Highway Patrol DWI Arrests December 30-31

The Missouri Highway Patrol arrested the following people for driving while intoxicated:

River A. Phelps, 18, Shell Knob
Randy A. Mentzer, 40, Elkland
Justin F. Holman, 34, Cassville
Juan G. Hurtado, 45, Monett
David C. Oliver, 38, Buffalo
Jay A. Lee, 60, Jackson, Mississippi

One thousand dollar reward for tips leading to this man's arrest

(From the Springfield Police Department)

It's FUGITIVE FRIDAY here at Crime Stoppers! 

Carrol Wiles Jr. AKA "Boog" has earned his feature spot. He has multiple outstanding felony warrants including *Felon in Possession of a Firearm*. 

Help get Wiles out of our community- please share to spread the word. As always, tips that lead to Wiles' arrest are eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000.00.

Mississippi man injured in accident south of Battlefield

A Mississippi man was injured in a one-vehicle accident 7:10 p.m. Friday on Route FF, a half mile south of Battlefield.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2008 Ford truck driven by Jay A. Lee, 60, Jackson, Mississippi, failed to negotiate a curve and struck a ditch.

Lee was treated for moderate injuries at Cox South Hospital, Springfield.

Springfield woman injured in accident near Marshfield

A Springfield woman was injured in a one-vehicle accident 2 p.m. today on Wiseman Road, five miles west of Marshfield.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2000 Ford FFV driven by Brenda L. Jackson, 54, Springfield, lost control and traveled off the left side of the roadway. Jackson overcorrected and the vehicle overturned.

Jackson was treated for minor injuries at Mercy Hospital, Springfield.

Highway Patrol DWI Arrests December 29-30

The Missouri Highway Patrol arrested the following people for driving while intoxicated:

Michael R. Plaster, 22, Lebanon
Kimberly L. Kachiroubas, 32, Squires

Agenda posted for Tuesday Springfield City Council lunch session

City Council Lunch
Tuesday, January 3, 2017 12:00 p.m. 
Busch Municipal Building – 4th Floor Conference Room 840 N. Boonville Avenue 

TENTATIVE AGENDA 

1. Japan Trip Debrief – Phyllis Ferguson and Jan Fisk

2. Springfield Police Department Foot Patrol – Chief Williams

3. Center City Zone – Chief Williams

4. Review of the Upcoming January 9, 2017 City Council Meeting Agenda.

5. Any and all matters to come before the City Council.

6. Adjourn to Special City Council Meeting – Closed Session

Greitens thank you tour schedules Springfield stop

(From the Greitens Team)

We're just a few days away from the inauguration! Because of your effort and commitment, Missouri will soon have a Navy SEAL and an outsider as governor. Eric is hard at work preparing to change politics as usual and shake up the status quo. In the days leading up to the inauguration, he'll be traveling the state on a Thank You Tour, meeting with supporters and discussing his plan to fight for Missourians. We'd be honored to have you join the governor-elect as we begin to take Missouri in a new direction.

- Team Greitens

January 3rd

KIRKSVILLE THANK YOU TOUR STOP
10:00 AM
Truman State University Student Union
The HUB
100 E Normal Street
Kirksville, MO 63501
Click to RSVP

ST. JOSEPH THANK YOU TOUR STOP
1:30 PM
Missouri Western University
Hall of Fame Room
Spratt Stadium
4525 Downs Drive
St. Joseph, MO 64507
Click to RSVP

KANSAS CITY THANK YOU TOUR STOP
7:00 PM
Garozzo’s Ristorante
526 Harrison Street
Kansas City, MO 64106
Click to RSVP

January 5th

HANNIBAL THANK YOU TOUR STOP
11:30 AM
Mark Twain Museum
120 N Main Street
Hannibal, MO 63401
Click to RSVP

CAPE GIRARDEAU THANK YOU TOUR STOP
6:00 PM
Marquette Tower
339 Broadway
Cape Girardeau, MO 63701
Click to RSVP

January 6th

JOPLIN THANK YOU TOUR STOP
2:00 PM
Freeman Hospital West
1102 West 32nd Street
Joplin, MO 64804
Click to RSVP

SPRINGFIELD THANK YOU TOUR STOP
5:30 PM
Missouri State University Welcome Center
901 South National Avenue
Springfield, MO 65897
Click to RSVP

January 7th

ST. LOUIS THANK YOU TOUR STOP
2:00 PM
RBO PrintLogistix
2463 Schuetz Road
Maryland Heights, MO 63043
Click to RSVP

Park Central East closed next week

(From the City of Springfield)

Park Central East will close to traffic beginning 7 a.m. Monday, Jan. 2 through 4 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3 for sidewalk and street repairs related to a water leak. Motorists are advised to seek an alternate route.

Highway Patrol DWI Arrests December 27-28

The Missouri Highway Patrol arrested the following people for driving while intoxicated:

Angela M. Field, 37, Fenton
Theadford S. Majors, 69, Cape Fair

Sections of Kimbrough Avenue to close for street repairs

(From the City of Springfield)

City of Springfield Public Works will close various sections of Kimbrough Avenue for street repairs according to the following schedule, weather permitting. The closures will begin at 7 a.m. each day and last 24 hours. Motorists are advised to use alternate routes. 

Wednesday, December 28, Kimbrough Ave will be closed from Delmar Street to Loren Street.

Thursday, December 29, Kimbrough Ave will be closed from Loren Sreet to Catalpa Street.

Tuesday, January 3 Kimbrough Ave will be closed from Sunshine Street to University Street.

Six killed in crashes over holiday reporting period

(From the Missouri State Highway Patrol)

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports six people died in traffic crashes over the Christmas holiday counting period--from 6 p.m. on Friday, December 23, 2016 to 11:59 p.m. on Monday, December 26, 2016. The Patrol investigated 260 traffic crashes, which included 86 injuries and the six fatalities. Troopers also arrested 68 people for driving while impaired and made 40 drug arrests over the Christmas holiday. There were no boating crashes or drownings over the 2016 counting period.

During last year’s Christmas holiday counting period, the Patrol investigated 282 traffic crashes, which included 78 injuries and two fatalities. In addition, troopers arrested 47 people for driving while intoxicated. There was one boating crash with no injuries or fatalities, and 11 people drowned in 2015, after their vehicles were swept away by floodwaters. (Statewide during the 2015 Christmas holiday counting period, there were 1,070 traffic crashes, which included five fatalities and 363 injuries.)

Three of the fatalities occurred in the Troop D, Springfield area; and one fatality occurred in each of the Troop B, Macon, Troop E, Poplar Bluff, and Troop G, Willow Springs, areas.

Three fatalities occurred as a result of traffic crashes on Friday, December 23, 2016. Nicholas A. Thomas, 37, of Ozark, MO, and Dustin T. Emmett, 32, of Springfield, MO, died when the vehicle in which Thomas was a passenger crossed the center line and struck Emmett’s vehicle headon. The crash occurred in Greene County on Farm Road 159 north of Springfield, MO. Greene County Medical Examiner Michelle Waters pronounced Emmett dead at the scene of the crash. Dr. Pace at Mercy Hospital pronounced Thomas dead on December 24, 2016. Thomas was not wearing a seat belt; Emmett was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. The driver of the vehicle in which Thomas was a passenger sustained moderate injuries in the crash; she was not wearing a seat belt.

Brooke J. Summers, 27, of Salisbury, MO, died when the vehicle she was driving ran off the road, struck a culvert, and overturned. Summers was not wearing a seat belt and was ejected. The crash occurred in Chariton County on Missouri Highway 5 south of Marceline, MO. Chariton County Sheriff Rick Hershey pronounced Summers dead at the scene. Chariton County Sheriff’s Office, Chariton County EMS, and Marceline First Responders responded to the scene.

One fatality occurred as a result of a traffic crash on Saturday, December 24, 2016. Stephanie N. Price, 30, of West Plains, MO, died when the vehicle she was driving ran off the roadway and overturned several times. Price was not wearing a seat belt and was ejected. The crash occurred in Howell County on U.S. Highway 63 south of Willow Springs, MO. Howell County Coroner Tim Cherry pronounced Price dead at the scene.

One fatality occurred as a result of a traffic crash on Christmas Day, Sunday, December 25, 2016. Donald R. Hearlson, 80, of Marshfield, MO, died after the vehicle he was driving failed to negotiate a curve, went off the roadway, and stuck a parked vehicle. The crash occurred in Webster County on Missouri Route OO west of Red Top Road. Webster County Coroner Michael Taylor pronounced Hearlson dead at the scene. Hearlson was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.

One fatality occurred as a result of a traffic crash on December 26, 2016. Martin Lenwood, 65, of Joaquin, Texas, died when the vehicle he was driving ran through an intersection and struck a ditch. The crash occurred on U.S. Highway 160 east of Doniphan, MO. Lenwood was wearing his seat belt at the time of the crash. Dr. McClain pronounced Lenwood dead at St. Francis Medical Center.

Springfield woman injured crashing into tree

A Springfield woman was injured in a one-vehicle accident 7:15 p.m. Monday on Red Oak Drive, a half mile south of Ozark.

According to the Highway Patrol report, 2007 Chevrolet HHR driven by Joyce I. Duke, 72, Springfield, traveled off the right side of the road and struck a tree.

Duke was treated for minor injuries at Cox South Hospital, Springfield.

Baby injured in one-vehicle accident near Republic

An Oronogo infant was injured in a one-vehicle accident 9:04 p.m. Monday on Highway 360, one-half mile west of Republic.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 1989 Buick Century driven by Kevin M. Roy, 19, Joplin, failed to negotiate curve, ran off the road and overturned.

An infant passenger, Brandon G. Stone, was treated for minor injuries at Mercy Hospital, Springfield.

Highway Patrol DWI Arrests December 26-27

The Missouri Highway Patrol arrested the following people for driving while intoxicated:

Nicholas B. Cox, 22, Cassville
Jason T. Donnelly, 46, Rogers, Arkansas
Gary E. Fields, 67, Nixa
Robert L. Mentzere, 66, Granby

Ash Grove Republican's bill targets businesses that won't allow guns on the premises

The bill featured in this video is sponsored by Rep. Mike Moon, R-Ash Grove.

Greene County man among 12 pardoned by Gov. Nixon

(From Gov. Jay Nixon)

Gov. Jay Nixon announced that he has granted pardons to 12 individuals, each of whom has completed their sentence and become a law-abiding citizen. To date, the Governor has granted 88 pardons and commuted the sentences of three incarcerated offenders, for a total of 91 acts of clemency. Those granted pardons today are:

John Baker, who completed a five-year term of probation after being convicted of sale of cocaine in 1992 in Camden County. Baker has maintained gainful employment and serves as a mentor for troubled youth.

Michael Sullwold, who completed a five-year term of probation for two counts of sale of marijuana in 1982 in Buchanan County. Sullwold recently retired after 30 years of service at the Missouri Department of Mental Health.

Mark Stroud, who was discharged early from a five-year term of probation after being convicted of sale of marijuana in 1996 in Lewis County. Stroud has maintained gainful employment.

James Medley, who completed a three-year term of probation after being convicted of possession of marijuana in 1985 in Greene County. Medley has maintained gainful employment and is active in his church.

David McCarthy, who completed a two-year term of probation for receiving stolen property in 1979 in Howell County. McCarthy has maintained gainful employment in the logging industry.
Eugene Atterberry, who completed a five-year term of probation after being convicted of burglary and stealing in 1970 in Texas County. Atterberry retired in 2012 after 30 years of service in the Department of Defense.

Malta Stepp, Jr., who served 14 months in the Department of Corrections for Burglary in 1969 in Stoddard County. Stepp, a Vietnam veteran, resides in Arkansas and maintained gainful employment before retiring in 2012.

Jeffrey Hargrove, who served four months in the Department of Corrections and received a five-year term of probation for receiving stolen property in 1999 in Buchanan County. Hargrove has since received his Master’s Degree and maintains gainful employment.

Bernard Curtis, who served three months in the Department of Corrections and received a one-year term of probation after being convicted of second-degree burglary in 1980 in St. Louis City. Curtis has maintained gainful employment.

Donnie Yantis, who completed a two-year term of probation for possession of a controlled substance in 1990 in Shelby County. Yantis owns an excavating business and cattle farm.

Granger Layman, who completed a six-month term of probation for stealing in 1997 in Jasper County. Layman has maintained gainful employment and works in the meat-packing industry.
Richard Crow, who was discharged early from a five-year term of probation after pleading guilty to sale of a controlled substance in 1974 in St. Louis County. Crow has maintained gainful employment in the real estate industry.

Marshfield man killed in one-vehicle accident

A Marshfield man was killed in a one-vehicle accident 2:40 p.m. Sunday on Route OO, 80 feet west of Red Top Road in Webster County.

According to the Highway Patrol report, Donald R. Hearlson, 80, Marshfield, driving a 2008 Chevrolet Colorado, failed to negotiate a curve, went off the left side of the roadway and struck a parked vehicle.

Hearlson was pronounced dead at the scene at 2:53 p.m. by Webster County Coroner Micheal Taylor, The fatality was the 116th this year for Highway Patrol Troop D.

Highway Patrol DWI Arrests December 25-26

The Missouri Highway Patrol arrested the following people for driving while intoxicated:

Dacota N. Carpenter, 22, Joplin
Janette M. Smith, 43, Springfield
Gautam B. Maharjan, 39, Monett

Highway Patrol DWI Arrests December 24-25

The Missouri Highway Patrol arrested the following people for driving while intoxicated:

Joshua E. Schmidt, 26, Springfield
Carlo Auguilar Casas, 29, Neosho
Marcelino Diaz, 23, Monett
Phillip A. Prasad, 35, Neosho

Springfield woman charged with DWI, manslaughter after fatal head on crash

A Springfield woman was charged with felony driving while intoxicated and second degree felony manslaughter following a two-vehicle head on crash 10:28 p.m. Friday on Farm Road 159 two miles north of Springfield.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2007 Ford Ranger driven by Corina L. Stockstill, 26, Springfield, crossed the center line and struck a 1994 Buick Century driven by Dustin T. Emmett, 32, Springfield, head on.

Emmett was pronounced dead at the scene by Greene County Medical Examiner Michelle Waters.

Stockstill was treated for moderate injuries and a passenger in her vehicle, Nicholas A. Thomas, 37, Ozark, for serious injuries at Mercy Hospital, Springfield.

Stockstill was also charged with failure to drive on the right half of the roadway and for not wearing a seat belt.

The fatality was the 114th this year for Highway Patrol Troop D.

Highway Patrol DWI Arrests December 22-24

The Missouri Highway Patrol arrested the following people for driving while intoxicated:

Mark L. Garner, 59, Branson
Daniel L. Boshears, 32, Dunnegan
Corina L. Stockstill, 26, Springfield
Marcos Ochoa, 51, Verona
Brandon C. Gallemore, 26, Columbia
Thomas R. Lakin, 32, Merriam Woods

Greene County Dissolution of Marriage Petitions

The following petitions for dissolutions of marriage were filed this week in Greene County Circuit Court:

Deirdra N. Harris vs. Caleb V. Harris
Cynthia L. Monsees vs. Adam R. Monsees
Robert S. Bormann vs. Melanie H. Bormann
Tommy Ray Todd vs. Deanna Lynn Griechen
Tiffany Megan Kosmalski vs. Bryan Mitchell Kosmalski
Anita M. Pippin vs. Darrell E. Pippin
Madisen Ann-Marie Tolbert vs. Nylah Tay Rogers
Meihui J. Sharp vs. Jonathon K. Sharp
Douglas C. Tamm vs. Ashley L. Tamm
Hewson Dewayne DeJean vs. Lisa Lynn DeJean
James Kilgore vs. Heather Kilgore
Jennifer D. Peters. vs. Jason R. Peters
Ingrid Christa Taylor vs. Charles Joseph Taylor
Ryan James Nelson vs. Tiffany Lynn Nelson
Gwen D. Gray vs. Nathan C. Gray
Cynthia Marie Boyte vs. Mitchel Kendrick Boyte
Jay Johnston vs. Alicia Johnston

Seymour woman injured in accident near Springfield

A Seymour woman was injured in a two-vehicle accident 2 p.m. today on Route D, one mile east of Springfield.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 1995 Ford F-150 driven by Sandan J. Caswell, 30, Seymour, struck a 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Max driven by Adayn D. Riggs, 21, Seymour, in the rear.

Riggs was treated for minor injuries at Mercy Hospital, Springfield.

Billy Long outlines accomplishments of 114th Congress

(From Seventh District Congressman Billy Long)

At times congress is portrayed as Republican v. Democrat, but even in a partisan environment we can still find areas of agreement to advance important legislation. During the 114th Congress my colleagues and I have passed several transformative bills that will go on to help millions of people. I worked hard to make sure that the people of Missouri’s 7th Congressional District and the American people got the best deal possible.

Two of the most recent examples of this would be the 21st Century Cures Act and the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act. Both of these bills had overwhelming bipartisan support.

The 21st Century Cures Act, which was led by Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI) and Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO) of the Energy and Commerce Committee, is a bill that will impact medical research for many years to come by addressing the 10,000 unknown diseases, with 7,000 of those unknown diseases being classified as rare.

Within this bill is a provision of mine that would allow further communication between drug manufacturers and health care professionals. After three years of bipartisan work on this bill, it was finally signed into law this December. This bill was very personal to me because I know what it’s like to have a loved one affected by a heartbreaking disease.

The WIIN Act, which was also signed into law this December,is a comprehensive water resources infrastructure bill that includes language that both Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO) and I worked on that involved the Table Rock Lake Shoreline Management Plan. After talking with constituents, it was clear to me that their voices weren’t being heard and something needed to be done. The language added within the bill would halt the plan by two years, lift the moratorium on issuing permits for new and existing docks and extend the public comment period.

The 114th Congress also worked hard to ensure our manufacturers have a level playing field to compete. The Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act, which was passed in December of 2015, strengthened the enforcement of our trade laws and set parameters to future trade deals that ensure our importation laws will not be changed. This legislation included Customs and Border Protection tariff evasion policy changes that I’ve been fighting for ever since I came to Congress.

Though 114th Congress has come to an end, I look forward to the work that my colleagues and I can accomplish in the 115th Congress. We’ve had a successful two years, and I know the next two can be even better.

Ash Grove woman killed in two-vehicle accident on 160

An Ash Grove woman was killed in a two-vehicle accident 6:56 p.m. Thursday on U. S. 160 in Ash Grove.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2004 Toyota Corolla driven by Jerry D. Enyart, 50, Ash Grove, attempted to cross U. S. 160 and was struck by a 2011 Ford F-150, driven by Garry E. Guy, 79, Willard,which was operating without headlights. Both vehicles same to rest on the south side of the roadway.

A passenger in the Enyart vehicle, Laura E. Enyart, 49, Ash Grove, was pronounced dead at the scene by Greene County chief forensic investigator Tom Van De Berg.

Enyart was treated for serious injuries and Guy for moderate injuries at Mercy Hospital, Springfield.

The fatality was the 113th this year for Highway Patrol Troop D.

City of Springfield seeks public input on trash and recycling

(From the City of Springfield)

Springfield residents are encouraged to complete an online public input survey regarding trash and recycling collection within the city limits. This survey seeks to gather information on current collection services offered as well as residents’ preferences and concerns.

Visit www.springfieldmo.gov/trashstudy to learn more and participate in the survey.

A second public open house will be held 5:30 – 7 p.m. Wednesday, January 11 at the Library Station Sante Fe Room (2535 N. Kansas Expy.). This is another opportunity for the public to learn about the trash and recycling study and provide input.  

Information from the survey and open house session will be compiled as part of the public input process for the ongoing Trash and Recycling Collection Efficiency Study. Overall findings and recommendations from this study will be presented to City Council in early 2017.

About the Trash and Recycling Collection Study

Trash collection in Springfield is currently performed by 12 - 15 private trash hauling companies under an open-market system. The City does not provide trash collection services.

Following interest from the Neighborhood Advisory Council (NAC) as well as direction from City Council to investigate trash collection issues such as noise, safety, congestion and wear-and-tear on streets, City staff analyzed the current collection system and compared it to other programs in benchmark cities throughout the country.

To gain assistance in studying the current system on a more detailed level and to gain input from a larger group of stakeholders, the City hired civil engineering firm Burns and McDonnell. 

Burns and McDonnell will work as an extension of City staff to identify potential options for improving the efficiency and long-term viability of trash collection services within the City’s Integrated Solid Waste Management System (SWMS).

Burns and McDonnell will evaluate the options to help the City better understand how best to accomplish the following objectives:

• More efficient trash and recycling collection – Organize collection services to improve efficiencies to reduce vehicular traffic.
• Enhanced community programs and services – Support neighborhood clean-ups, improved recycling programs, enhanced education, and better access to services throughout community.
• Consistent services and rates – Provide uniform services and rates throughout the community. Expand services such as curbside recycling, bulky item pickup, and yard waste collection. 
• Community benefits – Reduce noise, traffic flow and wear-and-tear on infrastructure. Create safer and cleaner streets and neighborhoods.
• Environmental benefits – Reduce fuel consumption and vehicle emissions. Lower demand for natural resources and landfill space through increased diversion rates.
• Protect existing haulers – Recognize the existing service providers operating in the City and seek their input and protect their interests where possible.
• Ensure stability for current Solid Waste Management System programming – Provide consistent funding to continue existing services and programs that benefit the community. 

### For more information, please contact Kristen Milam at (573) 819-3713 or kmilam@springfieldmo.gov or Erick Roberts at 417-864-2001 or eroberts@springfieldmo.gov.

Visit www.springfieldmo.gov/trashstudy.

Springfield man charged with kidnapping 13-year-old autistic child; bond set at $500,000

(From the Springfield Police Department)

A 13-year-old diagnosed with autism was reported missing just after 6 p.m. Tuesday evening. She had run away from her guardians while in the 500 block of E. Deerfield.

At approximately 11 a.m. Wednesday as officers were still actively searching for the child, she was spotted by a City Utilities bus driver at a bus stop near the intersection of Campbell and Broadmoor while in the care of Harold J. Brooks (11/1/57).

During the course of the investigation, it has been determined that the child had come across Brooks on a sidewalk along Campbell Ave. After their initial conversation, he took the child to his residence at 2561 S. South Place #B where she spent the night. 

It has also been determined that there was no prior relationship between Brooks and the child and that the child’s guardians did not give Brooks permission to have the child in his custody. 

The Springfield Police Department arrested Brooks on probable cause Wednesday night, and the Greene County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office charged Brooks today with first-degree child kidnapping. His bond is set at $500,000. The charge announced herein is merely an accusation, and Brooks is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

This investigation is ongoing and is in its very early stages, and it is possible that additional charges could be presented to the Greene County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office in the future.

Nixon announces new jobs at Custom Powder Systems, Missouri economic progress

(From Gov. Jay Nixon)

Gov. Jay Nixon today visited Springfield manufacturer Custom Powder Systems to celebrate the economic progress Missouri has made over the last eight years, including a recent report showing Missouri leading all eight contiguous states in job growth. The Governor touted the state’s balanced budgets and smart investments in programs like Missouri Works Training, which will help Custom Powder Systems create 15 new jobs in the next year.

“In a rapidly changing global economy, a skilled workforce is the best economic development tool there is. That’s why helping workers like those here at Custom Powder Systems gain new skills and move up the economic ladder has been a top priority of my administration,” said Gov. Nixon. “Eight years ago, many Missouri jobs were getting sent overseas. Now, we’re bringing those jobs back to the heartland – to make products that are in demand around the globe.”

Since the start of this administration, Missouri has provided nearly $98 million in training funds to hundreds of businesses to train nearly 300,000 workers throughout the state as well as create more than 10,000 new jobs in next-generation industries. In Fiscal Year 2017, a total of $10.2 million has been approved through Missouri Works Training to help 317 companies throughout the state, including Custom Powder Systems, to improve the skills of their workers and expand their businesses. These companies will train 1,200 employees for new jobs and more than 29,200 current employees, in addition to making a combined $1.2 billion in capital investments through facility and equipment expansions.

“These smart investments in our businesses and workers are only possible because we’ve kept our fiscal discipline: balancing the budget every year, paying down debt, and protecting Missouri’s spotless AAA credit rating,” said Gov. Nixon. “State government is smaller than it has been in decades – and more efficient than ever.”

Custom Powder Systems, LLC has been in business for 11 years and is a leading manufacturer of systems to contain, blend and transport dry materials for the pharmaceutical, food and chemical industries.

Missouri Works Training has played an integral part in Custom Powder Systems’ growth. Since Fiscal Year 2009, Custom Power has received $219,013 to train its workforce, helping the company grow its workforce from 52 to 84 employees over the last eight years, with an expected 15 new jobs in the next year. Missouri Works Training is currently helping Custom Powder Systems partner with Ozarks Technical College to train its workers in Manufacturing Practices, Process Systems, Engineering and Automation, PLC Programmable Logic Training, Welding and Finishing Processes, Leadership Development, Quality and Lean Processes, New Product Development, Material Handling and Logistics, Technical Development and Documentation Development. Custom Powder Systems is also a participant in the Governor’s Show-Me Heroes Program, created in 2010 to encourage companies to recruit and hire Missouri’s veterans.

Enhancing Missouri’s workforce through training and continued education has been a top priority of Gov. Nixon’s administration. In 2011, the Governor unveiled Missouri’s Strategic Initiative for Economic Growth, a plan that gathered input from business and community leaders, educators, and workforce developers to target the state’s resources on the fastest-growing industries that were creating next-generation jobs.

To ensure Missourians had the skills needed to fill these positions, Gov. Nixon worked with the General Assembly to sharpen and improve the state’s workforce training resources, creating Missouri Works Training. This legislation also consolidated Missouri’s workforce training programs and aligned them more closely with the state’s other economic development programs, creating Missouri Works Training.

Administered by the Department of Economic Development’s Division of Workforce Development, Missouri Works Training partners with community colleges and technical education institutions to develop and offer a variety of training. Examples of training include specific technical skills, lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, Team Building, Communication, Safety, and International Quality Standards and Leadership.

State-by-state numbers released Friday by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics showed Missouri’s net gain of 57,100 jobs over the last year led all eight of its neighboring states; the Show Me State also ranked in the top ten nationwide in new jobs. The same data showed Missouri was tied for the largest statistically significant decrease in the nation in the unemployment rate in November.

The BLS report also showed Missouri’s nonfarm payroll employment grew by 1,900 jobs in November, reaching a new record high for the state with 2,842,200 jobs. The state’s unemployment rate for November also went down by four-tenths of a point to 4.7 percent.

In August, Missouri was named the 6th best state in the nation for its annual advanced manufacturing industry job growth in a new report (link is external) from the Brookings Institution. The same report also found that Missouri is the 8th best state in the nation for output growth of its advanced manufacturing industry.

Exports under Gov. Nixon’s leadership have also reached record highs and are on pace to set another record this year. Through September, Missouri’s 2016 exports reached almost $10.6 billion, an increase of more than 6 percent for the same period in 2014, when Missouri’s annual exports achieved an all-time record of just under $14.2 billion.

Highway Patrol DWI Arrests December 21-22

The Missouri Highway Patrol arrested the following people for driving while intoxicated:

Timothy W. Ratliff, 42, Joplin
Dylan S. Nothnagel, 19, Hollister
Jamie L. Root, 31, Marshfield
James N. Enconomou, 54, Willard

Audit of Springfield/Greene County Park Board completed

(From the City of Springfield)

Certified accounting firm RubinBrown LLP has completed an audit report of the Springfield-Greene County Park Board for transactions from Jan. 1, 2015 through May 31, 2016.

The City hired RubinBrown in 2014 to create a three-year audit plan of the City’s departments. Visit the City’s Open Data page to view audits completed.

The audit report identified best practices already in place and made observations and recommendations on how to improve processes.

The audit covered the Park Board's general operations, including the golf enterprise fund. As the Park Board is an administrative board set by City Charter, the audit only covers operations and financial transactions for which the City Council has governance.

The following procedures were completed as part of the audit:

• In-person interviews with Parks department personnel at the Cooper Tennis Complex, Horton Smith Golf Course, Stewart Golf Course, Rivercut Golf Course, and the Chesterfield Family Center; and the City’s risk manager.

• Development of a narrative of the Parks department operations based on our interviews and our review of the City of Springfield and Parks policies and procedures.

• Limited testing in the following areas:

• Cash handling observations for the five park locations listed above;

• Inspection of cash receipts support for a sample of 10 dates;

• Financial analyses of the golf enterprise fund and the Parks general funds; and

• Inspection of safety inspection checklists.

• Review of the golf enterprise fund budget and financial statement for evidence of a deferred maintenance fund.

• Benchmarking of liability insurance limits against similarly sized cities.

Best practices

Based on RubinBrown’s review, the Parks department has adequate internal controls, except as provided in the findings below.

The following are some of the observations indicative of the Parks department’s adherence to best practice internal controls:

• The Parks department has been recommended for accreditation by the Commission for Accreditation of Parks and Recreation (CAPRA). A parks agency must comply with 151 standards in order to obtain accreditation.

• Parks performs unannounced cash handling audits at selected facilities periodically throughout the year.

• The Parks department business office reconciles the cash deposits to sales reports from each point-of-sale location on a daily basis. During this process the business office reviews the reconciliations for overage, shortages, and unusual transactions.

• The Parks department has adequate safety policies and procedures in place.

Observations and Recommendations

RubinBrown noted the following observations during its review.

• The firm reviewed 10 days of cash packets from different locations to ensure they complied with the City’s financial management policy. RubinBrownfound errors in four of 10 days: closing cash counts, general arithmetic, incomplete void/refund documentation and a segregation of duties conflict.

• Patrons are pre-paying for rounds of golf in amounts ranging from $500 to $1,500 without signing a document outlining the terms and conditions of the plan. Without proper written terms, discrepancies could arise about assignment of patron liability or who is entitled to the patron funds in the event of disagreement between the Parks department and the patron.

• Per policy, each playground should be inspected once a month. RubinBrown reviewed five facilities with playgrounds for inspection documentation and found the following:

• One facility did not have any playground inspections documented for the selected month.

• Two selected facilities had weekly playground inspections and it was noted that those inspections contained several recurring findings that were previously documented.

RubinBrown provided four process improvement opportunities in the areas of cash handling, enterprise fund management, and insurance. All observations, recommendations, and process improvement opportunities were discussed with management.

“We appreciate the recent work done on behalf of the City’s internal audit group,” said Parks Director Bob Belote. “Our Park Board operation is a very big one, so it’s always good to have a fresh set of professional eyes looking at it with us. While we’re very fortunate to have a business operations division that works to closely manage our financial systems on a daily basis, an audit like this one gives us the opportunity to continue improving our policies and procedures.”

“We’ve already started the process of working some of their recommendations into our financial protocols where appropriate.”

Mayor Pro Tem Ken McClure is the chair of City Council's Finance and Administration Committee, which reviewed the audit.

“Internal audits provide important information to the City’s leadership team, as well as accountability to the taxpayers,” McClure said.

The Park Board audit is part of Council's approved annual audit plan and is available on the City's Web site.

Missing Springfield girl found safe, uninjured

(From the Springfield Police Department)

Update, 11:50 a.m., Dec. 21: Rachael Mosher has been located and is uninjured. She was spotted at a City Utilities bus stop at 2350 S. Campbell Ave., near the intersection of Broadmoor. The bus driver contacted police, and officers were able to confirm her identity at the scene. Detectives from the Springfield Police Department will continue this investigation to determine what occurred during the time Mosher was missing.

Original release, 8:21 a.m., Dec. 21: The search is ongoing for Rachael Mosher, 13, a missing and endangered child with autism who was last seen at approximately 6 p.m. in the area of Walnut Lawn and Campbell in Springfield.

Several additional officers have been assigned to this search including specialized units of the Springfield Police Department and support from other local law enforcement agencies to include the Missouri State Highway Patrol and Greene County Sheriff’s Office.

Citizens are encouraged to check their property for Mosher—yards, outbuildings, unlocked cars, etc.—as it is possible that she is in hiding and has taken shelter from the cold. It is also highly encouraged that community members continue to spread the word of this search and be on the lookout for her anywhere in the city.

Mosher is autistic and is high functioning. She is 5 feet tall, weighs 90 pounds and has light brown hair and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing blue jeans, a red jacket with fur around the hood, a white sweater with snowflakes and black boots. She was also wearing a pair of blue framed eye glasses.

Anyone with information regarding Mosher’s whereabouts is asked to immediately call 911.

Police continue search for missing child with autism

(From the Springfield Police Department)

UPDATE: Rachel Mosher has been found and is safe.

The Springfield Police Department's search is ongoing for Rachel Mosher, 13, a missing and endangered child with autism who was last seen at approximately 6 p.m. in the area of Walnut Lawn and Campbell in Springfield.

Several additional officers have been assigned to this search including specialized units of the Springfield Police Department and support from other local law enforcement agencies to include the Missouri State Highway Patrol and Greene County Sheriff’s Office.

Citizens are encouraged to check their property for Mosher—yards, outbuildings, unlocked cars, etc.—as it is possible that she is in hiding and has taken shelter from the cold. It is also highly encouraged that community members continue to spread the word of this search and be on the lookout for her anywhere in the city.

Mosher is autistic and is high functioning. She is 5 feet tall, weighs 90 pounds and has light brown hair and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing blue jeans, a red jacket with fur around the hood, a white sweater with snowflakes and black boots. She was also wearing a pair of blue framed eye glasses.

Anyone with information regarding Mosher’s whereabouts is asked to immediately call 911.

Springfield City Council receives independent audit report

(From the City of Springfield)

The Springfield City Council received an “unmodified” (the highest level given) opinion on the City’s financial statement audit from the City’s independent auditing firm, RSM. The firm indicated that the audit showed no material weaknesses, significant deficiencies or compliance issues. The City is now qualified as a “low-risk” auditee, having no identified deficiencies more than two years in a row.

RSM also audited compliance of the City's grant programs. In FY 2016, the City received $21.5 million in federal grant funds. The audit of the Grant Funds also received an unmodified opinion. The auditor's found no significant deficiencies or material weaknesses when reviewing the City's compliance with the major federal grant programs.

The audit is required under the City Charter.

The City’s Finance Department prepares the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) each year, in compliance with the City Charter, which requires an annual report to the City Council on the financial condition of the City.

The equity of the City at the close of the most recent fiscal year was $830 million. This is also referred to as net position.

There was a positive change in that net position, increasing $31.4 million over last year. The primary reason for the positive change is an increase of $31 million in investment in capital assets. The City's net investment in capital assets, such as buildings, roads and sewer system is $629.5 million.

The fund balance of the General Fund is $26.6 million – a slight increase from last year. Some of these funds are restricted; the remaining constitutes the City’s “rainy day” fund. This is within the Council-established reserve goal - a “solid 20% of the operating revenue”, according to auditors.

One striking statistic is the breakdown of governmental revenue sources,” said City Manager Greg Burris. “The majority of Springfield’s governmental activities revenue comes from sales tax, which is a volatile revenue source. Many other cities have higher percentages of their budgets coming from more stable sources of revenue, such as property tax. Considering that we rely so heavily on sales tax projections, I think it speaks volumes about how well our organization does at budget forecasting and managing our revenue and expenses.”

The Finance Department received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence on Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers' Association for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the 39th consecutive year.

The department also received the GFOA Distinguished Budget Award for its budget presentation for a ninth consecutive year. Three judges evaluate 35 separate elements of the budget document to assess its presentation.

Related Documents

Auditor Communication

Peer Benchmarking Report

Springfield Police searching for missing, endangered child

(From the Springfield Police Department)

UPDATE: Rachel Mosher has been found and is safe.

The Springfield Police Department is investigating a report of a missing and endangered child and is asking for the public’s assistance. Rachel A. Mosher, 13, left a relative's home in the 500 block of E. Deerfield in Springfield at around 6 p.m. She was last seen in the area of Campbell and Walnut Lawn.

Rachel is autistic and is high functioning. She is 5 feet tall, weighs 90 pounds and has light brown hair and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing blue jeans, red jacket with fur around the hood, a white sweater with snowflakes and black boots. She was also wearing a pair of blue framed eyeglasses.

Anyone with information regarding Mosher’s whereabouts is asked to call 911.

Highway Patrol DWI Arrests December 18-20

The Missouri Highway Patrol arrested the following people for driving while intoxicated:

Mohamed Mahamud Dore Rage, 18, Noel
James A. Easter, 38, Gateway, Arkansas
Aaron M. Rice, 30, Springfield

Eight DWI arrests made during Greene County checkpoint

(From Highway Patrol Troop D

Captain Juan Villanueva, commanding officer of Troop D, announces the results of a DWI sobriety checkpoint conducted in Greene County on Friday, December 16, 2016. The enforcement location was selected based on the high number of drinking and impairment-related crashes, in addition to other traffic violations that contribute to unsafe driving behavior.

The DWI checkpoint, conducted on U.S. Highway 160 (West Bypass), at Grand Avenue, in Springfield, was a cooperative effort with the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Greene County Sheriff’s Department, Springfield Police Department, MODOT, and MADD. During the operation, officers stopped 1,010 vehicles. The following is a list of total enforcement contacts made during the operation:

DWI Arrests -- 8
Seat Belt Citations -- 4
Driver License Violations -- 12
Uninsured Motorist Violations -- 3
Non-Moving Traffic Offenses -- 4
Misdemeanor Warrant Arrests -- 6
Misdemeanor Drug Arrests -- 3
Felony Warrant Arrests -- 5
Other Hazardous Moving Offense -- 1
Warnings -- 25

"The objective of DWI enforcement projects is to deter drinking and driving and to make citizens aware that drinking and impaired driving will not be tolerated," stated Captain Villanueva.

The only 100 percent survivable traffic crash is the one that never happens. Make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained in a seat belt or child restraint. Every day as we travel on Missouri’s roadways, we trust that every driver on the road is going to obey the speed limit, pay attention, and drive sober. “Don’t Violate The Trust.”

Springfield woman sentenced to 50 years without parole for producing child porn

(From the U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri)

A Springfield, Mo., woman was sentenced in federal court today for producing and distributing child pornography.

Tracy Ann Smith, 42, of Springfield, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to 50 years in federal prison without parole.

On May 10, 2016, Smith pleaded guilty to one count of the sexual exploitation of a child and one count of receiving and distributing child pornography. Smith admitted that she used a minor, identified in court documents as Jane Doe #1, to produce child pornography between Nov. 1, 2014, and Jan. 8, 2016. Smith also admitted that she received and distributed child pornography during that time.

Co-defendant Christopher Peck, 40, of Springfield, pleaded guilty on Nov. 17, 2016, and awaits sentencing.

Peck admitted that he used two minors, Jane Doe #1 and another minor identified in court documents as John Doe #1, to produce child pornography between Nov. 1, 2014, and Jan. 8, 2016. Peck also pleaded guilty to receiving and distributing child pornography during that time.

Under federal statutes, Peck is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of 50 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Kelleher. It was investigated by the Springfield, Mo., Police Department and the FBI.

Winter rotation of the Tumbler to take place Tuesday morning

(From the City of Springfield)

Interested citizens are encouraged to gather in Park Central Square at 7:30 a.m., Tuesday, Dec. 20 to view the winter rotation of the Tumbler, Springfield's first piece of modern art. Bundle up, grab some coffee and watch this seasonal tradition unfold as Public Works puts a new spin on this familiar downtown landmark.

About the Tumbler

Created by sculptor Aris Demetrios, The Tumbler was installed on the square in 1971 and is regarded as Springfield's first piece of modern art. It was discovered in recent years that the sculpture was intended to be re-oriented, or “tumbled,” every season to create a new piece of art. Creation of the Tumbler was funded by an arts patron identified as "Mrs. Monroe Swyers," who reportedly donated $15,000. Demetrios said that barely covered the cost of steel to make it.

View a video about the Tumbler.

Canadian driver injured in accident on I-44

A Canadian man was injured in a one-vehicle accident 6:35 a.m. today on Westbound I-44 at Exit 67, five miles west of Springfield.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2016 Western Star driven by Donald R. Hathaway, 44, Mount Bridges, Ontario, Canada, struck a large power line that was hanging low, ran off the right side of the roadway, impacted a rock bluff and overturned.

Hathaway was treated for moderate injuries at Cox South Hospital, Springfield.

Highway Patrol DWI Arrests December 17-18

The Missouri Highway Patrol arrested the following people for driving while intoxicated:

Grace K. Salazar, 27, Monett
Fallen K. Strickland, 32, Neosho

Wind chill advisory still in effect for Springfield, Southwest Missouri

(From the National Weather Service)

HAZARDOUS ROAD CONDITIONS AND DANGEROUS WIND CHILLS CONTINUE
THROUGH THE MORNING...

KSZ073-097-101-MOZ055>058-066>071-077>083-088>098-101>106-181800-
/O.CON.KSGF.WC.Y.0003.000000T0000Z-161218T1800Z/
BOURBON-CRAWFORD-CHEROKEE-BENTON-MORGAN-MILLER-MARIES-VERNON-
ST. CLAIR-HICKORY-CAMDEN-PULASKI-PHELPS-BARTON-CEDAR-POLK-DALLAS-
LACLEDE-TEXAS-DENT-JASPER-DADE-GREENE-WEBSTER-WRIGHT-NEWTON-
LAWRENCE-CHRISTIAN-DOUGLAS-HOWELL-SHANNON-MCDONALD-BARRY-STONE-
TANEY-OZARK-OREGON-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...FORT SCOTT...PAWNEE STATION...
CHICOPEE...LONE OAK...PITTSBURG...BAXTER SPRINGS...LOWELL...
RIVERTON...COLUMBUS...NEUTRAL...SHERWIN...STIPPVILLE...WARSAW...
WHITAKERVILLE...COLE CAMP...CROCKERVILLE...MORA...EDMONSON...
LINCOLN...VERSAILLES...ROCKY MOUNT...STOVER...LAURIE...
AURORA SPRINGS...ELDON...LAKE OZARK...VICHY...NEVADA...TIFFIN...
APPLETON CITY...JOHNSON CITY...WEAUBLEAU...HERMITAGE...QUINCY...
WHEATLAND...CROSS TIMBERS...OSAGE BEACH...CAMDENTON...
DECATURVILLE...ROACH...VILLAGE OF FOUR SEASONS...
FORT LEONARD WOOD...LAQUEY...WAYNESVILLE...NORTHWYE...ROLLA...
KENOMA...LAMAR...CEDAR SPRINGS...EL DORADO SPRINGS...FILLEY...
ARNICA...CAPLINGER MILLS...STOCKTON...BOLIVAR...BUFFALO...
CHARITY...FOOSE...MARCH...PLAD...WINDYVILLE...OLIVE...LYNCHBURG...
LEBANON...PLATO...ROBY...BENDAVIS...HUGGINS...LAKE SPRING...
BANGERT...DARIEN...GLADDEN...HOWES...JADWIN...SALEM...JOPLIN...
CARTHAGE...GREENFIELD...LOCKWOOD...MEINERT...SPRINGFIELD...
MARSHFIELD...NORTHVIEW...SEYMOUR...ROGERSVILLE...DAWSON...GRAFF...
MOUNTAIN GROVE...DUNCAN...MANSFIELD...NEOSHO...AURORA...
MOUNT VERNON...MARIONVILLE...NIXA...CHRISTIAN CENTER...OZARK...
SELMORE...VANZANT...AVA...GOODHOPE...ROME...SQUIRES...DOGWOOD...
POMONA...POTTERSVILLE...SILOAM SPRINGS...SOUTH FORK...
WEST PLAINS...WHITE CHURCH...TERESITA...WINONA...BIRCH TREE...
MONTIER...ANDERSON...NOEL...GOODMAN...SOUTH WEST CITY...
PINEVILLE...ROCKY COMFORT...MONETT...MADRY...CASSVILLE...
KIMBERLING CITY...CRANE...ELSEY...INDIAN POINT...
SILVER DOLLAR CITY...BRANSON...HOLLISTER...KIRBYVILLE...
EDGEWATER BEACH...FORSYTH...OZARK BEACH...POWERSITE...WASOLA...
THAYER...ALTON...COUCH...GREER...THOMASVILLE...WILDERNESS
226 AM CST SUN DEC 18 2016

...WIND CHILL ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL NOON CST TODAY...

* SHORT TERM TRENDS...WHILE ACCUMULATING LIGHT SNOW WAS ENDING...
  ROADS REMAIN MOSTLY SNOW AND ICE COVERED FROM THE PREVIOUS SNOW
  AND FREEZING RAIN. TRAVEL WILL REMAIN HAZARDOUS THROUGH THE
  MORNING.

* WIND CHILL VALUES...WILL RANGE FROM -5 TO -15 DEGREES THROUGH
  THIS MORNING.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WIND CHILL ADVISORY MEANS THAT VERY COLD AIR AND STRONG WINDS
WILL COMBINE TO GENERATE LOW WIND CHILLS. THIS WILL RESULT IN
FROST BITE AND LEAD TO HYPOTHERMIA IF PRECAUTIONS ARE NOT TAKEN.
IF YOU MUST VENTURE OUTDOORS...MAKE SURE YOU WEAR A HAT AND
GLOVES.

I-44 closed in both directions west of Springfield

(From MODOT)

I-44 is CLOSED in both directions just west of Springfield. 

All traffic is being detoured at Exit 67 (Bois D'arc/Republic). 

A tractor trailer has crashed, and power lines are down across all lanes. Please avoid the area if possible, and expect delays.

MODOT: Avoid travel through Sunday if possible

(From MODOT)

The Missouri Department of Transportation warns motorists to avoid travel if possible in Missouri through Sunday due to incoming ice and snow and single digit temperatures. Travel on Missouri’s roads should be restricted to necessary trips only. If travel is necessary, great caution should be taken and travelers should plan ahead using MoDOT’s online traveler information map, http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

“Despite treating the roads Friday, lower than forecasted temperatures paired with wet conditions in advance of the temperature drop resulted in road conditions that greatly impeded traffic and made travel difficult through most of Missouri,” said MoDOT State Maintenance Engineer Becky Allmeroth. “MoDOT crews and law enforcement worked throughout the night repeatedly freeing cars and trucks stuck on slick, hilly locations.”

Overnight, temperatures increased to above freezing and vehicles were able to get moving again. However, mist and rain continued to make the treatment of the roadways with chemicals challenging again.

“Today, temperatures will plummet to arctic levels making travel very dangerous again. We expect flash freezing situations on Missouri highways starting early Saturday,” said Allmeroth. “Pavements will change from wet to ice in an instant, and our road treatment chemicals are not as affective in the extreme cold. Once temperatures drop below 20 degrees in your area today, motorists should strongly consider postponing travel.”

MoDOT’s highway digital message signs will inform motorists of closed sections of interstate. Motorists should heed those warnings and exit the highway before the noted closure.

To check road conditions including winter weather conditions and traffic speeds, please check MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/. The map is also available as a free app for Apple and Android devices. The map denotes locations where the road is closed with a red exclamation point.

If you have to travel, please use proper winter safety precautions and make sure you have a full tank of gas, extra blankets and gloves and provisions like water and snacks. Please wear your seat belt and don’t drive distracted. If you encounter car troubles or are involved in a crash, please remain in your vehicle.

Winter weather advisory issued for Springfield area, hazardous road conditions developing

(From the National Weather Service)

...HAZARDOUS ROAD CONDITIONS DEVELOPING ACROSS THE REGION...

KSZ101-MOZ057-058-069>071-079>083-088>095-101>103-181200-
/O.CON.KSGF.WW.Y.0007.000000T0000Z-161218T0600Z/
/O.CON.KSGF.WC.Y.0003.161218T0400Z-161218T1800Z/
CHEROKEE-MILLER-MARIES-CAMDEN-PULASKI-PHELPS-POLK-DALLAS-LACLEDE-
TEXAS-DENT-JASPER-DADE-GREENE-WEBSTER-WRIGHT-NEWTON-LAWRENCE-
CHRISTIAN-MCDONALD-BARRY-STONE-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...BAXTER SPRINGS...LOWELL...RIVERTON...
COLUMBUS...NEUTRAL...SHERWIN...STIPPVILLE...AURORA SPRINGS...
ELDON...LAKE OZARK...VICHY...OSAGE BEACH...CAMDENTON...
DECATURVILLE...ROACH...VILLAGE OF FOUR SEASONS...
FORT LEONARD WOOD...LAQUEY...WAYNESVILLE...NORTHWYE...ROLLA...
BOLIVAR...BUFFALO...CHARITY...FOOSE...MARCH...PLAD...WINDYVILLE...
OLIVE...LYNCHBURG...LEBANON...PLATO...ROBY...BENDAVIS...HUGGINS...
LAKE SPRING...BANGERT...DARIEN...GLADDEN...HOWES...JADWIN...
SALEM...JOPLIN...CARTHAGE...GREENFIELD...LOCKWOOD...MEINERT...
SPRINGFIELD...MARSHFIELD...NORTHVIEW...SEYMOUR...ROGERSVILLE...
DAWSON...GRAFF...MOUNTAIN GROVE...DUNCAN...MANSFIELD...NEOSHO...
AURORA...MOUNT VERNON...MARIONVILLE...NIXA...CHRISTIAN CENTER...
OZARK...SELMORE...ANDERSON...NOEL...GOODMAN...SOUTH WEST CITY...
PINEVILLE...ROCKY COMFORT...MONETT...MADRY...CASSVILLE...
KIMBERLING CITY...CRANE...ELSEY...INDIAN POINT...
SILVER DOLLAR CITY
646 PM CST SAT DEC 17 2016

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL MIDNIGHT CST
TONIGHT...
...WIND CHILL ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 10 PM THIS EVENING
TO NOON CST SUNDAY...

* SHORT TERM TRENDS...AREAS OF FREEZING DRIZZLE WERE BEGINNING TO
  TRANSITION INTO LIGHT SNOW OVER THE REGION. THE SNOW WILL FALL
  ON TOP OF A GLAZE OF ICE WHICH OCCURRED EARLIER TODAY MAKING FOR
  CONTINUED HAZARDOUS TRAVEL CONDITIONS.

* MAIN IMPACTS...AREAS OF FREEZING DRIZZLE AND LIGHT SLEET HAVE
  LED TO A THIN GLAZE OF ICE ACCUMULATIONS THIS AFTERNOON AND
  EARLY THIS EVENING. A BAND OF SNOW WILL CONTINUE TO PUSH
  THROUGH THE REGION FROM FROM EARLY TO MID EVENING. SNOW
  ACCUMULATIONS UP TO ONE INCH CAN BE EXPECTED. THE COMBINATION OF
  ICE AND SNOW WILL RESULT IN HAZARDOUS DRIVING CONDITIONS.

* OTHER IMPACTS...STRONG NORTHERLY WINDS WILL ALSO CAUSE AREAS
  OF BLOWING SNOW...ESPECIALLY ON WEST TO EAST ORIENTED
  ROADWAYS. VISIBILITIES MAY DROP TO LESS THAN A MILE AT TIMES
  IN HEAVIER SNOW BANDS AND IN AREAS OF BLOWING SNOW.

* WIND CHILL VALUES...WILL RANGE FROM -7 TO -15 DEGREES FROM
  LATE TONIGHT INTO SUNDAY MORNING.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY MEANS THAT PERIODS OF SNOW...SLEET...OR
FREEZING RAIN WILL CAUSE TRAVEL DIFFICULTIES. BE PREPARED FOR
SLIPPERY ROADS AND LIMITED VISIBILITIES...AND USE CAUTION WHILE
DRIVING.

A WIND CHILL ADVISORY MEANS THAT VERY COLD AIR AND STRONG WINDS
WILL COMBINE TO GENERATE LOW WIND CHILLS. THIS WILL RESULT IN
FROST BITE AND LEAD TO HYPOTHERMIA IF PRECAUTIONS ARE NOT TAKEN.
IF YOU MUST VENTURE OUTDOORS...MAKE SURE YOU WEAR A HAT AND
GLOVES.

Springfield woman injured in rollover accident on West Norton Road

A Springfield woman was injured in a one-vehicle accident 2:45 p.m. today on West Norton Road, two miles west of Springfield.

According to the Highway Patrol report, Mary E. Rose, 68, Springfield, failed to negotiate a curve on ice-covered roadway, ran off the left side of the road, struck a field entrance and overturned.

Rose was treated for minor injuries at Mercy Hospital, Springfield.

Highway Patrol DWI Arrests December 16-17

The Missouri Highway Patrol arrested the following people for driving while intoxicated:

Bradley Iowanes, 20, Noel
George L. Griffin, 23, Springfield
Stacy M. Murray, 45, Springfield
Kristie N. Jones, 29, Springfield
Dustin K. Besperat, 27, Galena
Dustin P. Stewart, 27, Branson
John N. Grant, 39, Springfield
Benjamin M. McGonigal, 44, Rocky Comfort
Steven Lansdown, 35, Clever
Anthony M. Ruzzo, 26, Billings
Patricia G. Jennings, 52, Neosho

Billy Long: With Trump, we will finally have a pro-energy president

(From Seventh District Congressman Billy Long)

January 20, 2017, will mark a new era for energy. For the first time in 8 years, we will have a pro-energy president who believes in an all-of-the-above approach to solving some of the energy challenges we are facing in the 21st century.

Though advances in technology have increased U.S. oil and gas production, we are still not a country that is utilizing all of its potential. As a member of the Energy and Commerce Committee and Energy and Power Subcommittee, I have seen firsthand the importance of an all-of-the-above approach to energy independence. Unfortunately, we have relied too much on buying oil from other countries than relying on our own natural resources.

The Keystone XL Pipeline and Dakota Access Pipeline are recent examples of our president's policies hindering energy and job growth.

According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Institute for 21st Century Energy, the Keystone XL Pipeline would have created 20,000 manufacturing and construction jobs, and for Missouri specifically, those numbers would have been 576 jobs by 2015 and 1,015 jobs by 2020. Along with creating jobs, the pipeline would have also increased personal income by $6.5 billion for American workers during the span of the project.

Even after being aware of the benefits and knowing that there would be little to no effect on carbon dioxide emissions, the President was swayed by private interests and politics rather than doing what was right.

On November 18, 2016, the Obama administration released its five-year plan for offshore oil and natural gas lease sales. It once again proved that the President would rather enact last minute rules and regulations than go through Congress. This plan listed the Arctic as off limits for both oil and natural gas lease sales.

With the Arctic being resource-rich, it's unacceptable to cut off any chance of exploring economic possibilities that could increase jobs and advance our goal of energy independence.

I will continue to fight for an all-of-the-above approach to energy. With President-elect Donald Trump taking office in January, I know the United States will once again be the pro-energy and job growth country it once was.

Springfield Police Department to be featured on "Cops" on Spike TV Saturday

(From the Springfield Police Department)

Springfield Police Department officers will be featured in an upcoming episode of “COPS”, set to air at 7 p.m. CST on SPIKE on Dec. 17. In the segment in which SPD is featured, “a man has a heart-pounding experience and requires medical assistance,” according to the “COPS” website.

The show, produced by Langley Productions, rode along with and recorded Springfield officers from June 14 until Aug. 26. Additional episodes featuring the SPD will be shown in the coming months, including an episode airing Feb. 11, 2017.

“This is an opportunity for people to get a front row seat to the types of incidents we are called to on a daily basis,” said Police Chief Paul Williams. “The ‘COPS’ crew is a great group of people to work with, and we are looking forward to the community seeing the product of the many hours they spent with us.”

The Springfield Police Department and Langley Productions worked together under terms of a contract developed by the SPD, and the SPD received no funds for its involvement with the show. The SPD also filmed with Langley Productions in 2011 and 2014.

View the promo for the episode airing this Saturday.

Agenda posted for Springfield City Council special meeting

SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE of the SPRINGFIELD CITY COUNCIL 

 1. Roll Call.

2. SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE. Citizens Have Spoken. May Be Voted On.

3. Council Bill 2016-292. (Fulnecky) A special ordinance approving Redevelopment Project 1 for the Springfield Plaza Tax Increment Financing Plan and initiating tax increment financing therein.

4. Council Bill 2016-298. (Fisk) A special ordinance authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into a Family Self Sufficiency Program Contract between the City of Springfield, Missouri, and the Housing Authority of Springfield; authorizing the execution of documents and the taking of actions consistent therewith; and amending the budget provided for the Department of Workforce Development for the Fiscal Year 2016-2017, in the amount of $26,000.

5. Council Bill 2016-299. (Prater) A special ordinance authorizing the Mayor, on behalf of the City of Springfield, Missouri, to enter into an agreement regarding the priority of easements with the United States of America, said agreement to grant the United States of America priority status for their Transmission Line easement over approximately six square feet of City-owned right-ofway on Stewart Avenue. 2

6. Amended Council Bill 2016-300. (Schilling) A special ordinance authorizing the disposal of real estate located at 301 West McDaniel Street declared surplus by the Board of Public Utilities following receipt of bids by City Utilities and as otherwise authorized by the City Purchasing Manual and in accordance with requirements of the Federal Transit Administration; and authorizing the Mayor, on behalf of the City of Springfield, to execute a deed to convey said real estate. (The Board of Public Utilities and Planning and Development staff recommend approval).

7. CLOSED SESSION. City Council will hold a closed meeting to discuss legal actions, causes of action, litigation, privileged and confidential communications pursuant to Section 610.021 (1) RSMo.; and leasing, purchase or sale of real estate by a public governmental body pursuant to Section 610.021 (2), RSMo.; and this meeting, record, and vote shall be closed and the City Council shall stand adjourned at the end of the closed session.

SAID MEETING SHALL BE HELD beginning at 12:45 p.m. or immediately following Council Lunch, Tuesday, December 20, 2016, in the 4th Floor Conference Room, Busch Municipal Building, 840 Boonville, Springfield, Missouri.

Greene County Dissolution of Marriage Petitions

The following petitions for dissolution of marriage were filed this week in Greene County Circuit Court:

Erin Ashley Graf-Norrid vs. William Thomas Norrid
Melissa Ann Triplett vs. Phillip Neil Triplett
Ronda Sue Ray vs. Anthony James Ray
Mark Allen Withers vs. Robin Lynette Withers
David Earl Wrede vs. Alicia Mae Wrede
Kayla Rachelle Jones vs. Gerald Lance Jones
Dorothy Jo Williams. vs. Benjamin A. Williams
Gary R. Jones II vs. Sarah L. Jones
William H. Grant III vs. Susan M. Grant
Kerry Beth Miller vs. Steven Graham Miller
Nick David Love vs. Julianne E. Love
Elizabeth H. Tucker vs. Blake G. Tucker
Emily Marie Steffens vs. Jacob Allen Steffins
Katelyn Ann Bauer vs. Jon Michael Bauer
Maurice Stanley Legate vs. Judy Leatitia Legate
Todd David Cox vs. Trisha Lynne Cox
Michael Wesley Edwards vs. Elizabeth M. Edwards
Joshua M. Masterson vs. Elizabeth A. Masterson

Springfield man sentenced to 10 years for bank robbery, kidnapping

(From the U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri)

A Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for robbing Bank of America and kidnapping the bank manager by forcing him to leave the bank with him.

Timothy Polodna, 54, of Springfield, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough to 10 years in federal prison without parole.

On July 13, 2016, Polodna pleaded guilty to bank robbery and kidnapping. Polodna admitted that he stole $26,536 from Bank of America, 633 W. Kearney St., Springfield, on July 9, 2014. Polodna entered the bank at approximately 10:30 a.m., wearing a ball cap, sunglasses and a large piece of white gauze over his chin. Polodna told a bank employee he needed to talk to someone about getting a loan and was directed to the bank manager’s office. The bank manager, who was already on alert due to Polodna’s apparent disguise, asked him to remove his hat and sunglasses. Polodna then told the bank manager, “You know why I’m here.” He then said that he had an “explosive device with a remote.” Polodna ordered the bank manager to stand up, turn around and lift his pant legs to check him for weapons. Polodna then ordered the bank manager to take him to the vault.

The bank manager, who had already activated the alarm, attempted to stall Polodna and suggested that Polodna wait in the office while he went to the vault alone. Polodna refused and demanded that he be taken to the vault. He took Polodna behind the teller counter to the drive up window where he told a teller to give Polodna cash from her teller drawer. She placed the money in a bag Polodna was carrying and he told her in a low voice, “Don’t push the alarm. I have an explosive device. I’ll set it off.”

After receiving the money, Polodna ordered the bank manager to open the doors for his exit from the bank. The bank manager opened the doors as instructed, exiting each of the two doors while holding them open for Polodna, who was behind him, to walk through the doors. Once outside, the bank manager then walked in front of Polodna, across the bank parking lot, toward the Rice House restaurant. Polodna’s gestures, actions and instruction to open the doors, coupled with the representation that he had a bomb, reasonably caused the bank manager to believe he was being ordered to leave the bank with Polodna. After crossing the street, Polodna told the bank manager to continue to walk three blocks north before calling the police. The bank manager initially complied and began to walk away, but after observing that Polodna had gone around the corner of the Rice House, the bank manager returned to the bank.

On July 14, 2014, the FBI received an anonymous tip that the vehicle in surveillance photos looked very similar to a vehicle owned by Polodna’s father. FBI agents were told that the rear window of the vehicle had been broken out a few days earlier, shortly after police reports highlighting distinctive stickers were noted in a news report about the bank robbery. The anonymous source also said the Polodna closely resembled the individual in the surveillance photos.

Agents contacted Polodna’s father, who confirmed that the rear window of his truck had been broken. Polodna’s father told agents that he believed his truck window was damaged because his son had used his truck when he committed the bank robbery and wanted to remove the incriminating stickers observed in pictures and by witnesses noted in press reports.

Agents searched the basement of Polodna’s parents’ home, where he was living, on July 16, 2014. They found a portion of the money taken during the bank robbery hidden in the area above the drop ceiling of the basement and Polodna was arrested.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Carney. It was investigated by the Springfield, Mo., Police Department and the FBI.

Springfield man slides off road, strikes trees near Carterville

A Springfield man was injured in a one-vehicle accident 6:20 a.m. today on MO 171, one mile south of Carterville.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 1999 Chevrolet 1500 driven by James D. Floyd, 40, Springfield, lost control on an icy road, ran off the roadway and struck several trees.

Floyd was treated for moderate injuries at Mercy McCune-Brooks Hospital, Carthage.

Springfield man injured in ice-related accident

A Springfield man was injured in an accident 10:20 a.m. today on I-44, two miles east of Mt. Vernon.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2006 Ford truck driven by Glen C. Walden, 48, Springfield, was attempting to pass a tractor trailer when sheet ice of flew off the tractot trailer and struck the Walden vehicle's windshield.

Walden was treated for minor injuries at Cox South Hospital, Springfield.

Springfield Board of Education approves 2016-2017 calendar

(From Springfield Public Schools)

At its Dec. 13 meeting, the Springfield school board approved the 2017-2018 school calendar.

 View the calendar. 

The board also recognized six SPS employees who recently earned professional recognition for their achievements and contributions.

Judge issues rulings on Springfield-Greene County Jail lawsuit

(From City of Springfield)

Judge John D. Beger has issued rulings regarding the ongoing City-County jail dispute. As a result of these rulings, the lawsuit will move forward.

Judge Beger ruled Dec. 13 that the majority of the City’s (Plaintiff's) statement of facts exist "without substantial controversy" and need no further adjudication.

Some of the facts deemed to be “without substantial controversy” were particulars related to the 1997 intergovernmental agreement between the City of Springfield and Greene County, which governs access to the consolidated city-county justice center (City-County jail).

This ruling will help the parties limit the scope of future discovery and trial issues. The City’s request for immediate access to the jail was not granted at this stage, which means the suit will continue.

Background

In July 2015 the City of Springfield filed suit Greene County Circuit Court seeking a declaratory judgment on Greene County Sheriff Jim Arnott’s contractual requirement to accept municipal prisoners. Other counts sought injunctive relief, and an order for specific performance for the Sheriff to accept municipal prisoners while the lawsuit is ongoing.

In 1997, Greene County voters approved a law enforcement sales tax (LEST) to fund several community initiatives, including the City-County Jail. At that time, the City and County entered into a written contract related to housing of the City’s prisoners. That intergovernmental agreement (IGA) determines the use of LEST revenue.

As part of the IGA, the City, County and then-Sheriff agreed that the “Sheriff shall accept all municipal, county or federal prisoners brought to the jail …”

More information

The City’s website at springfieldmo.gov/jailimpact contains the original petition, a complete chronology of the jail constraint issues, a summary of the impact of the jail closure on the City and community and a backgrounder on the subject.

Judge's order

Plaintiff's Statement of Facts

Parties Stipulation of Facts

Springfield Republican's bill strengthens penalties against government officials who steal

(From State Auditor Nicole Galloway)

Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway has announced a bipartisan effort to increase penalties for government officials who steal public dollars. Senate Bill 176 increases the penalties for public officials convicted of misconduct, and grants additional authority to Missouri prosecuting attorneys and law enforcement agencies when inappropriate or illegal activity is suspected at the local level. The bill is supported by the Missouri Association of Prosecuting Attorneys.

"This legislation represents an important partnership between my office, Sen. Dixon, and local law enforcement authorities across the state who believe those in positions of public trust must be held accountable to the people they serve. My office stands ready to assist Missouri law enforcement in ensuring that government officials at all levels discharge their duties for the benefit of the people they serve, not themselves," Auditor Galloway said.

“I’m proud to work with the State Auditor and Missouri’s prosecutors to develop tools to strengthen public accountability. This bill will give local prosecutors and law enforcement the ability to maximize resources with the State Auditor in investigations. It will strengthen our criminal laws in this area consistent with the Criminal Code Revision, and it will provide a method to ensure someone who embezzles taxpayer money can be held accountable by our courts for paying it back," Sen. Bob Dixon said.

"If passed, this legislation will make Missouri law stronger and serve as an important tool for prosecuting attorneys across the state to prosecute crimes that in many cases would otherwise go unpunished due to a lack of resources or remedies available under the current law," Missouri Association of Prosecuting Attorneys President and Christian County Prosecuting Attorney Amy Fite said.

Senate Bill 176 elevates penalties for official misconduct in the first degree from a misdemeanor to a class E felony, which carries a potential sentence of up to four years in prison. It also provides a new category of official misconduct in the second degree, a class A misdemeanor, giving prosecutors greater discretion based upon the severity of the alleged crime. The bill provides additional powers for Missouri courts to issue orders to increase the likelihood that stolen public dollars are recovered for their intended public use, and that officials who abuse their powers are removed from office swiftly. The bill also empowers Missouri prosecutors and law enforcement to request an audit of local government suspected of fraud, misconduct, or abuse of public dollars.

The bill was pre-filed by Sen. Dixon in advance of the upcoming legislative session, which begins on January 4, 2017.

Springfield School Board adopts long-range Facility Master Plan

(From Springfield Public Schools)

Springfield Public Schools has been engaged over the past 10 months in developing a long-range Facility Master Plan to evaluate the current condition of all school buildings and identify priority needs for future facility improvements. At its Dec. 13 meeting, the Springfield school board adopted the Facility Master Plan, which outlines critical improvements to be made over the next 12 years.

"With the adoption of the Facility Master Plan, we are defining a common vision for creating quality learning environments in our schools that will benefit not only students but our entire community," explained Superintendent John Jungmann. "Maintaining quality schools is an investment that will benefit students and contribute to Springfield's vitality, helping to make it a place where families choose to live for generations to come."

The Facility Master Plan recommends completing the proposed projects in two phases over the next 12 years. Completion of projects will reduce the number of schools currently rated as "unsatisfactory" or "poor" and elevate schools currently listed in the "fair" category to "good" or "excellent." At the completion of Phase I, 19 schools will be impacted, plus space for early childhood education programs will be expanded. Phase II projects would be implemented following completion of all Phase I projects. Throughout Phases I and II, buildings not identified for significant projects will continue to be maintained through routine maintenance funded by the district capital projects budget.

Funding both phases of projects would require voter approval of bond proposals in the future. During its meeting, the school board discussed the possibility of placing a $189 million request on the April 4 ballot to fund projects outlined in Phase I of the Facility Master Plan. The board will continue its discussion at the Jan. 10 meeting.

To read more about the Facility Master plan click here.

Dedication, ribbon cutting for new Missouri Job Center location

(From the City of Springfield)

The Missouri Job Center hosted a two-part dedication and ribbon cutting for its new north Springfield location, located in the CoxHealth North Medical Tower, 1443 N. Robberson.

The idea for a north Springfield satellite office for the Missouri Job Center sprang from the Community Listen meetings held in May 2015, in which the City and community partners met with north Springfield residents about the quality of life issues they face in their day-to-day lives.

“Transportation is a barrier for many of our job seekers,” says Director Mary Ann Rojas. “While the Mobile Job Center bus helps us reach folks, we really felt we needed a permanent location in north Springfield. This partnership with CoxHealth was vital to being able to open one by the end of 2016.”

Rojas added that while new location is in Zone 1, it’s just a short distance away from Zone 2 and will benefit the entire north side.

“The highest concentration of our clients who receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds are located in north Springfield,” Rojas said.

The north Springfield location, open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday, offers all of the services of the Sunshine location, including career counseling, classes and workshops; resume assistance and labor market information.

In addition to helping the unemployed find jobs, Job Center staff assists employed workers as they transition to new jobs. Staff are responsible for ensuring that participants meet basic eligibility requirements, such as completing a two-week job readiness workshop.

All of Missouri Job Center’s services are free.

“We are here for one reason: to connect people with jobs,” Rojas says.