather allow, a demonstration burn will be conducted during the workshop. Participants are asked to wear a long-sleeved shirt and pants made of natural fibers, leather gloves, and closed toe, leather boots.

Questions about this event can be sent to Kyle Monroe at kyle.monroe@mdc.mo.gov. The Knox County Community Center is located at 207 4th Street in Edina.  

MDC invites birders to join birding webinars in preparation for first ever Missouri Birding Challenge

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), the Missouri River Bird Observatory (MRBO), and the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation (MCHF) invite both new and experienced birders to join the first ever Missouri Birding Challenge -- May 1-15!

Missouri Birding Challenge participants will compete alone or on a team in different birding categories based on their ages, birding experience, and comfort levels. Birders will use eBird (eBird.org) to record their lists of birds identified at public natural areas around the state, or even in their own backyards. Once participants complete a category, they will be entered into a drawing for fun, bird-related prizes such as binoculars and gift cards. There is a fee of $10-$25 per person or team depending on the category. Fees go toward migratory bird conservation efforts.

Learn more about the Challenge and related topics at mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/activities/birdwatching/missouri-birding-challenge. Full Challenge rules and details will be released in coming weeks. Registration will be open April 1-30 through the webpage.

 


  





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January 21, 2025

Man Hurt In Boone County Accident

A Sturgeon man was hurt in an accident that occurred just before 8:30pm Sunday in Boone County.  The patrol says that he was on US 63 when he swerved to avoid hitting another vehicle, causing his truck to travel off the left side of the roadway, crossed the median, struck a sign and then crossed both lanes of southbound US 63, went off the west side of the road and overturned at least twice and then came to rest on it's passenger side in a ditch.  He sustained minor injuries and was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

Woman Injured In Ralls County Crash

A Hannibal woman was injured in a Sunday afternoon crash in Ralls County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 4:55pm as she was on Route O when she swerved to avoid a deer, causing her car to run off the right side of the road, she overcorrected and it went off the left side of the road, struck an embankment, a tree and then overturned.  She was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

Planned Road Work for Mid-Missouri

The following is a list of general highway maintenance and construction work planned in the midMissouri area Jan20 – 262025Weather conditions may postpone scheduled work. Many projects will include lane closures which could cause delays.      

All Counties 

Moving operations such as pothole patching, brush cutting, and pavement repair continue in various locations. Motorists should travel with care and be alert for slow-moving equipment. 

All work is weather permitting, and schedules are subject to change. 

Boone County 

U.S. Route 63  Bridge construction continues on U.S. Route 63 between the Broadway overpass and Conley Road underpass in Columbia. U.S. Route 63 will remain open but in a head-to-head configuration with narrowed lanes and reduced speeds. This traffic pattern is expected to be in place through late 2025. The bridge construction is part of the Improve I-70 program. Learn more at modot.org/improvei70/columbiakingdomcity. 

Interstate 70 – New pavement construction continues in Columbia from Route B (Paris Road) to U.S. Route 63 through January 2027 as part of the Improve I-70 program. Motorists can expect intermittent and long-term lane closures for the duration of the project. Learn more at modot.org/improvei70/columbiakingdomcity. 

Callaway County 

I-70 – New pavement construction continues from the Boone County line to Kingdom City (near mile marker 145) as part of the Improve I-70 Program. Motorists can expect intermittent and long-term lane closures for the duration of the project. Learn more at modot.org/improvei70/columbiakingdomcity 

Cooper County 

Route Z – Roadside work planned Jan. 21 – 24. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone. 

Howard County 

Missouri Route 87 – Roadside work planned Jan. 20 – 24 from Route J to Route E. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone.  

Missouri Route 124 – Pothole patching planned Jan. 20 – 24 from Missouri Route 240 to Route Y. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone. 

Moniteau County 

Routes 87, D, E, and N – Bridge maintenance planned Jan. 20 – 24 in various locations. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone. 

Routes 87, F, H, T, and V – Pothole patching planned Jan. 20 – 24 in various locations. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone. 

 






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January 20, 2025

Governor Kehoe Orders Flags to Fly at Full-Staff in Honor of Inauguration Day

In an act of respect and patriotism, Governor Mike Kehoe has signed Executive Order 25-09, ordering U.S. and Missouri flags to be flown at full-staff on Monday at all state buildings and grounds in honor of Inauguration Day. 

This directive aligns with federal statute, which states that flags should be prominently displayed during specific occasions, especially for the inauguration of a U.S. President.

EPA and Continental Cement Company in Hannibal Settle Alleged Clean Air Act Violations 

Hannibal, Missouri, cement manufacturer Continental Cement Company LLC will pay a $74,440 civil penalty to resolve alleged violations of the federal Clean Air Act. As part of the settlement, the company will also procure low-emission school buses for a local school district.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Continental Cement failed to adequately operate leak detection systems designed to notify the company of potential releases of hazardous air pollutants. EPA discovered the alleged violations during a December 2022 inspection.

EPA says that leak detection systems on the company’s emission controls were not functioning properly. Without a functioning leak detection system, the facility would be unaware of whether pollutant filters are operating effectively to reduce emissions of particulate matter and potentially other air pollutants associated with hazardous waste combustion.

In addition to paying the civil penalty, Continental Cement agreed to spend at least $282,000 to replace two of Hannibal School District #60’s diesel buses with propane school buses, which will reduce air pollution in areas impacted by excess emissions from Continental’s alleged violations.

Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance names Tyler Hobbs as new Legislative Director

Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance (DCI) Acting Director Mick Campbell announced that Tyler Hobbs has assumed the role of Legislative Director for DCI. Beginning January 13, Hobbs assumed responsibility for the legislative duties of the department’s Insurance Divisions, Division of Finance, Division of Credit Unions, and the Office of the Public Counsel. 

Hobbs has most recently served as the Legislative Director for the Office of the Governor. He also served as the Deputy Policy and Legislative Director as well as Senior Policy Analyst since joining the Office of the Governor in August 2022. Before joining Governor Parson’s team, he served as the Legislative Director for the Missouri Department of Public Safety after working as the Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Missouri Republican Party during the 2020 election cycle.



 










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January 16, 2025 

Governor Kehoe Announces Sarah Willson as Director of Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services 

On Tuesday, Governor Mike Kehoe announced the appointment of Sarah Willson as Director of Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS).Willson will assume the role of DHSS Director effective February 14, 2025, and awaits Missouri Senate confirmation.

Willson has served as Vice President of Clinical and Regulatory Affairs for the Missouri Hospital Association (MHA) since 2016. In that role, she provided clinical and regulatory guidance to over 140 hospitals across the state, serving as a key expert on licensing, survey processes and compliance for acute care, critical access, long-term care, rehabilitation, and psychiatric facilities. She also collaborated with lawmakers to develop healthcare legislation at both the state and federal levels.

Prior to MHA, Willson held leadership roles with Compassus Hospice and Palliative Care, where she oversaw operations in multiple states, and at Capital Region Medical Center, directing patient care services across several departments. Her work has focused on advancing quality care, developing efficiencies, and improving outcomes for patients.

Willson earned her Master of Business Administration in health management from William Woods University and a Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of Missouri-Columbia. She is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and has been recognized with several awards throughout her career.

North Central Missouri College Closed on Monday, January 20 

North Central Missouri College will be closed on Monday, January 20 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This closing includes all buildings and offices at all sites and locations, and no classes will be held. The Ketcham Community Center will have alternative hours on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m.

NCMC and the Ketcham Center will reopen on Tuesday, January 21 for regular hours of business.


Driver Examination Stations To Close Statewide In Observance Of Martin Luther King Jr. Day 


The Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to remind the public that all driver examination stations throughout the state will be closed on the following date:
Monday, January 20, 2025, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, January 21, 2025. 


Honoring Officer Molly Bowden: 20-year anniversary and Red Cross blood drive in her memory



The community is invited to donate blood at the annual Officer Molly Bowden Memorial Blood Drive honoring her memory. Together with the collective emergency services of Boone County, the American Red Cross will be hosting this blood drive on Friday, January 17 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at Grace Bible Church, 601 Blue Ridge Rd., Columbia, MO 65202.

It has been 20 years since Officer Bowden made the ultimate sacrifice yet her memory lives on. On the night of January 10, 2005, she sustained fatal injuries during a routine traffic stop. Following a courageous month-long battle, she succumbed to her injuries on February 10, marking the first line-of-duty loss for the Columbia Police Department.

 

She was more than a police officer. She was a daughter, a sister, an aunt, and a friend who loved to be outdoors, either on horseback or out on the water, and loved to make her friends and family smile.

 

As a special thank-you for honoring Officer Bowden’s memory, those who present to donate will receive an exclusive Red Cross Battle of the Badges t-shirt, while supplies last. 

  










 




 




 

    


 




 





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January 15, 2025 

Moberly Police Department News 

On January 9, 2025, at approximately 9:30 pm Moberly SWAT and the
Randolph County Sheriff’s Department Tactical Team, executed a search
warrant in the 700 Block on Monroe Ave. As a result of the search warrant, a 50-year-old Moberly woman was arrested for Unlawful Possession of A Firearm and later posted the required bond. A probable cause statement was submitted to the Randolph County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review. 

Mike Kehoe Sworn In as 58th Governor of Missouri 

On Monday, at a ceremony at the Missouri State Capitol, Mike Kehoe was sworn in as the 58th Governor of Missouri, marking a new chapter of leadership for the state. 

Building on his distinguished record of public service, successful business career, and an unwavering commitment to Missouri’s communities, Governor Kehoe vowed to honor the state’s rich legacy while forging an ambitious path toward a brighter future. With a focus on public safety, education, economic development, and agriculture, he outlined his administration’s goal to tackle the most pressing challenges and seize the opportunities for growth. 

“My life—growing up in the inner city, moving to a small town, building businesses, operating a ranch—these experiences have taught me one thing: Missourian’s are more alike than we are different,” said Governor Kehoe. "It will take each of us, working together, to secure an even safer, stronger, and more prosperous Missouri.”

Governor Kehoe was sworn in by former U.S. Senator Roy Blunt, using a Bible that belonged to his mother, Lorriane Kehoe. 

Lieutenant Governor David Wasinger, Secretary of State Denny Hoskins, State Treasurer Vivek Malek, and Attorney General Andrew Bailey were also sworn in during Monday's inauguration ceremony. Oaths were administered by the following individuals:

Following a performance of the National Anthem by St. Louis Metropolitan Police Officer Eva Millar-Galván, the Most Reverend W. Shawn McKnight, Bishop of Jefferson City, gave the invocation. The swearing-in of state elected officials was followed by a 19-gun salute and flyover of military aircraft. Musical selections were performed by the 135th Army Band. The event concluded with a benediction offered by Reverend John Miles, Senior Pastor at Morning Star Baptist Church in Kansas City.

Governor Kehoe Signs Six Executive Orders, Launches Safer Missouri Initiative 

On Monday, as his first official act in office, Governor Mike Kehoe took decisive action to prioritize public safety by signing six executive orders and officially launching his comprehensive Safer Missouri public safety initiative. 

Developed in close collaboration with law enforcement partners and representatives across all levels of law enforcement within the state, the Safer Missouri plan sets the stage for immediate and impactful action. The measures introduced today represent the first steps in a comprehensive, multi-phase plan that focuses on reducing crime, supporting law enforcement, and fostering community partnerships to achieve lasting change.

Further steps requiring General Assembly action are slated for implementation in the coming weeks, with additional details to be unveiled during Governor Kehoe’s 2025 State of the State address. 

"By standing with the brave officers who protect us every day and implementing strategic, forward-thinking measures, we are working to make Missouri a safer place to live, work and raise a family," said Governor Kehoe. "In the coming weeks, months, and years, my administration will be relentless in our pursuit to make Missouri a place where it’s easier to be a cop than a criminal."

Governor Kehoe was joined by Attorney General Andrew Bailey, Acting Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety Mark James, and leaders from statewide law enforcement associations, including the Missouri State Fraternal Order of Police, Missouri State Troopers Association, Missouri Police Chiefs Association, and the Missouri Sheriffs Association.

"I applaud Governor Kehoe for taking action less than an hour after being sworn into office," said Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey. "Today is a bold move toward restoring law and order, backing Missouri law enforcement as they protect our families, and reaffirming our commitment to obtaining justice for victims."

"Governor Kehoe’s actions reflect his unwavering resolve to enhance safety and security in Missouri," said Mark James, Acting Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety. "These executive orders will equip law enforcement with much-needed resources and support to effectively address crime."

Exercising his constitutional authority, Governor Kehoe enacted the following measures:

Executive Order 25-02 establishes "Operation Relentless Pursuit", a regional anti-crime effort that emphasizes intelligence-led policing and cross-jurisdiction collaboration in order to collectively pursue and apprehend dangerous fugitives. The strategies employed in this enforcement initiative will include:

Executive Order 25-03 launches the Blue Shield Program to recognize local governments for their dedication to effective law enforcement and community safety. A Blue Shield designation highlights initiatives that enhance public safety, strengthen support for law enforcement and build lasting partnerships with the community. Issuance of the Blue Shield designation enables law enforcement agencies to access specific state grant opportunities.

Executive Order 25-04 establishes a 287(g) designation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to allow state and local law enforcement to assist in enforcing immigration laws. The executive order directs the Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS) designate specific MSHP troopers to undergo immigration enforcement training with an emphasis on preventing illegal immigration, apprehending criminal offenders, and interdicting drug trafficking activities as an integral part of their regular responsibilities within Missouri.

Executive Order 25-05 charges DPS and MSHP with the collection of immigration status within the statewide uniform crime data reporting system for those charged with crimes in Missouri. 

Executive Order 25-06 tasks DPS with modifying the Patrol’s salary schedule by reducing the time of service required to reach the top salary tier from 15 years of service to 12 years of service.

Executive Order 25-07 directs the Department of Corrections and Parole to assemble a working group comprised of stakeholders to assess the existing rules with regard to the eligibility of offenders for parole, conduct of parole hearings and the conditions to imposed on paroled offenders. Once the group’s recommendations have been received, the Board will present amended rules to the governor’s office by October 1, 2025. The current rules, as set by Section 217.690.4 RSMo., have not been amended since 2017. By enhancing guidelines and processes through formal rulemaking, Missouri can continue to refine its approach to offender management while reducing criminal relapses.

 

Additionally, in order to enhance communication and strengthen the relationships between law enforcement agencies and the governor's office,  Governor Kehoe also took administrative action to establish a designated staff member in his office as the contact for law enforcement agencies and issues. This liaison will serve as the intermediary between field operations and state resources available to assist in law enforcement efforts.


 


 




 



 

 





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January 14, 2025

Man seriously injured in Pike County accident

A Bowling Green man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 7am Monday in Pike County.  The patrol says that he was on US 61 when his vehicle traveled off the west side of the roadway, he overcorrected, causing it to cross the center of the road, before running off the east side and struck an embankment and rolled over.  He was transported by Air Evac to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries. 

Director Nickelson Announces Retirement, Culminating 25 years of Public Service

On Monday, Governor Mike Parson announced that Director Paula F. Nickelson will retire effective March 1, 2025, from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS). Her retirement brings a distinguished 25-year career at DHSS to a close. She will continue to serve as director of DHSS under Governor Mike Kehoe’s leadership until retirement.

Director Nickelson ushered in major change at DHSS by leading the department through significant innovations and achievements during her tenure. Within one year of assuming the role, she announced the end of the COVID-19 pandemic in Missouri by transitioning the state’s response to an endemic state. Nickelson was also responsible for seeing through the department’s rebranding efforts, launching a new strategic plan, mission, and vision, and hiring multiple key leadership roles never before available, including the state’s first chief medical officer, chief health information officer, health economist, health policy analyst, and workforce director. Under her leadership the State Board of Health and Senior Services was re-established, the department achieved re-accreditation through the Public Health Accreditation Board, and the state’s first multi-agency laboratory campus began construction.

A priority area for Director Nickelson was rebuilding trust and relationships with the public, state and federal lawmakers, local public health agencies and Missouri’s health care stakeholder groups. By working alongside the Missouri legislature, Nickelson was able to secure significant policy changes that will improve the state’s health care landscape for years to come. This includes beginning to address the state’s health care workforce shortages with the publication of the first-ever public health and health care workforce recommendation report and establishment of a state strategy to increase physician residency slots, increasing state funding to Missouri’s historically-underfunded local public health agencies, and initiating a maternal mortality prevention plan.

Nickelson assured key data and technology efforts propelled the department into readiness for the coming decade. This work was inclusive of a comprehensive state data landscape assessment, and the implementation of new systems for vital records, infectious disease surveillance and multiple inspection efforts. She also focused on the adoption of a new model for public health in Missouri, which describes foundational programs and capabilities that must be available to every Missouri resident and in every community to assure the best opportunity for health.   

Director Nickelson was elected to represent Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska on the national stage as the Region VII director for the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials, and most recently to serve that organization as Secretary-Treasurer. She was a frequent presenter at a wide variety of national and international organizations on diverse issues impacting public health.

Director Nickelson has led DHSS since March 2022 when she was appointed by Governor Parson. Prior to serving as director, Nickelson held a variety of positions at DHSS and specialized in public health and health care management, emergency planning and response, chronic disease prevention, and maternal-child health.

Attend MDC Waterfowl Workshops to give input on upcoming seasons

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites waterfowl hunters to a series of public workshops around the state to gather hunter input about duck season dates and zone boundary locations for the 2026-2030 seasons.

Participants will have the opportunity to review long-term waterfowl data about weather, migration, habitat use, harvest, and hunter opinions, and discuss their season date and zone preferences with other hunters and MDC staff. MDC will use hunter input gathered through the workshops combined with hunter opinion surveys to establish Missouri’s 2026-2030 duck season dates and zones.

The 2025 workshops will be held from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Registration is not required. Call the related phone number for more information.

For more information, visit the MDC website at https://huntfish.mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/waterfowl/waterfowl-reports-prospects/duck-zones-and-season-dates


 


 



 
 

 
 

 





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January 13, 2025 

Three injured, one seriously in Monroe County accident 

Three people were injured, one seriously in an accident that occurred at around 5:30pm Saturday in Monroe County. The patrol says that a car driven by a teenage girl from Monroe City was on US 24 at MO 15 when she pulled into the path of an SUV driven by a Madison woman and the SUV struck the car. The woman was transported by ambulance to University Hospital with serious injuries, while the girl and her passenger a teen boy from Paris sustained minor injuries and were taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital and Moberly Regional Hospital for treatment respectively. 

Driver seriously injured in early Friday morning crash 

A Troy driver was seriously injured in an early Friday morning crash in Pike County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 5:15am as he was on Highway 161 when he passed a vehicle and lost control on the snow covered roadway and his car was struck in the passenger side rear by a truck traveling northbound being driven by a Bowling Green man who was unable to stop on the snow covered road. The Troy man was taken to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis with serious injuries. 



Planned Roadwork for Northeast Missouri

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Scotland County

U.S. Route 136 – January 13 - 14, LANE RESTRICTION for brush cutting operations from CR 552 to CR 519 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Missouri Route 15 - January 15 – 16, LANE RESTRICTION for brush cutting operations from CR 512 to Route M between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Shelby County

Route M – January 13 – 17, LANE RESTRICTION for culvert railing repair from 0.50 mile before and after Mesner Branch near CR 135 between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.


 

  


  


 





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January 10, 2025 


Commission Awards Contract for Project in Northeast District

During its regular meeting on January 8, the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission awarded a resurfacing contract in the Northeast District.

A $6.3M contract was awarded to Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc., for a resurfacing project on the eastbound and westbound lanes of Interstate 70, from 1.4 miles east of Route F in Montgomery County to east of Route MM in Warrenton.

Additional information, regarding timelines and traffic impacts will be released prior to the start of construction.


Join the Fight Against Human Trafficking in Missouri

January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, with the national awareness day on Saturday Jan. 11. The month is dedicated to educating the traveling public on human trafficking, what to look for, and what everyone can do to help stop it.

Missouri is a transportation hub for the central United States, with large amounts of freight moving across the state’s highways every day. Common places like rest stops, gas stations, convenience stores and hotels are prime spots for the practice of human trafficking. According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, there were 249 human trafficking cases identified in Missouri in 2023, involving 356 victims. Nationally, these numbers jump to nearly 10,000 cases identified nearly 17,000 victims.

In 2018, MoDOT leadership signed the Transportation Leaders Against Human Trafficking pledge joining efforts with other transportation leaders across the country. Through this pledge, MoDOT committed itself to providing specialized training to employees on how to identify the common indicators of human trafficking and what to do when trafficking is suspected in Missouri.

Some of the warning signs of potential trafficking situation include signs of physical abuse, branding tattoos, wearing clothing inappropriate for the weather or location, not being in possession of their money or identification, body language indicating discomfort, lack of eye contact with anyone except their trafficker, or not being allowed to speak for themself.

If you suspect someone is being forced to engage in any activity from which they can’t leave—whether it is commercial sex, housework, farm work or other activity—call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text BeFree (233733). Information is available online at humantraffickinghotline.org. Please save the National Human Trafficking Hotline number as a contact in your cellphone: 1-888-373-7888. If someone is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.

For more information about MoDOT’s efforts to “Put the Brakes on Human Trafficking,” go to modot.org/fighthumantrafficking.


Ameren Missouri launches multiyear cost saving programs for customers

Ameren Missouri will continue providing customers with opportunities to save money and energy after the Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC) recently approved the company’s revised multiyear energy efficiency and demand response plan, under the Missouri Energy Efficiency Investment Act (MEEIA).

The energy company’s portfolio includes the continuation of familiar programs for residential customers, including Peak Time Savings, instant discounts on smart thermostats and the Pay As You Save (PAYS®) home energy assessment. Business customers can also continue taking advantage of its demand response program and business energy savings program, BizSavers®.

Additional programs available through Ameren Missouri include:

The Single-Family Income-Eligible program, which provides a comprehensive package of whole-home upgrades and aims to achieve >10% energy reduction per home.

The PSC-approved programs advance Ameren Missouri’s ongoing investment in energy and cost saving opportunities on customer’s bills and have historically helped customers save more than $2.9 billion on their energy bills over the lifetime of their energy-efficient upgrades. The programs include:

$75 million in total rebates and incentives for residential and business customers.

The plan and programs are the result of a proposal originally filed with the PSC in 2023 and later amended in 2024. To determine your eligibility and enroll in current energy efficiency programs, visit AmerenMissouri.com/EnergyEfficiency.














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January 9, 2025

MDC reports 10,071 deer taken during alternative methods portion
Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows
deer hunters in Missouri harvested 10,071 deer during the alternative methods
portion of firearms deer season, Dec. 28 – Jan. 7. Of the 10,071 deer harvested,
2,765 were antlered bucks, 1,072 were button bucks, and 6,234 were does.
Top harvest counties were Franklin with 223 deer harvested, Pike with 209, and
Macon with 207.
The harvest total for last year’s alternative methods portion was 12,496.
For current ongoing preliminary harvest totals by season, county, and type of
deer, visit the MDC website at  extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/ .
For harvest summaries from past years, visit  mdc.mo.gov/hunting-
trapping/species/deer/deer-reports/deer-harvest-summaries .
Deer hunting continues with archery season running through Jan. 15.

Deadline is Feb. 28 for nominations for Missouri Public Safety Medals
honoring heroic first responders and civilians
The Department of Public Safety is accepting nominations for the State of
Missouri’s highest awards honoring first responders who took heroic actions
beyond the call of duty in 2024. The awards are the Red, White and Blue Heart
Award, Missouri Medal of Valor, and Governor’s Medal
. DPS is also
accepting nominations from Missouri public safety agencies for the Public
Safety Civilian Partnership Award
. The awards will be presented during a
ceremony in Jefferson City in late 2025.
The deadline for public safety agency leaders to nominate members of their
organizations for any of the Public Safety Medals for actions performed in
2024 is Feb. 28, 2025
. Nominations must come from the leader of the public
safety agency. Nomination forms and additional information about the awards,
including who is eligible to make a nomination, is available at:
https://dps.mo.gov/medal/ . There is a different nomination form for each award.
For the purposes of these awards, a public safety officer is defined as a person
serving a public agency, with or without compensation, as a firefighter, law
enforcement officer, or emergency personnel or emergency management
personnel
. The term "law enforcement officer" includes a person who is a
state or local corrections or court officer. EMS personnel are eligible.

Missouri Veterans Commission Launches Electronic Pre-Certification
Application for Burial

The Missouri Veterans Commission (MVC) has announced the launch of the new
electronic Pre-Certification Application for Burial. The new digital application
allows Veterans and their eligible dependents to electronically pre-certify for
burial benefits, submit documents, and receive real-time notifications on the
status of their application.
Veterans and their eligible dependents interested in burial in one of the five state
Veterans Cemeteries can access the Electronic Pre-Certification Application for
Burial by visiting the Missouri Citizens portal . Users will need to create an
account before completing the application. More information on burial eligibility
can be found at mvc.dps.mo.gov/cemeteries/ . Paper applications will still be
accepted, and Veterans Service Officers will continue to assist Veterans in need.
For more information about Missouri Veterans Commission programs, call 573-
751-3779 or visit  mvc.dps.mo.gov.

 


 

 





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January 8, 2025

Walsworth Announces Documation Acquisition
Walsworth, a family-owned printing company based in Marceline announced that
it acquired Documation on Jan. 1, 2025, bringing it into the Walsworth brand.
Documation will be renamed Walsworth – Eau Claire, and will be Walsworth’s
eighth facility, joining the company’s locations in Marceline, Brookfield and
Fulton, Missouri; Overland Park, Kansas; Saint Joseph, Michigan; and Ripon,
Wisconsin. 
Documation was founded in 1994, and for the last three decades, the company
has offered print on demand services, utilizing digital inkjet printing technology to
serve its customer base. Priding itself on its commitment to customer service,
Documation has been praised by its customers for its flexibility and ease of doing
business. These characteristics made it an ideal candidate to become part of
Walsworth. 
In addition to also being an excellent cultural fit, the Documation print facility will
expand Walsworth’s capability into on-demand digital printing to better meet
customer needs. This will allow the company to accommodate long and short
print runs while also providing the high-quality printing and customer service
Walsworth is known for.  
Over the past two decades, Walsworth has been steadily growing its market
share in key print segments. In 2010, the company purchased IPC in Saint
Joseph, Michigan, and in 2012, The Ovid Bell Press in Fulton, Missouri, was
acquired. 
Most recently, the company acquired its first Wisconsin printing facility with the
purchase of Ripon Printers in 2019. Walsworth has made significant investments
in people, capital and technology at each location and is seeing growth across all
locations. 
The printing facility in Eau Claire will remain open as usual but will be branded as
Walsworth – Eau Claire over the next several months.

Missouri 5th graders invited to participate in 42nd annual National Missing
Children’s Day Poster Contest
Missouri fifth graders can put their artistic skills to work, learn about staying safe,
and raise awareness of missing children through the National Missing
Children’s Day Poster Contest. The Department of Public Safety is inviting
Show-Me State fifth graders to participate in the annual poster contest, which
offers a chance at a trip to the nation’s capital. The national winner and his/her
parents and teacher will be invited to Washington, D.C. to participate in the 42nd
annual National Missing Children’s Day Ceremony on May 21, 2025.
Transportation and lodging will be provided.
One fifth grader from Missouri will be selected as the state winner. That student’s
poster will be submitted to the national competition. In addition, the state winner
will receive a national award certificate from the U.S Department of Justice, the
sponsor of the contest.
The Missouri winner will be notified in March 2025.
In 1983, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed May 25 as National Missing
Children’s Day. Missing Children’s Day is dedicated to encouraging parents,
guardians, caregivers, and others concerned with the well-being of children to
make child safety a priority. It serves as a reminder to continue our efforts to
reunite missing children with their families and an occasion to honor those
dedicated to this important cause.
To view previous artwork from the contest, visit https://ncjtc-
static.fvtc.edu/resources/RS02456528.pdf

Missouri Farm Bureau Insurance Included in America’s Best Insurance
Companies 2025 Ranking
 
Missouri Farm Bureau (MOFB) Insurance has been included in Forbes’
America’s Best Insurance Companies 2025 ranking. This award is presented in
collaboration with Statista, the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking
provider. The list was announced on September 24, 2024, and can be viewed on
Forbes.com. 
The America’s Best Insurance Companies 2025 ranking was determined based
on an independent survey of over 18,000 U.S. citizens across the nation.
Participants evaluated the insurance companies they have held within the last
three years on six different subdimensions: Advice, Customer Service,
Price/Performance, Transparency, Digital Services and Damage/Benefit Service. 
In addition, participants had to rate their insurance companies towards
satisfaction, loyalty and overall recommendation. The recommendations and
ratings were transformed into score values and aggregated towards a final score
across five insurance types: Auto, Homeowners, Renters, Permanent Life and
Term Life.






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January 3, 2025

MSHP Reports Zero Traffic Fatalities, Zero Drownings and Zero Boating
Fatalities Over New Year’s Holiday

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol,
provides the following preliminary statistics related to the New Year’s holiday:
Zero people died and 21 were injured in 44 traffic crashes during the 2025 New
Year’s holiday counting period, which began at 6 p.m. Tuesday, December 31,
2024, and ended at 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, January 1, 2025. There were 0
boating crashes and 0 drownings over the 2025 New Year’s holiday counting
period.
2025 New Year’s Holiday Traffic Statistics
Troopers investigated the following:
Traffic Crashes — 44
Traffic Crash Injuries — 21
Traffic Crash Fatalities — 0
DWI — 50

Governor Parson Releases Parson Administration Report
Governor Mike Parson has released Putting People First , a review of all the wins
and accomplishments achieved during the Parson Administration.
He said that January 13, 2025, marks his final day as Governor of the state of
Missouri. For more than six years, we’ve stood tall in the face of hardships while
achieving historic wins that will continue to move Missouri forward long after
we’re gone, and it can all be attributed to the strength, resiliency, kindness,
courage, and just plain old Missouri grit the people of this great state hold
Governor Parson said. These aren’t our wins. These are wins for you, your kids,
and your grandkids. For Teresa and me, it’s always been about the next
generations having the opportunity to achieve their American Dream.
Under the Parson Administration we: 
Added nearly 190,000 new jobs and more than $17 billion in business investment
to our economy,
Achieved the lowest unemployment ever recorded in our state’s history at 2.1
percent,
Cut taxes five times, including the single largest income tax cut in our state’s
history, reducing income tax burdens by over 20 percent, 
Cut through nearly 20 percent of regulations and red tape,
Secured funding for and broke ground on upgrading I-70 to six lanes,
Built over 1,000 bridges, repaired 50 percent of our entire highway system, and
made once-in-a-generation investments in our rural lettered roads, Fully funded the K-12 foundation formula every year,
Boosted starting teacher pay from $25,000 to $40,000 per year,
Made historic investments in career and technical education,
Added nearly 65,000 new apprentices, 
Increased higher education funding by nearly 30 percent,
Appointed more than 50 percent of the state's entire judiciary,
Maintained our AAA credit rating,
Paid our bills and left 50 percent less debt than when we started, and
Left $1.9 billion on the bottom line for future administrations,
Gov. Parson also said that The First Lady and I came to Jefferson City with our
heads held high, and we’ll be returning to the farm with our heads held high.
Because we’ve never forgotten where we came from, and every step of the way
we’ve simply done what we believed in our hearts was the right thing for all
Missourians. Words cannot express the sincere appreciation I have for this state
and our people. So, I simply say to the more than 6 million Missourians who I
have had the absolute privilege of serving, it has truly been the honor of my life to
be your 57th Governor of the great State of Missouri.

Truman State University and MDC partner to create conservation-inspired
artwork for the campus

Art students from Truman State University’s TRU 120 class partnered with
Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) Resource Forester, Yvette
Amerman, to combine conservation education and art creation on the university
campus.
MDC has worked with Truman State University on a rain garden over the course
of the last several years. Amerman reached out to the Assistant Professor of Art,
Danielle Yakle, to see if their students would be interested in creating mosaic
sculptures that would be placed in the existing rain garden. Each of the
sculptures were created by groups of 4 students, and they represent critters that
could realistically be in or near a rain garden.
Courtesy of the students in TRU 120 class, there are now sculptures of 3
different kinds of frogs, 1 snapping turtle, and 1 salamander. Next to each
sculpture, there are informational placards talking about conservation in Missouri.

 





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December 31, 2024

Bring In The New Year Safely!
Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol,
encourages everyone to make good decisions regarding their New Year’s
celebration. No one wants to start 2025 with a traffic crash or DWI arrest. During
the 2023 - 2024 New Year’s period, nine people were killed and 293 injured in
821 traffic crashes in Missouri.
The 2024 - 2025 New Year’s holiday counting period begins at 6 p.m. Tuesday,
December 31, 2024, and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, January 1, 2025.
If your plans to welcome the new year include alcohol, please designate a sober
driver or utilize a ride share service or taxi to ensure you arrive home safely. The
roadway is no place for a driver under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you kill
or injure someone, you’ll pay the price for the rest of your life.
If you plan to travel this New Year’s, remember to buckle up and make sure all
your passengers do the same. Remember: Missouri is now a hands-free state.
Pay attention, obey all traffic laws, and when in doubt, yield the right-of-way. Be
sure to use your turn signal to communicate your intentions. The posted speed
limit reflects the roadway's classification and is not a suggestion! Download the
MoDOT Traveler Information app to your smart phone, and check road
conditions before you travel. Missouri law states if you’re using your windshield
wipers, your headlights must be turned on.
The public is encouraged to call the Patrol's Emergency Assistance Number
(800) 525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone if they witness criminal activity or
experience an emergency. These emergency numbers are operational for both
highway and water emergencies. We're here to help.

Governor Parson Announces Mick Campbell as Acting Director of
Department of Commerce and Insurance

On Monday, Governor Mike Parson announced that Mick Campbell will take over
as the Acting Director of the Department of Commerce and Insurance (DCI)
effective January 1, 2025. He currently serves as the Commissioner of Finance
for DCI. 
Mr. Campbell has served as the Commissioner of Finance since being appointed
by Governor Parson in June 2023. He steps temporarily into the role previously
held by Director Chlora Lindley-Myers who announced her retirement effective
December 31.
Prior to his role as Commissioner of Finance, Mick had been serving as Acting
Commissioner since January 2022 and previously held the role of Deputy
Commissioner. He has been with the Division of Finance since 2004. A lifelong
Missouri resident and native of Mt. Vernon, he holds a Master of Business
Administration and Bachelor of Administrative Management from Missouri State
University.

MoDOT Announces Prequalified Teams for Third Improve I-70 Project
The Missouri Department of Transportation has received Statements of
Qualifications (SOQs) from teams interested in competing for the contract to
design and construct the third project of MoDOT’s statewide Improve I-70
Program . Improve I-70: Blue Springs to Odessa will add a third lane each
direction on Interstate 70 from just west of MO Route 7 in Blue Springs to just
east of Johnson Drive in Odessa. The project also includes interchange
improvements at MO 131 in Odessa.
Missouri’s FY2024 budget from the General Assembly signed into law by Gov.
Mike Parson provides $2.8 billion in General Revenue for the costs to build a
third lane of Interstate 70 across the state. The program will plan, design,
construct, reconstruct, rehabilitate, and add three lanes in each direction on
approximately 200 miles of I-70, from Blue Springs to Wentzville.
The pre-qualified teams are as follows:
Ames Construction
Ames Construction with designers Parsons Transportation Group
Capital - HDR
Capital Paving and Construction and Michels Road and Stone with designers
HDR Engineering and TranSystems
Improve 70 Alliance
Emery Sapp & Sons and Clarkson Construction with designers HNTB and
Bartlett and West
MasTec Design-Build Team
William Charles Construction Company, LLC and Koss Construction Company
with designers T.Y. Lin International and Horner and Shifrin
Radmacher-Ideker Joint Venture
Radmacher Brothers Excavating Inc. and Ideker with designers Wilson and
Company, Inc.

MoDOT will issue the Request for Proposals in January 2025 to these teams to
work through development of their Design-Build proposals for the project. The
department will work through the procurement process with these teams, who will
submit their proposal for the potential selection of the winning contract in spring
2025. Construction could start as early as summer 2025. There are still
opportunities for additional consultants and subcontracting firms to be added to
each team.
Design-Build is a project delivery method that combines both the design and
construction phases into one contract. The selected contract team completes the
design and construction in parallel instead of in succession, which saves time
and resources.

 






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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December 30, 2024

Planned Roadwork for Northeast Missouri
The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri
Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for
the next few weeks.
All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler
Information Map at  http://traveler.modot.org/map/ .
Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work.
There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the
work mentioned below.
Adair County
Missouri Route 149 – January 6 – 9, CLOSED for brush cutting operations from
Connelsville Road to Route D between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.
Lincoln County
Route D – December 30 & January 2 - 3, CLOSED for culvert replacement
operations from Turkey Creek Road to Route TT near Hawk Point between 8:00
a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.
Marion County
Route CC – January 7 – 10, CLOSED for brush cutting operations from Route K
to CR 209 near Hunnewell between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.
Montgomery County
I-70 South Outer Road (Tree Farm Road) – January 3, LANE RESTRICTION for
shoulder work from Route J at Danville to Route F at High Hill between 8:00 a.m. and
3:00 p.m.

MSHP Reports Three Traffic Fatalities Over Christmas; No Drownings or
Boating Fatalities

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol,
provides the following preliminary statistics related to the Christmas holiday
counting period:
Three people died in traffic crashes during the 30-hour counting period, which
began at 6 p.m. Tuesday, December 24, 2024, and ended at 11:59 p.m.
Wednesday, December 25, 2024.
2024 Christmas Holiday Traffic Statistics
Troopers investigated the following:

Traffic Crashes — 65
Traffic Crash Injuries — 38
Traffic Crash Fatalities — 3
DWI — 17
[Note: Last year during the 78-hour Christmas counting period, there were 1,034
traffic crashes statewide. In those crashes, three people were killed and another
346 were injured. During the 2023 Christmas holiday, troopers investigated 124
traffic crashes which included 2 fatalities and 71 injuries. Troopers arrested 81
people for driving while impaired during the 2023 counting period.]
There were no boating crashes or drownings over the 2024 Christmas holiday
counting period.

Colonel Eric T. Olson Announces His Retirement
Colonel Eric T. Olson, 24th superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol,
has announced he will retire effective February 1, 2025, after more than 34 years
of dedicated service.
He said that he appreciates the support and friendships he has made across the
state the last 34 years. The privilege to serve as a trooper has been a rewarding
and humbling experience. He also thanks his family as well for their unwavering
support throughout his career.
Olson was appointed to the Patrol on July 1, 1990, as a member of the 63rd
Recruit Class. Upon completing his training at the Patrol’s Law Enforcement
Academy, he was assigned to Troop H where he held the ranks of trooper,
corporal, and sergeant.
In 2004, Olson was promoted to lieutenant and assigned to Troop B
Headquarters in Macon, MO. In 2014, Olson was promoted to the rank of captain
and designated commanding officer of Troop A, Lee’s Summit. In 2015, he
transferred to the Division of Drug & Crime Control where he served as director.
Olson was promoted to major in 2017, where he served as commander of the
Criminal Investigation Bureau, General Headquarters, Jefferson City, MO. Olson
was promoted to lieutenant colonel March 9, 2017, and designated assistant
superintendent of the Patrol. On September 1, 2018, he assumed the role of
acting superintendent.
On March 5, 2019, Governor Michael L. Parson appointed Olson the 24th
superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. He was confirmed by the
Missouri Senate on March 14, 2019.
Colonel Olson grew up in Chillicothe, MO. He graduated from Chillicothe High
School in 1986. Olson earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from William
Jewell College in Liberty, MO, in 1990. He completed the FBI National Academy in Quantico, VA, in 2011 and attended the FBI National Executive Institute in 2023. Colonel Olson and his wife have two sons.

 





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December 24, 2024

Governor Parson Announces Three Judicial Appointments
Governor Mike Parson has announced judicial appointments to the 10th, 13th,
and 22nd Judicial Circuits.
Jennifer A. Richardson, of Monroe City, will be appointed as Associate Circuit
Judge for Marion County in the 10th Judicial Circuit.
Ms. Richardson is the District Defender for District 2 of the Missouri Public
Defender’s Office. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Juris Doctor
from the University of Missouri–Columbia. She will fill the vacancy created by the
election of the Honorable John J. Jackson as Circuit Judge.

Jayne A. Pearman, of Centralia, will be appointed as Associate Circuit Judge
for Boone County in the 13th Judicial Circuit.
Ms. Pearman owns Jayne A. Pearman LC. She holds a Bachelor of Science in
accounting and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri–Columbia. She will
fill the vacancy created by the election of the Honorable Stephanie Morrell as
Circuit Judge.

Michael R. Dauphin, of St. Louis, was appointed as Associate Circuit Judge
for the 22nd Judicial Circuit.
Mr. Dauphin is the Assessor of the City of St. Louis. He holds a Bachelor of
Science in political science from Missouri State University and a Juris Doctor
from St. Mary’s University. He will fill the vacancy created by the appointment of
the Honorable Heather J. Hays as Circuit Judge.

30 New Troopers Graduate From Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Law
Enforcement Academy
Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol,
announces that 30 troopers graduated from the Patrol’s Law Enforcement
Academy on Friday, December 20, 2024. The ceremony took place at 10 a.m. at
the Patrol Academy’s gymnasium. The 122nd Recruit Class reported to the
Academy on July 1, 2024. The new troopers will report to duty in their assigned
troops on January 6, 2025.
The Honorable Robin Ransom, Supreme Court of Missouri, administered the
Oath of Office to the new troopers. Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey
provided the keynote address and Colonel Olson also addressed the class. The
Troop F Color Guard presented the colors and the 135th Army Band, Missouri
Army National Guard, performed the national anthem. Chaplain Kevin Kappler,
US Missions, provided the invocation and benediction.
Four class awards were presented during the graduation ceremony. The recruits
accumulated points toward graduation in the categories of physical fitness,
firearms, and academics throughout their 25 weeks at the Academy. The person
with the highest number of points in each category earned the respective award.
The recruit with the highest number of points overall earned the Superintendent’s
Award. Trooper Kevin Francom accepted the Physical Fitness Award; Trooper
Corbin Dougherty accepted the Firearms Trophy; and Trooper Ryan Brown
accepted the Academics Award. Colonel Olson presented the Superintendent’s
Award to Trooper Corbin Dougherty.
The names, hometowns, and first assignments of members of the 122nd Recruit
Class are listed below:
Troop A
Trooper Louis T. Baggerly (Belton, MO) ─ Zone 7, Jackson County
Trooper Lance J. Estes (Warsaw, MO) ─ Zone 15, Henry County
Trooper Heisser A. Pujols Bido (Independence, MO) ─ Zone 14, Bates County
Trooper Kemp M. Stewart (Joplin, MO) ─ Zone 6, Jackson County
Trooper Reese E. Tayloe (Warrensburg, MO) ─ Zone 12, Johnson County
Troop B
Trooper Austen E. Harrison (Macon, MO) ─ Zone 2, Macon County
Troop C
Trooper Devin J. Bittick (Florissant, MO) ─ Zone 1, N. St. Louis County
Trooper WrayVauze L. Givens (Mexico, MO) ─ Zone 10, Franklin County
Trooper Adam C. Moran (Ste. Genevieve, MO) ─ Zone 13, Jefferson County
Troop D

Trooper Hunter R. Burks (Fordland, MO) ─ Zone 16, Hickory and Dallas Counties
Trooper Kyle R. Goddard (Republic, MO) ─ Zone 4, Stone and Taney Counties
Trooper Forrestt R. Jones (Hollister, MO) ─ Zone 4, Stone and Taney Counties
Trooper Jackson D. Lock (Nixa, MO) ─ Zone 1, Greene County
Trooper Jacob W. Nuttall (Bolivar, MO) ─ Zone 6, Lawrence and Dade Counties
Troop E
Trooper Ryan W. Brown (Doniphan, MO) ─ Zone 1, Butler and Ripley Counties
Trooper Cody A. Naramore (Delta, MO) ─ Zone 6, Mississippi/New Madrid/Scott
Counties
Troop F
Trooper Colton R. Cavanaugh (Kansas City, MO) ─ Zone 6, Morgan and
Moniteau Counties
Trooper Grant M. Garrett (Camdenton, MO) ─ Zone 11, Camden and Miller
Counties
Trooper Dean M. Hagenhoff (Westphalia, MO) ─ Zone 2, Cole and S. Callaway
Counties
Trooper Martha A. Minarik (Algonquin, IL) ─ Zone 1, Cole and S. Callaway
Counties
Trooper Brittney S. Romano (Patton, MO) ─ Zone 7, Cooper and Howard
Counties
Troop G
Trooper Corbin M. Dougherty (Van Buren, MO) ─ Zone 8, Carter and Reynolds
Counties
Trooper Johnny D. Healy (West Plains, MO) ─ Zone 6, S. Howell and Oregon
Counties
Trooper Dustin B. Howell (Thayer, MO) ─ Zone 7, S. Howell and Oregon
Counties
Trooper Michael J. Rudy (Thayer, MO) ─ Zone 8, Carter and Reynolds Counties
Troop H
Trooper Joshua D. Bedingfield (Magnolia, TX) ─ Zone 4,
Grundy/Mercer/Livingston Counties
Troop I
Trooper Collin A. Clinton (Rolla, MO) ─ Zone 2, Phelps and Maries Counties
Trooper Kevin L. Francom (Sandy, UT) ─ Zone 4, Pulaski and Maries Counties
Trooper Austin L. Gillispie (Bolivar, MO) ─ Zone 1, Phelps and Maries Counties
Trooper Canaan L. Park (Seymour, MO) ─ Zone 6, Pulaski and Maries Counties

Governor Parson Grants 16 Pardons, Approves Nine Commutations
Closing out the final pending clemency petitions of his administration, Governor
Mike Parson granted 16 pardons and approved nine commutations pursuant to
Article IV, Section 7 of the Constitution of the State of Missouri. Official
documents have been filed with the appropriate government agencies and have
been sent to the individuals. 
In addition to granting 16 pardons and nine commutations, Governor Parson
denied 23 clemency petitions. The Governor's Office now effectively holds zero
pending clemency petitions. When Governor Parson was sworn into office, he
inherited a clemency backlog of more than 3,500 and received hundreds more
since. In total, he has taken action on nearly 4,000 clemency petitions. Governor
Parson prioritized providing individuals an answer, whether approved or denied.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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December 23, 2024

Officer Involved Shooting In Lewis County
On Friday December 20 at approximately 2:54 p.m., the Lewis County Sheriff’s
Office requested assistance from the Missouri State Highway Patrol regarding a
barricaded subject at a residence in LaBelle.
The preliminary investigation revealed a female was allegedly assaulted and held
against her will at the residence by 33 year old Chadwick H. Kelly of Quincy,
Illinois. It was also determined that Kelly was wanted by Illinois authorities for a
felony probation warrant and reportedly armed with a gun. The female victim was
able to escape from the residence and had visible injuries.
Negotiators and Special Weapons and Tactical Teams (SWAT) from Troop F
(Jefferson City), and Troop C (Weldon Spring) responded to assist with the
incident. During the negotiations, Kelly fired numerous rounds from inside the
residence, toward officers. Kelly later ran from the residence armed with a gun
and members of the Patrol fired their weapons. The Lewis County Coroner
responded to the scene and pronounced Kelly deceased.
This investigation is ongoing by the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of
Drug and Crime Control.

Missouri State Director Kyle Wilkens Announces $11 Million for Rural High-
Speed Internet

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural U.S. Department of Agriculture
Rural Development Missouri State Director Kyle Wilkens congratulated the
Grand River Mutual Telephone Corporation for receiving funding that will be used
for high-speed internet projects in some of Missouri's most rural, remote, and
underserved communities.
This Rural Development ReConnect grant investment of $11,145,525 will deploy
a fiber-to-the-premises network to provide high-speed internet to hundreds of
individuals, several businesses, and nearly 140 farms in Daviess, Gentry, and
Harrison counties in Missouri.
To learn more about investment resources for rural areas,
visit www.rd.usda.gov or contact the nearest Missouri USDA Rural Development
office .

Be On Lookout For Stink Bugs In Soybean In 2025
Missouri soybean farmers should be on the lookout for several species of stink
bugs in 2025, says University of Missouri Extension state crops entomologist
Ivair Valmorbida.
According to a 2024 survey, green stink bug was the most prevalent in Missouri
soybean crops, accounting for a little more than 70% of the stink bugs. The one-
spotted stink bug and brown stink bug are also present in Missouri crops, and
they are similar in appearance. All overwinter as adults and emerge in the spring
when temperatures and day length increase.
Stink bugs damage crops with their piercing mouthparts. They feed on blooms,
pods and developing seeds within the pods. They can cause significant yield
losses and reduce seed quality.
They vary in size and shape, but they are generally described as having shield-
shaped bodies. Adult green stink bugs are usually light green. Eggs are barrel-
shaped, change from light green to yellow and are usually found on the
underside of the leaves.
Stink bugs move from field edges, and numbers increase during soybean
reproductive growth stages. Females lay their eggs in masses; after hatching,
young nymphs remain in the same area during their first instars. By fourth and
fifth instars and adult stages, they move throughout soybean fields.
Valmorbida says insecticide application is warranted only when numbers and
damage exceed thresholds. Based on sweep net samples, the threshold for grain
soybean is 0.4 bugs per sweep (40 in 100 sweeps); for seed beans, it is 0.2 bugs
per sweep (20 in 100 sweeps).
Valmorbida recommends weekly scouting when soybean begin to bloom. Some
guidelines:
• Break large fields into units of 40-50 acres. Consider soil type, history of pest
incidence and previous crop.
• Assess the whole field by walking in a U, X or W pattern. Avoid good or bad
spots in the field that may not be representative of the overall field.
• Start sampling at a different location each time you scout.
• Avoid sampling only at field edges.
• If you find an infested area, try to determine whether it is isolated or
widespread.
MU’s Pest Monitoring Network offers free text alerts to notify farmers when
insects are active in specific locations. To sign up, go to
https://ipm.missouri.edu/pestmonitoring or email ipm@missouri.edu .

 





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December 20, 2024

Traffic Shifts to New Frenchman Bluff Road in Troy
Weather permitting, Friday, contractor crews will permanently close the access at
the existing Frenchman Bluff Road at Missouri Route 47 in Troy, east of the MO
47/U.S. 61 interchange. All traffic will begin using the new Frenchman Bluff
Road, located just east of the current location.
Motorists can expect short delays while a signalized one-lane section is
completed on the southbound lane of Frenchman Bluff Road. This work is
weather permitting.
The 10-foot lane restriction on MO 47, from North Lincoln Drive to East Cherry
Street, will continue to remain in place.
The entire area of the interchange will be an active work zone over the next year.
The $15.4M contract was awarded this summer to KCI Construction Company of
St. Louis. The project is scheduled to be completed by the Fall of 2025.

Missouri students invited to participate in No MOre Trash! contest
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 2025 “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 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
14. Contest rules, entry forms, release forms, logos, past winners and
educational information can be found at modot.org/trash-can-contest .

TG Missouri to Expand in Perryville with Nearly $100 Million Investment
Following Trade Mission to Japan
TG Missouri, a division of Toyoda Gosei, has announced that it will expand in
Perryville, investing approximately $97 million over the next three years. The
announcement comes following Governor Mike Parson’s Trade Mission to Japan
last year. The company’s expansion includes a commitment to maintain at least
1,600 full-time jobs, with benefits, in Perryville.
TG Missouri’s expansion will install new equipment, allow for further automation,
and provide new business for its Perryville facility, which serves as TG North
America’s main location. TG Missouri has been in operation since 1987 and
produces automotive parts such as steering wheels, airbags, and plastic trim
components. The company’s customer base extends across the United States
and into Canada, Japan, Australia, Mexico, and Taiwan.
Governor Parson's Trade Missions have resulted in nearly 2,000 new jobs and
over $3 billion in business investment for the State of Missouri.  





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December 19, 2024

Driver Examination Stations To Close Statewide For Upcoming Holidays
The Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to remind the public that driver
examination stations throughout the state will be closed on the following dates:
Tuesday, December 24, 2024, at 12 p.m. and Wednesday, December 25, 2024,
in observance of Christmas. Normal operations will resume on Thursday,
December 26, 2024.
Wednesday, January 1, 2025, in observance of New Year’s Day. Normal
operations will resume on Thursday, January 2, 2025.

Governor Parson Announces Department of Social Services Director
Knodell to Step Down for New Opportunity in January

Governor Mike Parson has announced that Department of Social Services (DSS)
Director Robert Knodell will step down at the conclusion of Governor Parson's
term in office on January 13, 2025. After serving three years as DSS Director,
Knodell has accepted the opportunity to be the City Manager of Poplar Bluff,
Missouri, his hometown. 
Since his appointment by Governor Parson in 2021, Director Knodell has made
significant strides in empowering Missourians to lead safe, healthy, and
productive lives.
He has focused on advocating for workforce compensation, collaborating closely
with the Parson Administration and the General Assembly to secure historic pay
raises for team members, increase shift differentials for those working evening
and overnight shifts, and implement innovative workplace solutions.
Additionally, he has successfully expedited crucial technology updates and
departmental projects, aiming to replace outdated systems to manage workloads
more efficiently and enhance services for over two million Missourians.

Missouri's Electoral College Members Cast Votes for President-Elect
Donald Trump

On Tuesday, Missouri's Electoral College Members met in the Missouri State
Capitol to cast their votes for President and Vice President of the United States.
Each of Missouri's ten electors cast their votes unanimously for President-elect
Donald Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance. 
Prior to the meeting, Governor Parson signed the Certificates of Ascertainment
certifying an abstract of votes cast during the General Election certified to him
from each county in the state of Missouri and certifying that each of Missouri’s
electors received votes qualifying them to vote in the Electoral College. These certificates were signed on December 9, attested to by the Secretary of State,
and transmitted to the Archivist of the United States.
The meeting of the Electoral College was conducted in all 50 states and the
District of Columbia. Missouri's members of the Electoral College met in a public
meeting in the Senate Lounge at the Missouri State Capitol to cast their votes.
The meeting officially began at 2:00 p.m. and was presided over by Office of
Administration Commissioner Ken Zellers. Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft
announced the official vote. Members of the media and public were also in
attendance.

November 2024 Monthly Jobs Report
Missouri nonfarm payroll employment increased by 1,200 jobs in November
2024, and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased by one-tenth of
a percentage point. Private industry employment decreased by 1,500 jobs and
government employment increased by 2,700 jobs. Over the year, there was an
increase of 81,800 jobs from November 2023 to November 2024, and the
unemployment rate increased by four-tenths of a percentage point, from 3.3
percent in November 2023 to 3.7 percent in November 2024.





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December 18, 2024

GOV. PARSON ANNOUNCES $5 MILLION IN GRANTS APPROVED FOR 13
MISSOURI COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
On Monday, Governor Mike Parson announced $5 million in grant funding has
been approved for 13 Missouri colleges and universities to continue enhancing
nursing education programs statewide.
These 13 competitive grants totaling $5 million were part of a special
appropriation to the Missouri State Board of Nursing that was recommended and
approved by Governor Parson.
The approved grants include:
$343,000 to Bolivar Technical College 
$115,533 to Mineral Area Community College
$719,135 to Missouri Baptist University
$347,252 to Missouri Southern State University
$359,000 to Missouri State University - West Plains
$286,438 to Missouri Valley College  
$630,000 to Rockhurst University - Kansas City
$150,000 to State Fair Community College
$621,975 to Stephens College
$424,500 to St. Charles Community College
$334,117 to St. Louis University
$150,000 to University of Missouri - Kansas City
$519,050 to University of Missouri - St. Louis

The awarded grant funds will allow nursing programs to increase faculty salaries,
develop future faculty through scholarships and nursing educator programs, and
invest in clinical simulation technology and equipment. New technology will allow
nursing students to practice, refine and replicate complex clinical procedures.

MSHP: HAVE A SAFE CHRISTMAS SEASON
The Missouri State Highway Patrol wishes everyone a merry and safe Christmas.
One way for it to be merry is for everyone to arrive at their holiday celebrations
safely. Wear your seat belt, obey all traffic laws, pay attention and please, don’t
drive impaired. Remember: Missouri is now a hands-free state.
Over the 2023 Christmas holiday, there were 1,034 traffic crashes statewide. In
those crashes, three people were killed and another 346 were injured. Last year,
the 78-hour counting period began at 6 p.m. Friday, December 22, 2023, and
ended at 11:59 p.m. Monday, December 25, 2023. The 2024 counting period begins at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, December 24, and ends at 11:59 p.m. Wednesday,
December 25, 2024.
Travelers are reminded that holiday drivers will affect traffic patterns. If you’re
planning a trip during the holiday, please keep this in mind. Drivers are
encouraged to make sure they are well rested, no matter how short their driving
distance. Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. Downloading the
MoDOT Traveler Information app to your smart phone allows you to check road
conditions before you travel. Be proactive: Make sure your vehicle is in good
condition and allow enough time to reach your destination safely. Winterize your
vehicle before bad weather arrives, but realize that sometimes, it’s safest to stay
home.
If faced with a traffic emergency, motorists can contact the Missouri State
Highway Patrol at 1-800-525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone. This emergency
number will ring into the nearest Highway Patrol headquarters. Motorists should
use this number if they are in a traffic crash, witness a crash or crime, or pass a
stranded motorist in need of assistance, etc.
Troopers encourage motorists to protect themselves from all types of hazardous
drivers by making sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained in a seat
belt or child restraint. Please obey all traffic laws, and if alcohol is part of your
holiday, designate a sober driver. Every driver can help make our roadways safer
this holiday season.  

MDC SETS DEER AND TURKEY HUNTING DATES FOR 2025-2026
SEASONS
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) recently set turkey and deer
hunting dates for the 2025-2026 seasons. The hunting dates were approved by
the Missouri Conservation Commission at its Dec. 13 open meeting at the MDC
St. Louis Regional Office in St. Charles.
The Commission also gave initial approval to recommendations related to
chronic wasting disease (CWD) that would rescind the intrastate carcass
transportation regulations for deer and other cervids (members of the deer
family) and that would establish carcass-disposal requirements for deer and
other cervids harvested in Missouri.
2025 Spring and Fall Turkey Hunting Dates
Spring Youth Portion: April 12-13
Regular Spring Turkey Season: April 21 through May 11
Fall Archery Turkey Portion: Sept. 15 through Nov. 14 and Nov. 26 through Jan.
15, 2026
Fall Firearms Turkey Portion: Oct. 1-31 (in open counties)
2025-2026 Archery Deer Hunting Dates
Sept. 15 through Nov. 14 and Nov. 26 through Jan. 15, 2026
2025-2026 Firearms Deer Hunting Dates
Firearms Early Antlerless Portion: Oct. 10-12 (in open counties)  

Firearms Early Youth Portion: Nov. 1-2
Firearms November Portion: Nov. 15-25
Firearms CWD Portion: Nov. 26-30 (in open counties)
Firearms Late Youth Portion: Nov. 28-30
Firearms Late Antlerless Portion: Dec. 6-14 (in open counties)
Firearms Alternative Methods Portion: Dec. 27-Jan. 6, 2026
Recommendations for changes to firearms antlerless permit numbers, CWD
mandatory sampling, conservation area regulations, managed hunts, and other
proposals will be submitted to the Commission for consideration this spring.
Detailed information on the upcoming seasons and portions will be included in
the MDC 2025 Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information booklet and
the MDC 2025 Fall Deer & Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information booklet,
available closer to the seasons. The booklets will be available where permits are
sold and online at mdc.mo.gov .
Recommendations on deer carcass movement and disposal
The Commission gave initial approval for rescinding the intrastate deer carcass
transportation regulations that prohibit high-risk parts of hunter-harvested deer
and other cervids from being moved from CWD Management Zone counties
unless being delivered to a licensed meat processor, licensed taxidermist, or
CWD sampling station.
In their place, the Commission gave initial approval to establishing statewide
requirements for disposal of carcasses of deer and other cervids harvested in
Missouri. MDC recommended allowing hunters who harvest deer in any county in
Missouri to be able to transport the carcass, including all parts, to any final
destination in the state for processing as long as unused parts are disposed of in
a landfill, through a trash service, or on the property where the animal was
harvested. Hunters would be required to report their deer through Telecheck
before any parts are transported out of the county of harvest.
According to MDC, these changes were recommended to slow the spread of
CWD, minimize regulatory complexity, and reduce the burden on hunters to
comply with regulations.
MDC did not recommend changes to the carcass transportation regulations for
cervids harvested outside of Missouri. These regulations prohibit the
transportation of high-risk cervid parts into Missouri, from cervids harvested out
of state, except that hunters may import cervid heads with cape attached if
delivered to a licensed taxidermist within 48 hours of entering Missouri.
MDC will take public comments on the regulation changes from Feb. 19
through March 20, 2025, at mdc.mo.gov/about-regulations/wildlife-code-
missouri/proposed-regulation-changes .
MDC will then compile comments received and share them with the Commission
prior to the April 4 open meeting when the Commission will give final
consideration to the regulation changes. If approved, the changes would become
effective June 30, 2025.





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December 17, 2024

SCHROETER NAMED NEW MODOT DEPUTY DIRECTOR AND CHIEF
ENGINEER

Eric Schroeter has been named the new deputy director / chief engineer for the
Missouri Department of Transportation. This position serves as the senior
registered professional engineer responsible for preparation and approval of all
engineering documents, plans and specifications with oversight of the delivery of
projects from planning through design and construction. The position also
oversees the operations and maintenance work for the department.
Schroeter holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering and is a
Registered Professional Engineer. He has worked for MoDOT for 32 years
including the past six years as the Assistant Chief Engineer.  Through his career,
he has served in a variety of positions, including construction, operations, and
design at both the district and central office management levels. He was interim
district engineer in the Central District prior to becoming state design engineer in
2013. Schroeter replaces Ed Hassinger who was promoted from the position to
the MoDOT Director in November 2024.

MDC REPORTS 14,607 DEER HARVESTED DURING LATE ANTLERNESS
PORTION

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows
deer hunters harvested 14,607 deer during the late antlerless portion of firearms
deer season, Dec. 7-15. Top harvest counties were Pike with 477 deer
harvested, Callaway with 391, and Lincoln with 382.
This year’s harvest total was down from last year’s late antlerless portion harvest
total of 18,916 and slightly (4%) below the previous five-year average.
For current ongoing preliminary harvest totals by season, county, and type of
deer, visit the MDC website at extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/ .
For harvest summaries from past years, visit mdc.mo.gov/hunting-
trapping/species/deer/deer-reports/deer-harvest-summaries .
Archery deer hunting continues through Jan. 15, 2025. The alternative methods
portion will run Dec. 28 through Jan. 7, 2025.

GOV. PARSON SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDER 24-16 CLOSING STATE
OFFICES AT NOON ON CHRISTMAS EVE

Governor Mike Parson recently signed Executive Order 24-16 closing state
offices at 12 p.m. on Tuesday, December 24, 2024.
The statement that Governor Parson provided to all Missouri state team
members is copied below: 
Today, we signed Executive Order 24-16 closing state offices on Tuesday,
December 24, 2024, at 12 p.m. As we prepare to leave office and spend more
time with our own family and friends, we understand the importance and joy for
all of you in doing the same during the Christmas Season. We know you've heard
us say it before but family, friends, and the next generations are truly what it's all
about.
With Christmas falling in the middle of the week this year, we hope that closing
state offices early allows you an opportunity to spend a little more quality time
with those closest to you as we celebrate the holiday. 
Additionally, as this may likely be our final message directly to you, our state
team, we want to again express our sincerest appreciation to each and every one
of you for your service to our state and the people of our state. More than six
million Missourians are better off thanks to public servants like you having their
backs day in and day out. 

For us, serving as your Governor and First Lady has been the honor of our lives,
and it's in no small part thanks to the exceptional work you do. We hope that you
will always take the time to remember the good in your lives and reflect on all that
you do in service to our fellow Missourians. 
May you and your families have a safe and joyful Christmas and receive many
blessings in the coming year. Whether as your Governor and First Lady or as
private citizens, we will continue to pray for the safety, health, and happiness of
you and your families.
From our family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Governor Mike Parson & First Lady Teresa Parson

 





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
_____________________________________________________

              ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom 






December 16, 2024

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI
The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri
Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for
the next few weeks.
All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler
Information Map at  http://traveler.modot.org/map/ .
Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work.
There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the
work mentioned below.
Lincoln County
Missouri Route 47 - December 16, LANE RESTRICTION for culvert replacement
operations from Cherokee Lane to Route W between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Missouri Route 47 - December 17, LANE RESTRICTION for drainage work from
0.08 mile west of Oak Bend Drive to West Horseshoe Bend Drive, west of Route
W, between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. 
Missouri Route 47 - December 20, LANE RESTRICTION for drainage work from
Giles Road to Route AA between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. 
Route D – December 23, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from
Providence Lane to Turkey Creek Road near Hawk Point between 8:00 a.m. and
3:00 p.m.
Route KK – December 18 – 19, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations
from U.S. Route 61 South Outer Road to Keithley Road near Old Alexandria
between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.
Marion County
Interstate 72 (Eastbound) – December 16 – 20, a continuous LANE
RESTRICTION will be in place for bridge maintenance operations from one mile
before to the end of the bridge over the Mississippi River at Hannibal, beginning
at 8:00 a.m. Monday, December 16 through 1:00 p.m. Friday, December 20. A
14-foot width restriction will be in place during this time.
Monroe County
Route AA – December 19, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR
980 to CR 959 near Madison between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Montgomery County
Missouri Route 19 – December 23, LANE RESTRICTION for shoulder work
operations from the Audrain County line near Wellsville to Missouri Route 94
near McKittrick between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

RED CROSS OFFERS DECORATING SAFETY STEPS TO AVOID A HOME
FIRE DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON

The holidays are a wonderful time to get everyone together. Unfortunately, they
can also mean a greater risk of a fire in someone’s home. This holiday season,
the American Red Cross of Central and Northern Missouri encourages everyone
to follow simple steps to prevent home fires from holiday decorations.
 
HOLIDAY DECORATING SAFETY TIPS Follow these safety tips and visit
redcross.org/fire for more information. You can also download the free Red
Cross Emergency app by searching “American Red Cross” in app stores.
 
If you must use candles, keep them away from anything that could burn, and
place them out of reach of pets and children. Never leave burning candles
unattended.
Check all holiday light cords to ensure they aren’t frayed or broken. Don’t
string too many strands of lights together — no more than three per extension
cord.
Ensure outside decorations are for outdoor use and fasten lights securely to
your home or trees. If using hooks or nails outside, make sure they are insulated
to avoid an electrocution or fire hazard.
If buying an artificial tree, look for a fire-resistant label. When putting it up,
keep it away from fireplaces, radiators and other sources of heat. Never use
electric lights on metallic trees.
If getting a live tree, make sure it’s fresh and keep it watered. To test if the
tree is fresh, bend the needles up and down to make sure no needles fall off.
Don’t light the fireplace if hanging stockings or other decorations on the
mantel.
 
Install smoke alarms on every level of the home and outside each sleeping area.
Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year. If you
cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one,
the Red Cross may be able to help. Contact your local Red Cross for help.
 
HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN SAVE LIVES Since October 2014, the Red Cross
Home Fire Campaign, working with community partners, has saved at least
2,246 lives by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape
plans and installing free smoke alarms in high-risk areas across the country. To
learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, visit
redcross.org/homefires .

GOV. PARSON ANNOUNCES DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND
INSURANCE DIRECTOR CHLORA LINDLEY-MYERS TO RETIRE

Governor Mike Parson has announced that Chlora Lindley-Myers will retire as
Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance (DCI) Director on December
31, 2024.
Director Lindley-Myers was appointed Director of the Missouri Department of
Insurance, Financial Institutions, and Professional Registration on March 6, 2017,
and was confirmed by the Missouri Senate on April 13, 2017. She continued to
serve in this leadership role during Governor Parson's administration. In August
2019, the department's name was changed to the Department of Commerce and
Insurance, following the addition of the Public Service Commission and the Office
of the Public Counsel to the existing insurance, finance, credit unions, and
professional registration divisions.
Lindley-Myers chaired the Missouri Health Insurance Innovation Task Force,
created by Executive Order 19-03 and issued by Governor Parson, which was
charged with identifying innovative concepts to improve access to affordable
insurance options and access to health care services within the state while
reducing the state's uninsured rates, with a particular emphasis on increasing
access to health care in rural areas of the state. 
Under her direction, DCI received reaccreditation twice, the most recent with
distinction, earning high praise from the accreditation body for exemplary work
and confidence that regulations are being implemented effectively to promote a
strong and stable insurance market and a confident consumer environment.
During her tenure, Missouri consumers also saw record amounts returned to
them from their insurance companies through mediation work on complaints and
the DCI's efforts to ensure insurer's compliance with state insurance laws.
Director Lindley-Myers has served as an insurance regulator for four decades.
While director of DCI, she was elected the first Black woman to preside as the
National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) president.

 





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
________________________________________________________________

             … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom


December 13, 2024

NIGHTTIME LANE RESTRICTIONS SCHEDULED ON US 61 AND I-70
Weather permitting, the week of December 16, contractor crews with S & A
Equipment and Builders, LLC will begin concrete pavement repair work on the
northbound and southbound lanes of U.S. Route 61 in Lincoln County, from the
St. Charles County line to Watson Road, near the south end of Route KK.
Weather permitting, once completed, operations will shift to the eastbound and
westbound lanes of Interstate 70 in Montgomery and Warren counties from the
Callaway County line to the St. Charles County line, between mile marker 165
and mile marker 203.
All work will occur during nighttime hours between 7pm and 6am. Motorists can
expect possible delays as traffic will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width
restriction in place where workers are present.
All work is weather dependent, and schedules are subject to change.

MDC ENCOURAGES PUBLIC TO USE CAUTION AMIDST SUSPECTED
AVIAN INFLUENZA OUTBREAK

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is monitoring reports of sick
and dead waterfowl, such as geese and ducks, across the state. The Department
is actively collecting birds to determine the cause of illness but suspects highly
pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) to be the cause. Other states, including
Kansas and Iowa, are experiencing similar occurrences.
Avian influenza, commonly referred to as bird flu, spreads as birds along the
North American flyways intermingle with infected birds from Europe and Asia.
The viruses are transmitted from bird to bird through fecal droppings, saliva, and
nasal discharges. There is a risk for spillover from wild birds into domestic poultry
and then back again from poultry to wild birds, resulting in further spread.
Though HPAI does not present an immediate public health concern, MDC
recommends the following:
Do not touch dead geese, waterfowl, or other bird species.
Report any sightings of dead geese to MDC online at
http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4KD
Ensure that pets do not come into contact with dead animals to help prevent the
spread of disease.
If you have inadvertently come into contact with a dead goose, wash your hands
thoroughly and contact a healthcare professional if you experience any unusual
symptoms.
Due to ongoing waterfowl hunting seasons, waterfowl hunters should dress game
birds in the field whenever possible or at a location away from poultry or other birds. Hunters should also properly dispose of harvest waste by placing the
remains in trash bags and disposing of them through trash collection or a
permitted landfill. Bald eagles and other raptors are particularly susceptible to
avian influenza. This simple action could help prevent bald eagle and other raptor
mortalities.
Hunters should also be aware it is possible to transport avian influenza viruses
on boats, waders, or other equipment, especially if it isn’t dry before moving it
from one site to another. Allowing hunting equipment to dry between outings will
reduce this chance.
Avian influenza does not present an immediate public health concern, though on
rare occasions it has infected humans and other animals. It is safe to eat poultry
and wild game as normal cooking temperatures are hot enough to kill the virus if
present. Meat should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees
Fahrenheit.
More information can be found on the Missouri Department of Agriculture website
at https://agriculture.mo.gov/avian-influenza.php .

MISSOURI CORN SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS NOW AVAILABLE
The Missouri Corn Growers Association and Missouri Corn Merchandising
Council are continuing the longstanding tradition of awarding seven deserving
students $1,000 scholarships in 2025. Applications for the Missouri Corn
Scholarship Program are now available online for high school seniors and
college juniors pursuing a degree in agriculture.
 
Applications for the 2025 Missouri Corn Scholarships are available at
www.mocorn.org under the Resources tab.  New this year, all applications must
be submitted online. To be eligible, students must submit an application, official
high school or college transcript, and at least one letter of recommendation by
Feb. 14, 2025.
 
High school senior applicants must be Missouri residents from a Missouri farm or
rural area. They must plan to attend a two- or four-year college or university and
major in an agriculture-related field. The scholarship funds will apply toward the
freshman year of college expenses for high school winners.
 
College applicants must also be Missouri residents from a Missouri farm or rural
area and currently a junior enrolled in a four-year college or university majoring in
an agriculture-related field. The scholarship funds will apply toward the senior
year of expenses for college winners.
 
The Missouri Corn Scholarship Committee will review the applications, and
recipients will be notified by mail on or before April 15, 2025. To learn more about
Missouri Corn programs, visit www.mocorn.org .

 

 





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
_____________________________________________________

             ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom
 

December 12, 2024 

TEENS INJURED IN EARLY WEDNESDAY MORNING ACCIDENT
Two teens were injured in an accident that occurred at 1am Wednesday in Ralls County.  The patrol says that the teen driver from New London was on Camp Creek Lane when his car traveled off the left side of the roadway and struck a tree.  Both the boy and his passenger a girl from Hannibal were taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

THREE HURT IN TUESDAY AFTERNOON CRASH
Three people were hurt in a Tuesday afternoon crash in Saline County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 4:40pm as a truck driven by a Moberly man was stopped for traffic on MO 240 at Route M when it was struck in the rear by a jeep driven by a Glasgow teen.  Both drivers and a passenger in the teenage girl's jeep a baby boy also from Glasgow sustained minor injuries.  All three were taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY HELD FOR NEW ROCHEPORT BRIDGE
New eastbound bridge to open to traffic by end of year
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held Tuesday, Dec. 10, to celebrate the new
Lance Corporal Leon Deraps I-70 Missouri River Bridge at Rocheport. Governor
Parson, Lieutenant Governor Kehoe, other state and local elected officials, local
community leaders, and family members of the fallen Marine for whom the bridge
is named attended the event on the nearly complete new eastbound I-70 bridge.
Members of the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission and the
Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) were joined by the bridge
contractor, Lunda Construction, and its subcontracts, to celebrate this milestone.
The old steel truss bridge, completed in 1960, carried two lanes of I-70 traffic in
each direction. The new twin bridges will each carry three lanes of traffic, linking
the multiple projects in the Improve I-70 program, which will expand the interstate
to three lanes across the state. More than 37,000 vehicles including 8,800
commercial vehicles use this Missouri River bridge crossing each day.
Construction on this $220 million project began in early 2022 and is on time to
have eastbound traffic shifted to the new bridge in December 2024. Funding for
the project came from several sources including the city of Boonville, the city of
Columbia, Boone County, Cooper County and an $81.2 million INFRA grant,
secured with assistance from Missouri U.S. Congressman Sam Graves.
Motorists are advised to continue to watch out for ongoing construction work on
the bridge. Eastbound I-70 traffic should be moved over to the new bridge later
this month. Construction will continue with all the final work through late spring
2025. For more information on the project, visit www.modot.org/RocheportBridge.

 






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
_________________________________________________________

              ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom  




December 10, 2024
 
GOVERNOR PARSON ANNOUNCES 16 APPOINTMENTS TO VARIOUS
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS

Governor Mike Parson has announced 16 appointments to various boards and
commissions.
Ansur Adams, of Columbia, was appointed to the State Rehabilitation
Council
.
Mr. Adams currently serves as clinical supervisor and site director for
Powerhouse Community Development Corporation. He previously served as
director of youth development for COMO Youthworks. Mr. Adams holds a
Bachelor of Science in psychology from Springhill College and a Master of
Science in clinical mental health counseling from Walden University.
January Boyer, of Kansas City, was appointed to the State Rehabilitation
Council
.
Ms. Boyer currently serves as a vocational rehabilitation counselor for the
Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. She previously
served as support coordinator, intake and assessment specialist, and community
living coordinator for the Missouri Department of Mental Health. Ms. Boyer holds
a Bachelor of Social Work and a Master of Social Work from Park University.
Marsha Campe, of Camdenton, was appointed to the State Rehabilitation
Council
.
Ms. Campe currently serves as assistant director of effective practices for the
Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. She previously
served as a teacher for the Sedalia School District. Ms. Campe holds a Bachelor
of Science in deaf education K-12 and elementary education 1-6 from
MacMurray College and a Master of Arts in elementary administration from
William Woods University.
Daniel Cayou, of Columbia, was appointed to the State Rehabilitation Council.
Mr. Cayou currently serves as an attorney for Missouri Protection and Advocacy
Services. He previously served as an attorney for Kespohl, McCrary, and
Cornejo LLC. Mr. Cayou holds a Bachelor of Science in management and a Juris
Doctor from the University of Missouri-Columbia.
Dr. Chris Clause, of California, was appointed to the State Rehabilitation
Council
.
Dr. Clause currently serves as assistant commissioner for the Missouri
Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's Vocational Rehabilitation
program. He has been a licensed professional counselor since 2008. Dr. Clause
holds a Bachelor of Science in psychology from Indiana University, a Master of Science in psychology from the University of Central Missouri, and a Doctor of
Philosophy in public affairs from the University of Missouri-Columbia.
Claire Helmig, of Linn, was appointed to the State Rehabilitation Council
Ms. Helmig currently serves as a level I medication aide at Harbor Place. She
previously served as a dietary aide for General Baptist Nursing Home and as a
florist assistant for River City Florist. 
Robert “Bob” Hosutt, of Nixa, was appointed to the State Rehabilitation
Council
.
Mr. Hosutt currently serves as owner of Work Solutions LLC. He previously
served as regional senior manager for the Health and Medical Department at
Union Pacific Railroad. Mr. Hosutt holds a Bachelor of Education in rehabilitation
services from the University of Missouri-Columbia and a Master of Arts in
counseling psychology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Jennifer Keller, of Lee's Summit, was appointed to the State Board of
Psychologists

Ms. Keller currently serves as section chief of psychology and senior director of
behavioral health for University Health Behavioral Health Lakewood Counseling.
She is a licensed psychologist in both Missouri and Tennessee. Ms. Keller is a
member of the Missouri Psychological Association and the American
Psychological Association. She holds a Bachelor of Science in
psychology/sociology from Northwest Missouri State University and a Master of
Arts and Doctor of Psychology from Forest Institute of Professional Psychology. 
Paul Lenhart, of Crestwood, was appointed to the State Rehabilitation
Council
.  
Mr. Lenhart currently serves as a disability inclusion operations leader with Mercy
serving the greater St. Louis area. He previously served as direct support
coordinator and employment specialist for St. Louis Arc. Mr. Lenhart received the
2010 Big Picture Award for creating and implementing weekly education classes
for the St. Louis City Community Integration Site.
Scott Lindsey, of Cabool, was appointed to the Coroner Standards and
Training Commission

Mr. Lindsey currently serves as sheriff of Texas County. He previously served as
chief of police for the City of Licking. Mr. Lindsey has held a Peace Officer
Standards and Training (POST) license since 1997. He holds a Bachelor of
Science in criminal justice from Drury University.  
Dr. Maureen Clancy-May, of St. Louis, was appointed to the Southeast
Missouri State University Board of Governors

Dr. Clancy-May currently serves as state supervisor for the Missouri Department
of Elementary and Secondary Education’s Office of Quality Schools. She
previously served as superintendent of the Bayless School District. Dr. Clancy-
May holds a Ph.D. in education administration from Saint Louis University, a
Master of Science in education administration from the University of Missouri–St.
Louis, and a Bachelor of Science in teaching exceptional children from Southeast
Missouri State University.
Paul Ogier, of St. Louis, was appointed to the Health and Educational
Facilities Authority of the State of Missouri

Mr. Ogier currently serves as a board member of LeadingAge Missouri and as
treasurer of Nursing Facility Agency Corporation (NFAC). He previously served
as chief financial officer for Lutheran Senior Services in Brentwood. Mr. Ogier
holds a Bachelor of Science in finance from Missouri State University. 
Jill Patterson, of Springfield, was appointed to the Child Abuse Neglect and
Review Board

Ms. Patterson currently serves as senior attorney for Legal Services of Southern
Missouri. She previously served as development director for the Missouri Sports
Hall of Fame and as assistant prosecuting attorney for both Greene and Christian
Counties. Ms. Patterson holds a Bachelor of Arts from Washington University in
St. Louis and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri-Columbia
Susan Roemer, of Harrisburg, was appointed to the State Rehabilitation
Council

Ms. Roemer currently serves as executive director of Independent Living
Resource Center and as vice president of Missouri Centers for Independent
Living (MOCIL). She previously served as director of professional services for
MORE Group. Ms. Roemer is a certified workforce development professional. 
Dr. Josh Stilley, of Columbia, was appointed chair of the State Advisory
Council on Emergency Medical Services

Dr. Stilley currently serves as associate professor of emergency medicine at
University of Missouri Health Care. He previously served as clinical assistant
professor of emergency medicine at University of Iowa Health Care. Dr. Stilley is
state chapter vice president of the National Association of EMS Physicians. Dr.
Stilley holds Bachelors of Science in biology and economics from Iowa State
University and a Doctor of Medicine from the University of Missouri–Columbia.
Tim Tadlock, of Gallatin, was appointed to the State Rehabilitation Council
Mr. Tadlock currently serves as an insurance agent for State Farm Insurance
Agency. He previously served as president of the Gallatin Rotary Club. Mr.
Tadlock holds a Bachelor of Science in marketing and business management
and a Master of Business Administration from Northwest Missouri State
University.

MARK TWAIN CASINO IN LAGRANGE RAISES $1,430 FOR TOYS FOR
TOTS OF NORTHEAST MISSOURI

Mark Twain Casino, located in LaGrange is proud to announce the success of its
recent fundraising campaign benefiting Toys for Tots of Northeast Missouri.
Through a remarkable display of community support, Mark Twain Casino rallied
patrons to contribute to this noble cause, resulting in a grand total of $1,430
raised.
The fundraising initiative, led by Mark Twain Casino, invited guests to participate
in a match donation program, where every dollar donated in cash up to $100,
was matched by the casino in free play. Employees of Mark Twain Casino
generously donated many new, unwrapped toys that will bring joy to many little
faces in the community this holiday season.
The mission of the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to
collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to needy children in the
community in which the campaign is conducted. Toys for Tots of Northeast
Missouri serves 6 counties and has collected more than 7,700 toys this year for
their distribution. This will help over 550 families and more than 1,550 children in
the community.

APPLICATIONS FOR CREDENTIAL TRAINING PROGRAM OPEN JAN. 1,
2025

Missouri One Start, a division of the Department of Economic Development
(DED), has announced that the next application period for the Credential Training
Program opens on January 1. The Credential Training Program is a competitive
grant that helps employers offset the cost of short-term, industry-related
employee credentialing.
Applications for the program will be accepted throughout January. When an
employer is accepted for the program, a preliminary award letter will be issued to
them, and the employee will have 12 months from that date to earn their
credential. The business will be reimbursed once proof has been submitted to the
State, showing the worker successfully earned the credential.
Awards are limited to $30,000 per company per fiscal year, and there is a $6
million maximum program cap per fiscal year, subject to annual appropriation.
Moving forward, applications are to be accepted throughout one month each
quarter (January, April, July, and October).
For more info, email upskill@missourionestart.com .








LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
_________________________________________________________

              ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

December 9, 2024

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI
The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri
Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for
the next few weeks.
All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler
Information Map at  http://traveler.modot.org/map/ .
Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work.
There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the
work mentioned below.
Adair County
U.S. Route 63 (Northbound and Southbound) December 9, LANE
RESTRICTION for transmission line installation approximately 1.6 miles south of
U.S. Route 63 and Missouri Route 11 intersection between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00
p.m.
U.S. Business Route 63 (Southbound) - December 9, LANE RESTRICTION for
transmission line installation approximately 1.6 miles south of U.S. Route 63 and
Missouri Route 11 intersection between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Knox County
Missouri Route 156 – December 10 - 13, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge
maintenance from 0.50 mile before and after the
North River Bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. daily. An 11-foot width
restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.
Lincoln County
U.S. Route 61 (Northbound & Southbound) – December 10 – 11, LANE
RESTRICTION for core drilling operations from Missouri Route 47 to Route C
between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where
crews are actively working daily.
Route J – December 11 – 12, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from
Route U West to Zoar Church Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.
Route KK – December 9 – 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from
Jacks Road to Dodson Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.
Route KK – December 18 – 19, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations
from U.S. Route 61 South Outer Road to Keithley Road between 8:00 a.m. and
3:00 p.m. daily.
Macon County
Missouri Route 149 – December 9, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from
Concord Street to Danube Street between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
Marion County

U.S. Route 36 (Eastbound) – December 16 – 20, LANE RESTRICTION for
bridge maintenance from 1.0 mile before and after the Mississippi River Bridge
between 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where
crews are actively working daily.
Montgomery County
Missouri Route 19 – December 9, LANE RESTRICTION for culvert replacement
operations from the Pearl Street to Wilson Street in Montgomery City between
7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Ralls County
Missouri Route 154 – December 12, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations
from Route Y to Route P between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

GOV. PARSON UNVEILS OFFICIAL PORTRAIT, CUTS RIBBON ON NEW
HALL OF GOVERNORS EXHIBIT

On Friday, during a ceremony at the State Capitol, Governor Mike Parson and
First Lady Teresa Parson unveiled Governor Parson's official portrait,
commemorating his tenure as Missouri's 57th Governor. The unveiling of the
Governor's portrait coincided with the grand opening and ribbon cutting event for
the new Hall of Governors exhibit in the Missouri State Capitol.
"Serving as Missourians' Governor and First Lady has truly been the honor of our
lives, and we are excited to share this official portrait with the thousands of
visitors to our magnificent State Capitol Governor and First Lady Parson said.
The new Hall of Governors exhibit will be a great addition to the beautiful
artwork, historic exhibitions, and exceptional tributes to past Missouri leaders
already on display. This portrait may serve as the bookend to our public service
careers, but we will forever be humbled and count ourselves truly blessed to
have been entrusted by the people of Missouri to lead our great state, where the
promise of faith, family, and freedom lives on for generations to come." 
About the Hall of Governors
The new Hall of Governors exhibit is located on the first floor rotunda in the
Capitol and honors Missouri's 57 Governors and six territorial Governors and
showcases their respective official portraits, if they’ve been commissioned. Many
of these portraits were located in various parts of the Missouri State Museum
located on the first floor of the Capitol Building, but others had been stored in
state archives due to lack of space within the museum. Due to the passage of
time, many of the portraits and frames needed to be restored.
Approved by the Missouri Board of Public Buildings and supported by the
Missouri State Capitol Commission, this new Capitol gallery provides a
centralized location for these portraits and creates an interactive exhibit to
educate visitors on Missouri’s past and present Governors and the role of the
Executive Branch in Missouri’s state government. A nameplate QR code will be
placed next to each portrait to allow visitors to learn more about each Governor.
These portraits are permanently mounted to the stone walls in the hallways and
placed under glass with a name plate and mounting system installed. The new
gallery space also features a large video wall display utilizing chip-on-board LED

technology. This display showcases the sitting Governor and includes timely
content during his or her administration.
As part of the project, the Office of Administration (OA) has renovated the
North/South corridor hallways adjacent to the first floor rotunda to establish this
new gallery. Museum-grade recessed lighting was installed in the ceiling to
illuminate the portraits. The ceilings were also painted to reflect the stone finish
color that was originally displayed on the hallway ceilings in the Capitol. Capitol
guests will notice archway signage in the entry ways of the gallery to easily
identify the exhibit as the “Hall of Governors” and large-format signs will be
placed in the gallery to allow visitors to read more about the history of Missouri.

 





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
______________________________________________________

              ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 
December 6, 2024

CAM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES TO EXPAND IN GLASGOW, INVESTING
$925,000 AND CREATING 30 NEW JOBS

CAM Construction Services, a leader in custom cabinetry, has announced that it
will expand in Glasgow, investing $925,000 and creating 30 new jobs. The
company’s expansion includes the establishment of a new facility for Heritage
Wood Mills, its cabinet manufacturing division.
CAM Construction Services’ strategic move reflects the company’s commitment
to delivering high-quality, locally crafted cabinetry to homeowners, general
contractors, municipalities, and businesses across Missouri and surrounding
states. Heritage Wood Mills will produce a wide range of cabinetry options at the
new facility, from convenient online orders to fully customized designs.
Construction for CAM Construction Services’ new manufacturing facility is
currently underway with plans to open early next year. Cabinets will be
manufactured entirely in Missouri, ensuring quality, reliability, and a commitment
to supporting local craftsmanship without reliance on overseas suppliers.

COMMISSION AWARDS CONTRACT FOR PROJECTS IN NORTHEAST
DISTRICT

During its regular meeting on December 4, the Missouri Highways and
Transportation Commission awarded the following contract in the Northeast
District.
A $2M contract was awarded to E and C Bridge, LLC for bridge replacement
projects in Audrain and Montgomery counties at the following locations:
Route K - over Hickory Creek near Farber in Audrain County.
Route ZZ - over Little Loutre Creek near Wellsville in Montgomery County.
Additional information, regarding timelines and traffic impacts will be released
prior to the start of construction.

MDC REPORTS YOUNG HUNTERS HARVESTED 2,530 DEER DURING LATE
YOUTH PORTION

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows
young hunters ages 6-15 harvested 2,530 deer during Missouri’s late youth
portion of the 2024 firearms deer hunting season, Nov. 29 – Dec. 1. Of the 2,530
deer harvested, 1,046 were antlered bucks, 270 were button bucks, and 1,214
were does.
Top counties for the late youth portion were Pike with 58 deer harvested,
Harrison with 55, and Lincoln with 55. For more information on this season’s
harvest totals, visit the MDC website at extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/ .





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
_________________________________________________________

               ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom 

 

December 5, 2024

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MACON COUNTY ACCIDENT
A New Cambria woman was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at
around 7:15pm Tuesday in Macon County. The patrol says that she was on US
36 when her car struck a truck driven by a Brooklyn, NY man in the rear. She
was transported by helicopter to University Hospital in Columbia with serious
injuries.

TWO HURT IN TUESDAY MORNING MISHAP
Both drivers were hurt in a Tuesday morning mishap in Adair County. The
highway patrol said it happened at around 9:50am as both were on US 63 when
the SUV driven by a St. Peters man struck the rear of the garbage truck driven by
a Moberly man. Both were taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center for
treatment of minor to moderate injuries.

TEEN HURT IN WEDNESDAY MORNING COLLISION
A Cairo teen was hurt in a Wednesday morning collision in Randolph County.
MSHP stated that the boy was on County Road 1355 when his truck and also a
truck driven by a Cairo man crested a hill and collided. The teen was taken to
Moberly Regional Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries. The collision
happened at 8am Wednesday.

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS
On Monday at approximately 10:31am, the Mexico Public Safety Department
responded to the 300 block of Muldrow in reference to a business which had
been broken into during the previous overnight hours. Video and information
from alert citizens led to officers locating the suspect in the 700 block of W
Monroe around 5:42pm. Dakota L Fratzke, age 26, was processed at MPSD and
taken to the Audrain County Jail on a 24 hour hold for Burglary 2nd degree,
Stealing over $750, and Property Damage 2nd degree. MPSD is continuing to
investigate Fratzke’s involvement in some other burglaries and thefts.

 






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
_________________________________________________

               ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom
 

December 4, 2024

PATROL REPORTS FOUR FATALITIES, NO DROWNINGS, BOATING CRASHES OVER THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY
The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports four people died in traffic crashes during this year’s Thanksgiving holiday counting period--from 6 p.m. Wednesday, November 27, 2024, through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, December 1, 2024. There were no boating crashes or drownings.
During the Thanksgiving holiday counting period, troopers report the following traffic statistics for 2024 (preliminary):
Crashes ─ 362
Injuries ─ 120
Fatalities ─ 4
DWI Arrests ─ 106
[During the 2023 Thanksgiving holiday counting period, troopers investigated 431 traffic crashes, which included four fatalities and 138 injuries. Statewide, nine people died and 483 people were injured in 1,342 traffic crashes over last year’s Thanksgiving holiday. Troopers arrested 103 people for driving while intoxicated during the 2023 Thanksgiving holiday counting period.]
Troopers investigated all four of the traffic crash fatalities in 2024. One traffic fatality occurred in the Troop C, Weldon Spring, MO, area; One traffic fatality occurred in Troop D, Springfield, MO, area; One traffic fatality occurred in Troop G, Willow Springs, MO, area.; One traffic fatality occurred in Troop F, Jefferson City, MO, area
There were zero boating crashes, zero boating fatalities, zero drownings, and zero boating while intoxicated arrests reported during the 2024 Thanksgiving holiday counting period.

MDC REPORTS HUNTERS HARVESTED 11,424 DEER DURING CWD PORTION
Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows that hunters harvested 11,424 deer during the state’s chronic wasting disease (CWD) portion of the firearms deer-hunting season, Nov. 27 – Dec. 1, in CWD Management Zone counties. Of the 11,424 deer harvested, 3,917 were antlered bucks, 1,052 were button bucks, and 6,455 were does. MDC initiated the CWD portion last year to increase deer harvest in the CWD Management Zone to help slow the spread of the disease. For a list of CWD Management Zone counties, visit the MDC website at mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/deer/chronic-wasting-disease/cwd-management-zone-
regulations . 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.
Top counties for the CWD portion were Franklin with 413 deer harvested, Jefferson with 301, and Howell with 279. For more information on this season’s harvest totals, visit the MDC website at extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/ .

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS GEORGE KARLAFTIS DEDICATES “MY CAUSE MY CLEATS” TO SPECIAL OLYMPICS MISSOURI ATHLETES AND TREATS THEM TO CHIEFS VERSUS RAIDERS GAME
Over the past couple of months, Kansas City Chiefs Defensive End George Karlaftis III has been meeting with athletes from Special Olympics Missouri who helped him design his one-of-a-kind cleats for ‘My Cause, My Cleats.’ In October, George met the group of athletes from all over Missouri who would be designing his cleats. Together, they were able to come up with designs for the cleats, discussing aspects they liked, all while getting to know each other better.
Then, earlier this month, George invited the athletes on a special tour of
Arrowhead Stadium. At the conclusion of the tour, George met the athletes in the locker room to reveal the cleats with their designs. He then surprised the group with tickets to the My Cause My Cleats game versus the Raiders, where they were able to cheer the Chiefs on to victory from the stands.
“For me, just seeing these athletes and all the opportunities that they’ve been given to showcase what they got,” said George Karlaftis. “And to me, sports are the great unifier of this world, and to see the good that comes out of it. It’s just an awesome organization for me to be involved with.”





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
_________________________________________________

               ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom  




December 3, 2024

TEEN HURT IN LINN COUNTY ACCIDENT
A Brookfield teen was hurt in an accident that occurred at 11:25am Sunday in Linn County.  The patrol says that he was on Route M when his car traveled off the left side of the roadway and overturned.  The teen was taken to Pershing Memorial Hospital in Brookfield for treatment of minor injuries.

WOMAN HURT IN SUNDAY MORNING WRECK
A Columbia woman was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday morning in Boone County.  The highway patrol said it happened at around 11:20am as she was on Route W when she lost control on the snow covered road and her vehicle overturned, came to rest on its right side, blocking both lanes of the roadway.  She sustained minor injuries and was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

DRIVER HURT IN SUNDAY MORNING CRASH
A driver was hurt in a Sunday morning crash in Franklin County.  MSHP stated that a Union man was on 230 Sunset Bluffs Road when his truck went off the left side of the road, struck a boulder, before coming to rest in a private lake.  The man was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of minor injuries.  The crash happened at 8:55am Sunday.

WOMAN INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY INCIDENT
A Fenton woman was injured in an incident that occurred at 1:30am Sunday in Franklin County.  State troopers said that she was eastbound on I-44 when her car hit a patch of ice, causing it to slide off the right side of the roadway and struck several trees.  She was taken to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan for treatment of moderate injuries.



 


 


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
________________________________________________________________

             … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom


December 2, 2024

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI
The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri
Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for
the next few weeks.
All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler
Information Map at  http://traveler.modot.org/map/ .
Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work.
There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the
work mentioned below.
Adair County
U.S. Route 63 (Northbound and Southbound) December 2 – 9, LANE
RESTRICTION for transmission line installation approximately 1.6 miles south of
U.S. Route 63 and Missouri Route 11 intersection between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00
p.m. daily.
U.S. Business Route 63 (Southbound) - December 2 – 9, LANE RESTRICTION
for transmission line installation approximately 1.6 miles south of U.S. Route 63
and Missouri Route 11 intersection between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.
Knox County
Route A – December 3 – 5, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri
Route 6 to Missouri Route 156 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.
Lincoln County
U.S. Route 61 (Northbound) – December 3 – 4, LANE RESTRICTION for
patching operations from Timber Ridge Drive to U.S. Route 61 Outer Road
between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where
crews are actively working daily.
U.S. Route 61 (Northbound & Southbound) – December 10 – 11, LANE
RESTRICTION for core drilling operations from Missouri Route 47 to Route C
between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where
crews are actively working daily.
Route J – December 11 – 12, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from
Route U West to Zoar Church Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.
Route KK – December 9 – 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from
Jacks Road to Dodson Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.
Macon County
Missouri Route 149 – December 9, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from
Concord Street to Danube Street between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
Monroe County

Route C – December 3, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR
970 to Route C Spur between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Route M – December 4 – 5, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from
CR 881 to CR 835 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.
Montgomery County
Missouri Route 19 – December 6, LANE RESTRICTION for shoulder work
operations from the Audrain County line to Missouri Route 94 between 8:00 a.m.
and 2:00 p.m.
Randolph County
U.S. Route 24 (Westbound) – December 9 – 12, LANE RESTRICTION for
shoulder work from 0.10 mile west to 0.20 mile west of U.S. Route 63 beginning
at 7:00 a.m. on Monday, December 9th and continuing to 7:00 a.m. on Thursday,
December 12th.

MDC REPORTS 159,120 DEER HARVESTED DURING NOVEMBER PORTION
OF FIREARMS DEER SEASON

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows
that deer hunters in Missouri harvested 159,120 deer during the November
portion of firearms deer season, Nov. 16 - 26. Of the 159,120 deer harvested,
82,613 were antlered bucks, 13,203 were button bucks, and 63,304 were does.
Top harvest counties were Franklin with 3,530 deer harvested, Texas with 2,935,
and Howell with 2,741. For current ongoing preliminary harvest totals by season,
county, and type of deer, visit the MDC website at
extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/ .
This year’s harvest total was lower than last year’s November portion harvest
total of 193,885 deer and was about 15% below the five-year average. For more
harvest information from past years, visit mdc.mo.gov/hunting-
trapping/species/deer/deer-reports/deer-harvest-summaries .
According to MDC Cervid Program Supervisor Jason Isabelle, the drop in harvest
this year was due to a combination of factors.
“The November portion started about a week later this year due to the calendar
shift,” said Isabelle. “When this happens, we can expect a drop in harvest
because the November portion occurs further from the peak of the rut which is
about the tenth of November.”
Less than ideal hunting conditions throughout much of the November portion
were another factor that contributed to this year’s lower opening weekend
harvest total according to Isabelle.
“We had a few nice days sprinkled throughout the November portion, but there a
number of days with warm temperatures or high winds,” he said. “These
conditions likely affected deer movement and also hunters’ desire to be in the
woods.”
Another factor that Isabelle believes significantly affected this year’s harvest total
is a bumper acorn crop.
“Throughout much of Missouri, there are a lot of acorns in the woods this year,”
said Isabelle. “When that happens, deer don’t need to move as much to find food

and they frequent fields and other open areas less often because of the
abundance of food in the woods.”
He noted that the counties with the largest decline in harvest were in the more
heavily forested portions of the state where acorn abundance has a more
significant effect on deer movement.
“Many northern and western Missouri counties were either up from last year’s
harvest total or were down slightly,” said Isabelle. “As would be expected, with
the good acorn crop we have this year, harvest was down the most in the more
heavily forested Ozark counties.”

GOVERNOR AND FIRST LADY PARSON INVITE FAMILIES TO
CANDLELIGHT TOURS, ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY AT
GOVERNOR’S MANSION

Governor Mike Parson and First Lady Teresa Parson cordially invite families to
attend this year’s Candlelight Tours and annual tree lighting ceremony at the
Missouri Governor’s Mansion on Friday, December 6 at 5:30 p.m. The annual
lighting of the tree will be followed by this year’s Candlelight Tours. The
Candlelight Tours will run until 8:00 p.m. 
The Governor's Mansion Christmas tree will arrive on Monday, December 2,
2024, between 7 - 8 a.m. A portion of Madison Street will be closed during this
time. The tree that will be displayed on the Mansion lawn is a 40-ft Norway
Spruce donated by the family of Daryl and Sherry Richardson of Boone County. 
Missouri Department of Conservation staff and Missouri Office of Administration
staff will install the Mansion lawn tree.  
In addition to the Governor's Mansion, this year, the Governor's Gardens and the
Maus House will also be decorated. The Governor's Gardens will feature a 30-ft
Christmas tree, and Santa and Mrs. Claus will be hosted at the Maus House from
5:30 -7:30 p.m. on December 11th, 13th, 17th, and 19th. Families are
encouraged to bring their children to meet Santa Claus.
This year's theme is "A Christmas Hug: The Farewell to the Parson Family."
During the Candlelight Tours, visitors will be able to walk through the festively
decorated ground floor of the Governor's Mansion. 
The Candlelight Tours are free and open to the public. Visitors will enter through
the Madison Street gate.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
________________________________________________________________

              … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom


November 27, 2024

RED CROSS OFFERS STEPS TO HELP YOU AVOID A COOKING FIRE ON
THANKSGIVING

Thanksgiving and the day before are the top two days in this country for the chance of a
cooking fire to happen in someone’s home. Cooking causes an average of 158,400
home fires per year, which is 44% of all home fires in the United States. The American
Red Cross of Central and Northern Missouri offers safety steps everyone can follow if
they will be preparing their family’s Thanksgiving feast.
 
COOKING SAFETY TIPS Follow these safety tips and visit redcross.org/fire for more
information, including a fire escape plan to practice with your family.
 
 Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling or broiling food. If you must leave
the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
 Use a timer to remind yourself that the stove or oven is on.
 Avoid wearing loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
 Keep kids and pets at least three feet away from cooking areas.
 Keep anything that can catch on fire — potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils,
paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains — away from your
stove top and oven or any other appliance that generates heat.
 Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.
 Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen.
 Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving home to make sure all
stoves, ovens and small appliances are turned off.
 
Smoke alarms save lives. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your
home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors
closed. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a
year. If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install
one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Contact your local Red Cross for more
information.

DISCOVER NATURE WITH MDC THROUGH EAGLE DAYS

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.
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 .
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.
Here are some hot spots around the state 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 Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery southwest of Branson,
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.

 

 





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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             … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom


November 26, 2024

MODOT URGES EXTRA CAUTION FOR THANKSGIVING TRAVELERS

As Missourians plan to hit the road to spend Thanksgiving with loved ones, the
Missouri Department of Transportation is urging drivers to be cautious, patient
and use good judgment behind the wheel. Impaired driving, distracted driving,
excessive speeds, and increased traffic are just a few of the concerns that can
accompany holiday travel.
Motorists should expect heavy traffic volumes on interstates and major roads for
the holiday especially on the day before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after. All
work zones with extra lane closures will stop at noon on the day before
Thanksgiving through 6 a.m. the day after. Typically, construction contracts don’t
work through the entire holiday weekend. All motorists should buckle up
themselves and all passengers and the driver should put their phone down to
avoid distractions. 
The night before Thanksgiving, sometimes referred to as Blackout Wednesday,
has become a popular night for outings at bars, which can result in a potential
increase of impaired driving. Additionally, speed and distraction present
significant concerns, especially with increased traffic volumes over the holiday.
This year, MoDOT is hoping a combination of public awareness, enforcement,
and promotion of sober rides will be successful in eliminating traffic fatalities
during the holiday. With the number of statewide traffic fatalities being more than
800 for the year, MoDOT is urging motorists to be vigilant, buckle up, obey
posted speed limits and never drive impaired or distracted.

MDC THANKS DEER HUNTERS FOR HELP WITH CWD SAMPLING

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) thanks the thousands of deer
hunters who participated in its mandatory sampling efforts in 43 counties to test
for chronic wasting disease (CWD) in harvested deer. Thanks to hunter
participation, MDC collected tissue samples from more than 18,500 hunter-
harvested deer on Nov. 16 and 17 for CWD testing.
CWD sampling consists of MDC staff removing lymph nodes from the necks of
harvested deer for testing. Tissue samples are sent to an independent lab for
testing.
According to MDC, the opening weekend of the November portion of firearms
deer season is the most popular two days for most deer hunters in Missouri.
Hunters typically harvest between a quarter to a third of the state’s total annual
deer harvest during those two days. Focusing on this key weekend gives MDC the best opportunity to collect the most tissue samples for CWD testing during a
very concentrated time period.
MDC is also offering free voluntary CWD sampling and testing of harvested deer
during the remaining deer season at select locations throughout the state,
including some MDC offices and participating taxidermists and meat processors.
MDC also offers self-service freezer deer-head drop-off locations within the CWD
Management Zone for hunters to deposit harvested deer heads to have tested
for CWD. Instructions, packing supplies, and information tags are available at the
sites.
Get more information on voluntary sampling locations and drop-off locations
online at mdc.mo.gov/cwd .
Hunters can get their CWD test results for free online at mdc.mo.gov/cwdResults .
Results are available within four weeks from the time of sampling and the wait
time is often much less.

GOV. PARSON ANNOUNCES THREE JUDICIAL APPOINTMENTS

Governor Mike Parson recently announced judicial appointments to the 14th,
16th, and the 21st Judicial Circuits.

Garreth Cooksey, of Hannibal, will be appointed as Associate Circuit Judge
for Randolph County in the 14th Judicial Circuit.
Mr. Cooksey is an assistant prosecuting attorney in Marion County. He holds
Bachelors of Arts in English and business administration from Truman State
University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri–Columbia. He will
fill the vacancy created by retirement of the Honorable James M. Cooksey.

Patrick C. Edwards, of Kansas City, was appointed as Circuit Judge for the
16th Judicial Circuit.
Mr. Edwards is an Assistant United States Attorney in the United States
Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Missouri. He holds Bachelors of Arts
in political science and history from the University of Missouri–Columbia and a
Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri–Kansas City. He will fill the vacancy
created by the retirement of the Honorable Justine E. Del Muro.

Jason K. Lewis, of Wildwood, was appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for
the 21st Judicial Circuit.
Mr. Lewis is general counsel to Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey. He
holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration and a Juris Doctor from
Washington University in St. Louis. He will fill the vacancy created by the
appointment of the Honorable Lorne J. Baker as Circuit Judge.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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              … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom


November 22, 2024

NIGHTTIME LANE RESTRICTIONS SCHEDULED ON US ROUTE 61 AND I-70

Weather permitting, as early as November 26, contractor crews with S & A
Equipment and Builders, LLC will begin concrete pavement repair work on the
northbound and southbound lanes of U.S. Route 61 in Lincoln County, from the
St. Charles County line to Watson Road, near the south end of Route KK.
Weather permitting, once completed, operations will shift to the eastbound and
westbound lanes of Interstate 70 in Montgomery and Warren counties from the
Callaway County line to the St. Charles County line, between mile marker 165
and mile marker 203.
All work will occur during nighttime hours between 7:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
Motorists can expect possible delays as traffic will be reduced to one lane with a
12-foot width restriction in place where workers are present.
All work is weather dependent, and schedules are subject to change.

GENERAL MILLS TO EXPAND IN HANNIBAL, CREATING MORE THAN 35
NEW JOBS

General Mills, a leading global food manufacturer, announced Wednesday that it
will expand its manufacturing facility in Hannibal, creating more than 35 new jobs.
The company’s expansion includes the addition of an Old El Paso hard-shell taco
production line, increased square footage, and infrastructure improvements.
General Mills’ manufacturing facility in Hannibal produces food products across
multiple categories and brands, including Nature Valley, Betty Crocker, Old El
Paso, and Progresso. The company’s Hannibal location has been in operation
since 1972 and has undergone multiple expansions to now employ more than
1,000 people.
New jobs added as part of General Mills’ expansion will pay an average wage
well above the county average.

MSHP: THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY SAFETY

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol,
reminds everyone there will be an increase in traffic over the Thanksgiving
holiday. The Thanksgiving holiday is one of the busiest travel periods of the year,
with Wednesday and Sunday afternoon/evenings being the most heavily traveled
times. Drivers should expect more traffic and the possibility of delays throughout
the weekend. Regardless of traffic patterns, safety should remain a priority.
The counting period for the 2024 Thanksgiving holiday weekend is from 6 p.m.
Wednesday, November 27, 2024, to 11:59 p.m. Sunday, December 1, 2024.
Troopers will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E., enforcing all traffic laws, and
available to assist the public. Over the 2023 Thanksgiving holiday counting
period, nine people were killed and 4,823 injured in 1,342 traffic crashes.
If you plan to travel over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend be sure your vehicle
is in good condition, obey all traffic laws, and be sure everyone in your vehicle is
wearing a seat belt or secured in the appropriate child safety seat for their size
and age. Remember: Missouri is now a hands-free state and there is never a
reason to speed, drive aggressively, or drive impaired.
The MoDOT Traveler Information Map can be a helpful tool while you are
traveling. The map provides up-to-date information such as road closures,
delays, construction zones, and alternative routes. You can download the app for
free to your smart device or access it by using this link:
https://traveler.modot.org/map/index.html .
If being on or near the water is part of your Thanksgiving holiday weekend plans,
remember that the water is becoming colder, and hypothermia is a concern. The
body loses heat 25 times faster in water than in the air of the same temperature.
The proper use of life jackets is imperative.
The public is encouraged to call the Patrol's Emergency Report Line (800) 525-
5555 or *55 on your cellular phone if they witness criminal activity, observe
driving behavior that could cause a crash, or experience an emergency. These
phone numbers are operational for both highway and water emergencies. If your
celebration includes intoxicants, designate someone else to drive whether you
are in a boat or vehicle. Please don't become a statistic.

 

 





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

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                  … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

November 21, 2024

DRIVER HURT IN RANDOLPH COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Higbee woman was hurt in an accident that occurred at 12:40pm Wednesday in Randolph County.  The patrol says that she was on County Road 2210 when her car traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a tree.  She was taken to Moberly Regional Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries.

WOMAN INJURED IN TUESDAY NIGHT CRASH

A woman from Dallas, TX was injured in a Tuesday night crash in Saline County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 7:30pm as she was a passenger in a Tractor Trailer driven by a man also from Dallas.  They were eastbound on I-70 when it ran off the right side of the road and overturned.  The woman sustained minor injuries and was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

MDC AND PARTNERS ENCOURAGE LANDOWNERS TO ENROLL IN THE PRECISION FARM DATA RCPP BY NOV. 29

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and several other conservation partners encourage landowners to participate in the Precision Farm Data and Strategic Buffer Placement Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP).  The Precision Farm Data RCPP provides cost-share opportunities to producers to establish field borders, streambank buffers, or pollinator habitat on non-profitable cropland acre farms. In addition to the 75% cost-share for the establishment of practices, MDC and partners offer an additional one-time incentive payment of $300/acre for the establishment of pollinator-friendly field borders. Field borders must be an average of at least 45 feet wide to qualify for the additional incentive. Other available practices can assist with establishing native grasses, monarch habitat, wetland restoration and the management of existing wildlife habitat. The establishment of these converted areas will allow producers to maximize their profitability while improving water quality, soil health, and wildlife habitat.  Landowners in eligible counties are encouraged to apply at their local NRCS office by Nov. 29 to qualify for the program. The eligible counties are Linn, Macon, Chariton, Randolph, Saline, Pettis, and Lafayette. Questions about this program can be directed to your local Private Land Conservationist (PLC) or NRCS staff at your USDA Service Center. Find local PLC contact information at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4ok.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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             … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom


November 20, 2024

MDC REPORTS 68,312 DEER HARVESTED DURING FIREARMS OPENING
WEEKEND

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows
deer hunters in Missouri harvested 68,312 deer during opening weekend of the
November portion of firearms deer season Nov. 16 and 17. Of the 68,312 deer
harvested, 42,283 were antlered bucks, 5,105 were button bucks, and 20,924
were does.
Top harvest counties for opening weekend were Franklin with 1,627 deer
harvested, Texas with 1,305, and Pike with 1,161.
Last year, hunters checked 90,253 deer during opening weekend of the
November portion of firearms deer season.
According to MDC Cervid Program Supervisor Jason Isabelle, the drop in harvest
this year was due to a combination of factors.
“The calendar shift this year put the November portion a week later than last
year, which results in lower deer harvest,” said Isabelle. “The peak of the rut in
Missouri occurs around Nov. 10. When the calendar shifts, it puts the opener
about a week past peak rut when deer movement isn’t as high as it is earlier in
the month.”
Another factor that Isabelle believes significantly affected this year’s harvest total
is an abundant acorn crop.
“Throughout much of Missouri, there are a lot of acorns in the woods this year,”
said Isabelle. “When that happens, deer don’t need to move as much to find food
and they frequent fields and other open areas less often, making them less
visible to hunters.”
Isabelle noted that the counties with the largest decline in harvest were in the
more heavily forested portions of the state where acorn abundance has a more
significant effect on deer movement.
Warm temperatures were another factor that contributed to this year’s lower
opening weekend harvest total according to Isabelle.
“Although the warm temperatures this weekend made it comfortable for hunters
to be in the woods, it likely had an adverse effect on deer movement,” said
Isabelle.
Isabelle noted that the unseasonably mild temperatures probably also affected
the desire of some hunters to harvest deer given the necessity for rapid
processing.
For current, ongoing preliminary harvest totals by season, county, and type of
deer, visit the MDC website at extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/ .

NATIONAL CRASH RESPONDER SAFETY WEEK IS THIS WEEK
The Missouri Department of Transportation’s highway workers are part of a
larger group of emergency responders who put their lives on the line on
Missouri’s highways responding to crash scenes. Alongside police officers, fire
fighters, EMS, and tow truck operators, they respond to traffic incidents, assist
drivers, and help keep traffic flowing.
According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), traffic incidents are
the leading cause of death for EMS responders and law enforcement officers. To
remind motorists what’s on the line, the FHWA has declared the week of Nov.
18-22 as National Crash Responder Safety Week. 
Missouri’s Move Over law requires drivers to either change lanes or slow down
when approaching stationary MoDOT, law enforcement or other emergency
vehicles with flashing lights on. To help protect those who protect us, all 50
states enforce some form of the Move Over law. 
In 2023, more than 136,000 traffic crashes were reported on Missouri roadways
that required emergency response. MoDOT emergency response personnel
respond to more than 6,000 traffic incidents each month on average. 
Crash Responder Safety Week provides a valuable chance to remind drivers
about Missouri's Move Over law, educate them on crash prevention, and promote
critical training for all traffic incident responders.

GIVE NATURE-THEMED HOLIDAY GIFTS FROM MDC
Have nature lovers on your holiday gift list? The Missouri Department of
Conservation’s (MDC) online Nature Shop makes holiday shopping a breeze for
anyone interested in nature-themed gifts. Offerings include the ever-popular
Natural Events Calendar, plus a variety of books and more for all ages.
Holiday shoppers can also skip retail stores and visit one of the MDC nature
centers around the state in Kirkwood, Cape Girardeau, Springfield, Kansas City,
Blue Springs, and Jefferson City for an array of reasonably priced, nature-
themed holiday gifts. Find MDC nature centers at mdc.mo.gov/discover-
nature/places/nature-centers .
MDC holiday gift offerings include:
2025 Natural Events Calendar ($9) -- This annual favorite has amazing images
of native animals, plants, and places, along with phases of the moon, holidays
and days of recognition, daily notes about natural events, and more.
Coneflower Nature Journal ($8) – It includes simple tips to get started drawing
or writing about nature. It is spiral-bound with plenty of blank pages.
Cooking Wild in Missouri ($16) – This favorite cookbook features more than
100 recipes for native game, fish, fruits, nuts, and mushrooms.
Strange but True ($8.95) -- This fun offering was adapted from the pages of
MDC’s Xplor magazine and features 350 weird and wild facts and illustrations
about creatures that inhabit Missouri.
A Paddlers Guide to Missouri ($9) – This newly revised edition makes a great
gift for canoeists, kayakers, and floaters with color photos, maps, and
descriptions of 54 rivers and streams. The 102-page, spiral-bound guide includes
trip planning tips, equipment recommendations, paddling pointers, and more.

Owl and Nuthatches Notecard Sets ($8) – This is great for gift giving. Each set
includes 12 cards of either a barred owl or brown-headed pair of nuthatch birds. 
Missouri’s Wild Mushrooms ($26) – This book is a great guide for hunting,
identifying, and cooking the state's most common mushrooms.
Discover Missouri Natural Areas, Second Edition ($19.95) – This handy
reference helps nature lovers experience 50 great examples of our state’s natural
heritage. The new edition features updated maps, text, references, and scientific
names.
Amphibians and Reptiles of Missouri, Third Edition ($29) – This classic book
has been updated and expanded to a 522-page illustrated guide that provides
descriptions, distribution, habitats, habits, breeding, and other information on
nearly 130 species of native salamanders, toads, frogs, turtles, lizards, and
snakes.
Buy these and other items at MDC nature centers, through the MDC online
Nature Shop at  mdcnatureshop.com or by calling 877-521-8632.
Applicable tax, shipping, and handling costs will apply.
Give the gift of hunting and fishing permits for hunters and anglers on your
list. Buy permits from vendors around the state, online
at  mdc.mo.gov/buypermits or through the MDC free mobile apps, Mo Hunting
and Mo Fishing, available for download through Google Play for Android devices
or the App Store for Apple devices.

 

 







LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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               ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom 


November 19, 2024

MAN KILLED IN MARION COUNTY ACCIDENT
A Hannibal man was killed in an accident that occurred after 5:30am Sunday in Marion County.  The patrol says that he was on Hillcrest Drive in Hannibal when he became incapacitated and fell from his truck and then it ran off the left side of the roadway, struck a sign and a tree.  He was transported by ambulance to Hannibal Regional Hospital where he died a short time later.

DRIVER HURT IN SUNDAY NIGHT CRASH
A driver was hurt in a Sunday night crash in Gasconade County.  The highway patrol says that it happened at 9:45pm as the man was on Route EE when he lost control, causing his car to travel off the right side of the road, struck a mailbox and some brush.  He was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of minor injuries.

ONGOING SEARCH FOR SUSPECT IN FATAL SHOOTING FRIDAY NEAR WRIGHT CITY
A search is ongoing to locate a suspect in a fatal shooting that occurred on Friday near Wright City in Warren County.  According to First Alert 4 in St. Louis Law enforcement is looking for 38 year old James Frazer who is described to be 6ft. 1in. tall and weighs about 180 pounds and has brown hair and a beard.  He was last seen wearing a black ball cap, dark hoodie, blue jeans and work boots.  According to Warren County Sheriff's Department at around 6:40am Friday a person reported they drove to the 29000 block of Bobwhite Lane to pick up the 49 year old victim for work and found him on the ground dead from a gunshot wound.  Police said that the victim and Frazer were neighbors and acquaintances.  Authorities said on Saturday that they did not have any information that he is still armed after they located his weapons in the woods.  However, they still warn the public to use extreme caution regarding Frazer.  Anyone with information is asked to call 636-456-7088.

 

 

  






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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             … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

November 18, 2024

MISSOURI ROUTE 161 IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY IS NOW OPEN TO
TRAFFIC

The bridge replacement project on Missouri Route 161, over Elkhorn Creek, 1.6
miles south of Route CC near Buell in Montgomery County, has been completed
and opened to traffic on Friday November 15. The new two-lane bridge replaced
the previous single lane structure built in 1932.

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI
The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri
Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for
the next few weeks.
All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler
Information Map at  http://traveler.modot.org/map/ .
Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work.
There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the
work mentioned below.
Lincoln County
Route J – November 20, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Elm
Tree Road to Bruning Lane between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Route J – November 21 – 22, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from
Route U West to Jabin Farm Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.
Route KK – November 18 - 19, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from
U.S. Route 61 East Outer Road to Keithley Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00
p.m. daily.
Macon County
Route M – November 18 – 22, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from
Mariner Street to Laredo Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. daily.
Montgomery County
I-70 (Westbound) – November 19 - 20, LANE RESTRICTION for shoulder work
from Mile Marker 182.0 to Mile Marker 181.4 between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
daily.
Warren County
Route D – November 18 - 22, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from 0.50 mile
before and after the Tuque Creek bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. daily.

OCTOBER 2024 MONTHLY JOBS REPORT
Missouri nonfarm payroll employment increased by 5,400 jobs in October 2024,
and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased by one-tenth of a
percentage point. Private industry employment increased by 1,600 jobs and
government employment increased by 3,800 jobs. Over the year, there was an
increase of 81,700 jobs from October 2023 to October 2024, and the
unemployment rate increased by half of a percentage point, from 3.3 percent in
October 2023 to 3.8 percent in October 2024.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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               ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom  


November 15, 2024

TEEN KILLED IN LEWIS COUNTY ACCIDENT
A Wentzville teen was killed in an accident that occurred at around 11:25pm Tuesday in Lewis County.  The patrol says that the teen was driving southbound in the northbound lane of US 61 when his car was struck by a tractor trailer driven by a man from Apple Valley, MN.  The teen was pronounced dead at the scene.

MAN INJURED IN WEDNESDAY MORNING WRECK
A man from Elsberry was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Wednesday morning in Lincoln County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 10:20am as he was on Missouri 79 when his SUV crossed the center of the road, he overcorrected, causing it to run off the right side of the roadway, struck a driveway and became airborne and then came to rest facing south in the southbound ditch of MO 79.  The man was transported by ambulance to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of minor injuries. 

DRIVER HURT IN CALLAWAY COUNTY INCIDENT
A Columbia man was hurt in an incident in Callaway County Wednesday morning.  State troopers stated that he was eastbound on I-70 when his vehicle struck a deer in the roadway.  He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries.  The incident happened at 6am Wednesday.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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              … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

November 14, 2024

MISSOURI HIGHWAYS & TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION ANNOUNCES
NEW DIRECTOR

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission (MHTC) announced
Wednesday that Ed Hassinger is the new director of the Missouri Department of
Transportation. His leadership at this time will ensure the continuity of MoDOT’s
delivery of critical infrastructure projects currently underway and on very tight
construction schedules.
Director Hassinger holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering and
is a Registered Professional Engineer. He has dedicated over 40 years of his
career to fulfill the mission of MoDOT. He has consistently produced results that
have made Missouri a national leader in project delivery, providing great value to
Missourians. Hassinger is fully aware of what is necessary and is capable of
delivering the projects outlined in the STIP. He is committed to partnering with
the General Assembly and industry partners to improve Missouri’s transportation
system. He is also committed to MoDOT employees, their development and
welfare.    
The Commission and Director Hassinger will work collaboratively with a new
advisory council to be formed with representatives of the department’s key
stakeholders including key elected officials, local planning partners, the MoDOT
contractor community, state and local economic development, and others critical
to delivering this transportation improvements. Efforts will focus on review and
fine-tuning of MoDOT's organization to strengthen its commitment to several key
areas of continuous improvement critical to project delivery success and
operations. 
These include:
Safety in all operations and project management;
Outreach to and coordination with state leadership and elected officials to make
the STIP process as locally driven as possible with sensitivity to timely local
needs as they arise;
Build even closer partnership with the department's critical private sector
contractor community and regional planning partners;
Recruit and retain the essential and valued MoDOT workforce;
Increase focus on operational needs to keep MoDOT's system maintained,
useable, clean, and responsive to citizen reported upkeep; and,
Innovate and use technology for the future to maximize efficiency and cost-
effective delivery of programs and services. Hassinger replaces previous MoDOT
Director Patrick McKenna who resigned in September 2024 after serving in the
role since December 2015.

COMMISSION AWARDS CONTRACTS FOR PROJECTS IN NORTHEAST
MISSOURI

During its regular meeting on November 7, the Missouri Highways and
Transportation Commission awarded the following contracts for pavement
repairs, diamond grinding, seal coat, and resurfacing projects in the Northeast
District. 
An $8.2M contract was awarded to Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc., for a pavement
repair and diamond grinding project on U.S. Route 36, in Marion and Ralls
counties at the following locations:
Eastbound U.S. Route 36 - from 0.9 mile east of Route H to 1.8 miles east of
U.S. Route 24 east junction, in Marion County
Westbound U.S. Route 36 - from 0.7 mile west of U.S. Route 61 at Hannibal to
0.5 mile west of Route Z near Monroe City, in Marion County
A $2.4M contract was awarded to Capital Paving & Construction, LLC for
resurfacing projects in Randolph County at the following locations:
Route D - from Route C near Huntsville to Route BB
Route BB - from Missouri Route 3 to Route A near Moberly
Route DD - from U.S. Route 24 in Moberly to the end of state maintenance
A $1M contract was awarded to N.B. West Contracting Company, for a seal coat
project on Missouri Route 94, from Missouri Route 19, near McKittrick in
Montgomery County, to the Warren and St. Charles County line.
A $7.8M contract was awarded to Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc. for resurfacing
projects in Audrain, Monroe, Ralls and Randolph counties at the following
locations. The routes below are included in Gov. Parson’s Rural Roads program.
Route C - from U.S. Route 24 in Monroe County to Missouri Route 151 near
Centralia at the Boone County line
Route M - from Missouri Route 151 to Missouri Route 15, in Monroe County
Route O - from Route C to the end of state maintenance, in Randolph County
Route U - from U.S. Route 24 to the end of state maintenance at Florida, in
Monroe County
Route U - from Missouri Route 3 to the end of state maintenance, in Randolph
County
Route CC - from Route C to Missouri Route 15 near Rowena, in Audrain County
Route EE - from Route J to Missouri Route 19, in Ralls County
Route JJ - from U.S. Route 54 to the end of state maintenance near Mexico, in
Audrain County
With the Governor’s signing of the Fiscal Year 2025 budget, an additional $100
million in General Revenue is available for Missouri’s low volume rural roads.
Using asset management data, the Missouri Department of Transportation has
identified 1,985 lane miles of low volume roads to receive treatments to improve
road conditions. The roads are being bundled into 19 contracts across the state. 
For more information on the Governor’s Rural Roads Program, visit  Governor's
Rural Roads Program | Missouri Department of Transportation (modot.org) .
Additional information, regarding timelines and impacts to traffic, will be released
prior to the start of construction.

MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND INSURANCE RELEASES
HEALTH INSURANCE RATES FOR 2025

The Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance (DCI) have announced
the release of final health insurance rates for Missouri’s 2025 individual market.
Beginning in 2025, every county in Missouri will have at least two insurance
companies offering health plans in the individual market. This represents an
important change, ensuring choices for Missourians, particularly in the rural parts
of the state.
Well over half of Missouri’s counties now have five or more insurance companies
offering coverage in the individual market (71 out of 115). Nearly a third of the
counties in the state have six or more companies offering coverage (37 of 115).
The 115 jurisdictions include 114 counties plus the City of St. Louis.
Missourians can find more information about the rate review process and review
rate information on DCI’s website
at  insurance.mo.gov/consumers/health/index.php .
Annual open enrollment for health insurance coverage in 2025 began on
November 1, 2024. For coverage to start January 1, 2025,
consumers must enroll or change their plan by December 15, 2024. Consumers
that miss the December 15th deadline have until January 15, 2025, to enroll;
however, coverage will not begin until February 1, 2025, for consumers who
enroll after December 15, 2024.
For any insurance questions, or to verify whether a producer or assister is
licensed, Missouri consumers can call DCI’s Insurance Consumer
Hotline at 800-726-7390 or visit  insurance.mo.gov/consumers/ .





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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            ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom


November 13, 2024

PEDESTRIAN KILLED IN ADAIR COUNTY ACCIDENT

A pedestrian was killed in an accident that occurred at around 4:45am Monday in Adair County.  The patrol says that a Greentop man was in the road on US 63 one mile south of Sublette when he was struck by an SUV driven by a Kirksville man.  He was pronounced dead at the scene.

WOMAN HURT IN SUNDAY AFTERNOON WRECK
A St. Louis woman was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday afternoon in Ralls County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 1:45pm as she was on MO 154 when her jeep traveled off the roadway, overturned, returned to the road and came to rest.  She was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MISHAP
A Potosi driver was seriously injured in a Sunday night mishap in Franklin County.  MSHP stated that the driver was on Highway FF when he failed to negotiate a curve to the right and lost control, causing his truck to run off the right side of the road and struck a tree.  He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington with serious injuries.  The mishap occurred at 8:10pm Sunday.

 


 


  


 

 





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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             … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

November 12, 2024

CHARITON VALLEY ANNOUNCES THE FOUNDATION FOR RURAL
SERVICES GRANT TO SUPPORT MACON POLICE AND FIRE
DEPARTMENTS
The Foundation for Rural Service (FRS), the philanthropic arm of NTCA–The
Rural Broadband Association, announced the recipients of 36 Community Grants
totaling nearly $170,000 — the largest number of grants and greatest total
annual allocation in its history — to close out the foundation’s 30th anniversary
year. These grants will support a wide variety of projects aimed at improving
quality of life across rural communities served by NTCA members.  
Chariton Valley is pleased to announce the Macon Police and Fire Departments
as one of these grant recipients. The Macon Police and Fire Departments
received $4,914 to upgrade their telephone system with advanced
telecommunications devices for enhancing service capabilities for its citizens. 
Chariton Valley President and Chief Executive Officer Ryan Johnson joined in
congratulating the grant recipients, “Congratulations to the Macon Police and Fire
Departments!” he said. “We are proud to be a part of the FRS and partner with
your departments for the betterment of this community,” Johnson concluded. 

GOV. PARSON SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDER 24-15 CLOSING STATE
OFFICES NOV. 29
Last Week, Governor Mike Parson signed Executive Order 24-15 closing state
offices on Friday, November 29, 2024, the day after the Thanksgiving Day
holiday. This is what he had to say:  
"Today, I signed Executive Order 24-15 closing state offices on Friday,
November 29, 2024, the day after the Thanksgiving Day holiday. Every year, our
administration has directed this additional day off. As Teresa and I prepare to
leave office and spend more time with our own family and friends, we understand
the importance and joy for all of you in doing the same over the holiday weekend.
Friends, family, and the next generations are what it's all about. We hope this
well-earned day off allows you an opportunity to remember the good in your lives
and reflect on all that you do in service to our state. Thanks to the work you do,
our economy is strong, our state is strong, and Missourians are strong.
May you and your families have a safe and joyful holiday and receive many
blessings in the coming year. Teresa and I continue to pray for the safety, health,
and happiness of you and your family.
From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!

CONTRACTOR SELECTED FOR THE IMPROVE I-70 PROJECT
The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission (MHTC) has selected Improve
70 Alliance Joint Venture as the apparent best-value proposer and Design-Build
contractor of the next project in MoDOT’s Improve I-70 Program. The joint venture team
consists of Emery Sapp & Sons (ESS), Clarkson Construction, HNTB, and Bartlett and
West. Negotiations to finalize the contract are currently in progress.
Improve I-70: Warrenton to Wentzville is a $600 million fixed-cost contract and is the
largest project in MoDOT history. It will build a third lane in each direction and improve
the stretch of Interstate 70 from Warrenton to I-64 in Wentzville beginning in Spring
2025. The contract requirements also include the following additional improvements:
 Interchange and outer road improvements in Wright City
 Realignment at the railroad bridge on I-70 between Wentzville Parkway and
Route Z
 Interchange improvements at I-70 and I-64/Route 61
 Add a third lane of travel to eastbound and westbound I-64 between I-70 and
Route K
 Bridge replacement in Foristell
This project is the second project in a series of projects which will widen and  improve the
I-70 corridor. Missouri’s FY2024 budget from the General Assembly signed into law by
Governor Parson provides $2.8 billion in General Revenue for the costs to build a third
lane of I-70 across the state. The program will plan, design, construct, reconstruct,
rehabilitate, and add a third lane in each direction on nearly 200 miles of I-70, from Blue
Springs to Wentzville. The Warrenton to Wentzville project includes the Improve I-70
and additional legislatively designated General Revenue funding. It also includes
previously allocated funds in the state’s program for other I-70 and I-64 projects for a
total contract cost of $600 million.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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              … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom


November 11, 2024

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI
The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri
Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for
the next few weeks.
All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler
Information Map at  http://traveler.modot.org/map/ .
Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work.
There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the
work mentioned below.
Clark County
Missouri Route 27 (Northbound) – November 21, LANE RESTRICTION for
environmental cleanup beginning 1.0 mile south and continuing to 1.5 miles
south of U.S. Route 136 between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Lincoln County
Route J – November 20, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Elm
Tree Road to Bruning Lane between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Route J – November 21 – 22, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from
Route U West to Jabin Farm Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.
Route KK – November 18 - 19, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from
U.S. Route 61 East Outer Road to Keithley Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00
p.m. daily.
Montgomery County
I-70 (Westbound) – November 19 - 20, LANE RESTRICTION for shoulder work
from Mile Marker 182.0 to Mile Marker 181.4 between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
daily.
Route J – November 12, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from South
Turkey Ridge Road to Short Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Warren County
Route D – November 12 – 15, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from Tuque
Creek Road to Boone Monument Road between 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. daily.

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS
On Thursday, November 7 at approximately 10:21AM, the Mexico Public Safety
Department responded to the area of S Clark Street near the US Highway 54
access ramps. This was in reference to a disturbance involving a gun.
Investigation revealed that two drivers, who had been traveling on US Highway 54, came to the stop sign at the on ramp after passing each other or attempting
to pass each other, several times along the highway. At the stop sign, Jessie L
Deere, age 42, of Auxvasse, exited his vehicle and shot a gun, one time, towards
the other vehicle, then drove from the scene. Officers located Deere in the 2700
block of S Clark Street. He was processed at MPSD and later taken to the
Audrain County Jail for Unlawful Use of Weapon, Armed Criminal Action, and
Assault 4th degree. There were no injuries from the incident.

On Tuesday, November 5 at approximately 1:26AM, the Mexico Public Safety
Department responded to the 600 block of W Jackson in reference to a burglary
which had just occurred at a business. Video had alerted the business’
management and a suspect description was provided to MPSD. At
approximately 1:36AM officers located a male fitting the description a few blocks
away. The male was identified as Joshua C Kennemore, age 24 of Mexico.
Additional evidence led to Kennemore being arrested and transported to MPSD.
He was processed and eventually taken to the Audrain County Jail for Burglary
2nd degree, Possession of Burglary Tools, Property Damage 2nd degree, Stealing
$150, and Violation of Bond Conditions.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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             … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

November 8, 2024

MAN INJURED IN RALLS COUNTY ACCIDENT
A man from Fowler, IL was injured in an accident that occurred at 7:15am
Wednesday in Ralls County. The patrol says that he was on Route E when his
vehicle traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned. He was
transported by ambulance to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of
moderate injuries.

TEEN INJURED IN WEDNESDAY MORNING WRECK
A teenage girl from Meadville was injured in a two-vehicle wreck Wednesday
morning in Grundy County. The highway patrol said it happened at 8:30am as
she was stopped on MO 6 and waiting to make a left turn onto Route Z when her
car was struck in the rear by a dump truck driven by a man from Edgerton, MO.
She sustained moderate injuries and was first taken to Wright Memorial Hospital
and then flown by helicopter to Truman Medical Center for treatment.

MISSOURI HUNTERS HARVEST 1,857 BIRDS DURING FIREARMS PORTION
OF FALL TURKEY SEASON

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows
that hunters checked 1,857 turkeys during the firearms portion of Missouri’s fall
turkey season, Oct. 1-31. Top harvest counties were Gasconade with 51 birds
harvested, Osage with 48 and Cedar with 46.
For current fall firearms turkey harvest results by county, go online to MDC’s
website at extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/ .
Hunters harvested 2,220 birds during the 2023 fall firearms turkey season. For
more harvest results for past seasons, visit MDC online at mdc.mo.gov/hunting-
trapping/species/turkey/turkey-reports/turkey-harvest-summaries .
"A very warm and dry October likely impacted turkey and hunter behavior,” said
MDC Turkey Biologist Nick Oakley. “When it’s 80 degrees and windy, the birds
may not be in their usual haunts and hunters aren’t as interested in literally
sweating it out to find birds.”
Fall archery turkey hunting continues through Nov. 15 and resumes Nov. 27
through Jan. 15, 2025. Get more information about fall turkey hunting at
mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/turkey .
SEND FEATHERS

MDC is again asking Missouri turkey hunters to save and send feathers from the
wild turkeys they harvest this fall. MDC asks hunters who harvest turkeys to mail
feathers from their turkeys to MDC using a postage-paid envelope from MDC.
The feathers will help MDC scientists improve research models used to monitor
turkey population trends and estimate turkey numbers across the state. MDC
instructs turkey hunters to save the 9 th and 10 th primary wing feathers and 3-5
breast feathers from harvested turkeys after Telechecking.
For a Feather Submission Form and more information from MDC, visit
mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/turkey/fall-turkey-feather-submission .





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
________________________________________________________________

             … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom


November 7, 2024

GOV. PARSON SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDER 24-14 ACTIVATING STATE
EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN IN RESPONSE TO FLOODING AND
SEVERE WEATHER

On Tuesday, Governor Mike Parson signed Executive Order 24-14 activating the
Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan in response to flooding and severe
weather. Parts of Missouri have already sustained flood and storm damage with
additional impacts expected as river levels begin to crest and floodwaters recede.
 
“With several areas of Missouri already impacted by this week’s storms and
heavy rainfall, we want to ensure state resources are available should further
disruptions or damage occur,” Governor Parson said. “This action enables the
state to be better prepared and ready to assist our communities with response
and recovery. We urge Missourians to follow the direction of local authorities and
emergency managers, use extra caution on the roads, and never drive into
floodwaters.”
Executive Order 24-14 will expire on December 5, 2024, unless otherwise
terminated or extended

MSHP: DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS TO CLOSE FOR NOVEMBER
HOLIDAYS

The Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to remind the public that driver
examination stations throughout the state will be closed on the following dates:

Thursday, November 7, 2024, at noon for system modernization.
Friday, November 8, 2024, for system modernization.
Monday, November 11, 2024, in observance of Veterans’ Day.
Thursday, November 28, 2024, in observance of Thanksgiving.

YOUNG HUNTERS HARVEST 13,923 DEER DURING EARLY YOUTH
PORTION OF FIREARMS DEER SEASON

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows
that young hunters ages 6 through 15 harvested 13,923 deer during Missouri’s early youth portion of the 2024 deer hunting season, Nov. 2 and 3. Top counties
were Franklin with 285 deer harvested, Howell with 273, and Texas with 265. Of
the deer harvested, 9,852 were antlered bucks, 3,102 were does, and 969 were
button bucks.
Get more harvest information on the 2024 early youth portion at
extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/ .
Youth hunters harvested 11,270 during last year’s early youth portion. Get more
information on past seasons at mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/deer/deer-
reports/deer-harvest-summaries .
Firearms deer hunting in Missouri continues with the November Portion running
Nov. 16-26 followed by the CWD Portion Nov. 27 – Dec. 1 in open counties. The
Late Youth Portion runs Nov. 29 – Dec. 1 followed by the Late Antlerless Portion
Dec. 7-15 in open counties and then the Alternative Methods Portion Dec. 28
through Jan. 7, 2025. Archery deer hunting in Missouri runs through Nov. 15 and
reopens Nov. 27 and through Jan. 15, 2025.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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November 5, 2024

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN CHARITON COUNTY ACCIDENT

A man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 3:45pm Sunday in Chariton County. The patrol says that the man from Keytesville was on MO 5 when he slowed to make a left turn and his UTV was struck in the rear by a truck driven by a man also from Keytesville. He was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

TEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MONDAY MORNING WRECK

A Chillicothe teen was seriously injured in a two-vehicle wreck Monday morning in Livingston County. The highway patrol said it happened at 6:30am as the teenage boy was on LIV 251 when he failed to yield when crossing Highway V and his car was struck in the driver’s side by a truck driven by a Chula man. After impact, the truck came to rest off the side of the roadway on its wheels facing west while the car went off the roadway and struck a utility pole before coming to rest on its wheels facing southeast. The teen was taken to Truman Medical Center with serious injuries.

DRIVER SERIOUSLY HURT IN MONROE COUNTY CRASH

A Paris teen was seriously hurt in a Friday afternoon crash in Monroe County. MSHP stated that the boy was on Route D when his truck traveled off the left side of the road, struck a tree and overturned. He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries. The crash happened at 2:05pm Friday.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
________________________________________________________________

             … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom


November 4, 2024

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri
Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for
the next few weeks.
All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler
Information Map at  http://traveler.modot.org/map/ .
Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work.
There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the
work mentioned below.

Audrain County
Route A – November 4, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route
U to CR 832 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Clark County
Route K – November 5, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 47
to CR 49 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
Route Y – November 4, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR
146 to CR 143 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Lincoln County
Route E – November 4 – 7, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from
0.50 mile before and after the North Fork Cuivre River bridge between 8:00 a.m.
and 5:00 p.m. An 11-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are
actively working daily.
Route KK – November 4, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from U.S.
Route 61 East Outer Road to Keithley Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Monroe County
Missouri Route 107 – November 13, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations
from Missouri Route 154 to Route U between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Route D – November 12, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR
623 to CR 624 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Montgomery County
Route J – November 12, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from South
Turkey Ridge Road to Short Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Warren County
Missouri Route 94 – November 5 – 8, LANE RESTRICTION for grading
ditches/drainage work from Route TT to Mooncrest Lane between 8:00 a.m. and
3:00 p.m. daily. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are
actively working daily.

MISSOURI WINTER WEATHER PREPAREDNESS WEEK IS THIS WEEK

Despite the recent mild temperatures, winter – and the snow, sleet and ice that come
along with it – is just around the corner. To help Missourians prepare and stay safe during
the winter months, the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and National
Weather Serivce (NWS) are partnering to promote Nov. 4 – 8, 2024, as Winter Weather
Preparedness Week in Missouri.
“As cold weather approaches, we encourage all Missourians to take time to plan ahead
and prioritize safety,” SEMA Director Jim Remillard said. “Being prepared is always
the best way to protect yourself and your families. Be sure you have emergency kits
ready, understand the risks of prolonged exposure to the cold and review additional steps
you can take to stay safe at home and on the road.”
SEMA and NWS Forecast Offices serving Missouri will be sharing winter weather safety
messaging via social media throughout the week. Each day will focus on a different
theme:
 Monday, Nov. 4 – Winter Weather Terminology
 Tuesday, Nov. 5 – Ice Safety 
 Wednesday, Nov. 6 – Snow Safety
 Thursday, Nov. 7 – Extreme Cold, Hypothermia and Frostbite
 Friday, Nov. 8 – Planning for Snow, Ice and Cold
Often, too little attention is paid to the danger posed by prolonged exposure to the cold.
According to the Department of Health and Senior Services, 37 people died in
Missouri as a result of low body temperatures due to prolonged exposure to cold weather
in 2023.
Protect against frostbite and hypothermia by wearing warm, loose-fitting clothing in
several layers. Avoid alcohol, limit time spent outdoors in frigid temperatures and stay
indoors if possible. Find more information on hypothermia and nearby warming center
locations on the DHSS website at health.mo.gov/living/healthcondiseases/hypothermia/ .
 

MDC REPORTS MISSOURI HUNTERS HARVESTED 15 BLACK BEARS THIS
SEASON

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reports Missouri hunters
harvested 15 black bears during the state’s fourth bear hunting season, Oct. 21-
30.
More than 5,969 hunters applied during May for 400 permits for the season with
the maximum total harvest being 40 bears. Of the 400 hunters selected through a
random drawing of all applicants, 319 hunters purchased permits for the season.
Bear hunting in Missouri is limited to Missouri residents and restricted to three
designated areas of southern Missouri called Bear Management Zones (BMZ).
Each permit issued is for a specific BMZ and hunting is limited to public or private
property within the BMZ.
Twelve bears were harvested in BMZ 1 out of a maximum of 20 with 166 hunters
purchasing permits to hunt the zone. Three bears were harvested in BMZ 2 out
of a maximum of 15 with 121 hunters purchasing permits to hunt the zone. No
bears were harvested in BMZ 3 out of a maximum of five with 32 hunters
purchasing permits to hunt the zone.
Of the bears taken, 13 were harvested using firearms methods, one was
harvested with archery equipment, and one was harvested with a crossbow. Ten
of the harvested bears were males and five were females.
“We had another successful black bear hunting season this year,” said MDC
Furbearer Biologist Nate Bowersock. “Despite the acorn crop potentially being
above average, hunters were able to harvest a record number of bears. This
could be due to the dryer fall conditions, which likely caused bears to move more
often in search of water.”
Learn more about Missouri black bears and bear hunting in Missouri at
https://mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/bear .





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November 1, 2024

RED CROSS ASKS YOU TO TEST YOUR SMOKE ALARMS AS YOU TURN YOUR CLOCKS BACK THIS WEEKEND

Daylight saving time ends on November 3 and the American Red Cross encourages everyone to test their smoke alarms as they turn their clocks back to make sure the devices are working.

 

“Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a home fire in half as you only have about two minutes to safely get out,” said Rebecca Gordon, Executive Director, Red Cross of Central and Northern Missouri. “Every second counts when there’s a home fire and the sooner an alarm alerts you to a fire, the sooner you can get to a safer place. When daylight saving time ends this weekend, test your smoke alarms to help prevent a tragedy in your home.”

 

Since July 1, local Red Cross volunteers responded to help nearly 1,500 people in Missouri affected by nearly 400 home fires, which account for most of the about 65,000 disasters that the Red Cross responds to annually across the country.

 

SMOKE ALARMS When turning your clocks back this weekend, test your smoke alarms and replace the batteries if needed. Visit redcross.org/fire for more information, including an escape plan to create and practice with your family, or download the free Red Cross Emergency app by searching “American Red Cross” in app stores.

IF YOU NEED HELP If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Visit redcross.org/smokealarmMO or call 1-800-RED-CROSS to register for free smoke alarm installation and fire safety instruction.

HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN SAVES LIVES Since October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign, working with community partners, has saved at least 2,196 lives by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing free smoke alarms in high-risk areas across the country. To learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, visit redcross.org/homefires. 

 

HWI TO EXPAND IN FULTON, INVESTING $13.9 MILLION AND CREATING 11 NEW JOBS

HWI (HarbisonWalker International), one of the leading suppliers of refractory products and services in the United States and member of the Calderys Group, announced Thursday that it will expand in Fulton, investing $13.9 million and creating 11 new jobs.

“We’re excited to see an innovative and world-class company like HWI continuing to invest in Fulton,” said Governor Mike Parson. “From day one, our administration remained committed to improving infrastructure and strengthening our workforce to ensure a thriving economy. As a result, more and more quality employers like HWI are growing and improving the lives of Missourians and their families.”

HWI’s expansion includes the construction of an additional, state-of-the-art, lightweight monolithics refractories manufacturing facility that will increase production capacity by approximately 60 percent while enhancing product availability. The facility will feature cutting-edge technology and process automation advancements, including a new furnace and automated robotic packaging and material handling systems. HWI currently employs more than 70 people at its existing Fulton location.

HWI’s new plant will provide access to local, high-quality clay reserves, allowing the company to increase the production of its Greenlite aggregate-containing products, including the GREENLITE®-45-L family of monolithics and GREENLITE® 115 AR brick. These products are used extensively in many applications, including petrochemical, power generation, and other heater linings. Their unique strength-to-density ratios optimize thermal insulation with minimal structural bulk to reduce energy consumption and support customers’ goals. The company’s new facility is expected to be completed in July 2025.

New jobs added as part of HWI’s expansion will pay an average wage well above the county average.

For this expansion, HWI will benefit from the Missouri Works program, a tool that helps companies expand and retain workers by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation. 





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October 31, 2024

MSHP: HAVE A SAFE HALLOWEEN

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, encourages everyone to have a safe Halloween.

It’s that time of year when young ghosts, vampires, superheroes, and cartoon characters are planning their night of trick-or-treating. While some local events take place in large parking lots the weekend prior, many trick-or-treaters will be out on Halloween night. It’s imperative that drivers and pedestrians stay alert.

Young children excited by Halloween could dart in front of a vehicle. Slow down and drive with extra caution. Expect an increase in the number of slow-moving vehicles in neighborhoods as motorists pick up and drop off trick-or-treaters. Please be courteous and stay alert for trick-or-treaters of all ages. Distracted drivers are dangerous drivers─when you’re driving, keep your eyes on the road, not on your phone!

Parents, please remind children to approach only familiar houses that are well-lit. Remind them they should never enter a stranger’s house or vehicle. Consider trick-or-treating with your children for their safety and because it’s a fun way to spend an evening. Give some thought to safety when choosing a costume. Consider using make-up rather than wearing a mask, which can obstruct a child's vision making it difficult to see an oncoming car. A light-colored costume is easier for drivers to see at night and adding reflective tape to dark costumes makes them visible. Flame resistant costumes are encouraged.

All trick-or-treaters are reminded to watch for traffic while they are out and about this Halloween. Remember to look both ways when crossing the street. Use sidewalks wherever possible and trick-or-treat while it is light outside. If you do go out after dark, increase your visibility by using a flashlight and wearing a light-colored costume. An adult should always accompany small children, and older children should stay in groups.

Halloween isn’t just for children. Many adults enjoy dressing up and visiting haunted houses or attending gatherings of friends. If you are driving to a costume party, make sure your costume doesn’t hamper your vision. If you attend a Halloween party that includes alcohol, designate a sober driver for the trip home. Alcohol, even in small amounts, slows reaction time and dulls the senses. Driving after you've had alcohol could have a sad and possibly deadly result.

Have a safe, happy Halloween!

MDC HONORS GEORGE SEEK OF MEADVILLE WITH MASTER CONSERVATIONIST AWARD

The Missouri Conservation Commission and Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) recently honored retired MDC employee George Seek of Meadville with their Master Conservationist Award. Seek was presented with the award at a special ceremony at Fountain Grove Conservation Area near Meadville on Oct. 24. Seek worked for MDC for more than 30 years, retiring as chief of the Private Lands Division.

The Master Conservationist award was created in 1941 to honor living or deceased citizen conservationists, former MDC commissioners, and employees of conservation-related agencies, universities, or organizations who made substantial and lasting contributions to the fisheries, forestry, or wildlife resources of the state. Learn more at mdc.mo.gov/about-us/awards-honors/master-conservationist-award-nomination.

Before joining MDC, Seek earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture with a major in Fish and Wildlife Ecology from the University of Missouri, Columbia. He also received additional military training and education, including a Master of Science degree in Strategic Planning from the U.S. Army War College.

Seek joined MDC in 1972 as a research assistant for deer and waterfowl biologists. He then served as a wildlife area assistant for the Schell-Osage Conservation Area in southwest Missouri before becoming the assistant manager of the area. Seek was then promoted to a wildlife area manager in 1979 for the Fountain Grove Conservation Area, and helped manage portions of Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge. His responsibilities grew to include managing Grand Pass, Franklin Island, Cooley Lake, and Bob Brown conservation areas and supervising 16 staff persons. He was then promoted to a wildlife district supervisor in 1983 with responsibilities for the 10-county Grand River District. During that time, he was instrumental in major wetland developments at Grand Pass and Fountain Grove conservation areas. Seek became a wildlife regional supervisor in 1997 for MDC’s 19-county Northwest Region. He then became the division chief for the Department’s newly formed Private Land Services Division in 1999 until his retirement in 2003.

During his time with MDC, Seek was also instrumental in developing the Department’s first Wetland Management Plan, providing important insights from an experienced manager's perspective on the challenges of wetland restoration and management. Seek also led MDC’s initial effort and report on the “Evaluation of Waterfowl and Waterfowl Hunting on MDC Areas,” which provided an important basis for the evolution of public hunting to follow. He also wrote part of the Department’s “Waterfowl Hunting and Wetland Conservation in Missouri” book, considered the most contemporary historic overview of waterfowl and wetlands management in Missouri ever published.

After retirement from MDC, Seek focused on helping Ducks Unlimited establish the Confluence Focus Area near St. Louis for land protection to secure donated conservation easements on 25,000 acres of waterfowl habitat.

Seek is also the founder and primary manager of Massasauga Flats, LLC, a private 250-acre wetland in north-central Missouri that provides diverse natural shallow wetland habitat where more than 160 different wetland birds have been documented and is a model for how to manage wetlands without dependance on crops.

He has also served as a member, vice-chair, and chair of the Wetlands and Waterfowl Resource Advisory Committee for the Conservation Federation of Missouri, the state’s oldest grassroots conservation organization. As chair of the committee, Seek helped to develop and gave the welcome address at the Missouri Wetlands Summit in 2023.

In addition to his extensive conservation work, Seek also retired as a colonel from the U.S. Army Reserves after more than 30 years of service in the Reserves and the Missouri National Guard from 1972-2003.

WESTERN SMOKEHOUSE PARTNERS TO ESTABLISH NEW FACILITY IN MEXICO, INVESTING MORE THAN $67 MILLION AND CREATING 280 NEW JOBS

Western Smokehouse Partners, the leading co-manufacturer of better-for-you meat snacks, has announced that it will establish a new manufacturing facility in Mexico, investing more than $67 million and creating 280 new jobs.

Western Smokehouse Partners’ new facility in Mexico will span 300,000 square feet and specialize in the production of CHOMPS brand meat sticks. The location will feature state-of-the-art equipment and is expected to open by the end of summer 2025.

Western Smokehouse Partners began in Greentop as two companies founded by Sam Western and Jim Hankes in 1978. A shared passion for meat snacks resulted in a combined company dedicated to premium products, customer satisfaction, and world-class hospitality. Today, Western Smokehouse Partners continues to grow with a reputation for quality and excellence. After the establishment of its Mexico location, the company will operate a total of six facilities with more than 1,100 employees.

New jobs added as part of Western Smokehouse Partners’ new facility will pay an average wage well above the county average.

For this expansion, Western Smokehouse Partners will benefit from the Missouri Works program, a tool that helps companies expand and retain workers by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation. The company is also receiving assistance from Missouri One Start, a division of the Department of Economic Development. Missouri One Start assists eligible businesses with their recruitment and training needs.





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October 30, 2024

Governor Parson signs Executive Order 24-13 Declaring Drought Alert in Missouri

On Tuesday, Governor Mike Parson signed Executive Order 24-13, declaring a drought alert in Missouri until March 31, 2025.  Currently, the U.S. Drought Monitor indicates that all or portions of at least 88 Missouri counties are experiencing moderate, severe, or extreme drought conditions.  The Executive Order declares a Drought Alert in these Missouri counties and any additional county that begins experiencing moderate drought conditions.  While the weather did improve this spring, allowing us to let our previous drought alert expire, the last few months have been dry, forcing us to reissue a drought alert in Missouri, “Governor Parson said.  “Despite all our challenges, from droughts to floods and everything in between, Missourians have remained strong.  This Executive Order will again allow us to step in and direct resources to those struggling with the consequences of drought, while allowing for vigilant monitoring of conditions over the winter months.”  In response to this Executive Order, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources will activate the Drought Assessment Committee, a workgroup set up to assess drought levels and work with impact teams on response and recovery recommendations.  During drought, local condition reports are crucial to understanding impacts to provide timely and appropriate assistance.  Citizens can submit information about local drought conditions at Condition Monitoring Observer Reports (CMOR) A variety of helpful resources are online at  www.dnr.mo.gov/drought.  The Department of Natural Resources is adding information on drought mitigation and assistance opportunities as it becomes available.  The one-stop drought website features a link to CMOR , current drought-related news, the current United States and Missouri drought maps, the Missouri Drought Mitigation and Response Plan, and other resources, including information on previous droughts.

Randolph County Sheriff hit with restraining order over alleged misuse of county funds

A restraining order has been issued against Randolph County Sheriff Aaron Wilson, prohibiting from spending county money, after allegations of misuse of funds arise.  

According to kjluradio.com:

Randolph County Presiding Commissioner Sid Conklin filed the motion for a temporary restraining order Friday, which was granted.  The petition alleges that some unauthorized or inappropriate transactions may have occurred with respect to bank accounts controlled by the sheriff’s office.  Two examples include a $7,000 cash withdrawal made on October 24, and the purchase of a vehicle for personal use.  The accounts in question can be accessed by Wilson, but not by any county commissioners or other county officials.  The restraining order prohibits Wilson from transferring, concealing or disposing of any property or assets held in those bank accounts.  Any purchases made with county money would require written approval from the court.  A hearing on the matter is scheduled for Monday November 4.

Weekend fire at Moberly manufacturing plant remains under investigation

The Moberly Fire Department reports crews were called to Orscheln Products, L.L.C on North Morley Street on Saturday morning just before 6 a.m.  When crews arrived, they found smoke coming from the structure.  All employees were evacuated prior to the fire department’s arrival.  Interior attack crews reported heavy smoke inside the building with zero visibility.  Once inside, they found fire located near the ceiling.  The combination of fire personnel and the building’s sprinkler system kept the fire contained to one area of the building. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

MoDOT and Safety Partners Promote Buckle Up Phone Down Day

For the eighth year, the Missouri Department of Transportation and the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety, along with various safety partners, schools and businesses throughout the state, are encouraging better driving behaviors as part of the annual Buckle Up Phone Down Day on Wednesday.  The day challenges all drivers to do the two most important steps while driving to reduce your risk of a fatal crash. The goal of BUPD Day is to have zero traffic fatalities on Missouri
roads throughout the day.
To date in 2024, of the more than 740 fatalities in Missouri, 63% of vehicle occupants killed were unbuckled.  Distracted driving is also a leading cause of crashes in Missouri.  In 2023, distracted driving was cited in crashes that claimed 106 lives.
In August 2023, the Siddens-Bening Hands-Free Law took effect in Missouri, prohibiting all drivers from using a handheld electronic communication device while driving.  The law aims to address distracted driving, which contributed to crashes that claimed the lives of more than 800 people across the state during the last decade.  Paired with the requirement to wear a seat belt, the enactment of the hands-free legislation means BUPD is officially law in Missouri.
Additionally, the Missouri State Highway Patrol has been educating drivers on the new law for the past year, and law enforcement agencies throughout the state will begin writing citations for driving distracted beginning January 1, 2025.  Since the creation of BUPD in 2017, Missouri’s seat belt usage rate reached an all-time high and the number of people killed who were unbuckled has decreased.  The movement has collected more than 55,000 pledges to BUPD and has expanded to more than a dozen states across the country.
“We are very proud of the impact of the Buckle Up Phone Down program, but there is still a lot of work to be done to eliminate fatalities from our roadways,” said Missouri State Highway Safety and Traffic Engineer Jon Nelson. “We are asking everyone to do their part on this BUPD Day.  Buckle up and put the phone down.  Lives are on the line.”
In support of the hands-free law, many Missouri high schools are participating in AAA Missouri’s Show Me Your Score Safest Driver Competition.  This competition will be held through the end of February 2025, and will measure participant’s acceleration, braking, and phone usage habits.  The goal of this competition is to promote positive driving habits and educate young drivers on how crucial it is to make smart, safe decisions behind the wheel, especially putting down the phone.
More information on the competition is available at
www.savemolives.com/mcrs/smys.





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October 28, 2024

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN LINN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 2:25pm Saturday in Linn County.  The patrol says that 71 year old Richard Frazier of Chillicothe was on US 36 at the Meadville Junction when he failed to yield and his truck struck a jeep driven by 54 year old Lane Alexander of Louisville, KY which caused the jeep to travel off the road and overturned.  Alexander was transported by ambulance to Pershing Memorial Hospital in Brookfield with serious injuries.

TEEN HURT IN SATURDAY NIGHT WRECK

A Fulton teen was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday night in Callaway County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 11:15pm as 19 year old Hailen Albaugh was on County Road 363 when his truck ran off the road and struck a tree.  He sustained minor injuries and was taken to Capital Region Hospital for treatment.

DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN UTV CRASH

57 year old Daniel Bushdiecker II of St. Charles was seriously injured in a UTV crash in Franklin County.  MSHP stated that he was on Boeuf Creek Road in a dried portion of a creek bed, traveling up a hillside when it struck a tree and then overturned down a steep embankment.  He was taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.  The crash happened after 1am Sunday.





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October 25, 2024

GOV. PARSON ISSUES EXECUTIVE ORDER 24-11, RESCINDING 177 PAST EXECUTIVE ORDERS

On Wednesday, in an effort to leave state government better than he found it, Governor Mike Parson has signed Executive Order 24-11, which rescinds 177 past executive orders that are no longer necessary or applicable. These orders date back to the 1980s with many being past state of emergency declarations or found to be in conflict with changes to state law and/or Missouri and U.S. Courts' opinions. 

"Since the very beginning, we have always looked to cut red tape, streamline bureaucracy, and reduce the size of government where possible," Governor Parson said. "This action today helps untangle a web of unnecessary and contradicting executive orders that no longer serve their intended purposes, ensuring more efficient and effective operations across state government." 

The vast majority of the 177 executive orders being rescinded are because the issue or crisis they were intended to address no longer exists. It is now common practice for executive orders to be issued with a specific date of rescission so that they do not linger in effect unnecessarily. 

GOV. AND FIRST LADY PARSON TO HOST FINAL PARSON FAMILY FALL FESTIVAL

On Monday, Governor Mike Parson and First Lady Teresa Parson announced that the final Parson Family Fall Festival and Trick-or-Treating at the People’s House will be held at the Missouri Governor’s Mansion on Saturday from 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. The outdoor event will feature several vendors, children's activities, and bluegrass musical entertainment.

“We look forward to hosting the final Parson Family Fall Festival at the Missouri Governor’s Mansion,” Governor and First Lady Parson said in a joint statement. “We have held this event every year since taking office and it has been a great honor to welcome Missourians of all ages to the People's House. Seeing so many young faces light up as they participate in the variety of activities offered will always be some of our most cherished memories." 

In addition to more than a dozen vendors, activities will include a bounce house, face painting, trick-or-treating, hayrides and more. Jordan Thomas and Shakin Jake from the Kay Brothers will perform bluegrass music for everyone to enjoy.

Several vendors are slated to attend, including The Magic House - St. Louis, MO Hives, Missouri State Parks, Runge Nature Center,  Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development, Missouri Department of Agriculture, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, Puppies for Parole, Missouri Department of Revenue, Boys & Girls Club of Jefferson City, BACA World, Fun Fab Four, Flowers on Phoenix, and more. 

Children 12 and under are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes. The event is free and open to the public, and no registration is required.

MDC WARNS NOT TO BURN OUTDOORS TO AVOID WILDFIRE

With ongoing and worsening drought conditions throughout the state, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds people that outdoor burning could cause a wildfire. According to MDC, a main cause of wildfires is improper burning of debris such as leaves or brush piles. MDC reminds people that a person who starts a fire for any reason is responsible for any damage it may cause.

“It’s been drier and warmer than usual, which means fires have the potential to get out of control very quickly,” said MDC Fire Program Supervisor Ben Webster. “We want everyone to check weather conditions and be extremely careful with or avoid burning leaves or debris during these drier and warmer conditions. Check with your local fire department regarding burn bans or reference the National Weather Service for Red Flag Warnings that may be in place because of critical fire-weather conditions.”

MDC urges landowners, hunters, campers, and others in the outdoors to help prevent wildfires and offers the following tips.

OUTDOOR BURNING: Avoid burning during times of high temperatures, low relative humidity, and increased winds. These conditions make fire more difficult and hazardous to control. Check with local fire departments regarding burn bans or reference the National Weather Service regarding Red Flag Warnings that may be in place.

DRIVING OFF ROAD: Wildfires can start when dry fuel, such as grass, comes in contact with catalytic converters. Think twice before driving into and across a grassy field. Never park over tall, dry grass or piles of leaves that can touch the underside of a vehicle. When driving vehicles off road, regularly inspect the undercarriage to ensure that fuel and brake lines are intact, and no oil leaks are apparent. Always carry an approved fire extinguisher on vehicles that are used off road. Check for the presence of spark arresters on ATV exhausts.

MAKING A CAMPFIRE: Clear a generous area around fire rings. Store unused firewood a good distance from a campfire. Never use gasoline, kerosene, or other flammable liquid to start a fire. Keep campfires small and controllable. Keep fire-extinguishing materials, such as a rake, shovel, and bucket of water, close. Extinguish campfires each night and before leaving camp, even if it’s just for a few moments.

CALL FOR HELP: Call 911 at the first sign of a fire getting out of control.





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October 24, 2024

TWO INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN MARION COUNTY ACCIDENT
Two people from Quincy, IL were injured, one seriously in an accident that occurred at around 3:05pm Tuesday in Marion County.  The patrol says that 23 year old Alaysia Dade was on County Road 425 in Hannibal when her vehicle traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a concrete pillar.  She sustained minor injuries and was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment, while her passenger 31 year old Johnny David was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

DRIVER HURT IN TUESDAY AFTERNOON WRECK
A Mexico driver was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday afternoon in Montgomery County.  The highway patrol said it happened just before 1pm as 40 year old Isaac Cuno was on Route CC when he lost control on a curve, causing his car to run off the road, struck an embankment and overturned.  He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

TEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN EARLY WEDNESDAY MORNING CRASH
19 year old Colten Fritzemeter of Leslie was seriously injured in an early Wednesday morning crash in Franklin County.  MSHP stated that he was on Peters Ford Road and driving too fast for conditions when he failed to negotiate a curve and his truck went off the east side of the road and struck an embankment.  He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington with serious injuries.  The crash happened at 5:45am Wednesday.


 





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October 23, 2024

CHARITON COUNTY ROUTE 11 BRIDGE TO BE REPLACED

The next bridge replacement project included in the Northwest Bridge Bundle project is scheduled to begin next month. The Chariton County Missouri Route 11 bridge over Salt Creek, located south of Mendon, will close beginning Monday, Nov. 4. The project to replace the bridge is expected to continue through March 2025.

During construction, motorists will be directed on a detour using Routes C, F and U.S. Route 24. The Salt Creek Bridge was built in 1953 and has a traffic volume of approximately 913 vehicles per day. 

“The Northwest Bridge Bundle is a Design-Build project which will replace or rehabilitate 31 poor-condition bridges in north central Missouri, and this bridge is number 12,” stated Missouri Department of Transportation Project Director Michael Marriott. The Capital – Horner & Shifrin team was awarded the design-build contract by the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission at its meeting in December 2023. 

Design-build is a project delivery method in which one contracting team is selected to design and build the highway improvement under one contract. MoDOT provides the project goals, budget and schedule and the contractor team completes the work. This technique has been known to significantly save time and provide cost.

LOCAL HIGHWAY SAFETY HEROES HONORED AT ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Twelve individuals and organizations were recognized at this year’s Highway Safety and Traffic Conference for their efforts in moving Missouri towards zero roadway fatalities. The Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety holds the event each year to support Show-Me Zero, Missouri’s strategic highway safety plan. Every other year, these awards are presented to four statewide individuals or businesses and one winner from each of seven regions across the state.

This year, Nicole Hood was recognized as the Buckle Up Phone Down Champion for the instrumental role she played in expanding the Buckle Up Phone Down initiative not only statewide, but also nationally.

The Highway Opportunities through Professional Engineering (HOPE) Award was presented to MoDOT’s St. Louis County Safety Improvements Project for innovative infrastructure upgrades and community partnerships, that will ultimately save lives.

The Lay Down the Law Award recognizes law enforcement officers or groups advancing highway safety through innovative traffic safety efforts. This year, the award was presented to Lt. Scott Schnurbusch with the Hazelwood Police Department for his dedication to traffic safety, the St. Louis Coalition for Roadway Safety and the citizens of Hazelwood. A second award was also presented to the Springfield Police Department for their commitment to the SGF Yields pedestrian safety program.  

The Tempe Humphrey Award, which recognizes an individual or group with focused efforts on younger drivers, was presented to Tyler Luckenhoff. Luckenhoff has been involved in the TRACTION (Teens Taking Action to Prevent Traffic Crashes) youth program for the last 20 years and is a true leader and role model inside and outside of TRACTION.  

In addition to the statewide awards, each region of the Coalition recognizes an individual or group for their leadership and work to improve highway safety. For the Northeast Missouri Region, Anna Gill with the Mark Twain Regional Council of Governments was recognized for her dedication to educating our youngest and most vulnerable drivers and consistently demonstrating her commitment to highway safety through various initiatives.

To view the full list of award recipients and nominations, visit: 2024 Highway Safety and Traffic Awards.

A.T. STILL UNIVERSITY WINS AWARD FOR EIGHTH CONSECUTIVE YEAR

A.T. Still University of Health Sciences (ATSU) has been named a recipient of the 2024 Health Professions Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award by INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, the oldest and largest diversity-focused publication in higher education.

ATSU was the first comprehensive health professions university to be named a HEED Award recipient in consecutive years (2017-18) and has now extended its achievement to an eighth consecutive year.

“We thank INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine for highlighting and recognizing important work being done at ATSU,” said Chancellor Craig M. Phelps, DO, ’84. “Congratulations to Clinton Normore, MBA, chief diversity officer, and his team on yet another honor celebrating their dedication and achievements.”

ATSU supports students who learn and serve in diverse, underserved, urban, and rural communities across the world. INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine selected ATSU for its commitment to an educational and collaborative environment embracing inclusivity and cultural proficiency, highlighted by the University’s innovative Dreamline Pathways program, which received the 2024 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine earlier this year.

Through Dreamline Pathways, ATSU partners with school districts and community-based organizations, offering experiential learning opportunities to students. These collaborations introduce young minds to healthcare careers and nurture students through campus and graduate student engagement opportunities.

As a recipient of the Health Professions HEED Award – a national honor recognizing U.S. health college and universities that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion – ATSU will be featured in the November/December 2024 issue of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine.

For more information about the 2024 HEED Award, visit insightintodiversity.com.

 




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October 22, 2024

TEEN INJURED IN LIVINGSTON COUNTY ACCIDENT
A Princeton teen was injured in an accident that occurred at 7pm Sunday in Livingston County.  The patrol says that 18 year old Kelby Thomas was on US 65 when his car traveled off the east side of the roadway, struck a guardrail and came to rest upright on the guardrail.  He was air-lifted to Truman Medical Center for treatment of moderate injuries.

DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SUNDAY AFTERNOON CRASH
51 year old Scott Breitenstein of Union was seriously injured in a Sunday afternoon crash in Franklin County.  State troopers stated that he was on Highway 100 and traveling too fast while attempting to make a left turn when his motorcycle overturned.  He was taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.  The crash happened at around 1:15pm Sunday.

MAN SERIOUSLY HURT IN SUNDAY NIGHT WRECK
A man was seriously hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday night in Lafayette County.  The highway patrol said it happened at around 7:25pm as 48 year old Timothy Kelsey of Odessa was on Highway OO when his truck ran off the right side of the roadway, he overcorrected, causing it to strike an embankment and overturned, ejecting him from it.  He was taken to an area hospital with serious injuries.

 


 




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October 21, 2024

FATALITY ACCIDENT IN MONROE COUNTY

A Paris man was killed in an accident that occurred at 12:30am Saturday in Monroe County.  The patrol says that 23 year old Mackenzy Baladenski was on Highway 154 when his car struck an embankment, overturned and ejected him from it.  He was pronounced dead at the scene.   

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN UTV WRECK

A man was seriously injured in an UTV wreck early Sunday morning in Sullivan County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 12:35am as 43 year old Kenny Deryke of Milan was on Highway D when his UTV ran off the right side of the roadway and overturned.  He was transported by ambulance to Northeast Regional Hospital in Kirksville with serious injuries.

DRIVER HURT IN SATURDAY NIGHT CRASH

77 year old Sandra Charlton of Hannibal was hurt in a Saturday night crash in Ralls County.  MSHP stated that she was on US 61 when her truck went off the road, crossed the median and southbound on US 61 and then struck a guardrail.  She suffered moderate injuries and was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment.  The crash happened at 10:25pm Saturday.





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October 18, 2024

DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM CHANGES

The Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to inform the public of upcoming changes to the driver license testing process. In preparation for the transition, driver examination stations throughout the state will close at 12 p.m. on Thursday, November 7, 2024, and all-day November 8, 2024. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, following the Veterans Day holiday. Driver examination testing facilities will be closed due to converting to a modernized system, directly integrated into the Department of Revenue’s new driver license system. Follow this link for further information on the driver’s license system changes being implemented by the Missouri Department of Revenue MV-DL System Changes (mo.gov).

As part of this upgrade, the Patrol will now offer the Class F written test in a total of 20 languages, which includes a newly created sign language video version of the test made possible by the Missouri Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.


The new system will provide a direct digital reporting network to the Department of Revenue. The system will increase efficiency by sending test results directly to the Department of Revenue. The new system will also help deter driver license fraud. For more information, please visit our website at 
https://apps.mshp.dps.mo.gov/MSHPWeb/PatrolDivisions/DVSD/DE/DOR_FUSION.html.

NEW TROOPERS ASSIGNED TO TROOP F

Captain Jason N. Crites, commanding officer of Troop F, is pleased to announce the assignment of three new troopers to Troop F. The troopers were members of the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s 121st Recruit Class that graduated Friday, October 11, 2024.

Trooper Billy R. Kamp, of Moberly, Missouri, has been assigned to Zone 8, which serves the citizens of Callaway and Montgomery counties. In 2004, Trooper Kamp graduated from Hickman High School in Columbia, Missouri. Prior to joining the Patrol, Trooper Kamp was a deputy with the Callaway County Sheriff’s Office.

Trooper Taylor A. Tarwater, of Columbia, Missouri, has been assigned to Zone 3, which serves the citizens of Boone County. In 2010, Trooper Tarwater graduated from Hickman High School in Columbia, Missouri. Prior to joining the Patrol, Trooper Tarwater was a deputy with the Audrain County Sheriff’s Office.

Trooper Isaac J. Smith, of Vandalia, Illinois, has been assigned to Zone 5, which serves the citizens of Camden and Miller counties. In 2018, Trooper Smith graduated from Vandalia High School in Vandalia, Illinois. Prior to joining the Patrol, Trooper Smith was a police officer with the Vandalia Police Department in Illinois.

 

HUNTERS TAKE 5,741 DEER DURING FIREARMS EARLY ANTLERLESS PORTION

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows that hunters harvested 5,741 deer during the state’s firearms early antlerless portion of deer season, Oct. 11-13. The top-three harvest counties were Franklin with 156 deer harvested, Howell with 140, and Bollinger with 135. Last year’s early antlerless portion harvest total was 16,553. Get more information on harvest summaries by county at extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/.

MDC’s Cervid Program Supervisor Jason Isabelle attributes the decreased harvest to the stark contrast in weather conditions between the two years. He noted that the unseasonably warm temperatures this year undoubtedly kept many hunters out of the woods, resulting in far fewer deer being harvested.

“We were fortunate to have caught a cold front during last year’s inaugural early antlerless portion, which resulted in increased deer movement and greater hunter participation,” said Isabelle.

Archery deer hunting in Missouri opened Sept. 15 and runs through Nov. 15. It reopens Nov. 27 and runs through Jan. 15, 2025. Firearms deer hunting in Missouri continues with the Early Youth Portion Nov. 2-3. The November Portion runs Nov. 16-26 followed by the CWD Portion Nov. 27 – Dec. 1 in open counties. The Late Youth Portion runs Nov. 29 – Dec. 1 followed by the Late Antlerless Portion Dec. 7-15 in open counties and then the Alternative Methods Portion Dec. 28 through Jan. 7, 2025.

Get more information on deer hunting from MDC’s 2024 Fall Deer & Turkey Regulations and Information booklet, available where permits are sold and online at mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/deer.

SEPTEMBER 2024 MONTHLY JOBS REPORT

Missouri nonfarm payroll employment decreased by 900 jobs in September 2024, and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was unchanged from August at 3.9 percent. Private industry employment decreased by 1,300 jobs and government employment increased by 400 jobs. Over the year, there was an increase of 86,500 jobs from September 2023 to September 2024, and the unemployment rate increased by six-tenths of a percentage point, from 3.3 percent in September 2023 to 3.9 percent in September 2024.





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October 17, 2024

MISSOURI SHAKEOUT EARTHQUAKE DRILL SET FOR THURSDAY

Many recognize the southeast region of the state as Missouri’s Bootheel, but did you know it is also at the center of one of the country’s most active earthquake zones? The New Madrid Seismic Zone (NMSZ) spans more than 100 miles and averages over 200 small earthquakes a year.  To prepare for any future earthquakes, the 2024 Great Central U. S. ShakeOut earthquake drill is set for Thursday.  Missouri is one of 14 participating central U.S. states that could be impacted by a NMSZ earthquake.  “Missouri is home to a very large and active seismic zone,” State Emergency Management Agency Director Jim Remillard said.  “Earthquakes occur without warning, so it’s important to prepare now.  The ShakeOut drill is a great opportunity to practice so you know what to do when the shaking starts.”  

At 10:17 a.m. on Oct. 17, hundreds of thousands of Missourians will practice the “Drop, Cover, Hold On” technique:

 

  • DROP to your hands and knees;

  • COVER your head and neck with your hands and arms under a table or desk if you can; and

  • HOLD ON until the shaking stops.


  • Studies show that in developed countries with modern structures, falling debris is the most common source of injury in an earthquake. Experts advise that when an earthquake occurs in the U.S., the “Drop, Cover and Hold On” technique is the best protection from falling debris. 

    In 1811 and 1812, the NMSZ produced some of the largest earthquakes in U.S. history, and seismic experts agree that similar quakes still pose a risk today.  Shaking from another major earthquake in this zone would be felt not only in Missouri but throughout the Midwest, damaging much of the southern and eastern parts of the state, including the St. Louis metropolitan area.  To learn more about earthquakes in Missouri and how to prepare, please visit sema.dps.mo.gov/earthquake_preparedness.

TWO MEN INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN SCHUYLER COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two men were injured, one seriously in an accident that occurred at 2:35am Wednesday in Schuyler County.  The patrol says that 27 year old Kenneth Hull of Memphis was on US 63 when his car crossed the center line and struck a truck driven by 33 year old Keaton Baker of Downing.  After impact the truck traveled off the west side of the roadway while the car remained in the road blocking both lanes of traffic.  Hull sustained serious injuries while a passenger in Baker’s truck 26 year old Cristian Cullers of Kirksville suffered moderate injuries.  Both were taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville for treatment.

MAN HURT IN WEDNESDAY MORNING CRASH

A Lewistown man was hurt in a Wednesday morning crash in Lewis County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 6:45am as 44 year old James Peters was on Highway 16 when his SUV struck an animal in the roadway.  He was taken to Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL for treatment of minor injuries.

DRIVER HURT IN TUESDAY NIGHT MISHAP

79 year old Gerald Ward of Glasgow was hurt in a Tuesday night mishap in Howard County.  MSHP stated that he was on MO 5 when he suffered a medical emergency, causing his jeep to run off the right side of the road and struck a building.  He suffered minor injuries and was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.  The mishap happened at 7:10pm Tuesday.





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October 16, 2024

TEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN TUESDAY MORNING WRECK

A Winfield teen was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday morning in Lincoln County.  The highway patrol said it happened at around 7:15am as a 17 year old boy was on MaryKnoll Road and driving too fast for the road conditions when his car ran off the right side of the road and struck a tree.  He was taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.

WOMAN HURT IN MONDAY NIGHT INCIDENT

64 year old Linda Welschmeyer of Martinsburg was hurt in a Monday night incident in Audrain County.  State troopers stated that a truck was parked in the roadway on Audrain County Road 812 with no lights on and no driver when she was unable to see the truck and her SUV struck the rear of the truck.  She sustained minor injuries and was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.  The incident happened at 7:45pm Monday.

MAN HURT IN LINN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A man was hurt in an accident that occurred at 7am Monday in Linn County.  The patrol says that 25 year old Reed Aylor of Borger, TX was on US 36 at Laclede when his truck traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a road sign.  He was transported by ambulance to Pershing Memorial Hospital in Brookfield for treatment of minor injuries.





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October 11, 2024

DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS CLOSE FOR HOLIDAY

The Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to remind the public that driver examination stations throughout the state will be closed on the following date:
Monday, October 14, in observance of Columbus Day. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, October 15.

RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE IN HONOR OF ELI BEASLEY SET FOR SATURDAY

 

Eli Beasley and his family invite the local community to a special blood drive in his honor, hosted in partnership with the American Red Cross. The event will take place on Saturday, October 12 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Spirit Hall, 20650 N. Hwy 124, Centralia, MO 65240. In 2018, Eli sustained third-degree burns on 80% of his body and needed 21 units of blood to survive.  Before the accident, he was a regular blood donor, including during his service in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2009 to 2013.  While deployed in Afghanistan, Eli discovered he had O-negative blood, the universal donor type.  Although he can no longer donate due to the specialized skin graft procedures following his accident, Eli remains committed to the cause and hopes to inspire others to donate blood and help save lives. As a thank you, those who come to give will receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by email, plus be automatically entered for a chance to win one of three $5,000 gift cards. For full details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Treat.

 

MDC HOSTS 80TH BIRTHDAY BASH FOR SMOKEY BEAR ON SATURDAY IN KIRKSVILLE


The Missouri Department of Conservation invites the public to celebrate Smokey Bear’s 80th birthday in Kirksville on Saturday Oct. 12 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Truman State University Quad. This free event will have activities for participants of all ages. Participants are invited to try their hand at archery, snap some photos with Smokey, explore various emergency vehicles courtesy of many MDC partners, and more. Visitors will also be able to design their own iron-on transfer t-shirt to commemorate the day. Registration for this event is not required. Questions about the birthday bash can be sent to Yvette Amerman at 660-785-2420 or by email at yvette.amerman@mdc.mo.gov.

MISSOURI ROUTE 161 IN MONTGOMERY CITY TEMPORARILY CLOSES FOR RAILROAD WORK

Weather permitting, thru Friday morning, Missouri Route 161 in Montgomery City is closed temporarily for work on the railroad crossing, in Montgomery County. The road has been closed between Allen Street and Walker Street since Wednesday and is set to reopen at 8 a.m. on Friday.  





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October 10, 2024

MAN INJURED IN LINN COUNTY ACCIDENT
A man was injured in an accident that occurred at 10:15am Tuesday in Linn County.  The patrol says that 34 year old Vincent Taliaferro of Sarasota, FL was on US 36 when an animal ran into the path of his vehicle, causing it to travel off the right side of the roadway.  He was taken to Pershing Memorial Hospital in Brookfield for treatment of moderate injuries.

WOMAN HURT IN MONDAY NIGHT MISHAP
A Kirksville woman was hurt in a Monday night mishap in Macon County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 7:10pm as 56 year old Betsy Krause was on US 63 when her jeep struck a deer in the road.  She was taken to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment of minor injuries.

DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN EARLY WEDNESDAY MORNING WRECK
30 year old Robin Jackson from the state of Ohio was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck early Wednesday morning in Clark County.  MSHP stated that he was on County Road 113 when his car ran off the right side of the road and struck a tree.  He was transported by Air Evac to University of Iowa Hospital with serious injuries.

 

 

 





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October 8, 2024

MAN INJURED IN ADAIR COUNTY INCIDENT
A Lewistown man was injured in an incident that occurred at 12:15pm Sunday in Adair County.  The patrol says that 26 year old Kevin OOsthuysen was on MO 6 1/2 mile west of Kirksville when his tractor caught fire and he was injured while exiting it.  He was transported by ambulance to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville for treatment of moderate injuries.

TEEN INJURED IN EARLY SUNDAY MORNING ACCIDENT
A teen was injured in an early Sunday morning accident in Randolph County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 12:15am as 18 year old Donna Wall of Auxvasse was on County Road 1130 when her car traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a tree and overturned coming to rest on its top.  She sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Moberly Regional Medical Center for treatment.

ATV RIDER HURT IN SUNDAY MORNING CRASH
A 14 year old boy from Palmyra was hurt in an ATV crash Sunday morning in Marion County.  MSHP stated that the boy was on private property at County Road 183 when his ATV struck a ditch, ejecting him from it.  The boy was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.  The crash happened at around 9:15am Sunday.

 


 


 





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October 7, 2024

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Adair County

Route T – October 7 – 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Hazel Green Way to Bowtie Way between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route T – October 11, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Bowtie Way to Blueberry Way between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route T – October 15 - 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Blueberry Way to Lincoln Street in Kirksville between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route T – October 17 - 18, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Lincoln Street to U.S. Route 63 in Kirksville between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Audrain County

Route U – October 7 - 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route N to CR 741 between 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route U – October 11, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 741 to CR 733 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route U – October 15, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 733 to CR 725 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route U – October 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 715 to CR 725 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Clark County

Route B – October 11 & 15, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route C to CR 198 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route Y – October 7, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 146 to CR 143 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route Y – October 8, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 139 to Route HH between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Knox County

Route A – October 8 & 11, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 6 to Route F between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route F – October 7, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to Route A between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Lincoln County

U.S. Route 61 East Outer Road – October 15, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Creech Lane to Luck Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route K – October 7 – 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Twin Valley Road to Opal Lane between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route KK – October 16 - 18, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from U.S. Route 61 East Outer Road to Keithley Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Macon County

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – October 7 – 9 & 11, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Route K to Lariat Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Route Z – October 7, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Bugle Avenue to Arizona Street between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route Z – October 8, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Cannon Street to Route TT between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route Z – October 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Cannon Street to Badger Street between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.

Route Z­ – October 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Badger Street to Missouri Route 149 between 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Monroe County

Monroe County Road 980 – October 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 151 to Route AA between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route C – October 17, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 870 to Route C spur between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route D – October 11, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 657 to Route E between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route Z – October 7, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 154 to CR 670 between 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Route FF – October 8, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 343 to Route V between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route KK – October 8 – 9 & 15, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 715 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Montgomery County

Missouri Route 161 – October 9 – 11, CLOSED for railroad crossing repairs from Allen Street to Walker Street in Montgomery City beginning October 9 at 8:00 a.m. and continuing to October 11 at 8:00 a.m.

I-70 (Westbound) – October 15 – 16, LANE RESTRICTION for shoulder work operations from MM 182.0 to MM 181.4 between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Route J – October 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Whiteside School Road to Big Springs Quarry Rd from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Route J – October 17, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from South Turkey Ridge Road to Short Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Randolph County

Route A – October 7, CLOSED for railroad crossing repairs at Route A/Business 63 intersection in Moberly between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Route AA – October 8, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 2610 to 0.50 mile south of CR 2610 between 7:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Route AA – October 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 0.25 mile south of Route A to 0.50 mile south of Route A between 7:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.  

Schuyler County

Route Y – October 11, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Ranch Avenue to Coon Road between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Scotland County

Route MM – October 7, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 136 to CR 504 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Shelby County

Route EE – October 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from U.S. Route 36 to CR 390 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.  

38TH ANNUAL MIZZOU HOMECOMING BLOOD DRIVE IN COLUMBIA

This year marks the 38th year the American Red Cross and University of Missouri are partnering to host the Mizzou Homecoming Blood Drive, the largest collegiate blood drive in the nation. This year’s event will take place from October 7 through October 10 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily at the University of Missouri Student Rec Complex, 901 Rollins St. in Columbia.

Last year’s drive finished with 4,743 units collected putting the 2023 blood drive in the top 5 of most units collected in the last 18 years. This year’s goal is 4,800 total units collected over the course of the 4-day blood drive.

“Each year, the dedication of the students, faculty, alumni, and Columbia community to this life-saving event leaves me in awe,” remarked Rebecca Gordon, Executive Director of the Red Cross of Central and Northern Missouri. “We are thrilled to be involved in the Mizzou Homecoming activities and are excited for another successful Blood Drive, securing blood donations for those in need.”

As a thank you, everyone who presents to donate blood will receive an exclusive Homecoming-themed, ‘Lights, Camera, Action’ Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last. Additionally, those who come to give will receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by email, plus be automatically entered for a chance to win one of three $5,000 gift cards. For full details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Treat

O'REILLY AUTOMOTIVE FOUNDATION DONATES $25,000 TO AMERICAN RED CROSS FOR DISASTER RELIEF

The American Red Cross is pleased to announce a generous donation of $25,000 from the O’Reilly Automotive Foundation. The money will support multiple disaster relief efforts following the devastating impacts of everything from wildfires to hurricanes. This contribution underscores the foundation's commitment to helping communities in need during times of crisis.

Natural disasters have caused significant damage across several states, affecting thousands of lives and displacing many families. The American Red Cross is actively engaged in providing essential services such as shelter, food, and emotional support to those impacted.

The funds will assist the American Red Cross in supplying necessary resources, including shelter, meals, and health services, while contributing to ongoing recovery efforts in the hardest-hit areas.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation encourages others to join in supporting the American Red Cross and contributing to disaster relief efforts. Donations can be made directly to the American Red Cross at www.redcross.org.

For more information about the O'Reilly Automotive Foundation and its charitable initiatives, please visit https://www.oreillyauto.com/oreilly-foundation.

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

October 4, 2024

PATROL WARNS PUBLIC OF SCAM

The Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to make the public aware of a telephone scam. In the past month, some incidents have been reported across the state. In each case, a suspect contacted an individual associated with someone who was involved in a motor vehicle crash, identified themselves as the investigating trooper and attempted to solicit money from the victim. The suspect may intimidate the victim with false claims of impending or nonexistent court charges/proceedings. The public should understand Patrol employees will not contact individuals and solicit funds or demand any form of payment. Furthermore, the Patrol employees do not process bonds or accept money to prevent or dispose of charges.
If a person asks you to send your money anywhere, you should assume it’s a scam. Take your time verifying the information by calling phone numbers you locate yourself on verified websites. You should not confirm any identifying information about yourself to the scammer. If you or someone you know have been contacted in a similar manner, please report the incident to your local Troop Headquarters.

FIRE PREVENTION WEEK 2024 EMPHASIZES CRITICAL IMPORTANCE OF SMOKE ALARMS IN PROTECTING MISSOURI FAMILIES

One of the simplest steps Missourians can take to protect their families is to install smoke alarms in their homes. Installing smoke alarms reduces the risk of dying in a home fire by more than 50%. That’s why this year’s theme for Fire Prevention Week is “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!”

“About three of every five home fire deaths occur in residences without working smoke alarms,” State Fire Marshal Tim Bean said. “We cannot emphasize enough the importance of having working smoke alarms in your home. Many Missouri fire departments, working with the American Red Cross, can even provide and install smoke alarms for families at no cost. Families in need of assistance should contact the American Red Cross of Missouri.”

To request a free American Red Cross Home Fire Safety Visit and smoke alarms, click here.

A report this year from the National Fire Protection Association showed that while in 1977 less than one-quarter of U.S. households had smoke alarms, it’s now estimated that over 90% of homes have at least one smoke alarm. But it is essential that smoke alarms are regularly tested and batteries are replaced so that they remain in working order.

 

Smoke alarms provide precious time to escape a burning home. Each family member should know escape routes from every room in a residence. Families should also regularly practice their fire escape plans.

WATCH OUT FOR DEER ALONG ROADWAYS IN OCTOBER AND NOVEMBER

Fall has arrived, which means deer and other wild animals are on the move as temperatures cool and nights become longer. Most deer strikes with vehicles occur during October and November and between the hours of 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The Missouri Department of Transportation reminds motorists to be prepared for the sudden appearance of wild animals on Missouri roadways throughout the fall months.

“Deer increase their movements during the breeding season, which begins in October and peaks in mid-November,” said Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) Deer Biologist Jason Isabelle. “Because of this, motorists should be especially cautious when driving this time of year.”           

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Missouri has consistently ranked 10th to 15th in the country for collisions involving deer each year. In 2023, Missouri drivers experienced 3,591 crashes involving deer. One deer strike occurred approximately every 2 hours and 30 minutes in the state. In these crashes, there were four fatalities and 420 people were injured.

Rural areas are not the only places where vehicle strikes occur. Deer are often in groups, even in populated areas.

Here are some tips for staying alert:

·         Stay on guard after a close call or when you see a single deer, as there are likely more.

·         To avoid hitting a deer, always be cautious and regularly scan both sides of the roadway.

·         Watch for the reflection of deer eyes from vehicle headlights and slow down so you can more easily react to their presence.

·         Never swerve to avoid animals in the road, as it can cause loss of vehicle control, resulting in serious injury or death.

According to Missouri Law, an individual who has struck and killed a deer with their vehicle may claim the deer carcass if written authorization to possess the deer is granted by an MDC agent. The Wildlife Disposition Form is free, but MDC must be contacted to obtain the permit.

“No one should ever jeopardize their safety by attempting to remove an animal in a high-traffic area. Instead, contact MoDOT’s customer service line at 1-888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636),” said MoDOT State Maintenance Engineer Darin Hamelink. “Crews will address any animal or debris that poses a safety hazard, meaning the item is in the driving lanes. Crews will safely drag the large animal debris to the outer portion of the grassy roadside, outside any active drainage ditch or channel.”

If a deer is located on the shoulder, MoDOT will address the deer during normal weekday work hours. MoDOT crews are not called out after hours to remove an item unless it is a road safety hazard in a driving lane. MoDOT does not employ any specialized crews assigned to remove dead animals from roadways or contract out any roadkill removal. If a deer is struck along a state-maintained road and is completely off the roadway, MoDOT will not pick it up unless it impedes mail delivery or is in a neighborhood, especially at or near a bus stop. 

 

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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               ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom


October 3, 2024

TEENAGE GIRL SERIOUSLY INJURED IN ATV ACCIDENT
A teenage girl from Carrollton was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 7:10pm Tuesday in Carroll County.  The patrol says that the 12 year old girl was riding an ATV on County Road 210 and County Road 261 when it struck the side of a semi driven by 42 year old Curtis Swearingin of Carrollton.  The girl was life-flighted to Truman Medical Center with serious injuries.

TEEN KILLED, TWO OTHERS INJURED IN TUESDAY NIGHT MISHAP
A Union teen was killed while his two passengers' were injured in a UTV mishap Tuesday night in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 6:20pm as they were in a field at Val Road on Sandstone Trail when they failed to negotiate a left turn and it overturned.  The 13 year old driver was killed while one of his passenger's a 13 year old boy from Union was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington with serious injuries, while his other passenger also 13 and from Union suffered minor injuries but was not transported from the scene. 

WOMAN HURT IN TUESDAY AFTERNOON WRECK
40 year old Shonecia Bailey of St. Louis was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday afternoon in Montgomery County.  MSHP stated that she was westbound on I-70 when her vehicle went off the right side of the road, struck a guardrail end, returned to the roadway, went off the left side and struck the median concrete barrier.  She suffered minor injuries and was taken to St. Joseph West Hospital for treatment.  The wreck happened at 3:55pm Tuesday.


 

 





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

October 2, 2024

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Adair County

Route D – October 2, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Morelock Cemetery Road to Sydney Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route D – October 3, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Sydney Road to Fayette Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route D – October 4, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Fayette Road to Foliage Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route T – October 7 – 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Hazel Green Way to Bowtie Way between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route T – October 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Bowtie Way to Blueberry Way between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route T – October 11, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Blueberry Way to Lincoln Street in Kirksville between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Audrain County

Route U – October 2, 4 & 7, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route N to CR 741 between 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route U – October 8, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 741 to CR 733 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route U – October 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 733 to CR 725 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route U – October 11, LANE RESTRICTION for culvert replacement operations from CR 715 to CR 725 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 11-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Clark County

Route K – October 2 – October 4, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Iowa State line to Route AA between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Knox County

Missouri Route 156 – October 2 – October 3, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.5 mile before and after the North River Bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Route A – October 3, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Linden Street to Lotus Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route T – October 2, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 6 to Seymour Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Lincoln County

Route K – October 7 – 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Twin Valley Road to Opal Lane between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route V – October 2 – 3, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Hawk Ridge Drive to Jacks Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Macon County

Route Z – October 2, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Cannon Street to Route TT between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route Z – October 3, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Cannon Street to Badger Street between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.

Route Z­ – October 3, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Badger Street to Missouri Route 149 between 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Monroe County

Monroe County Road 980 – October 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 151 to Route AA between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route C – October 4, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 870 to Route C spur between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route D – October 2, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 647 to CR 657 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route D – October 3, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 647 to CR 657 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route KK – October 7, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 715 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Montgomery County

Missouri Route 161 – October 9 – 11, CLOSED for railroad crossing repairs from Allen Street to Walker Street in Montgomery City beginning October 9 at 8:00 a.m. and continuing to October 11 at 8:00 a.m.

Ralls County

Route FF – October 3, CLOSED for grading ditches/drainage work from U.S. Route 61 to Plum Creek Lane between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Randolph County

Route A – October 7, CLOSED for railroad crossing repairs at Route A/Business 63 intersection in Moberly between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Route AA – October 2, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 1.0 mile north of Route B to 1.5 miles south of CR 2580 between 7:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Route AA – October 3, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 1.0 mile south of CR 2580 to 1.0 mile north of CR 2680 between 7:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Route AA – October 4, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 1.0 mile south of 2580 to 1.5 miles north of CR 2680 between 7:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Route AA – October 8, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 2610 to 0.50 mile south of CR 2610 between 7:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Route AA – October 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 0.25 mile south of Route A to 0.50 mile south of Route A between 7:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.  

Schuyler County

Route J – October 2, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Walking Trail Drive to Quail Avenue between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route Y – October 2 – 4, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Ranch Avenue to Coon Road between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Shelby County

U.S. Route 36 (Eastbound) – October 2 – October 4, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from North Fork Salt River bridge to Monroe City between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – October 2 – October 4, LANE RESTRICTION for grading ditches/drainage work from Monroe City to Shelbina between 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route EE – October 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from U.S. Route 36 to CR 390 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route FF – October 8, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 343 to Route V between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Warren County

Missouri Route 94 – October 3 – 4, LANE RESTRICTION for grading ditches/drainage work from Missouri Route 94 to just east of Church Hill Downs between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Route TT – October 2, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 94 to Turkey Hollow Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

 

MOBERLY POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS

On September 20, the Moberly Police Department was made aware of a possible kidnapping and assault that occurred at a residence on Rollins St.  The victim was rescued by the Moberly Police Department Swat Team and North Missouri Drug Task Force.  The Moberly Police Department furthered the investigation, and a warrant was issued to arrest 38 year old Vaughn Woods for kidnapping 1st, assault 1st and unlawful use of a weapon.  On September 26, the Moberly Police Department located Woods at a residence in the 800 block of Union Ave.  After an hour long standoff with the Moberly Swat Team he was taken into custody without incident.  The Moberly Police Department was assisted by the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office and North Missouri Drug Task Force.

TRUMAN STATE UNIVERSITY EARNS NUMBER 1 RANKING FOR 28TH YEAR IN A ROW

Truman State University has again been recognized as the No. 1 public university in the Midwest Region by U.S. News & World Report.  The University earned multiple recognitions in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, including another year as the No. 1 public school in the Midwest Region. Among both public and private institutions, Truman was No. 5 overall for the Midwest Region. Notably, Truman was the only Missouri public school to be included in the top 60 spots.  Truman faculty members’ commitment to students helped the University improve in another noteworthy category. Always a fixture in the Undergraduate Teaching Programs list, Truman improved seven spots to tie for the No. 3 position this year. This subcategory, compiled from peer assessment, highlights schools that emphasize providing high-quality instruction to undergraduates. Of the 13 institutions to make this ranking, Truman was the lone public school to be included.  As usual, the University fared well on a number of supplemental tabs included in this year’s Best Colleges rankings. Coming in at No. 11 on the list of Best Value Schools for the Midwest Region, Truman was the only Missouri public institution included in the top 40 spots. This ranking was determined by examining key indicators such as: academic quality; the percentage of full-time students receiving need-based scholarships or grants; and the average discount from a school’s sticker price for full-time undergraduates receiving the average need-based grant.  U.S. News & World Report also recognized Truman on its list of Top Performers on Social Mobility, and four of the University’s academic programs – business, computer science, nursing and psychology – again earned inclusion on rankings of their respective disciplines. The entire Best Colleges rankings can be found online at usnews.com/best-colleges.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
_________________________________________________________

               ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 


September 30, 2024

FOUR SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SATURDAY AFTERNOON ACCIDENT
Four people were seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 1:40pm Saturday in Macon County.  The patrol says that 55 year old Kimberly Gittemeier of Cairo was on US 63 when she failed to stop at a stop sign and her truck struck an SUV in the passenger side driven by 36 year old Kristopher Kidd of Moberly.  Both drivers and two passengers' in Kidd's SUV boys ranging from 8 to 6 years old were taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

WOMAN INJURED IN LINN COUNTY WRECK
A Milan woman was injured in a one-vehicle wreck early Saturday morning in Linn County.  The highway patrol said it happened just after 12am as 21 year old Victoria Fitzpatrick was on Highway 5 when she swerved to miss a deer, causing her SUV to travel off the right side of the roadway and overturned.  She was air-lifted to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

TWO HURT IN MOTORCYCLE CRASH
Two people were hurt in a motorcycle crash Saturday night in Boone County.  MSHP stated that 22 year old Jacob Lalumandier of Weldon Springs was on Route K when his motorcycle struck a deer in the road and caused both he and his passenger 21 year old Ciara Shelby of Augusta, MO to be ejected from it.  Both sustained moderate injuries and were taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.  The crash happened at 7:25pm Saturday.

 





 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

September 26, 2024

MAN INJURED IN HOWARD COUNTY ACCIDENT
A Franklin man was injured in an accident that occurred at 5:40pm Tuesday in Howard County.  The patrol says that 60 year old Gregory Davis was on MO 87 when his homemade motorized scooter skidded on loose gravel and overturned, ejecting him from it.  He was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

MAN SENTENCED TO 25 YEARS FOR JUNE 2020 MURDER OF MEXICO MAN

Audrain County Prosecuting Attorney Jacob Shellabarger announces that 29 year old Timothy Scott Midgyett of Columbia pled guilty to the June 2020 murder of Chance Davis of Mexico.  Midgyett pled guilty Monday morning, when a jury trial was scheduled to begin in Mexico at the Audrain County Courthouse.  He pled guilty to murder in the second degree, unlawful use of a weapon resulting in death, and burglary in the first degree and received fifteen year sentences on those crimes, with an additional, consecutive ten-year sentence for Armed Criminal Action, the use of a firearm in a felony murder.  This means the total sentence is 25 years in prison.  The early morning June 27, 2020 home invasion shook the Mexico community, which led to an extensive search and investigation by Mexico Public Safety and the Mid-Missouri Major Case Squad.  Timothy Midgyett, Sadiq Moore, and Deyton Curtis-Fisher were involved in the murder.  Moore and Midgyett entered into the West Street home and fired a single shot.  Chance Davis was murdered in front of his significant other and his young son.  Shellabarger’s office was assisted by the Missouri Attorney General’s Public Protection Division in this case, with Assistant Attorneys General Kelly Snyder and Greg Goodwin leading the prosecution.

TEEN FACES ADULT CHARGES IN SHOOTING DEATH OF MACON MAN

Boone County prosecutors charged a 15 year old with adult charges in connection to the death of a Macon man whose body was found in Columbia earlier this year.  Kavon La’Shaun Eugene Williams has been charged with Second Degree Murder and First Degree Robbery in the death of 25 year old Malik Jones of Macon who had last been seen on January 30, 2024.  His sister found his body in the 6100 Block of Creasy Springs Road North in Columbia on February 7, 2024.  On March 1, 2024, Columbia police arrested a 15 year old boy.  Court documents state that Jones and Williams arranged to meet in Columbia for a marijuana deal.  They also state that Williams posted on social media images that showed money covered in something red and that a video posted shortly after Jones disappeared Williams holding the red-stained money, stating “We busted that ol’ boy.”  Williams has been held without bond.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

September 25, 2024

TEEN HURT IN CALLAWAY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Fulton teen was hurt in an accident that occurred at 9:10am Tuesday in Callaway County.  The patrol says that 19 year old Jonna Vanzetti was on Route WW when her car traveled off the right side of the roadway, she overcorrected, causing it to return to the road and then went into the path of a car driven by 68 year old Russell Curry of Fulton and Curry’s car struck her car in the passenger side.  The teen was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries.

DRIVER INJURED IN TUESDAY MORNING WRECK

59 year old Jeffrey Hohman of California was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday morning in Grundy County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 9:20am as he was on MO Route A when he failed to negotiate a curve and his freightliner dump truck ran off the south side of the road, overturned and struck an embankment, before coming to rest on its top facing east off the south side of the road.  He was taken to Wright Memorial Hospital in Trenton for treatment of moderate injuries.

TWO INJURED IN MONDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

Both drivers were injured in a Monday afternoon crash in Lincoln County.  MSHP stated that 38 year old Anthony Dale of St. Peters was on Missouri 47 when his car crossed the center line and struck a truck driven by 54 year old Jeffrey Cornelius of St. Charles.  Both were transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis for treatment of moderate injuries.  The crash happened at 4pm Monday.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

September 24, 2024

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Tuesday, September 17 at approximately 7:03am, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 1700 block of E Liberty in reference to a crash where a vehicle left the roadway and struck a utility pole. The vehicle then left the scene. Alert residents gave a description of the vehicle and officers stopped the 2008 Chrysler Sebring in the area of Boulevard and Huntingfield Drive. A 17 year-old male was detained and taken to MPSD where he was later turned over to a parent, pending action by the 12th Circuit Court-Juvenile Division for Leaving the Scene of an Accident, DWI, Minor in Possession of Alcohol, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Careless and Imprudent Driving. There were no injuries as a result of the incident.

 

AUGUST 2024 MONTHLY JOBS REPORT

Missouri nonfarm payroll employment increased by 7,900 jobs in August 2024, and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased by one-tenth of a percentage point to 3.9 percent. Private industry employment increased by 5,800 jobs and government employment increased by 2,100 jobs. Over the year, there was an increase of 98,500 jobs from August 2023 to August 2024, and the unemployment rate increased by seven-tenths of a percentage point, from 3.2 percent in August 2023 to 3.9 percent in August 2024.

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.  

Adair County

Business Route 63 (Baltimore Street) – September 23, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 6 to Charles Street in Kirksville between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Route D – September 30 – October 1, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Forest Ridge Road to Morelock Cemetery Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route D – October 2, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Morelock Cemetery Road to Sydney Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route D – October 3, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Sydney Road to Fayette Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route D – October 4, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Fayette Road to Foliage Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Audrain County

Business Route 54 – September 23, LANE RESTRICTION for grinding high joints from Green Boulevard to Teal Lake Road in Mexico between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

U.S. Route 54 – September 30, LANE RESTRICTION for culvert replacement operations from 500 feet east of CR 557 to 400 feet west of Route P between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 22 – September 24 – 25, LANE RESTRICTION for grinding high joints from Mexico City Limits to Centralia City Limits between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. daily.

Route N – September 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 1600 feet west of West Jackson Street in Martinsburg to CR 740 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route ZZ – September 30, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 353 to CR 335 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Clark County

Route A – September 23, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 228-4 East to CR 228-4 West between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route K – September 23 – 26 & September 30 – October 4, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Iowa State line to Route AA between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Knox County

Missouri Route 156 – September 23 – October 3, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.5 mile before and after the North River Bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Lewis County

Route D – September 23 – 26 & 30, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route U to Missouri Route 156 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Lincoln County

Route V – September 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from U.S. Route 61 to Henry Harris Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route V – September 27, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Ivy Lane to Harmony Grove Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route V – October 2 – 3, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Hawk Ridge Drive to Jacks Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Macon County

Route K – September 23, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Mariner Street to Landmark Street between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route M – September 24 – 26 CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route K to Olive Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route Z – September 30, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route VV to Bugle Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route Z – October 1, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Bugle Avenue to Arizona Street between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route Z – October 2, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Cannon Street to Route TT between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route Z – October 3, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Cannon Street to Badger Street between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.

Route Z­ – October 3, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Badger Street to Missouri Route 149 between 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Monroe County

Route C – October 1, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 870 to Route C spur between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route D – September 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 647 to CR 657 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route D – September 27, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route E to CR 657 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route Z – September 23, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route D to CR 616 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route Z – September 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 770 to CR 650 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. 

Route Z – September 25, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 154 to CR 670 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Montgomery County

Route ZZ – September 23 - 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route B to CR 1040 in Callaway County between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route ZZ – September 25, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Cedartown Road to Whitehall School Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route ZZ – September 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Whitehall School Road to Missouri Route 19 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Pike County

U.S. Route 79 – July 15 – September 30, CLOSED for flood wall construction from Smith Street to Main Cross in Clarksville beginning July 15th ending September 30th.

Randolph County

Route O – September 23, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 1.5 miles west of Route C to 2 miles west of Route C between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Route AA – October 2, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 1.0 mile north of Route B to 1.5 miles south of CR 2580 between 7:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Route AA – October 3 - 4, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 1.0 mile south of CR 2580 to 1.0 mile north of CR 2680 between 7:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. daily.

Route BB – September 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations beginning at CR 2150 continuing 1000 feet east of CR 2150 between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Route BB – September 25, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations beginning at CR 2270 continuing 1000 feet east of CR 2270 between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Schuyler County

Route J – September 23 – 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Walking Trail Drive to Quail Avenue between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route J – September 25, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Keller Drive to Rocky Avenue between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route V – September 30 – October 1, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route D to Hilliard Avenue between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route Y – October 2 – 4, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Ranch Avenue to Coon Road between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Shelby County

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – September 23 – 24, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 15 to Route N between 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily.

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – September 25 - 27, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from CR 311 to the Macon County Line between 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily.

Route P - September 23, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 227 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route P - September 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to end of state maintenance between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route MM - September 25, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 151 to end of state maintenance between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route MM - September 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 151 to CR 315 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Warren County

Missouri Route 47 – September 23 – 24, LANE RESTRICTION for culvert replacement operations from just south of Legion Hall Road to Marthasville City Limits between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Missouri Route 94 – October 3 – 4, LANE RESTRICTION for grading ditches/drainage work from Missouri Route 94 to just east of Church Hill Downs between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Route D – September 25 – 27, LANE RESTRICTION for grading ditches/drainage work from Sycamore Street in Marthasville to Wolf Creek Road between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. daily.

Route TT – September 30 – October 2, LANE RESTRICTION for culvert replacement operations from Route TT to Turkey Hollow Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

September 23, 2024

 

MOBERLY MAN INJURED IN RANDOLPH COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Moberly man was injured in an accident that occurred at 7:45am Sunday in Randolph County.  The patrol says that 24 year old Brandon Bunch was on County Road 2320 when his SUV traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a concrete barrier.  He was transported by ambulance to Moberly Regional Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries.

 

TEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SATURDAY NIGHT WRECK

18 year old Tyler Hawkins of Centralia was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday night in Boone County.  The highway patrol said it happened after 9pm as he was on  Schooler Road when he failed to stop at a stop sign and his car went across Route U and struck a tree.  The teen was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

DRIVER SERIOUSLY HURT IN EARLY FRIDAY MORNING CRASH

A Browning driver was seriously hurt in an early Friday morning crash in Linn County.  MSHP stated that 18 year old Ransom Wood was on Route M when he fell asleep, causing his car to run off the road and overturned.  He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.  The crash happened at 3:30am Friday.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

September 19, 2024

 

RAMP CLOSURES ALONG US ROUTE 63 IN COLUMBIA

The contractor has made changes to the planned schedule of work for the remainder of the week for the ramps along U.S. Route 63 in the Columbia/Prathersville area as part of a resurfacing project. Contractors from Capital Paving and Construction LLC, working with the Missouri Department of Transportation, worked at the Oakland Gravel Road and Prathersville Road overpasses Wednesday and then will move to the shoulder work on Thursday and Friday.

Below is the revised schedule of work for the remainder of the week. As always, all scheduled work is subject to change.

Planned work Wednesday, Sept. 18:

7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. – in the following order:

  1. West end of Oakland Gravel Road and southbound off-ramp from U.S. Route 63 CLOSED. The southbound on-ramp to U.S. Route 63 from Oakland Gravel Road will remain open.
  2. East end of Oakland Gravel Road and northbound off-ramp from U.S. Route 63 will CLOSE. The northbound on-ramp to U.S. Route 63 will remain open.

3 to 9 p.m. – in the following order:

  1. East end of Prathersville Road and northbound off-ramp from U.S. Route 63 will CLOSE. The northbound on-ramp to U.S. Route 63 will remain open.
  2. West end of Prathersville Road and the southbound off-ramp from U.S. Route 63 will CLOSE. The southbound on-ramp to U.S. Route 63 will remain open.

Planned work for Thursday, Sept. 19, 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.:

Planned work for Friday, Sept. 20, 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.:

Some intermittent, short-term ramp closures may be necessary between Route B and Route 763 throughout the day Thursday and Friday. Motorists are advised to use caution, slow down and eliminate all distractions. Pay attention to signs, changing traffic patterns, and workers and equipment close to the travelway.

 

UPDATE ON SLIDE REPAIR PROJECT ON ROUTE U IN WARREN COUNTY

The slide repair project located in Warren County on Route U, between Rogers Drive and Lake Ridge Lane, approximately 1.25 miles north of Missouri Route 94, has been declared an emergency project allowing an accelerated schedule for the letting and award of the repair contract.

All necessary environmental clearances and right of way have been obtained and the project is currently underway.  The work is scheduled to be completed in November.

Route U will remain closed until the project is complete.  The preferred detour around the closure is to use Missouri Route 94 to Missouri Route 47.

 

OTHER MODOT NEWS

The Missouri Legislature and Governor Parson signed into law significant investment in the I-44 Corridor during the 2024 Legislative session.  The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission approved the 2025-2029 Statewide Transportation Improvement Plan this summer which included already planned projects programmed along the I-44 corridor. These historic investments for I-44 corridor are just a start to bring a much-needed upgrade to this aging facility.  MoDOT is currently updating the Forward 44 purpose and need study which is anticipated to be completed in early 2025.  

MoDOT has an immediate need to acquire the services of three (3) Owner Engineer Consultants to assist as an extension of MoDOT Staff to develop, procure and deliver projects within each District.  The contract is anticipated to provide flexibility to manage each District’s program related to I-44 improvements.  Consultants should understand they will be precluded from any future alternative delivery projects as a bidder due to their work as part of these contracts.  In addition to the above three (3) Consultant contract Opportunities, MoDOT will release a solicitation for an Improve I-70 Owner Consultant opportunity for the section between the Missouri River Bridge in Rocheport to west of the I-70/US 63 interchange in Columbia. 

Formal solicitations are anticipated to be released by early next week and a 3-4 week time frame will be provided to put together letters of interest. 

Other Pertinent information: 

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

September 18, 2024

 

TEENS SERIOUSLY INJURED IN TUESDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

Two Salisbury teens were seriously injured in an accident that occurred just before 8am Tuesday in Chariton County.  The patrol says that a 16 year old girl and a 14 year old boy were passengers’ in a vehicle driven by 39 year old Joshua Brown of Salisbury.  They were on US 24 at Highway Y in Brunswick when he attempted to make a left turn, failed to yield and pulled into the path of a tractor trailer driven by 59 year old Larry Fox of Brunswick and the semi struck the vehicle in the passenger side.  Both teens were transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

FOUR INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN ADAIR COUNTY CRASH

Four people were injured, one seriously in a Monday afternoon crash in Adair County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 2:30pm as a truck driven by 33 year old Brian Western of Greentop was stopped in the roadway to make a left turn on US 63 when it was struck in the rear by a car driven by 32 year old Neil Mehta of Kirksville.  The collision forced Western’s truck into the southbound lane where it struck a truck driven by 22 year old Keith Steen Jr. of Kirksville and also a truck driven by 76 year old Shirley Watt of Centralia.  After impact Watt’s truck traveled off the left side of the roadway and overturned.  She sustained serious injuries, while her passenger 68 year old Paul Kennedy of Centralia suffered moderate injuries as did Steen Jr. also Mehta suffered minor injuries.  All four were taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville for treatment.

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Adair County

Business Route 63 (Baltimore Street) – September 23, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 6 to Charles Street in Kirksville between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Audrain County

U.S. Route 54 – September 18 - 20, LANE RESTRICTION for grinding high joints from Missouri Route 19 to Route P in Vandalia between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. daily.

Business Route 54 – September 23, LANE RESTRICTION for grinding high joints from Green Boulevard to Teal Lake Road in Mexico between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 22 – September 24 – 25, LANE RESTRICTION for grinding high joints from Mexico City Limits to Centralia City Limits between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. daily.

Route N – September 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 1600 feet west of West Jackson Street in Martinsburg to CR 740 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Clark County

Route K – September 16 – 19 & 23 – 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement from Iowa State line to Route AA between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Lewis County

Route D – September 16 – 19 & 23 – 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route U to Missouri Route 156 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Lincoln County

Route V – September 17, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Ethan Drive to Sherman Drive between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route V – September 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from U.S. Route 61 to Henry Harris Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route V – September 27, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Ivy Lane to Harmony Grove Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Macon County

Route K – September 16 – 19, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Mariner Street to Landmark Street between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Marion County

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) - September 17, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route J to Route Z between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) - September 17 – 20, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route K to Route TT in Shelby County between 6:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. daily.

Route Z – September 18, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route CC to Route C between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Monroe County

U.S. Route 24 (Eastbound & Westbound) – September 16 - 17, LANE RESTRICTION for shoulder work operations from Route C to Missouri Route 15 between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route D – September 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 647 to CR 657 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route D – September 27, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route E to CR 657 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route Z – September 18 – 19, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 364 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route Z – September 20 & 23, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route D to CR 616 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route Z – September 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 770 to CR 650 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.  

Route Z – September 25, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 154 to CR 670 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Montgomery County

Route ZZ – September 23 - 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route B to CR 1040 in Callaway County between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route ZZ – September 25, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Cedartown Road to Whitehall School Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route ZZ – September 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Whitehall School Road to Missouri Route 19 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Pike County

U.S. Route 79 – July 15 – September 30, CLOSED for flood wall construction from Smith Street to Main Cross in Clarksville beginning July 15th ending September 30th.

Randolph County

Route O – September 23, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 1.5 miles west of Route C to 2 miles west of Route C between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Route BB – September 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations beginning at CR 2150 continuing 1000 feet east of CR 2150 between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Route BB – September 25, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations beginning at CR 2270 continuing 1000 feet east of CR 2270 between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Schuyler County

Route J – September 23 – 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Walking Trail Drive to Quail Avenue between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route J – September 25, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Keller Drive to Rocky Avenue between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route K – September 16 - 17, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Fifth Street to Keim Avenue between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route V – September 18 - 19, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route D to Hilliard Avenue between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Scotland County

Route AA – September 18 - 19, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 458 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Shelby County

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – September 17 – 20, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route K in Marion County to Route TT between 6:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. daily.

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – September 23 – 24, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 15 to Route N between 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. p.m. daily.

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – September 25 - 27, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from CR 311 to the Macon County Line between 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. p.m. daily.

Route H – September 19, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 151 to Route K between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Route M – September 17 – 18, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to Route BB between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.

Route P - September 23 – 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 227 between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.

Route U – September 20, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 343 to CR 337 between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Route MM - September 25 - 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 151 to CR 315 between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

September 17, 2024

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN CALLAWAY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Hartsburg man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 6am Sunday in Callaway County.  The patrol says that 26 year old Caleb Ellingsworth was on Route CC when his motorcycle struck a cow that was in the roadway.  He was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

DRIVERS HURT IN SUNDAY MORNING WRECK

Both drivers were hurt in a two-vehicle wreck Sunday morning in Lincoln County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 9:20am as 38 year old Shannon Frkovic of Foley was on MO 47 when she failed to keep a proper lookout and the front of her SUV struck the rear of a truck driven by 60 year old John Greco of Winfield.  Both were taken to area hospitals for treatment of minor injuries.

 

TEEN HURT IN SUNDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

A teen was hurt in a Sunday afternoon crash in Lafayette County.  State troopers stated that a 16 year old girl from Dover, MO was on 14401 Rocky Ford Road when her SUV ran off the road, she overcorrected, causing it to travel off the opposite side of the road and then struck an embankment and overturned.  The teen sustained minor injuries and was taken to Western Missouri Medical Center in Warrensburg for treatment.  The crash happened at around 1:30pm Sunday.






September 16, 2024

Man seriously injured in Adair County accident
A Novinger man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 1:15pm Saturday in Adair County.  The patrol says that 67 year old Gregory Dixson was on Highway 149 when he failed to negotiate a curve, causing his motorcycle to travel off the left side of the roadway and overturned, ejecting him from it.  He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

Man injured in Friday morning crash
A man was injured in a Friday morning crash in Monroe County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 8:15am as 19 year old Anna Sinclair of Montgomery City was on Highway M at Highway C when she failed to stop at the intersection and her SUV struck a truck driven by 55 year old Randy Myers of Lawson.  He was transported by ambulance to Moberly Regional Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

Woman hurt in Friday morning wreck
32 year old Hailey Porter of Hunnewell was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Friday morning in Ralls County.  MSHP stated that she was on Route H when her truck ran off the left side of the road and overturned.  She sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment.  The wreck happened at 7:25am Friday.

 

 







LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
_________________________________________________________

               ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom 



September 13, 2024

Four injured, one seriously in Boone County accident
Four people were injured, one seriously in an accident that occurred at 9am Wednesday in Boone County.  The patrol says that six vehicles were involved in the accident on eastbound I-70 as an SUV driven by 31 year old Sai Reddy of Kansas City failed to notice traffic ahead had stopped due to an unrelated incident when the SUV struck a car in the rear and then the SUV skidded from the left lane into the right lane, striking the rear of a truck and then it traveled off the roadway and came to rest partially blocking the right lane.  Meanwhile the car was propelled into the rear of another car, while the truck struck the rear of another truck and finally the sixth vehicle was struck by airborne debris.  Reddy suffered minor injuries, while his three passengers, all women sustained serious to moderate injuries.  All four were transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

Man killed in Tuesday night incident
A Palmyra man was killed in a Tuesday night incident in Marion County.  The highway patrol said it happened at around 7:15pm as 52 year old Scott Miller was riding his motorcycle on South Dickerson Street when he suffered a medical incident, lost control and it struck a curb and overturned, ejecting him from it.  He was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital where he died a short time later from the medical incident.

Driver seriously injured in Tuesday morning wreck
51 year old Shane Whitacre of Moberly was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday morning in Knox County.  MSHP stated that he was on MO 6 when his dump truck ran off the right side of the road, returned to the roadway, overcorrected, overturned and then went off the left side and came to rest off the road.  He was air-lifted to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.  The wreck happened at 10am Tuesday.



 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

September 11, 2024

 

New Assistant Administrator for Macon County Health Department

The Macon County Health Department and the Macon County Health Department Board of Trustees invites you to welcome Sarah Miller as the new Assistant Administrator which began on Monday.  She will be working and training to assume the position beginning Jan. 1, 2025 with the retirement of current Administrator Mike Chambers.  Miller has a long history working in health care for 18 years at Samaritan Hospital in Macon primarily in insurance billing and has spent the last 10 years as Patient Accounts Director.

 

Governor Parson, Attorney General Bailey Announce New Actions to Combat Spread of Dangerous Unregulated Cannabis Products

On Tuesday, during a press conference at the State Capitol, Governor Mike Parson and Attorney General Andrew Bailey announced a joint task force between the Attorney General's Office (AGO) and the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control (ATC) to combat the spread of unregulated psychoactive cannabis products in Missouri. This latest action comes after Governor Parson announced Executive Order 24-10 and subsequent emergency rules by ATC were refused

Governor Parson and Attorney General Bailey were joined by Senate President Pro Tempore Caleb Rowden, House Majority Floor Leader Jonathan Patterson, Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) Director Paula Nickelson, Department of Public Safety Deputy Director Kevin Bond, ATC State Supervisor Michael Leara, and Missouri Poison Center Director Julie Weber.  

"While there are some out there who want Missourians to believe the proliferation of these harmful products is not an emergency or threat to the well-being of Missouri children, I, along with the Attorney General, DPS, DHSS, and other health experts, strongly disagree," Governor Parson said. "Together, with the help of the Attorney General and his team, we will root out these cannabis products being deceptively marketed to our children until such time the General Assembly provides the statutory framework for commonsense regulations." 

“Under state law, Missourians have a right to know what is in the products they or their children consume. That is why we are building on our existing investigation into these harmful, illicit products by formalizing a unit within my Consumer Protection Division that will be dedicated to investigating referrals from the ATC,” Attorney General Bailey said. “We will enforce the law to protect our children every step of the way.”

The AGO and ATC will establish a joint task force. Under the terms of the partnership, ATC will be responsible for investigating its licensees who sell unregulated psychoactive cannabis products in their facilities, collecting evidence of deceptive marketing practices, and referring matters to the AGO.

The AGO will create a specialized new unit within its Consumer Protection division to evaluate referrals from ATC and use its authority under the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act (MMPA) to bring legal action against licensees who continue prohibited practices related to unregulated psychoactive cannabis products 

DHSS will continue to embargo unregulated psychoactive cannabis food products being sold, manufactured, or delivered in Missouri that do not originate from an "approved source" according to state and federal law. DHSS's efforts will complement those of the AGO and ATC's joint task force. 

Since September 1, DHSS has visited 64 facilities, finding 39 with unregulated psychoactive cannabis products present on shelves. Thus far, 8,929 products have been embargoed through these enforcement efforts. 

DHSS already regulates food products using the authority within Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 196, sections 196.010 to 196.120, and the Missouri Food Code. To report an unregulated product, submit a complaint at Health.Mo.Gov/Report.

Highway Commission Seeks Applications for MoDOT Director

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission have opened its search for a new director for the Missouri Department of Transportation. Director Patrick McKenna has announced his departure effective September 20, and the Commission has named MoDOT Deputy Director Ed Hassinger as interim director to lead the organization during the transition.

The Commission has posted the job description and job posting, which includes instructions for how to apply, at www.modot.org/careers.  Applications will be received through 5:00 p.m. on September 27, 2024.

“The Commission appreciates the input received from stakeholders, the public and employees on important leadership qualities for the director. Some of the common themes we heard include a commitment to safety, vision, integrity, engagement and collaboration and a focus on all modes of transportation,” said Commission Chairman W. Dustin Boatwright. “The MoDOT Director position is critical to the success of transportation in Missouri, and we are excited to see the interest and talent of applicants for this challenging position.”

The Commission intends to have a new director in place by the end of the year.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

_______________________________________________________

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

September 10, 2024

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.


Audrain County


U.S. Route 54 – September 9 - 12, LANE RESTRICTION for grinding high joints from Missouri Route 19 to Route P in Vandalia between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. daily.


Knox County


Missouri Route 156 – September 9 - 12, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.50 mile before and after the North River Bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.


Lewis County


Route V – September 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route Z to Route O between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.


Route V – September 10 – 11, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 6 to Route O between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.


Route D  - September 12, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Columbus Street to Route U between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.


Lincoln County


Route V – September 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 0.03 mile before Whippoorwill Trail to 0.144 mile after Ivy Lane between 8:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.


Route V – September 17, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Ethan Drive to Sherman Drive between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Marion County


U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) - September 17 – 20, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route K to Route TT between 6:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. daily.


U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) - September 16, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route U to Route J between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.


U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) - September 17, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route E to Route U between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.


Monroe County


U.S. Route 24 (Eastbound & Westbound) – September 9 - 11, LANE RESTRICTION for shoulder work operations from CR 971 to Route A between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


U.S. Route 24 (Eastbound & Westbound) – September 12 – 13, LANE RESTRICTION for shoulder work operations from Route A to Business Highway 24 between 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily.


Montgomery County


Route CC – September 12, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from approximately 1500 feet east of Missouri Route 161 to Mayapple Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.  


Route JJ – September 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations beginning 400 feet east continuing to 1000 feet east of Route F between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.


Pike County


U.S. Route 79 – July 15 – September 15, CLOSED for flood wall construction from Smith Street to Main Cross in Clarksville beginning July 15th ending September 15th.


Schuyler County


Route V – September 9 – 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route D to Hilliard Avenue between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Route K – September 16 - 17, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Fifth Street to Keim Avenue between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Scotland County


Route P – September 9 – 12, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from the Iowa State Line to Route K between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.


Route BB – September 11, CLOSED for seal coat operations from CR 706 to Missouri Route 15 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Route CC – September 10, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route B to Missouri Route 15 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Shelby County


U.S. Route 36 (Eastbound) – September 9 – 11, LANE RESTRICTION for shoulder work operations from Route T to Route Z between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – September 17 – 20, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route K to Route TT between 6:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. daily.


Route H – September 19, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 151 to Route K between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.


Route M – September 17 – 18, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to Route BB between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.


Route U – September 20, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 343 to CR 337 between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

COMMISSION AWARDS CONTRACTS FOR PROJECTS IN NORTHEAST DISTRICT

During its regular meeting on September 5, the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission awarded the following contracts for seal coat and resurfacing projects in the Northeast District. 



 





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
_________________________________________________________

               ...from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom


September 9, 2024

MAN HURT IN LEWIS COUNTY ACCIDENT
A Ewing man was hurt in an accident that occurred after 1am Sunday in Lewis County.  The patrol says that 23 year old Gavin Scott was on Highway BB when he failed to negotiate a curve and his car ran off the roadway.  He was taken to Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL for treatment of minor injuries.

MOTORCYCLIST INJURED IN SATURDAY NIGHT CRASH
31 year old Rhett Mullins of Galt was injured in a Saturday night crash in Sullivan County.  The highway patrol said it happened at around 8:05pm as he was on MO 6 when his motorcycle malfunctioned resulting in a crash.  He sustained minor injuries and was taken to Wright Memorial Hospital for treatment.

DRIVER HURT IN SATURDAY EVENING WRECK
A driver was hurt in a two-vehicle wreck Saturday evening in Ralls County.  MSHP stated that a car driven by 24 year old Eduardo Ulloa of Lincoln, NE was on US 36 when he turned into the path of a tractor trailer driven by 21 year old Andriy Fedinchyk of Nicholasville, KY and the tractor trailer struck the car.  Fedinchyk refused treatment at the scene for minor injuries.  The wreck happened at 7:20pm Saturday.


   


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

September 6, 2024

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Audrain County

U.S. Route 54 – September 9 - 12, LANE RESTRICTION for grinding high joints from Missouri Route 19 to Route P in Vandalia between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. daily.

Knox County

Missouri Route 156 – September 3 - 12, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.50 mile before and after the North River Bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Lewis County

Route V – September 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route Z to Route O between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route V – September 10 – 11, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 6 to Route O between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Lincoln County

Missouri Route 79 – September 3 - 6, LANE RESTRICTION for grinding high joints from Foley city limits to Winfield city limits between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route V – September 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 0.03 mile before Whippoorwill Trail to 0.144 mile after Ivy Lane between 8:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Monroe County

U.S. Route 24 (Eastbound) – September 4 - 6, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from CR 396 to CR 426 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

U.S. Route 24 (Eastbound & Westbound) – September 9 - 11, LANE RESTRICTION for shoulder work operations from CR 971 to Route A between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

U.S. Route 24 (Eastbound & Westbound) – September 12 – 13, LANE RESTRICTION for shoulder work operations from Route A to Business Highway 24 between 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily.

Montgomery County

Route CC – September 12, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from approximately 1500 feet east of Missouri Route 161 to Mayapple Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.  

Route JJ – September 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations beginning 400 feet east continuing to 1000 feet east of Route F between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Pike County

U.S. Route 79 – July 15 – September 15, CLOSED for flood wall construction from Smith Street to Main Cross in Clarksville beginning July 15th ending September 15th.

Ralls County

Route O – September 6, CLOSED for private entrance bridge replacement beginning 700 feet south of the Marion County line and continuing to 1000 feet south of the Marion County line between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Schuyler County

Route V – September 9 – 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route D to Hilliard Avenue between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Scotland County

Route BB – September 11, CLOSED for seal coat operations from CR 706 to Missouri Route 15 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route CC – September 10, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route B to Missouri Route 15 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route EE – September 9, CLOSED for seal coat operations from CR 852 to Missouri Route 15 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Shelby County

U.S. Route 36 (Eastbound) – September 9 – 11, LANE RESTRICTION for shoulder work operations from Route T to Route Z between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

 

MSHP RELEASES LABOR DAY HOLIDAY STATS

Seven people died in traffic crashes, two people died in a boating crash, and one person drowned during the 2024 Labor Day holiday weekend. The 2024 counting period for the Labor Day holiday was from 6 p.m., Friday, August 30, through 11:59 p.m., Monday, September 2.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports the following enforcement activity during 2024 Labor Day holiday:

MSHP Traffic Statistics (preliminary):

Crashes - 233
Injuries - 115
Fatalities - 7
DWI - 108
Drug Arrests - 5

MSHP Boating Statistics (preliminary):

Crashes ─ 3
Injuries ─ 8
Fatalities ─ 2
BWI - 8
Drownings - 1
Drug Arrests - 0

2024 Labor Day Holiday Boating Statistics

Troopers investigated three boating crashes, which included eight injuries and two fatalities. Troopers made eight boating while intoxicated arrests. One person drowned over the holiday weekend. The two fatalities and the drowning occurred in the Troop F, Jefferson City, area.

Drowning Incident

The drowning occurred on Saturday, August 31, 2024. William R. Hitzemann, 45, of Weldon Spring, MO, attempted to swim to shore from a vessel. While swimming Hitzemann became distressed and unable to make it to the shore. He was not wearing a life jacket. This drowning occurred at Golden Eagle Lake in Montgomery County. The Patrol was assisted by the Montgomery County Sheriff's Department.

Boating Fatality

Two boating fatalities occurred on Sunday, September 1, 2024. Reven N. Newbound, 30, and a juvenile, 7, both of Owensville, MO, died when the vessel Newbound was operating struck a root wad causing the vessel to collide with a rock bluff. The juvenile was wearing a life jacket and Newbound was not wearing a life jacket at the time of collision. Both subjects were pronounced deceased by Osage County Coroner A.J. Probst. Five other occupants on the vessel received injuries. The crash occurred on the Gasconade River, near Pointers Creek.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

September 5, 2024

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Sunday, September 1 at approximately 1:43AM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to a business in the 1400 block of W Monroe in reference to an alarm sounding. Responding personnel found that someone had forced open the doors to the business and taken around $1,200 worth of merchandise. Investigation led to the identification of Dakota M Goodin, age 27 of Mexico, as the suspect. At approximately 7:10AM, officers located Goodin walking in the 600 block of W Monroe. Goodin was arrested without incident. He was processed at MPSD and taken to the Audrain County Jail for Burglary 2nd Degree, Stealing over $750, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

 

On Friday, August 30 at approximately 3:15PM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to a crash on the US Highway 54 bypass, about 1/2 mile south of E Liberty. The Audrain County Sheriff’s Department assisted with traffic control and the Missouri State Highway Patrol assisted in the investigation. MPSD determined that Tyler W Herman, age 30 from Bloomington, IL was driving a red, 2017 Dodge pickup truck southbound when he drove into the northbound lane in what some witnesses described as an attempt to pass other vehicles. The Dodge struck a silver, 2005 Toyota SUV being driven by Mary L Piper, age 70 of Columbia, and the vehicles caught fire. MPSD quickly extinguished the fire. Piper died prior to MPSDs arrival. Herman was removed from his vehicle and Audrain Ambulance District transported him to University Hospital where he was admitted for treatment for his injuries. An initial report was forwarded to the Audrain County Prosecuting Attorney who obtained an arrest warrant for Herman for Driving While Intoxicated-Causing a Fatality and other offenses. Herman was arrested in Bloomington after his release from the hospital and is currently in jail.


PUTNAM COUNTY ROUTE M BRIDGE TO BE REPLACED

The next bridge replacement project included in the Northwest Bridge Bundle project is scheduled to begin soon. The Putnam County Route M bridge over Medicine Creek Fork, located near Powersville, will close beginning Monday, Sept. 9. The project to replace the bridge is expected to continue through mid-January 2025.

During construction, motorists should seek an alternate route around the closure. The Medicine Creek Fork Bridge was built in 1953 and has a traffic volume of approximately 53 vehicles per day.

“The Northwest Bridge Bundle is a Design-Build project which will replace or rehabilitate 31 poor-condition bridges in north central Missouri, and this bridge is number ten,” stated Missouri Department of Transportation Project Director Michael Marriott. The Capital – Horner & Shifrin team was awarded the design-build contract by the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission at its meeting in December 2023.

Design-build is a project delivery method in which one contracting team is selected to design and build the highway improvement under one contract. MoDOT provides the project goals, budget and schedule and the contractor team completes the work. This technique has been known to significantly save time and provide cost savings.

All work is weather permitting and schedules are subject to change.








LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
_________________________________________________________

              ...from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

September 4, 2024

TWO HURT IN SUNDAY NIGHT ACCIDENT
Two Marceline residents were hurt in an accident that occurred at 8:25pm Sunday in Macon County.  The patrol says that 33 year old Tyler McHenry of Anabel was eastbound on US 63 two miles south of La Plata when he pulled into the path of a northbound car driven by a 17 year old boy from Marceline and McHenry's truck struck the car.  Both the teen and his passenger 22 year old Christopher Dixon were taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville for treatment of minor injuries.

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN BOONE COUNTY CRASH
A Fulton woman was seriously injured in a Monday night crash in Boone County.  The highway patrol said it happened after 7:30pm as 57 year old Sherri Zajdel was on Route Z when she over accelerated, causing her motorcycle to travel off the right side of the roadway, overturned and ejected her from it.  She was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries. 

DRIVER HURT IN MONDAY NIGHT WRECK
25 year old Darinel Estaban Morales of Mexico was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Monday night in Audrain County.  MSHP stated that he was on Route KK when his SUV ran off the left side of the road, struck a culvert and several signs before overturning.  He sustained minor injuries and was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.  The wreck happened at around 6:50pm Monday.

  


 


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

September 3, 2024

 

WOMAN INJURED IN ADAIR COUNTY ACCIDENT
A Kirksville woman was injured in an accident that occurred at 3:20pm Friday in Adair County.  The patrol says that 54 year old Sonia Lopez Palomino was on MO 6 when her truck slid off the right side of the roadway and overturned.  She was transported by ambulance to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville for treatment of moderate injuries.

MAN KILLED IN SATURDAY AFTERNOON WRECK
66 year old James Moore of Auxvasse was killed in a motorcycle wreck Saturday afternoon in Callaway County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 4:45pm as he was westbound on I-70 when his motorcycle began to skid, traveled off the right side of the road and struck a ditch, ejecting him from it.  He was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Friday, August 30 at approximately 3:15PM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the US Highway 54 bypass, on the railroad overpass, in reference to a crash. Responding personnel found two vehicles that had struck each other head on and were still attached. The vehicles were on fire. The fire was extinguished and the people in the vehicles were removed. Audrain Ambulance District transported a man to University Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. A woman was killed in the crash. There were no other people involved in the crash and the incident is still under investigation. The bypass was closed until approximately 5:06PM


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

August 30, 2024

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Monday, August 5, 2024, the Mexico Public Safety Department became aware of a dumpster fire, which had occurred in a downtown alley over the previous weekend. It was determined the fire had burned itself out, but not before damaging the dumpster, another trash receptacle, and two buildings. Investigation led to a suspect being identified and a case being forwarded to the Audrain County Prosecuting Attorney. On Tuesday, August 27 at about 1:59PM, MPSD arrested Nathan M Sommer, age 39, for a warrant for Knowingly Burning or Exploding. Sommer was taken to the Audrain County Jail for the offense.

 

On Tuesday, August 27, 2024 at approximately 2:18PM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 900 block of Garfield in reference to harassment.  Responding officers determined that a resident was being harassed by some of her neighbors because they believed she had cooperated with MPSD on an unrelated issue.  As officers were attempting to investigate what occurred, some of the people at the neighboring address became combative.  Malachi L Whitley, age 18, was arrested for Harassment 1st degree and Violation of bond conditions.  Austin W Terry, age 26, was arrested for Harassment 1st degree and Resisting Arrest.  Joshua L Graham, age 18, was arrested for Interfering With an Arrest.  All three were processed at MPSD and taken to the Audrain County Jail for the offenses.

 

On Monday, August 26, 2024 at approximately 6:28PM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 700 block of Singleton Street in reference to a car fire.

Responding personnel found a 2002 Hyundai sedan with a large fire in the passenger compartment. The fire was extinguished with the vehicle suffering extensive damage and the house it was parked next to suffering heat damage. Initial investigation indicates the fire was started as part of an ongoing disturbance between the people who use the vehicle. Investigation is ongoing. There were no injuries from the incident. Anyone with information is asked to contact CRIMESTOPPERS at (800) 392-TIPS or (800) 392-8477 or Mexico Public Safety at (573) 473-5800 or (573) 581-2100.

 

KARHOFF CONVICTED OF DRUG TRAFFICKING, FIREARM CHARGES

Audrain County Prosecuting Attorney Jacob Shellabarger announces that Larry Dale Karhoff, 53, of Mexico, Mo., was found guilty of six counts: two counts of Trafficking in the First

Degree for methamphetamine and fentanyl, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Driving While Suspended. A jury of eleven women and one man found Karhoff guilty after about two hours of deliberations at the Audrain County Courthouse in Mexico Monday.

Karhoff will be sentenced October 7.

The incident occurred on February 5, 2022, when a Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper noticed a car with what he believed was a revoked driver. Larry Karhoff, the driver, was revoked. He was arrested for that, and searched, where the Trooper found methamphetamine, fentanyl, alprazolam and hydrocodone, as well as a Ruger handgun was found in Larry’s pants. Karhoff has multiple prior convictions for controlled substances, including distribution of a controlled substance, and as a felon in possession of a firearm and unlawful use of a weapon.

 

MSHP: INCLUDE SAFETY IN YOUR PLANS FOR LABOR DAY WEEKEND

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, encourages everyone to plan for a safe 2024 Labor Day weekend. Whether you are on the water or on the road, it’s everyone's responsibility to travel safely and observe all Missouri laws. Never operate a vehicle or vessel while you are impaired. Alcohol affects your judgement, reaction time, vision, coordination, and comprehension. The movement of the boat, vibration and noise from the boat’s motor, sun, and wind are all boating stressors and enhance the effect of alcohol on your body. If alcohol is part of your water activities, drink responsibly, and never operate a vessel if you’ve consumed alcohol.

The 2024 counting period for the Labor Day holiday will be from 6 p.m., Friday, August 30, 2024, through 11:59 p.m. Monday, September 2, 2024.

The Labor Day holiday is a busy boating weekend. Before you take your boat on the water, inspect fuel lines and hose connections for leaks, and test the battery to confirm it is charged. When refueling, turn off any electrical devices which could create a spark. After refueling, open the engine compartment to visually inspect and smell for fuel leaks. Activate the blower system for at least four minutes before restarting the vessel.

In 2023, there were 12 boating crashes which included zero fatalities and three injuries. No one drowned over last year's Labor Day holiday. Troopers arrested 10 people for boating while intoxicated during last year's counting period.

Marine enforcement troopers will be working to make our waterways safer during the holiday weekend. Missouri’s boaters are asked to do their part by remaining alert for other boats and swimmers and being courteous on the water. Smaller vessels should yield right-of-way to larger vessels. Boaters should avoid overloading their boat with too many passengers and always pay close attention to the boats around them. Causing harm to another person or their property with an excessive boat wake may subject you to enforcement action or civil liability. Treat other boaters and property owners as you want to be treated. Be courteous and follow all of Missouri’s boating laws. Remember: Life jackets save lives. Wear one when you are on or around water.

If you'll be on the road this Labor Day holiday, make sure your vehicle is in good working condition before you depart. Drive courteously and obey all of Missouri's traffic laws. Remember to buckle up and pay attention as you travel.

Help ensure a safer Labor Day weekend for everyone.

In Missouri, 15 people died and 477 were injured in 1,058 traffic crashes over the 2023 Labor Day holiday. This means one person was killed or injured every 9.5 minutes. Troopers arrested 125 people for driving while intoxicated during last year’s holiday weekend.

The Highway Patrol will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness & Reduction Effort) over the Labor Day holiday weekend. Speed, inattention, and impaired driving are leading causes of traffic crashes. All available troopers will be patrolling Missouri’s roadways and waterways. Troopers on the roadways will be enforcing Missouri’s speed limit, seat belt, and impaired driving laws, in addition to being available to assist motorists.

The public is encouraged to call the Patrol's Emergency Report Line (800) 525-5555 or *55 on your cellular phone if they witness criminal activity or experience an emergency. These emergency numbers are operational for both highway and water emergencies. If your celebration includes alcohol, designate someone else to drive whether you are in your boat or your car. Please don't become a statistic.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
_________________________________________________________

               ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom 


August 27, 2024

WOMAN HURT IN MONDAY MORNING CRASH
20 year old Hannah Stanton of Milan was hurt in a Monday morning crash in Sullivan County.  State troopers stated that she was on Route E and failed to yield making a left hand turn and her van collided with a truck driven by 49 year old Jason Dickerson of Milan.  She was taken to Sullivan County Memorial Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.  The crash happened after 9am Monday.  

MAN INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT
A Troy man was injured in an accident that occurred at 5:40pm Sunday in Lincoln County.  The patrol says that 29 year old Ryan Bathe was on US 61 when his motorcycle experienced a malfunction, causing it to skid and overturned onto its side, ejecting him from it.  He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis for treatment of moderate injuries.

DRIVER HURT IN AUDRAIN COUNTY WRECK
A Mexico driver was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday night in Audrain County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 6:30pm as 56 year old Patrick Baker was on US 54 when his van traveled off the road, struck several road signs and a MoDOT sign.  Baker refused medical attention at the scene for minor injuries.

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Audrain County

U.S. Route 54 – August 26 – 28, LANE RESTRICTION for grinding high joints from Missouri Route 19 to Route P in Vandalia between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Clark County

Route NN – August 26 - 27, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route K to Missouri Route 81 between 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.

Knox County

Missouri Route 156 – August 26 – 29, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.50 mile before and after the North River Bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Lincoln County

Missouri Route 79 - August 26 – 29, LANE RESTRICTION for grinding high joints from Foley city limits to Winfield city limits between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Macon County

U.S. Route 36 (Eastbound and Westbound Passing Lanes) – August 27, LANE RESTRICTION for new transmission line installation from Gantz Street in Macon to Hickory Street between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

U.S. Route 36 (Eastbound) – September 4 – 5, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Long Branch Lake Road to Kellogg Avenue in Macon between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

U.S. Route 63 (Southbound) – August 28 – 29, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Lake Street to Business Route 36/West Briggs Drive in Macon between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Monroe County

U.S. Route 24 – August 26 – 29 & September 3, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from CR 457 to CR 831 between 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

U.S. Route 24 (Eastbound) – September 4, LANE RESTRICTION for shoulder work operations from CR 117 to CR 971 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

U.S. Route 24 – September 5 - 6, LANE RESTRICTION for shoulder work operations from CR 971 to Route A between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Pike County

U.S. Route 79 – July 15 – September 15, CLOSED for flood wall construction from Smith Street to Main Cross in Clarksville beginning July 15th ending September 15th.

Randolph County

U.S. Route 24 – August 26, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance beginning 200 feet west of Business Route 63 continuing to 1500 feet west of Business Route 63 over the Moberly Stub Railroad between 7:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Route BB – August 28, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations beginning 0.5 mile east of CR 2210 to 1.0 mile east of CR 2210 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route BB – August 29, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 2170 to .05 mile east of CR 2170 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Schuyler County

Route O – August 26 – 27, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Miller Corner to Germania Avenue between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Scotland County

Route A – August 26 – 29 & September 3, CLOSED for patching operations from Route U to Route M between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route A – September 5, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route U to Route M between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route RA – September 4, CLOSED for patching and seal coat operations from Route U to CR 107 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Warren County

I-70 (Eastbound & Westbound) – August 26 – 28, LANE RESTRICTION for core drilling operations between mile marker 191 in Warren County and mile marker 211.6 near Route A in St. Charles County. All work will take place from 9:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. daily.

Missouri Route 94 – August 26, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 47 to Route TT between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. An 11-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

 

 
 
 

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
_________________________________________________________

                ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom  


August 26, 2024

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN EARLY SATURDAY MORNING
ACCIDENT
A Keytesville man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 3:25am Saturday in Chariton County.  The patrol says that 49 year old Chuck McKinstry was on the intersection of Ridge Street and State Street in Keytesville when he failed to negotiate a turn and struck a utility pole and was ejected from his UTV.  He was air-lifted to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

WOMAN HURT IN MACON COUNTY INCIDENT
A La Plata woman was hurt in an early Friday morning incident in Macon County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 5:50am as 46 year old Danielle Edwards was on Highway 156 when she experienced a medical emergency, causing her SUV to travel off the roadway.  She was taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville for treatment.

TEEN INJURED IN SATURDAY MORNING WRECK
19 year old Brynna Beamer of Rush Hill was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday morning in Audrain County.  MSHP stated that she was on US 54 when her truck ran off the right side of the road and struck an embankment.  She was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.  The wreck happened at 6:10am Saturday.



 


 
 





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
_________________________________________________________

               ...from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom 


August 23, 2024

TWO INJURED IN MACON COUNTY ACCIDENT
Two Macon residents were injured in an accident that occurred at 5:10pm Wednesday in Macon County.  The patrol says that 38 year old Andrea White was on US 63 one mile south of Atlanta when her car traveled off the road and overturned.  She sustained moderate injuries, while her passenger a 13 year old boy suffered minor injuries.  Both were taken to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment.

THREE DRIVERS INJURED IN WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON CRASH
Three drivers were injured in a Wednesday afternoon crash in Randolph County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 2:05pm as 20 year old Sarah Dowling of Moberly was on US 63 when she failed to yield to southbound traffic and her car was struck by a truck driven by 27 year old Caitlin Magers of Novinger and then Magers truck was struck by a truck driven by 51 year old Daniel Hager of Wellsville.  All three vehicles ran off the west side of the roadway and then Magers truck struck a sign and overturned.  Both Magers and Hager were transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries, while Dowling was taken to Moberly Regional Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries.

WOMAN HURT IN WEDNESDAY MORNING WRECK
71 year old Judith Ford of Troy was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Wednesday morning in Lincoln County.  MSHP stated that she was on US 61 when she suffered a medical incident, causing her car to travel off the right side of the road and struck two roadway markers.  After impact the car continued traveling southbound, struck the US 61 and Route U concrete overpass.  After the third impact it overturned onto its top, struck the guardrail and came to a final rest facing south.  She was taken to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment.  The wreck happened at 11:35am Wednesday.

 








LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
_________________________________________________________

               ...from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom 


August 22, 2024

MAN INJURED IN ADAIR COUNTY ACCIDENT
A Milan man was injured in an accident that occurred at 7:10am Wednesday in Adair County.  The patrol says that 24 year old Abraham Arzola was on MO 6 two miles east of Green Castle when his car traveled off the north side of the roadway and overturned, ejecting him and then the car came to rest on top of him.  He was transported by ambulance to Northeast Regional Medical Center for treatment of moderate injuries. 

WOMAN HURT IN MONDAY NIGHT WRECK
A Polo woman was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Monday night in Livingston County.  State troopers stated that 22 year old Mary Barnett was on Livingston County Road 2164 when she failed to negotiate a curve at Livingston County Road 235, causing her car to travel off the west side of the roadway, went down an embankment and came to rest on its wheels facing northwest.  She was taken to Hedrick Medical Center in Chillicothe for treatment of minor injuries.  The wreck happened at 11:30pm Tuesday.

DRIVER HURT IN EARLY MONDAY MORNING CRASH
45 year old Eric Zenovitch of Kirksville was hurt in an early Monday morning crash in Schuyler County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 4:40am as he was on US 63 at Lancaster when his truck ran off the right side of the road and struck a culvert.  He sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center for treatment.

  

  






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
_________________________________________________________

               ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom 


August 20, 2024

FIVE INJURED, FOUR SERIOUSLY IN SCOTLAND COUNTY ACCIDENT
Five men were injured, four seriously in an accident that occurred at 8:30pm Sunday in Scotland County.  The patrol says that 18 year old Charles Horst of Memphis was on Highway U when his SUV traveled off the roadway, struck the ground and a tree.  Horst along with three passenger's sustained serious injuries, while his other passenger suffered moderate injuries.  All five were taken to Scotland County Hospital in Memphis for treatment.

MOTORCYCLIST SERIOUSLY INJURED IN EARLY MONDAY MORNING INCIDENT
35 year old Warren Godfrey of Philadelphia, MO was seriously injured in an early Monday morning incident in Marion County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 12:45am as he was on Highway 168 when his motorcycle struck a deer in the road, causing it to skid off the right side and came to rest.  He was transported by ambulance to Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL with serious injuries. 

TWO DRIVERS HURT IN MONDAY MORNING HEAD-ON COLLISION
Two drivers were hurt in a head-on collision Monday morning in Lewis County.  MSHP stated that a 17 year old boy from Monticello was on Route BB when his car crossed the center line on a curve and struck a car driven by 27 year old Hayle Swain of Lewistown head-on.  The teen sustained moderate injuries while Swain suffered minor injuries.  Both were taken to Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL for treatment.  The crash happened at 7:05am Monday.

 






 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

August 19, 2024

 

THREE TEENS INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN RANDOLPH COUNTY ACCIDENT
Three Moberly teens were injured, one seriously in an accident that occurred at around 12:10am Friday in Randolph County.  The patrol says that a 17 year old boy was on Highway BB when he swerved to avoid a deer, causing his car to travel off the roadway, struck an embankment and overturned.  The driver along with one of his passengers' a 15 year old boy suffered moderate injuries, while his other passenger a 17 year old boy sustained serious injuries.  All three were transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

DRIVER HURT IN SUNDAY MORNING WRECK
27 year old Seth Rupp of Moberly was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday morning in Monroe County.  The highway patrol said that it happened at 7:30am as he was on Monroe County Road 1050 and pursuing a vehicle when his car ran off the right side of the road, struck a ditch and a fence.  He was taken to Moberly Regional Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

MAN INJURED IN EARLY FRIDAY MORNING CRASH
A Monroe City man was injured in an early Friday morning crash in Ralls County.  MSHP stated that 21 year old Hunter Whitt was on Route W when his car traveled off the left side of the roadway, struck a ditch and overturned.  He was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.  The crash happened at around 5:40am Friday.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
__________________________________________

             ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

August 16, 2024

TEEN KILLED IN RANDOLPH COUNTY ACCIDENT
A Salisbury teen was killed in an accident that occurred at 6:20pm Wednesday in Randolph County.  The patrol says that 18 year old Zander Munden was on US Highway 24 when his car traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck several trees.  The teen was pronounced dead at the scene.

MAN HURT IN EARLY THURSDAY MORNING WRECK
A man was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck early Thursday morning in Linn County.  The highway patrol said it happened just before 4am as Alejandro Menendez of Fultondale, AL was on Highway 5 at Linneus when he fell asleep, causing his van to run off the roadway.  He was transported by ambulance to Pershing Memorial Hospital in Brookfield for treatment.

WOMAN KILLED IN EARLY WEDNESDAY MORNING CRASH
A New London woman was killed in an early Wednesday morning crash in Ralls County.  MSHP stated that 28 year old Rachel Nodine was on MO 79 when her truck traveled off the left side of the road, struck an embankment and overturned, ejecting her from it.  She was pronounced dead at the scene.  The crash happened at 12am Wednesday.

 


 
 


 
 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

August 14, 2024

 

MACON COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Bucklin man was involved in an accident that occurred at 12:35pm Tuesday in Macon County.  The patrol says that 60 year old Stephen Bright was on US 36 when he suffered a medical condition, causing his car to travel off the roadway and struck a guardrail.  He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.


MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MONDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

A Robertsville man was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Monday afternoon in Lincoln County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 12:40pm as 45 year old Jason Hill was on Route H when the towed unit on his truck traveled off the north side of the roadway, before his truck did the same thing and then the truck returned to the road, before the towed unit rolled over, causing the truck to roll over and overturned.  He was transported by ambulance to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis with serious injuries.   


TEEN HURT IN MONDAY NIGHT CRASH

A Union teen was hurt in a Monday night crash in Franklin County.  MSHP stated that the 17 year old girl was on Highway 100 when she failed to maintain a single lane and her car ran off the right side of the road.  She suffered minor injuries and was taken to St. Louis Children’s Hospital for treatment.  The crash happened at 9:30pm Monday.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

August 13, 2024

 

AREA BRIDGE REHABILITATION PROJECT COMPLETE

The bridge rehabilitation project on Scotland County Route A, over BNSF Railway, 0.3 miles east of Route M near Rutledge, has been completed and opened to traffic on August 9. Included in this contract is an additional bridge rehabilitation project located on Route T over North Fork Middle Fabius River, 1.9 miles west of Missouri Route 15 near Bible Grove completed earlier this summer.  Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc. was awarded the contract earlier this year in the amount of $767,287.

DRIVER INJURED IN CALLAWAY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Steedman driver was injured in an accident that occurred at 2:30pm Sunday in Callaway County.  The patrol says that 55 year old Debra Caissie was on County Road 428 when her truck traveled off the right side of the roadway, she overcorrected, causing it to begin to slide before striking a tree.  She was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SUNDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

A Lonedell woman was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday afternoon in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 1:40pm as 27 year old Emily McClard was on Highway N when her vehicle ran off the right side of the road and overturned.  She was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington with serious injuries.


PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.


Adair County

Missouri Route 6 – August 19, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance over the structure over the Chariton River, located 0.50 mile west of Rye Creek Road between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.


Audrain County

Business Route 54 (Northbound) – August 19, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from East Holt Street to Arch Drive in Mexico between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 54 On Ramp (Eastbound) – August 20 – 21, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Business 54 to the bottom of the ramp merging onto U.S. Route 54 (Eastbound) between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

U.S. Route 54 On Ramp (Westbound) – August 22, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Business 54 to the bottom of the ramp merging onto U.S. Route 54 (Westbound) between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.


Clark County

Route AA – August 19 – 21, CLOSED for patching operations from Route K at Luray to Route NN between 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route BB – August 12 – 15, CLOSED for patching operations from CR 113 to Missouri Route 136 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route NN – August 22, CLOSED for patching operations from Route K to Missouri Route 81 between 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.


Knox County

Missouri Route 156 – August 12, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.25 mile before and after the bridge over the North River between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Route C – August 20, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 15 to Missouri Route 11 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route O – August 14, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Laramie Street to Missouri Route 6 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route Y – August 19, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Elwood Ave to Missouri Route 15 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route Z – August 15, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Bean Blossom Loop to Missouri Route 6 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route TT – August 12 – 13, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 156 to Missouri Route 15 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.


Lincoln County

U.S. Route 61 (Northbound and Southbound) – August 19 – 23, LANE RESTRICTION for surveying operations from the intersection of Route K/Route V to Creech Lane between 8:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Macon County

Missouri Route 3 – August 14, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Old Highway 36 to the South Outer Road (Golden Avenue) between 11:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – August 14, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.50 mile west of Route C to after Middle Fork Bridge over the Chariton River between 7:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – August 15, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Missouri Route 129 to Route W between 7:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 36 (Eastbound) – August 13, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.25 mile before and after the bridge over Gantz Street in Macon between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.


Marion County

U.S. Route 61 (Northbound - McMasters Avenue) – August 13, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Sunny Side Avenue to Stardust Drive in Hannibal between 3:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

U.S. Route 61/24 (Southbound) – August 21, LANE RESTRICTION for brush cutting operations from CR 365 to CR 312 between 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.


Montgomery County

Missouri Route 161 (Second Street) – August 12 – 16, CLOSED for railroad maintenance from Walker Street to Allen Street in Montgomery City beginning 7:00 a.m. Monday, August 12th through 5:00 p.m. Friday, August 16th.

Route B (Wilson Street) August 12 – 16, CLOSED for railroad maintenance from Walker Street to Missouri Route 19 in Montgomery City beginning at 7:00 a.m. Monday, August 12th through 5:00 p.m. on Friday, August 16th.

Route ZZ (South Madison Street) – August 15 – 17, CLOSED for railroad maintenance from South Krekel Street to West Sturgeon Street in Wellsville beginning at 7:00 a.m. Thursday, August 15th through 5:00 p.m. Saturday, August 17th. 


Pike County

U.S. Route 79 – July 15 – September 15, CLOSED for flood wall construction from Smith Street to Main Cross in Clarksville beginning July 15th ending September 15th.


Randolph County

U.S. Route 24 – August 20, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance beginning 200 feet west of Business Route 63 continuing to 1500 feet west of Business Route 63 over the Moberly Stub Railroad between 7:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.


Scotland County

Route V – August 21 - 22, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route M to Route K between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.









LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

August 12, 2024

 

TEEN INJURED IN MACON COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Bevier teen was injured in an accident that occurred at 6:40pm Saturday in Macon County.  The patrol says that 18 year old Natalie West was on Jaguar Street when her jeep slid on the gravel roadway, traveled off the right side of the road and struck a tree.  She was taken to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment of minor injuries.


WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SATURDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

A Higbee woman was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday afternoon in Randolph County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 12:35pm as 62 year old Mary Holzbaur was on Highway B when her vehicle ran off the right side of the road, returned to the roadway, crossed over the left side and struck an embankment before coming to rest in a creek.  She was air-lifted to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.


DRIVER HURT IN FRIDAY MORNING CRASH

21 year old Cameron Pierce of Huntington, MN was hurt in a Friday morning crash in Clark County.  MSHP stated that he was on US 136 when he slowed down to make a turn and his SUV was struck in the rear by a truck driven by 53 year old Sherie Sommers of Luray, MO.  Pierce was taken to Scotland County Hospital in Memphis for treatment of minor injuries.  The crash happened at 8:15am Friday.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

August 8, 2024

 

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN RANDOLPH COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Huntsville woman was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 1:35pm Wednesday in Randolph County.  The patrol says that 66 year old Susan Karg was on Route DD when her vehicle traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a culvert and overturned.  She was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries. 


MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

A Kahoka man was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Wednesday afternoon in Clark County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 1:20pm as 68 year old Larry Mohr was on US 136 when his SUV ran off the left side of the roadway and overturned.  He was air-lifted to University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, IA with serious injuries. 


DRIVER KILLED IN WEDNESDAY MORNING CRASH

27 year old Clayton Hulme of Troy was killed in a Wednesday morning crash in Callaway County.  MSHP stated that he was eastbound on I-70 when his truck crossed the center of the road and struck the towed unit of a freightliner driven by 54 year old Thomas Goin of Tonganoxie, KS and then the truck skidded off the left side of the roadway, before striking several median cable posts and coming to rest on its top.  Hulme was pronounced dead at the scene.  The crash happened after 9:30am Wednesday.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

August 6, 2024

 

MAN INJURED IN LINN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A man escaped with minor injuries after an accident that occurred at 3:45pm Sunday in Linn County.  The patrol says that 56 year old Ayad Alnassery of Wichita, KS was on US 36 when his car had a tire blowout, causing it to travel into the median, overturned and slid into the westbound lanes of US 36.  He was transported by ambulance to Pershing Memorial Hospital in Brookfield for treatment of minor injuries.


MAN HURT IN SUNDAY MORNING WRECK

A St. Charles man was hurt in a motorcycle wreck Sunday morning in Pike County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 10:40am as 72 year old Stefanus Van Dijkhorst was riding his motorcycle on private property, traveling westbound on a dry dam towards Pike County Road 207 when it struck a pot hole and he and the motorcycle laid down on their passenger side in the grass as he was not ejected from it.  He sustained minor injuries and was taken to Pike County Memorial Hospital for treatment.


DRIVER HURT IN SUNDAY NIGHT CRASH

46 year old Ryan Rhyneer of Elsberry was hurt in a Sunday night crash in Lincoln County.  MSHP stated that he was on McIntosh Hill Road when his vehicle was struck by another vehicle driven by 65 year old Thomas Timmermeier of O’Fallon who had failed to maintain its lane and crossed the center line.  Rhyneer was taken to Mercy Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.  The crash happened at 8:55pm Sunday.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

August 5, 2024

 

TEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN LINN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Meadville teen was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 2:20am Saturday in Linn County.  The patrol says that the 15 year old boy was on Crow Drive when his ATV struck a deer in the roadway and ejected the teen from it.  He was taken to Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City with serious injuries.


MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN EARLY SUNDAY MORNING WRECK

A Troy man was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck early Sunday morning in Monroe County.  The highway patrol said that it happened at 12am as 28 year old Colt Schuman was on County Road 581 when his vehicle ran off the left side of the roadway, he overcorrected, causing it to overturn and eject him.  Schuman was air-lifted to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.


DRIVER INJURED IN SATURDAY MORNING CRASH

34 year old Caleb Tasco of La Grange was injured in a Saturday morning crash in Lewis County.  MSHP stated that he was on County Road 510 when his vehicle failed to negotiate a curve, went off the road and overturned, ejecting him from it.  He refused medical treatment for his injuries.  The crash happened at around 7am Saturday.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

August 1, 2024

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Audrain County

Route K – August 6, CLOSED for patching operations from U.S. Route 54 to CR 510 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route K – August 7 – 8, CLOSED for patching operations from the Pike County line to U.S. Route 54 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route AA – August 1 & 5, CLOSED for patching operations from U.S. Route 54 to Route K between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route CC – August 7, CLOSED for culvert replacement from CR 217 to Audrain CR 209 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route CC – August 8, CLOSED for culvert replacement from CR 225 to Audrain CR 233 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Clark County

Route DD – July 29 – August 1, CLOSED for patching operations from CR 95 to Route C between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route CC – August 5 - 8, CLOSED for patching operations from CR 27 to Missouri Route 81 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Knox County

Route C – August 5 – 8, CLOSED for resurfacing operations from Missouri Route 15 to Missouri Route 11 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Lincoln County

U.S. Route 61 (Outer Road) – July 29 – August 1, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route C to South Lincoln Drive between 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. An 11-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Monroe County

Missouri Route 151 – August 1, CLOSED for culvert replacement from CR 136 to CR 156 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 151 – August 5, CLOSED for culvert replacement from CR 1191 to Route K between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 151 – August 6, CLOSED for culvert replacement from CR 1085 to CR 923 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Montgomery County

Route Y – August 4 – 9, CLOSED for railroad maintenance from 1.93 miles southwest of Route E continuing for 0.25 mile in Jonesburg beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Sunday, August 4 through 5:00 p.m. on Friday, August 9th.

Route F – August 6 – 10, CLOSED for railroad maintenance from Booneslick Street to Garrett Road in High Hill beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 6th through 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 10th.

I-70 (North Outer Road) – August 6 – 10, CLOSED for railroad maintenance from 1.38 miles east of Route F in High Hill continuing east for 0.25 mile beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 6th through 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 10th.

Pike County

U.S. Route 79 – July 15 – September 15, CLOSED for flood wall construction from Smith Street to Main Cross in Clarksville beginning July 15th ending September 15th.

Warren County

I-70 (Westbound - North Service Road) – July 30 – August 2, LANE RESTRICTION for soil boring operations beginning 0.3 mile from Route J continuing east for 0.25 mile between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.

I-70 (Eastbound - Veterans Memorial Parkway) – July 30 – August 2 LANE RESTRICTION for soil boring operations beginning 0.52 mile from Route F continuing east for 0.25 mile between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.

I-70 (Eastbound and Westbound) – July 31, LANE RESTRICTION for clean-up following a recent traffic incident 4,800 feet east of Route F overpass at High Hill beginning at 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 31st through 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 1st.

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT

A St. Clair man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 3pm Tuesday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that 46 year old John Benetin was riding his motorcycle eastbound on I-44 and traveling too fast for the rainy and wet road conditions when it began sliding and overturned, ran off the right side of the roadway and ejected him from it.  He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.


WOMAN HURT IN TUESDAY NIGHT CRASH  

A woman was hurt in a Tuesday night crash in Franklin County.  State troopers stated that 56 year old Jennifer Rubenstein of Bradenton, FL was a passenger in an SUV driven by 72 year old Mark Rubenstein of Bradenton, FL.  They were westbound on I-44 when the SUV went off the left side of the road and struck the cable barrier.  She sustained minor injuries and was taken to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan for treatment.  The crash happened at around 5pm Tuesday.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

July 31, 2024

 

WOMAN INJURED IN RANDOLPH COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Glasgow woman was injured in an accident that occurred at 7:30am Monday in Randolph County.  The patrol says that 40 year old Nitosha Shepherd was northbound on Route A when she attempted to make a pass and sideswiped a southbound truck driven by 45 year old Brian Dougherty of Higbee.  She was transported by ambulance to Moberly Regional Medical Center for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MONDAY MORNING WRECK

22 year old Adam Morgan of Camdenton was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Monday morning in Cole County.  MSHP stated that he was on US 54 when he overcorrected to the right causing his car to slide off the road, struck a log and then struck a tree, before overturning onto its left side.  He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.  The wreck happened after 7:30am Monday.

 

MAN HURT IN MONDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

A Leslie man was hurt in a Monday afternoon crash in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 3:45pm as 82 year old Raymond Meyer was on Route C when his SUV traveled off the roadway and struck a ditch, became airborne and overturned.  He sustained minor injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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               ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom


July 30, 2024

TWO HURT IN LINN COUNTY ACCIDENT
Two people from Raytown were hurt in an accident that occurred at 9:50pm Saturday in Linn County.  The patrol says that 69 year old Mark Wilson was on US 36 at Brookfield when his SUV traveled off the road to avoid a deer and struck an embankment.  Both Mark Wilson and his passenger 67 year old Beth Wilson were transported by ambulance to Pershing Memorial Hospital in Brookfield for treatment of minor injuries.

TWO MEN INJURED IN SATURDAY NIGHT CRASH
Two Columbia men were injured in a Saturday night crash in Boone County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 10:35pm as 20 year old Peyton Thomas of Huntsville was on MO 763 when he failed to stop at a red light and ran into the path of a vehicle driven by 19 year old Roman Diaz and the two vehicles collided.  After impact Diaz's vehicle came to rest in the intersection facing northwest while Thomas's vehicle struck the center median and came to rest in the southbound lanes of MO 763 facing north.  Diaz was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries, while a passenger in Thomas's vehicle 22 year old Charleston Foster suffered minor injuries.

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SUNDAY NIGHT MOTORCYCLE WRECK
A Troy man was seriously injured in a motorcycle wreck Sunday night in Lincoln County.  MSHP stated that a car and a motorcycle approached North Lincoln Drive on MO 47 when the car driven by 18 year old Mariah Mash of Troy attempted to turn north onto North Lincoln Drive when she failed to yield to a motorcycle driven by 42 year old Nathan Sanders and the car struck the motorcycle causing it to overturn, ejecting him from the motorcycle.  Sanders was taken to Mercy Hospital with serious injuries.  The wreck happened at 10:20pm Sunday.
 

  



 

 




LOCAL  & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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July 25, 2024

CHAMBER TO HOST CANDIDATE FORUM
The Governmental Affairs Committee of the Kirksville Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Candidate Forum in Rooms 151/153 of the IPE Building on the A.T. Still University Campus at 6pm on Thursday.  Candidates for the Adair County 1st and 2nd District County Commissioners, Sheriff, Assessor and Coroner have been invited to participate.  The public is invited to attend. 

WALSWORTH HIRES ANDY BILLETT AS NEW CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Walsworth has announced it has hired printing industry veteran Andy Billett as the company's new Chief Operating Officer.  Billett will be replacing Walsworth's current COO Jim Mead, who is retiring from the company in November and will be based out of Walsworth's corporate office in Marceline.  He comes to Walsworth with 25 plus years of printing and senior leadership experience at Taylor Corporation, Custom Ink and Jostens.  Once he began to explore the opportunity to join Walsworth he said it was a perfect match.  Billett will be responsible for developing and overseeing the strategy and execution of plans to help the company achieve its short- and long-term operational goals.  He will help establish the company direction and be responsible for developing operating budgets and establishing operational policies and procedures. 

MAN KILLED IN ATV INCIDENT IN SCOTLAND COUNTY
A man was killed in an ATV incident in Scotland County.  The patrol says that it occurred sometime Saturday night, but it wasn't discovered until around 3:30pm Monday.  The victim was identified as 47 year old Lee Riebel of Downing.  The report stated that he was operating the ATV in a hay field on his family's farm when he braked hard to avoid hitting a fence, but the ATV skidded, overturned and ejected him and then it overturned a second time, landing on top of him.  The report also stated that the accident was discovered after Riebel's employer reported that he had not shown up for work on Monday. He was officially pronounced dead at the scene at around 4pm Monday.

  

            




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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              ...from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

July 24, 2024

THREE INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN CHARITON COUNTY ACCIDENT
Three people were injured, one seriously in an accident that occurred at 9am Monday in Chariton County.  The patrol says that 37 year old Jacey Mohr of Ludlow was on MO 11 when she suffered a medical event, causing her vehicle to travel off the left side of the roadway, struck two utility poles and overturned.  She sustained serious injuries, while her two passengers' both from Brunswick a 14 year old girl and an 11 year old boy suffered minor injuries.  All three were taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

TWO HURT IN MONDAY NIGHT WRECK
Two people were hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Monday night in Sullivan County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 5pm as 28 year old Travis Linkhart of Purdin was on Highway 5 when his car ran off the right side of the road, struck a ditch and overturned.  Both the driver and his passenger 26 year old Michaela Siira of Milan were transported by ambulance to Sullivan County for treatment of minor injuries.

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED, BOY HURT IN EARLY MONDAY MORNING CRASH
A man was seriously injured, while his passenger an 11 year old boy both from Hallsville was hurt in an early Monday morning crash in Montgomery County.  MSHP stated that 34 year old Gregory Rasmussen was eastbound on I-70 when his Mack truck went off the left side of the roadway, overturned and struck the median cable.  The man was air lifted to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries, while the boy was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries.  The crash happened at 5:20am Monday.

   
 

July 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY
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                  ... from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom


July 22, 2024

TWO WOMEN HURT IN LINN COUNTY ACCIDENT
Two women were hurt in an accident that occurred at 5:05pm Friday in Linn County.  The patrol says that two vehicles met on a blind curve on Lowen Road 5 miles North of Marceline when they collided in the roadway.  Both drivers 22 year old Taylor Douglas of Brookfield and 43 year old Amber Gulley of Marceline were taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville for treatment of minor injuries.

FOUR INJURED IN EARLY SUNDAY MORNING INCIDENT
Four people were injured in an early Sunday morning incident in Boone County.  The highway patrol says it happened at 12:45am as an unknown driver failed to keep a proper lookout and the front of their SUV struck the rear of an SUV driven by 24 year old Laramie Hergert of Huntsville.  After impact both vehicles went off the left side of the road across the southbound lanes of US 63 and then came to rest off the west side of the road.  Four passengers in Hergert's vehicle sustained minor injuries and were taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.  Meanwhile the unknown driver left the scene of the crash.

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SATURDAY MORNING WRECK
46 year old Arian Robnett of Little Rock, AR was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday morning in Gasconade County.  MSHP stated that he was on MO 19 when his tractor trailer traveled off the right side of the roadway, into a ditch, struck a culvert and overturned.  He was taken to Mercy Hospital with serious injuries.  The wreck happened at around 9:50am Saturday.

 


 


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY 
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          ...from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

July 19, 2024

BROOKFIELD MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN LINN COUNTY ACCIDENT
A Brookfield man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 12:05am Thursday in Linn County.  The patrol says that 48 year old Justin Thompson was on Jade Drive 2 miles South of Brookfield when his ATV traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned.  He was air lifted to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WEDNESDAY NIGHT WRECK
49 year old Brandon Geiser of Maywood was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Wednesday night in Lewis County.  MSHP stated that he was on Maple Avenue when his truck ran off the left side of the road and struck the ground.  He was transported by ambulance to Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL with serious injuries.  The wreck happened at 8:15pm Wednesday.

MAN HURT IN MACON COUNTY CRASH
A La Plata man was hurt in a Wednesday afternoon crash in Macon County.  The highway patrol said it occurred at 4:15pm as 74 year old Glen Clark of Kirksville was on MO 156 when his car struck the rear of a horse drawn buggy operated by 68 year old Daniel Schrock of La Plata.  Schrock was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

 


 



 
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LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

July 18, 2024

 

MAN INJURED IN MACON COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Shelbyville man was injured in an accident that occurred at 8:30am Tuesday in Macon County.  The patrol says that 64 year old Jeffrey Miller was on Highway 156 Five miles East of La Plata when his freightliner traveled off the right side of the roadway, he overcorrected, causing it to run off the left side, overturned and struck a fence.  He was transported by ambulance to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville for treatment of moderate injuries.


FOUR HURT IN TUESDAY MORNING WRECK

Four people from Coralville, IA were hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday morning in Pike County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 9:50am as 47 year old Viviane Joseph was northbound on US 61 at State Route NN when her vehicle began to hydroplane, ran off the left side of the road and overturned into the median.  Viviane Joseph along with her three passengers’ an 11 year old girl and two boys aged 17 and 15 respectively suffered minor injuries.  All four were taken to Pike County Memorial Hospital for treatment.


WOMAN HURT IN TUESDAY MORNING CRASH

A Holts Summit woman was hurt in a Tuesday morning crash in Montgomery County.  MSHP stated that 38 year old Magen Nichols was westbound on I-70 when her SUV hydroplaned and struck the concrete median barrier.  She was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries.  The crash happened at 10:45am Tuesday.







LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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July 17, 2024

 

MAN INJURED IN BOONE COUNTY ACCIDENT

A man was injured in an accident that occurred at 10:25am Sunday in Boone County.  The patrol says that 65 year old Timothy Plye of Urbandale, IA was on US 63 when he swerved to avoid an unknown object and his SUV exited the left side of the roadway, struck a road sign and overturned.  He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

TEEN KILLED IN EARLY MONDAY MORNING CRASH

18 year old Xavier Carpenter of Chester, VA was killed in an early Monday morning crash in Montgomery County.  The highway patrol said it occurred at around 5:50am as he was westbound on I-70 when his car traveled off the left side of the road and struck the median posts and then he overcorrected, causing his car to return to the road, went off the right side, struck a ditch, became airborne, skidded and struck a parked semi in a rest area.  He was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

DRIVER HURT IN EARLY TUESDAY MORNING WRECK

A St. Clair driver was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck early Tuesday morning in Franklin County.  MSHP stated that 66 year old David Kramer was on Deerwood Trail when his truck ran off the left side of the road, went through the front yard of 5030 Stone Church Road and into a ditch.  He sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital for treatment.  The wreck happened after 5am Tuesday.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

July 15, 2024

 

COLUMBIA MAN KILLED IN BOONE COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Columbia man was killed in an accident that occurred at around 12:25am Friday in Boone County.  The report states that an officer with the Columbia Police Department notified Boone County Joint Communications that they had a motorcycle fleeing from a traffic stop. A Boone County deputy who was near Paris Road and Nelwood Drive spotted the motorcycle and attempted to stop it. However the suspect failed to stop resulting in a short pursuit.  He traveled south on Paris Road and west on Business Loop 70.  When the motorcycle reached the Providence intersection, he failed to stop for a red light and struck another vehicle within the intersection.  The man identified as 36 year old Daniel Edwards was ejected from his motorcycle and struck a traffic signal pole.  He was transported by ambulance to a local hospital where he later died from his injuries.  The police report also states that his license/privilege was revoked and he was found to be in possession of approximately 2 grams of what is believed to be meth.

 

GOVERNOR PARSON ORDERED FLAGS LOWERED TO HALF-STAFF IN HONOR OF BOONE COUNTY FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT ASSISTANT CHIEF MATTHEW TOBBEN

Governor Mike Parson ordered U.S. and Missouri flags be lowered to half-staff at all government buildings in Boone County, the Fire Fighters Memorial of Missouri in Kingdom City, and firehouses statewide on Saturday, July 13, from sunrise to sunset in honor of Boone County Fire Protection District Assistant Chief Matthew Tobben. 

“Assistant Chief Matt Tobben’s life was defined by courageous, selfless public service,” Governor Parson said. “Within five days, Mr. Tobben took part in two daring rescues of flooding victims in dangerous swift water conditions, and that's just one example of his nearly 20 years of commitment to the wellbeing of his fellow citizens. Teresa and I extend our condolences to Mr. Tobben's loved ones as we keep them all in our prayers."

After heavy overnight rain led to the flooding of Bear Creek before dawn on July 8, Tobben assisted a firefighter with the Columbia Fire Department in the swift water rescue of two victims. The civilians and Columbia firefighter survived after the rescue boat overturned.

Tobben, 42, had joined the Boone County Fire Protection District on May 1, 2024, as Assistant Chief of Training. He had previously served nearly 20 years with the Union Fire Protection District, rising to the rank of Assistant Chief. Tobben had been a member of Missouri Task Force 1 since 2012 and rose to the rank of Rescue Squad Officer. He deployed to seven national disasters as a member of Missouri Task Force 1.

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

 

Audrain County

Route W – Now – July 19, CLOSED for City of Vandalia sewer project from East Washington Street to East State Street which began on Monday, June 24th at 7:00 a.m. and ending on Wednesday, July 17th at 6:00 p.m.

Route W – July 24 - 25, CLOSED for patching operations from Route K to Route BB between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route WW – July 22, CLOSED for patching operations from CR 538 to CR 557 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route WW – July 23, CLOSED for seal coat operations from CR 557 to CR 538 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Clark County

Route DD – July 22 - 25, CLOSED for patching operations from CR 95 to Route C between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Knox County

Missouri Route 156 – July 15 – 18, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.50 mile before and after the Little Fabius River bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.  A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Lewis County

Route C – July 15, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 6 at Ewing to Route BB between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Lincoln County

Missouri Route 79 – July 16, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route B to Missouri Route 47 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Macon County

U.S. Route 36 (Eastbound) – July 23 – 24, LANE RESTRICTION for core drilling operations from Kellogg Street to Long Branch Lake Road between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) - July 23 – 24, LANE RESTRICTION for core drilling operations from Long Branch Lake Road to Kellogg Street between 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Marion County

Route D – July 15 -17, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 156 to Missouri Route 168 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route D – July 22 - 25, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 156 to Missouri Route 168 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route M – July 15, CLOSED for patching operations from Route D to Route A between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route M – July 16, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route D to Route A between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Monroe County

Route F – July 25, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route A to Missouri Route 15 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route J – July 22 – 23, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 151 to Missouri Route 15 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route J – July 24, CLOSED for seal coat operations from the Randolph County line to Missouri Route 151 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route P – July 15 - 16, CLOSED for patching operations from CR 346 to Missouri Route 15 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route P – July 17, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 344/346 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Montgomery County

Route NN – July 15, CLOSED, for patching operations from I-70 north outer road (Booneslick Road) to the end of state maintenance in Warren County between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route NN – July 16, CLOSED, for seal coat operations from I-70 north outer road (Booneslick Road) to the end of state maintenance in Warren County between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Pike County

U.S. Route 79 – July 15 – September 15, CLOSED for flood wall construction from Smith Street to Main Cross in Clarksville beginning July 15th ending September 15th.

Randolph County

Business Route 63 – July 15, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from U.S. Route 63 continuing to 1.0 mile west of U.S. Route 63 at Renick between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Schuyler County

Route F – July 15 - 16, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 136 to Missouri Route 202 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route J – July 17 - 18, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Quail Avenue to U.S. Route 63 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route Y – July 22 - 23, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Ranch Avenue to U.S. Route 63 between 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.

Scotland County

Route CC – July 15 – 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement from Missouri Route 15 to CR 855 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route CC – July 17 – 18, CLOSED for culvert replacement from CR 855 to CR 901 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Shelby County

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – July 16, LANE RESTRICTION for clean-up following a recent traffic incident approximately 5,500 feet west of Missouri Route 15 and U.S. Route 36 intersection between 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Warren County

I-70 (Eastbound and Westbound) – July 17, LANE RESTRICTION for clean-up following a recent traffic incident 4,800 feet east of Route F overpass at High Hill beginning at 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 17th through 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 11th.

Route NN – July 15, CLOSED, for patching operations from I-70 north outer road (Booneslick Road) in Montgomery County to the end of state maintenance in Warren County between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route NN – July 16, CLOSED, for seal coat operations from I-70 north outer road (Booneslick Road) to the end of state maintenance in Warren County between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

July 11, 2024

 

GOV. PARSON SIGNS FIVE BILLS INTO LAW

On Tuesday, during a bill signing at the State Capitol, Governor Mike Parson signed five bills into law: House Bill (HB) 1912, Senate Bill (SB) 872, HB 2134/1956, HB 2062, and SB 895.

"We thank Missouri legislators and the bill sponsors for getting each of these quality pieces of legislation to my desk," Governor Parson said. "Together, these bills represent our efforts to ensure a cleaner environment, a more simple and fair tax code, and, above all, our commitment to standing with Missourians in safeguarding their personal property rights against squatters and those whose aim to take what others have worked hard to achieve." 

The five bills Governor Parson signed into law are as follows:

Clarifies how s-corporation resident income tax credits are determined and applied. 

Clarifies processes and provides definition changes for the SALT Parity Act. 

Extends the Small Wireless Facility Development Act.

Provides an income tax deduction for federal broadband grants.

Provides a sales tax exemption for electricity production, extending current exemptions to cooperatives and smaller companies.

Corrects existing loopholes in state law regarding application of certain industrial waste byproducts on agricultural land by changing facility definitions, expanding regulations on industrial waste storage, establishing a Nutrient Management Technical Standard, and requiring annual sampling. 

Establishes the Protecting Missouri's Small Businesses Act. 

Strengthens the rights of personal property owners against squatters. 

Restricts Home Owner's Associations from prohibiting backyard chicken flocks. 

Prohibits local government from requiring churches and nonprofits to install electric vehicle charging stations. 

Provides that no county, municipality, or political subdivision shall impose or enforce a moratorium on eviction proceedings unless specifically authorized by federal or state law. 

 

MODOT SEEKS PUBLIC INPUT ON I-44 CORRIDOR STUDY

The Missouri Department of Transportation is conducting an environmental study, called Forward 44, of more than 250 miles of Interstate 44 from the Oklahoma state line to the Route 100 east interchange near Gray Summit in Franklin County. This summer, MoDOT is holding a series of public meetings and encourages the public to give input on their concerns and observations along I-44.

I-44 is a vital east-west link across Missouri. A 2008 study showed the aging route needs additional roadway capacity to accommodate the increased travel demand. Since the highway was built more than 50 years ago, evolving engineering standards and safety components mean many portions of I-44 are inconsistent with current design standards, and the pavement and bridges need repairs.

The Forward 44 project is an effort to update and validate the outcomes of that 2008 Purpose and Need Study and provide the opportunity for input from stakeholders and the public along the I-44 corridor.

The public is invited to attend one of the public meetings listed below:

Wednesday, July 17, from 4–7 p.m. at St. Clair City Hall, 1 Paul Parks DriveSt. ClairMO 63077 

Thursday, July 18, from 5–7 p.m. at Rolla City Hall, 901 N. Elm St., Rolla, MO 65401 

Tuesday, July 23, from 4:30–6 p.m. at the Joplin Public Library, 1901 E. 20th St.JoplinMO 64804 

Thursday, July 25, from 4:30–6 p.m. at Crossway Baptist Church2900 N. Barnes Ave.SpringfieldMO 65803 

Wednesday, August 14, from 4–7 p.m. at the Wallace Center325 Harwood Ave.LebanonMO 65536 

The public is welcome to attend the session and location that is most convenient. All meetings will share the same information which will also be available on the project website. The public will be able to provide comments in person or online at modot.org/forward44 from July 10 through Aug. 21. 

For more information on the I-44 Corridor Study, call MoDOT at ASK-MODOT (275-6636) or visit the Forward 44 website for the latest updates and to sign up for Forward 44 news.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

July 10, 2024

 

GOV. PARSON SIGNS FOUR BILLS INTO LAW

On Tuesday, during a bill signing at the State Capitol, Governor Mike Parson signed four bills into law: House Bill (HB) 2057, Senate Bill (SB) 894, SB 756, and SB 754.

"We are proud to sign these bills today, demonstrating the General Assembly's and Governor's Office's commitment to good governance," Governor Parson said. "We are especially proud to finally get Blair's Law across the finish line once and for all. Unrelated provisions forced our hand in preventing passage last year, but this year, we celebrate a yearslong effort by Blair's family and friends to help ensure such a tragedy doesn't happen again." 

The four bills Governor Parson signed into law are as follows:

Exempts streaming providers (e.g. Netflix) from paying separate local use fees in addition to those already levied on video service providers. 

Establishes the Right to Start Act, Small Business Regulatory Fairness Act, Office of Entrepreneurship, and Regulatory Sandbox Act.

Establishes Blair's Law, Max's Law, and Valentine's Law. 

Ensures matching punishment under the law for drug trafficking of crack cocaine and powder cocaine. 

Creates stricter punishments for armed criminal action, repeat offenders, endangering the welfare of a child, and unlawful firearm possession. 

 

MOBERLY POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS

The following incidents/arrests were investigated by the Moberly Police Department between the hours of 7am on 7/03/24 and 7am 7/05/24.

 

On July 3, 2024, Moberly Officers responded to the area of Highway 63 near US 24 in reference to a male subject walking in the roadway. Officers contacted 33-year-old Steven Eravi and attempted to detain him due to an earlier call for a peace disturbance. Eravi ignored commands and pulled away from the officers. Eravi was taken into custody and later transported to the Randolph County Jail.

 

On July 4, 2024, a Moberly Officer contacted 33-year-old Aaron Plymesser-Hansen on Sturgeon near Burkhart St. Hansen was placed under arrest for a probation violation warrant. Officers located numerous individually packaged baggies of suspected methamphetamine on Hansen’s person. He was placed under arrest and transported to the Randolph County Jail.

 

On July 4, 2024, Moberly Officers responded to Allendale Manor in reference to a large peace disturbance involving a male that brandished a handgun at a crowd of people. A vehicle left the area and was located nearby by Officers. The 32-year-old driver of the vehicle was placed under arrest for unlawful use of a weapon and assault 1st. The man was later transported to the Randolph County Jail.

 

On July 4, 2024, a Moberly Officer contacted a 39-year-old man who was riding his bicycle without a light at night. The officer located a suspected drug pipe and methamphetamine on the ground near where the man stopped his bicycle. The man was placed under arrest and transported to the Randolph County Jail.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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July 9, 2024

 

MSHP: PRELIMINARY REPORTS INDICATE EIGHT TRAFFIC FATALITIES, ZERO BOATING FATALITIES & ONE DROWNING MISHAP OVER JULY 4TH HOLIDAY COUNTING PERIOD

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports the following 2024 July Fourth holiday statistics for the counting period of 6 p.m., Wednesday, July 3, through 11:59 p.m., Sunday, July 7, 2024:

2024 July Fourth Holiday Boating Statistics

Troopers worked ten boating crashes, which included seven injuries and zero fatalities. Troopers made 11 boating while intoxicated arrests. One person drowned over the holiday weekend. The drowning occurred in Troop D.

[In 2023, there were 11 boating crashes, which included two injuries and no fatalities. One person drowned during last year's July Fourth holiday. Troopers made 10 boating while intoxicated arrests over last year’s July Fourth holiday weekend.]

The drowning occurred on Saturday, July 6, 2024. Craig H. Olson, 60, of Shawnee, KS, was swimming near a vessel, went under the water, and did not resurface. He was not wearing a life jacket. Cedar County Deputy Coroner Joe Trussel pronounced Olson dead at the scene. The incident occurred at Stockton Lake in the first cove west of the Stockton Dam.

2024 July Fourth Holiday Traffic Statistics

Troopers worked 382 traffic crashes, which included 159 injuries and eight fatalities. Troopers also made 147 DWI arrests.

One traffic fatality occurred in the Troop I, Rolla area. Two fatalities occurred in both the Troop C, Weldon Spring, and Troop D, Springfield areas. Three fatalities occurred in the Troop B, Macon, MO, area.

 

GOV. PARSON SIGNS SB 1388, SUPPORTING BILLIONS IN BUSINESS INVESTMENT

On Monday, Governor Mike Parson signed Senate Bill (SB) 1388 during a ceremony at the KC NExT construction site near the Kansas City National Security Campus (KCNSC) managed by Honeywell Federal Manufacturing & Technologies (FM&T). Governor Parson was joined by Honeywell FM&T representatives as well as state and local elected leaders, including bill sponsors Representative Chris Brown, Representative Anthony Ealy, and former Senator Greg Razer. 

"Missouri is on the move. Our economy continues to grow and businesses are finding success all across our state, including right here in Kansas City," Governor Parson said. "We're proud to sign this legislation today to help pave the way for nearly $2.5 billion in investment and thousands of high-paying jobs in the coming years at the KC NExT campus. This legislation is a testament to the success our state can achieve when government removes roadblocks and works alongside our business and industry partners." 

SB 1388 authorizes a state and local sales tax exemption for all sales and purchases of tangible personal property, building materials, equipment, fixtures, manufactured goods, machinery, and parts for the expansion of the National Nuclear Security Administration campus in Kansas City MO. 






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

July 8, 2024

 

TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED IN BOONE COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two St. Joseph residents were seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 4pm Saturday in Boone County.  The patrol says that 71 year old Dennis Lincoln was on Route O when his motorcycle traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck the ground, became airborne and overturned.  Both Lincoln and his passenger 67 year old Peggy Tyler were taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries. 

 

MAN INJURED IN SATURDAY NIGHT INCIDENT

23 year old Jeffrey Berhorst of Canton was injured in a Saturday night incident in Lewis County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 9:30pm as he was on MO 16 when his motorcycle struck a deer in the road.  He was transported by ambulance to Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

 

Audrain County

Route W – Now – July 17, CLOSED for City of Vandalia sewer project from East Washington Street to East State Street beginning on Monday, June 24th at 7:00 a.m. and ending on Wednesday, July 17th at 6:00 p.m.

Route W – July 16 – 17, CLOSED for patching operations from Route K to Route BB between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route AA – July 18, CLOSED for patching operations from U.S. Route 54 to Route K between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route WW – July 15, CLOSED for patching operations from CR 538 to CR 557 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Knox County

Missouri Route 156 – July 10 – 18, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.50 mile before and after the Little Fabius River bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.  A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Route V – July 8 – 9, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from Route HH to Route AA between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Lewis County

Route C – July 8, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route P to Route BB between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Route C – July 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 6 to Route BB between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Route E – July 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route K to Route A between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Lincoln County

U.S. Route 61 Outer Road (John Deere Drive) – July 11, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route C to South Lincoln Drive between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 61 Outer Road - July 15, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route U to the end of the service road between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 61 Outer Road (Davis Road) July 16 – 17, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route KK to the end of state maintenance between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Marion County

Missouri Route 168 – July 8, CLOSED for patching operations from Route Z in Shelby County to Route D between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route D – July 15 -18, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 156 to Missouri Route 168 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route M – July 8 - 9, CLOSED for patching operations from Route D to Route A between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route M – July 10 - 11, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route D to Route A between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Monroe County

Route A – July 9 - 11, CLOSED for patching operations from U.S. Route 24 to Route J between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route J – July 8, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 15 to Missouri Route 151 between 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Route P – July 15 – 16, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 344/346 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route P – July 17 - 18, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 344/346 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Montgomery County

Route FF – July 8, CLOSED for patching operations from Route E to the end of state maintenance between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route FF – July 9, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route E to the end of state maintenance between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route NN – July 10, CLOSED, for patching operations from I-70 north outer road (Booneslick Road) to the end of state maintenance in Warren County between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route NN – July 15, CLOSED, for seal coat operations from I-70 north outer road (Booneslick Road) to the end of state maintenance in Warren County between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Pike County

U.S. Route 79 – July 15 – September 15 – CLOSED for flood wall construction from Smith Street to Main Cross beginning July 15th ending September 15th.

Schuyler County

Route C – July 8 - 10, CLOSED for seal coat operations from U.S. Route 136 to Route N between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route F – July 10 - 11, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 136 to Missouri Route 202 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route J – July 17 - 18, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Quail Avenue to U.S. Route 63 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route Y – July 15 - 16, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Ranch Avenue to U.S. Route 63 between 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route CC – July 9, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route C to the Iowa state line between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Scotland County

Route CC – July 8 - 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 855 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route CC – July 10 -11, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 855 to CR 901 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Shelby County

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – July 16, LANE RESTRICTION for clean-up following a recent traffic incident approximately 5,500 feet west of Missouri Route 15 and U.S. Route 36 intersection between 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 168 – July 8, CLOSED for patching operations from Route Z to Route D in Marion County between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Warren County

I-70 (Eastbound and Westbound) – July 10, LANE RESTRICTION for clean-up following a recent traffic incident 4,800 feet east of Route F overpass at High Hill beginning at 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 10th through 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 11th.

Route NN – July 10, CLOSED, for patching operations from I-70 north outer road (Booneslick Road) in Montgomery County to the end of state maintenance in Warren County between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route NN – July 15, CLOSED, for seal coat operations from I-70 north outer road (Booneslick Road) to the end of state maintenance in Warren County between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

July 3, 2024

 

DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES AWARDS $40,000 GRANT TO KEYTESVILLE

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded a $40,000 Clean Water Engineering Report Grant to the city of Keytesville to evaluate the city’s wastewater system. 

The grant offers funding to qualified communities to help cover engineering costs of evaluating wastewater system improvements. Keytesville will use the grant to identify wastewater system improvements needed to continue reliable service to the area, meet permit requirements and reduce stormwater infiltration into sewer collection pipes. The facility plan should be complete in November 2025.

 

GOV. PARSON ORDERS CAPITOL DOME TO SHINE RED, WHITE AND BLUE FOR 4TH OF JULY 

On Monday, Governor Mike Parson ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome to shine red, white, and blue the evening of July 4, 2024, in celebration of the Independence Day holiday.

"The Fourth of July is a time honored tradition in this country when, as Americans, we come together to celebrate and remember the founding of our great nation and the freedoms we enjoy today," Governor Parson said. "As we gather together in celebration, we also remember the sacrifices of those who came before us. It is our honor to light the Capitol dome as a symbol of Missourians' unwavering patriotism, and the First Lady and I wish all Missourians a happy and safe Independence Day full of quality time with family and friends." 

Governor Parson has also directed state offices to be closed on Friday, July 5, to allow state team members more time with their loved ones over the Fourth of July holiday.

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Audrain County

Route W – June 24 – July 17, CLOSED for City of Vandalia sewer project from East Washington Street to East State Street beginning on Monday, June 24th at 7:00 a.m. and ending on Wednesday, July 17th at 6:00 p.m.

Knox County

Missouri Route 156 – July 2 – 3, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.50 mile before and after the North River bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Missouri Route 156 – July 10 – 11, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.50 mile before and after the Little Fabius River bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.  A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Route V – July 8 – 9, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from Route HH to Route AA between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Lewis County

Route C – July 1 – 3 & 8, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route P to Route BB between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. daily.

Route C – July 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 6 to Route BB between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Route E – July 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route K to Route A between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Lincoln County

Missouri Route 79 – July 3, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route CC to Missouri Route 47 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route M – July 8, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 79 to Sterling Harbor Road between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route CC – July 1 – 2, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route W to Missouri Route 79 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Macon County

Route J – July 1 - 2, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from Route O to Hacksaw Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Marion County

Missouri Route 168 – July 8, CLOSED for patching operations from Route Z in Shelby County to Route D between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route C – July 1, CLOSED for patching operations from Route K to Missouri Route 168 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route D – July 11, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 156 to Missouri Route 168 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route M – July 8 - 9, CLOSED for patching operations from Route D to Route A between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route M – July 10 - 11, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route D to Route A between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Monroe County

Route A – July 9 - 11, CLOSED for patching operations from U.S. Route 24 to Route J between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route J – July 1, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 151 to the Randolph County line between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route J – July 2 – 3 & 8, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 15 to Missouri Route 151 between 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.

Montgomery County

Route FF – July 1 - 3, CLOSED for patching operations from Route E to end of state maintenance between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route FF – July 8, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route E to the end of state maintenance between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route NN – July 9 – 10, CLOSED, for patching operations from I-70 north outer road (Booneslick Road) to the end of state maintenance in Warren county between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Randolph County

Route D – July 9 – 11, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route C to Route BB between 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route DD – July 1 – 3 & 8, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from CR 1650 to CR 1220 between 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.

Schuyler County

Route C – July 1, CLOSED for patching operations from Route CC to U.S. Route 136 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route C – July 2, CLOSED for seal coat operations from U.S. Route 136 to Route N between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route F – July 8 - 9, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 136 to Missouri Route 202 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route J – July 10 - 11, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Quail Avenue to U.S. Route 63 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route Y – July 8 - 9, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Ranch Avenue to U.S. Route 63 between 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route CC – July 3, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route C to the Iowa state line between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Scotland County

Route CC – July 1 - 2, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 855 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route CC – July 3 & 8, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 855 to CR 901 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Shelby County

Missouri Route 168 – July 8, CLOSED for patching operations from Route Z to Route D in Marion County between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Warren County

I-70 (Eastbound and Westbound) – July 10, LANE RESTRICTION for clean-up following a recent traffic incident 4,800 feet east of Route F overpass at High Hill beginning at 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 10th through 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 11th.

Route NN – July 9 – 10, CLOSED, for patching operations from I-70 north outer road (Booneslick Road) in Montgomery County to the end of state maintenance in Warren County between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

June 28, 2024

 

MOBERLY POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS

The following incidents/arrests were investigated by the Moberly Police Department between the hours of 7am on 6/24/24 and 7am 6/26/24.

 

On June 24, 2024, Moberly Officers contacted 35-year-old Charles Ray Baker on Kennedy Dr. Baker was placed under arrest for 4 active Randolph County felony warrants. Baker was transported to the Randolph County Jail.

 

On June 24, 2024, Moberly Officers responded to an assault in the 1500 block of S. Morley St. Officers learned that 50-year-old Robert Liese entered a neighboring residence and assaulted two men. Liese was placed under arrest for burglary 1st and transported to the Randolph County Jail.

 

On June 25, 2024, a Moberly Officer observed a 36-year-old man trespassing on Railroad property. The officer attempted to contact the man and he ran from the officer. The officer apprehended the man after a short foot chase. The officer located two bags of suspected methamphetamine believed to have been dropped by the suspect. The man was placed under arrest for trafficking drugs and resisting arrest. The man was transported to the Randolph County Jail.

 

MDC REMINDS EVERYONE THAT FROGGING SEASON KICKS OFF ON SUNDAY

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) encourages the public to discover nature during frogging season. Beginning June 30 at sunset through Oct. 31, those with a fishing permit or small-game hunting permit may go frogging for bullfrogs and green frogs.

The daily limit is eight frogs of both species combined and the possession limit is 16 frogs of both species combined. Only the daily limit may be possessed on waters and bank of waters where frogging.

MDC notes that daily limits end at midnight. Froggers who catch their daily limits before midnight and want to return for more frogging after midnight must remove the daily limit of previously caught frogs from the waters or banks before returning.

The public can go frogging with a fishing or small-game hunting permit, but children 15 and under and Missouri residents 65-years and older are not required to have a permit.

Those using a fishing permit may take frogs by hand, hand net, atlatl, gig, bow, trotline, throwline, limb line, bank line, jug line, snagging, snaring, grabbing, or pole-and-line.

With a small-game hunting permit, frogs may be harvested using a .22-caliber or smaller rimfire rifle or pistol, pellet gun, atlatl, bow, crossbow, or by hand or hand net. The use of artificial light is permitted when frogging.

After frogging, be sure to browse recipes for your quarry by visiting MDC online at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/Zxz.

MISSOURI OPENS REGISTRATION FOR FREE HEALTH AND WELLNESS CONFERENCE FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

The Missouri Department of Public Safety will host a free two-day First Responders Health & Wellness Conference at the Lake of the Ozarks this fall. Because first responders face stresses and are exposed to traumatic events that do not come with other professions, the unique conference will focus on improving health and well-being for members of the fire service, law enforcement, EMS, dispatchers, corrections officers, and first-responder agency chaplains. 

“Supporting Missouri first responders is an important part of our public safety priorities, including helping them build resilience to deal with the pressures and strains they can face because of the nature of their work,” Governor Mike Parson said. “This health and wellness conference will bring together a lineup of experts to provide practical guidance in dealing with traumatic events, building peer-support teams and balancing family life with their careers.”

“Under Governor Parson’s leadership, our public safety funding has moved beyond equipment and tactical training to include supporting first responder mental health and wellness,” Department of Public Safety Director Sandy Karsten said. “In 2022, DPS launched a free first responder critical incident stress management training program to help build peer-support teams across the state. This conference will help bolster this critical support of Missouri’s first responders.”  

A brief video highlighting the Critical Incident Stress Management training program is available here.

Registration for the free conference, which includes meals for attendees and lodging for those who reside over 60 miles from the conference site, has opened for up to 300 first responders. The conference will be held Oct. 24-25, 2024, at the Lodge of the Four Seasons, 315 Four Seasons Drive, Lake Ozark, MO 65049. Conference check-in is on the afternoon of Oct. 23, with lodging provided the 23rd and 24th. The conference is open to law enforcement, the fire service, EMS, dispatchers, corrections officers and chaplains.

The conference registration link is here.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

June 27, 2024

 

TEEN HURT IN TUESDAY EVENING MISHAP

A Macon teen was hurt in a Tuesday evening mishap in Macon County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 10pm on private property 4 miles southwest of Macon off Highway BB as a 17 year old boy from Callao was traveling up a hill when his truck experienced a mechanical failure and began to roll backwards causing his passenger to fall from the towed unit of the truck.  The 17 year old boy from Macon was taken to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment of minor injuries.

 

DRIVER HURT IN TUESDAY NIGHT WRECK

67 year old Robert Fry of Taylor was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday night in Marion County.  MSHP stated that he was on US 24 when his car traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a guardrail, returned to the road and then went off the left side and struck a bridge wall.  He sustained minor injuries and was taken to Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL for treatment.  The wreck happened at 10pm Tuesday.

 

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Sullivan woman was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 6:15pm Monday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that 72 year old Harold Harrison of Sullivan was stopped in eastbound traffic on the North Service Road when his car was struck from behind by an SUV driven by 28 year old Hannah Stuckey.  She was transported by ambulance to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan with serious injuries. 

 

Governor Parson Signs Executive Order 24-08 Extending State of Emergency in Preparation for Potential Missouri River Flooding 

On Wednesday, Governor Mike Parson signed Executive Order 24-08 extending the current State of Emergency declaration in preparation for potential flooding along the Missouri River over the coming days. Governor Parson first declared a State of Emergency on May 2, 2024, through Executive Order 24-06 in response to severe weather.

“We have seen the tremendous, destructive force of flooding this past week in neighboring states to our north and must ensure resources are available should flooding threaten areas of our state,” Governor Parson said. “This extension allows us to be ready to respond and support our communities. We encourage Missourians to follow their local forecasts and have preparations in place to protect themselves and their loved ones.”

Extending the State of Emergency ensures the state can directly assist local jurisdictions, allowing increased flexibility and capacity to support response and recovery efforts. A State of Emergency is also the first step required by the Federal Emergency Management Agency to seek a major disaster declaration if statewide damages meet federal thresholds for Missouri. 

Executive Order 24-08 will expire on July 31, 2024, unless otherwise terminated or extended.

 

Governor Parson to Host Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl LVIII and LVII Lombardi Trophies at Missouri State Capitol

On Tuesday, Governor Mike Parson announced that he will host a public viewing of the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl LVIII Lombardi Trophy as well as the Super Bowl LVII Lombardi Trophy at the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City. The event will take place Thursday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

"We are excited to have this special opportunity to host both the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl LVIII and LVII Lombardi Trophies at the same time here at the State Capitol," Governor Parson said. "Missouri is proud of our back-to-back Super Bowl champions. We look forward to continuing this, now, annual event at the State Capitol and hope Missourians from all corners of the Red Kingdom will join us to celebrate." 

The back-to-back Super Bowl Trophies will be displayed in the State Capitol Rotunda (1st floor) in a custom GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium backdrop.

The event is free and open to the public. Visitors will need to enter the Capitol through the main security entrance (south side) where they will then follow verbal and posted directions to the trophy viewing area. Attendees will have a photo opportunity with the trophy and state staff members will be present to assist.  






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

June 25, 2024

 

TWO HURT IN SCOOTER INCIDENT

Two Callao boys were hurt in a scooter incident Saturday night in Macon County.  MSHP stated that a 15 year old boy and his passenger a 5 year old boy were riding a scooter on Chestnut Street in Callao when they failed to negotiate a turn and it ran off the left side of the road and crashed, ejecting both from the scooter.  The 5 year old boy was taken to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment while the 15 year old boy decided to seek own treatment for minor injuries.  The incident happened at 8:30pm Saturday.

 

TWO INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN LINCOLN COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two people from Troy were injured, one seriously in an accident that occurred at 8:20am Sunday in Lincoln County.  The patrol says that 53 year old Bryan Williams was on a scooter on Highway W when it suffered a equipment failure and it traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a ditch and overturned.  Williams was taken to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis with serious injuries while his passenger 49 year old Denise Ray sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital for treatment.

 

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN UTV ROLLOVER 

25 year old Bridget Dennison of St. Louis was seriously injured in a UTV rollover crash Saturday night in Pike County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 8:40pm as she was on a private trail on Pike County Road 260 when she failed to negotiate a curve and it overturned.  She was airlifted to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

June 24, 2024

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

 

Audrain County

Route W – June 24 – July 17, CLOSED for City of Vandalia sewer project from East Washington Street to East State Street beginning on Monday, June 24th at 7:00 a.m. and ending on Wednesday, July 17th at 6:00 p.m.

Knox County

Route V – June 24 – 27, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.25 mile before and after the Bridge Creek bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Lincoln County

Missouri Route 79 – July 3, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route CC to Missouri Route 47 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route W - June 26 – 27, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 79 to the Lincoln county line between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route CC – July 1 – 2, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route W to Missouri Route 79 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

 

Macon County

U.S. Route 36 (Eastbound) – June 25 - 27, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from U.S. Business Route 36 to Nashville Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.  A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Missouri Route 156 – July 2 – 3, Lane Restriction for bridge maintenance 0.25 mile before and after the North River bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Route J – June 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 129 in Linn County to Alpine Avenue in Macon County between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route J – July 1, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from Route O to Hacksaw Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Marion County

Missouri Route 168 – July 1 – 2, CLOSED for patching operations from Route Z in Shelby County to Route D between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily

Route C – June 26 – 27, CLOSED for patching operations from Route Z in Shelby County to Missouri Route 168 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route K – June 24, CLOSED for patching operations from U.S. Route 36 to Route C between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route K – June 25, CLOSED for seal coat operations from U.S. Route 36 to Route C between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route M – July 3, CLOSED for patching operations from Route D to Route A between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route Z – June 26, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from U.S. Route 36 to Route C between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Monroe County

Route A – June 27 & July 1, CLOSED for patching operations from U.S. Route 24 to Route J between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route F – June 24 – 26 CLOSED for patching operations from Route A to Missouri Route 15 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route J – July 2 – 3, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 15 to the Randolph county line between 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.

Montgomery County

Route FF – July 1 - 3, CLOSED for patching operations from Route E to end of state maintenance between 7:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. daily.

Pike County

Route D – June 24 – 25, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 79 to U.S. Route 61 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Ralls County

Route Y – June 24, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 19 to Missouri Route 154 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Randolph County

Route J – June 24, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from U.S. Route 63 to CR 1870 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 daily.

Route DD – June 25 – 27 & July 1, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from CR 1650 to CR 1220 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Schuyler County

Route C – June 24 – 25, CLOSED for patching operations from Route CC to Route N between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route C – June 26, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route CC to Route N between 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Route C – July 2, CLOSED for seal coat operations from U.S. Route 136 to Route CC between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route F – July 3, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 136 to Missouri Route 202 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route J – July 8, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Quail Avenue to U.S. Route 63 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route Y – July 9, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Ranch Avenue to U.S. Route 63 between 7:00 a.m. to 4:00  p.m.

Route CC – June 27, CLOSED for resurfacing operations from Route C to the Iowa state line between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route CC – July 1, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route C to the Iowa state line between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Scotland County

Route BB – June 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 811 to CR 819 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route BB – June 25, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 819 to CR 804 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route BB – June 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 804 to CR 851 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route CC – June 27 & July 1 - 2, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 855 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route CC – July 3, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 855 to CR 901 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Shelby County

Missouri Route 168 – July 1 – 2, CLOSED for patching operations from Route Z in Shelby County to Route D between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily

Route C – June 26 – 27, CLOSED for patching operations from Route Z in Shelby County to Missouri Route 168 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Warren County

I-70 (Eastbound and Westbound) – June 26, LANE RESTRICTION for clean-up following a recent traffic incident 4,800 feet east of Route F overpass at High Hill beginning at 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 26th through 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 27th.

 

MAY 2024 MONTHLY JOBS REPORT

Missouri nonfarm payroll employment increased by 5,900 jobs in May 2024, and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased by one-tenth of a percentage point. Private industry employment increased by 4,000 jobs and government employment increased by 1,900 jobs. Over the year, there was an increase of 82,000 jobs from May 2023 to May 2024, and the unemployment rate increased by six-tenths of a percentage point, from 2.9 percent in May 2023 to 3.5 percent in May 2024.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

June 21, 2024

 

Red Cross recommends 3 steps to stay safe and cool as temperatures soar

As extreme heat blankets the state of Missouri, the American Red Cross of Central and Northern Missouri is asking residents to take three steps to stay safe: slow down, stay hydrated and spend time indoors.

 

Heat is more than uncomfortable; it can be deadly, especially for older adults, the very young and those with chronic medical conditions. Last year, some 2,300 heat-related deaths occurred. To help stay safe, the Red Cross recommends that people take three steps:

  1. Slow down by postponing or limiting outdoor activities, including strenuous exercise. If you must work outdoors, take frequent breaks and avoid the hottest part of the day by scheduling tasks earlier or later. Hot cars can be deadly — never leave children or pets in your vehicle alone.
  2. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks. Check that animals also have access to plenty of fresh water and shade.
  3. Spend time indoors in an air-conditioned place. If you don’t have air conditioning, go to a public library, shopping mall or a public cooling center. Call 211 to find an open location. Check on loved ones and neighbors who may be at risk and do not have air conditioning to make sure they are safe.

Unusually hot days and heat waves are both a natural part of weather patterns, however, since the 1960s, heat waves have become more frequent and intense and are lasting longer in the U.S. As the climate crisis worsens, 2023 was the hottest year on record, scientists warn that 2024 could break records for a second year in a row.

 

As heat waves become more common and last longer, heat-related deaths are also on the rise. Heat illness can be prevented, and the Red Cross recommends learning the warning signs and how to help so you can act fast.

 

Heat cramps are an early sign of trouble and include heavy sweating with muscle pains or spasms. To help, move the person to a cooler place and encourage them to drink water or a sports drink. Get medical help if symptoms last longer than an hour or if the person has heart problems.

 

Heat exhaustion is a more severe condition signaled by heavy sweating; cool, pale and clammy skin; a fast or weak pulse; nausea or vomiting; muscle cramps; tiredness or weakness; or a headache, dizziness or passing out. To help, move the person to a cooler place, loosen tight clothing, encourage them to sip water slowly. Use wet cloths, misting or fanning to help cool them off. Get medical help right away if symptoms get worse or last longer than an hour, or if they begin vomiting or acting confused.

 

Heat stroke is a deadly condition that requires immediate medical help. Symptoms include a high body temperature; hot, red, dry or damp skin; a fast or strong pulse; a headache or dizziness; or nausea, confusion and passing out. Call 911 right away if you think someone may have heat stroke. After calling 911, move the person to a cool place, and use wet cloths, misting or fanning to help cool them off. Do not give the person anything to drink.

 

Heat can make anyone ill, but older adults, the very young, pregnant women and those with chronic medical conditions are more at risk. People who work outdoors, have limited personal resources and live in places that lack green spaces are also at higher risk.

 

Download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed and the free Emergency app for real-time weather alerts and heat safety information. Content is available in English and Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector. Find both apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.

Department of Natural Resources awards $2.8 million to Princeton

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded $2.8 million in financial assistance to the city of Princeton for upgrades to its drinking water distribution, storage and treatment systems. The project is expected to total nearly $3.6 million and is anticipated to be completed by October 2025.

Project funding consists of a $1.4 million Drinking Water State Revolving Fund grant, a $1.4 million loan and a $750,000 Community Development Block Grant from the Missouri Department of Economic Development. The funding provided by MoDNR is estimated to save the system’s customers more than $1.4 million in principal and approximately $677,000 in interest over the loan’s 30-year term.

The department’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund finances improvements to water treatment plants, distribution systems and water storage and supply facilities, along with interconnection or consolidation projects. Communities that borrow from the fund benefit from the below-market interest rate and from assistance provided throughout their project by a project manager.

The department’s Financial Assistance Center is committed to working with communities to assist with water and wastewater infrastructure improvement projects. This project will be funded wholly or in part with monies received from the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency.

 

Elite Tool and Swafford-Kientzy Machine & Fabrication announce expansions in Lincoln County, investing a total of more than $30.25 million and creating 36 new jobs

Elite Tool and Swafford-Kientzy Machine & Fabrication (SKMF) has announced that they will both expand in Lincoln County, investing a combined total of more than $30.25 million and creating a total of 36 new jobs.

Elite Tool, a lean contract manufacturer offering quality manufacturing solutions, will expand at a new location in Moscow Mills, investing $30 million and creating 32 new jobs. The new 120,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility will increase the company’s efficiency and ability to keep up with customer needs. Elite Tool takes pride in community involvement that includes working closely with local high schools and Ranken Technical College. The company is dedicated to helping educate youth about the importance and need for skilled trade jobs.

Swafford-Kientzy Machine & Fabrication (SKMF), an industry leader in machining and custom metal fabrication, will expand in Troy and increase its workforce by 25%. Increased demand for the company’s custom metal work created a need for its expansion and new equipment. Operating with more than 20 years’ experience in the machine and fabrication industry, Swafford-Kientzy Machine & Fabrication (SKMF) offers a variety of products and services to meet customers’ metal needs. The company proudly works with local companies, supports the local schools and FFA programs.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

June 20, 2024

 

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN TUESDAY MORNING CRASH

A La Plata woman was seriously injured in a Tuesday morning crash in Macon County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 8:40am as 70 year old Susan Calef was on MO 156 when she swerved to miss a deer, causing her car to run off the road and crash.  She was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

DRIVER INJURED IN TUESDAY NIGHT MISHAP

A Hannibal man was injured in a Tuesday night mishap in Marion County.  State troopers said that 30 year old Jorden Marshall was on Marion County Road 418 just outside of the Hannibal City Limits when his vehicle traveled off the road, struck a fence and a tree.  He was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.  

 

TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED IN AUDRAIN COUNTY WRECK

Two Mexico residents were seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck early Tuesday morning in Audrain County.  MSHP stated that it happened at 4:15am as 26 year old Dayton Cates was on MO 15 when his truck traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned several times, ejecting the driver and his passenger from the truck.  Both Cates and 19 year old Carlee Abbott were transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.  

 

MAN HURT IN TUESDAY AFTERNOON ACCIDENT

30 year old Austin Glandon of Leslie was hurt in an accident that occurred at 4:50pm Tuesday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that he was on Highway 185 when he fell asleep at the wheel, lost control of his car and it ran off the left side of the road and struck a concrete culvert pipe.  He suffered minor injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment.  


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

June 19, 2024

 

DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS T0 CLOSE STATEWIDE FOR UPCOMING HOLIDAYS

The Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to remind the public that driver examination stations throughout the state will be closed on the following dates:

Wednesday, June 19 in observance of Juneteenth. Normal operations will resume on Thursday, June 20.

Thursday, July 4 in observance of the July Fourth holiday. Normal operations will resume on Friday, July 5.

 

MOBERLY POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS

The following incidents/arrests were investigated by the Moberly Police Department between the hours of 7am on 6/14/24 and 7am 6/17/24.

 

On June 6, 2024, Moberly Officers took a report of a vehicle theft in the 100 block of Sparks Ave. A video of the suspect was observed, and Officers continued their investigation. On June 16, Officers arrested a 46-year-old man for outstanding warrants. The man admitted to stealing the vehicle and told Officer’s where he parked it. The Macon County Sheriff’s Office later recovered the vehicle near Excello.

 

On June 14, 2024, a Moberly Officer investigated a harassment involving an 80-year-old Salisbury man and two juveniles. The man was placed under arrest for harassment and later released with pending charges.

 

On June 14, 2024, Moberly Officers contacted 55-year-old Robert Dyer in the 700 block of Bueth Road in reference to having multiple felony warrants. Dyer was placed under arrest and transported to the Randolph County Jail.

 

On June 15, 2024, Moberly Officers responded to the 1700 block of Louisa Lane in reference to a possible burglary in progress. A 59-year-old Moberly man was later located and placed under arrest for a violation of an order of protection. The man was transported to the Randolph County Jail.

 

On June 15, 2024, a Moberly Officer observed a vehicle being operated poorly near the intersection of Rollins and Bedford St. The 19-year-old operator was placed under arrest for driving while intoxicated. The man was later released with a pending court date.

 

On June 16, 2024, a Moberly Officer observed 46-year-old Jessy Cross walking near Bratcher’s. The officer knew Cross to have multiple felony warrants for his arrest. After a brief foot pursuit, Cross was taken into custody. Cross was later transported to the Randolph County Sheriff's Office.

 

On June 16, 2024, Moberly Officers responded to a residence on Tydings Ter in reference to an assault. Officers contacted 22-year-old Xavier Brown and he was placed under arrest for domestic assault. Brown was later transported to the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office.

 

FIREWORKS SALES TO START IN MISSOURI ON THURSDAY

While the drought conditions that plagued Missouri for over a year have eased, the Division of Fire Safety is urging Missourians to continue to exercise extreme caution if they choose to use consumer fireworks as part of July 4th celebrations. Across the nation, July 4th is not only the busiest day of the year for fireworks; it’s the busiest day of the year for fires.

About 40 percent of Independence Day structure fires are the result of fireworks, according to the National Fire Protection Association. About 250 people go to emergency rooms each day with fireworks-related injuries in the month around July 4th. Fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires a year.

Fireworks sales at licensed seasonal retailers are legal in Missouri from June 20 to July 10. Through June 16, the Division of Fire Safety had issued 1,133 permits to seasonal fireworks retailers.

Missourians who choose to use consumer fireworks should follow these safety tips:

Confirm fireworks are legal where you live; only purchase fireworks from licensed retailers.

Only use fireworks in a large open space that has been cleared of flammable materials.

Always keep young children away from fireworks; if teens are permitted to handle fireworks, they should be closely supervised by an adult; always wear eye protection.

Make sure to have a garden hose or a bucket of water nearby in case of a fire.

Only light fireworks one at a time; never try to re-light fireworks that have malfunctioned.

Dispose of fireworks by soaking them in water and leaving them in a trash can.

Never shoot fireworks off from a glass jar or container.

Never use fireworks while consuming alcohol.

Never store fireworks from season to season.

DFS conducts safety inspections at fireworks retailers, including checking to make sure they sell only legally-permitted consumer fireworks, that they have at least two exits, are equipped with fire extinguishers, and that fireworks tents have been treated with fire retardant chemicals.

For questions or concerns about firework safety, firework rules, or firework dealers can contact the Division of Fire Safety at (573) 751-2930. More fireworks safety tips are available at https://dfs.dps.mo.gov/safetytips/fireworks-safety.php.

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

June 18, 2024

 

BROOKFIELD LICENSE OFFICE SET TO TEMPORARILY CLOSE AUGUST 1

The Missouri Department of Revenue has announced the temporary closing of the license office in BrookfieldMissouri, located at 223 N Main StreetBrookfieldMo.64628. The last day of operations will be Wednesday, July 31, 2024.

The Department encourages customers to visit one of the following nearby locations to receive assistance with their motor vehicle and driver licensing needs:

 

A full list of license office locations and hours of operation can be found at
dor.mo.gov/license-office-locator/
.

MODOT HIRING MAINTENANCE WORKERS IN NEW FLORENCETROY AND WARRENTON

The Missouri Department of Transportation Northeast District Office will host several job fairs to hire Maintenance Workers. These events will be from 10 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. on the following dates at the MoDOT Maintenance Facilities below:

 

MoDOT offers full training and benefits including medical insurance, paid annual and sick leave, educational assistance, paid holidays and more. 

MoDOT is a diverse workplace dedicated to safety and personal and professional development.

Applicant information:

 

To learn more about all open MoDOT career positions, or to apply, go to www.modot.org/careers.

GOV. PARSON HIGHLIGHTS SUCCESS OF MISSOURI’S SOUTHERN BORDER DEPLOYMENT

Last Thursday, as Executive Order 24-03 expires, Governor Mike Parson highlighted the successful conclusion of Missouri's months-long Southern Border Deployment in support of Texas Governor Greg Abbott's Operation Lone Star mission to secure the Texas-Mexico Border. On February 20, 2024, Governor Parson issued Executive Order 24-03 activating up to 200 Missouri National Guard (MONG) members and 22 Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) troopers to support Texas' border security operations. 

"We express our sincere appreciation to our MONG and MSHP members who answered the call to help secure the Southern Border and stop illegal drugs and immigrants pouring into our nation," Governor Parson said. "The mission has been a resounding success, significantly reducing daily illegal-immigrant encounters near Eagle Pass and seizing millions of lethal doses of fentanyl. Missouri personnel undoubtedly helped better secure the border and make our communities safer. For now, we welcome our men and women in uniform home and congratulate them on a job well done."

"We also greatly appreciate Governor Abbott for leading this charge. Every state is a border state, but thanks to Governor Abbott leading where President Biden and the federal government have failed, the rest of the nation can rest a little easier knowing their Republican Governors are fighting to help keep them safe. Should Governor Abbott and the State of Texas call on Missouri again, we are prepared to answer," Governor Parson continued. 

"I thank Governor Parson for standing with Texas and sending personnel to join our historic border security mission, Operation Lone Star. When Texas was standing alone to hold the line at the border, he delivered," Texas Governor Greg Abbott said. "Missouri National Guard soldiers and law enforcement officers stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Texas National Guard soldiers and Texas Department of Public Safety troopers to secure the border; stop the smuggling of drugs, weapons, and people into our country; and prevent, detect, and interdict transnational criminal activity between ports of entry. As Missouri National Guard soldiers and law enforcement officers return home to the Show-Me State, know that their efforts made our communities, and our country safer."

To date, with the help of Missouri and other states across the country, the multi-agency Operation Lone Star effort has apprehended over 513,100 illegal immigrants and arrested more than 43,700 criminals, with more than 38,400 felony charges. In the fight against the fentanyl crisis, law enforcement has seized over 488 million lethal doses of fentanyl—enough to kill every man, woman, and child in the United States and Mexico combined—during the border mission.

MONG soldiers were stationed near Eagles PassTexas, and were directly involved in reducing daily illegal-immigrant encounters from more than 4,000 to less than 300. MONG soldiers also assisted in the capture of five individuals on the terrorist watch list. 

Recapping Missouri's Southern Border Operations:

Missouri National Guard:

Since March 15, approximately 50 soldiers from the 138th Infantry Regiment, 110th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade have been serving side by side with soldiers from the Texas Army National Guard. Now, MONG soldiers have begun their out-processing in preparation to return to their traditional status in Missouri.

MONG soldiers maintained 24-hour security surveillance operations, with each soldier working shifts alongside Texas Guardsmen. This allowed for soldier safety and operational efficiency. Routine calls for service included detecting undocumented migrants coming across the border, helping turn back undocumented migrants to Mexico, and assisting with surrenders. Soldiers routinely intercepted undocumented migrants on foot and in vehicles and observed them until U.S. Customs & Border Protection officers responded to take custody and process. 

MONG soldiers worked daily with their Texas National Guard counterparts and Border Patrol to expand their presence and deter migrant activity within their sixty square miles area of operations on the Rio Grande River, near Eagle PassTexas.

In addition to their surveillance operation duties, Missouri soldiers assisting Texas Army National Guard members in the area of the U.S. border provided assistance with the following encounters:

Undocumented Migrant Surrenders - 2,400

Undocumented Migrant Detections & Turn Backs - 1,000

Missouri State Highway Patrol Border Deployment:

On March 1, 2024, 11 MSHP troopers traveled to southern Texas to assist the Texas DPS in providing law enforcement services in the area of the U.S. border. The team briefed at the Texas DPS South Region Office (3) in WeslacoTexas, on March 3 and reported to its first assigned shift on March 4. This team continued to serve in the border area until March 30, 2024.

On March 30, 2024, a second contingent of 11 Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) troopers traveled to southern Texas to assist Texas DPS in providing law enforcement services in the area of the U.S. border. The team briefed at the Texas DPS South Region Office (3) in WeslacoTexas, on April 1 and reported to its first assigned shifts on April 2.

From March 3 through April 15, MSHP troopers assisting Texas DPS troopers in the area of the U.S. border provided assistance with the following incidents/encounters:  

Traffic Stops – 1,432     

Undocumented Migrants – 519

Undocumented Migrant Turn-Backs – 61

Impaired Driver and Drug Arrests – 69 

Other Law Enforcement Assists – 105






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

June 17, 2024

 

US ROUTE 65 BRIDGE CLEARANCE REDUCTION IN CHILLICOTHE

Beginning Monday at 6 a.m., the clearance under the U.S. Route 65 Bridge over U.S. Route 36 in Chillicothe will temporarily be lowered to 14 feet, 6 inches. Magruder Paving, LLC, working with the Missouri Department of Transportation, will be moving traffic in near the median of U.S. Route 36 under the bridge, reducing the height in both directions, to complete concrete repairs. Traffic will be moved to the median shoulder of the passing (left) lane, both directions, beneath the U.S. Route 65 bridge until Friday afternoon,
July 12, when the bridge clearance will return to normal.

Drivers of over height loads may use the off/on ramps at U.S. Route 65 to navigate around the temporary restriction. Message boards and signage will be in place, both directions, to alert travelers. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place. All work for the resurfacing and pavement improvement project is expected to be complete by the end of July.
All work is weather-permitting, and schedules are subject to change.

 

DRUG BUST IN CHILLICOTHE

On Monday June 10 at approximately 4:35pm Chillicothe Police Department, Livingston County Sheriff’s Office, and Missouri State Highway Patrol assisted the Northwest Missouri Drug Task Force with a Search Warrant in the 1000 Block of Cherry Street, Chillicothe resulting in the seizure of a substantial amount of Narcotics and Drug Paraphernalia.

As a result, a 36-year-old male was arrested for Drug Trafficking, and transported to Caldwell County Detention Center and held on a $500,000.00 cash only bond.

The Chillicothe Police Department is working closely with the Northwest Missouri Drug Task Force in efforts to dismantle drug networks and bring offenders to justice. They encourage anyone with information pertaining to criminal activities to come forward and assist them in their efforts to maintain a safe and secure Community.

Community cooperation is essential in their efforts to maintain a safe and secure environment for all residents. Anonymous tips can be submitted via 660-646-2121 or through their website at https://www.chillicothecity.org/police-department/webforms/crime-tips.

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Audrain County

Missouri Route 15 - June 17, LANE RESTRICTION for core drilling operations from Love Street to Robinson Street between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Missouri Route 15 – June 17, LANE RESTRICTION for core drilling operations from U.S. Business Route 54/Green Boulevard to Route D between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. An 11-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Business Route 54 – June 17, LANE RESTRICTION for core drilling operations from East Liberty Street to Huntington Field Road between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 54/Missouri Route 19 - June 18, LANE RESTRICTION for milling operations from Route K to East 4th Street in Laddonia between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 13-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Route W – June 24 – July 17, CLOSED for City of Vandalia sewer project from East Washington Street to East State Street beginning on Monday, June 24th at 7:00 a.m. and ending on Wednesday, July 17th at 6:00 p.m.

Lewis County

Route DD – June 17 – 18 & 24 – 25, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 6 to 230th Street between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Macon County

U.S. Route 36 (Eastbound) – June 25 - 27, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from U.S. Business Route 36 to Nashville Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.  A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Route J – June 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 129 in Linn County to Alpine Avenue in Macon County between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route AX – June 17 – 18 & 20, LANE RESTRICTION bridge maintenance from 0.25 mile before and after the East Fork Little Chariton River bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Marion County

Route C – June 26 – 27, CLOSED for patching operations from Route Z in Shelby County to Missouri Route 168 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route K – June 17, CLOSED for patching operations from U.S. Route 36 to Route C between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route K – June 18, CLOSED for patching operations from U.S. Route 36 to Route C between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route K – June 24 - 25, CLOSED for patching operations from U.S. Route 36 to Route C between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route Z – June 26, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from U.S. Route 36 to Route C between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route DD – June 16, CLOSED for seal coat operations from U.S. Route 36 to end of Route DD between 6:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Route DD – June 17, CLOSED for seal coat operations from U.S. Route 36 to end of Route DD between 7:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.

Monroe County

Route A – June 27, CLOSED for patching operations from U.S. Route 24 to Route J between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route F – June 24 – 26 CLOSED for patching operations from Route A to Missouri Route 15 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Montgomery County

Route FF – June 24 – 27, CLOSED for patching operations from Route E to end of state maintenance between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Pike County

Route AD – June 17, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route YY to CR 130 between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

Route TT – June 17, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 79 to CR 165 between 7:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.

Route VV – June 17, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route UU to CR 132 between 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route YY – June 17, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 79 to CR 123 between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

Ralls County

U.S. Route 61 (Northbound) – June 18, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance at the Salt River bridge from U.S. Business Route 61 to Route O between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route E – June 20, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 79 to end of state maintenance between 11:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.

Route Y – June 24, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 19 to Missouri Route 154 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route HH – June 17 – 18, CLOSED for seal coat operations from U.S. Route 61 to Route H between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route ZZ – June 20, CLOSED for seal coat operations from U.S. Route 61 Outer Road to Bailey Bridge Road between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Randolph County

Route J – June 17 – 18, 20 & 24 - 25, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from U.S. Route 63 to CR 1870 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 daily.

Route DD – June 26 - 27, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from CR 1650 to CR 1220 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Schuyler County

Route C – June 20 & 24 – 25, CLOSED for patching operations from Route CC to Route N between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route C – June 26, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route CC to Route N between 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Route C – July 2, CLOSED for seal coat operations from U.S. Route 136 to Route CC between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route M – June 17, CLOSED for resurfacing operations from Missouri Route 202 to the Iowa state line between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route M – June 18, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 202 to the Iowa state line between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route CC – June 27, CLOSED for resurfacing operations from Route C to the Iowa state line between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route CC – July 1, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route C to the Iowa state line between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route CC – July 11, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route C to the Iowa state line between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Scotland County

Route BB – June 24, CLOSED culvert replacement operations from CR 811 to CR 819 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route BB – June 25, CLOSED culvert replacement operations from CR 819 to CR 804 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route BB – June 26, CLOSED culvert replacement operations from CR 804 to CR 851 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route CC – June 27, CLOSED culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 855 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Shelby County

Route T – June 20, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 168 to U.S. Route 36 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route T – June 24, CLOSED for seal coat operations from U.S. Route 36 to Route AA between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route U – June 18, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 160 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route AA – June 17, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route T to Missouri Route 15 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

June 14, 2024

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN AUDRAIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Mexico man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 7:20am Wednesday in Audrain County.  The patrol says that 35 year old Michael Blankenship was on MO 15 when he failed to negotiate a right turn onto Audrain County Road 355 and his vehicle skidded off the road and struck a creek embankment.  He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

WOMAN INJURED IN WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

24 year old Kassondra Potter of Troy was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Wednesday afternoon in Lincoln County.  The highway patrol said that it happened at 12:15pm as she was on Route J when she fell asleep, causing her car to travel off the right side of the roadway, returned to the road and went off the left side, struck the ground, became airborne and overturned.  She was transported by ambulance to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

TWO HURT IN WEDNESDAY NIGHT INCIDENT

A man and a woman from Centralia were hurt in a Wednesday night incident in Audrain County.  MSHP stated that a truck driven by 51 year old George Hardy was stopped in traffic on MO 22 when it was struck in the rear by an SUV driven by 51 year old Patricia Watson-Adams of Mexico.  George Hardy sustained moderate injuries while his passenger 53 year old Tonya Hardy suffered minor injuries.  Both were taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.  The incident happened at 5:10pm Wednesday.

 

GOVERNOR PARSON BREAKS GROUND ON HISTORIC IMPROVE I-70 PROJECT IN COLUMBIA

On Thursday, Governor Mike Parson kicked off the first project within Missouri's Improve I-70 Program with an official groundbreaking ceremony in Columbia. Governor Parson joined federal, state, and local elected officials along with members of the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission and its Design-Build contractor team to break ground on Project #1: Columbia to Kingdom City.

“Today’s groundbreaking is a momentous occasion not only because we’re kicking off our historic Improve I-70 project, but it’s a culmination of the bold infrastructure initiatives we’ve prioritized since day one,” Governor Parson said. “I-70 is one of Missouri’s oldest and most vital corridors. The safety and economic prosperity of Missourians depend on an interstate that grows along with the state and nation. Expanding I-70 to six lanes has been talked about in Jefferson City for decades, but our administration, in working with Senator Lincoln Hough and the General Assembly, is taking action and getting it done. We could not be more proud that the work we’re commemorating here today will continue serving Missourians for generations to come.”

“Today’s I-70 groundbreaking kicks off a historic, once-in-a-generation investment that will benefit Missouri businesses, commuters, and tourists alike for decades to come," Senator Lincoln Hough, Missouri Senate Appropriations Chair, said. "I was happy to lead this project’s development in the General Assembly and work with Governor Parson to lead the nation in large scale infrastructure development. Expanding I-70 to six lanes has been needed for decades. It has been talked about for decades. Today, decades of talk turns to action. This project is pro-infrastructure, pro-business, pro-jobs, and, above all, pro-Missouri. We thank Governor Parson for being a leader in strengthening Missouri’s infrastructure as we look forward to continuing the strong foundation he has built on behalf of all Missourians.”

Missouri’s FY2024 budget from the General Assembly, signed into law by Governor Parson, provides $2.8 billion in General Revenue for the costs to build a third lane in each direction on nearly 200 miles of I-70, from Blue Springs to Wentzville. This first project, Improve I-70: Columbia to Kingdom City, is a $405 million fixed-cost contract that will add an additional lane to I-70 in each direction between U.S. Route 63 in Columbia and Route 54 in Kingdom City. The project also incorporates $123 million in previously programmed MoDOT projects to improve the I-70 interchanges at both Route 63 and Route 54.

“Thank you to the Governor and the General Assembly for their support in of this generational investment of I-70 for Missouri’s future,” said Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission Chairman W. Dustin Boatwright. “Today’s event in Columbia is just the first step to transform I-70 across the state. While we celebrate today, we are actively working on the next bid package, and we look forward completion of the entire I-70 corridor by late 2030.”

The planned improvements for Project#1: Columbia to Kingdom City from the Design-Build contractor Millstone Weber and its designer Jacobs Inc. also include new concrete pavement on all three lanes of I-70 in each direction of the project. Additionally, throughout construction two lanes of travel will be available in both directions of I-70 during peak hours. Construction of this project is set to begin in July 2024 with an anticipated completion in late 2027.

Those interested in details regarding Project #1 can sign up for project e-mails and view the designs at https://www.modot.org/improvei70/columbiakingdomcity. For more information, call MoDOT at 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636) or visit www.modot.org. To receive the latest statewide news and text alerts, signup for e-updates.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

June 13, 2024

 

PARIS WOMAN ARRESTED FOR FINANCIAL EXPLOITATION, STEALING AND FORGERY

The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control announces the arrest of Jessica A. Chase, 45, of Paris. Chase was arrested on June 10, 2024, for six counts of financial exploitation of an elder/disabled person, six counts of forgery, seven counts of filing false documents, 12 counts of felony stealing, two counts of fraudulent use of a credit/debit device, and one count of money laundering. Chase’s arrest is the result of an investigation conducted by the Troop B Criminal Investigations Unit of the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control.

On February 15, 2024, Monroe County Sheriff Joe Colston requested the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control investigate allegations of theft committed by a former Monroe County elected official, Jessica Chase. At the conclusion of an exhaustive investigation, on June 10, 2024, Chase was arrested by members of the Missouri State Highway Patrol for an active Monroe County arrest warrant. This arrest followed formal charges being issued by the Monroe County Prosecuting Attorney. Chase is currently being held in the Monroe County Jail, on a $150,000.00 cash only bond.  

 

MSHP COMPLETES 2024 ANNUAL SCHOOL BUS INSPECTIONS

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, announces the results of the Driver and Vehicle Safety Division’s 2024 annual school bus inspection program.

Missouri’s 2024 school bus inspection results are as follows:

School buses rated as “approved” upon initial inspection -- 10,055
School buses rated as “defective” upon initial inspection -- 895
School buses rated as “out-of-service” upon initial inspection -- 410

Buses with identified defective components require repair within 10 days. Buses placed out-of-service require correction of the component(s), and reinspection and a return to service by Patrol personnel prior to further usage in transporting passengers.

A total of 262 
Missouri school districts earned the Patrol’s Total Fleet Excellence award for 2024. During the 2024-2025 school year, 4,931 buses in these award-winning fleets are eligible to display the Patrol’s Total Fleet Excellence sticker in the lower corner of the first window on the passenger entry side of the bus.

“Through the unified effort of Missouri State Highway Patrol personnel and pupil transportation professionals statewide, the successful inspection of 11,360 school buses occurred in accordance with 
Missouri revised state statutes,” said Colonel Olson. “The Patrol, Missouri schools, and private pupil transportation companies share the common goal of keeping our schoolchildren safe while they travel on school buses.”

Missouri school bus inspection results are a matter of public record. Individual school district results for 2024 are available at

https://apps.mshp.dps.mo.gov/MSHPWeb/PatrolDivisions/DVSD/MVI/documents/2024AnnualSchoolBusInspectionResults.pdf


School bus inspection criteria, including Missouri State Highway Patrol out-of-service criteria are available at

https://apps.mshp.dps.mo.gov/MSHPWeb/PatrolDivisions/DVSD/MVI/FormsBrochures.html

STATE CARRIED OUT SENTENCE OF DAVID HOSIER

Governor Mike Parson confirmed that the State of Missouri has carried out the sentence of David Hosier on Tuesday as ordered by the Supreme Court of Missouri.

"Ms. Angela Gilpin had her life stolen by David Hosier because he could not accept it when she ended their romantic involvement. He displays no remorse for his senseless violence," Governor Parson said. "For these heinous acts, Hosier earned maximum punishment under the law. I cannot imagine the pain experienced by Angela’s and Rodney’s loved ones but hope that carrying out Hosier’s sentence according to the Court’s order brings closure."

Hosier murdered Angela and Rodney Gilpin at their apartment in Jefferson City, Missouri, in a jealous rage. Hosier, with a decades-long history of violence against women, would not let Angela reconcile with Rodney, stalking and harassing her for weeks before murdering her and her husband. Hosier then fled but was apprehended with the help of law enforcement in Oklahoma to answer for his crimes. Although Hosier did not receive an additional conviction for murdering Rodney, the jury in Angela’s trial determined that Hosier murdered both victims as it related to Hosier’s sentence. No court has ever found any error in Hosier’s case.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

June 12, 2024

 

MAN KILLED IN MONDAY AFTERNOON HEAD-ON COLLISION

A man was killed while a woman was seriously injured in a head-on collision that occurred at 1pm Monday in Shelby County.  The patrol says that 39 year old Kim Willis of Georgetown, IL was northbound in the southbound lane of MO 151 two miles North of Clarence when his car struck a truck driven by 27 year old Kaytlyn Mefford of Clarence head-on.  Willis was pronounced dead at the scene while Mefford was transported by Air Evac to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

WOMAN HURT IN EARLY TUESDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

A woman was hurt in an accident that happened at 1am Tuesday in Macon County.  The highway patrol said that 44 year old Geneva Perez-Nuez of Fort Riley, KS was on US 36 when her car struck a deer in the roadway.  She was taken to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment of minor injuries. 

 

MISSOURI TO OBSERVE SUMMER SAFETY DAY ON WEDNESDAY

As summer weather arrives, Missourians are reminded to be aware of the dangers posed by extreme heat and humidity and take precautions as they spend more time outdoors.

“Extreme heat and humidity are dangerous seasonal hazards in Missouri that can place a lot of stress on the body, especially for more vulnerable groups like children, the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions,” State Emergency Management Agency Director Jim Remillard said. “It’s important for Missourians to learn about these risks in advance and know how to protect themselves to stay safe and healthy.”

To help Missourians prepare, the state will observe Summer Safety Day on Wednesday, June 12. SEMA and the National Weather Service (NWS) encourage all Missourians to pay attention to local forecasts and plan accordingly when activities are outside. Humidity can amplify the feeling of heat measured by a heat index, so it is especially important to keep a close eye on friends and family and know the signs of heat-related illnesses.

Remember, never leave a child or pet alone in a vehicle. Even on a cooler day, the temperature inside a vehicle can rise by 20 degrees in 10 minutes and pose a real threat to anyone left inside. Stress, distraction and being out of a normal routine can all contribute to forgetting a child in a car seat. Always “look before you lock” and check the back seat each time you exit your vehicle.

Remember these other safety tips to protect yourself and your family during the summer heat:

If the weather forecast calls for heat and humidity, limit outdoor exposure.

Drink plenty of water and limit intake of alcoholic beverages.

Eat light, well-balanced meals at regular intervals.

If left outside, make sure your pet has plenty of fresh water and access to shade.

Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible.

Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and head. Use at least SPF 30 sunscreen.

Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use the buddy system when working in extreme heat and take frequent breaks.

If you do not have air conditioning, consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls or other community facilities. Find a nearby cooling center near you here.

Check on family, friends and neighbors who may not have air conditioning or spend much of their time alone.

Be aware of medications that may impair the body's response to heat, including antihistamines, tranquilizers and some medications for heart disease.

For interviews or additional information on summer weather safety, please contact your local NWS office:

St. Louis: (636) 441-8467

Kansas City: (816) 540-6021

Springfield: (417) 869-4491

PaducahKy.: (270) 744-6440

MemphisTenn.: (901) 544-0401

DavenportIowa: (563) 388-0672





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

June 11, 2024

 

THREE TEENS INJURED IN SUNDAY NIGHT CRASH

Three Hannibal teens were injured in a Sunday night crash in Marion County.  State troopers stated that 18 year old Austin Wilhoit was on Marion County Road 337 when he lost control and his vehicle ran off the left side of the road, overturned and came to rest on its top.  Wilhoit along with his two passengers 19 year old Hayden Sims and 19 year old Mason Wasson were taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.  The crash happened at 6:15pm Sunday.

 

MAN INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A St. Charles man was injured in an accident that occurred at 4pm Sunday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that 78 year old Kurt Braune was on Route OO and driving too fast for conditions when he failed to negotiate a left turn, overcorrected, traveled off the right side of the roadway and went down an embankment.  He was transported by ambulance to St. Clair Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

WOMAN HURT IN SUNDAY MORNING WRECK

A woman was hurt in a two-vehicle wreck Sunday morning in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened at around 10:35am as 69 year old Deborah Hawkins of Sullivan slowed for a bump in the road on the North Outer Road of Westbound I-44 when her car was struck in the rear by a truck being driven by 26 year old Matthew Young of St. Clair who was driving too fast for the wet road conditions as he attempted to slow down or stop upon sight of her car but was unable to do so due to the wet road conditions.  Hawkins sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan for treatment.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

June 10, 2024

 

DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN FRIDAY NIGHT WRECK

26 year old Gabriel Gonzalez of Foley was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Friday night in Lincoln County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 11:30pm Friday as he was on Old Highway 79 when he failed to negotiate a curve and his car began to skid and ran off the left side of the road.  He was airlifted by Arch Helicopter to Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.

 

WOMAN HURT IN SATURDAY MORNING CRASH

A St. Louis woman was hurt in a Saturday morning crash in Warren County.  MSHP stated that 26 year old Arin Barbarick was eastbound on I-70 when her car began to skid on the wet roadway, traveled off the right side and overturned.  She was taken to SSM Health St. Joseph West Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of moderate injuries.  The crash happened at 6:55am Saturday.

 

TWO INJURED IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A woman and a man from Montgomery City were injured in an accident that occurred at 4:35am Saturday in Montgomery County.  The patrol says that 42 year old Ellen Schulze was on Route V when she fell asleep at the wheel, causing her SUV to travel off the left side of the road and struck a concrete culvert.  She suffered minor injuries, while her passenger 45 year old Joshua Schulze sustained moderate injuries.  Both were taken to SSM Health St. Joseph West Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

June 6, 2024

 

TWO INJURED IN GASCONADE COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two drivers were injured in an accident that occurred at 3pm Tuesday in Gasconade County.  The patrol says that 49 year old Alvin Phillips of Marshall was on US 50 when he swerved to miss an eastbound vehicle that was traveling in the westbound lane, causing his truck to travel off the left side of the roadway, returned to the road, crossed the center line and then struck an eastbound truck driven by 52 year old Pamela Reid of Rosebud.  Both were taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of minor injuries.

 

WOMAN HURT IN TUESDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

A woman was hurt in a Tuesday afternoon crash in Jefferson County.  The highway patrol said that 66 year old Cindy Morrow of Barnhart was driving north on the southbound shoulder of Old Highway 21 preparing to make a u-turn on the northbound shoulder in her driveway as a car driven by 54 year old William Spikes of Barnhart was southbound on Old Highway 21 when she made the u-turn and the front of his car struck the left side of her car.  After impact her car ran off the right side of the roadway.  Morrow sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital South for treatment.  The crash happened at 2:30pm Tuesday.

 

GET HOOKED ON FISHING WITH MDC FREE FISHING DAYS ON SATURDAY & SUNDAY

Want some free fun that gets family and friends outside in nature? Get hooked on fishing with the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Free Fishing Days June 8 and 9. During Free Fishing Days, anyone may fish in the Show-Me State without having to buy a fishing permit, trout permit, or trout park daily tag.

Free Fishing Days is an annual MDC event that takes place statewide during the Saturday and Sunday following the first Monday in June.

Aside from not needing permits, other fishing regulations remain in effect, such as limits on size and number of fish an angler may keep. Special permits may still be required at some county, city, or private fishing areas. Trespass laws remain in effect on private property.

Conservation makes Missouri a great place to fish, and Free Fishing Days encourages people to sample Missouri’s abundant fishing opportunities. Missouri has more than a million acres of surface water, and most of it provides great fishing. More than 200 different fish species are found in Missouri, with more than 20 of them being game fish for the state's more than 1.1 million anglers.

For information on Missouri fishing regulations, fish identification, and more, get a copy of MDC’s 2024 Summary of Missouri Fishing Regulations, available where permits are sold, or online at mdc.mo.gov/about-us/about-regulations/summary-missouri-fishing-regulations.

Want to learn to fish? MDC’s Discover Nature – Fishing Program provides a series of free lessons throughout the state. All fishing gear is provided. Learn more at mdc.mo.gov/fishing/discover-nature-fishing.

Need fishing gear? MDC works with numerous libraries and other locations around the state to loan fishing gear for free. Loaner gear includes fishing poles and simple tackle box with hooks, sinkers, and bobbers. Worms, minnows, or other bait are not provided. Find MDC Rod and Reel Loaner Program locations at mdc.mo.gov/fishing/get-started-fishing/rod-reel-loaner-locations.

MDC’s free MO Fishing app can help anglers find the best places to fish in Missouri, access regulation information, identify fish by species, and more. Anglers can also buy, store, and show fishing permits right on their mobile devices. MO Fishing is available for download through Google Play for Android devices or the App Store for Apple devices. Learn more at mdc.mo.gov/contact-engage/mobile-apps/mo-fishing.

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

June 5, 2024

 

ONE KILLED, TWO INJURED IN MONDAY MORNING WRECK

One person was killed, while two others were injured in a two-vehicle wreck Monday morning in Cooper County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 9:40am as 37 year old Nicole Wilson of Kirksville was on Route J when her vehicle crossed the center line and struck a truck driven by 41 year old Jonathan Kuschel of Tipton.  After impact the truck traveled partially off the north side of the road and came to rest facing south, while her vehicle went off the south side and came to rest facing south.  Nicole Wilson was pronounced dead at the scene, while Kuschel sustained moderate injuries and also a passenger in Wilson’s vehicle 43 year old Amanda Zingarelli of Columbia suffered minor injuries.  Both were taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

 

DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN EARLY SUNDAY MORNING CRASH

24 year old Brook McEwen of Macon was seriously injured in an early Sunday morning crash in Macon County.  State troopers stated that she was on Route PP when her car ran off the right side of the roadway and overturned.  She was airlifted by Air Evac to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.  The crash happened at 12:30am Sunday.

 

TEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A teen was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 7:55pm Monday in Montgomery County.  The patrol says that 58 year old Alfa Brockelman of Salina, KS was eastbound on I-70 when he was coming to a stop due to congestion caused by a crash already on the roadway when his tractor trailer was struck in the rear by a truck driven by 19 year old Ronin Picker of Moscow Mills.  Picker was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

June 4, 2024

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT REPORT

On Friday, May 31 at approximately 12:36PM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 800 block of S Jefferson in reference to a structure fire in a large, two story home. Responding personnel located the fire in an upstairs bedroom as it began to spread into the attic. The fire was contained and extinguished in this area with the bedroom suffering significant fire damage and the areas around the bedroom suffering serious smoke damage and some water damage. Two of the residents were in the downstairs portion of the home at the time. They reported hearing smoke detectors then finding extreme dark smoke in the upstairs portion of the house before calling 9-1-1. It was determined the fire started in an area where numerous electrical items were plugged in and covered by clothing. There were no injuries from the incident.

 

ELECTRIC TERRITORIAL AGREEMENT APPROVED

The Missouri Public Service Commission has approved an electric territorial agreement between Howard Electric Cooperative and the City of Fayette which specifically designates the boundaries of exclusive electric service areas for both electric service providers, within Howard County, within and around the City of Fayette. The territorial agreement does not include an exchange of customers or facilities between Howard Electric Cooperative and the City of Fayette.

 

MDC INVITES THE PUBLIC TO SEVERAL DISCOVER NATURE – FISHING EVENTS IN NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites the public to learn the skill of fishing this summer.

MDC staff will host two series of Discover Nature – Fishing in northeastern Missouri in the coming months. Each series is comprised of two parts. The first part teaches participants about fishing equipment, casting, fish handling, how to tie a knot, and how to bait a hook. The second part teaches participants about five common Missouri fish, and how to fish with lures. Participants will also learn about fishing regulations.

Part one will be held at the following locations:

June 4 at Hunnewell Hatchery from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Register at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/46H. Hunnewell Hatchery is located at 6503 Hwy Z in Hunnewell.

July 23 at Henry Sever Lake Conservation Area (CA) from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Register at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/46j. Henry Sever Lake CA is located on Hwy KK in Newark.

Participants of the second part of these series must attend the first session prior to attending the second. Part two will be held at the following locations:

June 6 at Hunnewell Hatchery from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Register at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/46C. Hunnewell Hatchery is located at 6503 Hwy Z in Hunnewell.

July 25 at Henry Sever Lake CA from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Register at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/46F. Henry Sever Lake CA is located on Hwy KK in Newark.

Questions about these events can be sent to George Wisdom at George.wisdom@mdc.mo.gov. These events are designed for participants ages 7 and older. Participants will need a valid fishing permit. Purchase permits at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/Z4g.  Learn more about Discover Nature – Fishing at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/Zty.

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

June 3, 2024

 

EPA FINES PESTICIDE SELLER IN PARIS, MISSOURI FOR ALLEGEDLY VIOLATING FEDERAL LAW 

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) penalized Logan Agri-Service Inc. for allegedly repackaging pesticide products, in violation of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. The Illinois-based pesticide dealer, which operates a branch in Paris, Missouri, will pay a civil penalty of $74,806.

According to EPA, employees at Logan Agri-Services’ Paris branch were repackaging pesticides from bulk containers into containers provided by customers, without required repackaging agreements from the pesticide manufacturers. Further, Logan Agri-Services failed to obtain a registration number from EPA for its Paris branch in order to produce pesticides at that location.

“Registering pesticide products with EPA helps to ensure that, when used according to label directions, the products will not harm people, non-target species, or the environment,” said Jodi Bruno, acting director of EPA Region 7’s Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division. “Proper pesticide labeling is critical to protecting public health so consumers are aware of a product’s ingredients, how the product can be safely used, and how the product should be properly stored and disposed.”

Under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, pesticide manufacturers, distributors, and appliers are required to comply with the law’s registration, labeling, packaging, and application regulations.

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT REPORT

On Wednesday, May 29 at approximately 2:04PM, an officer with the Mexico Public Safety Department attempted to stop a white, Ford F-150 in the area of Liberty and Clark Street. The driver refused to stop and a pursuit began. The pursuit went for about two miles before the vehicle left town and began traveling on gravel roads at excessive speeds. Additional MPSD officers, assisted by the Audrain County Sheriff’s Office, located the vehicle and driver, Glenda M Barnes, age 59, at her home. Barnes was arrested without incident, processed at MPSD, and eventually transported to the Audrain County Jail for Driving While Intoxicated (Prior offender), Driving While Revoked, Failing to Yield to Emergency Vehicle, traffic violations, and violations of bond conditions. There were no injuries from the incident.

 

PSC SETS INTERVENTION DEADLINE IN AMEREN MISSOURI CASE

Union Electric Company d/b/a Ameren Missouri has filed an application with the Missouri Public Service Commission seeking a certificate of convenience and necessity (CCN) authorizing Ameren Missouri to construct, install, own, operate, maintain and otherwise control and manage a solar generating facility in Montgomery County to serve as the third program resource for its Community Solar Program.

Applications to intervene and participate in this case must be filed no later than June 13, 2024, with the Secretary of the Missouri Public Service Commission, P.O. Box 360, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102, or by using the Commission’s Electronic Filing and Information System (EFIS) at www.psc.mo.gov .

Individual citizens wishing to comment should contact either the Office of the Public Counsel (Governor Office Building, 200 Madison Street, Suite 650, P.O. Box 2230, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102-2230, telephone 1-866-922-2959, e-mail opcservice@opc.mo.gov) or the Public Service Commission Staff (P.O. Box 360, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102, telephone 1-800-392-4211, e-mail pscinfo@psc.mo.gov). The Office of the Public Counsel is a separate state agency that represents the general public in matters before the Commission.

Ameren Missouri serves approximately 1.2 million electric customers in Missouri.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

May 31, 2024

 

Patrol: Preliminary Reports Indicate Seven Traffic Fatalities, No Boating Fatalities, & No Drownings Over Memorial Day Weekend

Seven people died in traffic crashes over the 2024 Memorial Day weekend counting period of 6 p.m., Friday, May 24, through 11:59 p.m., Monday, May 27, 2024.

Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers investigated the following over the 2024 Memorial Day holiday weekend:

Traffic Statistics

Crashes -- 275
Injuries -- 161
Fatalities -- 7
DWI -- 128


Boating Statistics

Crashes -- 7
Injuries -- 7
Fatalities -- 0
Drowning -- 0
BWI -- 6

(Note: During the 2023 counting period, the Patrol investigated 287 traffic crashes, which included 117 injuries and 12 of the 13 fatalities. Also, over the 2023 Memorial Day holiday: Marine operations troopers investigated 10 boating crashes, which included no fatalities and two injuries. Troopers made 137 driving while intoxicated arrests and eight boating while intoxicated arrests. No one drowned over the 2023 Memorial Day holiday. Statewide over the 2023 Memorial Day holiday weekend, 13 people died and 403 were injured in 990 traffic crashes. During the 2023 Memorial Day weekend, there were 10 boating crashes which included no fatalities and two injuries. No one drowned over last year’s Memorial Day weekend.)

Troopers investigated all seven of the traffic crash fatalities. Three fatalities occurred in the Troop C, Weldon Spring, MO, area. One fatality occurred in each of the following areas: Troop A, Lee’s Summit, MO, Troop B, Macon, MO, Troop E, Poplar Bluff, MO, and Troop I, Rolla, MO, areas.

 

Governor Parson Places Amendment 1 and Amendment 4 on August Primary Ballot

On Tuesday, Governor Mike Parson announced that Amendment 1 (SJR 26) and Amendment 4 (SJR 38) will be placed on the 2024 August Primary Election ballot. This year's primary election will take place on August 6. 

Both Amendment 1 and Amendment 4 are proposed changes to Missouri's Constitution. A brief summary of each ballot measure is below:

Amendment 1  if approved by the voters, allows the General Assembly to exempt from property tax all real and personal property used primarily for the care of a child outside of his or her home.

Amendment 4  if approved by the voters, provides an exception to allow for a law that increases minimum funding, if increased before December 31, 2026, for a police force established by a state board of police commissioners to ensure they have additional resources to serve their communities.

All other ballot measures are expected on the November General Election ballot, if certified by the Missouri Secretary of State's Office. 


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

May 30, 2024

 

TWO INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN TUESDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

Two people from Memphis were injured, one seriously in a Tuesday afternoon crash in Scotland County.  The highway patrol said it happened at around 12:10pm as 32 year old Marcus Fox was on MO 15 when his tractor trailer ran off the right side of the roadway and overturned.  He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries, while his passenger a 4 year old boy was to seek own treatment for minor injuries.

 

DRIVER HURT IN TUESDAY MORNING WRECK

43 year old Brian Schaefer of St. Charles was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday morning in Warren County.  MSHP stated that he was on the MO 47 off ramp from eastbound I-70 when he failed to observe traffic ahead and steered to the right, causing his truck to travel into an electric traffic control box and became disabled on the concrete island.  He was taken to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of moderate injuries.  The wreck happened at 11:25am Tuesday.

 

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A woman was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 5:20pm Tuesday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that 28 year old Nicole Hendrickson of Catawissa was stopped at the intersection of Missouri Route HH and Missouri Route O when she failed to yield to a truck driven by 41 year old Jonathan Gummers of Robertsville who was eastbound on Missouri Route O and his truck struck her car and after impact her car went off the road into the woods.  She was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital South with serious injuries.

 

MDC PROPOSES MINOR PRICE ADJUSTMENTS FOR SOME PERMITS IN 2025

Missouri is home to more than 1 million anglers, 500,000 hunters, and several thousand trappers. MDC issues nearly 2.6 million hunting, fishing, and trapping permits each year. While MDC permit prices have increased only slightly over the past 20 years, MDC’s cost of doing conservation work have increased significantly.

To keep pace with continual rising costs of goods and services, MDC has implemented initial price adjustments to most permits over the past several years and proposes additional modest and gradual adjustments to permit prices over the coming years.

For 2025, MDC is proposing an incremental increase to non-resident permit prices and a few resident permit prices. The Missouri Conservation Commission gave initial approval to the MDC proposed permit price adjustments at its May 24 open meeting in Jefferson City.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

May 29, 2024

 

MDC INVITES LANDOWNERS TO LEARN ABOUT PROPERTY MANAGEMENT FOR WILD TURKEY IN NOVINGER JUNE 1

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites landowners to learn how to manage their property to create nesting and brood-rearing habitat for eastern wild turkeys in Novinger on June 1 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

This workshop will cover turkey biology, desired nesting and brood-rearing habitat, state and federal cost share programs for land management, habitat management techniques, and field demonstrations. This is an outside event with lunch provided. Participants are asked to bring a lawn chair and wear appropriate clothing for the weather. Closed-toe shoes designed for walking are recommended.

Adult wild turkey males in Missouri are very large and dark with a bare, red and blue head, with red wattles on the throat and neck. They have long legs, and their feathers are bronzy and iridescent. Males, and some females, have a tuft of hairlike feathers in the middle of their breast. Females are smaller and less iridescent. Turkeys are most famous for their gobbling calls, but they make other vocalizations as well.

Wild turkeys are most commonly found in mixed forests and grasslands statewide. Like other ground nesters, their reproductive success may be greatly reduced by extensive precipitation during nesting time. Successful management focuses on proper seasonal combinations of food, cover, and water.

This workshop is designed for participants of all ages, and registration can be done at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/46R. Questions about this event can be directed to Meagan Duffee-Yates at Meagan.duffee-yates@mdc.mo.gov. This workshop will be held on private land at 15274 Rolling Hills Road in Novinger.  

MISSOURI ROUTE 19 OVER FRENE CREEK IN HERMANN TO CLOSE IN JUNE

Missouri Route 19 in Hermann is set to close at the beginning of June to replace the deck of the Frene Creek (Market Street) Bridge. Construction crews working with the Missouri Department of Transportation plan to close the bridge to all traffic beginning on Monday, June 3.

The contractor will have 75 calendar days to complete the project and is expected to reopen the road in mid-August. A signed detour will direct motorists around the closure via Route 100 and Route Z.

All work is weather-permitting, and schedules are subject to change.

AIR PRODUCTS TO EXPAND IN MARYLAND HEIGHTS, INVESTING MORE THAN $70 MILLION AND CREATING 30 NEW JOBS

Air Products, the global leader in the production of gas separation and purification membranes, has announced that it will significantly expand its manufacturing and logistics center in Maryland Heights, investing more than $70 million and creating 30 new jobs. The company’s expansion, the largest ever for its Air Products Membrane Solutions unit, will help meet growing demand for its products.

Air Products’ expansion in Maryland Heights is driven by growing product demand in biogas and hydrogen recovery applications, in addition to customer needs for nitrogen used in the aerospace industry and cleaner fuels for the marine industry. The company’s new manufacturing facility is expected to begin production by the end of 2025. About 170 employees currently work at Air Products’ existing facility.

Air Products Membrane Solutions specializes in the development of hollow fiber membrane separators and systems for onsite gas generation. The company designs, engineers, manufactures, and markets a full portfolio of PRISM® Membrane Separators, Marine Systems, and Engineered-to-Order Systems to protect lives and goods at sea, on land, and in the air. Air Products’ systems are also designed to create more sustainable energy sources and raise productivity across a variety of industries and applications.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

May 28, 2024

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Audrain County

Missouri Route 15 – May 28, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route D to North Wade Street between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. An 11-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Missouri Route 15 – May 31, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from CR 381 south to CR 381 north between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. An 11-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Missouri Route 22 – May 30, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 1.0 mile east of U.S. Route 63 to Route Y between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. An 11-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Clark County

U.S. Route 136 – May 28, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from the Schuyler County line to Medil in Clark County between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Lewis County

Route E – May 31 & June 3, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 81 to Route A between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route F – June 4, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 16 to Route E between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route Y – May 28 – 30, CLOSED for patching operations from Route H to Missouri Route 16 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route BB – June 5, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 16 to Route C between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Lincoln County

Route PP – May 28 – 31, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 161 to Route H between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Route PP – June 3 – 7, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 161 to Route H between 6:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Macon County

Route W – May 30, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from the end of state maintenance to U.S. Route 36 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Route W – June 3, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from the end of state maintenance to U.S. Route 36 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Route UU – May 28 – 29, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Fathom Place to U.S. Route 36 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Monroe County

Route C – June 3, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 1.75 miles north of Route AA to CR 962 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Montgomery County

Route K – May 28 – 29, CLOSED for core drilling operations from Missouri Route 19 to Route P at Loutre River between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Scotland County

Route BB – June 3, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 804 to CR 851 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. 

Route CC – June 4 - 5, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route 15 to CR 855 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.  

Route CC – June 6, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route 15 to CR 855 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.  

U.S. Route 136 – May 28, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from the Schuyler County line to Medil in Clark County between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 15 – May 29, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from U.S. Route 136 to the Knox County line between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Pike County

Route U – June 3, CLOSED for patching operations from U.S. Route 54 to CR 36 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route U – June 4, CLOSED for patching operations from CR 36 to U.S. Route 61 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route VV – June 5, CLOSED for patching operations from CR 132 to CR 130 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route AD – June 6, CLOSED for patching operations from CR 130 to Route YY between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route YY – June 6, CLOSED for patching operations from CR 129 to Missouri Route 79 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Shelby County

Missouri Route 15 – June 4, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from East Beech Street to West Elm Street in Shelbina between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. An 11-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Missouri Route 15 – June 5, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Route WW to CR 458 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. An 11-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – May 29, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from CR 471 to Route T between 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 36 (Eastbound) – May 29, LANE RESTRICTION for clean-up following a recent traffic incident 1,600 feet east of Route PP, between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. 

Route J – May 30 – 31, CLOSED for patching operations from Route J Spur to Missouri Route 15 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route J –June 3, CLOSED for patching operations from Route J Spur to Missouri Route 15 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route J – June 6 – 7, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Route J Spur to Missouri Route 15 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route T – May 28, CLOSED for patching operations from Route AA to Missouri Route 168 between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Route T – June 4 - 5, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 168 to U.S. Route 36 between 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route W – May 29, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 168 to Route J between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route TT – June 3, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from CR 428 to CR 416 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Warren County

Route F – June 3, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Innsbrook to Wright City state maintenance ends between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route M – May 29 -30, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 47 to Route T between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

 

Quaker Windows and Doors to expand in Eldon, investing more than $30 million and creating 220 new jobs

Quaker Windows and Doors, a premier manufacturer of top-quality windows and doors, has announced that it will significantly expand its Eldon manufacturing facility, investing more than $30 million and creating 220 new jobs. The company’s expansion will add a vertical paint line and increased capabilities for insulating glass production while helping meet demand for its high-quality commercial, residential, and luxury windows and doors.

Through its expansion, Quaker continues to increase its manufacturing capacity, adding 300,000 square feet to its existing 450,000-square-foot campus. The original phase for the company’s Eldon facility was completed in 2020. The location has now received three additions in four years, bringing its total space to nearly 800,000 square feet. The latest expansion includes the installation of a state-of-the-art vertical paint line, a major technological leap, to increase powder paint capabilities. This cutting-edge equipment will improve efficiency and uphold the high product quality that customers expect. Quaker is also expanding its insulating glass production and adding tempering capabilities to better meet the needs of its diverse customer base.

Quaker’s expansion continues to generate new employment opportunities in central Missouri while underscoring the company’s commitment to innovation and growth. Quaker’s new facilities, expected to be complete by the fall of 2025, are designed to accommodate future growth and ensure the company remains a leader in its industry.

For this expansion, Quaker Windows and Doors will benefit from the Missouri Works program, a tool that helps companies expand and retain workers by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

May 24, 2024

 

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN LINN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A woman was seriously injured in an accident that occurred after 1:30pm Wednesday in Linn County.  The patrol says that 61 year old William LaPlant of Troy was on US 36 when he failed to yield and his dump truck went into the path of an SUV driven by 79 year old Karen Wheatcraft of Brookfield and the two collided.  After impact the dump truck overturned.  She was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

THREE HURT IN HORSE DRAWN BUGGY INCIDENT

Three people from Greentop were hurt in a horse drawn buggy incident Wednesday night in Adair County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 6pm as 21 year old James Schwartz was on US 63 when he lost control of the horse pulling the buggy and it traveled into the path of a truck driven by 33 year old Alyssa Fugate and then the truck struck the buggy in the rear.  Both drivers suffered minor injuries while a passenger in the buggy 19 year old Rebecca Schwartz sustained moderate injuries.  All three were taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville for treatment.

 

MAN INJURED IN WEDNESDAY MORNING CRASH

34 year old Ronald Griffith of Hannibal was injured in a Wednesday morning crash in Warren County.  MSHP stated that he was on South Rock Church Road when he lost control of his tractor on a curve and it traveled off the right side of the road, into an embankment and struck a mailbox.  He was transported by ambulance to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of moderate injuries.  The crash happened at 10:15am Wednesday.

 

MSHP: HAVE A SAFE MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND

Memorial Day weekend brings Missouri to life with busy state parks, lakes, and attractions, along with sporting events, barbecues, and gatherings of friends and family. Our state has a lot to offer, especially when the weather is nice. A little planning will go a long way to making your Memorial Day weekend activities a success. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reminds everyone to include safety when they plan their holiday weekend. Everyone should expect more travelers on Missouri’s roadways and an increase in boating traffic on the state’s lakes and rivers. Drivers and boat operators are reminded to follow all Missouri’s laws and be courteous. Always wear a seat belt when traveling in a vehicle, and wear a life jacket when near, on, or in the water.

This year's Memorial Day holiday counting period begins at 6 p.m., Friday, May 24, and ends at 11:59 p.m., Monday, May 27, 2024. Every available trooper will be on the road or on the water, enforcing 
Missouri laws and assisting people. Troopers on our roadways will focus their attention on hazardous moving violations, speed violations, and impaired drivers. The Patrol will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness Reduction Effort) during Memorial Day weekend.

Over the 2023 Memorial Day holiday weekend, 13 people died and 403 were injured in 990 traffic crashes. (Troopers worked 287 traffic crashes involving 12 fatalities and 117 injuries.) The Memorial Day weekend is also an unofficial start to the boating season. During the 2023 Memorial Day weekend, there were 10 boating crashes which included no fatalities and two injuries. No one drowned over last year’s Memorial Day weekend. Last year, troopers made 137 driving while intoxicated and eight boating while intoxicated arrests.

Always be courteous and pay attention, whether you're operating a vehicle or a vessel, and choose to be a sober driver on land and on the water. A safe, fun weekend is the result of planning and making good decisions.

Motorists or boaters in need of assistance or who want to report a crime should use the Highway Patrol's Emergency Assistance number 1-800-525-5555 (or *55 on a cellular phone). For road condition reports, travelers can visit the Patrol's website at 
https://statepatrol.dps.mo.gov. Click on the Road Condition icon to view road construction areas as well as road conditions throughout the state or call 1-888-275-6636.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

May 23, 2024

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT REPORT

On Sunday, May 19 at approximately 6:17pm, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 700 block of E Promenade in reference to a disturbance with someone being shot.  Responding officers found that several people in the home were involved in an altercation when Stephen L Welch, age 30, shot and killed his brother Christopher S Welch, age 36.  Stephen Welch remained on scene.  He was detained and eventually taken to the Audrain County Sheriff’s Office pending formal charges from the Audrain County Prosecuting Attorney.  The investigation is ongoing. 

Anyone with information about this or any other crime is asked to contact CRIMESTOPPERS at (800) 392-TIPS or (800 392-8477 or Mexico Public Safety at (573) 473-5800 or (573) 581-2100.

 

On Friday, May 17 at approximately 8:57am, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 200 block of W Love St. in reference to a report of a burglary.  Responding officers found Juarez J Jarmin, age 40 of Mexico, and Whitney E Lamberson, age 37 of Mexico, inside a vacant apartment.  Both were arrested and processed at MPSD, then taken to the Audrain County Jail pending formal charges by the Audrain County Prosecuting Attorney.  There were no injuries from the incident.

 

Lieutenant Governor Kehoe to Serve as Acting Governor While Governor Parson Leads Trade Mission to Italy

Last week, Governor Mike Parson announced that Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe will serve as Missouri's Acting Governor while he leads a trade mission delegation to Italy. Lieutenant Governor Kehoe will serve in the Acting Governor capacity from May 18 - June 4, 2024. 

"Each time we've been overseas, Lt. Governor Kehoe has always dutifully answered the call to ensure state government continues operating efficiently and effectively," Governor Parson said. "We know Lt. Governor Kehoe offers a steady hand of leadership that Missourians can count on." 

Consistent with Governor Parson’s infrastructure and economic development priorities, the goal of the Italy Trade Mission is to build relationships with key international figures to promote Missouri’s strong capacity for trade. Governor Parson will meet with various government officials, diplomats, and business leaders to promote Missouri as a prime destination for business investment and expansion.

While the trade mission itself runs May 18 - 25, 2024, Governor Parson and First Lady Teresa Parson will be taking some personal time for their own private travels once the trade mission concludes.

 

MDC reminds public squirrel and black bass seasons kick off May 25

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds hunters and anglers that squirrel and black bass seasons open Saturday, May 25.

SQUIRRELS

The hunting season on eastern gray and fox squirrels runs May 25 through Feb. 15, 2025. Allowed methods include shotguns, rifles, and other legal firearm methods, as well as archery equipment, slingshots, or atlatls. Squirrels may also be harvested with cage-style traps during the hunting season as long as hunters have a valid Small Game Hunting permit. Traps must be labeled with the hunter’s full name and address, or Conservation Number, be attended daily, and have an opening of 144 square-inches or smaller.

The daily limit for hunting, including the use of cage-style traps, is ten and the possession limit is 20. Hunters must have a permit valid for hunting small game or be exempt.

Get more information on squirrel hunting and trapping from MDC’s 2024 Summary of Missouri Hunting and Trapping Regulations online at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4ud.

BLACK BASS

Anglers may catch-and-keep black bass, such as largemouth, smallmouth, spotted/Kentucky bass, May 25 through Feb. 28, 2025. Black bass can be found statewide but have a closed season part of the year in most streams south of the Missouri River. Black bass can be caught and released legally throughout the year anywhere in Missouri, and legal-sized bass may be kept all year long from impoundments and streams with no closed season. In most state waters, the daily limit on black bass is six. Fish taken from most rivers and streams must be 12-inches long. Additional regulations may apply to specific waters or areas. Anglers must have a valid fishing permit or be exempt.

Find more information on bass fishing in MDC’s 2024 Summary of Missouri Fishing Regulations, available where permits are sold, or online at  http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4uW.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

May 22, 2024

 

MODOT URGES EXTRA CAUTION IN INCREASED TRAFFIC AND WORK ZONES THIS SUMMER

As Memorial Day weekend approaches and Missourians hit the road to start their summer travels, the Missouri Department of Transportation is urging drivers to be cautious, patient and use good judgment when traveling, especially through work zones. On an average day, there are nearly 800 work zones on Missouri’s 34,000 miles of state roadways, ranging from construction on bridges, interchanges, and roads to daily maintenance work. In 2023, there were 4,563 crashes including 36 people killed in work zone crashes.

Impaired driving, distracted driving, excessive speeds, and not wearing seat belts are just a few of the concerns that can accompany the increased Memorial Day weekend traffic. In Missouri, 14 people were killed and 60 were seriously injured in crashes over Memorial Day weekend last year.  So far in 2024, 70% of the people killed in crashes on Missouri roads were not wearing a seat belt.

Drivers can stay informed of road conditions, delays and work zone locations on MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map at traveler.modot.org, also available as a free mobile app for Apple and Android devices. Over the Memorial Day weekend, road work will not take place between noon on Friday until 9 a.m. Tuesday, but some work zones include permanent lane restrictions.

For this summer, these are some of the major projects with traffic impacts around the state for which drivers should be on the lookout:

Northwest area: U.S. Route 36: Livingston County – concrete replacement under the U.S. Route 65 and the Kansas City Sub railroad line bridges in Chillicothe. Both east and westbound U.S. Route 36 traffic will be narrowed to one lane.

Northeast area: MO Route 79 Bridge Replacement:  Bridge replacement and improvement project in Hannibal with traffic impacts: modot.org/missouri-route-79-bridge-replacement-over-bear-creek-marion

Kansas City area:  I-435 Bridge Rehabilitation: Lane closures on NB/SB I-435 for bridge rehabilitation over Raytown Road. Watch for lane closures and the shifting of traffic lanes. Access to the Royals and Chiefs stadiums from I-435 north may be impacted: modot.org/interstate-435-bridge-replacement-jackson-0

Central area: U.S. 54 Improvement Projects: Adding lanes, bridge rehabilitation, and shoulder work. Motorists may expect delays as the roadway could be narrowed in either direction by the Missouri River bridge in Jefferson City.: Guide to U.S. Route 54 Improvement Projects in Jefferson City | Missouri Department of Transportation (modot.org)

St. Louis area: I-55 between Lindbergh and Arsenal: Work continues to rehabilitate or replace the driving surface on more than a dozen Interstate 55 bridges between Lindbergh and Arsenal in St. Louis City and County. I-55 is reduced to two lanes in each direction.  modot.org/I-55bridge2023_bridge_rehab

Southwest area: Route 65, Route 125/U.S. Route 60 Interchange: Route 65 Widening in Christian County, some narrowed lanes may be present. The Missouri Route 125 and US 60 Interchange Project in Greene County and Webster County, Route 125 will be closed.

Southeast area: U.S. Route 63, Howell and Oregon CountiesRoute 63 will be reduced to one lane with utilization of a pilot car as contractor crews perform asphalt resurfacing from Business 63 in West Plains to Koshkonong in Howell and Oregon counties. Additionally, contractor crews are replacing a bridge over Burlington Norther Santa Fe railroad north of Brandsville. The new bridge construction is on a new alignment, slightly south of the existing bridge: modot.org/63howellbridge 

DED AWARDS $6 MILLION IN TAX CREDITS TO 37 ORGANIZATIONS THROUGH THE YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES PROGRAM

The Department of Economic Development has announced that it will award $6 million in 50% tax credits to 37 organizations throughout Missouri through the Youth Opportunities Program (YOP) during its 2024 cycle.

YOP helps broaden and strengthen opportunities for positive development and participation in community life for youth. The program allows organizations to leverage private-sector funds by providing partial state tax credits to businesses and individuals making contributions to approved youth development or crime prevention projects. YOP funds a variety of project types, including degree completion, internships and apprenticeships, mentoring, substance abuse prevention, violence prevention, counseling, and more.

A total of up to $6 million is awarded through YOP annually, with projects limited to $200,000 in tax credits. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, education institutions, faith-based organizations, local governments, and businesses that meet program requirements. YOP is administered by the Division of Business and Community Solutions. The full list of 2024 YOP recipients is available here.

For more information about the program, including upcoming application cycles, eligibility criteria, and frequently asked questions, visit the YOP webpage.

MDC REPORTS HUNTERS TOOK 43,380 BIRDS DURING SPRING TURKEY SEASON

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows turkey hunters checked 43,380 birds during Missouri’s 2024 regular spring turkey season, April 15 through May 5. Top harvest counties for the regular season were Franklin with 940 birds harvested, Callaway with 822, and Texas with 780.

Young turkey hunters also harvested 3,739 turkeys over the youth weekend, April 6 and 7, bringing the overall 2024 spring turkey harvest to 47,119. According to MDC, that is a 6-percent increase in total harvest from 2023 and a 20-percent increase in total harvest compared to the previous five-year average.

Get more information on this year’s spring turkey harvest numbers by county at extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

May 21, 2024

 

MOTORCYCLIST SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MONDAY MORNING INCIDENT

A motorcyclist was seriously injured in a Monday morning incident in Lincoln County.  The patrol says that it occurred at 7:55am as 30 year old Tyson Hamlet of Troy was on Chantilly Road, passing another vehicle when a turkey flew into the roadway and struck him which caused him to lose control of his motorcycle and it traveled off the left side of the road, struck a tree and ejected him.  Hamlet was taken to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis with serious injuries. 

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN RALLS COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Hannibal man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 2am Monday in Ralls County.  The patrol says that 45 year old Chad Majors was on Route N when his motorcycle struck a deer in the roadway, overturned and ejected him from it.  He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.  

 

WOMAN INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE MISHAP

A Florissant woman was injured in a motorcycle mishap Sunday morning in Lincoln County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 11:40am as 48 year old Jennifer Schaper was a passenger on a motorcycle driven by 53 year old Glennon Schaper of Florissant.  They were making a left turn from Auburn Street onto northbound Missouri 79 when the motorcycle experienced an equipment malfunction, causing it to travel off the right side of the road and overturned, ejecting both from it.  She was transported by ambulance to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

DRIVER HURT IN EARLY SATURDAY MORNING CRASH

24 year old Cameron Snodgrass of Fulton was hurt in an early Saturday morning crash in Boone County.  State troopers stated that he was on Route A when his truck ran off the right side of the road, struck a telephone pole and came to an uncontrolled rest.  He suffered minor injuries and was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.  The crash happened at 2:50am Saturday.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

May 20, 2024

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

 

Adair County

Missouri Route 11 (Northbound) – May 20 – 21, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Rock Way to Steer Creek Way between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Audrain County

Missouri Route 15 – May 20, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route D to North Wade Street between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. An 11-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Missouri Route 15 – May 21, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route D to U.S. Route 54 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Clark County

U.S. Route 136 – May 28, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from the Schuyler County line to Medil in Clark County between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Lewis County

Route Y – May 20 - 22, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 16 to Route H between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route Y – May 22 - 24, CLOSED for patching operations from Route H to Route K between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Lincoln County

Route D – May 22 – 23, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Norton Road to Palmer School Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route D – May 20 - 21, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route E to Route TT between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Route D – May 24 and May 28, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route TT to Missouri Route 47 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Route TT – May 22 - 23, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route D to Mary Jo Road between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Macon County

U.S. Route 36 (Eastbound and Westbound Passing Lanes) – May 28 – 30, LANE RESTRICTION for new transmission lines between Hickory Street crossover to Gantz Street bridge in Macon beginning at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 28th through 5:00 p.m. Thursday, May 30th.

Route J – May 21, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 149 to Ballpark Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Route UU – May 20 – 24, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Fathom Place to U.S. Route 36 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Marion County

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – May 20 – 23, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route U to CR 244 between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily.

Monroe County

Missouri Route 15 – May 20 - 21, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route MM to U.S. Route 24 between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.

Montgomery County

Route K – May 20 - 23, CLOSED for core drilling operations from Missouri Route 19 to Route P at Loutre River between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Schuyler County

U.S. Route 136 (Eastbound) – May 20 - 21, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from City of Lancaster to Scotland County line between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Scotland County

U.S. Route 136 – May 28, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from the Schuyler County line to Medil in Clark County between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 15 (Southbound) – May 29, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from U.S. Route 136 to the Knox County line between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Shelby County

Missouri Route 15 – May 23, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from East Beech Street to West Elm Street in Shelbina between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. An 11-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Missouri Route 15 – May 24, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Route WW to CR 458 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. An 11-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – May 22, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from CR 471 to Route T between 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 36 (Eastbound) – May 29, LANE RESTRICTION for clean-up following a recent traffic incident 1,600 feet east of Route PP, between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.  A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Route J – May 28 - 30, CLOSED for patching operations from Route J Spur to Missouri Route 15 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route T – May 23, CLOSED for patching operations from Route AA to Missouri Route 168 between 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Route U – May 31,  CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 15 to the end of state maintenance between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Route W – May 24, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 168 to Route J between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Route AA – May 22, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 15 to Route T between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Warren County

Missouri Route 47 (Overpass) – May 19 - 20, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from I-70 eastbound to I-70 westbound beginning at 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 19th through 4:00 a.m. Monday, May 20th.

Route M – May 29 -30, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 47 to Route T between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

MOBERLY POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS

The following incidents/arrests were investigated by the Moberly Police Department between the hours of 7am on 5/12/24 and 7am 5/15/24.

 

On May 12, 2024, a Moberly Officer observed a vehicle being operated poorly on Rollins St near Williams St. The 34-year-old male operator was placed under arrest for driving while intoxicated.

 

On May 13, 2024, Moberly Officers made contact with 41-year-old Tony Martin in the 200 block of S. Ault St. Martin was placed under arrest for an active Randolph County warrant on an original charge of stealing. Martin was transported to the Randolph County Jail.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

May 17, 2024

 

MISSOURI ROUTE 19 OVER FRENE CREEK IN HERMANN TO CLOSE IN JUNE

Missouri Route 19 in Hermann is set to close at the beginning of June to replace the deck of the Frene Creek (Market Street) Bridge. Construction crews working with the Missouri Department of Transportation plan to close the bridge to all traffic beginning on Monday, June 3.

Built in 1930, the bridge has narrow driving lanes and the pedestrian facilities are in poor condition. To update the bridge to modern standards and improve the traveling surface, the deck and girders – the superstructure – will be replaced. The pedestrian facilities will also be upgraded during the project to meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The contractor will have 75 calendar days to complete the project and is expected to reopen the road in mid-August. A signed detour will direct motorists around the closure via Route 100 and Route Z.

All work is weather-permitting, and schedules are subject to change.

MAY 18-24 IS NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, would like to stress the importance of safe boating and make the public aware of National Safe Boating Week, which takes place May 18-24, 2024. National Safe Boating Week is purposefully scheduled just prior to Memorial Day weekend, which many people consider the kickoff to the boating season.

Weather, time, and other elements may affect the readiness of your boat. Before taking that inaugural 2024 summer boat cruise, boaters are encouraged to make time for a thorough inspection of their boat. The Patrol’s marine operations troopers make boating safety a priority and are available, at your request, to inspect the required equipment on your boat to make sure you’re in compliance with state law. To help facilitate these inspections, marine operations troopers will be at the following locations on Saturday, May 18, 2024 (unless otherwise noted):

 

TROOP B

Mark Twain Lake ― 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Ray Behrens Boat Ramp
42991 Ray Behrens
Perry, MO

 

TROOP C

Troop C Headquarters ― 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
891 Technology Drive
Weldon Spring, MO

 

TROOP F

Lake of the Ozarks State Park Public Beach #2 
 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., MAY 22
Old U.S. Highway 54
Osage Beach, MO

 

APRIL 2024 MONTHLY JOBS REPORT

Missouri nonfarm payroll employment increased by 16,700 jobs in April 2024, and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased by one-tenth of a percentage point to 3.4 percent. Private industry employment increased by 16,400 jobs and government employment increased by 300 jobs. Over the year, there was an increase of 74,900 jobs from April 2023 to April 2024, and the unemployment rate increased by half of a percentage point, from 2.9 percent in April 2023 to 3.4 percent in April 2024. Read the full report at https://meric.mo.gov/missouri-monthly-jobs-report





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

May 16, 2024

 

WOMAN INJURED IN GASCONADE COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Hermann woman was injured in an accident that occurred at 3:10pm Tuesday in Gasconade County.  The patrol says that 30 year old Caramie Forbes was on MO 100 when she failed to negotiate a curve, causing her SUV to travel off the right side of the roadway, struck an embankment, became airborne and struck a tree.  She was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

MAN HURT IN TUESDAY NIGHT WRECK

51 year old Brandon Strausbaugh of Pacific was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday night in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 9:30pm as he was westbound on I-44 when he lost control on the wet road and his vehicle struck the concrete median barrier, ran off the right side of the roadway, overturned down a steep embankment and came to rest on its side, partially blocking the North Outer Road.  He sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis for treatment.

 

MDC HOSTS BEGINNING ARCHERY PROGRAMS IN HANNIBAL SATURDAY

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites the public to learn how to shoot archery May 18 at J. Thad Ray Memorial Wildlife Area. There will be a morning and afternoon session. The morning session will run from 9:30-11:00 a.m., and the afternoon session will run form 1:00-2:30 p.m.

Archery is a safe and fun sport for everyone. All levels of abilities are welcome, but these programs are geared for novices ages 8 and older. All equipment will be provided, and one-on-one instruction will be provided. Participants are asked to wear sturdy, closed toe shoes.

Register for the morning program at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/42B. Register for the afternoon program at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/426. Questions about these programs can be sent to Kathi Moore at kathi.moore@mdc.mo.gov. To locate J. Thad Ray Memorial Wildlife Area from Hannibal at the junction of Route W and Hwy 61, take Route W west approximately 1 mile. 

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

May 15, 2024

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Adair County

Missouri Route 11 (Northbound) – May 15 – 21, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Rock Way to Steer Creek Way between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Audrain County

Missouri Route 15 – May 16, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Route D to CR 9824 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Missouri Route 22 – May 15, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Leach Lane to Switzler Street between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Lewis County

Route O – May 15, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 6 to Route V between 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Lincoln County

Route D – May 22 – 23, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Norton Road to Palmer School Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route E – May 13 -15, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.50 mile before and after the bridge over Mill Creek in Silex between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Route TT – May 15 – 16, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route D to Mary Joe Road between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Macon County

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – May 16, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.50 west of Atlantic Loop to the Macon County line between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Route J – May 21, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 149 to Ballpark Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Route UU – May 13 – 17, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from end of state maintenance to Fathom Place between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route UU – May 20 – 24, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Fathom Place to U.S. Route 36 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Marion County

U.S. Route 61 (Southbound) – May 13 – 17, LANE RESTRICTION for clean-up following a recent traffic incident beginning 10 feet south of CR 361 to 600 feet south of CR 361 between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.

Monroe County

Missouri Route 15 – May 15 - 16, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route MM to U.S. Route 24 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Missouri Route 107 – May 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 1.0 mile north or Missouri Route 154 to Route U between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 151 – May 15, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 1191 to Route K between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route C – May 17, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 1.75 miles north of Route AA to CR 962 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Montgomery County

Route K – May 15 – 16 & 20 - 23, CLOSED for core drilling operations from Missouri Route 19 to Route P at Loutre River between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

I-70 (South Outer Road/Tree Farm Road) – May 15 – 16, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 19 to Route F between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Schuyler County

U.S. Route 136 (Eastbound) – May 16 - 17, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from the City of Lancaster to Scotland County line between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Scotland County

Route H – May 15, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 361 to CR 363 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route BB – May 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Bethal Cemetery Road to CR 819 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Shelby County

Missouri Route 15 – May 21, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from East Beech Street to West Elm Street in Shelbina between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 15 – May 22, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Route WW to CR 458 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. An 11-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – May 20, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from CR 471 to Route T between 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 36 (Eastbound) – May 15, LANE RESTRICTION for clean-up following a recent traffic incident 1,600 feet east of Route PP, between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.  A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Route T – May 20, CLOSED for patching operations from U.S. Route 36 to Missouri Route 168 between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Route W – May 21 – 22, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 168 to the end of state maintenance between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route AA – May 17, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 15 to Route T between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route TT – May 17, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from CR 428 to CR 416 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

GOV. PARSON SIGNS HB 1803 INTO LAW, EXPANDING MOBUCKS PROGRAM

On Thursday May 9, during a signing ceremony at Ozark Empire Fairgrounds in Springfield, Governor Mike Parson signed House Bill 1803 into law. HB 1803 increases the total amount of state funds the State Treasurer may invest into the MOBUCK$ program from $800 million to $1.2 billion annually. Governor Parson was joined by State Treasurer Vivek Malek, representatives from Missouri's agriculture advocacy groups, and members of the Missouri Bankers Association as he signed the bill into law. 

"I have to give credit to Treasurer Malek for his leadership in increasing the awareness and effectiveness of the MOBUCK$ program," Governor Parson said. "Under his administration, all available MOBUCK$ funds were exhausted within just one business day of applications opening. Now, by increasing the cap, Treasurer Malek's office and the State of Missouri will be able to assist more beginning farmers, existing farmers, and small business owners with low interest loans. Thank you, Treasurer Malek, for being a champion for Missouri agriculture and small businesses across the state." 

In addition to raising the MOBUCK$ investment total, HB 1803 removes previous funding caps on the portion of total funds that could be invested in farming operations, small businesses, livestock operations, beginning farmer operations, etc. 


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

May 14, 2024

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MONDAY MORNING MISHAP

A La Plata man was seriously injured in a Monday morning mishap in Knox County.  MSHP reported that it happened at 8:40am as 54 year old Robert Brochu was on Highway 156 when he lost control on the wet road and his car traveled off the left side of the road and struck an embankment.  He was air-lifted to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries. 

 

WOMAN INJURED IN CALLAWAY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Fulton woman was injured in an accident that occurred at 2:40am Sunday in Callaway County.  The patrol says that 34 year old Capreice Smith was on Highway C when she failed to negotiate a curve, causing her car to cross the center of the road, ran off the left side of the roadway, became airborne and overturned.  She was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

DRIVER HURT IN SUNDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

34 year old Alexander Keene of Troy was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday afternoon in Pike County.  State troopers stated that he was on US 61 when he fell asleep and his vehicle ran off the left side of the road, began to skid and the front and undercarriage struck the ground in the center median, before becoming airborne and overturned.  He sustained minor injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital for treatment.  The wreck happened at 2:55pm Sunday.

 

WOMAN INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE CRASH

A St. Charles woman was injured in a motorcycle crash Sunday afternoon in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it occurred at 3:35pm as 58 year old Patricia Lyons was westbound when she intentionally traveled off the right side of the road and made a u-turn onto Route T, lost control of her motorcycle and it went off the right side of the roadway, slid down an embankment, rolled onto its right side, struck a downed tree limb and ejected her from it.  She was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis for treatment of moderate injuries.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

May 10, 2024

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Adair County

Route D – May 10 – 14, CLOSED for patching operations from Route O to Missouri Route 149 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Audrain County

Missouri Route 15 – May 10, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from CR 381 south to CR 381 north between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 15 – May 13, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Route D to CR 9824 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 22 – May 10, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 1.0 mile east of U.S. Route 63 to Route Y between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Lewis County

Route O – May 13 – 14, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 6 to Route V between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route O – May 15, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 6 to Route V between 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Lincoln County

Route D – May 10 & 13 - 14 LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route E to Missouri Route 47 between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Route E – May 13 -15, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.50 mile before and after the bridge over Mill Creek in Silex between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Route TT – May 15 – 16, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route D to Mary Joe Road between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Macon County

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – May 16, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.50 west of Atlantic Loop to the Macon County line between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Route UU – May 13 – 17, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from end of state maintenance to Fathom Place between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Marion County

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – May 16, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.50 west of Atlantic Loop to the Macon County line between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Route UU – May 13 – 17, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from end of state maintenance to Fathom Place between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

U.S. Route 61 (Southbound) – May 13 – 17, LANE RESTRICTION for clean-up following a recent traffic incident beginning 10 feet south of CR 361 to 600 feet south of CR 361 between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.

Monroe County

Missouri Route 15 – May 15 - 16, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route MM to U.S. Route 24 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Missouri Route 151 – May 14, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route YY to CR 946 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 151 – May 15, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 1191 to Route K between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route C – May 16, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 1.75 miles north of Route AA to CR 962 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Montgomery County

Route K – May 13 - 16, CLOSED for core drilling operations from Missouri Route 19 to Route P at Loutre River between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

I-70 (South Outer Road/Tree Farm Road) – May 13 – 16, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 19 to Route F between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Scotland County

Route BB – May 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 811 to Bethal Cemetery Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route BB – May 13, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Bethal Cemetery Road to CR 819 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route BB – May 14, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 553 to CR 804 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route BB – May 15, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 804 to CR 851 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route CC – May 16 - 17, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 855 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Shelby County

Missouri Route 15 – May 13 - 14, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from U.S. Route 36 to Route MM between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Missouri Route 15 – May 17, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Route WW to CR 458 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – May 10, LANE RESTRICTION for shoulder work from the Monroe City overpass to CR 216 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

U.S. Route 36 (Eastbound) – May 15, LANE RESTRICTION for clean-up following a recent traffic incident 1,600 feet east of Route PP, between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.  A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Route AA – May 17, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 15 to Route T between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route TT – May 16, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from CR 428 to CR 416 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

MOBERLY POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS

On May 4-5 Moberly Police Department officers began investigating activity at a residence in the 200 block of S Ault St., Moberly.  As a result of this investigation, a 57 year old male was taken into custody for the following charges:

 

Trafficking for the Purpose of Sexual Exploitation

Delivery of a Controlled Substance

Possession of a Controlled Substance

Keeping or Maintaining a Public Nuisance

Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

 

The male was placed on a 24 hour hold at the Randolph County Justice Center, pending formal charges from the Randolph County Prosecuting Attorney. The Moberly Police Department was assisted by the North Missouri Drug Task Force. The investigation is ongoing at this time.

 

Governor Parson Signs HB 2016 into Law While Visiting Missouri National Guard Soldiers Deployed to Southern Border in Texas

On Wednesday, Governor Mike Parson visited the Southern Border near Eagle Pass, Texas, to connect with Missouri National Guard (MONG) soldiers deployed to the Southern Border and sign House Bill (HB) 2016 into law. HB 2016 passed the Missouri General Assembly with bipartisan support and includes funding for Missouri's Southern Border deployment, aiding Texas Governor Greg Abbott's Operation Lone Star mission, which is helping secure Texas, Missouri, and the nation. 

"We are proud to be here in Texas today to meet with our soldiers and sign HB 2016, funding Missouri's partnership with Operation Lone Star to secure the border," Governor Parson said. "President Biden and the federal government have failed. They're allowing fentanyl and other drugs, criminals, and even suspected terrorists to flood across the border into our country. States must take a stand, and that's exactly what Missouri is doing. The more crime we can stop at the Southern Border, the less we have to deal with in Missouri. We appreciate the strong group of bipartisan lawmakers for approving this funding and understanding the need for Missouri to step in when the federal government has failed our citizens."

"We understand there are many good people looking to come to our nation to achieve their American Dream. We respect and welcome that, but there is a process to go through, and it must be done legally," Governor Parson continued. 

HB 2016 totals $2.2 million, allocating $2 million to support MONG members deployed to the Southern Border and $206,000 for the Missouri State Highway Patrol's efforts to help secure the border. Governor Parson was joined at the bill signing by MONG Adjutant General Levon Cumpton, MONG soldiers stationed at the border, and Texas Department of Public Safety Regional Director Victor Escalon, who provided those in attendance an update on Operation Lone Star.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

May 9, 2024

 

MAN STRUCK BY VEHICLE IN CALLAWAY COUNTY

A man was injured after being struck by a truck Tuesday morning in Callaway County.  The highway patrol said it happened at around 11:40am as 72 year old Charles Case of New Bloomfield was outside of his truck when it started to roll downhill and struck him.  He was transported by ambulance to Capital Region Hospital in Jefferson City for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN ATV CRASH

A Hannibal woman was seriously injured in an ATV crash that occurred at 7pm Tuesday in Pike County.  The patrol says that 28 year old Lashae Caldwell was west of 16021 Route NN when her ATV traveled off the north side of the road, struck an embankment and ejected her from it.  She was taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.

 

UNIONVILLE LICENSE OFFICE TRANSITIONING TO A NEW CONTRACTOR

The Missouri Department of Revenue is announcing the reopening of the Unionville License Office under a new management contract after being temporarily closed since January 5, 2024. The contract for the Unionville Office has been awarded to VanBuskirk Management. Mary Rhonda VanBuskirk says "I am excited for the opportunity to service my community and surrounding area and look forward to working with everyone." All license office contracts in Missouri are awarded through a competitive bid process. License offices are operated by independent contractors but overseen by the Missouri Department of Revenue.

Please note the current location 1507 Main StreetUnionvilleMo.63565 will continue to be closed from now – May 10 to allow for transitioning of the necessary office equipment. The office will reopen on Monday, May 13. The hours of operation will be Monday – Friday, 8:30a.m. – 4:00p.m. and the telephone number will be 660-947-3621.

While the office is closed to transition to the new contractor, the Department encourages customers to visit one of the following nearby locations to receive assistance with their motor vehicle and driver licensing needs:

Milan License Office – 200 E 3rd StMilanMo.63556

Kirksville License Office – 105 W Potter AveKirksvilleMo.63501

Princeton License Office – 703 Hickland, Suite B, PrincetonMo.64673

A full list of license office locations and hours of operation can be found at
dor.mo.gov/license-office-locator/
.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

May 8, 2024

 

DRIVER INJURED IN EARLY MONDAY MORNING CRASH

23 year old James Alvis of Wayland was injured in an early Monday morning crash in Clark County.  MSHP stated that he was on US 136 when his car traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck an embankment and overturned.  He sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL for treatment.  The crash occurred at 4:50am Monday.

 

MAN KILLED IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Lake St. Louis man was killed in an accident that occurred at around 10:30pm Sunday in Montgomery County.  The patrol says that 21 year old Joshua Jenkins was westbound on I-70 when his car traveled off the left side of the roadway, struck a concrete median barrier and then he overcorrected, causing it to skid off the north side of the road and struck several trees.  He was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

TEEN HURT IN MONDAY MORNING WRECK

A Gray Summit teen was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Monday morning in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 7:20am as the 17 year old girl was on Robertsville Road and driving too fast for the wet road conditions when she lost control and her jeep ran off the right side of the road and came to rest in a ditch.  She was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of minor injuries.

 

DRUG BUST IN LIVINGSTON COUNTY

On Friday May 3 at approximately 9:20am, officers and detectives successfully served a search warrant in the 400 block of Jackson Street resulting in the seizure of narcotics, drug paraphernalia, and evidence of child endangerment and neglect. The Chillicothe Police Department executed the search warrant in response to several drug investigations.

As a result of the investigation, a 27 year old male and a 37 year old female were arrested on charges of possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, child endangerment, and child neglect.  Detectives are working closely with the Livingston County Prosecutor Adam Warren and Livingston County Children's Division on this case.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

May 6, 2024

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN FRIDAY NIGHT WRECK

27 year old Austin Roberts of La Plata was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Friday night in Macon County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 7:50pm as he was on Old Highway 63 when he lost control and his vehicle overturned.  He was air-lifted to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

DRIVER HURT IN CALLAWAY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Columbia driver was hurt in an accident that occurred at 9:45pm Friday in Callaway County.  The patrol says that 25 year old Anthony Robinson was on Route HH and driving too fast when he failed to negotiate a curve after swerving for a deer, causing his car to travel off the left side of the roadway and struck a fence in three different places before coming to rest in a field.  He was taken to Capital Region Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries.

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Adair County

Route D – May 6 – 7, CLOSED for patching operations from Little Road to Route O between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route D – May 9 – 14, CLOSED for patching operations from Route O to Missouri Route 149 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Audrain County

Missouri Route 15 – May 10, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from CR 381 south to CR 381 north between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 15 – May 13, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Route D to CR 9824 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 22 – May 10, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 1.0 mile east of U.S. Route 63 to Route Y between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 151 – May 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 116 to CR 128 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Knox County

Route F – May 6, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from Route A to Missouri Route 15 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Lewis County

Route O – May 13 – 14, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 6 to Route V between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route O – May 15, CLOSED for seal coat operations from Missouri Route 6 to Route V between 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Route P – May 6 – 7, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route P overpass to Route B between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route AA May 9 – 10, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 6 to 275th Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Lincoln County

Route D – May 9 – 10 & 13 - 14 LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route E to Missouri Route 47 between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Route E – May 6 – 7, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route O to U.S. Route 61 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Route E – May 13 -15, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.50 mile before and after the bridge over Mill Creek in Silex between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Route TT – May 15 – 16, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route D to Mary Joe Road between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Macon County

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – May 16, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.50 west of Atlantic Loop to the Macon County line between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Route UU – May 13 – 17, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from end of state maintenance to Fathom Place between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Marion County

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – May 16, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.50 west of Atlantic Loop to the Macon County line between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Route UU – May 13 – 17, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from end of state maintenance to Fathom Place between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

U.S. Route 61 (Southbound) – May 13 – 17, LANE RESTRICTION for clean-up following a recent traffic incident beginning 10 feet south of CR 361 to 600 feet south of CR 361 between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.

Missouri Route 79 – May 7, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Adams Street to Lovers Leap between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 79 – May 9, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Adams Street to Lovers Leap between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Monroe County

Missouri Route 15 – May 15 - 16, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route MM to U.S. Route 24 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Missouri Route 151 – May 7, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 1160 to CR 136 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 151 – May 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 1085 to CR 923 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 151 – May 14, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route YY to CR 946 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 151 – May 15, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 1191 to Route K between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route C – May 16, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 1.75 miles north of Route AA to CR 962 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Montgomery County

Route B – May 6 – 7, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 19 to Route ZZ between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route K – May 6 - 7, CLOSED for core drilling operations from Missouri Route 19 to Route P at Dry Fork Creek between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route K – May 13 - 16, CLOSED for core drilling operations from Missouri Route 19 to Route P at Loutre River between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

I-70 (South Outer Road/Tree Farm Road) – May 13 – 16, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 19 to Route F between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Scotland County

Route H – May 6, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 716 to CR 806 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route BB – May 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 811 to Bethal Cemetery Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route BB – May 13, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Bethal Cemetery Road to CR 819 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route BB – May 14, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 553 to CR 804 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route BB – May 15, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 804 to CR 851 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route CC – May 6 – 9 & 16 - 17, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 855 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route EE – May 7 & 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 817 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. each day.

Shelby County

Missouri Route 15 – May 13 - 14, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from U.S. Route 36 to Route MM between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Missouri Route 15 – May 17, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from Route WW to CR 458 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – May 6 - 7, LANE RESTRICTION for shoulder work from 1.0 mile west of Route T to CR 462 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – May 9 - 10, LANE RESTRICTION for shoulder work from the Monroe City overpass to CR 216 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

U.S. Route 36 (Eastbound) – May 15, LANE RESTRICTION for clean-up following a recent traffic incident 1,600 feet east of Route PP, between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.  A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Route AA – May 17, CLOSED for patching operations from Missouri Route 15 to Route T between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route TT – May 16, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from CR 428 to CR 416 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Warren County

Missouri Route 47 (Overpass) – May 5 – 7, LANE RESTRICTION for seal coat operations from I-70 eastbound to I-70 westbound beginning at 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 5th through 6:00 a.m. Monday, May 6th and 7:00 p.m. Monday, May 6th through 6:00 a.m. Tuesday, May 7th.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

May 3, 2024

 

GOV. PARSON SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDER 24-06 ACTIVATING STATE EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN IN RESPONSE TO SEVERE WEATHER AND FLOODING

On Thursday, Governor Mike Parson signed Executive Order 24-06 activating the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan in response to severe weather and flooding. Parts of Missouri have already sustained storm and flood damage with additional storms and rain forecast over the next several days.

“We have seen the tremendous power and destruction of this past weekend’s storms in neighboring states, and with areas of Missouri already impacted, we want to ensure state resources are available should significant disruptions or damage occur,” Governor Parson said. “This action enables the state to be better prepared and ready to assist our communities. We encourage Missourians to follow their local forecasts, heed all weather warnings, and take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones.”

Executive Order 24-06 will expire on May 30, 2024, unless otherwise terminated or extended.

 

GOV. PARSON ORDERS CAPITOL DOME, MISSOURI LAW ENFORCEMENT MEMORIAL LIGHTED BLUE IN HONOR OF FALLEN LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS

In honor of Missouri’s fallen law enforcement officers, Governor Mike Parson has   ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome and Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial to be lit blue from sunset on Friday, May 3, 2024, until sunrise on Saturday, May 4, 2024.

“We owe a tremendous debt to the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice while enforcing the law and answering the call to service,” Governor Parson said. “Each year, we hold these ceremonies to remember and honor those who lost their lives in service to our state. We are proud to light the Capitol Dome and Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial blue, as we stand alongside the families and colleagues of our fallen heroes to express our gratitude for their selfless service to our state."

The annual ceremonies honoring fallen Missouri law enforcement officers will be held at the Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial on the grounds of the Capitol overlooking the Missouri River.

The 2024 Candlelight Vigil will be held on May 3 at 8 p.m., and the Memorial Service will take place at 10 a.m. on May 4.

“Each year, as we honor our fallen comrades, they and their heroic deeds are indelibly connected to the more than 700 officers whose names have already been enshrined on the Law Enforcement Memorial’s Wall of Honor,” Missouri Department of Public Safety Director Sandy Karsten said. “Their service is now part of Missouri’s law enforcement legacy of valor and selfless service that extends back to 1836.” 

The names of three law enforcement and corrections officers who died in the line of duty in 2023 and one officer who died in 2021 have been added to the memorial’s Wall of Honor in advance of this year’s ceremonies.

 

MAY IS BICYCLE SAFETY MONTH

Warmer weather encourages people to be more active outdoors. In the coming weeks, more and more bicycles will be sharing the road with motorists. May is Bicycle Safety Month, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol encourages motorists and bicyclists to stay alert and be courteous. Preliminary statistics for 2023 indicate eight people were killed and 438 injured in 522 traffic crashes involving a bicycle. Please know the law regarding operating a bicycle and be a safe rider.

Did you know?

· A bicyclist is required to ride as near the right side of the roadway as is safe, exercising due care when passing a standing vehicle or one proceeding in the same direction; except when making a left turn, when the lane is too narrow to share with another vehicle, or when on a one-way street.
· Bicyclists may ride abreast when not impeding other vehicles.
· Bicyclists must also obey all traffic signals and signs, the same as required of drivers of other vehicles. Use hand signals to let others know you will turn left, right, or stop.
· A bicycle must be equipped with a brake or brakes that will enable its driver to stop the bicycle within 25 feet from a speed of 10 miles per hour on dry, level, clean pavement.
· Bicycle riders, when riding on a street or highway, are granted all the rights and are subject to all the traffic regulations applicable to drivers of motor vehicles, except those that by their very nature do not apply.


It is important that bicyclists understand local ordinances regarding riding a bicycle. For instance, in some municipalities, riding a bicycle on the sidewalk in a business district is prohibited.

When riding a bicycle after dark, the bicycles must have the following:

· A white light mounted to the front of the bicycle or carried by the rider which is visible at 500 feet.

· A rear-facing red reflector of at least two square inches or a red lamp which is visible at 600 feet.

· Reflective material and/or lights visible from the front and rear on any moving part of the bicycle’s pedals or crank arms, or the bicyclist’s shoes or lower legs, which can be seen at 200 feet.

· Reflective material and/or lights on each side of the bicycle or bicyclist visible at 300 feet.


Penalties for violations of this law range from not less than $5 to not more than $25 for people 17 years of age or older. For those under 17, a provision allows an officer witnessing a violation to impound the bicycle for a period not to exceed five days.

When riding your bicycle, follow these important safety tips:

§ Make sure your bicycle is in good working condition. Check it before each ride.
§ Although not required by state law, wearing a bicycle helmet while riding is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself. Be sure your helmet is the proper size and adjust the straps for a snug fit.
§ Never carry passengers.
§ Walk your bike across busy intersections.
§ Don’t hitch rides on other vehicles.
§ Give pedestrians the right-of-way.
§ Use a horn or bell to warn those who may not see you.
§ Don’t perform stunts on streets or sidewalks.
§ Keep both hands on the handlebars except when signaling.
§ Wear light-colored or reflective clothing when riding after dark.
§ Keep your bicycle in good condition.
§ Always ride with caution and courtesy.
§ When riding a bicycle on a sidewalk, yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian and give audible signals before overtaking or passing a pedestrian.


Please pay attention whether you're driving a vehicle or riding a bicycle. Understand and obey the law and make safety a priority. Reviewing bicycle safety guidelines and traffic laws is a great way to prepare for the bicycling season.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

May 2, 2024

 

WOMAN HURT IN WEDNESDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

A woman was hurt in an accident that occurred at 10:20am Wednesday in Chariton County.  The patrol says that 75 year old Margo Jones of Triplett was a passenger in a car driven by 56 year old Gail Buchanan of Triplett.  They were on MO 11 in Mendon when their car was struck in the rear by an SUV driven by 20 year old Blake Eitel of Milan.  Jones was transported by ambulance to Fitzgibbon Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

 

DRIVER INJURED IN TUESDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

71 year old Carol Paul of Chillicothe was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday afternoon in Livingston County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 12:50pm as she was on MO 190 when her truck traveled off the north side of the roadway and struck an embankment.  The truck came to a controlled stop on its wheels in a field facing northeast.  She sustained minor injuries and was taken to Hedrick Medical Center in Chillicothe for treatment.

 

WOMAN HURT IN WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

A Leslie woman was hurt in a Wednesday afternoon crash in Franklin County.  State troopers stated that 35 year old Tabetha Korman was on Highway 185 when her truck ran off the right side of the road, struck a culvert and overturned.  She was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of minor injuries.  The crash occurred at around 12:45pm Wednesday.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

May 1, 2024

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 5:35pm Monday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that 26 year old Austin Sims of St. Clair was riding his motorcycle on a private roadway at 8337 Little Indian Creek Road when he failed to maintain control and was ejected from it.  He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.

 

WOMAN INJURED IN MONDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

A woman was injured in a motorcycle crash Monday afternoon in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened at around 3:35pm as 41 year old Dawn Bracegirdle of Great Britain, United Kingdom was eastbound on the Route W Ramp to I-44 when she lost control and the front of her motorcycle struck a guardrail and ejected her and struck a light pole.  She was taken to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

MAY IS MOTORCYCLE SAFETY AWARENESS MONTH

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, would like to make the public aware that May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. It's important for motorcyclists to take an active role in their safety. Preliminary 2023 statistics indicate there were 2,459 crashes involving motorcycles. In these crashes, 2,141 people were injured and 175 people were killed.

Please keep these suggestions in mind when you're on the road:

*Be visible. Motorists often have a hard time seeing you. Keep your headlights on, day or night. Use reflective strips/decals on your clothing and on your motorcycle. Be aware of other vehicles’ blind spots.

*Dress for safety. Wear a helmet and eye protection. Wear bright clothing. Wear thick or leather clothing for protection.

*Think safety while riding. Give yourself space to react to other motorists’ actions. Use lane positioning to increase visibility. Watch for turning vehicles. Signal your next action in advance. Pretend you’re invisible and drive defensively.

*Know your bike. Get formal training and take refresher courses. Practice riding your motorcycle before going into heavy traffic. Know how to handle your motorcycle in all types of road conditions.

Review the laws pertaining to operating a motorcycle on Missouri roadways.

* You must possess a valid license that shows you have successfully passed an examination for the operation of a motorcycle or motortricycle to operate one upon any highway of this state.

* Any qualified motorcycle operator who is 26 years of age or older may operate a motorcycle or motortricycle upon any highway of this state without wearing protective headgear. This is allowed only if the motorcycle operator maintains proof of financial responsibility in accordance with Chapter 303 RSMo and is covered by a health insurance policy or other form of insurance which will provide the person with medical benefits for injuries incurred as a result of a traffic crash while operating or riding on a motorcycle or motortricycle.

* Motorcyclists are required to follow the same traffic laws as motor vehicle operators.

Car and truck drivers need to share the road with motorcyclists and keep the following in mind:

* Drivers should actively watch for motorcyclists.

* Motorcycles may look farther away than they are due to their smaller size. It is also difficult to judge the speed at which a motorcycle is traveling as it approaches.

*Motorcycles are hidden easily in a vehicle’s blind spots, or masked by objects or backgrounds. Thoroughly check traffic before changing lanes!

*Motorcyclists may slow down by downshifting or easing off the throttle. So, you may not see a brake light. Allow extra distance between your vehicle and a motorcycle.

*A motorcycle’s turn signal does not cancel after the turn like a vehicle’s signal does. The motorcycle may not be turning, so pay attention.

*A motorcyclist will often adjust their position in the lane so they can see more easily or to avoid debris, wind, or passing vehicles. Allow the motorcyclist to share the lane; don’t assume they are being reckless.

*Stopping distance for motorcycles is similar to that of cars. But, slippery pavement can make stopping quickly difficult. Please allow more distance behind a motorcycle in these types of road conditions.

 




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April 30, 2024

 

FLOODING CAUSES CLOSURES OF SEVERAL ROUTES ACROSS THE NORTHEAST DISTRICT

ALERT: Several routes have closed in the Northeast District due to flooding while some have been able to be opened.

Please do not remove barricades or drive through water over the road. The latest information on traffic impacts can be found on MoDOT's traveler map at www.modot.org.

Current updates include:

 Adair County

 Chariton County

 Clark County

 Macon County

  Monroe County

 Knox County

 Randolph County

 Shelby County

 

 

TWO HURT IN EARLY SATURDAY MORNING WRECK

Two women were hurt in a one-vehicle wreck early Saturday morning in Linn County.  The highway patrol said it happened at around 4am as 20 year old Amnah Thabet of Lenexa, KS was on US 36 when she failed to negotiate a curve and her car ran off the left side of the road, struck a road sign, crossed back over the roadway and went off the right side of the road, became airborne, struck the ground, became airborne a second time, struck the ground, slid down an embankment and struck a tree.  Both the driver and her passenger 20 year old Diamond Collier of Kansas City, MO were taken to Pershing Memorial Hospital in Brookfield for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

WOMAN INJURED IN EARLY SUNDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

A woman was injured in an accident that occurred at 12:30am Sunday in Gasconade County.  The patrol says that 62 year old Robin Long of Canyon Lake, TX was on Route EE when her car traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a ditch and caught fire.  She was transported by ambulance to Hermann Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.  


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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April 29, 2024

 

FLOODING CAUSES CLOSURES OF SEVERAL ROUTES ACROSS THE NORTHEAST DISTRICT

Several routes have closed in the Northeast District due to flooding, with more rain in the forecast.

Please do not remove barricades or drive through water over the road. The latest information on traffic impacts can be found on MoDOT's traveler map at www.modot.org.

Current closures include:

Adair County

Monroe County

Knox County

Macon County

Randolph County

Shelby County

 

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Adair County

Route D – May 6 – 7, CLOSED for patching operations from Little Road to Route O between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Audrain County

U.S. Route 54/Missouri Route 19 – April 29 – May 2, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from 500 feet east of Route BB roundabout at Scotts Corner to CR 408 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily. An 11-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 54 – April 30 – May 2, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from the Audrain County line to Missouri Route 15 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.  An 11-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Missouri Route 151 – May 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 116 to CR 128 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Knox County

Route V – April 30 – May 2, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from Route AA to Falcon Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Macon County

Route F – April 30 – May 2, LANE RESTRICTION for grading ditches from Desoto Place to 1.5 miles north of Dallas Place/Denver Place between 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route J – April 29 – May 3, CLOSED for core drilling operations from Alpine Avenue to Anvil Street between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.

Route W – April 30, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from U.S. Route 36 to Lewis Street between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Marion County

U.S. Route 61/U.S. Route 24 (Westbound) – April 30, LANE RESTRICTION for brush cutting operations from CR 361 to CR 320 between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Monroe County

Missouri Route 107 – April 30, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 1.0 mile north of Missouri Route 154 to Route U between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 151 – May 2, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 160 to CR 156 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 151 – May 7, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 1160 to CR 136 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 151 – May 8, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 1191 to Route K between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 151 – May 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 1085 to CR 923 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route HH – May 1, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from U.S. Route 24 to CR 580 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Montgomery County

Old U.S. 40 – April 29, CLOSED for railroad crossing maintenance Jonesburg, 279 feet southwest of Old High Point Road between 12:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.

I-70 (Eastbound) – April 29 - 30, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from mile marker 167.6 to mile marker 168.4 between 3:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. daily.

Route B – May 6 – 7, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 19 to Route ZZ between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route F – April 29, CLOSED for railroad crossing maintenance in High Hill, 587 feet north of Old U.S. Route 40 between 12:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Route K – May 6, CLOSED for core drilling operations from Missouri Route 19 to Route P at Dry Fork Creek between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route K – May 7 & 9, CLOSED for core drilling operations from Missouri Route 19 to Route P at Loutre River between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route Y – April 29, CLOSED for railroad crossing maintenance in Jonesburg, 620 feet south of Old U.S. Route 40 between 12:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Schuyler County

Route W – April 29 - 30, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Wabash Street to Hoot Owl Ridge between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Scotland County

Route D - April 30, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 657 to CR 360 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route D – May 1, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 305 to CR 309 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route BB – May 2, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 811 to Bethel Cemetery Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route BB – May 3, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Bethel Cemetery Road to CR 819 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route BB – May 6, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 553 to CR 804 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route BB – May 7, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 804 to CR 851 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route CC – May 6 – 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 855 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route CC – May 8 - 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 855 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route EE – April 29, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 817 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Shelby County

Missouri Route 15 – May 6 – 7, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from U.S. Route 36 to Route MM between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

U.S. Route 36 (Eastbound) – May 1, LANE RESTRICTION for clean-up following a recent traffic incident 1,600 feet east of Route PP, between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – May 3, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from CR 484 to 2.5 miles east of Route T over the North Fork Salt River between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Warren County

Missouri Route 47 (Overpass) – May 5 – 7, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 500 feet before and after the bridge over I-70. Work will take place during nighttime hours only from 9:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. beginning Sunday, May 5th at 9:00 p.m. and ending Tuesday, May 7th at 6:00 a.m.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

April 26, 2024

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN BOONE COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Hallsville man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 7:20am Thursday in Boone County.  The patrol says that 58 year old Thomas O’Brien was on MO 124 when his motorcycle began having a mechanical malfunction and he steered it to the right shoulder and as it traveled onto the gravel shoulder it fell on its right side and slid to a stop.  He was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

WORK CONTINUES ON MO 19 MISSOURI RIVER BRIDGE AT HERMANN

Two bridge rehabilitation projects began earlier this month on Missouri Route 19 in Montgomery County, located over the Missouri River and the Loutre River north of Hermann.

As work progresses on the bridge rehabilitation projects, cyclists and pedestrians on Missouri Route 19 traveling over the Missouri River Bridge at Hermann will be impacted by temporary closures of the shared use path.  Earlier this week painting and deck sealing operations necessitated daily closures of the path, Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Temporary traffic impacts will continue between Missouri Route 94, south of McKittrick and Missouri Route 100 in Hermann.  Traffic will remain reduced to one lane during the day, Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. (with the exception of Fridays in May, when all lanes will be open by noon).  Flaggers will direct motorists through the work zone.  For the duration of the project, a 12-foot width restriction will remain in place while workers are present. All work is weather dependent and schedules are subject to change.

Thomas Industrial Coatings, Inc. was awarded the contract earlier this year in the amount of $1,694,448. Work is scheduled to be completed by mid-summer.


 




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April 25, 2024

 

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN TUESDAY MORNING WRECK

A Florissant woman was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday morning in Callaway County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 10:55am as 43 year old Julie Schafer was on Route WW when she failed to negotiate a curve, causing her van to travel off the roadway, struck an embankment and overturned.  She was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

TEEN HURT IN GASCONADE COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Belle teen was hurt in an accident that occurred at 11:25pm Tuesday in Gasconade County.  The patrol says that the 17 year old girl was on Route B at Route CC when she drove through an intersection due to foggy conditions and her vehicle struck a sign.  She was taken to St. Mary’s Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

 

RACE TO HELP SAVE LIVES WITH THE RED CROSS BY GIVING BLOOD

As May approaches, the American Red Cross reminds eligible donors to keep the blood supply stable by racing to give blood in the weeks to come. Donors of all blood types – especially type O blood donors – are crucial to keeping shelves fully stocked with blood products throughout the month.  

 

Right now, there’s no letting off the gas when it comes to lifesaving care. With no substitute for blood and no way to manufacture it, volunteer donors are essential for hospital patients who count on transfusions every single day.  

 

Book a time to give lifesaving blood now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App. Thanks to Sport Clips Haircuts, all who come to donate April 29-May 31 will get a coupon for a free haircut by email. Plus, those who come to give April 29-May 19 will be automatically entered for a chance to win a trip for two and VIP racing experience to the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series and Xfinity Races at Darlington Raceway Labor Day weekend, including entry to the Sport Clips racetrack hospitality tent and a $1,000 gift card. Additionally, those who come to give April 29-May 19 will also get a bonus $10 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/racetogive for more details. 






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April 24, 2024

 

WOMAN HURT IN TUESDAY MORNING WRECK

A woman was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday morning in Macon County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 7:25am as 30 year old Elizabeth Busick of Macon was a passenger in a vehicle driven by 35 year old James Busick of Macon.  They were on US 36 when he lost control and it ran off the left side of the road and struck a ditch.  She was transported by ambulance to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment of minor injuries.

 

TEEN INJURED IN MARION COUNTY ACCIDENT

A teen was injured in an accident that occurred at 6:35am Tuesday in Marion County.  The patrol says that 18 year old Gage Dawson of La Belle was on US 24 when his car traveled into the path of a truck driven by 54 year old Elizabeth Gaus of Canton.  The teen sustained minor injuries and was taken to Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL for treatment.

 

RESURFACING PROJECT SCHEDULED TO BEGIN IN MONTGOMERY AND LINCOLN COUNTIES

Weather permitting, a resurfacing project located on Route E in Montgomery and Lincoln counties, from Interstate 70 in Montgomery County to Route UU in Silex in Lincoln County, is expected to begin as early as Wednesday. The length of the improvement is 35 miles with anticipated completion by late June.

The $3.5M contract was awarded last year to Magruder Paving, LLC of Troy, MO. The contract also includes a seal coating project, located on Route E in Lincoln County, from Route UU in Silex to U.S. Route 61. This project is anticipated to begin in early June.

Traffic will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction in place at the location where crews are actively working for the duration of the project. Flaggers and a pilot car will be utilized to direct motorists through the work zone. Signs and message boards will be in place to alert motorists, as schedule changes occur. All work is weather dependent and schedules are subject to change.






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April 23, 2024  

 

WOMAN STRUCK AND KILLED BY VEHICLE SUNDAY AFTERNOON

A Milan woman was struck and killed by a vehicle Sunday afternoon in Sullivan County.  The patrol says that it occurred at around 1:20pm as 63 year old Mary Baugher exited a parked vehicle on Route OO and walked into the path of an SUV driven by 18 year old Johnathon Stanton of Milan.  She was taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville and then transferred to University Hospital in Columbia where she died from her injuries early Monday morning.

 

DRIVER HURT IN SUNDAY NIGHT WRECK

31 year old Danda Phalenson of Kirksville was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck that occurred at 6:50pm Sunday in Adair County.  The highway patrol said that he was on Lincoln Way when his vehicle traveled off the roadway, struck a ditch and overturned.  He was taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville for treatment of minor injuries.

 

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SUNDAY EVENING INCIDENT

A woman was seriously injured in an incident Sunday evening in Putnam County.  State troopers stated that a car driven by 32 year old Jimmy Pacheco Dzib of Princeton was on Highway 136 when it ran off the right side of the road and impacted a residence.  The person in the residence 79 year old Karen Torrey of Unionville was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.  The incident happened at around 11:25pm Sunday. 

 

 




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April 22, 2024

 

TEMPORARY CLOSURES SCHEDULED FOR KATY TRAIL OVER MISSOURI RIVER BRIDGE AT HERMANN

Two bridge rehabilitation projects began earlier this month on Missouri Route 19 in Montgomery County, located over the Missouri River and the Loutre River north of Hermann.

As work progresses on the bridge rehabilitation projects, cyclists and pedestrians wishing to access the Katy Trail on Missouri Route 19, over the Missouri River at Hermann, will be impacted by temporary closures of the shared use path.  As early as Monday, painting and deck sealing operations will necessitate daily closures of the path, Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Temporary traffic impacts will continue between Missouri Route 94, south of McKittrick, and Missouri Route 100 in Hermann.  Traffic will remain reduced to one lane during the day, Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. (with the exception of Fridays in May, when all lanes will be open by noon).  Flaggers will direct motorists through the work zone.  For the duration of the project, a 12-foot width restriction will remain in place while workers are present.  All work is weather dependent and schedules are subject to change.

For the safety of the crews and the traveling public, we would like to remind drivers to be attentive in work zones and make smart, safe driving choices behind the wheel, including putting down your cell phone to eliminate distractions.  

Thomas Industrial Coatings, Inc. was awarded the contract earlier this year in the amount of $1,694,448. Work is scheduled to be completed by mid-summer.

 

GOV. PARSON ANNOUNCES JASON SUMNERS TO BE NEXT DIRECTOR OF MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION

On Friday, Governor Mike Parson announced that the Missouri Conservation Commission has selected Jason Sumners as the next director of the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), effective June 1, 2024.  Sumners currently serves as the deputy director of resource management for MDC and will succeed Sara Parker Pauley, who will retire after 30 years of public service.  Sumners will become the tenth director in the Conservation Department’s 87-year history.

 

MDC ENCOURAGES PUBLIC TO LEAVE WILDLIFE WILD

The spring season brings blooms, sunny skies, warmer temperatures, and a variety of newborn animals. Young wildlife can pull on our heartstrings as they look to be abandoned, but that’s rarely the case. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds the public that the best place for wildlife is in the wild.  A common newborn species we may encounter in the spring is young birds.

“If you see a chick with feathers hopping on the ground, leave it alone because it’s a fledgling and its parents are nearby keeping watch,” Russell urged. “Fledglings can spend up to 10 days on the ground learning to fly. If you find one that has no feathers, it likely fell out of its nest and you can return it to the nesting area if possible.”

Another animal Russell warns against interfering with is young rabbits.

"Rabbits seldom survive in captivity and can actually die of fright from being handled,” she explained.

MDC MYTHBUSTER: Human scent does not cause wild mothers to reject their young.

“It takes a lot of knowledge to care for and rehabilitate wild animals,” stressed Russell. “It requires special training, permits, and facilities. Not to mention, it’s illegal to possess many wild animals without a valid state or federal permit.”

Russell also cautioned that wildlife can become dangerous as they mature, and can carry disease, parasites, and cause property damage.

“We know people have good intentions, and it can be tempting to take these cute, young animals in our homes, but the best thing we can do for wild animals is to leave them be,” she said.

To learn more about Missouri’s native wildlife, visit the MDC online Field Guide at https://nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/search.

 




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April 19, 2024

 

WOMAN HURT IN WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

30 year old Brittany Miller of Brookfield was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Wednesday afternoon in Adair County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 1:30pm as she was on US 63 when her SUV ran off the left side of the road and struck a guardrail.  She was taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville for treatment of minor injuries.

 

MODOT HIRING WORKERS AT JOB FAIR IN SHELBINA

The Missouri Department of Transportation Northeast District Office will host a job fair to hire multiple full-time positions including:  Maintenance workers, Highway designer/Civil Engineer, signal/Lighting electricians, and mechanics/equipment technicians. The event will be from 10am – 2pm Saturday, April 20, at the MoDOT Shelbina Maintenance Facility, 213 N. Douglas, ShelbinaMO 63468.

MoDOT offers full training and benefits including medical insurance, paid annual and sick leave, educational assistance, paid holidays and more. 

MoDOT is a diverse workplace dedicated to safety and personal and professional development.

Applicant information:

Bring a valid driver’s license.

Applications can be completed on-site or ahead of time at modot.org/careers. An active email address will be required.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma/GED and a valid driver's license.

If offered a position, applicants also must successfully complete a criminal background check, drug screening, work simulation and physical at a separately scheduled date and time.

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN EARLY WEDNESDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

A Moscow Mills man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 12am Wednesday in Pike County.  The patrol says that 41 year old Derek Wolfe was on Highway PP when his truck traveled off the right side of the roadway, he overcorrected, crossed the center of the road, went off the left side, struck a tree and overturned, ejecting him from it.  He was transported by Survival Flight to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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April 18, 2024

 

14 BRIDGES IN NORTHEAST MISSOURI SCHEDULED FOR REHABILITATION

Weather permitting, the week of April 22, bridge rehabilitation work is set to begin on 14 rural Northeast Missouri bridges, a project that spans six counties. The Missouri Department of Transportation has contracted with Capital Paving & Construction, LLC to complete the projects which includes bridges in Audrain, Lincoln, Marion, Montgomery, Pike and Ralls counties. These bridges were included in the Safe and Sound Bridge program which rebuilt more than 800 bridges approximately 12 years ago.

Locations are as follows:

Audrain County, Route B - Over Branch Lick Creek, 2.7 miles from Route J

Audrain County, Route D - Over Scattering Fork, 2.07 miles from Missouri Route 15

Audrain County, Route FF - Over Davis Creek, 0.5 mile from Route M

Lincoln County, Route V - Over Sugar Creek, 0.98 mile from U.S. Route 61

Marion County, Route D - Over South Fabius River, 0.69 mile from Route M

Monroe County, Route Y - Over Reese Fork in Audrain County, 0.71 mile from Route NN

Montgomery County, Route AA - Over Coon Creek, 0.63 mile from Route PP

Pike County, Route H - Over Little Ramsey Creek, 1.8 miles from Route W in Paynesville

Pike County, Route W - Over Guinns Creek, 1.16 miles from Route F

Pike County, Route W - Over Ramsey Creek, 0.39 mile from Route WW

Pike County, Route AC - Over Sandy Creek, 2.24 miles from Missouri Route 161 in Middletown

Pike County, Route M - Over South Branch Indian Creek, 0.34 mile from Route V

Pike County, Route V - Over Indian Creek, 3.16 miles from Route M

Ralls County, Route P - Over Spencer Creek, 0.87 mile from Route K

Six phases are included in the scope of rehabilitation work. The contractor currently plans to complete a single phase on all bridges before progressing to the next phase of work. To minimize the overall impact to motorists, there will be brief work zones at each bridge while work is active.

During these time periods, flaggers will direct motorists through the one-lane work zones. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place while work zones are active. Crews will be present during daylight hours, Monday through Friday. All work is weather permitting, and schedules are subject to change. All work is scheduled to be completed by November 1.

A list and interactive map of all project locations within the contract can be found on the projects webpage at https://www.modot.org/SASNE.

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Friday, April 12 at approximately 9:12pm, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 800 block of W Liberty in reference to a fire.  Responding personnel found flame coming from an unattached garage.  The fire was extinguished with the garage suffering serious damage.  None of the other nearby structures were damaged.  Investigation led to the arrest of Travis E Saylor, age 35, on Saturday, April 13 at approximately 3:40pm.  Mr. Saylor was processed at MPSD and taken to the Audrain County Jail for Arson 2nd degree.  Mr. Saylor suffered minor injuries from the fire.  No one else was injured.

 

On Saturday, April 13 at approximately 8:17pm, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 1700 block of S Clark Street in reference to a fire.  Responding personnel found that fire had spread from an unattended pile of burning brush and was moving through private property towards the roadway.  The fire was contained after burning less than a tenth of an acre.  There were no injuries from the incident.  

 

On Wednesday, April 10 the Mexico Public Safety Department took four reports of copper being stolen from air conditioner condenser units in the central business district area.  Investigation indicates that the damage and thefts occurred during the morning hours of the 9th and the 10th and that two white males were involved.  Anyone with information is asked to contact Mexico Public Safety at (573) 473-5800 or (573) 581-2100 or CRIMESTOPPERS at (800) 392-TIPS or (800) 392-8477.  CRIMESTOPPERS tips leading to an arrest or charges are eligible for reward.

 

MARCH 2024 MONTHLY JOBS REPORT

Missouri nonfarm payroll employment increased by 8,100 jobs in March 2024 and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained at 3.3 percent. Private industry employment increased by 7,100 jobs and government employment increased by 1,000 jobs. Over the year, there was an increase of 54,200 jobs from March 2023 to March 2024 and the unemployment rate increased by half of a percentage point, from 2.8 percent in March 2023 to 3.3 percent in March 2024. Read the full report at https://meric.mo.gov/missouri-monthly-jobs-report





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

April 17, 2024

 

WOMAN HURT IN MONDAY NIGHT WRECK

A woman was hurt in a two-vehicle wreck Monday night in Ralls County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 5:50pm as two vehicles were westbound on US 36 when 32 year old Danielle Altheide of Quincy, IL attempted a left turn from the driving lane and her van struck a tractor trailer driven by 36 year old Bradley White of Shelbina.  She was transported by ambulance to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

 

TWO INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two men were injured in an accident that occurred after 10pm Monday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that a truck driven by 40 year old Nicholas Hamilton of Washington was stopped at a stop sign on Horseshoe Bend Loop when he pulled out in front of a car driven by 34 year old Michael Williams of Union and they collided.  Williams sustained moderate injuries while Hamilton suffered minor injuries.  Both were taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment.

 

GOV. PARSON ORDERS FLAGS TO HALF-STAFF IN HONOR OF LAKE LAFAYETTE POLICE CHIEF STEVEN A. SINGER

On Tuesday, Governor Mike Parson ordered U.S. and Missouri flags to be flown at half-staff at government buildings in Lafayette County and all police stations in Missouri on Wednesday in honor of Lake Lafayette Police Department Chief Steven A. Singer.

“Chief Singer devoted 20 years of his life to protecting his community and was committed to advancing professional development among law enforcement investigators as an active member of the Missouri Investigators Association,” Governor Parson said. “We are grateful for his public service, and Teresa and I send our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.”

On the evening of April 7, Chief Singer was on duty with the Lake Lafayette Police Department when he responded to a report of subjects trespassing near the dam of Lake Lafayette. When he arrived, the subjects fled on UTVs. Chief Singer searched for the subjects before clearing the call. He then suffered a fatal heart attack in the early morning hours of April 8.

Singer, 48, was a 20-year law enforcement veteran. He graduated from the University of Central Missouri's Police Academy on March 31, 2004, and in June 2004 joined the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office as a deputy and the Lake Lafayette Police Department as chief. He served as a deputy sheriff until June 2015.

Chief Singer had been a member of the Missouri Investigators Association since 2005 and had served as a member of the organization’s Membership Committee, Training Committee, and as vice president and president. He had also served in the Lafayette County Assessor’s Office, where he rose to the position of deputy assessor in September 2017 and continued to serve in that capacity.

The flags will be held at half-staff on the day of Chief Singer’s memorial service.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

April 16, 2024

 

MAN INJURED IN GASCONADE COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Linn man was injured in an accident that occurred at 4:05pm Sunday in Gasconade County.  The patrol says that 29 year old Lakin Stull was on Route Y when his motorcycle traveled off the left side of the roadway and overturned.  He was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of moderate injuries. 

DRIVER INJURED IN SUNDAY NIGHT WRECK

35 year old Adam Ritter of Vandalia was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday night in Ralls County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 10:40pm as he was on Route F when he swerved to avoid a deer, causing his car to run off the right side of the road and struck a tree before coming to rest.  He sustained moderate injuries and was transported by ambulance to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment.

TEEN HURT IN ATV MISHAP

A teen was hurt in an ATV mishap Sunday evening in Ralls County.  MSHP stated that the 17 year old boy from Center was on North East Street when he attempted to jump a culvert on an ATV and was ejected from it.  He was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.  The mishap occurred at 8:15pm Sunday.

HANNIBAL LICENSE OFFICE CONTRACT UP FOR BID

The Missouri Department of Revenue has announced the upcoming Request for Proposal (RFP) of the license office in Hannibal located at 21 Northport Plaza, HannibalMo.63401.  Bids started being accepted April 10, and must be submitted by April 23.

For a list of bid opportunities and bid response instructions, please visit Missouri’s statewide electronic procurement system, MissouriBUYS, at missouribuys.mo.gov/. Interested groups or individuals who wish to bid to operate the Hannibal License Office must have an active Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) and must submit the proposal under the legal entity name for which the FEIN was assigned.

 





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY


 


 


 


           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom


 


April 15, 2024


 


PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI


The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.


All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.


Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.


Adair County


Missouri Route 11 – April 16, LANE RESTRICTION for seal coating operations from Beechwood Trail to Impala Trail between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.


Audrain County


Missouri Route 151 – April 25, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 116 to CR 128 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Knox County


Missouri Route 6 – April 22, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.5 mile before the North Fork South Fabius River bridge to just after the North Fork South Fabius bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.


Route K – April 23 – 24, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from Route EE to Eagle Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Route K – April 25, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from Elk Road to Elkhart Place between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.


Route V – April 15, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Colony Woods Place to Route V Spur between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.


Route V – April 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route V Spur to Emma Place between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Lincoln County


Route P – April 18, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Cross Road to Old Dameron Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Macon County


Missouri Route 3 – April 16, LANE RESTRICTION for seal coating operations from Chariton Street to Front Street between 10:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.


Route F – April 16, LANE RESTRICTION for seal coating operations from 1.0 mile north of Denver Place to Desoto Place between 12:00 p.m. and 12:30 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.


Route M – April 16, CLOSED for seal coating operations from 2.5 miles east of U.S. Route 63 to 3.0 miles east of U.S. Route 63 between 3:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.


Route Z – April 17 - 18, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from Cannon Street to Arizona Street between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Route AA – April 17 - 18, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route K to National Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.


Route AA – April 19, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from National Avenue to Nickle Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.


Route DD – April 16, CLOSED for seal coating operations from 3.0 miles east of U.S. Route 63 to 3.5 miles east of U.S. Route 63 between 2:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.


Route PP – April 16, CLOSED for seal coating operations from 3.5 miles east of U.S. Route 63 to 4.0 miles east of U.S. Route 63 between 1:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.


Route UU – April 16, CLOSED for seal coating operations from Old Highway 36 to Clarence Street 10:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.


Marion County


U.S. Route 36 – April 17, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from U.S. Route 61 to Harrison Hill in Hannibal between 2:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.


U.S. Route 36 (Westbound) – April 23, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route U to Route J between 2:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Monroe County


Route U – April 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 477 to CR 469 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Route U – April 17, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 469 to CR 463 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Route U – April 23, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 455 to CR 465 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Route U – April 24 - 25, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 436 to CR 450 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Montgomery County


Route K – April 22 - 25, CLOSED for core drilling operations from Missouri Route 19 to Route P between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Pike County


Route W – April 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 220 to 0.50 mile south of CR 220 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Randolph County


U.S. Route 63 (Southbound) – April 15, LANE RESTRICTION for seal coating operations from 1.0 mile south of U.S. Route 24 to 1.5 miles south of U.S. Route 24 between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.


Route Z – April 16, LANE RESTRICTION for seal coating operations from 1.0 mile west of Route C to 1.5 miles west of Route C between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.


Schuyler County


Route H – April 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Goober Run Road to Lick Skillet Drive between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.


Route V – April 17, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route D to Hilliard Avenue between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.


Route W – April 22 - 23, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Wabash Street to Hoot Owl Ridge between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily.


Scotland County


Route A – April 17, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 161 to CR 155 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Route A - April 18, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 108 to CR 116 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Route A – April 19, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from State Street to Arcade Street between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Route H - April 23, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 460 to CR 470 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Route H - April 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 708 to Route N between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Route H - April 25, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 716 to CR 803 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Route EE - April 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to CR 817 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Route RA - April 22, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route U to CR 116 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Shelby County


Route KK – April 15 - 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 201 to CR 207 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.


Warren County


I-70 (Westbound) – April 15 – 16, LANE RESTRICTION will be in place on westbound I-70 in Warren County beginning at the Missouri Route 47/I-70 interchange for surveying work, extending approximately 3,900 feet beginning at 9:00 p.m. on Monday, April 15th through 6:00 a.m. on April 16th.


I-70 (Westbound) – April 15 – 16, LANE RESTRICTION will be in place on westbound I-70 in Warren County, approximately one-half mile east of Wright City interchange for surveying work, beginning at 9:00 p.m. on Monday, April 15th through 6:00 a.m. on April 16th.


Missouri Route 94 – April 15 – 16, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from Massas Creek Road to Route B between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

MODOT: DISTRACTED DRIVING AFFECTS EVERYONE, “WORK WITH US” IN WORK ZONES


In 2023, 35 fatalities occurred in work zone crashes, the highest number of work zone fatalities in Missouri history. Distracted driving contributed to 588 work zone crashes and five of those fatalities. April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, with National Work Zone Awareness Week occurring April 15-19. MoDOT is asking motorists to “Work With Us” by making safe, responsible choices behind the wheel and slowing down when driving through work zones.


Using a cell phone while driving is now against the law in Missouri. The Siddens Bening hands free law, which took effect last August, prohibits drivers from physically holding or supporting a cell phone while driving; this includes sending or receiving texts and recording or watching videos. Drivers can face criminal charges for crashes that result in property damage, injury or death.


It’s not just a courtesy to slow down and move over for these work zones—it’s the law. Missouri’s Move Over law requires drivers to change lanes, if safe to do so, when approaching MoDOT vehicles, law enforcement vehicles and any other emergency vehicle with lights flashing. If drivers can’t change lanes safely, they must slow down as they pass the emergency vehicles. Drivers should be aware of changing traffic conditions, observe warning signs and merge before reaching lane closures.


In 2023 alone, MoDOT work zone vehicles with truck mounted attenuators were struck 63 times, an increase of 27 from the previous year. These crashes are almost always a result of drivers being distracted behind the wheel and/or driving too fast for the conditions.


At its core, the Buckle Up Phone Down initiative is about prioritizing personal safety.  Forty-five percent of those killed in work zone crashes last year were not wearing a seat belt and the overall unbelted fatality rate so far in 2024 is the highest recorded in recent years. Everyone carries the responsibility of personal safety. Wear your seat belt, put the phone down and help save lives on Missouri roadways.


MDC REPORTS YOUNG HUNTERS TOOK 3,721 TURKEYS OVER YOUTH WEEKEND


Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows that young turkey hunters in Missouri harvested 3,721 birds over the past youth weekend, April 6 and 7. Top harvest counties were Gasconade with 92 birds harvested, Osage with 90 and Franklin with 89.


Young hunters checked 2,550 birds during the 2023 spring youth weekend.

"Favorable morning weather appears to have more than made up for some windy afternoons this year,” said MDC Turkey Biologist Nick Oakley. “Youth harvest increased by more than a thousand birds compared to the 2023 youth season and was the highest harvest total since 2017. Successively better hatches over the last several years have helped the turkey population stabilize and hunters are starting to see the results of that in the field.


Get more harvest information by county at extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/.

The regular spring turkey season runs April 15 through May 5. For more information on spring turkey hunting in Missouri, visit mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/turkey.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

April 12, 2024

 

GOV. PARSON ANNOUNCES $5 MILLION IN EQUIPMENT GRANTS TO MISSOURI LAW ENFORCEMENT, FIRE SERVICE AND EMS PROVIDERS

On Wednesday, Governor Mike Parson announced that the Missouri Department of Public Safety has approved 70 grants totaling $5 million to law enforcement, fire service and EMS providers in class three counties across the state for new equipment to allow first responders to better respond to emergencies and provide additional protection as they do their jobs. 

Grant funded equipment includes patrol vehicles, mobile data terminals, body cameras, firefighter turnout gear, extrication equipment, ambulances, cardiac monitors, pediatric resuscitation devices, and emergency communications radios.

“Across our state, Missouri first responders bravely respond to emergencies, including floods, droughts, train derailments, traffic accidents, and beyond. In times of crisis, we call on them, and we could not be more proud,” said Governor Parson. “These grants will provide vitally important equipment to help law enforcement officers, firefighters, and EMS personnel do their jobs more effectively and make our Missouri communities safer.”

Grants were awarded as follows (the complete list of recipients and grants amounts is available here):


MDC CHANGES TURKEY REGULATIONS FOR FALL HUNTING

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) announces changes to turkey hunting regulations for the fall seasons. The Missouri Conservation Commission gave final approval to the changes at its April 5 open meeting in Rolla.

The approved changes to fall turkey hunting will reduce the harvest limit from four to two birds of either sex and will now require both fall firearms turkey hunters and fall archery turkey hunters to purchase a fall turkey-hunting permit. Turkeys will no longer be included in the archery-deer permit.

According to MDC, the changes to fall turkey hunting regulations aim to reduce the fall harvest while maintaining as much opportunity for hunters as possible.

The Commission gave initial approval to the regulation changes at its December open meeting. The changes were then open for public comment from Feb. 2 through March 2. MDC received about 40 comments with most pertaining to the removal of turkeys from archery hunting permits.

The Commission previously approved MDC changes to shooting hours for the regular spring turkey season. Shooting hours are extended for private land only from a half-hour before sunrise to sunset. Shooting hours on public land will remain a half-hour before sunrise to 1 p.m. These changes are effective for the Spring 2024 turkey season. The annual youth spring turkey hunting portion will continue to have extended shooting hours from a half-hour before sunrise to sunset for both public and private land.

Learn more about turkey hunting in Missouri at mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/turkey.

MOFB INSURANCE ANNOUNCES 9TH ANNUAL HOME RUN AGAINST HUNGER CAMPAIGN

The number of Missourians facing hunger would fit into Busch Stadium more than 15x. Missouri Farm Bureau Insurance (MOFBI) recognizes the need to obtain and distribute food to hungry families across the state. For the ninth consecutive year, insurance agents and producers, customer service representatives, regional coordinators and many volunteers are accepting donations now to April 30 at office locations across the state. The 2024 Home Run Against Hunger campaign is one of several events Missouri Farm Bureau Insurance organizes annually to help those in need.

Unfortunately, one in every eight Missouri children is faced with not knowing when they will eat their next meal on a regular basis. You can help provide hope by donating. Missouri’s food banks are working to provide relief to many families struggling to make ends meet, but they can’t do it alone. A donation of only $25 can provide up to 100 meals for our neighbors in need.

Help us fight hunger. The most-needed items include: canned meat, canned fruits and vegetables, beans, rice, cereal, peanut butter, soups and pasta. Drop off donations (food or funds) at your local county office between April 3 and April 30 or text MOFB2024 to 44-321. All donations serve local communities.

During the campaign’s final days, each MOFBI office will deliver donations to a local pantry. A statewide grand total of donations in pounds will be announced along with total monetary donations. Last year’s efforts garnered nearly 4.4 tons of food and over $16,100.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

April 11, 2024

 

WOMAN HURT IN CALLAWAY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Montgomery City woman was hurt in a chain-reaction accident that occurred at 4:45pm Tuesday in Callaway County.  The patrol says that 21 year old Allie Klein was on US 54 when her car struck the rear of a car driven by an 18 year old boy from Centralia pushing his car into a truck driven by 62 year old Nicholas Parrish of Thompson.  Klein was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries.

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN TUESDAY NIGHT WRECK

A man was seriously injured in a two-vehicle wreck Tuesday night in Pike County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 6:35pm as a truck driven by a 16 year old boy from Bowling Green began to merge into the left turn lane of US 61 when it was struck in the rear by a car driven by 38 year old Justin Sipp of Fenton.  After impact the car skidded and overturned.  Sipp was transported by ambulance to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis with serious injuries.

 

CANADIAN MAN KILLED IN MOTORCYCLE CRASH

A Canadian man was killed in a motorcycle crash Tuesday evening in Warren County.  State troopers stated that 26 year old Kyler Jay of Alberta, Canada was westbound on I-70 and following behind an SUV driven by 51 year old Suzanne Lawson of St. Louis when he attempted to lane split between the SUV and a tractor trailer when his motorcycle struck the passenger side of the SUV.  He was pronounced dead at the scene.  The crash happened at 9:30pm Tuesday.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

April 10, 2024

 

TROY MAN KILLED IN MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT IN LINCOLN COUNTY

A Troy man was killed in a motorcycle accident that occurred at 8pm Monday in Lincoln County.  The patrol says that 40 year old Michael Milberg was on Route U when he lost control of his motorcycle and it traveled off the left side of the roadway and ejected him from it.  He was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident.

 

WOMAN INJURED IN TUESDAY MORNING WRECK

A Monroe City woman was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday morning in Marion County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 9:45am as 71 year old Deborah Watson was on US 36 when she lost control of her truck and it traveled off the north side of the roadway and overturned in the median.  She was transported by ambulance to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries. 

 

DRIVER HURT IN MONDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

25 year old Kenneth Sgrignuoli of Moberly was hurt in a Monday afternoon crash in Randolph County.  MSHP stated that he was on US 24 when his vehicle ran off the road.  He suffered minor injuries and was taken to Moberly Regional Medical Center for treatment.  The crash happened at around 4:55pm Monday.

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Friday, April 5 at approximately 8:39pm, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 600 block of N Washington in reference to an aggressive dog.  Responding personnel found that a dog, whose owner lives in the area, was running loose when it attacked two dogs that were in a front yard on leashes.  As people attempted to separate the dogs, one person shot the attacking dog, injuring it.  One of the other dogs was killed during the attack and the other was injured.  Both dogs that survived the incident were taken for medical assistance and are expected to survive.  Mexico Public Safety and Mexico Animal Control are continuing to investigate.  Everyone is reminded that animal control laws are in place for the safety of all residents and animals.  





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

April 9, 2024

 

TWO TEENS SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SATURDAY NIGHT CRASH

Two teens were seriously injured in a Saturday night crash in Callaway County.  State troopers stated that an 18 year old boy from Kingdom City was on Route F and driving too fast when he failed to negotiate a curve, causing his car to travel off the left side of the road, struck the ground twice and overturned, coming to rest on its top.  Both the driver and his passenger an 18 year old boy from Auxvasse were taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.  The crash happened at around 11:20pm Saturday.

 

MAN INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT

A Palmyra man was injured in a motorcycle accident that occurred at around 6:45pm Sunday in Marion County.  The patrol says that 38 year old Trey Tonnies was on Marion County Road 402 when he lost control and his motorcycle ran off the roadway.  He sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment.

 

WOMAN HURT IN SUNDAY NIGHT WRECK

A Shelbina woman was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday night in Monroe County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 11:05pm as 47 year old Dawn Rojas was a passenger in an SUV driven by a 16 year old girl from Clarence.  They were on Highway A when the teen stopped for a deer in the road and backed into a ditch.  Rojas was transported by ambulance to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

STATE TO CARRY OUT SENTENCE OF BRIAN DORSEY

On Monday, Governor Mike Parson confirmed that the State of Missouri will carry out the sentence of Brian Dorsey on Tuesday as ordered by the Supreme Court of Missouri.

"Brian Dorsey punished his loving family for helping him in a time of need. His cousins invited him into their home where he was surrounded by family and friends, then gave him a place to stay. Dorsey repaid them with cruelty, inhumane violence, and murder," Governor Parson said. "The pain Dorsey brought to others can never be rectified, but carrying out Dorsey’s sentence according to Missouri law and the Court’s order will deliver justice and provide closure."

Dorsey murdered his cousin, Sarah Bonnie, and her husband, Ben Bonnie, in the middle of the night after they rescued Dorsey from drug dealers attempting to collect debts at Dorsey’s apartment earlier in the day. After he murdered them, Dorsey raped Sarah’s corpse as the Bonnies’, now-orphaned, four-year-old daughter slept in another room. Numerous jurors and courts have determined the judgment Dorsey received is an appropriate and legal sentence for his heinous crimes.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

April 8, 2024

 

NARCOTICS INVESTIGATION NETS TWO ARRESTS IN LIVINGSTON COUNTY

Over the last few months, Chillicothe Police Officers and Detectives have worked on a narcotics investigation.  As a result, Detectives filed for and were granted a Livingston County Search Warrant through the Livingston County Associate Court.  On Thursday April 4 at approximately 7am, a team of Officers and Detectives executed the Livingston County Search Warrant in the 200 block of Walnut Street.  As a result of this search warrant, Officers located narcotics and evidence of the use and distribution of narcotics in a protected location.

Two Chillicothe residents, a 42-year-old female of Chillicothe and a 44-year-old male, were arrested.  They were taken to the Law Enforcement Center where they were processed and transported to the Caldwell County Detention Center pending formal charges.  During the course of this investigation, a significant amount of Methamphetamine was confiscated and taken off the streets of Chillicothe, making the community a safer place for families and community members.  

 

SOLAR ECLIPSE & DRIVER EXAMINATION TESTING

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, would like the public to be aware the upcoming solar eclipse may affect driver examination skills testing times.  The solar eclipse in Missouri is expected to begin at approximately 12:35pm, Monday April 8 and reach a total eclipse at 1:55pm in most areas.  The eclipse will be complete and end at approximately 3:14pm.  Some areas of Missouri will experience a total solar eclipse, while all areas of the state will experience a partial eclipse.  It is expected that interest in the solar eclipse will increase both vehicle and pedestrian traffic.  Drivers, who wish to take a skills test on April 8, should be aware that Driver Examination Stations may suspend testing during the solar eclipse in the interest of safety. Driver Examination Stations will post signs at locations open April 8, announcing any temporary suspension of testing.  Applicants who currently have a scheduled appointment during the eclipse will be contacted and given the opportunity to reschedule.  Note: CDL skills tests include pre-trip, basic, and road tests.

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

 

Adair County

Missouri Route 11 – April 16, LANE RESTRICTION for seal coating operations from Beechwood Trail to Impala Trail between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

U.S. Route 63 – April 11, LANE RESTRICTION for seal coating operations from Shepherd Avenue to Route P between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Clark County

Route AA – April 8 – 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 0.10 mile north of CR 117 to CR 52 between 8:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. daily.

Lincoln County

Route P – April 18, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Cross Road to Old Dameron Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Macon County

Missouri Route 3 – April 16, LANE RESTRICTION for seal coating operations from Chariton Street to Front Street between 10:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Route F – April 16, LANE RESTRICTION for seal coating operations from 1.0 mile north of Denver Place to Desoto Place between 12:00 p.m. and 12:30 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Route M – April 16, CLOSED for seal coating operations from 2.5 miles east of U.S. Route 63 to 3.0 miles east of U.S. Route 63 between 3:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Route P – April 16, LANE RESTRICTION for seal coating operations from Falcon Street to Puzzle Lane between 11:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Route Z – April 17 - 18, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from Cannon Street to Arizona Street between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route AA – April 9 – 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route K to National Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route AA – April 11, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from National Avenue to Nickle Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route AA – April 17 - 18, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route K to National Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route AA – April 19, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from National Avenue to Nickle Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route DD – April 16, CLOSED for seal coating operations from 3.0 miles east of U.S. Route 63 to 3.5 miles east of U.S. Route 63 between 2:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Route PP – April 16, CLOSED for seal coating operations from 3.5 miles east of U.S. Route 63 to 4.0 miles east of U.S. Route 63 between 1:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Route UU – April 16, CLOSED for seal coating operations from Old Highway 36 to Clarence Street 10:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

Marion County

U.S. Route 36 – April 8 - 9, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from the Illinois state line to Harrison Hill in Hannibal between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

U.S. Route 36 – April 17, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from U.S. Route 61 to Harrison Hill in Hannibal between 2:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Monroe County

Route A – April 10-11, CLOSED for railroad maintenance from 4,500 and 4,750 feet north of U.S. Route 24 in Holliday between 7:00 a.m. on April 9 and will reopen at 6:00 p.m. on April 10.

Route U – April 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 477 to CR 469 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route U – April 17, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 469 to CR 463 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Montgomery County

Route F – April 8, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Long Road to Manley Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Pike County

U.S. Route 61 (Southbound) – April 8 – 9, LANE RESTRICION for patching operations from Route HH to Route OO between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route U – April 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from U.S. Route 61 to CR 36 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route W – April 8 - 10, CLOSED for core drilling operations starting at 0.4 mile north of Route H to 0.6 north of Route H at the Little Ramsey Creek bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route W – April 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 220 to 0.50 mile south of CR 220 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Ralls County

Route O – April 12, CLOSED for brush cutting operations from Mills Creek Place to Dow Trail between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Randolph County

U.S. Route 63 (Southbound) – April 15, LANE RESTRICTION for seal coating operations from 1.0 mile south of U.S. Route 24 to 1.5 miles south of U.S. Route 24 between 8:00a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

Route D – April 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route C to 0.5 mile south of Route C between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route D – April 11, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 1.5 miles south of Route C to 2.0 miles south of Route C between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route D – April 12, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 2.0 miles south of Route C to 2.5 miles south of Route C between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route Z – April 16, LANE RESTRICTION for seal coating operations from 1.0 mile west of Route C to 1.5 miles west of Route C between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.

Route DD – April 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 1310 to 0.5 mile south of CR 1310 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Schuyler County

Route C – April 8 - 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route CC to Route N between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route H – April 11, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Goober Run Road to Lick Skillet Drive between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Shelby County

Route KK – April 12, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 201 to CR 207 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route KK – April 15 - 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 201 to CR 207 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Warren County

Missouri Route 94 – April 15 – 16, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from Massas Creek Road to Route B between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

April 5, 2024

 

DRIVERS INJURED IN WEDNESDAY NIGHT ACCIDENT

Both drivers were injured in an accident that occurred at 7:40pm Wednesday in Callaway County.  The patrol says that a 17 year old boy from Auxvasse was on US 54 when his SUV struck the rear of an SUV driven by 32 year old Shelby Stephan of Jefferson City.  The teen suffered minor injuries while the woman sustained moderate injuries.  Both were taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.  

 

WOMAN HURT IN BOONE COUNTY WRECK

63 year old Mary Back of Fulton was hurt in a two-vehicle wreck early Thursday morning in Boone County.  The highway patrol said it occurred at around 1:50am as she was westbound on I-70 when her SUV struck the towed unit of a semi which had overturned on to its left side from a previous crash that was blocking the roadway.  She sustained moderate injuries and was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

 

THREE INJURED IN EARLY THURSDAY MORNING CRASH

Three people were injured in an early Thursday morning crash in Shelby County.  State troopers stated that a tractor trailer was parked on the shoulder of US 36 when it was struck in the rear by a freightliner driven by 45 year old William Watson of Nashville, GA.  Both Watson and his passenger 45 year old Sonya Watson were taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of minor to moderate injuries respectively, while the man in the parked semi 32 year old Salim Munawari of Houston, TX was taken to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment of minor injuries.  The crash happened at 4:40am Thursday.

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Tuesday at approximately 9:52pm, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 1500 block of S Western St, in reference to gunshots being fired.  Responding personnel learned that Floyd W Dudley, age 36 of Mexico, was involved.  As investigation into what occurred continued, MPSD learned that between about 8:00pm on the 2nd and 8:00am on April 3rd, there were four incidents of Mr. Dudley shooting at houses and cars belonging to three different people in Mexico.  The three people all knew Mr. Dudley personally.  In addition, later in the morning of April 3rd, Mr. Dudley was in a physical altercation with another person at a house where he has stayed in the past.  No one was injured during any of these incidents.

 

An arrest warrant has been issued for Mr. Dudley for 1st Degree Assault.  Anyone with information about any of these incidents or about Mr. Dudley's location is asked to contact Mexico Public Safety at (573) 581-2100 or (573) 473-5800 or CRIMESTOPPERS at (800) 392-TIPS or (800) 392-8477.  CRIMESTOPPERS information leading to an arrest or conviction could result in a reward.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

April 4, 2024

 

PEDESTRIAN SERIOUSLY INJURED AFTER BEING STRUCK IN AUDRAIN COUNTY

A pedestrian was seriously injured after being struck by a truck at 8:10pm Tuesday in Audrain County.  The patrol says that 27 year old Caleb Hotchkin of Odessa was on US 54 when his truck struck a man.  The man who was identified as 63 year old Terry Follis of Auxvasse was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

APRIL IS NATIONAL SAFE DIGGING MONTH

Warmer weather usually means an increase in outside projects that may require digging or excavation work.  If you are building a deck, planting a tree, or completing a large project, Missouri law requires anyone digging underground to notify Missouri 811 (by calling 811 or placing a locate request online at www.missouri-811.org before any excavation begins.  The call will be taken by the Missouri 811 Call Center, which then notifies all relevant utilities in the project area.  Once Missouri 811 is notified, utility companies will mark the approximate location of their underground lines, request additional information or advise you that they do not have facilities at the excavation site.

Hitting an underground line can cause serious injury, it could disrupt service to you and other customers and it could potentially result in fines and repair costs.  The Missouri Public Service Commission reminds consumers to call before you dig. It’s free and it’s the law.  

 

UPDATE: ROUTE J IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY IS OPEN TO TRAFFIC

Route J in Montgomery County is open after being closed between Mineola and Big Spring Quarry Road due to flooding.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

April 3, 2024

 

TWO HURT IN MONDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

A woman and a baby boy from Greentop were hurt in a Monday afternoon crash in Adair County.  MSHP stated that 28 year old Natasha Findling was on Highway J when her car ran off the right side of the road and overturned several times. She sustained moderate injuries, while her passenger a 1 year old boy suffered minor injuries.  Both were taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville for treatment.  The crash happened at 2:45pm Monday.

 

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MONDAY NIGHT MISHAP

41 year old Amanda Weis of Fayette was seriously injured in a Monday night mishap in Howard County.  State troopers report that it happened at around 11:30pm as she was on 880 County Road 404 when her vehicle went off the left side of the road, struck a culvert and overturned.  She was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries. 

 

DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MONDAY EVENING WRECK

A Bowling Green driver was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Monday evening in Pike County.  The highway patrol said it occurred at 11pm as 61 year old Daniel Edmond was on the Outer Road of US 61 and driving too fast for weather conditions when his SUV ran off the road and struck a utility pole.  He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.  

 

TEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WARREN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Wright City teen was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 3:20pm Monday in Warren County.  The patrol says that the 16 year old boy was on Route H when his jeep traveled off the right side of the roadway, went over a private drive and became airborne, struck a tree, a utility pole, a guy wire and overturned, before hitting a tree.  He was taken to SSM Health St. Joseph West Hospital in Lake St. Louis with serious injuries.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

April 2, 2024

 

DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SUNDAY MORNING WRECK

29 year old Jared Bourque of New Iberia, Louisiana was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday morning in Macon County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 7:30am as he was on Highway 156 three miles east of La Plata when the U Haul truck he was driving ran off the left side of the road, struck the ground and overturned.  He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

ONE KILLED, TWO INJURED IN SUNDAY NIGHT CRASH

A woman was killed, while two others were injured in a Sunday night crash in Clark County.  MSHP stated that 70 year old John Briggs of Kahoka was on Route B at Route C when he failed to stop at a stop sign and entered the path of a truck driven by a 17 year old girl from Kahoka and her truck struck the passenger side of his truck.  A passenger in Briggs’s truck 71 year old Linda Smith of Kahoka was pronounced dead at the scene, meanwhile another passenger 56 year old Riva Weir of Keokuk, IA was taken to Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL with serious injuries.  Briggs sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Fort Madison Community Hospital for treatment.  The crash occurred at 8:10pm Sunday.

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MONROE COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Hermann man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 1:50am Sunday in Monroe County.  The patrol says that 64 year old Clifford Deatsch was on MO 15 when his vehicle traveled off the left side of the roadway, struck a driveway, became airborne and overturned, ejecting him from it.  He was air-lifted by Air Evac to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries. 

 

RESURFACING WORK ONGOING AT ROUTE BB IN AUDRAIN AND MONTGOMERY COUNTIES

Weather permitting, a resurfacing project located on Route BB in Audrain and Montgomery counties, from U.S. Route 54 to Missouri Route 161, is ongoing.

The $4.7M contract, awarded last year to Magruder Paving, LLC of Troy, Missouri, includes several additional resurfacing projects scheduled to be completed by November 1, 2024:

 

Traffic will be reduced to one lane with a 9-foot width restriction at the location where crews are actively working.  Flaggers and a pilot car will be utilized for traffic control to guide traffic through the work zone.  Workers will be present during daylight hours.  All work is weather dependent and schedules are subject to change.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

April 1, 2024

 

MOBERLY POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Thursday March 28 at approximately 7:45pm, Moberly Officers responded to the 700 block of Franklin St in reference to gunfire in the area. While in route, Officers learned of a physical altercation at the same residence with a male who fled the area on foot.

 

Upon arrival, Officers located a male juvenile south of the residence. The subject was determined to be involved in the altercation and was detained. Officers returned to the residence and contacted numerous individuals.

 

It was determined that a firearm was discharged inside the residence during a physical altercation. The altercation moved outside, and another firearm was discharged. One female subject was treated on scene for minor injuries.

 

Moberly Detectives were called to the scene, and they later executed a search warrant.

 

Four adults and three juveniles were detained and transported to the Moberly Police Department. The juveniles were turned over to their guardians and the Randolph County Juvenile Office. The adults were released from custody pending formal charges. The investigation is ongoing.

 

Moberly Officers were assisted by Randolph County Deputies.

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below. MoDOT asks drivers to work with us by buckling up, putting your phone down, slowing down and moving over in work zones.

Adair County

Missouri Route 11 – April 1 – April 5, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route J to Shingle Oak Way between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily Monday through Friday.

Audrain County

Missouri Route 151 – April 1, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 22 to CR 128 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Clark County

Route AA – April 8 – 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 0.10 miles north of CR 117 to CR 52 between 8:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. daily.

Knox County

Route V – April 1, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Colony Woods Place to Route K between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Lewis County

Route DD – April 1 - 3, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route 6 to 230th Street between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Macon County

Route AA – April 9 – 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route K to National Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route AA – April 11, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from National Avenue to Nickle Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Marion County

U.S. Route 36 – April 5, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from the Illinois state line to Harrison Hill between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Monroe County

Route A – April 9 – 10, CLOSED for railroad maintenance from 4,500 and 4,750 feet north of U.S. Route 24 in Holliday between 7:00 a.m. on April 9 and will reopen at 6:00 p.m. on April 10.

Route U – April 4 - 8, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 0.50 miles west of Route 107 to 0.50 miles east of CR 479 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily Monday through Friday.

Montgomery County

Route F – April 1, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Long Road to Manley Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route F – April 2, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route JJ to Fairview Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route F – April 3, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route V to Davis Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Pike County

U.S. Route 61 (Southbound) – April 8 – 9, LANE RESTRICION for patching operations from Route HH to Route OO between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route W – April 2 – 4, CLOSED for core drilling operations starting at 0.4 miles north of Route H to 0.6 north of Route H at the Little Ramsey Creek bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route W – April 8 - 10, CLOSED for core drilling operations starting at 0.4 miles north of Route H to 0.6 north of Route H at the Little Ramsey Creek bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Ralls County

Route O – April 12, CLOSED for brush cutting operations from Mills Creek Place to Dow Trail between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Randolph County

Route D – April 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route C to 0.5 miles south of Route C between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route D – April 11, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 1.5 miles south of Route C to 2.0 miles south of Route C between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route D – April 12, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 2.0 miles south of Route C to 2.5 miles south of Route C between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route DD – April 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 1310 to 1.5 miles south of CR 1310 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Schuyler County

Route C – April 5, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route CC to North Tower Avenue between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Route C – April 8 - 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route CC to Route N between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route H – April 11, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Goober Run Road to Lick Skillet Drive between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Route P – April 2 – 4, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from U.S. Route 63 to Woodys Drive between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily.

Shelby County

Route P – April 1, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to the end of state maintenance between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route KK – April 12, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 201 to CR 207 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Confluence Rivers To Acquire Lake Sherwood Water And Sewer Systems

The Missouri Public Service Commission has approved, with conditions, an application filed by Confluence Rivers Utility Operating Company, Inc. (Confluence) seeking authority to acquire and operate the water and sewer systems of Lake Sherwood Estates Association (Lake Sherwood) in Warren County. The Commission has also granted a certificate of convenience and necessity (CCN) to Confluence to operate the water and sewer systems, subject to certain conditions. Lake Sherwood held an election on July 10, 2023, and voted to approve the sale of the Lake Sherwood assets.

The Commission determined: 1) There is a need for the service; 2) Confluence is qualified to provide the proposed service; 3) Confluence has the financial ability to provide the service; 4) The proposal is economically feasible; and 5) The service promotes the public interest. “Based on the application and Staff’s recommendations, the Commission concludes that the factors for granting a certificate of convenience and necessity to Confluence have been satisfied and that, with the reasonable and necessary conditions set out by Staff, it is in the public interest for Confluence to provide water and sewer service to Lake Sherwood,” said the Commission.

Lake Sherwood currently charges $13.65 per month for water with an additional $4.10 per additional 1,000 gallons used. Lake Sherwood currently charges a fixed fee of $31.52 per month for wastewater. Confluence proposes to adopt the existing water and sewer rates for Lake Sherwood until such time as the rates are modified according to law. According to the application, Confluence provides water service to approximately 5,200 customers and sewer service to approximately 5,100 customers in Missouri. Lake Sherwood provides water and sewer services to approximately 492 customers in Warren County.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

March 29, 2024

 

BRIDGE REHABILITION PROJECTS SCHEDULED ON MISSOURI ROUTE 19 NORTH OF HERMANN

Weather permitting, April 3, two bridge rehabilitation projects are scheduled to begin on Missouri Route 19 in Montgomery County, located over the Missouri River and the Loutre River north of Hermann.

Temporary traffic impacts will occur at the bridge locations between Missouri Route 94, south of McKittrick, and Missouri Route 100 in Hermann.  Traffic will be reduced to one lane during the day at the location where crews are actively working for the duration of the project. Flaggers and a pilot car will direct motorists through the work zone. Workers will be present Monday through Friday during daylight hours. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place for the duration of the project. All work is weather dependent and schedules are subject to change.

 

SAFETY IS IMPORTANT DURING TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE

The Missouri State Highway Patrol asks the public to be aware of and plan for the total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8. The viewing path in Missouri will cover more than 115 miles of the state. Totality enters Missouri as it will follow a diagonal line crossing over Poplar Bluff, MO, and exit Missouri at Cape Girardeau, MO, as it crosses the Mississippi River at 2:04 p.m. Thousands of visitors are expected to arrive in the days leading up to the event. This influx of additional motorists will affect traffic patterns. Please plan your trip accordingly.

To avoid the heaviest traffic when traveling for the event, it will be helpful to leave early and plan to remain at your viewing location until a period after the eclipse to avoid any congestion afterwards. For the most up-to-date information on the roads, visit the Patrol's website, 
www.statepatrol.dps.mo.gov, to check road conditions on MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map or download the Traveler Information Map to your smart device.

The Patrol reminds every driver to pay attention, obey all traffic laws, and wear a seat belt.

Additional safe driving tips include:

· Don’t stop along the interstate or park on the shoulder.
· Find a safe location to view the event and get there early.
· Don’t take photographs while driving.
· Turn your headlights on and do not rely on your automatic headlights.
· Prepare for extra congestion, especially on interstates, on the day before, day of and day after the eclipse.
· Watch out for increased pedestrian traffic along smaller roads. People may randomly park and walk alongside roads in the hour before the total eclipse to get the best viewing.
· Avoid travel during the eclipse or in the area of the path of totality if you can.
· Never wear eclipse glasses when driving a car or operating a boat.
· Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and has a full tank of gas.
· Bring along water and snacks in your vehicle.

If you have planned a day on the water for April 8, make sure your boat has the proper lighting if you will be on the water during the eclipse. It will become quite dark. Be aware of your surroundings and what hazards exist near your boat leading up to the eclipse, so you're prepared when the eclipse occurs. Always keep a safe distance between yourself and other boaters. Swimmers will be hard to see as the eclipse occurs.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is available to assist you. Should you need emergency assistance, see an impaired or careless driver, or if you see a crime being committed, call 1-800-525-5555 or *55 on a cell phone. The number is toll-free and rings at the nearest Highway Patrol troop headquarters.

MISSOURI BROADBAND AVAILABILITY CHALLENGE PROCESS NOW OPEN UNTIL APRIL 23

The Department of Economic Development’s (DED) Office of Broadband Development (OBD) has announced that the Missouri Broadband Availability Challenge Process is now open and accepting challenges until April 23. The challenge process will assist in the investment of $1.7 billion in funding provided by the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program.

The purpose of the challenge process is to finalize the eligibility of Missouri homes and businesses for funding through the BEAD program. It will allow Missourians and broadband stakeholders to provide evidence that the Missouri Broadband Availability Map does not accurately reflect the availability or quality of internet service at a given location. Through the challenge process, OBD will collect input important to achieving its goal of connecting all Missourians to quality, high-speed internet.

To assist challenge process participants, OBD has published a series of online resources that include a challenge portal user guide, data downloads reflecting the status of locations, the approved BEAD Initial Proposal Volume 1, and various how-to guides. These resources are currently available on OBD’s challenge process webpage.

During the challenge process, providers whose service is challenged will have 30 days to file rebuttal evidence. Any nonprofit, local government, or internet service provider interested in participating should register through the challenge portal. Providers reporting service in Missouri are encouraged to register so they will be notified of challenges and able to respond. Resubmission of challenges will only be accepted before April 23 and challenges rejected due to a lack of evidence or other reason after April 23 cannot be resubmitted. Challengers should consider submitting challenges as early as possible.

The Missouri Broadband Availability Map is now available at broadbandmap.mo.gov. Details on the challenge process, including helpful resources, are available at ded.mo.gov/office-broadband-development/challenge.

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

March 28, 2024

 

TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED IN TUESDAY AFTERNOON ACCIDENT

Two people from St. Louis were seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 1:45pm Tuesday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that 72 year old Bruce Canan was on US 50 when he suffered a medical emergency, causing his car to travel off the left side of the roadway, struck a rock wall and began ascending up the wall, went airborne and returned to the road on its top.  Both the driver and his passenger 70 year old Donna Canan were transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.

 

ATTORNEY GENERAL BAILEY SUES CONTRACTOR FOR FRAUD IN BOONE COUNTY

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has announced that his office filed suit in Boone County against Anthony Walters, 36, for allegedly defrauding a consumer in connection with his business Anthony Walters Carpentry, LLC when he failed to provide promised home renovation services.
General Bailey’s lawsuit asserts that Walters promised to provide construction services and materials in exchange for advance payment. After taking payments from the consumer, Walters provided minimal services and materials, failed to complete the project, and failed to provide a refund.  The consumer’s loss is approximately $6,500.
General Bailey is seeking full restitution for the affected consumer, injunctive relief, and civil penalties.
Consumers who believe that they have been scammed by Anthony Walters or another contractor should file a complaint with the Missouri Attorney General’s Office by calling the Consumer Protection Hotline at 800-392-8222 or by submitting a complaint online at ago.mo.gov. 
The lawsuit can be viewed here: https://ago.mo.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024.3.05-Anthony-Walters-Civil-Petition.pdf

MOBERLY POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Saturday March 23 at approximately 6:45am while on patrol, officers with the Moberly Police Department located an abandoned vehicle that was reported stolen out of Columbia, Missouri.  Further investigation revealed the driver of the vehicle was assaulted with a firearm in Columbia earlier in the morning and multiple subjects fled the scene in the victim’s vehicle.  

Moberly officers with the assistance of the community were able to locate a residence where the suspects were believed to be.  Four juveniles were taken into custody regarding the incident.  Three juveniles were released to Columbia Police Department and Boone County Juvenile Office.  The fourth juvenile was released to the Randolph County Juvenile Office.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

March 27, 2024

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Friday, March 22 at approximately 9:51pm, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 700 block of S Clark Street in reference to a kitchen fire.  Responding personnel found a fire on a stovetop which had burned some surrounding cabinets and items on a nearby counter.  The fire was extinguished with no further damage.  The resident stated she was cooking meat on the stove when she left the kitchen to go to the bathroom.  Her smoke detectors began sounding and she returned to find the fire.  The resident put flour on the fire, then exited and called 9-1-1.  There were no injuries from the incident.

 

MOBERLY POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORT

The following incidents/arrests were investigated by the Moberly Police Department between the hours of 7am on 3/22/24 and 7am 3/25/2024.

 

On March 23, 2024, at around 1:25am, a Moberly Officer observed a vehicle fail to stop at a stop sign near Rollins and Johnson St. The Officer stopped the vehicle, and a 34-year-old driver was placed under arrest for driving while intoxicated.

 

On March 24, 2024, at around 12:50am, a Moberly Officer observed a vehicle nearly strike another vehicle head on near the intersection of Johnson and Franklin St. The Officer stopped the vehicle, and a 53-year-old driver was placed under arrest for driving while intoxicated.

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

 

Adair County

Missouri Route 11 – March 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Sabboth Home Way to Route J between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 11 – March 27 – April 5, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route J to Shingle Oak Way between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily Monday through Friday.

 

Audrain County

Missouri Route 151 – March 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 148 to Route M between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Missouri Route 151 – March 27, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 140 to CR 906 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 151 – March 28 - 29, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 22 to CR 128 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Missouri Route 151 – April 1, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 22 to CR 128 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

 

Knox County

Route V – March 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Colony Woods Place to Route K between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

 

Lewis County

Route BB – March 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route C to Missouri Route 16 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route DD – March 28 – 29, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 6 to 230th Street between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

 

Macon County

Route KK – March 26 - 27, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Nicollet Road to Olympic Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route VV – March 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Bear Street to Bison Street between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

 

Monroe County

Missouri Route 151 – March 27, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from south of Route J to north of CR 1170 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

 

Montgomery County

Route CC – March 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 161 to Mayapple Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route CC – March 27, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Mayapple Road to Floyd Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route F - March 28 - 29, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route V to Davis Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route F – April 1, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Long Road to Manley Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route F – April 2, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route JJ to Fairview Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

 

Pike County

Missouri Route 79 – March 26 - 29, CLOSED for brush cutting operations from Route TT to Route T between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route B – March 18 - 29, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from U.S. Route 61 to CR 107 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route U – March 28 - 29, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 36 to CR 48 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route W – April 1 – 4, CLOSED for core drilling operations starting at 0.4 miles north of Route H to 0.6 north of Route H at the Little Ramsey Creek bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

 

Randolph County

Route D – March 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route BB to 0.5 miles north of Route BB between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. 

Route D – March 27, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 1.5 miles south of Route C to 2.0 miles south of Route C between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Route D - March 28, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 1.0 miles south of Route C to. 1.5 miles south of Route C between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

 

Schuyler County

Route P – April 2 – 4, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from U.S. Route 63 to Woodys Drive between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily.

 

Shelby County

Route P – April 1, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to the end of state maintenance between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

March 26, 2024

 

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SUNDAY NIGHT WRECK

53 year old Wendy Ward of Kirksville was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday night in Adair County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 8pm as she was on US 63 when her SUV ran off the east side of the road, struck a ditch and overturned.  She was transported by ambulance to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville with serious injuries.

 

MAN INJURED IN SUNDAY AFTERNOON ACCIDENT

A Union man was injured in an accident that occurred at around 4:45pm Sunday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that 29 year old Christopher Marrow was on MO 47 when he attempted to pass other vehicles and lost control of his motorcycle and it overturned several times, ejecting him from it.  He was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Friday, March 22 at approximately 2:54am, an alert resident reported suspicious activity in the south-central part of Mexico.  Responding officers located and attempted to detain five to seven people dressed in dark clothing seen running in the area.  The suspects escaped and a short time later, officers observed a white Toyota Camry leaving the area and exiting Mexico on Route FF.  The Audrain County Sheriff’s Office and Missouri State Highway Patrol were notified and a deputy saw the Camry on Missouri Highway 22 between Mexico and Centralia.  The Camry had been reported stolen from Columbia on March 17.  A pursuit went into Boone County before the Camry was abandoned and the suspects fled on foot.  The Centralia Police Department and Boone County Sheriff’s Office assisted as law enforcement attempted to locate the suspects.  No one has been located as of this time. 

 

MPSD has learned that at least five guns were stolen from at least three vehicles in Mexico.  The investigation into the events is ongoing.

 

Anyone with information is asked to contact CRIMESTOPPERS at (800) 392-TIPS or (800) 392-8477 or Mexico Public Safety at (573) 473-5800 or (573) 581-2100.  Information leading to an arrest could be eligible for a reward.  

 

NIGHTTIME GUARD CABLE REPAIR WORK SCHEDULED ON I-70 IN MONTGOMERY AND WARREN COUNTIES

Weather permitting, as early as March 25, contractor crews with CSD Environmental Services, Inc. will begin guard cable repair work on Interstate 70 in Montgomery and Warren counties.  Work will occur from the Callaway County line to the St. Charles County line, between mile marker 165 and mile marker 202.  All work will occur during the nighttime hours of 7pm to 6am through mid-April.  The repair work is weather dependent, and schedules are subject to change.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

March 22, 2024

 

TEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WEDNESDAY NIGHT ROLLOVER

A Hunnewell teen was seriously injured in a rollover crash Wednesday night in Shelby County.  State troopers stated that the 13 year old girl was riding a 4 wheeler on private property at 206 West Beech Street when she turned too sharply and it overturned.  She was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital and then transferred to Cardinal Glennon Childrens Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.  The crash occurred at 6:30pm Wednesday.

 

TWO WOMEN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two women from Bourbon, MO were seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 7:20am Wednesday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that a 17 year old boy from Sullivan was on Route H when he failed to yield and his truck struck a car driven by 48 year old Angela Ewanchen.  Both Ewanchen and her passenger 67 year old Anna Hager were taken to area hospitals with serious injuries.

 

WOMAN HURT IN WEDNESDAY MORNING WRECK

33 year old Sarah McGuire of Union was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Wednesday morning in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 11:40am as she was on Missouri 185 when she failed to negotiate a curve and her SUV ran off the right side of the road into a ditch.  She was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of minor injuries.

 

MODOT TO HOST HIRING EVENT IN WAYLAND

The Missouri Department of Transportation Northeast District Office will host a job fair to hire multiple full-time positions including:  Maintenance Workers, Construction Technicians and Inspectors, Highway Designers, Signal/Lighting Electricians, Mechanics/Equipment Technicians and more. The event will be from 10 am – 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 2, at the MoDOT Wayland Maintenance Facility, 25779 Hwy 136 Spur, 0.6 mile south of Route 136, KahokaMO 63445.

MoDOT offers full training and benefits including medical insurance, paid annual and sick leave, educational assistance, paid holidays and more. 

MoDOT is a diverse workplace dedicated to safety and personal and professional development.

Applicant information:

To learn more about all open MoDOT career positions, or to apply, go to www.modot.org/careers.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

March 20, 2024

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN ADAIR COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Kirksville man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 1:40pm Monday in Adair County.  The patrol says that 72 year old Alan Davis was on MO 11 when he suffered a medical event, causing his car to travel off the south side of the roadway and struck a ditch.  He was air-lifted by helicopter to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

GOV. PARSON PROVIDES UPDATE ON MISSOURI DEPLOYMENT TO SOUTHERN BORDER

Governor Mike Parson has provided an update on Missouri personnel deployed to the Southern Border in Texas as part of Governor Greg Abbott's Operation Lone Star mission. Eleven Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) troopers have been supporting the Texas Department of Public Safety on the Southern Border since March 1, 2024. Missouri National Guard (MONG) members, totaling 48 soldiers, began supporting border security efforts this week on March 14 after receiving official orders on March 11. 

"Missourians understand there is a crisis at our Southern Border and that it's not just impacting the State of Texas. It seems like every week we are hearing of more and more fentanyl deaths and drug trafficking instances that are ripping Missouri families and communities apart. It stems from the chaos at our Southern Border, and it must stop," Governor Parson said. "While President Biden and the federal government fail to do anything, we're proud the State of Missouri is doing something. We extend our sincere thanks to our MSHP troopers and MONG service members for their efforts in addressing this crisis. Missouri stands with Texas, and we are taking action."

Below are updates from both MSHP and MONG deployments to the Southern Border. 

Missouri State Highway Patrol Border Deployment:

On March 1, 2024, 11 MSHP troopers traveled to southern Texas to assist the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) in providing law enforcement services in the area of the U.S. border. The team briefed at the Texas DPS South Region Office (3) in Weslaco, Texas, on March 3 and reported to its first assigned shift on March 4. 

MSHP troopers assisting Texas DPS troopers in the area of the U.S. border provided assistance with the following incidents/encounters from March 3-10:

Traffic Stops - 216

Undocumented Migrant Encounters - 193

Undocumented Migrant Turn-backs - 16

Impaired Driver and Drug Arrests - 9

Other Law Enforcement Assistance - 13 

In addition to the incidents above, on March 8, Missouri and Texas troopers assisted with a fatal National Guard helicopter crash that occurred within their area of operation. All five Missouri troopers working the night shift responded to the crash and assisted until released by military personnel. A Missouri trooper assisted with the scene security at the crash site the following day.

On March 14, Missouri troopers attended the funeral of Border Patrol Agent Chris Luna, 49, who was killed along with two members of the New York National Guard during the March 8 helicopter crash near Rio Grande City, Texas.  

Troopers from seven of the Patrol’s nine troops, the Division of Drug and Crime Control (DDCC), and the Field Operations Bureau (FOB) are serving in Texas. 

Missouri troopers assigned to the detail work 12-hour shifts, with each working shifts alongside a Texas DPS trooper. This allows for officer safety and operational efficiency. Routine calls for service include general law enforcement calls, traffic stops, response to alarms and camera activations, and assisting with warrant arrests. Officers routinely intercept undocumented migrants on foot and in vehicles and observe them until U.S. Customs & Border Protection officers respond to take custody. At times, officers encounter undocumented migrants who turn and cross back over the border before interception.

Marine operations-certified Missouri troopers have also joined the Texas DPS Tactical Marine Unit to familiarize themselves with DPS responsibilities on the Rio Grande River near Anzalduas Park.

Missouri National Guard:

The first group of MONG service members deployed on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, and began active support on Thursday, March 14. 

Forty-eight MONG service members deployed from across the State of Missouri, most of them based at armories in Lamar and Clinton. The majority of the troops volunteered to stay for the entire duration of the mission. Seventeen members of the group will rotate out in the latter part of April after being replaced by additional MONG service members.

The initial 48 Soldiers arrived in Texas on Tuesday and rested overnight at a Texas National Guard armory. On Wednesday, they completed travel and arrived at the assigned area of operations for orientation and a mission brief. 

On Thursday, MONG service members began working alongside Texas National Guard and law enforcement partners. MONG service members are assisting in the construction of physical barriers, manning observation posts, and supporting security patrols, as needed.  

 

MISSOURI CAPTIVE INSURANCE INDUSTRY CONTINUES SUBSTANTIAL GROWTH IN 2023

The Missouri Captive Insurance Industry had another successful year, increasing its gross written premium by 142% in 2023. The amount of written premiums in 2022 were $3,543,681,320 vs. $8,600,492,937 in 2023. This growth is attributed to the quality and strength of the companies in Missouri, as well as the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance’s Captive Insurance Program's hands-on support of Missouri captive clients. 

While many state captive programs tout the number of clients they have as the mark of achievement, the department’s Captive Insurance Program takes a different approach - focusing on each captive’s quality and success. 

More information about the department’s Captive Insurance Program can be found at insurance.mo.gov/captive.

 

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom


March 19, 2024

TEEN INJURED IN SUNDAY NIGHT CRASH

A Kirksville teen was injured in a Sunday night crash in Macon County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 7:55pm as the 15 year old boy was a passenger in a truck driven by a 19 year old boy from Clarence.  They were on Vine Street Road when they lost control on a gravel road and their truck went off the left side of the road and struck a fence.  The Kirksville teen was taken to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment of minor injuries.


 


MAN INJURED IN HOWARD COUNTY ACCIDENT


A Boonville man was injured in an accident that occurred at 12pm Sunday in Howard County.  The patrol says that 32 year old Quentin Perry was on MO 5 when he failed to negotiate a curve, causing his truck to travel off the right side of the roadway, struck a tree, overturned and came to rest on its top in a creek bed.  He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.


 


TEEN HURT IN SUNDAY AFTERNOON WRECK


A Ewing teen was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday afternoon in Marion County.  MSHP stated that a 17 year old boy was on Route A when his car ran off the right side of the road and overturned.  He suffered minor injuries and was taken to Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL for treatment.  The wreck happened at around 3:55pm Sunday.


 


PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI


The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.


All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.


Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.


Adair County


Missouri Route 11 – March 25, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Clay Way to Hazel Green Way between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Missouri Route 11 – March 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Sabboth Home Way to Route J between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Audrain County


Missouri Route 151 – March 18, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 148 to Route M between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Missouri Route 151 – March 19, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 140 to CR 906 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Missouri Route 151 – March 21 – 22, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 22 to CR 128 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Knox County


Missouri Route 15 – March 18 – 21, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from 0.5 miles before to 0.5 miles after the Little Fabius River bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.


Route V - March 21, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Fritz Place to Route V spur between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Route V – March 22, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Entwine Place to Colony Woods Place between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Route V – March 25 - 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Colony Woods Place to Route K between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Lewis County


Route BB – March 25 – 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route C to Missouri Route 16 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.


Route DD – March 28 – 29, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 6 to 230th Street between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.


Macon County


Route KK – March 18 - 19, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Olympic Avenue in Macon County to CR 201 in Shelby County between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Missouri Route 129 – March 19, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Birch Street to Coyote Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.


Missouri Route 129 – March 20, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route WW to Armada Street between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.


Missouri Route 129 – March 21, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from U.S. Route 36 to Armada Street between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.


Route MM – March 20 - 21, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Nitengale Road to Ohio Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Route MM – March 22, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Ohio Avenue to Musket Street between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Route MM – March 25, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Ohio Avenue to Musket Street between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Route VV – March 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Bear Street to Bison Street between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.


Marion County


U.S. Route 36 – March 19 – 20, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from the Illinois state line to Harrison Hill between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Monroe County


Missouri Route 151 – March 27, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from south of Route J to north of CR 1170 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Montgomery County


Route CC – March 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 161 to Mayapple Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.


Route CC – March 27, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Mayapple Road to Floyd Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.


Route F - March 28 - 29, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route V and Davis Road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.


Pike County


Route B – March 18 - 29, CLOSED for bridge maintenance from U.S. Route 61 to CR 107 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Route U – March 28 - 29, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 36 to CR 48 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Ralls County


Route T – March 18 - 22, CLOSED for brush cutting operations from Deer Lane to Missouri Route 79 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


Randolph County


Route D – March 25, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route BB to 0.5 miles north of Route BB between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.  


Route D – March 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 1.5 miles south of Route C to 2.0 miles south of Route C between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.


Route D - March 27, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 1.0 miles south of Route C to. 1.5 miles south of Route C between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.


Scotland County


Route D – March 18, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 605 to CR 309 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Route D - March 20, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 307 to CR 601 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.


Shelby County


Route KK – March 18 - 19, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Olympic Avenue in Macon County to CR 201 in Shelby County between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.


 





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

March 18, 2024

 

WOMAN HURT IN EARLY SUNDAY MORNING CRASH

A Bevier woman was hurt in an early Sunday morning crash in Macon County.  State troopers stated that 20 year old Patricia Watkins was on US 63 when she swerved to avoid a deer, causing her car to travel off the right side of the roadway and overturned.  She sustained minor injuries and was taken to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment.  The crash occurred at 1:05am Sunday.

 

DRIVERS INJURED IN AUDRAIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two drivers were injured in an accident that occurred at 11:45am Saturday in Audrain County.  The patrol says that 61 year old Montalee Burks of Columbia was on US 54 when his car was struck in the rear by a car driven by 34 year old Lara Rangal Guadalupe of Fulton.  Both were transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SATURDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

A woman and a little girl from Lonedell were seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday afternoon in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened at around 4:10pm as 38 year old Stephenie Woods was on Old Highway K when she failed to maintain control of her truck and drove it off the left side of the road.  Both the woman and her passenger a 5 year old girl were taken to Mercy Hospital with serious injuries.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

March 15, 2024

 

NCMRWC WELCOMED USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT OFFICIALS TO MILAN

Leadership and staff from the North Central Missouri Regional Water Commission (NCMRWC) were honored to welcome United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development (USDA RD) officials from both Washington, DC headquarters and State offices for a tour of federally funded water infrastructure investments in Missouri. The tour highlighted the Milan Water Treatment Plant and also the lake project improvements. The NCMWRC led tour of the Water Treatment Plant showcased approximately $2 million in enhancements currently underway, which, when completed aim to serve the needs of up to 10 Counties in North Central Missouri. Additionally, USDA RD is replacing two open bond issues held by NCMRWC, while also funding key elements of the Roy Blunt Reservoir. Without this significant federal investment, such critically needed improvement costs would otherwise be passed on to local ratepayers or Missouri taxpayers. A total of $54 million in USDA RD grants and loans will allow NCMRWC to accomplish improvement projects while maintaining affordable and stable rates for consumers. USDA RD recognized the need for the Roy Blunt Reservoir as a regional water supply and looked favorably upon NCMRWC’s grant and loan application.

 

MDC REMINDS SNAGGERS THAT PADDLEFISH SEASON BEGINS FRIDAY

Imagine catching a giant, prehistoric fish whose ancestors swam during the time of dinosaurs. That is a reality for thousands of paddlefish snaggers during Missouri’s annual spring paddlefish season. Missouri’s official state aquatic animal, the paddlefish is highly valued as a sport fish.

The season for the state’s major paddlefish waters -- Lake of the Ozarks, Harry S. Truman Reservoir, and Table Rock Lake – along with most other waters in the state runs March 15 through April 30. The season for the Mississippi River is March 15 through May 15 with a fall season of Sept. 15 through Dec. 15.

Paddlefish -- named for their large, paddle-shaped snouts -- are an ancient species that can grow to seven feet and weigh more than 100 pounds. Paddlefish swim slowly through water with their mouths wide open, collecting tiny crustaceans and insects in their elaborate, closely set gill rakers. The paddle-shaped snout functions as an electrosensory organ that allows it to sense plankton as it swims through water.

Because the giant fish eat tiny crustaceans and insects, they do not bite on traditional fishing hooks. They are usually caught through the practice of snagging where anglers drag large triple-sided hooks through the water to “snag” a fish in the body with the hooks.

A fishing permit is required for snagging and other allowed methods, unless exempt. The daily limit is two paddlefish, and the possession limit is four. No person shall continue to snag after taking a daily limit of two paddlefish.

The statewide minimum length limit is 32 inches -- measured from eye to fork of tail – with a minimum length limit of 34 inches for Lake of the Ozarks, Table Rock Lake, Harry S. Truman Reservoir, and their tributaries.

All paddlefish under the legal minimum length must be returned to the water unharmed immediately after being caught. MDC offers these tips for returning undersized fish:

Use landing nets, not gaffs, which can kill young fish.

Wet hands before handling fish and avoid excessive handling.

Never put fingers in the gills or eyes.

Remove hooks carefully and get undersized fish back into the water as quickly as possible.

Cleaning paddlefish while on the water, dumping the carcass overboard, and returning to shore with fillets and/or eggs is illegal. Extracted paddlefish eggs may not be possessed while on waters of the state or adjacent banks and may not be transported. Paddlefish eggs may not be bought, sold, or offered for sale. These regulations are necessary to confirm length-limit requirements and to address the illegal caviar trade.

Snaggers and others are allowed to haul paddlefish carcasses out by boat to deeper water for disposal under the following conditions:

The head, tail, etc. must remain intact so the fish could be measured if contacted by a conservation agent.

Extracted eggs must remain where the fish is cleaned and cannot be transported to deeper water for disposal.

Paddlefish fillets cannot be possessed or transported on the water.

Learn more about paddlefish, snagging regulations, snagging reports, and more at mdc.mo.gov/fishing/species/paddlefish.

MONASP 2024 STATE TOURNAMENT RETURNS MARCH 20 THRU 23 IN BRANSON

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation (MCHF) invite the public to support Missouri student archers at the 2024 Missouri National Archery in the Schools Program (MoNASP) State Tournament March 20-23 at the Branson Convention Center in Branson. MDC and MCHF will be hosting the 16th annual event.

The MoNASP State Tournament has seen tremendous growth and is the second largest state archery tournament in the nation. More than 4,700 Bullseye and 1,800 3D student archers from more than 200 schools across Missouri are scheduled to compete in the state tournament after shooting qualifying scores through various local MoNASP tournaments over the past year.

Trophies, medals, and scholarships, sponsored by MCHF, will be presented to the top teams and individuals at the state tournament. MCHF is awarding $30,000 in scholarships to the top five male and female archers in both the Bullseye and 3D Tournaments. These scholarships are awarded to students to be used for their education endeavors after high school graduation.

Missouri archers competing at the state tournament are eligible to participate in the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) Western and Eastern National Tournaments. Top teams and individuals will again be selected from the combined results of both national tournaments to have the chance to register for the Championship event. Top individual winners from the results of both national tournaments will compete for the NASP Scholarship Shoot-Off to be held at the end of the June Championship Tournament.

In addition to the traditional individual and team scholarships awarded at the national events, NASP will continue awarding up to 120 additional $500 bullseye scholarships randomly to participants. Upon graduation, archers can apply these funds to any post-secondary educational or training program of their choice. Learn more at nasptournaments.org.

Supporters are invited to attend the state tournament for a fee. In addition to the tournament competition, the event will include a variety of family-friendly activities for attendees such as turkey hunting seminars, Wonders of Wildlife animal encounters, bow case airbrushing, a tradeshow with a variety of vendors, and more. For details on activities, admission fees, hotels, volunteering, and more, visit MCHF online at mochf.org.


 




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March 14, 2024

 

TWO INJURED IN AUDRAIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two people from Thornton, IA were injured in an accident that occurred at around 11:45am Tuesday in Audrain County.  The patrol says that 28 year old Jessica Bluhm was on Route E when her tractor trailer traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned.  Both the woman and her passenger a 7 year old girl were taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries.

 

NIGHTTIME LANE RESTRICTIONS SCHEDULED ON I-70 IN MONTGOMERY AND WARREN COUNTIES

Weather permitting, as early as March 25, contractor crews with N.B. West Contracting Company will begin asphalt pavement repair work on the eastbound and westbound lanes of Interstate 70 in Montgomery and Warren counties. Work will occur from the Callaway County line to the St. Charles County line, between mile marker 167 and mile marker 202.

All work will occur during the nighttime hours of 7pm to 6am. Through late-March, motorists can expect intermittent delays as traffic will be reduced to one lane where work is occurring with a 10-foot width restriction in place where workers are present. All work is weather dependent, and schedules are subject to change. 

 

UNILEVER TO EXPAND IN JEFFERSON CITY, INVESTING MORE THAN $80 MILLION TO PRODUCE LIQUID I.V.

Unilever, one of the world’s largest consumer goods companies, has announced that it will expand its facility in Jefferson City, investing more than $80 million to add operations capabilities for the production of Liquid I.V., a brand within its Health & Wellbeing business. The company previously announced a separate $25 million investment in its Jefferson City facility in January.

As part of this expansion, Unilever will add automated operations to make products for Liquid I.V., a science-backed functional hydration brand that has become the number one powdered hydration brand in America. The product line features great-tasting, non-GMO electrolyte drink mixes to enhance rapid absorption of water and other key ingredients into the body.

Liquid I.V. was acquired by Unilever in October 2020, joining the fast-growing Health & Wellbeing global business. Liquid I.V. is now four times larger than it was in the period near acquisition and has helped Unilever’s Health & Wellbeing business deliver consistent growth.

The Jefferson City location, which has been in operation since 1966 and employs more than 450 workers, is the first Unilever facility to manufacture products for the Health & Wellbeing portfolio. The automated operations to produce Liquid I.V. include automated packaging lines, a blending room operation, and modifications to required infrastructure, such as heating and cooling.


 




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March 13, 2024

 

TWO INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN MONDAY NIGHT CRASH

Two people were injured, one seriously in a Monday night crash in Macon County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 11pm as 50 year old Michelle Schwanke of New London, MO was on US 36 when her truck ran off the left side of the road, struck a guardrail and overturned.  She was not injured, but two passengers, a 13 year old girl from New London suffered minor injuries and was taken to Samaritan Hospital in Macon while 45 year old Charles Evans of Quincy, IL was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MONDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

42 year old Brandon Swisher of Kirksville was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Monday afternoon in Lewis County.  State troopers stated that he was on Highway K when his tractor trailer went off the right side of the road and overturned coming to rest on the passenger side.  He was air-lifted to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.  The wreck happened at 1:40pm Monday.

 

MAN KILLED IN WARREN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A man was killed in an accident that occurred at 11:40pm Monday in Warren County.  The patrol says that 34 year old Geoffrey Wiss of Jonesburg was a passenger in a vehicle driven by 34 year old Cherysse Tucker of Truxton.  They were on Massas Creek Road and traveling too fast on the gravel road when she lost control and it traveled off the left side of the roadway, struck several trees, overturned, ejecting him from it.  He was pronounced dead at the scene while the woman was taken to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of minor injuries. 

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

Towards the end of January, the Mexico Public Safety Department received a report that Nickolas G Crum, age 18 of Mexico, was having inappropriate contact with a 13-year-old juvenile.  The report was investigated and a case was forwarded to the Audrain County Prosecuting Attorney for Statutory Rape and Statutory Sodomy.  An arrest warrant was issued on March 8 and MPSD arrested Crum and transported him to the Audrain County Jail without incident.  During the investigation, MPSD learned of another 13-year-old juvenile Crum had been in contact with.  That investigation will be completed and forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney as well for possible additional charges.






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March 12, 2024

 

TWO INJURED IN BOONE COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two women were injured in an accident that occurred at around 5:25am Sunday in Boone County.  The patrol says that 21 year old Oluwatoyin Adegbuyi of Columbia was on Route K when she swerved to avoid a deer and her car traveled off the roadway.  She was found to be intoxicated, but was released for medical treatment for minor injuries at Boone Hospital.  Meanwhile her passenger 21 year old Tiona Edwards of Columbia was also taken to Boone Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.


WOMAN HURT IN SUNDAY MORNING INCIDENT

A woman was hurt in a Sunday morning incident in Warren County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 8:35am as 21 year old Kierra Mathews Cruz of Florissant was in a car which was parked on the shoulder, disabled on eastbound I-70 when it was struck by an unknown vehicle which then left the scene.  She suffered minor injuries and was taken to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment.


DRIVER HURT IN SUNDAY NIGHT CRASH

25 year old William Tihen of Washington was hurt in a Sunday night crash in Franklin County.  MSHP stated that he was on Route V when his truck was struck by an SUV driven by 80 year old Velma Miller of Pacific who failed to yield while attempting to turn onto eastbound Route V from Clearview Road. After impact the truck went off the road and overturned.  Tihen was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of minor injuries.  The crash happened at 5:30pm Sunday.


PSC SETS HEARING SCHEDULE IN EVERGY MISSOURI WEST RATE CASE

The Missouri Public Service Commission is scheduled to hold formal

evidentiary hearings September 30-October 4 and October 7-October 11, 2024, in an electric rate case filed by Evergy Missouri West, Inc. d/b/a Evergy Missouri West. These hearings will be held in Room 310 of the Governor Office Building, 200 Madison Street, in Jefferson City. This building meets accessibility standards required by the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you need additional accommodations to participate in these hearings, please call the Public Service Commission’s hotline at 1-800-392-4211 (voice) or Relay Missouri at 711 before

the hearings. The hearings will also be streamed live on the Commission’s website (www.psc.mo.gov).

On February 2, 2024, Evergy Missouri West filed an electric rate case with the Missouri Public Service Commission seeking a net increase in its base rates of approximately $104.5 million. Evergy Missouri West provides electric service to approximately 340,300 customers in the Missouri counties of Andrew, Atchison, Barton, Bates, Benton, Buchanan, Carroll, Cass, Cedar, Clay, Clinton, Dade, Daviess, DeKalb, Gentry, Grundy, Harrison, Henry, Holt, Jackson, Johnson,

Lafayette, Livingston, Mercer, Nodaway, Pettis, Platte, Ray, St. Clair, Vernon and Worth.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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March 11, 2024

 

DRIVERS INJURED IN AUDRAIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two drivers were injured in an accident that occurred at 10:55am Friday in Audrain County.  The patrol says that 40 year old Donald Mead of Walnut Grove attempted to make a left turn onto the US 54 bypass route and his truck pulled into the path of a car driven by 23 year old Maverick Knight of Mexico and they collided.  Knight was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries, while Mead refused treatment at the scene for minor injuries.

 

TWO TEENS HURT IN SATURDAY MORNING WRECK

Two teens were hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday morning in Audrain County.  The highway patrol said it happened at around 8:40am as they were on Route B when the 18 year old boy from Silex fell asleep, causing the car to run off the left side of the road and struck several trees.  Both the boy and his passenger a 17 year old girl from Elsberry were transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries.

 

TEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN EARLY SATURDAY MORNING CRASH

A teen was seriously injured in an early Saturday morning crash in Franklin County.  State troopers stated that the 15 year old boy was a passenger in a vehicle driven by a 16 year old boy.  They were on Jakes Prairie Road when they failed to negotiate a curve and it went off the left side of the road and overturned.  The teen was taken to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan with serious injuries.  The crash happened at 12:50am Saturday.

 

RESURFACING WORK SCHEDULED ON ROUTE A IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY

Weather permitting, a resurfacing project located on Route A in Montgomery County, from Missouri Route 19 to Missouri Route 161, is expected to begin as early as March 18.

The $4.7M contract, awarded last year to Magruder Paving, LLC of Troy, Missouri, includes several additional resurfacing projects scheduled to be completed by November 1, 2024:

Audrain/Montgomery County, Route AA – From Route BB to Missouri Route 19 in Wellsville.

Audrain/Montgomery County, Route BB – From U.S. Route 54 to Missouri Route 161. 

Pike County, Route Y – From Business Route 61 in Bowling Green to the end of state maintenance (Complete)

Traffic will be reduced to one lane with a 9-foot width restriction at the location where crews are actively working.  Flaggers and a pilot car will be utilized for traffic control to guide traffic through the work zone. Workers will be present during daylight hours.  All work is weather dependent and schedules are subject to change.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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March 8, 2024

 

MACON MAN ARRESTED FOR MULTIPLE SEX OFFENSES

The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control has announced the arrest of 34 year old Johnathon S. Taylor of Macon. Taylor was arrested on Wednesday March 6 following investigations by the Troop B Criminal Investigative Unit.  

In February of 2021 and July of 2022, the La Plata Police Department requested the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control investigate two separate allegations involving the sexual assault of minor females, reported to have been committed by Taylor. Investigators learned that on several occasions beginning in 2017, Taylor had sexually assaulted two underage females at various locations in Macon County.  The Macon County Prosecuting Attorney requested the Missouri Attorney General’s Office as a special prosecutor in the cases against Taylor.  On Wednesday, the Missouri Attorney General’s Office formally charged Taylor with seven counts of 2nd degree statutory sodomy, six counts of 4th degree child molestation, one count of 2nd degree statutory rape, and one count of patronizing prostitution.  Taylor was taken into custody and transported to the Randolph County jail where he is currently being held without bond.  

 

THREE INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN WEDNESDAY NIGHT ACCIDENT

Three people were injured, one seriously in an accident that occurred at around 7:45pm Wednesday in Adair County.  The patrol says that a truck driven by 59 year old Herbert Houf of Unionville was on US 63 when he failed to observe a tractor ridden by 20 year old Isaiah Bailey of Kirksville making a left turn and the truck struck the tractor in the rear.  Both men sustained minor injuries and Bailey was taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center for treatment, while Houf was going to seek his own treatment.  A passenger in the truck 67 year old Cynthia Edwards of Unionville was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

COMMISSION AWARDS CONTRACTS FOR PROJECTS IN NORTHEAST DISTRICT

During its regular meeting on Wednesday, the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission awarded the following contracts for two bridge replacement projects in the Northeast District. 


Additional information, regarding timelines and impacts to traffic, will be released prior to the start of construction.

 

MODOT HIRING WORKERS AT JOB FAIR IN NEW FLORENCE

The Missouri Department of Transportation Northeast District Office will host a job fair to hire full-time maintenance workers, construction technicians and inspectors, highway designers, signal/lighting electricians, and mechanics/equipment technicians to start as soon as possible.  The event will be from 10am – 2pm Saturday, March 9, at the MoDOT New Florence Maintenance Facility, 540 Tree Farm Road, New Florence, MO, 65803.

MoDOT offers full training and benefits including medical insurance, paid annual and sick leave, educational assistance, paid holidays and more.  Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma/GED and a valid driver's license.  Applicants also must successfully complete a criminal background check, drug screening, work simulation and physical - comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes for the job fair are encouraged.

All MoDOT career opportunity job postings can be found online at modot.org/careers.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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March 7, 2024

 

TEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN LINCOLN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A teen was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 8:05pm Tuesday in Lincoln County.  The patrol says that 18 year old Jordyn Sheat of Old Monroe was eastbound on Route U when her SUV traveled off the right side of the roadway, she overcorrected, causing it to cross the center of the road and struck a truck driven by a Brooklyn, NY man.  She was transported by ambulance to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis with serious injuries. 

 

WOMAN HURT IN TUESDAY MORNING CRASH

59 year old Lenda Wachter of Kirksville was hurt in a Tuesday morning crash in Schuyler County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 11:30am as she was on US 63 when her vehicle was struck in the rear by a semi driven by 33 year old Drew Fountain of Kirksville.  She sustained minor injuries and was taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville for treatment.  

 

MDC WARNS NOT TO BURN OUTDOOR DEBRIS THAT COULD CAUSE A WILDFIRE

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds people that strong winds, low humidity, and dry conditions this time of year means extra caution is needed to avoid unexpected wildfires. According to MDC, a main cause of wildfires is improper burning of debris such as leaves or brush piles.

“It’s been drier and warmer than usual, which means fires could get out of control very quickly,” said MDC Fire Program Supervisor Ben Webster. “We want everyone to check weather conditions and be extremely careful when burning leaves or debris. Check with your local fire department regarding burn bans or Red Flag Warnings that may be in place because critical fire weather conditions are either occurring or will shortly.”

Areas of Missouri have already seen an increase in wildfire activity over the last week, mainly in the southern half of the state. MDC staff have been working with other agencies and area fire departments to contain numerous wildfires.

Help Prevent Wildfires

A person who starts a fire for any reason is responsible for any damage it may cause. MDC urges landowners, hunters, campers, and others in the outdoors to help prevent wildfires and offers the following tips.

OUTDOOR BURNING: Don’t burn during wrong conditions. Dry grass, high temperatures, low humidity, and wind make fire nearly impossible to control. Check with local fire departments regarding burn bans or Red Flag Warnings that may be in place because critical fire weather conditions are either occurring or will shortly.

DRIVING OFF ROAD: Wildfires can start when dry fuel, such as grass, comes in contact with catalytic converters. Think twice before driving into and across a grassy field. Never park over tall, dry grass or piles of leaves that can touch the underside of a vehicle. When driving vehicles off road, regularly inspect the undercarriage to ensure that fuel and brake lines are intact, and no oil leaks are apparent. Always carry an approved fire extinguisher on vehicles that are used off road. Check for the presence of spark arresters on ATV exhausts.

MAKING A CAMPFIRE: Clear a generous zone around fire rings. Store unused firewood a good distance from a campfire. Never use gasoline, kerosene, or other flammable liquid to start a fire. Keep campfires small and controllable. Keep fire-extinguishing materials, such as a rake, shovel, and bucket of water, close. Extinguish campfires each night and before leaving camp, even if it’s just for a few moments.

CALL FOR HELP: Call 911 at the first sign of a fire getting out of control.

REPORT FOREST ARSON: Wildfires are sometimes set by vandals. Help stop arson by calling 800-392-1111 and reporting any potential arson activities. Callers will remain anonymous, and rewards are possible.

For more information on preventing wildfires, go online to mdc.mo.gov/your-property/fire-management/wildfire-prevention.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

March 6, 2024

 

BRIDGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT IN MONROE COUNTY

A bridge replacement project in Monroe County will be affecting Middle Grove area residents and those traveling through the area. MoDOT says the Route M bridge over Milligan Creek, one mile west of Route Y, near Middle Grove is scheduled to close on March 11th and those who normally use the Route M bridge will have to find alternate routes. All work is scheduled to be completed by July 1st of this year. Bleigh Construction Company was awarded the contract last year for $1,182,615. For more information on this and other projects in the area, contact MoDOT’s Customer Center toll-free at 1-888-ASK MODOT (275-6636). You can also find out more about this project and others that may affect your travel planning on line at MoDOT dot org.

 

WARREN COUNTY SIDEWALK IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS SCHEDULED TO RESUME IN WARRENTON

Weather permitting, this week, contractor crews will resume work on the sidewalk improvement project on Missouri Route 47 in Warrenton from Veterans Memorial Parkway to East Walton Street.  Work began last fall then suspended due to winter conditions.

Motorists can expect 24-hour minor traffic impacts including a lane closure for one night only during the final stages of the project including signal work, clean-up and seeding. Flaggers will be utilized to direct motorists through the work zone. All work is expected to be completed by late March.

This work is being completed as part of MoDOT’s initiative for compliance with the current standards of the American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA).

This contract also includes sidewalk improvement projects in Warren County located on Route J in Wright City and Interstate 70 North Outer Road in Wright City as well as Montgomery County, located on Missouri Route 19 and Missouri Route 161 in Montgomery City, Missouri Route 161 in Middletown and Route CC and Route ZZ in Wellsville.

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Saturday, March 2 at approximately 2:24pm, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 1300 block of E Anderson in reference to a grass fire.  Responding personnel found that a resident had been burning sticks and yard waste, and the fire spread and began moving across the yard.  The fire was extinguished before any buildings were damaged.  There were no injuries from the incident.

 

Residents are reminded that in Mexico you can only openly burn yard waste.  Not trash or construction material.  Further, if you are burning yard waste, the fire must be attended and a water source must be available to keep it under control.  Mexico does have the brush yard which is open for all residents to use.  Additionally, when the National Weather Service issues a Red Flag warning, that means it is a dangerous time to openly burn anything.  That is based off many factors that increase the risk of fire spread, like wind, humidity, and moisture in the ground. 


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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March 5, 2024

 

WOMAN INJURED IN CALLAWAY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Columbia woman was injured in an accident that occurred at 11:40am Sunday in Callaway County.  The patrol says that 48 year old Leah Klasing was on Highway UU when she failed to negotiate a curve, causing her motorcycle to travel off the right side of the roadway, struck a fence and ejected her from it.  She was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

MAN HURT IN SUNDAY NIGHT WRECK

36 year old Ronald Markiewicz of O’Fallon was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday night in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 8:25pm as he was on Prairie Dell Road when he failed to negotiate a curve, ran off the right side of the road and his truck struck a fence.  He sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment.

 

SEVERE WEATHER PREPAREDNESS WEEK IS THIS WEEK

In April 2023, an EF-2 tornado swept through Bollinger CountyMissouri, devastating a community and claiming the lives of five people. In July, two more people were killed in separate incidents after massive trees uprooted by a severe storm in the St. Louis area fell onto a house and a car. That same month, another individual was killed when a tree crushed a camper during a round of severe storms in southwest Missouri.

These tragedies all serve as reminders of the importance of being prepared for severe weather anytime, anywhere, and that it’s not just tornadoes that can prove deadly.

To encourage Missourians to prepare for severe weather and learn how to protect themselves, the National Weather Service, SEMA and local emergency managers will observe Severe Weather Preparedness Week March 4 – 82024. Missouri’s annual statewide tornado drill will also be held on Wednesday, March 6 at 11am as part of the week’s preparedness activities. Some Missouri communities may choose to conduct the drill on a different day due to conflicting local events.

At 11am on the day of the tornado drill, NOAA Weather Radios set to receive the Routine Weekly Tests (RWTs) will alert listeners that the tornado drill has begun. Outdoor warning sirens will also sound across participating Missouri communities. At that time, participants should practice taking cover in a designated shelter area or an interior room on the lowest level of a secure structure.

Schools, businesses and families are all encouraged to participate in the drill. Educators are also encouraged to use the tornado drill as an opportunity to incorporate tornado facts, meteorological information and safety tips into their lesson plans.

NWS provides several safety tips and educational information about tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, flash flooding, lightning and the importance of NOAA Weather Radios on its Severe Weather Awareness Week page. Each day during the week will focus on a different safety message:

Monday, March 4 – Receiving Weather Information

Tuesday, March 5 – Lightning Safety

Wednesday, March 6 – Tornado Safety

Thursday, March 7 – Hail/Wind Safety

Friday, March 8 – Flood Safety

Remember these additional tips to stay safe during severe weather:

Follow local forecasts any time severe weather is anticipated. Have multiple ways to receive weather alerts in case one fails or if severe weather strikes overnight.

Create a family emergency plan to stay safe, and remember to include all pets when building an emergency kit and stocking up on supplies. Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes, so it is also important to know how to contact one another and reconnect if separated. Establish a family meeting place that’s familiar and easy to find.

Missourians are also encouraged to utilize Missouri’s “Ready in 3” program to create a plan, prepare a kit and listen for information regarding severe weather emergencies www.health.mo.gov/emergencies/readyin3.





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March 4, 2024

 

TEEN IN CUSTODY FOR MURDER OF MACON MAN

A teen is in custody for the murder of a Macon man.  The Boone County Sheriff’s Office said a 15 year old was taken into custody for the death of Malik Jones. Jones was last seen on January 30 and on February 7 his family found his body in a wooded area on Creasy Springs Road in Columbia.  They stated that because the suspect was a juvenile, no more information would be released.

 

MAN SHOT AND KILLED IN CALLAWAY COUNTY INCIDENT

A man was shot and killed in an early Saturday morning incident in Callaway County.  The Callaway County Sheriff’s Office said that deputies were called to the 8000 block of State Road CC, outside of Steedman, at 1:41am.  They stated that a confrontation led to an employee of a business firing a gun which fatally shot a man.  The sheriff’s office did not provide any other information about what led to the shooting but did say that it was an isolated incident and that there is not a threat to the public.

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Thursday, February 29 at approximately 2pm, Mexico Public Safety officers began looking for the source of heavy smoke in the 1700 block of E Liberty Street.  Officers located an uncontrolled fire in a large wooded area containing a lot of dead timber, about ¾ of a mile south of Liberty Street.  Additional MPSD personnel were called to the scene and Little Dixie Fire Protection District responded to a mutual aid request.  The fire was stopped from advancing any further to the north or onto neighboring properties.  MPSD continued to monitor the situation.

About 10pm, it was determined the fire was shifting out of the burned area to the southeast, and personnel returned to stop the spread.  The fire was contained and is being allowed to burn out.  

The fire apparently spread from some land clearing that was occurring nearby.  No structures were damaged and there were no injuries.

 

 




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March 1, 2024

 

MAN HURT IN MACON COUNTY INCIDENT

A La Plata man was hurt in a Wednesday morning incident in Macon County.  The highway patrol said it occurred at 8:05am as 22 year old Shawn Gerber was on US 63 when his truck traveled off the road and overturned.  He was transported by ambulance to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment of minor injuries.

 

DRIVER HURT IN WEDNESDAY MORNING WRECK

20 year old Jacob Weinmann of Brookfield was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Wednesday morning in Linn County.  MSHP reported that he was on US 36 when he lost control on the ice-covered road and his truck went off the road and struck a ditch.  He was taken to Pershing Memorial Hospital in Brookfield for treatment of minor injuries.  The wreck happened at around 7:45am Wednesday.

 

MAN INJURED IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A man was injured in an accident that occurred at 5:45pm Wednesday in Montgomery County.  The patrol says that 43 year old Benjamin Albin of Ashland was westbound on I-70 when the trailer on his truck lost control, jackknifed and collided with the truck which in turn caused a semi driven by 56 year old William Hord of Auxvasse to swerve to avoid the truck and ran off the left side of the roadway and overturned, while another tractor trailer driven by 54 year old Armando Soto of Valle Hermoso Mexico was struck by logs that were being hauled by the truck’s trailer.  Hord was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries. 

 

WOMAN HURT IN WEDNESDAY MORNING CRASH

A Mexico woman was hurt in a Wednesday morning crash in Audrain County.  State troopers stated that 22 year old Caitlyn Gish was on MO 15 when her vehicle collided with a deer that entered the roadway.  She suffered minor injuries and was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.  The crash happened at 6:15am Wednesday.

 

GREEN HILLS REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION ANNOUNCES $72K WATERSHED PLAN GRANT

GHRPC is pleased to announce the organization is the recipient of a $72K grant which will support their continued work to develop a watershed plan for the Thompson River.  This two-year grant will go to the development of a long-term comprehensive plan with the goal of reducing pollution in the Thompson River and improving the quality of the river for recreational activities. 

This planning process uses a series of cooperative, iterative steps to describe current conditions, identify and prioritize problems, define management objectives, and develop and implement restoration or protection strategies, as necessary. GHRPC will be engaging the public and stakeholders in Livingston, Daviess, Mercer, Harrison and Grundy counties to kick-off the project in the near future.

For more information about this project, please contact Green Hills Regional Planning Commission at 660-359-5636.






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February 29, 2024

 

MAN INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE INCIDENT

57 year old Gail Riley of Huntsville was injured in a motorcycle incident Tuesday morning in Macon County.  The patrol says that he was on Route O when his motorcycle struck a deer in the roadway, overturned and ejected him from it.  He was air-lifted to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.  The incident happened at 10am Tuesday.

 

DUMP TRUCK DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN TUESDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

A dump truck driver was seriously injured in a wreck Tuesday afternoon in Pike County.  The highway patrol said that 54 year old Charles Cash of Bowling Green was on Highway H when the dump truck ran off the right side of the road and overturned.  He was taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.  The wreck occurred at 1:25pm Tuesday.

 

WOMAN HURT IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A woman was hurt in an accident that occurred at 7:05pm Tuesday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that 63 year old Kathryn Heintz of Grubville, MO was on Missouri 30 when her car struck a deer that had entered the roadway ahead of her.  She sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis for treatment.

 

TEEN HURT IN TUESDAY MORNING CRASH

A New Haven teen was hurt in a Tuesday morning crash in Franklin County.  MSHP stated that it happened just before 8am as the 17 year old boy was on Route C when he failed to negotiate a curve, causing his truck to travel off the right side of the road and then returned to the roadway and overturned.  He suffered minor injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment.





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February 28, 2024

 

TWO INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN MONDAY NIGHT WRECK

Two people from Washington were injured, one seriously in a two-vehicle wreck Monday night in Warren County.  MSHP stated that a car driven by 43 year old Brittany Funk of Wright City was making a left turn from eastbound Route OO to northbound Route T when her car was struck by an SUV driven by 86 year old Wayne Lanwermeyer who failed to stop at a stop sign at the intersection.  The man suffered minor injuries while his passenger 88 year old Shirley Lanwermeyer sustained serious injuries.  Both were taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment.  The wreck occurred just before 9pm Monday.

 

MAN INJURED IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Wellsville man was injured in an accident that occurred at around 5:25pm Monday in Montgomery County.  The patrol says that 61 year old Bradley Roach was on Highway B when his hummer traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a tree.  He was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

TEEN HURT IN MOTORCYCLE MISHAP

19 year old Titus James of Hillsboro was hurt in a motorcycle mishap Monday evening in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 5:50pm as he was on MO 30 when he failed to maintain control and his motorcycle struck the road.  He suffered minor injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital South for treatment.

 

NCMC STARTS WORK ON THE NEW NUTTALL STUDENT CENTER, STREETS TO CLOSE DOWNTOWN FOR CONSTRUCTION

Construction of the new North Central Missouri College Dr. Neil and Susanne Nuttall Student Center on the Main Campus in Trenton has begun, causing temporary closures to downtown roads and areas. NCMC’s new Nuttall Student Center will be built on the block of Main and Chestnut between 12th Street and 13th Street south of Geyer Hall. The area surrounding the Nuttall Student Center will have no or limited accessibility for traffic and pedestrians during construction.

 

Beginning Wednesday, February 21, the gravel parking lot south of Geyer Hall  closed. Starting Monday a fence was erected around the Nuttall Student Center job site, and the lot will be off-limits to pedestrian and vehicle traffic. The following road closures will also occur at this time (all approved by the City of Trenton): All of 13th Street between Main and Chestnut Street, All of 12th Street between Main and the western edge of the gravel parking lot, one lane of Main Street closest to the job site between 13th and 12th Street, (partial street closure will cause narrow lane on this street), one lane of Chestnut Street closest to the job site between 13th and 12th Street (partial street closure will cause narrow lane on this street), and northern lane of 12th between Chestnut and the western edge of the gravel parking lot for the duration of construction.

 

Construction of the new NCMC Nuttall Student Center is to take approximately a year and a half, with the building anticipated to be open in the summer of 2025. Those using the areas mentioned will need to find alternate routes for the construction time. North Central Missouri College would like to thank the community for their patience and understanding during this exciting advancement of downtown Trenton and North Central Missouri College.


 




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February 27, 2024

 

TWO INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT

Two people from Houstonia, MO were injured in an accident that occurred at 2:30pm Sunday in Gasconade County.  The patrol says that 41 year old Donnie Hood and his passenger 40 year old Angela Wells were on MO 100 when they failed to negotiate a curve, causing their motorcycle to travel off the left side of the roadway and overturned down an embankment, ejecting both from it.  Both were transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

GOVERNOR PARSON ANNOUNCES TWO JUDICIAL APPOINTMENTS

Governor Mike Parson has announced judicial appointments to the 11th and 12th Judicial Circuits.

Lawrence J. Chrum, of St. Charles, was appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for the 11th Judicial Circuit.

Mr. Chrum is currently an assistant prosecuting attorney in St. Charles County. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in corporate communications and public relations from Lindenwood University and a Juris Doctor from Thomas M. Cooley Law School. Mr. Chrum will fill the vacancy created by the appointment of the Honorable Brittney R. Smith as Circuit Judge.

Melissa Buckman Young, of Mexico, was appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for Audrain County in the 12th Judicial Circuit.

Ms. Young is currently owner of Melissa Buckman Young, Attorney at Law, LLC. She holds a Bachelor of Science in agricultural education and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri–Columbia. Ms. Young will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable Linda R. Hamlett.

 

OFFICE OF BROADBAND DEVELOPMENT LAUNCHES INTERACTIVE MAP TO HELP INVEST $1.7 BILLION IN BEAD FUNDING

The Department of Economic Development’s (DED) Office of Broadband Development (OBD) has announced that it has launched the first version of the new Missouri Public Broadband Availability Interactive Map. The map, which uses the Sanborn Map Company’s Broadband Navigator technology, will assist in the investment of $1.7 billion in funding provided by the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program.

The interactive map will assist Missourians during the BEAD challenge process, which will allow for the reporting of locations that lack service and should be eligible for funding. The challenge process is scheduled to open on March 18 and close on April 19. To be notified when the challenge process begins, subscribe for email updates from OBD.





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February 26, 2024

 

TWO HURT IN SATURDAY NIGHT WRECK

Two Moberly residents were hurt in a two-vehicle wreck Saturday night in Randolph County.  The highway patrol said that it happened at 6:05pm as 67 year old Tommy Beal of Fayette was on US 63 when he merged into the left lane and his SUV struck a truck driven by 33 year old Christy McClaskey and afterwards the SUV came to a controlled stop on the right shoulder while the truck came to rest in the median. Both the woman and her passenger 40 year old Michael Perfater were taken to Moberly Regional Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries.

 

TEEN HURT IN SATURDAY EVENING CRASH

A Waverly teen was hurt in a Saturday evening crash in Saline County.  MSHP stated that the 17 year old girl was on US 65 when her vehicle ran off the left side of the road and struck three MODOT signs before coming to rest.  She was transported by ambulance to Fitzgibbon Hospital in Marshall for treatment of minor injuries. The crash occurred at 11:55pm Saturday. 

 

THREE INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

Three people were injured in an accident that occurred at 1:50pm Friday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that 86 year old Mervin Wright of St. Louis was stopped at the intersection of Route T and westbound MO 100 when he failed to yield while attempting to cross eastbound MO 100 onto Route V and his SUV struck the left side of a jeep driven by 43 year old Tonya Batchelar of Catawissa.  After impact the jeep began to skid, struck a traffic control device and caught fire, meanwhile the SUV continued off the right side of the roadway into a ditch.  Batchelar suffered minor injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington while Wright and his passenger 84 year old Alma Wright of St. Louis were taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis for treatment.





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February 23, 2024

 

TEEN GIRL HURT IN MACON COUNTY MISHAP

A teenage girl from Macon was hurt in a Thursday morning mishap in Macon County.  State troopers report that it happened just before 8am as the 17 year old girl was on Highway DD and negotiating a curve when her truck crossed the center of the road, swerved to miss an oncoming vehicle, ran off the north side of the roadway, overcorrected and then it traveled off the south side, struck a ditch and overturned.  She suffered minor injuries and was taken to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment.

 

TEEN HURT IN WEDNESDAY NIGHT WRECK

18 year old Cordell Vaughn of Arbela was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Wednesday night in Scotland County.  MSHP stated that he was on Nesbit Street at Main Street in Gorin and making a u-turn when his brakes failed, causing his truck to strike a house.  He was taken to Scotland County Memorial Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.  The wreck occurred at 7:45pm Wednesday.

 

TWO MEN INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN LINCOLN COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two men were injured, one seriously in an accident that occurred at 3:45pm Wednesday in Lincoln County.  The patrol says that two trucks were on US 61 when the truck driven by 28 year old Dominick Beesley of Haltom City, TX struck the rear of the truck driven by 75 year old Lawrence Reuther Jr. of Eloia, MO.  After impact Reuther’s truck became airborne, went off the right side of the roadway and overturned.  Reuther Jr. was taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries, while Beesley was treated at the scene for minor injuries as he refused transport.

 

DRIVER INJURED IN EARLY THURSDAY MORNING CRASH

A driver was injured in an early Thursday morning crash in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened after 1am as 36 year old Zachary Noll of St. Louis was fleeing from an attempted law enforcement stop when he failed to negotiate a curve on the exit ramp of eastbound I-44 and his SUV struck the concrete traffic barrier.  He sustained moderate injuries and was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment.


 




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February 22, 2024

 

WOMAN INJURED IN HOWARD COUNTY ACCIDENT

A New Franklin woman was injured in an accident that occurred at 11:05pm Tuesday in Howard County.  The patrol says that 29 year old Victoria Brown was on Route P when she swerved to avoid a deer, causing her SUV to travel off the left side of the roadway and overturned.  She was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

DRIVER HURT IN TUESDAY MORNING WRECK

39 year old Danielle Barnett of Crystal City was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday morning in Jefferson County.  The highway patrol said it happened at around 10:10am as she was on Hillsboro-Hematite Road when she failed to negotiate a curve and her truck ran off the right side of the road and struck a utility pole.  She sustained minor injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital South for treatment.

 

GOVERNOR PARSON ANNOUNCES DEPLOYMENT OF 200 NATIONAL GUARD MEMBERS, 22 HIGHWAY PATROL TROOPERS TO TEXAS SOUTHERN BORDER

On Tuesday, during a press conference at the State Capitol, Governor Mike Parson announced that the State of Missouri will be providing up to 200 Missouri National Guard (MONG) members and 22 Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) troopers to support Texas Governor Greg Abbott's Operation Lone Star mission at the Southern Border. 

"About two weeks ago, I visited the Southern Border, and let me not mince words when I say it is a crisis," Governor Parson said. "The crisis at the Southern Border is fueling the fentanyl crisis here in our state. Missourians are dying; families are being ripped apart; communities are being destroyed, and Missouri children are falling victim. It all stems from the Biden Administration's reckless, irresponsible, and failing open-border policies. With our Southern Border wide open, every state is now a border state." 

Governor Parson has issued Executive Order 24-03 to activate the MONG and the Governor's Office's discretionary emergency response fund. Governor Parson's plan to support border security along the Texas-Mexico border includes the following:

The deployment of up to 200 MONG members

Guard members will be deployed on a rotating basis of approximately 30 days.

The deployment of up to 22 MSHP troopers

Standard law enforcement equipment will accompany the troopers.

All MSHP troopers being deployed to the Southern Border have volunteered for the mission.

A $2.3 million supplemental budget request to the Missouri General Assembly to support border security efforts and backfill the Governor's Office's emergency response fund

MSHP troopers will begin active support by March 1, and MONG personnel will begin their mission on March 10. Advance and logistical planning for both deployments is currently underway in coordination with the State of Texas. 

MONG and MSHP personnel will be working to help secure the border, prevent illegal immigration, and stop illicit drug and human trafficking. 

MONG members will mainly assist in the construction of physical barriers and with security patrols as needed. MSHP troopers will work to support traffic enforcement, crime prevention, criminal interdiction, and other law enforcement agencies as needed. 

Statistics Related to Missouri and the Southern Border Crisis:

Nearly 10 million individuals have entered the U.S. illegally since 2021, including known gotaways at the Southern Border.

That's larger than the population of 40 U.S. States, including Missouri.

Operation Lone Star alone has seized over 460 million lethal doses of fentanyl at the Southern Border.

That's enough fentanyl to kill every American citizen with more than 100 million doses left over. 

The Missouri State Highway Patrol seized nearly 12,500 grams of fentanyl in 2023 alone. 

That's enough to kill Missouri's entire population twice over. 

Since 2017, fentanyl overdoses have increased in Missouri by nearly 135 percent - with 75 percent of that increase occurring since 2020. 

At the last statewide report in 2022, 43 Missouri children died from fentanyl exposure.





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February 21, 2024

 

MDC INVITES THE PUBLIC TO AN EVENING WITH WILDLIFE FRIDAY IN KIRKSVILLE

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites the public to an Evening with Wildlife at William Matthew Middle School in Kirksville on Feb. 23 from 6-9 p.m.

This free event will feature several conservation-related exhibits including exhibits by the Missouri Beekeeping Association, the Missouri Trapping Association, and MDC fisheries, forestry, and protection exhibits. Staff will also be present to score deer antlers with official Boone and Crockett measurements. Guest speakers will be presenting on mountain lions in Missouri and MDC’s K-9 program.

All ages are invited, and questions about this event should be sent to Conservation Agent Kevin Powell at kevin.powell@mdc.mo.govWilliam Matthew Middle School is located at 1515 S. Cottage Grove Ave. in Kirksville.

MODOT SELECTS TWO CONSULTANTS TO LEAD I-44 CORRIDOR STUDY

The Missouri Department of Transportation has announced the selection of two consultants to lead an environmental study of the more than 250 miles of Interstate 44 from the Oklahoma state line to the Route 100 East interchange near Gray Summit in Franklin County.

The selected consultants, Hg Consult, Inc. and Garver, will each study a stretch of the corridor, which has been divided into two sections for the purpose of the study: Hg Consult will study the stretch from the Oklahoma state line to the Route 17 interchange near St. Robert, and Garver will study from St. Robert to the Route 100 East interchange at Gray Summit. 

The goal of the study is to update and validate the outcomes of the 2008 Purpose and Need Study and provide the opportunity for public input from stakeholders along the I-44 corridor. The study will also divide the more than 250 miles of the I-44 corridor into logical segments for further study and prioritize those segments for more detailed design and ultimately for construction when funds are available.  

Missouri’s FY2024 budget from the General Assembly, signed into law by Gov. Parson, provides $20 million of General Revenue for the environmental study.

For more information on the I-44 Corridor Study, visit modot.org/forward44.


 




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February 20, 2024

 

THREE INJURED, TWO SERIOUSLY IN SUNDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

Three people were injured, two seriously in an accident that occurred at around 8:30am Sunday in Macon County.  The patrol says that 19 year old Sarah Dowling of Moberly was on US 63 when her SUV struck the rear of a horse drawn buggy.  After impact both went off the road and the SUV overturned, coming to rest on its top.  Dowling suffered minor injuries and was taken to an unknown location while both 24 year old Rueben Schwartz and 24 year old Laura Schwartz of Macon who were in the buggy were transported by MU Life Team to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

WOMAN HURT IN SUNDAY NIGHT WRECK

A woman was hurt in a three-vehicle wreck Sunday night in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 7:20pm as a car driven by 18 year old Karleigh Coffman of Gerald was eastbound on US 50 when she failed to yield to a car driven by 29 year old Bailea Walker of Owensville who was southbound on US 50 as Coffman was making a left turn onto MO 185 and the two cars collided and then Walker’s car struck the passenger side of a car driven by a 16 year old girl from Beaufort who was on MO 185.  Walker sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment.

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE CRASH

20 year old Robert Ponce of Lake St. Louis was seriously injured in a motorcycle crash Sunday morning in St. Charles County.  State troopers stated that he was eastbound on i-70 when his motorcycle ran off the left side of the road, struck the cable barrier and overturned, ejecting him from it.  He was taken to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis with serious injuries.  The crash happened at 9:30am Sunday.

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Macon County

Route AA – February 20, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Odessa Avenue to Orbit Avenue between 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Route AA – February 20, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Orbit Avenue to Olympic Avenue between 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 149 – February 13 – 22, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance 0.5 mile before and after the box culvert approximately 2 miles North of New Cambria between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Montgomery County

Outer Road I-70 (Booneslick Road) – February 20, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Ellis Road to Walnut Street in High Hill between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Schuyler County

U.S. Route 136 (Eastbound) – February 20 - 22, LANE RESTRICTION for brush cutting operations from Shaw Lane to Kelso Road between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Scotland County

Route D – February 20, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route A to CR 657 between 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Route D – February 21, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 657 to CR 360 between 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Route D – February 22 - 23, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 657 to CR 360 between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily.





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February 19, 2024

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SATURDAY NIGHT CRASH

A Wyaconda man was seriously injured in a Saturday night crash in Clark County.  State troopers stated that 56 year old Daniel Doyle was on Clark County Road 156 when his car crossed the centerline, ran off the left side of the road and struck an embankment.  He was taken to Scotland County Memorial Hospital in Memphis with serious injuries.  The crash occurred at 9:30pm Saturday.

 

TEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WARREN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A teen was seriously injured in an accident that occurred after 9am Saturday in Warren County.  The patrol says that 18 year old Shelby Sommer of Warrenton was on Route W when she was unable to maintain her lane and her SUV traveled into the southbound lanes and struck a truck driven by 42 year old Leonard Luechtefeld of Warrenton.  Sommer was transported by ambulance to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis with serious injuries. 

 

DRIVER HURT IN SATURDAY EVENING WRECK

19 year old Chase Oberndorfer of Villa Ridge was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday evening in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 5:15pm as he was on Highway 100 when he lost control and his vehicle overturned.  He suffered minor injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment.






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February 16, 2024

 

CONTRACTOR SELECTED FOR THE FIRST IMPROVE I-70 PROJECT

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission (MHTC) has selected Millstone Weber as the apparent best-value proposer and Design-Build contractor of the first project in MoDOT’s Improve I-70 Program. Negotiations to finalize the contract are currently in progress. Improve I-70: Columbia to Kingdom City will build a third lane in each direction and improve the 20-mile stretch of Interstate 70 between U.S. 63 in Columbia and U.S. 54 in Kingdom City beginning in summer 2024. This $405 million project is the first of several projects which will widen and improve the I-70 corridor.

Missouri’s FY2024 budget from the General Assembly signed into law by Governor Parson provides $2.8 billion in General Revenue for the costs to build a third lane of I-70 across the state. The program will plan, design, construct, reconstruct, rehabilitate, and add a third lane in each direction on nearly 200 miles of I-70, from Blue Springs to Wentzville.

The selected team, including contractor Millstone Weber and designer Jacobs, competed against one other design-build team. The winning proposal showed not only an understanding of the engineering and design endeavors set out before the teams, but it also highlighted an understanding of the local, statewide, and national importance of an improved I-70. The winning proposal includes new concrete pavement on all three lanes of I-70 in each direction for the 20-mile section between Columbia and Kingdom City, wider inside and outside shoulders, and improved interchange designs at the U.S. 63 and U.S. 54 interchanges at I-70. Additionally, throughout construction two lanes of travel will be available for both directions of I-70 during peak hours.

The U.S. 63 and I-70 interchange proposal includes:

Two new direct connection ramps (northbound U.S. 63 to westbound I-70 and eastbound I-70 to southbound U.S. 63)

Four new roundabouts

The U.S. 54 and I-70 interchange proposal includes two new bridges and a new and improved interchange.

For more information on the Improve I-70 Program, visit www.modot.org/improvei70.

17TH ANNUAL CHILLICOTHE POLAR PLUNGE RAISES NEARLY $8,000 FOR SPECIAL OLYMPICS MISSOURI

The 17th Annual Chillicothe Polar Plunge on Feb. 10 at Simpson Park was a splashing success, raising $7,700 to date. A total 31 brave men, women from around the area donned Hawaiian-themed costumes and swimwear to take a chilly dip into freezin’ water. Their Reason for Freezin’ was the athletes of Special Olympics Missouri (SOMO).

Online fundraising is still ongoing. Organizers of the Plunge still hope to raise an additional $2,300 to reach the goal of 10,000. Donations can be made on their online fundraising page.

Top individual fundraisers:

1st Place Fundraiser – Tom Melte

2nd Place Fundraiser – Cheryl Evans

3rd Place Fundraiser – Katie Lowe

Top team fundraisers:

Top Fundraising Team – Chillicothe Correctional Center

Top Law Enforcement Team – Chillicothe Correctional Center

Top Fundraising School – Chillicothe High School 

Competition for the Golden Plunger was steep this year. Participants were encouraged to come in costume and compete for the chance to take home the “Golden Plunger.”

Group 1st Place – Chillicothe High School

Group 2nd Place – Team Lowes

Group 3rd Place – Chillicothe Cert Team

SOMO was lucky to have Charlie Phillips as a Plunge Ambassador for this event. He is a SOMO athlete, and he worked for months to help spread awareness of the Plunge! 

This year’s event was held in conjunction with Chillicothe Correctional Center.

For more information about the Polar Plunge, visit www.somo.org/plunge.

MSHP: DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS TO CLOSE STATEWIDE FOR UPCOMING HOLIDAY

The Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to remind the public that driver examination stations throughout the state will be closed on the following date:

Monday, February 19 in observance of Washington’s Birthday.  Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, February 20.









LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

February 15, 2024

 

MOTORCYCLIST SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MARION COUNTY ACCIDENT

A motorcyclist was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 5pm Tuesday in Marion County.  The patrol says that 20 year old Austin Brown of Hannibal was on US 36 when his motorcycle overturned in the roadway and ejected him from it.  He was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital with serious injuries.

 

MAN HURT IN TUESDAY MORNING WRECK

71 year old James Iden of Catawissa was hurt in a two-vehicle wreck Tuesday morning in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 10:30am as he was on Route F when he failed to observe a dump truck driven by 54 year old Jonathan Truitt of Middletown slowing to make a left turn and his jeep struck the rear of the dump truck.  Iden suffered minor injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis for treatment.

 

TEEN INJURED IN TUESDAY MORNING FIERY CRASH

A Green City teen was injured in a fiery crash Tuesday morning in Sullivan County.  State troopers stated that 19 year old Declan Murphy was on Route C when his truck traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a ditch and caught fire.  He was transported by ambulance to Sullivan County Memorial Hospital in Memphis for treatment of minor injuries.  The crash happened at 10:25am Tuesday.

 

MDC AND PARTNERS HOST WARM-SEASON GRASS ESTABLISHMENT WORKSHOPS IN NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and partners invite the public to a series of warm-season grass establishment workshops around northeastern Missouri. Native warm-season grasses have deep root systems which make more efficient use of water and soil nutrients. They can grow and thrive during the summer when cool-season grasses cannot, and they tend to need less fertilizer and lime than cool-season grasses.

These workshops will discuss the benefits and economics of establishing warm-season grasses, establishment techniques, how to manage these grasses, and programs available for adding warm-season grasses to your property. Each workshop is free to the public, and lunch will be provided. For all workshops, the doors will open at 9:30 a.m. and the event will run from 10 a.m. until 1:30 p.m.

Feb. 21 in Shelbina at the First Baptist Church (125 W. Chestnut Street)

Feb. 22 in Elsberry at the Plant Materials Center (2803 MO Hwy 79)

Feb. 27 in Milan at the Milan Communications Center (205 N. Market Street)

Feb. 28 in Chillicothe at the Litton Ag-Center (10780 Liv 235)

Questions about these workshops can be directed to Lucas Brass at lucas.brass@usda.gov.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

February 14, 2024

 

TWO DRIVERS INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN PIKE COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two drivers were injured, one seriously in an accident that occurred at 5:45am Monday in Pike County.  The patrol says that a car driven by 18 year old Quentin Harrell of Bowling Green was on 18678 Missouri 161 when his car crossed the center line and collided head-on with a car driven by 63 year old Richard Ramsey of Bowling Green.  After impact both cars traveled off the east side of the roadway.  Harrell was taken to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis with serious injuries, while Ramsey was taken to Pike County Memorial Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

 

WOMAN HURT IN MONDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

A woman was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Monday afternoon in Adair County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 2pm as 60 year old Terri Phillips of Kansas City was a passenger in a truck driven by 58 year old Penny Pipes of Milan.  They were on MO 6 ½ mile east of Novinger when the truck ran off the road and overturned down an embankment.  Phillips sustained minor injuries and was taken to Northeast Medical Center in Kirksville for treatment. 

 

ROY BLUNT RESERVOIR TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROJECT UPDATE

Here’s an update regarding the construction of transportation improvements around the planned Roy Blunt Reservoir in Sullivan County. Capital Paving and Construction LLC, plans to begin constructing the new bridge on Mayapple Road on Tuesday, Feb. 20.  Construction of the new bridge is not expected to impact motorists.  Crews anticipate the completion of the bridge by early May 2024.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

February 13, 2024

 

RAPE SUSPECT NOW CHARGED IN SECOND RAPE CASE

A northeast Missouri rape suspect is now charged in connection with another rape case.  According to KTVO, 21 year old Anthony Shehorn of Shelbina is facing new charges of first-degree rape and supplying liquor to a minor or intoxicated person.  Those charges were filed last Friday in Shelby County.

According to court documents, the two alleged crimes happened in Clarence on December 16, 2022.

The report stated that he physically held his female accuser down on a bed and forced himself on her while she was telling him to stop and trying to escape.

Court documents also stated that Shehorn also allowed the underage female to drink alcohol and smoke marijuana while at his home.

Shehorn is being held on $100,000 cash-only bond in the Shelby County jail.

He was already in jail following his arrest in mid-January 2024 on charges of first-degree rape and first-degree sodomy.

Those alleged crimes happened in Shelbina back in June 2022.

 

CAPTAIN DUSTY L. HOFFMAN NAMED DIVISION DIRECTOR, PUBLIC INFORMATION AND EDUCATION DIVISION, JEFFERSON CITY

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, announces the following transfer:

Captain Dusty L. Hoffman, director of Governor’s Security Division, General Headquarters, Jefferson City, is being named division director and transferring to Public Information and Education Division, General Headquarters, Jefferson City, effective immediately.

Hoffman was appointed to the Patrol on August 1, 1993, as a member of the 66th Recruit Class. After graduating from the Academy, he was assigned to Troop F, Zone 6, Moniteau and Morgan counties. He transferred to the Governor’s Security Division, General Headquarters, Jefferson City, on September 19, 2010. On January 1, 2014, he was promoted to lieutenant and designated assistant director of the Research and Development Division, General Headquarters, Jefferson City. On April 1, 2017, he was promoted to the rank of captain and assigned as the director of the Governor’s Security Division.

Hoffman was born in Glasgow, MO, and graduated from Howard County R-II High School in Glasgow. He joined in the U.S. Air Force, where he served in Texas, Alaska, and the Republic of Panama. Hoffman was honorably discharged in 1992. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice from Columbia College in Columbia, MO, in 2004. Hoffman completed Leadership In Police Organizations through the International Association of Chiefs of Police in 2013. Captain Hoffman and his wife, Sunny, have four children.

 

MISSOURI ROADWAY FATALITIES DIP SLIGHTLY IN 2023

According to preliminary data, 989 fatalities occurred on Missouri roadways in 2023. This is a decrease of 6% when compared to 2022, when there were 1,057 fatalities. This is the first year since 2019 that Missouri has seen a decrease in roadway fatalities. Despite the progress, this still amounts to nearly three lives lost on Missouri roadways every day, leaving plenty of room for improvement in 2024. The Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety stresses how the four simple actions of Buckle Up, Phone Down, Slow Down and Drive Sober could put a big dent in the fatality numbers.

While overall roadway fatalities were down, motorcyclist fatalities have never been higher. Preliminary numbers indicate that 175 motorcyclists were killed on Missouri roadways in 2023, a 14% increase over the previous year (153 fatalities). This is the highest number of motorcyclist fatalities ever reported in Missouri, and almost 50% higher than the average number of motorcyclist fatalities prior to the repeal of Missouri’s all-rider helmet law in 2020. Safety professionals cite the lack of helmet use as a major contributing factor to the increase.

Other prevalent characteristics observed in roadway fatalities include lack of seat belt use, distracted driving, speed and impairment. These behaviors continue to plague Missouri roadways. Of the vehicle occupants killed in 2023, 63% were not wearing a seat belt. Distracted driving contributed to more than 100 deaths in 2023, and historically, more than half of the victims are someone other than the distracted driver. Impaired driving accounted for approximately 17% of the fatalities in 2023 while speed and other aggressive driving behaviors remained the top concern, contributing to more than half of the total fatalities.

Missouri’s strategic highway safety plan, Show-Me Zero, takes a comprehensive approach in creating a safe system to reduce and eliminate traffic fatalities. Through a combination of education, public policy, infrastructure improvements, traffic enforcement, emergency services, and personal responsibility, Show-Me Zero provides opportunities for every Missourian to help make the state’s roadways safer. For more information on the Show-Me Zero plan and to learn how all Missourians can help make the roadways safer, visit www.savemolives.com.

DEPARTMENT AWARDS MORE THAN $9 MILLION TO NONPROFITS THROUGH THE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

The Department of Economic Development (DED) has announced that it will award more than $9 million in tax credits through the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) to 46 organizations for community development projects statewide.

A total of up to $16 million is awarded through NAP annually, with projects limited to $250,000 in 50% tax credits and $350,000 in 70% tax credits. Credits for this fiscal year were awarded in two rounds, with this being the second round that opened in August 2023. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and businesses that meet program requirements. During the Fiscal Year 2024 cycle, tax credits were reserved for organizations providing critical services, with priority given to projects located in previously underserved areas of the state. A total of more than $15.3 million in tax credits was awarded among both rounds of the cycle.

The full list of 2024 Round 2 NAP recipients and projects is available here.

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

February 12, 2024

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Adair County

Missouri Route 6 – February 12-16, LANE RESTRICTION for brush cutting from U.S. Route 63 to Route V between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

U.S. Route 63 – February 13 – 16, LANE RESTRICTION for sign operations from Benton Road to Route P between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Macon County

Route AA – February 13 - 14, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from National Avenue to Nickle Avenue between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route AA – February 15 - 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Nickle Avenue to Odessa Avenue between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route AA – February 20, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Odessa Avenue to Orbit Avenue between 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Route AA – February 20, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Orbit Avenue to Olympic Avenue between 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 149 – February 13 – 22, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance 0.5 mile before and after the box culvert approximately 2 miles North of New Cambria between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Monroe County

Route J – February 13, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 1103 to just west of Route OO between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Montgomery County

Outer Road I-70 (Booneslick Road) – February 20, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Ellis Road to Walnut Street in High Hill between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Ralls County

Route H – February 13 - 14, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route HH to Lake Shore Drive between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Schuyler County

U.S. Route 136 (Eastbound) – February 20 - 22, LANE RESTRICTION for brush cutting operations from Shaw Lane to Kelso Road between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Scotland County

Route D – February 20, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route A to CR 657 between 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Route D – February 21, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 657 to CR 360 between 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Route D – February 22 - 23, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 657 to CR 360 between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily.

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN LINCOLN COUNTY INCIDENT

A Bowling Green man was seriously injured in an incident that occurred at 9:20pm Friday in Lincoln County.  The patrol says that two vehicles were northbound on US 61 and engaged in road rage when the SUV driven by 50 year old Joseph Rascher of Moscow Mills applied the brakes causing the truck driven by 20 year old Blaine Thoroughman of Bowling Green to strike the rear of the SUV and then the SUV hit the passenger side of the truck causing the truck to travel off the right side of the roadway, striking several trees and overturned, meanwhile the SUV came to a stop on the right shoulder of the roadway.  Thoroughman was taken to Mercy Hospital with serious injuries.

 

TWO INJURED IN SATURDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

Two people were injured in a two-vehicle wreck Saturday afternoon in Boone County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 12pm as 28 year old Samuel Dowell of Lawrence, KS was on MO 40 when he attempted to make a left turn and his car traveled into the path of an SUV driven by 45 year old Shilo Dorman of Columbia and they collided.  Dorman suffered minor injuries, while his passenger 72 year old Janet Dorman of Columbia sustained moderate injuries.  Both were transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

February 9, 2024

 

MACON MAN MISSING SINCE LAST WEEK FOUND DEAD IN COLUMBIA

A Macon man missing for more than a week has been found dead just outside Columbia, the city where he was last seen.  According to KTVO in Kirksville, the sister of 25 year old Malik Jones of Macon stated that she found her brother's body late Wednesday morning in the 6100 block of Creasy Springs Road, about two miles north of Columbia.

The report also stated that it appears he was murdered.

The Boone County Sheriff's Office says deputies responded and were directed to a wooded area near the roadway at this location, where they discovered the body of Malik Jones.

The investigation into the disappearance and death of Jones is active, and no other information will be released by the Boone County Sheriff’s Office at this time; however, further information may be released at a later date.

Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to contact the Boone County Sheriff’s Office through Boone County Joint Communications by calling 1-573-442-6131.

Persons wishing to remain anonymous may provide information to CrimeStoppers by calling 1- 573-875-TIPS.

 

THREE INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN LINCOLN COUNTY ACCIDENT

Three people were injured, one seriously in an accident that occurred at 6:55pm Wednesday in Lincoln County.  The patrol says that 39 year old Wade Murray of Foley was on Cardinal Hill Road when he fell asleep at the wheel, causing his truck to cross the center of the roadway into the path of a truck driven by 66 year old Anthony Holmes of Winfield and they collided.  After impact Murray’s truck crossed back over the center of the road and ran off the right side and overturned, meanwhile Holmes’s truck came to an uncontrolled rest in the roadway.  Murray was taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries, while a passenger in Murray’s truck a 6 year old boy from Foley along with Holmes was taken to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Saturday, February 3 at approximately 5:36pm, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 400 block of W Monroe in reference to a structure fire.  Responding personnel found flame coming from the upper level of a building that contained eight apartments and a laundromat.  One apartment was fully involved, and the fire had begun to spread into another apartment and the attic of the building.  The fire was extinguished with the fully involved apartment suffering severe fire damage, about 25% of the attic suffering fire damage, and the adjoining apartment suffering moderate fire damage.  The rest of the building had smoke and water damage.  All residents safely evacuated the building and were uninjured.  One dog and two cats died in the fire. 

Investigation led to a case being submitted to the Audrain County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for Arson 1st degree, and an arrest warrant was issued for James H Schade, age 42.  Schade was a resident of one of the apartments but has been staying in Columbia since the night of the fire.  Columbia Police Department arrested Schade without incident on Wednesday February 7 at about 4:45pm.  During the fire, a GoFundMe page was created for Schade’s benefit.  Anyone who donated to the page is asked to contact Mexico Public Safety at (573) 473-5800 or (573) 581-2100.

 

HANNIBAL MAN WHO HID CAMERA IN BATHROOM SENTENCED TO 25 YEARS IN PRISON

On Thursday February 1, U.S. District Judge Sarah E. Pitlyk sentenced a man who hid a video camera in a bathroom to capture images of a young girl to 25 years in prison.

35 year old Stephen A. Marquez of Hannibal pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis in November to attempted production of child pornography.  He admitted placing a video camera disguised as a cell phone charger in a bathroom.  He captured nude images of a young girl, who was 13 and 14 when the videos were made.  Marquez also had videos of the girl stored on his iPhone.

The investigation began in August of 2022, when the victim reported to law enforcement that Marquez had been sexually abusing her since she was 9 or 10 and had used his cell phone to record her in the shower.  The victim said she told Marquez to stop many times but was scared to tell someone about the sexual abuse.  She also said she was scared Marquez would hurt her while he was sexually abusing her.

The Hannibal Police Department, the FBI and the St. Charles County Cyber Crime Task Force investigated the case.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Anderson prosecuted the case.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

February 8, 2024  

 

TEENS INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN SHELBY COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two teens were injured, one seriously in an accident that occurred at 5:15pm Tuesday in Shelby County.  The patrol says that a 16 year old girl from Bethel and a 16 year old boy from Clarence were in a UTV on Shelby County Road 2322 when she failed to negotiate a curve, causing it to travel off the roadway and overturned.  She refused treatment for moderate injuries, while the boy was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital with serious injuries.

 

MAN HURT IN TUESDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

A man was hurt in a two-vehicle wreck Tuesday afternoon in Lincoln County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 4:10pm as two vehicles were on US 61 when the first driver 32 year old Demonte Lewis of St. Charles approached the intersection of US 61 and Route E when he improperly came to a stop in the right lane and then the driver of the second vehicle 59 year old Bennie Bratcher of Keytesville attempted to avoid hitting him, however was not able to stop and attempted to change to the left lane and the front of his vehicle struck the rear of Lewis’s vehicle.  Lewis sustained minor injuries and was taken to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment.

 

NORTH STAR FEEDS TO EXPAND IN BRUNSWICK, INVESTING MORE THAN $3.7 MILLION AND CREATING 5 NEW JOBS

North Star Feeds, a leader in the development and manufacturing of feed fat blends, has announced that it will expand in Brunswick, investing more than $3.7 million and creating 5 new jobs. The company’s expansion of its existing facility will allow for increased process and energy efficiency while increasing product output.

North Star Feeds’ Brunswick location recycles waste vegetable oils and fats through filtration and heating processes to transform them into useable materials for renewable energy. The company, which has been in operation for more than 40 years, provides a wide variety of products and services to meet the unique needs of its customers.

North Star Feeds’ expansion, expected to be complete in about two years, includes the addition of a new warehouse, maintenance shop, and boiler room. The company will also install new rail track, equipment, and product lines, while disposing of outdated materials.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

February 7, 2024

 

TWO MEN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WARREN COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two men were seriously injured in an accident that occurred just before 2am Tuesday in Warren County.  The patrol says that 19 year old Kayden Boyd of Catawissa was on Route W when he failed to negotiate a curve, causing his car to cross the center line and then traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a tree and overturned, ejecting him from it.  Both Boyd and his passenger, 21 year old Camren Love of Warrenton were transported by Arch Helicopter to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.

WOMAN HURT IN MONDAY NIGHT WRECK

54 year old Tina Fidler of Fulton was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Monday night in Callaway County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 9:50pm as she was on Route O when her car ran off the right side of the road, struck a fence and a utility pole.  She suffered minor injuries and was taken to SSM Health St. Mary’s in Jefferson City for treatment. 

ATTORNEY GENERAL BAILEY WARNS MISSOURIANS OF TICKET SCAMS AHEAD OF SUPER BOWL

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey warned Missouri football fans to be wary of any suspicious ticket offerings and to take steps to protect themselves as the Kansas City Chiefs take on the San Francisco 49rs in the Super Bowl on February 11.
Attorney General Bailey provides the following tips to be vigilant when buying tickets to football games:

KNOW YOUR VENDOR – Make sure you are buying your tickets from a trustworthy website, especially before you provide any personal financial information.

DO YOUR RESEARCH – If you are unfamiliar with a particular ticket seller, research the seller on the Attorney General’s or Better Business Bureau’s website for any complaints.

USE A CREDIT CARD – If you purchase tickets online, especially through an online auction site, it is recommended that you complete your transaction with a credit card.  Purchasing tickets with a credit card often provides you with protections that you would not otherwise have if you purchase the tickets using cash, check, debit card, or apps like Cash App or Venmo.

SHOP ON SECURED SITES – Always double check your URL before purchasing tickets online.  If a website’s address begins with “https”, the “s” will not appear in the web address until you access the order page of the site, where you will be asked to enter your personal information. Secure websites should also display a closed lock graphic in the browser, generally located to the left of the URL in the address bar.

INSPECT YOUR TICKETS – Physically inspect your tickets to reduce your risk of being turned away at the venue.  Check the date, time and location listed on the tickets to ensure that this information matches the accurate event details.  Also review the listed seating assignments.

REMEMBER – If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Attorney General Bailey encourages Missourians with complaints regarding a potential ticket scam to contact the Missouri Attorney General’s Consumer Complaint Hotline at 800-392-8222 or ago.mo.gov

MISSOURI CORN GROWERS SHARE PRIORITIES, RECOGNIZE PARTNERS

Corn farmers, industry representatives, and guests from across the state gathered in Jefferson CityMo., recently for the Missouri Corn Growers Association (MCGA) annual meeting and legislative day.

The morning kicked off at the Capitol Plaza Hotel with MCGA’s annual meeting, where Gov. Mike Parson provided the keynote address. Members also reviewed financials, heard from industry leaders, and elected five board members: Dylan Rosier of Mound City in District 1 representing northwest Missouri; Adam Casner of Carrollton to represent north-central Missouri growers in District 2; Brian Willott of Mexico to represent District 3 in northeast Missouri; Greg Bertz of Mayview, representing west central growers in District 4; and Danny Kuenzel of Washington to represent District 6 in the east-central region.

Following the annual meeting and luncheon, growers visited the State Capitol to discuss the importance of Missouri’s corn and ethanol industries with legislators and their economic impact on the state.

Members also took the opportunity to honor industry supporters for their contributions to the corn and ethanol industries. Award recipients included:

Friend of Corn Growers Award

Congressman Mark Alford

Congressman Sam Graves

Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer

State Rep. Dane Diehl

State Rep. Kurtis Gregory

State Rep. Greg Sharpe

Public Servant Award

State Sen. Justin Brown

State Sen. Sandy Crawford

State Sen. Karla Eslinger

State Sen. Lincoln Hough

Outstanding Partner

‘Farmer’ Dave Schumacher, KTRS

Outstanding Advocate

Don NikodimMissouri Pork Association

President’s Award

Gov. Mike Parson

Jay Schutte, Benton City

Honorary Lifetime Award

Clint Stephens, Advance

Years of Service

Jay Schutte

The Missouri Corn Growers Association is a membership organization of farmers dedicated to growing and defending the corn industry. MCGA works in the best interest of farmers on key agricultural issues and fights for pro-agriculture, pro-corn legislation.

To learn more about Missouri Corn, or become a member, visit www.mocorn.org or call (800) 827-4181.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

February 6, 2024

 

TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WARREN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A man and a woman were seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 9:40pm Saturday in Warren County.  The patrol says that 21 year old Daniel Bobadilla of Wright City was on the North Outer Road of I-70 when he crossed the center line and his car struck a van driven by 66 year old James Nash of Warrenton head-on.  Both Nash and a passenger in the car 67 year old Katherine Richardson of Warrenton were taken to SSM Heath St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis with serious injuries.

 

THREE INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN SATURDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

Three people were injured, one seriously in a two-vehicle wreck Saturday afternoon in Warren County.  The highway patrol said it happened just before 2pm as 34 year old Kyle Boatwright of Warrenton was northbound on Missouri 47 when he attempted to overtake traffic that was stopped in the northbound lane by using the southbound lane and failed to notice a truck driven by 46 year old Hans Maasdam of Omaha, NB and the SUV and the truck collided head-on.  Boatwright was taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries, while Maasdam and his passenger 32 year old Amanda Holtz of Omaha, NB were taken to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of minor injuries.

 

WOMAN INJURED IN SATURDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

A woman was injured in a Saturday afternoon crash in Randolph County.  The patrol says that 46 year old Melisa Carter of Moberly was a passenger in a car driven by 45 year old Jason Carter of Moberly.  They were on Route EE when their car ran off the road and struck an embankment.  She was transported by ambulance to Moberly Regional Medical Center for treatment of moderate injuries.  The crash occurred at 4:30pm Saturday.

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

Around 6am on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, the Mexico Public Safety Department learned that several vehicles had been gone through in the east part of town during the overnight hours.  Additionally, one vehicle was stolen.  Later that morning, the Columbia Police Department located the stolen vehicle with two juveniles inside.  After a pursuit, the juveniles were taken into custody.  MPSD is continuing to work with CPD on appropriate charges in both jurisdictions.

 

COLUMBIA PHYSICIAN INDICTED FOR FALSE STATEMENTS TO MEDICARE

A Columbia, Mo., physician has been indicted by a federal grand jury for making false statements relating to Medicare orders.

Jerry Joseph Bruggeman, M.D., 52, was charged in a 13-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo., on Tuesday, Jan. 23.

The federal indictment alleges that Bruggeman, a licensed physician, provided false statements regarding Medicare beneficiaries who received medical devices (such as braces) or genetic testing. The federal indictment charges Bruggeman with 13 counts of making false statements relating to health care matters. The indictment also contains a forfeiture allegation, which would require Bruggeman to forfeit to the government $29,440, which represents his proceeds from the alleged offenses.

According to the indictment, Bruggeman contracted with a telemedicine company in Boca Raton, Florida, which maintained an online portal that aggregated the personal information of Medicare beneficiaries who had been solicited by marketing companies. The company created medical assessments and orders for these beneficiaries then hired medical professionals like Bruggeman to “review” and sign orders for cancer genetic testing, pharmacogenetic testing, and durable medical equipment.

The federal indictment alleges that Bruggeman approved orders for medical devices for eight Medicare beneficiaries in March and April 2019. Bruggeman stated that he ordered the devices in each case based on his evaluation of the patient’s condition and determined that the device was “medically necessary and appropriate.” Bruggeman electronically signed a physician verification for each of the devices, indicating “by my signature, I am prescribing the items listed above and certify that the above-prescribed item(s) is medically indicated and necessary and consistent with current accepted standards of medical practice and treatment of this patient’s physical condition.”

In fact, the indictment says, Bruggeman never evaluated or assessed the patient’s condition, never determined whether the device was medically necessary and appropriate for the patient, and never determined whether the listed device was consistent with current accepted standards of medical practice and treatment of the patient’s physical condition.

The federal indictment also alleges that Bruggeman approved orders for genetic testing for five Medicare beneficiaries between January and March 2019. Bruggeman asserted in each case that the test results were necessary to the patient’s medical management. He electronically signed an accompanying letter of medical necessity that stated he would “receive the test results in order to pursue care for the patient.” In fact, the indictment says, Bruggeman never treated the patients.

This case is being prosecuted by Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren E. Kummerer. It was investigated by Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

February 2, 2024

 

GRANT FUNDING AVAILABLE FOR PROJECT PROM, GRADUATION LOCK-IN EVENTS

The Northeast Coalition for Roadway Safety is offering grant funding to local schools that hold student lock-in events for Project Prom or High School graduation. Eligibility requirements include a presentation or activity educating students on highway safety issues. Qualifying schools will receive $200 each to assist with event expenses such as location rental, food or entertainment. 

The Northeast Coalition will be accepting grant applications now through Feb. 15, 2024. Interested schools and/or their sponsors can submit the online grant application by visiting Project Prom-Graduation Grant | Missouri Department of Transportation (modot.org). Funding is available for up to 20 local schools.

For additional information, contact Northeast Coalition Facilitator Gerri Jeffries at (573) 248-2502 or Northeast Coalition Representative Tina Lee at (573) 248-2517, or visit the Northeast Coalition’s website at: www.savemolives.com/mcrs/Northeast-Region.

DISCOVER NATURE IN WINTER WITH MDC AND AGENTS OF DISCOVERY

Don’t let winter temperatures keep you inside – there’s still much to explore in this season! To help kids and adults discover nature, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is once again partnering with the Agents of Discovery mobile gaming app for its Winter Edition Missions.

Agents of Discovery is an educational gaming app that allows users to engage with nature while completing “Missions”, or games – proving that screen time can be green time.

Winter Edition Missions will run through March 1. Anyone can join by downloading the free app and completing the Missions at participating locations. Each Mission consists of educational challenges that teach players about local history, culture, ecosystems, and safety.

Missions include prizes to reward “Agents”, or players who participate. Once an Agent completes a Mission, they can earn stickers, pins, and other prizes.

The following MDC locations have new Winter Edition Missions:

“How Do Animals Handle the Winter?” at Runge Nature Center in Jefferson City

“Operation Backyard Bird” at Cape Girardeau Nature Center

“Winter Mission” at Powder Valley Nature Center in Kirkwood

“Winter Walk” at Springfield Nature Center

Download the free app and create an Agent profile. Then pick a Mission in your area. Download the mission before heading to it, so you can play the game without WiFi or a data connection. Then use your secret Agent tool to find and unlock challenges.

Agents of Discovery is available for download through the App Store for Apple products or Google Play for Android devices. For more information on Agents of Discovery, visit https://discovertheforest.org/activities/agents-of-discovery.

CONSIDER A PROFESSION IN INSURANCE DURING INSURANCE CAREERS MONTH

February is Insurance Careers Month and the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance (DCI) encourages Missourians to consider a career in insurance.

DCI has career opportunities to protect consumers and ensure a competitive insurance industry in Missouri, including performing work:

Job seekers are encouraged to visit the MoCareers website to learn more about current open positions within the department.

DCI is charged with protecting Missouri consumers through oversight of the insurance industry, banks, credit unions, utilities and various professional licensees operating in the state. For more information about the department, please visit their website at dci.mo.gov

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

February 1, 2024

 

PAVEMENT REPAIRS BEGIN ON I-70 IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY

Weather permitting, February 5, emergency asphalt pavement repairs will begin on the westbound lanes of Interstate 70 from Danville to the Callaway County line between mile marker 170 and mile marker 165.  Crews will be working during daytime hours between 5:30am – 5:30pm.  Motorists can expect delays as traffic will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction in place where workers are present.  All work is weather dependent, and schedules are subject to change.

 

ASHCROFT AWARDS 49 SUMMER LIBRARY GRANTS TO MISSOURI LIBRARIES

On Tuesday Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft announced that his office has awarded over $390,000 in additional funding for 49 summer library program grants distributed to several Missouri libraries.

These grants provide funding to public libraries for educational presentations, library materials and program supplies.  The grant period begins February 1 and runs until August 15 of this year.

Grants are administered by the Missouri State Library through an application process and awarded based on need, as well as the library’s ability to effectively bring the project to fruition.

A full list of summer library grant recipients for 2024 can be seen here.

MOBERLY LICENSE OFFICE TRANSITIONING TO A NEW CONTRACTOR

The Missouri Department of Revenue is announcing the new management contract for the Moberly License Office has been awarded to Marlo Group LLC. All license office contracts in Missouri are awarded through a competitive bid process. License offices are operated by independent contractors but overseen by the Missouri Department of Revenue.

Please note the current location (521 W Coates StMoberlyMo.65270) will close on February 1, 2024 to allow for transitioning of the necessary office equipment. The office will reopen on February 5, 2024. The hours of operation will be Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and the telephone number will be 660-263-4447.

While the office is closed to transition to the new contractor, the Department encourages customers to visit one of the following nearby locations to receive assistance with their motor vehicle and driver licensing needs:

Macon License Office – 210 N Rubey, MaconMo.63552

Paris License Office – 211 N Main StParisMo.65275

Fayette License Office – 106 East Davis, FayetteMo.65248

Keytesville License Office – 306 South Cherry, KeytesvilleMo.65261

A full list of license office locations and hours of operation can be found at
dor.mo.gov/license-office-locator/
.

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

January 31, 2024

 

TWO MEN KILLED IN RANDOLPH COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two men were killed in an accident that occurred at around 11:55pm Monday in Randolph County.  The patrol says that a tractor trailer was stopped partially off the roadway with the towed unit blocking both lanes of US 24 when the towed unit and the driver 31 year old Kaysamual Blanks of Rancho Cordova, CA who was outside of the semi were struck by a tractor trailer driven by 61 year old Michael Fenner of Jackson, MI.  Both men were pronounced dead at the scene.  

 

DRIVER HURT IN TUESDAY MORNING WRECK

38 year old Adam McCree of Unionville was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday morning in Mercer County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 7:15am as he was on US 136 when his truck began to slide on the frost covered road, traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck an embankment and overturned, returned to the road and went off the south side and came to rest on its wheels facing north.  He was taken to Putnam County Memorial Hospital in Unionville for treatment of minor injuries.

 

SHOTS FIRED INCIDENT IN RANDOLPH COUNTY

On Sunday January 28, Moberly Officers responded to the area of W. Rollins and Thompson St in reference to a physical altercation with a gunshot heard.

The officers learned the subjects involved had fled the scene.  While searching the area, officers located evidence of a physical altercation and a shell casing.

The officers identified the victim and learned he sustained minor injuries. During the alleged altercation, a firearm was discharged with no one being shot.  The suspect is at large.  The incident is currently being investigated by the Moberly Police Department.

 

MOBERLY POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS

The following incidents/arrests were investigated by the Moberly Police Department between the hours of 7am on 1/26/2024 and 7am 1/29/2024.

 

On January 26, 2024, a Moberly Officer contacted 33-year-old Miranda Reffett while conducting a traffic stop. Reffett was placed under arrest for an active Randolph County traffic warrant. Reffett was transported to the Randolph County Jail.

 

On January 26, 2024, a Moberly Officer contacted 62-year-old Christian Lierly near the Library in Moberly. Lierly who is a registered sex offender was found to be homeless and had not registered correctly with the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office. Lierly was placed under arrest for failure to register as a sex offender 3rd offense. While searching Lierly’s person, the Officer located suspected methamphetamine. Lierly was transported to the Randolph County Jail.

 

On January 26, 2024, a Moberly Officer contacted a juvenile at the Moberly Police Department. The juvenile alleged her mother, identified as 47-year-old Nola Midgyett had struck her multiple times with a metal baseball bat. The officer observed injuries to the juvenile and later placed Midgyett under arrest for child abuse. Midgyett was transported to the Randolph County Jail.   

 

On January 27, 2024, a local business reported an electric shopping cart stolen. On January 28th, a Moberly Officer observed 32-year-old Gregory Tolson riding the cart in the downtown area. Tolson was placed under arrest for stealing and transported to the Randolph County Jail.

 

On January 27, 2024, a Moberly Officer contacted a 60-year-old male while on a traffic stop. The male was found to be in possession of suspected methamphetamine and was placed under arrest then transported to the Randolph County Jail.

 

On January 28, 2024, Moberly Officers responded to the 400 block of S. Williams St in reference an 18-year-old female that allegedly struck a male in the face. The officers contacted the female, and she was placed under arrest for domestic assault. The female was transported to the Randolph County Jail.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

January 30, 2024

 

COLUMBIA MAN INJURED IN EARLY MONDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

A Columbia man was injured in an accident that occurred at 2:05am Monday in Macon County.  The patrol says that 45 year old Tracy Tullous was on US 63 when he lost control and his vehicle traveled off the west side of the roadway and struck a tree.  He was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

WOMAN HURT IN SUNDAY NIGHT WRECK

45 year old Kimberly Walker of Bevier was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday night in Macon County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 6:05pm as she was on Missouri 3 when her vehicle struck a deer in the road.  She sustained minor injuries and was taken to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment.

 

DRIVER INJURED IN MONDAY MORNING CRASH

67 year old Tommy Mapes of Sweet Springs was injured in a Monday morning crash in Saline County.  MSHP stated that he was on US 65 when he began to slide on the ice-covered road, lost control and his truck ran off the right side of the roadway and overturned.  He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.  The crash happened at 6:20am Monday.

 

PATROL ADDS JULY 2024 ACCELERATED ACADEMY WITH NO RESIDENCY RELOCATION

The Missouri State Highway Patrol, a premier law enforcement agency, is adding an additional Accelerated Academy in 2024, with no required residency relocation for in-state applicants. The Patrol is encouraging qualified individuals of all backgrounds to apply for the Accelerated (15-week) recruit class and is offering testing at nine different locations in Missouri. Those who successfully complete testing will be eligible to continue in the selection process for the 121st (Accelerated) Recruit Class, which will begin training on July 1, 2024. The 121st Recruit Class is scheduled to graduate on October 25, 2024.

All candidates must possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent and be 21 years of age upon graduating from the Patrol’s 
Law Enforcement Academy. Additionally, to be eligible for the 15-week Accelerated Academy, candidates must:

· Missouri Applicants: Possess an active Missouri Class A POST license or equivalent in good standing or an active Class B POST License in good standing that is eligible for upgrade.

· Out of State and Military Applicants: Basic training and experience must meet the eligibility requirements to obtain a Missouri Class A License through the Veteran Peace Officers application process as determined by POST (Must obtain a Missouri Class A license prior to the conditional offer phase).

· Must have served a minimum of three consecutive years as a full-time Missouri POST-commissioned police officer, a military police officer, or an out-of-state police officer in a traffic, patrol, or investigations capacity.

**Successful in-state Accelerated Academy applicants will not be required to relocate their residency. Out-of-state applicants will know their assignment prior to entering training.**

Upon graduating from the Patrol’s Academy, troopers are eligible to earn 46 credit hours through Mineral Area College in Park HillsMO, or 30 credit hours through the University of Central Missouri in WarrensburgMO, or 57 credit hours through Missouri State University in SpringfieldMO, toward a degree. While attending Academy training, recruits may also be eligible to earn an associate of applied science degree at Mineral Area College by completing an additional 16 general education credit hours through online courses with Western Governors University.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol's uniform guidelines allow troopers to have tattoos or brands as long as they meet two requirements: 1) The tattoos or brands cannot depict or support criminal behavior, drug usage, nudity, profanity, promiscuity, subversive groups, bigotry, etc. 2) Tattoos/brands cannot be located on the head, neck, hands, wrists, or any part of the body which would be visible during movements in the performance of their duties while wearing an official uniform or civilian attire. Troopers with tattoos on the arms that would be visible in the class B uniform (short sleeves) will wear the class A uniform (long sleeves).

The starting annual salary for the
 Accelerated Academy trooper is $58,944. Following three years of service, troopers become trooper first class and their salary is increased to $65,112. Additional salary increases for trooper first class reach a maximum annual salary of $88,464 with 15 years of service. Other benefits include group health insurance, contributory retirement, career advancement, and more.

The selection process is a multi-phase testing procedure including a written examination, a physical fitness for duty assessment, polygraph examination, background investigation, and oral interview board. Written and physical examinations take place in each troop area across the state. After a conditional offer of employment, the applicant must successfully complete a medical examination (to include vision and hearing), psychological examination, a psychological interview, drug screening, and final applicant review.

Interested persons can find out more about the qualifications by contacting a Patrol recruiter at telephone number 1-800-796-7000, or may apply online at 
www.motrooper.com.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

January 29, 2024

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Tuesday, January 23 at approximately 2:39pm, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 100 block of E Jackson in reference to a disturbance.  Responding personnel learned that 33 year old April L Biggs of Mexico was at a business cursing at employees and refusing to leave.  When officers arrived, Biggs did leave the business then got into an unlocked, parked vehicle at another business.  She refused to exit, claiming the vehicle was hers.  Biggs was taken into custody, processed at MPSD, and taken to the Audrain County Jail for Tampering 1st degree and Resisting Arrest.

 

MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE TO BEGIN ACCEPTING E-FILED STATE TAX RETURNS ON MONDAY

The Missouri Department of Revenue will begin accepting electronically filed state tax returns for tax year 2023 on Monday, the same day the IRS will begin accepting federal tax returns for individual filers. As Missourians prepare to file their tax returns, the Department is reminding customers of some best practices and available resources that can help ensure a smooth tax season.

File electronically and use direct deposit. Electronic filing is a fast, accurate, and secure way to file your return. Individuals who e-file can have their refund deposited directly into their bank account and generally receive their refund faster than those who file using a paper return.

Many Missourians may also qualify for free e-filing services through the Free File Alliance, which allows eligible taxpayers to file their federal and state income tax returns using approved software. For more information, visit the IRS Free File website or the DOR’s Online Filing resource page.

Double-check your paper return. Before submitting a paper return to the DOR, make sure it is signed, all math computations are correct, and all necessary documentation is included. Also, use the correct P.O. Box when mailing your return. For individuals with a balance due, send the return and check to: Missouri Department of Revenue, P.O. Box 329Jefferson CityMO 65105-0329. For individuals who are due a refund or owe nothing, send the return to: Missouri Department of Revenue, P.O. Box 500Jefferson CityMO 65105-0500.

Missouri tax forms for the 2023 tax year and prior years are available on the DOR’s website. All forms and corresponding instructions can be printed directly from the website. Electronic forms that print with a 2-D barcode help speed up processing.

AREA RESIDENT SELECTED FOR ALL-EXPENSE PAID TRIP TO WASHINGTON D.C. 

Chariton Valley Telephone Cooperative announced last Friday (1/26/24) Owen Wyatt, son of Don and Meagan Wyatt of Salisbury, was selected for the company-sponsored, all-expenses paid trip to Washington D.C. June 3rd through June 7th. Wyatt and more than 100 other high school juniors from across the United States will see the nation’s capital and receive a first-hand look at the legislative and governmental processes. He will network with peers from other rural communities and visit some of the country’s most historic sites and monuments, including the Lincoln Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, the Smithsonian Museum and more. Ryan Johnson, Chariton Valley’s President and CEO said the company makes this opportunity available every year to the youth of our community and hope this experience will inspire leaders of tomorrow.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

January 26, 2024

 

TROY TEEN HURT IN LINCOLN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Troy teen was hurt in an accident that occurred at around 6:15pm Wednesday in Lincoln County.  The patrol says that a jeep driven by 27 year old Courtney Aldridge of Winfield was stopped in the road on Highway 47 when it was struck in the rear by a car driven by 18 year old Drake Hipes of Winfield who was inattentive to the roadway ahead of him and after impact crossed the center line and struck a car driven by 19 year old Landon Weathers of Troy head on.  Weathers was taken to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of minor injuries.

 

TWO WOMEN INJURED IN WEDNESDAY NIGHT INCIDENT

Two women were injured in a Wednesday night incident in Clark County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 10:30pm as a disabled truck was stopped partially blocking the westbound lane of US 61 when another truck driven by 52 year old Robert Barr of Kahoka struck it and it traveled off the roadway into a ditch, while Barr’s truck overturned.  Two women in the disabled truck, 65 year old Karla McCarty of Kahoka and 43 year old Joni Young of Revere were taken to Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in Fort Madison for treatment of minor injuries.

 

GOV. PARSON’S IMPROVE I-70 PLAN RECEIVES FEDERAL FUNDING

On Wednesday during his final State of the State Address, Governor Mike Parson, alongside Congressman Sam Graves, announced that Missouri has secured a $92.8 million Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) grant to improve Interstate-70.

Missouri will use the INFRA grant for specific Improve I-70 projects, including truck parking, Intelligent Transportation System (ITS), work zone safety technology, and workforce development, all to enhance the efforts of adding an additional lane to I-70.

"For decades the expansion of I-70 was talked about in the State Capitol. After decades of inaction, our administration, with the help of the General Assembly, secured a historic investment of $2.8 billion last year to add a third lane across our state," said Governor Parson. "This additional grant money will help us build upon our historic investment and continue our administration's commitment to improving our state's infrastructure. We thank Congressman Graves for his leadership in securing this grant, the largest transportation grant Missouri has ever received."

The overall goal of the Improve I-70 project across Missouri is to provide a safe, efficient, environmentally sound, and cost-effective transportation facility that responds to corridor needs as a national interstate. Missouri’s FY2024 budget from the General Assembly supported by Governor Parson provides $2.8 billion in General Revenue for the costs to plan, design, construct, reconstruct, rehabilitate, and repair three lanes in each direction on nearly 200 miles of I-70, from Blue Springs to Wentzville.

The first Improve I-70 project's contract is scheduled to be presented to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission for approval at its February 14, 2024 meeting. The first phase of the project includes the segment of interstate from Route 63 in Columbia to Route 54 in Kingdom City. Construction on this first segment could start as early as summer 2024. The second project will focus on the segment from Warrenton to Wentzville and the third from Blue Springs to Odessa. Projects two and three are scheduled to be under construction in 2025.

For more information about the Improve I-70 projects and to sign up for project email updates, go to www.modot.org/improvei70





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

January 25, 2024

 

MAN KILLED, WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN TUESDAY AFTERNOON ACCIDENT

A man was killed and a woman was seriously injured in an accident that occurred after 2pm Tuesday in Ralls County.  The patrol says that 44 year old Frederick Thompson of Higginsville was on MO 19 when his car crossed the center line and lost control and was struck in the passenger side by a car driven by 64 year old Cynthia Kilby of Hannibal.  He was pronounced dead at the scene while the woman was transported by ambulance to Hannibal Regional Hospital with serious injuries.

 

DRIVER HURT IN CALLAWAY COUNTY WRECK

68 year old Charles Ducharme of Ashland was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck early Wednesday morning in Callaway County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 5:20am as he was westbound on I-70 when his vehicle traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a ditch.  He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries.

 

SHELBINA LICENSE OFFICE CONTRACT UP FOR BID

The Missouri Department of Revenue is announcing the upcoming Request for Proposal (RFP) of the license office in ShelbinaMissouri, located at 201 Fairground RoadShelbinaMo.63468. Bids will start being accepted February 7, and must be submitted by February 22.

For a list of bid opportunities and bid response instructions, please visit Missouri’s statewide electronic procurement system, MissouriBUYS, at missouribuys.mo.gov/. Interested groups or individuals who wish to bid to operate the Shelbina License Office must have an active Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) and must submit the proposal under the legal entity name for which the FEIN was assigned. The Missouri Department of Revenue, through the Office of Administration, is posting an RFP for the Shelbina License Office, a newly proposed office. Interested bidders have approximately 10 business days to submit their proposal for the operation of the license office in the competitive bid process, as outlined in the RFP.

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

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

January 24, 2024

 

MAN STRUCK AND KILLED IN LINN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A man was struck and killed by a MoDOT truck in an accident that occurred at around 3:20am Monday in Linn County.  The patrol says that 63 year old Alex Isom of Norfolk, NB was on US 36 when he lost control of his freightliner on the ice-covered road and struck a MoDOT truck driven by 34 year old Donald Smith of Marceline which lost control and struck 51 year old Alexander Rodriguez Gonzalez of Hialeah, FL and also the trailer of a freightliner.  He died a short time later from his injuries.  Both Isom and Smith were taken to Pershing Memorial Hospital in Brookfield for treatment of minor injuries.

 

MAN STRUCK AND KILLED IN EARLY MONDAY MORNING INCIDENT

A man was struck and killed in an early Monday morning incident in Callaway County.  State troopers stated that 40 year old Jonas Baptiste of Ft. Lauderdale, FL exited his vehicle on westbound I-70 and was struck by a freightliner driven by 42 year old Marcus Boards of Escondido, CA and it came to rest off the right side of the roadway.  Baptiste was pronounced dead at the scene.  The incident occurred at around 1:50am Monday.

 

TEEN HURT IN MONDAY NIGHT CRASH

A Gerald teen was hurt in a Monday night crash in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 8:45pm as the 17 year old boy was on Route H and driving too fast for the wet and ice-covered roadway when he failed to maintain control of his truck and it started to slide and then it went off the right side of the road and struck a tree.  He was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of minor injuries. 





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

January 23, 2024

 

THREE INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

Three people were injured, one seriously in an accident that occurred at around 1:10pm Sunday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that 19 year old Dillan Schmiderer of Labadie was crossing over MO 100 from Route T to Route V when he failed to yield to a vehicle driven by 31 year old Morgan Curtis of O’Fallon and they collided.  The teen sustained moderate injuries while Curtis suffered minor injuries, also a passenger in the teen’s car 20 year old Jacob Hassler of Union sustained serious injuries.  All three were taken to Mercy Hospital for treatment.

 

MISSOURI VETERANS COMMISSION AWARDED FEDERAL GRANT TO BOOST NURSING PAY, RETAIN AND RECRUIT CRITICAL CARE POSITIONS

The Missouri Veterans Commission (MVC) has been awarded a federal grant to help bolster employment at the state’s seven Veterans Homes. For the second year in a row, MVC has been awarded the Assistance for Hiring and Retaining Nurses at State Homes grant through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The grant allows for a one-time differential of $780 to be paid to full-time registered nurses (RN), senior licensed practical nurses (Senior LPN), licensed practical nurses (LPN), senior support care assistants and support care assistants currently employed at Veterans Homes. The grant also allows the $780 differential to be paid to candidates hired into full-time RN, senior LPN, LPN, senior support care assistant, and support care assistant classifications between December 16, 2023, and July 1, 2024.

The Missouri Veterans Commission worked closely with the Missouri Office of Administration to seek approval for the differential and applied for the grant in September 2023. When MVC was awarded the grant in 2023) only senior support care assistants and support care assistants were eligible for the payment.

During fiscal year 2023, MVC had a 53% vacancy rate for support care assistants, 18% for senior support care assistants, 13% for LPNs, and 24% for RNs. MVC is hopeful the one-time differential provided by the federal grant will help continue to retain existing staff and help recruit new nursing staff to reduce shortages. In addition to the one-time differential, MVC offers a paid certified nursing assistant (CNA) training course. The training allows individuals interested in a healthcare career the opportunity to earn a paycheck while attaining their CNA certification at no cost. Individuals interested in employment with MVC can find opportunities at mocareers.mo.gov/dps/mvc/apply.

The Missouri Veterans Commission operates seven state Veterans Homes, five State Veterans Cemeteries, and the Veterans Services Program. The Commission is committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care for Veterans, seamlessly integrated with the Veteran community, emphasizing a culture of transparency and excellence. For more information about Missouri Veterans Commission programs, call 573-751-3779 or visit mvc.dps.mo.gov.

MDC INVITES TEACHERS AND COACHES TO BECOME CERTIFIED AS A BASIC ARCHERY INSTRUCTOR

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is offering a certification course for teachers and coaches to become certified as a Basic Archery Instructor. This certification is necessary to use the Missouri National Archery in the Schools Program (MoNASP) in their curriculum or to assist an afterschool team.

MoNASP is modeled on the National Archery in the Schools Program which began with a simple idea of teaching kids the basics of archery as part of school curriculum. This is a hybrid course, which requires online work ahead of the training. The in-person portion of this training will be held at the following locations, and interested persons are only required to attend one of the two in-person trainings offered:

MoNASP aims to include children of nearly every background.  Nearly everyone—regardless of age, size, or physical ability—can succeed at archery. Kids love archery, and archery helps kids excel. Statistics show that school archery programs:

Educators who are interested in MoNASP can also work to qualify for rebates to repay the cost of purchasing equipment. For more information about MoNASP, go to http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4nR. For any questions about these trainings, please contact Kathi Moore at kathi.moore@mdc.mo.gov.

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

January 22, 2024

 

MAN HURT IN EARLY SUNDAY MORNING WRECK

39 year old Michael Abbott of St. Ann was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck early Sunday morning in Callaway County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 1:30am as he was westbound on I-70 when his freightliner ran off the right side of the road and overturned.  He was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries.

 

TEEN INJURED IN CALLAWAY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Fulton teen was injured in an accident that occurred at 12:15am Saturday in Callaway County.  The patrol says that 19 year old Devin Jennings was on County Road 410 and driving too fast for conditions when he failed to maintain control and his car skidded off the left side of the roadway and struck several trees.  He sustained moderate injuries and was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Audrain County

Missouri Route 151 – January 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 116 to CR 132 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Marion County

U.S. Route 24 – January 29 – February 7, LANE RESTRICTION for fiber optic repairs at the Mississippi River bridge from 1,200 feet east of CR 357 extending east 4,400 feet between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily, Monday through Friday.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

January 19, 2024

 

MDC REPORTS FINAL DEER HARVEST AT RECORD LEVEL

Missouri's 2023-2024 deer-hunting season ended Jan. 15 with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reporting a preliminary record-setting total deer harvest for the season of 326,026. This year’s new harvest record surpasses the one set in 2006 of 325,457.

Of the deer harvested, 147,705 were antlered bucks, 29,060 were button bucks, and 149,261 were does. Top harvest counties for the overall deer season were Franklin with 7,395, Howell with 6,346 and Texas with 6,181.

Hunters harvested 299,719 deer during the 2022-2023 deer hunting season with 140,735 being antlered bucks, 27,028 being button bucks, and 131,956 being does.

Deer hunting ended with the close of the archery season. Preliminary data from MDC showed that hunters checked 55,396 deer during the 2023-2024 archery deer season. Top counties for the archery deer season were Jefferson with 1,440, Franklin with 1,194 and St. Louis with 1,022. Hunters checked 56,683 deer during the 2022-2023 archery deer season.

According to MDC, increasing deer numbers and regulation changes that added a new early antlerless firearms portion, a new chronic wasting disease (CWD) firearms portion, and an increase in the number of firearms antlerless deer hunting permits in most counties led to additional hunting opportunities and contributed to a record harvest.

According to MDC, this year was the first since 2013 that more does were harvested than antlered bucks.

According to MDC, this year’s antlered buck harvest is also the highest on record.

For deer harvest totals by season, county, and type of deer, visit the MDC website at extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/.

For deer harvest summaries from past years, visit mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/deer/deer-reports/deer-harvest-summaries.

MDC reported one non-fatal, archery-related deer hunting incident and no firearms-related hunting incidents during the deer season.

DECEMBER 2023 MONTHLY JOBS REPORT

Missouri nonfarm payroll employment increased by 5,600 jobs in December 2023, and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased by one-tenth of a percentage point. Private industry employment increased by 4,200 jobs and government employment increased by 1,400 jobs. The state's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 3.3 percent in December 2023, up from 3.2 percent in November 2023. Over the year, there was an increase of 48,100 jobs from December 2022 to December 2023, and the unemployment rate increased by six-tenths of a percentage point, from 2.7 percent in December 2022 to 3.3 percent in December 2023.

 

TAB TO ESTABLISH FIRST U.S. HEADQUARTERS FACILITY IN LIBERTY, CREATING 50 JOBS

TAB, an international manufacturer of industrial batteries, has announced that it will establish a 66,700-square-foot headquarters and assembly facility in Liberty, creating 50 new jobs. The company’s new location, its first in North America, will provide proximity to its customer base and the ability to quickly distribute products throughout North and South America.

“The selection of Missouri as the home of TAB USA’s first North American facility reaffirms our state's strategic advantages for growing companies,” said Governor Mike Parson. “We have created a pro-business environment that provides stability for businesses as they enter the U.S. market or expand within it. Missouri stands ready to support the growth and success of TAB USA as it embarks on this exciting journey from its new U.S. headquarters.”

TAB USA’s new facility will be located at Liberty Heartland Logistics Center. The location will serve as the company’s U.S. headquarters, with operations including industrial battery assembly, distribution, and sales. The facility is projected to open in the second quarter of 2024, with plans for additional investments over the first five years of operation.

As a leading North American industrial hub, the Kansas City region’s central location and strong workforce were major factors in TAB USA’s decision to locate in Liberty.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

January 18, 2024

 

TWO MEN INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN PIKE COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two men were injured, one seriously in an accident that occurred at 5:20am Wednesday in Pike County.  The patrol says that 25 year old Abricion Ivey of Bowling Green was on US 54 when his car traveled into the path of a truck driven by 58 year old Dellia Howland of Louisiana and they collided.  Howland sustained serious injuries while Ivey suffered moderate injuries.  Both were taken to Pike County Memorial Hospital for treatment.

 

TEEN INJURED IN TUESDAY NIGHT WRECK

A Columbia teen was injured in a two-vehicle wreck Tuesday night in Audrain County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 10:50pm as the 17 year old boy was on US 54 when he fell asleep, causing his car to run off the left side of the roadway, he overcorrected and collided with a tractor trailer driven by 48 year old Kevin OConner of Keokuk, IA.  The teen was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

WOMAN HURT IN TUESDAY MORNING CRASH

A Union woman was hurt in a Tuesday morning crash in Franklin County.  State troopers stated that 37 year old Sarah Jones was eastbound on I-44 when she made a lane change to avoid a slowing vehicle and began to slide, struck the center median and then her vehicle struck a guardrail.  She suffered minor injuries and was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment.  The crash happened at around 7:10am Tuesday.

 

DRIVER HURT IN TUESDAY MORNING MISHAP

83 year old John Willers of Boonville was hurt in a Tuesday morning mishap in Cooper County.  MSHP reported that it occurred at 10am as he was westbound on I-70 at the MO 87 exit when his truck slid off the right side of the road and struck a parked tractor trailer.  He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

January 17, 2024

 

ANNUAL RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE IN MEMORY OF OFFICER MOLLY BOWDEN SET FOR FRIDAY

The American Red Cross, together with the collective emergency services of Boone County, hosts the Officer Molly Bowden Memorial Blood DriveFriday, Jan. 19 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at Grace Bible Church601 Blue Ridge Rd.ColumbiaMO 65202.

Officer Bowden, who had been on the force for just over three years, was mortally wounded while conducting a routine traffic stop the night of January 10, 2005. After a month long courageous battle, she succumbed to her injuries and passed away Feb. 10 and was the first Columbia Police Officer killed in the line of duty.

As a special thank-you for honoring Officer Bowden’s memory and helping address the emergency blood shortage, the Red Cross and the National Football League (NFL) are partnering to offer those who come to give blood, platelets or plasma Jan. 1-31, 2024, a chance to win a trip for two to Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/SuperBowl 

BUSINESS TO EXPAND IN JEFFERSON CITY, INVESTING $25 MILLION

Unilever, one of the world’s largest consumer goods companies, has announced that it will expand its facility in Jefferson City, investing $25 million in a new warehouse on the current property. The company’s expansion will enhance its current warehouse operations to help optimize its North American logistics network.

“We’re thrilled to see Unilever continuing to grow right here in Missouri’s capital city,” said Governor Mike Parson. “Our state’s low costs, superior infrastructure, and skilled workforce continue to set us apart as a prime business location for world-class employers. We look forward to the benefits that Unilever’s ongoing success will provide for Missourians in the Jefferson City area as it continues to invest in the community.”

Unilever’s Jefferson City location, in operation since 1966, employs more than 400 workers and manufactures liquid hair and body care products that include well-known brands such as Dove, Nexxus, TRESemmé, and Vaseline. As part of its expansion, the company will add an automated warehouse solution that is integrated with its factory to support shipments and repack operations. The building project is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2024 and will be completed by the end of 2025.

 

CAPTAIN JOHN J. HOTZ TO RETIRE FEBRUARY 1

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol announces the following retirement:

Captain John J. Hotz, director of the Public Information and Education Division, General Headquarters, Jefferson City, MO, will retire effective February 1, 2024, after more than 34 years of dedicated service.

Hotz was appointed to the Patrol on July 1, 1989. After graduating from the Law Enforcement Academy, he was assigned to Troop A, Zone 7, Bates County. On November 1, 1994, Hotz was promoted to corporal and designated assistant zone supervisor of Zone 5, Ray and Carroll counties. On January 1, 1997, Hotz transferred to Troop A Headquarters and was assigned as one of the public information and education officers. He was promoted to sergeant on August 1, 1998. On August 1, 2006, he was promoted to lieutenant and designated assistant director of the Public Information and Education Division, General Headquarters. On March 1, 2015, Hotz was promoted to Captain and designated the director of the Public Information and Education Division, General Headquarters.

Captain Hotz was born in Camden, New Jersey. He graduated from Lowndes County High School, Valdosta, GA, in 1985. In 1989, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice from the University of Southern Mississippi, in Hattiesburg, MS. Capt. Hotz and his wife, Paula, have two children: James and Emily.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

January 16, 2024

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Audrain County

Missouri Route 151 – January 24, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 116 to CR 132 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Marion County

U.S. Route 24 – January 29 – February 7, LANE RESTRICTION for fiber optic repairs at the Mississippi River bridge from 1,200 feet east of CR 357 extending east 4,400 feet between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily, Monday through Friday.

Montgomery County

Route E – January 16, CLOSED for bridge maintenance at the West Fork Cuivre River bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Randolph County

Route U – January 17-18, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 2060 to CR 2070 between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

 

RESRAM CHARGE TO ADJUST FOR AMEREN MISSOURI

The Missouri Public Service Commission has approved an application filed by Union Electric Company d/b/a Ameren Missouri to adjust the Renewable Energy Standard

Rate Adjustment Mechanism (RESRAM) charge that appears on the monthly bills of its electric customers. The charge appears as a separate item on the monthly electric bills of Ameren Missouri customers. The RESRAM charge is designed to recover costs associated with Missouri’s Renewable Energy Standard (RES).

A RESRAM allows electric companies to adjust rates outside of a general electric rate case to reflect prudently incurred renewable energy standard costs (such as solar and wind). These costs would be costs above renewable energy costs already included in the company’s base rates.

According to Ameren Missouri, this case reflects RES compliance costs incurred by the

Company during the period of August 2022 through July 2023. For a residential customer using 1,000 kWh (kilowatt-hours) of electricity a month, the RESRAM charge will increase from approximately $0.35 a month to approximately $2.04 a month. The adjustment is expected to take effect on February 1, 2024.

Ameren Missouri serves approximately 1.2 million electric customers in Missouri.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

From the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

January 12, 2024  

CLICK HERE for School Closing Information

NORTH CENTRAL MISSOURI COLLEGE CLOSED ON MONDAY

North Central Missouri College in Trenton will be closed on Monday, January 15 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This closing includes all buildings and offices at all sites and locations, and no classes will be held on-ground. The Ketcham Community Center will also be closed. NCMC and the Ketcham Center will reopen on Tuesday, January 16 for regular hours of business.

DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS TO CLOSE STATEWIDE IN OBSERVANCE OF MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY

The Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to remind the public that driver examination stations throughout the state will be closed on
Monday, January 15, 2024, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, January 16, 2024.  

COMMISSION AWARDS CONTRACTS FOR PROJECTS IN NORTHEAST DISTRICT

During its regular meeting on January 3, the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission awarded the following contracts for a bridge replacement and fourteen bridge rehabilitation projects in the Northeast District.  A $1.1Million dollar contract was awarded to North Central Bridge, LLC, for a bridge replacement project on Missouri Route 11, over Mussel Fork 2.6 miles north of Missouri Route 129 near Winigan in Adair County. A $1.6Million dollar contract was awarded to Capital Paving & Construction, LLC for fourteen bridge rehabilitation projects in Audrain, Lincoln, Marion, Montgomery, Pike and Ralls counties at the following locations:

·         Route B, over Branch Lick Creek, in Audrain County

·         Route D, over Scattering Fork, in Audrain County

·         Route FF, over Davis Creek, in Audrain County

·         Route Y, over Reese Fork, in Audrain County

·         Route V, over Sugar Creek, in Lincoln County

·         Route D, over South Fabius River, in Marion County

·         Route AA, over Coon Creek, in Montgomery County

·         Route AC, over Sandy Creek, in Pike County

·         Route H, over Little Ramsey Creek, in Pike County

·         Route M, over South Branch Indian Creek, in Pike County

·         Route V, over Indian Creek, in Pike County

·         Route W, over Guins Creek, in Pike County

·         Route W, over Ramsey Creek, in Pike County

·         Route P, over Spencer Creek, in Ralls County

Additional information, regarding timelines and impacts to traffic, will be released prior to the start of construction.

JOIN THE FIGHT AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING IN MISSOURI

January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month and the national awareness day was held on Thursday. The month is dedicated to raising awareness of human trafficking and educating individuals on how to stop this crime. In January 2000, the United States made a commitment to fight human trafficking both domestically and abroad through the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000. In 2018, MoDOT Director Patrick McKenna signed the Transportation Leaders Against Human Trafficking pledge joining efforts with other transportation leaders across the country. Through this pledge, MoDOT committed itself to providing specialized training to employees on how to identify the common indicators of human trafficking and what to do when trafficking is suspected in Missouri. Missouri is a transportation hub for the United States, with large amounts of freight moving across the state’s highways every day. Common places like rest stops, gas stations, convenient stores and hotels are prime spots for the practice of human trafficking. According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, there were 240 human trafficking cases reported in Missouri in 2021, involving 327 victims. Nationally, these numbers jump to over 10,000 cases involving over 16,000 victims. Some of the warning signs of potential trafficking situation include: signs of physical abuse, signs of branding tattoos, not in possession of their money or identification, body language indicating they don’t want to be there or seem uncomfortable, lack of eye contact with anyone except their trafficker, or not allowed to speak for self. If you suspect someone is being forced to engage in any activity from which they can’t leave—whether it is commercial sex, housework, farm work or other activity—call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text BeFree (233733). Information is available online at humantraffickinghotline.org. Please save the National Human Trafficking Hotline number as a contact in your cellphone: 1-888-373-7888. If someone is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1. For more information about MoDOT’s efforts to “Put the Brakes on Human Trafficking,” go to modot.org/fighthumantrafficking.




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

January 11, 2024

 

MAN KILLED IN CALLAWAY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A New Bloomfield man was killed in an accident that occurred at 9:15am in Callaway County.  The patrol says that 81 year old Charles Nichols was on a private drive at 4604 County Road 432 when his UTV traveled off the left side and overturned on its side.  He was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

WOMAN INJURED IN PIKE COUNTY ACCIDENT

20 year old Hollidae Koster of Astoria, IL was injured in an accident that occurred at 3:55pm Tuesday in Pike County.  State troopers report that she was on US 61 when she lost control in the snow and slush and her car traveled off the right side of the roadway, overturned and struck a delineator post.  She was transported by ambulance to Pike County Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

 

DRIVER HURT IN TUESDAY MORNING WRECK

33 year old Curtis Faifer of Labadie was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday morning in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened at around 7:10am as he was on Old Highway 100 and failed to negotiate a left turn onto Jones Lane causing his car to run off the right side of the road and hit a guardrail and then it struck a tree and came to rest on an embankment.  He suffered minor injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment.

 

MAN HURT IN EARLY TUESDAY MORNING CRASH

A Moscow Mills man was hurt in an early Tuesday morning crash in St. Charles County.  MSHP stated that 20 year old Ian Miller was eastbound on I-70 and driving too fast for conditions when his car ran off the left side of the road, struck the median and then went off the right side and came to rest in the mud.  He was taken to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of minor injuries.  The crash happened at 5:45am Tuesday.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

January 9, 2024



 





 

WOMAN INJURED IN SCOTLAND COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Glenwood woman was injured in an accident that occurred at around 8:10am Sunday in Scotland County.  The patrol says that 58 year old Janice Shaw was on US 136 when she lost control of her vehicle on the ice covered roadway and it traveled off the left side of the road and overturned.  She was transported by ambulance to Scotland County Memorial Hospital in Memphis for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

MSHP: BE EXTRA VIGILANT WHEN DRIVING IN INCLEMENT WEATHER

Missouri’s weather forecast indicates snow and snow showers are expected. For part of the state, this could be the first snow of the season. Whether it’s a dusting or several inches, it can affect travel. Be sure to increase your following distance as you drive; stopping quickly on wet, snowy, or icy roads can be hazardous or impossible. Be aware that elevated roadways such as bridges and ramps may freeze faster, and a roadway that appears wet could be icy. Leaving at least five seconds between your vehicle and the one in front of you is always a smart idea, especially in inclement weather. During 2022 there were 51 people killed and 1,969 people injured in more than 7,500 crashes with weather conditions of snow, sleet/hail, or freezing.

Troopers with the Missouri State Highway Patrol urge everyone to pay attention to weather conditions and make smart decisions regarding travel. If conditions dictate, avoid driving on 
Missouri’s roadways. When you travel, make sure your vehicle is completely clean of snow, use your headlights to increase visibility, and reduce your speed when the roadway appears wet or snow is present. Lower overnight temperatures may cause wet roadways to freeze and become slick. Remember: Missouri
 law states if you’re using your windshield wipers, your headlights must be turned on.

During inclement weather, driving the speed limit is not "exercising the highest degree of care." 
Missouri
 law (Section 304.012 RSMo) states the responsibility of exercising the highest degree of care while driving rests on the driver's shoulders. Please adjust your speed to the weather. Do not use cruise control and increase your following distance. Allow extra driving time for you to reach your destination at a slow, safe speed.

Troopers suggest keeping your fuel tank at least half full. In preparation for winter weather, place an ice scraper, battery booster cables, blankets, extra coats, gloves, water, non-perishable food, first aid kit, flashlight, small shovel, and a bag of sand or cat litter in your trunk now, before an emergency occurs.

Before you travel, make sure your cell phone is fully charged and keep it with you. Do not use your cell phone when you are driving; park your vehicle well off the roadway or in a parking lot before placing a call. The Missouri State Highway Patrol emergency number is *55 on a cellular phone. This number rings at the nearest troop headquarters. Troopers are available to assist you.

Motorists are encouraged to check road conditions before driving to help determine if the trip can be completed safely. MoDOT’s Road Condition Map can be viewed at 
http://traveler.modot.org/map/. The MoDOT Traveler Information Map app can be downloaded free of charge to your smart devices. The Traveler Information Map reflects the most current road conditions and is utilized by communication officers to provide road conditions. Motorists are encouraged to download the Traveler Information Map or view the map online instead of contacting law enforcement to inquire about road conditions. Missouri State Highway Patrol communication officers are very busy during winter weather events.

Please remember to buckle up, pay attention, be courteous, and obey all traffic laws. When weather conditions make driving hazardous, drive only when absolutely necessary.

MARSHALL LICENSE OFFICE TRANSITIONING TO A NEW LOCATION

The Missouri Department of Revenue is announcing the new management contract for the Marshall License Office has been awarded to Jamie L Atkisson. The new contractor, Jamie Atkisson states “I am looking forward to adding a new chapter to the Marshall License Office with an experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly staff. We are all excited and ready to serve the community in and around Marshall. I would like to thank the transition team at the Missouri Department of Revenue, the Marshall Chamber of Commerce, my family, friends, and businesses of Marshall for all their help in making the transition a positive experience”. All license office contracts in Missouri are awarded through a competitive bid process. License offices are operated by independent contractors but overseen by the Missouri Department of Revenue.

The Marshall License Office will be moving to a new location at 615 Cherokee Suite 8, MarshallMo.65340. This new office location will open January 30, 2024. The hours of operation will be Monday – Friday, 8:30a.m. to 5:00p.m. and the telephone number is 660-886-6704.

Please note the current location 165 West Court St, MarshallMo.65340 has been closed since December 29, 2023 to allow for transitioning of the necessary office equipment.

While the office is closed to transition to the new location, the Department encourages customers to visit one of the following nearby locations to receive assistance with their motor vehicle and driver licensing needs:

·        Carrollton License Office – 1 South Main StreetCarrolltonMo.64633

·        Boonville License Office – 520 Ryan Street Unit F, BoonvilleMo.65233

·        Sedalia License Office – 3135 West Broadway, SedaliaMo.65301

A full list of license office locations and hours of operation can be found at
dor.mo.gov/license-office-locator/
.

The following online services are also available:

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

January 8, 2024

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below.

Adair County

Missouri Route 6 – January 8-12, LANE RESTRICTION for brush cutting from U.S. Route 63 to Route V between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Audrain County

Missouri Route 151 – January 11, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 116 to CR 132 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Knox County

Route K – January 8-11, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance 0.5 miles before and after the Bridge Creek bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Lewis County

Route P – January 2-12, CLOSED for patching operations from U.S. Route 61 to Route C between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily, Monday through Friday.

Marion County

U.S. Route 24 – January 10-19, LANE RESTRICTION for fiber optic repairs at the Mississippi River bridge from 1,200 feet east of CR 357 extending east 4,400 feet between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily, Monday through Friday.

Montgomery County

Route K – January 11, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route P to Bethany Church Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Route E – January 16, CLOSED for bridge maintenance at the West Fork Cuivre River bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Ralls County

Route H – January 10, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Rt HH to Big Creek Lane between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route Y – January 11, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Vermont Lane to Louisiana Trail between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

 

THREE HURT IN SATURDAY MORNING WRECK

Three men were hurt in a two-vehicle wreck Saturday morning in Macon County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 8am as 63 year old Brian Hilgendorf of Excello was on US 63 when he failed to yield and his truck struck a car driven by 62 year old Dennis Allen of Flemington, MO.  Both drivers suffered minor injuries while a passenger in Allen’s car 57 year old Danette Beeson of Ashland sustained moderate injuries.  All three were taken to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment.

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Tuesday, January 2, 2024 at approximately 9:07pm, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 100 block of N Alabama in reference to a structure fire.  Responding personnel found flame coming from the front of a home.  The fire was extinguished but the front portion of the house suffered significant fire damage while the rest of the house had significant smoke and water damage.  The owner of the home had left just prior to the fire starting.  He could not offer any information about what started the fire.  It appeared the fire started in the area of a living room chair.  The cause is still under investigation.  There were no injuries from the incident.

 

WOMAN INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Salem woman was injured in an accident that occurred at around 10:30pm Friday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that 29 year old Kyla Destifanes was westbound on I-44 and driving too fast for conditions when she lost control of her car and went off the left side of the roadway, struck the median wall, re-entered the road and crossed the interstate, before exiting the right side of the road and struck a ditch. She was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of moderate injuries.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

January 5, 2024

 

MSHP REPORTS 5 TRAFFIC FATALITIES, NO DROWNINGS OR BOATING FATALITIES OVER NEW YEAR’S HOLIDAY WEEKEND

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, provides the following preliminary statistics related to the New Year’s holiday weekend:

Five people died and 59 were injured in 115 traffic crashes during the 2024 New Year’s holiday counting period, which began at 6 p.m. Friday, December 29, 2023, and ended at 11:59 p.m. Monday, January 1, 2024. There were 0 boating crashes and 0 drownings over the 2024 New Year’s holiday counting period.

2024 New Year’s Holiday Traffic Statistics

Troopers investigated the following:

Traffic Crashes — 115
Traffic Crash Injuries — 59
Traffic Crash Fatalities — 3
DWI — 139

 

One traffic fatality occurred in each of the following areas: Troop C, Weldon Spring Area, Troop D, Springfield area, and Troop G, Willow Spring area. The Columbia Missouri Police Department and the Kansas City Missouri Police
Department each worked one fatality crash.

 

MDC REPORTS 12,465 DEER TAKEN DURING ALTERNATIVE METHODS PORTION

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows deer hunters in Missouri harvested 12,465 deer during the alternative methods portion of firearms deer season, Dec. 23 – Jan. 2. Of the 12,465 deer harvested, 3,130 were antlered bucks, 1,450 were button bucks, and 7,885 were does.

Top harvest counties were Callaway with 296 deer harvested, Franklin with 250, and Macon with 228.

The harvest total for last year’s alternative methods portion was 8,724. This year’s harvest total was eight-percent higher than the previous five-year average.

For current ongoing preliminary harvest totals by season, county, and type of deer, visit the MDC website at https://extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/.

For harvest summaries from past years, visit https://mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/deer/deer-reports/deer-harvest-summaries.

The archery deer and turkey season runs through Jan. 15.

Find more information on deer hunting from MDC’s 2023 Fall Deer & Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information booklet, available where permits are sold and online at https://mdc.mo.gov/sites/default/files/2023-08/2023FDT.pdf.

USCELLULAR AWARDED ADDITIONAL $2.1 MILLION FROM THE MISSOURI CELL TOWERS GRANT PROGRAM

UScellular has been awarded $2.1 million to build four cell sites in the second round of grants from the Missouri Cell Towers Grant Program. With the $5.8 million awarded in the first round, the company has received $7.9 million overall to enhance mobile and in-home connectivity in several counties across the state.  

The Missouri Cell Towers Grant Program is managed by the Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) and funded through the American Rescue Plan Act. It is focused on investing in the expansion of cellular service statewide.  

With this new round of funding, UScellular will build four cell sites that will provide additional wireless coverage in Marion, Ralls, Adair, Knox, Macon, Shelby, Pulaski and Texas counties.  

In total, UScellular will build 15 new towers across Missouri through this program. Information on the previous $5.8 million grant UScellular received is available at https://newsroom.uscellular.com/uscellular-awarded-58-million-from-the-missouri-cell-towers-grant-program/ 


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

January 4, 2024

 

MAN HURT IN TUESDAY AFTERNOON MISHAP

29 year old Dustin Partin of Kirksville was hurt in a Tuesday afternoon mishap in Macon County.  State troopers report that it occurred at 4:45pm as he was on Southwest Blvd. when he failed to negotiate a curve, went off the right side of the road and struck a tree.  He was taken to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment of minor injuries.

 

WOMAN HURT IN WEDNESDAY MORNING CRASH

52 year old Diane Perkins of Clark was hurt in a Wednesday morning crash in Randolph County.  MSHP stated that she was on US 63 when her truck struck a freightliner driven by 33 year old Aaron Nahler of Columbia who failed to yield the right of way.  Perkins suffered moderate injuries and was transported by ambulance to Boone Hospital for treatment.  The crash happened at 6:45am Wednesday.

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN CALLAWAY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Holts Summit man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 11:10pm Tuesday in Callaway County.  The patrol says that 31 year old Andrew Dyson was on County Road 304 and being pursued by a Callaway County Deputy when his SUV traveled off the left side of the roadway, struck a fence and overturned.  He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

DRIVERS INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN TUESDAY EVENING WRECK

Both drivers were injured, one seriously in a two-vehicle wreck Tuesday evening in Lincoln County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 5pm as 63 year old Preston Browning of Foley was on Route W when his car crossed the center line and struck a car driven by 48 year old Sherry Le Blanc of Foley.  The impact caused her car to run off the right side of the road.  She was taken to SSM St. Joseph Hospital West in Lake St. Louis for treatment of moderate injuries while the man was taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

January 3, 2024

 

WOMAN HURT IN MARION COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Palmyra woman was hurt in an accident that occurred just before 2pm on Monday in Marion County.  The patrol says that 54 year old Ginger Ewing was on County Road 266 when her car traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a utility pole.  She was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

 

MAN INJURED IN SUNDAY NIGHT WRECK

65 year old La-Nay AO Pazan Clay of LaBelle was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday night in Knox County.  The highway patrol said he was on MO 6 when he lost control of his truck and overcorrected, causing it to run off the right side of the road and overturned.  He was transported by ambulance to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.  The wreck happened at around 5:30pm Sunday.

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Monday, January, 1, 2024, at approximately 9:15pm, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 1200 block of W Liberty in reference to a structure fire.  Responding personnel found fire in the middle section of a building used for storage and light industrial work.  The fire was contained and extinguished with that section suffering moderate fire damage and the rest of building having minimal damage.  It appeared the fire started in the area of a furnace and was noticed by an employee who was in another section of the building.  There were no injuries from the incident.

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

January 2, 2024

 

I-70 PAVEMENT REPAIR WORK IN MONTGOMERY AND WARREN COUNTIES

The asphalt pavement repair work scheduled on the eastbound and westbound lanes of Interstate 70 in Montgomery and Warren counties has been postponed during the winter season with operations anticipated to begin in the spring of 2024.

This project is located from the Callaway County line to the St. Charles County line, between mile marker 167 and mile marker 188. When the project begins, all work will occur during the nighttime hours of 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where workers are present. Motorists can expect intermittent delays as traffic will be reduced to one lane where work is occurring.

 

STATE AWARDS MORE THAN $7.9 MILLION IN ARPA FUNDING TO EXPAND CELLULAR SERVICE STATEWIDE

The Department of Economic Development (DED) has announced that it has awarded a total of more than $7.9 million through the second round of the Cell Towers Grant Program. Grants will be awarded to 14 projects to construct new towers that provide quality cellular service and greater 911 connectivity to high-cost areas. The program, funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), is focused on investing in the expansion of cellular service statewide.

“This second round of funding awarded through the Cell Towers Grant Program will further promote economic growth and public safety statewide,” said Governor Mike Parson. “As we continue to improve Missouri’s critical infrastructure, including cellular service, we appreciate the efforts of the Office of Broadband Development. As a result of this program, thousands of locations lacking adequate coverage will now receive quality, reliable cellular connectivity.”

Projects receiving funds through the Cell Towers Grant Program’s second round are expected to serve more than 18,000 high-need locations that previously lacked quality cellular service. The program, administered by DED’s Office of Broadband Development, was launched in May 2023 and awarded competitive grants to applicants who also contributed private funding in addition to grant funds. Each project awarded through this round will result in the construction of one cellular tower, for a total of 14 new towers built statewide.

DED opened the second round of funding through the Cell Towers Grant Program on October 20, 2023. The entirety of the $20 million appropriated by Governor Parson and the General Assembly has now been awarded to eligible providers and tower owners for the construction of new towers. 

Details on recipients of the Cell Towers Grant Program – Round 2 are available here.

To learn more about DED’s ARPA-funded grant programs, visit ded.mo.gov/arpa.

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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December 29, 2023

 

MSHP: BRING IN THE NEW YEAR SAFELY

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, encourages everyone to make good decisions regarding their New Year’s celebration. No one wants to start 2024 with a traffic crash or DWI arrest. During the 2023 New Year’s period, six people were killed and 345 injured in 925 traffic crashes in Missouri.

The 2024 New Year’s holiday counting period begins at 6 p.m. Friday, December 29, 2023, and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, January 1, 2024.

If your plans to welcome the new year include alcohol, please designate a sober driver or utilize a ride share service or taxi to ensure you arrive home safely. The roadway is no place for a driver under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you kill or injure someone, you’ll pay the price for the rest of your life.

If you plan to drive this New Year’s, remember to buckle up and make sure all your passengers do the same. Pay attention, obey all traffic laws, and when in doubt, yield the right-of-way. Be sure to use your turn signal to communicate your intentions. Remember: The posted speed limit reflects the roadway's classification and is not a suggestion! Download the MoDOT Traveler Information app to your smart phone, and check road conditions before you travel. Allow extra time during inclement weather or consider staying home. Missouri law states if you’re using your windshield wipers, your headlights must be turned on. The public is encouraged to call the Patrol's Emergency Assistance Number (800) 525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone if they witness criminal activity or experience an emergency. These emergency numbers are operational for both highway and water emergencies. We're here to help.

 

NINE COMPANIES, INVESTING MORE THAN $55 MILLION AND CREATING UP TO 296 JOBS, AMONG 90 BUSINESS PROJECTS SUPPORTED IN 2023

The Department of Economic Development (DED) announced Wednesday the expansion of nine companies, among 90 total business projects, that it supported during 2023. The more than $55 million invested and up to 296 new jobs created by the companies are part of a total $2.9 billion in investment and more than 5,100 jobs created since January as a result of DED’s support.

“We’re excited to see each of these employers growing in Missouri,” said Governor Mike Parson. “Our investments in our state’s workforce and infrastructure are supporting the growth of leading businesses statewide. We look forward to seeing these companies continue to succeed as they create new jobs and opportunities for Missourians.”

St. Louis region

Advantage Solutions, a Fortune 1000 company that provides outsourced sales and marketing solutions to brands and retailers, is expanding in Clayton, investing $970,000 and creating new jobs.

CEdge, an IT software consulting firm, is expanding in St. Louis, investing more than $8.9 million and creating 90 new jobs.

Maryville Consulting Group, a professional services firm that helps Fortune 2000 companies transform into technology-enabled businesses, is expanding in St. Louis, investing more than $5.1 million and creating 66 new jobs.

Velta Technology, a company providing cybersecurity services and solutions for the protection of industrial assets, is expanding in St. Charles, investing $862,500 and creating 15 new jobs.

Kansas City region

Cathcart Repair Facilities, a leading freight car repair and rail services company, is expanding in Kansas City, investing $9 million and creating 20 new jobs over the next few years.

Donaldson Company, one of the largest global providers of unique filtration technologies and high-quality filters and parts, is expanding in Harrisonville, investing more than $6.4 million and creating 35 new jobs.

Reinhart Foodservice LLC, a subsidiary of Performance Food Group Company, a nationwide food and beverage distributor, is expanding in Lee’s Summit, investing more than $22 million and creating approximately 44 new jobs over six years. 

Southeast region

Archaea Energy, the nation’s largest renewable natural gas producer, is establishing a location in Dexter with a significant investment and the creation of two new jobs.

Bulk Tank, a manufacturer of innovative parts for the pneumatic tank trailer industry, is expanding in Park Hills, investing $600,000 and creating nine new jobs.

The Regional Engagement Division, established in 2019, is dedicated to business development statewide through collaboration with local partners. With project managers serving in the areas where they live and work, the division delivers economic development solutions designed to meet the unique needs of each of the state’s regions.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

December 28, 2023

 

MSHP REPORTS TWO TRAFFIC FATALITIES, NO DROWNINGS OR BOATING FATALITIES OVER CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY WEEKEND

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, provides the following preliminary statistics related to the Christmas holiday weekend:

Two people died in traffic crashes during the 78-hour counting period, which began at 6 p.m. Friday, December 22, 2023, and ended at 11:59 p.m. Monday, December 25, 2023.

2023 Christmas Holiday Traffic Statistics

Troopers investigated the following:

Traffic Crashes — 124
Traffic Crash Injuries — 71
Traffic Crash Fatalities — 2
DWI — 81

[Note: Last year during the 78-hour Christmas counting period, there were 1,017 traffic crashes statewide. In those crashes, four people were killed and another 318 were injured. During the 2022 Christmas holiday, troopers investigated 306 traffic crashes which included three fatalities and 84 injuries. Troopers arrested 52 people for driving while impaired in 2022.]

There were no boating crashes or drownings over the 2023 Christmas holiday counting period.

Of the two fatality traffic crashes investigated by troopers, one occurred in the Troop D, Springfield, MO, area, and one occurred in the Troop G, Willow Springs, MO, area.

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Thursday, December 21 at approximately 6:49AM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to a business in reference to someone who had just stolen some alcohol.  At approximately 7:03AM, officers located the suspect vehicle at a home around the 700 block of N Western St.  It was determined that the adult residents were not home but some juvenile family members were.  Also in the home were two 20 year-old males from Columbia, and a 17 year-old male and 15 year-old male from Mexico.  Investigation revealed that the car had been reported stolen in Columbia in August.  Everyone was taken to MPSD and eventually released to responsible family members.  The investigation is ongoing to determine what charges will be forwarded to the Audrain County Prosecutor and / or Juvenile Office. 

 

On Thursday, December 14, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the Mexico Animal Shelter in reference to a fire.  The fire was quickly extinguished but had spread to the attic, damaging some of the structure and utilities.  There were no injuries to any people or animals.  Investigation has indicated the cause was improper disposal of smoking material.

The City of Mexico has been working with its insurance company to determine the best way to get shelter services started again.  Mexico Community Development has been working with local organizations on the continued care of the animals.  At this time, all of the cats have been re-homed but there are still about 10 dogs that need to find a home.  Anyone interested in adopting any of these animals should call (573) 581-2100 extension 315.

 





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

________________________________________________________________

 

            … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

December 27, 2023

Wet, Wintry Mix Forecast for Wednesday Commute Motorists advised to plan ahead, use caution during post-holiday travels

JEFFERSON CITY – A wet, wintry mix is expected to impact motorists’ commutes starting Wednesday morning and lasting throughout the day and into the evening. According to the National Weather Service, from mid-Missouri north to the Iowa state line motorists could see up to two inches of a snowy mix with slushy conditions while areas in the southern half of the state may see a mix of rain and snow.  The Missouri Department of Transportation urges all drivers to be prepared for changing road conditions in their current location as well as their final destination, especially as many are traveling for the holidays. Motorists should use extra caution during and after the precipitation: leave early and slow down for the conditions, buckle up and avoid distractions. Be especially cautious on elevated surfaces such as bridges and overpasses.  MoDOT will continue to monitor the forecast and road conditions for updates and will have crews clearing roadways as conditions warrant. If you encounter a snowplow on the road, always give crews room to work. Do not tailgate or try to pass. Snowplow operators are reacting to the road ahead of them with a very limited field of vision. You may see them, but they may not see you.  Missouri road conditions are available 24/7 on the Traveler Information Map at www.modot.org, or through MoDOT’s smartphone app, available for iPhone and Android phones. You can also find road conditions and warnings by following MoDOT on Facebook and X (Twitter) or by calling 888-ASK-MODOT (888-275-6636) to speak with a customer service representative.

 

Completion of New Bridge Opens U.S. Route 136 in Schuyler County

HANNIBAL – The new bridge on U.S. Route 136 in Schuyler County, over North Fork Middle Fabius River, 1.1 miles east of Route C near Lancaster, opened to traffic today, December 20.  Bleigh Construction Company of Palmyra, Missouri was awarded the contract last year in the amount of $2,263,616.  This contract also includes an additional bridge replacement project located on Missouri Route 15 in Scotland County, over North Fork Wyaconda River, 0.4 miles south of Route EE near Memphis. This bridge was completed earlier this summer.  MoDOT asks drivers to work with us by always buckling up, putting your phone down, slowing down and moving over in work zones. Know before you go and check what work zones you might encounter.  All work zones are online at www.modot.org, and you can receive news about roadwork in your area by signing up for emails and text alerts at e-updates




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

December 26, 2023



 


Boone County Wreck Injures One


A Columbia man was injured in a head on collision on Forum Boulevard in Columbia at 9:15pm on Sunday. According to the Mo State Highway patrol the accident happened at Woodrail Avenue when 20 year old Avion Skillman was driving Northbound in the Southbound lane of Forum Boulevard and struck a vehicle head on causing his vehicle to rotate, before traveling off the left side of the raodway where it struck a stop sign. The other vehicle driven by 61 year old Roland Ballenger became disabled in the intersection. Ballenger sustained moderate injuries and was taken by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment. The Boone County sheriff Department, and Columbia Police Department assisted at the scene.







LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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December 22, 2023

 

NOVEMBER 2023 MISSOURI JOBS REPORT

Missouri nonfarm payroll employment increased by 5,900 jobs in November 2023, and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased by one-tenth of a percentage point. Private industry employment increased by 5,600 jobs and government employment increased by 300 jobs. The state's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 3.2 percent in November 2023, up from 3.1 percent in October 2023. Over the year, there was an increase of 40,700 jobs from November 2022 to November 2023, and the unemployment rate increased by half of a percentage point, from 2.7 percent in November 2022 to 3.2 percent in November 2023.  Read the full report at https://meric.mo.gov/missouri-monthly-jobs-report

MSHP: HAVE A SAFE CHRISTMAS SEASON

The Missouri State Highway Patrol wishes everyone a merry and safe Christmas. One way for it to be merry is for everyone to arrive at their holiday celebrations safely. Remember to wear your seat belt, obey all traffic laws, pay attention, and please, don’t drive impaired.

Over the 2022 Christmas holiday, there were 1,017 traffic crashes statewide. In those crashes, four people were killed and another 318 were injured. This year’s traffic crash counting period begins at 6 p.m. on Friday, December 22, and ends at 11:59 p.m. Monday, December 25, 2023.

Travelers are reminded that holiday drivers will affect traffic patterns. If you’re planning a trip during the holiday, please keep this in mind. Drivers are encouraged to make sure they are well rested, no matter how short their driving distance. Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. Downloading the MoDOT Traveler Information app to your smart phone allows you to check road conditions before you travel. Be proactive: Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and allow enough time to reach your destination safely. Winterize your vehicle before bad weather arrives, but realize that sometimes, it’s safest to stay home.

If faced with a traffic emergency, motorists can contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol at 1-800-525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone. This emergency number will ring into the nearest Highway Patrol headquarters. Motorists should use this number if they are in a traffic crash, witness a crash or crime, or pass a stranded motorist in need of assistance, etc.

Troopers encourage motorists to protect themselves from all types of hazardous drivers by making sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained in a seat belt or child restraint. Please obey all traffic laws, and if alcohol is part of your holiday, designate a sober driver. Every driver can help make our roadways safer this holiday season.

 

25 NEW TROOPERS TO GRADUATE FROM MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL’S LAW ENFORCEMENT ACADEMY

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, announces that 25 troopers will graduate from the Patrol’s Law Enforcement Academy on Friday. The ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. in the Academy gymnasium, 1510 East Elm Street, Jefferson City, MO. The graduation ceremony will be live streamed on the Patrol’s Facebook page. The 118th Recruit Class reported to the Academy on July 3, 2023. The new troopers will report to duty in their assigned troops on January 8, 2024.

The Honorable Mike Kehoe, lieutenant governor of Missouri, will provide the keynote address. Mr. John Whetsel, retired Sheriff of Oklahoma County, OK and retired Chief of Police of Choctaw, OK and Colonel Eric T. Olson will address the class during the graduation. The Honorable Robin Ransom, Supreme Court of Missouri, will administer the Oath of Office to the new troopers. The Troop F Color Guard will present the colors, and the 135th Army Band, Missouri Army National Guard, will perform the national anthem. Pastor Delbert Hampton, Unity Baptist Church, Fulton, MO, will provide the invocation and benediction.

Four class awards will be presented during the graduation ceremony. The recruits accumulate points toward graduation in the categories of physical fitness, firearms, and academics throughout their 25 weeks at the Academy. The person with the highest number of points in each category will earn the respective award.

The names (hometowns) and first assignments of members of the 118th Recruit Class are listed below:

Troop A
Trooper Klayton R. Kennedy, Plattsburg, MO, Platte County
Trooper Corey W. Klotz, Nevada, MO, Bates County
Trooper Connor W. Norris, Kearney, MO, Clay County

Troop B
Trooper Kristopher B. Geren, Fowler, IL, Marion/Ralls Counties
Trooper Tristen C. Miller, Shelby, MO, Linn/Chariton Counties

Troop C
Trooper Dalon J. Brown, Hazelwood, MO, North St. Louis County
Trooper Jackson S. Collier, Farmington, MO, Ste. Genevieve/Perry Counties
Trooper Brian J. Fessenden, Palmyra, MO, South St. Louis County
Trooper Justin D. Hedrick, St. Charles, MO, South St. Louis County
Trooper Dallas R. McKenzie, Quincy, IL, St. Charles County
Trooper Roan Oosthuizen, Grapevine, TX, St. Charles County
Trooper Edgar J. Raya, St. Louis, MO, South St. Louis County
Trooper Ethan G. Talleur, St. Clair, MO, Franklin County
Trooper Mason K. Wilson, Seneca, MO, St. Charles County

Troop E
Trooper Brady T. Hart, Puxico, MO, Butler/Ripley Counties
Trooper Gunner L.R. Meloy, Marble Hill, MO, Butler/Ripley Counties

Troop F
Trooper Ryan C. Byers, Joplin, MO, Morgan/Moniteau Counties
Trooper Hunter W. Hampton, Fulton, MO, Cole County
Trooper Jonathan E. Pinker, Overland Park, KS, Camden/Miller Counties
Trooper Bailey D. Whetsel, Jones, OK, Cole County

Troop G
Trooper Chad K. Johnson, Seymour, MO, Texas/Wright Counties

Troop H
Trooper Robert K. Mott, Mt. Pulaski, IL, Holt/Atchison Counties

Troop I
Trooper Aaron M. Cunningham, Rolla, MO, Crawford County
Trooper Kolby J. Estes, Warsaw, MO, Phelps/Maries Counties
Trooper Dustin R. Willhite, Hartville, MO, Laclede County






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

December 21, 2023

 

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN ADAIR COUNTY ACCIDENT

A woman was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 9:30pm Tuesday in Adair County.  The patrol says that 32 year old Sophia Savage of Edina was on MO 6 when her car traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a utility pole and a tree.  She was transported by helicopter to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

MAN HURT IN TUESDAY NIGHT WRECK

26 year old Jacob McMillen of Center was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday night in Ralls County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 8:50pm as he was on MO 19 when he experienced a medical issue and drove his truck off the south side of the road and struck a fence.  He sustained minor injuries and was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment.

 

MODOT CELEBRATES COMPLETION OF GOV. PARSON’S FOCUS ON BRIDGES PROGRAM

The Missouri Department of Transportation Tuesday celebrated the completion of Gov. Mike Parson’s Focus on Bridges program that restored or replaced 250 of the state’s poorest bridges over the last four years. Established in 2019, the Focus on Bridges program was one of Gov. Parson's first major investments in transportation infrastructure. 

The final project replaced the Blue Ridge Boulevard bridge over Interstate 70 in Independence and made interchange improvements to the ramps and approaches. The bridge will officially reopen to motorists on Dec. 22, just four years after the first bridge under the program opened on Dec. 20, 2019, in Iron County.

"Infrastructure has been a top priority since day one, and four years ago, we set out to replace 250 of our poorest bridges through the Focus on Bridges program,” Gov. Parson said. “Today, we are proud to celebrate the 250th bridge completed as promised. From St. Louis to Springfield, from the Bootheel to the great Northwest, this program benefited Missourians everywhere. Focus on Bridges is a bold, one-of-a-kind program that leveraged general revenue to make far reaching improvements to our infrastructure for the first time in generations. While there is more to do, we know we have made a real difference and created a lasting model that will continue to serve Missourians now and into the future." 

MoDOT is responsible for maintaining 10,424 bridges on the state system, the sixth most in the nation. The average age of the bridges is 49 years, and most of them were designed to last 50 years. Prior to Governor Parson’s focus on infrastructure, the number of bridges rated as “poor” using Federal Highway Administration criteria, were increasing year over year rather than declining as now seen in Missouri. Currently there are 804 bridges that have been rated “poor” using Federal Highway Administration criteria, down 19 from a year ago.

Gov. Parson’s Focus on Bridges program was truly innovative and was made possible through a $50 million appropriation from General Revenue as well as $301 million in bond revenue approved by the Missouri General Assembly in 2019.  Maintaining the state’s bridges helps provide a world-class transportation system that is safe, innovative, and reliable.

For a list of the projects completed under the Focus on Bridges program, visit Focus on Bridges (modot.org).





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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December 20, 2023

 

MAN INJURED IN AUDRAIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Palmyra man was injured in an accident that occurred at around 2pm Monday in Audrain County.  The patrol says that 53 year old Andrew Crandall was on Route J when his freightliner traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck two signs and then overturned and came to rest on its side.  He was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

TWO HURT IN MONDAY NIGHT CRASH

Two people were hurt in a Monday night crash in Pike County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 7pm as 25 year old Angelo Logan of Louisiana was on US 54 when his jeep sideswiped the passenger side of an SUV driven by 42 year old Billie Watts of Clarksville.  After impact the jeep overturned.  Both Logan and his passenger 20 year old Briann Knochenmus of Bowling Green were taken to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of minor injuries. 

 

MDC’S NORTHEAST REGION WELCOMES CONSERVATION AGENT JACOB SIEVE TO PIKE COUNTY

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) congratulated 16 new conservation agents upon their graduation from MDC’s 2023 Conservation Agent Training Academy in October. Since then, these new conservation agents have been gaining experience in the field training program. Agent Jacob Sieve was assigned to Pike County upon graduation, and he has spent the last several months becoming familiar with the area. Agent Sieve will be joining Agent Otterstein to cover Pike County.

Agent Sieve grew up in Imperial, Missouri, and he has always had his heart set on becoming a conservation agent. He attended the University of Missouri-Columbia where he graduated with a degree in Fisheries and Wildlife. Upon obtaining his degree, Sieve immediately applied for the 2023 Conservation Agent Training Academy. “I’ve been hunting and fishing in Pike County for a few years now,” says Sieve. “I can’t wait to work here for years to come!” Agent Sieve can be contacted via phone at (573) 470-0129 or via email at jacob.sieve@mdc.mo.gov.

These new agents join 200 existing MDC agents in serving and protecting Missouri’s fish, forest, and wildlife. To find a list of conservation agents by county, go to https://short.mdc.mo.gov/4ok.

GOVERNOR PARSON ANNOUNCES $5 MILLION IN GRANTS APPROVED FOR 20 MISSOURI COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

On Monday, Governor Mike Parson announced $5 million in grant funding has been approved for 20 Missouri colleges and universities to continue enhancing nursing education programs statewide.

“It is vitally important that we continue to invest in Missouri’s health care workforce to stay competitive nationally, especially for our high demand fields such as nursing,” Governor Parson said. “These grant funds will allow nursing programs to increase faculty support, develop future faculty through scholarships and nursing educator programs, and invest in clinical simulation technology and equipment.”

These 20 competitive grants totaling $5 million were part of a special appropriation to the Missouri State Board of Nursing that was recommended and approved by Governor Parson. The approved grants include:


The nursing programs that were awarded funds will provide scholarships and tuition assistance for nursing faculty, clinical simulation equipment and staffing, technology enhancements, faculty pay increases, nursing faculty professional development, and graduate nursing program development to educate more nursing faculty.





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December 19, 2023

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN LINCOLN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 1:20am Monday in Lincoln County.  The patrol says that 26 year old Joshua Lilly of Eolia was on US 61 when he attempted to avoid a truck but was not able to do so as his vehicle struck the left side of the truck causing it to travel off the right side of the roadway while his vehicle went off the left side of the road and overturned.  Lilly was transported by ambulance to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis with serious injuries.

 

WOMAN HURT IN SUNDAY MORNING WRECK

A Wentzville woman was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday morning in Lincoln County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 9:15am as 32 year old Brittany Rozier was on Highway 47 when the driver side tire on her car sustained a malfunction, causing it to run off the west side of the road and struck a culvert.  She suffered minor injuries and was taken to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment.

 

DRIVER INJURED IN SUNDAY MORNING CRASH

58 year old David Anderson of St. Louis was injured in a Sunday morning crash in Warren County.  State troopers stated that he was on Route O when he failed to negotiate a curve and his car went off the right side of the road, struck a driveway embankment and was ejected from it.  He was taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis for treatment of moderate injuries.  The crash occurred at 7:55am Sunday.

 

TWO INJURED IN CALLAWAY COUNTY MISHAP

Two Fulton residents were injured in an early Sunday morning mishap in Callaway County.  MSHP reported that it happened at 2am as both 21 year old Sarah Peters and 28 year old Robert Snider were passengers in a van driven by 20 year old Casper Atterberry of Fulton.  They were on County Road 105 when the van began skidding on a gravel road, causing it to travel off the right side and struck a ditch.  Both Peters and Snider were transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

 




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December 18, 2023

 

MAN KILLED AND ANOTHER INJURED IN EARLY SATURDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

A man was killed while another was injured in an early Saturday morning accident in Howard County.  The patrol says it occurred just before 2am as 39 year old Joshua McNabb of St. Louis was a passenger in a car driven by 42 year old David Brown of Moberly.  They were on MO 124 when Brown failed to navigate a curve, causing the car to travel off the left side of the roadway, hit a ditch and overturned.  McNabb was pronounced dead at the scene while Brown was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

DRIVER KILLED IN SATURDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

65 year old Dennis Klatt of New Franklin was killed in a Saturday afternoon crash in Howard County.  State troopers stated that he was on Missouri 5 when his truck ran off the right side of the roadway, he overcorrected, causing it to travel off the left side of the road and struck a trailer parked in a private lot.  He was pronounced dead at the scene.  The crash happened at 4pm Saturday. 

 

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY WRECK

A Sullivan woman was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck that occurred at 2:40pm Saturday in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said that 40 year old Christina Monshower was on MO 185 when her truck ran off the right side of the road and struck a tree.  She was taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Thursday, December 14 at approximately 10:23am, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 100 block of Morris Street in reference to a fire at the Mexico Animal Shelter.  Responding personnel found an outside wall burning and fire in the attic.  MPSD, Shelter staff, and numerous volunteers got all the animals out of the building and found places for them to stay temporarily.  Around 30 dogs and cats were safely removed.  The fire was contained and extinguished with the south portion of the building suffering significant fire damage and the north section suffering smoke and water damage.  There were no injuries from the incident.  The cause of the fire is still under investigation.  City staff is working to resume animal control and shelter operations as soon as possible.


 




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December 15, 2023

 

DRIVER HURT IN RANDOLPH COUNTY ACCIDENT

23 year old Brianna Walters of Armstrong was hurt in an accident that occurred at 11:35pm Wednesday in Randolph County.  The highway patrol said that she was on Route B when her car traveled off the right side of the roadway, she overcorrected, causing it to run off the left side of the road and overturned.  She suffered minor injuries but was not transported to the hospital.

 

WOMAN INJURED IN WEDNESDAY EVENING WRECK

A Fulton woman was injured in a two-vehicle wreck Wednesday evening in Boone County.  State troopers stated that it happened at around 5:15pm as 23 year old Jason Ticgelaor of Columbia was stopped to make a left turn on Route WW east of Purdy Lane when his car was struck in the rear by a car driven by 69 year old Rhonda Duckworth of Fulton.  She sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Boone Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

 

TEEN INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY CRASH

A teen was injured in a Wednesday night crash in Franklin County.  The patrol says that it occurred at 6:05pm as 19 year old Brenden Welcher of Union was backing out of a private driveway onto Pottery Road when his car was struck by a truck driven by an unknown driver which fled the scene of the crash.  Welcher was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

MISSOURI IMPLEMENTS STATEWIDE PRESCRIPTION DRUG MONITORING PROGRAM

The State of Missouri’s statewide prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP) was activated on Wednesday.  The purpose of PDMP is to reduce abuse and misuse of controlled substances such as opioids by making dispensation information for such substances available to prescribers, dispensers, and health care providers.  Now, pharmacies in the state of Missouri are required to submit information to the PDMP when they dispense any prescribed Schedule II, III, or IV controlled substances to patients in Missouri.  The program was established in 2021 with the signing of Senate Bill 63.

After the passage of SB 63, the Missouri Joint Oversight Task Force for Prescription Drug Monitoring (JOTF) was created, which is the body that oversees the collection and use of patient dispensation information submitted to Missouri's PDMP. The JOTF chose Bamboo Health as its vendor to administer Missouri’s PDMP services. Bamboo Health currently provides PDMP services to more than 40 other state PDMPs.

For more information on Missouri’s PDMP, please visit pdmp.mo.gov.





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December 14, 2023

 

TEEN HURT IN LINN COUNTY WRECK

19 year old Gage Lindsay of Brookfield was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday morning in Linn County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 3:45am as he was on Route M when his car ran off the road and struck a ditch.  He sustained minor injuries and was taken to Pershing Memorial Hospital in Brookfield for treatment.

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN TUESDAY AFTERNOON ACCIDENT

A man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 2:10pm Tuesday in Ralls County.  The patrol says that 22 year old Gavin Golden of Hannibal was northbound on U.S. 61 when his SUV struck a truck driven by 93 year old Virginia Ogle of Center who attempted to make a right turn onto northbound U.S. 61.  Golden was transported by helicopter to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

MOBERLY POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS

The following incidents/arrests were investigated by the Moberly Police Department between the hours of 7am on 12/11/2023 and 7am 12/13/2023.

 

On December 12, 2023, Moberly Officers responded to the 800 block of McKinley Ave in reference to a male subject sleeping in an unlocked vehicle. The Officers located a 69-year-old Moberly man asleep inside the caller’s vehicle. The man was placed under arrest for tampering with a motor vehicle. He was later released from custody on a summons to appear in court.

 

On December 12, 2023, a Moberly Officer conducted a traffic stop near Williams and Rollins St. The Officer contacted a 37-year-old female whose license was revoked and was placed under arrest. She was later released on a summons to appear in court.

 

STATE EMPLOYEE DONATIONS EXCEED $779 THOUSAND IN ANNUAL CHARITABLE CAMPAIGN

The Office of Administration has announced that this year’s Missouri State Employee Charitable Campaign (MSECC) exceeded donations of $779K, with $779,578 pledged to 484 Missouri charities. During the past 39 years, state employees have donated more than $35 million to the annual campaign.

Other notable highlights from this year’s campaign:

The MSECC is an annual fundraising effort organized by the Office of Administration that provides state employees and retirees with the opportunity to make donations to their favorite charitable organizations through the convenience of payroll deduction or one-time gifts. The State of Missouri has a history of philanthropy and a spirit of service. Since the inception of the annual campaign, state employees have donated more than $35 million to charities statewide. Donations have exceeded $1 million in 18 of the 39 years.

For more information on the Missouri State Employee Charitable Campaign, visit msecc.mo.gov.





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December 13, 2023

 

DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS TO CLOSE STATEWIDE FOR UPCOMING HOLIDAYS

The Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to remind the public that driver examination stations throughout the state will be closed on the following dates:

Monday, December 25, 2023, in observance of Christmas. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, December 26, 2023.

Monday, January 1, 2024, in observance of New Year’s Day. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, January 2, 2024.

 

MDC REPORTS 18,904 DEER HARVESTED DURING LATE ANTLERLESS PORTION

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows deer hunters harvested 18,904 deer during the late antlerless portion of firearms deer season, Dec. 2-10. Top harvest counties were Callaway with 565 deer harvested, Pike with 513, and Lincoln with 385.

Last year’s antlerless portion harvest total was 16,241.

For current ongoing preliminary harvest totals by season, county, and type of deer, visit the MDC website at https://extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/.

For harvest summaries from past years, visit https://mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/deer/deer-reports/deer-harvest-summaries

The archery deer and turkey season runs through Jan. 15, 2024. The alternative methods portion runs Dec. 23 through Jan. 2, 2024.

Find more information on deer hunting from MDC’s 2023 Fall Deer and Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information booklet, available where permits are sold and online at https://mdc.mo.gov/about-us/about-regulations/fall-deer-turkey-hunting-regulations-information.

GOVERNOR PARSON APPOINTS LESLEY RONE AS MISSOURI DESIGNEE TO THE DELTA REGIONAL AUTHORITY

The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) has announced that Lesley Rone, Southeast Regional Manager for the Division of Regional Engagement, has been appointed by Governor Parson as Missouri’s Designee to the Delta Regional Authority (DRA).

“I’m pleased to appoint Lesley Rone as Missouri’s Designee to the Delta Regional Authority,” said Governor Mike Parson. “As a committed public servant who lives and works in southeast Missouri, Lesley will represent us well as we work alongside DRA to strengthen the region’s economy. We’re excited for Lesley and look forward to the value she will add to our continued partnership with DRA.”

The DRA was established in 2000 as a formal framework for joint Federal-State collaboration to promote and encourage the economic development of the lower Mississippi River and Alabama Black Belt regions. To fulfill this purpose, DRA invests in projects supporting transportation infrastructure, basic public infrastructure, workforce training, and business development. DRA works to create jobs, build communities, and improve the lives of those that reside in the region. DRA’s region encompasses 252 counties and parishes in parts of AlabamaArkansasIllinoisKentuckyLouisianaMississippiMissouri, and Tennessee.





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December 12, 2023

 

TEEN INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A 17 year old girl from Beaufort was injured in an accident that occurred at 10:25pm Sunday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that she was on Route JJ when her car traveled off the right side of the roadway, she overcorrected, causing it to run off the left side of the road, struck a mailbox and overturned.  She was transported by ambulance to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan for treatment of minor injuries.

 

MISSOURI VETERANS CEMETERIES TO HONOR VETERANS WITH WREATH LAYING EVENTS

At 11am on Saturday December 16 volunteers will lay wreaths on more than 20,000 graves in Veteran Cemeteries across Missouri to honor our nation’s heroes as part of Wreaths Across America.  Five Missouri Veteran Cemeteries will be participating in this event.

The Missouri Veterans Commission will host Wreaths Across America, a holiday wreath-laying event, to honor and remember our nation’s Veterans. The Missouri Veterans Commission has collaborated with Wreaths Across America since 2009.

Wreaths Across America started in 1992 when the Worcester Wreath Company began donating wreaths to be placed at the headstones in Arlington National Cemetery. Building on that tradition, in 2006, the company began donating seven ceremonial wreaths to each state and national Veterans cemetery in the country. Today, many individuals and organizations hold campaigns to purchase additional wreaths to be placed at headstones in these cemeteries. To learn more about the Wreaths Across America, visit wreathsacrossamerica.org/.

MDC SETS DEER AND TURKEY HUNTING DATES FOR UPCOMING SEASONS

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) recently set turkey and deer hunting dates for the 2024-2025 seasons. The hunting dates were approved by the Missouri Conservation Commission at its Dec. 8 open meeting in Jefferson City.

2024 Spring and Fall Turkey Hunting Dates

2024 – 2025 Archery Deer and Turkey Hunting Dates

2024 - 2025 Firearms Deer Hunting Dates

Detailed information on the upcoming seasons and portions will be included in the MDC 2024 Spring Tukey Hunting and Regulations booklet and the MDC 2024 Fall Deer & Turkey Regulations and Information booklet, available closer to the seasons. The booklets will be available where permits are sold and online at mdc.mo.gov.





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December 11, 2023

 

WOMAN HURT IN SATURDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

71 year old Mary Mills of Moberly was hurt in an accident that occurred at 8:30am Saturday in Randolph County.  The highway patrol said she was on Highway M when her car traveled off the left side of the roadway, struck a culvert and a utility pole.  She sustained minor injuries and was taken to Boone Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

 

PEDESTRIAN SERIOUSLY INJURED AFTER BEING STRUCK BY CAR SATURDAY NIGHT

A pedestrian was seriously injured after being struck by a car Saturday night in Lincoln County.  The patrol says it occurred at 10:50pm as 42 year old Matthew Stelzer of Winfield was walking on Missouri Route Y when he was struck by a car driven by 64 year old Dexter Harding of Winfield who stated his vision became obstructed by an oncoming vehicle when his car struck the man.  Stelzer was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT

On Friday, at approximately 2:07am, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 1000 block of Muldrow after an alert passerby reported seeing a fire under the front porch of a home.  Responding personnel located the fire and extinguished it with the porch suffering minor fire damage.  The resident, who was sleeping at the time, was unaware of the fire.  The apparent cause was careless disposal of smoking material.  There were no injuries from the incident.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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December 8, 2023

 

TWO INJURED IN THURSDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

Two drivers were injured in a Thursday morning accident in Adair County.  The highway patrol said it happened just before 7:30am on US 63 1 mile north of Kirksville as a car driven by 73 year old Connie Kron of La Plata was traveling northbound in the southbound lane when her car struck a car driven by 39 year old Amanda Kimbrell of Lancaster head-on.  After impact Kimbrell’s car was pushed backwards into a car driven by a 17 year old girl from Greentop.  Both women sustained minor injuries and were transported by ambulance to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville for treatment.

 

WOMAN HURT IN LINCOLN COUNTY WRECK

A woman was hurt in a two-vehicle wreck that occurred at 9:30am Thursday in Lincoln County.  The patrol says that 72 year old Cheryl Zeh of Silex was on Route E and stopped in traffic when her car was struck in the rear by a dump truck driven by 57 year old Randy Lester of Troy.  She was taken to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of minor injuries.

 

DISCOVER NATURE WITH MDC THROUGH EAGLE DAYS

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:

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


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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December 7, 2023

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN EARLY TUESDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

A man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 6:30am Tuesday in Clark County.  The patrol says that 57 year old Todd Sedore of Alexandria was on US Highway 136 ½ mile east of Luray when he lost control of his truck on a ice-covered roadway, causing it to travel off the road, hit an embankment, overturned and came to rest in the roadway.  He was transported by ambulance to Scotland County Memorial Hospital in Memphis with serious injuries.

 

MISSOURI POSTAL EMPLOYEE ACCUSED OF STEALING FROM MAIL

A U.S. Postal Service mail carrier in Moberly has been federally indicted and accused of stealing from the mail. 

58 year old Dawn Dowling was indicted November 29 on one felony count of embezzlement of mail by a Postal Service employee.  The indictment accuses Dowling of taking mail from about July 2023 to August 2023, including rebates from the home improvement store Menards that she was supposed to deliver.  Dowling appeared in U.S. District Court in St. Louis Tuesday and pleaded not guilty.  The charge is punishable by up to five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.

The U.S. Postal Service – Office of Inspector General investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Ladendorf is prosecuting the case.

 

GOVERNOR PARSON DECLARES DECEMBER AS CHRISTMAS TREE MONTH IN MISSOURI

On Wednesday, 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.





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December 6, 2023

 

DRIVER KILLED IN MONDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

86 year old Larry Lutz of Seymour, IA was killed in a one-vehicle wreck Monday afternoon in Putnam County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 3pm as he was on Highway 139 when his truck ran off the left side of the road and struck a fence.  He was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Gerald man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 3:45pm Monday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that 29 year old Gregory Vanover was on US 50 when his car crossed the center of the roadway, traveled off the left side and overturned.  He was air lifted to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.

 

MDC OFFERING A PRESCRIBED BURN WORKSHOP ON THURSDAY IN BROOKFIELD

Prescribed burns are an efficient and cost-effective tool for managing vegetation, whether for wildlife habitat or in forage pastures with native warm season grasses. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is hosting a Prescribed Burn Workshop from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 7, at the Linn County Area Career Center in Brookfield.  Registration was required.

Prescribed burning can be a valuable tool for managing native plant diversity and controlling undesirable vegetation when it is properly applied. But burns can also be dangerous if not done properly. This workshop will provide information about how to plan and execute a prescribed burn. The class will be indoors and include equipment demonstrations, videos, and an opportunity for attendees to ask questions and discuss prescribed burning with MDC staff. Participants will learn about burn equipment, burn line installation, safe weather parameters, ignition operations, and other techniques to safely conduct a prescribed burn.

 

MDC REPORTS YOUNG HUNTERS HARVESTED 3,574 DEER DURING LATE YOUTH PORTION

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 





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

December 5, 2023

 

WOMAN KILLED, TWO INJURED IN BOONE COUNTY ACCIDENT

A woman was killed, while two others were injured in an accident that occurred at around 6:30pm Sunday in Boone County.  The patrol says that 34 year old Rachel Ford of Russellville was on Route H when her van crossed the center of the roadway and struck the driver side of a jeep driven by 62 year old Debra Bates of Russellville.  Bates was pronounced dead at the scene while her passenger 63 year old Lisa Roberts of Lakeside, CA sustained serious injuries while Ford suffered moderate injuries.  Both were taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

 

MAN HURT IN MONDAY MORNING CRASH

A man was hurt in a Monday morning crash in Linn County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 6am as 40 year old David Walker of Laclede was a passenger in a jeep  driven by 30 year old Eric Miller of Brookfield.  They were on US 36 when Miller lost control on an ice-covered bridge and the jeep struck it.  Walker was transported by ambulance to Pershing Memorial Hospital in Brookfield for treatment of minor injuries.

 

TWO INJURED IN EARLY MONDAY MORNING WRECK

Two people from Monticello were injured in a one-vehicle wreck early Monday morning in Clark County.  MSHP stated that 23 year old Rebecca Grgurich was on US 136 when her car ran off the right side of the road, struck an embankment and overturned.  She sustained moderate injuries, while her passenger a 2 year old boy suffered minor injuries.  Both were taken to Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL for treatment.  The wreck happened just before 12:30am Monday.

 

MISSOURI STUDENTS INVITED TO PARTICIPATE IN NO MORE TRASH CONTEST

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, 2024.  Contest rules, entry forms, release forms, logos, past winners and educational information can be found at modot.org/trash-can-contest.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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December 4, 2023

 

WOMAN INJURED IN CALLAWAY COUNTY WRECK

A Fulton woman was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday morning in Callaway County.  The highway patrol said that it happened at 8:30am as 22 year old Alice Gatten was a passenger in a car driven by 23 year old Nicholas Jackson of Fulton.  They were on Route UU when their car traveled off the left side of the roadway and struck a tree.  She was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

TEEN HURT IN SATURDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

A teen was hurt in an accident that occurred at 9:35am Saturday in Ralls County.  The patrol says that 18 year old Jacob Gutierrez of East Moline, IL was on Route H when his car traveled off the right side of the roadway, he overcorrected, causing it to run off the left side of the road and overturned.  He sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment.  

 

DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SATURDAY NIGHT CRASH

29 year old Gordon Barnes of Jefferson City was seriously injured in a Saturday night crash in Cole County.  State troopers stated that he was on 1820 Zion Road when he failed to negotiate a curve, causing his SUV to run off the right side of the road and struck a field entrance and then became airborne before overturning and striking a fence.  He was taken to Capital Region Medical Center with serious injuries.  The crash happened at 10:25pm Saturday.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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December 1, 2023

 

MAN HURT IN THURSDAY MORNING WRECK

29 year old Brandon Bourgeois of Palmyra was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Thursday morning in Clark County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 6:25am as he was on Route A when his tractor trailer ran off the right side of the road onto its side.  He was taken to Scotland County Memorial Hospital in Memphis for treatment of minor injuries.

 

TWO INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN BOONE COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Harrisburg woman was seriously injured while her passenger also from Harrisburg, a 2 year old girl suffered minor injuries in an accident that occurred at 3:50pm Wednesday in Boone County.  The patrol says that 40 year old Stephanie Hall was on Route B and driving too fast for conditions when her car traveled off the right side of the roadway, went down an embankment and struck several trees.  Both were taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

 

TROY MAN INJURED IN WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON INCIDENT

A Troy man was injured in a Wednesday afternoon incident in Lincoln County.  State troopers stated that it happened in a private property field at 214 Frenchman Bluff Lane as 59 year old Jay Taylor reached into a truck for an unknown reason when the driver side door struck him and knocked him to the ground and then the truck rolled forward and struck him again.  He sustained moderate injuries and was transported by ambulance to St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment.  The incident occurred at around 12:40pm Wednesday.

 

GOVERNOR PARSON NAMES TREVOR FOLEY AS ACTING DIRECTOR OF DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS

On Thursday, Governor Mike Parson announced that Trevor Foley will serve as Acting Director of the Missouri Department of Corrections (DOC). Foley's appointment will become effective December 6 upon Director Anne Precythe's departure from state government. Valarie Moseley and Travis Terry will serve as DOC Deputy Directors.  

Foley began his career with the Missouri Department of Corrections as a budget analyst in January 2000 and had been promoted to budget analyst III by May 2001. In August 2008, he accepted a position with the Missouri State Senate as an appropriations analyst. He was promoted to Assistant Director of the Senate Appropriations Staff Office in July 2015. Foley left the Senate and returned to the Department of Corrections as the Director of Budget and Finance in August 2018.

Foley holds a bachelor's degree in business administration from Columbia College. 


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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November 30, 2023

 

EQUIPMENTSHARE OPENS NEW INDUSTRIAL AND UPFITTING CENTER IN MOBERLY, INVESTING MORE THAN $46 MILLION AND CREATING 151 NEW JOBS

EquipmentShare, an integrated equipment rental and equipment asset management company, celebrated Tuesday the grand opening of its new industrial and upfitting center in Moberly. The company is investing more than $46 million and will create 151 new jobs over the next four years.

EquipmentShare’s new industrial and upfitting center in Moberly will house industrial and technology operations including telematics installations, equipment refurbishment, and the manufacturing of attachments for equipment. The new 174,000-square-foot facility will allow the company to expand its research and development program, which includes assembly and telematics installation, as well as launch its tool and material refurbishment program.

EquipmentShare develops cutting-edge technology that helps contractors from coast to coast build smarter. In addition to providing customers with a best-in-class equipment rental marketplace, the company offers a comprehensive suite of solutions that includes a fleet management platform and telematics devices.

For this expansion, EquipmentShare will benefit from the Missouri Works program, a tool that helps companies expand and retain workers by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation.

EquipmentShare is now hiring in Moberly for various roles, including service technicians, mechanics, production associates, and research developers. The company offers unique people-first focused benefits like tool reimbursement for service jobs, boot allowance, and 16 hours of time off each year to volunteer. To learn more about the open job positions at EquipmentShare’s Moberly location, visit equipmentshare.com/careers.

GOVERNOR AND FIRST LADY PARSON INVITE FAMILIES TO CANDLELIGHT TOURS AND ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY

Governor Mike Parson and First Lady Teresa Parson cordially invite families to attend this year’s Candlelight Tours and annual tree lighting ceremony at the Missouri Governor’s Mansion on Friday, December 1 at 6:00 p.m. The annual lighting of the tree will be followed by this year’s Candlelight Tours.

The Candlelight Tours will run until 8:00 p.m. on Friday and again Monday, December 4 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. On Friday, the Bolivar High School choir will perform on the Mansion steps beginning at 5:30 p.m., prior to the tree lighting. 

This year's theme is "Standing United: A Salute to Christmas." During the Candlelight Tours, visitors will be able to walk through the festively decorated ground floor of the Governor's Mansion. Toys for Tots representatives will also be in attendance during the Candlelight Tours to accept donations of new, unwrapped toys or monetary contributions to support Missouri children this holiday season.

The Candlelight Tours are free and open to the public. Visitors will enter through the Madison Street gate.

 

MDC REPORTS CLOSE TO 193,670 DEER HARVESTED DURING NOVEMBER PORTION OF FIREARMS DEER SEASON

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows that deer hunters in Missouri harvested 193,669 deer during the November portion of firearms deer season, Nov. 11-21. Of the 193,669 deer harvested, 105,614 were antlered bucks, 16,081 were button bucks, and 71,974 were does.

Top harvest counties were Franklin with 4,289 deer harvested, Texas with 4,208, and Howell with 3,749. For current ongoing preliminary harvest totals by season, county, and type of deer, visit the MDC website at extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/.

This year’s harvest total was 3% lower than last year and 2% higher than the previous five-year average. For more harvest information from past years, visit mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/deer/deer-reports/deer-harvest-summaries.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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November 29, 2023

 

WOMAN INJURED IN MONDAY NIGHT WRECK

62 year old Julianne Coughlin of Clarksville was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Monday night in Lincoln County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 5:45pm as she was on Route W when she failed to stop at a stop sign, causing her car to run off the road, hit a sign, became airborne and struck a fence.  She was transported by ambulance to St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

TWO MEN HURT IN CALLAWAY COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two Fulton men were hurt in an accident that occurred at 3:15pm Monday in Callaway County.  The patrol says that 75 year old Kenneth Seals was on Route NN when he pulled into the path of a car driven by 41 year old Andrew Payne and they collided.  Payne sustained moderate injuries while Seals suffered minor injuries.  Both were taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Tuesday, November 21 at approximately 6:36pm, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 900 block of Vance Road in reference to someone being held against their will.  Responding officers located Kevin D Benton, age 31 of Mexico and a 25-year-old woman in the area.  Investigation indicated Benton told a third party he was going to kidnap the woman.  He then grabbed her, covered her mouth, and attempted to get her to leave with him prior to officer arrival.  Benton was arrested and processed at MPSD then taken to the Audrain County Jail for Kidnapping 2nd degree, Domestic Assault 4th degree, and Armed Criminal Action.  The woman was not injured and there was no indication Benton was a threat to anyone else.

 

MSHP REPORTS FOUR FATALITIES, NO DROWNINGS OR BOATING CRASHES OVER 2023 THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports four people died in traffic crashes during this year’s Thanksgiving holiday counting period--from 6 p.m. Wednesday, November 22, 2023, through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, November 26, 2023.  There were no boating crashes or drownings.


During the Thanksgiving holiday counting period, troopers report the following traffic statistics for 2023 (preliminary):

Crashes ─ 431
Injuries ─ 138
Fatalities ─ 4
DWI ─ 103
Drug Arrests ─ 10

Troopers investigated all four of the traffic crash fatalities in 2023. Two of the traffic fatalities occurred in the Troop A, Lee’s Summit, MO, area; and two traffic fatalities occurred in the Troop C, Weldon Spring, MO, area.

 

There were zero boating crashes, zero boating fatalities, zero drownings, and zero boating while intoxicated arrests reported during the 2023 Thanksgiving holiday counting period.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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November 28, 2023

 

MAN INJURED IN MONDAY MORNING WRECK

77 year old Larry Edwards of Roodhouse, IL was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Monday morning in Ralls County.  The patrol says it happened at around 7:15am as he was on Route DD when his freightliner traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned.  He was transported by ambulance to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

WOMAN HURT IN BOONE COUNTY ACCIDENT

A woman was hurt in an accident that occurred at 5:15pm Sunday in Boone County.  The highway patrol said that 77 year old Jerry Kilgore of Columbia turned left onto Route HH and drove into the path of a car driven by 39 year old Elizabeth Wright of Hallsville, causing her to steer to the right to avoid a collision, but the front of Wright’s car struck the passenger side of Kilgore’s car and after impact Wright’s car came to rest on Route HH facing South, while Kilgore’s car came to a controlled stop.  Wright sustained minor injuries and was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

 

DRIVER HURT IN EARLY SUNDAY MORNING CRASH

A driver was hurt in an early Sunday morning crash in Lincoln County.  MSHP stated that 20 year old Chiara Catapano of O’Fallon was on Highway C when her car ran off the right side of the road, struck a culvert and overturned.  She was taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis for treatment of minor injuries.  The crash happened at 12:40am Sunday.

 

TWO INJURED IN SUNDAY MORNING HEAD-ON COLLISION

Two Kirksville men were injured in a head-on collision Sunday morning in Sullivan County.  State troopers report that it happened at 8:30am as 37 year old Cesar Anicama Jorges was on Highway 6 when he lost control of his SUV on a snow-covered roadway and slid into the path of a truck driven by 55 year old Troy Mihalevich and they collided head-on.  Both were taken

to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville for treatment of moderate injuries.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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November 22, 2023

 

MOBERLY POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS

The following incidents/arrests were investigated by the Moberly Police Department between the hours of 7am on 11/17/2023 and 7am 11/20/2023.

 

On November 18, 2023, Moberly Officers responded to the 700 block of Vincil St in reference to a male subject that was refusing to leave a residence. A 37-year-old Moberly man was placed under arrest for domestic assault. He was later transported to the Randolph County Jail.

 

On November 18, 2023, a Moberly Officer observed a vehicle being operated poorly on N. Morley St. The officer initiated a traffic stop and believed the 42-year-old driver was intoxicated. The Officers went to place the man under arrest, and he resisted before being taken into custody. The man was later transported to the Randolph County Jail.

 

On November 18, 2023, Moberly Officers responded to an establishment in the 400 block of Urbandale Drive in reference to a male subject shooting a firearm. Officers contacted the victim and learned the male who was identified as 23-year-old Tyrese Mayfield had fled the scene. The victim told Officers she was involved in an argument with Mayfield before he held a handgun next to her head then fired the gun. Mayfield was later located in Macon County and placed under arrest for domestic assault, unlawful use of a weapon and armed criminal action. Mayfield was transported back to Moberly before being taken to the Randolph County Jail.  

 

On November 19, 2023, Moberly Officers responded to an establishment located in the 1200 block of Hurley Ave in reference to a 51-year-old man refusing to leave. The man was placed under arrest for trespassing and transported to the Randolph County Jail.

 

On November 19, 2023, a Moberly Officer initiated a traffic stop in the 500 block of W. Lee St. The passenger identified as 39-year-old Laura Smith was found to have a probation violation warrant for her arrest. Smith was placed under arrest and transported to the Randolph County Jail.

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Sunday, November 19 at approximately 4:33pm, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 200 block of S Alabama in reference to a disturbance and shooting.  Responding officers found that several people from two different houses in that area had been arguing and that escalated into a physical fight.  During the fight, Kyle C Parrish, age 37 of Mexico, produced a gun and shot a 38-year-old Mexico man in the leg.  The man who was shot was taken to University Hospital by Audrain Ambulance District.  He was admitted for treatment for non-life-threatening injuries.  Parrish was taken into custody by MPSD and eventually taken to the Audrain County Jail for Assault 2nd degree, Armed Criminal Action, and Unlawful Possession of a firearm. 

 

On Friday, November 17 at approximately 12:39pm, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 1200 block of Vance Road after a passerby saw a small fire in a field which contained numerous straw and hay bales.  The fire was extinguished before reaching any of the bales.  The fire apparently started after a failure in some electric equipment on an overhead utility pole.  Ameren responded to the scene to correct the issue.  There were no injuries from the incident.

 

MSHP: PLEASE DRIVE SAFELY THIS THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY WEEKEND

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, reminds everyone there will be an increase in traffic over the Thanksgiving holiday. Drivers should remain alert to changes along their normal route. Regardless of traffic patterns, safety should remain a priority.

The counting period for the 2023 Thanksgiving holiday weekend is from 6 p.m. Wednesday, November 22, 2023, through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, November 26, 2023. Troopers will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E., enforcing all traffic laws, and available to assist the public. Over the 2022 Thanksgiving holiday counting period, nine people were killed and 482 injured in 1,355 traffic crashes.

Drivers should make sure their vehicles are in good condition and that they are well rested before they start driving. Remember: There is never a reason to speed, drive aggressively, or drive impaired.

Too many people die in traffic crashes each year in Missouri. The choices you make when you’re behind the wheel matter. Make good choices, so you’ll never have to say, “If I could just go back …”

If boating or fishing are part of your Thanksgiving holiday weekend plans, remember there is less daylight, which makes your vessel's navigation lights essential. Check your lights and have extra bulbs on board before you head out. This time of year, the water is becoming colder and hypothermia is a concern. The body loses heat 25 times faster in water than in the air of the same temperature. If you take an unexpected plunge in cold water, it's important to get out of the water and into dry clothes as soon as possible. Most boaters wear more clothing this time of year, so the proper wearing of life jackets and using caution to avoid falling overboard is even more important. Having a plan as to how you would exit the water if you inadvertently fell overboard is imperative. For example, does your boat have an exterior swim ladder to allow you to re-enter the vessel?

Watercraft operators must consider the effect their actions have on others: Share the waterway and use common sense, good judgment, and courtesy to ensure the safety of all. Life jackets save lives. Wear It!!

The public is encouraged to call the Patrol's Emergency Report Line (800) 525-5555 or *55 on your cellular phone if they witness criminal activity or experience an emergency. These phone numbers are operational for both highway and water emergencies. If your celebration includes alcohol, designate someone else to drive whether you are in your boat or your car. Please don't become a statistic.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

November 21, 2023

 

FULTON MAN INJURED IN CALLAWAY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Fulton man was injured in an accident that occurred at 3:10pm Sunday in Callaway County.  The patrol says that 54 year old Thomas Shackelford was on Route BB when his truck traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned.  He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

DRIVER HURT IN SUNDAY NIGHT WRECK

22 year old Jordon Renner of Fulton was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday night in Callaway County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 5:25pm as he was on Route C when his truck ran off the left side of the road, overturned and struck a power pole.  He sustained minor injuries and was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

 

PAVEMENT REPAIR WORK SCHEDULED ON I-70 IN MONTGOMERY AND WARREN COUNTIES

Weather permitting, as early as November 27, contractor crews with N.B. West Contracting Company will begin asphalt pavement repair work on the eastbound and westbound lanes of Interstate 70 in Montgomery and Warren counties. The project is located from the Callaway County line to the St. Charles County line, between mile marker 167 and mile marker 188.

All work will occur during the nighttime hours of 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where workers are present. Motorists can expect intermittent delays as traffic will be reduced to one lane where work is occurring.

All work is weather dependent, and schedules are subject to change. For the safety of the crews and the traveling public, they would like to remind drivers to be attentive in work zones and put down your cell phones to eliminate distractions.

 

GOVERNOR PARSON SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDER 23-10 EXTENDING DROUGHT ALERT IN MISSOURI

Last week, Governor Mike Parson signed Executive Order 23-10, extending Missouri's drought alert until May 1, 2024.

Currently, the U.S. Drought Monitor indicates that all or portions of at least 85 Missouri counties are experiencing moderate, severe, or extreme drought conditions. The Executive Order declares a Drought Alert in these Missouri counties and any additional county that begins experiencing drought conditions.  

In response to Governor Parson’s initial Executive Order declaring a drought alert on May 31, 2023, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources activated the Drought Assessment Committee, a workgroup set up to assess drought levels and work with impact teams on response and recovery recommendations. 

The Executive Order was set to expire on December 1, 2023. Extending the order will allow the Drought Assessment Committee and associated impact teams to continue supporting affected communities throughout the winter and continue to expand the state’s capabilities to respond to and lessen the impacts of future droughts.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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November 20, 2023

 

PEDESTRIAN STRUCK AND KILLED IN BOONE COUNTY

A pedestrian was struck and killed in an accident that occurred at 11:35pm Saturday in Boone County.  The patrol says that 48 year old Tina Reeves of Columbia was westbound on I-70 Drive when her vehicle struck a man who was in the road.  The man identified as 36 year old Amrinder Singh of Columbus, OH was transported to University Hospital in Columbia where he died from his injuries a short time later.

 

WOMAN INJURED IN EARLY SATURDAY MORNING CRASH

A Triplett woman was injured in an early Saturday morning crash in Chariton County.  The highway patrol said that it happened at 1:45am as 21 year old Alexandra Jacobs was on Route E when her car ran off the left side of the road, struck an embankment and overturned.  She sustained moderate injuries and was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

 

DRIVER HURT IN SATURDAY MORNING WRECK

52 year old Robert Little of Oklahoma City, OK was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck that occurred at 10:20am Saturday in Montgomery County.  State troopers stated that he was westbound on I-70 when his freightliner went off the roadway and struck the median wall.  He was taken to St. Joseph West Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of minor injuries.

 

MAN HURT IN FRANKLIN COUNTY INCIDENT

A Union man was hurt in a Saturday morning incident in Franklin County.  MSHP reported that 32 year old Andrew Miller was on Highway 185 and distracted by his radio when he lost control of his car and it crossed the center of the road, began sliding and ran off the left side of the road and overturned.  He suffered minor injuries and was taken to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan for treatment.  The incident happened at 10:10am Saturday.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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November 17, 2023

 

TEEN HURT IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Union teen was hurt in an accident that occurred at around 6:40pm Wednesday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that the 17 year old boy was on Route A when an unknown vehicle pulled out in front of him, causing the teen to abruptly apply the brakes and lost control of his vehicle and it overturned, ejecting him from it.  He was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

TWO INJURED IN WEDNESDAY NIGHT WRECK

Two men were injured in a two-vehicle wreck Wednesday night in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 6pm as 57 year old George Wieda Sr. of St. Clair was on Missouri 30 when he slowed in anticipation of executing a left turn when a caravan driven by 30 year old Dakota Jones of Lonedell failed to slow down and struck the truck in the rear causing it to travel off the left side of the roadway and came to rest in a field.  Both sustained moderate injuries and were taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis and Washington respectively. 

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Tuesday at about 7pm, observant residents notified the Mexico Public Safety Department about some suspicious activity involving people looking in vehicles in the area of the 300 block of N Washington.  Around 10:30pm, information from other residents led to the arrest of Steven A Parker, age 29 of Columbia.  Evidence was collected, linking Parker to some thefts in Mexico and Columbia.  Parker was processed at MPSD and released.  MPSD is continuing the investigation into Parker’s activities and cases will be forwarded to the Audrain County Prosecutor for warrants and charges. 

 

Anyone with information about Parker’s recent activities or any other crime is asked to contact CRIMESTOPPERS at (800) 392-TIPS or (800) 392-8477 or Mexico Public Safety at (573) 473-5800 or (573) 581-2100.

 

MDC THANKS DEER HUNTERS FOR HELP WITH CWD SAMPLING THIS PAST WEEKEND

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) thanks the thousands of deer hunters who participated in its mandatory sampling efforts in 39 counties this past weekend to test for chronic wasting disease (CWD) in harvested deer. Thanks to hunter participation, MDC collected tissue samples from more than 20,600 hunter-harvested deer for CWD testing on Nov. 11 and 12.

CWD sampling consists of MDC staff removing lymph nodes from the necks of harvested deer for testing. Tissue samples are sent to an independent lab for testing.

According to MDC, the opening weekend of the November portion of firearms deer season is the most popular two days for most deer hunters in Missouri. Hunters typically harvest between a quarter to a third of the state’s total annual deer harvest during those two days. Focusing on this key weekend gives MDC the best opportunity to collect the most tissue samples for CWD testing during a very concentrated time period.

MDC is also offering free voluntary CWD sampling and testing of harvested deer during the entire deer season at select locations throughout the state, including some MDC offices and participating taxidermists and meat processors.

MDC also offers self-service freezer deer-head drop-off locations within the CWD Management Zone for hunters to deposit harvested deer heads to have tested for CWD. Instructions, packing supplies, and information tags are available at the sites.

Get more information on voluntary sampling locations and drop-off locations online at mdc.mo.gov/cwd.

Hunters can get their CWD test results for free online at mdc.mo.gov/cwdResults. Results are available within four weeks from the time of sampling and the wait time if often much less.

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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November 16, 2023

 

TRUCK/AMBULANCE COLLISION IN LEWIS COUNTY

A truck and an Adair County Ambulance were involved in a collision that occurred after 5pm Tuesday in Lewis County.  The patrol says that 65 year old Steven Fries of Knox City was on MO 6 when he began to yield to the ambulance driven by 29 year old Cheyenne Hyle of Unionville and traveled off the right side of the roadway, overcorrected, causing his truck to return to the road and struck the ambulance.  The passenger in the ambulance 48 year old Dawn Ramos of Kirksville was transported by helicopter to Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL with serious injuries, while Fries along with Hyle and the other paramedic in the ambulance 49 year old Anthony Sims of Unionville were also taken to Blessing Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

MAN HURT IN EARLY WEDNESDAY MORNING WRECK

57 year old Daniel Sumpter of Moberly was hurt in a two-vehicle wreck early Wednesday morning in Randolph County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 5:25am as he was on US 63 and slowed down to make a turn when his caravan was struck in the rear by a car driven by 31 year old Thurman Boggs of Moberly and after impact the caravan went off the right side of the road and overturned.  Sumpter sustained minor injuries and was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

 

MISSOURI JOBS REPORT FOR OCTOBER 2023

Missouri nonfarm payroll employment increased by 5,600 jobs in October 2023, and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased by two-tenths of a percentage point. Private industry employment increased by 4,800 jobs and government employment increased by 800 jobs. The state's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 3.1 percent in October 2023, up from 2.9 percent in September 2023. Over the year, there was an increase of 41,300 jobs from October 2022 to October 2023, and the unemployment rate increased by four-tenths of a percentage point, from 2.7 percent in October 2022 to 3.1 percent in October 2023.

 

COLUMBIA COLLEGE NAMED TO 2023 BEST FOR VETS LIST BY MILITARY TIMES

Military Times recently announced that Columbia College has been named to its 2023 “Best for Vets: Colleges” list. The publication provides a comprehensive annual ranking of higher education institutions in the United States for military service members and veterans.

Columbia College is the highest-ranked private institution in Missouri and the second-highest-ranked school in the state overall. The college ranks third in the country among schools that deliver education primarily online.

Military Times analyzed Columbia College based on the effectiveness of its programs for veterans and metrics related to student success, military-specific resources and financial aid.

The college has adapted to the changing educational landscape by incorporating increased online and virtual options, making it possible for students to take classes from anywhere in the world. This flexibility is especially beneficial for military personnel and veterans who may have unique challenges related to their service commitments or geographical locations.

Columbia College has more than 20,000 military-affiliated alumni around the world and maintains a presence on 14 military installations across its Columbia College Global footprint. 

The institution was also named one of the most military-friendly and military-spouse-friendly colleges in 2023 by MilitaryFriendly.com.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

November 15, 2023

 

WOMAN HURT IN EARLY TUESDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

A woman was hurt in an accident that occurred at 2am Tuesday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that 53 year old Kimba Auvill of Hazelwood was on Schuchart Park Road when she lost control of her car and it traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a tree.  She was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of minor injuries.

 

DRIVER INJURED IN MONDAY NIGHT WRECK

56 year old Linda Cooper of Richmond was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Monday night in Lafayette County.  The highway patrol said it happened just before 7pm as she was on MO 13 when her car struck an animal in the road.  She refused treatment at the scene for minor injuries.

 

MOBERLY POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS

The following incidents/arrests were investigated by the Moberly Police Department between the hours of 7am on 11/08/2023 and 7am 11/10/2023.

 

On November 8, 2023, Moberly Officers contacted 50-year-old Thomas Jewett in the 700 block of Promenade St. Jewett was placed under arrest for an active Randolph County warrant on original charges of burglary and stealing. Jewett was transported to the Randolph County Jail.

 

On November 8, 2023, a Moberly Officer conducted a traffic stop on US Highway 24 near the Sparks Ave intersection. The 29-year-old registered sex offender was operating a vehicle that was not listed on his registry. The man was placed under arrest for failure to register and later transported to the Randolph County Jail.

 

On November 9, 2023, Moberly Officers contacted 40-year-old Joshua Stone at the Probation and Parole Office. Stone was placed under arrest for active P&P warrant on original charges of possession of a controlled substance. Stone was transported to the Randolph County Sheriff's Office.






LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

November 14, 2023

 

DRIVERS SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SUNDAY EVENING COLLISION

Both drivers were seriously injured in a head-on collision Sunday evening in Marion County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 5pm as 40 year old Tyson Hubbard of Hannibal was on Warren Barrett Drive when his truck crossed the center line and struck an SUV driven by 64 year old Michael Bradley of Hannibal head-on.  Hubbard was transported by ambulance to Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL with serious injuries while Bradley was transported by ambulance to Hannibal Regional Hospital with serious injuries.

 

MAN HURT IN SATURDAY NIGHT WRECK

29 year old Reid Littrell of Glasgow was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday night in Chariton County.  MSHP stated that he was at the intersection of Highway 5 and Highway KK when his car traveled off the roadway, struck a sign became airborne and struck a tree line.  He sustained minor injuries and was taken to Fitzgibbon Hospital for treatment.  The wreck happened at 10:45pm Saturday.

 

WOMAN HURT IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A woman was hurt in an accident that occurred at around 11:50am Sunday in Montgomery County.  The patrol says that 20 year old Grace Brader of Cummings, KS was a passenger in a car driven by 26 year old Grant Schoening of Indianapolis, IN.  they were eastbound on I-70 when their car was struck in the rear by a truck driven by 56 year old Michael Murphy of Columbia, MO which had just swerved to avoid hitting a pedestrian on an unrelated traffic crash.  The woman was taken to St. Joseph West Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of minor injuries.

 

MDC REPORTS 90,334 DEER HARVESTED DURING FIREARMS OPENING WEEKEND

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows deer hunters in Missouri harvested 90,334 deer during opening weekend of the November portion of firearms deer season Nov. 11 and 12. Of the 90,334 deer harvested, 53,159 were antlered bucks, 7,163 were button bucks, and 30,012 were does.

Top harvest counties for opening weekend were Franklin with 2,114 deer harvested, Texas with 1,825, and Howell with 1,726.

According to MDC, this year’s opening weekend harvest was similar to the previous five-year average. Last year, hunters checked 93,355 deer during opening weekend of the November portion of firearms deer season.

For current, ongoing preliminary harvest totals by season, county, and type of deer, visit the MDC website at extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/.

For harvest summaries from past years, visit mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/deer/deer-reports/deer-harvest-summaries.

The November portion of firearms deer season runs through Nov. 21 followed by the CWD portion Nov. 22-26 in open counties. Archery deer hunting resumes Nov. 22 through Jan. 15, 2024. The late youth portion runs Nov. 24-26. 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.

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

November 13, 2023

 

THREE TEENS SERIOUSLY INJURED IN EARLY SUNDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

Three teens were seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 1:40am Sunday in Randolph County.  The patrol says that 19 year old Matthew Wheeler of Jacksonville was on Route Y and driving too fast for conditions when his vehicle traveled off the right side of the roadway, overturned and struck a tree, ejecting his passenger 19 year old Jerek Henage of Moberly and then it came to rest on the passenger side in a field.  Wheeler was taken to Samaritan Hospital in Macon with serious injuries, while his two passengers’ Henage and 19 year old Tiffany Green of Centralia were taken to Moberly Regional Medical Center with serious injuries.  

 

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SATURDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

A Laddonia woman was seriously injured in a Saturday afternoon crash in Monroe County.  The highway patrol said that 56 year old Terry McIntosh was on MO 154 when her vehicle ran off the left side of the road, struck a fence, a utility pole and then overturned.  She was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.  The crash happened at 3:30pm Saturday.

 

DRIVER KILLED IN SATURDAY NIGHT WRECK

79 year old Clarence Morris of Quincy, IL was killed in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday night in Marion County.  State troopers stated that it happened at 6:15pm as he was on Marion County Road 139 when he suffered a medical event, causing his car to travel off the right side of the road and overturned.  He was transported by helicopter to University Hospital in Columbia where he died from the event a short time later. 

 

NATIONAL CRASH RESPONDER SAFETY WEEK IS THIS WEEK

On a daily basis, emergency responders put their lives on the line along Missouri’s highways responding to crash scenes. These responders include police officers, fire fighters, EMS, tow truck operators and highway workers. They respond to traffic incidents, assist drivers, and help keep traffic flowing.

According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), traffic incidents are the leading cause of death for EMS responders and law enforcement officers. To remind motorists what’s on the line, the FHWA has declared the week of Nov. 13-17 as National Crash Responder Safety Week. 

Missouri’s Move Over law requires drivers to either change lanes or slow down when approaching stationary MoDOT, law enforcement or other emergency vehicles with flashing lights on. To help protect those who protect us, all 50 states enforce some form of the Move Over law. 

In 2022, more than 54,000 traffic crashes were reported on Missouri roadways that required emergency response. MoDOT emergency response personnel respond to more than 4,500 traffic incidents each month on average. 

Crash Responder Safety Week is an opportunity to remind drivers to adhere to Missouri’s Move Over law, educate drivers on crash prevention and promote life-saving training for all traffic incident responders.

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below. MoDOT asks drivers to work with them by buckling up, putting your phone down, slowing down and moving over in work zones.

Adair County

Route B – November 20-22, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Brewington to Redbud between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Audrain County

Route M – November 14, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route FF to CR 936 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 151 – November 15, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 22 to CR 108 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 151 – November 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 128 to CR 148 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 151 – November 17, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 148 to CR 1006 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 54/Missouri Route 19 (Northbound) – November 20-21, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations beginning at the roundabout at Scotts Corner extending north 1500 feet between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily. Temporary minor impacts can be expected on all legs of the roundabout.

Lewis County

Route Y – November 13-22, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route K to Route H between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Macon County

Missouri Route 3 – November 21, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Geyser Avenue to Frontier Street between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route DD – November 14-15 CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from U.S. Route 63 to Kellogg Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route DD – November 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Kellogg Avenue to Lynx Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route DD – November 17, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Lariat Avenue to Leather Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route DD – November 20, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Leather Avenue to Meadowlark Avenue between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route DD – November 21-22, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Melody Avenue to Route K between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Marion County

Route C – November 13-14, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 276 to Route Z between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route C – November 15, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from the intersection of Route Z north of Route C and the intersection of Route Z south of Route C between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

U.S. Route 36 (Eastbound) – November 16, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from U.S. Route 61 to Mark Twain Avenue between 2:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

Monroe County

Route M – November 13-16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from east of CR 921 to west of CR 931 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route AA – November 20, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from east of CR 831 to west of CR 835 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Montgomery County

Route E – November 13-14, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Rock Road to Opossum Trot between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route FF – November 15-17, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route E to New Truxton Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Ralls County

U.S. Route 61 (Southbound) – November 6-8, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from one mile before and after Salt River bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. A 13-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Randolph County

Route DD – November 13-15, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from one mile north of Route Z to two miles north of Route Z between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. daily.

Route DD – November 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 0.5 miles south of Route Z to one mile south of Route Z between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Route DD - November 20, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 0.5 miles south of Route Z to one mile south of Route Z between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Route DD – November 21, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 1250 to CR 1265 between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Shelby County

Missouri Route 151 - November 15-17, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from U.S. Route 36 to Route J between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

November 10, 2023

 

TWO MEN INJURED IN BOONE COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two men were injured in an accident that occurred after 3pm Wednesday in Boone County.  The patrol says that 70 year old David Perkins of Hartsburg was on Route WW when he slowed down for another vehicle which was making a left turn into a private drive when his motorcycle was struck in the rear by another motorcycle ridden by 66 year old Michael Wise of Columbia.  Perkins was released at the scene for minor injuries, while Wise was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

WOMAN HURT IN WEDNESDAY NIGHT WRECK

37 year old Kimberly Schmelz of Washington was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Wednesday night in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened at around 6:20pm as she was on Highway A when a deer ran across the road and struck the driver side door of her car.  She was going to drive herself to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of minor injuries.

 

MISSOURI PREPARED TO SUPPORT BOEING AS ST. LOUIS COUNTY IS CONSIDERED FOR LOCATION OF $1.8 BILLION EXPANSION AND CREATION OF MORE THAN 500 NEW JOBS

As St. Louis County is considered by Boeing as a location for a major expansion project, the State of Missouri is prepared to support the company and build on its longstanding partnership. The leading global aerospace company is Missouri’s largest manufacturer and has had a presence in the state for more than 80 years.

Boeing’s potential expansion in St. Louis County would include a $1.8 billion investment and the creation of more than 500 new jobs. The Department of Economic Development is among multiple organizations working to support the aerospace company, which include St. Louis County, the City of St. Louis, Greater St. Louis, Inc., St. Louis Lambert International Airport, St. Louis Economic Development Partnership, St. Louis Development Corporation, Spire, and Ameren.

Boeing’s manufacturing facility in St. Louis is the country’s second-largest defense contractor and a major manufacturer of innovative aircraft. More than 16,000 Missourians are involved in the production of advanced Boeing jets in St. Louis. Overall, the state is home to more than 100 aerospace manufacturers, with about 80,000 Missourians employed in aerospace and defense manufacturing.

To assist Boeing in its potential expansion, the Missouri Development Finance Board (MDFB) approved the use of the Business Use Incentives for Large-Scale Development (BUILD) Program. The company will also benefit from the Missouri Works Deal Closing Fund and Missouri One Start, the state’s premier workforce recruitment and training division.

Approved incentives amounts:

BUILD Program - $8,849,162

Missouri Works Deal Closing Fund - $20,375,491

Missouri One Start - $8,500,000

 

MDC REPORTS MISSOURI HUNTERS HARVESTED 12 BLACK BEARS THIS SEASON

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reports that Missouri hunters harvested 12 black bears during the state’s third bear-hunting season, Oct. 16–25.

More than 5,370 hunters applied during May for 400 permits for the season with the maximum total harvest being 40 bears. Of the 400 hunters selected through a random drawing of all applicants, 342 hunters purchased permits for the season. 

Bear hunting in Missouri is limited to Missouri residents and restricted to three designated areas of southern Missouri called Bear Management Zones (BMZ). Each permit issued is for a specific BMZ and hunting is limited to public or private property within the BMZ.

Nine bears were harvested in BMZ 1 out of a maximum of 20 with 173 hunters purchasing permits to hunt the zone. Three bears were harvested in BMZ 2 out of a maximum of 15 with 125 hunters purchasing permits to hunt the zone. No bears were harvested in BMZ 3 out of a maximum of 5 with 44 hunters purchasing permits to hunt the zone.

All bears were harvested using firearms methods. Of the 12 bears harvested, three were boars (males) and nine were sows (female).

Learn more about Missouri black bears and bear hunting in Missouri at mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/bear.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

November 9, 2023

 

NEW BRIDGE OVER I-70 OPENS TO TRAFFIC

The new Route BB overpass bridge over I-70 at Exit 115 in Boone County opened Wednesday to traffic.  MODOT demolished the old bridge back in June as part of its replacement project for the I-70 Missouri River Bridge, commonly referred to as the Rocheport Bridge.  The new westbound portion of the bridge opened in June.  The eastbound portion of the bridge is scheduled to be completed sometime in December 2024.  They also stated that they plan to blast the last footings of the old bridge next week.

 

MISSOURI STATE TREASURER VIVEK MALEK VISITS MACON COUNTY, TALKS MOBUCK$ PROGRAM WITH LOCAL LEADERS

Missouri State Treasurer Vivek Malek visited with local leaders Wednesday at the Macon County Collector Building in Macon. He discussed the local impact of the MOBUCK$ low-interest loan program, and shared his plan to work on legislation that would expand the successful program’s capacity.

Due to inflationary pressures, the Federal Reserve Bank has continued to raise interest rates. As a result, the State Treasurer’s MOBUCK$ low-interest loan program has become a lifeline for farmers and small business owners. Since March 2022, the Fed has increased interest rates 11 times, resulting in the highest rate in 22 years. Through the MOBUCK$ program, lenders are allowed to lower interest rates to the borrower by about 2-3 percent.

During the past program year, October 1, 2022 to September 30, 2023, the MO BUCK$ low-interest loan program provided over $1.5 million in low-interest rate loans in Macon County.

State Treasurer Vivek Malek said, “The MOBUCK$ program helps small business owners and farmers get low-interest loans at a time of historically high interest rates. This program has been a game-changer for folks in Macon County, and that’s why I’m going to continue to fight for it.”

In May 2023, the State Treasurer's Office indefinitely suspended acceptance of MOBUCK$ applications due to a statutory limit on the total dollar amount available to loan. Due to the increased demand, Treasurer Malek is asking the Missouri General Assembly to expand the program’s capacity to help small business owners and farmers. The General Assembly is scheduled to return in regular session beginning on Wednesday, January 3rd, 2024.

Due to expiration of some existing MOBUCK$ loans, funds will become available to resume acceptance of applications. As a result, the State Treasurer's Office will begin accepting new applications for loans beginning Tuesday, January 2nd, 2024. However, if demand remains high, and the statutory limit is not increased, available funds are likely to be exhausted and the application portal will be closed again which will force Missouri small businesses, including farmers and ranchers, to pay higher interest rates.

 

COMMISSION AWARDS CONTRACTS FOR PROJECTS IN NORTHEAST DISTRICT

During its regular meeting on November 1, the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission awarded the following contracts for seal coat, resurfacing, bridge rehabilitation, concrete pavement repairs and pavement marking projects in the Northeast District. 

  1. Missouri Route 3 - Seal coat from U.S. Route 24 east junction to Missouri Route 129 at Roanoke in Randolph County
  2. Missouri Route 3 - Resurfacing from Missouri Route 11 in Adair County to U.S. Route 24 at Clifton Hill in Randolph County
  3. Route C - Resurfacing from U.S. Route 36 in Macon County to Route JJ at Huntsville in Randolph County
  1. Missouri Route 79 - Resurfacing from 0.3 mile south of the I-72 interchange to 0.5 mile north of Route T in Hannibal in Marion County
  2. Route F - Resurfacing from Missouri Route 19 in Ralls County to north of Daniels Avenue near Vandalia in Audrain County
  3. Route V - Resurfacing from Business Route 61 in New London to Route T in Ralls County
  4. Route A - Seal coat and resurfacing from Route J to Business Route 61 in New London in Ralls County
  5. Route T - Resurfacing from 0.8 mile south of Missouri Route 79 in Hannibal in Marion County to Route V in Ralls County

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

November 8, 2023

 

DRIVER HURT IN MONDAY MORNING WRECK

63 year old Mark Garnett of St. Catherine was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Monday morning in Shelby County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 10am as he was on MO 151 when his freightliner dump truck ran off the right side of the road, he overcorrected, causing it to overturn.  He was transported by ambulance to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment.  

 

THREE MEN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

Three men were seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 4:10pm Monday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that 48 year old William Hammer of Villa Ridge failed to yield for a red traffic light and traveled through the intersection of Missouri 100 and Route M when his truck was struck in the rear by a tractor trailer driven by 57 year old Fred Berryman of Hermann which caused the truck to rotate counter clockwise and then struck a vehicle driven by 58 year old James Klestinske of Pacific which in turn caused a tire from the truck to become dislodged and rolled onto the eastbound lanes of Missouri 100 where it was struck by a car driven by 55 year old Shari Price of Pacific.  All three men sustained serious injuries in the accident.

 

MOBERLY POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS

The following incidents/arrests were investigated by the Moberly Police Department between the hours of 7am on 11/03/2023 and 7am 11/06/2023.

 

On November 3, 2023, a Moberly Officer observed a truck being operated in a careless manor on Morley St near Rollins St. The Officer initiated a traffic stop and contacted a 21-year-old Moberly man. The Officer suspected the man to be operating the vehicle under the influence of an intoxicating beverage. The man was placed under arrest and later released on a summons to appear in court.

 

On November 3, 2023, a Moberly Officer observed 35-year-old Adam Collins in the 500 block of S. Ault St. Collins was found to have an active Randolph County warrant for original charges of felony driving while revoked. Adams was transported to the Randolph County Jail.

 

On November 4, 2023, Moberly Officers responded to the area of Highway 63 and Urbandale Dr in reference to a vehicle traveling northbound in the southbound lane. An Officer initiated a traffic stop on the suspected vehicle in the 400 block of Urbandale Dr. The 60-year-old driver was arrested for operating the vehicle while intoxicated. During an inventory of the vehicle, Officers located suspected crack cocaine. The driver and 64-year-old passenger were placed under arrest for delivery of a controlled substance. Both subjects were transported to the Randolph County Jail.  

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

November 7, 2023

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN BOONE COUNTY ACCIDENT

A man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 12:45am Sunday in Boone County.  The patrol says that 21 year old Ethan Lammers of Ashland was on Route A when he failed to navigate a turn and his truck traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a telephone pole.  He was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries. 

 

DRIVER INJURED IN ONE-VEHICLE WRECK

36 year old Anthony Stone of Godfrey, IL was injured in a one-vehicle wreck in Ralls County.  The highway patrol said he was on Route J 2 miles east of Monroe City when his vehicle ran off the left side of the road and struck a guardrail.  He was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.  The wreck happened at 2:50pm Saturday.

 

WOMAN HURT IN SHELBY COUNTY CRASH

A Clarence woman was hurt in a Saturday afternoon crash in Shelby County.  State troopers stated that 79 year old Theresa Cross was on Business Highway 36 at East Street in Clarence when her SUV went off the left side of the road and struck a utility pole.  She sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment.  The crash occurred at around 12:40pm Saturday.

 

DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES AWARDS NEARLY $120,000 IN GRANTS TO NEW HAMPTON AND JAMESPORT

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded Clean Water Engineering Report grants totaling nearly $120,000 to the cities of New Hampton ($62,470) and Jamesport ($56,250). Each community will use the funding to evaluate its public wastewater system.

The grant offers funding to qualified communities to help cover engineering costs for evaluating water and wastewater system improvements. New Hampton and Jamesport will both use their grant to identify wastewater system improvements needed to meet permit requirements, continue reliable service to the area and reduce stormwater infiltration into sewer collection pipes. Both facility plans should be complete in April 2025.

The department is committed to assisting Missouri communities with water and wastewater infrastructure improvement projects. Through its Financial Assistance Center, the department provides funding opportunities for qualified communities with water quality, wastewater and drinking water infrastructure needs. This project will be funded wholly or in part with monies received from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

 

GOVERNOR PARSON ANNOUNCES TWO JUDICIAL APPOINTMENTS

Governor Mike Parson has announced judicial appointments to the 12th and 36th Judicial Circuits.

Kathleen Joyce, of Wright City, was appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for Warren County in the 12th Judicial Circuit.

Ms. Joyce is currently the owner of Joyce Law LLC. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice from Lindenwood University and a Juris Doctor from St. Louis University. Ms. Joyce will fill the vacancy created by the appointment of the Honorable Michael S. Wright to the Missouri Court of Appeals, Eastern District.

Kacey L. Proctor, of Poplar Bluff, will be appointed as Circuit Judge for the 36th Judicial Circuit.

Mr. Proctor currently serves as the Butler County Prosecuting Attorney. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy from Southeast Missouri State University and a Juris Doctor from St. Louis University. Mr. Proctor will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable Michael M. Pritchett.

 

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

November 6, 2023

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Wednesday, November 1 at approximately 2:57pm, an alert resident informed Mexico Public Safety about some suspicious people around some storage units in the 4000 block of E Liberty.  Responding personnel located Stephanie N Bowden, age 27 of Centralia and Quaid D Johnson, age 30 of Mexico.  Bowden had outstanding arrest warrants out of Audrain County, Jefferson City, and Mexico.  Johnson had an outstanding arrest warrant out of Callaway County.  The two were also wanted by MPSD in connection to several thefts that occurred over the summer months.  They were processed at MPSD and taken to the Audrain County Jail for the outstanding warrants.  Additional cases will be forwarded to the Audrain County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.

 

On Wednesday, November 1 at approximately 6:47pm, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 500 block of N Missouri in reference to a fire alarm.  MPSD was advised that a private alarm company was reporting smoke in the home.  Responding personnel found that no one was home at the time but that there was a fire in the basement.  The fire was quickly extinguished with that portion of the basement suffering some fire and heat damage.  It appeared the fire was caused by careless disposal of smoking material.  There were no injuries from the incident. 

 

MISSOURI WINTER WEATHER PREPAREDNESS WEEK IS THIS WEEK

Last week’s cool temperatures are a reminder that winter – and the snow, sleet and ice that come along with it – is just around the corner. To help Missourians prepare and stay safe during the winter months, the National Weather Service (NWS) and State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) are partnering to promote Nov. 6 – 10, 2023, as Winter Weather Preparedness Week in Missouri.

SEMA and NWS Forecast Offices serving Missouri will be sharing winter weather safety messaging via social media throughout the week. Each day will focus on a different theme:

Monday, Nov. 6 – Winter Weather Terminology

Tuesday, Nov. 7 – Ice Safety 

Wednesday, Nov. 8 – Snow Safety

Thursday, Nov. 9 – Extreme Cold, Hypothermia and Frostbite

Friday, Nov. 10 – Planning for Snow, Ice and Cold

Often, too little attention is paid to the danger posed by prolonged exposure to the cold. According to the Department of Health and Senior Services, 52 people died in Missouri as a result of low body temperatures due to prolonged exposure to cold weather in 2022.

Protect against frostbite and hypothermia by wearing warm, loose-fitting clothing in several layers. Avoid alcohol, limit time spent outdoors in frigid temperatures and stay indoors if possible. Find more information on hypothermia and nearby warming center locations on the DHSS website at health.mo.gov/living/healthcondiseases/hypothermia/.

Road safety is also a concern during the winter months. According to preliminary results provided by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, there were more than 7,500 vehicle crashes in Missouri in 2022 in which snow, sleet, hail or ice were factors, which resulted in 1,969 injuries and 51 deaths. 

Even if not directly involved in a crash, an accident blocking the roadway could cause other drivers to be stranded for hours. Avoiding non-essential travel during winter storms is one of the best ways to reduce the chance of becoming stranded or involved in a crash. It also allows snow removal crews to clear the roads faster and first responders to get to crashes more quickly.

Missourians should also consider these winter weather preparedness tips:  

Create a family emergency plan and emergency kit. Emergency supplies should include bottled water, canned and dry foods, battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, manual can opener and a first-aid kit. When power outages are possible, charge cell phones and other devices in advance so you are able to communicate if power is lost.

Assemble a vehicle winter emergency kit. Include a blanket, radio/spare batteries, snacks/energy bars, jumper cables, flares and a shovel/sand or shingles for tire traction.

Avoid driving when conditions could deteriorate. Postpone travel if possible. If driving is absolutely necessary, keep your gas tank more than half full and your cell phone charged. Save emergency numbers for fast dialing. Check road conditions in advance on the Missouri Department of Transportation’s Traveler Map at traveler.modot.org/map/. Allow extra time, expect delays, reduce speed and increase following distance. If your vehicle breaks down or slides off the road, stay in the vehicle and call for help.

Make sure alternate heat and power sources such as fireplaces, woodstoves, kerosene heaters and generators function properly. These sources can be dangerous and must be regularly maintained and operated. Keep the correct fuel for each source on hand in a safe location. Proper ventilation is essential. Properly install carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home. Only operate generators outdoors.

Remember space heaters are potentially deadly when misused. Space heaters account for approximately one-third of home heating fires and 80 percent of home heating fire deaths. Supplemental heating sources like these should be turned off when leaving a room or going to bed. Keep anything that can burn at least three feet from heating equipment.

For more winter weather preparedness tips, including safe driving techniques and avoiding injury while shoveling, please visit mo.gov/winter-weather-safety/.

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below. MoDOT asks drivers to work with them by buckling up, putting your phone down, slowing down and moving over in work zones.

Audrain County

Route M – November 14, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route FF to CR 936 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 151 – November 15, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 22 to CR 108 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 151 – November 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 128 to CR 148 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Missouri Route 151 – November 17, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 148 to CR 1006 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Lincoln County

Route WW – November 7-8, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route J to Whispering Oak Woods Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

U.S. Route 61 (Southbound) – November 10, LANE RESTRICTION for clean-up following a recent traffic incident from 0.5 miles north of Big Creek to Dietrich Road between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Marion County

Route C – November 6, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 239 to CR 237 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route C – November 7, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route DD to CR 229 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route C – November 7-8, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 229 to CR 276 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route C – November 8-9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 229 to CR 276 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Monroe County

Route AA – November 7, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from east of CR 965 to west of CR 956 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route AA – November 8, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from east of CR 831 to west of CR 835 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route M – November 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from east of CR 921 to west of CR 931 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Montgomery County

Route E – November 13-14, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Rock Road to Opossum Trot between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Route FF – November 15-17, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route E to New Truxton Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Pike County

Route HH – November 6, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from U.S. Route 61 to CR 309 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route HH – November 7, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 309 to CR 318 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route HH – November 8, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 318 to Pike County line between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Ralls County

U.S. Route 61 (Southbound) – November 6-8, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from one mile before and after Salt River bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. A 13-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

U.S. Route 61 (Northbound) – November 8, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Fifth Street at New London to Business 61 between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Randolph County

Route T – November 6-7, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route B to one mile south of Route B between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Route T – November 8, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 2965 to 1.5 miles south of CR 2965 between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Route DD – November 13-15, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from one mile north of Route Z to two miles north of Route Z between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Route DD – November 16, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 0.5 miles south of Route Z to one mile south of Route Z between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Shelby County

Route Y – November 8, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 151 to CR 503 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route WW - November 9, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Missouri Route 15 to Route A between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

November 3, 2023

 

TWO SCHOOL BUSES AT MACON R-1 CAUGHT ON FIRE WEDNESDAY NIGHT

Two school buses at Macon R-1 caught on fire Wednesday night in Macon.  According to KTVO crews from the Macon Fire Department responded to a call to the Macon R-1 School District at around 9pm and found two buses in the bus barn on fire.  Macon Fire Chief Travis Austin stated that when firefighters arrived they had to battle a strong blaze.  He also said that they were able to extinguish the fire just after 9:15pm Wednesday.  The two buses appear to be a total loss and the bus barn received significant damage.  No one was injured in the fire and school was in session on Thursday.

 

WOMAN INJURED IN EARLY THURSDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

A woman was injured in an accident that occurred at 1:10am Thursday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that 40 year old Amy Brehe of Beaufort was on US 50 when her vehicle struck an animal in the roadway.  She was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of minor injuries.

 

TEEN HURT IN WEDNESDAY MORNING CRASH

A teen was hurt in a Wednesday morning crash in Pike County.  The highway patrol said that it happened at 10:55am as 19 year old Joseph Musgrove of Moscow Mills was on US 61 when he swerved to avoid a vehicle driven by 27 year old Joshua Adams of Silex, overcorrected and struck the drivers side of the vehicle.  Musgrove sustained minor injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital Lincoln for treatment.

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Friday, October 27 at approximately 2:55pm the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the area of the 600 block of Green Boulevard in reference to a woman stuck on a cell phone tower.  Responding personnel found a 37-year-old Mexico woman about 75’ up the tower.  The woman later stated she had climbed the tower to get a good look at the changing leaves, lost her shoe, and became unable to get down.  Aerial 213 responded, and personnel safely got the woman down.  The owner of the tower responded to better secure it and the woman was taken to University of Missouri Hospital for treatment.  MPSD will forward a case to the Audrain County Prosecutor for Trespassing 1st degree.

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

November 2, 2023

 

WOMAN INJURED IN TUESDAY AFTERNOON ACCIDENT

A woman was injured in an accident that occurred at around 4:15pm Tuesday in Morgan County.  The patrol says that 37 year old Shaina Chavez of Gravois Mills was on Route J when she failed to drive on the right half of the roadway, causing her car to travel off the right edge of the road, she overcorrected and it went off the left edge of the roadway, struck a road sign and overturned.  She was taken to Lake Regional Hospital in Osage Beach for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

MOBERLY POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS

The following incidents/arrests were investigated by the Moberly Police Department between the hours of 7am on 10/30/2023 and 7am 11/01/2023.

 

On October 30, 2023, Moberly Officers responded to the 1700 block of S. Williams St in reference to a female passed out behind the wheel of a parked vehicle.  Contact was made with a 60-year-old female who was unconscious at the time of contact.  The female was awakened and found to be impaired.  The female was placed under arrest for driving while intoxicated.  Officers also located suspected methamphetamine in the vehicle.  The female was later transported to the Randolph County Jail.

 

RURAL BRIDGE PROGRAM TO IMPROVE ACCESS ACROSS NORTHERN MISSOURI COMPLETED

The last of 31 bridges in a bundled replacement project opened in northern Missouri this month, marking the completion of the Fixing Access to Rural Missouri (FARM) Bridge Program. The program replaced 31 bridges across northern Missouri that were weight-restricted, supported by timber piles, in poor condition, and were one lane but carried two-way traffic.

The replacements were funded by a $20.8 million Competitive Highway Bridge Program grant from the Federal Highway Administration in 2018, as well as $5.2 million from the Missouri Department of Transportation.

The full list of bridge replacements is available on MoDOT’s website: Fixing Access to Rural Missouri (FARM) Bridge Program | Missouri Department of Transportation (modot.org) 

DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS DIRECTOR TO STEP DOWN AFTER DECADES-LONG CAREER IN PUBLIC SERVICE

Missouri Department of Corrections (DOC) Director Anne Precythe has announced that her last day with the state of Missouri will be December 5, 2023. She has served as director of Missouri DOC since January 2017, following a 30-year career in the North Carolina Division of Community Corrections, where she retired as director in 2017.  She plans to return home to North Carolina to enjoy a well-earned retirement with friends and family. 

Precythe has been responsible for 19 adult correctional facilities, six community supervision centers, two transition centers, and more than 40 probation and parole districts.

Under Precythe’s leadership, the Missouri Department of Corrections has implemented dozens of major innovations to advance its mission of improving lives for safer communities in the state of Missouri:

Justice Reinvestment programs supporting more comprehensive and effective probation and parole supervision

Reentry programs, reentry centers, and transition centers better preparing Missourians for post-incarceration success

New higher-education partnerships and vocational training programs

A custom workplace-culture model and supervisory support system

Investment of nearly $175 million in staff pay raises

New staff health, safety, wellness, and trauma services

Transformation of staff training and development

Measurable improvements in staff morale, recruitment, and retention

Data-informed decision-making and evidence-based practices 

While director of DOC in Missouri, Precythe also served on the National Institute of Corrections Advisory Board, the Correctional Leaders Association Executive Committee, the Council of State Governments Justice Center Advisory Board, and the inaugural class of the Council on Criminal Justice. She has been president of the national Correctional Leaders Association since 2020.

A DOC interim director will be announced in the coming days prior to Precythe's last day with the state on December 5. 





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

November 1, 2023

 

TWO INJURED IN EARLY TUESDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

Two Brookfield residents were injured in an accident that occurred at around 6:30am Tuesday in Linn County.  The patrol says that 32 year old Jessica Noker was on US 36 2 miles east of Brookfield when she pulled into the path of an SUV driven by 38 year old Mark Davis. Both sustained moderate injuries and Noker was taken to University Hospital in Columbia while Davis was taken to Pershing Memorial Hospital in Brookfield for treatment.

 

MAN INJURED IN MONDAY NIGHT WRECK

29 year old Jack Merrick of New London was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Monday night in Marion County.  The highway patrol said that it happened at around 10:45pm as he was on Route MM when a deer ran into the roadway and was struck by his vehicle.  He was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

TWO INJURED IN MONDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

Both drivers from Washington were injured in a Monday afternoon crash in Franklin County.  State troopers stated that 29 year old Chad Siskind was on Highway AD when his car crossed the center of the road and struck a car driven by 21 year old Clare Mense.  The man sustained moderate injuries while the woman suffered minor injuries.  Both were transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment.  The crash happened at 2:50pm Monday.

 

PSC COLD WEATHER RULE TAKES EFFECT NOVEMBER 1

The Missouri Public Service Commission’s Cold Weather Rule, designed to help customers with heat-related utility bills, begins on November 1, 2023.  The rule will remain in effect through March 31, 2024.  It has been a part of the Commission’s rules and regulations since 1977.  The Cold Weather Rule applies to natural gas and electric utilities under PSC jurisdiction that provide heat-related service.  Municipally operated systems, cooperatives and those that provide propane delivered by truck are not under PSC jurisdiction.

 

The Cold Weather Rule:

· Prohibits the disconnection of heat-related service when the temperature is predicted to drop below 32 degrees during the following 24 hour period.

· Provides more lenient payment terms permitting reconnection of service for natural gas

  and/or electric customers.

· Allows customers to budget payments over 12 months.

· Requires that customers be notified by mail 10 days before the date the utility intends to shut off service; an attempt be made to contact the customer within 96 hours before the shut off; an attempt be made to contact the customer right before the shut off; and that notice is left at the home when service has been shut off.

· Requires the customer be notified of possible financial help in paying the utility bill.

· Allows for the reconnection of service for less than the full amount owed.

  A customer may register with the utility if:

§ They are 65 years of age or older;

§ Disabled to the extent that they have filed with the utility a form submitted by a medical physician attesting that their household must have natural gas or electric utility service provided in the home to maintain    life or health; or

§ They have obtained a formal award letter issued from the federal government of disability benefits.  A customer who is registered with the utility company as elderly or disabled will receive additional notifications prior to a proposed discontinuance of service during the Cold Weather Rule period.  They may also be eligible for additional minimum payment arrangements.

If a customer is faced with a heat-related utility bill that cannot be paid in full, it is important to:

1) Contact the utility company.

2) State an inability to pay the bill in full.

3) Provide monthly or annual income information.

4) Make a minimum payment.

5) Enter into a payment agreement.

For more information on the PSC’s Cold Weather Rule, please see the Commission’s website at www.psc.mo.gov or call the Commission’s Consumer Services hotline at 1-800-392-4211.

Consumers can also receive Cold Weather Rule information from their local natural gas or electric company or the local community action agencyIn addition, there may be additional programs available to consumers seeking assistance in paying their heating bills.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

October 31, 2023

 

DRIVER HURT IN MONDAY MORNING CRASH

81 year old Richard Bolch of Norborne was hurt in a Monday morning crash in Carroll County.  MSHP stated that he was on MO 210 when his car crossed the center line and went off the left side of the road, struck a post and came to rest in an embankment.  He suffered minor injuries and was taken to Carroll County Memorial Hospital for treatment.  The crash happened at 7:30am Monday.

 

TWO INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two Washington drivers were injured in an accident that occurred at around 7:30am Monday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that 3 vehicles were stopped in traffic on Highway 47 when the chain-reaction accident occurred as 19 year old Lillian Mueller failed to stop and her car struck an SUV driven by 50 year old Travis Little which in turn struck the third vehicle which then was pushed into the fourth vehicle.  Both Mueller and Little were taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

WOMAN HURT IN SUNDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

A Springfield woman was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday afternoon in Franklin County.  It happened at 4:45pm as 31 year old Kathleen Sholley was westbound on I-44 and driving too fast for conditions during a rain storm when she lost control and her car spun out and ran off the right side of the road, went down a steep embankment and overturned.  She was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of minor injuries.

 

MSHP: HAVE A SAFE HALLOWEEN!!!

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, encourages everyone to have a safe Halloween.

It’s that time of year when young ghosts, vampires, superheroes, and cartoon characters are planning their night of trick-or-treating. While some local events take place in large parking lots the weekend prior, many trick-or-treaters will be out on Halloween night. It’s imperative that drivers and pedestrians stay alert.

Young children excited by Halloween could dart in front of a vehicle. Slow down and drive with extra caution. Expect an increase in the number of slow-moving vehicles in neighborhoods as motorists pick up and drop off trick-or-treaters. Please be courteous and stay alert for trick-or-treaters of all ages. Distracted drivers are dangerous drivers─when you’re driving, keep your eyes on the road, not on your phone!

Parents, please remind children to approach only familiar houses that are well-lit. Remind them they should never enter a stranger’s house or vehicle. Consider trick-or-treating with your children for their safety and because it’s a fun way to spend an evening. Give some thought to safety when choosing a costume. Consider using make-up rather than wearing a mask, which can obstruct a child's vision making it difficult to see an oncoming car. A light-colored costume is easier for drivers to see at night and adding reflective tape to dark costumes makes them visible. Flame resistant costumes are encouraged.

All trick-or-treaters are reminded to watch for traffic while they are out and about this Halloween. Remember to look both ways when crossing the street. Use sidewalks wherever possible and trick-or-treat while it is light outside. If you do go out after dark, increase your visibility by using a flashlight and wearing a light-colored costume. An adult should always accompany small children, and older children should stay in groups.

Halloween isn’t just for children. Many adults enjoy dressing up and visiting haunted houses or attending gatherings of friends. If you are driving to a costume party, make sure your costume doesn’t hamper your vision. If you attend a Halloween party that includes alcohol, designate a sober driver for the trip home. Alcohol, even in small amounts, slows reaction time and dulls the senses. Driving after you've had alcohol could have a sad and possibly deadly result.

 

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

October 30, 2023

 

ONE KILLED, ANOTHER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN EARLY SATURDAY MORNING WRECK

One man was killed while another man was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck early Saturday morning in Boone County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 12:20am as 29 year old David Williams of Harrisburg was on Route J when his truck traveled off the right side of the roadway, he overcorrected, causing it to run off the left side of the road, hit a fence and overturned, ejecting both the driver and his passenger from the truck.  Williams was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries, while 27 year old Cory Crowley of Harrisburg was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

MOTORCYCLIST HURT IN FRIDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

53 year old Nathan Herold of Palmyra was hurt in a motorcycle crash Friday afternoon in Marion County.  State troopers stated that he was on Highway C on private property when he lost control of his motorcycle and it ran off the left side of the road and overturned.  He sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment.  The crash happened at around 3:45pm Friday.

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Montgomery City man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 11:30pm Friday in Montgomery County.  The patrol says that 23 year old Zachary Urevich was on Wilson Street when he lost control and his UTV overturned.  He was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below. MoDOT asks drivers to work with them by buckling up, putting your phone down, slowing down and moving over in work zones.

Lincoln County

Route A – November 1, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from White Road to 300 feet west of White Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route A – November 2, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Bethel Branch Road to Parc Forest Trail between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

U.S. Route 61 (Southbound) – November 3, LANE RESTRICTION for clean-up following a recent traffic incident from 0.5 miles north of Big Creek to Dietrich Road between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Route WW – November 7-8, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Route J to Whispering Oak Woods Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Monroe County

Route M – October 30, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 100 feet east of CR 1003 to 100 feet west of CR 1003 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route AA – November 2, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 959 to CR 965 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Montgomery County

Route A – October 30, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Scott Road to Hopewell Church Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.   

Route A – October 31, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Hopewell Church Road to Dove Hill Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Ralls County

U.S. Route 61 (Southbound) – November 1, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route O to Missouri Route 19 between 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

 U.S. Route 61 (Northbound) – November 2, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 19 to Route O between 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

U.S. Route 61 (Southbound) – November 6-8, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from one mile before and after the Salt River bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. daily. A 13-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

October 27, 2023

 

DRIVER INJURED IN ONE-VEHICLE WRECK THURSDAY MORNING

A Hannibal driver was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Thursday morning in Shelby County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 6:30am as 44 year old Justin White was on US 36 when his car traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck an embankment and overturned.  He was taken to Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Union man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 1:55pm Wednesday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that 25 year old Devin Goddard was westbound on I-44 when his car caught on fire and traveled off the roadway before overturning.  He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.

 

WOMAN HURT IN WEDNESDAY MORNING CRASH

22 year old Caitlyn Trenkle of Mineral Point was hurt in a Wednesday morning crash in Franklin County.  State troopers stated that she was on Highway N when her car ran off the left side of the road and struck a tree.  She sustained minor injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment.  The crash happened at 7:10am Wednesday.

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Tuesday, October 17th, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to reports of numerous thefts from motor vehicles.  The thefts occurred during the previous overnight hours in the southwest part of Mexico.  Area video indicates that four people were involved and they were traveling in a dark colored SUV.  As a result of information provided by alert residents, a 15 year-old male juvenile was detained at about 3:22pm.  The juvenile was processed at MPSD returned to the custody of his family on an ankle monitor by the 12th Circuit Court-Juvenile Division.

 

Anyone with information about this or any other crime is asked to contact CRIMESTOPPERS at (800) 392-TIPS or (800) 392-8477 or Mexico Public Safety at (573) 473-5800 or (573) 581-2100.   

 

On Monday, October 9 at approximately 3:01am, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 200 block of E Jackson in reference to a fire.  This was the apartment building fire where Shelia Ball died.  Investigation into the cause of the fire was conducted by the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office and MPSD.  It was determined the fire started in the north portion of the apartment next to Ms Ball’s.  This area was a bedroom and bathroom.  A resident of that apartment reported being in the bedroom with another person prior to leaving for about a half hour.  When the resident returned, their apartment was on fire.  Careless disposal of smoking material cannot be ruled out as the cause of the fire.   

 

SHELBYVILLE MAN ARRESTED FOR STATUTORY RAPE AND SODOMY  

The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control announces the arrest of Faren J. Lindsey, 46, of Shelbyville, Missouri.  Lindsey was arrested on October 25 for three counts of statutory sodomy, one count of statutory rape, and one count of forcible rape following an investigation by the Troop B Criminal Investigative Unit of the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control.

In July 2022, the Kirksville Police Department requested the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control investigate the sexual assault of a minor female, reported to have been committed by Faren J. Lindsey, in his former residence, located in Kirksville, Missouri. Investigators learned Lindsey had allegedly sexually assaulted the underage female victim several times over a two-year period beginning in July 1999. On October 25, 2023, the results of the investigation were presented to an Adair County grand jury, who formally indicted Lindsey with three counts of statutory sodomy, one count of statutory rape, and one count of forcible rape. On October 25, 2023, Lindsey was taken into custody and transported to the Macon County Jail where he is currently being held, with a $75,000 cash only bond.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

October 26, 2023

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN TUESDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

71 year old Gale Wilkerson of Paris was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday afternoon in Monroe County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 3:10pm as he was on Route M when his dump truck traveled off the right side of the roadway, he overcorrected, using it to run off the left side of the road and overturned.  He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries. 

 

TWO INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT

Two people were injured in a motorcycle accident that occurred just before 1pm Tuesday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that 55 year old Troy Larkins of Pacific was on Highway OO and traveling too fast for conditions when he failed to negotiate a curve, causing his motorcycle to overturn and eject both the man and his passenger 43 year old Theresa Ackerman of St. Louis from it.  Larkins sustained moderate injuries while Ackerman suffered minor injuries.  Both were taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis for treatment. 

 

STATE AWARDS $12 MILLION IN ARPA FUNDING TO EXPAND CELLULAR SERVICE STATEWIDE

The Department of Economic Development (DED) has announced that it has awarded a total of $12 million through the Cell Towers Grant Program for 29 projects.  Grant awards will be used to construct new towers that provide quality cellular service and greater 911 connectivity to high-cost areas.  The program, funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), is focused on investing in the expansion of cellular service statewide.

Projects receiving funds through the Cell Towers Grant Program are expected to serve more than 17,000 high-need locations that previously lacked quality cellular service. The program, administered by DED’s Office of Broadband Development, was launched in May 2023 and awarded competitive grants to applicants who also contributed private funding in addition to grant funds. Each awarded project will result in the construction of one cellular tower, for a total of 29 new towers built statewide.

DED will open a second round of funding through the Cell Towers Grant Program beginning October 20, 2023. Of the original $20 million appropriated by Governor Parson and the General Assembly, $7.9 million will be available for eligible providers and tower owners for the construction of new towers.

Since its first round, the Cell Towers Grant Program has been modified to better clarify the application and challenge processes. Future funding rounds will award recipients based on proposed projects’ proximity to existing towers that provide a minimum quality signal. The program’s application portal will close on November 10, 2023, with awards projected to be announced on December 29, 2023.  Details are available in the program guidelines.

Details on recipients of the Cell Towers Grant Program are available here.

To learn more about DED’s ARPA-funded grant programs, visit ded.mo.gov/arpa.

MISSOURI COMMUNITY SERVICE COMMISSION ANNOUNCES RECIPIENTS OF FOUR NEW AMERICORPS PLANNING GRANTS AND TWO OPERATIONAL GRANTS

The Missouri Community Service Commission (MCSC) has announced the recipients of four new AmeriCorps planning grants and two new operational grants. As the organization responsible for overseeing AmeriCorps programs in Missouri, grants awarded by MCSC will strengthen communities and foster civic engagement through service and volunteering.

AmeriCorps planning grants support organizations in preparing to compete for an AmeriCorps program grant in the following grant cycle, while operational grants fund organizations ready to establish, operate, or expand an AmeriCorps program.

AmeriCorps Planning Grants Recipients:

Missouri Humanities (Statewide)

Expanding the capacity of rural historical societies and cultural institutions to promote and preserve local heritage.

UNITEC Solar Training Program (Statewide)

Developing a new vocational program that will train students in the understanding, installation, management, and maintenance of solar power systems.

United Way of Southeast Missouri (Cape Girardeau)

Eliminating barriers to economic mobility through increased transportation and childcare resources.

Branches for the Lake (Osage Beach)

Developing a multi-use recreational trail that will increase connectivity to schools, businesses, healthcare providers, and government services.

AmeriCorps Operational Grants Recipients:

The Foodbank for Central and Northeast Missouri (Columbia)

Addressing issues of food-insecurity and food access across a 32-county region in central and northeast Missouri.

University of Missouri System – Disaster Preparedness AmeriCorps (Kansas City)

Preparing older adults for potential disasters through mitigation, preparation, response and recovery.

Recipients of MCSC’s latest AmeriCorps planning and operational grants join 25 current grantees for a total of 31 grantees in the AmeriCorps Missouri portfolio.  To learn more about AmeriCorps grants awarded by MCSC, visit showmeservice.org/americorps-programs/.

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

October 25, 2023

 

MAN INJURED IN PIKE COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Bowling Green man was injured in an accident that occurred at 7:50pm Monday in Pike County.  The patrol says that 60 year old Randall Potter was on US 54 when his truck traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a ditch.  He was transported by ambulance to Pike County Memorial Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

 

DRIVER HURT IN MONDAY NIGHT WRECK

64 year old William Strieker of New London was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Monday night in Marion County.  The highway patrol said it happened at around 5:25pm as he was on MO 168 when his truck ran off the right side of the road, struck a culvert and overturned.  He sustained minor injuries and was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment.

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Sunday, October 22 at approximately 7:12pm, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the US Highway 54 bypass, about 1 mile from E Liberty Street, in reference to a crash.  Responding personnel found that a 2016 Dodge was being driven northbound by 34 year old Kelly B Rolando of Pleasant Hill, IL, when it crossed the centerline and struck a 2022 Tesla being driven southbound by 62 year old Jeffrey M Jappa of St. Louis.  Both Rolando and Jappa died as a result of the crash.  A front seat passenger in the Tesla, Cheryl A Pro, age 63 of St. Louis, was transported to University Hospital by ambulance where she was admitted for care.  The bypass was closed for approximately 2 ½ hours.

 

NEW MISSOURI LAW STRENGTHENS ANNUAL BUCKLE UP PHONE DOWN DAY

For the first time in its seven-year history, Buckle Up Phone Down is the law in Missouri. The Missouri Department of Transportation and the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety, along with various safety partners across the state, are marking this milestone during the seventh annual Buckle Up Phone Down Day challenge on Oct. 25.

In August, the Siddens-Bening Hands-Free Law took effect in Missouri, prohibiting all drivers from using a handheld electronic communication device while driving. The law aims to address distracted driving, which contributed to crashes that claimed the lives of more than 800 people across the state from 2012-2021. Paired with the requirement to wear a seat belt, the enactment of the hands-free legislation means BUPD is officially law in Missouri.

Under this law, drivers are prohibited from physically holding or supporting a cell phone with any part of their body; manually typing, writing, sending, or reading text-based messages; recording, posting, sending or broadcasting video, including video calls and social media posts; and watching a video or movie.

Since the creation of BUPD in 2017, Missouri’s seat belt usage rate reached an all-time high and the percentage of fatalities who were unbuckled has decreased. The movement has collected more than 35,000 pledges to BUPD and has expanded to more than a dozen states across the country.

Drivers can accept the challenge to BUPD at modot.org/bupd and spread the word on social media using the hashtags #BUPD and #BUPDDay.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

October 24, 2023

 

FOUR INJURED, TWO SERIOUSLY IN SUNDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

Four people from Moberly were injured, two seriously in a Sunday afternoon crash in Randolph County.  State troopers stated that a tractor trailer driven by 21 year old Tyler Callahan of Jacksonville was on US 63 when he slowed to make a turn and was struck in the rear by an SUV driven by 29 year old Mercedes Simmons.  Simmons and one of her passengers’ 41 year old Justin Dellis sustained serious injuries, while her other two passenger’s a 2 year old and 5 year old boys suffered minor injuries.  All four were transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.  The crash happened at around 1:10pm Sunday.

 

WOMAN KILLED IN WARREN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Hawk Point woman was killed in an accident that occurred just before 6am Monday in Warren County.  The patrol says that 38 year old Jamie Whitman was on Highway 47 when her car ran off the road, struck a culvert and also a tree.  She was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

DRIVER HURT IN MONDAY MORNING WRECK

29 year old Evan Bankovich of Sedalia was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Monday morning in Saline County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 6:35am as he was westbound on I-70 when his car traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck an embankment and overturned.  He was taken to Fitzgibbon Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

 

MDC STRESSES SAFETY FOR NON-HUNTERS DURING HUNTING SEASONS

With deer and turkey hunting underway in Missouri, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds non-hunters to practice safety measures when a field during hunting seasons.  

“Safety while hunting is ultimately the responsibility of the hunter,” said MDC Hunter Education Coordinator Justin McGuire. “Hunters must clearly identify their targeted game animals before even putting their fingers on the triggers of their firearms or before drawing their bows when archery hunting. They must also be aware of what is behind their targets and should never shoot at movement or sound.”

McGuire added that non-hunters out in hunting areas can also practice some safety measures. He and MDC offer these safety tips for non-hunters:

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

October 23, 2023

 

ELMER TEEN KILLED IN MACON COUNTY ACCIDENT

An Elmer teen was killed in an accident that occurred at 6am Saturday in Macon County.  The patrol says that 18 year old Cassie Foote was on US 36 at Major Avenue when her car traveled into the path of a semi driven by 44 year old Darek Dynak of Carol Stream, IL and they collided.  She was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SATURDAY EVENING WRECK

A New Cambria man was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday evening in Macon County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 6:50pm as 57 year old Larry Bulen was on Badger Street when he attempted to avoid an animal in the road and his vehicle overturned, ejecting him from it.  He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

DRIVER HURT IN SATURDAY NIGHT CRASH

18 year old Elsie Watson of Moberly was hurt in a Saturday night crash in Macon County.  State troopers stated that she was on Mahogany Street when she lost control and her car ran off the right side of the roadway and struck a building.  She was transported by ambulance to Samaritan Hospital in Macon for treatment of minor injuries.  The crash occurred at around 9:15pm Saturday.

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below. MoDOT asks drivers to work with them by buckling up, putting your phone down, slowing down and moving over in work zones.

Audrain County

U.S. Route 54 (Eastbound) – October 24, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Audrain County Road 803 to Callaway County Road 2002 between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Knox County

Route K – October 24-25, CLOSED for railroad crossing repairs from 0.78 miles east of Missouri Route 15 in Baring from 7:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 24 and 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 25. This will be a continuous closure exceeding 24 hours.

Marion County

U.S. Route 24/61 (Eastbound) – October 24, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from CR 341 to CR 332 between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m.

U.S. Route 24/61 (Westbound) – October 24, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 168 to Main Cross Street between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Route C – October 25-27, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Shelby County Route Z to Marion County Route K between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Monroe County

Business Route 24 – October 24-25, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Cleveland Street to Missouri Route 154 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Route F – October 26, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations beginning 600 feet west of Missouri Route 15 to 1000 feet west of Missouri Route 15 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route M – October 27, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from 100 feet east of CR 1003 to 100 feet west of CR 1003 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Montgomery County

Route FF – October 25, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Lagemann Road to Oak Hall Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route A – October 30, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Scott Road to Hopewell Church Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.           

Route A – October 31, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Hopewell Church Road to Dove Hill Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Ralls County

U.S. Route 61 (Southbound) – October 26, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route O to Missouri Route 19 between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

U.S. Route 61 (Northbound) October 27, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Missouri Route 19 to Route O between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Shelby County

Route C – October 25-27, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Shelby County Route Z to Marion County Route K between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

DEMOLITION OF MO ROUTE 19 BRIDGE OVER I-70 REDUCES TRAFFIC TO ONE LANE

Motorists on Interstate 70 are advised of lane closures resulting in significant delays due to the removal of the old Route 19 bridge at the New Florence/Hermann exit at mile marker 175 in Montgomery County. Weather permitting, October 22 beginning at 7 p.m., I-70 will be reduced to one lane in each direction and traffic will be rerouted over the on/off ramps at the mile marker 175 interchange. In case of inclement weather, this work could be rescheduled on October 29. 

Delays could stretch up to 10 miles in either direction. Motorists are strongly advised to avoid the area from 7 p.m. on Sunday, October 22 through the afternoon on Monday, October 23.   

For the safety of motorists and the construction team, here are the details of the traffic impacts in place for beginning 7 p.m. on October 22:

I-70 traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction and will be rerouted over the on/off ramps at the Rte. 19 & I-70 interchange (mile maker 175).

I-70 and Rte. 19 traffic will be completely stopped at approximately 10 p.m. on October 22 for a brief period of up to 20 minutes.

The I-70 North and South Outer Roads, east of Rte. 19 will be closed to westbound through traffic with only local residential traffic allowed between Rte. 19 and High Hill.

The I-70 North and South Outer Roads, west of Rte. 19 will be closed to eastbound through traffic with only local residential traffic allowed from the Danville interchange to Rte. 19.

During this time, while temporary modified traffic patterns are in place, a 10-foot width restriction will be in effect for all traffic utilizing the detour on the ramps at this interchange.

To alleviate congestion, motorists are strongly encouraged to utilize alternate routes for travel.

After the 10 p.m. short-term stoppage of traffic, Rte.19 will be reopened to traffic, and I-70 traffic will continue to be rerouted over the on/off-ramps until the interstate is ready to be reopened in the afternoon of October 23. The I-70 traffic will be given priority at the interchange to all other traffic.

 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

October 20, 2023

 

COMMISSION AWARDS CONTRACTS FOR PROJECTS IN NORTHEAST DISTRICT

During its regular meeting last week, the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission awarded the following contracts for a bridge replacement, seal coat and resurfacing projects in the Northeast District. 

A $12.4M contract was awarded to KCI Construction Company, for a bridge replacement project on Missouri Route 79, over Bear Creek, Norfolk Southern Railroad, and Warren Barrett Drive, 0.4 mile north of Route T in Hannibal in Marion County.

 

A $1M contract was awarded to W. L. Miller Company for seal coat projects in Monroe and Shelby counties at the following locations:

Shelby County, Missouri Route 15 - From Missouri Route 168 at Shelbyville to just north of U.S. Route 36 at Shelbina

Monroe/Shelby County, Missouri Route 15 - From 0.2 mile south of U.S. Route 36 at Shelbina to Missouri Route 154 north junction in Monroe County at Paris.

 

A $3.5M contract was awarded to Magruder Paving, LLC for seal coat and resurfacing projects in Lincoln and Montgomery counties at the following locations:

Lincoln County, Route E – Seal coat from Route UU in Silex to U.S. Route 61

Montgomery/Lincoln County, Route E – Resurfacing from I-70 to Route UU in Silex

 

A $4.4M contract was awarded to Christensen Construction Co. for resurfacing projects in Audrain, Boone and Ralls counties at the following locations:

Audrain/Ralls County, Route B - From Missouri Route 154 in Ralls County to U.S. Route 54 in Audrain County, 5.2 miles east of Mexico

Audrain/Boone County, Route D - From Route Z in Boone County to 0.1 mile south of Missouri Route 15 at Mexico in Audrain County

Audrain/Boone County, Route FF - From Route Z in Boone County to 1 mile west of Missouri Route 15 at Mexico in Audrain County

Audrain County, Route M - From Route FF to Route D near Mexico

 

A $1M contract was awarded to W. L. Miller Company for seal coat projects in Pike County at the following locations:

Missouri Route 79 - From 0.9 mile south of U.S. Route 54 east junction in Louisiana to Lincoln County line

Route B - From U.S. Route 61 near Frankford to Missouri Route 79

 

A $6.4M contract was awarded to Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc., for resurfacing projects in Macon, Monroe and Randolph counties at the locations listed below. The projects below are included in Gov. Parson’s Rural Road program.

Macon County, Route DD - From U.S. Route 63 to Route K

Macon County, Route T- From Missouri Route 3 to U.S. Route 63

Randolph County, Route CC - From Route J to Route K

Randolph County, Route K - From U.S. Route 63 at Cairo to Missouri Route 151

Macon County, Route AA - From Route K to the end of state maintenance

Randolph County, Route FF - From Route CC to the end of state maintenance

Randolph/Monroe County, Route M - From U.S. Route 63 in Randolph County to Missouri Route 151 in Monroe County 

 

PSC GRANTS CONFLUENCE RIVERS UTILITY OPERATING COMPANY REQUEST TO PURCHASE WATER AND SEWER SYSTEMS IN LINCOLN COUNTY

The Missouri Public Service Commission has granted a request filed by Confluence Rivers Utility Operating Company, Inc. (Confluence) to acquire all or substantially all of the water and sewer system assets of the currently unregulated systems of Lincoln County Water and Sewer, LLC (LCWS). The Commission also granted Confluence a certificate of convenience and necessity to operate the systems and provide service to the public.  According to the application, the LCWS assets are located in and around the Quail Ridge subdivision in Lincoln County near Moscow Mills, Missouri. To provide service to the proposed areas, Confluence states it will purchase the existing water and sewer systems.  Confluence will adopt the existing water and sewer rates in place for Quail Run customers-a fixed monthly water rate of $17.50, and a fixed monthly sewer rate of $17.50. Those proposed rates would be in effect until such time as the rates are modified according to law.

The Commission approved the application determining: 1) There is a need for the service; 2) Confluence is qualified to provide the proposed service; 3) Confluence has the financial ability to provide the service; 4) Confluence’s proposal is economically feasible; and 5) The service promotes the public interest.

Confluence provides service to approximately 4,830 water connections and 5,053 sewer connections in Missouri. Lincoln County Water and Sewer, LLC provides water and sewer services to approximately 434 residential connections.

 

JOBS REPORT FOR SEPTEMBER

Missouri nonfarm payroll employment increased by 5,200 jobs in September 2023, and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased by one-tenth of a percentage point. Private industry employment increased by 4,700 jobs and government employment increased by 500 jobs. The state's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 2.9 percent in September 2023, up from 2.8 percent in August 2023. Over the year, there was an increase of 43,700 jobs from September 2022 to September 2023, and the unemployment rate increased by three-tenths of a percentage point, from 2.6 percent in September 2022 to 2.9 percent in September 2023.  

  




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

October 19, 2023

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN RANDOLPH COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Huntsville man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 2:20pm Tuesday in Randolph County.  The highway patrol said that 34 year old Leland Coonce was on Highway JJ when his car ran off the left side of the road and struck a tree.  He was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

TWO KILLED IN TUESDAY AFTERNOON INCIDENT

A man and woman were killed while riding their motorcycle in a Tuesday afternoon incident in Saline County.  MSHP stated that it happened at 4:35pm as a tractor driven by 28 year old Anthony Bryson of Waverly was on US 65 attempting to make a left turn onto Arbor Road when a motorcycle operated by 29 year old Dylan Giffin of Malta Bend attempted to pass the tractor and struck the towed unit, causing the motorcycle to cross over the northbound lanes and struck a car driven by 47 year old Barbara Jarvis of Carrollton head-on.  Both Giffen and his passenger 41 year old Jamie Kelly of Waverly were pronounced dead at the scene.   

 

DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN TUESDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

A driver was seriously injured in a Tuesday afternoon crash in Clark County.  State troopers stated that 21 year old Hunter Byrn of Downing was on US 136 and stopped for road construction when his vehicle was struck in the rear by a car driven by 36 year old Tressa Boyd of Kahoka.  Boyd was taken

to Scotland County Memorial Hospital in Memphis with serious injuries.  The crash happened at 12:35pm Tuesday.

 

WOMAN INJURED IN TUESDAY EVENING WRECK

28 year old Rani Bloomster of Bunceton was injured in a one-vehicle wreck that occurred at 5:30pm Tuesday in Moniteau County.  The patrol says that she was on Route O when her car traveled off the right side of the roadway and then skidded off the left side, struck an embankment and went through a fence.  She was taken to Harry S. Truman Memorial Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.


MISSOURI “SHAKEOUT” EARTHQUAKE DRILL SET FOR THURSDAY

Recent disasters in Morocco and Turkey serve as reminders of the destructive power of earthquakes. It’s also an important reminder that one of the country’s most active earthquake zones is located right here in Missouri. In 1811-12, the New Madrid Seismic Zone (NMSZ), centered in southeast Missouri, produced some of the most powerful earthquakes in U.S. history. Similar earthquakes today would lead to major damage and destruction.

To prepare for any future earthquakes, the 2023 Great Central U.S. Shakeout earthquake drill will be held on Thursday.  Missouri is one of 14 participating states that could be impacted by a NMSZ earthquake.

At 10:19am on Thursday, hundreds of thousands of Missourians will practice the “Drop, Cover, Hold On” technique:

Studies show that in developed countries with modern structures, falling debris is the most common source of injury in an earthquake. Experts advise that when an earthquake occurs in the U.S., the “Drop, Cover and Hold On” technique is the best protection from falling debris. 

The NMSZ is one of the most active earthquake zones in the country, averaging more than 200 small quakes per year. Another major earthquake in this zone would be felt not only in Missouri but throughout the Midwest, damaging much of the southern and eastern parts of the state, including the St. Louis metropolitan area. To learn more about earthquakes in Missouri and how to prepare, please visit sema.dps.mo.gov/earthquake_preparedness.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

October 18, 2023

 

TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED IN HOWARD COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two young ladies from Fayette were seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 1:15pm Monday in Howard County.  The highway patrol said that 20 year old Hope Chappel and her passenger 19 year old Charlea Winscott were on MO 124 when their motorcycle crossed the center of the road and struck a vehicle driven by 79 year old Wanda Lynch of Fayette.  After impact both ladies were ejected from the motorcycle.  They were taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

WOMAN INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY WRECK

34 year old Cassondra Casby of St. Clair was injured in a one-vehicle wreck that occurred at 11:40pm Monday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that she was eastbound on I-44 when her car struck a deer and then it traveled off the right side of the roadway, down an embankment and struck several trees.  She was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

WOMAN HURT IN MONDAY EVENING INCIDENT

A woman was hurt in a Monday evening incident in Franklin County.  MSHP stated that 65 year old Mona Scoggin of Catawissa, MO was a passenger in a vehicle driven by 72 year old Gary Scoggin of Catawissa.  They were on Meramec Street when a deer ran across the road and he avoided the deer by steering to the left, went off the left side of the road and then steered to the right to avoid horses and struck a tree before coming to rest facing south.  She sustained minor injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment.  The incident happened at 5:25pm Monday.

 

STATEWIDE WINTER WEATHER DRILL SET FOR THURSDAY

Winter is just around the corner, and in preparation, the Missouri Department of Transportation will hold its annual winter operations drill on Thursday. Motorists may notice an increased number of MoDOT vehicles on state routes during the drill, which will begin at 8am in rural areas and 9am in urban areas. The exercise should be completed by 3pm.  With turnover rates and many positions still open, driver training on this day is more critical than ever.

MoDOT has more than 3,000 employees across the state involved in work to clear roads and bridges when winter weather hits. During the drill, MoDOT employees will react to a simulated forecast of significant snow for the entire state. The department’s emergency operations centers will activate, and all employees involved in winter operations will be deployed to their trucks. Emergency communications systems will also be tested.

In addition, every piece of equipment—every truck, motor grader, snow blower and tractor—is inspected and calibrated to conserve materials and operate efficiently and safely.  MoDOT spent $33 million on winter operations last year and used 63,000 tons of salt; 957,000 gallons of salt brine; and 147,000 gallons of beet juice.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

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October 17, 2023

 

TEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SUNDAY EVENING WRECK

A Wentzville teen was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday evening in Warren County.  MSHP stated that the 18 year old boy was on Route B when he swerved to the right to avoid a deer in the road and his vehicle ran off the right side of the road, returned to the road and went off the left side and overturned.  He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington with serious injuries.  The wreck happened at 5:30pm Sunday.

 

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE MISHAP

30 year old Cassandra Hardy of Revere was seriously injured in a motorcycle mishap Sunday night in Clark County.  State troopers report that it happened at 6:30pm as she was on Route H when she failed to negotiate a curve and her motorcycle went off the road and overturned.  She was taken to Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL with serious injuries.

 

SEVERAL PEOPLE HURT IN LINN COUNTY ACCIDENT

Several people were hurt in an accident that occurred at 9:35am Sunday in Linn County.  The patrol says that a van driven by 59 year old Terry Gilmore of Brookfield was on US 36 when he slowed to make a right turn and was struck in the rear by a van driven by 33 year old Jessica Padgett of Bethany.  Both drivers along with their passengers’ were taken to area hospitals for treatment of minor injuries.

 

TEEN HURT IN FRANKLIN COUNTY CRASH

A St. Clair teen was hurt in a Sunday night crash in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it occurred after 11pm as the 17 year old boy was on North Commercial Avenue when he failed to negotiate a curve, causing his motorcycle to travel off the right side of the roadway and overturned, ejecting him from it.  He was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of minor injuries.


 




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October 16, 2023

CARROLLTON DRIVER KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH

The patrol reports a Carrollton woman, 52 year old Nancy Gardner was killed in a single vehicle crash Saturday night in Carroll County. Authorities say Gardner was northbound at 6:25 pm when her vehicle crossed over MO 24 at the junction of MO 41 at MO 24 and struck an embankment. Gardner was pronounced deceased a short time later at Carroll County Memorial Hospital.

EIGHT PEOPLE TRANSPORTED TO HOSPITAL AFTER LINN COUNTY WRECK

A total of 8 people were transported by ambulance to Pershing Hospital in Brookfield Sunday morning.  Authorities said the crash happened on US 36, 2 miles west of Brookfield at 9:35 am when a vehicle driven by 59 year old Terry Gilmore of Brookfield slowed to make a right hand turn and was struck from behind by another westbound auto driven by 33 year old Jessica Padgett of Bethany. Both drivers had minor injuries as did 71 year old Patricia Gilmore of Brookfield and 37 year old Carmiel Padgett of Bethany. In addition, 4 juveniles were also in the Padgett van also received minor injuries. All 8 were treated at the Brookfield hospital.  

STURGEON MAN INJURED IN FRIDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

The patrol said a Sturgeon man was injured when his southbound Peterbilt semi collided with the rear of another southbound auto’s towed unit as it slowed to turn into a private drive on the right side of US. Highway 63, 1 mile south of the MO 22 Junction in Boone County Friday afternoon at 3:10 pm. 23 year old Eric L. Anderson was driving the Big Rig sustained moderate injuries and was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia.  The driver of the other vehicle was not injured.

HOME DESTROYED BY FIRE SATURDAY MORNING

A rental home was destroyed by fire early Saturday morning about a mile north of Atlanta on old Highway 63. Firefighters from Atlanta, LaPlata Fire and Rescue and the Macon County Rural Fire Department assisted in battling the blaze, but the home owned by Aaron Baker of Atlanta was declared a total loss.  The occupants of the home, Heather Sweetwood and her son, Owyn were able to escape the fire, but officials say they lost everything.

GUN DISTURBANCE INVESTIGATION AND FATAL FIRE IN MEXICO RECENTLY

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT REPORTS GUN DISTURBANCE ARREST AND FATAL FIRE

On Monday, October 9 at approximately 3:01AM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to a fire in the 200 block of E Jackson in Mexico in reference to a fire in an apartment building.  Callers were reporting there being fire in multiple apartments and were unsure of the status of other residents.  Responding personnel found heavy flame coming from a second-floor apartment.  Attack crews attempted to contain the fire while getting people from that building and a smaller apartment attached to the building. Five adults and an infant successfully evacuated.  53 year old Shelia D Ball, of Mexico, died in the fire as did several pets.  The fire was extinguished by about 8:30AM but crews remained on scene conducting overhaul and investigating what occurred.  The Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office responded to assist in the investigation. On Wednesday, October 11 at approximately 2:53PM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to Jubel Drive in reference to a disturbance involving a man chasing others with a gun.  Investigation led to the arrest of 26 year old Trey Keith, of Mexico.  Keith was processed at MPSD and later taken to the Audrain County Jail for Assault 4th degree, Unlawful Use of Weapon, and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon.  There were no injuries from the incident.

RURAL ROUTE RESURFACING WORK SCHEDULED ON ROUTE Y IN PIKE COUNTY

Weather permitting, a resurfacing project located on Route Y in Pike County, from Business Route 61 in Bowling Green to the end of state maintenance, is expected to begin on Tuesday October 17 and is anticipated to be complete by Friday December 1.

The $4.7M contract, awarded last month to Magruder Paving, LLC of Troy, Missouri, includes several additional resurfacing projects which are scheduled to begin in spring of 2024,with all projects completed by November 1, 2024:

Traffic will be reduced to one lane with a 9-foot width restriction at the location where crews are actively working. Flaggers and a pilot car will be utilized for traffic control to guide traffic through the work zone. Workers will be present during daylight hours. All work is weather dependent and schedules are subject to change.  




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October 13, 2023

 

ACTING GOVERNOR KEHOE ORDERS CAPITOL DOME LIGHTED BLUE AND WHITE IN SUPPORT OF ISRAEL

On behalf of Governor Mike Parson and serving in his capacity as Acting Governor, Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe has ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome lighted blue and white in honor of Israeli and American lives lost in Israel and as an expression of solidarity with the nation of Israel as they fight back against Hamas terrorists.

In a joint statement, Governor Parson and Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe further denounced the terrorist attacks against the nation of Israel and expressed support for the Israeli people: 

"The barbarism committed by Iran-backed Hamas terrorists has now claimed the lives of more than 1,200 people and 22 Americans, including one Missourian, in Israel. We mourn these innocent lives lost and pray for all those who have fallen victim to this merciless terror. This brutal, indiscriminate killing of civilian men and women, children, babies, and the elderly by Hamas terrorists cannot be ignored. Missouri, the United States, and the world must stand against these wicked atrocities. Together, we declare that the State of Missouri stands strong in solidarity with Israel and the Jewish people. Today, tomorrow, or however long it takes to root out this evil, Missouri supports our ally, Israel, in this fight and its right to defend itself."

The Capitol dome will shine blue and white starting on the weekly Jewish Sabbath at sunset on Friday, October 13, through sunrise on Sunday, October 15.

 

MDC TO HOST 37TH ANNUAL POOSEY CONSERVATION AREA FALL TOUR ON SUNDAY

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will welcome visitors to the 37th annual fall driving tour at the Poosey Conservation Area from noon until 4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 15. The driving tour gives visitors a chance to enjoy fall color while touring on gravel service roads that are not normally open to public vehicle traffic.  Visitors can drive uphill and down on winding lanes through forest and woodlands. MDC will provide a tour brochure at the entrance that point out nature interpretive stops along the route.

The tour route has some steep grades in places and a few creek crossings. A vehicle (or other mode of transport) with high clearance is recommended. Each year the tour draws families and community groups riding on trailers or on wagons drawn by pickups or horses. Couples in horse-drawn buggies are common, as are riders of all ages on horseback. Cars, pickup trucks, and the occasional bicyclist also traverse the tour.

Visitors can count on a slow driving pace, all the better to enjoy the fall foliage. The interpretive stops along the route showcase conservation practices such as timber stand improvement and native warm season grassland. At a midway point, visitors will find exhibits on nature, conservation, and the Poosey area history. They can visit with MDC staff about conservation issues. A popular stopping point is where a short trail leads to a limestone outcrop called the Panther’s Den.

For tour information, contact MDC Forester Samantha Anderson, 660-646-6122. Maps and information about Poosey Conservation Area are at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZFd.

MSHP SEEKING APPLICANTS FOR 121ST RECRUIT CLASS

The Missouri State Highway Patrol, a premier law enforcement agency, is testing for new troopers. The Patrol is encouraging qualified individuals of all backgrounds to apply, and will offer testing at nine different locations in Missouri. Those who successfully complete testing will be eligible to continue in the selection process for the 121st Recruit Class, scheduled to begin training on July 1, 2024.
To be eligible, candidates must possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent and be 21 years of age upon graduating from the Patrol’s Law Enforcement Academy. Upon graduating from the Patrol’s Academy, troopers are eligible to earn 46 credit hours through Mineral Area College in Park HillsMO, or 30 credit hours through the University of Central Missouri in WarrensburgMO, toward a degree, or 57 credit hours through Missouri State University in SpringfieldMO, toward a degree. During the Academy, recruits may also be eligible to receive an associate of applied science degree at Mineral Area College by completing an additional 16 general education credit hours through online courses with Western Governors University.
Interested persons can find out more about the qualifications by contacting a Patrol recruiter at 1-800-796-7000, or may apply online at www.motrooper.com.





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October 12, 2023

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT

A man was seriously injured in a motorcycle accident that occurred at 10am Tuesday in Macon County.  The patrol says that 57 year old Michael James of St. Charles was on Lace Avenue 3 miles east of Excello when his motorcycle struck a deer in the roadway, causing it to overturn and eject him from it.  He was transported by helicopter to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

 

DRIVER HURT IN LINCOLN COUNTY WRECK

58 year old Curtis Gabris of Troy was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday night in Lincoln County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 5:30pm as he was on Highway 47 when his truck traveled off the right side of the road and struck a utility pole.  He was taken to St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

NRCS MISSOURI OFFERS FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR FARMERS AND LANDOWNERS THROUGH SEVEN REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP PROJECTS

USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Missouri invites qualifying farmers and landowners to apply to receive technical and financial assistance through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). Funding is available for seven regional partnership projects. Applications must be received by Nov. 17, 2023, to be considered for this round of funding.

The RCPP projects and associated counties are:

* Program Restoring & Improving Monarch Ecosystems (PRIME) (Andrew, Atchison, Benton, Buchanan, Caldwell, Carroll, Cass, Clay, Clinton, Daviess, DeKalb, Gentry, Grundy, Harrison, Henry, Holt, Jackson, Johnson, Lafayette, Livingston, Mercer, Nodaway, Pettis, Platte, Ray, Saline and Worth counties):
This project aims to increase monarch and pollinator habitat in Northwest Missouri through land management practices, with an emphasis on prescribed burning and short-term land rental payments. PRIME will target lands currently enrolled in and expiring from Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), enhancing monarch habitat by maintaining and restoring diverse native plant communities. Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever are the lead partners on this project.

* Precision Farm Data & Strategic Buffer Project (Chariton, Lafayette, Linn, Macon, Pettis, Randolph and Saline counties):
This project focuses on utilizing on-farm yield data to identify non-profitable or marginal cropland acres to strategically establish field borders, pollinator habitat, wetlands and more to maximize profitability while improving water quality and wildlife habitat. The Missouri Department of Conservation is the lead partner on this project.

* Missouri Targeted Conservation (portions of Audrain, Bates, Boone, Bollinger, Caldwell, Callaway, Cape Girardeau, Carroll, Chariton, Clinton, Cole, Cooper, Daviess, DeKalb, Dunklin, Gasconade, Gentry, Grundy, Harrison, Howard, Jefferson, Johnson, Lafayette, Livingston, Macon, Mercer, Miller, Moniteau, Monroe, Montgomery, Morgan, New Madrid, Osage, Pemiscot, Pettis, Randolph, Ray, Saline, Scott, Shelby, St. Francois, St. Louis, Ste. Genevieve, Stoddard, Vernon and Worth counties):
This project aims to identify areas within a watershed where identified conservation practices can achieve the most economically efficient loss reductions for sediment, nutrients and pathogens into waterways. The Blackwater, Cahokia-Joachim, South Fork Salt, Little Osage, Thompson, Upper Grand, Little River Ditches and Lower Missouri-Moreau watersheds have been identified as the Missouri focus areas. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is the lead partner on this project.

* East Locust Creek Source Water Protection Project (Sullivan & Putnam counties):
This project aims to prevent nonpoint source runoff from entering the East Locust Creek Reservoir (ELCR). The North Central Missouri Regional Water Commission is the lead partner on this project.

 

NEW FLORENCE DISTILLERY TOPS WHISKEY COMPETITION

Wood Hat Spirits of New Florence took top honors with their Queens Reserve at the Heartland Whiskey Competition held in St. LouisMo., earlier this summer. The distillery's 'cornfield to glass' creation was named Missouri's top craft whiskey in a blind judging competition, sponsored in part by the Missouri Corn Merchandising Council (MCMC), which drew entries from 20 states.  

The day-long competition, supervised by the American Craft Spirits Association, required judges to evaluate each spirit within its appropriate category (bourbon, corn whiskey, etc.). Top state medals were awarded to those achieving the highest scores in their respective states, regardless of category. 

The competition was limited to spirits that use corn as an ingredient in the distillation process. Through entering, competing, and medaling, craft distilleries earn awards that allow them to better market their products. The 2023 competition also introduced a new category: Top Farmer-Distiller. This award is given to the highest-scoring product among all entries produced by a distillery whose owner actively farms. More than 30 percent of all 2023 entries were from farmer-distillers. 

On average, it takes approximately three pounds of corn to make one bottle of spirits. At 56 pounds in a bushel, local distilleries can produce roughly 18 bottles of spirits for each bushel of corn. A complete list of winners and sponsoring corn states can be found on the ACSA website





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October 11, 2023  

 

MAN KILLED IN CALLAWAY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Mokane man was killed in an accident that occurred at 8pm Monday in Callaway County.  The patrol says that 77 year old Joseph Richner was on County Road 470 when he got to close to the edge of a lake and his vehicle overturned.  He was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

MODOT HOSTING HIRING EVENT IN TROY

The Missouri Department of Transportation is seeking individuals who are interested in a career to “come for the snow, stay for the mow” and keep Missouri moving during the winter season and beyond.

MoDOT is hosting a hiring event from 10am to 7pm on Wednesday at 121 Francis Drive (Troy Project Office) in Troy, with the opportunity for year-round employment including mowing, striping and other maintenance functions. The event will focus on hiring multiple full-time maintenance workers for Warrenton, Troy and Elsberry, with limited openings in other locations across northeast Missouri.

This event will provide applicants an opportunity for an accelerated hiring process, including on-site interviews, conditional job offers; followed by drug testing and initiating the criminal background checks.  Work Simulation exams and physicals will be scheduled at a later date.  For details and to learn more about these career opportunities, visit modot.org/opportunities-maintenance.

HUNTERS TAKE 16,575 DEER DURING NEW FIREARMS EARLY ANTLERNESS PORTION

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows that hunters harvested 16,575 deer during the state’s new firearms early antlerless portion of deer season, Oct. 6-8. The top-three harvest counties were Franklin with 489 deer harvested, Howell with 454, and Ripley with 437.

Deer hunting in Missouri continues with archery hunting through Nov. 10 and again Nov. 22 through Jan. 15, 2024. Upcoming firearms portions are:

Firearms Early Youth Portion: Oct. 28-29

Firearms November Portion: Nov. 11-21

New! Firearms CWD Portion: Nov. 22-26 (in open counties)

Firearms Late Youth Portion: Nov. 24-26

Firearms Late Antlerless Portion: Dec. 2-10 (in open counties)

Firearms Alternative Methods Portion: Dec. 23 - Jan. 2, 2024

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

MODOT ANNOUNCES PREQUALIFIED TEAMS FOR FIRST IMPROVE I-70 PROJECT

The Missouri Department of Transportation has received Statements of Qualifications (SOQs) from teams interested in competing for the contract to design and construct the first project of MoDOT’s statewide Improve I-70 Program. Improve I-70: Columbia to Kingdom City will improve the 20-mile stretch of Interstate 70 between U.S. 63 and U.S. 54 and is one of several projects which will widen the I-70 corridor across the state.

Missouri’s FY2024 budget from the General Assembly signed into law by Governor Parson provides $2.8 billion in General Revenue for the costs to build a third lane of Interstate 70 across the state. The program will plan, design, construct, reconstruct, rehabilitate, and add three lanes in each direction on approximately 200 miles of I-70, from Blue Springs to Wentzville.

The pre-qualified teams are as follows:

I-70 Constructors: Emery Sapp & Sons and Capital Paving and Construction – Joint Venture.

Parsons.

Millstone Weber.

Lunda and Jacobs.

There are still opportunities for additional consultants and subcontracting firms to be added to each team.

Design-Build is a project delivery method that combines both the design and construction phases into one contract. The selected contract team completes the design and construction in parallel instead of in succession, which saves time and resources. MoDOT has established the following design-build goals for the Columbia to Kingdom City project:

Deliver the project by December 31, 2027, within the program budget of $405 million.

Provide a third lane of travel for eastbound and westbound Interstate 70 from Columbia to Kingdom City.

Improve I-70/US 63 and I-70/US 54 Interchanges providing for better traffic flow and movement of freight.

Improve the interstate while modernizing the existing pavement and bridges.

Minimize construction impacts through communication and construction staging while maintaining safety and mobility.

Provide expanded employment opportunities to a diverse workforce.

MoDOT will issue the Request for Proposal in October 2023. The department will continue to work through the procurement process through the end of the year. The teams will submit their proposal for the potential selection of the winning proposal in approximately February 2024, and construction could start as early as summer 2024.





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October 10, 2023

 

MACON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE LOOKING FOR FUGITIVE WHO IS CONSIDERED ARMED AND DANGEROUS

The Macon County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help to find a fugitive who is considered armed and dangerous.  According to KTVO the sheriff’s office is looking for 42 year old Nathaniel Fisher of Macon.  They said he is wanted for a probation violation on original charges of driving while revoked/suspended and operating a motor vehicle in a careless and imprudent manner along with several other violations involving owning and operating a motor vehicle.  Anyone with information on Fisher’s whereabouts is encouraged to contact the Macon County Sheriff’s Office at 660-385-2062, message the agency on Facebook or Instagram or contact your local law enforcement agency.  Once again, Fisher is considered armed and dangerous.

 

WOMAN INJURED IN SUNDAY NIGHT ACCIDENT

A Florissant woman was injured in an accident that occurred at 11:50pm Sunday in Ralls County.  The patrol says that 28 year old Quintesha Bush was on Highway 154 when her tractor trailer ran off the left side of the roadway, struck a ditch and overturned.  She was taken to Hannibal Regional Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY WRECK

23 year old Douglas Evert of Union was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday afternoon in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 3:50pm as he was on MO 100 when his jeep traveled off the left side of the road and struck a utility pole.  He was transported by helicopter to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.

 

FIRE PREVENTION WEEK IS THIS WEEK

Across the U.S., interest in cooking and testing out new recipes in the kitchen have risen dramatically in recent years. The fire service says it’s time to see a similar increase in interest in preventing kitchen fires, and that’s why the theme for Fire Prevention Week this year is “Cooking safety starts with you. Pay attention to fire prevention.” National Fire Prevention Week is from Oct. 8-14, 2023.

Here are some tips in preventing kitchen fires:

Always keep an oven mitt and pan lid nearby when you’re cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan to smother the flame. Turn off the burner, and leave the pan covered until it is completely cool.

Keep your cooking area clean. Do not let grease build up on the range top, toaster oven or in the oven.

Keep anything that can catch fire away from the stovetop.

Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove. This helps prevent spills that can start fires.

Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.

If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.

You have to be alert when cooking. You won’t be alert if you are sleepy, have taken medicine or drugs, or consumed alcohol that makes you drowsy.

According to U.S. Fire Administration estimates, in 2021 in the U.S. there were 353,500 residential fires, 2,840 death and 11,400 injuries in residential fires. Losses were estimated at almost $8.6 billion.    

As a reminder, the end of Daylight Saving Time at 2 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, when clocks are adjusted to “fall back” an hour, can serve as an easy reminder to change smoke and CO alarm batteries once a year. Remember, when you change the time, change the batteries. Always have properly installed and maintained smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

More tips on a variety of fire safety topics are available on the Division of Fire Safety website at: https://dfs.dps.mo.gov/safetytips/.

 




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October 6, 2023

 

COOLER NIGHTS BRING INCREASED WILD ANIMAL MOVEMENT

Fall has arrived, and that means more wild animals, especially deer, are on the move as cooler temperatures begin to settle in and nights become longer. The Missouri Department of Transportation reminds motorists to be prepared for the sudden appearance of wild animals on Missouri roadways throughout the fall months.

Missouri has continued to climb the ranks for deer collisions. According to State Farm Insurance, the Show-Me State now ranks 10th in the country for potential animal collisions – up from 14th last year – with a 1 in 80 chance of hitting an animal while driving. MoDOT maintains nearly 34,000 miles of highways, putting Missouri 7th nationally in state highway miles.

In 2022, Missouri drivers experienced 3,699 crashes involving a deer. One deer strike occurred approximately every 2 hours and 20 minutes in the state. In these crashes, there were 5 fatalities and 424 people were injured.

Drivers should never swerve to avoid animals in the road, as it can cause loss of control of their vehicles, resulting in serious injury or death. To avoid hitting a deer, always be cautious and regularly scan both sides of the roadway.

 

CHANGE IN COMMERCIAL DRIVER LICENSE TESTING PROCEDURE

The Missouri State Highway Patrol and Missouri Department of Revenue wish to inform potential future Commercial Driver License (CDL) applicants of an upcoming change in CDL testing procedure. The new modernized testing standard being adopted by Missouri will begin on December 4, 2023 and will be utilized by all CDL examiners in the state, including at all Patrol examination sites and all third-party examination sites. The changes in testing procedure include a more streamlined pre-trip examination and more efficient basic skills course.   

Those wishing to train for taking their CDL skills tests on December 4 or later should utilize the following CDL manual for applicable procedures. New Manual

Current testing procedures will remain in effect statewide until December 1. The current CDL manual can be found here.  Current Manual

It is important to note, per federal guidelines, applicants must pass the pre-trip and basic skills using the same testing model, meaning if an applicant passes the old model pre-trip, they must pass the old model basic skills test to be eligible for the road test.  They encourage training schools and applicants to consider this when making plans for testing. For more information, please visit:  https://dor.mo.gov/

OFFICE OF BROADBAND DEVELOPMENT NEWS

The Department of Economic Development’s Office of Broadband Development has announced support for Missouri ACP Act Now, an initiative led by national nonprofit EducationSuperHighway (ESH). Missouri ACP Act Now aims to increase awareness of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a long-term federal benefit that helps eligible households pay for high-speed internet.

“As we continue to expand broadband access in our state, the Affordable Connectivity Program is another resource available for Missouri households,” said Governor Mike Parson. “Alongside our historic investments made in broadband infrastructure, this program is helping achieve a more connected future. We appreciate the efforts of partner organizations like EducationSuperHighway in ensuring every Missourian has access to quality, high-speed internet.”

The ACP is a $14.2 billion federal broadband benefit funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) that provides eligible households with a monthly discount of up to $30 per month or up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. The program can also provide a one-time $100 discount toward a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet. More than 1 million Missourians are eligible for the ACP, while just 33 percent of those eligible have enrolled.

The Missouri ACP Act Now initiative unites a broad coalition of partner cities and counties, community-based organizations, and trusted institutions in partnership with ESH as it works to close the broadband affordability gap.

The coalition of partners will have access to resources to help them overcome the complex awareness, trust, and enrollment barriers that prevent households in the most under-resourced communities from enrolling. Resources include email marketing templates, social media campaigns, and a pre-enrollment tool, which is available at GetACP.org/Missouri. Community leaders can use these resources to promote the ACP and help eligible families enroll. 





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October 5, 2023

 

TWO INJURED IN CALLAWAY COUNTY WRECK

A woman and a man from Fulton were injured in a one-vehicle wreck that occurred at 12am Wednesday in Callaway County.  The patrol says that 22 year old Mikela Quagliotti was westbound on I-70 when her car struck a deer in the roadway and then came to an uncontrolled stop in the median.  She along with her passenger 25 year old Troy Wyman-Harding were taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

 

MOTORCYCLIST SERIOUSLY INJURED IN TUESDAY NIGHT ACCIDENT

55 year old Kevin Todd of Kahoka was seriously injured in a motorcycle accident Tuesday night in Clark County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 7:15pm as he was on US 136 when his motorcycle ran off the right side of the road and overturned.  He was air-lifted to Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL with serious injuries.

 

DRIVER HURT IN TRACTOR TRAILER MISHAP

A driver was hurt in a tractor trailer mishap Tuesday evening in Lewis County.  State troopers stated that 29 year old William Swartz of Labelle was on Route K when it traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned.  He sustained minor injuries and was taken to Blessing Hospital for treatment.  The mishap occurred after 6:30pm Tuesday.

 

 




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October 4, 2023

 

GOVERNOR PARSON ANNOUNCES RECIPIENTS OF SECOND ROUND OF NEW SCHOOL SAFETY GRANT PROGRAM

On Monday, Governor Mike Parson announced a total of 566 school districts, charter schools, and nonpublic schools have received grant funds from the second round of funding for the School Safety Grant Program.

He approved an additional $50 million to expand the School Safety Reimbursement Grant Program in the Fiscal Year 2024 budget. The grant program aims to support school safety improvements, including physical security upgrades and associated technology (e.g., door locks, monitoring systems), epinephrine auto-injectors, and automatic external defibrillators. This second round of funding was also available to nonpublic schools. An additional 169 school districts and charter schools received $20 million in funding during the first round of grants from the Fiscal Year 2023 budget.

Schools applied to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) through a competitive grant application process. The maximum grant amount awarded was $300,000. See grant award totals here on DESE’s website.

PSC SETS INTERVENTION DEADLINE IN EVERGY MISSOURI WEST CASE

Evergy Missouri West, Inc. d/b/a Evergy Missouri West has filed an application with the Missouri Public Service Commission seeking to adjust its renewable energy standard rate adjustment mechanism (RESRAM) charge that appears on the monthly electric bills of Evergy Missouri West customers.  The charge appears as a separate item on the monthly electric bill.  The RESRAM charge is designed to recover costs associated with Missouri’s Renewable Energy Standard.  According to Evergy Missouri West, a residential customer using 1,000 kWh (kilowatt-hours) of electricity a month will see the RESRAM charge increase by approximately $0.04 a month.

Applications to intervene and participate in this case must be filed no later than October 13 with the Secretary of the Missouri Public Service Commission, P.O. Box 360, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102, or by using the Commission’s Electronic Filing and Information System (EFIS) at www.psc.mo.gov.

Individual citizens wishing to comment should contact either the Office of the Public Counsel (Governor Office Building, 200 Madison Street, Suite 650, P.O. Box 2230, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102-2230, telephone 1-866-922-2959, email opcservice@opc.mo.gov) or the Public Service Commission Staff (P.O. Box 360, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102, telephone 1-800-392-4211, email

pscinfo@psc.mo.gov). The Office of the Public Counsel is a separate state agency that represents the general public in matters before the Commission.

Evergy Missouri West provides electric service to approximately 336,640 customers in Andrew, Atchison, Barton, Bates, Benton, Buchanan, Carroll, Cass, Cedar, Clay, Clinton, Dade, Daviess, DeKalb, Gentry, Grundy, Harrison, Henry, Holt, Jackson, Johnson, Lafayette, Livingston, Mercer, Nodaway, Pettis, Platte, Ray, St. Clair, Vernon and Worth counties.

 

MODOT HOSTING HIRING EVENT IN WARRENTON

The Missouri Department of Transportation is seeking individuals who are interested in a career to “come for the snow, stay for the mow” and keep Missouri moving during the winter season and beyond.

MoDOT is hosting a hiring event from 9am to 3pm on Saturday, Oct. 7, at 800 Boonslick in Warrenton, with the opportunity for year-round employment including mowing, striping and other maintenance functions. The event will focus on hiring multiple full-time maintenance workers for Warrenton, Troy and Elsberry, with limited openings in other locations across northeast Missouri.

This event will provide applicants an opportunity for an accelerated hiring process, including on-site interviews, conditional job offers; followed by drug testing and initiating the criminal background checks.  Work Simulation exams and physicals will be scheduled at a later date.  For details and to learn more about these career opportunities, visit modot.org/opportunities-maintenance.

Full-time maintenance employees receive training and a long list of benefits including paid leave, medical, vision and dental insurance, a retirement plan, and a culturally diverse workplace that is dedicated to safety and personal development. Applicants need to be at least 18 years old and successfully complete a criminal background check (a misdemeanor or felony conviction is not an automatic restriction to employment). It’s preferable for applicants to have a CDL permit, but assistance and training is available to help new employees achieve their CDL.

The starting salary for maintenance workers is $19.08 per hour. This position is also eligible for an additional $3 to $6 per hour when working winter/emergency operations activities.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

October 3, 2023

 

THREE INJURED IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY ACCIDENT

Three people were injured in an accident that occurred at 1:55pm Sunday in Montgomery County.  The patrol says that 35 year old Joseph Blizzard of O’Fallon was on MO 19 when he failed to yield to a car driven by 22 year old Chet Moeckli of Hermann and his truck struck the car in the driver side front.  Both drivers and a passenger in the truck a 14 year old girl from O’Fallon sustained minor injuries and were taken to area hospitals for treatment.

 

MOTORCYCLIST KILLED IN SUNDAY AFTERNOON INCIDENT

A motorcyclist was killed in a Sunday afternoon incident in Franklin County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 3:15pm as 33 year old Ronald Williams of Washington was stopped at the intersection of Route E when his motorcycle was struck in the rear by a car driven by 65 year old Kevin Amrein of New Haven.  Williams was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

PIVOT BIO TO EXPAND IN HAZELWOOD, INVESTING MORE THAN $20 MILLION AND CREATING 41 NEW JOBS

Pivot Bio, a cutting-edge leader in ag-tech, recently announced that it will expand in Hazelwood, investing more than $20 million and creating 41 new jobs. The sustainable agriculture company’s expansion includes the establishment of an approximately 47,000-square-foot facility that will increase its capabilities for research, testing, and development of product applications.

Pivot Bio is driven by a commitment to make farming more productive and sustainable. Faced with rising pressure on natural resources and a growing population to feed, growers want nitrogen that is reliable, predictable, and better for the environment. Pivot Bio’s technology meets the demands for nitrogen consistency and dependability by enabling microbes to adhere and remain on the roots of the plant throughout the growing season, delivering nitrogen to the crop with nearly 100 percent efficiency.

Today, Pivot Bio has made microbial production of nitrogen, a discovery long sought after by scientists, commercially available for the first time. To support its continued growth, the company’s new Hazelwood location will focus on the development, production, and manufacturing of its latest product and agriculture’s first-ever on-seed nitrogen technology. Pivot Bio’s proprietary tech platform is primarily focused on cereal crops.

 

GOVERNOR PARSON TO EMBARK ON TRADE MISSION TO JAPAN TO PROMOTE MISSOURI AS IDEAL BUSINESS LOCATION

From October 7 - 12, Governor Mike Parson and First Lady Teresa Parson will travel to Japan for an international Trade Mission. Japan is a top source of foreign direct investment and key trade partner for Missouri, with more than $455 million in exports in 2022.

Consistent with Governor Parson’s infrastructure and economic development priorities, the goal of the Trade Mission is to build relationships with key international figures to promote Missouri’s strong capacity for trade.

The Trade Mission will include stops in Tokyo and Nagano Prefecture, the sister state to Missouri, where the delegation will visit Nagano Prefecture University, which works with the University of Missouri. The delegation will also meet with Shuichi Abe, Governor of Nagano Prefecture, and the mayor of Suwa, St. Louis’ sister city. Governor Parson will meet with various government officials, diplomats, and business leaders to promote Missouri as a prime destination for business investment and expansion.

Meetings are scheduled with company representatives that have existing relationships in Missouri to thank them for their investments in the state and companies without a presence in Missouri to encourage them to consider Missouri for future investments.

The $455 million in goods exported to Japan in 2022 show the importance of international trade to the state’s economic success. Among the goods exported, processed foods, chemicals, and electronic products were among those in highest demand.

Japan Highlights

Governor Parson will take part in meetings with executives of several leading companies, including Hitachi, Kawasaki, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Nidec, Panasonic, Toyoda Gosei (TG Missouri), and ZEN-NOH.

Governor Parson will also participate in discussions with key Japanese business organizations, including the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), meet with U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel, and take part in an agri-business dinner.

The Trade Mission is funded by the Hawthorn Foundation, a Missouri nonprofit organization. For updates on the trip, follow @GovMikeParson on Facebook and @GovParsonMO on Twitter.


 




LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

October 2, 2023

 

MEN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

Six men were seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 7:55pm Saturday in Franklin County.  The patrol says that a van was improperly stopped in the roadway on I-44 when it was struck in the rear by a caravan driven by 22 year old Kierra White of Imperial.  All six men ranging from 19 to 45 years of age were transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington with serious injuries. 

 

FOUR HURT IN SATURDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

Four people were hurt in a Saturday afternoon crash in Warren County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 1:50pm as 49 year old Michael Hilke of Washington was on Route TT when his car crossed the centerline and struck a car driven by Kathryn Vogel of Union which in turn caused it to travel into the oncoming lane and hit a truck driven by 57 year old Mark Crocker of Winfield.  Hilke along with three passengers in Crocker’s truck 58 year old Julia Crocker and a one year old and two year old boy sustained minor injuries.  All four were taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment. 

 

PLANNED ROADWORK FOR NORTHEAST MISSOURI

The following is a list of general highway maintenance work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northeast Missouri region for the next few weeks.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below. MoDOT asks drivers to work with them by buckling up, putting your phone down, slowing down and moving over in work zones.

Adair County

Missouri Route 3 – October 10- 13, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from Archer Trail to Igloo Trail between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

Audrain County

Route FF – October 2, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 947 to CR 945 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route FF – October 3, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 935 to CR 931 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Route FF – October 5, CLOSED for culvert replacement operations from CR 917 to Elmwood Drive between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

U.S. Route 54 (Eastbound) – October 10, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route BB and U.S. Route 54 roundabout to CR 408 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

U.S. Route 54 (Westbound) – October 11-12, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route BB and U.S. Route 54 roundabout to CR 408 between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Clark County

U.S. Route 61 (Southbound) – October 4-5, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Sugar Creek to CR 315 between 7:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 4 and 7:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 5.

U.S. Route 61 (Northbound) – October 5-6, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route F to Honey Creek between 7:00 a.m. on Thursday October 5 and 7:00 a.m. on Friday October 6.

Lewis County

U.S. Route 61 (Northbound) – October 4, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from beginning to end of Oyster Branch bridge between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

U.S. Route 61 (Northbound) – October 5, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance just before and after bridge at 1.3 miles North of Route C between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

U.S. Route 61 (Northbound) – October 6, LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance just before and after bridge at 2.7 miles South of Route P between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Lincoln County

Route A (Eastbound) – October 11, CLOSED for culvert replacement from Route A at Hawk Point VFW to Beck Road between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.  

Route A (Eastbound) – October 12-13, CLOSED for culvert replacement from Route A at Hawk Point VFW to Beck Road between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.   

Monroe County

Missouri Route 151 – October 2-4, LANE RESTRICTION for shoulder work operations from beginning to end of CR 980 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Montgomery County

Interstate 70 (Eastbound) – October 2, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations between Mile Markers 180.6 and 181.6 between 12:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working daily.

Ralls County

U.S. Route 61 (Southbound) – October 3, LANE RESTRICTION for patching operations from Route HH to Route M between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Shelby County

Route TT – October 2-3, CLOSED, for culvert replacement from U.S. Route 36 to Route DD between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route DD – October 4, CLOSED, for culvert replacement from Missouri Route 151 to Route TT between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route DD – October 5, CLOSED, for culvert replacement from Route TT to Route A between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Route A – October 10-11, CLOSED, for culvert replacement from Route DD to Route J between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

Warren County

Route A/Route B – October 1-4, continuous LANE RESTRICTION for bridge maintenance from just before to just after the bridge over I-70 between 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 1 and 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 4. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Interstate 70 (Eastbound) – October 2-3, LANE RESTRICTIONS for bridge maintenance from mile marker 187.8 to mile marker 188.2 between 8:00 p.m. on Monday, October 2 and 3:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 3. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Interstate 70 (Westbound) – October 3-4, LANE RESTRICTIONS for bridge maintenance from mile marker 188.2 to mile marker 187.8 between 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 3 and 3:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 4. A 10-foot width restriction will be in place where crews are actively working.

Route U – October 4, CLOSED for patching operations from Lake Ridge Lane to Rodgers Drive between 8:00a.m. and 4:00 p.m.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

September 29, 2023

 

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN CARROLL COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Hale woman was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 11pm Tuesday in Carroll County.  The patrol says that 66 year old Margaret Ellis was on Route J when she fell asleep at the wheel, causing her car to run off the road and then struck a culvert and came to rest in a creek.  She was air-lifted by helicopter to North Kansas City Hospital with serious injuries.

 

TEEN HURT IN WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

A Gravois Mills teen was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Wednesday afternoon in Morgan County.  The highway patrol said it happened at 4:05pm as the 16 year old girl was on Missouri 135 when her car traveled off the right side of the roadway, she overcorrected, returned to the road, skidded across the center of the road where she overcorrected and skidded again and then struck a fence post overturned, hit a cable sign and a tree before coming to rest on its side.  She refused treatment for minor injuries.

 

NECAC TO TAKE APPLICATIONS FOR UTILITY ASSISTANCE

A local agency has a remedy for rising utility costs.  Starting Sunday October 1st, the North East Community Action Corporation will take applications for energy assistance from the elderly and disabled in 12 Missouri counties.  The program starts November 1st for families and individuals.

NECAC assisted about 9,600 households with utility assistance last year, and expects the number to increase this winter due to inflation and escalating costs.  Two types of programs are available, with maximum benefits of 153 dollars to 800 dollars depending upon the type of heating source.

To receive help, you must qualify by income.  The monthly income limit for a one-person household is $2,535.  For a four-person residence, it’s $4,875. Additional amounts are available upon request.

To find out more, call your NECAC Service Center, go online to www.necac.org, or call 573-324-0120.

MDC CONFIRMS 117TH CONFIRMED MOUNTAIN LION SIGHTING IN MISSOURI

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

Reports of a mountain lion sighting were sent to MDC staff early on Sept. 12, and members of MDC’s Large Carnivore Response Team responded to the area later that same day to confirm the sighting. Trail camera images were used to confirm that a mountain lion was in the area and had returned to the elk carcass to feed.  

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

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





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

September 28, 2023

 

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Sunday, September 24 at approximately 11:05pm, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 900 block of Emmons in reference to a report of a gunshot and then a vehicle leaving the area.  Investigation indicated that a 39-year-old Mexico man was in the area with some associates when a gun he was holding accidentally discharged and shot him in the foot.  The man left the scene and has avoided contact with MPSD.  There is no indication that anyone was threatened or that there were any other injuries.  Mexico Public Safety is continuing to investigate what occurred.

 

HIGHWAY 36 ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

The Missouri Highway 36 Heritage Alliance Annual Meeting will be held on Thursday in Chillicothe.  The meeting begins at 9:30am at the Comfort Inn in Chillicothe.  They will have for attendees arriving early coffee and conversation.  The meeting will conclude before noon.

 

Some things to know before the meeting:

No pre-registration is necessary

There is no cost to attend

Bring brochures to share with your neighbors

A limited number of new Highway 36 guides will be available

Come prepared to tell them what's new in your community

 

Program highlights for the meeting include:

Organizational updates and plans

Hwy 36 Promotional Video Debut

How to work with Missouri Humanities Council

An update from the Missouri Division of Tourism

A how to for regional partnerships

Opportunities for ideas, questions and answers

All members are encouraged to attend.  Guests are also welcome.

 

MOBERLY LICENSE OFFICE CONTRACT UP FOR BID

The Missouri Department of Revenue is announcing the upcoming Request for Proposal (RFP) of the license office in Moberly located at 521 W Coates St.MoberlyMo.65270. Bids will start being accepted October 11, and must be submitted by October 24.

For a list of bid opportunities and bid response instructions, please visit Missouri’s statewide electronic procurement system, MissouriBUYS, at https://missouribuys.mo.gov/. Interested groups or individuals who wish to bid to operate the Moberly License Office must have an active Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) and must submit the proposal under the legal entity name for which the FEIN was assigned.





LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

 

 

 

           … from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

 

September 27, 2023

 

THREE WOMEN INJURED IN BOONE COUNTY ACCIDENT

Three Hallsville women were injured in an accident that occurred at 4:40pm Monday in Boone County.  The patrol says that a car driven by 47 year old Angela Ketchum of Centralia stopped abruptly for another vehicle making a left turn on Route B when the chain-reaction accident started as an SUV driven by 31 year old Kelsay McCord of Madison was struck in the rear by another SUV driven by 36 year old Jamie Calvert of Hallsville which caused McCord’s SUV to strike the rear of Ketchum’s car and also another SUV driven southbound by 39 year old Amber Hendren of Hallsville struck Calvert’s SUV causing it to travel off the right side of the roadway and struck a tree.  Both Amber Hendren and her passenger 24 year old Javonna Pigman were taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries while Jamie Calvert was taken to Boone Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries.

 

MISSOURI TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION UNVEILS STRATEGIC IMPLEMENTATION PLAN FOR FY 2024

The Missouri Technology Corporation (MTC) announced Tuesday that it has released its Strategic Implementation Plan for Fiscal Year 2024. This comprehensive plan outlines MTC's commitment to catalyzing innovation and entrepreneurship in the state of Missouri by introducing new programs and initiatives to empower high-tech companies to thrive. By leveraging state and federal funds, MTC aims to drive economic growth through the creation of a thriving ecosystem for Missouri technology companies.

Increased funding for MTC will allow for continued financial support through core programs, such as the Missouri Building Entrepreneurial Capacity (MOBEC) Grant Program and the Innovation, Development, and Entrepreneurship Advancement (IDEA) Fund Co-Investment Program. Additionally, programs piloted in Fiscal Year 2023, such as the Physical Infrastructure Grant Program, will be expanded to further fuel economic development throughout the fiscal year.

MTC, a public-private partnership established by the Missouri General Assembly, receives direct appropriations from the state budget and access to federally funded programs. This funding enables strategic investments in Missouri-based high-tech companies that support their growth and the overall economic prosperity of the state.

For more information about MTC and its Strategic Implementation Plan for Fiscal Year 2024, visit missouritechnology.com.

 

MDC ASKS TURKEY HUNTERS FOR INPUT ON POSSIBLE CHANGES TO HUNTING REGULATIONS

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is seeking input from turkey hunters on possible changes to spring and fall wild turkey hunting seasons, including all-day spring hunting and reduced harvest limits for fall seasons.

According to MDC, Missouri’s spring turkey hunting season, specifically the start date, was designed to take place after the peak in turkey breeding had occurred. Additionally, MDC research indicates that the current season structure, combined with the reproductive ecology of turkeys, has resulted in relatively low harvest rates on juvenile and adult gobblers over the years.

MDC encourages turkey hunters to go online to