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Roads across the lake remain snow covered this Wednesday following a winter storm that rolled in earlier today.
Officials with MODOT Say only 1 road is closed at this time, that is Route T in Pulaski County.
The Morgan County EMA Office has indicated that there are numerous accidents and most of the county roads remain slick.
Several rock roads in the Ozark valleys are also snow covered at this time.
You can check the latest road conditions using MODOT’s Interactive map here: MODOT ROAD MAP
One Missouri lawmaker wants the term ‘non-essential worker’ eliminated from the Lake Area vocabulary.
Representative Sara Walsh is filing a bill that would do just that.
Representative Walsh tells KRMS News the bill, if passed, would prevent the state or any officials or agencies from adopting any policies that classify some workers as essential.
It also says any existing or future orders, ordinances or regulations that classify some workers as essential are null and void.
Rep. Sara Walsh Sponsors Legislation to
Protect All Employees from Unnecessary Shutdowns
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – State Rep. Sara Walsh wants to protect all Missouri workers from having their livelihoods threatened due to a government-enforced shutdown. Walsh filed HB 851 to put an end to the classification of “non-essential workers” and ensure all occupations in the state are designated as essential.
Walsh said it’s imperative to protect not just the workers on the frontline dealing with the pandemic, but all workers who play a vital role in keeping the state’s economy working, and who depend on their jobs to support their families.
“We’re all committed to keeping Missourians safe and healthy during this pandemic, but we must also protect individuals and families who rely on their jobs to pay the bills and stay afloat financially. Too many of the mandated shutdowns have come at the expense of hard-working Missourians because they aren’t deemed essential. I believe all workers and businesses are essential and we should do all we can to protect them from being harmed financially because of a decision made by government bureaucrats,” said Walsh, R-Ashland.
In addition to stating that all occupations in Missouri qualify as essential workers, HB 851 makes it clear the General Assembly occupies and preempts the entire field of legislation touching in any way the classification of essential workers. The bill says any existing or future orders, ordinances or regulations regarding the classification of essential workers are null and void. It also states that neither the state nor any official, agency, or political subdivision shall issue or adopt any order, ordinance, or regulation concerning which occupations are classified as essential workers.
HB 851 now awaits assignment to committee for further discussion.
Today is the annual State of the State address.
Governor Mike Parson will be giving the address from the House Chambers at 3PM this afternoon.
The event will be live streamed on the Governor’s Facebook page as well as our KRMS News Facebook page.
Missouri Senator Josh Hawley is striking back at those who are seeking an ethics investigation into his objection to the Electoral College results.
Hawley is filing a counter-complaint against seven Senate Democrats involved in this ethics investigation.
Last week Democrats asked the Senate Ethics Committee to investigate actions by Hawley and Texas Senator Ted Cruz, to “fully understand their role” in the so-called insurrection at the Capitol by supporters of then President Donald Trump.
Hawley says this action is an “Historic abuse of the Senate ethics process” and he wants the committee to take any disciplinary action deemed appropriate.
Missouri Senator Rick Brattin is trying to pass a bill that would allow for the use of deadly force against protestors on private property.
According to a report, the bill was debated by a state Senate committee on Monday, and it would give immunity to people who “run over” protestors that are blocking traffic on a roadway.
It also makes those demonstrations that block traffic a felony crime.
Supporters of the bill say it is extremely dangerous to allow the blocking of traffic, especially when first responders need to get through for an emergency.
Those who oppose the bill says it could encourage a vigilantly mindset in the people who break the law.
The EPA is extending what started off as a 60-day public comment period as it considers adding Lake of the Ozarks to its list of impaired waterways in Missouri.
High nutrient levels in the lake are why the discussion’s happening.
Speaking with KB on the Morning Magazine, Warren Witt with Ameren Missouri points out Lake of the Ozarks had high water levels in 2018 due to flooding and that dynamic can create high nutrient levels due to sediments.
The public notice was given December 7th, but the 45-days extension will now continue the public comment period until March 22nd.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has extended until March 22, 2021, the public comment period on its decision to add 40 waters to Missouri’s CWA Section 303(d) List.
EPA issued a public notice on December 7, 2020, providing for a 60-day public comment period on 40 additions to Missouri’s CWA Section 303(d) List. This public comment period has been extended 45 days until March 22, 2021. After considering any comments received, EPA may make revisions, as appropriate, and will transmit its listings to Missouri for incorporation into Missouri’s water quality management plan. The public notice as well as the decision letter can be found here: https://www.epa.gov/mo/state-
Current data shows encouraging signs on the COVID front in Missouri.
But Governor Mike Parson also says hospitalizations remain high in Missouri.
Parson says the Missouri National Guard will be assisting the Department of Health and Senior Services with vaccination efforts throughout the state.
Governor Parson Announces Mass Vaccination, Targeted Vaccination Sites Across the State
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Today during a briefing at the State Capitol, Governor Mike Parson announced that the Missouri National Guard will begin assisting the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) and other state partners in establishing COVID-19 vaccination sites across the state.
A mass vaccination team will be assigned to each of Missouri’s nine Highway Patrol regions.
“The Missouri National Guard is once again answering the call to help Missourians in time of need,” said Governor Parson. “The purpose of these vaccination teams is to support our existing vaccinators and provide an additional vaccination source for eligible Missourians that may otherwise have a hard time receiving a vaccine.”
The Missouri National Guard is providing teams of Soldiers and Airmen to assist in establishing and staffing mass vaccination and targeted vaccination sites. The National Guard will also be deploying administrative teams to assist local agencies and other providers with data backlogs.
Missouri National Guard mass vaccination teams consist of 30 support personnel, who provide assistance in the form of traffic control, administrative support, and data input. Targeted vaccination teams consist of four-person teams with one vaccinator and three support staff to assist with administrative duties. Administrative support teams consist of three personnel to assist providers with paperwork and data backlogs due to vaccination entry requirements.
“We are proud to be a small part of the whole-of-government effort to provide the COVID-19 vaccine to our fellow Missourians,” said Maj. Gen. Levon Cumpton, Missouri National Guard Adjutant General. “This effort is truly a team effort, led by DHSS and consisting of multiple physicians, hospitals, pharmacies, clinics, local governments and others.”
A mass vaccination site is scheduled to begin this week in the Southeastern region, and other sites will be operational in the remaining eight Highway Patrol regions by the end of January. These sites have the capability to provide up to 2,500 doses per day, per team. More details concerning dates and locations will be released once finalized.
Targeted vaccination sites provide vaccines to populations outside the reach of mass vaccination sites, as designated by DHSS. Target vaccination teams will work with clergies and community leaders in the Kansas City and St. Louis regions to vaccinate vulnerable populations. Teams staffing these sites have the capability to provide up to 160 doses per day, per team.
Vaccine supply remains extremely limited. Current demand for the vaccine far outweighs the current supply that the state is allotted by the federal government. These mass vaccination and target vaccination sites will ensure that vaccines are being administered as efficiently as possible and that every Missourian will have the opportunity to eventually receive a vaccine regardless of where they live.
Missourians are encouraged to visit MoStopsCOVID.com to see the latest vaccine updates, find out when they are eligible for the vaccine, and locate available vaccinators in their area.
Photo by Dan LeFebvre on Unsplash
Colder temperatures will return to Lake of the Ozarks, and that could mean higher utility bills.
Ameren Missouri says help is available if you’re having a hard time paying for energy as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.
Officials say the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program has money remaining, but the number of applicants are low.
Ameren says it’s been helping Missourians keep up with energy costs since March.
Financial help available for central Missouri families facing COVID-19 hardship
Ameren Missouri encourages customers to apply for available energy assistance dollars and utilize payment programs
JEFFERSON CITY (Jan. 19, 2021) – Energy assistance dollars are still available for families in central Missouri who are experiencing financial strain due to the coronavirus pandemic. The federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), administered by the Missouri Department of Social Services, has funds available. Ameren Missouri is also offering payment agreements and working with customers to avoid disconnection.
“This time of year following the holidays can come with an extra financial burden for families, and the pandemic has made things even worse,” said Tara Oglesby, vice president of customer experience at Ameren Missouri. “That’s why we are continuing to offer payment plans with more flexible terms than normal, and doing everything we can to work with our customers during this challenging time. This includes working to ensure that families who are new to being in a low-income bracket are aware of what options are available.”
Since March, the company has helped thousands of Missourians with their statement balances and provided nearly $12 million in energy assistance and charitable contributions.
“We are encouraged because families in central Missouri are contacting us and our partner agencies every day for help, but we know thousands more are eligible for these funds and haven’t applied,” said Connie Taylor, manager of customer advocacy at Ameren Missouri. “When customers don’t reach out, their balances keep growing and available assistance dollars go unused.”
The following programs are ready to help customers who apply:
Federal assistance program: Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP)
Federal assistance is available through LIHEAP, administered by the Missouri Department of Social Services. Ameren Missouri works with contracted community action agencies to distribute LIHEAP funds. Some LIHEAP agencies report an abundance of funding available, but a decrease in application volume.
LIHEAP can help in two ways; through a one-time payment for a heating bill from November through March, or through the winter Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP). ECIP helps pay up to $800 toward fuel bills when a household’s energy is shut off or at risk of disconnection.
To be eligible for LIHEAP funds, customers must:
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Applying for LIHEAP has never been easier. To apply:
Ameren Missouri encourages customers to utilize LIHEAP funds to get current on their energy statement, then enroll in the company’s Keeping Current program to help stay on track.
Keeping Current
Ameren Missouri’s Keeping Current program makes customer energy bills more affordable by offering monthly bill credits and a reduction in past-due balances. When qualifying customers remain enrolled in the program and stay current on their bills, they continue to receive ongoing credits along with reductions in the total amount owed.
Keeping Current is administered by contracted community action agencies. To apply, contact your local agency. Find more details and a list of participating agencies here.
Payment Agreements
Customers who owe for past due service have the opportunity to make a payment arrangement with Ameren Missouri to avoid disconnection. The Deferred Payment Agreement is a long-term installment payment option. It offers more time to pay a balance for customers who have active accounts.
The online payment assistance tool provides eligible payment assistance options based on a customer’s account status. Learn more at AmerenMissouri.com.
For a complete list of energy assistance programs, visit AmerenMissouri.com/
Ameren Missouri has been providing electric and gas service for more than 100 years, and the company’s electric rates are among the lowest in the nation. Ameren Missouri’s mission is to power the quality of life for its 1.2 million electric and 132,000 natural gas customers in central and eastern Missouri. The company’s service area covers 64 counties and more than 500 communities, including the greater St. Louis area. For more information, visit Ameren.com/Missouri or follow us on Twitter at @AmerenMissouri or Facebook.com/AmerenMissouri.
The state of Missouri now has 31 more troopers after a graduation ceremony Wednesday.
Governor Mike Parson read the keynote address to the 110th Recruit class.
Governor Parson spoke during a press briefing at the state capitol.
One of those new graduates, Andrew Gordon, will be headed to Troop F, which covers Lake of the Ozarks.
Applications for the 112th Recruit Class are being accepted right now and the deadline to apply is February 1st.
EMPHASIS: 31 New Troopers Graduated From The Missouri State Highway Patrol Law Enforcement Academy
Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, announces that 31 troopers graduated from the Patrol’s Law Enforcement Academy today, Wednesday, January 20, 2021. The ceremony was by invitation only due to the coronavirus guidelines; however, it was made available to the public and the media live via the Patrol’s Facebook page Facebook.com/motrooper. The graduation ceremony began at 10 a.m. The 110th Recruit Class reported to the Academy on August 3, 2020. The new troopers report for duty in their assigned troops on February 16, 2021.
Missouri Governor Mike Parson provided the keynote address. First Lady Teresa Parson also attended the event. Col. Olson addressed the class during the graduation. The Honorable Cotton Walker, 19th Judicial Circuit Civil Judge, state of Missouri, administered the Oath of Office to the new troopers. Provost Roger K. McMillian, vice president of College Affairs for Mineral Area College, conferred an associate of applied science degree to 12 of the new troopers. Trooper Cole P. Justice, 110th Recruit Class, sang the national anthem. Trooper Zachary L. Ricker, 110th Recruit Class chaplain, provided the invocation and benediction.
Four class awards were presented. The recruits accumulated points toward graduation in the categories of physical fitness, firearms, and academics throughout their 25 weeks at the Academy. The person with the highest number of points in each category earned the respective award. Trooper Samuel S. Base accepted the Physical Fitness Award. Trooper Zachary T. Costley accepted the Academics Award. Trooper David T. Craig accepted the Firearms Award. Trooper Alex C. Philipps accepted the Superintendent’s Award, which is presented to the person with the most points overall.
The names (hometowns) and first assignments of members of the 110th Recruit Class are listed below:
Troop A
John P. Blinkinsop (Joplin, MO), Zone 5, Ray/Carroll Counties
Derek M. Bradshaw (St. James, MO), Zone 11, Cass County
David T. Craig (Nixa, MO), Zone 7, Jackson County
Michael A. Ebeling (Iberia, MO), Zone 12, Johnson County
Samuel L. Edwards (Springfield, MO), Zone 12, Johnson County
Hazen J. Groves (Jefferson City, MO), Zone 15, Henry County
Matthew J. Hickman (Wheaton, MO), Zone 15, Henry County
Jackson D. Hood (Springfield, MO), Zone 12, Johnson County
Tristen D. Jackson (Sedalia, MO), Zone 10, Saline County
Troop B
Cole T. Hinshaw (Shelbyville, MO), Zone 6, Clark/Scotland Counties
Nicholas C. Keller (Philadelphia, MO), Zone 4, Putnam/Sullivan Counties
Cody J. Snyder (Kirksville, MO), Zone 4, Putnam/Sullivan Counties
Troop C
Kyle G. Barba (Lakewood, CA), Zone 1, North St. Louis County
Zachariah P. Beckerman (Jackson, MO), Zone 12, Jefferson County
Thomas W. Brewer (Belle, MO), Zone 13, Jefferson County
Delandis O. Gillespie (Charleston, MO), Zone 2, North St. Louis County
Bradley T. Gregory (Jonesburg, MO), Zone 1, North St. Louis County
Cameron L. Kurtzman (Chesterfield, MO), Zone 12, Jefferson County
Eric J. McBride (St. Clair, MO), Zone 9, St. Charles County
Rudo K. Stone Jr. (Chicago, IL), Zone 2, North St. Louis County
Troop D
Zachary T. Costley (Lamar, MO), Zone 15, Stone/Taney Counties
Troop E
John M. Tomaszewski (Sikeston, MO), Zone 10, Dunklin County
Troop F
Andrew M. Gordon (Montgomery City, MO), Zone 4, Audrain County
Troop G
Landon C. Pruiett (Braggadocio, MO), Zone 6, South Howell/Oregon Counties
Zachary L. Ricker (Van Buren, MO), Zone 8, Carter/Reynolds Counties
William A. Wadlington (Oran, MO), Zone 5, Douglas/Ozark Counties
Troop H
Samuel S. Base (Coffeyville, KS), Zone 1, Atchison/Holt Counties
Benjamin L. Gregory (Jonesburg, MO), Zone 3, Harrison/Gentry Counties
Cole P. Justice (Smithville, MO), Zone 2, Nodaway/Worth Counties
Troop I
Keaton P. Hunt (Rolla, MO), Zone 1, Phelps/Maries Counties
Alex C. Philipps (Jackson, MO), Zone 4, Pulaski/Maries Counties
Governor Mike Parson’s been chosen to give the keynote address at the Missouri State Highway Patrol graduation ceremony in Jefferson City.
After that he’ll hold a press briefing from the state capitol while giving an update on several Missouri topics.
That briefing will begin at 3 pm and it will be live-streamed on the Governor’s Facebook page as well as our KRMS News Facebook Page.
Governor Parson‘s Schedule for January 19 – 21, 2021
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – This week, Governor Mike Parson will hold official meetings with various state leaders, including Cabinet members, senior staff, and the Missouri Hospital Association.
Governor Parson will hold one briefing on Wednesday, January 20 at 3:00 p.m. to provide an update on current events in Missouri. The briefing will be live-streamed on Governor Parson‘s Facebook page.
Also on Wednesday, January 20, Governor Parson will deliver the keynote address at the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) 110th Recruit Class graduation ceremony.
Hot Pocket lovers, listen up.
There’s a recall affecting the Pepperoni products, as they main contain pieces of glass or hard plastic.
According to the USDA’s Food and Safety service, over 760,000 boxes are being recalled with a “best buy” date of February 2022.
It’s recommended you throw it away or return it for a full refund.
WASHINGTON, Jan. 15, 2021– Nestlé Prepared Foods, a Mt. Sterling, Ky. establishment, is recalling approximately 762,615 pounds of not-ready-to-eat (NRTE) pepperoni hot pockets product that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically pieces of glass and hard plastic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The frozen NRTE pepperoni hot pockets product was produced from Nov. 13, 2020 through Nov. 16, 2020. The product has a shelf life of 14 months. The following product is subject to recall: [View Labels (PDF Only)]:
The product subject to recall bears establishment number “EST. 7721A” inside the USDA mark of inspection. The product was shipped to retail locations nationwide.
The problem was discovered when the firm received four consumer complaints of extraneous material in the pepperoni hot pocket product.
The firm has received one report of a minor oral injury associated with consumption of this product. FSIS has received no additional reports of injury or illness from consumption of this product. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a healthcare provider.
FSIS is concerned that some product may be frozen and in consumers’ freezers. Consumers who have purchased this product are urged not to consume it. This product should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.
FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. When available, the retail distribution lists will be posted on the FSIS website at www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls.
Consumers with questions about the recall can contact Nestlé consumer services at (800) 350-5016. Members of the media with questions about the recall can contact Dana Stambaugh, Corporate Communications for Nestlé at (571) 457-3803 or at Dana.Stambaugh@us.nestle.com.
Consumers with food safety questions can call the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) or live chat via Ask USDA from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Consumers can also browse food safety messages at Ask USDA or send a question via email to MPHotline@usda.gov. For consumers that need to report a problem with a meat, poultry, or egg product, the online Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System can be accessed 24 hours a day at https://foodcomplaint.fsis.usda.gov/eCCF/.
For the third time in nine months, Ameren Missouri has shut down their Nuclear Power plant in the city of Fulton.
According to a release, officials say it was due to a non-nuclear operating issue involving a generator.
The company says the issue occurred when the plant was ramping up after maintenance.
Ameren has not announced when they expect the plant to be back online.
FULTON, Mo., Jan. 13, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — During its return to full power as part of its 24th refueling and maintenance outage, Ameren Missouri’s Callaway Energy Center in Fulton, Missouri experienced a non-nuclear operating issue related to its generator. As a result, the Callaway Energy Center is not operating while the company investigates the cause, as well as develops and implements an action plan to safely return the facility to service.
“Our team remains dedicated to working safely and taking prudent actions for the long-term benefit of the customers and communities we serve,” said Fadi Diya, senior vice president and chief nuclear officer for Ameren Missouri, a subsidiary of Ameren Corporation (NYSE: AEE).
Ameren Missouri’s generation resources remain adequate to meet its customers’ needs while Callaway is not operating. Ameren does not expect this matter to have a significant impact on the company’s financial results.
The ongoing, efficient operation of Callaway and Ameren Missouri’s other energy centers are key to Ameren’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 while keeping rates affordable for customers. The net-zero goal is included in Ameren Missouri’s recent Integrated Resource Plan, a triennial filing that sets forth Ameren Missouri’s preferred plan to transform its electricity generation portfolio over the coming decades.
Ameren Missouri has been providing electric and gas service for more than 100 years, and the company’s electric rates are among the lowest in the nation. Ameren Missouri’s mission is to power the quality of life for its 1.2 million electric and 132,000 natural gas customers in central and eastern Missouri. The company’s service area covers 64 counties and more than 500 communities, including the greater St. Louis area. For more information, visit Ameren.com/Missouri or follow us on Twitter at @AmerenMissouri or Facebook.com/AmerenMissouri.
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements in this release not based on historical facts are considered “forward-looking” and, accordingly, involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed. Although such forward-looking statements have been made in good faith and are based on reasonable assumptions, there is no assurance that the expected results will be achieved. These statements include (without limitation) statements as to future expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, strategies, objectives, events, conditions, and financial performance. In connection with the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, we are providing this cautionary statement to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. The following factors, in addition to those discussed under Risk Factors in Ameren’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019, Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2020, and elsewhere in this release and in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, could cause actual results to differ materially from management expectations suggested in such forward-looking statements:
New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for management to predict all of such factors, nor can it assess the impact of each such factor on the business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained or implied in any forward-looking statement. Given these uncertainties, undue reliance should not be placed on these forward-looking statements. Except to the extent required by the federal securities laws, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect new information or future events.
SOURCE Ameren Corporation
Photo by Grant Durr on Unsplash
We now know just how big the Real Estate boom was for 2020 across the Lake of the Ozarks.
According to the Bagnell Dam Association of Realtors, the final 2020 property sales number reached over $1.1 billion dollars, more than 60% higher than the previous year.
Realtors say it’s due to people leaving major cities and states, trying to get away from the chaos.
Ron Yarbrough with PrimeLending tells KRMS News that buyers even bought large tracts of farmland.
He says realtors and lenders had a hard time keeping property on the market, often buyers were snatching up homes on the phone to beat someone from taking it.
In total, sales for listings over a million dollars jumped over 240% compared to 2019, and waterfront homes jumped to nearly 230%.
MLS Data Report Year-to-Date 2020
A request to extend an emergency rule temporarily preventing all electric, natural gas and water disconnections across Missouri has been denied.
The Public Service Commission indicated to the Consumers Council of Missouri that the denial is because the request to extend didn’t meet the criteria for the emergency rule.
They say it’s because most of the regulated utilities have already placed their own moratoriums on disconnections, and that their repayment and financial programs were still open and well-funded.
The commission also indicated that by stopping regular disconnections could harm customers, as it makes them ineligible to receive assistance from the Low-Income Home Energy program.
JEFFERSON CITY—The Missouri Public Service Commission has denied a request filed by Consumers Council of Missouri which sought Commission issuance of an emergency rule that would temporarily prevent electric, natural gas, and water disconnections through March 31, 2021, because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Commission found the rulemaking requested does not meet the criteria for the issuance of an emergency rule.
“At the beginning of the pandemic in this state, the large Commission-regulated utilities each voluntarily placed a moratorium on residential disconnections. This action allowed the utilities time to take the necessary legal and organizational steps to revise their payment plans, collections processes, customer financial assistance programs, and other operations to better serve their customers during the pandemic,” said the Commission. “These utilities reported to the Commission that most of their repayment and financial assistance programs were still available and were funded. Additionally, stopping the regular disconnection processes may unintentionally harm customers by making them ineligible to receive financial assistance from the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) because no disconnection was imminent. The utilities stated that customers often did not seek help with payment plans and financial assistance until prompted to do so by receiving a disconnection notice. Further, placing a moratorium on disconnections may leave customers with insurmountable arrearages when the moratorium expires.”
“The Commission finds that the programs put in place by the utilities to avoid disconnections during the pandemic should be allowed an opportunity to work and have been working,” said the Commission.
Another longtime member of the Lake of the Ozark’s water patrol is getting a promotion.
Officials at the Highway Patrol say Lieutenant Stephen Burgun is transferring to General Headquarters in Jefferson City on February 1st, to serve as the assistant director of the water division.
Burgan started with the water patrol in 2008 and has been a zone supervisor at Lake of the Ozarks since 2014.
EMPHASIS: Lt. Stephen M. Burgun, Troop F, Transfers To General Headquarters; Named Assistant Director Of Water Patrol Division
Captain Michael Petlansky, director of the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Water Patrol Division, announces the following transfer:
Lieutenant Stephen M. Burgun, Troop F, will transfer to General Headquarters effective February 1, 2021, and serve as the assistant director of the Water Patrol Division.
Burgun graduated from the Missouri State Water Patrol Academy in 2008, and became a member of the Missouri State Highway Patrol when the agencies merged on January 1, 2011. Burgun was promoted to corporal in January 1, 2014, and designated assistant zone supervisor of Troop F, Zone 16, Lake of the Ozarks. In December 2017, he was promoted to sergeant and designated zone supervisor of Troop F, Zone 16, Lake of the Ozarks. On January 1, 2020, Burgun was promoted to lieutenant and transferred to Troop F Headquarters, Jefferson City, MO.
Lt. Burgun is a native of Bolingbrook, Illinois, and graduated from Kirkwood High School in Kirkwood, Missouri, in 1996. He is a graduate of John Wood Community College, in Quincy, Illinois, where he earned an Associate of Science in criminal justice. In 2018, Lt. Burgun graduated from the Police Leadership: The WestPoint Model course. He and his wife, Jamie, have three children.
Ameren Missouri is offering it’s take on water quality concerns at Lake of the Ozarks.
The EPA has proposed putting the lake on a list of impaired waterways because nutrient levels are high.
Warren Witt with Ameren points out Lake of the Ozarks and Truman Lake both had huge amounts of water going through in 2018 and that dynamic can create high nutrient levels due to sediments.
Witt says it has to do with the eco-region the Lake Area is in.
He says part of the fix for the high nutrient levels could be low-impact landscaping around Lake of the Ozarks.
A 60-day comment period is currently underway regarding the EPA’s announcement.
Witt was interviewed by Kevin Burns on the KRMS Morning Magazine.
More than 250 Hy-Vee Pharmacy locations will be offering COVID 19 rapid antibody tests starting Monday.
Officials say patients can expect to receive same-day results, possibly as fast as 15-minutes.
The tests are available for everyone and will cost $25.
Patients must register ahead of time on the Hy-Vee website.
At this time the Osage Beach Location is not offering the test, but Columbia and Springfield locations are.
Supplies of the COVID-19 vaccine are about to go up in Lake of the Ozarks.
Missouri Governor Mike Parson is announcing Phase 1B –Tier 1 of the vaccination plan, which will open up the vaccine to law enforcement, firefighters and other public health professionals.
Tier-2 of Phase 1B goes into effect Monday, which prioritizes people 65 and older and others with health issues that place them at greater risk.
You can learn more about the latest on the COVID-19 online at http://MOStopsCovid.com.
Governor Parson Announces Activation of First Tier of Phase 1B of Missouri’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Today, Governor Mike Parson announced the activation of Phase 1B – Tier 1 of Missouri’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan.
Federal partners have informed the state that they plan to significantly increase vaccine supply next week and that individuals 65 and older and those with comorbidities should be prioritized. This news allows the state to begin the process of activating Phase 1B tiers.
“Beginning the activation of Phase 1B is all about saving lives and protecting those most vulnerable to exposure and illness from this virus,” Governor Parson said. “We are looking forward to increased vaccine supply in the coming weeks as supply is the leading factor that dictates our movement through our plan. The more supply we receive, the quicker we can reach our goal of making vaccines available to every Missourians who wants one.”
The activation of Phase 1B – Tier 1 reflects the guidance the state has received from federal partners as well as information gathered from stakeholders across the state. Phase 1B – Tier 1 is activated today, and Phase 1B – Tier 2 will be activated on Monday, January 18.
Tier 1 of Phase 1B focuses on protecting those who keep Missourians safe, including law enforcement, fire service, and public health professionals, among others.
Tier 2 of Phase 1B focuses on protecting those who are at increased risk for severe illness, including individuals aged 65 and older and any adult with cancer, chronic kidney disease, COPD, or intellectual and/or developmental disabilities such as Down Syndrome, heart conditions, a weakened immune system due to organ transplant, severe obesity, pregnancy, sickle cell disease, or Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.
“We recognize and appreciate that there are a variety of individuals on the frontlines who have a greater risk of exposure each day they go to work,” Governor Parson said. “We are grateful for the tireless and selfless efforts of our health care providers and first responders who risk their own safety to protect the health and well-being of Missourians.”
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) Director Dr. Randall Williams issued a statewide health order today regarding the vaccination of individuals in Phase 1A, Phase 1B – Tier 1, and Phase 1B – Tier 2. The order outlines who can be vaccinated as part of the state’s determined phases and applies to those administering the federally-funded COVID-19 vaccines. To view the order, please see attachment.
Although initial tiers within Phase 1B are being activated today and Monday, there are currently not enough vaccines for everyone included in these groups. As additional supplies arrive, this activation will allow for the greatest vaccine coverage where it is most needed. It will also allow vaccinators and organizations to continue planning effectively for future tiers and phases.
Individuals in Phase 1A and Phase 1B – Tier 1 should work through their employer and/or association to access the vaccine. Individuals in Phase 1B – Tier 2 should contact their local pharmacy or health care provider or visit MOStopsCovid.com to learn when vaccines may be available and how to receive them.
A list of vaccinators and regional vaccine implementation teams will be made available at www.MOstopsCovid.com on January 15. DHSS encourages employers and associations representing individuals in activated phases to use the list to connect with a vaccinator or regional vaccine implementation team in their area and make a plan for vaccinating their teams.
“We know one of the most common questions among Missourians right now is when it will be their turn to be vaccinated, and we are greatly encouraged by the interest in the vaccines from the public,” Dr. Williams. “Each day, our team is monitoring the amount of vaccine available and making sure it is distributed so that people can receive the vaccine as quickly as possible. We are so thankful to our hundreds of clinical partners throughout the state who are making that happen.”
Based on reporting from providers, at least 27 percent of Phase 1A has received the first dose of the vaccine. This includes residents and staff of long-term care facilities and health care workers, including dentists, EMS, school nurses, and those working in hospital or clinic settings, among others. These individuals will continue to be vaccinated.
Missourians began receiving first doses of COVID-19 vaccines last month. More than 160,000 individuals have received an initial dose, and more than 22,000 have now been fully vaccinated with the 2-dose series. Vaccine supply continues to be the rate-limiting factor for vaccine administration throughout the state. State vaccine allocations are determined by Operation Warp Speed.
Additional details on phases and tiers beyond Phase 1B – Tier 2 can be found at www.MOStopsCovid.com. Public announcements will be made as later phases in the state’s vaccination plan are activated.
A white sheet summarizing Phase 1B Tiers is attached. More information regarding COVID-19 vaccines and Missouri’s vaccination plan can be found at www.MOstopsCovid.com.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s looking for a few good men – and women – to join the force.
The deadline to apply is coming up February 1.
Trooper Brian Geier with the ‘Patrol.
He tells KRMS News you can apply online at http://mo-trooper.com.
Starting pay for a Missouri Highway Patrol Trooper is more than 49-thousand dollars per year.
The 112th Recruit Class begins training in August.
EMPHASIS: Missouri State Highway Patrol Seeking Applicants For 112th Recruit Class
The Missouri State Highway Patrol, a premier law enforcement agency, is testing for new troopers. The Patrol is encouraging qualified individuals of all backgrounds to apply, and will offer testing at nine different locations in Missouri. Those who successfully complete testing will be eligible to continue in the selection process for the 112th Recruit Class, scheduled to begin training on August 2, 2021. The application deadline has been extended to February 1, 2021.
To be eligible, candidates must possess a minimum of 30 college credit hours from an accredited college/university or served in any component of the United States Armed Forces, including National Guard, for a minimum of two years, with an honorable discharge if separated, or a minimum of two years’ experience as a full-time POST-certified peace officer when recruit training begins.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol has updated its uniform guidelines to allow troopers to have tattoos or brands as long as they meet two requirements: 1) The tattoos or brands cannot depict or support criminal behavior, drug usage, nudity, profanity, promiscuity, subversive groups, bigotry, etc. 2) Tattoos/brands cannot be located on the head, neck, hands, wrists, or any part of the body which would be visible during movements in the performance of their duties while wearing an official uniform or civilian attire. Troopers with tattoos on the arms that would be visible in the class B uniform (short sleeves) will wear the class A uniform (long sleeves).
The starting annual salary for trooper is $49,536, and following three years of service, the trooper first class’ salary is increased to $52,200. Other benefits include group health insurance, contributory retirement, career advancement, and more.
The selection process is a multi-phase testing procedure including: written examination, a physical fitness for duty assessment, polygraph examination, background investigation, and oral interview board. Written and physical examinations take place in each troop area across the state. After a conditional offer of employment, the applicant must successfully complete a medical examination (to include vision and hearing), psychological examination, a psychological interview, drug screening, and final applicant review.
Interested persons can find out more about the qualifications by contacting a Patrol recruiter at telephone number 1-800-796-7000, or may apply online at www.motrooper.com.
The number of successful candidates being extended an offer of employment is contingent upon factors such as budget constraints and the number of vacant positions statewide.
MSHP IS AN EEO EMPLOYER M/F
The Missouri House of Representatives is canceling session next week, as COVID-19 cases continue to rise around the Capitol.
According to a release, the house is exercising an abundance of caution to protect staff, members and visitors.
It also means that house members will not be in session during President-Elect Joe Biden’s inauguration.
At this time, it’s unknown if the Senate will follow suit, but we will keep you posted on this developing story.
Officials with the National Weather Service have issued a Winter Weather Advisory and a Wind Advisory for the entire Lake region.
They say snow will spread across the region on Friday, with minor accumulations expected, ranging from 1 to 2 inches.
Here is an estimated timeline of snowfall chances through the day on Friday
Gusty winds of 30 to 45 mph are also expected on Friday, with occasional gusts up to 50 mph. Travel may become difficult at times. Additionally, gusty winds combined with snow may create blowing snow and reduced visibilities.
A Blizzard Warning is in effect for portions of northwestern Missouri with this same storm.
Here’s further information on the Lake Area Winter Weather advisory.
URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE National Weather Service Springfield MO 214 PM CST Thu Jan 14 2021 ...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 3 AM TO 9 PM CST FRIDAY... * WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches. Winds gusting as high as 45 mph. * WHERE...Portions of central and west central Missouri. * WHEN...From 3 AM to 9 PM CST Friday. * IMPACTS...Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning and evening commutes. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow will move in from north to south early Friday. Periods of moderate snow are expected within heavier snow showers. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Slow down and use caution while traveling. And here's more information on the Wind Advisory:
URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE National Weather Service Springfield MO 839 PM CST Thu Jan 14 2021 ...WIND ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 AM TO 6 PM CST FRIDAY... * WHAT...West winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph expected. * WHERE...Portions of central, south central, southwest and west central Missouri. * WHEN...From 6 AM to 6 PM CST Friday. * IMPACTS...Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Strong winds will likely cause blowing snow and may further reduce visibility. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.
Big corporations continue their attack on Missouri Senator Josh Hawley, following his decision to reject the electoral college votes due to fraud in the election.
In addition to Hallmark who reported earlier this week, Ameren Missouri, health care IT firm Cerner Corp and Edward Jones say they are suspending their campaign contributions immediately.
Additionally, former Republican politician Steve Schmidt, the founder of the anti-Trump Lincoln Project, says his group plans to purchase full-page ads in Missouri newspapers listing all of Hawley’s donors who are demanding their money back.
They also plan to put a spotlight on those who are still financing Hawley.
The Kansas City based Hallmark company has already indicated they wanted the donations returned.
HyVee is being told by the Federal EPA to stop selling the “Outlaw Germ Justice Disinfectant Wipes” immediately.
Officials say the company that manufactures the wipes, MJB Worldwide, failed to register the product with the EPA and they continue to be non-compliant.
Companies like MJB who manufacture a pesticide, including ones that like pathogens, must register with the EPA for consumer use.
EPA Officials have told HyVee it must remove the product and it will not be allowed to sell it moving forward.
Customers who’ve already purchased the item are asked to return it for a full refund.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Lenexa, Kan., Jan. 12, 2021) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has ordered MJB Worldwide LLC and Hy-Vee Inc. to stop the sale and distribution of disinfectant wipes that EPA says are noncompliant with federal law and may represent a danger to consumers.
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, EPA has observed increased production and sale of unregistered products claiming to kill viruses and other pathogens,” said David Cozad, director of EPA Region 7’s Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division. “The Agency is determined to protect consumers from these unlawful and potentially dangerous products.”
EPA issued the “Stop Sale, Use, or Removal Orders” to MJB Worldwide and Hy-Vee on Jan. 11, 2021. These orders require immediate termination of all distribution and sales of Outlaw Germ Justice Disinfectant Wipes and prohibit all future sales of the product at any Hy-Vee locations in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska.
MJB Worldwide LLC produces and distributes “Outlaw Germ Justice Disinfectant Wipes,” claiming the product kills bacteria and viruses. According to EPA, the company failed to register the product in violation of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act. Under the law, any manufacturer of a pesticide – including those intended to kill pathogens – must register the product with EPA. The registration process protects public health by evaluating the product’s ingredients; where it is to be used; the amount, frequency and timing of its use; and product storage and disposal practices.
After EPA contacted MJB Worldwide in November 2020 about an unregistered product, the company assured the Agency that it had recalled all Outlaw disinfectant products and that any future production would be done in compliance with federal law. However, on Jan. 6, 2021, an EPA inspector discovered a reformulated version of Outlaw wipes available for sale at a Hy-Vee grocery store in Overland Park, Kansas. The inspector also identified that the product’s label described concentrations of chemicals that could cause severe eye and skin irritation if used improperly.
For more information about EPA’s authority and COVID-19, visit: www.epa.gov/coronavirus.
For more information about EPA-registered disinfectants for use against SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus that causes the disease COVID-19, visit: www.epa.gov/pesticide-
There is a major recall underway for dog and cat food sold under the Midwestern Pet Foods name.
That includes the popular SportMix, ProPac, Nunn Better and Splash Fat Cat dry bagged foods.
Company officials report the bags have been found to have very high levels of aflatoxins, a mold fungus that grows on corn and can cause sluggishness, loss of appetite, vomiting, jaundice and/or diarrhea.
The FDA Reports that more than 70 dogs have already died from eating the food, and another 80 dogs and cats are currently sick.
The bags affected include those with an expiration date of July 9th 2022, and have an “05” in the date code.
The FDA says you should stop feeding your animals this food immediately and you can return it for a full refund.
Additional Details:
Midwestern Pet Foods, Inc., of Evansville, IN is expanding its December 30, 2020 voluntary recall of certain dog and cat food products produced in our Chickasha Operations Facility to include all dog and cat pet food products made with corn products because those products may contain aflatoxin levels which exceed acceptable limits. Products were distributed nationally to online distributors and retail stores nationwide. Midwestern Pet Foods is expanding its voluntary recall out of an abundance of caution to help protect the health and safety of pets. The products recalled cover all that expire on or before July 9, 2022, depicted as “07/09/22” in the date code on the product, as discussed below. Products with expiration dates after 07/09/22 are not included in the recall.
Aflatoxin is a toxin produced by the mold Aspergillus flavus, which can grow on corn and other grains used as ingredients in pet food. At high levels, aflatoxin can cause illness and death in pets.
There have been reports of illnesses and deaths in dogs associated with certain lots of products. No human illnesses have been reported. Out of an abundance of caution, we have expanded this recall to cover all corn products containing pet foods with expiration dates prior to 07/09/22.
If your pet shows signs of aflatoxin poisoning including sluggishness, loss of appetite, vomiting jaundice (yellowish tint to the eyes, gums, or skin due to liver damage), and/or diarrhea, contact a veterinarian immediately. Provide a full diet history to your veterinarian. It may be helpful to take a picture of the pet food label, including the lot number and best buy date.
Lot code information may be found on the back of bag and will appear in a three‐line code, with the top line in format “EXP 03/03/22/05/L#/B###/HH:MM”.
As explained above, this recall covers ONLY product manufactured at Midwestern Pet Food’s Chickasha, Oklahoma facility. Note that the unique Chickasha Facility identifier is located in the date code as a
“05” and “REG. OK‐PFO‐0005” at the end of the date code.
In addition, the only Midwestern Pet Foods facility that produces product bearing a three‐line date code is our Chickasha Facility (See first image below).
Retailers and distributors should immediately pull recalled lots from their inventory and shelves. Do not sell or donate the recalled products. Retailers are encouraged to contact consumers who have purchased the recalled products, if you have the means to do so (frequent buyer cards, etc.).
Pet parents: do not feed the recalled products to your pets or any other animals. Destroy the food in a way that children, pets and wildlife cannot access them. Wash and sanitize pet food bowls, cups, and storage containers. Always ensure you wash and sanitize hands after handling recalled food or any utensils which have contacted recalled food. Contact Midwestern Pet Foods Consumer Affairs at 800‐474‐4163, ext. 455 from 7AM to 4PM Central Time, Monday through Friday, or by email at info@midwesternpetfoods.com for additional information.
This voluntary recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. All other Midwestern Pet Foods products are unaffected by this recall action.
Recalled products are as follows, with lot codes found in Expanded Recall Lot Numbers:
The FDA says there’s an ongoing investigation underway.
Lake Area Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler says the country can do without California Democrat Nancy Pelosi’s political vendetta against President Donald Trump.
In a statement, Hartzler says the House Speaker’s actions are self-serving and they provide a disservice to the country.
Pelosi wants to use the 25th Amendment to the Constitution to remove President Trump in another attempt at impeachment.
Hartzler also stated that she stands with Missouri Senator Josh Hawley as many Democrats and other Republicans are calling for him to step down, following his vote against the electoral college results.
She says he shouldn’t be punished for questioning fraud in any Presidential election and that she appreciates his push to see that future elections are “more secure.”
Hartzler Statement on Speaker Pelosi’s Efforts to Remove the President from Office
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (MO-04) made the following statement regarding Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s intent to bring legislation to the floor calling on the Vice President to invoke the 25th amendment followed by articles of impeachment to remove the President:
“The forced removal of the President with less than a week remaining in his term is a political theater that the nation can do without. America is struggling to come together following the riots and violence at the Capitol, and this friction will grow worse because of Speaker Pelosi’s political vendetta. The nation should not be subjected to more animosity simply because Speaker Pelosi seeks to settle a score. I will not be supporting her efforts.
Next week, Joe Biden will be sworn in as President of the United States. We should be focused on bringing our nation together, not tearing it further apart. The Speaker’s actions are self-serving and do nothing other than provide a great disservice to our country.”
Missouri US Senator Josh Hawley is again being targeted for his decision to reject the electoral college results.
Hallmark is now asking Hawley to “return” donations that the company employees made to his campaign.
The Kansas City based company says numerous employees donated through their PAC, which totaled around $7,000 to Hawley’s campaign.
The company’s spokesperson says Hawley’s actions do not reflect their company values.
They’re making preparations in Jefferson City to keep the State Capitol building safe, following a warning from the FBI.
In the warning, the FBI says “Armed Protest” could be in the works for Missouri and the 49 other states in the Union, as we approach President-Elect Joe Biden’s inauguration.
Speaking at his recent press conference, Governor Mike Parson says the state will be on alert in case something does go down.
The FBI report says local, state and federal government courthouses and administrative buildings could also be targeted.
Today is Missouri’s Bicentennial Inauguration, celebrating 200 years of Missouri History.
The events started on Saturday with the annual prayer service held for Governor Mike Parson and his family.
Pastor Ray Leininger of First Baptist Church of Bolivar.
He says there are many willing to stand behind the Governor, as he navigates Missouri through the challenges of 2021.
Today’s Bicentennial event will be at the state capitol building, with activities starting at 11:30AM.
For those who cannot attend, the event will be live streamed on the state’s website and the Governor’s Facebook page and we will share it on both of our KRMS Facebook Pages.
There’s a nationwide recall underway for the Soho Fresh rubbing Alcohol brand.
Officials with Essar Incorporated say they’re recalling a specific lot sold in stores due to contamination with methanol.
They say you should not open the bottle at all, and should return it for a full refund.
***Press Release***
Essaar Inc. is voluntarily recalling lot 200528303 of Soho Fresh 70% Rubbing Alcohol in 33.81 oz. clear plastic bottles to the consumer level. FDA analysis of the product revealed it is contaminated with methanol.
Substantial methanol exposure can result in nausea, vomiting, headache, blurred vision, permanent blindness, seizures, coma, permanent damage to the nervous system, or death. Although all persons using these products on their hands are at risk, young children who accidentally ingest these products and adolescents and adults who drink these products as an alcohol (ethanol) substitute, are most at risk for methanol poisoning. To date, Essar Inc. has not received any reports of adverse events related to this recall.
The product is used as an external purpose use rubbing alcohol and is packaged in 33.81 oz. clear plastic bottles with lot number 200528303 and UPC 7502268987367.
Soho Fresh was distributed nationwide to retail stores. Essaar Inc. is notifying its distributors and customers by email and mail and is arranging for the return of all recalled product to Essaar Inc. Consumers that have product which is being recalled should stop using and discard or return to place of purchase or to Essaar Inc. contacting via email or phone or mailing address mentioned above for arrangements of return.
Consumers who have purchased this product should not open the package or use the contents. Instead, they should return the product to the location of purchase for a full refund or call Essaar Inc. at 201-647-7606 Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, Eastern Standard Time. Essaar Inc. can also be reached via email at essaarinc@yahoo.com. Consumers should contact their physician or healthcare provider if they have experienced any problems that may be related to taking or using this drug product.
Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax.
Who wants to be trooper with the Missouri State Highway Patrol?
If that’s you, you’ve got until February 1st to get tested at one of the nine locations throughout Missouri.
The 112th recruiting class begins training in August, but there are some requirements you’ll have to meet.
January 8, 2021
EMPHASIS: Missouri State Highway Patrol Seeking Applicants For 112th Recruit Class
The Missouri State Highway Patrol, a premier law enforcement agency, is testing for new troopers. The Patrol is encouraging qualified individuals of all backgrounds to apply, and will offer testing at nine different locations in Missouri. Those who successfully complete testing will be eligible to continue in the selection process for the 112th Recruit Class, scheduled to begin training on August 2, 2021. The application deadline has been extended to February 1, 2021.
To be eligible, candidates must possess a minimum of 30 college credit hours from an accredited college/university or served in any component of the United States Armed Forces, including National Guard, for a minimum of two years, with an honorable discharge if separated, or a minimum of two years’ experience as a full-time POST-certified peace officer when recruit training begins.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol has updated its uniform guidelines to allow troopers to have tattoos or brands as long as they meet two requirements: 1) The tattoos or brands cannot depict or support criminal behavior, drug usage, nudity, profanity, promiscuity, subversive groups, bigotry, etc. 2) Tattoos/brands cannot be located on the head, neck, hands, wrists, or any part of the body which would be visible during movements in the performance of their duties while wearing an official uniform or civilian attire. Troopers with tattoos on the arms that would be visible in the class B uniform (short sleeves) will wear the class A uniform (long sleeves).
The starting annual salary for trooper is $49,536, and following three years of service, the trooper first class’ salary is increased to $52,200. Other benefits include group health insurance, contributory retirement, career advancement, and more.
The selection process is a multi-phase testing procedure including: written examination, a physical fitness for duty assessment, polygraph examination, background investigation, and oral interview board. Written and physical examinations take place in each troop area across the state. After a conditional offer of employment, the applicant must successfully complete a medical examination (to include vision and hearing), psychological examination, a psychological interview, drug screening, and final applicant review.
Interested persons can find out more about the qualifications by contacting a Patrol recruiter at telephone number 1-800-796-7000, or may apply online at www.motrooper.com.
The number of successful candidates being extended an offer of employment is contingent upon factors such as budget constraints and the number of vacant positions statewide.
MSHP IS AN EEO EMPLOYER M/F
The Mid-Mo Ambulance District has is getting a new Ambulance soon.
It follows the decision made by Morgan County Commissioners last year to use over $240,000 of Cares act funds to purchase the vehicle.
Mid-Mo officials say it’s a 2020 Ford F450 Traumahawk Ambulance that comes with the new ultraviolet sanitation system, and it’s being purchased from the American Response Vehicles company of Columbia.
The Mid-Mo ambulance district was formed in 1977 and serves Morgan and Moniteau counties, with bases in Versailles, Tipton, and California.
Lake of the Ozarks State Park Public Beach. Photo Courtesy of MO STATE PARKS
A new water quality standard is putting Lake of the Ozarks on the EPA’s list of impaired waterways.
Speaking with KB on the Morning Magazine, Jeff Robichaud with the EPA says Missouri adopted the nutrient criteria in 2018.
He also says the lake’s water condition shouldn’t affect tourism in 2021.
Robichaud says he thinks the fix for Lake of the Ozarks water quality will come at the local level.
The Truman reservoir west of the Lake Area is also on Missouri’s list of impaired waterways.
Over 1,000 political scientists across the country have signed an open letter calling for President Trump to be removed from office immediately.
That includes Political Science Professor Bryce Reeder at the University of Missouri in Columbia, as well as a professor from UM St. Louis and four others from Northwest Missouri State University.
The professors say Trump’s actions shows he was unwilling or unable to fulfill his oath to protect and defend the constitution following the peaceful protest at the nation’s Capital, that turned violent when outside instigators attacked the building and entered the hallways.
Video of the group breaking through the crowd and destroying windows showed several citizens telling them “stop this” and “this isn’t how we are!” and asking the individuals “who are you?” with some screaming “Antifia, go away!”
Additional videos showed DC Police allowing the protestors access to the stairway, encouraging people to come up.
The political scientists are requesting the President be removed using the 25th amendment or an impeachment process.
As of yesterday, Vice President Mike Pence rejected these requests by Speaker Nancy Pelosi and others.
Five of Missouri’s eight congressional Representatives joined Missouri Senator Josh Hawley in objecting to the electoral college vote.
That includes both of the Lake Area’s Representatives, Blaine Luetkemeyer and Vicky Hartzler.
Joining them was Representatives Sam Graves, Jason Smith and Ann Wagner.
Senator Josh Hawley was the only Missouri Senator to object and was one of only 6 Senators nationwide to do so.
Senator Roy Blunt and Representatives Cori Bush, Emanuel Cleaver the 2nd and Billy Long voted against the objection.
Long had originally stated that he would object.
Missouri Governor Mike Parson is releasing money for Fiscal Year 2021 that was restricted.
The Governor says close to $127-million dollars is being sent in numerous areas including $26-million dollars for the Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development.
DESE will be getting around $1.5 million dollars.
Governor Parson says close to $127 million dollars is being released as the Missouri unemployment rate was 4.4-percent in November.
Parson says when close to $450 million dollars was frozen last year as COVID-19 was ramping up, the state’s unemployment rate was just over 16-percent.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol says it now has 31 more troopers.
They’re all graduates of the Patrol’s Law Enforcement Academy and a ceremony for the 110th Recruit Class was held Wednesday.
One of the troopers will be headed to Troop F, which covers Lake of the Ozarks.
Andrew Gordon of Montgomery City will be based in Audrain County, but none of the new troopers are headed to Camden, Miller, Morgan or Benton Counties.
EMPHASIS: 31 New Troopers To Graduate From Missouri State Highway Patrol Law Enforcement Academy
Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, announces that 31 troopers will graduate from the Patrol’s Law Enforcement Academy on Wednesday, January 20, 2021. The ceremony is by invitation only due to the coronavirus guidelines; however, it will be made available to the public and the media live via the Patrol’s Facebook page Facebook.com/motrooper. A Facebook page is not required to watch the broadcast, which will go live 10 minutes prior to the graduation. The graduation ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. The 110th Recruit Class reported to the Academy on August 3, 2020, to begin the 25-week training to become a trooper. The new troopers will report to duty in their assigned troops on February 16, 2021.
Four class awards will be presented. The recruits accumulate points toward graduation in the categories of physical fitness, firearms, and academics throughout their 25 weeks at the Academy. The person with the highest number of points in each category earns the respective award. Award categories include physical fitness, firearms, academics, and the Superintendent’s Award, which is presented to the person with the most points overall.
The names (hometowns) and first assignments of members of the 110th Recruit Class are listed below:
Troop A
John P. Blinkinsop (Joplin, MO), Zone 5, Ray/Carroll Counties
Derek M. Bradshaw (St. James, MO), Zone 11, Cass County
David T. Craig (Nixa, MO), Zone 7, Jackson County
Michael A. Ebeling (Iberia, MO), Zone 12, Johnson County
Samuel L. Edwards (Springfield, MO), Zone 12, Johnson County
Hazen J. Groves (Jefferson City, MO), Zone 15, Henry County
Matthew J. Hickman (Wheaton, MO), Zone 15, Henry County
Jackson D. Hood (Springfield, MO), Zone 12, Johnson County
Tristen D. Jackson (Sedalia, MO), Zone 10, Saline County
Troop B
Cole T. Hinshaw (Shelbyville, MO), Zone 6, Clark/Scotland Counties
Nicholas C. Keller (Philadelphia, MO), Zone 4, Putnam/Sullivan Counties
Cody J. Snyder (Kirksville, MO), Zone 4, Putnam/Sullivan Counties
Troop C
Kyle G. Barba (Lakewood, CA), Zone 1, North St. Louis County
Zachariah P. Beckerman (Jackson, MO), Zone 12, Jefferson County
Thomas W. Brewer (Belle, MO), Zone 13, Jefferson County
Delandis O. Gillespie (Charleston, MO), Zone 2, North St. Louis County
Bradley T. Gregory (Jonesburg, MO), Zone 1, North St. Louis County
Cameron L. Kurtzman (Chesterfield, MO), Zone 12, Jefferson County
Eric J. McBride (St. Clair, MO), Zone 9, St. Charles County
Rudo K. Stone Jr. (Chicago, IL), Zone 2, North St. Louis County
Troop D
Zachary T. Costley (Lamar, MO), Zone 15, Stone/Taney Counties
Troop E
John M. Tomaszewski (Sikeston, MO), Zone 10, Dunklin County
Troop F
Andrew M. Gordon (Montgomery City, MO), Zone 4, Audrain County
Troop G
Landon C. Pruiett (Braggadocio, MO), Zone 6, South Howell/Oregon Counties
Zachary L. Ricker (Van Buren, MO), Zone 8, Carter/Reynolds Counties
William A. Wadlington (Oran, MO), Zone 5, Douglas/Ozark Counties
Troop H
Samuel S. Base (Coffeyville, KS), Zone 1, Atchison/Holt Counties
Benjamin L. Gregory (Jonesburg, MO), Zone 3, Harrison/Gentry Counties
Cole P. Justice (Smithville, MO), Zone 2, Nodaway/Worth Counties
Troop I
Keaton P. Hunt (Rolla, MO), Zone 1, Phelps/Maries Counties
Alex C. Philipps (Jackson, MO), Zone 4, Pulaski/Maries Counties
If you’re an H and R block customer and you’re wondering where your stimulus check is, you’re not alone.
Officials say there have been issues for those who selected the “refund transfer” option and the money is accidentally being sent to a “temporary account.”
While the company is looking into the issue, they say the money will eventually make it to your direct deposit location, be sent as a check or deposited into your emerald card.
It’s expected that the direct deposits could be completed by January 6th.
The company says you can go to their website and click on “check my payment status” to see more details.
Numerous state Capitols are expecting to see similar “Stop the Steal” rallies nationwide, including our capitol Jefferson City.
That rally is expected to start at 10AM.
According to the JC Police Department, the organizers were not given a permit and cannot march through the streets, so attendees can only march on the sidewalks.
A number of statewide politicians have indicated they will attend, including Representative Dean Dorman and State Senator Mike Moon, as well as former gubernatorial candidate Saundra McDowell.
Here are a few additional details on the protest at the State Capitol:
10:00 a.m. National anthem and opening prayer
10:30 a.m. Opening remarks from hosts; congratulations to those that are being inaugurated
11:00 a.m. Missouri 51st District Representative and author of “Insidious Changes” Dean Dohrman
11:30 a.m. Business Owner & Fabricating Specialist Mike Hudson
11:45 a.m. Farmer & Business Owner Mike Kimmell
12:00-1:30 p.m. Live Stream of Washington DC Protest Rally
1:30 p.m. Former State Rep. & New Missouri state Senator for the 29th District, Mike Moon
1:45 p.m. Missouri 107th District Representative Nick Schroer
2:30 p.m. Former Missouri governor candidate, Air Force Veteran & attorney Saundra McDowell
3:00 p.m. Closing Remarks
Photo Of Hawley Protest From Shutdown DC Twitter
Missouri Senator Josh Hawley is striking back following attacks on his Washington DC home Monday night.
In a post to Twitter, Hawley indicated that the group “Shutdown DC” went to the home and threatened his family.
Hawley says they vandalized his home and threatened his wife and newborn child while he was in Missouri.
The group “Shutdown DC” says they came with “Candles” and a “Copy of the Constitution” in order to show Hawley his decision to challenge the electoral college vote is “wrong.”
Here’s a link to a Twitter post by Congressman Ken Buck showing video of the “peaceful protest”: https://twitter.com/i/status/1346468744827006988
They’re getting set for a new legislative session in the state capitol, and COVID-19 is expected to remain a primary focus.
Some lawmakers think some local decisions made in response to the pandemic have been controversial.
Missouri Senate President Dave Shatz of Sullivan.
Other elected officials say some mayors and county commissions made necessary local decisions.
Missouri Senate Minority Leader John Rizzo of Kansas City.
The First Regular Session begins Wednesday at noon.
An investigation’s underway in Jeff City after a man was killed in a police shooting.
It all started when police were called to a commercial parking lot where they were told a man had a large knife.
Corporal Kyle Green with the Missouri Highway Patrol tells KRMS News officers felt threatened and then fired.
Green says 59-year-old James Reising of Columbia was hit and then taken to St. Mary’s Hospital where he died.
No officers were hurt and the investigation is ongoing.
***Press Release***
EMPHASIS: Officer-Involved Shooting Investigation In Jefferson City, MO
At approximately 11:46 a.m. on January 3, 2021, officers from the Jefferson City Police Department responded to the report of a disturbance involving a man with a large knife at 3535 Missouri Boulevard, in Jefferson City, Missouri. Preliminary investigation revealed when the officers contacted the suspect, he presented a knife in a threatening manner. The suspect ignored verbal commands to drop the knife. The officers, fearing for their safety, fired their weapons striking the suspect. The suspect, identified as James Reising, 59, of Columbia, Missouri, was transported by ambulance to St. Mary’s Hospital in Jefferson City, MO, where he was later pronounced deceased. No officers were injured during the incident. The investigation is ongoing by criminal investigators with the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol is giving numbers on the last week of 2020.
Four people were killed around Missouri from 6 pm December 31st through just before midnight Sunday.
Troopers responded to 458 crashes resulting in close to 100 injuries.
The ‘Patrol handed out 135 DWIs during the reporting period.
Nobody was reported killed on the road in the four-county Lake Area.
EMPHASIS: MSHP Reports Four Traffic Fatalities Over New Year’s Holiday Weekend; No Drownings Or Boating Fatalities
Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, provides the following preliminary statistics related to the New Year’s holiday weekend:
Four people died in traffic crashes during the 78-hour counting period, which began at 6 p.m. Thursday, December 31, 2020, and ended at 11:59 p.m. Sunday, January 3, 2021.
2021 New Year’s Holiday Traffic Statistics
Troopers investigated the following:
Traffic Crashes — 458
Traffic Crash Injuries — 97
Traffic Crash Fatalities — 4
DWI — 135
[Note: Last year during the 30-hour New Year’s counting period, there were 323 traffic crashes statewide. In those crashes, one person was killed and another 140 were injured. During the 2020 New Year’s holiday, troopers arrested 58 people for driving while impaired.]
There were no boating crashes or drownings over the 2021 New Year’s holiday counting period.
Two traffic fatalities occurred in the Troop D, Springfield, area; one traffic fatality occurred in each of the Troop H, St. Joseph, and Troop I, Rolla, areas.
One person died in a traffic crash during the counting period on December 31, 2020.
Barbara J. Pitcock, 81, of Carthage, MO, died when the vehicle in which she was a passenger traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a traffic control support post. After the impact, the vehicle rotated, overturned, and came to rest in the roadway. The crash occurred in Jasper County on Missouri Highway 171 at Interstate 49 in Carthage, MO. Deputy Coroner Richard Rector pronounced Pitcock dead at the scene. Pitcock was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. The driver of the vehicle sustained serious injuries in the crash; he was wearing a seat belt.
Two people died in traffic crashes on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2021.
Scott L. Ford, 48, of Kansas City, MO, died after the vehicle he was driving traveled southbound onto northbound Interstate 35 from the exit ramp at the 40-mile marker and struck another vehicle head-on. Both vehicles then came to rest in the middle of the northbound lanes of I-35. The crash occurred in Clinton County south of Lathrop, MO. Clinton County Coroner Lee Hanks pronounced Ford dead at the scene. Ford was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. The driver of the vehicle Ford’s vehicle struck was wearing a seat belt; she did not sustain any injuries. Three juvenile passengers in the second vehicle sustained serious injuries; all of them were wearing seat belts. Clinton County Sheriff’s Department and Clay County Sheriff’s Department assisted at the scene.
Jerod R. Gerster, 21, of Nevada, MO, died when the vehicle he was driving failed to negotiate a right-hand curve, ran off the left side of the roadway, and struck a tree. The crash occurred in Vernon County at Marmaduke Park in Nevada. He was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. EMT Dawn Best pronounced Gerster dead at the scene. A passenger in Gerster’s vehicle sustained serious injuries; he was not wearing a seat belt.
One person died in a traffic crash on January 2, 2021.
Danny E. Evans, 50, of Cuba, MO, died after losing control of the vehicle he was driving on an ice-covered bridge. The vehicle then traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned. The crash occurred in Crawford County on Interstate 44 at the 213-mile marker. Evans was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash; he was ejected from the vehicle. Dr. Melissa Bradley pronounced Evans deceased at Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan, MO. A passenger in the vehicle sustained moderate injuries in the crash; she was wearing a seat belt.
There were no traffic fatalities reported on Sunday, January 3, 2021.
NOTE: The fatality statistics in this news release could change if late deaths occur, or if other departments report fatal traffic crashes after this news release is sent out.
Too many people die in traffic crashes each year in Missouri. The choices you make when you’re behind the wheel matter. Make good choices, so you’ll never have to say, “If I could just go back.”
Follow the Missouri State Highway Patrol on Twitter @MSHPTrooperGHQ
The COVID 19 Vaccination Program is underway across the Lake area and the Show Me State.
Now the state is preparing for the next round of vaccines, after all of the front-line healthcare workers finish getting their shots.
The next round of vaccinations is expected to include seniors and essential workers.
The CDC says that would be people 75 years and older and essential workers such as first responders, including police, firefighters and teachers.
After that, the CDC has recommended those 65 to 74 and those with underlying health conditions.
Health care providers are expected to use online patient portals to connect with patients and coordinate the vaccinations.
The secure portal gives a person, 24 our access to the health information online.
Pharmacies such as Walgreens and CVS say that they’re expecting the vaccine to be available this spring for most citizens, and it’s expected you could make an appointment at the pharmacy to get the vaccination.
Officials with Lake Regional say most of their staff have been vaccinated.
Administrators with the four area county health departments are also still providing the vaccinations for those in the 1-A category, but you must make an appoint to get the vaccine.
Photo Courtesy Of COMO Electric.
Power outages continue to be an issue into the weekend across Lake of the Ozarks.
While the number of outages is significantly lower than on Friday, an estimated 200 to 400 people are still without power in the region.
Part of the issue continues to be ice on branches and lines, where a simple wind gust causes a branch to fall and collapse a line.
You can check on the status of your power outage by clicking the links below:
Power outages for Electric Cooperatives across the state: COOP Outage Map
Power Outages for Ameren Customers: Ameren Outage Map
Flags in Laclede County and across the state are at half-mast today, in honor of a Lebanon Officer who died due to complications with COVID 19.
Officer Kendle Blackburn contracted the virus while actively serving as a cop.
He died on December 28th.
His body is being laid to rest at Mt. Rose Memorial Park this weekend.
For those wishing to line the funeral procession route for Officer Kendle Blackburn, please be in place before noon, Saturday as roads are expected to close at noon.
The procession will begin at Shadel’s Colonial Chapel, proceed from Lynn to Hwy. YY; Hwy. YY to Clark Street; Clark to Washington; Washington to Jefferson and then to Mount Rose Memorial Park.
Available locations for parking and participating include Esther Elementary, the Laclede County Sheriffs Office and Lifepoint Church.
Please wear a mask and practice social distancing.
Exit 129 on Interstate 44 will close from noon to 1 p.m.
Governor Parson Orders Flags to Half-Staff in in Honor of Lebanon Police Officer Kendle G. Blackburn
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) –Today, Governor Mike Parson ordered U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff at government buildings in Laclede County on Saturday, January 2, 2021, in honor of Lebanon Police Department Officer Kendle G. Blackburn.
On December 28, Officer Blackburn died as a result of COVID-19 that he contracted in November while serving in his capacity as a law enforcement officer.
“My years in law enforcement taught me that those who wear the badge are often called to the profession because of their desire to protect others and improve their communities,” Governor Mike Parson said. “Officer Kendle Blackburn was that kind of police officer. Known as the friendliest police officer in Lebanon, he was one who loved people. May his legacy serve as a model for other officers, and may we all be inspired by the support the community has shown for Officer Blackburn’s family and fellow officers during this difficult time.”
The flags will be held at half-staff on the day Officer Blackburn is laid to rest. To view the proclamation, click here.
The Chairman of the Missouri Veterans Commission is stepping down, following an investigative report criticizing the commission for its COVID 19 response.
Chairman Tim Noonan told the Post-Dispatch on Thursday, he was leaving because of comments made from Governor Mike Parson this week.
The report showed more than 140 COVID 19 deaths were reported in the state’s 7 nursing homes.
State Auditor Nicole Galloway
Counties that make up Lake of the Ozarks are likely owed money by the state of Missouri.
That’s the findings of State Auditor Nicole Galloway.
In a new audit of the County Reimbursement program, Galloway found that as of June 30th 2020, the state still owes nearly $31 million dollars to counties statewide.
She says a combination of delayed reimbursements due to lack of state funding, and increasing incarceration costs, have led to the counties state wide having to rely on local resources only.
State law indicates these costs are supposed to be reimbursed by the state.
Photo by Jamie Waynick on Unsplash
Winter weather is now in the Lake Area, and stopping while driving could be more difficult.
Corporal Kyle Green with the Missouri Highway Patrol says it might take longer to get where you’re going.
Green says four-wheel drive cars might do a good job moving forward in icy conditions, but they have no advantage when it comes to stopping faster, and both of those factors come down to having tires with decent tread.
Green’s urging you to check weather conditions before driving, while also making sure there’s a blanket, emergency supplies and plenty of water in your car, in case it stops running.
Missourians know to expect colder temperatures, snow, rain, ice, or a mix of these during the winter months. Already, there has been several days with colder temperatures and snow in some areas of the state. The weather forecast indicates snow, snow showers, and even freezing rain are likely this week. Each of these conditions affect traffic patterns and can make driving hazardous. Lower overnight temperatures may cause wet roadways to freeze and become slick.
Motorists should check road conditions before driving to help determine if the trip can be completed safely. Consulting Missouri’s Road Condition Report (1-888-275-6636) or MoDOT’s Road Condition Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/ will provide the most current road condition information available.
Troopers with the Missouri State Highway Patrol urge everyone to pay attention to weather conditions and make smart decisions regarding travel. If conditions dictate, avoid driving on Missouri’s roadways. If you must travel, make sure your vehicle is completely clean from snow and ice, use your headlights to increase visibility, and reduce your speed when the roadway appears wet or snow is present. Remember: Missouri law states if you’re using your windshield wipers, your headlights must be turned on.
During inclement weather, driving the speed limit is often too fast and not “exercising the highest degree of care.” Missouri law (Section 304.012 RSMo) states the responsibility of exercising the highest degree of care while driving rests on the driver’s shoulders. Please adjust your speed to the weather. Do not use cruise control and increase your following distance. It is next to impossible to stop quickly on snow-covered or slick roads. Allow extra driving time for you to reach your destination at a slow, safe speed.
If you choose to travel in inclement weather, keep your fuel tank at least half full. Having an ice scraper, battery booster cables, blankets, extra coats, gloves, water, non-perishable food, first aid kit, flashlight, small shovel, and a bag of sand or cat litter in your trunk can help in an emergency. It only takes one traffic crash to close a roadway for several hours. Being prepared is critical.
Before you travel, make sure your cell phone is fully charged and keep it with you. Do not use your cell phone when you are driving; park your vehicle well off the roadway or in a parking lot before placing a call. The Missouri State Highway Patrol emergency number is 1-800-525-5555 (or *55 on a cellular phone). These numbers ring at the nearest troop headquarters. We’re here to help.
If you are involved in a crash or slide off the roadway, stay inside your vehicle with your seat belt on. During inclement weather, multiple vehicles often crash or slide off the roadway at the same location. If you are walking around your vehicle, the chances of being injured or killed is much greater. The safest course of action is to contact law enforcement by cell phone and remain inside your vehicle. When remaining in your vehicle, place it in park and turn off the engine. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a possibility if the exhaust system was damaged or is blocked by snow or debris after a traffic crash or slide off. There are also health concerns in cold weather conditions: Understand the signs of hypothermia and frostbite and how to prevent them. Create a plan to handle the possibility of becoming stranded. If there are no injuries in the crash, the vehicles should be moved off the roadway to a safer location while waiting for law enforcement to arrive.
Winter weather affects driving conditions and traffic patterns. Please remember to buckle up, pay attention, be courteous, and obey all traffic laws. When weather conditions make driving hazardous, drive only when absolutely necessary.
Too many people die in traffic crashes each year in Missouri. The choices you make when you’re behind the wheel matter. Make good choices, so you’ll never have to say, “If I could just go back …”
Follow the Missouri State Highway Patrol on Twitter @MSHPTrooperGHQ
Several Congressional members from the Ozarks will be objecting to the Electoral College results in the race for the Presidency on January 6th.
Congress will be certifying the Presidential Election results when the new session begins.
The members opposing the results including Representative Billy Long, Representative Jason Smith and Representative Vicky Hartzler.
Additionally, Representative Sam Graves from northern Missouri will also join the group.
Their announcement came as part of a letter posted to Jason Smith’s website.
There has been no word from Lake Area Representative Blaine Luetkemeyer on if he will join in the call or not.
Senator Josh Hawley mentioned earlier this week that he would also be objecting the results in the Senate.
Snap benefits are being extended into the new year.
Missouri has received approval from the USDA to provide maximum benefits for the month of January.
Households that qualify for a SNAP or Food Stamp benefits automatically get the maximum SNAP benefit amount for their household’s size.
The Family Support Division (FSD) reminds Missourians that SNAP recertification interviews are now suspended through June 2021.
That means for recertifications, SNAP households only have to submit the completed recertification form and any requested documents to continue receiving benefits.
A Private funeral will be held soon for Jessica Mast, the four-year-old child who was killed in Benton County in December.
According to a report by the Benton County Enterprise, her parents 29-year-old Mary Mast and 28-year-old James Mast, will not be allowed to attend the funeral.
The parents are still being held without bond in the Benton County Jail, facing numerous felony charges in the case.
They have since plead not guilty to the charges.
Benton Sheriff’s deputies report the child was severely beaten, submerged into a pond and left to freeze on the banks by the neighbors, 35-year-old Ethan Mast and 21-year-old Kourtney Aumen.
They are also facing numerous felony charges and are being held without bond.
In addition to her parents, she is survived by her brothers, Nathaniel Mast and Justin Mast; paternal grandparents, Ervin and Lorene Mast; maternal grandparents, George and Marian Leid; uncles, aunts and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her brother, Nathan Mast.
Jessica was a sweet and beautiful child who loved to sing Jesus Loves Me and recite Psalm 23. She enjoyed storytime and reading to her brothers. Jessica was known for her friendly and outgoing personality. Her aspiration was to be like her mother.
Jessica will be greatly missed, but we look forward to being reunited in heaven.
A private family service will be held and they ask that their privacy be respected at this time. They wish to thank the community for your support and prayers during this difficult time.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.
With the ice on the roadways, officials are warning against dangerous driving conditions.
In order to keep you safe, MoDOT is remind everyone about their app.
Adam Pulley is Communications Manager with MoDOT.
He tells KRMS News the best idea is to avoid traveling unless necessary.
You can find the MoDOT app in your device by searching MoDOT Map.
Keep informed of rapidly changing forecasts and prepare to respond accordingly. To check road conditions please go to MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map at traveler.modot.org/map/ The map can also be downloaded as a free app for Apple and Android devices.
Here are some safety tips if you must travel in inclement weather:
MoDOT also provides road condition information through its Customer Service Center. Dial 888-ASK-MODOT (888-275-6636) to speak with a customer service representative 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
The National Weather Service has now issued a Winter Storm Warning for the entire Lake Area.
Officials say we can expect heavy mixed precipitation with snow accumulations up to an inch and ice accumulations of a quarter to four tenths of an inch.
The warning starts at 9PM this evening and last until 3PM on Friday.
The Weather Service warns there could be disruptions in area roadways and possible power outages.
URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE National Weather Service Springfield MO 145 PM CST Thu Dec 31 2020 KSZ073-MOZ055>058-066>071-010345- /O.UPG.KSGF.WW.Y.0016.210101T0200Z-210101T1800Z/ /O.NEW.KSGF.WS.W.0003.210101T0300Z-210101T2100Z/ Bourbon-Benton-Morgan-Miller-Maries-Vernon-St. Clair-Hickory- Camden-Pulaski-Phelps- Including the cities of Fort Scott, Pawnee Station, Warsaw, Whitakerville, Cole Camp, Crockerville, Mora, Edmonson, Lincoln, Versailles, Rocky Mount, Stover, Laurie, Aurora Springs, Eldon, Lake Ozark, Vichy, Nevada, Tiffin, Appleton City, Johnson City, Weaubleau, Hermitage, Pittsburg, Quincy, Wheatland, Cross Timbers, Osage Beach, Camdenton, Decaturville, Roach, Village of Four Seasons, Fort Leonard Wood, Laquey, Waynesville, Northwye, and Rolla 145 PM CST Thu Dec 31 2020 ...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 9 PM THIS EVENING TO 3 PM CST FRIDAY... * WHAT...Heavy mixed precipitation expected. Total snow accumulations of up to one inch and ice accumulations of a quarter to four tenths of an inch. * WHERE...Portions of southeast Kansas and central, east central and west central Missouri. * WHEN...From 9 PM this evening to 3 PM CST Friday. * IMPACTS...Some power outages and tree damage are possible due to the ice and strong winds. Travel may become very difficult. The hazardous conditions could impact holiday travel. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency and make sure you begin your travel with a full tank of gas. ALSO
URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE National Weather Service Springfield MO 145 PM CST Thu Dec 31 2020 KSZ097-MOZ077>081-089-091-092-010345- /O.NEW.KSGF.WS.W.0003.210101T0300Z-210101T2100Z/ Crawford-Barton-Cedar-Polk-Dallas-Laclede-Dade-Webster-Wright- Including the cities of Chicopee, Lone Oak, Pittsburg, Kenoma, Lamar, Cedar Springs, El Dorado Springs, Filley, Arnica, Caplinger Mills, Stockton, Bolivar, Buffalo, Charity, Foose, March, Plad, Windyville, Olive, Lynchburg, Lebanon, Greenfield, Lockwood, Meinert, Marshfield, Northview, Seymour, Rogersville, Dawson, Graff, Mountain Grove, Duncan, and Mansfield 145 PM CST Thu Dec 31 2020 ...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 9 PM THIS EVENING TO 3 PM CST FRIDAY... * WHAT...Heavy mixed precipitation expected. Total snow accumulations of up to one inch and ice accumulations of a quarter to four tenths of an inch. * WHERE...Portions of southeast Kansas and southwest Missouri. * WHEN...From 9 PM this evening to 3 PM CST Friday. * IMPACTS...Some power outages and tree damage are possible due to the ice and strong winds. Travel may become very difficult. The hazardous conditions could impact holiday travel. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency and make sure you begin your travel with a full tank of gas.
Flags in Laclede County will soon be flying at half staff.
Governor Mike Parson is recognizing the loss of Lebanon police officer Kendle Blackburn, who died because of complications related to COVID-19.
Officer Blackburn contracted the virus while actively serving as a cop.
He died on December 28th.
Missouri and American flags will fly at half-staff on Saturday, which is the day Blackburn will be laid to rest at Mt. Rose Memorial Park.
Two services for Blackburn will be held at Shadel’s Colonial Chapel Thursday and Friday from 12PM to 5PM.
Governor Parson Orders Flags to Half-Staff in in Honor of Lebanon Police Officer Kendle G. Blackburn
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) –Today, Governor Mike Parson ordered U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff at government buildings in Laclede County on Saturday, January 2, 2021, in honor of Lebanon Police Department Officer Kendle G. Blackburn.
On December 28, Officer Blackburn died as a result of COVID-19 that he contracted in November while serving in his capacity as a law enforcement officer.
“My years in law enforcement taught me that those who wear the badge are often called to the profession because of their desire to protect others and improve their communities,” Governor Mike Parson said. “Officer Kendle Blackburn was that kind of police officer. Known as the friendliest police officer in Lebanon, he was one who loved people. May his legacy serve as a model for other officers, and may we all be inspired by the support the community has shown for Officer Blackburn’s family and fellow officers during this difficult time.”
The flags will be held at half-staff on the day Officer Blackburn is laid to rest. To view the proclamation, click here.
Missouri Governor Mike Parson will give his annual State of the State address on Wednesday, January 27th.
The presentation will begin at 3 pm in the Missouri House Chamber at the State Capitol.
Governor Parson to Deliver 2021 State of the State Address
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Governor Mike Parson will deliver the 2021 State of the State Address on Wednesday, January 27, 2021.
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
Governor Parson to deliver 2021 State of the State Address
When: 3:00 p.m.
Where: Missouri House Chamber
State Capitol
One Senator from Missouri plans to object on January 6th when Congress counts the votes from the Electoral College.
The 2020 Presidential Election remains contested with numerous lawsuits having been filed.
Hawley spoke at a hearing in the Nation’s Capitol this week.
He says he can’t vote to certify an election in which some states broke their own election rules and processes.
Later in the day Wal-Mart tweeted out a comment saying “Go ahead, Get your 2 Hour Debate, hashtag sore loser.”
The company has since deleted the tweet and posted to their cooperate account apologizing, saying it was an “accident.”
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory that goes into effect at 8PM for the entire Lake Region.
Officials are anticipating a wintry mix with accumulating ice through New Year’s Eve night.
If the storm continues on its track, it’s estimated we could see a dusting to an inch of snow and ice accumulations of a glaze to two tenths of an inch.
URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE National Weather Service Springfield MO 227 AM CST Thu Dec 31 2020 ...Winter Weather Advisory Posted... .A storm system will continue to approach extreme southeast Kansas and the Missouri Ozarks tonight and into Friday morning. Freezing rain accumulations mixed with light snow will be possible across west central and central Missouri. KSZ073-MOZ055-056-066-067-311630- /O.UPG.KSGF.WS.A.0003.210101T0300Z-210101T1800Z/ /O.NEW.KSGF.WW.Y.0016.210101T0200Z-210101T1800Z/ Bourbon-Benton-Morgan-Vernon-St. Clair- Including the cities of Fort Scott, Pawnee Station, Warsaw, Whitakerville, Cole Camp, Crockerville, Mora, Edmonson, Lincoln, Versailles, Rocky Mount, Stover, Laurie, Nevada, Tiffin, Appleton City, and Johnson City 227 AM CST Thu Dec 31 2020 ...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 8 PM THIS EVENING TO NOON CST FRIDAY... * WHAT...Mixed precipitation expected. Total snow accumulations ranging from a dusting up to one inch. Flat ice accumulations are expected to range from a glaze to two tenths of an inch. * WHERE...In Kansas, Bourbon County. In Missouri, Benton, Morgan, Vernon and St. Clair Counties. * WHEN...From 8 PM this evening to noon CST Friday. * IMPACTS...A few roads could become slick. The hazardous conditions could impact the Friday morning commute. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Slow down and use caution while traveling. ALSO
URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE National Weather Service Springfield MO 227 AM CST Thu Dec 31 2020 ...Winter Weather Advisory Posted... .A storm system will continue to approach extreme southeast Kansas and the Missouri Ozarks tonight and into Friday morning. Freezing rain accumulations mixed with light snow will be possible across west central and central Missouri. MOZ057-058-068>071-083-311630- /O.NEW.KSGF.WW.Y.0016.210101T0200Z-210101T1800Z/ Miller-Maries-Hickory-Camden-Pulaski-Phelps-Dent- Including the cities of Aurora Springs, Eldon, Lake Ozark, Vichy, Weaubleau, Hermitage, Pittsburg, Quincy, Wheatland, Cross Timbers, Osage Beach, Camdenton, Decaturville, Roach, Village of Four Seasons, Fort Leonard Wood, Laquey, Waynesville, Northwye, Rolla, Lake Spring, Bangert, Darien, Gladden, Howes, Jadwin, and Salem 227 AM CST Thu Dec 31 2020 ...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 8 PM THIS EVENING TO NOON CST FRIDAY... * WHAT...Mixed precipitation expected. Total snow accumulations ranging from a dusting up to one inch. Flat ice accumulations are expected to range from a glaze to two tenths of an inch. * WHERE...Portions of central, east central and south central Missouri. * WHEN...From 8 PM this evening to noon CST Friday. * IMPACTS...A few roads could become slick. The hazardous conditions could impact the Friday morning commute. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Slow down and use caution while traveling.
Another major company is making the move to Lake of the Ozarks.
Officials say that Guess and Company will be relocating their headquarters from Miami Florida to Osage Beach.
The company specializes in energy, health care, technology and real estate.
Officials say the business first opened in North Carolina and their main goal is the “revitalization of Rural America.”
Guess and Company plans to re-align the core states they service to include Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska and North Carolina.
Guess & Co. Corporation – New Principal Office in Osage Beach, MO
Osage Beach, MO – The City of Osage Beach is excited to share the announcement made on December 17, 2020, that Guess & Co. Corporation, a privately-held corporation delivering product and services in energy, health care, technology, and real estate, has moved its principal office to Osage Beach, Missouri. On Dec. 18, 2020
(GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Guess & Co. Corporation announced “that it has moved its principal office from Miami, Florida to Osage Beach, Missouri as of December 14, 2020. Guess & Co. Corporation was incorporated in North Carolina in 2015 and began operations in August of 2017. In 2018, the company chose to be based in Miami, Florida. In conjunction with the company’s commitment to revitalizing Rural America, the company chose to move its headquarters to the Midwestern United States.
The company secured office space in Osage Beach, Missouri and plans to begin hiring in the first quarter of 2021. “We are bullish on Rural America and while we will provide solutions throughout the nation, our focus is on revitalizing rural communities,” stated Jerry D. Guess, chairman and CEO.” “As part of the move, Guess & Co. Corporation also re-aligned the core states of operation.
The company is now operating in only four (4) states: Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, North Carolina. The company has dedicated 60% of its business and plans to revitalize communities throughout Rural America. The Covid-19 pandemic has spurred interest in rural areas as many families move away from cities.
Guess & Co. Corporation began exploring rural revitalization in 2018 and accelerated those plans amid the pandemic and is taking steps to implement its strategies in a prompt manner.”
“About Guess & Co. Corporation – Guess & Co. Corporation is an emerging stewardship solutions company with energy, health care, technology, and real estate units committed to revitalizing Rural America and select urban areas. We partner with communities, companies and governments to improve the welfare of people. Guess & Co. Corporation is a registered contractor with the U.S. Government to provide solutions to federal government agencies and members of our company have active top-secret/SCI clearances.
We are based in Osage Beach, Missouri. Our company operates in Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, and North Carolina. Guess & Co. Corporation was founded in August of 2017. The management team of Guess & Co. Corporation has over 50 years of combined experience.”
Missouri Governor Mike Parson will hold a press conference on Wednesday at 1:15 at the State Capitol.
He’s expected to address distribution of the COVID-19 vaccination, health care system capacity and other topics.
The press briefing will be live-streamed on Governor Parson’s Facebook page.
We’ll also be following the discussion here on KRMS.
Governor Parson to Hold Missouri Update Briefing
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – This week, Governor Mike Parson will conduct various official meetings with Cabinet members and senior staff at the State Capitol.
Governor Parson will also hold one briefing on Wednesday, December 30 at 1:15 p.m. to provide an update on current events in Missouri, including COVID-19 vaccine distribution and health care system capacity. The briefing will be live-streamed on Governor Parson‘s Facebook Page.
Restrictions are returning in the battle over COVID 19 at Fort Leonard Wood.
Officials say they’ve reinstated the Public Health Emergency Declaration and it will remain in effect for 90 days, unless renewed or terminated.
Fort Wood commander, Brigadier General James Bonner, has also signed General Order Number Five.
While it has no mileage restrictions, service members are no longer allowed to visit any business that does not have a mask mandate, regardless if they provide an essential service or not.
That includes all off-post barbers, salons, spas, gyms, and tattoo parlors.
At this time, all bars and clubs remain off-limits for service members.
Those who live in on-post residences also cannot have more than six visitors within their residence.
FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. (Dec. 28, 2020) — Public Health Emergency Declaration on Fort Leonard Wood Reinstated
The Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood commanding general has reinstated the Public Health Emergency Declaration. It will remain in effect for 90 days, unless it is renewed or terminated before then.
The decision to reinstate the PHE does not change Fort Leonard Wood’s current health protection condition or preventive mitigation measures being taken.
Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood leaders continue to place the health and safety of our Soldiers, civilians and their families as our highest priority. We continue to take prudent precautionary measures to protect the health of the force and maintain operational readiness. We will continue to assess, evaluate and adapt necessary preventive measures to ensure the safety of our trainees, Soldiers, family members and civilian personnel.
FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. (Dec. 28, 2020) — As leaders here continually assess COVID-19 protection and mitigation measures, the Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood commanding general has updated guidance and policies regarding the installation’s COVID-19 control measures.
Effective Dec. 28, General Order No. 4 – dated Oct. 26, 2020 – is rescinded and replaced with General Order No. 5, dated Dec. 28 and signed by Brig. Gen. James Bonner, MSCoE and Fort Leonard Wood commanding general.
Major updates and changes under General Order No. 5, which applies to all military personnel on or off post as well as government civilian personnel while performing duties on post, include:
To help prepare for the return of Soldiers from holiday block leave, the following measures will be in effect starting Jan. 2.
In addition:
All service members, civilian employees and family members should continue to follow the three Ws: wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, wear masks and watch your distance.
Hourly workers will be getting a bit more money in the new year.
The Missouri Department of Labor says the state’s minimum wage rate for 2021 will go up to $10.30 per hour.
It’s a result of Proposition B, passed by voters in 2018, which provides an 85-cent per hour increase through 2023.
The law does not apply to public employers.
The four-county Lake Area reports no deaths on the highway during the holiday reporting period.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol says there were no boating crashes or drownings over the same period.
But troopers report five people were killed around the state from 6 pm Christmas Eve through 11:59 pm Sunday night.
Over that time frame, there were 175 crashes, 55 injuries as a result of those crashes and 62 DWI’s reported around Missouri.
EMPHASIS: MSHP Reports Five Traffic Fatalities Over Christmas Holiday Weekend; No Drownings Or Boating Fatalities
Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, provides the following preliminary statistics related to the Christmas holiday weekend:
Five people died in traffic crashes during the 78-hour counting period, which began at 6 p.m. Thursday, December 24, 2020, and ended at 11:59 p.m. Sunday, December 27, 2020.
2020 Christmas Holiday Traffic Statistics
Troopers investigated the following:
Traffic Crashes —175
Traffic Crash Injuries — 55
Traffic Crash Fatalities — 5
DWI — 62
[Note: Last year during the 30-hour Christmas counting period, there were 278 traffic crashes statewide. In those crashes, three people were killed and another 111 were injured. During the 2019 Christmas holiday, troopers arrested 20 people for driving while impaired.]
There were no boating crashes or drownings over the 2020 Christmas holiday counting period.
Two traffic fatalities occurred in the Troop A, Lee’s Summit, area; one traffic fatality occurred in each of the Troop C, Weldon Spring, Troop F, Jefferson City, and Troop G, Willow Springs, areas.
One person died in a traffic crash during the counting period on December 24, 2020.
A 14-year-old juvenile from Ava, MO, died when the driver of the vehicle in which she was a passenger lost control of the vehicle. The vehicle then skidded off the roadway and struck a tree. The crash occurred in Douglas County on Missouri Highway 181 north of Dora, MO. Mr. Shawn Garrison, Howell County Ambulance, pronounced the juvenile dead at the scene. The juvenile was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. The driver was not wearing a seat belt and sustained moderate injuries.
Three people died in traffic crashes on Christmas Day, December 25, 2020.
Alexander G. Thirstrup, 30, of Lee’s Summit, MO, and Domonic M. Robinson, 27, of Independence, MO, died in a multiple vehicle traffic crash. Thirstrup’s vehicle was traveling southbound in the northbound lanes of Interstate 470 near the 13.4-mile marker in Jackson County. Thirstrup’s vehicle struck a second vehicle before striking Robinson’s vehicle (vehicle three). Thirstrup’s vehicle then traveled off the roadway and struck the median cable barrier. The second vehicle struck a fourth vehicle. Both vehicles then stopped. Robinson’s vehicle slid to a stop in the roadway. Debris from the traffic crash struck a fifth vehicle, which stopped at the scene of the crash. It is unknown whether Thirstrup was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. Robinson was not wearing a seat belt when the crash occurred. One passenger in Robinson’s vehicle sustained serious injuries; three juvenile passengers sustained minor injuries. All the passengers in Robinson’s vehicle were wearing seat belts or in a child restraint system at the time of the crash. The driver of the second vehicle was wearing a seat belt; she sustained minor injuries in the crash. The drivers of the fourth and fifth vehicle were each wearing their seat belt and were not injured in the crash. Jackson County Medical Examiner Christina Hawkins pronounced Thirstrup and Robinson dead at the scene of the crash.
Christopher B. Dauphin, 32, of St. Peters, MO, died in a multiple vehicle traffic crash. Dauphin’s vehicle was traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes of Missouri Highway 364 in St. Louis County west of Missouri Highway 141 when his vehicle struck a second vehicle head-on. Dauphin’s vehicle then struck a third vehicle before being struck by a fourth vehicle. Dauphin was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. A Monarch Fire District representative pronounced Dauphin dead at the scene of the crash. The drivers of the two vehicles Dauphin’s vehicle struck sustained moderate injuries; both were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash. The driver of the fourth vehicle was not injured; she was wearing a seat belt.
There were no traffic fatalities on Saturday, December 26, 2020.
One person died in a traffic crash on Sunday, December 27, 2020.
Kelly M. Sullivan, 56, of Kansas City, MO, died when the vehicle she was driving traveled off the roadway and she overcorrected. The vehicle then traveled off the other side of the roadway and struck a rock bluff before overturning. The crash occurred in Cole County on U.S. Highway 50 west of Lisletown Road. Sullivan was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash and was ejected. Cole County Coroner Dr. Carl Doerhoff pronounced Sullivan dead at the scene.
Too many people die in traffic crashes each year in Missouri. The choices you make when you’re behind the wheel matter. Make good choices, so you’ll never have to say, “If I could just go back.”
Follow the Missouri State Highway Patrol on Twitter @MSHPTrooperGHQ
Heads up Home Depot Shoppers.
The company says there’s a major recall involving a ceiling fan that’s sold in stores and online.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, blades on the Hampton Bay 54-inch Mara Indoor/Outdoor fans can come detached and will fly off, posing a serious safety hazard.
Officials say nearly 182,000 of these fans were sold between April and October this year, in numerous colors.
So far, they’ve had 47 reports of blade detachments, with two people being struck by the blades.
Those with affected fans can call King of Fans toll-free at 866-443-1291 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET (Monday through Friday) or they can e-mail at MaraRecall@kingoffans.com, or they can go online at www.kingoffans.com/MaraRecall.htm and click on “Mara Recall” for more information.
This recall involves Hampton Bay 54-inch Mara Indoor/Outdoor ceiling fans in the following finishes: Matte white, matte black, black and polished nickel. The fans came with a white color changing integrated LED light and a remote control. The following UPC numbers for the recalled ceiling fans are printed on a silver rating label located on the top of the fan housing assembly:
|
Ceiling Fan Finish |
UPC # |
|
Matte White |
082392519186 |
|
Matte Black |
082392519193 |
|
Black |
082392599195 |
|
Polished Nickel |
082392599188 |
Consumers should immediately stop using the ceiling fans and inspect the ceiling fans using the instructions at www.kingoffans.com/MaraRecall.htm or by visiting the QR code listed in the recall press release. If consumers observe blade movement or uneven gaps between the blades and fan body or movement of the clip during inspection, consumers should immediately contact King of Fans for a free replacement ceiling fan.
The firm has received 47 reports of the blade detaching from the fan, including two reports of the fan blade hitting a consumer and four reports of the blade causing property damage.
Home Depot stores nationwide and online at homedepot.com from April 2020 through October 2020 for about $150.
Home Depot Product Authority, of Atlanta, Ga.
King of Fans, of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.
A candlelight vigil was held Monday night in honor of four-year-old Jessica Mast, who was killed in Benton County earlier this month.
It follows a “not guilty” plea entered by her parents, 29-year-old Mary Mast and 28-year-old James Mast, just days after being arrested in Morgan County.
They join their neighbors, 35-year-old Ethan Mast and 21-year-old Kourtney Aumen, all facing numerous felony charges in the murder.
Officials say they’re currently awaiting autopsy results for additional charges.
Speaking with our news partner KY 3 TV, Benton Sheriff Eric Knox says they will do all the can to prosecute this act to the fullest extent of the law.
At the vigil on Tuesday, Pastor Merle Yoder from Gospel Light Fellowship in Lincoln said the town is hurting.
Yoder says the church does not condone the actions of the neighbors nor the family, and that this cannot be allowed to happen again.
The Mast’s 2-year-old boy and an infant are currently being held in protective custody.
A big change is coming to the Missouri WIC program on January 1st.
Officials with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services says they will be changing the brand of standard infant formulas from Enfamil to Similac.
WIC federal regulations require all state agencies to enter into a competitive cost-containment contract for the purchase of infant formula.
The infant formula rebate maximizes the program’s ability to provide nutrition services and supplemental food benefits to all WIC participants.
Photo by Vicky McLain on Unsplash
A 15-person commission will be formed to help commemorate historic Route 66.
President Trump signed a bill into law that’ll create the group that’ll recommend activities to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the highway decommissioned in 1985.
The U.S. House of Representatives had passed The Route 66 Centennial Commission Act nearly four months after the legislation was approved by the Senate.
Route 66 was commissioned in 1926 to be the first all-paved highway that connected Chicago to Los Angeles.
Route 66 passed through eight states, including Missouri, and is still driveable through portions of the KRMS listening area in Phelps, Pulaski, Laclede and Dallas Counties.
The first major winter system is moving into the Lake area this week.
Weather officials believe we could start seeing a snow, rain and wintry mix on Tuesday and it’s expected to last until Thursday.
There could be some snow accumulation as well.
As the storm approaches, MODOT is getting ready by applying a beat juice mix to the roadways.
Speaking with KB on the Ozarks This Morning, Central Engineer Bob Lynch says they’re mostly ready for the storm, with just a few salt and sand mix deliveries left to go.
Lynch says the biggest issue continues to be staffing and they’re still hiring if you want to join before the storm hits.
You can learn more about the jobs at http://modot.org.
If you find yourself in Jeff City over Christmas, you’ll notice the Missouri State Capitol Dome is dressed up for the holidays.
Governor mike Parson has ordered the dome to be lit up with red and green lights starting Christmas Eve through New Year’s Day.
The dome will shine the colors from sunset to sunrise each night.
Governor Parson Orders Capitol Dome Lighted Red & Green Over Holidays
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Governor Mike Parson has ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome to shine red and green beginning Thursday, December 24, 2020, through Friday, January 1, 2021. The dome will light up red and green at sunset on Christmas Eve and remain lit until sunrise each day through New Year’s Day.
“Teresa and I want to wish everyone peace, health, and happiness in this season,” Governor Parson said. “Despite this year’s many challenges, there is still much to be thankful for. From our family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.”
A bill pre-filed by State Representative Suzie Pollock, who represents part of the Lake community, will impact vaccine requirements for school children.
Pollock says the legislation removes requirements that force parents to have their child vaccinated, in order to attend school.
The provisions would be in place of all school-age children at all Lake area schools and colleges.
Another bill pre-filed by Pollock also aims to help identify any child deaths related to the vaccine, by requiring the county medical examiner, physician or coroner to refer all cases related to the vaccine within 36 hours.
The bill also requires they indicate their vaccinations at the time of death.
Nestlé is recalling over 92,000 pounds of Lean Cuisine’s baked chicken meals nationwide, because there could be plastic contamination inside.
The frozen dinners contain white meat chicken with stuffing, red skin mashed potatoes and gravy.
The U.S. Agriculture Department’s Food Safety and Inspection Service says bits of a broken conveyor belt may be in the potatoes.
The meals were produced and packaged on September 2nd and have an expiration date of October 2021.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19, 2020 – Nestlé Prepared Foods, a Springville, Utah establishment, is recalling approximately 92,206 pounds of LEAN CUISINE Baked Chicken meal products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically pieces of white hard plastic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The baked chicken meal products were produced and packaged on September 2, 2020. The following product is subject to recall: [View Label (PDF only)]
8 5/8-oz. (244g) carton trays of “LEAN CUISINE Baked Chicken, white meat chicken with stuffing, red skin mashed potatoes and gravy” with a lot code of 0246595911 and “Best Before” date of October 2021.
The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. P-9018” on the side of the case near the lot number. These items were shipped to retailers and distributors nationwide.
The problem was discovered on December 18, 2020, by the firm, after receiving five consumer complaints involving hard white plastic found in the product. The firm believes the mashed potatoes used in the production of the baked chicken meals products had pieces of a plastic conveyor belt that broke during production.
FSIS has received no reports of injury or illness from consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a healthcare provider.
FSIS is concerned that some product may be frozen and in consumers’ freezers. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.
FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. When available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on the FSIS website at www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls.
Consumers with questions about the recall can contact Nestlé Prepared Foods, at (800) 993-8625. Members of the media with questions about the recall can contact Corporate Communications, Dana Stambaugh, at dana.stambaugh@us.nestle.com or (571) 457-3803.
Consumers with food safety questions can call the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) or live chat via Ask USDA from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Consumers can also browse food safety messages at Ask USDA or send a question via email to MPHotline@usda.gov. For consumers that need to report a problem with a meat, poultry, or egg product, the online Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System can be accessed 24 hours a day at https://foodcomplaint.fsis.usda.gov/eCCF/
Over 6,000 students returning to Mizzou, and who live in University Owned or Leased Housing, will be required to be tested for COVID 19.
Officials say the test must come from within five days of the start of classes.
They say the test must also be a PCR or rapid test, as antibody tests will not be accepted.
Free testing will be held during the first week of the spring semester.
The next round of stimulus money headed to the Lake Area and around Missouri includes money for key health and education programs.
Senator Roy Blunt says the response to the COVID-19 pandemic is one of the primary focuses of the stimulus money, including over 19-billion dollars for COVID vaccine development and production.
There’s over 8.7 billion allocated for vaccine distribution.
Beyond the pandemic, over 4 billion dollars is set aside for substance abuse and mental health, 10 billion dollars for child care and 82-billion dollars to support students, teachers, school s and families.
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (Mo.), Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies (Labor/HHS), today announced that the COVID relief package includes several investments in key health and education programs. The agreement is the product of bipartisan, bicameral negotiations and is expected to be considered by the House and Senate shortly.
“This year has been one of the most difficult years for our nation in a generation,” said Blunt. “As I have said many times in the past several months, I believe it is critical to pass a bill with additional resources for COVID-19-related programs. It is unfortunate that our Democrat colleagues spent months standing in the way of a relief package, but I’m glad we have reached a bipartisan agreement that reflects our most urgent COVID-response priorities. This bill provides funding to continue the development, production, purchase, and distribution of vaccines; funding to reopen schools and child care facilities and keep them safe; and resources targeted to those whose mental health and substance use disorders have been exacerbated by the pandemic. This package deserves the support of the full Senate and I look forward to quickly getting it to the president’s desk.”
Following Are Some of the Key Health and Education Priorities Included in the Latest Round of COVID-19 Relief:
o Elementary and Secondary Education: $54.3 billion to help elementary and secondary schools safely re-open or remain open, and help begin to address the effects this school year has had on student learning, including $2.75 billion in dedicated funding for private schools and their students;
o Higher Education: $22.7 billion to support both students and institutions of higher education to address additional needs and costs related to COVID-19;
o Governors Fund: $4.1 billion in flexible funding for states to address the educational needs of students, from early childhood through college and career.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol has a new assistant superintendent.
Colonel Eric Olson is announcing Major Lance MacGlaughlin is being promoted to lieutenant colonel on New Year’s Day.
MacGlaughlin will also serve as the assistant superintendent under Olson, who serves as superintendent.
MacGlaughlin joined the Patrol in 1995 and was promoted to his current rank of Major in 2017.
He graduated from Marshall High School in Missouri and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in sociology at Missouri Valley College.
EMPHASIS: Colonel Eric T. Olson Announces Promotion Of Major Lance M. MacLaughlin
Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, announces Major Lance M. MacLaughlin is being promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel effective January 1, 2021, and will serve as the assistant superintendent. In addition to acting in the superintendent’s absence and at his request, Lieutenant Colonel MacLaughlin has direct oversight over the Professional Standards Division, Public Information and Education Division, and the Patrol’s legal counsel.
MacLaughlin joined the Patrol on July 1, 1995, as a member of the 70th Recruit Class. Upon graduating from the Patrol’s Law Enforcement Academy, he was assigned to Troop A, Zone 1, Platte County. He transferred to Zone 10, Saline County, in May 1997. MacLaughlin was promoted to corporal on August 1, 2001, and was designated assistant zone supervisor of Zone 10. On November 16, 2003, he was promoted to sergeant and designated zone supervisor of Zone 16, Benton County. On January 1, 2006, he transferred to the Training Division, General Headquarters, Jefferson City, as an instructor. In August of that same year, he transferred to the Professional Standards Division. MacLaughlin was promoted to lieutenant on July 1, 2007. He was designated assistant director of the Professional Standards Division on June 1, 2011. He was promoted to captain and designated director of the Budget and Procurement Division on September 1, 2012. MacLaughlin was promoted to the rank of major and designated commander of the Executive Services Bureau on September 1, 2017. As a major, he served as a member of the Patrol’s Command Staff with direct oversight responsibility for the Budget and Procurement Division, Governor’s Security Division, Research and Development Division, and legislative liaison.
Lieutenant Colonel MacLaughlin was born in Fort Benning, GA. He graduated from Marshall High School, Marshall, MO, in 1988. He earned a Bachelor of Science in sociology from Missouri Valley College, Marshall, MO, in 1991. In 2000, he earned his Master of Science in criminal justice administration from the University of Central Missouri (then Central Missouri State University). Lt. Col. MacLaughlin and his wife, Teri, have four sons, Bradley, Ian, Conner, and Cooper.
Missouri Governor Mike Parson is giving pardons to 24 people who he says have changed their ways from previous behaviors.
The authority to give those pardons exists in the Missouri Constitution and the papers have been filed and sent to the people.
The names of those being pardoned are not being released right now, but they will be later on.
Governor Parson is also commuting the sentences of three prior drug offenders to house arrest.
Parson says his legal team will continue to examine clemency files and keep working to reduce the backlog of applications, which sits right now at almost 37-hundred.
Governor Parson Grants 24 Pardons, Commutes Four Sentences
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Today, Governor Mike Parson granted pardons to 24 individuals who have demonstrated a changed lifestyle and desire to move on from past behaviors.
“If we are to be a society that believes in forgiveness and second chances, then it is the next chapter in these individuals lives that will matter most,” Governor Parson said. “We are encouraged and hopeful that these individuals will take full advantage of this opportunity.”
These are the first pardons granted by Governor Parson pursuant the authority granted him by the Missouri Constitution, Article IV, Section 7. Official pardon documents have been filed with the appropriate government agencies and are being sent to the individuals.
In addition to these pardons, Governor Parson has decided to commute three prior drug offenders to house arrest. These offenders were made parole ineligible by a statute that was subsequently repealed by the Missouri General Assembly. Missouri Supreme Court case law holds that the repeal of the statute did not legally apply retroactively to these offenders.
“These offenders would not be subject to a legal bar for parole eligibility if sentenced today due to the repeal of the prior statute by the General Assembly. They have all been active participants in programming, completed numerous restorative justice hours, and demonstrated good behavior while incarcerated,” Governor Parson said.
After a home plan is approved by the Parole Board, the three offenders will serve the remainder of their prison terms under supervised house arrest. The Missouri Department of Corrections has notified the offenders receiving this commutation. Governor Parson has also decided to commute the sentence of a female drug offender.
Governor Parson has instructed his legal team to continue reviewing clemency files and intends to keep working to reduce the backlog inherited by his administration. At last report, there were 3,695 pending clemency applications.
“This is the time of year for forgiveness. There must be serious consequences for criminal behavior, but when individuals demonstrate a changed lifestyle and a commitment to abandoning the ways of their past, they should be able to redeem themselves in the eyes of the law,” Governor Parson concluded.
In the interest of privacy, the Governor’s Office will not immediately release the names of the individuals granted clemency or commutations, so that appropriate communications can be made to families, however the information will subsequently be made available.
Lake of the Ozarks State Park Public Beach. Photo Courtesy of MO STATE PARKS
The Lake Area might be entering another dispute with the Federal Government.
This time the EPA’s taking a look at the water quality of Lake of the Ozarks.
Speaking with KB on the Morning Magazine, Presiding Commissioner Greg Hasty says there’s a disconnect.
Hasty says the Camden County Commission was notified of the EPA action by the Lake Area Chamber of Commerce.
He also says a 60-day comment period about Lake of the Ozarks water quality is already happening.
A Kansas City Man is pleading guilty to his role in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamines in Camden County.
35-year-old Stephen Sanchez pleaded guilty before a Federal Court according to the US Department of Justice.
Court records show Sanchez was arrested at a Camdenton hotel on October 31st of 2017, after an officer responded to a report of a man tampering with a car in the parking lot.
Sanchez was found on the ground with a bag of marijuana and over $8,000 in cash.
Police eventually discovered over 158 grams of Meth and a cellphone in a bag in Sanchez’s hotel room.
Under terms of the Plea agreement, Sanchez could face up to 10 years in federal prison without parole and he must forfeit the money seized.
Photo by Vicky McLain on Unsplash
A bill to commemorate the centennial anniversary of historic Route 66 is on its way to President Trump’s desk.
If signed by law, the bill would create a 15-person commission to recommend activities to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the mother road in 2026.
The commission would include residents from each of the 8 states the road runs through, including Missouri.
Route 66 was the first all-paved US highway built in 1926 and it connected Chicago to Los Angeles.
The highway which is still in use as a spur road along Interstate 44, was decommissioned in 1985.
Governor Mike Parson is reiterating that he will not dictate how Missouri Families can spend Christmas together.
Parson says as far as the number of people allowed in a home during the holiday, quote “Government has no business goin’ through the front door of your homes to decide how many members of your family are there, and are not. That choice is yours, as is your freedom.”
Parson says like the mask mandate, he will rely on the people to make smart choices and do what needs to be done.
***From the Governor:
Government has no business going through the front door of your homes to decide how many members of your family are there, how many are not.
Ultimately, we each must take responsibility for our actions.
◦ Social distance
◦ Wear a mask
◦ Wash your hands
I again want to thank Missourians for their efforts over Thanksgiving. I know this Thanksgiving looked very different for my family and for many of us, but we can see from our data that those actions are making a difference.
We are now well past the two week mark since Thanksgiving, and we are thankful that Missouri did not experience a surge in cases following the holiday. While we are still experiencing a high volume of cases, our numbers have been stabilizing. This is thanks to YOUR efforts and behavior changes — let’s continue these actions at Christmas.
Read our Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services’ recommendations for keeping our holiday celebrations as safe as possible: http://health.mo.gov/…/novel…/holiday-celebrations.php
One local boat dealer’s finding a way around boat shows that are cancelled due to the pandemic.
It’s called a virtual boat show.
Jeremy Anderson, GM at Big Thunder Marine in Lake of the Ozarks.
He says the technology is similar to what Google maps and some real estate professionals use to show off houses virtually and with a 360-degree perspective.
Anderson says the virtual strategy is something Big Thunder Marine will keep using and he expects other industries to do the same thing, possibly after the pandemic is over.
PR_Virtual Boat Show _121620
A well-known member of the Highway Patrols’ Water Division at Lake of the Ozarks is being honored.
Corporal Stacey Mosher was given the Boating Safety Award for outstanding performance in search and rescue efforts, education and enforcement of boating laws and regulations.
Mosher started her career at the Lake in 1994 and served here until 2020, before being assigned to the Governor’s security division.
Officials say Mosher set an example for other officers, by removing intoxicated boaters from the Lake and enforcing hazardous boating violations.
She also coordinated local charity events, including the annual shoreline cleanup and the Water Safety Council.
EMPHASIS: National Association Of State Boating Law Administrators Honors MSHP Cpl. Stacey L. Mosher With National Boating Safety Award
Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, is proud to congratulate Corporal Stacey L. Mosher as the recipient of this year’s National Association of State Boating Law Administrators’ Boating Safety Award. This award is presented annually to a state or local individual involved in boating safety who has demonstrated outstanding performance in any area of the program, such as enforcement, education, search and rescue, navigational aids, or registration and titling. Cpl. Mosher accepted the award December 16, 2020 during a virtual ceremony with NASBLA representative Colonel Darren Rider of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.
Currently assigned to the Patrol’s Governor’s Security Division, Cpl. Mosher started her career assigned to the Lake of the Ozarks. Serving in that capacity from 1994 until 2020, Cpl. Mosher set a positive example enforcing the boating laws of Missouri and became a valuable marine training officer for numerous marine troopers. She removed intoxicated boaters from Missouri waters and aggressively enforced hazardous boating violations. While assigned to the water, Cpl. Mosher was active with local charities, the Water Safety Council, peer support teams, volunteer organizations, and engaged with local citizens and businesses. She coordinated Ameren Missouri’s shoreline clean-up teams with troopers, Ameren employees, and local citizens for numerous years. Cpl. Mosher fostered excellent working relationships with private businesses, residents, fire departments, county and city police departments, marine troopers, federal agencies, other state agencies, and road troopers assigned to Lake of the Ozarks. She also coordinated, “End of the peak boating season” gatherings at local establishments to network and better foster relationships while assigned to Lake of the Ozarks.
“We are proud of and want to congratulate Cpl. Mosher on receiving this award,” said Colonel Eric T. Olson. “We appreciate NASBLA recognizing her outstanding performance, commitment, and dedication to making the Lake of the Ozarks a wonderful place to visit and enjoy our great state.”
A photo of Cpl. Stacey Mosher holding her award, a model Chris Craft triple cockpit boat sitting atop a plaque, is posted with this news release on the Patrol’s website.
Follow the Missouri State Highway Patrol on Twitter @MSHPTrooperGHQ
Missouri Governor Mike Parson’s announcing 100 of Missouri’s poorest bridges have now been replaced or renovated.
The ‘Focus on Bridges’ program started in July of 2019 and it got its funding through a 50-million dollar appropriation by the Missouri General Assembly.
On Friday the 100th bridge worked on opened in Livingston County in northwest Missouri.
Missouri Reaches Major Infrastructure Milestone, Completes 100th Bridge in Focus on Bridges Program
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – In just over one year, 100 of Missouri’s poorest bridges have been replaced or rehabilitated through Governor Mike Parson’s “Focus on Bridges” program.
Today, the program’s 100th bridge opened in Livingston County on Route 190 over the Thompson River. This is the 21st bridge completed in the Missouri Department of Transportation’s (MoDOT) Northwest District. The program’s first bridge opened on December 20, 2019, in Iron County in MoDOT’s Southeast District where 23 bridges have now been completed.
“It’s hard to believe it’s been a year since we launched the Focus on Bridges program. This was a major priority for our administration, and we are proud of MoDOT for continuing to move these critical projects forward during one of the most challenging times for our state,” Governor Parson said. “This is an exciting milestone for infrastructure in Missouri, and we look forward to the next 100 bridges.”
The Focus on Bridges program was launched by a $50 million appropriation from general revenue by the Missouri General Assembly in July 2019. Additionally, MoDOT received an $81.2 million INFRA Grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation, triggering another $301 million in bonding revenue for the program that was also approved by the legislature during the 2019 legislative session. In all, the program will repair or replace 250 of the state’s poorest bridges.
“In just over a year, bridge projects have been completed in every region of the state,” MoDOT Assistant Chief Engineer Eric Schroeter said. “Contracts have been awarded so far to 27 Missouri contractors who are performing the work. To date, we have paid $91 million on Focus on Bridges projects.”
The Route 190 project completed today replaced the deck on the bridge that was built in 1964 in order to provide a smoother driving surface. The project also brought the guardrail and bridge barriers up to current standards. Comanche Construction of Kansas City was the contractor. Work began in March 2020 with staged construction so that half of the bridge was replaced at a time to leave one lane open to traffic. The bridge carries more than 1,100 vehicles per day.
As 2020 draws to a close, work continues on 17 bridges with many more slated to be built in 2021.
If you’re still on the hunt for a job, you’ll want to mark this date on your calendar.
On December 22nd, the Missouri Office of Workforce Development will host a virtual job fair.
They are specifically seeking job candidates to fill entry-level clinical and non-clinical positions throughout Missouri, in partnership with over 300 medical groups and the Missouri Hospital Association.
Some of the positions open include food prep, janitorial work and housekeeping, patient care technicians, clerical support as well as medical and nurse assistants.
The fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m and you can register below:
Fair to focus on filling clinical and non-clinical entry-level positions
On Tuesday, Dec. 22, the Missouri Office of Workforce Development (OWD) will host its last Return Strong Virtual Job Fair of the year. This fair is specifically seeking job candidates to fill entry-level clinical and non-clinical positions throughout Missouri, and is being held in partnership with the Missouri Hospital Association.
A total of 300 health care employers are participating in next week’s fair.
“The demand for workers at health care facilities across the state is huge,” said Mardy Leathers, director of workforce development. “It’s clear that employers are ready to hire – we just need more job seekers to fill these positions. We hope by getting the word out, we can connect candidates to these valuable career options.”
Job seekers statewide will be able to search job listings, meet with hiring companies in the health care sector, receive tips for resume writing and job interviews, and learn more about Missouri Job Center services and training opportunities.
Many of the jobs being featured in the Dec. 22 fair do not require prior experience or training. Openings for the following jobs (and many more), will be listed at this event:
“Hospitals are hiring,” said Jill Williams, MHA Vice President of Workforce Initiatives. “A virtual job fair is a safe and effective way to reach workers during COVID-19 and to ensure hospitals have the workforce needed to deliver and support care — now and in the future.”
Job seekers can register for the fair at returnstrongmo.
Registration for employers to participate closed Wednesday, Dec. 16.
The Return Strong Virtual Job Fairs are part of the state’s efforts to help Missourians skill up and get back to work following the economic downturn caused by layoffs from the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more about Return Strong at https://jobs.mo.gov/return-
Ameren Missouri customers will soon see a slight decrease in their electric bills.
The Missouri Public Service Commission is approving the company’s request to adjust the renewable energy standard rate, lowering it by $0.27 cents a month.
For a residential customer using 1,000 kWh (kilowatt-hours) of electricity a month, the charge will drop from $0.44 a month to $0.17 a month.
The charge appears as a separate item on the monthly electric bills and it’s used to recover costs associated with Missouri’s Renewable Energy Standard.
The adjustment is expected to take effect in February 2021.
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Photo by Campaign Creators on Unsplash
The Missouri job market showed improvement in the month November.
New numbers show 17,400 jobs were added during the month for an unemployment rate of 4.4-percent, and that’s down from 4.6-percent in October.
But due to continued layoffs from COVID-19, the November 2020 unemployment rate still falls one percentage point higher than the unemployment rate posted in November of 2019.
MoDOT continues work on that new interchange on Highway 54 in Lake Ozark.
That means reduced speed zones will stay in effect.
Adam Pulley with MoDOT says work continues on the new eastbound lane deck with concrete pouring scheduled next week.
Otherwise, Pulley says the traffic impact should remain the same through the holidays.
He also says additional road work is coming to Highway 54 between Lake Ozark and Eldon in 2021.
The work will be done on several intersections for safety reasons and input from people living in the area and travelers is welcomed at 888-ASK-MoDOT.
This stretch of Highway 54 averages 20-thousand cars and trucks per day is should cost around 6-million dollars.
The work should be finished by Summer 2022.
For Immediate Release
12/16/2020
Some major changes are in the works for several intersections between Lake Ozark and Eldon along Highway 54 as part of a safety improvement project announced by MoDOT.
MoDOT is inviting nearby residents and travelers to share their thoughts. For more information and updates about this project 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.
It’s for safety
The Missouri Department of Transportation says safety improvements will be made to several intersections between the Cole County line and Lake Ozark. Traffic along this stretch of roadway averages around 20,000 vehicles per day. Intersections receiving updates were identified as safety risks through a road safety audit and in-depth analysis of the corridor. MoDOT also held several meetings with a local advisory group made up of local leaders to discuss residents’ concerns and possible solutions.
Changes at each location could include the installation of J-turns which eliminate the need for drivers to cross lanes of traffic at right angles, as well as new or extended turning, acceleration and deceleration lanes.
Work will require individual lane closures and some intersection closures in order for construction to be completed safely. MoDOT will alert travelers and local residents of any closures ahead of time.
The project will be completed by a contractor for MoDOT and is scheduled to be awarded in the spring of 2021. Work is expected to begin in the summer and be completed the following year.
Motorists and area residents can find more details, ask questions or provide feedback on this project by visiting modot.org/Miller54Intersections. The online public comment period is open through Dec. 24.
Project Details
When: The project is scheduled to begin in 2021. Construction is expected to be completed by Summer, 2022.
Cost: The estimated cost is $6.2 million.
Work Taking Place: A variety of safety improvements will be made at several Hioghway 54 intersections. For full details click on each location on the project map or click here for project diagrams of each location. Primary locations are identified by blue markers. Secondary work, pending available funding based on the awarded bid for the project, are marked in green. Diagrams of proposed work are available upon request using the form below.
Traffic Impact: At least one lane will be open in each direction of Highway 54 and connecting roadways. The project will require various lane and crossover closures while work takes place. MoDOT will update drivers and local residents of any closures ahead of time through digital signs, social media and news releases.
Project descriptions
Lakeland Road Intersection
– Removal of paved median crossing
– New right-turn lane onto Lakeland Road
– New westbound acceleration lane onto Highway 54
Highway V Intersection
– New eastbound acceleration lane onto Highway 54
Walnut Grove Road Intersection
– New westbound right turn deceleration lane onto Walnut Grove Road
Howser Road Intersection
– New westbound J-turn west of Howser Road with acceleration and deceleration lanes
– New westbound acceleration/deceleration lane between Allen Road and Howser Road
Allen Road/Bear Lake Road Intersection
– Construction of eastbound J-turn with acceleration and deceleration lanes
– New eastbound right-turn deceleration lane onto Allen Road
– New westbound right-turn deceleration lane onto Allen Road/Bear Lake Road
– New westbound acceleration/deceleration lane between Allen Road and Houser Road
Copperhead Road Intersection
– Widened, tapered approach onto Copperhead Road
County Road 54-60/Tolwood Road Intersection (Secondary Work)
– New westbound right-turn deceleration lane onto County Road 54-60
– Median crossing widened for eastbound left-turn deceleration lane onto County Road 54-60
County Road 54-60, Tolwood Road Intersection
– Construction of eastbound deceleration lane onto Tolwood Road
– Addition of westbound deceleration lane to the median onto Tolwood Road
Mt. Carmel Road, Jamie Lane and Midway Road Intersection
– Removal of paved median
– Construction of J-turns with acceleration and deceleration lanes
– Construction of westbound deceleration lanes onto Jamie Lane
– Construction of eastbound deceleration lane onto Midway Road
There’s a new Chief Operating Officer coming to two resorts in the Lake Area, as Christian Blood reports …
Parent company Troon is appointing Robin Graf as the new COO and General Manager at The Lodge of Four Seasons and The Club at Porto Cima in Lake of the Ozarks.
Graf has 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry and comes to the lake after serving in a similar role with Provident Hotels and Resorts.
The Lodge of the Four Seasons has an 18-hole golf course on 350 waterfront acres.
The Club at Porto Cima opened in 2000 and has one of Missouri’s top golf courses, according to Golf Digest.
***Press Release****
Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri (December 14, 2020) – The Lodge of Four Seasons and The Club at Porto Cima in Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri recently appointed Robin Graf to serve as Chief Operating Officer and General Manager. Graf will oversee operations at both The Lodge of Four Seasons, a 358-room luxury resort property with 36 holes of golf, an award-winning spa and marina; as well as The Club at Porto Cima, a private facility with an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature Design, a 17,000 square-foot clubhouse and a Yacht Club.
A proven hospitality industry leader with 30-years of experience, Graf specializes in operations, building extraordinarily successful teams and revenue generation. Prior to his arrival to Lake of the Ozarks, Graf served as the Regional Director of Operations for Provident Hotels and Resorts. Before Provident, he was the Vice President of Operations Hawaii, New Zealand, Saipan for Castle Resort & Hotels. Graf spent several decades leading resort and hotel operations at properties across the Hawaiian Islands, including the Kauai Beach Resort in Kauai and Waikoloa Beach Marriott on the Island of Hawaii.
“Robin is a recognized hospitality industry leader and someone we are thrilled to have at the helm of our Lake of the Ozarks properties,” said Rob DeMore, president, Troon Privé. “His experience managing destination resorts, while enhancing service standards and operations will prove valuable at both The Lodge of Four Seasons and The Club at Porto Cima.”
Graf is a military veteran having served six years in the United States Air Force after graduating with a degree in Aviation Management from Southern Illinois University. He also holds a degree in Physical Education from California State University Northridge where he competed on the University’s cross country team.
Troon has managed The Club at Porto Cima since December 2016, and The Lodge of Four Seasons since January 2018. In addition to being the world’s largest golf management company, Troon manages a variety of high-end, luxury resorts and residence clubs around the world, including Pronghorn Resort in Bend, Oregon; The Inn at Entrada in St. George, Utah; and The Rocks in Scottsdale, Ariz.
About The Lodge of Four Seasons
The Lodge of Four Seasons was founded in 1964 by Harold Koplar, father of current owner, Susan (Koplar) Brown and is regarded a major destination resort in Missouri and the Midwest. Set on 350 peaceful waterfront acres, The Lodge offers more than 60,000 square feet of meeting space, five unique dining experiences, four swimming pools, a full service marina and the nationally recognized Spa Shiki. The Lodge’s golf offerings include The Cove, an 18-hole, par-71 Robert Trent Jones, Sr. design and The Ridge, an 18-hole, par-72 Ken Kavanaugh layout. For more information on The Lodge of Four Seasons, visit www.4seasonsresort.com.
About The Club at Porto Cima
The Club at Porto Cima originally opened for play in 2000. The Club’s Jack Nicklaus Signature Course has seven holes that play beside or over the lake and is considered one of Missouri’s top courses by Golf Digest. The Mediterranean-style golf clubhouse features a beautiful golf shop, men’s and ladies locker rooms – each with its own fitness area – meeting and banquet space, plus multiple food and beverage options in The Grille Room Restaurant, the 19th Hole Lounge, a private member dining room as well as outdoor dining overlooking the 18th hole and the Lake of the Ozarks. The Yacht Club, located adjacent to the golf clubhouse, features a 200-slip marina, a marina clubhouse, member swimming pool, tennis courts and a poolside dining option. While the surrounding Club at Porto Cima community offers single-family residential lots, custom homes and custom townhome products. For more information on The Club at Porto Cima, visit www.portocima.com or call (573) 207-8700.
About Troon
Headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Troon is the world’s largest golf management company providing services at 440-plus locations around the globe, including managing 470-plus 18-hole equivalent golf courses. In addition to golf, Troon specializes in homeowner association management, private residence clubs, estate management and associated hospitality venues. Troon’s award-winning food and beverage division operates and manages more than 490-plus food and beverage operations located at golf resorts, private clubs, daily fee golf courses and recreational facilities. With properties located in 40-plus states and 30-plus countries, Troon’s family of brands includes Troon Golf, Troon Privé, Troon International, Honours Golf, OB Sports, Green Golf Partners, CADDIEMASTER, True Club Solutions, Cliff Drysdale Tennis and RealFood Hospitality, Strategy and Design. There are currently 67 Troon-affiliated properties featuring 87 golf courses on national and international “Top 100” rankings. Troon-affiliated properties include Quintero Golf Club in Peoria, Ariz.; Hammock Beach Resort in Palm Coast, Fla; Belfair in Bluffton, South Carolina; Bahia Beach Resort & Golf Club in Puerto Rico; and Costa Navarino in Greece. For additional news and information, visit www.Troon.com, or connect with Troon on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Troon Chronicles, Press Room, or subscribe to Troon Magazine.
HyVee is stepping up once again to help area residents struggling to eat with the ongoing COVID pandemic.
The company, along with several food partners, are donating 1 Million pounds of food to area Food Banks across 8 states, including Missouri.
Trucks filled with protein, produce, dairy, nonperishable items, and monetary donations are heading out to area Food Banks today (Tuesday.)
That includes the Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri and the Ozarks Food Harvest Pantry, who cover the Lake Area.
***PRESS RELEASE***
Hy-Vee, Inc. announced today that it is partnering with dozens of national and regional food manufacturers and suppliers to help provide more than 1 million pounds of food to 17 food banks across its eight-state region for the holiday season.
Hy-Vee collaborated with many of its supplier partners to fill more than 20 truckloads with food and supplies for 17 Feeding America-affiliated food banks across the Midwest. The company received donations of protein, produce, dairy and nonperishable items, as well as monetary donations from 26 leading food manufacturers and suppliers. Hy-Vee also donated more than $250,000 in food to the effort.
The donations to the food banks are part of Hy-Vee’s goodwill initiative over the holidays in 2020, designed to combat food insecurity, especially during the pandemic. Last month, more than 260 Hy-Vee and Dollar Fresh stores donated up to 100 meal kits each to a local nonprofit partner in their community that then distributed the meals to local families in need. Each kit had all the ingredients for a Thanksgiving meal for a family of four. In all, Hy-Vee donated 80,000 meals the week of Thanksgiving.
Now, as part of its ongoing commitment to solving food insecurity, Hy-Vee wants to ensure the food banks that serve its communities are fully stocked this holiday season.
In addition to its continued support of food banks, Hy-Vee held several initiatives this past year to provide food and much needed support throughout its eight-state region. These initiatives included produce giveaways, meat distributions, fundraisers and meal giveaways that totaled more than $3 million.
WHO: Hy-Vee in partnership with Bernatello’s, Bimbo, Campbell’s, Chobani, Coca-Cola, ConAgra, Danone, Dole, Frito-Lay, General Mills, Hormel, Idahoan Potatoes, Johnsonville, Kellogg’s, Kemps, Kraft Heinz, McCormick, PepsiCo, Pro Health Potatoes, Smithfield, Smuckers, Stemilt, Suntreat, Tyson, Unilever, Utz
WHAT: Donations of food including protein, produce, dairy and nonperishables
WHEN: December 14-16, 2020
WHERE: 17 Feeding America food banks across Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wisconsin
DROP OFFS WILL OCCUR AT THE FOLLOWING DATES/TIMES AT THESE LOCATIONS:
Kansas/Missouri
###
Hy-Vee, Inc. is an employee-owned corporation operating more than 275 retail stores across eight Midwestern states with sales of $11 billion annually. The supermarket chain is synonymous with quality, variety, convenience, healthy lifestyles, culinary expertise and superior customer service. Hy-Vee ranks in the Top 10 Most Trusted Brands and has been named one of America’s Top 5 favorite grocery stores. The company’s more than 88,000 employees provide “A Helpful Smile in Every Aisle” to customers every day. For additional information, visit www.hy-vee.com.
The Missouri Department of Conservation has approved a proposal for Black Bear hunting in the show me state, and Lake of the Ozarks is included.
The state has created 3 hunting zones, with zones 1 and 2 covering the bottom half of the state and zone 3 covering the entire Lake area.
Hunting could start as early as October 2021, but it will remain limited to Missouri residents only.
The next step for the MDC is to present to the Conservation commission on initial permit and harvest quotas, if approved residents could begin applying for permits in May.
bear management zone map With most of the state’s black bears found south of the Missouri River and primarily south of Interstate 44, MDC has established three Bear Management Zones (BMZ) in southern Missouri.
From the Department of Conservation:
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Conservation Commission recently gave final approval to the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) for the state’s first black bear hunting season framework. The Commission finalized the hunting season framework and related regulations at its Dec. 11 open meeting in Jefferson City. The approved framework limits any future bear hunting to areas of southern Missouri and restricts bear hunting to Missouri residents only.
The next step to Missouri’s first bear season will be MDC presenting recommendations to the Commission in the spring of 2021 for a potential initial permit quota and harvest quota. If quotas are set, Missouri residents will be able to apply during May 2021 for an October 2021 fall hunt.
MDC proposed a limited and highly restrictive black-bear hunting season following several years of public comment, including informational open houses in 2019 and a public input process this past spring and fall.
According to MDC, over the last 50 years bear numbers in Missouri have increased significantly and today the state is home to between 540 – 840 black bears with bear range in the state expanding. MDC research shows that Missouri bear numbers are currently increasing each year by approximately 9% and at this rate Missouri’s bear population is expected to double in less than 10 years. Additionally, Missouri’s bear population is connected to a larger bear population in the surrounding states of Arkansas and Oklahoma, both of which have established bear-hunting seasons.
“A bear-hunting season in our state will provide opportunities for Missourians to participate in the sustainable harvest of this valuable wildlife species,” said MDC Furbearer Biologist Laura Conlee. “As our black bear population continues to grow, a highly regulated hunting season will be an essential part of population management in the future. The timing and length of the season, allowed hunting methods, and a limited permit allocation coupled with a limited harvest quota will ensure a sustainable harvest of our growing bear population.”
HUNTING FRAMEWORK
Missouri’s estimated 540-840 black bears are found south of the Missouri River, and primarily south of Interstate 44. With this in mind, MDC has established three Bear Management Zones (BMZ) in southern Missouri. MDC will issue a limited number of hunting permits for each of the three BMZs. Each permit will be for a specific BMZ and may be used only on public or private property within the BMZ.
The limited hunting season will be restricted to Missouri residents only and will begin each year on the third Monday in October and run for 10 days or until BMZ-specific quotas are reached, whichever comes first.
Harvest quotas for each of the three BMZs will be determined annually each spring by the Conservation Commission based on recommendations by MDC. Quotas have not yet been established for the potential 2021 season. Once the specific harvest quotas are filled for each BMZ, the season for that BMZ will be closed.
Hunters must call MDC each day before they intend to hunt to determine if the BMZ-specific quota has been reached. If harvest quotas are not reached, the season will close at the end of the 10 designated hunting days.
Hunting hours will be a half-hour before sunrise to a half-hour hour after sunset. Hunters will be allowed to use both archery and firearms equipment with allowable methods being the same as those for deer and elk, except the use of an atlatl. Baiting and the use of dogs will not be allowed.
The harvest limit will be one bear per permit. Bears may not be disturbed, pushed, harassed, or taken from a den. Only lone black bears may be taken. Hunters may not take bears that are known to be in the presence of others bears, including female black bears with cubs.
Bear hunters must wear hunter orange, make reasonable efforts to retrieve shot bears, and must not leave or abandon commonly edible portions.
All harvested bears must be telechecked by 10 p.m. on the day of harvest. Harvested bears must remain intact as a field-dressed carcass or quartered until the bear has been telechecked.
MDC will also require the submission of a tooth from each harvested bear within 10 days of harvest. This will help MDC staff with black bear research and management.
PERMIT PROCESS
If an annual harvest quota is approved, MDC will offer an online bear-hunting permit-application period May 1-31 with a fee of $10 per applicant. Individuals must be Missouri residents and will be allowed to apply to hunt in one of the three designated BMZs.
Permit selection will be determined by July 1 each summer through a random drawing of all eligible applicants. There will be no “sit-out” period for those selected to receive permits.
Those selected will then be eligible to buy a permit at a cost of $25. Selected hunters must be 11 years of age or older and have completed hunter education (or be exempt) by the time of the hunt to purchase a permit.
MDC is not issuing separate, landowner-specific black bear hunting permits, however, a minimum of 10 percent of permits will be allocated to qualifying landowners. To qualify, landowners must have at least 20 contiguous acres within the BMZ for which they are applying. Qualifying landowners must first submit their property information through MDC’s Landowner Permit Application at mdc.mo.gov/landownerpermits before completing a black bear permit application.
BEAR BACKGROUND
The black bear is one of the largest and heaviest wild mammals in Missouri with some reaching up to 500 pounds. Black bears were historically abundant throughout the forested areas of Missouri prior to European settlement but were nearly eliminated by unregulated killing in the late 1800s, as well as from habitat loss when Ozark forests were logged. However, a small number of Missouri black bears survived and reintroduction efforts in Arkansas helped to increase bear numbers in southern Missouri. Over the last 50 years, bear numbers and range in Missouri have grown. Missouri is now home to between 540 – 840 black bears with the population expected to double in less than 10 years. MDC’s 2020-2030 Black Bear Management Plan will guide bear management in Missouri for the next decade. Learn more about black bears in Missouri and MDC management efforts at mdc.mo.gov/bears.