Jefferson City

Kayla Shepperd and Emily Manley

19 hours ago

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — More than half of the state is in a drought, and the concern state agencies have, is that it’s only June. 

Gov. Mike Parson signed an executive order this week declaring a drought alert for 60 counties. This order activates the Drought Assessment Committee, overseen by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The committee is made up of federal and state agencies. The group will design a plan to help communities and the agricultural industry if this dry spell continues. 

“When we see these kinds of drought conditions in the late spring, it really causes concern about what we might see yet in the year,” Director of DNR Dru Buntin said. “Typically, this time of year is the wetter time of year.”

This executive order comes after a good portion of the state also experienced a drought last fall and into winter. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, parts of central Missouri are in an extreme drought, others in the state are seeing a severe and moderate drought. 

“When you look at the impacts that we see early on in a drought like this, it tends to affect livestock producers quite a bit,” Buntin said. “When you have ponds and you rely on that as a watering source for your animals.”

Buntin said when the committee meets next Wednesday, members will discuss resources the state can offer to the agriculture industry. 

“We’re also looking at the water supply in state parks, where we can open a lake or pond in a state park for somebody that wants to come in and pump and haul water,” Buntin said. “It really can have a significant impact on those producers.”

Last year’s drought left little to no grass in some areas for livestock and dried up ponds. Buntin said if this drought continues, expect the navigation season along the rivers to be shortened. 

“We have fairly low reservoirs, and we’re already seeing reduces and releases from those upstream reservoirs because of the drought in the upper basin,” Buntin said. 

With current dry conditions affecting many parts of the state, Buntin said at this time, Missourians don’t have to be concerned about running out of water. 

“I don’t think worried or concerned, but we need to be vigilant, we need to make sure that we’re looking at what those impacts are,” Buntin said. “We’re not at a point of alarm in terms of drinking water supply.”

After the committee meets Wednesday in Jefferson City, members will then give recommendations to the governor next Friday. Some solutions in the past have been a hay lottery program, opening public waters for livestock and easing hay hauling restrictions.

Missouri residents are encouraged to submit information about the local drought conditions online. Buntin said this can help the committee create more accurate maps, allowing members to work better with state and federal partners. 

The executive order is set to expire on Dec. 1, unless otherwise extended. 

DNR also has a variety of resources online and continues to add information on drought mitigation and assistance opportunities. 

Originally Appeared Here

Bartlow named interim associate vice president

From Pittsburg State University

Jon Bartlow, who for nearly a decade has served as the director of the Alumni and Constituent Relations Office and executive director of the Pittsburg State University Alumni Association, has been appointed as the interim associate vice president and dean of students — a new position created as part of an organizational restructuring.

Starting June 11, Bartlow will oversee nearly all aspects of campus life, and will be part of the team reporting to the new vice president for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management when that position is filled this summer.

His oversight will include Campus Activities, Greek Life, Student Government, Student Wellness Programming and Counseling, Campus Food Services, Barnes and Noble Gorilla Bookstore, University Housing, the Bicknell Family Center for the Arts, and the Overman Student Center.

Bartlow is a two-time graduate of Pitt State, having earned a bachelor’s degree in Communication in 1999 and a master’s degree in Communication in 2003. He earned a Ph.D. in higher education administration from Saint Louis University in 2019.

A search for leadership of the Alumni and Constituent Relations program soon will be underway.

Just Off Broadway

Camp is Back with

‘Mean Girls Jr.’

From the Pittsburg School District

PITTSBURG, Kan. — Pittsburg High School Theatre Director Breana Clark has brought back the Just Off Broadway Camp, previously run by McKenna Shaw, Greg Shaw, and Jason Huffman. This program serves Middle and High School students from seven different area schools and provides them an opportunity to play on the stage.

The camp, Just Off Broadway, is now under the umbrella of Triple Threat Threeatrics, a new company formed by Clark. Clark says that she created the company to bring shows to stage that haven’t previously been produced in this area, as well as provide a training program for students who are considering performing as a career. She will keep the original name, Just Off Broadway, to continue the legacy established by the Shaws and Huffman.

This summer the students are performing “Mean Girls Jr.” The show is an adaptation of the 2004 movie, with music by Jeff Richmond, lyrics by Nell Benjamin, and a book by Tina Fey. “The musical does a nice job taking the iconic elements from the movie and putting it into a creative, fun new musical suited for the entire family,” says Clark.

The Just Off Broadway Camp, Mean Girls Jr, will have performances on June 9 at 7 p.m. and June 10 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m at Pittsburg High School. Tickets for this performance are $5 with tickets available at the door 30 minutes prior to the performance.

Drought committee will meet June 7 to discuss coordinated response

From the Missouri Department of Natural Resources

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Missouri’s Drought Assessment Committee will hold its first meeting to discuss a comprehensive state and federal response to the drought that is beginning to affect parts of the state. Executive Order 23-05, which Governor Mike Parson signed Wednesday, declares a drought alert and instructs the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to convene the Drought Assessment Committee to monitor drought conditions and help guide the state’s response.

The Drought Assessment Committee will meet at 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 7, at the Lewis and Clark State Office Building, 1101 N. Riverside Drive in Jefferson City. The meeting is open to the public and will also be livestreamed via Webex at stateofmo.webex.com/stateofmo/j.php?MTID=m84e69a26 3b4db82131439e1 0d32bbcdd.

The committee is composed of representatives from state and federal partner agencies who provide information, recommendations and coordination to mitigate impacts of the drought. Executive Order 23-05 declared a drought alert for 60 Missouri counties that are in moderate, severe or extreme drought.

Updated drought information, including a link to the national drought conditions reporting survey and a U.S. Drought Monitor map of Missouri, and much more, is available at dnr.mo.gov/drought.

Iconic Joplin awards

ceremony to be

held in June

From the Post Art Library

The public is welcome to attend the Iconic Joplin Awards Ceremony, which will take place on Thursday, June 8, from 5:30-7 p.m. at 202 S. Joplin Ave. in Joplin, Missouri. Awards to be presented include People’s Choice for the public’s favorite; Technical for best authentic reproduction or technical build; Creativity for most innovative design and/or use of bricks; and Storytelling for the team that best relates history through their build.

In celebration of Joplin’s 150th Birthday, six teams of teens collaborated to build local landmarks out of Lego bricks. Iconic Joplin builds include: the Bonnie & Clyde Hideout; Crystal Cave; Grand Falls; Joplin Public Library (20th & Connecticut); Joplin Union Depot; and the Olivia Apartments. Each creative build highlights unique features of the landmarks and their histories. Teams received expert assistance and/or behind-the-scenes tours from historians, architects, engineers, and Lego gurus.

The People’s Choice award will be presented to the team that receives the most votes.

Jurists for the Technical, Creativity, and Storytelling Awards include:

• Leslie Simpson, who served as director of Joplin’s Post Art Library from 1982 to 2015 and contributed significant research about Joplin’s historic buildings through her books, articles, documentaries and presentations. She now resides in St. Louis.

• Blaine Ladymon, AIA, RID, NCARB, LEED, AP, a Dallas native who is a recognized leader in the field of Architecture & Interior Design for innovation and creativity. Building backyard forts and Lego creations as a child kick-started Ladymon’s love for architecture. Passion for the brick has led him to serve as the guest curator with the AD EX in Dallas, where he spreads the message that LEGO teaches and inspires architecture and construction.

• Manny Garcia, who teamed up with his father Lestor as Lego Master Season 1 contestants. Under the name “Son and Father BFF” the duo from Bethlehem, PA created unforgettable builds such as Alien Planet, Timmy the Monkey and Rusty Trails in Space. Garcia is the founder of Get into Building (GIB).

During the awards event, all builds will be on display for viewing. This is a free, open house style event, with remarks at 6 p.m. The presenting sponsor for the Awards Ceremony is Neal Group Construction. Refreshments provided by Post Art Library.

Iconic Joplin is a program of Landmark Builds (www.landmark-build.com). It is sponsored by engineering firm Olsson, Emery Sapp & Sons, Missouri American Water, and Paragon Architecture.

Facebook event page: https://fb.me/e/1igv7MKUl.

MSSU Fundraising Effort Featured on Newsmakers

From KGCS-TV

Missouri Southern State University is looking to the future with a five-year fundraising campaign called Lions Forward. University leaders outline seven priority projects to be funded by the $31.5 million campaign on Newsmakers this week.

University President Dr. Dean Van Galen explains how areas of need were determined and kickoff gifts for a Health Sciences Innovation Center that support a match for state funding.

Dr. Brad Hodson details other projects of the campaign which include: immersive learning, student scholarships, academic and athletic excellence, a student success center, and renovating Billingsly student center.

Campaign donor Bryan Vowels speaks on philanthropy and the importance of supporting scholarships, while MSSU students explain how those scholarship dollars impact their college experience.

The show is airing nightly at 5 and 9 p.m. the week of June 4 on KGCS-TV and will be broadcast at 5:30 a.m. Saturday, June 10, on KOAM-TV. It is also posted on the station’s YouTube channel — KGCS Missouri Southern.

KCGS programming can be seen on Channel 21 and is also available on regional cable television systems such as Sparklight, Mediacom and Suddenlink Communications. The station operates as a service of the Department of Communications at Missouri Southern State University.

MDC invites young

anglers to June 10 Kids’ Fishing Day in Carthage

From the Missouri Department of Conservation

CARTHAGE, Mo. — Young anglers will have opportunities to catch fish and learn about fishing at the 22nd annual Kids’ Fishing Day on June 10 at Kellogg Lake in Carthage. The event, which is for ages 15 and under, will be from 8 a.m. until noon. Sponsors for this event are the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), the city of Carthage, the Kellogg Lake Group, and several local businesses.

A variety of activities are planned, including educational stations, fishing stations and prize giveaways. Youth anglers who attend at least one education station will be eligible for the prize drawings. Free refreshments will also be served.

There is no preregistration for the event. All participating youth anglers need to bring their own fishing equipment to fish the 25-acre lake, which will receive a special stocking from MDC for this event. Worms will be provided.

No fishing permits will be needed but statewide regulations still apply, which means there will be a limit of four channel catfish per angler. The event will be taking place during Missouri’s Free Fishing Weekend (which is June 10-11). The lake will be open for all ages to fish at the end of this event.

Volunteers are needed for this event. If you are interested in volunteering or would like more information, please call MDC’s Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center at Joplin office at 417-629-3423.

Originally Appeared Here

Last summer, the Joliet City Council yanked off the agenda a proposal to open a marijuana dispensary at the old Baker’s Square.

Jun 2, 2023 10:59 am CDT | Updated Jun 2, 2023 11:45 am CDT

JOLIET, IL — Now that Joliet has a new mayor and two new city council members, the Joliet City Council is set to vote on Tuesday night whether to put a marijuana dispensary at the abandoned and falling apart vacant Baker’s Square restaurant building at 2211 West Jefferson St.

Joliet Patch broke the news of the plans to open a marijuana dispensary at the Baker’s Square last July 5. However, when the project went to the City Council, the city’s elected officials never took a vote on the proposal.

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Tuesday night’s meeting agenda calls for an ordinance approving a special use permit to allow an adult-use cannabis dispensing organization at 2211 W. Jefferson Street.

According to City Council memos:

Emerald Coast, on behalf of its operations partner Justice Cannabis Company, seeks a special use permit to allow a cannabis dispensary at the former Bakers Square restaurant property. Joliet’s zoning ordinance allows adult-use cannabis dispensaries in the general business district, subject to the approval of a Special Use Permit.

If this Special Use Permit is approved, the dispensary shall be operated under the name “Bloc” as will all other dispensaries operated by Justice Cannabis Company.

Justice Cannabis Company, a national cannabis company founded in Chicago, owns and operates cannabis cultivation centers and dispensaries in several states. Emerald Coast was awarded a conditional adult-use cannabis dispensing organization license by the State of Illinois in 2022.

The Joliet City Council reviewed the Special Use Permit request at its August 16, 2022, meeting; however, a decision was not rendered since the motion to approve was not seconded nor was there an accompanying motion made to deny the request. Emerald Coast has provided additional information to City staff regarding economic benefits and job creation.

The company anticipates hiring local/union trade workers and spending approximately $1.1 million in renovations to the existing building, parking lot and landscaping. Upon construction completion, the building valuation is expected to increase two-fold and expected to generate an additional $14,000 in property taxes annually, 2022 property tax is $14,880.35.

Once open for business, the company expects to generate $12 million to $20 million in gross receipts, of which Joliet will collect a municipal sales tax on 3.0 percent of the gross receipts at the store.

The company intends to employ around 20 people, with six to 12 employees onsite at any given time. Average salary within the organization is approximately $60,000 per year, with total annual payroll of approximately $1.2 million. Competitive benefits including paid vacation, 401K, and health plans.

Joliet Patch broke the news of the plans to open a marijuana dispensary at the Baker’s Square last July 5. File/John Ferak/Patch

Originally Appeared Here

Joyce M. Figg, 86, of Marshall, MO, died Thursday, May 25, 2023, at University Hospital in Columbia, MO. She was the oldest child of James Ervin Oden and Sarah Louella (Bowman) Oden, though everyone knew them as Mike and Tootie. Joyce was born near Sumner, Missouri, in the later years of the Great Depression. In the years that followed her mom had four more children. They were salt of the earth, hardworking people, and Joyce grew up helping her dad on the farm and her mom raise 4 siblings.

Joyce graduated from Hale High School in 1955, then married Donald E Figg, also of Hale. They moved to Kansas City to raise a family, but certainly never really left their family and friends around Hale. They had 3 children, James M. Figg (Mick), Dennis E. Figg, Sara J. (Figg) Gillilan. She raised them to follow their own dreams. Mick graduated from Grandview High School, served in the US Air Force for 6 years, and became a truck driver. Dennis shared her love of nature and the outdoors, studied fish and wildlife management at the University of Missouri, eventually becoming a wildlife professional with the Missouri Department of Conservation. Sara inherited her mother’s love of sports and excelled in athletics just like her Mom. This led to a career in education and coaching which Joyce followed faithfully through the years.

Joyce loved flowers, and flower gardens, and children (of all ages). Her children remember her as a school bus driver and childcare provider (babysitter in those days). In addition to raising her own children, she offered home and heart to many others through the years. During her years in Marshall she helped Tom Forqueran raise Jamie and Missy, and then Missy’s son Skyler. She gave her love freely and she meant it and there are more than a few people who consider her a second mom. She nurtured so many children it’s difficult to count them all.

Sisters Colleen Brown and Donna Sue Oden have passed away in recent years. Her brothers are retired for the most part. Mike lives near Branson. Jim and his wife Karen live in Belton. Mick passed away a year ago after a long illness. Dennis is retired from the Missouri Department of Conservation and a garden service business. He lives on a small farm near Jefferson City with his partner Mike Brock. Sara is retired from teaching and coaching at Hale High School. She and her husband Jim Gillilan live in Chillicothe. Sara and Dennis both have children and grandchildren. Joyce leaves behind 4 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren and a wonderful assortment of loved children.

Joyce had a lifelong love of gardening, particularly flower gardens. Both Dennis and Sara are known for growing flowers in abundance. In her later years the love of flowers became her last remaining passion. And loving Frank. Late in life Joyce met Frank Williams and he was her faithful loving partner till the day she died. He and his daughter Charla remain in Marshall with many close friends.

People who wish to leave something in her name are encouraged to donate to Hale R-1 School. Otherwise, the family suggests that you plant a tree, send flowers to someone you love, or give flowers to someone who might need to feel loved and not forgotten. Everyone who knew Joyce felt the warmth of her heart and you should pass it on.

Friends and family are invited to a life celebration at Sumner Community Center, Sumner, Missouri, on Saturday, June 24, 2023. There will be light food and ice tea from 1:00 till 3:00, followed by a private burial service at Lakeside Cemetery.

Friends and family may sign the online register book at www.campbell-lewis.com.

Originally Appeared Here

Grand Prix Community Partner Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Michigan to receive $10,000 Donation from Comerica Bank and Comerica Charitable Foundation

DETROIT, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Comerica Bank officially unveiled today the newly renovated Jefferson-Chene Banking Center to complement the excitement of the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear’s return to the streets of downtown Detroit and the event’s commitment to the City of Detroit.

Comerica Bank unveils newly renovated Jefferson-Chene banking center, located just blocks from the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear course in downtown Detroit. To further its commitment in Detroit, Comerica donates $10,000 to Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Michigan supporting youth empowerment and workforce development initiatives.

To further Comerica’s support of youth empowerment and workforce development initiatives and as part of the grand re-opening, Comerica Bank and the Comerica Charitable Foundation is donating $10,000 to the Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Michigan (BGCSM), one of the organizations supported by the Grand Prix’s charitable efforts.

“Our commitment to Detroit continues to grow through relationships with our customers and investments with our impactful community partners,” said Steve Davis, Comerica Bank Michigan Market President. “With the Grand Prix returning to the streets this year, we prioritized our reinvestment into the Jefferson-Chene location, which is just blocks from the course. The new design improves customer experiences and beautifies the neighborhood and surrounding business district, while also contributing to the overall growth and revitalization of downtown Detroit.”

As the Detroit Grand Prix returns to the streets of Detroit this year and strengthens its investment into the City of Detroit, Comerica has reinvested in its Jefferson-Chene location with a full exterior and interior renovation.

The renovations feature an open layout with clear sightlines to welcome customers, and multiple areas in which customers can have comfortable conversations with the banking center team. Other additions include new furniture, digital messaging displays, and updated signage and color scheme to reflect Comerica’s new brand elements.

Comerica continues to evolve its banking center model and streamline the customer experience by integrating opportunities for more consultative, advisory and educational interactions between the community and banking center team.

“Our relationship with the Grand Prix not only provides fans access to one of auto racing’s great venues and experiences, but we also want to ensure that we present unique educational opportunities to enrich the lives of local students,” continued Davis.

On May 4, BGCSM students displayed eight art murals created for the Grand Prix’s trackside. The digitally-designed murals feature themes to honor communities across Detroit, the spirit of the Motor City and the return of the Grand Prix to its original home on the downtown streets of Detroit this summer for the first time since 1991.

In March, Comerica teamed up with the Detroit Lions and United Way as part of the annual Hometown Huddle community outreach initiative that included a book drive and a number of improvement projects at the BGCSM Dick & Sandy Dauch Club in Detroit. Volunteers helped transform the Flexible Room & Mentally Fit Room with a complete makeover that included painting, assembling furniture, and organizing materials for the two rooms. Additionally, the collaboration also included compiling Self-Empowerment kits for the children.

This year marks the 10th year Comerica has supported the Grand Prix’s Free Prix Day that provides fans the opportunity to experience all the racing, activities and excitement of the Grand Prix. The return of Comerica Bank Free Prix Day, which takes place Friday, June 2, extends the tradition that began with the inaugural Grand Prix event held on the Streets of Downtown Detroit. Since that first event in 1982, each year that the Grand Prix has been hosted in Detroit has featured free access for fans on the first day of on-track action, in a tradition that has become truly unique to the Motor City.

On Comerica Bank Free Prix Day, fans will be able to watch the on-track action in grandstands 1 and 9 free of charge. Seating in these two grandstands will be general admission and available on a first-come, first-seated basis. No tickets will be required to sit in either grandstand on Free Prix Day, courtesy of Comerica Bank.

Comerica Bank Free Prix Day also impacts local students through career conversations and engagements focused on STEM as it introduced students to the world of auto racing. In April, the Grand Prix and Comerica hosted over 500 students virtually and connected them to three-time W Series Champion (women’s international racing series) and current INDY NXT by Firestone driver for Andretti Autosport Jamie Chadwick and USF Pro 2000 presented by Cooper Tires championship leader Myles Rowe of Pabst Racing who competes under the minority-led Force Indy race team. The students learned about running a race team from Force Indy team principal Rod Reid, who discussed Nexgeneracers (NXG) karting and life skills youth development program that expanded to Detroit in 2021 and continues to grow locally.

Comerica will also be hosting students on a special field trip and behind the scenes tour of the Grand Prix on Comerica Bank Free Prix Day.

Comerica’s Jefferson-Chene banking center is one of 19 locations serving Detroit – the most among all banks.

Comerica has made several investments in Detroit’s business districts and neighborhoods over that past five years. In 2018, Comerica opened its Penobscot location at the corner of Fort St. and Griswold. The following year, Comerica constructed the bank’s W. Grand Blvd banking center in Detroit’s New Center business district, a process that first began in 2017 when Comerica sold its West Grand Boulevard-Sterling property to Henry Ford Health (HFH) to help pave the way for a new cancer center (Comerica donated $100,000 to HFH). In 2020, Comerica opened Orchestra Place, located at corner of Woodward Ave. and Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. In addition to Jefferson-Chene, Comerica is currently updating Eight Mile-Huntington and Grand River-Outer Drive.

Comerica Bank, a subsidiary of Comerica Incorporated, has served Michigan longer than any other bank with a continuous presence dating back nearly 173 years to its Detroit founding in 1849. It is the largest bank employer in metro Detroit and has approximately 4,500 employees (FTE) statewide. With one of the largest banking center networks in Michigan, Comerica nurtures lifelong relationships with unwavering integrity and financial prudence. Comerica positively impacts the lives of Michigan residents by helping customers be successful, providing financial support that assists hundreds of charitable organizations, and actively participating in Detroit’s downtown revitalization. Comerica Incorporated (NYSE: CMA) is a financial services company strategically aligned by three business segments: The Commercial Bank, The Retail Bank, and Wealth Management. Follow on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Comerica, Twitter: @ComericaBank and Instagram: @comerica_bank. Download new Comerica Bank corporate logo.

SOURCE Comerica Bank

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Gov. Mike Parson is seen at his cattle farm near Bolivar, Mo., on Sept. 8, 2018. 

Post-Dispatch photo

JEFFERSON CITY — Republicans who control the levers of government in Missouri placed a big bet on the state’s cattle industry during the recently ended legislative session.

In a state where the governor, the lieutenant governor and the Senate’s chief budget writer each have cattle operations back home, at least $70 million in direct spending has been earmarked for the ranching industry in the coming fiscal year.

The overall $50 billion spending plan, which is under review by Gov. Mike Parson, includes $43 million to build a new veterinary medical diagnostic laboratory at the University of Missouri designed to benefit livestock producers and companion animal owners.

“The laboratory space is also vital in the event of a foreign animal disease outbreak in Missouri and the Midwest,” said Missouri Department of Agriculture spokeswoman Christi Miller.

Mizzou also is receiving $25 million for a so-called meat laboratory, which Miller said will process all types of livestock, not just beef.

In addition, lawmakers approved $1 million to create a national cattle registry and database for multiple breed associations.

“This national database will allow small breed associations to enhance genetics and add value to their livestock,” Miller said.

The spending on the beef industry comes as Missouri ranks among the top three states in the nation for cow and calf production and beef cows behind Texas and Oklahoma.

And given who runs the state, it’s not a surprise that there is a focus on meat.

When he’s not living in the Governor’s Mansion near the Capitol, Parson is tending to a small cattle operation on first lady Teresa Parson’s original family farm in Bolivar.

Parson, a third-generation farmer, primarily raises Angus, which is the predominant breed in Missouri. During his 2020 campaign for governor, the emcee for a number of his stops on a statewide tour was Mike Deering, executive vice president of the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association.

Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe is newer to the cattle business. After building a successful business career, Kehoe launched a beef cattle production business on the Gasconade River in Phelps County. A political action committee raising money for Kehoe’s 2024 bid for governor received a $20,000 contribution from the cattlemen’s association in March.

Meantime, Sen. Lincoln Hough, a Springfield Republican who chairs the powerful Senate Appropriation Committee, owns and operates a family cattle ranch, which he started more than 20 years ago. Hough also is a former member of the state board of the cattlemen’s association and a current board member of the Greene County Farm Bureau.

The largesse of state money going to the beef business this year isn’t an anomaly and isn’t limited solely to the state’s rural areas.

In recent years, St. Louis Lambert International Airport has used state money to build a 40,000-square-foot animal export facility, equipped with pens to house livestock, feed, water and bedding.

There also are sick pens used to separate sick livestock from healthy groups. To assist with loading, there are alleyways and two chutes set up to maneuver the livestock.

In 2021, the state put together a $36 million package of incentives and local subsidies to land a Wisconsin-based American Foods Group beef processing facility in Wright City. The complex is currently under construction near Interstate 70.

That same year, the state also laid out money to Swift Prepared Foods to open an Italian meat processing facility in Columbia.

And lawmakers this year also expanded the sources of funding for a student loan program for veterinary students.

The measure increases the number of qualified applicants who may be awarded loans under the Large Animal Veterinary Student Loan Program from six to 12 per academic year and allows the Department of Agriculture to increase the loans beyond 12 if it receives private grants or donations.

Further, the loan amount each student may receive is increased from $20,000 to $30,000 for each academic year, and from $80,000 to $120,000 in total.

The budget also calls for a continuation of a grant program for the state’s smaller meat producers, designed to boost the processing of cattle beyond the large, national companies that have slaughterhouses in the state.

Agriculture accounts for a quarter of greenhouse gas emissions worldwide every year, and the biggest single contributor within that is livestock.

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Originally Appeared Here

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — The Missouri Supreme Court recently heard arguments over whether two single mothers should have been sentenced to jail time because their children missed more days of school than the local district allowed.

The case centers on Missouri’s compulsory school attendance law, which states that a parent must ensure their child attends “on a regular basis.”

Assistant Attorney General Shaun Mackelprang, representing the state, argued that the definition of “regular basis” means attending school every day on the district’s schedule.

“Do I have to go to school every day? The answer is yes,” he told six Supreme Court judges. “You have to go to school every day that the school is in session.”

Ellen Flottman, a public defender representing Caitlyn Williams and Tamarae LaRue, argued the law is unconstitutionally vague and inconsistently applied.

“The state’s position is anti-parent. Most of the school districts are not prosecuting these parents,” Flottman said. “Schools have to work with parents; they have to have policies because they want the kids to go to school. But this is a kindergartner and a first grader. Is missing one day in November and one day in December going to hurt this kindergartner’s education that much?”

Case background

Williams and LaRue’s children attended school in the Lebanon School District. The district has a 16.1% poverty rate, according to U.S. Census Bureau data, compared to Missouri’s 12.7% poverty rate.

During the 2021-22 school year, Williams’ 6-year-old daughter missed 16 days of school before the district filed a probable-cause statement. A Laclede County Circuit Court judge sentenced Williams to seven days in jail and added a misdemeanor to her record.

Williams called her daughter out from school sick for six of the absences, but the school counts these as “verified” but not “excused” and tallies the hours and minutes of missed instructional time toward her percentage.

The district’s handbook, which parents acknowledge they have read when they register online, says parents must notify the school of absences, but it does not clarify the difference between “verified” and “excused” absences, such as those with a doctor’s note.

“My clients were not acting knowingly… They’re being misled by the school handbook and the school administrators,” Flottman said.

The handbook also says: “The state mandates that students maintain 90% or higher attendance each year in school and that continued and valuable learning cannot take place without regular attendance.”

State statute does not mandate a 90% attendance rate, though students who maintain this level of attendance contribute greater to school accreditation, Mackelprang said.

Mackelprang argued in a filing in the case that high attendance contributes toward a school’s funding.

“Daily attendance, even down to the hour, has important consequences for schools and, by extension, all of the students at a given school,” Mackelprang wrote.

LaRue’s 6-year-old son was absent 13 days, according to Flottman, and LaRue called the school with an explanation for six of those absences. The district says his attendance, based on the number of hours present, is just under 80%.

Court documents say LaRue gave the following reasons for her son’s absence: doctor appointment, fever, visiting his father in Iowa, another appointment, overslept and sick. Documents mention siblings and that the family contracted COVID-19 during the school year.

LaRue was sentenced to 15 days in jail by a different Laclede County Circuit Court judge than Williams, but the sentence was changed to two years of probation.

Arguments

Flottman’s argument was three-pronged: The parents didn’t know that they were violating the rules because the handbook didn’t state that absences without doctor’s notes are unexcused; the circuit court failed to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the children’s absences were beyond regular attendance; and the state statute is “unconstitutionally vague” by failing to define what “regular” attendance means.

Judge Mary R. Russell asked Mackelprang why Missouri lawmakers didn’t include more specificity in the attendance law.

“Why would the Legislature choose to write it this way instead of in a way that is more articulate?” she asked.

“They just have to write it in a way that is adequate,” Mackelprang said.

“So, is the Legislature leaving it up to local school districts how to enforce this word?” Russell asked, inquiring about the definition of “regular attendance.” “How to interpret this word?”

“There probably is some discretion of when they are going to go to the prosecutor with it,” Mackelprang said.

Flottman said she worried this leniency would allow schools to apply different standards to students.

“The students that take a day off to go deer hunting or their parents who take their children out of school for a week to go to Disney World are not being prosecuted for this. So there’s a difference between prosecutorial discretion and arbitrary enforcement,” she said.

Judge Robin Ransom asked if she would make the same argument if it were not a criminal case.

“I do think the criminalization of this certainly has to do with it. We’re talking about the liberty of people who are just trying to do the best they can,” Flottman said.

She said she would argue that the state should get involved to provide services to get the children to school.

Mackelprang said the statute is not “anti-parent.” He said parents are in control of young children and have options to home-school or enroll them in private school.

“Women make the decision to enroll them in a public school, like the parents did in this case,” he said. “They’re subject to the terms of this statute.”

The judges can’t base their decision on violations of the school handbook, for the state’s case is that Williams and LaRue broke state law.

Originally Appeared Here

The wait will soon be over.

Fiery, Michelin-starred celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay’s third Ramsay’s Kitchen restaurant is to open Tuesday in downtown Naperville, a city business advocacy group confirmed.

The Naperville location at 39 W. Jefferson St. joins Ramsay’s Kitchen locations in Boston and Las Vegas, both of which opened in 2022.

A television personality, British-born Ramsay is known for reality competition shows like “Next Level Chef,” “Hell’s Kitchen,” “MasterChef,” “Kitchen Nightmares” and his newest offering, “Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars,” which aims to find the next food and beverage entrepreneur.

Chef and TV personality Gordon Ramsay will open his much-anticipated third Ramsay’s Kitchen restaurant in downtown Naperville Tuesday. (Chris Pizzello/Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP)

The menu at the Jefferson Avenue locale features items typically found at other Ramsay restaurants and a few items only available in Naperville.

Snacks and starters, which range between $8 to $23, include jumbo lump crab cake, sticky chicken wings, tuna tartare, maitake mushrooms, shrimp scampi and Parker rolls.

A seasonal soup for $10 will be available along with three types of salad: a wedge or Caesar for $14 and a harvest for $13. There’s an additional cost to add chicken, shrimp or salmon.

Handheld meals served with fries include a roast beef sandwich, a Vietnamese chicken bahn mi, BLT sandwich and the RK burger, double smashed patties that pays homage to Chicago with a spicy giardiniera, caramelized onions and American cheese on a toasted brioche bun.

Sandwiches run $18 to $22.

The Naperville location will feature signature main dishes similar to those offered in Las Vegas and Boston: pan-seared scallops, beef Wellington, fish and chips and crispy skin salmon.

There also will be a spring pea tagliatelle, chicken Milanese, 24-ounce grilled bone-in rib-eye and a 6-ounce grilled filet.

Prices range from $25 for the chicken Milanese or spring pea tagliatelle upward to $88 for the rib-eye.

Gordon Ramsay’s fish and chips, made with Yorkshire Ale batter, is one of the options included on the menu at Ramsay’s Kitchen, which opens Tuesday in downtown Naperville. (Caesars Palace)

Sides, at a price point of $9 to $10, include potato purée, roasted heirloom carrots, baked mac and cheese, truffle fries, crispy Brussels sprouts and roasted broccolini.

The restaurant also will offer daily specials for dinner.

Sunday is a prime rib with roasted vegetables and Yorkshire pudding, Monday is steak frites with chimichurri and hand-cut fries, Tuesday is the fish of the day with a lemon-fennel risotto, Wednesday is steak Diane with sauteed mushrooms and a sherry mustard sauce, Thursday is lobster pot pie, Friday is shrimp and grits, and Saturday is shepherd’s pie. Prices start at $30.

Desserts, from $10 to $15, include a chocolate tart, cheesecake, sticky toffee pudding and strawberry Eton mess, a traditional English dish consisting of meringue, strawberry jam, basil and sweetened whipped cream.

The 39 W. Jefferson Ave. location for more than a century was anchored by Oswald’s Pharmacy, which moved to 88 W. Gartner Road in 2004.

Three years later, the Atlanta-based Ted’s Montana Grill founded by media mogul Ted Turner at that spot. It was a downtown staple until the COVID-19 pandemic, when it closed and remained shuttered until now.

Ramsay operates 21 restaurants in the United States, including five Hell’s Kitchen establishments named after the reality show he created.

The closest Ramsay iteration is a Gordon Ramsay Burger restaurant in Chicago at 2 E. Ontario St.

subaker@tribpub.com

Originally Appeared Here

Picking a town to spend your golden years is not a decision to be taken lightly. What are your priorities, goals, and items on the ol’ bucket list a new location can satisfy? Do you want rain and snow, or beaches?

Missouri certainly checks many of these boxes. It is centrally located in the country, so the family doesn’t have to drive too far to visit. The topography is wonderful, including numerous caves throughout the state. The weather isn’t overly harsh, with icy winters, mild summers, and lots of rain. Hospitals abound and the cost of living is amongst the best in the country. These are just a handful of reasons retirees are calling Missouri their final home.

Branson

Stone church at top of the rock in Branson, Missouri

Many people have heard of Branson but have been remiss in its exploration. This is a true shame since Branson has plenty to excite the senses and entertain the whole family. For retirees that love to host their kids and grandkids, all will delight in the multitude of show packages, museums, and festive events, many of these changing rapidly to keep the populace engaged.

Aerial view of Branson, Missouri

For those who don’t much care for the tourist aspects of Branson, retirement communities with their events and gatherings are never in short supply. It is common for a soon-to-be-retiring individual to visit one of the many senior areas in Branson and fall in love immediately with all they offer. With minimum age requirements for residents, challenging golf, and lots of activities geared toward seniors, Branson is an easy choice as an ideal retirement destination.

Pacific

Beautiful houses in Pacific, Missouri

Just a hop, skip, and a jump southwest down Interstate 44 from St. Louis, the town of Pacific is a hidden gem that is getting a lot of attention in the retirement demographic. Much of this is from the incredible communities set up just for the Baby Boomers who want access to essential care while having the freedom to explore some of Missouri’s local wonders.

The famous Route 66 cuts through the heart of Pacific and is lined with memorabilia shops and antique malls, all very popular year-round. Visit the Black Madonna shrine, take a stroll through Greensfelder Park, or, for large vehicle enthusiasts, get your kicks at the Bigfoot 4×4 Inc, the birthplace of the iconic Monster truck.

Oak Grove

Street view in Oak Grove, Missouri, via Continuing to Serve Oak Grove, Missouri – Powell CWM

Behold the beauty of Jackson County as you travel through Oak Grove. While it is technically part of the Kansas City metro area, Oak Grove is about 20 miles east of the outer KC ring, giving it a distinctive disconnect from the chaos of big-city living. With a population of less than 10,000, you might forget how close you are to all that action, allowing yourself to slow things down to a happier speed.

Retirees here tend to prefer independent living over facility life. They want to option to explore, make new memories, and find new roads toward the future without the encumbrance of nurses or chaperones. With so many outdoor parks, lakes, and low-key attractions to enjoy, it is easy to see why retirees find a home in Oak Grove.

Warrenton

Street view in Warrenton, Missouri

Let’s keep that body active and your mind sharp. What is the best way to do this? Easy. You need to keep moving and continue to learn new things. In Warrenton, both are always on the table. For learning and growing as people, might we suggest a drive through Big Joe’s Safari where the animals are close enough to touch and experienced guides can clue interested parties in on what makes each of them important to the world?

Then, it’s time to take a hike in nature at Reifsnider State Forest. Outdoor activities are never in short supply, including fishing, camping, and firearms lovers will want to do some plinking at the unmanned shooting range, which just recently returned to normal operational hours. Finish up your day at one of many local eateries, including a Cuban restaurant that is the toast of the town.

Jefferson City

Aerial view of Jefferson City, Missouri

If you always thought about retiring to a home on the waterfront, Jefferson City will give you that opportunity in a community that isn’t too small, but certainly can’t fall under the heading of a “big city”, despite its recognition as Missouri’s capital. You might think it would be a little pricy to live in such a place, but it is 9% less than the national average overall.

One of the best lake towns in Missouri, Jefferson City is home to many historical features that will inspire you, enchant you, and give you a new reason to learn about the unique legacy of Missouri on the national landscape. From the Missouri State Penitentiary to the Museum of Missouri Military History, there is no lack of inspirational destinations if you take the time to look.

Jennings

Greenery in Jennings, Missouri via Is Jennings MO a Good Place to Live? Pros & Cons (storespace.com)

Close enough to see the city but far enough to feel freedom from the grind, Jennings is technically a suburb of St. Louis, yet it has a personality that is unlike the metropolis. It is very affordable, has a retirement population of about 2300 full-time residents, and the cost of living is below the national average. When every dime counts, this is good news for retirees looking to resettle.

Shopping, dining, and outdoor activities are the big draw. There are lots of iconic spots to see and visit such as Benton Place, Calvary Cemetery, and Thies Farm and Greenhouse if you wish to stretch your legs. Need a good book? Left Bank Books has you covered. Then in the evening, take in a show at Touhill Performing Arts Center.  

Carthage

View of the main street with the Jasper County Courthouse, in the city of Carthage, in the State of Missouri

 America’s maple leaf city, Carthage is a town steeped in rich history with over 550 buildings listed on the Registry of Historic Places. Throughout the community, you can see how much the populace celebrates its heritage with museums, exhibits, and tours. From the Precious Moments Chapel to Giant Hands on Prayer, Carthage is ready to share its secrets with all who seek them.

Retirees who have a penchant for the battles of long ago should check out the Battle of Carthage Civil War museum and then the Battle of Carthage State Historic Park. Perhaps that history is too dark and you want to see something a little more whimsical. How about the World’s Smallest Electric Appliance Museum instead? Oh, don’t forget to get delicious produce at the Webb City Farmers Market.

When you know what you are looking for in a place to retire, it isn’t hard to find. Sometimes you have to compromise, take risks, and adapt, but with so many distinctive features that cater well to retirees, there are no insurmountable obstacles here. Truth be told, the transition from working life to the quiet retirement life will be easy because Missouri wants you to feel like you have finally found your home.

Originally Appeared Here

A KMBC 9 Investigation is leading to cleaner and safer highways. The owner of a Grandview trash hauler says video KMBC 9 News recently revealed caused his company to overhaul its semitrailer tarp system after KMBC documented soft debris flying from the back of two of its semis. “The attention to this not only helps Kansas City, but it may help nationally with this issue,” Raptor Recycling and Transfer Owner Kit Starr said. “We’ll have our issues solved.”But the owners of two other Kansas City waste hauling facilities, GFL and Mark II Waste Transfer, have said very little about items flying from trucks originating at those locations.Trucks originating from the Mark II transfer facility are drawing the attention of neighbors near south Kansas City.Just a few weeks ago, KMBC 9 Investigates captured video of a truck that started its trip to the Johnson County landfill from Mark II. KMBC counted at least 103 items going airborne from the back of a semitrailer.McKenzie Clark-Thomas watched the video and couldn’t believe what KMBC revealed about the debris falling directly onto the highway.“When it’s littered with trash all over, it’s not a good curb appeal,” she said.Jennifer Markham also saw KMBC’s video. She lives in the same neighborhood as Clark-Thomas.“As I drive on those highways, I see the trash,” Markham said. Two more trips KMBC documented from that same hauler originating from Mark II, Atomic Transport, also had flying debris.Clark-Thomas and Markham immediately saw a connection from KMBC’s video after not hearing directly from the owner of Mark II since last year about a landfill proposal across the street from their neighborhood.“It’s crazy to think that this is going to be our streets,” Clark-Thomas said. “I feel like all of our concerns, all of our city’s concerns fall on deaf ears.”Markham echoed that sentiment. “To think that with this landfill right next door to me, where is that trash going to go? Our yard, our lake, our community. Yeah, it’s very concerning,” Markham said.Mark II Waste Transfer is owned by Jennifer Monheiser.Monheiser has lobbied Missouri lawmakers for months to allow her to develop Kansas City’s next landfill on land she says she owns or controls in South Kansas City.It’s the same landfill Clark-Thomas, and her daughter Macie recently testified against in Jefferson City.They told senators in a recent hearing the peace and health they enjoy in their Raymore neighborhood would be gone if trucks rumbled down MO-150 Highway or other nearby streets to dump trash inside a 430-acre landfill site close to their home.“It’s terrifying to think that this landfill that they’re going to run in our backyard is going to be here,” Clark-Thomas said.Neighbors have said Monheiser has remained silent about their direct landfill questions for months.Through a spokesman, Monheiser has released a list of frequently asked questions that her team has also provided to lawmakers.However, she didn’t answer KMBC’s direct questions last month in Jefferson City after multiple attempts to set up a scheduled interview about the landfill proposal.As for that debris, KMBC documented coming from semis originating at Mark II, KMBC has emailed Monheiser or her spokesman seven times since late April seeking clarification.The spokesman only pointed to a third-party hauler, Atomic Transport.A man who answered the phone number listed on Atomic’s website said loads coming from Mark II are tarped electronically and said he would forward information to the area manager.Several follow-up calls and emails to Mark II and Atomic representatives seeking answers on what KMBC uncovered have not been returned.Meanwhile, Clark-Thomas and her neighbors, who don’t want a landfill, say they never want to see the semitrailers hauling waste near their homes.“The fact that they’re being silent, what are they hiding? That’s a concern for all of us. Are they doing what’s best for our community?” she said.If you have any tips about trash and debris along Kansas City highways, including any other tips about trips from waste transfer facilities, email investigative reporter Matt Flener at investigates@kmbc.com.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. —

A KMBC 9 Investigation is leading to cleaner and safer highways.

The owner of a Grandview trash hauler says video KMBC 9 News recently revealed caused his company to overhaul its semitrailer tarp system after KMBC documented soft debris flying from the back of two of its semis.

“The attention to this not only helps Kansas City, but it may help nationally with this issue,” Raptor Recycling and Transfer Owner Kit Starr said. “We’ll have our issues solved.”

But the owners of two other Kansas City waste hauling facilities, GFL and Mark II Waste Transfer, have said very little about items flying from trucks originating at those locations.

Trucks originating from the Mark II transfer facility are drawing the attention of neighbors near south Kansas City.

Just a few weeks ago, KMBC 9 Investigates captured video of a truck that started its trip to the Johnson County landfill from Mark II. KMBC counted at least 103 items going airborne from the back of a semitrailer.

McKenzie Clark-Thomas watched the video and couldn’t believe what KMBC revealed about the debris falling directly onto the highway.

“When it’s littered with trash all over, it’s not a good curb appeal,” she said.

Jennifer Markham also saw KMBC’s video. She lives in the same neighborhood as Clark-Thomas.

“As I drive on those highways, I see the trash,” Markham said.

Two more trips KMBC documented from that same hauler originating from Mark II, Atomic Transport, also had flying debris.

Clark-Thomas and Markham immediately saw a connection from KMBC’s video after not hearing directly from the owner of Mark II since last year about a landfill proposal across the street from their neighborhood.

“It’s crazy to think that this is going to be our streets,” Clark-Thomas said. “I feel like all of our concerns, all of our city’s concerns fall on deaf ears.”

Markham echoed that sentiment.

“To think that with this landfill right next door to me, where is that trash going to go? Our yard, our lake, our community. Yeah, it’s very concerning,” Markham said.

Mark II Waste Transfer is owned by Jennifer Monheiser.

Monheiser has lobbied Missouri lawmakers for months to allow her to develop Kansas City’s next landfill on land she says she owns or controls in South Kansas City.

It’s the same landfill Clark-Thomas, and her daughter Macie recently testified against in Jefferson City.

They told senators in a recent hearing the peace and health they enjoy in their Raymore neighborhood would be gone if trucks rumbled down MO-150 Highway or other nearby streets to dump trash inside a 430-acre landfill site close to their home.

“It’s terrifying to think that this landfill that they’re going to run in our backyard is going to be here,” Clark-Thomas said.

Neighbors have said Monheiser has remained silent about their direct landfill questions for months.

Through a spokesman, Monheiser has released a list of frequently asked questions that her team has also provided to lawmakers.

However, she didn’t answer KMBC’s direct questions last month in Jefferson City after multiple attempts to set up a scheduled interview about the landfill proposal.

As for that debris, KMBC documented coming from semis originating at Mark II, KMBC has emailed Monheiser or her spokesman seven times since late April seeking clarification.

The spokesman only pointed to a third-party hauler, Atomic Transport.

A man who answered the phone number listed on Atomic’s website said loads coming from Mark II are tarped electronically and said he would forward information to the area manager.

Several follow-up calls and emails to Mark II and Atomic representatives seeking answers on what KMBC uncovered have not been returned.

Meanwhile, Clark-Thomas and her neighbors, who don’t want a landfill, say they never want to see the semitrailers hauling waste near their homes.

“The fact that they’re being silent, what are they hiding? That’s a concern for all of us. Are they doing what’s best for our community?” she said.

If you have any tips about trash and debris along Kansas City highways, including any other tips about trips from waste transfer facilities, email investigative reporter Matt Flener at investigates@kmbc.com.

Originally Appeared Here