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Lake Ozark PD Receives Large Donation From Local Business Owner

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More money is coming to the Lake Ozark Police Department.

Following a donation of guns, ammunition and training made by Springfield Armory worth nearly $20,000, another local business owner is stepping up with cash for the department.

According to the city George Tucker of Tucker Shuckers has handed over $7,500 dollars.

Chief Gary Launderville says he took a call from Tucker asking what he could do for LOPD officers and that the money must be given to the Police Department only.

To thank Tucker for his donation, the city’s Board of Alderman adopted a resolution of thanks and you can read that resolution below:

 

*****More from the city:

Board, chief laud donor for support of LOPD

The outpouring of support for the Lake Ozark Police Department continues.

Two weeks after Dennis Reese and Springfield Armory donated new weapons and accessories for every LOPD officer including reserves, a Lake Ozark businessman has donated $7,500 strictly for use by the department for the benefit of its officers.

Police Chief Gary Launderville reported at the regular Sept. 14 board of aldermen meeting that George Tucker, owner of Tucker’s Shuckers on The Strip, handed him a check recently.

The board then adopted a resolution expressing the city’s appreciation.

Chief Launderville told the board that he took a call from Tucker about a month ago asking what he could do for LOPD officers. Tucker said he wanted to make sure any donation would go to LOPD officers.

The chief explained that because of budgetary restrictions, any donation couldn’t be put in the in the city’s general fund with guarantees it would be used for the LOPD. He said Tucker insisted the money be used for the LOPD and not for general city expenses such as filling potholes.

“I want this for the betterment of the police officers,” he told the chief.

The only way that could happen, Launderville explained, was for a donation be made to the Lake Ozark Police Benevolent Police Association.

“I was expecting a $500 check,” Launderville said. “About a week and a half later, George walked through the door with a $7,500 check. For a local businessman to step up and do something like that, the same as Denny Reese, and then you look at the donations we’ve received the last 30 days it’s amazing. Our department truly appreciates it.”

Launderville noted that the donation is not a donation to the City of Lake Ozark but to a totally separate, non-profit organization for the betterment of the officers or the department. When equipment is not in the LOPD budget, the Benevolent Association steps up and helps, he explained.

“It benefits the City of Lake Ozark, it benefits the community,” Launderville said. “We don’t do fund raisers because Lord knows we don’t have time. We rely on donations and the goodwill of the community.”

 

The resolution

It says:

George Tucker has been instrumental in the redevelopment of the Bagnell Dam Strip, having established Tucker’s Shuckers Oysters & Tap and Neon Taco.

The city would like to recognize Mr. Tucker’s community leadership, support and generosity to the city including a substantial donation of $7,500 recently made to the Police Benevolent Fund.

The board of aldermen publicly expresses its appreciation to Mr. Tucker for his generosity to the police Benevolent Fund and his other contributions to our community.

Tim Hadfield Announces Retirement From Camdenton Schools

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Supt. Tim Hadfield

The Superintendent of Camdenton R-3 Schools is retiring from the district after 15 years of service.

In an announcement, Tim Hadfield stated he would remain on board for the rest of this school year.

Hadfield started in 2009 when he replaced former Superintendent Dr. Maurice Overlander.

In an e-mail to faculty, Hadfield says it has been an “honor” to serve the people of the district and that he looks forward to “working with everyone” through the end of the school year.

Ameren Missouri Rates To Go Up As Investments In Energy Continue

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If you’re an Ameren Missouri customer, you can expect a 12-percent increase on your monthly bill early next year.

This comes after Ameren filed an electric and natural gas rate review with the Public Service Commission in March.

These filings reflect major upgrades to electric and natural gas systems reliability and resilience and investments in support of a transition to clearer energy resources” says Warren Wood with Ameren, “We’re basically hardening the grid, adding smarter technology…moving to cleaner technology…we’re seeing these investments make significant differences.”

He tells KRMS News the investments are paying off to the tune of 40-percent greater reliability “If we all go back to February this year and we remember the extremely cold weather….we were reading about all the outages across the US….the technology really performed well in Missouri. We didn’t have a lot of those same problems everyone else had across the country.”

Wood says part of the reason the power stayed in last winter is because of the company’s Smart Energy Plan.

For the average customer, an increase of around $12 per month can be expected by February.

Wood was interviewed by Christian Blood on the KRMS Morning Magazine.

 

*****More info:

  • The new rates would not take effect until 2022 and reflect major upgrades to electric and natural gas system reliability and resiliency for customers, as well as investments to support the transition to cleaner energy for the benefit of customers and local communities.
  • Ameren Missouri customers have seen rate decreases in recent years, including two electric base rate decreases since 2017 and a natural gas rate decrease in 2019.
  • Electric rates today are 8.3% lower than they were in 2017.

2021 Lake Of The Ozarks Bikefest Now Underway Across The Region

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The largest bike rally in the Midwest is now taking shape in Lake of the Ozarks.

Bike Fest 2021 is underway, and you’ll notice more and more bikers showing up on roads and highways heading into the weekend.

The Bagnell Dam Strip will be closed from Ballenger Road to the dam from 11 am through 2 am until Monday.

The road across the dam remains closed through December while MoDOT crews work on improvements.

If you want to keep up with the events happening, you can log onto http://lakebikefest.com

Attorney Talks About COVID Mandates And Local Businesses

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As pushback and defiance of Washington DC’s COVID shot mandates continues, one local attorney is talking about the future relationship between businesses and their employees.

“This is going to be a huge impact as folks continue to look forward. I think employers are going to struggle with “how do I deal with this COVID 19 thing” and “How do I let people back into my business” as opposed to not” says Attorney At Law David Porter.

He tells KRMS News Lake Area businesses need to have their own plan moving ahead “Don’t let yourself get carried away with the global and national rhetoric and let that decide how you drive your business.”

Porter also talks about how the word ‘science’ is being used in ongoing COVID measures “There’s a lot of different positions on what the science is. And the science is constantly evolving. I think the idea that science is a static, that we’re going to land on a place in science and that’s where we are going to stop, that’s really really false.”

The Biden Administration’s COVID shot mandates are being condemned by the entire Camden County Commission, U-S Missouri Representatives Blaine Luetkemeyer and Vicky Hartzler and also Governor Mike Parson.

Porter Law handles Business, Estate Planning and Mediation in Lake Ozark.

Celebration Of Life For Bartender JT To Be Held September 22nd At Bear Bottom Resort

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Residents across the West Side will be celebrating the life of a Lake Area Bartender.

Jeremiah Keating, known as JT, was struck by a UTV while working at Bulldogs Beach House on September 3rd.

JT battled his critical injuries, but was unable to recover and passed away last week.

Officials with Bulldogs say they will be holding a special event to celebrate his life on Wednesday the 22nd at the Bear Bottom Resort.

They are asking residents to bring a home-cooked dish and that they will be severing plenty of “JT”’s favorites, with live music and great stories to celebrate his life.

Non-Compliant Sex Offender Arrested In Miller County Drug Bust

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A non-compliant sex-offender and another woman are facing charges after a drug bust in Miller County.

The Sheriff’s Office says deputies and members of the Mid-Missouri Drug Task Force went to a home on Castle Road in Brumlee on a drug complaint.

The deputies say they got permission to search the home and when doing so they found meth and other drugs.

Investigators say Brian Burd and Rebecca Webster were both arrested and taken to the Miller County Jail.

The Sheriff’s Office says Burd is the non-compliant sex-offender and he’s charged with failure to register and also possession of a controlled substance, among others.

Webster was taken in on felony warrants and is also charged with delivery of a controlled substance.

Brian Burd

Mayor Of Osage Beach To Soon Appoint Someone To Fill BOA Vacancy

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The mayor of Osage Beach will be appointing someone to fill a vacancy created when Ward 3 Alderman Tom Walker resigned August 6th.

A majority of the Board members remaining will have to give their consent for the candidate that’ll serve the unfinished term that runs through April 22nd.

The be eligible for consideration, you have to be 18 years old, a U-S citizen, an Osage Beach resident for a year and you have to have to live in Ward 3.

2021830 News Release_Vacant Board of Aldermen Seat DEADLINE EXTENDED(1)

Four Drug Arrests Made In Laclede County This Week

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Four drug arrests now reported by the Laclede County Sheriff’s Office and Lebanon P-D, but all in one day.

With help from the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Lake Area Narcotics Enforcement Group, 60 grams of meth and suspected fentanyl are off the street.

Deputies served a search warrant on Driftwood Drive in Lebanon Tuesday, and around $6-thousand dollars worth of meth was recovered.

Two suspects were taken from the home located close to Ester elementary School.

Later that day, Lebanon police pulled over a car and a following search turned up close to 100 fentanyl pills valued at around $25-hundred dollars.

Two more suspects were arrested.

The Lebanon police officers were assisted by the Greene County Sheriff’s Office.

 

****More details:

The Lebanon Police Department, Laclede County Sheriff’s Office, Missouri State Highway Patrol and Lake Area Narcotics Enforcement Group, made four arrests and seized 60 grams of methamphetamine and suspected fentanyl on Tuesday. The arrest were unrelated.

On Tuesday officers served a search warrant on Driftwood Drive in Lebanon. During the search an excess of 60 grams of methamphetamine was found. Two suspects were arrested at the scene and taken to the Laclede County Jail. The street value of the methamphetamine is approximately $6,000. Driftwood is located in close proximity to Ester Elementary School in Lebanon.

Local officers then made a traffic stop and seized nearly 100 fentanyl pills. The local officers were assisted in the investigation by the Greene County Sheriff’s Office. The estimated value of the fentanyl is $2500. Two suspects were taken into custody as a result of the traffic stop.

“LANEG will present cases to the prosecutor in regards to these,” Sheriff David Millsap said. “Three of the suspects arrested in the enforcement action on Tuesday have lengthy involvement in criminal activity in Laclede County,” Millsap added.

“Methamphetamine continues to be the common element in most of the criminal activity in our County. However, over the last couple of years we have seen fentanyl, and heroin, become an issue in our community,” Millsap said the most concerning with the introduction of fentanyl in the community is the rise of drug overdose resulting in death. “Our investigative target are those in our community, and outside are community, who are distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl. The work of LANEG to address this issue, and coordinate our investigative efforts among the local agencies, and other agencies is vital to our efforts to put drug dealers in prison.”

New Job Report Numbers Show Unemployment Rate Still Dropping In Missouri

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The Missouri jobs report for August is out, and the unemployment rate dropped two-tenths of a percent in the Show Me State from July.

The unemployment rate of 4-percent shows more than 54-hundred people not unemployed compared to July.

In August 2020, Missouri had an unemployment rate of 6-percent, and more than 73-thousand 4-hundred jobs have been recovered over the last 12 months.

In April 2020, Missouri’s unemployment rate spiked to 12-and-a-half percent before decreasing monthly for the rest of the year.

Missouri’s unemployment rate has been below the national unemployment rate since February of this year.

 

****That report:

August 2021 Monthly Jobs Report

Missouri non-farm payroll employment increased from July 2021 to August 2021, and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased by two-tenths of a percentage point. Employment, seasonally adjusted, increased by 7,300 jobs over the month, with job gains in both goods-producing and service-providing industries. The state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 4.0 percent in August 2021, down from 4.2 percent in July 2021. Recovery from COVID-19-related layoffs continued with an increase of 73,400 jobs from August 2020 to August 2021. Short-term shortages of semiconductor chips may hold down employment in manufacturing in the next few months.

UNEMPLOYMENT

Missouri’s smoothed seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased by two-tenths of a percentage point in August 2021, dropping to 4.0 percent from the July 2021 rate of 4.2 percent.

The national unemployment rate decreased from 5.4 percent in July 2021 to 5.2 percent in August 2021. The estimated number of unemployed Missourians was 123,158 in August 2021, down by 5,448 from July’s 128,606.

The state’s not-seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate also decreased in August 2021, dropping by 0.4 percentage points to 3.5 percent from the July 2021 not-seasonally-adjusted rate of 3.9 percent. The decrease resulted from the recall of manufacturing workers from short-term layoff. The corresponding not-seasonally-adjusted national rate for August 2021 was 5.3 percent.

A year ago, the state’s seasonally adjusted rate was 6.0 percent, and the not-adjusted rate was 6.1 percent.

With the start of the COVID-19 pandemic now more than a year in the past, the August 2021 rate was 2.0 percentage points lower than the August 2020 rate. The rate had reached a low of 3.1 percent starting in July 2018, before gradually edging up to 3.5 percent by the end of 2019, and then to 3.7 percent in March 2020. The COVID-19 effect hit in April 2020, spiking the rate to 12.5 percent for that month. The rate decreased monthly for the rest of 2020, reaching 4.4 percent in December, and continued gradually downward through the first four months of 2021. The increase of two-tenths of a percentage point from April 2021 to June 2021 appeared to be related to a temporary shortage in the supply of semiconductor chips, which caused production slowdowns in some manufacturing industries.

Due to benchmark revisions, Missouri’s unemployment rate rose a tenth of a percentage point higher than the national rate in January and February of 2020, but has been below the national rate for every month since February 2020.

EMPLOYMENT

Missouri’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment was 2,839,400 in August 2021, up by 7,300 from the revised July 2021 figure. However, the July 2021 total was revised downward by 3,600 from the preliminary estimate, producing a revised increase of 11,400 jobs from June 2021 to July 2021 and a revised increase of 80,300 jobs from July 2020 to July 2021.

Goods-producing industries gained 5,300 jobs over the month with gains in both durable and non-durable goods. Meanwhile, service-providing industries gained 2,000 jobs between July and August 2021, with increases in leisure & hospitality (+3,300 jobs) and professional & business services (+1,600 jobs). Government employment showed a decrease of 3,200 jobs over the month.

Total payroll employment increased by 73,400 jobs from August 2020 to August 2021, reflecting the recovery from job cuts brought on by the initial wave of COVID-19 infections. All but one of the major private-sector industry groups shared in the increases, with the largest gain in leisure & hospitality (+33,700 jobs), followed by professional and business services (+17,700 jobs), educational & health services (+12,100 jobs), and trade, transportation & utilities (+8,700 jobs). The sole private-sector exception was financial activities, which lost 5,600 jobs. Government employment decreased over the year, with a loss of 6,200 jobs concentrated in federal and local government.

Read the full report at https://meric.mo.gov/missouri-monthly-jobs-report.

EPA Says “Impaired Waterway” Designation For LOTO Is About Fish & Wildlife – Not Tourism

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The Environmental Protection Agency and the Missouri DNR disagree on Lake of the Ozarks landing on a list of ‘Impaired Waterways.’

But the EPA is also explaining what that list of 40 impaired water bodies in Missouri means.

“All of the Lakes we’re talking, these 40, are being listed for chlorophyll” says Jeff Robichaud with the Water Division Director for EPA Region 7, “What happens is you get high levels of nitrogen and phosphorous and you get the creation of algae blooms and when that occurs…it can affect aquatic species, mainly fish.”

But Robichaud tells KRMS News the designation does not mean the lake area economy will be affected because people can’t go in the water or because recreational boating isn’t allowed “There’s a bit of a misconception either that a water body is pristine, or often times people think when it gets on a list that it’s heavily polluted….that’s not the case.

He says the concerns about the lake’s water quality are directed at fish and not humans “The Lake had water quality data that exceeded the State’s water quality criteria, or their screening levels, that coupled with some Fish Kills that occurred during that time period…resulted in the Lake exceeding the threshold and needing to be impaired.

He also says solutions will be discussed and implemented locally “For Lake of the Ozarks, it may need additional work to septic systems alongside of the Lake or additional best management practices for those who are located along the watershed. In this the Public is involved, the community is brought in and it really is a local approach to making sure these waters are protected in the future. This is not a case where the EPA comes in and tells the local community what to do.”

Robichaud was interviewed by Christian Blood on the KRMS Morning Magazine.

Local Fire Chief Dies After Battle With COVID 19

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A Lake Area Fire Chief has died after a battle with COVID 19.

Chief Rickey Hobbs of the Tri-County Fire Protection District passed away on Tuesday morning with his family by his side.

He had been battling the virus since early September.

The Mayor and the Board of Alderman in the city of Richland have made a proclamation in his name, requesting all flags be displayed at half-staff until the day he is laid to rest.

Chief Hobbs has been serving the Laclede, Camden, and Pulaski County communities for more than 30 years.

Bass Pro Shops Owner Johnny Morris Inducted Into Hall Of Famous Missourians

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The owner and founder of Bass Pro Shops is being inducted into the Hall of Famous Missourians.

Johnny Morris and his family was welcomed to Jefferson City, where a bronze bust of Morris was unveiled and will be permanently displayed inside the State Capitol.

“I don’t recall every being in this chamber…but…it’s pretty humbling to come to our State Capitol, it’s just very special” says Morris, “I tell people this all the time, I can’t think a better place that anybody can start any kind of business, than (in my case) Springfield, Missouri, because were else can you find people that have such pride as Missourians have.”

Morris founded his business in 1972 and Bass Pro’s company has now grown to over 200 stores nationwide.

Morris also invests in other Missouri based businesses, including world-class golf courses, Big Cedar Lodge in Branson and the new Wonders of Wildlife Museum and Aquarium at the Bass Pro Headquarters in Springfield.

Water To Be Restored In Pulaski County Later Wednesday

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Some residents in Pulaski County are waking up without water this morning.

Crews from the Water and Sewer District # 2 are working to replace a gate value on Highway Y.

Customers from Harmony Lane to Laramie Road, and all subsequent roads and subdivisions in this region will be without water until around noon today.

Residents in the city of Eldon also had water troubles on Tuesday.

Crews there had to repair a busted water main off South Grand Avenue in the afternoon.

The water service was restored within a matter of hours.

MO Highway Patrol Celebrates 90 Years Of Service

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The Missouri State Highway Patrol is turning 90 this year.

It all started in 1931 with a superintendent, six captains, 55 troopers and a few civilians, each getting credit for launching the history of service and protection offered by the ‘Patrol.

“Even though we’ve grown and changed over the last 90 years, our focus is still keeping our State a safe place. We focus on traffic safety, reducing the number of severe traffic crashes and we try to keep fatal traffic crashes from occurring” says Lieutenant Eric Brown, “When you look back to the first fleet of vehicles we had, it was 36 new Model A Ford Roadsters, 1 Ford Sedan, 1 Plymouth Sedan, An Oldsmobile, 1 Buick, 3 Chevy’s and 12 Harley’s.”

Brown tells KRMS the Highway Patrol has added more departments and responsibilities over the years, like crime labs, driver testing, criminal records, gaming enforcement and others.

He says Troopers don’t even need paper to write a ticket “They use a computer and a printer in the car. The cameras in the cars, which capture footage inside and outside the car, are very high tech and digital now.”

Today, the ‘Patrol has close to 12-hundred members.

*****More info:

EMPHASIS: MSHP Marks 90 Years Of Service & Protection

A letter from Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol:

For nine decades, the Missouri State Highway Patrol has answered the call to serve and protect the citizens of this great state. In 1931, a superintendent, six captains, 49 troopers, and a few civilians launched the legacy of exceptional service and protection that remains. From these humble beginnings evolved the full-service law enforcement agency you know today. Our employees have embraced each additional responsibility–the crime laboratory, driver testing, criminal records, commercial vehicle enforcement, motor vehicle inspection, criminal investigation, gaming enforcement, and marine operations, to name a few. Numerous natural disasters and serious incidents, increasing social unrest, and most recently, the coronavirus pandemic inspire us to continue being Missouri’s beacon of integrity, professionalism, and compassion. Throughout our history, the Patrol has endured crises, emergencies, and challenges that consistently revealed the true quality of our people and our mission.

Patrol employees have shown the public we are ladies and gentlemen who serve and protect one contact, one stakeholder at a time for 90 years. Our employees have been and will continue to be connected to the community in which they live. We are your neighbors, school board members, and local volunteers.

As we recognize how far we’ve come since 1931, we are creating a vision for our future. Our vision is simple: We are committed to being professional, courteous, compassionate, resourceful, and responsible. We will hold ourselves to the highest degree of integrity and show respect to all people. We will excel as a criminal justice leader and to help ensure Missouri is a safe place to live or visit. The Patrol’s 1,191 members, 524 uniformed civilians, and 544 civilians are living examples of its vision, mission, and core values. We are honored to serve and protect the people of this great state.

School Of The Osage Clarifies It’s Stance On COVID 19 Vaccination Requirements

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While the White House tries to force you into taking a COVID shot, School of the Osage wants to end speculation about how students and faculty are being handled before it begins.

“There is no room for speculation on this right now. We haven’t been directed by the Governing body that Governs School Districts, around adding this to our Immunization rotation” Says Superintendent Dr. Laura Nelson.

She tells KRMS News the governing body for School of the Osage and public schools around Missouri is the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education “The State of Missouri regulates the way schools regulated vaccines and immunizations. We’re guided by DESE in the matter and that haven’t made any statements on that (COVID Vaccines) yet.”

She also says the interest for School of the Osage is to educate children in the best environment possible while keeping them out of the crosshairs of speculation “We hear things on TV all the time…and we don’t just jump into action. We, are very steady in our responses and right now there seems to be a lot of challenge to what is being said.”

Dr. Nelson confirms to KRMS News children are not forced to take COVID shots and teachers and faculty can choose to take one or not.

Bagnell Dam Roadwork Update From MODOT Takes A Historical Turn

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Photo from the city of Lake Ozark.

You know Bagnell Dam is closed through December, but MoDOT is giving an update on what’s happening so far.

“They’ve already done the milling portion of removing the deck. So they’ve removed about 2 to 3 inches of the road surface, and actually…they’ve removed the previous overlay that was done back in the mid-80s” says MODOT Central District Area Engineer Bob Lynch.

He tells KRMS News the next step is to bring in hydro-demolition experts to knock out the poor concrete that was under the original surface, which could take a few weeks “The next process is to bring in the hydro-demolition aspect of the project, to remove the poor concrete that is underneath that previous wearing surface. That will take a few weeks as well, to find that rotten concrete and get that area prepped for the new driving surface they are going to put on…before winter hits.”

Bagnell Dam was closed the day after Labor Day for a 3-month rehabilitation project scheduled to wrap up in December.

Lynch was interviewed by Guy Wehman during The Ozarks This Morning on News / Talk KRMS.

More Details Continue To Come In About Kaiser Homicide Case

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We’re learning more about the homicide case in Kaiser.

According to the Miller County Sheriff’s office, deputies responded to a welfare check for Pam and Dan Stephan, after a friend told deputies their lack of response was “out of character” for the couple.

Court documents show the officer who responded found the couple deceased from a gunshot to the head.

Evidence taken from the home included two bullet fragments & bullet casings, a cell phone, a tablet, and some of the victim’s hair.

A motorcycle was also found behind the Stephan’s house, one that suspect J.T. McLean is suspected of ditching.

An autopsy was scheduled on Monday for the Stephan’s.

 

****Additional information on the cases:

**Update Homicide Investigation**
Autopsies are scheduled Monday 09/13/2021 for Daniel and Pam Stephan at the University of Missouri in Columbia. Results of those autopsies may not be available for several weeks. The Union County Sheriff’s Office has executed a search warrant and obtained several items of interest. Detectives will be traveling to South Dakota next week along with Boone County and Highway Patrol Investigators. Out of respect to the family, limited information is being released until the investigation is complete. Additional press releases will follow in the next several weeks. We want to thank the Boone County Sheriff’s Office, Missouri State Highway Patrol, and Union County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in this joint investigation.

***Homicide Investigation Update***
On 08/22/2021, at about 10:58 pm, Boone County Joint Communications received a call from a concerned subject reporting they had been unable to contact Allison Abitz and her daughter Jozee Abitz, who both resided in the 7500 block of Lavender Drive south of Columbia.
Boone County deputies responded to the residence on Lavender Court and once inside located Allison, age 43, and her daughter Jozee, age 11, deceased.
Evidence suggested Allison had been strangled and Jozee had been drowned.
Investigators soon identified JT McLean as the long-term boyfriend of Allison and developed probable cause to believe McLean murdered Allison and Jozee. The motive for the murder of these victims is still unknown. Investigators soon discovered a burn pile at McLean’s last known address in Callaway County and within that burn pile they found electronics to include cellular phones and computers. All the vehicles known to belong to McLean were accounted for; however, McLean’s whereabouts were unknown. It was apparent at that point McLean was attempting to evade apprehension and not be tracked.
On 08/25/2021, the Boone County Prosecuting Attorney charged JT McLean (age 45) with two counts of Murder in the 1st Degree. A warrant for the arrest of McLean was then issued in the 13th Judicial Circuit Boone County, Missouri. McLean’s bond for these charges was set at $1,000,000.00 cash only.
Due to the murders of Allison and Jozee, as well as the allegations of prior threats of violence, we believed McLean could be a threat to anyone; however, we knew of no current specific threats or details regarding danger to the public or any specific individuals.
During the investigation of the homicides of Allison and Jozee, investigators received information that McLean had recently acquired a dark colored motorcycle, which was not titled or registered in his name and the make, model and type of motorcycle was unknown. Based on that information, we believed McLean likely fled the area on the motorcycle, so we pushed that information out on social media on 09/08/2021.
On 09/08/2021, at around 7:45 pm, we received information from the Miller County Sheriff’s Office that they were investigating a double homicide at a residence that was possibly related to our investigation. We then learned the two victims in Miller County, were related to one of McLean’s ex-wives, an unregistered motorcycle had been found near the victims’ residence, and a vehicle belonging to the Miller County victims was missing.
Our investigators began collaborating with the Miller County Sheriff’s Office, the Missouri State Highway Patrol and agencies in the Sioux City area to include the Union County Sheriff’s Office, in Elk Point, South Dakota.
With the assistance of OnStar, the vehicle belonging to the Miller County victims was located and disabled in a hotel parking lot in Dakota Dunes, South Dakota, which is an unincorporated community just outside of Sioux City. This was concerning as we learned relatives of the Miller County victims were also somewhere in the greater Sioux City area and could be in danger. Law enforcement personnel contacted the relatives and they were moved to a safe location.
Local South Dakota law enforcement personnel were also able to locate the vehicle in the hotel parking lot. According to the Union County Sheriff’s Office, non-lethal means were used, and officers received no response from McLean. A drone was then deployed over the vehicle and TJ McLean was found deceased inside the vehicle from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
At this time, we will forward questions regarding the homicides in Miller County or the investigation into the death of JT McLean in Union County South Dakota to the Miller County Sheriff’s Office or the Union County Sheriff’s Office.
The investigation into the deaths of Allison and Jozee Abitz is still active and ongoing; however, at this time we believe JT McLean, now deceased, was the person who murdered Allison and Jozee.
**PRESS RELEASE**
REFERENCE: Double Homicide
On 09/08/2021, Miller County deputies were dispatched to an address in the 300 block of Route D in Kaiser for a well-being check. Upon arrival, deputies located two deceased individuals, one male, and one female. The victims’ have been identified as Daniel Stephan, 74 and Pamela Stephan, 64, both of Kaiser. The case is being investigated by detectives as a homicide. The preliminary investigation has identified a male, JT Mclean, as a suspect. During the early morning hours of 09/09/2021 JT Mclean was found deceased by the Union County Sheriff’s Office in South Dakota from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. This is an on-going investigation and the Sheriff’s Office is being assisted by the Missouri State Highway Patrol Division of Drug and Crime Control.

Camden County Commission Remains United Against Vaccine Mandates

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The Camden County Commission is showing unity in standing up to the Biden Administrations new vaccine mandates.

“We’re all 3 dead set against this” says Commissioner Don Williams, “This has to do with taking away people’s freedom of choice…their freedom of Liberty.”

Presiding Commissioner Greg Hasty says his first call after learning about Washington’s vaccine mandates was to James Gohagan, then the three Commissioners then set up an executive session to talk things over.

“Based on my conversations with all 3 county commissioners….we agree, that we would all 3…rather be removed from our offices, before we will back down from this unconstitutional mandate from this President regarding these vaccinations” says Hasty, “If you look at our COVID rates, they’re no worse than anywhere else. They’re actually better! We’ve had 105 deaths, so far in our county of 4 or 5 thousand. The deadliness of this virus, that we’re seeing statistically in Camden County….doesn’t reflect what they’re trying to tell us.”

Hasty tells KRMS News he had COVID earlier this year, and while he says it was difficult, he still supports the right of all Camden County residents to make their own decision on whether or not to take a COVID shot.

In statement on Facebook, James Gohagan indicated he will stand firm in his decision “Citizens of Camden County, I will never agree to force you to put anything into your body against your will, that applies for county employees as well. My vote will always be no.”

Don Williams says he’s questioning some of the COVID data he’s been following, like health experts saying a 50-to-75-percent vaccination rate would bring on herd immunity from COVID “75% of the Population has already had the first shot….53% of the population have had both vaccinations for COVID. So, we’re already approaching herd immunity! So…what was the motivation for President Biden to pass this vaccine mandate?”

Hasty says he also stands by the decision to open the county in the summer of 2020 after a 30-day shutdown before tourism started “One of the things we all discussed was…if it was as bad as they said it was going to be, there wouldn’t have been a need for a shutdown or any further orders because no one would have been going anywhere. Everyone would have been hiding out.”

Instead, Hasty says Camden County has flourished since last summer and that it also became a model of what the rest of the U-S should have done.

The Camden County Commission is waiting to see if state legal action will adequately protect county residents, or if it will have to take its own legal action against Washington, DC.

Lake Wide Job And Career Fair Taking Place Today In Osage Beach

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If you feel the time has come for a career change, you’re in luck.

Today (Tuesday) from 11AM until 6PM, News/Talk KRMS & Viper Communications is hosting a Lake Wide Job and Career fair at the Inn at Grand Glaize.

Residents from across the 4-county region, as well as cities outside the lake area, are welcome to attend for free.

It’s recommended you come dressed for an interview and bring a resume, as many lake area businesses will be on hand and are looking for employees today.

The Inn at Grand Glaize is located at 5142 Osage Beach Parkway, about a quarter-mile west of the bridge.

You can learn more below:

Bulldogs Bartender Loses Battle For His Life After UTV Crash

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The lake area is mourning the loss of a treasured bartender.

According to Bulldogs Beach House in Sunrise Beach, 65-year-old JT Keating, aka “The Captain,” passed away while battling for his life at University Hospital in Columbia.

Keating was struck by 78-year-old Gerald Alvey of Camdenton, who was driving a UTV in the parking lot at Bulldogs on September 3rd.

That driver also hit a parked car, a building and is currently facing DWI charges.

Bulldogs closed for several days following the crash, while Keating battled his critical injuries.

The investigation into the crash remains ongoing and additional charges are expected.

 

Here is a statement posted to Facebook from the team at Bulldogs:

As many of you already know, there is a big hole in the Bulldogs family as we lost our co-worker, mentor and most of all dear friend.

JT “the Captain” Keating was our “grumpy old man” with a heart of pure gold.

He will be missed by so many and Bulldogs will never be the same without him.

We were so blessed to have him apart of our family here for so many years.

We are heart broken, continued prayers for all involved are greatly appreciated.

Rest In Peace Captain we all love you.

Autopsy Scheduled For Double Homicide Victims In Kaiser

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Autopsies are scheduled for two people found dead in Kaiser on Wednesday, the Miller County Sheriff’s Office calling it a double homicide.

Daniel and Pam Stephan were found dead at a home on Route D.

The suspect in case was also wanted for two murders in Columbia, and Union County Sheriff’s Deputies in South Dakota found JT Mclean in a car early Thursday morning.

Investigators say Mclean had shot himself.

The Miller County Sheriff’s Office says there’s no timetable for the results of the autopsies, but it could take weeks before there’s new information on how the Stephans were killed.

The two people murdered in Columbia in late August were a schoolteacher in the Fulton School System and her 11-year-old daughter.

Route D Homicide 3

Lake Realtor Bauman Faces Bond Violation After THC Is Found In Her Body

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Lake Realtor Leigh Ann Bauman is facing more troubles after she’s found with T.H.C. in her system, a violation of her Bond agreement.

She claims the T.H.C is medical cannabis from a St. Louis doctor and that she has a “prescription” for it.

Bauman is accused of attempting to hire a hitman to kill her ex-mother-in-law and this is the 2nd time she’s violated the terms of her bond.

One of the requirements she has was to avoid contact with her children, which she violated when she attempted to order birthday gifts.

Bauman has a trial date set for February of next year.

Camden County Commission – Local And State Leaders Snap Back At COVID Vaccine Mandates

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The Camden County Commission, U-S Representatives Blaine Luetkemeyer and Vicky Hartzler, and Governor Mike Parson are united in their stance on a Biden Administration mandate to take new COVID shots.

Governor Parson says it’s a poor attempt by the White House to reset after the disaster in Afghanistan and that his administration will fight it (See below.)

Representative Luetkemeyer thinks it’s going nowhere “This is so over the top, this is so tyrannical in the way they are doing this…it’s going to be challenged in court and I think the courts will overturn it.”

He’s joined by Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler, who says these mandates are not American at all “I never thought I would see a day, in our country, where the Government would be forcing citizens to do something (a medical procedure) and these mandates are just out of line. They’re UN-American and they have to be opposed.”

Camden County Presiding Commissioner Greg Hasty says in a release (see below), that the commission’s united in its concerns about the federal measures as well.

Hasty points to early January, when the Commission voted to rescind a prior ordinance requiring food service workers to get hepatitis A vaccines.

On the same day in January, the Commission passed an ordinance recognizing and reasserting several God-given rights, including your right to reject any forced vaccinations and, in some cases, medications.

Hasty says Camden County, unlike many others in Missouri and the U-S, has refused to pass ordinances requiring face masks in schools, public places or working locations.

The Biden Administration also wants to double fines for airline passengers who refuse to cover their faces on a place, despite little evidence mask-wearing impacts the spread of COVID.

 

***More from the Camden County Commission on the Vaccines below:

The Camden County Commission met this morning in executive session to discuss the potential ramifications of the Presidential covid vaccine mandates announced by Washington on Thursday, September 9, 2021.

The president announced vaccination requirements for health care providers that accept Medicare and Medicaid, for all federal employees and contractors and for the staffs of Head Start programs, Department of Defense Schools and Bureau of Indian Education-operated schools.  All members of the Armed Forces are required to get vaccinated.

Regarding the private sector and the public, The Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration is developing a rule requiring all employers with at least 100 employees to make sure their workforce is fully vaccinated or require unvaccinated workers to get a negative test at least once a week. OSHA will issue an “Emergency Temporary Standard” to introduce the vaccine requirement. Companies that fail to comply could face fines of $14,000 per violation.  It appears the orders may include exceptions for workers seeking religious or medical exemptions from vaccination.  The new vaccination requirements could apply to as many as 100 million Americans — close to two-thirds of the American workforce.

In addition to the vaccination requirements, President Biden moved to double federal fines for airline passengers who refuse to wear masks on flights or to maintain face-covering requirements on federal property.

Many organizations across the nation have already announced their concerns in relation to the President’s announcement.  The American Federation of Government Employees, the largest federal employee union, is taking issue with the mandatory vaccine requirement.  Further, the Republican National Committee announced that it plans to file a lawsuit against the Biden administration regarding the new vaccine requirements.  Across the nation, Governors of many states have announced that they also take issue with new mandates.

The Camden County Commissioners are united in their concerns about the new federal vaccine mandates.  Early this year, on January 28th, 2021, the Commission voted to rescind a prior ordinance (Ordinance 1-14-21-01) requiring food industry workers to get a hepatitis A vaccination, leaving that decision to employers.  The same day, the Commission passed an ordinance (Ordinance 01-28-21-01) recognizing and reasserting several God-given rights possessed by all Americans; including:

“6. The citizens of Camden County are aware of their own underlying health risk factors better than the government and can reject any unduly forced vaccinations; and

  1. That unless required by law, individuals have the right to refuse directives or recommendations to take any drugs or medications for the prevention or treatment of any condition, illness or disease and
  2. A state of emergency that operates in perpetuity can be considered by some a state of tyranny”

Similarly, unlike a large number of counties across the United States, the Camden County Commission has refused to pass any ordinance requiring face masks in schools, public places or places of employment, being of the opinion that this would represent an over-reach of government authority.

 

***More from Governor Mike Parson on the Vaccines:

Governor Mike Parson says that his administration will reject the Biden Administration’s attempt to enforce an unconstitutional, federal vaccine mandate for Missourians and private businesses. The Office of the Governor has been in communication with leadership from the Missouri General Assembly and the Attorney General’s Office to align resources for a pending legal fight. 

“This assault on individual liberty and free enterprise is a poorly executed attempt by the Biden Administration to reset after its disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan,” Governor Parson said. “With our southern border in crisis and as we are experiencing out-of-control inflation, President Biden is desperate to divert attention from his failures. However, Missouri will not be a pawn in this publicity stunt that seeks to force Missourians to disclose private health care decisions and dictate private business operations.”

Yesterday, during a speech at the White House, President Biden announced plans to use the Occupational Safety and Health Admisntration (OSHA) to issue an unconstitutional vaccine mandate for private employers. This action would infringe on Missouri’s constitutional authority and exceeds the scope of the authority granted to either President Biden or OSHA. The President cannot legislate with the flick of his pen from the Oval Office and OSHA cannot dictate personal health care decisions for Missourians. Missouri is not under an OSHA state plan, and Governor Parson will not allow state employees to be used to enforce this unconstitutional action.

The United States Constitution does not give unelected and unaccountable federal bureaucrats authority over the personal health care decisions of Missourians. The Biden Administration is trying to use a federal agency to interfere with private businesses and personal decisions. This unconstitutional behavior is clearly meant as a distraction from the real problems the Biden administration has fostered since coming into office.

“When President Biden should be focused on protecting our troops and securing our borders, he has instead decided to inject himself into the private lives and business dealings of hard-working Missourians,” said Speaker Rob Vescovo. “This is an obvious attempt by the President to shift attention away from his failures in Afghanistan where his disastrous withdrawal left American citizens behind. We in the Missouri House of Representatives will not stand for it, and we will do everything in our power to protect the personal liberties of Missourians.”

The United States Supreme Court has said that states, not the federal government, are charged with the responsibility to protect public health within states under the 10th Amendment to the United States Constitution. Governor Parson believes the regulation of public health is a state issue and that the General Assembly has a say in the process.

“As a small business owner who would be subjugated to President Biden’s unconstitutional mandate, I, nor the Missouri Senate, will stand idly by and allow this inexcusable power grab to harm Missourians,” said President Pro-Tem Dave Schatz. “What the Biden Administration is attempting to do will only worsen the workforce shortages businesses across the country are facing and is an absolute affront to our American freedoms.”

Missouri stands ready to meet this unconstitutional encroachment of power with strong legal action. 

More Missouri COVID 19 Vaccine VIP Winners Announced

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More winners are being announced in Missouri Covid 19 Vaccine VIP program.

180 winners were chosen this round to receive $10,000 across the state.

Those winners include Susan Zink and Judy Shulte in Miller County, Jocelyn Bryan and Teresa Clark in Laclede County, Matthew Dunegan of Pulaski County,

Previous winners include Rian Cerny in Camden County, Jessie Detherage and John Herron in Laclede County and Adam Howe in Benton County.

Thomas Orozco of Montreal is still the only local scholarship winner and he will receive $10,000 towards an education savings account.

You can learn more about the VIP program here: https://covidvaccine.mo.gov/win/vips/#winners

Haze In Sky Across The Ozarks Stems From Wildfires Out West

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Air quality index for the weekend of 9/11 from AirNow.GOV

 

You may notice a haze in the skies this weekend and may be smelling smoke, but it’s not from the Lake Area.

Officials say large wildfires out west are sending thick smoke into the atmosphere and it’s expected to impact the entire Ozarks Region throughout the weekend.

That means our air quality around the Lake will likely be in a Moderate range.

Fire officials say it’s important to limit your time outside if you suffer from respiratory diseases, such as asthma or COPD.

Reaction To President Biden’s COVID Mandate Met With Hard Push-back In The Ozarks

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Reaction to President Biden’s vaccine mandate is being met with harsh push-back in the Lake of the Ozarks region.

In separate interviews on KRMS, both Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer and Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler say the request “infringes” on the rights and freedoms of the citizens of Missouri.

“This is so over the top, this is so….tyrannical in the way they are doing this” says Lake Area Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer of Missouri’s 3rd Congressional District, “They’re going to intimidate a lot of small businesses to get everyone vaccinated. To mandate that is way out of line…we’re going to take this to court and I think they’re going to lose.”

“Well it’s draconian and it’s unconstitutional” says Lake Area Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler of Missouri’s 4th Congressional District,“I never thought I would see a day, in our country, where the Government would be forcing citizens to do something (a medical procedure) and these mandates are just out of line. They’re UN-American and they have to be opposed.”

At the Camden County Commission, one commissioner agrees.

In a post to Facebook, 1st district commissioner James Gohagan says he will never vote to “force” residents to put anything in their bodies and that he will vote “no” on any such requirement for the district and county employees.

“Citizens of Camden County, I will never agree to force you to put anything into your body against your will, that applies for county employees as well. My vote will always be no.” says Gohagan.

That sentiment is being echoed by leaders throughout Missouri who also say the President is stepping over a line that “should never be crossed.”

Missing Benton County Mom Echo Lloyd’s Photo Published In People Magazine

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A missing mother from Benton County now has her face on People Magazine.

In an issued soon to be published, Echo Lloyd is listed as 1 of 8 mother’s who’ve gone missing across the United States.

Lloyd has been missing since May of this year, after she was last seen in the Climax Springs area.

Benton County Sheriff Eric Knox told KRMS that she doesn’t have her medications, her wallet or her cell phone…they were all left behind when she vanished.

You can see the article here: https://people.com/crime/missouri-mom-missing-since-mothers-day-we-suspect-foul-play/

Lake Regional CEO Dane Henry Steps Down For New Job

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Lake Regional’s CEO Dane Henry is stepping down from his role.

According to reports, Henry has taken a position as President of Partners Cooperative starting in January of 2022.

Partners Cooperative is a non-for-profit hospital shared services cooperative that provides contracting and purchasing services to its membership.

Henry has been managing Lake Regional for the past 5 years and it’s expected that the Lake Regional Board of Directors soon begin a search for a new CEO.

During this time, it’s expected that an interim CEO will be designated by January, however that person’s name hasn’t been released yet.

Lake Ozark Approves Parking Bikes In Center Lane During Bikefest

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A rapid push in the city of Lake Ozark is granting a green light to Bikefest 2021 to allow parking of Bikes in the center lane of Bagnell Dam Blvd.

According to the city, Bikers may park their bikes on the center lane between Ballenger Road and the Dam, on the lower end of the strip.

Officials say there are still a few items that need to be ironed out, but all should be set before the event takes place.

Bikefest has been a staple on the Lake Ozark strip since 2006, however the event isn’t managed by the city but rather a 3rd party.

City officials say the issue stemmed from this year’s coordinator, who did not submit the request for closing down the center lane.

Governor Parson To Light Up Jeff City Dome For September 11th

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Missouri Governor Mike Parson is ordering the capitol dome in Jeff City to be lit up in red and blue in remembering the attacks of September 11th, 2001.

Saturday marks the 20th anniversary of the attacks that killed close to 3-thousand people.

Governor Parson says he wants to remember the firefighters, police and other first responders who risked their lives or died trying to help others.

The dome will turn red and blue on Saturday at sunset until Sunday at dawn.

 

****Info:

(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Today, Governor Mike Parson has ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome to shine red and blue beginning on Saturday, September 11, 2021, in remembrance of the 20th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. 

“On the 20th anniversary of one of the darkest days in our nation’s history, we remember the heroes lost during the 9/11 attacks,” Governor Parson said. “This Saturday, we will light the Capitol red and blue in honor of all the firefighters, law enforcement officers, first responders, and all Americans who risked their own lives and made the ultimate sacrifice, without hesitation, to help their fellow Americans.”

The dome will light up at sunset on Saturday and remain lit until sunrise Sunday in honor of the victims of the September 11 attacks and in remembrance of the heroes who gave everything. Pictures will be available on Governor Parson’s Flickr page. 

USDA Putting $25 Million Towards Improving Missouri Rural Energy

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The U.S. Department of Agriculture is putting more than $25 million-dollars toward building or improving renewable energy infrastructure in Missouri.

Officials say it’s part of the nationwide $464 million-dollar effort to help Rural America lower its energy costs.

19 Investments will be made throughout the Show Me State.

USDA officials say these changes could generate nearly 800,000 kilowatt hours of power, which would save Missourians nearly $90,000 dollars annually.

Double-Homicide In Kaiser Linked To Possible Suicide In South Dakota

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The KRMS News room is getting details on a double-homicide followed by a possible suicide.

The Miller County Sheriff’s Office is reporting two people dead after deputies found the bodies at or near a home in the 300 block of Route D in Kaiser.

But the suspect, JT Mclean, was found dead in a car early Thursday morning in South Dakota.

“We located it at a motel in the southern part of our county. We had several agencies involved” says Dan Limoges with the Union County Sheriff’s Office.

But when they found him inside and unresponsive…the used a drone to investigate “flew the drone right through the windows and we were able to see the subject in the back seat was deceased.”

He tells KRMS News Mclean’s car was tracked with the help of OnStar and that he might have been heading that way to get closer to family members.

The two people found dead in Kaiser are identified as 74-year-old Daniel Stephan and 64-year-old Pamela Stephan.

Boone County Sheriff’s Department investigators said J.T. McLean was also wanted for the murder of his girlfriend Allison Abitz and her 11-year-old daughter Jozee in their home on Lavender Drive on August 22.

Few other details are available right now, but we’ll pass along more when possible on News / Talk KRMS.

Route D Homicide 2

BREAKING: Weapon Believed To Have Been Used In Vonza Watson Shooting At Lazy Gators Found

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***Updated story:

 

Investigators with the Camden County Sheriff’s Office think they’ve found a gun that might have been used in the shooting death of 27-year-old Vonza Watson at Shady Gators over Memorial Day weekend.

“With the help of a dive team, that firearm…we believe…has been recovered. That will be sent to the lab for testing and once ballistics have confirmed that, that will be used in the case and there will be additional charges…I expect…as officers continue their investigation” says Camden County Prosecutor Caleb Cunningham.

He tells KRMS News there’s no timetable for ruling the gun in or out as the murder weapon.

Two suspects have been charged in Watson’s murder, and one of them could be facing the death penalty.

This is a developing story and we’ll pass along more details when possible on News / Talk KRMS.

 

***Previous story:

Investigators with the Camden County Sheriff’s office believe they have found the gun used in the shooting death of Vonza Watson of Jefferson City at Lazy Gators on Memorial Day Weekend.

Divers were on scene after 9AM Thursday Morning and they recovered a gun in about 2 feet of water near a dock at Shady Gators.

This is a developing story and we will have more details as soon as possible on News/Talk KRMS.

 

Here are some photos from the scene:

Here is the audio from the Press Conference held shortly after the discovery:

      09-09-2021 CALEB CUNNINGHAM PRESSER LAZY GATORS GUN - 9th September 2021

Lake Ozark City Officials To Meet Today To Discuss Bikefest Parking Woes

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Officials in Lake Ozark are set to meet today (Thursday) at 2PM to discuss Bikefest and the issue of parking bikes.

Typically, the event organizer submits a permit request to close down the center lane of Bagnell Dam BLVD on the Strip, so that bikes can park there…but that didn’t happen this year.

If something isn’t done, then Bikes will not be allowed to park there as they have in years past.

City officials say this process is usually done through the Board of Alderman and some committees, but due to a lack of time they are attempting to expedite the process.

Climax Springs Schools Taking Over Condemned Building To Build Community Garden

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The Climax Springs R-4 School District wants to make a community garden, and it’s taking over run-down buildings to do it.

“The most recent one, I actually just got paperwork signed at the recorders office, the deed for the probably the most blighted property remaining in Climax Springs and the nearest to the school district” says Superintendent Caleb Petit, he tells KRMS News the district has taken over other condemned buildings over the last 15 years, some of which have become expansions of the district.

He also says a new playground has opened up to begin the school year “It is completely finished. Because of some weather interruptions, first week of school students had to watch….painfully…as those projects were completed in the first 4 days of school. So on the 5th day of school they finally got to play on what they’d been watching being built in the first week of school. It’s probably the coolest thing I’ve gotten to see here.”

Petit says the money for the playground came out of a surplus of money from a FEMA project.

Two Women Picked Up On Drug Related Charges In Camden County

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A Sunrise Beach woman is facing numerous drug charges following an arrest on Wednesday.

The Highway Patrol reports that 27-year-old Kara Yowell was picked up for possession of heroin and meth, but also for tampering with evidence in a felony case and not wearing a seat belt.

Yowell has multiple felony warrants in both Miller and Pulaski Counties and she’s being held in the Camden County jail on no bond.

Another woman, 42-year-old Allison Chitwood of Harrisonville was also picked up during a traffic stop in Camden County.

She’s facing charges of being in possession of meth, drug paraphernalia and tampering with evidence.

Kaiser Post Office Hit By Car

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An investigation remains ongoing after a car slams into the United States Postal Office in Kaiser.

Officials say damage was done to the entryway of the building; however, it was not significant enough to close down the office at this time.

It remains unknown who hit the building, or if there are any charges being filed with the Miller County Sheriff’s office at this time.

Quarter Cent Sales Tax For Camden Sheriff Won’t Start Sending Money Until March 2022

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A quarter-cent sales tax increase is coming for Camden County.

But when will you start paying it?

“This sales tax will start being collected on January 1st of 2022” says County Auditor Jimmy Laughlin, and he tells KRMS News money for the Sheriff’s Office won’t start coming in until March of next year.

He says the county has notified the state the sales tax increase was passed and the deadline for that is October 1st “As long as it’s filed by then, the sales tax will start being collected in the 2nd quarter following.”

But the month of January has to pass and then retailers have to file their taxes by mid-February “So in March we’ll get our first check for that sales tax.”

Camden County voters approved the quarter-cent sales tax increase in August so Sheriff Tony Helms can give raises to the deputies he has and also to hire more deputies.

The County Commission gave the Sheriff’s Office more than $200-thousand dollars in advance to start pay raises in September rather than wait for the tax to kick in next March “We’re having 2 record years of people coming down here, so we have some extra money and so, in the end of the year we can adjust for some of that.”

Former Warsaw Teacher Honored By DESE With Entrance Into Pioneers Group

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A former Warsaw R-9 teacher is getting statewide recognition for her 43-years of service in Benton County.

Nellie Harper is being added to the DESE Pioneers group for 2021, a group that has inducted over 200 educators in the Show Me State since 1974.

Harper started teaching at 17-years-old in a one-room school house in the 1950s, before making her way up to the Warsaw School District, where she remained until she retired in 1995.

This isn’t the first award for Harper, who was listed in the “Who’s Who” in Missouri Education…. She also earned the 1999 Warsaw R-9 Academic Service award and was entered into the 2006 Warsaw R-9 Hall of Fame.

An award ceremony was held for her and several other educators at DESE’s event at the Lodge of the Four Seasons last month.

 

****Press Release:

Five Pioneers in Education will be in the spotlight in recognition of their commitment and contributions to public education in Missouri. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) recognized the 2021 Pioneers during the 60th Annual Cooperative Conference for School Administrators at the Lodge of the Four Seasons in August.

“These individuals are true champions of public education, striving for excellence and advocating for Missouri students throughout their careers as public servants,” said Commissioner of Education Margie Vandeven. “DESE is honored to bring together educators from across the state to recognize the trailblazing efforts of these Pioneers in Education.”

The following individuals will be honored as Pioneers in Education:
• Lynn Beckwith, Jr., Florissant, spent more than 50 years working to educate and bring meaningful change to the lives of students in the St. Louis area, and continues to be a highly respected and sought after mentor. He served as a teacher, principal, Director of Federal Programs, and Executive Director of Federal Programs and Governmental Relations in the St. Louis Public School District; as superintendent at the University City School District; and later as an endowed professor at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Beckwith currently serves as Chair of the Riverview Gardens Special Administrative Board.


• Nellie Harper, Warsaw, started her 43-year teaching career at just 17 years old when she began leading classes at a rural, one-room school in Benton County in 1948. She later moved on to teach in the Warsaw School District where she worked to implement modern teaching techniques before many of her colleagues, like peer tutoring, cross grade-level tutoring, and a flipped classroom model. Throughout her career, Harper promoted the use of new technology to broaden student learning opportunities.


• J.D. King, Macon, was dedicated to improving the quality of the education students receive and mentoring fellow school leaders. He served as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and superintendent at Macon R-I. After 25 years of service at Macon, King came to DESE to work as a DESE area supervisor of instruction in the north central region as the department launched its first cycle of the Missouri School Improvement Program (MSIP). King went on to facilitate nearly 150 MSIP reviews.


• Ted Molitor, O’Fallon, retired from the Fort Zumwalt School District after 39 years working as a teacher, coach, and school counselor in his hometown. During his career, Molitor saw Fort Zumwalt grow from less than 300 students to more than 17,000. Along with colleagues, he formed the Gateway Athletic Conference that is still in existence today. He was recently recognized by Fort Zumwalt’s Grow Your Own program, as many of his students have become educators themselves, crediting Molitor’s guidance.


• Cindy O’Brien, Liberty, spent more than 20 years in the Savannah R-III School District where she was the first female assistant principal at high schools in both Savannah and the Kearney School District. A scholarship was established in O’Brien’s name at Savannah to benefit aspiring educators, which O’Brien now provides matching funds for out of her own pocket. While officially retired, O’Brien continues to work at Kearney, mentoring new school administrators and helping at-risk students earn their diplomas.

State education officials have presented the Pioneer in Education awards for 46 years, which honor teachers, school administrators, citizens, and lawmakers for their distinguished careers and contributions to public education in Missouri.

Stoutland Man Accused Of Burglary Pleads Not Guilty

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closeup photo of gavel

Photo by Bill Oxford on Unsplash

A Stoutland man is pleading not guilty to burglary, stealing and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Joshua Healey is accused of kicking in a door to a home in Stoutland over the past week.

Investigators say he took jewelry, coins and guns from the residence.

During a motorist assist on Highway T, Camden County Sheriff’s deputies discovered the missing items inside a truck on the road that was registered to Healey.

He was taken into custody and placed on a $75,000 bond.

Missouri US Senate Candidates Make Their Way To Lake Of The Ozarks

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Candidates for the U-S Senate in Missouri will be heading to the Lake Area this month and next.

“We have Attorney General Eric Schmitt coming on September 23rd and then Mark McCloskey is scheduled for October 21st” says Jennie Brinkman with the steering committee for the Camden County Chapter of We The People of Missouri.

She tells KRMS News the new organization is working on bringing other candidates for the U-S Senate in Missouri to Lake of the Ozarks to answer questions.

The two scheduled events with Schmitt and McCloskey will take place at the Osage Beach Elks Hall.

Brinkman was interviewed by Christian Blood on the KRMS Morning Magazine.

 

****Details:

We are hosting a series of events to be held at the Osage Beach Elks Hall to vet the Missouri Senatorial candidates. At separate events, each candidate will speak to a set of liberty-based questions, and also take questions from the crowd.

Scheduled candidates as of today: Attorney General Eric Schmitt is schedule for September 23rd at 6:30 pm, and St. Louis Attorney Mark McCloskey is scheduled for October 21st at 6:30 pm.

We are waiting for existing representatives Hartzler, Long and Smith to advise on dates, but they have committed to making an appearance.

Jason Smith has not yet declared his candidacy, so we are particularly happy that he agreed to come present his platform.

Bulldogs Beach House Sets Up GoFundMe For Bartender Struck By UTV

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The Bartender at Bulldogs beach house in Sunrise Beach continues fighting for his life after he was hit by a UTV over the holiday weekend.

65-year-old Jeramiah “JT” Keating was walking in the parking lot when 78-year-old Gerald Alvey of Camdenton struck him with a Polaris UTV, before crashing into a parked car and a building.

JT was flown to University Hospital in Columbia where he was last reported in stable, but critical condition.

Alvey was taken to the Camden County Jail where he faces DWI charges.

A GoFundMe has been setup by the bar to help JT with medical expenses while he recovers.

Here is the link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-with-jts-recovery-expenses

MODOT Begins Bridge Deck Replacement On Route D In Camden County

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Heads up motorists.

MODOT says a contractor will begin to replace the bridge deck over Minnow Brook Creek this week on Camden County Route D, just southwest of Camdenton.

Officials say the bridge will be reduced to one lane with temporary traffic signals guiding traffic through the work zone.

The project isn’t expected to be finished until December.

 

****More info:

CAMDEN COUNTY –A contractor working for the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) will begin to replace the deck of the Camden County Route D bridge over Minnow Brook Creek, southwest of Camdenton, on Tuesday.

The bridge will be reduced to one ten-foot lane with a temporary traffic signal guiding traffic through the work zone. The project is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, September 7, and is scheduled for completion in December. Signs and message boards will be in place in advance to alert motorists of the work.

The bridge is included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state.

More details are available at modot.org/millercamdencountybridges.

This work is weather permitting and could be delayed. For more information and updates 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.

MSHP Numbers For Labor Day Weekend Down Compared To 2020

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Nobody died on the road or on the water in Lake of the Ozarks over Labor Day weekend, but the Missouri State Highway Patrol says there were deaths around the state.

Seven people died in car crashes between 6 o’clock Friday night and 11:59 Sunday night.

The lone death on the water happened on Table Rock Lake in Stone County when a 14-year-old was ejected on a PWC by another PWC.

There 351 crashes around Missouri, 108 DWI arrests and 6 BWI arrests.

The seven deaths on the road are down from last year’s total of 18 over Labor Day weekend.

 

****Full release:

EMPHASIS: MSHP Releases Labor Day Holiday Statistics

Seven people died in traffic crashes during the 2021 Labor Day holiday weekend. Last year, there were 18 fatalities. The 2021 counting period for the Labor Day holiday ran from 6 p.m., Friday, September 3, through 11:59 p.m., Monday, September 6.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports the following enforcement activity during 2021 Labor Day Holiday:

MSHP Traffic Statistics (preliminary):

Crashes ¯ 351
Injuries ¯ 103
Fatalities ¯ 7
DWI ¯ 108
Drug Arrests ¯ 71

MSHP Boating Statistics (preliminary):

Crashes ─ 7
Injuries ─ 4
Fatalities ─ 1
BWI ¯ 6
Drownings — 0
Drug Arrests ¯ 18

(Note: During the 2020 counting period, the Patrol investigated 278 traffic crashes, which included 140 injuries and 11 of the 18 fatalities. Troopers made 146 arrests for driving while intoxicated last year. Also, over the Labor Day holiday 2020: Troopers investigated 20 boating crashes involving six injuries and one fatality; and arrested seven people for boating while intoxicated on the state’s rivers and lakes. There were no drownings over the 2020 Labor Day holiday weekend.]

Troopers investigated all seven of the fatal traffic crashes over the 2021 Labor Day holiday weekend. Three of the fatal traffic crashes occurred in the Troop C, Weldon Spring, MO, area; two fatal traffic crashes occurred in the Troop I, Rolla, MO, area; and one traffic crash fatality occurred in both Troop A, Lee’s Summit, MO, area, and the Troop F, Jefferson City, MO, area. The boating fatality occurred in the Troop D, Springfield, MO, area.

One boating fatality occurred on Saturday, September 4, 2021. A 14-year-old female from St. Louis, MO, died when a personal watercraft struck the personal watercraft she was operating on Table Rock Lake in Stone County. The 14-year-old was ejected. Dr. Pallohusky pronounced the juvenile deceased at Mercy Hospital. The juvenile operating the other personal watercraft sustained minor injuries. Both operators were wearing life jackets at the time of the crash.

Three traffic fatalities occurred on Saturday, September 4, 2021. Godfrey G. Gitau, 35, of Hazelwood, MO, died when the vehicle he was operating traveled off the roadway and struck a guardrail end cap. Gitau was not wearing a seat belt and was ejected from the vehicle. The crash occurred in St. Louis County on Interstate 170 south of Interstate 270. Hazelwood EMS personnel pronounced Gitau dead at the scene.

Jaswant Singh, 31, of Fremont, CA, died when the commercial vehicle in which he was a passenger traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a guardrail, an embankment wall, and then overturned. Singh was not wearing a seat belt. The crash occurred in Crawford County on Interstate 44 at the 214.8-mile marker. Deputy Coroner Nikki Bussell pronounced Singh deceased at the scene. The driver of the commercial vehicle was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash; he sustained minor injuries. The Crawford County Sheriff’s Department and the Bourbon, MO, Police Department responded to the scene.

Renee D. Honor, 47, of Detroit, MI, died when the vehicle she was driving traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck an embankment, and overturned. Honor was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. The crash occurred in Callaway County on Interstate 70 at the 146.6-mile marker. Dr. Salman Ahmad pronounced Honor deceased at University Hospital in Columbia, MO. A juvenile passenger in Honor’s vehicle sustained minor injuries. He was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.

Three traffic fatalities occurred on Sunday, September 5, 2021. William C. Moore, 28, Lyons, KS, died when the driver of the commercial vehicle in which he was a passenger attempted to exit the roadway causing its load to shift and overturn into the median. Moore was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. The crash occurred in Jackson County on Interstate 470 at Missouri Highway 291. Jackson County Medical Examiner’s Office Investigator Amanda Bogacz pronounced Moore deceased at the scene. A second passenger in the commercial vehicle sustained minor injuries. She was wearing a seat belt. The driver of the commercial vehicle was not injured; he was wearing a seat belt. The Lee’s Summit Police Department also responded to the scene.

A 13-year-old male from Cedar Hill, MO, died when the driver of the vehicle in which he was a passenger lost control. The vehicle began sliding, traveled off the roadway, struck a tree, continued to travel northbound off the roadway, and struck a second tree. The juvenile male was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. The crash occurred in Jefferson County on Engledow Road south of Blackwell Road. Valle Ambulance District personnel pronounced the juvenile deceased at the scene. The 17-year-old driver of the vehicle sustained minor injuries; he was not wearing a seat belt. A 13-year-old passenger sustained serious injuries; he was not wearing a seat belt. A third juvenile passenger, age 16, sustained serious injuries. He was wearing a seat belt.

Matthew W. Hedrick, 27, of Aledo, IL, died after falling off the tailgate of a pickup truck when the vehicle hit a bump while negotiating a curve. When Hedrick fell from the tailgate, he then struck the ground. The crash occurred in Crawford County on a road within the Bass River Resort. Dr. Srivastava pronounced Hedrick deceased at Mercy Hospital Creve Coeur. The driver was not injured in the crash; he was wearing a seat belt.

One traffic fatality occurred on Monday, September 6, 2021. Mark W. Higginbotham, 54, of Farmington, MO, died when the motorcycle he was operating traveled off the left side of the roadway and overturned, ejecting him. The vehicle then collided with the median cable barrier. Higginbotham was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. The crash occurred in St. Francois County on U.S. Highway 67 south of Missouri Highway 8. St. Francois County Coroner Jason Coplin pronounced Higginbotham deceased at the scene.

NOTE: The fatality statistics in this news release could change if late deaths occur, if other departments report fatal traffic/boating crashes after this news release was published, or if a fatality is determined to be caused by a medical condition rather than traffic/boating incident.

2nd Suspect Arrested In Laclede County Child Rape Case

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Another suspect is facing charges as an investigation into child rape continues in Laclede County.

28-year-old Cody Staggs of Lebanon was arrested and charged with statutory rape after it was announced his half brother was charged with child sodomy last week.

“In the process of investigating the Marcus Hill case, we were dealing with some children…all related…that led us to Cody Staggs also being a perpetrator” says Sheriff David Milsap, “That led to his arrest on Thursday night and a search warrant that was served at his residence in Laclede County on Friday.”

Milsap tells KRMS News that while the number of suspects is growing, so is the number of possible victims “We think we have at least 10 victims. It’s not unusual in this types of cases, once you get involved in the investigation….to see that number of victims to start to mushroom.”

Milsap says some of the victims now coming forward are women in their early twenties who are talking about abuse they endured when they were children “We have some victims who are no longer children, they’re now in their early 20’s, who have come forward and are wanting to talk to us about having been assaulted when they were younger.”

This is a developing story, we’ll passing along the latest when possible on News / Talk KRMS.

 

****Press release:

A 28-year old Lebanon man is in the Laclede County Jail facing three counts of Statutory Rape. Cody Lee Staggs was arrested on September 2, 2021 regarding the sexual assault of a 10-year old girl in Laclede County. The investigation into Staggs’ assault of the 10-year old began as part of an investigation which led to charges being filed last week regarding Staggs’ half-brother Marcus Hill.

“While charges have been filed, in these particular cases, we are continuing to investigate similar complaints on both suspects. We believe, at this point, we may have as many as 10-child victims, or children at the time of the assault. As these cases develop we will have better idea if we will be able to present  further information to the Prosecuting Attorney,” said Sheriff David Millsap.

On September 3, 2021 detectives from the Sheriff’s Office served a search warrant at the Staggs’ residence located in Laclede County. “Evidence seized in the search warrant will be examined at the Missouri State Highway Patrol crime lab in Springfield,” Millsap said.

Wanted Sex Offender Captured During Chase In Miller County Hayfield

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A wanted man accused of driving stolen vehicles through numerous fields in Miller County is in jail facing more charges.

The Sheriff’s Office says deputies were called to a location off Highway 52 in St. Elizabeth on report of a theft in progress.

Investigators say they were told by a property owner a man had walked onto his property and stole a struck.

45-year-old Kenneth Goldsberry of Montreal got stuck in the bean field and took off.

Investigators say Goldsberry then stole an ATV and was later caught in a hay field.

Records show Goldsberry’s a non-compliant sex-offender with warrants out of Camden and Pike County.

Kenneth Goldsberry

Moberly Woman Injured In Boating Accident On Sunday

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A Moberly woman is injured following a boating accident at the Lake on Sunday.

According to the Highway Patrol’s Water division, a boat was at the 6.2 Mile Marker near Indian Creek Cove when it hit a large wake, causing two passengers to become airborne.

47-year-old Robyn Calicott of Moberly and 21-year-old Ryleigh Sanders of Springfield both collided with their boat.

Calicott was taken to Lake Regional hospital with serious injuries while Sanders reported only minor injuries.

Camdenton Airport To Host Ribbon Cutting Ceremony & Military Walk On SEP 11th

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We’re just a few days away from the grand ribbon cutting ceremony at the Camdenton Memorial Lake Regional Airport and plans are underway for several activities.

One of those events is a walk and run to honor Fallen Missouri Soldiers and officials say the need over 140 people to participate in the event.

The run/walk will be free and open to all, and several Gold Star families have been invited to attend.

In addition to that, there will be a fundraiser for the 2022 Camdenton Airshow that will help pay for a once in a lifetime ride in an authentic World War II aircraft expected to be at next year’s show.

The event starts at 9AM on September 11th at the airport, with the ribbon cutting scheduled for noon.

 

****More details:

Save the Date!  3 Events in One Happening September 11th

at the Camdenton Memorial – Lake Regional Airport

Located at 20 Airport Drive – Camdenton, MO 65020

  

Lake of the Ozarks Walk/Run For The Fallen

Begins at 9 AM

146 Walkers/Runners Needed To Walk For Missouri Fallen Soldiers

 

Lake of the Ozarks will be hosting the annual walk/run to honor our American heroes.  The event is free and open to the public with no early registration required. Attendees are asked to bring friends and family and walk a mile in honor of each of the 146 Missouri fallen soldiers of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom and ISIS Operations. Each participant will wear a runner’s bib with the name of a fallen soldier.  Participants will have the opportunity to meet Missouri Gold Star Families whose loved ones paid the ultimate sacrifice. Attendees are invited to stay after the run/walk event for lunch and additional celebrations/events outlined below.

 

Camdenton Memorial – Lake Regional Airport Open House and Ribbon Cutting

11 AM until 1PM – Ribbon Cutting to take place at 12 PM

The community is invited to join us for the Camdenton Memorial Lake Regional Airport Open House & Ribbon Cutting to celebrate the new runway expansion.  Lunch will be provided.

 

2022 Air Show Fundraiser Auction

Online Auction will Run from 9/1/21 to 9/7/21

Silent Auction to take place 9/11/21 from 10 AM until 1 PM

Thanks to the support of many local businesses, the Lake of the Ozarks Air Show will be hosting an online and in-person silent auction as a fundraiser for the 2022 Lake of the Ozarks Air Show. Funds raised from the auction will be used to increase the Veterans experience at the 2022 Air Show by providing them with a once in a lifetime ride in an authentic World War II aircraft. Online Auction link can be found by visiting the Lake of the Ozarks Air Show Facebook Page @lotoairshow

 

For more information please contact the Camdenton Area Chamber of Commerce at 573-346-2227.

Power Restored In Eldon And Surrounding Areas

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The power is back on for thousands of Ameren customers across the City of Eldon and nearby areas.

Ameren officials were first alerted to the major power failure Monday afternoon.

Unconfirmed reports indicate an animal may have been the cause of the issue.

The power grid for the city of Eldon is divided, which allowed part of the town to continue having power while the other half did not.

At the peak of the outage, over 2,200 people did not have power.

Governor’s Mansion Hunts For 2021 Christmas Tree

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The Governor’s Mansion is on the hunt for the 2021 Christmas tree.

Officials say the tree must be a native species to the state, which includes Norway Spruce, White Pine or Eastern Red Cedar trees, and it must be at least 35 to 40 feet tall.

The tree must also have full branches on all sides and be accessible for crews to be able to chop it down and haul it out.

Each year the Governor’s Mansion picks a tree from somewhere in the Show Me State once a donor has come forward.

You can send pictures of your tree from now until October 4 to be considered, by e-mailing them to holidaytrees@mdc.mo.gov.

Bagnell Dam BLVD Bridge Over Dam Closed Until December

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It’ll be business as usual on The Strip in Lake Ozark, but it’s a different story for Bagnell Dam for the next few months.

MoDOT begins a rehabilitation project Tuesday.

“It’s going to require complete closure of the dam at this time” says MODOT Central District Area Engineer Bob Lynch, “I know people would like for us to keep the road open, and I understand that….but the type of work that we are doing and the width of the dam it just isn’t safe…we’ll have to close the dam.”

He tells KRMS News work will be done on the road and sidewalks through December “The goal here is to improve the driving conditions, the road…the sidewalk….the curbs…and try and get some additional life out of the structure. Hopefully we’ll have it ready for next year.”

You’ll still have access to the Strip by heading in from Hwy 242, Bagnell Dam Boulevard or Horseshoe Bend.

Bulldogs Beach House Bartender In Critical Condition After UTV Crash

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A 78-year-old man is facing DWI charges after his UTV strikes the Bartender at Bulldogs Beach House in Sunrise Beach.

According to the Highway Patrol, Gerald Alvey of Camdenton was in a 2006 Polaris Ranger when he struck 65-year-old Jeremiah Keating of Roach, who’s also known as JT, while he was in the parking lot.

Troopers say Alvey also struck a parked car and hit a home as well.

Keating was flown to University Hospital in Columbia where he remains in stable but critical condition.

Officials with Bulldogs Beach House say they’ve decided to remain closed through the holiday weekend to focus on JT’s recovery.

Human Remains Found In Pulaski County Identified As Missing Man

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Human remains found on Highway 28 in Pulaski County last week are being identified by the Sheriff’s office.

Officials say they are the remains of Shaun Etherdige, who’d been missing since earlier this summer.

Sheriff Jimmy Bench says Etheridge was last seen June 20th near the area of Hampton Drive and Highway 28.

An autopsy is being performed to determine the cause of death.

Governor Parson Vetoes 4 Bills Including One Made By Rolla State Senator

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Not counting the line-item vetoes made to parts of the appropriations measures for the current year, there were four bills that were vetoed by Governor Mike Parson.

Among these is House Bill 685.

Senator Justin Brown of Rolla handled this proposal in the upper chamber. When this bill was discussed on the floor of the Missouri Senate on May 4, he told his colleagues this measure would make changes to rules relating to the duties and qualifications of certain public officers…

“It’s a dissolution of candidate committees that deals with, under current law any person who registered as a lobbyist required to dissolve his or her candidate committee, this act creates an exemption per where this require a person holding an elected municipal office or school district office, or any person that is a candidate for an elected municipal office in that school district, this prevision is identical to senate bill 602…”

During discussion, Senator Jill Schupp of Creve Coeur focused on the main part of the proposal, which dealt with campaign committees for certain candidates…

“They can continue to lobby even though they hold positions in their local community…”

In his veto letter, the governor says — and, these are his words — “[p]ublic officers should have the interests of the people they represent in mind, not those of the organization they have been hired to represent”…

Lawmakers will have the opportunity to override any and all vetoes during the annual veto session, which is scheduled for the middle of this month. By law, a veto override needs a two-thirds’ majority in each chamber.

House Bill 661 is another proposal to receive a veto this year.

During discussion on the floor of the Missouri Senate on May 11, Sen. Lincoln Hough of Springfield told his colleagues this bill related to transportation…

“Currently, when someone wants to get access to the Patrol crash records…they must also pay the fee associated with the Sunshine Law, this bill adds that the Patrol may charge a $5 electronic distribution fee for that report.”

A number of amendments were offered, including one from Sen. Angela Walton Moseley of Florissant…

“A historic motor vehicle may be operated for personal use, as described in the statute, more than 1,000 miles. This act repeals the limitations. It was voted out the transportation committee unanimously.”

In his veto letter for House Bill 661, the governor cites several reasons, including a portion that would have expanded powers for the Joint Committee on Transportation.

In addition, this measure would have made changes to certain things MoDOT could do.

Also, three St. Louis-area counties would have been excluded from the federal Clean Air Act.

Miller Sheriff Arrests 5 People Over The Past Week Involved With Drugs

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There were numerous drug arrests made by the Miller County Sheriff’s office over the past week.

Officials say on Wednesday they picked up a Jefferson City man who had cocaine in his position while driving in Lake Ozark.

Then on Thursday four people were picked up following a drug raid at two separate homes.

Deputies say the first one happened on Noel Road just outside of Eldon and shortly after another raid took place at Lakeview Drive.

During those raids the Sheriff’s office found meth, pills, other narcotics and illegal firearms.

Full details on all of the arrests can be found below:

Donald Shawler
 De Aaron Knowles

Vicky Hartzler Gives Opinion On A Women Draft

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woman in gray tank top and black pants standing on red and black exercise equipment

Photo by Corey Young on Unsplash

A U-S Representative from Missouri is giving her opinion on women getting drafted for military service.

The House Armed Services Committee voted in favor of the idea Wednesday during deliberations on the annual defense bill.

All combat military operations were opened up to women during the Barak Obama presidency in 2015.

But Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler says women don’t need to be drafted to have equality in the U-S.

 

***Hartzler quote from the floor:

“We don’t need to draft women in order for women to have equality in this nation,” Rep. Vicky Hartzler (R-Mo.) “Women are of worth and of value right now, and we are equal with men without having to pass a new law that would require 50 percent of this country, our daughters and our sisters and our wives, to have to be drafted.”

Multiple Agencies Conduct Large Meth And Cash Bust In Camden County

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Three law enforcement agencies working together are getting credit for a drug bust at a home in Camden County.

A search warrant turned up more than 300 grams of meth with a street value of well-over $16-thousand dollars.

Three guns were also seized by police.

The Camden County Sheriff’s Office says two white men were arrested and taken to the Camden County Jail.

Their names are not being released at this time, but formal charges are expected from the Camden County Prosecutor.

This is a developing story and we’ll have more when possible on News / Talk KRMS.

 

****Press Release:

On September 1, 2021, members of the Camden County Sheriffs Office, Lake Area Narcotics Enforcement Group, and the Drug Enforcement Agency executed a search warrant at residence in Camden County, Missouri.

As a result, officers located and seized 304 grams of methamphetamine, $16,775 in United States Currency, and three firearms.

Two white males were placed under arrest for the aforementioned charges, transported to the Camden County Jail, and placed on a twenty four hour hold pending the filing of formal charges by the Camden County Prosecutor.

MSHP Prepares For Labor Day Weekend On Land And Water

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Labor Day coming up Monday and the Missouri State Highway Patrol is getting ready.

“We’re advising people…if you have a destination you need to be at, leave with enough time…trying to speed through traffic, you’re not going to save much time at all and you’re going to increase the risk of a crash” says Corporal Kyle Green with the Patrol.

He tells KRMS News Troopers will be watching for drunk drivers on the roads “one of biggest problems you have when you have increased traffic on the roadways is road rage itself….you know you got someone cuts you off, or is tailgating you and things like that and you never know these days what people may do with retaliation. So, just let them go down the road…go about your own way…and if it becomes a bigger issue, just contact *55 and that will put you in connection with the highway patrol.”

The Patrol will also be out on the water as well

“We have 14 full time trooper spots at the Lake of the Ozarks. Every now and then we’ll even bring in other Troopers that work different waterways within Troop F, like we did for the Shootout” says Trooper Brian Geier.

He tells KRMS the importance of wearing a life jacket while on a boat or even near a dock “in almost every drowning we’ve dealt with here at the lake, no one is wearing a life jacket. Someone goes down to the dock…to do whatever, fish, swim or drink…we see a lot of alcohol consumption here during these kind of weekends and those sorta things don’t mix too well.”

The Patrol reports five drowning deaths on Lake of the Ozarks for the month of August, and each person who drowned was not wearing a lifejacket.

MO School Board Director Questions Decisions Made By MO AG

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The Executive Director of the Missouri School Board Association is questioning the decisions made by State Attorney General Eric Schmitt.

It follows Schmitt’s decision to sue the Columbia Public School District, and any K-12 public school requiring masks mandates, such as Richland R-IV just implemented.

Director Melissa Randol says the information he is citing about the mandates were done before the delta variant ever existed, and that some of the studies weren’t even conducted in the United States.

In the lawsuits, AG Schmitt stays the mask mandates “flies in the face of science” and that children are at a “low risk” of transmission.

Randol says she isn’t advocating for mandates, but rather for health experts to guide schools in their own local safety measures.

SFCC Looking For New President Follow Retirement Announcement

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State Fair Community College in Sedalia’s looking for a new President.

Dr. Joanna Anderson is announcing her retirement at the end of her current contract, which runs through June 2022.

Anderson became the fifth President at SFCC in 2013 and she says she’s ready to spend more time with her family.

The school says a search committee has been formed and we do know State Fair will not be using an external agency to find its replacement for Dr. Anderson.

 

****More info:

Sedalia, Missouri – Sept. 2, 2021 – State Fair Community College has officially begun the search for the next college president following President Dr. Joanna Anderson’s recent announcement to retire when her contract ends June 30, 2022.

Anderson, who became SFCC’s fifth president in 2013, cited the desire to spend more time with her family as the reason for her decision.

“You know, it’s just time,” said Anderson. “My family is growing and my husband Ken and I are looking forward to being together again with time to focus on family … my parents are both turning 90 this year, three kids with spouses, four grandkids with another one expected in March.”

Randall D. Eaton, SFCC Board of Trustees President, announced at the Aug. 26 meeting that the college will not be using an external agency in the search for the next president. The Board of Trustees finalized the members of the search committee at that same meeting. The college has publicly posted the committee members and the vacancy on its website. The vacancy is also listed online at higheredjobs.com and the Chronicle of Higher Education.

To learn more, or provide input in the selection process, go to www.sfccmo.edu/presidential-search. All stakeholders, including the public, are invited to participate. All submissions are anonymous.

AG News Looks Bright For Farmers In The Lake Area

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Photo by Gozha Net on Unsplash

If you’re an ag producer in the Lake Area, or anywhere in Missouri, future projections are looking strong.

The USDA is releasing its ag export forecast for both this year and next, and the numbers show exports could surpass $173-billion dollars for 2021, and more than $4 billion in 2022.

Experts say livestock, poultry and dairy exports are all up.

They also says the U-S will be buying more foreign agriculture products, but the US ag trade surplus should continue to grow.

More Details Released About Lebanon Man Facing Sodomy Charges

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Details emerging after the arrest of a Lebanon man who’s facing charges of child sodomy in Laclede County.

“A mother and a stepfather brought in a 15-year-old female, daughter, in reference to a sexual assault and the suspect is the uncle of the child. That’s how the report started with the parent having received the disclosure from the 14-year-old” says Sheriff David Milsap.

He tells KRMS News 34-year-old Marcus Hill is being held on no bond.

He also says Hill has extensive criminal history as a 10-time convicted felon “we worked a number of cases regarding him, even in the last couple of years, some of those have not been filed on…a lot of them have to do with business practices at his car dealership. Has fraudulently sold vehicles to people, did not provide them with titles….those sorts of things.”

Hill has a bond hearing September 7th and a preliminary hearing September 29th.

The victim tells investigators Hill would engage in sexual contact with her a few times per week.

Sheriff Milsap says the investigation is ongoing and there could be more victims and charges filed against Hill.

Former PWD In Sunrise Beach Could Face Jailtime

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A former public works director for Sunrise Beach could be facing a year in prison and a $25-thousand dollar fine after an illegal sewage dump.

Federal court records show Brian Scheiter has reached a plea agreement for violating the Clean Water Act after thousands of gallons of waste spilled down a hillside in Sunrise Beach from October 2019 to January 2020.

The Missouri DNR says there was brown foam and an oily scum floating on top of the stream.

Scheiter’s also pleading guilty to failing to report the spill and for using lyme and for trying to build a trench to fix the spill.

New 54/W/BIZ 54 Interchange Completed – Focus Now Shifts To Bagnell Dam

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The new Interchange on Route 54 in Lake of the Ozarks is now finished.

The project took 18 months to complete and the goal was to help traffic flow more smoothly at that location.

All construction activities at Route 54, Business Route 54, Route W and Osage Hills are complete and completely open to traffic.

MoDOT says no road crews will be working over the coming Labor Day weekend.

 

****Additional info:

LAKE OZARK – Holiday travelers to the Lake of the Ozarks will note that an 18-month project to bring improvements and increase traffic safety has been completed along U.S. Route 54. Construction activities at the Route 54/Business Route 54/Miller County Route W/Osage Hills Road are substantially complete and the interchange is completely open to traffic.

“The completion of this work is a milestone moment for safe travel through the Lake of the Ozarks Region”, said Central Area Engineer Robert Lynch. “With the completion of the new interchange, traffic is able to flow more freely and safely through that area. We’re excited to reach completion on this landmark project.”

Lynch advises that traffic moving through the area over the Labor Day holiday will not be impacted by work and no crews will be present. Any remaining work will result in minimal impacts as most everything has been completed,

Construction on the new interchange began in February of 2020. The new interchange is designed to increase traffic safety and improve traffic flow in an area where numerous traffic accidents have occurred. In addition to the new interchange, the project included several new connecting roads and three roundabouts in the same area.

For more information and updates about this project or other transportation-related matters, please call 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636) or follow the MoDOT Central Missouri District on Facebook and Twitter for project updates.

 

****Info on the Dam Project:

LAKE OZARK – Rehabilitation of the Business Route 54 Bagnell Dam bridge, located in Lake Ozark, will begin next week.

The existing Bagnell Dam bridge was built in 1929. Rehabilitation is necessary to extend the life and usability of the bridge. Work will include repairs to the bridge deck, expansion joints, sidewalks and barrier walls, and replacement of the bridge driving.

Work is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, September 7. During construction, Business 54 will be closed at the bridge for approximately three months. The Bagnell Dam strip will be open. Motorists will need to use an alternate route while work takes place.

In June, the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission awarded the project to Concrete Strategies, LLC., which submitted the low bid of $1,611,862.

For more information about this project or other transportation-related matters, please call 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636) or visit www.modot.org/modot-central-district.  Follow the MoDOT Central Missouri District on social media for project updates.

 

Springfield Armory Donates Guns And Equipment To Lake Ozark Police Department

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Police in Lake Ozark now have new equipment thanks to a donation and some discounts from Springfield Armory.

It all started with a recent phone call from a representative for CEO Dennis Reese.

“Basically a few weeks ago a local representative for lake shore holdings, which Mr. Resse owns, reached out to me and just inquired if there was anything they could do to assist the department with equipment needs….or anything that may be helpful to our department” says Chief Launderville.

He tells KRMS that lead to his department getting 17 new 9 millimeter pistols, red dot optic gun sites and holsters, but there was more “Two new rifles, AR-15’s, for the price of one.”

Chief Launderville says training will also be provided for officers in Lake Ozark, and the value of everything is around $23-thousand dollars, or more.

 

****More info:

Springfield Armory® Donates Firearms and Equipment to the Lake Ozark Police Department

 

GENESEO, ILL. (09/03/21) – Springfield Armory® is proud to announce the donation of guns and equipment to the City of Lake Ozark Police Department.

 

Spearheaded by Springfield Armory CEO Dennis Reese, this donation equips every officer of the Lake Ozark, Missouri police department with the gear necessary to help ensure they can effectively perform their duties protecting its citizens.

Dennis Reese and his wife, Jane, have long-time ties and deep connections to the area, and are very involved in the development of the historic Bagnell Dam Strip — known as “The Strip” to most.

“Lake of the Ozarks is a very important place to my family,” said Dennis Reese. “My wife Jane and I raised our kids here during the summers and throughout much of the off-season, so the area has a lot of great memories for us. We wanted to do our part giving back to the area, helping to protect the Strip for families to enjoy. When we found out that the Lake Ozark Police Department needed support, it was a no-brainer that Springfield Armory could be a solution.”

Pistols provided to the department are from the highly capable 9mm XD-M® Elite OSP™ family. Also provided with the pistols were Springfield Armory’s HEX™ Dragonfly™ red dot optics. In addition, Springfield Armory donated Dara Holster Systems capable of accepting the pistols with the red dot optics installed.

Additionally, the department acquired two SAINT® Victor B5 5.56mm rifles, also equipped with HEX Dragonfly red dot optics. This provides the officers with additional firepower should it be required in the course of their duties.

“When the Reese family learned that our department was looking to replace its current firearms, Dennis Reese reached out to me immediately,” said Lake Ozark’s Chief of Police, Gary Launderville. “Our current firearms were nearly 15 years old and in need of replacement, but we did not have the budget to accomplish this. Mr. Reese determined what we needed and made it happen. He has been awesome.”

“Springfield Armory could not be more proud to support the Lake Ozark Police Department in their efforts to keep their community safe,” said Fred Mincks, Springfield Armory’s LE Sales Manager. “We support the efforts of the law enforcement community and are happy to have been able to do this for the Lake Ozark Police Department.”

For more information on Springfield Armory, visit www.springfield-armory.com.

 

About Springfield Armory®

In 1794, the original Springfield Armory began manufacturing muskets for the defense of our young, free Republic. The Armory functioned as a firearms supplier for every major American conflict until 1968 when the government sadly closed its doors. In 1974, nearly two centuries after its inception, Springfield Armory Inc. in Geneseo, Ill. revived the iconic heritage of the Armory to carry on its legacy.

We strive to honor this responsibility as guardians of the original Springfield Armory legacy by manufacturing the highest quality firearms to enable responsible citizens to preserve their right to keep and bear arms in the defense of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

With an unmatched emphasis on craftsmanship, performance and exceptional customer service, our mission is to forge superior firearms and provide the tools necessary to defend individual freedoms and equality for those who embrace the rights and principles secured by our Founding Fathers. For more information, please visit us at: springfield-armory.com.

Camden County Sheriff Talks About Deputy Raises

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Sheriff Tony Helms

A quarter-cent sales tax increase in Camden County will bring in more money for the Sheriff’s Office, but deputies already on staff are getting a bump in pay before the end of the year.

“The money that the commission gave us is going strictly to raises, nothing else. We took them up to $19.25 to $19.50 an hour…that happens the 5th of September” says Camden County Sheriff Tony Helms.

He tells KRMS News the Sheriff’s Office got a quarter-million dollars from the Camden County Commission to start the process of giving raises “everyone needs to understand that you’re not going to see a drastic change, other than the wages, overnight. I have to wait for the money to come in before I can spend it to hire people.”

After January first, Sheriff Helms wants his deputies making an even 20-dollars per hour.

Sheriff Helms was interviewed by Christian Blood on the KRMS Morning Magazine.

Human Remains Found In Pulaski County

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An investigation is now underway after human remains were found in Pulaski County.

According to the Sheriff’s office, the remains were located at the 20,000 block of Highway 28 on Tuesday morning.

The Sheriff’s office say they believe they know the identity of the remains, but no names have been released at this time.

Officials say a medical examiner is now working on a positive identification.

This is a developing story and we’ll bring you more information as it comes in.

Convicted Felon From Lebanon Arrested In Child Sodomy Case

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A Lebanon man is now facing charges of child sodomy and is being held behind bars without a bond.

Officials say that man, Marcus Hill, is a 10-time convicted felon.

They say his arrest stemmed from an investigation, after a woman told police that when she turned 14-years-old, Hill would have sexual contact with her at least 2 or 3 times a week.

During the investigation, police discovered that Hill often took the girl and her brothers to get donuts, but would leave the brothers and would rape the girl in the car.

One report showed that someone caught Hill in the act, but he was able to escape during a foot pursuit.

This investigation remains ongoing and you’re asked to contact police if you have any further information.

Stolen SUV From Lake Ozark Found – Two People Arrested

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Two Pulaski County residents are facing charges after deputies discover a stolen SUV from Lake Ozark.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, residents Devin Curry and Michelle Williams were arrested after a search warrant resulted in the recovery of the stolen Toyota at the 19000 block of Basin Road.

Officials say they also located 14 items that were stolen as well, 10 of which were worth $1,000 each.

Additional charges are expected to be filed and the Lake Ozark Police Department has been notified of the found SUV.

Curry is being held on a $100,000 bond while Williams’ bond was set to $15,000.

Morgan County Welcomes New MDC Agent

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There’s a new Department of Conservation agent working in Morgan County.

Officials welcoming in agent Matt Wheaton as the 2nd agent working in the Morgan Division.

Wheaton comes from Putnam County following his studies at UCM and his work in the Protection Volunteer Program.

Wheaton says he is excited to start working and to meet the people of Morgan County.

Agents in the MDC help protect the forest, fish, and wildlife resources of the state, and interact with and educate youth who enjoy being outdoors.

Rolla Man Arrested In Burglary

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Evidence at the scene of a Burglary is landing a Rolla man in jail.

Investigators with the Rolla Police Department say officers were called to a business and they say it was clear someone had broken in and they say a large sum of money had been stolen.

But physical evidence left at the scene lead them to 34-year-old Harland Frohmader.

Police got a search warrant for his house and investigators say more evidence and money was found before Frohmader was arrested and taken to the Phelps County Jail.

He’s charged with Burglary and Stealing and was given a bond of $150-thousand dollars.

Burglary

Ameren Sending Personnel To Louisiana For Hurricane Ida Recovery

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Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois are sending personnel to Louisiana in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, now breaking apart over the U-S.

More than 300 people from both divisions will be headed south for two-week deployments to help restore areas hit hardest by the storm.

It’s part of the power industry’s mutual assistance network through the Edison Electric Institute, which allows a given electric company in an area hit by a catastrophic event to expand its workforce.

Ameren has a history of sending people to other parts of the U-S after major storms, like Hurricane Irma and Maria In Puerto Rico in 2017, Superstorm Sandy in 2012 and Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

 

*******FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ameren sending crews to Louisiana for Hurricane Ida restoration 

More than 300 personnel from Ameren Illinois, Ameren Missouri and Ameren Transmission will be departing this week to assist Entergy

ST. LOUIS (Aug. 31, 2021) – Ameren workers across Illinois and Missouri will be are heading to Louisiana later this week to assist in repairing damage and restoring power to communities in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida.

The company’s personnel and contractors, including lineworkers, fleet, logistics and safety, will assist crews from Entergy. Ameren personnel will deploy from operating centers in Illinois and Missouri throughout the week.

“Our hearts go out to those who have been affected by this devastating hurricane. We will help these communities recover from this storm’s stunning damage as soon as possible,” said Warner Baxter, chairman, president and CEO of Ameren Corporation. “Ameren customers in Illinois and Missouri have benefited many times from mutual assistance following severe storms and know firsthand how this type of support can make a real difference in recovery efforts.”

Ameren crews are planning a two-week deployment to assist in the restoration efforts.

Ameren Illinois and Ameren Missouri are voluntary members of the electric power industry’s mutual assistance network through the Edison Electric Institute. When called upon, a company will send either company employees, contractors or both, along with specialized equipment to help with the restoration efforts of a fellow company. In essence, it allows a utility hit by a major or catastrophic event to expand its workforce by borrowing field personnel from other companies in unaffected areas. Following some large storms here, Ameren has called upon other utilities for assistance and has a history of helping other utilities, providing support with catastrophic events such as Hurricane Irma and Maria in Puerto Rico in 2017, Superstorm Sandy in 2012 and Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

Just as they do when working in Illinois and Missouri service territories, Ameren response personnel and crews are taking extra precautions to mitigate the risks associated with COVID-19. Preventive actions such as social distancing and use of masks, protective eyewear and gloves, are being followed. Safety is one of Ameren‘s core values.
About Ameren Corporation

St. Louis-based Ameren Corporation powers the quality of life for 2.4 million electric customers and more than 900,000 natural gas customers in a 64,000-square-mile area through its Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois rate-regulated utility subsidiaries. Ameren Illinois provides electric transmission and distribution service and natural gas distribution service. Ameren Missouri provides electric service generation, transmission and distribution services, as well as natural gas distribution service. Ameren Transmission Company of Illinois develops, owns and operates rate-regulated electric transmission projects. For more information, visit Ameren.com, or follow us on Twitter at @AmerenCorp, Facebook.com/AmerenCorp, or LinkedIn.com/company/Ameren.

Drowning Deaths At Lake Of The Ozarks Have Local Water Safety Officials Concerned

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There have been five drowning deaths on Lake of the Ozarks for the month of August alone, and another drowning happened on July 31st.

And not all of them are happening on the water.

“One of them was a gentleman who liked to fish…and he was leaning back to try and support himself on a post, well…he didn’t hit the post and instead he fell off the dock and never resurfaced” says Captain Doug Beck with the Lake of the Ozarks Captain’s Association and the water Safety Council,“we have currents, we have underwater obstacles as well as the boat traffic. People have to remember, underneath the lake we have branches, we have trees, we have concrete, we have other objects. They increase the chances of extreme injury or even death so, it’s very simple, wear a life jacket!”

Beck says in most cases you can’t see those objects under the water; the lake may offer only one or two feet of visibility from the surface and sometimes people are unaware of what they’re diving into when they jump off a cliff.

He also says many people don’t understand the warning signs of drowning “Drowning doesn’t look like it does on TV or movies, where people are wailing and splashing around…that’s not what that is. A person is often not kicking, so their legs are still….they often hold their face above the water, so they may be still. They could be bobbing up and down, but they’re actually trying to gasp for air…so they may not be able to scream.”

Beck says wearing a life jacket should be worn anytime you’re on the water or around a dock.

Beck was a guest with Christian Blood on the KRMS Morning Magazine.

Ward 3 Alderman Position Still Up For Grabs In Osage Beach

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If you’re interested in taking over the Alderman Position in the City of Osage Beach, you’re in luck.

Officials say they’re extending the deadline to apply until September 14th.

The opening comes after the resignation of Ward 3 Alderman Tom Walker on August 6th.

In order to qualify for the position, you must be 18-years of age or older, be a resident of Osage Beach and live in the Ward 3 District.

Full details on the position can be seen below:

2021830 News Release_Vacant Board of Aldermen Seat DEADLINE EXTENDED

Two Iberia Men Killed In Weekend Crash

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Two Iberia men are dead and two pickup trucks are totaled after a weekend crash in Miller County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says 31-year-old Zachary Patro and 41-year-old Thomas Spencer were driving toward each other on Highway 42, halfway between Brumley and Iberia, Sunday.

But investigators say Spencer’s truck went off the road before he overcorrected and came back on, hitting Patro’s track head on.

Both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene.

57-year-old Jeffrey Patro was a passenger in the truck his son was driving, and he was airlifted to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

New Law Permanently Allows To-Go Cocktail Sales

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A new law in effect now in Missouri allows restaurants to sell to-go cocktails.

The state had temporarily allowed restaurants to serve alcohol to go during the pandemic, but that is now permanent.

Alcohol can be served with food in a sealed container that’ll discourage drinking and driving.

Booz can also be sold from 6 am Sunday through 1:30 Monday morning, the same hours as the rest of the week.

Before the new liquor law went into effect, alcohol sales were limited to 9 am Sunday morning to midnight.

 

****More info:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Aug. 24, 2021

New Missouri ‘to-go’ alcohol sales law takes effect Aug. 28

Senate Bill 126 also extends hours for alcohol sales on Sundays to between 6 a.m. Sunday and 1:30 a.m. Monday

JEFFERSON CITY – The waiver that allowed Missouri restaurants to sell “to-go” alcoholic drinks beginning on April 14, 2020, in response to the coronavirus pandemic, will become permanent when Senate Bill 126<https://www.senate.mo.gov/21info/pdf-bill/tat/SB126.pdf> takes effect on Aug. 28. The administrative waiver was granted because many restaurants were severely strained as business dropped off or shifted to take out during 2020. In Missouri, unless they contain an emergency provision, most new laws take effect on Aug. 28.

Before the waiver, to-go alcohol had to be sold in its original package. The new law means that mixed drinks can be sold for off-premises consumption provided:

·         The alcohol container is durable, leak-proof, and sealable, and does not exceed 128 ounces;

·         The customer must have ordered and purchased a meal simultaneous with the liquor purchase;

·         No more than two alcohol drinks may be sold per meal serving;

·         The licensee must provide a dated receipt for the meal and alcohol beverage(s); and

·         The sealed alcohol container must either be:

o   Placed in a one-time-use, tamperproof, transparent bag which must be securely sealed, or;

o   The container opening must be sealed with tamperproof tape.

The law does not allow liquor licensees to sell mixed drinks in typical “to-go” cups or other containers having a lid with a sipping hole or an opening for straws.

Senate Bill 126 also extends the hours during which alcohol can be sold by the drink and at package stores on Sundays. Liquor licensees permitted to make Sunday sales will legally be able to sell alcohol from 6 a.m. Sunday until 1:30 a.m. Monday, the same hours that apply during the rest of the week.

2021-08-24 New Missouri to-go alcohol sales law takes effect Aug. 28

Miller County Ambulance District To Order New Quick Response Vehicle

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A new vehicle will soon be helping residents of Miller County with faster response times.

At the Miller County Ambulance District’s most recent meeting, the board approved the purchase of a new Ford Explorer quick response vehicle for around $27,000.

Officials say the vehicle they currently have, a 1997 Ford Expedition, has become unreliable and is in a “poor condition” due to its age.

Board members also voted to try and source their newer radio systems through Osage Ambulances, which they say can save the district thousands of dollars.

Osage Beach Police Stats For Last Week Of August

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Seven arrests and 23 traffic stops now reported by Osage Beach P.D. during the final full week of August.

Four warrants were served and there were six reports of assault.

Officers responded to 18 alarms, performed 65 building checks and followed up on 21 calls.

There were six reports of stealing, 3 calls about suspicious activity, two welfare checks and 5 calls for animal control.

Two people called 911 and hung up.

WEEKLY SUMMARY_NEWS RELEASE 20210823_20210829(002)

New Laws Going Into Effect Change How Your Charged For Vandalism

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closeup photo of gavel

Photo by Bill Oxford on Unsplash

If you’re caught vandalizing any public monument or structure in Missouri, it’ll now be a felony charge as opposed to a misdemeanor.

That change in the law could mean more jail time and a higher fine if you’re convicted.

It’ll be a new Class D misdemeanor if you ‘willfully or recklessly’ interfere with an ambulance or other first responder, after complaints were given over some protestors who gather in streets, roads or highways.

Another new law makes it a misdemeanor crime to point a laser pointer at police or other first responders.

Bagnell Dam To Close Next Tuesday For Winter Rehabilitation Project

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MoDOT is getting ready to start a rehabilitation project on Bagnell Dam the day after Labor Day (Tuesday September 7th.)

“And that is going to require complete closure of the dam at that time. We’re doing a rehabilitation project there to improve the driving conditions, the sidewalks and the curbs. We’re trying to get some additional life out of that structure and hopefully we’ll have it ready for next year” says MoDOT Central District Engineer Bob Lynch.

He tells KRMS News the project is all about extending the life of the road going over the dam and the project should be complete by December “people would like for us to keep the road open if possible, and we understand that, but with the work we are doing and the limited width you have with the dam, it’s a challenge so we do have to close it down.”

But you’ll still be able to get to The Strip in Lake Ozark even though the dam will be closed after Labor Day “there is good access to the strip area, coming in from the south off Route 242, or Osage Beach Parkway….there are plenty of ways to get in there.”

Lynch also says traffic at the new interchange on Highway 54 and Route W will be unaffected while the Dam’s closed.

He was interviewed by Guy Wehman on The Ozarks This Morning on News / Talk KRMS.

Wisconsin Man Fighting Serious Injures After Slamming Into His Own Boat

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A Wisconsin man is fighting serious injuries after a boating accident over the weekend.

According to the Highway Patrol’s water division, 23-year-old Zach Schemming of Racine, Wisconsin was traveling downstream at the 10.2 Mile-marker of the Main channel when he struck a large wake.

That caused him and his passenger, 34-year-old Cody Kallenback, also from Wisconsin, to strike the inside of the boat.

Schemming was life-flighted to University Hospital in Columbia while Kallenback was taken to Lake Regional.

Iberia Residents Could See Lower Tax Bill For School District

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Taxes for Iberia residents are going down follow a recent reassessment for the Iberia R-V School District.

Officials expect to lower the cost of school taxes by 13 cents, after the school’s total valuation increased by nearly $4 Million dollars.

Superintendent Lyndell Whittle says their plan is allow their tax levy to generate as close to last year’s number as possible, resulting in the cost being around $3.94 cents rather than $4.08 as it was in 2020.

KRMS Plans to reach out to the district to learn more about how the Tax numbers will affect the local community.

American Ethanol Takes Top Gun Yet Again In LOTO Shootout

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American Ethanol

American Ethanol takes the Top Gun once again at the annual Lake of the Ozarks Shootout.

Driver Tony Battiato and throttleman John Cosker made 5 attempts on the new shortened course, coming out with a top speed of 193 MPH.

Pontoon racer Todd Rowland set a new record on the new course as well, running 113 MPH and taking home a trophy for his division.

In the V-Bottom class it was Jim Schultz who outperformed everyone with a 161 MPH run.

And in the new electric motor class, team Vision Marine Technologies hit a new record with a 49 MPH.

Officials with the Shootout estimate the crowd was larger than it was during the 2020 edition of the race.

Federal EPA Grant Could Help Rural Lake Towns Improve Water Quality

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An EPA grant is making it possible for small towns and communities in Missouri to improve their drinking water quality.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says around $492,000 in grant funding is being made available as part of the $25 million dollar Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act.

The EPA will award grants to support compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act and provide access to drinking water services.

Funds can also be used for conducting household water quality testing.

Laclede Electric Names New Board Of Directors In Annual Meeting

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There are three new members of the Laclede Electric Cooperative Board of Directors.

Each was voted in by Absentee Ballot during Friday’s Annual Meeting, which was held virtually.

Brenda Nutter will serve in District 1, Darrel Bishop in District 2 and Randall Little in District 3.

At the conclusion of the meeting, officials drew 25 names of members who voted and each them will get a $100 check.

Officials say those checks will be mailed during the first week of September.

****More details:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Laclede Electric Cooperative (LEC) held the 2021 Annual Meeting virtually on August 27, 2021. Members were able to watch the meeting by clicking on the Annual Meeting icon on the LEC website.

In his remarks, Board President Joel Cravens commented, “Regrettably, we made the difficult decision to close our Annual Meeting to the public again this year. As much as we would like to meet with our members face-to-face, rising health concerns in our region required the move to a Virtual meeting for the safety of our employees and members.”

Members voted for three positions on the LEC Board of Directors through the Absentee Ballot process. A total of 1,567 ballots were received. The results are:

 

District number 1        Brenda Nutter             1,120

Douglas Baker               429

 

District number 2        Darrel Bishop                 993

Ronald Melton               369

William Weaver             198

 

District number 3        Randall Little              1,031

Joanne Pollock               572

 

During the virtual meeting, members heard reports from Board President Joel Cravens, Board Treasurer Melvin Hoffman, CEO/General Manager Marc Roecker, and Chairman of the Committee on Nominations Mary Jo Tannehill.

At the conclusion of the meeting, 25 members drawn from those that voted were announced. The $100 checks for the winners will be mailed during the first week of September.

We want to thank everyone that viewed the virtual Annual Meeting and look forward to gathering again at the 2022 LEC Annual Meeting.

Man Drowns After Jumping Off 125′ Cliff At Lake Of The Ozarks

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There have now been 5 drownings for the Month of August across Lake of the Ozarks.

The latest is a 41-year-old man who died after jumping from a 125’ cliff, at the 64 ½ mile marker of the main channel at the Lake of the Ozarks over the weekend.

The Highway Patrol’s water division says Thomas Painter of Bosworth, Missouri made the jump without a lifejacket, hit the water and never resurfaced.

There have been 11 deaths (10 were drownings) recorded since the start of August and a total of 57 since January, many on Missouri Rivers.

“We’ve got people that have died in Current River, Elk River, Meramac River, A Private Pond, Stockton Lake, Truman Lake and of course here, so I guess you can say we’ve all contributed to that number” says Captain Bob May of the No Wake Zone Boating Radio Show, “many of them were not aware of the fact that a river has some strong currents. I mean, you have a 5 mile an hour current and you won’t last very long in that without a life jacket on.”

Fort Leonard Wood Army Specialist Joshua Morrison was the latest victim of river currents, when he was killed while on a Kayaking trip on the Gasconade River.

May says that the biggest issue involved in all of these water related deaths were boating and water safety education “You know these days it’s so easy to get boating and water safety education, there’s websites….in person trainings and there’s just so many ways you can get trained. It doesn’t take long…you can do it at home, on your cellphone, tablet, laptop…whatever. And we need more education now more than ever.”

The Highway Patrol reminds boaters, swimmers and kayakers alike….everyone should remember to wear a life jacket whenever you’re entering the water and it is the law if you’re 7 years or younger, or you’re riding on a PWC.

Lebanon R3 Schools Clarifies It’s COVID Protocols

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The Lebanon R-3 School District is clarifying its policy on COVID protocols.

But the policy includes no mask mandates.

“The adjustment that we’ve made to our practice is that staff and students can choose to wear a mask, if they are vaccinated, or if they have had COVID in the past 3 months, they won’t have to quarantine if they are not symptomatic” Says Assistant Superintendent Dr. Laura O’Quinn.

She tells KRMS News that the priority for Lebanon R-3 is to keep kids in school while also giving parents and students options moving ahead.

MO COVID 19 State Of Emergency Enacted In March 2020 Ends After New One Takes It’s Place

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As one State of Emergency for the Show Me State comes to an end, another takes it place.

Governor Mike Parson officially ending the original State of Emergency on Friday, after it had been in effect since March 13, 2020.

However Parson issued Executive Order 21-09 short after, a more targeted State of Emergency declaration acknowledging the continued needs of Missouri’s health care system.

This new State of Emergency invokes the Governor’s emergency powers and activates the Missouri National Guard for continued mission support in recovery operations, if needed.

The order also keeps in place telehealth, and it allows state agencies to request waiver of certain statutory and regulatory requirements that would otherwise hinder the state’s response to ongoing COVID-19 challenges.

Read more below:

(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Today, Governor Mike Parson terminated Executive Order 20-02 ending the State of Emergency that had been in effect since March 13, 2020. 

“In the nearly 18 months we operated under this Executive Order, we have responded to the COVID-19 crisis by providing unprecedented levels of resources and support,” Governor Parson said. “This Order enabled us to respond to the unknown and everchanging needs of our state. Now, we know how to fight this virus and have a solution to ending the pandemic with the vaccine. Today, we are terminating this order as our situation no longer demands an expansive emergency declaration.” 

Upon the termination of Executive Order 20-02, Governor Parson issued Executive Order 21-09, which represents a more targeted State of Emergency declaration that acknowledges the continued needs of Missouri’s health care system. While Missouri’s economy has improved, the health care system is still experiencing strain due to current staffing shortages being exacerbated by COVID-19.

Executive Order 21-09 invokes the Governor’s emergency powers pursuant to Section 44.100 and activates the Missouri National Guard for continued mission support in recovery operations, if needed. The order also keeps in place provisions related to remote notary services and telehealth, and it allows state agencies to request waiver of certain statutory and regulatory requirements that would otherwise hinder the state’s response to ongoing COVID-19 challenges.

Any statutory or regulatory waiver approved under Executive Order 20-02 that is still in effect as of the date of the new order will remain in place. Approval of any new waivers will be aimed at supporting Missouri’s health care system and response to COVID-19. New requests will be subject to approval from the Governor’s Office.

Under the new order and as part of the transition process from the previous order, the state has significantly scaled back the number of waivers in effect. At the peak, more than 600 statutory and regulatory waivers were in place; however, only 163 waivers remain in effect under the new order. Many of the remaining waivers are implemented by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. The remaining waivers were found to be necessary to support the health care system, provide regulatory flexibility, and ensure the state remains federally compliant.

“We have always taken a balanced approach in our response to COVID-19, and this new order demonstrates the progress we have made in fighting this virus,” Governor Parson said. “Like all Missourians, we want this crisis to end and to close this chapter. However, while we are shifting our operations, we must maintain flexibility to aid our health care system and adapt to the challenges we face.”

“We are returning to normal, but we must continue providing needed resources and support while more Missourians choose COVID-19 vaccination and are protected from serious illness,” Governor Parson continued. 

Executive Order 21-09 will terminate on December 31, 2021. To view the order, click here or see attachment. 

Executive Order 21-09

Richland High School Requests Masks Back In Class

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A Lake area school is heading back to class with Masks.

Officials in the Richland School High School are putting the requirements back in place, after more than 20% of students and staff were required to quarantine after coming in contact with an infected individual.

Officials at Lebanon R-3 recently agreed to allow masks in school, but they remain optional for staff and students.

Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt has vowed to sue any school district that institutes a mask mandate, even if cases are spreading at high rate.

***Editors note: This story was edited to remove a statement that Lebanon R3 Schools is requiring masks….the masks are “optional” for staff and students in the district, not required.

3rd Soldier In 2 Weeks Dies At Fort Leonard Wood

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Another soldier from Fort Leonard Wood has been found dead, making it 3 deaths in just two weeks.

Officials say 34-year-old Staff Sargent Robert Early died unexpectedly on Monday.

Early was the NCOIC of emergency services at the General Leonard Wood Army Hospital.

His death follows the death of 21-year-old Specialist Joshua Morrison, who was found in the Gasconade River after going on a Kayak Trip of which he never returned from.

Morrison’s death was followed by the death of 18-year-old Private Jamal Rogers, who was found with a gunshot wound inside a barracks last Friday.

No foul play was suspected with Rogers’s death, but an investigation remains ongoing.

Several Lake Area Residents Win In MO COVID Vaccine Lottery

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Several area residents are picking up cash and scholarships in the first round of the Missouri COVID 19 vaccine lottery.

According to the state, Rian Cerny of Roach, Jessie Detherage of Phillipsburg, John Herron of Lebanon and Adam Howe of Warsaw all picked up a $10,000 Cash Prize.

Thomas Orozco of Montreal was the only local scholarship winner and he will receive $10,000 towards an education savings account.

Officials say the state will award 900 individuals throughout the incentive program, which will end with a final drawing in October.

Justice For Survivors Act Works To Improve Resources For Victims Of Sexual Assault

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The Justice For Survivors Act is one of four pillars of new legislation in Missouri that’s working to improve resources for the victims of sexual assault.

This includes making a forensic exam easier to get to, for some victims.

“What the Justice for Survivors Act does, is it establishes a statewide telehealth network…for that forensic exam…so that they can do it in their hometown” says Republican State Senator Holly Rehder, “we have people from law enforcement, people from forensic labs, we have lawmakers, we have medical professionals….what we wanted to is assemble a group of folks that touch these areas.”

She tells KRMS News before the legislation passed in Missouri last year, victims sometimes had to travel two hours to get a forensic exam.

She also says girls and women aren’t the only victims of sexual abuse “for a whole mired of reasons, Men don’t tell…more so than Women don’t, or boys more than girls.”

Rehder says work’s being done to make sure rape victim Collection Kits stay current.

She’s on the 13-member Missouri Rights of Victims of Sexual Assault Task Force.

Rehder is conducting a Survey at surveymonkey.com/r/MORightsTaskForce

 

******Message from the Senator.

#metoo

I’ve stopped sleeping at night. Our constant news cycle bringing the realization of all that’s been going on in the entertainment industry has kept my brain from any possibility of rest. Don’t get me wrong, the exposure of sexual abuse is exactly what’s needed. My sleeping problems seem to be because I know there’s so much more than the entertainment industry that must be addressed to bring healing and change. My own past and the non-traditional way that I was raised begs me to speak to other areas holding this great evil.

As a child, we traveled a lot. Moving so frequently that my age is usually foggy in memories. I seem to judge time better by which town we lived in and what grade I was in at the time. Because of this, summer months are particularly difficult to really pin down.

The summer I was 10, I believe, we lived in a trailer in Morehouse. My mother didn’t drink, smoke, or do illegal drugs, but she would hang out in the bars with my aunt a lot because the bars had air conditioning and kind men would buy her a Pepsi. She was incredibly beautiful but very much needed the attention.

She always had a boyfriend. Most of the time they lived with us and she went from one to the next, typically breaking the heart of the one who was headed out. Almost always turning into fights of valor for all in the trailer park to see. I was usually glad to see the old one leave, but never excited about the new one. Morehouse was worse than usual.

It seems like it was mid-day, Mama was up at the bar and my sisters and I were just hanging out in the trailer. My older sister is two years older than me so if I was 10, she was 12, our birthdays fall on the same day. We lived in a much different culture, at this age she had already begun smoking weed and trying different things.

I will never forget this day. My mother’s boyfriend shows up, his name was Jesse, and I remember thinking it was odd because I couldn’t imagine one of her boyfriend’s letting her sit up at a bar without them.

Jesse was a big guy. He seemed to tower over us and was just larger than her typical picks. He told my sister he had just picked up some new pot and wondered if she wanted to go walking and smoke some, to which she happily agreed.

My mother returns sometime after this and asks where my sister is. I explain she left with Jesse and she freaks out. Apparently, she had broken up with him earlier at the bar because there’s someone else on the line and now demands to know why my sister went with him?

 

Well….we didn’t know.

And I wasn’t about to tell her she was off smoking pot.

Soon after my sister returns. Alone. And crying. Very roughed up as if she’s been in a fight in the dirt and weeds. I remember the cockleburs stuck throughout her hair.

Jesse had taken my sister walking, down the railroad tracks, where he raped her to get back at my mother.

I remember the police. I remember them talking about the hospital to have her checked and I remember them using the word “sodomy” a lot. I didn’t understand why they didn’t just go arrest him? We knew who he was. It was clear what he did to her. My young brain simply could not understand.

I had so many questions. What was “sodomy”? If she had not been high would she have been able to run? Why didn’t they just go arrest him? My mother was always over the top with emotions and this was off the charts for multiple reasons. Asking questions would only add to our trouble so I didn’t.

I looked “sodomy” up in our dictionary and then knew what all she went through. My heart broke for her.

 

We packed up and moved soon thereafter so to my knowledge, he was never arrested. She told. Yet there was no justice.

The summer that I was 13, my mother worked at a local club as a waitress. My little sister and I would walk to the city swimming pool everyday as Mama had some dollars from tips to keep us busy during her day shift.

Turning down our street on our walk home one day, an old brown car ripped around the corner, scaring us both, and drove very recklessly past. Before I could yell in response, they squeal to a stop in front of our house. I remember so vividly as the car door flew open and I heard my mother’s screams as they kicked her from the car into our front yard.

I ran towards the house as they peeled off and squealed down the street. I don’t remember much more than just sitting in the front yard and holding her as she screamed and cried. I’m sure the police came. I’m sure she filed a report. But she didn’t know the men who had done this to her.

Someone must have put something in her Pepsi before she got off her shift. She had started feeling disoriented as she began the walk home. Some men she had been waiting on offered her a ride instead. They didn’t take her straight home. They took her somewhere else where multiple men raped her. Then they brought her home.

 

To this day, I would know the car if I saw it. These are moments that never leave. They are burned into your soul.

Again, she told, yet there was no justice.

The most painful abuse to me personally came at the hands of someone I loved, and honestly, the only person in my world that I trusted. My pillar. My security. So what happens when your perpetrator is someone you’ve loved and admired your entire life?

The summer I was 11, I would eat at the DEAOC lunch program every day. Through this program two of us were selected for an area trip to 6-Flags, which was in fact, the coolest thing of all time.

Only caveat was you had to have a ride to and from a town 30 min from my home to catch the bus. I contacted my Papa and explained that I had been chosen but I had to have the ride to the bus and back. He agreed to make that happen even though we had to arrive very early and we would be getting back pretty late.

When we pulled into town it was very late and I was exhausted from a super exciting day. He told me we would just stay the night at his house before taking me the next morning the rest of the way home. No big deal. My Papa and his house had been my only steady my entire life.  Being there was a good thing.

We got home, I went to my grandmother’s old room that I’d slept in on and off for years and was out like a light.

I’m not sure how long I was asleep. All that I know was it was very dark when I woke up to all that was going on to me and around me. I prayed. I kicked and I squirmed as I felt like every ounce of air had been stolen from my lungs. He left the room apologizing. I just laid there and quietly cried the rest of the night. My only security in life was not. My safe place was no longer safe. My whole world had crashed down around me and my heart was ripped in pieces lost somewhere in the rubble.

As soon as the sun came up I washed my face and brushed my hair. My things gathered from my fun day no longer brought a smile. With a stern face and a completely hollow chest I announced I had to go home right now. It was the longest, quietest drive we had ever taken.

He took me to my great aunt’s, his cousin, where I had been staying temporarily. My mother had moved to Kansas, or maybe it was Indiana. I honestly just don’t know.

Much can be said about the way my mother raised us. For someone who suffered with mental illness from many reasons, I think she probably did the best she could. She loved us. What I did learn from watching her though was that I would never be their victim. They had broken her. Mentally she succumbed to the pain of her past daily. That would not be me.

I told. I told my great aunt when I got home. Turns out she had been his victim too. When my sister called, I told her. Another person was staying at my aunt’s at the time, I told him. Neighbors who lived behind us? Yes. Told them too. Our family’s little secret was no longer in the shadows, and I be damned if he would ever feel comfortable enough to lay a hand on me – again.

 

But he was my Papa. And I loved him with my whole heart.

When these things happen at the hands of someone you love. You trust. It’s hard to mentally walk the landmine of feelings. I’m sure it’s different for everyone. He agreed to get help, so I agreed to quit telling. I eventually forgave him. But I never allowed my daughter to be alone with him. When he became ill with cancer, I moved in and cared for him. I know he loved me.

Should I have known and protected myself? Probably. I’m not sure how old I was when I started hearing about my mother’s sexual abuses but it always seemed to be a narrative in our home.  She had been raped by and uncle and her brother since she was 4. Her mother passed at about 9 and she was put in an orphanage. She was then adopted by her great uncle and his wife. He also sexually abused her. That was my Papa. So yes. I guess I should have known. But I was 11, and in the crazy world I grew up in, he was my solid and I never once feared him.

Maybe I thought he’d found forgiveness. Looking back there were many things I now know were wrong and flashing signs. But I was a child and children trust and love unconditionally.

I grew up that day. I now understood things my mother’s words could never explain, but a story her actions told daily.

These are a few of these moments in my childhood. I’ve explained them to say I have seen and felt the devastation of sexual abuse; as a sister, as a daughter, from my own experiences, and even from the insurmountable guilt as a mother who failed at protecting my own daughter. One day maybe she will tell her own story.

I know my experiences pale in comparison to what so many go through.

We carry so much guilt and shame wondering if we would have done this or that, could the outcome have been different? There is no right or wrong response to sexual abuse. Survival comes in many forms.

 

I write this to say, it’s up to those of us who have been there to speak up so that the others in our lives can see they are not alone. Just as we have seen in the entertainment industry this month.  When we speak up, we become a beacon of light, that safe place maybe, to those who need it. A place that maybe you didn’t have. You can now be for someone else.

There’s power in telling. Whether you receive justice or not. It’s a cleansing for your soul that words simply cannot explain. You will stand a little taller knowing that it’s no longer protected by the darkness.

For every person out there, young or old, what you are going through, or what you have been through, does not define you. Find your voice. Tell someone. Even if your abuser is someone you love. Their power lies in our silence.

 

But for all who simply cannot yet…for you, I say #metoo.

Heat Advisory Extended Until Friday Evening

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The Lake Area won’t be catching a break from the heat after all.

The National Weather Service is extending their Heat Advisory that was expected to end Thursday.

Temperatures will continue to be near 100 degrees with heat index values reaching 105 today.

Officials remind everyone to drink plenty of water, take frequent breaks in the shade and to watch for the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

 

...HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 7 PM CDT THIS EVENING...

* WHAT...Heat index values of around 100 to 105.

* WHERE...Portions of southeast Kansas and central, east
  central, south central, southwest and west central Missouri.

* WHEN...Until 7 PM CDT this evening.

* IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat
  illnesses to occur.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out
of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young
children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles
under any circumstances.

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When
possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or
evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat
stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when
possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent
rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone
overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.
Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.

New Over The Air Free TV Station Coming To Lake Of The Ozarks

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There’s a new TV station coming to Lake of the Ozarks.

It’ll be called KRMS TV 32.

“The Lake of the Ozarks have never had a true, local Television station” says Viper Communications President and Co-Owner Ken Kuenzie, “we’re going to be able to provide 4 different channels, all on channel 32. One will have news content, one will have entertainment content, and we have some plans for the other channels…all focused on local community involvement.”

Kuenzie tells KRMS News the channel will be free and easy to tune in to “all you have to do is put one of those little $10 TV antennas, which you can pretty much buy anywhere, and connect it to your TV and boom you’ll have free HD TV.”

Kuenzie says he wants the TV station on the air by the end of the year.

He also says Viper Communications will be looking for local talent, and you can apply at the Osage Beach offices during business hours.

KRMS TV will be joining a family of Lake Area radio stations, including 98.7 The Cove, Classic Country 104.9, 93.5 Rocks and News / Talk KRMS, AM 1150 – FM 97.5 & 103.3.

New TV Press Release

Man Drowns At Lake Of The Ozarks After Falling From A Boat

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There’s been another drowning at the Lake of the Ozarks.

It happened Wednesday night at the 3 ½ mile mark of the Grand Glaize Arm, according to the Highway Patrol’s water division.

Officials say 50-year-old Chris Oliver of Indianola, Iowa fell into the water as he was stepping from a boat onto a dock around 10:30PM.

He never resurfaced.

This is the 5th drowning for the Month of August and the 12th drowning for the year in Troop F.

KRMS Co-Owner Dennis Klautzer Inducted Into Shootout Hall Of Fame

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News/Talk KRMS is now a part of the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout Hall of Fame.

In a ceremony held on Tuesday, the Shootout Committee and longtime KRMS Radio personality Kevin Burns, welcomed KRMS co-owner Dennis Klautzer into the Bob Morgan Hall of Fame.

“In my opinion folks, this induction is long overdue. It gives me great pleasure, great pride and it’s a great honor to welcome Dennis Klautzer…by officially inducting him into the Bob Morgan Shootout hall of fame.” said KB.

Dennis and his partner Ken Kuenzie started producing the Shootout broadcast in 1998 and he says he couldn’t have done it without the help of his staff “I want to acknowledge all the people who helped me get this away, and helped me product some God beautiful Television. My Staff at KRMS, ladies and gentlemen…I could not do it without these people.”

It grew from a radio show to TV program, with a nationwide audience that reached 250,000 verified viewers.

You can hear the whole ceremony below:

      KB INTRO TO DENNIS HALL OF FAME 2021 - 26th August 2021

Investigation Continues Into Another Soldier’s Death At Fort Leonard Wood

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An investigation remains underway in the death of an 18-year-old Army Solider stationed at Fort Leonard Wood.

Officials say Private Jamal Rogers of Conyers Georgia, was found dead from a gunshot wound on August 20th inside of a barracks complex.

It’s unknown at this time how he received that gunshot wound.

Rogers entered the Army in July of this year, assigned to the 2nd Battalion and the 10th Infantry Regiment.

Both the Fort Leonard Wood Law Enforcement team and the US Army Criminal Investigation command are investigating, however both agencies say no foul play is suspected at this time.

Just a few weeks ago another Solider died, after going on a Kayaking trip on the Gasconade river.

His body was recovered several days after he had been reported missing.

 

******Public Affairs Office

FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. (Aug. 24, 2021) A Fort Leonard Wood Soldier was found unresponsive Monday, Aug. 23, at approximately 3 p.m. at a training area here, according to Fort Leonard Wood’s Directorate of Emergency Services.

Emergency personnel arrived on scene within minutes and transported the Soldier by ambulance to the General Leonard Wood Army Community Hospital where the Soldier was pronounced deceased at 7:32 p.m. by GLWACH personnel.

The Soldier, Staff Sgt. Robert Early, 34, whose home of record is listed as Gifford, Illinois, was a combat medic with Fort Leonard Wood’s General Leonard Wood Army Community Hospital.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our teammate, Staff Sgt. Robert Early. As a committed Soldier, medic, friend and valued member of our team, his loss is not just felt within our formation, but across the Maneuver Support Center of Excellence, Fort Leonard Wood and our Army,” said Maj. Gen. James Bonner, MSCoE and Fort Leonard Wood commanding general. “As we mourn Staff Sgt. Early’s passing, our sincere thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and the GLWACH team during this difficult time.”

An investigation surrounding the circumstances of this incident is ongoing.

Two Separate Murder Trials Continue In Laclede County

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closeup photo of gavel

Photo by Bill Oxford on Unsplash

Two separate murder trials are still underway in Laclede County.

In the trial of 31-year-old Shane Patrick Norman, accused of murdering Nathan Young in October 2020, a case review has been scheduled for October 18th.

Norman plead “not guilty” during his arraignment back in May.

In the trial of Kevin Ryan Kayden, accused of killing his girlfriend Laquita Williams, a trial date has been set for November 29th.

Kayden was scheduled to have a trial this past Monday, however the state prosecutor requested a continuance due to contracting COVID 19.

Gas Prices Start To Come Down Across The Ozarks Highways

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Gas prices around the Lake Area below $2.80 per gallon of regular unleaded as summer winds down.

In Osage Beach the average is around $2.76 per gallon, in Camdenton you can find regular unleaded for as low as $2.65 per gallon, according to GasBuddy.com.

The Missouri average ahead of Labor Day is $2.83 per gallon and the lowest price found is $2.36 per gallon.

The highest average price for a gallon of regular is $4.39 in California.

New Director To Take Over At Medical Missions For Christ

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There’s a change in leadership for the Medical Missions for Christ Clinic in Camdenton.

Executive Director Carolyn Bowling is retiring this September after 11 years in service.

The organization says Krista Carter will be the new Executive Director.

Carter is a longtime volunteer at the clinic and has been serving as President of the Board of Directors for the past year.

Medical Missions for Christ is located in the same building as the Camden County Health Department.

Former School Resource Officer Faces Charges Of Sexual Contact

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Charges of sexual contact with a student are now filed against a former Lake Area school resource officer.

KRMS News can confirm the case against Jenna Jackson started in January after accusations she gave pornographic material to a minor and had sexual relations with a student who graduated last year.

Investigators say Jackson also went to parties where students were hanging out and she’s accused of sending nude pictures of herself via social media and trying to hide a relationship from her fiancée.

This is a developing story and we’ll pass along more details when possible on News / Talk KRMS.