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Mid-Missouri

Legal questions, inquiries intensify around rural Missouri hospital closures

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A year after private equity-backed Noble Health shuttered two rural Missouri hospitals, patients and former employees grapple with a broken local health system or missing out on millions in unpaid wages and benefits.

The hospitals in Audrain and Callaway counties remain closed as a slew of lawsuits and state and federal investigations grind forward.

In March, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey confirmed a civil investigation. He had previously told local talk radio that there was an “ongoing” investigation into “the hospital issue.”

Bailey’s comment came weeks after the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employee Benefits Security Administration notified executives tied to Noble Health, a startup, that they had violated federal laws and asked them to pay $5.4 million to cover unpaid employee health insurance claims, according to a 13-page letter detailing “interim findings” that was obtained by KHN.

The January letter confirms KHN’s previous reporting, which was informed by employees and patients who described missing paychecks; receiving unexpected, high-dollar medical bills; and going without care, including cancer treatment. According to the letter from federal investigators, the Noble hospitals and their corporate owners collected employee contributions for medical, dental, and vision insurance in 2021 and 2022 but then failed to fund the insurance plans.

The owners and executives were “aware of the harm to participants and, in some cases, were attempting to resolve individual participant complaints,” the letter states, adding that “despite the volume and gravity of complaints and bills received,” they failed to respond.

‘Tomfoolery’ and doing ‘everybody dirty’

Marissa Hagedorn, who worked as a hospital laboratory technician, has spent much of the past year starting a new job, caring for her 2-year-old son who was born with spina bifida, and haggling over unpaid medical bills. She told KHN the family owes at least $8,000 for son Ryder’s specialty care in St. Louis, with $6,000 of that in collections. As a Noble employee, Hagedorn said, she was told repeatedly that her employee health insurance would cover Ryder’s care. It didn’t.

Noble has “done everybody dirty,” she said. “We just would like for some responsibility to be taken by this company that didn’t feel the need to get their act together.” Hagedorn’s story of unpaid bills, which was first reported by the local newspaper, the Mexico Ledger, is common among former Noble employees a year after the hospitals closed.

A former employee of the Fulton hospital has filed a class-action lawsuit intended to represent hundreds of employees from both hospitals.

The Jan. 13 letter from federal officials called for responses by Jan. 27 from Noble corporate and hospital executives as well as Platinum Neighbors, which last April bought the hospitals and assumed all liabilities. The letter instructs executives to contact the agency “to discuss how you intend to correct these violations, fund participant claims, and achieve compliance.”

Former employees say their claims have not yet been paid. A Labor Department spokesperson, Grant Vaught, said the agency could not comment on an ongoing investigation.

Separately, the Kansas Department of Labor is reviewing Noble and Platinum’s failure to pay wages and severance to corporate employees. Agency spokesperson Becky Shaffer confirmed that hearings took place in early February on a half-dozen cases totaling more than $1 million in claims for unpaid wages and severance.

Dave Kitchens was among those who filed claims against Noble Health. Kitchens worked briefly as a contract employee and then was hired in October 2021 as a corporate controller, an accounting role in which he was responsible for financial reporting and data analytics. Kitchens provided an audio recording of his hearing to KHN and hopes to eventually get paid more than $90,000 in lost wages, benefits, and severance pay. During the hearing, Kitchens told the administrative judge: “I would just like to be paid what I’m owed.”

Kitchens, who is also named as a fiduciary on the federal investigation, said he was not on Noble’s executive team. When asked by Kansas Administrative Law Judge James Ward whether he expected Noble or the secondary buyer Platinum to pay his wages, Kitchens responded he had “no idea who was in charge.”

“I believe there was some tomfoolery,” Kitchens said.

A ‘rabbit hole’ of responsibility

Noble launched in December 2019 with executives who had never run a hospital, including Donald R. Peterson, a co-founder who prior to joining Noble had been accused of Medicare fraud. Peterson settled that case without admitting wrongdoing and in August 2019 agreed to be excluded for five years from Medicare, Medicaid, and all other taxpayer-funded federal health programs, according to the Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General.

By March 2022, the hospitals had closed and Noble offered explanations on social media, including “a technology issue” and a need to “restructure their operations” to keep the hospitals financially viable. In April, Texas-based Platinum Neighbors paid $2 for the properties and all liabilities, according to the stock purchase agreement.

Despite receiving approval for nearly $20 million in federal covid-19 relief money before it closed the hospitals — funds whose use is still not fully accounted for — Noble had stopped paying its bills, according to court records. Contractors, including nursing agencies, a lab that ran covid tests and landscapers, have filed lawsuits seeking millions.

In Audrain County, where community members still hope to reopen the hospital or build a new one, county leaders filed suit for the repayment of a $1.8 million loan they made to Noble. Former Missouri state senator Jay Wasson also filed suit in September, asking for repayment of a $500,000 loan.

Two Noble Health real estate entities filed bankruptcy petitions this year. One Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing names the Fulton hospital property in Callaway County as an asset and lists nearly $4.9 million in liabilities. A third bankruptcy filing by FMC Clinic includes Noble Health as a codebtor.

In the U.S. District Court of Kansas, Central Bank of the Midwest is suing Nueterra Capital over a $9.6 million loan Noble used to buy the Audrain hospital. The bank alleges Nueterra, a private equity and venture capital firm that in 2022 included Noble as part of its portfolio, signed off as the guarantor of the loan.

Federal investigators listed nearly a dozen people or entities connected to Noble Health as fiduciaries who they say are personally responsible for paying back millions in unpaid medical claims. The letter also detailed Noble Health’s ownership for the first time. The owners included William A. Solomon with a 16.82% share, Thomas W. Carter with a 16.82% share, The Peterson Trust with a 19.63%, and NC Holdings Inc. with 46.72%.

NC Holdings is also listed on the stock sale agreement with Platinum along with several signatures including Jeremy Tasset, chief executive of Nueterra Capital.

Tasset did not respond to a request for comment for this article. In an email to KHN in March 2022, the Nueterra Capital CEO wrote, “We are a minority investor in the real estate and have nothing to do with the operations of the hospitals.” In May 2022, Tasset wrote in an email to KHN that “everything was sold (real estate included) to Platinum Neighbors, a subsidiary of Platinum Team Management.”

It is unclear who owns and controls The Peterson Trust, which federal investigators identified. Peterson, who is listed on Noble’s state registration papers as a director and in other roles, didn’t respond to requests for comment for this article. He previously told KHN that his involvement in Noble didn’t violate his exclusion, in his reading of the law.

He said he owned 3% of the company, citing guidance from the Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Federal regulators may exclude companies if someone who is banned has ownership of 5% or more.

In March 2022, Peterson created Noble Health Services, which federal investigators note in their letter was “established to restructure the ownership of multiple Noble entities.” Peterson dissolved that company in July 2022, according to a Missouri business filing.

In September, Peterson posted on LinkedIn that he was “sitting in the Emirates Air lounge in Dubai” to finish up due diligence on “launching a new business.”

A 2013 OIG advisory states that “an excluded individual may not serve in an executive or leadership role” and “may not provide other types of administrative and management services … unless wholly unrelated to federal health care programs.”

KHN examined the federal system meant to stop health care business owners and executives from repeatedly bilking government health programs and found that it failed to do so.

The OIG keeps a public list of people and businesses it has banned from all federal health care programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid. KHN’s review found a system devoid of oversight and rife with legal gray areas.

In the wake of KHN’s reporting, Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden, a Democrat who is the chair of the powerful Senate Finance Committee, said “it’s imperative that federal watchdogs can ensure bad actors are kept out of Medicare.” Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) said the government needs to do more and “it’s also up to private-sector entities to do a better job checking against the exclusions list.”

“We can’t just depend on one or the other to do everything,” Grassley said.

In recent months, the Missouri hospitals appear to have been sold twice more, according to public records. Oregon-based Saint Pio of Pietrelcina notified state officials of a change of ownership in December and requested an extension of the hospital licenses, which was denied. In January, Audrain County officials, in its lawsuit, revealed another owner named Pasture Medical, which registered as a Wyoming company on Dec. 27, 2022.

“We haven’t come out of the rabbit hole on this one,” said Steve Bollin, director of the division of regulation and licensure for the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. Bollin’s agency, which conducts inspections and approves hospital changes in ownership, said he would support his agency doing financial reviews.

“It’s probably not a bad idea that someone takes a little bit deeper dive. We don’t have that many changes of ownership, but we would need appropriate staffing to do that, including some really good CPAs [certified public accountants].”

KHN (Kaiser Health News) is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues. Together with Policy Analysis and Polling, KHN is one of the three major operating programs at KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation). KFF is an endowed nonprofit organization providing information on health issues to the nation.

Originally Appeared Here

Filed Under: Mid-Missouri

County meeting provides updates on solar projects, Grain Belt Express

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Residents from across Callaway County attended a meeting on Wednesday to hear updates from various levels of government about solar energy and Grain Belt Express within the county.

Joe Burns, a member of Mid Missouri Landowners Alliance and an organizer of the meeting, kicked off the meeting by providing an update on recent efforts.

A document at the event details the estimated time the Mid Missouri Landowners Alliance members spent taking action against solar and Grain Belt Express in the past eight months.

An estimated total of 1,600 hours have been accumulated by the group. This time includes legislator meetings, public meetings, researching and obtaining signs and petitions.

The document also breaks down estimated group expenses since May 2022. The group has spent an estimated $8,821. This includes hiring a lawyer, mailing to meetings and producing handouts and other materials.

“…We need your help, we need you to be involved. We need you to use your voice. This is still America, you still have the right to speak up and we’re asking you, please donate your time, donate your money, donate whatever you have to give to this cause if this means something to you,” Burns said.

The first legislator who spoke at the meeting was Rep. Jim Schulte, R-New Bl0omfield, who introduced Rep. Mike Haffner’s bill, House Bill 1052.

“I’m proud to be among this group right now, and working with them,” Schulte said.

HB 1052 aims to ensure that solar and wind farms could not use eminent domain to forcefully construct on property.

Haffner, a Republican from Pleasant Hill, said this bill will go to the Agriculture Policy Committee next week. He is the chair of the committee.

“It takes that eminent domain authority away from them. It takes it away from solar panels, it takes it away from wind turbines, but it only takes it away from the site going out. It does not take it away from the electrical corporation attaching back in. We can’t attack that,” Haffner said.

Haffner also spoke about House Bill 1044. This bill would change how many commissioners are appointed to the Public Service Commission.

“Right now the governor, with the Senate’s approval, they can appoint seven commissioners to the Public Service Commission. The last time that was updated was 1949,” Haffner said.

HB 1044 would increase the amount of commissioners to 11, one for each congressional district. He added that three of the members would have to be farmers.

Haffner briefly spoke about House Bill 992, which includes a collocation clause.

“…which gives some power to electrical corporations. If they collocate, they can use eminent domain. Our commitment to you is we’re going to stay engaged with that. We want these transmission lines, these power lines to be collocated with existing lines, but unfortunately within statute right now…there is no compensation for the farmer, the rancher, the landowner if they collocate and come onto your property,” Haffner said.

He encouraged citizens to talk to him about these bills, as he said they can be very complex to understand.

Steven Jeffery, an attorney hired by the alliance, spoke next.

He has more than 35 years of experience in environmental law, according to the Jeffery Law Group’s website. From 1987-1993, Jeffery served as the General Counsel for the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

Jeffery spoke about about the loan application Grain Belt Express filed with the U.S. Department of Energy. He said the DOE will have to prepare an environmental impact statement (EIS).

“Under the law, to do an EIS, the Department of Energy is required by law to consider whether or not there is even a purpose or a need for this project… Assuming that there is, then they have to analyze ‘Well, are there alternatives to the project,” Jeffery said.

In a letter submitted to the DOE, Jeffery asked why these projects could not be constructed underground as an alternative.

The EIS will also examine how it will impact the environment, such as the loss of wildlife habitats.

He said a draft of the EIS is supposed to be available in the fall, when the public will be able to review it and provide comments.

Jeffery also touched upon eminent domain, and some of the legal history related to the topic in Missouri.

After Jeffery, Sen. Travis Fitzwater, R-Holts Summit, spoke about Senate Bill 549. This bill is identical to House Bill 1065 filed by Rep. Kent Haden, a Mexico Republican.

SB 549 would provide options against solar farms for counties that are not planning and zoning.

The bill would require any person constructing a solar farm to submit an application to the commissions in each county where the solar farm would be located. The county commissions would have to grant a permit prior to any person or organization obtaining a certificate of public convenience or necessity from the Public Service Commission.

SB 549 would also tax solar farms at a rate of 37.5 percent.

Fitzwater’s bill has not yet been sent to a committee. He asked for the bill to be sent to the Senate Commerce, Consumer Protection, Energy and the Environment Committee, to which he is the vice-chair.

“It’s an uphill battle, honestly. Callaway County is being targeted, and it’s in large part because we have infrastructure. We have space, we have Ameren close that’s building infrastructure that these groups want to tie into, and they want to tie into counties that don’t have zoning and planning. So they don’t have the rules they have to follow that would prevent maybe some of the stuff we’re all concerned about happening, like homes, the American dream being surrounded by panels,” Fitzwater said.

He said it is difficult to protect the community, while also ensuring that farmers retain their property rights.

“We’re doing what we can, and we want to be a voice for you,” Fitzwater said.

Haden spoke about his bill, HB 1065.

Burns said testimony was heard for his bill last week at a public hearing in the House Utilities Committee. He said around 30 people attended the hearing to testify. The hearing lasted six hours.

“They (Utilities Committee) commented about how they had never seen so many people, and I thought to myself there are only 30 of us,” Burns said. “…so it made an impact, can you imagine what 100 people would have done?”

Haden spoke about a previous solar energy bill he sponsored in 2022 that “basically mirrored what the wind legislation we passed four years ago had.”

He said there are probably around 100 different solar projects across Missouri.

Haden said every area across the state probably has solar projects, but people just aren’t aware about them.

“…they have bids going out on land that, just like here, nobody knows about,” he said.

Haden said that during the hearing for HB 1065, people from urban areas asked if this was just a Callaway County problem that could be fixed by zoning.

“They did not realize that a majority of our state is not zoned. Now Callaway may be one of the bigger counties that’s not zoned… but the majority of our state is not zoned. They do not understand that,” Haden said.

“They are used to dealing with homeowners associations to make rules they want and everything else, so they just wondered why don’t you guys just do that and fix your own problem. They don’t know what freedom’s about either,” Schulte said.

Haden said he thinks it will be difficult to get HB 1065 out of committee.

“It’ll be 50/50 at best, and if I’m calling it right now I think it’s probably 40 to get it passed and 60 to not,” he said.

The last speaker was Roger Fischer, Western District Commissioner. Randy Kleindienst, Eastern District Commissioner, was also in attendance. Presiding Commissioner Gary Jungermann was not at the meeting.

The Callaway County Commission was previously presented with a proposed conditional use ordinance and a utility permit application.

The ordinance would provide guidelines and limitations for solar energy facilities in the county, including where they can operate and other rules.

The utility permit was used in Ralls County to slow down the Grain Belt Express, Burns said.

“Guys, time is of the essence,” Fischer said. “They’re out there, they’re coming in and they’re getting contracts signed. We’re looking for trucks to start rolling in. They start drilling holes and putting pipe into ground, you’ve gotta start watching for a grandfather clause to show up someplace, no matter what we do down the road.”

He said this is a statewide problem, but the state isn’t aware of it yet.

Fischer said he doesn’t like the idea of infringing on any citizen’s property rights.

He added he is in favor of the ordinance and the restrictions it includes.

Fischer spoke about a decommissioning fund. This would go toward the removal of solar panels and solar farms.

“The decommissioning fund is very concerning to me. I think it needs to be something that is viable. It’s got to be able to cover full disposal…,” Fischer said.

After the legislators spoke, community members at the meeting were able to ask them questions.

Marilyn Smith, a member of Mid Missouri Landowners Alliance, said the meeting was very important to gauge community support.

HB 1065 would require any solar construction “to be at least one thousand linear feet from any church or school or city, town, or village limit of any private residence.”

Smith said 1,000 feet isn’t a lot, but it does provide some much-needed space. She said solar farms would be on three sides of her church.

HB 1065 also seeks to tax solar farms at a rate of 37.5 percent business tax.

“…which isn’t huge, but it’s better than nothing,” Smith said.

She said she would be happy if all three bills get passed, but there is still more that needs to be done.

“We’re looking at the state House to give us some good laws, and we’re looking at our community to see how much support we have, and we’re looking at our commissioners to stand behind us,” Smith said.

Originally Appeared Here

Filed Under: Mid-Missouri

Mid-Missouri schools seek state dollars to boost teacher pay; hundreds of thousands spent locally

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COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The state spent hundreds of thousands of dollars to bring starting pay up for teachers in Mid-Missouri this year.

In the Mid-Missouri area, rural districts ranging in size were most dependent on the money, from the more than $150,000 spent in North Callaway to the $52,000 spent in Southern Boone.

Schools may now be able to begin applying for the second round of grants, which would be awarded after governor signs next year’s budget. The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has released updated guidance for schools looking to apply for the program known as the teacher baseline salary grant. In a newsletter sent out Wednesday morning, DESE said that it is starting the process for districts to apply for the grant for the 2023-2024 school year.

Under the grant, any public school district or charter school that has a base salary for teachers that is between $25,000 and $38,000 will be able to apply.

Educators and legislators have pushed to bring Missouri’s lowest-in-the-nation teacher pay up. State law sets the minimum at $25,000, but last year the legislature approved the salary grant program to help schools pay teachers at least $38,000.

The state will provide up to 70% of the money needed to reach the base salary of $38,000, while the other 30% will come from local sources. According to the newly released guidance, the money cannot be used toward extra-duty pay, salary-related benefits or any other non-regular teaching duties.

This is an optional grant program, and districts with baseline salaries under $38,000 are not required to apply.

As of December of last year, Missouri was ranked last in the nation for teacher salaries. DESE also released that half of Missouri teachers leave teaching by their fifth year. This prompted DESE and Gov. Mike Parson to make paying teachers better wages a priority and to request the continuation of this grant program.

More than 300 school districts applied for the grant in 2022. Frederick town received $190,361 to pay 55 teachers the base pay, making it the district that received the most money. Blair Oaks received only $410 for two teachers, making it the district that received the least.

Other local schools that received a lump sum of money include:

  • Boonville – $98,508 for 34 teachers
  • North Callaway Co. – $156,102 for 54 teachers
  • Fulton 58 – $82,200 for 61 teachers
  • Southern Boone Co. – $52,502 for 39 teachers.

The grant program is only eligible for one year. School districts will be contacted when the application becomes available.

Missouri State Teacher’s Association spokesman Todd Fuller said he would like to see the money built into each school district’s budget, rather than a grant that lasts a year.

“I think it’s a little concerning,” Fuller said. “I mean at some point it needs to be something that is not just a grant, but something that becomes a part of the budget every year.” 

Paul Katnik — assistant commissioner office of educator quality for DESE — countered it by saying the state has to approve the amount of money each year, which is why the grant can only be given out on a yearly basis.

“Since 70% matches our money, that’s gotta be approved each year, so it’s gonna be something looked at each year,” Katnik said.

Fuller also said that the problem does not only stem from teachers looking to find work at a better-paying district in Missouri, but in states that border Missouri as well. He gave Arkansas as an example, which he said pays its teachers $50,000.

“We’re not only gonna have to compete against ourselves from district to district, we’re going to have to compete against neighboring states,” Fuller said.

Some school districts that had teachers who were pair under $38,000 in 2022 did not apply for the grant, according to Fuller. This is largely because of the fact that the grant only lasts for a year, which made some districts afraid that they’d only be able to give the teachers a pay raise last year, and not be able to afford it the following year.

Fuller said he believes a simple increase in the percentage the state provides each district would incentivize them to apply for it, if approved for the 2023-24 school year.

“If we were able to increase the percentage from the state even just to 80% , I think it would change the minds of some of the administrators and the individuals working on the finances in those districts, and they would become part of that grant process as well,” Fuller said.

Originally Appeared Here

Filed Under: Mid-Missouri

Fulton nonprofit focused on single mothers

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A Fulton nonprofit would like to expand, but could use help from the community.

Faith Maternity Care of Mid-Missouri is reaching out to donors and volunteers they’ve never pursued.

An Alternatives 2 Abortion (A2A)-funded organization, Faith Maternity must spend its dollars on financially supporting women who are pregnant or 12 months past delivery with goals of education or a job.

Its successful efforts have made Director Shelley Knight a “firm believer in networking,” she said.

Knight has heard stories about her organization’s impact.

In one such tale, during a fundraising drive, an excited child on Sunday awoke early to wait for his family to see him sitting in their recliner holding a baby bottle full of coins. When asked what he was doing, he responded, “I’m here to save the babies.”

Passion like that of the boys helps fuel Knight.

“Breaking the cycle of poverty, two generations at a time, one woman at a time” is where the money raised goes, according to Knight.

The money that comes from the baby bottle drive (when church families fill baby bottles with cash between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day), the A2A funding and the miscellaneous community grants and donations all goes toward saving babies and their mothers, who have chosen to bring them into the world.

“All women we work with are at the poverty level,” said Knight.

Even larger entities give their resources.

One mattress and recliner store “gifted us six new mattresses for residents (of a Faith Maternity women’s home),” Knight said. All she did was “appeal to them and ask.”

Mindspace Wellness Counseling, a health care provider based in Kansas City, supports Faith Maternity by being their behavioral health resource.

“We require psychological evaluation within the first 30 days they’re in the home,” Knight said, as a means to ensure the safety of the home’s residents.

The Faith Maternity residence home and its community resource (case manager) provide services only to pregnant and up-to-12-months-post-delivery mothers and their children (limited to three children).

Mothers are required to pursue educations or jobs, and to set goals with the case manager.

Women in the home are required to build relationships and life skills, in part by cooking a nutritious meal once a week for all house residents.

Faith Maternity helps meet some “material needs” for residents, Knight said. Whether residents need help repairing or replacing a flat tire, require clothing for interviews, or wish for blankets, Faith Maternity may use its A2A funds.

Women whom Faith Maternity services, but who already “have a safe place to live,” may need help with case management, according to Knight.

Basically, “all the milestones they need to meet to live independently” is what Faith Maternity helps young mothers achieve, she said.

Case managers can help clients find documentation they need for work, or to set them up in a program in which they can earn a high school diploma, according Knight. All women in the program have case managers, whether in the women’s home or not.

If Faith Maternity had its way, it would like to implement a transitional program. However, that does not qualify for A2A funding.

“(Transitional programs are) what happens when they leave the house. Some may have a duplex… funded through the program and they may pay partial rent while going through college or a certification. We don’t have enough funding but we’re on that trajectory,” Knight said.

A new board within Faith Maternity is developing plans for a transition program, Knight said.

The board members specialize in ways that may help the new program overcome hurdles.

One has expertise in finances, one has experience with education, one is connected at the State Capitol and another is a health care provider, Knight said.

People wishing to help the organization achieve its goals should go to its Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/FaithMaternityCare or email Knight at [email protected]

Anything from gardening fresh food, to building bunk beds, to knowing how to give a class on car maintenance is appreciated, according to Knight.

Originally Appeared Here

Filed Under: Fulton, Mid-Missouri

Some Missouri school districts cling to corporal punishment

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Early on in his administrative career, longtime Missouri educator Chris Belcher had what he called the worst experience of his life.

“The kid screamed, and I felt awful,” he said.

He didn’t want to do it, but he had to.

It was the 1980s, and Belcher was told to paddle a student who was enrolled in the school district’s special education program. The administrator who typically oversaw discipline for that particular student was out that day, leaving Belcher to handle the punishment.

As upsetting as the situation was to both the student and Belcher, it also reaffirmed his strong belief in cognitive and nonpunitive strategies.

School corporal punishment, which gained traction in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is a physical disciplinary method to correct student misbehavior. In most instances where the practice is used, students are paddled by a district superintendent or school principal.

Missouri’s Cassville R-IV School District made headlines last August when it chose to reinstate its corporal punishment policy. That move — which ignited a national conversation on swatting’s place in schools — came shortly after a state law regarding student discipline took effect. The statute, RSMo 160.261, required districts to get written parent permission to administer swats before doing so. Districts that implement corporal punishment are expected to send out permission forms at the start of the school year.

Amid the media frenzy surrounding Cassville’s decision came public debate on the practice. Although some argue corporal punishment traumatizes students and damages childhood development, others call the tactic time-tested and effective. Apparently caught in the middle are districts with policies that allow corporal punishment but instead opt for conversation-based strategies.

So at a time when alternative behavior management practices have become mainstream, why do some Missouri districts hold on to corporal punishment?

Carla London, chief equity officer of Columbia Public Schools, identified a core reason:

“People go to — good or bad — they go back to what they know, what was used on them.”

Columbia Public Schools does not use corporal punishment, but London has about 30 years of experience in monitoring childhood development. She spent most of her career in education but also worked at Texas Child Protective Services and was a medical social worker at Children’s Medical Center Dallas. She has a background in psychology.

 

‘Building strong character’

 

A hallway in northwest Missouri’s King City School District is decorated with wording that asks students to be kind (Sofi Zeman/Columbia Missourian).

Although the U.S. Supreme Court solidified the constitutionality of the practice in 1977, use of corporal punishment has waned in recent decades. Today, Missouri is one of 19 remaining states that legally allow it.

At least 123 Missouri school districts used language — found in their 2022 or 2023 district policies or 2022-23 school year handbooks — that authorized corporal punishment, according to a Missourian investigation on the status of almost every public school district in the state. Several districts weren’t identified for the following reasons: They lacked detailed information on district policies, their policies weren’t updated, or they posted conflicting information on their websites.

Pamela Halstead, administrator of Callao C-8 School District in north-central Missouri, said corporal punishment is a last resort in her district. She said the last time she swatted a student was about 10 years ago, and she did it at a parent’s request.

“I know we’re probably one of a few districts that do keep corporal punishment on there,” she said in February. “We keep that as an option. Is it going to be the first option? No, not even the second.”

Although it has been years since Halstead used corporal punishment, she said the district’s school board continues to uphold longstanding policy that favors the practice. The only time corporal punishment is really discussed in the district, Halstead said, is when the board has to review its policies.

“It has always been voted to keep corporal punishment in,” she said.

The district’s policies often reflect the values of the board, Halstead said. Callao’s present board has strong feelings about discipline and follows the mindset that building strong character outweighs academics.

“Part of building strong character is discipline,” Halstead said.

The difference between discipline and abuse stems from the mindset of the person administering corporal punishment, Halstead said.

“If you discipline with a clear mind and conversation along with it, and you’re not angry, and in your heart feel that there’s merit to this corporal punishment, then it can be effective,” she said.

In Advance R-IV School District in southeast Missouri, the idea of being swatted is a stronger deterrent against misbehavior than the actual swatting, Superintendent Shannon Garner said in an August interview.

“Just the thought of it, especially in the elementary-level schools,” he said.

Corporal punishment has been allowed in the district for as long as Garner can remember. Building principals are the only people authorized to administer swats in the district.

Garner said that even before legislation required parental permission, the district always checked in with parents before administering swats. At the beginning of this school year, permission slips were sent home with each child in a stack of usual back-to-school paper work. The slip asked parents whether they consented to their child being swatted.

“We contact all parents regarding all discipline before any discipline is performed,” he said. “Then, it becomes a conversation between the parent and the building-level principal.”

 

Developmental impacts

 

Corporal punishment puts students at risk of demonstrating negative externalizing and internalizing behaviors and decreased academic performance, according to a 2022 study from the University of Amsterdam’s Research Institute of Child Development and Education.

Externalizing behavior can include bullying, verbal and physical aggression and general rule-breaking. Internalizing behavior is when a person directs a set of negative behaviors toward themselves. Internalizing presents itself in a few ways, such as mental and social withdrawal, anxiety and depression.

Belcher, who was a Columbia Public Schools superintendent and today works as an assistant teaching professor in the MU College of Education and Human Development, said the more problematic a student’s behavior is, the less corporal punishment would help shape positive behavior. He said he hasn’t seen research that proves corporal punishment is better than cognitive intervention.

Being swatted at school not only embarrasses a student, but it also alters their perception of whether that environment is safe, Belcher said. This also applies to students who don’t receive swats but are in an environment where they’re administered.

“It might change your behavior, but it might change your entire viewpoint of adults, and schools, and safe and caring environments,” he said.

Belcher added there’s a difference between swats dealt by a caregiver and swats from a school administrator. The former is personal; the latter is institutional.

“That is a completely different psychological event for that student,” he said.

Similarly, London said that a mother spanking a child is different than a schoolteacher or principal. She added this is detrimental to relationship-building, something that is foundational in keeping students on track.

“I do think it would potentially damage that relationship forever,” London said.

 

Relationship building, alternative strategies

 

In northwest Missouri’s King City School District, Superintendent Danny Johnson sees no need to hit his students.

“I’m not of the mindset that there’s never time for a child to be spanked, but I’m not going to do it here at school,” Johnson said.

Although the district has corporal punishment listed as an option in its 2022-23 handbook, its discipline policy states that the method is strictly prohibited. Instead, Johnson and district faculty push for conversation-based resolutions.

On a Thursday in early March, a preschool student refused to file into the school building at the start of the day. It was clear to Ryan Anderson, principal of King City’s elementary school, that the student was just having a tough morning.

Rather than moving into disciplinary action, Anderson let the student sleep off the bad mood in his office.

“He’ll sleep for another 30-40 minutes, we’ll give him breakfast, and then he’ll go start his day,” Johnson said while Anderson was with the student. “He’s not disrupting his peers, he’s not disrupting his teacher. So, those kids are learning, he’s getting what he needs, and then once he’s rested a bit better, we’ll get him on his way and get his day started.”

With a population of roughly 800, King City is relatively small. The entire district is housed in one school building, and high school graduating classes typically consist of about 25 students.

Johnson said the closeness of the community helps build relationships with students and their families. Staying in touch with parents when their children are doing well in school makes difficult phone calls home a bit more manageable.

Relationship-building is also essential among students, Johnson said. On Fridays, high school students walk down to the elementary wing of the building to teach younger students various character-building and healthy communication strategies that had been taught to them. This is the first year of that program.

“We’ll tweak it and make some adjustments for year two, but that has been a pretty successful avenue for building relationships with the kids,” Johnson said.

For one King City teacher, physical discipline has a completely different meaning. Anita Gilbert said she doesn’t need to discipline her students often, but when she does, she’ll either talk to them or have them do exercises, like burpees.

“And backward bear crawls,” piped up one student in her physical science class.

Nichole Staley, when asked what she does when her students are acting up, turned the question to her sophomore math class.

“She makes us clean!” called out a handful of students. Staley explained that misbehaving students sweep the classroom and hallways and clean the room’s whiteboards, desks and tables. She has a corner with brooms and cleaning supplies at the ready.

London said Columbia Public Schools strives to teach students strategies to healthily navigate conflict, compromise and self efficacy. The district this school year kicked off its five-year behavior education plan, spearheaded by London. The plan aims to maintain consistency in the behavior management methods districtwide, as well as level the playing field for students of color, who London said are disproportionately disciplined.

 

A multigenerational cycle

 

“That’s how I was raised.”

It’s a chief argument among supporters of corporal punishment. Often, people who were swatted as children believe that it taught them to respect their elders and that passing the paddle on to the next generation will do the same.

“These people on school boards who support corporal punishment probably had some strong discipline corporal punishment as a child,” Halstead said. “And they grew up to be these well-rounded people who could hold a position on the school board, and they don’t see what the big deal is.”

Halstead was raised in a home that used corporal punishment, and she said it taught her to respect her parents. She spanked her children when they were young.

Belcher said the need to continue the cycle stems from public schools being reflective of community values.

“That’s what they grew up with, that’s what they did in the home,” Belcher said, adding that this concept isn’t exclusive to rural districts.

London said the cycle stems from two factors: not being equipped with different resolutions and a need to regain control.

She said corporal punishment comes from people not having alternatives to deal with their children at home when all they know is physical discipline. She tries to give parents different behavior management tools besides what they already know.

And, London said, people who grew up in abusive environments sometimes use physical discipline on their own children as a means to regain control over what happened to them.

“I think it’s a mindset, I think it’s a trauma, and we go back to what we know.”

Brooke Muckerman, Megan Sundberg and Caroline McCone contributed to the reporting of this story.

This story originally appeared in the Columbia Missourian. It can be republished in print or online.

Originally Appeared Here

Filed Under: Mid-Missouri

New volunteer program matches skilled Mid-Missouri retirees, nonprofits

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Two Mid-Missouri organizations are looking to do a little matchmaking.

No, they’re not looking to find a little love between individuals.

They are looking to match retirees with nonprofit agencies who need volunteers with specific skills and interests.

GIVE 5, a retiree civic matchmaking program in Jefferson City, is a collaboration between the Columbia-based Aging Best and the United Way of Central Missouri.

The program sets to “(reimagine) what volunteering can look like,” said Hannah Gerard, local United Way operations specialist. It looks for senior volunteers with specific professional know-how and experiences, then connects them with participating nonprofits that need those skills.

“I know (The) Salvation Army is looking for professionals who are interested in teaching life skills classes to those who are living in their shelters or (Rape and Abuse Crisis Service) is looking for retired healthcare professionals to advocate for their clients,” Gerard said.

Another reason United Way launched the voluntary program is due to the state’s aging demographic.

“We do have lots of Baby Boomers in our community that are getting ready to retire, with that, they will have a lot of free time on their hands that they can give back to those agencies that really need volunteers,” Gerard said.

People aged 60 and older make up a quarter of Missouri’s population, according to the latest census data. Another 12 percent of the population is set to retire in this decade as well.

Currently, 16 agencies are participating with United Way. One of them is the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Jefferson City, an organization that holds one-on-one mentoring for schoolchildren. It currently has 120 volunteers, program director Lee Knernschield said.

Big Brothers Big Sisters officials hope GIVE 5 volunteers will become mentors and office assistants with clerical skills to do data entry work. The organization also hopes for “someone who has a marketing background willing to help put together a newsletter,” Knernschield said.

“Any individual that can make a commitment to spending consistent time with a child could be a good mentor,” she said.

Big Brothers Big Sisters joined the GIVE 5 program because the organization has a small office staff and needs more volunteers, she said.

“There are so many children that need a mentor,” Knernschield said.

Meanwhile, Capital City CASA, another participating agency, has not set specific positions for the GIVE 5 members yet, Executive Director Gina Clement said. Depending on the volunteers’ skills, they may serve on various committees on financial matters, fundraising and fund development.

So far, United Way received nine applications from volunteers, including retired CEOs, teachers and CPAs, Gerard said. She hoped to recruit 20 volunteers for the program.

The applications, which began in Feb. 9, are open for the rest of the week, Gerard said. Interested retirees or soon-to-be retirees can apply on United Way’s website.

The program is scheduled to run for five straight weeks, with one GIVE 5 session on each Wednesday starting from March 29, according to United Way’s website.

During these sessions, GIVE 5 volunteers are expected to tour all the participating agencies with Gerard and Jody Doppelt, the volunteer manager at Aging Best. During the tours, each organization is set to have around 45 minutes to give a tour, talk about itself, as well as the general and specific volunteering opportunities it offers to GIVE 5 members, Gerard said.

On the fifth Wednesday, April 26, there is set to be a graduation day where GIVE 5 volunteers are expected to choose one or more nonprofits with which they will serve five hours a month, according to United Way’s website.

—

In the accompanying video, United Way of Central Missouri operations specialist Hannah Gerard talks about the Give Five program.

Originally Appeared Here

Filed Under: Mid-Missouri

Marijuana taxes dominate April ballot in Mid-Missouri

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COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Voters around Mid-Missouri have a lot of questions to decide on April 4.

Throughout the area, they’ll decide whether to tax marijuana buyers now that recreational pot is legal. They’ll also pick who will serve on their school boards at a time when education has taken the political spotlight in the culture war.

And many will vote on whether to allow their school districts, fire districts and other local political subdivisions to borrow the money they need for new buildings and equipment.

We’re hitting the highlights of the ballot in each county by alphabetical order.

LINK: Interactive map of Missouri school districts

AUDRAIN

Seven separate political jurisdictions in Audrain County will have votes on whether to enact a 3% sales tax on recreational marijuana. They are the county and the cities of Mexico, Laddonia, Vandalia, Martinsburg, Farber and Benton City.

The Community R-VI school district wants permission to borrow $1.1 million without increasing its tax levy. That money would pay for upgrades including roof replacements and security improvements.

Meanwhile, the ambulance district is asking for a tax increase and a road district wants to continue collecting taxes.

School board races in Audrain County are also busy: eight candidates are running for three seats on the Mexico Board of Education. Mexico also has five candidates competing for two city council seats.

BOONE

Boone County also has its share of marijuana taxes on the ballot, with 3% sales taxes on the ballot countywide and in the cities of Columbia, Ashland, Centralia, Hallsville and Sturgeon. Most cities don’t provide an estimate for how much their taxes will generate in revenue.

But bond issues and sales taxes abound on ballots in Boone County.

The Boone County Fire Protection District wants to borrow $8 million in bonds to pay for a new fire station, new trucks and other equipment and personnel. The issue, if approved, would lead to no change in the district’s debt service taxes.

The Sturgeon School District wants to borrow $2 million to finish improvements to its elementary and middle schools., also without changing its debt service taxes.

In Ashland and Hallsville, the city governments are asking voters to cough up a bit more tax money to help fund public safety.

And school board races are busy throughout the county, led by the Columbia Board of Education race with seven candidates (one incumbent) running for three seats. Voters in the Southern Boone School District will also choose three board members from a field of seven.

In Columbia, voters will choose between Donald Waterman and Gregg Bush to represent the Fifth Ward. The ward covers much of the southern part of the city where more wealth is concentrated and tends to be more conservative than other wards.

Centralia voters will see a contested race for mayor on their ballots.

CALLAWAY

Callaway, like other counties, has its own 3% sales tax on recreational marijuana on the April ballot. The cities of Fulton, Holts Summit and Kingdom City are also asking voters to approve the tax.

A good chunk of the Jefferson City School District lies in Callaway County, and JC Schools is asking voters for a big bond issue this April. The district wants to borrow $85 million for projects including renovations to the Miller Performing Arts Center and two middle schools. The bond issue would keep the debt service levy the same.

School board races in Callaway County feature crowded fields. Five candidates each are running in Jefferson City, North Callaway, South Callaway and New Bloomfield. Three will win each election.

Fulton voters will choose a new mayor, with four candidates seeking the seat. That includes former police chief Steve Myers.

CHARITON

Ballots in Chariton County include plenty of tax issues but only one of them – in Glasgow – related to marijuana.

Instead, schools and other taxing districts are seeking bond issues or tax levy increases. Among them is the Brunswick School District, which is asking for $1.9 million for its agriculture shop and classroom. The district also has five candidates seeking three seats on the school board. The debt levy will remain unchanged.

Keytesville School District voters will be asked to OK a $2.65 million bond issue that will raise the debt tax levy from nothing to 50 cents per $100 of assessed value.

The Marceline School District, much of which is in Chariton County, is asking for a $3 million bond issue to improve school facilities without changing the debt service tax. And the Chariton County Public Water Supply District No. 2 is asking whether it should sell out to Missouri-American Water.

Several other cities and townships are also seeking tax increases or continuation for a variety of reasons, such as funding roads.

COLE

Only two marijuana taxes will appear on ballots in Cole County – a countywide tax and one for Jefferson City. Each is the 3% maximum allowed by law.

The big ballot item for many Cole Countians is the $85 million bond issue for the Jefferson City School District. The district has launched an informational campaign to tell voters about the improvements it has planned.

The Jefferson City Chamber of Commerce has given $15,000 to a committee formed to advocate for the bond issue, which would leave the district’s debt service unchanged.

JC Schools also has a crowded board race with five candidates running for three seats.

Jefferson City will also choose a new mayor at the end of Carrie Tergin’s tenure. But there’s only one filed candidate – current Fourth Ward Councilman Ron Fitzwater. Derrick Spicer is the only one seeking the Fourth Ward seat but elections are contested in the city’s other four wards.

The Village of Centertown is asking voters to approve a use tax to fund park improvements.

COOPER

Things are a bit quieter on Cooper County’s ballots, with just one, countywide 3% pot sales tax appearing April 4.

But like in other area counties, school board races in Cooper County have drawn plenty of candidates. Voters in the Smithton, Pilot Grove, Boonville and Otterville districts all have contested races on the ballot.

HOWARD

Howard County is another where some voters will see multiple marijuana sales taxes on the ballot.

The county, Glasgow and Fayette have all placed the maximum 3% sales tax on recreational marijuana on the April 4 ballot.

Voters in the Fayette School District will be asked whether to approve a $3.4 million bond issue. The funding would pay for projects including new roofs for the high school and ag building and security improvements. The district’s debt service would remain unchanged if the levy is approved.

Public Water Supply District No. 2 also has a bond issue on the ballot — $3 million to improve the water system.

New Franklin wants a use tax while Fayette is asking for a 1.5-cent sales tax to pay for public safety.

MARIES

Maries County voters and those in Vienna will decide whether to impose the 3% sales tax on recreational marijuana sales.

Meanwhile, only one person registered for the two Vienna city government positions on the ballot.

MILLER

Miller County and the City of Osage Beach are each asking voters to approve a 3% pot sales tax.

Races for the School of the Osage Board of Education and the Miller County Health Center Board of Trustees are crowded. Six candidates are seeking three seats in the school district and five are seeking three seats on the health board.

The most crowded race is in the Iberia School District, where seven candidates are seeking three school board seats.

In the Eldon School District, officials are asking voters to approve a $5 million bond issue to add elementary school classrooms. A yes vote would leave the debt tax rate where it is. The Brumley Fire Protection District wants to raise its tax levy to pay for its operations.

Osage Beach has several contested board of aldermen races while the City of Iberia is asking voters to approve a use tax.

MONITEAU

Moniteau County and the city of California are both asking for the maximum 3% sales tax on recreational marijuana.

The Tipton School District is asking its residents for a $2.5 million bond issue that would improve the outdoor sports and activity complex, including new all-weather field turf.

MONTGOMERY

Both Montgomery City and Montgomery County and New Florence are asking their voters to approve a 3% sales tax on recreational marijuana. In High Hill, voters will also choose whether to create a 4% gross receipts tax on the sale of manufactured or natural gas in the city.

The Wellsville-Middletown School District is asking for $1.9 million in a bond issue for district-wide improvements that include removing asbestos flooring from the high school. Approval would leave the district’s debt tax unchanged.

The Middletown Community Fire Protection District has a crowded race for its board of directors with six candidates going after just two seats. The Wellsville Fire Protection District features a race for two seats among four candidates.

MORGAN

The county and the cities of Sunrise Beach, Syracuse and Laurie are all seeking a 3% sales tax on recreational marijuana.

In the Morgan County R-II (Versailles) School District, a crowded field of seven candidates is seeking the three available seats on the board of education.

Versailles officials are asking voters to approve a use tax that would be used strictly for transportation. And Laurie is asking for $3 million in bonds for its sewer system that will be paid back through system revenue.

OSAGE

Osage County has some of the quieter ballots this April.

The county is asking for the maximum 3% sales tax on pot. And the Fatima School District is asking to raise its operating tax levy 65 cents per $100 of value to help pay for improvements to buildings and classrooms.

RANDOLPH

Voters county-wide will be asked whether to impose a 3% sales tax on recreational marijuana.

The Renick School District is asking voters to make permanent a tax levy that is currently set to expire in 2025. And in the Moberly School District, five candidates are running for the three available seats on the board of education.

Originally Appeared Here

Filed Under: Boonville, Columbia, Fulton, Jefferson City, Mid-Missouri

Proposals to eliminate Missouri sales tax on groceries in limbo

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Missouri is one of just 13 states that levy a sales tax on grocery food items.

Citing the hefty burden on low-income shoppers and rising cost of food, several other states have moved to reduce the burden of the grocery sales tax. Kansas began phasing it out this year and Illinois suspended the tax for one year.

But in Missouri, renewed bipartisan efforts to eliminate the sales tax on take-home grocery food this session appear stalled.

A stand-alone bill to eliminate the state portion of the grocery sales tax, sponsored by Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, R-Arnold, was approved by committee last month but has yet to be placed on the Senate’s debate calendar.

“I’m not as confident that that will have a path forward,” Coleman said in an interview Wednesday with The Independent, adding that typically, bills that haven’t reached the other chamber at this point in session “have a harder time” ultimately passing — although she is “not pessimistic” because it is a bipartisan issue other states have tackled.

Six bills in the House have been filed to eliminate the grocery sales tax but none have been assigned to committee.

Proponents successfully added the grocery tax proposal as an amendment to an unrelated bill two weeks ago in the Senate. But last week, after the estimated cost of eliminating the tax was determined, the bill’s sponsor demanded it be removed, effectively derailing both measures.

Coleman said that she did not support the removal of the grocery tax provision last week.

“I was really disappointed to see that we were stripping that off,” she said.

The fiscal note for the grocery tax loss estimates that the state would lose over $1.3 billion in local funds and $200 million in state funds each year beginning in fiscal year 2025. Coleman’s stand-alone bill included only the state tax repeal.

Sen. Lincoln Hough, R-Springfield, raised concern about the price tag, arguing during the Senate debate that the legislature’s income tax cuts negotiated last year would provide similar help to low-income families.

“This is going to be an interesting litmus test as to whether or not the majority of the (Senate) still continues to believe that we need to be lessening the tax burden more holistically, or if we’re starting to say maybe enough is enough,” Hough said, adding that “a number of reductions to the individual income tax … will continue to decrease the burden on individuals.”

Coleman, who proposed similar legislation in the House last year, said taxing essential items like food poses an inordinate cost to the lowest-income consumers.

“I don’t think that the taxpayer is wanting us to tax food,” she said. “I really don’t believe that.”

The lowest-income U.S. households spent over 30% of their incomes on food in 2021, according to federal data released last month, while middle-income families spent just 12%.

The price of at-home food nationally soared by around 11% in 2022 compared to 2021.

Take-home grocery food items in Missouri are taxed by the state at a rate of 1.225%, which goes mainly to a fund for public schools. Localities levy additional grocery sales taxes at varying rates which can add up to 8%.

“I would argue that food is a necessity,” Coleman said in February during a Senate committee hearing. “And I find taxes that are essential items are some of the most regressive, harming the poor, and not the way to fund our state government.”

Coleman’s bill would eliminate the 1% state sales tax, but not the local taxes. She said during Senate debate last week that local governments “were pretty concerned about the impact this might have on their budgets.”

Eliminating the state sales tax, she said, would save a family of four around $87 per year on groceries.

But it isn’t clear what funding sources would backfill the lost revenue to education — a challenge several states face as they attempt to eliminate the tax, according to a Pew Trusts report earlier this year.

“My question is your bill doesn’t address the shortfall. So we’re dependent upon other bills,” said Sen. Doug Beck, D-Affton.

“I would prefer that that would be in one bill, that we could see that both things pass at one time,” Beck added.

Mallory Rusch, executive director of the anti-poverty organization Empower Missouri, who testified in favor of the bill in February, said “we’ve been put in a little bit of a bind” by Missouri because the tax is tied to education.

“We believe that it is really important to fully fund education,” Rusch said, “but we don’t feel like that education funding should come on the backs of those who have the least across the state of Missouri.”

Education entities raised resistance last year to a similar House bill because of concern around funding.

The fiscal note estimated the school district trust fund would lose over $115 million next fiscal year if the state sales tax were removed.

Rusch also said that local sales taxes can be “far more burdensome” than state ones.

Coleman said they could replace the funds with surplus revenue, or through other legislation, such as by passing a proposal to legalize video lottery games, which needs to be used for education — though that proposal is not guaranteed to pass.

Senate Minority Leader John Rizzo, D-Independence, during debate last week pointed to the state’s large budget surplus.

“I’m not opposed to tax cuts,” Rizzo said. “If we are going to do that, I’d rather it affect a single mom, I’d rather affect a family that’s trying to make ends meet.”

Originally Appeared Here

Filed Under: Columbia, Mid-Missouri

12 Best Small Towns in Missouri For A Weekend Escape

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The southern Midwestern state of Missouri is a real must-see experience amidst sprawling, vast grassy plains and forested foothills. Missouri’s countless towns boast unique character and deep historical significance with modern-day and cultural attractions. Choose an art-laden locale, a getaway into the scenic Ozark Mountains for endless adventures, or many parks with nature trails.

These small towns are the best for a weekend escape to relax, refresh, and recharge with scenic sights and historical knowledge about the “Show Me State.” Seek culture at countless museums and venues like malls and theaters, and experience old Southern charm at the hands of hospitable locals for endless memories with your loved ones.

Boonville

Historic railroad Katy Bridge over Missouri River at Boonville.

The town in Cooper County offers a laidback weekend getaway for history fans and nature enthusiasts in the land named after the infamous Daniel Boone’s sons, who came west to establish their salt business. Boonville formed after the War of 1812 along the present-day Santa Fe Trail and the Missouri River’s natural locale. Stroll the scenic streets reminiscent of the past, home to David Barton and William Ash, and where the Union Forces prevailed in a brief battle.

Seek southern charm in hospitality and sights around places like the nearby Warm Springs Ranch on a fun family day outing. Take on the Katy Trail State Park with a pair of hiking boots or a bike and snap a selfie across the Katy Bridge with the Missouri River backdrop. Enjoy some R&R in the evening at the Mainstreet Pub while the kids snack on the famous treats from Carrie Lyn’s Ice Cream Parlor. The Touch of Class Salon, Spa, and B&B round out the relaxing weekend escape in this lovely town.

Branson

Branson, Missouri water tower. Image credit Chad Robertson Media via Shutterstock

The Taney County town of Branson, cozily tucked within the Ozarks, is a popular weekend escape. The mountainous destination is perfect for city dwellers to dive into a small-town charming atmosphere replete with outdoor adventures. Named after the area’s general store manager, Ruben Branson, in the late 19th century, tourists can enjoy a wide array of cultural pursuits sprinkled along the streetscape against a peaky backdrop. Hike in the day and catch a flick, a concert, or a play at one of the town’s many entertainment theaters, or check out the Ralph Foster Museum.

Stroll to Branson Landing along the Lake Taneycomo waterfront to watch the sunset right downtown. The historic Branson Scenic Railway at the old depot on the waterfront is right across from the landing. Sneak in a popular show viewing at the Sight and Sound Theaters after dinner before heading for a peaceful rest at the atmospheric Cabins at the Green Mountains. Reserve a full day to do some scenic shopping at the outdoor mall along the pier.

Cape Girardeau

Cape Girardeau along the Mississippi River.

The richly historic Cape Girardeau is a perfect weekend getaway for any taste. It is a fun shopping destination with many family-friendly attractions. Find the vibrant West Park Mall right across Williams Street, with nearly 50 name brands and local outlets for fashionistas and window shoppers. Seek movie theaters, shops, and restaurants nearby on a fun family day outing. Hit the downtown area for an antiquing and thrifting spree to bring home a piece of decor unique to this corner of southeast Missouri.

Enjoy an art walk with river views downtown along the 24-panel Flood Wall Mural. The 15-foot-tall painted wall in-between the Mississippi River and Cape Downtown contains flood gates that let out excess water from the river. The Pear Tree Inn, right off I-55, is a convenient stay with comfortable accommodations and modern amenities like an outdoor pool and a spacious sun deck. The Trampoline Center and the Splash Family Aquatic Center cater to energetic kids, while the Conservation Nature Center and the Lazy L. Safari Park are great for knowledge-based discoveries.

Hannibal

Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn Statue overlooking Hannibal, Missouri.

Tom Sawyer’s “father,” Mark Twain, was born and lived in Hannibal when he wrote the charming and infamous story while strolling around the same sights you will see today on an inspired getaway. Spend the weekend immersed in small-town charm with a slew of Mark Twain-related attractions like a museum, a statue, and even a lighthouse. Venture into nature on a stroll along the Mississippi River and the nearby cave. The delightful town at the intersection of Interstate 72 and US Routes 24, 36, and 61 is home to many shops and restaurants for a diverse weekend getaway.

Stock up on books and souvenirs, and visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, open for over a century to worldwide visitors wanting to relive Mark Twain’s life. Stick to the theme on a stroll through sights like the Garth Woodside Mansion Estate local B&B, the Mark Twain and Cameron Caves, and the Hannibal Free Public Library. Stray away from the literature on a Ghost or Vampire Tour in town or take a breezy boat ride along the Mississippi for a different view of delightful Hannibal.

Hermann

Black Shire Distillery, Hermann, Missouri. Image credit RellMade via Shutterstock

Hermann, a town in the center of the Missouri Rhineland in Gasconade County is the commercial center for the production of wine in the area, which equals one-third of the total share in the state. The land of lush vineyards, established by German immigrants in the 19th century, experienced setbacks during the Prohibition period, but then flourished thereon. Hermann once again thrives through wine tourism as an ideal location for wine lovers to score a rare or discounted bottle during a weekend escape.

The town named by the Germans remembers its heritage during the Maifest in May and the Oktoberfest in October, while juicy sausages are a daily thing many come looking to sink their teeth into. The Stone Hill Winery is one of the state’s largest winery businesses, while the Adam Puchta Winery is the oldest continually family-owned winery in the US. Balance the weekend of wine consumption along the Katy Trail, or combine the two on the Hermann Wine Trail, with samples of Missouri’s best wine. The charming town is also home to many feel-good pursuits like antique shopping and visiting historic sites.

Kimmswick

The historic Kimmswick market, constructed in 1877. Image credit Logan Bush via Shutterstock

The Jefferson County town of Kimmswick is easily reachable over a 25-mile drive south of St. Louis on a weekend getaway. Save precious days off work and escape back in time to the town founded in 1859 by Theodore Kimm, a St. Louis native merchant. Kimmswick spreads idyllically along the powerful Mississippi River, the growing town’s lifeline. Visit in autumn for lovely fall colors and the Applebutter Festival in late October.

The 1970s flood during the construction of Interstate 55 luckily omitted the town’s historical and architectural treasures that constitute a destination in themselves. Take in the scenery on a stroll and snap selfies, as well as stop by one of the many antique and craft stores to bring home a memorable piece. If even Oprah mentioned the Blue Owl restaurant in her magazine, you know where to grab dinner in town.

Lebanon

Route 66 Munger Moss Motel, Lebanon, Missouri. Image credit rawf8 via Shutterstock

Find the town of Lebanon along the “Mother Road,” Route 66, parallel to Interstate 44, with the Hotel Hampton Inn, a comfortable home base for pursuits around town. Seek out the nearby local fruit farms with berry-picking and over a dozen antiquing places, or stay for a race along the Lebanon-I-44 Speedway. Learn trout fishing from the pros at the Jim Rogers Fly Fishing School, and then head for a fun stroll through town with family attractions, shops, and restaurants.

The central town along the rolling hills of mid-Missouri sits scenically surrounded by the Mark Twain National Forest. Learn about the famed Route 66 at a local museum and research center dedicated to this unique road. The historic forest is the ultimate getaway into the outdoors, with Missouri’s most wondrous natural landmarks. Seek more pursuits at Bennett Spring State Park, like fishing and boating along the Niangua River or flying over treetops on a zipline. Explore the hiking trails around town with Missouri’s most wondrous natural sights.

Rocheport

Rocheport station on Katy Trail. Image credit marekuliasz via Shutterstock

With a small population of under 300, Rocheport offers a perfect respite at a must-see destination in Missouri. Lewis and Clack visited this trading post for settlers and Native Americans on their westward journey during the pioneering days. Follow their example and make a pit stop in Rocheport on your next Midwest road trip, or visit on a biking trip along the renowned Katy Trail through the quaint town.

The “Rocky Port,” in French, with the 225-mile-long bike path across Missouri-wide traverses the heart of town in place of the former railroad. Choose the historic and restored Amber House for an atmospheric stay in a cute B&B with relaxing massages. Explore the scenic landscape on an art stroll and seek mental escape at the Les Bourgeois Winery and Tasting Room. Enjoy a shopping spree for unique finds at the Art & Antiques and Blacksmith to commemorate the trip.

Sedalia

A trio of bluegrass musicians performing at the Missouri State Fair, Sedalia.

One of Missouri’s bigger towns, Sedalia, with a thriving population of some 21,000, sits wrapped in small-town charm, with plentiful amenities. The annual Missouri State Fair brings a stampede to this cultural town. Visit the inspiring Daum Museum of Contemporary Art with 1,500 modern art pieces by celebrated artists from the last half-century. Peek back in time at the Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site and the Katy Depot train station turned into a cool history museum, and find the Trails End Monument.

Sedalia is a perfect weekend escape for couples, with the best music scene around. There is a festival in memory of the famous musician Scott Joplin, with thousands of attendees each June. Make a pit stop in Sedalia on your cycling trip along Missouri’s Katy Trail for souvenirs, local history, and a fantastic art scene. Have a romantic dinner at the Ivory Grille at the Hotel Bothwell, or sink your teeth into the must-try Guberburger at The Wheel In for the ultimate “when in Sedalia” experience.

Ste. Genevieve

The County Clerk building in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri.

The oldest town in Missouri, Ste. Genevieve, named after the Patron Saint of Paris dates back to the 1735 settlement by the French Canadians. Stroll the impeccably preserved landscape in-between stores and cafes amidst many historic homes, taverns, churches, and the Art Center. The downtown is replete with specialty craft shops with the most unique finds and cool souvenirs. Had to the River Rapids Waterpark for a fun day of splashing, or a ghost tour, especially popular among older children. Dine at the Midway Bar & Grill and choose the Inn St. Gemme for a night’s rest before hiking the Hickory Canyons.

The first organized European settlement on the west side of the Mississippi River briefly shifted from French rule to Spanish, after the French and Indian War. Today, Southern hospitality with a French flair is a must-experience on a weekend escape. Come in time for one of the many annual festivals that celebrate various aspects of the rich history and vibrant culture like the French Heritage Festival in June with dancing, concerts, and demonstrations. Stroll through the old town district with the Bolduc House Museum and the Felix Valle House State Historic Site, and finish the French-inspired day over a glass at the nearby Weingarten Vineyard.

St. Charles

People walking and exploring at a summer street festival in St. Charles, Missouri. Image credit Wirestock Creators via Shutterstock

St. Charles is one of Missouri’s most historic townscapes and the former state’s capital. On May 14, 1804, Lewis and Clark joined the Corps of Discovery from the St. Charles shore on a history-altering, two-year boat trip down the Missouri River. The town thrived thereon with independent businesses that found their customer base amidst the attractive, historically significant locale.

Browse and buy their work from the wealth of local art and craft places, or choose St. Charles for a scenically wonderful girls’ getaway by the waters, and strolls along the brick-lined streets. There are plenty of boutiques and eclectic stores to satisfy the most avid shopaholics. Enjoy coffee at an outdoor café, revel in local cuisine, and explore the Missouri wine region, all from the expansive shores of the magnificent Missouri River.

Weston

Downtown Weston Missouri. Image credit Wirestock Creators via Shutterstock

The hometown of the McCormick Distilling Company, the oldest west of the Mississippi, calls for relaxing in one of the best-known ways: over a whiskey and friendly blabbering with strangers. Weston was also the leading producer of industrial hemp until prohibition in 1937. The fun-spirited town is a great family escape into the outdoors with ample pursuits at the Weston Bend State Park or some peaceful one-on-one time with nature.

The adorable small town is also perfect for antiquing ventures through a wealth of artisan and eclectic shops. Head to one of the many cozy restaurants for dinner and hit the downtown wineries and breweries in the evening, like Vox Vineyards, Weston Wine Company, and O’Malley’s Pub. Nearby Kansas City is a fantastic shopping destination with varied opportunities to swipe the card to treat yourself and buy souvenirs.

Visit the oldest town in Missouri, settled by the French Canadian colonists in the first half of the 18th century, or follow Tom Sawyer’s adventures. Choose any town in between for the natural scenery, art, and shopping unique to this corner of the country. You may end up amidst wine country or along the famed paved Katy Trail bike path, surrounded by endless cultural pursuits and sights with great places to eat and drink. The first taste of real Southern charm and local hospitality will make you wish the weekend lasted forever.

Originally Appeared Here

Filed Under: Boonville, Mid-Missouri

The politics governing St. Louis policing likely to remain under state control

by

JEFFERSON CITY — Supporters of a plan to return control of the St. Louis police department to a state-appointed board say the switch could remove some of the politics they believe have gotten in the way of good policing.

But, whether they support the plan or not, former local officials who dealt with the old governor-appointed commission say politics were a significant feature under that system too.

Under proposals advancing in the Republican-controlled House and Senate, a Board of Police Commissioners with four members appointed by the governor would serve with the mayor or the president of the Board of Aldermen beginning in August 2023.

The state board, which is being pushed as a way to stem high crime numbers in the city, would be required to keep a police force of not less than 1,142 members at a time when the current roster is hovering around 1,000.

In announcing the plan in January, Sen. Nick Schroer, a St. Charles County Republican, said a return to state control after a decade of local oversight could remove some of the politics that he believes have led to chronic criminal behavior and warnings from businesses that they are pondering leaving the city.

“It’s taking the political dynamic and the distrust for who’s managing the department out of it and puts it back in the control of a group of individuals who will decide what’s best for the city,” Schroer told reporters at a press conference in the Capitol.

St. Louis Mayor Tishaura O. Jones, who opposes the takeover, says that won’t be the case. In an interview this week with WBUR’s “On Point,” the mayor outlined her concerns.

“Under the previous state control board, politics was in every decision regarding our police department,” Jones told the Boston public radio station.

Her predecessors and other local officials also told the Post-Dispatch that politics were a feature under the old system.

The state-controlled board, which was dumped by Missouri voters in a 2012 referendum, was sometimes highly political, with demands placed on members by other elected officials to promote certain police officers over others.

In some cases, state senators, who were charged with confirming a governor’s appointment, would threaten to withhold support for city initiatives if members didn’t support the promotions of certain officers.

Former Mayor Vincent Schoemehl, who served three terms from 1981 to 1993, recalled the scramble to adjust to a new slate of members following the election of a new governor as a detriment to the operation of the department.

Later, the members were appointed to staggered terms under the tenure of the late St. Louis businessman Robert Baer, meaning there was not as much overall turnover.

Baer, who was chairman of the board from 1985 to 1989, vowed to run the police department like a business. Among other changes, he converted the promotion process to a merit-based system.

“After the changes initiated by Bob Baer, it became less political,” Schoemehl said.

Steve Conway has watched the process for decades. He served as an aldermen for 27 years and then was chief of staff to former Mayor Lyda Krewson. His father, Jim, was mayor and served on the state-appointed police board.

He said some changes have tamped down on the gamesmanship that was played when it came to questions of promotions in the department.

But, he said a new board may be a lot like the current board.

“There will always be politics in all jobs. Everybody is striving to get a promotion,” Conway said.

Former St. Louis Mayor Clarence Harmon, who also served as police chief, told the Post-Dispatch in 2010 that politics played a big role in who served on the board.

“People don’t want to get on the board because it’s an opportunity for idle chit-chat,” he said. “They want to get on because they have influence.”

The debate over the future of police oversight comes 10 years after the 152-year reign of state control of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department ended.

The state-controlled board was a relic of the Civil War, as pro-South politicians in Jefferson City devised the system to thwart Union sympathizers in St. Louis.

Then-Gov. Claiborne Jackson and pro-Southern members of the state Legislature wanted to contain the Union-leaning city police department, and seized upon a reform measure other U.S. cities had adopted to combat political scandals. Jackson signed the bill creating the new board in 1861, and then quickly appointed four like-minded commissioners.

The 2013 switch from control under a state-appointed commission to local control came after years of work by then-St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay and other city politicians.

They argued that neither the mayor nor the city’s legislative body, the Board of Aldermen, had any direct control over policing. The mayor held a seat on the five-member commission that runs the department, but Slay argued that he could not quickly order a change in tactics to respond to crime trends, hold the chief accountable for lax policing or tell the department how to spend city money.

Financier and philanthropist Rex Sinquefield bankrolled a $2 million statewide campaign in support. And more than 400 elected officials across Missouri signed on to convince voters in the November 2012 election to vote “yes.”

But attitudes about oversight have changed in recent years as city leaders have grappled with crime. Republicans, who control all levers of state government, have made crime a major topic on their agenda heading toward the 2024 election.

Kansas City, which does not control its police force, is weathering some of the same issues of politics that Republicans say will be fixed if St. Louis is placed under the governor-appointed board.

There, Mayor Quinton Lucas, who sits on the five-member board, has frequently challenged legal decisions by the commission and voted against the creation of a special committee that he now says is illegally meeting in secret.

But Conway, the former alderman, downplayed the idea that a new board overseeing St. Louis is going to make decisions that will be detrimental to city residents.

“It’s not necessarily state control. All five appointed members will live in the city,” Conway said.

St. Louis consistently lands on lists of most dangerous cities, but readers need to carefully look at how such lists are prepared.

Originally Appeared Here

Filed Under: Jefferson City, Mid-Missouri

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