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An Illinois woman receives minor injuries following a crash in Camden County.
According to the Highway Patrol, 19-year-old Angela Jointer of Mascoutah was traveling north on Ruby Hill Court off Shawnee Bend Road, when she ran off the roadway and struck a bush, ejecting both her and a 14-year-old passenger.
They were both transferred to Lake Regional for treatment.
The Patrol reports neither of them we wearing a seatbelt.
The unveiling of a new mural in Eldon will take place this (Saturday) evening at 7:30PM.
Officials with the Eldon Community Foundation say the idea was for the mural was crafted to help promote the history of the city.
The Mural will be displayed on the corner of East 2nd Street and South Maple near the city caboose and the old Bagnell Line Depot
It will honor the importance of the Railroads that once served the city, including the Rock Island and the Missouri Pacific Lines.
The free event will also feature a performance by the Eldon High School Jazz Band.
Here is additional history on the mural and those behind it from Mural Committee Member and Morgan School teacher Jennifer Avey from her Facebook posts…
“I found this to be an interesting piece of history, and had no idea that a conductor from our neck of the woods could be quite so influential…
Y’see, Jim Bullard was a native of Eldon since 1904, when he first began work on the railroad there. By the 1920’s, he’d worked his way up to Conductor for the Rock Island Line, and caboose #18058 was his charge. It was in 1926 that he had the idea to organize a “Get the Business” committee and run it straight out of the railcar. Armed with a typewriter affixed to a pine board in the caboose, Mr. Bullard and other members of the crew went to work soliciting freight from potential customers along the St. Louis-Kansas City line.
This was a novel idea to many at the time– a sort of business office on wheels– so novel, that the “Get the Business” car was showcased at the Missouri State Fair in 1928, The Century of Progress in Chicago in 1934, The International Petroleum Exhibition in Tulsa 1936, as well as the Texas Centennial in 1936.
Mr. Bullard retired in 1949, and to show their appreciation, Rock Island held a special retirement ceremony for both him and car #18058– which continues to reside at the National Museum of Transportation in St. Louis.
Jim Bullard remained a railroad enthusiast and historian throughout his life in Eldon, Missouri. One particularly poignant quote from him came from the Miller County Historical Society website, where he reminisced about the old Rock Island depot, as it was being torn down and rebuilt:
“Many millions of dollars have flown through the offices in this old depot and will continue through the new modern building, wages, taxes and for railroad supplies. Thousands of Eldon kids received their education and went forth to take their places in this busy world, because Dad stuck to his fob through thick and thin on the Colorado, and many a kid has waited in that old depot for his first ride behind the great iron horse of childhood dreams.
To many it will just be another gaunt, haunting, outmoded building torn down. To those of us closely associated with the old building, it is the passing of a good old friend.”
All photos are courtesy of Jennifer Avey via Facebook.
Gas prices remaining low across the Lake area this weekend.
On the water, boaters are seeing an average of $2.20 to $2.40 per gallon for 87 octane and $2.90 to $3.10 per gallon for 93 octane.
Diesel is coming in around $2.50 to $2.90 per gallon.
According to GasBuddy.com, drivers on lake area roadways are seeing an average of $1.70 to $1.96 per gallon for regular.
Right now the cheapest gas is in Osage Beach at $1.69 per gallon.
It’s another great weekend to hit the beaches at Lake of the Ozarks.
The DNR reports no issues at Public beach #1 or #2 in the State park.
At this time only the Campground Beach remains closed at Harry S Truman State Park in Warsaw due to flood damage.
It’s unknown when that park will reopen at this time.
Open beaches
Cuivre River State Park, 678 State Rt 147, Troy
Finger Lakes State Park, 1505 E. Peabody Rd, Columbia
Harry S Truman State Park Day Use Beach, 28761 State Park Rd, Warsaw
Lake of the Ozarks State Park Public Beach 1, 403 Hwy 134, Kaiser
Lake of the Ozarks State Park Grand Glaize Beach, off Hwy 54, Osage Beach
Lake Wappapello State Park, Hwy 172, Williamsville
Long Branch State Park, 28615 Visitor Center Rd, Macon
Mark Twain State Park, 37352 Shrine Rd, Florida, Mo
Pomme de Terre State Park Pittsburg Beach, Hwy 64B, Pittsburg
Pomme de Terre State Park Hermitage Beach, Hwy 64B, Pittsburg
St. Joe State Park Monsanto Lake Beach, 2800 Pimville Rd, Park Hills
St. Joe State Park Pim Lake Beach, 2800 Pimville Rd, Park Hills
Stockton State Park, 19100 S. Hwy 215, Dadeville
Thousand Hills State Park, 20431 State Hwy. 157, Kirksville
Trail of Tears State Park, 429 Moccasin Springs, Jackson
Wakonda State Park, 32836 State Park Rd, La Grange
Watkins Woolen Mill State Park, 26600 Park Rd N, Lawson
Closed beaches
Harry S Truman State Park Campground Beach, 28761 State Park Rd, Warsaw – Beach closed due to flood damage.
Additional information may be found on the department’s website at http://dnr.mo.gov/asp/
One local boat expert is offering an illustration of what happens to an anchor that’s not pulled up when a boat starts moving.
Butch Wileman is the Service Supervisor at Freshwater Marine Sales and Service.
He tells KRMS News it’s best to tie the anchor to the bow of the boat and always remember to pull it in when you’re ready to start moving.
55-year-old Craig Gathmann of Illinois was killed this week when he was hit by the anchor on his boat after he and a passenger started moving without pulling it up.
A drug bust has one man from Montreal facing multiple charges.
It went down on Wednesday after police got a search warrant.
Captain Chris Twitchel with the Camden County Sheriff’s Office.
He tells KRMS News 56-year-old Daniel Cole of Montreal was arrested after investigators found methamphetamine, money and other paraphernalia that suggested distribution.
***PRESS RELEASE***
On 08/05/20 The Lake Area Narcotics Enforcement Group and Camden County Deputies executed a search warrant in the Montreal Area. As a result, methamphetamine, currency, and drug paraphernalia used in the distribution and consumption of controlled substances was seized. One male was arrested as a result.
David K Cole age 56 of Montreal was charged with Distribution of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia with a surety bond of $50,000.00.
*The Camden County Sheriff’s Office reminds everyone that these charges are merely an accusation and these individuals remain innocent until proven guilty.
Southeast of the Lake Area, A Waynesville man is dead after a motorcycle crash.
The Missouri Highway Patrol says 64-year-old Virgil Maddox went off Highway T just south of Swedeborg In Pulaski County around 11 o’clock Thursday night.
Investigators say Maddox was thrown from the bike, but there’s no word on what may have caused the crash.
A top-10 ranking for the Lake Area and Missouri in dropping unemployment claims over the last week.
WalletHub.com’s weekly study shows a ranking of 7th in the U-S in dropping unemployment claims over the last week.
These results come as record numbers of people are coming to the Lake Area this summer.
Lake Ozark Mayor Gerry Murawski.
Right now, Missouri has the 20th best economic recovery in the country since the start of the China virus.
To identify which states’ workforces are experiencing the quickest recovery from COVID-19, WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia across three metrics based on changes in unemployment claims. Below, you can see highlights from the report, along with a WalletHub Q&A. To see the states most recovered since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, click here.
Change in Missouri Weekly Unemployment Claims (1=Quickest Recovery, 25=Avg.):
To view the full report and your state’s rank, please visit:
https://wallethub.com/edu/
Will recent increases in retail sales help reduce unemployment?
“Recent increase in retail sales will help reduce unemployment to some degree because the more revenue businesses are able to bring in, the more prepared they will be to start hiring again. While an uptick in sales is good news for retail, we can do even more to help the sector by practicing social distancing in public to minimize the spread of COVID-19,” said Jill Gonzalez, WalletHub analyst. “We’ll see bigger reductions in unemployment once stores are able to operate at full capacity and all businesses are allowed to reopen, but that may not happen until there is a vaccine. In the meantime, several major retailers such as Walmart and Target have started the #maskup movement, requiring people to wear a mask in stores regardless of state laws. If mandatory mask wearing becomes commonplace in stores, that will lead to greater consumer confidence and less COVID-19 transmission.”
How is the wearing of masks linked to unemployment?
“Wearing masks helps prevent the release of droplets from the mouth or nose that may contain COVID-19, which consequently can help minimize the spread of the virus. Countries with more prevalent mask wearing have been less impacted by coronavirus, so mandating the use of masks in public may help us proceed to a full reopening sooner,” said Jill Gonzalez, WalletHub analyst. “Consumers are more comfortable going out when they know everyone will be wearing masks, according to a recent WalletHub survey, and greater confidence leads to more people leaving the house and supporting businesses again.”
How do red states and blue states compare when it comes to recovery?
“With an average rank of 24 among the most recovered states, blue states had a better recovery from unemployment claims last week than red states, which rank 27 on average,” said Jill Gonzalez, WalletHub analyst. “The lower the number of the ranking, the bigger the state’s recovery was.”
The Annual statewide Back To School sales tax holiday is underway.
It runs from today (Friday) through Sunday just before Midnight.
While the state is waiving the tax across the board, some communities are also waiving local and county taxes.
Right now, the cities of Lake Ozark, Osage Beach and Camdenton are participating, however Camden and Morgan Counties are not.
The back to school tax holiday applies to items such as clothing, school supplies and more.
Here’s a look at what is and isn’t accepted for the sales tax holiday: CLICK HERE
Here’s a look at which areas are and are not participating: CLICK HERE
Two Pulaski County Sheriff’s deputies were injured after a woman hit them with her car.
Officials say it happened at the 2000 block of Hartford road just south of Dixon.
They say Lea Ann Barba was found unresponsive in her car, but when the deputies approached, she suddenly woke up and sped off.
Barba was eventually captured and taken into custody on numerous felony warrants.
The Sheriff’s office says the deputy’s injuries are not considered serious.
On 08/06/2020, at approximately 0548 hours, Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department Deputies were dispatched to the 20000…
Posted by Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department on Thursday, August 6, 2020
A Fort Leonard Wood Drill Sergeant Is getting high honors in the military this year.
Officials say Staff Sergeant Erik Rostamo with the Fort’s 14th Military Police Brigade is taking home the 2020 US Army Drill Sergeant of the year award.
Rostamo competed against 10 other drill sergeants from across the nation to earn the award, by completing a 12-mile foot march, the army’s combat fitness test, a 200-question exam and other additional tests.
Rostamo calls the award a “true honor.”
Plans to build an amphitheater at Backwater Jacks are being tabled for now by the city of Osage Beach.
The board of aldermen voted to hold off the property rezoning plans until September 17.
The Osage Beach planning commission recently voted in favor of the project; however, the city still has to approve the rezoning.
A number of residents remain concerned about traffic and sound issues.
Officials with the project say they do not anticipate traffic issues and are planning to install barriers to protect from the sound.
The National Media continues its focus on Lake of the Ozarks.
One local mayor answered questions from CBS News this week.
Lake Ozark mayor Gerry Murawski tells KRMS News the interview was not an accusation.
He says many of the major websites like TMZ are a big reason why there are so many tourists coming to the Lake.
Entertainment website TMZ has run two stories about Lake Area hot spots since late May that accuse some local businesses of failing to follow social distancing guidelines.
Camden County Sheriff Tony Helms won re-election on Tuesday and he gives some of the credit to CNN.
Helms went toe-to-toe with Don Lemon after Memorial Day when the network questioned the Lake Area’s response to COVID-19.
Since the start of the year, there have been over 9 Million visitors from all across the United States in the Lake area.
The number of active COVID 19 cases is currently 135 across the Lake area.
67 cases are reported in Camden, 27 are from Benton, 26 are from Miller and 15 are from Morgan county.
Out of 587 total cases, 443 people have since recovered from the virus.
There remain 9 death since the start of the pandemic.
Camden county continues to be the only lake county not reporting daily numbers.
Their last update was on Monday this week.
One man’s in the Camden County Jail, accused of shooting a gun during a domestic assault on Election Day in Lake Ozark.
Captain Chris Twitchel with the Camden County Sheriff’s Office tells KRMS News 38-year-old Robert Cody of Lake Ozark was later found trying to steal a boat.
Captain Twitchel also says the Missouri State Highway Patrol helped the Camden County Sheriff’s Office in the response to the shots fired.
***PRESS RELEASE***
On 08/04/2020 deputies along with the assistance of Mo State Highway Patrol, responded to the area of Riley Ridge Road reference a domestic. Witnesses reported shots being fired and a physical altercation. Upon arrival, the suspect fled the scene. After a brief search, the suspect was located attempting to steal a boat. The suspect was taken into custody without further incident.
Robert L Cody age 38 of Lake Ozark was charged with Domestic Assault and given a bond of $100,000.00 surety bond. He was also served with a parole violation warrant with no bond. He remains in custody currently.
Missouri Military Kid is Front and Center in the Elizabeth Dole Foundation’s Virtual Talent Contest
Don’t forget to vote for your favorite military kids’ unique talents through August 14
Washington, D.C. (August 6, 2020) –Voting for Missouri military kid, Zachary Ayers of Windsor, in the Elizabeth Dole Foundation’s “Military Kids Have Talent” contest is open through 12 PM ET on Friday, August 14 at hiddenhereos.org/talent.
“Military Kids Have Talent” spotlights the children and survivors of our nation’s military service members and veterans. Hosted by Actor Jocko Sims (Jarhead, The Last Ship, New Amsterdam), the talent contest highlights these fantastic young people during a time when many milestones and celebrations have been canceled due to COVID-19. Military kids from across the country submitted recordings of performances for the Foundation’s finalist selection. From Charlotte, N.C., to Okinawa, Japan, the 36 finalists in five age groups exhibit talents including solo and group vocal performances, dance performances, and comedy.
“COVID-19 has created more uncertainty in the daily lives of military kids,” said Steve Schwab, CEO of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation. “We are excited to be able to recognize them for who they are, and give them a chance to have fun sharing their special talents.”
Text to vote information will be shown on screen during the online finale episode, which can be viewed at hiddenheroes.org/talent.
About the Elizabeth Dole Foundation and Hidden Heroes
The Elizabeth Dole Foundation is the preeminent organization empowering, supporting, and honoring our nation’s 5.5 million military caregivers – the spouses, parents, family members, and friends — who care for America’s wounded, ill, or injured service members and Veterans at home. Founded by Senator Elizabeth Dole in 2012, the Foundation adopts a comprehensive approach in its support and advocacy, working with leaders in the public, private, nonprofit, and faith communities to recognize military caregivers’ service and promote their well-being. The Foundation’s Hidden Heroes campaign brings vital attention to the untold stories of military caregivers and provides a network for military caregivers to connect with their peers and access carefully vetted resources. Visit www.hiddenheroes.org for more information.
One man’s hurt after his car went airborne and then flipped over in Camden County.
Deputies say 58-year-old Dwayne Moore of Richland was driving on highway 7 when he crossed the center line and went off the left side of the road around 5:40 Tuesday afternoon.
Moore was taken by ambulance to Lake Regional Hospital.
It’s almost time to get back to school and parents around the Lake area overwhelming say they want their kids back in the classroom.
Governor Mike Parson.
He says he’s spoken to several Lake Area Superintendents about their needs and requests to make it happen.
School of the Osage has already announced plans to do 1 day a week on Monday as virtual learning. Camdenton, Morgan, Warsaw and Eldon districts have noted they will be doing all 5 days in the classroom, with virtual options open for those who want it.
Classes are set to start on August 24th and 25th.
Area school re-opening plans can be found below:
Camden County:
Climax Springs R4 School Plans
Miller County:
School of the Osage School Plans
Morgan County:
Benton County:
No time to smell the roses for Camden County Commissioner Don Williams after getting 49-percent of the vote in his race.
Williams beat Patrick Cochran by over 900 votes in Tuesday’s voting, and he’s says he’s ready to get to work with James Gohagan, who beat out Beverly Thomas for her seat in Camden County.
Williams tells KRMS News he was surprised voter turnout was as low as it was.
Just over 34-percent of registered voters made it to the polls on Tuesday.
A Columbia man’s pleading guilty, accused of trying to buy a chemical weapon that could kill hundreds of people on the dark web.
In the plea, 45-year-old Jason Siesser admits to trying to get the chemical on two occasions in June and August of 2018.
Investigators with the FBI say Siesser used the name of a child and an unauthorized shipping address and received enough of the chemical to kill around 300 people.
Investigators also say Siesser used Bitcoin to buy the chemical and he took delivery of a package he thought had the chemical inside.
Under federal statutes, Siesser faces five years to life in prison with no parole.
A new set of gates may help to curb an ongoing dumping and stealing issue for the Community for Christ Outreach Center in Sunrise Beach.
Sunrise Beach Police Chief Jeff Campbell.
He tells KY 3 TV despite the locks on the barn doors and a video camera system, people are still coming onto the property to either steal items or dump a bunch of junk when no one is there.
Campbell is hoping the gates put an end to that.
Chief Campbell helped to install the gates, with donations from COMO Electric and Orscheln’s Farm Store in Camdenton.
Sheriff Tony Helms will keep his post in Camden County, and he thinks the big margin of victory over his opponents might have had something to with his appearances on national TV.
Sheriff Helms went toe-to-toe with CNN host Don Lemon after video of a pool party in the Lake Area went viral after the Memorial Day weekend.
Helms tells KRMS News he also gives credit to the people who helped with his campaign.
Helms took in more than 56-percent of the votes for Camden County Sheriff, beating out Chris Edgar by 23-hundred votes.
A number of COVID 19 cases are be reported from the Summer School program at Joel E Barber in Lebanon.
Health officials say the exposure dates are between July 27th and July 31st and they’ve already contacted those who had close encounters with the infected individuals.
They’re asking anyone who attended that summer school program to monitor for symptoms and self-isolate where possible.
A man is dead following a freak accident with an anchor.
According to the Highway Patrol’s Water Division, 55-year-old Craig Gathmann of Mainto Illinois began to accelerate his 1994 Four Winns around the 19 ½ mile mark with the anchor still in the water.
Officials say the anchor’s tension rope snapped, causing the anchor to fly out of the water and slam into Gathmann.
He was pronounced dead at Lake Regional Hospital.
A St. Robert man is behind bars following a drug arrest in Laclede County.
According to Sheriff David Millsap deputies found the 41-year-old, who’s not being named, over $20,000 worth of methamphetamines in his possession near the 23,000 block of Falcon Road in Lebanon.
Millsap says it was good old fashion police work that led to the discovery and his arrest.
Telehealth services are being expanded in Missouri.
Lake representative and congresswoman Vicky Hartzler says as part of President Trump’s recent executive order, the expansion serves to improve connections for the rural communities.
The order proposes to permanently allow for evaluations and management of a patient, as well as specific visits, for those who have cognitive impairments and those in the vulnerable populations.
Rural hospitals such as Lake Regional can continue using provider tools to modernize their care for the community under the new order, which also works to create infrastructure to support it including rural broadband internet.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (MO-04) announces expanded telehealth services for Missouri’s 4th congressional district as part of President Donald Trump’s Executive Order improving services for rural communities.
The Executive Order (EO), issued on August 3rd, aims to expand the current network of telehealth services built by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and proposes to permanently allow services for evaluation and management of a patient, and certain types of visits for patients with cognitive impairments. This will allow vulnerable populations, such as senior citizens or those with pre-existing conditions, to visit with doctors and medical staff virtually using teleconference platforms.
The EO gives rural hospitals and health care providers the tools they need to modernize their care for rural communities. It establishes strategic investments to create the necessary infrastructure to support the telehealth network, underscoring the important need for affordable, quality rural broadband. The order also puts in motion a new payment model for rural hospitals to use.
The telehealth network was funded after a series of preceding orders from the President in the spring and after funding authorized under the CARES Act, which Hartzler supported in March.
Hartzler has also worked to bolster funding for critical grants and federal programs related to the deployment of rural broadband. This includes $555 million to the ReConnect grants and loans, as well as over $780 million for other grant and loan programs through the Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development agency.
The fatal shooting of a 25-year-old Sedalia woman by a police officer is now going to be investigated by a special prosecutor.
The Pettis County prosecutor Phillip Sawyer making the call to have the independent counsel determine if the “use of force and prosecution was necessary” in the death of Hannah Fizer.
The Highway Patrol recently finished their investigation into the matter and submitted a report to the prosecutor just last week.
Fizer was shot and killed by a deputy during a traffic stop in which the officer claimed she had a gun and was threatening him.
Family members of Fizer’s tell the news media she never owned a gun and they believe the item in her hand was her cell phone.
Prosecutor Phillip Sawyer issued this statement about the move:
“In the late afternoon of July 30, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Division of Drug and Crime Control (DDCC) supplied all reports currently within their control and the completion of their investigation into the fatal shooting of Hannah Fizer to my office. Since that time, I have evaluated those reports and my obligations to this community. Pettis County and families of those involved deserve the confidence to know that this matter was handled independently and competently by an individual with no ties to the jurisdiction that I serve. In the interest of protecting the ethics and integrity of the investigation I have requested the court appoint independent counsel to review this matter for a determination on the use of force and prosecution if necessary, based on that determination.”
The state of Missouri is maintaining its Triple A credit rating.
According to Moody’s Investor Service, the outlook for the state is stable with strong financial management practices in place and below average debt and pension burdens.
The S&P Global ratings say the ratings and outlook on all Missouri debt is stable.
The state competitively sold $173 Million to refinancing their outstanding bands yesterday, saving Missourians around $22 million dollars in total.
Missouri Taxpayers to Save $22 Million Through Bond Refinancing, State’s AAA Credit Rating Reaffirmed
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Today, the state of Missouri competitively sold $173 million to refinance outstanding bonds, saving Missouri taxpayers approximately $22 million. The true interest cost of the new bonds was 0.38 percent.
“I’m very proud of our public servants who continue working hard to maintain Missouri’s AAA credit rating,” Governor Mike Parson said. “We always want to do what’s best for our citizens, and we remain committed to finding solutions that will save Missouri taxpayers’ hard earned dollars.”
According to Moody’s Investor’s Service, “The outlook for the state of Missouri is stable, reflecting the state’s history of stable available fund balances, strong financial management practices, and below average debt and pension burden. Missouri’s strong expenditure flexibility has enabled the state to proactively respond to the revenue declines caused by the coronavirus.”
S&P Global Ratings affirmed its AAA long-term rating on Missouri’s general obligation bonds outstanding, and its AA+ rating on the state’s appropriation-backed debt outstanding. The outlook on all ratings is stable.
S&P stated that its AAA rating is based on Missouri’s “very strong budget management framework, demonstrated by the executive branch’s high degree of expenditure flexibility to maintain budget balance; steady budget performance and revenue growth; and an overall diverse economic base, stable wealth and income levels, and recently steady employment growth.”
Additionally, Fitch Ratings affirmed Missouri’s Issuer Default Rating (IDR) and general obligation bond ratings at AAA and rated the state AA+ on both a long-term rating and unenhanced long-term rating for Missouri Board of Public Buildings Special Obligation Refunding Bonds, Series B 2020.
Fitch said Missouri’s AAA IDR “reflects the state’s low long-term liability burden, historically conservative financial operations and broad, diverse economy.” Fitch added that “Missouri remains well-positioned to withstand future economic downturns, given its very strong gap-closing capacity due to strong executive control over revenues and spending, and a demonstrated willingness to take timely budgetary action.”
“This is great news for the people of Missouri,” Governor Parson said. “We have faced some major challenges over the past several months, but this is another positive sign that Missouri is on the right track.”
The Board of Public Buildings met today to discuss the purchase, sale, and issuance of the Special Obligation Refunding Bonds, Series B 2020. Governor Parson, Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe, and Attorney General Eric Schmitt were in attendance.
School of the Osage is planning on some high school football this year.
School of the Osage Athletic Director Clint Hague tells KRMS News some of those guidelines include having players wearing masks when they’re not on the field.
Temperature checks will also be handled during games and practices.
Players will be bringing their own water, so timeouts during games will be extended.
The Missouri National Guard is naming a new commander for the 131st Bomb Wing.
Colonel Matthew Calhoun will now be in charge of the only National Guard wing that flies the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber.
Colonel Calhoun flew more than 250 combat hours as a B-52 Stratofortress bomber pilot in Afghanistan and Iraq in 2003 and 2004.
Col. Matthew Calhoun named commander of Missouri National Guard’s 131st Bomb Wing
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Missouri’s Adjutant General has named a new commander for the National Guard’s only B-2 Spirit stealth bomber wing.
Brig. Gen. Levon Cumpton announced Col. Matthew D. Calhoun will lead the 131st Bomb Wing.
“Col. Calhoun is an outstanding leader with a track record of excellence,” Cumpton said. “He brings a wealth of command experience from both his time as an active duty Airman with the 509th Bomb Wing and as a Guardsman with the 131st BW. His unique perspective will strengthen our partnership and enhance the B-2 mission.”
In his new position, Calhoun will command a wing of more than 1,200 Citizen-Airmen based at Whiteman Air Force Base and Jefferson Barracks near St. Louis. The 131st Bomb Wing, which traces its lineage back to the earliest days of military aviation, is the only National Guard wing to fly the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber.
“I am honored to lead this Wing and these outstanding Citizen-Airmen,” Calhoun said. “The 131st has a legacy dating back to the era when the unit’s own, Charles Lindbergh, made his historic flight across the Atlantic Ocean. Today’s Airmen exemplify that same fearlessness, innovation and commitment to selfless service. No matter the challenge, I know we will rise to meet it.”
So far, challenges in 2020 have meant continued overseas deployments as well as missions supporting state COVID response efforts. Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing global pandemic, the 131st Bomb Wing continues to stay mission-ready, Calhoun said.
“Every day our Guardsmen are ready for their state and federal mission,” Calhoun said. “Maintaining that high state of readiness while providing an environment that prioritizes health and safety is our leadership team’s top priority. I am proud of the work our Airmen are doing on behalf of their state and nation, even in the face of this year’s unique challenges.”
Before joining the B-2 mission, Col. Calhoun flew more than 250 combat hours as a B-52H Stratofortress bomber pilot, including combat sorties over Afghanistan in 2002 and Iraq in 2003.
In 2004, he was competitively selected to train as a B-2 pilot. At Whiteman, his assignments included serving as a B-2 pilot and mission commander, B-2 instructor evaluator pilot and culminated in the position of director of operations for the 13th Bomb Squadron.
In 2008, he was assigned as an Air Force Fellow in the Strategic Communication program at George Mason University, Va. The following year, he was assigned to Barksdale Air Force Base, La., to help lead the stand-up of Air Force Global Strike Command. While there, he also served on a select team that established initial requirements for the future Long Range Strike Bomber, now known as the B-21 Raider.
In 2011, Calhoun returned to Whiteman as the 393rd Bomb Squadron director of operations and later commanded the 72nd Test and Evaluation Squadron.
Calhoun transitioned to the Missouri Air National Guard in 2014 to be the 131st Bomb Wing chief of safety, then took a follow-on assignment as commander of the 131st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. His most recent assignment with the 131st was as vice commander.
“I look forward to continuing a tradition of excellence at the 131st and building on the work of my predecessors,” Calhoun said. “Whether they are protecting our nation from enemies abroad or helping Missouri communities during state emergency duty here at home, our Citizen-Airmen are among the finest men and women serving in uniform today.”
Medicaid expansion is a done deal in Missouri.
Voters passing the Amendment 2 measure 53 to 47 %, the majority of the yes votes coming from areas like St. Louis and Kansas City.
The Lake area overwhelming voted no on the measure.
What it means for Missourians is adults ages 19 to 65 who’s income is at or below 138% of the federal poverty level, or just over $17,000 for an individual and $36,000 for a household of four, can now be covered by the program.
The federal government currently covers 65% of all Medicaid costs, with the remaining dollars coming from the state, but with the expansion the federal side will now cover 90% and leave only 10% for the state.
Officials estimate as many as 250,000 adults will now be covered when the program takes effect in July of 2021.
Loan applications are now being accepted for energy improvement in Missouri.
Through October 30th, schools, universities, hospitals, airports and government agencies can apply for low-interest loans ranging from 10-thousand dollars to one million dollars to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy.
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources says the program is designed to help the state’s economic recovery by reducing energy costs.
JEFFERSON CITY, MO, AUG. 3, 2020 – The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is now accepting low-interest energy improvement loan applications. Public K-12 schools, public colleges and universities, local governments including municipal, county, regional and international airports, public water and wastewater treatment facilities and public and not-for-profit hospitals are eligible to compete for a total of $4.5 million for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects throughout the state.
The loan application period runs from Aug. 3, 2020, through Oct. 30, 2020, for loans between $10,000 and $1 million. Loan applications will be evaluated on a competitive basis by the department’s Division of Energy. If money remains after applications have been reviewed and prioritized, consideration will be given to loans in excess of $1 million.
“As part of the state’s effort to support economic recovery, the Department of Natural Resources is pleased to offer an Energy Loan Program cycle to help eligible applicants make cost-saving energy improvements,” said Craig Redmon, director of the department’s Division of Energy. “The program can help stimulate Missouri’s economy by saving taxpayer money and supporting jobs in Missouri.” Loans are repaid from energy savings achieved. Loans to public schools and local governments do not count against debt limits or require a public vote or bond issuance.
The loans, administered as part of the Energy Loan Program, provide financing for energy-saving investments, such as high-efficiency lighting fixtures and lamps, high-efficiency heating ventilation and air-conditioning systems, combined heat and power systems, renewable energy systems, waste heat recovery, energy-efficient fine bubble diffusers and high-efficiency pumps, building shell improvements, such as insulation and other infiltration measures, and other measures that reduce energy use and cost.
Since the Energy Loan Program’s inception in 1989, the Department has awarded more than 622 loans, resulting in more than $118 million in completed energy efficiency projects and more than $214 million in estimated cumulative energy savings. There have been no loan defaults in the 31-year history of the Energy Loan Program.
For a list of recipients or to learn more about the Energy Loan Program, please visit energyloan.mo.gov or contact the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Energy at 573-751-2254 or toll-free at 855-522-2796.
The biggest Powerboat race in the country has been canceled due to COVID 19.
Officials with Race World Offshore say the 2020 Key West Powerboat Championships are off.
The keys are currently dealing with rising COVID numbers and several local restrictions that would have made the event nearly impossible.
As of today, one of the few remaining events across the country for Powerboat racing is the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout later this month.
“RWO is incredibly saddened to cancel the 2020 Race World Offshore Key West Championships. We have been closely monitoring the situation and after much consideration, have decided that this is what’s best for the offshore racing community.
Race World made the decision to cancel the event as a precaution to protect our teams, fans, and city of Key West. This is not a decision we made lightly, but the health and safety of our fans are our primary concern.
We hope our team and fans continue to stay healthy and safe during these unprecedented times. RWO is continuing to monitor and work with Clearwater officials. We will continue to update you.
Be sure to mark your calendars for the 2021 Offshore World Championship in Key West which will take place November 7-14, 2021.”
MoDOT says Route HH between Gum Creek Road and Brockman Springs Road will be closed for much of Thursday.
A culvert pipe will be replaced starting at 8 am.
Weather permitting, the work should be done around 3 pm.
You’re advised to find another way to go.
Pipe Replacement to Close Route HH in Miller County
MILLER COUNTY – Missouri Department of Transportation crews will replace a culvert pipe on Miller County Route HH on Thursday, August 6. Crews will close Route HH between Gum Creek Road and Brockman Springs Road between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Work is weather permitting and could be delayed. Motorists are advised to seek an alternate route around the work area. MoDOT appreciates the patience of travelers while the work takes place.
For more information about this project or other transportation-related matters, please call 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636) or visit www.modot.org/central. Follow the MoDOT Central Missouri District on Facebook and Twitter for project updates.
Several races have been unofficially called following Tuesday’s elections across the Lake Area.
In Camden County, the race for the 1st district commissioner goes to the new comer James Gohagan, who will replace longtime representative Beverly Thomas. 2nd District Commissioner Don Williams will retain his position. Sheriff Tony Helms was also re-elected.
In Morgan County, Eastern Commissioner Republican Brian Lehman will face off against Democrat Schmitz, while Western Commissioner Republican Ryan Hoffa will face off against Phillips. In the Sheriff’s race, Current Republican Sheriff Norman Dills will face Democrat Mike Nienhuis (Currently acting PD in the city of Laurie).
In Miller County, 1st District Commissioner goes to Don Abbott and 2nd District Commissioner goes to Travis Lawson. Sheriff Louie Gregory did retain his position.
In Benton County, North District Commissioner Scott Harms won his position and South District Commissioner will be a battle between Democrat John Spry and Republican Larry Berry. Sheriff Eric Knox will retain his position in the county.
For the 124th State Representative, Lisa Thomas bested Benny Thomas and Luke Hagedorn.
For the District 58th State Representative, Willard Haley bested Timothy Faber.
For the US District 4, incumbent Vicky Hartzler will retain her position while Blaine Leutkemeyer will also retain his position in District 3, both for the Republican Ticket.
Current Governor Mike Parson is set to take on Democrat Nicole Galloway in November.
Parson winning the Republican nomination over Saundra McDowell.
For Lieutenant Governor, Republican Mike Kehoe will face off against Democrat Alissa Canady.
Missouri’s attorney general Republican Eric Schmidt will also face off against Democrat Rich Finneran.
In other area races..
In Pulaski County David Bassett wins the open Commission seat for the eastern district and Sheriff Jimmy Bench remains in his position.
Dallas County Fire Tax Levy passes 271 to 236.
Here’s a detailed look at the races by county:
State race information can be found here.
Video footage of city officials in Laurie going in and out of the police evidence room while the top two cops in the police department were suspended has a retired Lake Area police chief concerned.
David Slavens was chief of police in Sunrise Beach for 26 years.
It’s unclear if there was an authorized evidence technician present when the room was entered
That evidence room was entered by numerous city officials, including Mayor Alan Kimberling while former police chief Mark Black and former assistant police chief Angela Nickerson were being investigated.
After the investigation, Black was retained with a different job description while Nickerson was fired.
The city of Laurie will not give details about what started the investigation or what it was about.
The lake of the Ozarks is setting records for tourism this year.
Speaking with Christian Blood on the Ozarks Today, Lake Ozark Mayor Jerry Murawski says they’re coming from all over the US.
Murawski says he’s been taking data on the number of visitors coming to the Lake since the area opened up, and it’s unreal.
Murawski says those numbers beat out any previous records by far and the season isn’t over yet.
There are still 2 major events and a number of holiday’s left, including the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout, Bikefest and Labor Day weekend.
In total the mayor says that there have been (so far) 9.13 Million visitors, compared to 2019’s 5.9 Million overall. He says they continue to have shortages of houses available on the market and boats in area dealerships. People from all over the United States have been visiting, some for the first time. Murawski says that includes people from Texas, Utah, Florida, South Dakota and many more. Area rentals continue to report record sellouts and area restaurants have been packed, despite running at 50% capacity for safety reasons.
Hear the full interview with Mayor Murawksi and KRMS’s Christian Blood below:
The mayor recently spoke on FOX 2 St. Louis about vacationers and how he stands with area businesses.
The Camden County Sheriff’s Office thinks a woman passed out in a car may have helped find a person responsible for stealing catalytic converters.
Sheriff’s deputies went to Sunrise Beach on Friday on a report of a woman passed out in a car.
But when they got there they found a man also in the car, and further investigation found stolen catalytic converters.
Detectives say they learned 37-year-old Raymond Whetstone of Sunrise Beach was responsible for stealing catalytic converters in several counties.
Investigators are now working with other police departments to solve other similar thefts in the area.
The woman passed out was taken to a hospital for treatment.
***PRESS RELEASE***
On 07/31/20 deputies responded to the Sunrise Beach area reference a female passed out in a vehicle. During the incident, a male subject was also located with the vehicle. Further investigation caused deputies to locate stolen catalytic converters. Deputies arrested the male and transported him to the Camden County Correctional Facility. Detectives interviewed the subject upon arrival to the sheriff’s office and learned he was responsible for the theft of other catalytic convertors spanning multiple counties and police jurisdictions. Detectives are currently collaborating with other jurisdictions to solve other thefts this male is responsible for. The female was transported to the hospital for medical treatment and was not charged at this time. More charges are to be expected as the investigation continues, and more victims are identified.
Raymond L Whetstone age 37 of Sunrise Beach was charged with felony stealing and given a bond of $25,000 surety. He remains at the Camden County Correctional Facility.
A number of poll workers in Cole County have quit ahead of today’s elections.
County Clerk Steve Korsmeyer indicated that around 20 workers either retired or requested to stay home due to COVID 19.
Korsmeyer says they’ve already replaced the missing workers using a list of backups who are usually on standby for election day.
It’s Election day in the Lake area.
The polls will be open until 7PM across the four-county region.
Some of the major elections taking place today include the 124th district representative and several commission seats.
KRMS will be providing live election coverage with a special show starting at 7PM tonight.
Below are the sample ballots for each county:
Two people continue to recover following a fatal boat crash on July 24th at the Lake of the Ozarks.
Family reports that Brad and Hayden Steinkuehler are making progress in the ICU at University Hospital in Columbia.
According to a post on the Steinkuehler’s GOFUNDME page, Hayden has responded to voice commands while Brad is having movement in his arms and legs.
Hayden’s mother and Brad’s wife, 42-year-old Dawn Marie Steinkuehler was killed in the crash and 2 others in the boat also received minor injuries.
The driver of the second boat, 52-year-old John Bennett of New Haven, was arrested and he is currently facing several felony BWI charges in the accident.
As of today, the Steinkuehler’s GOFUNDME page has received over $88,000.
A Miller county bridge is now one of seven sites being nominated for the National Register of Historic Places
The Grand Auglaize Bridge or better known as “the swinging bridge” near the back end of Lake of the Ozarks was included in the final list being sent to the federal government.
The bridge built by famous Lake area bridge builder Joesph Dice in the 1920s, has been maintained by the county over the years.
While it remains a 3-ton weight limit, the county has not conducted any “major modifications” which has kept the historical integrity of the bridge intact.
You can find that bridge, along with a 2nd shorter version of the bridge, on Swinging Bridges road between A road and Hwy 42.
A lake area electric company is giving back those in need.
Officials with Southwest Electric Cooperative recently sent over matching donations to the Share the Harvest Food Pantry totaling $5,000.
Share the Harvest serves Camden County and surrounding areas with food items at no charge.
The organization operates under the Central Missouri Regional Food bank, which also serves Benton, Morgan and Miller counties.
The Ozarks Food Harvest food bank serves Laclede, Hickory and Pulaski Counties.
Seven people were arrested over the weekend by the Highway Patrol.
Officials report four of the cases were BWI’s, including 47-year-old Holiday Goodreau of Englewood Colorado, 47-year-old Christopher Havner of Lake Ozark, 25-year-old Cody Maulsby of Cedar Lake Iowa and 50-year-old Ralph Jester of Raymore Missouri.
All boaters were found to be displaying lights not allowed during nighttime driving.
The Patrol also arrested 54-year-old Patricia Pottinger of Overland Park Kansas for DWI, 33-year-old Joni Gammill of Fayetteville Arkansas for drug related offenses and 35-year-old Ashley Burris of Brumley for a outstanding warrant in Pulaski county.
Lake area residents are no closer to getting their emergency COVID 19 unemployment benefits restored.
White house Chief of Staff Mark Meadows.
He tells CBS’s face the nation that not a single republican on either side of Congress voted no to a bill allowing the $600 enhanced unemployment to be extended.
Discussions on the bill will continue today in both chambers.
One person was injured following a boat explosion at 21.2 mile mark in Miller Hollow Cove over the weekend.
According to the Highway Patrol’s water division, 69-year-old Nicholas Lansing of Ursla Illinois was hurt when the 2000 Mariah he was driving exploded shortly after getting underway.
Lansing refused medical treatment and the scene and his boat was towed by Lake Tow.
State Fair community college is facing a $100 fine from the Missouri Ethics Commission.
It’s related to the billboard battle that occurred over the past year as State Fair went toe to toe with Ozarks Technical College, who were attempting to build a campus in Camdenton.
Both colleges bought billboards urging voters to back or reject a proposal that would have raised taxes in the region to pay for a new Ozarks Technical campus.
OTC’s Billboard read: “You Have a Dream, We Have a Plan — Ozarks Technical Community College,” one of the billboards said.
SFCC’s Billboard read: “You Have a Dream, We Have a Plan, Without Raising Your Taxes — State Fair Community College.”
State Officials say State Fair failed to insert a line on their billboard, indicating who paid for the ad, which is required under the state’s campaign finance laws.
Ozarks Technical college lost the bid after voters overwhelming rejected the project and the additional tax increase planned to complete it.
The Lake area is making national news again.
Entertainment News Group TMZ shows a video of numerous patrons at Lazy Gators next to Shady Gators, packed tightly together during an EDM concert hosted by DJ Borgeous.
Video footage shows one was wearing masks and no social distancing, but the restaurant says the video does NOT show the truth.
They say there were people checking tempatures at the door and masks were encouraged, as the county has no law enforcing them on the books.
“Despite there being no capacity restrictions, we are still only operating at 50% capacity for this event to allow for social distancing. This is an entirely outdoor venue.
We have an entire paramedic team we hire that conducts non-contact thermal checks of every person including staff. Anyone with a temperature above 100.4 will be denied entry
Every person attending receives a free personal bottle of hand sanitizer at the entrance and is encouraged to use.
A “Clean Team” of 3 individuals are constantly cleaning high traffic areas and restrooms throughout the entire duration of the event.
Masks are encouraged but not required as there is no state mandate requiring such.”
In the TMZ report, they claim Missourians at the party “know what they’re doing exposes them to the virus” and they say “For whatever reason, they clearly just don’t care.”
You can see the video below:
Lake of the Ozarks Throws EDM Party with No Masks or Social Distancing https://t.co/KFqVihRpy4
— TMZ (@TMZ) August 2, 2020
Another person has died as a result of the Coronavirus at Lake of the Ozarks.
It’s the first death in Morgan County and it brings the lake totals to 6, including 1 from Benton and 4 from Camden counties.
Right now there are 148 active cases out of 528 total, of which 299 people have since recovered.
The lake numbers however remain skewed, as Camden County has not released an update since July 24th.
Morgan Covid Death
The Community Foundation of the Ozarks is announcing their first recipients of their COVID 19 recovery grants.
The group says six agencies were chosen to receive $100,000.
They include the Community Partnership of Southwest Missouri, Ozark Greenways, Solace House of the Ozarks and the Victim Center.
The CFO plans to take more applications from area non-profits and will announce their next round of recipients in late August.
Those wanting to apply can do so for up to 25% of their current annual operating budget.
The US Army Engineer School at Fort Leonard Wood has a new commander.
Sergeant Major John Brennan was sworn in during an assumption-of-responsibility ceremony this past week.
Brennan was sergeant major for the 20th engineer brigade at Fort Bragg in North Carolina prior to this position.
Brennan also trained at Fort Leonard Wood 25 years ago, when he first joined the military.
The FDA is issuing a recall on several Red Onions after numerous reports of Salmonella.
Officials say they’ve traced the source of the outbreak to a company called Thomson International based in California.
So far there have been 6 Missourians who’ve reported being sick after eating the onions.
Over 396 people have reported being sick and 59 are currently hospitalized.
The FDA, along with CDC and state and local partners, is investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Newport infections. The Public Health Agency of Canada is also investigating an outbreak of Salmonella Newport illnesses that have a genetic fingerprint closely related to the U.S. outbreak.
Investigators in the U.S. and Canada have been collaborating to identify the source of this outbreak. On July 30, 2020, Canadian health officials announcedExternal Link Disclaimer that they had determined red onions from the U.S. to be the potential source of the Canadian outbreak. The Canadian investigation has also prompted a recallExternal Link Disclaimer warning by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
Building on this information, and on epidemiologic information on the U.S. outbreak from CDC, the FDA’s traceback investigation was able to identify Thomson International, Inc. as a likely source of contaminated red onions in the U.S.
Thomson International, Inc. has notified FDA that it will be recalling all varieties of onions that could have come in contact with potentially contaminated red onions, due to the risk of cross-contamination. This recall would include red, white, yellow, and sweet onions from Thomson International, Inc. Recall information will be made public as soon as it is available from Thomson International, Inc.
Total Illnesses: 396
Hospitalizations: 59
Deaths: 0
Illness Onset Date Range: July 12, 2020
States with Cases: AK (6), AZ (14), CA (49), CO (10), FL (3), ID (5), IL (10), IN (2), IA (15), KS (1), KY (1), ME (4), MD (1), MI (23), MN (10), MO (6), MT (33), NE (5), NV (5), NY (4), NC (3), ND (5), OH (7), OR (71), PA (2), SC (1), SD (11), TN (5), TX (1), UT (61), VA (4), WA (2), WI (5), WY (11)
See more on the FDA’s website.
All beaches are open this weekend across the Lake area.
The Missouri DNR reports no swimming issues for Public beach # 1 and # 2 at Lake of the Ozarks State park.
Only the Campground beach on Truman Lake remains closed due to flood damage.
Open beaches
Cuivre River State Park, 678 State Rt 147, Troy
Finger Lakes State Park, 1505 E. Peabody Rd, Columbia
Harry S Truman State Park Day Use Beach, 28761 State Park Rd, Warsaw
Lake of the Ozarks State Park Public Beach 1, 403 Hwy 134, Kaiser
Lake of the Ozarks State Park Grand Glaize Beach, off Hwy 54, Osage Beach
Lake Wappapello State Park, Hwy 172, Williamsville
Long Branch State Park, 28615 Visitor Center Rd, Macon
Mark Twain State Park, 37352 Shrine Rd, Florida, Mo
Pomme de Terre State Park Pittsburg Beach, Hwy 64B, Pittsburg
Pomme de Terre State Park Hermitage Beach, Hwy 64B, Pittsburg
St. Joe State Park Monsanto Lake Beach, 2800 Pimville Rd, Park Hills
St. Joe State Park Pim Lake Beach, 2800 Pimville Rd, Park Hills
Stockton State Park, 19100 S. Hwy 215, Dadeville
Thousand Hills State Park, 20431 State Hwy. 157, Kirksville
Trail of Tears State Park, 429 Moccasin Springs, Jackson
Wakonda State Park, 32836 State Park Rd, La Grange
Watkins Woolen Mill State Park, 26600 Park Rd N, Lawson*
*Advisory – Swimming is not recommended
Swimming is not recommended if the geometric mean of the weekly water quality sample results exceeds the equivalent of 190 E. coli colonies per 100 milliliters of water (190 mpn/100 mL). The following beaches exceed the 190 mpn/100 mL recommendation.
Watkins Woolen Mill State Park, 26600 Park Rd N, Lawson
Closed beaches
Harry S Truman State Park Campground Beach, 28761 State Park Rd, Warsaw – Beach closed due to flood damage.
Gas prices remaining stable through this weekend at the Lake.
Boaters on the water are seeing around $2.25 to $2.60 per gallon for 87 octane and $3.10 to $3.30 per gallon for 93 octane.
Diesel is coming in around $2.59 to $2.80 per gallon.
According to GasBuddy.com, drivers on Lake roadways are seeing an average of $1.70 to $2.00 per gallon.
The lowest priced fuel was in the city of Osage Beach.
Two people are facing BWI charges following several boating traffic stops on Lake of the Ozarks Friday.
The highway patrol reports that 25-year-old Cody Maulsby of Cedar Lake Iowa and 50-year-old Ralph Jester of Raymore Missouri were stopped last night for using lights on their boat other than the required ones.
No injuries were reported in either case.
One man’s in jail after police say they pulled him out of Lake of the Ozarks after a police chase that needed stop sticks to end it.
Osage Beach police say they were called to Home Depot on a report of a stolen pickup truck, but then dispatch said the truck was seen on Highway 42.
The chase went to Horseshoe Bend toward Lodge of the Four Seasons and officers tried three times to use stop sticks, but they say 50-year-old Terry Dickens avoided them each time.
Dickens turned around to head back toward Lake Ozark, but his tires were eventually flattened by stop sticks and the truck came to a stop near Shady Gators.
Police say Dickens ran from the truck and then jumped in the lake to swim away, but officers talked him out of the water.
Dickens was taken to Lake Regional Hospital before arriving at the Camden County Jail, where he’s being held with no bond.
OB car chase
Parents in the Camdenton R-3 School District will be offered options about how your kids go to school later this month.
There’s a survey out right now from Camdenton schools that’s asking for your input.
Camdenton schools Superintendent Dr. Tim Hadfield.
He tells KRMS News the option of using an outside vendor for your child’s education is also an option for distance learning.
Dr. Hadfield says that survey shows parent overwhelmingly support their kids going back to school.
Right now school is set to start on August 24th.
You can hear a full interview with Dr. Hadfield and KRMS’s Christian Blood about the upcoming school year below:
You’re invited to an informational meeting at Lake of the Ozarks State Park on Saturday, August 1st.
Comments and questions about the park are welcomed at the Public Beach #1 Shelter beginning at 6 o’clock.
Park staff will be there to share details on the park’s status and also future facilities.
JEFFERSON CITY, MO, JULY 17, 2020 – Lake of the Ozarks State Park invites the public to an informational meeting at 6 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 1. The meeting will be held at the Public Beach #1 Shelter. A program on the history of Lake of the Ozarks State Park will be offered following the meeting.
The public is invited to share comments about the park and its operations. Park staff will be present to provide information and to answer questions.
Input from the public is important to Missouri State Parks. These informational meetings, which are being held in all state parks and historic sites, help create two-way communication with the public. The meetings give staff the opportunity to let people know the current status and future plans for the park or historic site, and they offer visitors the opportunity to comment on the facilities. For a list of scheduled informational meetings, visit https://mostateparks.
The public is strongly encouraged to follow social-distancing guidelines and be proactive in protecting themselves and others amid ongoing public health concerns. Come prepared with hand sanitizer and bottled water, avoid large and congested crowds, and please stay home if sick. Face coverings are encouraged when social-distancing measures are difficult to maintain, and may be required by local orders.
Lake of the Ozarks State Park is located at 403 Highway 134 in Kaiser. For more information about the meeting, call the park at 573-348-2696 ext. 236.
The 12th annual Great Bagnell Dam Duck Drop is still on for this weekend.
The two-day event starts today (Friday) with a Golf Tournament at the Golf Club at Deer Chase.
On Saturday there will be a kids Fun Zone and the Ducks drop from the sky into the water at noon.
The first duck to cross wins $5,000 with 10 other ducks winning additional prizes.
You can find out more at http://greatdamduckdrop.com
A state program through the Department of Natural Resources is giving Sunrise Beach around $18- thousand dollars for the new truck that’ll replace the city’s old 2004 Ford F-150.
City planner Roger Corbin says the old truck has been used to spread salt in the winter, so it’s very rusted and it has been in repair for motor troubles numerous times over the past few years.
Corbin tells KY 3 TV the money comes through the Missouri Department of Natural Resources from Volkswagon’s emissions cheating scandal, which aims to help get higher emission cars and trucks off the street.
He says the city will still be on the hook for about $27-thousand dollars out of the budget.
Officials with Dick’s Sporting Goods say they plan to extend premium pay for all employees through the end of the year.
Current wages are at 15% above ordinary pay.
The company says they will also follow stores like Wal-Mart, Target and Kohl’s by closing for Thanksgiving this year.
Back in April, Dick’s furloughed a majority of its 40,000 employees.
Dick’s lake area store is located inside the Dierberg’s Shopping plaza.
PITTSBURGH, July 27, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — DICK’S Sporting Goods (NYSE: DKS) today announced it will close all store locations and distribution centers on Thanksgiving Day, November 26, 2020. This closure includes specialty stores Golf Galaxy and Field & Stream.
The company also announced that store and distribution center teammates will continue to receive a 15 percent pay premium through the end of the year.
“We are so thankful to our teammates for their hard work and dedication,” said Ed Stack, Chairman and CEO. “They have navigated this year with strength, commitment and care for each other and for our customers. We will continue to do all we can to support them and show our gratitude.”
In previous years, most DICK’S Sporting Goods stores were open with limited evening hours on Thanksgiving.
All DICK’S Sporting Goods locations will operate on standard business hours on Wednesday, November 25. Information on holiday hours, which begin Friday, November 27, will be shared at a later date.
About DICK’S Sporting Goods, Inc.
Founded in 1948, DICK’S Sporting Goods, Inc. is a leading omni-channel sporting goods retailer offering an extensive assortment of authentic, high-quality sports equipment, apparel, footwear and accessories. As of May 2, 2020, the Company operated 726 DICK’S Sporting Goods locations across the United States, serving and inspiring athletes and outdoor enthusiasts to achieve their personal best through a blend of dedicated teammates, in-store services and unique specialty shop-in-shops dedicated to Team Sports, Athletic Apparel, Golf, Lodge/Outdoor, Fitness and Footwear.
Headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, DICK’S also owns and operates Golf Galaxy and Field & Stream specialty stores, as well as GameChanger, a youth sports mobile app for scheduling, communications and live scorekeeping. DICK’S offers its products through a content-rich eCommerce platform that is integrated with its store network and provides customers with the convenience and expertise of a 24-hour storefront. For more information, visit the Investor Relations page at dicks.com.
The Missouri Highway Patrol has completed their investigation into a Pettis County officer involved in the death of 25-year-old Hannah Fizer.
Officials in Troop A say they’ve delivered their findings to the Pettis County Prosecuting Attorney’s office for a review.
Fizer was shot and killed during a traffic stop back in June.
The Deputy on duty claimed Fizer had a gun and was threatening him.
Fizer’s family indicated to the news media that she “never carries a gun” and that it was more than likely her cellphone.
Update: The investigation of the Pettis County officer involved shooting conducted by the #MSHP Division of Drug & Crime Control is complete and has been delivered to the Pettis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review. pic.twitter.com/TwhTv3CKiz
— MSHP Troop A (@MSHPTrooperA) July 30, 2020
The massive 3-county wide “Route 66 yard sale” will be taking place this weekend.
It’s being made possible by the Waynesville-St. Robert Chamber of Commerce, the Lebanon-Laclede County Route 66 Society and the Webster Route 66 Initiative.
The event stretches over 100 miles along Route 66 through Pulaski, Laclede and Webster counties and includes nearly 50 vendors in each area.
The Missouri State highway Patrol is announcing two promotions.
Lieutenant Kirk Davis is moving up to Captain.
Davis will be assigned director of the Professional Standards Division in Jefferson City.
Lieutenant Erik Gottman is also being moved up to Captain and he’ll be assigned to lead Troop B in Macon.
July 29, 2020
EMPHASIS: Lt. Erik A. Gottman, Lt. Kirk A. Davis Promoted Effective August 1, 2020
Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol announces the following promotions effective August 1, 2020.
Lieutenant Kirk A. Davis, Q/PSD, is being promoted to captain and designated director of the Professional Standards Division, General Headquarters, Jefferson City, MO.
Davis was appointed to the Patrol on August 1, 1993, as a member of the 66th Recruit Class. After graduating from the Patrol’s Law Enforcement Academy, he was assigned to Troop C, Zone 12, Jefferson County. In September 1997, he attended the Drug Enforcement Agency’s Basic Agent Training Academy held at the FBI Academy in Quantico, VA. He served as an agent with the DEA until returning to the Patrol on May 15, 1999. At that time, Davis was assigned to Troop F, Zone 5, Camden County. He transferred to Troop F, Zone 2, Cole County in December 1999. Davis became an instructor in the Training Division, General Headquarters, Jefferson City, in 2002. While serving as an instructor, Davis has been promoted to corporal in 2003 and sergeant in 2005. He was promoted to lieutenant on June 1, 2017, and assigned as assistant director of the Training Division, General Headquarters, Jefferson City, MO. He transferred to the Professional Standards Division on January 1, 2018.
Captain Davis grew up in Loveland, CO, and graduated from Loveland High School in 1988. In December 1992, he graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia having earned a Bachelor of Arts in sociology with a minor in Spanish. While a student at the University of Missouri-Columbia, he spent a summer studying abroad in Madrid, Spain. He earned his Master of Science in criminal justice administration from the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, MO, in May 2002. He graduated from the Leadership In Police Organizations training in 2018. Captain Davis and his wife, Angela D. (Findley), have two children, Katie and Brian.
________
Lieutenant Erik A. Gottman, Troop B, is being promoted to the rank of captain and designated commanding officer of Troop B, Macon, MO.
Gottman joined the Missouri State Water Patrol as a member of its 27th Recruit Class on October 1, 1995. As a Water Patrol officer, he earned the ranks of corporal (1999), sergeant (2000), and lieutenant (2007). Upon the merger between the Missouri State Water Patrol and the Missouri State Highway Patrol January 1, 2011, he was assigned to Troop B, Macon.
Captain Gottman was born in Fort Knox, KY. He graduated from Hannibal High School in Hannibal, MO. In 1995, he earned a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice administration from Hannibal-LaGrange College. He completed Leadership in Police Organizations training in 2015, and Police Leadership: The WestPoint Model Instructor Academy in 2019. Gottman graduated from the FBI National Academy Session 276 in 2019. Captain Gottman and his wife, Ashley (Biellier), have one son, Colton.
The COVID-19 pandemic continues in the Lake Area and around Missouri, and one local health official is concerned.
Lake Regional Hospital is running between 70 to 150 tests per day, and the positivity rate is around 17-percent.
Dane Henry’s the CEO of Lake Regional Health System in Camden County.
He tells KRMS News despite the increase in the number of positive COVID-19 test results and hospitalizations, it is still safe to go to the doctor.
Henry says that’s true of people coming to the emergency room, surgery, physician visits and urgent care.
The number of active COVID 19 cases across the Lake area is at 149.
So far 289 people have recovered from the virus, while 15 remain hospitalized.
There have been 5 deaths since March.
As of this morning, three out of the four lake area counties are up to date on reporting.
Camden county has not sent out an update since last Friday.
Schools across the Ozarks are taking different approaches to their back to school plans, some doing virtual and others doing in person.
However, the virtual learning is causing trouble for the special needs and autism communities.
Elizabeth Obrey with the Arc of the Ozarks.
She tells KY 3 TV parents of special needs kids cannot fill the role of teachers and therapists.
Many parents with children on the spectrum tell KRMS news that their children have suffered severe regressions as a result of losing schooling and in-person therapies to the COVID 19 virus.
New details are out about the Miller County Deputy who saved the life of Dr. Paul Howard in Tuscumbia.
Deputy Andy Wickham says he was heading through town when he saw smoke, pulled over and got Dr. Howard out of his home.
Deputy Wickham.
He tells KY 3 he at first though it was nothing more than a brush fire.
Dr. Howard’s Daughter Molly Anderson has a proposition for the Deputy
Several collectables were lost in the flames, including a 1940’s Ford Coupe, but Dr. Howard says he plans to rebuild.
Tourists making plans for Branson are switching them up to The Lake of the Ozarks, after city leaders there put in a new mask ordinance, thus making the Lake area one of the few spots in Missouri without those requirements.
In a decision criticized by many including comedian Yakov Smirnoff, town leaders in Branson MO have decided to require face coverings in most public places to slow a rapidly increasing Covid-19 outbreak in the popular tourist community.
Smirnoff, who runs a theatre in Branson, told aldermen the mask ordinance would make his adopted home more like his native land, Russia.
Hotel and Lodging officials across the four-county region tell KRMS they have seen an uptick in registrations for rooms on a weekly basis since Springfield, Columbia, St. Louis and Kansas City initiated their mask and bar closing rules.
As of today, there are no requirements prohibiting guest and tourists from enjoying the lake area.
No health officials have issued any mask requirements nor are their strict rules for social distancing.
Candidates for several Lake area offices taking to the debate stage on Wednesday night during the KRMS candidate forum.
For the topic of raising revenues in Camden County, current 1st district commissioner Beverly Thomas suggests a new tax.
Candidate James Gohagan who is running against Thomas in the upcoming election disagrees.
Candidates for the Camden County Commission’s 2nd district had different opinions on how to raise revenues for the community, including a tourism tax by current commissioner Don Williams.
Nathan Rinne who’s running against Williams think’s that idea will hurt lake residents.
Candidate Patrick Cochran is also running for the position, he says the lake needs more jobs, not taxes.
There are five people running for the 124th district as state representative replacing outgoing politician Rocky Miller.
For the topic of a casino coming to the lake, ideas varied…with many supporting some sort of Government control.
Benny Earl Thomas says…
Luke Hagedorn says…
Lisa Thomas says…
Duell Wayne Lauderdale says..
And Bernie Mowinski says..
You can see the full forum on our Facebook, Youtube and Vimeo channels or below:
A Camdenton woman is facing drug charges following an investigation in Lebanon.
According to police, an officer responded to the 1400 block of West Elm street for a report of drug activities.
There the officer found Denise Jefferson outside with marijuana pipes in the front of her pants.
Police say she was claiming to have a marijuana card but did not have it on her.
During the investigation Jefferson apparently tried to remove something from her skirt, which turned out to be a bag with a crystalline substance.
The Miller County Sheriff’s office is releasing an update on the Car chase that occurred Monday Morning on D Road in Osage Beach/Lake Ozark.
It’s unknown if this is the same vehicle that crashed into an Electric pole, causing over 500 people to lose power in the area during the same day.
HyVee will be offering drive up Flu Vaccines for Lake area residents.
The company says it’s in an effort to protect against COVID 19.
Officials say the vaccine will be available both inside the Pharmacy area as well and those wanting to drive-thru option will be able to do so between August 17th through the 31st.
In both locations you will be required to wear a mask and pharmacists will conduct a screening process to ensure they’re making the most beneficial choice for each person.
They’re also offering contact-free prescription pickup or delivery options as well.
July 28, 2020 | News & Press Releases
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (July 28, 2020) — Hy-Vee, Inc. announces today that the flu vaccine will be available inside its more than 270 Hy-Vee pharmacy locations throughout its eight-state region without an appointment or prescription, and will also be offered via a drive-up option at Hy-Vee pharmacy locations between Aug. 17 and Oct. 31. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends people 6 months and older get a flu vaccine each year to prevent getting and spreading the flu virus.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Hy-Vee continues to follow CDC guidelines for safety and precautions. Our stores, including our pharmacy areas, maintain enhanced cleaning regimens, social distancing protocols and Plexiglas shields at registers and customer service counters. Below are key measures Hy-Vee has implemented to ensure the safe administration of immunizations for our patients and pharmacy team members:
• All Hy-Vee pharmacy team members are required to wear face masks at all times, including while administering immunizations.
• Any patient with COVID-19-like symptoms or who has had prolonged exposure to a positive case should wait the appropriate amount of time prior to receiving their vaccine for the health and safety of our patients and team members.
• Patients receiving a vaccination will need to wear a face covering.
Flu Vaccines
Drive-up flu vaccines will be offered in the parking lot of many Hy-Vee pharmacy locations between Monday, Aug. 17 and Saturday, Oct. 31 during the following times each week*:
• Monday: 7 a.m.-11 a.m.
• Thursday: 3 p.m.-7 p.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Hy-Vee pharmacists conduct a screening process to ensure that they are administering the vaccine type most beneficial for each individual. Medicare and most insurance plans cover the flu vaccine and other immunizations at no charge.
Flu vaccines are available at Hy-Vee pharmacies on a walk-in/drive-up basis without a prescription as allowed per state law during regular pharmacy hours. Hy-Vee pharmacists can administer the flu vaccine to individuals outside of the age-specific guidelines listed below with a prescription. In Hy-Vee’s eight-state region, the state laws are as follows:
• Illinois: Ages 10 years and older
• Iowa: Ages 6 years and older
• Kansas: Ages 6 years and older
• Minnesota: Ages 6 years and older
• Missouri: Ages 7 years and older
• Nebraska: Ages 6 months and older
• South Dakota: Ages 6 months and older
• Wisconsin: Ages 6 years and older
Each person who receives a flu vaccine at a Hy-Vee Pharmacy can earn a 20 cents per gallon Fuel Saver discount, which can be redeemed at any Hy-Vee Gas, Hy-Vee Fast and Fresh Express or Hy-Vee Fast and Fresh location. See Hy-vee.com for details. Restrictions apply.
In addition, Hy-Vee Healthy You mobiles can be reserved for flu vaccine clinics as a convenient health and wellness benefit for a company’s employees. Clinics are typically held September through November, and can be scheduled by emailing [email protected].
*See store for details. Restrictions apply. Subject to availability.
Contact-Free Prescription Pickup/Delivery
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues Hy-Vee also offers the following convenient, contact-free prescription pickup and delivery methods: pharmacy drive-thru, curbside pickup, home delivery or ship to home. For additional information on these options, please contact your local Hy-Vee pharmacy.
Missourians who receive food stamps through the snap program are having their pandemic benefits extended through August.
Officials say the maximum number will continue to be loaded onto the existing EBT cards.
Over 372,000 Missouri households including over 770,000 Missourians currently receive these benefits as of June 30th.
For more information log on to http://dss.mo.gov
The FDA says they’ve seen over 650 cases of Cyclospora directly connected to the bagged salad recall across the US.
The salad bags were produced for stores like HyVee and Wal-Mart by Fresh Express.
The bags contain product code Z178 or lower numbers and consumers are still being urged to throw them out if they still have them.
FDA Officials say they are still trying to determine the cause of the outbreak.
You can follow along with their investigation here: FDA Cyclospora Investigation
July 23, 2020
As of July 22, 2020, CDC is reporting a total of 641 cases across 11 states.
FDA’s traceback investigation is ongoing to determine the cause and source of the outbreak. Salad ingredients (iceberg lettuce, carrots, red cabbage) continue to be items of interest in the investigation. As this outbreak investigation continues, the FDA will provide additional updates to this advisory.
News/Talk KRMS will be hosting a Candidate forum today (Wednesday) the 29th of July to introduce the Lake area to many running in the upcoming elections.
The forum starts at 3PM at Seven Springs Winery and will last until 7 or 8PM, depending on how long the conversation goes.
KRMS News Director Christian Blood and histroy professor Dr. Jim Pasley will be broadcasting live and conducting the program.
You can watch the show on our website, on Vimeo.com or by tuning into News/Talk KRMS on 1150AM, 97.5 or 103.3FM or streaming online.
The Netflix sensation “Ozark” based on the Lake area is getting high honors by the 2020 Emmy Awards.
The show capturing 18 nominations for Netflix, including best drama series, best lead actor in Jason Bateman and lead actress in Laura Linney.
In total, Netflix received over 160 nominations for their various shows, setting an Emmy Award record and unseating the position long held by HBO.
The 2020 Emmy Awards are set to take place on September 20th and it will be hosted on ABC.
A number of county officials in the Lake Area are warning residents about a COVID-19 Phone scam.
According to a report out of Maries county, someone is calling residents to inform them that they have been in direct contact with someone who tested positive.
The caller then states they will send an emergency test kit for a one-time fee of $50.
They claim you will be fined by the state if you do not get tested.
Officials say the county health department will contact you, requesting you self-isolate and get tested free of charge and they would never require you to pay over the phone for any reason.
***SCAM ALERT***If you are contacted by the Health Department for being in contact with a COVID-19 patient you will…
Posted by Office of the Maries County Sheriff Chris Heitman on Friday, July 24, 2020
A Miller County Sheriff’s deputy is being recognized for saving a life in the Lake Area.
Sheriff Louie Gregorie says Deputy Andrew Wickham was driving near Tuscumbia on July 25th when he noticed a house engulfed in flames.
The off-duty officer quickly entered the house and found resident Dr. Paul Howard sitting in his chair.
He was able to get Dr. Howard out of the home and call for additional help.
It’s unknown why Dr. Howard was unaware of the fire or if he was having a medical issue at the time.
From the Sheriff’s Facebook Page:
Sheriff Gregoire would like to recognize Deputy Andrew Wickham for his dedicated service above and beyond. On Saturday July 25th, while enjoying his day off Deputy Wickham drove by a house in Tuscumbia and observed that it was engulfed in flames. Deputy Wickham quickly went to the house and attempted to make contact with the resident. Deputy Wickham was unable to get anyone to answer the door and forcibly entered the house and found Dr. Paul Howard sitting in a chair. Deputy Wickham got Dr. Howard out of the house and called for help. Without Deputy Wickham’s quick action, we may have lost an important member of our community. Thank you Andy for always putting others first and being committed to excellence.
State Fair Community College is calling on all residents to help them determine ways to better serve the Lake area.
The school is planning a public form on Thursday July 30th with the college’s leadership team, local business owners, community leaders and area school administrators.
The goal is to gather input from everyone to help transform the college’s programs and educational offerings to better serve the Lake community.
The forum starts at 11AM with a reception to follow at the main campus inside the Stone Crest Mall in Osage Beach.
Sedalia, Missouri – July 24, 2020 – State Fair Community College President Dr. Joanna Anderson and the college’s Executive Leadership Team invites all area business and industry owners and managers, community members, city officials, and K-12 administrators to a public forum at 11 a.m. Thursday, July 30, at SFCC-Lake of the Ozarks campus, 3797 Osage Beach Parkway in Osage Beach. A reception will follow and appropriate health guidelines will be observed.
The forum is to gather direct input from the community into the college’s workforce training and educational offerings.
”State Fair Community College prides itself on being responsive to the communities it serves,” said Dr. Anderson. “We want to know how we can better assist the lake area. We want to hear about your needs for training and programs, your insights and concerns. If you are experiencing or anticipating difficulties, we want to work together and solve those issues.”
The forum is open to the public.
There’s an urgent call for blood donations as the Coronavirus has disrupted the blood drives across the Lake Area.
Chris Pilgram with the Community Blood Center of the Ozarks tells KRMS news the virus has put them in a position where they have little to no reserves left for area hospitals.
Pilgram is urging everyone to donate whenever they can because they are unsure if they can count on any normal drives throughout the fall.
A few drives are scheduled for the Lake area, including one from 10AM to 1PM Thursday at the Lodge of the Four Seasons and another at City Hall in Osage Beach on August 7th.
Hear the full interview with KRMS’s Christian Blood Below:
Find local drives for the CBCO in your area here.
The City of Lake Ozark is considering the idea of moving from two-year terms to four-year terms for elected officials.
Voters in the city rejected the idea in 2008.
Lake Ozark Mayor Gerry Murawski says things have changed in the city since then, and any future changes wouldn’t happen right away.
Murawski says the drawback of two-year terms is that most elected officials don’t get enough time to learn the city and the job before they have to start campaigning with few results.
He also says four-year terms make it more difficult to move on from an official who might not be meeting the demands of the people.
Hear Mayor Murawski’s full interview on the Ozarks Today below:
Additional details:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
City of Lake Ozark
7/27/2020
The City of Lake Ozark is considering moving from two-year to four-year terms for elected officials.
The final decision would be up to voters, although the board of aldermen must first approve an ordinance placing the issue on the ballot. That will be an agenda item at a future meeting.
Voters in 2008 soundly rejected the idea of expanding the terms of elected officials, but the city was in the midst of considerable turmoil at the time as the city was beginning to transition into a viable retail and economic development partner at the lake.
Since then, officials note, city government has become much more stable and is considered a respected community as the lake continues to grow.
“At the end of the day, let’s not forget the city didn’t have the resources then that it does today,” one alderman noted.
Operating a city has become far more complicated today with increased government regulations, a larger population and more businesses. As the city has grown in the last dozen years, city officials have taken a more proactive role in making sure the city’s infrastructure is safe, efficient and in compliance with state and federal regulations.
“It took me two years to figure out how city government works,” Alderman Dennis Klautzer said. “Had I not been re-elected, my first two years would have basically been for nothing other than serve my constituents. In my second two years, I felt I could contribute more because I knew the system. It’s definitely a learning process.”
Alderman agreed that four-year terms might give elected officials more opportunity to learn the ins-and-outs of city government but better serve their constituents.
Alderman Mark Maples, who served as Lake Ozark chief of police for several years, said there was considerable turnover among officials during more challenging times for the city.
“The board thought then that the only way to bring a sense of stability to the city was to lengthen terms of aldermen so there wasn’t so much turnover,” he said. “Every two years the city had significant turnover in key staff positions.”
With a stable city government now, and a board of aldermen focused on moving the city forward rather than personal agendas and infighting, officials now feel lengthening the terms of aldermen will be a long-term benefit.
“If you’re running every two years, then you’re always thinking about re-election,” Alderman Larry Giampa offered. “If we have four-year terms, aldermen have time to really concentrate on the city 100 percent and are not thinking about re-election. You’re thinking about the city. I think you can accomplish more.”
No personal gain
Four-year terms would be staggered just as two-year terms are now. The city is divided equally into three wards with two aldermen representing each ward. Three aldermen are elected every two years, and then three others two years later.
The mayor serves two years as well.
If voters approve the shift to four-year terms, the change would not take place until the next regular municipal election after the issue is approved.
Mayor Gerry Murawski noted that it’s often difficult to get people to run for elected positions.
“Maybe four-year terms would incentivize people to run for office if they knew they had time to learn the system and make a difference,” he said.
The Missouri Department of Agriculture is issuing a warning on seeds arriving in your mailbox.
They say someone is sending out seeds to people who never ordered them and they’re not sure why.
Until it’s determined where the seeds are coming from, the MDA says you should not open them and simply contact their office immediately.
Officials with Ameren say the power has been restored on D Road.
It’s been off for nearly 12 hours, following a high-speed crash that caused a vehicle to overturn and destroyed a power pole.
Still no word on the crash or the condition of the driver in the SUV.
If you are still having power issues, Ameren advises you contact them immediately.
Residents posted earlier on the Lake Area Facebook group showing that accident and power failure.
The former Rock Island train depot in Eldon is gone.
Photos shared on Facebook show it was totally demolished.
The depot had been abandoned since the line became inactive in the 1980s and was the 2nd depot constructed for the line.
According to a post on Facebook, the Eldon Chamber of Commerce recently agreed to a lease agreement on the depot with the City earlier this month.
They have plans to turn it into a new welcome center and chamber office.
Officials say they wanted to save the original structure, but last year’s tornado caused too much damage.
It is an exciting day in Eldon! The Eldon Chamber and the City of Eldon officially reached a lease agreement and the…
Posted by Eldon Chamber on Monday, July 27, 2020
Here’s a look at a rendering of what the new depot would look like.
Here’s a look at the depot during the 1970s.
This is what the first depot looked like during the hayday of the line.
Eldon once had two Depot’s, the Bagnell Branch of the Missouri Pacific Lines also went through the city of Eldon and cross the Rock Island near the center of town.
Those tracks were removed several years ago when the city of Bagnell stop producing railroad ties, shortly after the Dam was finished.
The Rock Island tracks were recently removed in preparation for a statewide trail, which would allow bikers to ride from Kansas City to near the city of Union.
Part of the old railway currently connects bikers on the Katy Trail to Kansas City by a connection in the town of Windsor, north of Clinton and just outside Truman Lake.
Here’s a look at the history of the railway in Miller county from the Miller county museum, who provided a few of the photos in this article.
A Special Session’s underway in Missouri to start reducing violent crime.
Governor Parson broke down details of special session and he says the focus will be narrow and only on violent crime.
The Governor’s top concerns are keeping children out of danger, witness protection funding, witness statement admissibility, juvenile certification and the unlawful transfer of weapons.
Parson says he’s traveled around the state meeting with local leaders, legislators and law enforcement officials in preparing for the special session.
The governor is also stressing the importance of strong support for law enforcement at the local level.
The Lake Ozark board of Alderman meet today (Tuesday).
Items on their agenda include approval of a mutual aid agreement between the police department and the Miller county sheriff’s office, an exchange of land for right of way and a number of budget transfers.
The meeting starts at 6PM at city hall and is open to the public.
Lake Ozark BOA 7-28-20-compressed (1)
A Foristell woman has died in a wreck on HH in Lake Ozark.
According to the Highway Patrol, 50-year-old Cherie Parmely was traveling westbound on Horseshoe Bend Parkway when she failed to negotiate a curve near Carol Road.
Her car then struck several objects before it stopped.
She flown to University Hospital in Columbia where she was later pronounced dead.
This marks the 8th fatality for July and the 42nd for the year in the Troop F region.
With Missouri schools getting ready for a new year, Governor Mike Parson is hitting the road this week …
Governor Parson will be meeting with Mid-Missouri School Districts in Jefferson City starting just after 3 o’clock this afternoon.
Governor Parson‘s Schedule for July 28 – 29, 2020
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – This week, Governor Mike Parson will travel to several school districts to meet with school administrators and teachers on reopening plans for this fall. A brief media availability will follow each meeting.
On Tuesday, July 28, Governor Parson will meet with the Mid-Missouri and Southwest Missouri school districts. On Wednesday, July 29, he will meet with Springfield area school districts. Governor Parson will also provide remarks for the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce State of the State on Wednesday. Due to COVID-19, the event will be virtual-only. Governor Parson‘s remarks will be livestreamed on YouTube.
Once locations are confirmed, Governor Parson‘s Thursday and Friday schedules will be sent.
Tuesday, July 28, 2020
Governor Parson to meet with Mid-Missouri School Districts
When: 3:05 – 4:05 p.m.
Where: Capitol City High School (Cafeteria)
1650 Cavalier Dr., Jefferson City, MO 65109
Governor Parson to meet with Southwest Missouri School Districts
When: 5:25 – 6:25 p.m.
Where: Neosho District Administrative Center
418 Fairground Road, Neosho, MO 64850
Wednesday, July 29, 2020
Governor Parson to meet with Springfield Area School Districts
When: 12:05 – 1:05 p.m.
Where: Kraft Administrative Office
1359 E St. Louis, Springfield, MO 65802
Governor Parson to meet with St. Louis Area School Districts
When: 3:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Where: Jennings Sr. High
8850 Cozens Ave., Jennings, MO 63136
A shooting in Camden County has a woman who was in a car in serious condition.
Captain Chris Twitchel with the Camden County Sheriff’s Office.
He tells KRMS News investigators were called to Lake Regional Hospital and found a woman had been shot through the windshield of the car she was in on Y Road.
Twitchel says there’s no word on where the shot came from.
The woman is listed in stable condition.
If you have any information on the shooting, the Camden County Sheriff’s Office is waiting for your call.
A family member posted this to the Lake Area Happenings Group shortly after the incident.
A reserve police officer in the city of Laurie is concerned about a shortage of officers after he says former chief Mark Black was forced out and former assistant chief Angela Nickerson was fired without cause.
Reserve officer Larry Deves tells KRMS News he’s concerned he’ll be fired for speaking out about the recent changes.
Deves also remains concerned over possible contaminated evidence in the police evidence room.
It follows the release of video footage of city officials in Laurie, including Mayor Alan Kimberling, entering the police evidence room numerous times with no other officers present.
Former officer Jeffrey Brownlee, who’s now working in law enforcement elsewhere in the Lake Area, quit the force after just a few months when Black and Nickerson were no longer with the police force in Laurie.
Hear the full interview with Officer Larry Deves and News Director Christian Blood from the Ozarks Today below:
Here is a look at the video from the Laurie Police Department.
Video Surveillance of the Laurie Police evidence room part 2.
This video evidence obtained by KRMS Radio shows multiple people entering and exiting the Laurie Police evidence room without a police officer there. It also shows the city officials involved changing the locks on the doors.
Posted by KRMS News on Thursday, July 23, 2020
A GoFundMe account has been setup to help the family affected by a late-night boat crash on Lake of the Ozarks this past weekend.
42-year-old Dawn Stienkuehler of High Ridge was killed in the accident, and her husband Brad and their 13-year-old daughter remain sedated while fighting serious injuries at University Hospital in Columbia. They remain unaware of Dawn’s death.
The highway patrol reports they were on the 2005 Formula which was destroyed when it was struck by a 1995 Sea Ray at the 18 mile-mark of the main channel.
The driver of the Sea Ray, 52-year-old John Bennett of New Haven, is facing numerous felony BWI charges.
All donations will be going directly to the family.
Over 400 residents in the Kaiser area are without power this morning after a car crashes into an electric pole.
Crews from Ameren are currently working the scene down D road.
No further details are available at the moment.
Photos shared on the Lake Area Happenings Facebook Page show a vehicle turned upside down and power lines strewed across the roadway.
We will bring you more information as it becomes available.
Community Blood Center of the Ozarks (CBCO), the sole supplier of blood and plasma to patients at more than 40 area healthcare facilities, is making a plea for anyone who is eligible to donate blood to do so. “There are simply not enough donations coming in or mobile blood drives on the schedule to keep pace with the increase of local patient needs,” CBCO Executive Director Anthony Roberts said. “While we have been able to maintain stock levels at our hospitals, our reserves on our shelves are below a comfortable level and we need the help of our generous community donors who always step up in times of need.” Since the COVID-19 shutdown in March, more than 280 blood drives have been cancelled in the CBCO service region, resulting in more than 9,000 potential blood donations being lost. As a result, CBCO is in a critical appeal for all blood types.
Blood usage for patients in area hospitals has returned to near normal levels, while area donations have not been able to keep pace. Multiple mobile blood drive cancellations are still occurring. The downturn in donation rates means that reserve levels have not been able to recover. And with the uncertainty of school or college blood drives for the fall and spring, the future of the community blood supply will be heavily dependent on first-time donors and community donors giving more frequently.
“This is a very challenging time for blood centers across the U.S., and Community Blood Center of the Ozarks is no exception,” CBCO Executive Director Anthony Roberts said. “As we try to navigate the way forward, we are asking area blood donors to support the only blood service that supplies all of our area hospitals. In return, we promise to fulfill area needs in a way that meets our mission standards; a healthy blood supply, delivered in a timely manner, with an unwavering emphasis on remaining accountable to the patients we serve.”
Donors who give at a CBCO donor center or mobile blood drive will receive a five-dollar gift card redeemable through CBCO’s LifePoints Local online store. They will also receive a colorful T-shirt.
Although many mobile blood drives within the CBCO service region have been canceled or postponed, some community-based drives are still planned in the coming weeks. These drives are critical in helping to keep inventory levels at sufficient levels. To find a listing of those blood drives, log on to www.cbco.org/donate-blood. Appointments are strongly encouraged to maintain social distancing guidelines and improve the donation experience. Masks are required for all donors and staff. If you do not have a mask, one will be provided for you.
On behalf of local hospital patients, CBCO thanks blood donors from across the region for giving life to your community.
A local CBCO Blood drive is set to take place on July 30th at the Lodge of the Four Seasons from 10AM to 1PM.
Whiskey drinkers are mourning the loss of thousands of bottles of whiskey after a truck crashes on Highway 71.
According to reports, the truck was carrying over 40,000 pounds or around 12,000 bottles of Templeton Rye, when it turned over near the Arkansas Border.
Socia