Springfield Public Schools freshmen hear from suicide prevention advocate

(From Springfield Public Schools)

As a baby, Kevin Hines was taken from his parents who struggled with addiction and placed into foster care. As a child, he lost his biological brother and father. At 17, he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. And at 19, he jumped off the Golden Gate Bridge.

But he survived.

For more than an hour, Hines stood on Parkview High School’s stage and told his story of his lifelong battle with mental health issues and the stigma around them. On his 36th birthday, he shared with students his determination to value his life and others through support and advocacy for mental health awareness.

“Your brain is the most powerful organ you wield,” he said to nearly 400 Parkview freshmen. “If your brain isn’t working, there goes the rest of you. And that is not your fault.”

Parkview students heard his powerful message in person, but across Springfield, every SPS freshman was hearing his words live. SPS Information Technology team members facilitated a coordinated live stream of the talk to every SPS high school, filmed live by students from Kickapoo High School’s media department.


“It’s really important to us as school staff to provide opportunities for students to hear a personal experience of someone who has overcome some pretty big obstacles,” said Rhonda Mammen, director of counseling services. “It helps our students understand that there shouldn’t be stigma attached to mental illness. Whether it’s for you or for a friend or for your family, it’s just talking to the students about what mental illness is and what happens when it’s left untreated.”

Hines has made it his life’s mission to speak to high school students around the country about his battle and suicide attempt. He is one of 38 people who have survived suicide attempts from the Golden Gate Bridge’s 25-story drop, which has taken the lives of more than 2,000 people.

But in the heart of his struggle, he found hope in routines, exercise and healthy eating, tools to help keep him and others mentally healthy, he says.

“When you walk out these doors today, I want you to know that you should never silence your pain,” said Hines. “Your pain matters simply because you matter.”

SPS freshmen were the audience of Hines’ talk because of its relevance to the SPS Signs of Suicide curriculum, which is taught to ninth-graders districtwide.

For more information on mental health resources for students at SPS, contact your school counselor to seek out help and additional support, including referrals to trained medical professionals. For 24/7 support in a crisis, visit the Suicide Prevention Resource Center website or contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

Gov. Parson appoints Jessica Kruse as Christian County Associate Circuit Judge

(From Gov. Mike Parson)

Governor Parson appointed Jessica Kruse as the Associate Circuit Judge for Christian County. Kruse won the August primary election for the position and is running unopposed in the November general election. She will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Larry Luna.

Kruse, of Nixa, has practiced law since 2006. She earned her Juris Doctor degree from the University of Tulsa College of Law and her Bachelor of Science degree from Southwest Missouri State University. During law school, Kruse was editor-in-chief of the Tulsa Journal of Comparative & International Lawand served as secretary of Phi Delta Phi Honors Ethics Fraternity.


Kruse is actively involved in the Christian County community as a member of the Ozark Rotary Club, Ozark Care to Learn, and the Ozark Chamber Board. Her professional service includes serving as the chair of the Elder Law Committee for the Missouri Bar, and she is the past president of the Missouri Chapter of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys. Kruse is also active in the Christian County Bar Association.

A 2013 member of the Springfield Business Journal’s 40 Under 40, Kruse received the 2018 Ozark Woman of the Year Award from the Ozark Chamber of Commerce.

Agenda posted for Springfield City Council lunch meeting

Springfield City Council Lunch 
Tuesday, September 4, 12 pm 
Busch Municipal Building – 4th Floor Conference Room 840 Boonville Avenue 

TENTATIVE AGENDA 

1. Site Selection Criteria

2. Review of the Upcoming September 10, 2018 City Council Meeting Agenda

3. Any and all matters to come before City Council

Delivery of Grand Street Project beams to cause traffic delays next week

(From the City of Springfield)

Expect traffic delays surrounding the Grand Street Bridge Project work site near the intersection of Grand Street and Kansas Expressway beginning early Tuesday morning, Sept. 4 through Friday, Sept. 7 as City contractor, Hartman and Company, will deliver bridge beams and equipment to the work site.

Traffic impacts throughout the week will include:

• Tuesday, Sept. 4 - Wednesday, Sept. 5 - Traffic will have limited access to the intersection of Grand Street and Park Avenue as beams will be delivered and unloaded from the west side of Jordan Creek. 

• Wednesday, Sept. 5 - Friday, Sept. 7 - Motorists may experience momentary backups, lane closures and overnight closures at the intersection of Grand Street and Wabash Avenue as beams and equipment will be unloaded from the east side of Jordan Creek. Access to Wabash Avenue will be limited, however, a flagger will be available to help gain access to businesses.   

Springfield Police Department personnel will be present throughout delivery work to help direct traffic.

Drivers are asked to please be patient as the approximately 70-foot beams make their way by truck through town to the project site.

Motorists are encouraged to continue to utilize the marked detour around the work site.

U. S. Bankruptcy Court Petitions- Springfield

Christian County

Matthew Gordon Coker and Vonna Denise Coker
Jonathan Phillip Baldwin
Rex Jerome Davis and Janet Lynn Davis
Sara Evalina McCauley

Dallas County

Kyle B. Griffin and Jessica L. Griffin
Timothy Bryant Horton
Teddy Bruce Roach

Greene County

Deborah Lynne Blauvelt
Jeffrey Daniel LaSalle
Andrea Lynn Richardson
Stephon Antonio Johnson and Ashley Nicole Johnson
Kayla Dee Alvis
Deborah Elaine Conner
Christopher Wayne Eddington and Sherry Ann Eddington
Marissa D. Gearhart
Meiya Juanita Jasmine Hallmark
Melinda J. Williams
Sermarow Denee Ellison
Christopher Allen Beitzell and Laura Jeanne Beitzell
Shirley Ann Fullington
Betty June Booth
Lisa Renee Lynch
Patricia Ann Jamieson
Allan Christopher Williams
Edward L. Casteel and Elaine S. Casteel



Laclede County

Lloyd Jesse Oberbeck, Sr. and Ruby Ann Oberbeck
Mimi Friet
Marc William Fisher and Pamela Ann Fisher
Stashia Lynn Marks
Ronald Marcus Leon Jones

Polk County

Ferdnand Michael Marshall and Marsha Karen Marshall
Johnnie Lee Bell, Jr., and Sheila Jo Bell
Kevin Michael Martin
Richard Lee Vest
Camelia Calina

Pulaski County

Paul L. DeClue and Leslie Jean DeClue

Stone County

Loren Boyd Patterson and Vicki Lynn Patterson

Taney County

Amy Kathleen Baldridge

Texas County

Lisa Deann Chronister

Pavement resurfacing begins today in Quail Creek subdivision

(From the City of Springfield)

A City contractor will be conducting pavement resurfacing work in the Quail Creek subdivision beginning Tuesday, Aug. 28 through Friday, Aug. 31. Work will begin each day at 8:30 a.m. and end by 4:00 p.m. (weather permitting).

Two way traffic will be maintained, but flaggers will be posted to help guide motorists around work zones.

Reward offered for information leading to arrest of woman wanted for resisting arrest

(From Springfield Crimestoppers)

This week's featured fugitive is Brandi Lynn Jackson. Jackson has a felony warrant out of Greene County for Resisting Arrest. The warrant was issued on 08/01/2018. Jackson is a 20 year old white female, approximately 5’2”, 155 lbs, with blonde hair, and blue eyes. Jackson has a dermal piercing on her face.

Law enforcement is asking the public for assistance in locating Jackson. If you have any information about her whereabouts, please contact Crime Stoppers at 417-869-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online at www.p3tips.com.

Springfield man arrested on felony meth charge in Howell County

The Highway Patrol arrested a Springfield man on a felony possession of methamphetamine charge during a 10:57 a.m. traffic stop in Howell County.

Zachary T. Casper, 25, was also arrested on three Branson Police Department misdemeanor traffic warrants and charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, no insurance and no valid plates.

Springfield Police searching for man wanted on assault, burglary charges

(From the Springfield Police Department)

The Springfield Police Department is seeking your help to locate 41-year-old Kristian Boyd.

He is wanted on a warrant for unarmed assault and burglary as well as other charges. This incident happened in Indian Orchard.

Mr. Boyd's last known address is on Wheatland Ave. in Chicopee.

If you have any information on his whereabouts please contact the Warrant Apprehension Unit at 413.246.7600.

Five DWI arrests made during Greene County DWI saturation patrol

(From the Greene County Sheriff's Office)

Deputies were out Saturday night conducting DWI saturation patrol. Between the hours of 9:30pm - 0300am deputies conducted 51 traffic stops. The result from those traffic stops are:

5 - DWIs
1 – Pursuit (possible DWI) The driver fled on foot. He was later identified and felony charges will be submitted
1 – Foot pursuit
1 – Warrant arrest
1 – PC item (Felony tampering)
1 – Possession of controlled substance
1 – Possession of drug paraphernalia
7 – Summonses
44 – Warnings 

Branson Police Department identifies victim in pedestrian accident

(From the Branson Police Department)

The pedestrian involved in Friday’s fatal accident on US Highway 65 has been identified as 33-year-old, Amber Lawson of Branson, Missouri. The City of Branson extends its sincerest condolences to the family as they mourn the loss of Mrs. Lawson.

At approximately 8:29 PM on Friday, August 24, 2018, Branson Police Department along with Branson Fire Department and Taney County Ambulance responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian accident in the northbound lane of U.S. Highway 65 near State Highway 248.

A 2004 Chevy 3500 truck operated by Thomas Cooper of Mountain Grove was traveling in the passing lane of northbound U.S. Highway 65. Due to an unknown reason, Lawson walked into the path of the truck. Preliminary information shows no impairment of the driver.

"[After] talking with family a little bit, we know she was walking on 65, but we don't know why she crossed and where she crossed it at is not a common place to cross 65. Right there is a divided highway, it's four-lanes, and there's no access for pedestrians besides walking from the roadway either from 76 or 248, so we don't really know why she was on the roadway at the time," Sgt. Stanley Kauffman said.

The cause of the accident is still under investigation by the Branson Police Department. Anyone who witnessed the accident is asked to contact Sgt. Kauffman or Officer Yartz at 417-334-3300.

Additional Info...

Police: Domestic assault led to murder at 2637 N. Fremont, Springfield man arrested

(From the Springfield Police Department)

Springfield police were dispatched to 2637 S. Fremont at 8:09 A.M, on August 25, 2018, after a 911 caller requested officers to check the wellbeing of a person inside the home. When officers arrived, they found a deceased female victim with an apparent gunshot wound.

The victim was identified as Syolanda Patterson, a 32-year-old female from Springfield. Next of kin notifications have been made for the victim.

Detectives investigating the homicide determined that the incident was not a random act and was an incident of domestic assault. The suspect was identified as Bob Houston, a 36-year-old male from Springfield. Houston turned himself in at the Greene County Jail on August 26, 2018 and was booked for second-degree murder.

Detectives continue to investigate and are asking anyone who has information about this incident to contact the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810 or make an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-8477.

Complete summary, video of tonight's Springfield City Council meeting

Summary of Most Recent Springfield City Council Meeting

Aug. 27, 2018

1. ROLL CALL.

2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES. August 13, 2018 (APPROVED AS PRESENTED)

Documents:

08-13-2018.PDF

3. FINALIZATION AND APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDAS. CITIZENS WISHING TO SPEAK TO OR REMOVE ITEMS FROM THE CONSENT AGENDAS MUST DO SO AT THIS TIME. (APPROVED AS PRESENTED)

4. CEREMONIAL MATTERS.

5. CITY MANAGER REPORT AND RESPONSES TO QUESTIONS RAISED AT THE PREVIOUS CITY COUNCIL MEETING.

• Police Update

Police Chief Paul Williams has provided you with the monthly sworn staffing report and the monthly report detailing July crime statistics, as well as the Uniform Crime Report statistics, year-to-date. Year-to-date, crime continues to be down versus 2017 across the board. Sworn staffing numbers have not changed this month.

• Parks Update
Parks Director Bob Belote has provided you with a Parks update. One highlight I will point out is the recent revealing of a sculpture honoring retired Ozarks Greenways executive director Terry Whaley at the Kearney Street Trailhead for the Frisco Highline Trail. Whaley retired in 2017 after 22 years as executive director. The nonprofit trail advocacy organization was created in 1991.

• Transportation Survey Continues

Just a reminder that the City continues to seek citizen feedback on the proposed list of new roadway construction projects to be included in the next cycle of the 1/4-cent sales tax program. A survey is available online at springfieldmo.gov/election. Paper copies of the survey are available at the Citizen Resource Center, which is inside the Busch Municipal Building lobby.

• Celebration of the Life of Oliver Brown

Several of you joined Drury University, NAACP and other partners for a celebration Aug. 19 of the life of Oliver Brown. Oliver was a pastor at Benton AME Church, here in Springfield and is best known for being the namesake of the landmark Supreme Court case “Brown et al V Board of Education” which ended segregation in American Schools. His daughter Cheryl Brown Henderson gave a poignant speech, in which she referenced her dad’s time in Springfield as “when he really came into his own as a civil rights activist.”

6. SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE. Citizens Have Spoken. May Be Voted On. Item No. 7 Was Tabled At The July 30, 2018 Council Meeting Until The August 27, 2018 City Council Meeting. Item No. 9 Was Tabled At The August 13, 2018 City Council Meeting Until The August 27, 2018 City Council Meeting.

7. Council Bill 2018-191. (Fisk) Tabled At The July 30, 2018 City Council Meeting Until The August 27, 2018 City Council Meeting. (APPROVE 9-0)

A special ordinance amending the budget of the City of Springfield, Missouri, for Fiscal Year 2018-2019, for the purpose of authorizing the addition of two new full-time employee positions with the job title of Senior Designer.

Documents:

2018-191.PDF

8. Council Bill 2018-196. (Simpson) (TABLED 9-0 UNTIL THE SEPTEMBER 24, 2018 COUNCIL MEETING)

A general ordinance amending the Springfield Land Development Code, Section 36-306, ‘Official zoning map and rules for interpretation,’ by rezoning approximately 8 acres of property, generally located at 2700 East Battlefield Road, from R-SF, Single-Family Residential District, to GR, General Retail District; and establishing Conditional Overlay District No. 151. (Staff and Planning and Zoning Commission both recommend approval.) (By: Briarcliffe Investments, LLC and John Gentry; 2700 East Battlefield Road; Z-15-2018 w/COD #151.)

Documents:

2018-196.PDF


9. Council Bill 2018-197. (Prater) Tabled At The August 13, 2018 City Council Meeting Until The August 27, 2018 City Council Meeting. (TABLED AND SPONSORSHIP REMOVED 9-0)

A general ordinance amending the Springfield Land Development Code, Section 36-306, ‘Official zoning map and rules for interpretation,’ by rezoning approximately 1.5 acres of property, generally located at 1701 and 1715 South Enterprise Avenue, from Planned Development 41, Second Amendment, to IC, Industrial Commercial District and establishing Conditional Overlay District No. 153. (Staff and Planning and Zoning Commission both recommend approval.) (By: 1701 S. Enterprise, LLC; 1701 & 1715 South Enterprise Avenue; Z-18-2018 w/COD #153.)

Documents:

2018-197.PDF

10. RESOLUTIONS. Citizens May Speak. May Be Voted On.

11. Council Bill 2018-208. (Council) (APPROVED 9-0)

A resolution declaring the results of a Special Municipal Election held on the August 7, 2018, under the Home Rule Charter of the City of Springfield, Missouri.

Documents:

2018-208.PDF

12. EMERGENCY BILLS.

13. PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS.

14. GRANTS. Citizens May Speak. May Be Voted On.

15. Council Bill 2018-209. (Hosmer) (APPROVED 9-0)

A special ordinance authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute a contract between the City of Springfield and the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission, providing for a grant of funds under Section 305.230, RSMo, to the City, by and through the Springfield-Branson National Airport Board in the amount of $175,000.00, for air service marketing and promotion of the Springfield-Branson National Airport; amending the budget of the Airport Board in the amount of $194,444.00 which includes $19,444.00 in matching funds from the Airport; and declaring that this bill qualifies for approval on one reading.

Documents:

2018-209.PDF

16. AMENDED BILLS.

17. COUNCIL BILLS FOR PUBLIC HEARING. Citizens May Speak. Not Anticipated To Be Voted On. Except Item No. 18. Citizens May Speak. May Be Voted On.

18. Council Bill 2018-210. (Fisk) Citizens May Speak. May Be Voted On. (APPROVED 8-1 WITH FULNECKY IN OPPOSITION)

A special ordinance amending Special Ordinance 27054 and Special Ordinance 27055, passed by City Council on June 4, 2018, to reflect the final determination of the Greene County Assessor of the assessed valuation by levying a tax on real and personal property for current expenses and the debt retirement of the City of Springfield, Missouri, and its boards and agencies for Fiscal Year 2018-2019; and declaring an emergency.

Documents:

2018-210.PDF

19. Council Bill 2018-211. (Ferguson) (COUNCIL WILL VOTE IN TWO WEEKS)

A special ordinance approving a Petition to Establish the Kansas and Kearney Community Improvement District; authorizing the City Manager to execute a Cooperative Agreement between the City, the Kansas and Kearney Community Improvement District, and Kansas & Kearney Intersection Center, LLC; and directing the City Clerk to notify the Missouri Department of Economic Development and the Greene County Clerk of the creation of the District.

Documents:

2018-211.PDF

20. FIRST READING BILLS.

21. PETITIONS, REMONSTRANCES, AND COMMUNICATIONS.

Mr. Roy Holand wishes to address City Council. APPEARED

Mr. William Austin wishes to address City Council. APPEARED

Mr. Darrel Dee Day wishes to address City Council. DID NOT APPEAR

22. NEW BUSINESS.

23. UNFINISHED BUSINESS.

24. MISCELLANEOUS.

25. CONSENT AGENDA – FIRST READING BILLS. See Item #3.

26. Council Bill 2018-212. (Hosmer) (COUNCIL WILL VOTE IN TWO WEEKS)

A special ordinance authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into an agreement with the Board of Governors of Missouri State University for the purpose of continuing to provide enhanced law enforcement services within and around the Missouri State University campus.

Documents:

2018-212.PDF

27. Council Bill 2018-213. (Schilling) ) (COUNCIL WILL VOTE IN TWO WEEKS)

A special ordinance authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into a developer’s agreement with Hamburg Properties, LLC, for the recovery of proportional square foot costs of the construction of a trunk sewer to serve the Red’s Hamburg site, generally located at 2301 West Sunshine Street, and a sewer basin in the South Creek drainage area; and establishing a per square foot connection fee to reimburse the developer for proportional costs of construction of the trunk sewer. (Environmental Services staff recommends approval.)

Documents:

2018-213.PDF

28. CONSENT AGENDA – ONE READING BILLS. See Item #3.

29. Council Bill 2018-214. (McClure) (APROVED 9-0)

A resolution appointing Matt Simpson, Sarah Kerner, Gary Powell, Robin Robeson and Ryan Mooney to serve as members of the Springfield Enhanced Enterprise Zone Board. (Mayor and City Staff recommend approval.)

Documents:

2018-214.PDF

30. CONSENT AGENDA – SECOND READING BILLS.

31. END OF CONSENT AGENDA.

32. ADJOURN.

Repair work to begin next month on bridges over Kearney Street

(From MODOT)

Drivers can expect crews and equipment close to traffic starting Tuesday, Sept. 4, when contractor crews begin a project to repair the I-44 bridges over Kearney Street (Route 744) in northwest Springfield, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.

For the first two to three weeks, crews will repair bridge components underneath the bridges which are located at Mile Marker 75.2. No major traffic impacts are expected during this phase of the project. 

The week of September 21, drivers can expect ‘round the clock lane closings on I-44 starting in the westbound direction.

Crews will work between Friday nights starting at 8 p.m. until as late as 6 a.m. on Thursday for up to four weeks.

Here’s a look at the project:

Replace bridge components underneath the bridge and on the bridge deck or driving surface
Repair a fire-damaged bridge wall on the westbound bridge
Repair and seal fire-damaged bridge deck or driving surface on the westbound bridge

The fire damage to the westbound I-44 bridge occurred in December 2017 following a tractor trailer crash.

Weather and/or unforeseen issues could alter the work schedule.

The prime contractor on the project is Phillips Hardy of Boonville.

The estimated total project cost is $905,000.

The project will be completed by December 2018. (However, the contractor expects to complete the work by early November.)

Wheatland mayor, wife killed in crash on 54

The mayor of Wheatland and his wife were killed in a two-vehicle accident 10:15 p.m. Saturday on on eastbound U. S. 54 at Allen Road in Miller County.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2010 Chevrolet Impala driven by Wheatland Mayor Harold R. Rempfer, 76, was attempting to make a left turn from Allen Road onto U. S. 54 and pulled into the path of a 2017 Ford F250 driven by Caleb R. Zimmerman, 26, California. Both vehicles were forced off the road and ended up in the median.

Miller County Coroner pronounced Rempfer and his wife, Julia M. Rempfer, 73, Wheatland dead at the scene at 11:10 p.m.



The fatalities were the fourth and fifth this month for Highway Patrol Troop I and the 46th and 47th for 2018.

Hollister man injured in one-vehicle accident on 76

A Hollister man was injured in a one-vehicle accident 1 p.m. today on MO 76, two miles east of Branson.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser driven by Christopher P. Young, 21, Hollister, ran off the right side of the roadway, struck a ditch and overturned.

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

Republic man injured swerving to miss deer and crashing into tree

A Republic man was injured in a one-vehicle accident 5:50 p.m today on Farm Road 168, a half mile north of Republic.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 1992 Lexus driven by Gregory C. Cummings, 57, Republic, swerved to miss a deer, ran off left side of the roadway and crashed into a tree.

Cummings was treated for moderate injuries at Mercy Hospital, Springfield.

Police search for suspect in shooting death of Springfield woman at 2637 S. Fremont

(From the Springfield Police Department)

Springfield police were dispatched to 2637 S. Fremont at 8:09 A.M, on August 25, 2018, after a 911 caller requested officers to check the well being of a person inside the home. When officers arrived, they found a deceased female victim with an apparent gunshot wound.

Detectives investigating the homicide have determined that the incident was not a random act and both the suspect and the victim knew each other. The suspect has been identified but no arrest has been made at this time.

The victim was identified as Syolanda Patterson, a 32-year-old female from Springfield. Next of kin notifications have been made for the victim.

Detectives continue to investigate and are asking anyone who has information about this incident to contact the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810 or make an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-8477.

More information released on pedestrian death in Branson

(From the Branson Police Department)

At approximately 8:29 PM on Friday, August 24, 2018, Branson Police Department along with Branson Fire Department and Taney County Ambulance responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian accident in the northbound lane of U.S. Highway 65 near State Highway 248.

A 2004 Chevy 3500 truck operated by Thomas Cooper of Mountain Grove was traveling in the passing lane of northbound U.S. Highway 65. Due to an unknown reason, a female walked into the path of the truck. The female has been identified and we are currently working on notification of next of kin. Preliminary information shows no impairment of the driver.

The cause of the accident is still under investigation by the Branson Police Department. Anyone who witnessed the accident is asked to contact Sgt. Kauffman or Officer Yartz at 417-334-3300.

Kickapoo graduate wins National Press Club's Diversity Scholarship Award

(From Springfield Public Schools)

Kickapoo High School 2018 graduate Tony Madden was named the winner of the National Press Club's 2018 Diversity Scholarship Award.

The National Press Club, the world's leading professional organization for journalists, annually selects a recipient for this prestigious award. The award is for graduating high school seniors and totals as much as $10,000 over four years.

Madden will use the scholarship to study journalism at  the University of Missouri. 

"Tony wowed the judges with his maturity and depth of reporting," said Andrea Snyder Edney, President of the National Press Club. "His ability to turn big, tough topics around for a high-school readership was impressive. We expect to see great things from Tony in the years to come.”

Madden has been a standout journalism student and served as editor-in-chief of the school’s newsmagazine KHQ Today his senior year, producing 75-page full color magazines and an online publication.

“I am impressed with his coverage of a variety of student life and issue topics, as well as the opioid epidemic and how it has affected our school community,” said Leslie Orman, Kickapoo journalism advisor. “Tony thrives outside of his comfort zone.”

The scholarship judges were impressed with Madden’s ability to not only take tough topics head on such as the #MeToo movement and opioid crisis but to take on those topics in original and impactful ways.

Madden also represented Missouri in the 2017 Al Neuharth Free Spirit and Journalism Conference at the Newseum in DC last summer.

Madden has also spent a great deal of effort in high school becoming proficient in Spanish, which he said he anticipates will be invaluable for him in his journalism career in order to reach more communities and cultures.

“I feel that I’ll be able to bring diversity to journalism in the recognition of my experiences as a young gay man living in the Midwest,” Madden told the judges in his application essay. “I do understand what discrimination and intolerance feel like.

“I can say with no hesitation that proper representation matters, and so do the understanding and circulation of voices that are not often heard," he said.

Branson Police investigating death of pedestrian in Friday evening crash

(From the Branson Police Department)

Branson Police are investigating a fatal car crash involving a pedestrian and one vehicle. The incident happened about 8:30 Friday night in the northbound lanes of highway 65 and 248.

A pedestrian was struck while crossing the highway. Limited information is available at this time because it is an active investigation.

No names will be released pending notification of next of kin.

Agenda posted for Springfield City Council lunch meeting

The Springfield City Council lunch meeting will be followed by a special closed session to discuss litigation.

Christian County Dissolution of Marriage Petitions

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

Nichole L. Durham vs. Samuel Durham
Chad Skelton vs. Kristi Skelton

Stone County Dissolution of Marriage Petitions

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

Keirsten Michelle Pollard vs. Tyler Jacob Pollard
Anyssa Breeann Wright vs. Matthew Thomas Wright
Gene E. Asher vs. Marita J. Cotter

Lawrence County Dissolution of Marriage Petitions

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

Kasey R. Deaver vs. Jacob A. Deaver
Devon A. Gaston vs. Lindsay P. Gaston
Gregory L. Hankins vs. Mary B. Hankins
Dawn K. Levan vs. Matthew S. Levan

Barry County Dissolution of Marriage Petitions

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

Elizabeth F. Boehm vs. George L. Boehm II
Kayla S. Christen vs. Christopher J. Christen

Taney County Dissolution of Marriage Petitions

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

Debra J. Gibbs vs. Shaun L. Gibbs
Donna J. Shelton vs. Jimmie E. Shelton
Michael G. Lenz vs. Methinee Lenz
Chad R. Davis vs. Jade A. Davis
Paige L. Lee vs. Michael A. Lee
Evelyn M. Dore vs. Joseph P. Dore
Matthew S. Stewart vs. Leslie R. Stewart

Greene County Dissolution of Marriage Petitions

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

Laura Ann Jennings vs. David Wayne Jennings
Amy L. Meriweather vs. John T. Cardoza
Anthony Ray Espinoza vs. Katelynn Christina Espinoza
Isaiah J. Simmons vs. Evana C. Simmons
Jessica Lynn Wilson vs Brandon  Michael Wilson
Eric Lemont Lee vs. Paula K. Span
Brian Prichard vs. Crystal G. Prichard
Augustine Mendoza vs. Linda Mendoza
Steven P. Swiney vs. Julie Nicole Swiney
Jennifer L. Carnahan vs. Christopher A. Carnahan

Jessica Dawn Nielsen vs. Martin Matthew Nielsen
Erica L. Pilgrim vs. Mark Pilgrim
Matthew D. Hessee vs. Tiffany L. Hessee
Robert Wayne Loehmann vs. Carolyn Loehmann
Pamela Israel vs. Randall Israel
Patricia L. Harris vs. John D. Harris
Kellie D. Graves vs. Ernest R. Graves
Natalie Noel Steimel vs. David Arthur Steimel
Crystal Renee Hasley vs. Donald Ray Hasley
Olga McFadden vs. Robert McFadden
Virginia E. Dougherty vs. Kermit L. Dougherty
Charissa Leann Duff vs. Andrew Barden Duff
Richard L. Palmer II vs. Tara V. Palmer
Robert Morales vs. Stephen C. Taylor
Elizabeth C. Lawrence vs. Jacob D. Lawrence
Jacquelyn D. Beals vs. Linda R. Beals
Robin Schuchmann vs. Justin Schuchmann

U. S. Bankruptcy Petitions- Springfield

Christian County

Kassi Jo Inmon
Trevor Scott Points and Elayni Renee Points
Terry Michael Allen II and Deanna Lynn Allen
Sarah Elizabeth Colley
Heath Nicholas Jech
Randall Lee Bowling and Melissa Dawn Bowling
Linda Fay Hilton

Dallas County

Rex L. Walker Jr. and Sandra L. Walker

Douglas County

Jeffrey A. Olsen and Dana C. Olsen


Greene County

Dijuana Lee Ann Stephens
Dan C. Adams and Robin M. Adams
Kelly Jo Sherrod
Ginger L. Ogden
Maria E. Morales
John W. Smither and Laurie H. Smither
Matthew Dean Dodson

Howell County

Sandra Kay Lawson-Henry

Laclede County

Susan Irene Law
Jerome Allen Mueller and Ronna Sue Mueller
Beverly L. Shears
Priscilla A. Shrout

Oregon County

John William Roe

Polk County

Justin McPherson and Sabrina McPherson
Howard Don Walker
Jeffrey Michael Stiles
Linda Darlene Callahan

Pulaski County

Roger W. Schweitzer

Stone County

Eric Steven Hansen and Heidi Lynn Hansen
Richard Allen Stegall

Taney County

Byron Keith Looper and Donna Louise Looper
Melody Ann Yaw
Tommy Lee Christison and Kathy Ann Christisen
William F. Signs and Darla M. Signs

Texas County

Andrew L. Kuster
Michelle Lea Dampier

Webster County

Shirley S. Miles
Janni S. Miller

Springfield Police: Suspected seriai rapist targeted women leaving bars, nightclubs

(From the Springfield Police Department)

On August 21, 2018, Springfield Police Officers arrested Tyson Fairley for 1st Degree Rape and 1st Degree Sexual Assault. The Greene County Prosecutor filed charges on both offenses on August 22nd, 2018.

The investigation showed that the suspect targeted women leaving bars or nightclubs in Springfield. The suspect would tell the victim that he was an Uber or Lyft driver and would then offer them a free ride home. The suspect would identify himself as “Jay.” If the targeted victim accepted the ride the suspect would drive to a different location and would attempt to sexually assault the victim.

Detectives investigating this case believe that the suspect has assaulted or has attempted to assault other female victims who have not come forward or not realized they were being targeted by the suspect.

If you have been a victim, or have any information about this case you are encouraged to call police headquarters at 417-864-1810, Crime Stoppers 417-869-8477, or 911 to make a report. You can also make a walk-in-report at Police Headquarters located at 321 E. Chestnut Exp. or the Police Department’s South District Station at 2620 W. Battlefield. Victims can also call the Victim Center at 417-863-7273 for assistance.

Focus on safety expands bus eligibility for some Springfield Public Schools students

(From Springfield Public Schools)

When school buses rolled on Aug. 15, about 160 elementary students were eligible to ride this year who weren’t eligible last year. Springfield Public Schools made the change to ensure safety of students who must cross heavily trafficked major streets.

The change primarily impacts about 150 students who attend Disney Elementary School and live south of Republic Road.

“Student safety is our top priority so we constantly monitor changing conditions and review guidelines to provide students the safest routes to and from school,” explained Jonathan Shelden, transportation director. “With new development and improvements, this road has become a barrier street which poses certain challenges for elementary students who must cross it to get to school.”

SPS provides free bus transportation to about 7,600 students every day. Elementary and middle school students who live 1.5 miles or more from school are eligible to ride the bus. If they live less than 1.5 miles from school but live in areas where they must cross a barrier street to get to school, SPS will also provide them with free transportation. High school students receive free transportation if they live 3.5 miles or more from school but there is no barrier street provision for high school students.

SPS works in cooperation with the City of Springfield and Greene County through the School Crossing Protection Committee to establish best practices for school crossing safety.

“We value the collaboration of these partners and their participation in working proactively to keep our students safe,” Shelden said.

This year, the School Crossing Protection Committee, which consists of representatives from SPS, PTA, City of Springfield Traffic Division, Greene County Highway Department, Springfield and Greene County law enforcement and Missouri Department of Transportation, recommended revising the barrier street definition for elementary students. The change will impact bus eligibility for some elementary students who attend Bissett, Disney, Hickory Hills, Pleasant View, Sherwood, Sunshine, Truman and York elementary schools. Students affected by the changes have already been notified by the Transportation Department.

For more information:

View the new bus eligibility maps for the eight schools impacted.

Read more about eligibility requirements and the criteria for barrier streets.

Contact the Transportation Department with questions at 523-0500.

Portion of Walnut Street to close next week

(From the City of Springfield)

Walnut Street will close between Grant Avenue and Douglas Avenue beginning 6 a.m., Monday, Aug. 27 through 6 a.m., Monday, September 3 for street improvements related to the Grant Avenue and Route 66 Streetscape project.

About the Grant Avenue and Route 66 Streetscape project

This project will complete streetscape improvements along Grant Avenue from Olive Street to Walnut Street.

Included are street improvements, construction of ADA compliant sidewalks, new storm sewer, gas and water renewals, and signal improvements at the intersection of College Street and Grant Avenue and the intersection of Walnut Street and Grant Avenue. 

The project is funded by the City of Springfield ¼-cent Capital Improvement Sales Tax and a federal Transportation Alternatives Program Grant.

Agenda posted for Airport Task Force meeting

AIRPORT TASK FORCE 
MONDAY, AUGUST 27, 2018, 11:30 A.M. 
SPRINGFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUILDING 
202 S. JOHN Q. HAMMMONS PKWY, SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI 

1. Welcome and call meeting to order

2. Approve July 13 and August 10 meeting minutes

3. Introduction of guest speakers

4. Regional economic and development considerations

5. Industry best practices and trends from Mark VanLoh Tulsa International Airport CEO

6. Q&A and discussion with guest speakers

7. Takeaways from meeting

8. Review of upcoming topics, speakers, and locations

9. Adjourn Co-Chair

Taney County Sheriff's Office searching for missing teen

(From the Taney County Sheriff's Office)

The Taney County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s help in locating Benjamin Mullett.

Mullett is a 17 year old male, 6’4” tall, 195 pounds, with brown hair and green eyes. He was last seen in the area of MM Highway in Kirbyville. 

Mullett left his residence on foot on 8/14/2018 and has not returned. We would like to contact Mullett to check his well being. 

If you have seen Mullett, or know his whereabouts, please contact the Taney County Sheriff’s Office at (417)546-7250.

Arkansas woman killed, man airlifted to Springfield hospital following motorcycle crash on 76

An Arkansas woman was killed and a motorcyclist seriously injured in a one-vehicle accident 1:38 p.m. Wednesday on MO 76, five miles north of Shell Knob.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2018 Harley Davidson Triglide driven by Edward W. Harkreader, 58, Henderson, Arkansas, slid off the road and crashed into a tree.

Shell Knob Fire Chief Russel Rickard pronounced a passenger, Dawn E. Davis, 59, Hackett, Arkansas, dead at the scene at 2 p.m.

Harkreader was airlifted to Mercy Hospital, Springfield, to be treated for serious injuries.

The fatality was the 83rd this year for Highway Patrol Troop D.

Appellate court upholds conviction of Branson serial masturbator, but says sentence was too long

A Branson man who was convicted following two incidents of public masturbation, including one at the Branson Rec-Plex playground area, lost his bid to have his conviction of two counts of sexual misconduct tossed out, but he will get a lighter sentence.

The Missouri Southern District Court of Appeals ruled Monday that Scott Alan Ingalsbe, 57, Lampe, must be resentenced due to a misinterpretation of the law. Ingalsbe was initially sentenced to one year in the Taney County Jail on each count.

Ingalsbe's resentencing is scheduled for August 28.

Ingalsbe's crime was described in the appellate panel's decision:



Branson Hills Parkway Incident

Early in the morning on July 19, 2016, Janette Etz and her friend Deborah Lale were walking along the paved path near the Branson Hills Parkway. People frequently walk and run on this path on the way to the Branson Rec-Plex. 

As Etz and Lale were walking, Etz was startled by a sound. She turned to see Defendant standing by the nearby bushes, “totally naked and masturbating[.]” 

Etz testified that she felt shocked and scared. She yelled for Lale to run, and they both fled down the path and away from Defendant. Etz and Lale observed Defendant run out of the wooded area. He was wearing an orange plaid shirt and drove away in his distinctive blue truck with a white stripe. 

Branson Rec-Plex Incident (Count 2) 

On September 30, 2016, Kelsey Howerton and her two children were at the Branson Rec-Plex, in the playground area by the pool. Defendant was sitting at the picnic table closest to the playground, facing away from the table and watching the play area. He was wearing a black knee brace and athletic shorts. 

Howerton could see that Defendant had his hand up the leg of his shorts, “stroking” his exposed penis. With the other hand, Defendant was holding up his cellular phone, pointing the camera towards the playground. 

Howerton’s friend, Nichole McElvain, also “clearly” saw that Defendant had his hand in his pants. Upon realizing that the women had noticed him, Defendant stood up abruptly, which caused him to drop his phone. He walked briskly away. 

Carolyn Clark, another parent at the park with her children, followed Defendant and saw him drive away in his “blue and white truck.” 

Branson police officers received a call reporting a vehicle that matched the description of the truck from the incidents. Officers subsequently ascertained that it was registered to Defendant. 

A search warrant was executed at Defendant’s residence. Investigators found Defendant’s black knee brace, his cell phone, and an orange plaid shirt similar to the description of what Defendant was wearing on the day of the first incident. 

When questioned, Defendant admitted that he had visited the Rec-Plex on September 30th and was wearing jogging shorts on that day. Five witnesses identified Defendant in a photo lineup. 

 In October 2016, Defendant was charged by information with committing two counts of a class A misdemeanor, in violation of § 566.093.1(1), on July 19, 2016 (Count 1) and on September 30, 2016 (Count 2). Each count alleged that Defendant had a prior Virginia conviction for indecent exposure. The case was tried in June 2017. 

At the commencement of that proceeding, the trial court found “beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant has a prior conviction from the Commonwealth of Virginia which would be classified as an offense under Chapter 566 4 of the RSMo if the offense had occurred in the State of MO, thereby enhancing this to a class A misdemeanor.” At the close of the State’s evidence, Defendant’s motion for judgment of acquittal was denied. Defendant did not testify or call any witnesses. Defendant subsequently moved for a judgment of acquittal at the close of all evidence, which the trial court also denied. Thereafter, the jury found Defendant guilty on both counts of sexual misconduct in the first degree. This appeal followed. 

The Appeals Court noted that the use of Ingalsbe's Virginia conviction to enhance the penalty can be done now, but was not allowed under Missouri law at the time Ingalsbe was convicted.

Springfield woman pleads guilty to role in meth conspiracy

A Springfield woman who was arrested with a half-pound of heroin and six pounds of methamphetamine in her possession has pleaded guilty in federal court to her role in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Greene County.

Kathy J. Alexander, 62, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool on Tuesday, Aug. 21, 2018, to the charge contained in a Jan. 23, 2018, federal indictment.

Alexander was arrested while driving through Amarillo, Texas, on Jan. 11, 2016, with a half-pound of heroin and six pounds of methamphetamine that she was transporting from Arizona to Springfield. Alexander admitted that she had traveled to Arizona and met with co-conspirators to receive the heroin and methamphetamine. After the drugs were repackaged for distribution, she began driving back to Springfield to deliver them to another co-conspirator.

Alexander had also been stopped, but not arrested, on Dec. 2, 2014, by law enforcement officers in Oklahoma while she was transporting five ounces of heroin hidden in her underwear.

Alexander admitted that she had made 14 drug transporting excursions, averaging one trip each month, for which she was paid $500 per trip. The drug-trafficking conspiracy lasted from Dec. 2, 2014, to Jan. 23, 2018.

Co-defendant Davetta F. Hicks, 31, of Springfield, has also pleaded guilty to her role in the drug-trafficking conspiracy. Hicks was arrested on Dec. 9, 2014, by Kingsville, Texas, police officers for the possession of a half-pound of methamphetamine found in her purse. Hicks admitted that she made three trips to Texas to transport cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine to Springfield.

Under federal statutes, Alexander is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of life 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. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Abram McGull II. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Springfield, Mo., Police Department and the Combined Ozarks Multijurisdictional Enforcement Team (COMET).

Agenda posted for Monday Springfield City Council meeting

Upcoming Springfield City Council Meeting Agenda
August 27, 2018  6:30 p.m.

1.

ROLL CALL.

2.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES. August 13, 2018

3.

FINALIZATION AND APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDAS. CITIZENS WISHING TO SPEAK TO OR REMOVE ITEMS FROM THE CONSENT AGENDAS MUST DO SO AT THIS TIME.

4.

CEREMONIAL MATTERS.

5.

CITY MANAGER REPORT AND RESPONSES TO QUESTIONS RAISED AT THE PREVIOUS CITY COUNCIL MEETING.

6.

SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE. Citizens Have Spoken. May Be Voted On. Item No. 7 Was Tabled At The July 30, 2018 Council Meeting Until The August 27, 2018 City Council Meeting. Item No. 9 Was Tabled At The August 13, 2018 City Council Meeting Until The August 27, 2018 City Council Meeting.

7.

Council Bill 2018-191. (Fisk) Tabled At The July 30, 2018 City Council Meeting Until The August 27, 2018 City Council Meeting.

A special ordinance amending the budget of the City of Springfield, Missouri, for Fiscal Year 2018-2019, for the purpose of authorizing the addition of two new full-time employee positions with the job title of Senior Designer.

Documents:

1. 2018-191.PDF

8.

Council Bill 2018-196. (Simpson)

A general ordinance amending the Springfield Land Development Code, Section 36-306, ‘Official zoning map and rules for interpretation,’ by rezoning approximately 8 acres of property, generally located at 2700 East Battlefield Road, from R-SF, Single-Family Residential District, to GR, General Retail District; and establishing Conditional Overlay District No. 151. (Staff and Planning and Zoning Commission both recommend approval.) (By: Briarcliffe Investments, LLC and John Gentry; 2700 East Battlefield Road; Z-15-2018 w/COD #151.)

Documents:

1. 2018-196.PDF

9.

Council Bill 2018-197. (Prater) Tabled At The August 13, 2018 City Council Meeting Until The August 27, 2018 City Council Meeting.

A general ordinance amending the Springfield Land Development Code, Section 36-306, ‘Official zoning map and rules for interpretation,’ by rezoning approximately 1.5 acres of property, generally located at 1701 and 1715 South Enterprise Avenue, from Planned Development 41, Second Amendment, to IC, Industrial Commercial District and establishing Conditional Overlay District No. 153. (Staff and Planning and Zoning Commission both recommend approval.)  (By: 1701 S. Enterprise, LLC; 1701 & 1715 South Enterprise Avenue; Z-18-2018 w/COD #153.)

Documents:

1. 2018-197.PDF

10.

RESOLUTIONS. Citizens May Speak. May Be Voted On.

11.

Council Bill 2018-208. (Council)

A resolution declaring the results of a Special Municipal Election held on the August 7, 2018, under the Home Rule Charter of the City of Springfield, Missouri.

Documents:

1. 2018-208.PDF

12.

EMERGENCY BILLS.

13.

PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS.

14.

GRANTS. Citizens May Speak. May Be Voted On.

15.

Council Bill 2018-209. (Hosmer)

A special ordinance authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute a contract between the City of Springfield and the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission, providing for a grant of funds under Section 305.230, RSMo, to the City, by and through the Springfield-Branson National Airport Board in the amount of $175,000.00, for air service marketing and promotion of the Springfield-Branson National Airport; amending the budget of the Airport Board in the amount of $194,444.00 which includes $19,444.00 in matching funds from the Airport; and declaring that this bill qualifies for approval on one reading.

Documents:

1. 2018-209.PDF

16.

AMENDED BILLS.

17.

COUNCIL BILLS FOR PUBLIC HEARING. Citizens May Speak. Not Anticipated To Be Voted On. Except Item No. 18. Citizens May Speak. May Be Voted On.

18.

Council Bill 2018-210. (Fisk) Citizens May Speak. May Be Voted On.

A special ordinance amending Special Ordinance 27054 and Special Ordinance 27055, passed by City Council on June 4, 2018, to reflect the final determination of the Greene County Assessor of the assessed valuation by levying a tax on real and personal property for current expenses and the debt retirement of the City of Springfield, Missouri, and its boards and agencies for Fiscal Year 2018-2019; and declaring an emergency.

Documents:

1. 2018-210.PDF

19.

Council Bill 2018-211. (Ferguson)

A special ordinance approving a Petition to Establish the Kansas and Kearney Community Improvement District; authorizing the City Manager to execute a Cooperative Agreement between the City, the Kansas and Kearney Community Improvement District, and Kansas & Kearney Intersection Center, LLC; and directing the City Clerk to notify the Missouri Department of Economic Development and the Greene County Clerk of the creation of the District.

Documents:

1. 2018-211.PDF

20.

FIRST READING BILLS. Citizens May Speak. Not Anticipated To Be Voted On.

21.

Council Bill 2018-212. (Hosmer)

A special ordinance authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into an agreement with the Board of Governors of Missouri State University for the purpose of continuing to provide enhanced law enforcement services within and around the Missouri State University campus.

Documents:

1. 2018-212.PDF

22.

PETITIONS, REMONSTRANCES, AND COMMUNICATIONS.

Mr. Roy Holand wishes to address City Council.

Mr. William Austin wishes to address City Council.

Mr. Darrel Dee Day wishes to address City Council.

23.

NEW BUSINESS.

24.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS.

25.

MISCELLANEOUS.

26.

CONSENT AGENDA – FIRST READING BILLS. See Item #3.

27.

Council Bill 2018-213. (Schilling)

A special ordinance authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into a developer’s agreement with Hamburg Properties, LLC, for the recovery of proportional square foot costs of the construction of a trunk sewer to serve the Red’s Hamburg site, generally located at 2301 West Sunshine Street, and a sewer basin in the South Creek drainage area; and establishing a per square foot connection fee to reimburse the developer for proportional costs of construction of the trunk sewer. (Environmental Services staff recommends approval.)

Documents:

1. 2018-213.PDF

28.

CONSENT AGENDA – ONE READING BILLS. See Item #3.

29.

Council Bill 2018-214. (McClure)

A resolution appointing Matt Simpson, Sarah Kerner, Gary Powell, Robin Robeson and Ryan Mooney to serve as members of the Springfield Enhanced Enterprise Zone Board. (Mayor and City Staff recommend approval.)

Documents:

1. 2018-214.PDF

30.

CONSENT AGENDA – SECOND READING BILLS.

31.

END OF CONSENT AGENDA.

32.

ADJOURN.