Tornado warning issued for Aurora/Marionville area

BULLETIN - EAS ACTIVATION REQUESTED
Tornado Warning
National Weather Service Springfield MO
1234 AM CST SAT DEC 1 2018

The National Weather Service in Springfield has issued a

* Tornado Warning for...
  Northwestern Christian County in southwestern Missouri...
  Northwestern Stone County in southwestern Missouri...
  Southeastern Lawrence County in southwestern Missouri...

* Until 100 AM CST.

* At 1234 AM CST, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a
  tornado was located over Aurora, moving northeast at 55 mph.

  HAZARD...Tornado and quarter size hail.

  SOURCE...Radar indicated rotation.

  IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without
           shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed.
           Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur.  Tree
           damage is likely.

* Locations impacted include...
  Aurora...                         Marionville...
  Clever...                         Crane...
  Billings...

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Tornadoes are extremely difficult to see and confirm at night. Do not
wait to see or hear the tornado. TAKE COVER NOW!

Hillcrest High School media program earns Pacemaker Award

(From Springfield Public Schools)

"HTV Magazine" received its 14th Broadcast Pacemaker Award, a national record, from the National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA) Nov. 3. The award goes to the top shows in the nation after judges look at three programs submitted from the school year.

In addition to the honor for the overall newscast, two HTV staff members placed first nationally in the NSPA Broadcast News Story of the Year competition. Kaylinn Clotfelter and Trenton Wolfe covered the plight of a homeless man asking for handouts on North Glenstone. Honorable Mention in the same category went to HTV's Ellen Fountain and Allison Green for their coverage of the April walk-out at Central High School.

"We like to say 'the glory is in the story,'" said Dave Davis, media adviser at Hillcrest High School. "That means just getting the facts right, and sharing content in a meaningful way is the goal. We like to celebrate for a day, and then get back to work. You don't take the rest of the semester off when you ace a test in English. You keep working hard; same for our broadcast students."

Since its formation in 1989, Hillcrest High School's media program has been consistently recognized as one of the best in the nation. The news show for teens, by teens, premiers at Hillcrest once a month, with 240 news magazines produced in nearly 30 years.

Watch "HTV Magazine" programs: http://htvbuzz.com/category/htv-magazine/

Watch "Street Scene": http://htvbuzz.com/street-scene/

Watch "The Walkout": http://htvbuzz.com/the-walkout/

Springfield Police Chief says department committed to testing all sexual assault kits

(From the Springfield Police Department)

Springfield Police Chief Paul Williams recorded a message for citizens Friday afternoon, reassuring them about SPD’s investigatory practices.

Williams and SPD staff were open, honest and transparent in responding to dozens of requests for information from cable news outlet CNN between 2016 and 2018, acknowledging past improper practices and detailing current improved practices.

In Friday’s video, Williams speaks directly to the citizens of Springfield to assure them about the department’s commitment to continuing the testing of all sexual assault kits and reaffirming their commitment to a victim-centered, trauma-informed approach to sexual assault investigations.

Springfield Police Department Nov. 30 Update from SGF CityView on Vimeo.

First case of deadly deer disease detected in Stone County, southwest region of state

(From the Missouri Department of Conservation)

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reports that a young buck harvested in Stone County in early November has tested positive for the deadly deer disease -- chronic wasting disease (CWD). According to MDC, this is the first detection of CWD in Stone County and the first detection in the far southwest region of the state.

The yearling white-tailed buck was harvested on private land the opening weekend of the November firearms deer season near Reeds Spring, approximately 15 miles from the Arkansas border. MDC staff have notified the hunter and landowner of the CWD confirmation. More than 400 cases of CWD have been found in deer and elk in northwest Arkansas since early 2016.

The positive test result is from one of more than 20,000 tissue samples collected by MDC from hunter-harvested deer during its mandatory CWD sampling efforts in 31 counties the opening weekend of the fall firearms season, Nov. 10 and 11.

MDC reports that testing of the samples continues with more than 60 percent of sample test results already reported to hunters. Hunters can get free test results for harvested deer they submitted for CWD sampling atmdc6.mdc.mo.gov/applications/cwdResults/

MDC also reports 10 other deer have tested positive for CWD this season with 1 from Adair County, 4 from Franklin County, 1 from Jefferson County, 3 from Macon County, and 1 from Oregon County. The 11 new positives for the season bring the total cases of CWD in Missouri to 86. For more information on CWD cases found this season and in past years, visit mdc.mo.gov/cwd under “CWD in Missouri.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been no known cases of CWD infecting people. In areas with CWD, the CDC recommends hunters strongly consider having their harvested deer tested for CWD before eating the meat. The CDC also recommends not consuming an animal that tests positive for the disease.

MDC continues to offer voluntary CWD sampling and testing of harvested deer statewide through the remainder of the deer hunting season at MDC regional offices and at participating taxidermists and meat processors. The season continues with archery hunting through Jan. 15, the antlerless portion through Dec. 2, and the alternative methods portion from Dec. 22 through Jan. 1. Learn more at mdc.mo.gov/cwd under “Voluntary CWD Sampling All Season.”

Strong thunderstorm, hail headed toward Branson area

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Springfield MO
810 PM CST FRI NOV 30 2018

MOZ095-096-104-010300-
Douglas MO-Taney MO-Christian MO-
810 PM CST FRI NOV 30 2018

...SIGNIFICANT WEATHER ADVISORY FOR SOUTHWESTERN DOUGLAS...
SOUTHEASTERN CHRISTIAN AND TANEY COUNTIES UNTIL 900 PM CST...

At 810 PM CST, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near
Diamond City, or 15 miles northeast of Harrison, moving north at 40
mph.

Dime size hail and wind gusts up to 50 mph will be possible with this
storm.

Locations impacted include...
Branson...                        Lake Taneycomo...
Bull Shoals Lake...               Hollister...
Forsyth...                        Merriam Woods...
Kissee Mills...                   Rockaway Beach...
Bull Creek...                     Taneyville...
Kirbyville...                     Brownbranch...
Powersite...                      Protem...
Rueter...                         Garrison...
Bradleyville...                   Goodhope...
Ozark Beach...                    Walnut Shade...

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

This storm may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio
stations and available television stations for additional information
and possible warnings from the National Weather Service.

U. S. Bankruptcy Court Petitions- Springfield

Christian County

Michelle Dawn Houston
Thomas Wade Waldrup II and Rose Zetta Waldrup

Greene County

David A. Bunch
Steven Arthur Gerschefske and Mary Ellen Gerschefske
Babette Marie Knowles
James Michael Mucklestone and Amy Rebekah Mucklestone
Colin L. Bowen and Suanne M. Bowen
Sharon Kay Schober
Allen Matthew Brown
Darin Blake Miller
Stacey Marie Hickman
Brent A. Puckett
Chase Lane Young
Tamara Nichole Lowry
Rodney Curt Gilmore
Joseph Bernard Sanchez
Autry Vaughn Acord



Ozark County

Ricky Dean Massey and Dotty Sue Massey
Samuel Mark Bryant

Oregon County

Michael Eugene Bunting

Polk County

Jennifer Leigh Coffey

Pulaski County

Misty Lynn Cowee
Stephany Joan Lucas

Taney County

Cherri Lynn McFarland
Edward Arlie Joyce

Webster County

Rex Edmond Aiken

Wright County

Christopher A. Smith and Katie N. Smith

Strafford man seriously injured crashing golf cart through garage door

A Strafford man was injured in a one-vehicle accident 10:49 a.m. today 3617 North Sparklebrook Lane, Strafford.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2018 Club Car golf cart driven by Daniel E. Letsch, 78, Strafford, traveled through a garage door at a residence.



Letsch was treated for serious injuries at Mercy Hospital, Springfield.

Springfield Fire Department to install smoke alarms in Doling neighborhood

(From the Springfield Fire Department)

Since April 2017, Springfield firefighters have installed 2,097 smoke alarms in area neighborhoods as a part of Project RED Zone.

They’ve visited over 13,500 homes in the West Central, Grant Beach, Westside, Heart of the Westside, Robberson, Woodland Heights and Tom Watkins neighborhoods. The department is moving into the Doling neighborhood (bordered by Kansas Expressway to the west, Glenstone Avenue to the east, Kearney Street to the south and I-44 to the north) beginning Saturday, Dec. 1 in an effort to ensure that every Springfield resident has adequate warning of a fire in their home.

In addition to the 2,097 installed alarms, firefighters have tested an additional 3,834 alarms and replaced 607 batteries in existing alarms as a part of Project RED Zone.

This brings the total number of alarms installed in our community during canvasses and other requests to over 2,325 in the last 12 months – far surpassing totals in recent years.

Project RED Zone – a reference to the red areas on the Springfield Fire Department’s map of fire incidents – stands for Reduce, Educate, Deliver. It is part of SFD’s Community Risk Reduction (CRR) program. The multifaceted campaign aims to ensure all homes in high-risk areas of the city have working smoke alarms.

The program is already a proven success, with at least two lives saved as a result of smoke alarms installed during Project RED Zone. In September 2017, the occupant of a West Central apartment was notified to a fire in a neighboring apartment by her smoke alarm that had been installed two months before by Springfield fire crews. In November of last year, the occupant of another West Central apartment was notified to a fire in a unit below her when her smoke alarm sounded. That alarm had also been installed by Springfield fire crews the previous January.

Working smoke alarms double your chances of surviving a fire. Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of the home, in each bedroom and outside each sleeping area.

Project RED Zone is funded with the help of donations from the American Red Cross of Southern Missouri, Safe Kids Springfield, FEMA Fire Prevention and Safety grants and general revenue SFD funds designated for public education.

The Fire Department offers free smoke alarms and batteries to anyone in need.

Agenda posted for Springfield City Council lunch meeting

Springfield City Council Lunch 
Tuesday, December 4, 2018,11:30 am 
Busch Municipal Building 4th Floor Conference Room 840 Boonville Avenue 

TENTATIVE AGENDA 

1. Airport Task Force Presentation.

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


3. Any and all matters to come before City Council.

4. Adjourn to Special City Council Meeting-Closed Session.

Kickapoo High School stage production receives state honor

(From Springfield Public Schools)

Kickapoo High School's production of "Into the Woods" has been selected for a MainStage performance by the Missouri State Thespian Society.

The statewide honor is only given to one high school production each year, with more than 90 high schools submitting their productions for consideration, said Michael Butcher, theater teacher at KHS.

"Our students attend this conference each year and get to see the best in Missouri on the MainStage," said Butcher. "Now, we are being recognized as one of the best programs in the entire state."

Kickapoo High School students will perform "Into the Woods" in front of an audience of 2,000 at the Musical Hall Theater in Kansas City on Jan. 10, the theatrical equivalent of winning state in a high school sport, said Butcher.

"The students will have the opportunity to perform on a professional stage in front of a couple of thousand audience members; it doesn't get any bigger than that," said Butcher. "The preparation that will go into taking this on the road, the load in on the morning of the performance, the setup, and then performance, this will all be an experience that cannot be replicated anywhere but on the professional level of theatre."

Springfield man seriously injured in crash on 160

A Springfield man was injured in a two-vehicle accident 2:40 p.m. Thursday on U. S. 160 and Farm Road 142 south of Springfield.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2002 Honda Shadow motorcycle driven by Joshua B. Blanchard, 21, Springfield, was in the passing lane of northbound 160 and changed lanes behind a 2003 Ford Explorer driven by Cricket A. Baker, 34, Springfield, and struck it in the rear. and overturned.


The Baker vehicle left the roadway and struck a concrete bridge wall.

Blanchard was treated for serious injuries at Cox South Hospital, Springfield.

Springfield Police respond to CNN report on mishandling of rape kits

(From the Springfield Police Department)

Like many other agencies across the country, the Springfield Police Department (SPD) continues to evolve and grow alongside the community we serve. 

The shift in how society approaches sexual assault and domestic violence has been significant and resulted in changes to how policing agencies serve these victims. 

In some places law enforcement has been slow to adjust; but SPD has been, and will continue to be, proactive in implementing new and improved practices in responding to and investigating such crimes.

A Nov. 29, 2018 CNN story does not portray an accurate representation of SPD as a whole, especially regarding our current practices and procedures investigating sexual assault cases. As cultural shifts in society lead us toward victim-centered, trauma-informed approaches in investigating all crimes, including sexual assault, SPD is at the forefront.

• In 2014, SPD became one of the first agencies in Missouri to begin submitting all rape kits to the crime lab for testing.
• In 2014 Chief Williams attended International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP’s) Violence Against Women (VAW) executive training program and Captain (then Lieutenant) Tad Peters attended the VAW supervisor training. A thorough review of all related SPD policies and practices was conducted and is ongoing.
• In 2013, we created and implemented a Domestic Violence Lethality Assessment to assist victims in identifying indicators that may predict future domestic or sexual assault.

Chief Paul Williams and SPD staff were open, honest and transparent in responding to dozens of requests for information from CNN between 2016 and 2018, acknowledging past improper practices and detailing current improved practices. SPD staff spent two years receiving, responding to and fulfilling CNN’s public records requests and conducting multiple interviews and discussions with the cable news outlet. SPD provided a considerable amount of information detailing current practices that was not factored into the larger story referencing Springfield. Some of this information was relegated to a separate, secondary document. This does not provide adequate context to readers of the main story.

A few important factors pointed out in the story are true:

            • All of the cases highlighted in the story are from 2012 or prior.

            • During the timeframe reported on, Springfield Police Department was understaffed     

               and under-resourced, which contributed to the issues noted in the story.

            • Errors were made in some of the cases highlighted.

Here are some examples of what SPD has done to ensure that we most effectively and empathetically serve the citizens of Springfield:

• SPD researched to see if there was a backlog of sexual assault kits within our agency. Once we determined there had been a number of stored rape kits that had not been tested, we began the process of finding ways to test the backlogged kits.
• 
  
  • Missouri Highway Patrol Crime Lab agreed to accept all untested kits from SPD that were less than one-year-old.
  • Piloted a program with the Missouri Highway Patrol Crime Lab to systematically process the remaining untested kits (i.e. 10 per month).
  • Applied for and accepted as a member of the Sexually Assault Kit (SAK) Partnership with the FBI/Department of Justice to fund the testing of backlogged kits (30 approved for testing in Aug 2017, but acceptance delayed until April 2018, no word on additional testing availability).
• We continue to provide trauma-informed sexual assault training to allow investigators to have a better understanding of victims’ perspectives and behaviors.
• We worked with the Missouri Attorney General’s Office to:
  • Survey all agencies in the state (law enforcement and medical) to determine how many untested rape kits exist.
  • Seek the state legislature’s help in allocating budget money to fund the testing of the backlogged kits throughout the state.
  • Support the AG’s grant application for funding to create a statewide tracking program for rape kits and to provide money to test all backlogged kits.
  • Continue to work with a variety of organizations to create a state-wide tracking and testing program for rape kits (which includes SPD’s practice of submitting all kits for testing).

We are disappointed that despite the sharing of hundreds of documents and two years of ongoing communication, the national cable news outlet’s coverage fell short.

The CNN reporter began with a specific pre-conceived narrative and continued with that narrative, excluding information that would have provided a more accurate and balanced story. We do give credit, however, to our local news media for accurately and consistently reporting on issues surrounding the testing and destruction of sexual assault kits.

“As law enforcement professionals, we are constantly looking for ways to improve. Over the past several years, we have taken [an] active role to make changes to alleviate the issue of sexual violence within our community, and to better serve victims, and we will continue to do so in the years to come,” said Chief Paul Williams.

(CNN's report can be found at this link.)

Roaring RIver State Park to hold bald eagle viewing

(From Missouri State Parks)

When water sources freeze in the north, bald eagles migrate south to find food and water.

Join Roaring River State Park to watch for bald eagles along Roaring River at 3 p.m. Sat., Dec. 15. Watch a movie about our national symbol and participate in eagle-themed activities.

Bring your binoculars and spotting scopes to get a closer look at these magnificent birds. This event is free and open to the public.

Dress appropriately for the weather and bring water and snacks.

Roaring River State Park is located seven miles south of Cassville on Highway 112 in Barry County, southwest Missouri.

For more information about the event, contact the Ozark Chinquapin Nature Center at 417-847-3742 or the park office at 417-847-2539.

Springfield Police Department warns of scam

(From the Springfield Police Department)

The Springfield Police Department has been made aware of a national spoofing scam in which the call appears to be originating from SPD Headquarters.

The caller then requests money, claiming the victims’ relative had been incarcerated or was in an accident.

Be advised that SPD will never call you and request money over the phone for any reason. If you receive a call matching the above description, contact Springfield Police at (417) 864-1810.

Springfield Public Schools to submit $168 million bond proposal to voters in April

(From Springfield Public Schools)

Springfield voters will be asked April 2 to consider a $168 million bond proposal to fund 39 high-priority projects, which were recommended by a citizen's task force. The Springfield Board of Education voted unanimously Nov. 27 to place the request on the April 2 ballot to provide funding for improvements that will result in safer and stronger schools for students and staff.

The decision follows a five-month process in which a task force comprised of 31 community members, parents, students and SPS educators studied the current condition of SPS schools and evaluated the most critical improvements needed.

"We appreciate the work of the task force members and their commitment to valuing diverse perspectives throughout their study," said Jill Patterson, school board president. "We wanted this group to represent the viewpoints that exist in our community as they made their recommendation."

On Oct. 16, task force co-chairs David Hall and Bridget Dierks presented the group's recommendations to the school board. The projects recommended wouldimpact 36 schools, plus add classroom space to expand early childhood education services. In addition to renovation or new construction at schools that will include the addition of storm-shelter gymnasiums, the work would involve building secure entrances at 31 schools, improving the process of monitoring and controlling visitor access to school buildings.

"We were charged with the task of evaluating the current state of SPS facilities and bringing forward a community recommendation for which projects are most critical," Dierks said. "We felt driven by that charge, so as a group we knew we had a lot of learning to do, and we did the necessary homework. These recommendations are the result of our lengthy review."

To fund the projects, the task force recommended that the school board ask voters to approve an 18-cent increase to the debt-service levy. The levy would be phased in over two years with a nine-cent increase the first year and a nine-cent increase the second year. The cost increase to the owner of a home valued at $100,000 would be $34.20 annually following full phase in, which would equal $2.85 per month.

"Our study revealed that there is a significant need within the district, so we believe that it is imperative that the school board request funding for these critical projects," Hall said. "We weighed the identified needs with feedback from community members about cost, impact on neighborhoods and equity, and we believe that conversation has produced recommendations our entire community can support."

If voters approve the April 2 ballot issue, the $168 million would fund the following projects, which would be completed by the end of 2022:

Secure Entrances 

⦁ Entrances at 31 schools will be remodeled to better control access points that are layered into the path of entry, supplemented with a series of intercom, cameras and electronic locking controls.
⦁ Schools include Bingham, Bissett, Carver, Central, Cowden, Disney, Field, Holland, Jarrett, Mann, McBride, McGregor, Old Sherwood, Parkview, Pershing K-8, Phelps, Pipkin, Pittman, Pleasant View K-8, Reed, Robberson, Rountree, Shady Dell, Study, Truman, Twain, Watkins, Weller, Wilder, Wilson's Creek and York.

Southwest Region Early Childhood Center 

⦁ A new center will be constructed that will serve 250 preschool students, possibly located on the property near Carver Middle School.
⦁ This capitalizes on new state funding for operational costs for preschool students who qualify for free and reduced price lunch and represents a portion of an overall expansion of early childhood services. The new funding became available July 1, 2018.

Delaware Elementary School 

⦁ New construction on the current site, including a storm-shelter gymnasium, to serve up to 350 K-5 students and will continue to serve as a special education program hub.
⦁ Some boundary adjustments will be necessary to shift about 100 Sunshine Elementary students to Delaware.

Sunshine Elementary School 

⦁ Renovation of current building on site and addition of new classrooms and a storm-shelter gymnasium to serve up to 350 K-5 students.
⦁ Will address all accessibility and security challenges.
⦁ Some boundary adjustments will be necessary to accommodate Portland Elementary students and shift some Sunshine students to Delaware. 

Boyd Elementary School 

⦁ New construction, including a storm-shelter gymnasium, on a new site with larger land footprint in the Midtown neighborhood.
⦁ Will serve up to 300 preK-5 students.


Williams Elementary School 

⦁ Renovation of school on existing site, including addition of a storm-shelter gymnasium and early childhood mini-hub.
⦁ Will address all accessibility and security challenges.
⦁ Will serve up to 350 K-5 students and up to 100 preschool students.

Jarrett Middle School 

⦁ New construction of school on current Portland school site. (Portland K-5 students will attend Sunshine Elementary.)
⦁ Provides expanded space for outside extracurricular programing which is limited at current location.
⦁ Will serve up to 725 students in grades 6-8 and will result in minor boundary adjustments.

Hillcrest High School 

⦁ Renovation of building with additions on current site, reducing capacity from 1,488 to 1,200 students.
⦁ Will address all accessibility issues and increase security by connecting all campus buildings so students do not have to go outside during the day.

"We wanted this community task force to consider feedback we received from voters following the 2017 proposal that did not receive sufficient voter support," Patterson said. "It was important to the school board to take the voter feedback into account in developing these recommendations, and we appreciate the task force for the depth of their review and recommendations."


The following are just a few examples of how the proposal was crafted to address voter feedback: 

⦁ The total bond issue recommended is more than 10 percent less than the April 2017 bond issue requested.
⦁ The increase to the debt-service levy is 25 percent lower than the amount proposed in April 2017.
⦁ The combined elementary and middle school campus concept is not included in the proposal.
⦁ Bowerman, Delaware and York will continue to be used as elementary schools.

Additional information will be available soon at sps.org or sps.org/facilityplan.

Cuban art exhibition opens at Springfield museum

(From the Springfield Art Museum)

Please join us on Friday, December 7 at 5:30 PM for the opening reception of El Grabado: Contemporary Cuban Printmaking featuring over 70 prints by 33 Cuban artists who have all worked, at one time or another, at the Taller Experimental de Gráfica de Habana – the oldest, continuously running print workshop in Cuba. Free and open to the public. All exhibition text is presented in English and Spanish.

The Taller was established in 1962 by muralist Orlando Suarez with the help of Che Guevara, who was then Cuba’s Minister of Industry.

From its inception, the workshop has focused on connecting artists with traditional printmaking techniques and fostering a dynamic artistic community based on the sharing and exchange of ideas, experimentation, and art criticism. 

This supportive community has allowed Cuban artists a relative freedom of expression, even amid the country’s larger political and cultural issues. It continues to be one of the most important workshops in Cuba. This exhibition is pulled entirely from the collection of Drs. Antonio and Luz Racela and will be on view through March 17, 2019.

*Financial assistance for this project has been provided by the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.

Watch the Springfield Board of Education meeting live

Portion of College Avenue and Kansas Expressway to remain closed until noon Wednesday

(From the City of Springfield)

The east portion of the intersection of College Avenue and Kansas Expressway will remain closed through noon on Wednesday, Nov. 28 to complete utility cut repairs.

Motorists are advised to continue using the marked detour using Olive Street and Nettleton Avenue.

Greene County's first K9 dies at age 11

(From the Greene County Sheriff's Office)

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Greene County’s very first K9, Dar. Dar passed away today from cancer.

Dar was born 10-13-2007 in Czech Republic. He began his law enforcement training in January 2009 with the Greene County Sheriff's Office. Dar was trained in narcotics, tracking/trailing, suspect apprehension/detention, evidence/article searches and handler protection.

Dar loved working and assisting our deputies in locating thousands of dollars in drugs and apprehending many criminals. Dar enjoyed his last few years of retirement relaxing at home and just being a dog.

Today we said our goodbyes to Dar and we know he is in heaven guarding the holy gates.

Springfield Conservation Nature Center trails to close for archery deer hunt

(From the Missouri Department of Conservation)

Patrons of the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Springfield Conservation Nature Center are reminded the facility’s trails will be closed Dec. 8-10 for the managed archery deer hunt taking place at the facility during that time.

While the Springfield Nature Center trails will be closed during the three-day period to ensure a safe and successful hunt; the nature center building will adhere to its regular winter schedule: It will be open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on Dec. 8 (Saturday) and closed Dec. 9 and 10 (Sunday and Monday).

The Dec. 8-10 managed hunt at the Springfield Conservation Nature Center is one component of a city-wide strategy to control Springfield’s urban deer population. The nature center hunt – along with managed hunts at Lake Springfield and at Fellows Lake and Springfield City Council’s bow-hunting ordinance passed in 2014 that allows archery deer hunting within city limits – are part of a comprehensive plan to keep deer numbers inside Springfield’s city limits at a level that’s safe for citizens and healthy for deer.

Springfield police investigate death of Battlefield motorcyclist in collision

(From the Springfield Police Department)

At 8:07 P.M. on November 26, 2018, officers from the Springfield Police Department witnessed a crash in the intersection of Chestnut Expressway and Main.

The crash involved a motorcycle, driven by 36-year-old Bruce Compton of Battlefield, MO, and a sports utility vehicle, driven by 35-year-old Nathan Leaf of Springfield, MO.

Officers witnessed the motorcycle traveling on Chestnut Expressway at a high rate of speed and passing other vehicles on the road. 

The driver of the motorcycle disobeyed the red traffic signal at Main and Chestnut and struck the SUV in the intersection. 

Compton was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical personnel. There was no impairment discovered on the part of the SUV driver. The incident is under investigation by the Traffic Section of the Springfield Police Department. Compton’s next of kin has been notified.

This marks the Springfield Police Department's 16th fatal crash for 2018.

Reward offered for information leading to arrest of man wanted for felony drug, DWI charges

(From Springfield Crimestoppers)

This week's featured fugitive is Louis L. Johnson.

Johnson has three active felony warrants: Failure to Appear- Possession of a Controlled Substance (3 counts) out of Greene County and two Probation Violation warrants for felony Driving while License Revoked and DWI-Alcohol Aggravated Offender. 

Johnson is a 35 year old black male, approximately 5’11”, 170 lbs, with black hair, and brown eyes. He sometimes has his hair braided or cut shorter.

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

Fair Grove woman killed in head-on crash, husband airlifted to Mercy with serious injuries

A Fair Grove woman was killed in a two-vehicle accident 4:01 p.m. Saturday on Route #, one mile east of Fair Grove.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2001 Ford Explorer driven by Sean N. Erpelding, 27, Springfield, crossed the center line and struck a 2003 Toyota Tundra driven by Rickie E. Rupel, 60, Fair Grove head on.

A passenger in the Rupel vehicle, Marsha D. Rupel, 60, Fair Grove, was pronounced dead at the scene  by medical examiner Buddy Pilmore.


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

Erpelding was treated for moderate injuries at Mercy.

The fatality was the fourth this month and 120th this year for Highway Patrol Troop D.

Agenda posted for Springfield-Greene County Library Board meeting

Notice is hereby given that the Springfield-Greene County Library Board of Trustees will meet or vote November 27, 2018, 4 p.m. at The Library Station, 2535 N Kansas Expwy., Springfield, MO

Tentative Agenda

1. Roll Call

2. Consent Agenda
• Minutes – October 16, 2018 board meeting
• Policies in Force Review: Confidentiality Policy, Health/Safety Policy

3. Standing Committees:
• Finance/Personnel Committee
Financial Report
Workers Compensation Audit
Healthcare Benefits Renewal

• Buildings & Grounds Committee
• Programs-Services-Technology Committee

4. Report of the Director

5. Library Foundation Update

6. Old Business

7. New Business
• Policies in Force Review: Image Reproduction Policy
• Corporate Image Inquiries

8. Miscellaneous Items

9. Closed session citing Missouri Revised Statutes 610.021(13)

10. Adjournment

Agenda posted for Springfield City Council lunch meeting

Springfield City Council Lunch 
Tuesday, November 27, 2018, 11:30 am 
Busch Municipal Building – 4th Floor Conference Room 840 Boonville Avenue 

TENTATIVE AGENDA 

1. Green Building Policy Review – Olivia Hough, Jennifer Swan, and Jason Hainline.

2. Any and all matters to come before City Council.

3. Adjourn to Special City Council Meeting-Closed Session.

U. S. Bankruptcy Court Petitions- Springfield

Christian County

Tommy G. Hopkins and Lynne L. Hopkins
Verda L. Younker
Phillip Richard Jablanski and Teresa Lee Jablanski

Dallas County

Shane Michael May and Tammy Lynn May

Greene County

Reva Renee Payne
Donna Kay McGrady
Jacob Galen Smith and Jamie Lynn Smith
Michelle Lynn Crighton
Jason W. Walters and Terri L. Walters
Donnie R. Smith and Rebekah J. Smith
Laura A. Johnson
Michael Guy McDowell
Eric De Wayne Wood and Katherine Frances Bettendorf
Toni Jean Jensen
Elbert O. Kim An
Melvin Leon Johnson and Nicole Ann Johnson
George D. Fischer, Jr. and Lisa D. Fisher



Howell County

Timothy James Ledgerwood and TracyAnn Ledgerwood

Laclede County

Michael Joseph Brockgreitens and Judy Ann Brockgreitens

Taney County

Faith Elaine Young

One-lane closure set for portion of Jefferson Avenue next week

(From the City of Springfield)

Public Works has approved the one-lane closure of the easternmost driving lane and the adjacent parallel parking stalls on Jefferson Avenue between McDaniel Street and Pershing Street beginning at 5 a.m. Monday, Nov. 26 through 6 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 29 for City Utilities gas line renewal work.

The westernmost driving lane and adjacent parking will remain open to the public.

Portland Street to close between Kickapoo and Rogers avenues next week

(From the City of Springfield)

Portland Street will close between Kickapoo Avenue and Rogers Avenue beginning 7 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 27 through 3:30 p.m., Friday, Nov. 30 for roadway maintenance.

Motorists are advised to use an alternate route.

Portion of intersection of College Avenue and Kansas Expressway to be closed beginning Sunday

(From the City of Springfield)

The east portion of the intersection of College Avenue and Kansas Expressway will close beginning 7 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 25 through noon on Tuesday, Nov. 27 (weather permitting) for utility cut repairs.

Motorists are advised to use the marked detour using Olive Street and Nettleton Avenue.

 

Police: Hit-and-run driver may have deliberately run over, killed Springfield woman

(From the Springfield Police Department)

At 5:14 P.M., on November 20, 2018, Springfield police were dispatched to the intersection of Campbell and University regarding a vehicle that had struck a pedestrian.

When officers arrived, they found a seriously injured female victim lying in the street. Witnesses advised officers that the victim had been struck by a vehicle and the suspect vehicle had left the scene. Officers immediately began life-saving measures. The victim was transported by ambulance to the hospital where she later died from her injuries.

Officers at the scene quickly discovered that the suspect had fled south to Campbell and Sunshine and collided with another vehicle. Witnesses of the first incident followed the suspect to Campbell and Sunshine and prevented the suspect from escaping. Officers were able to take the suspect into custody at that location.

As officers began their investigation of both incidents, they obtained information and evidence that the driver of the suspect vehicle may have intentionally struck the victim pedestrian. A homicide investigation was initiated at that time.

The victim was identified as Barbara E. Foster, a 57-year-old female from Springfield. Next-of-kin notifications have been made for the victim. The suspect was identified as Elizabeth H. McKeown, a 46-year-old female from Springfield.

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.

Rogers man killed in head-on collision with semi on 86

A Rogers, Arkansas man was killed in a two-vehicle accident 12:15 p.m. today on MO 86, eight miles south of Hollister.

According to the Highway Patrol report, an eastbound 2004 Infinity G35 driven by Jimmie W. Elliott, 47, Rogers, crossed the center of the roadway into the westbound lane striking a 2012 Peterbilt driven by Taylor A. Shrock, 22, Green Forest, Arkansas head on.


Taney County Deputy Coroner William B. Koppitz pronounced Elliott dead at the scene at 1:15 p.m.

The fatality was the 118th this year for Highway Patrol Troop D.

Central, Hillcrest students earn awards in media competition

(From Springfield Public Schools)

Central and Hillcrest high school media students competed at the Academy of Scholastic Broadcast 4-States Competition on Nov. 9-11. There, SPS students competed against 300 students from all over the Midwest in various media contests. 

Central High School won the Overall Sweepstakes Award at the contest, earned by having the most contests placed in by students from one school. 

"It is important for students to learn actively at competition because, without practical application of skills, students never really know what they are made of," said Josh Cantrell, broadcast journalism/film adviser at CHS. "The media industry is made up of deadlines, pressures and rigid expectations to deliver a product. By providing students with these types of learning experiences, they are experiencing, just one step closer, what it would be like to pursue media professionally, while having the opportunity to represent their school."

Hillcrest High School students also took first in two competitive events: Anchor Team, featuring students Brooke Blair, Madison Letterman and Garrett Cates, as well as Edit the Package, won by Gabby Deckard and Sarah Hale.

CHS Individual Awards

• Rachel Doel, 1st in Earlybird Madness and 3rd in 60 Second Silent Film
• Michael Lee, 1st in Spot Feature and 1st in Earlybird Madness
• Emma Steingraber, 1st in Earlybird Madness
• Alex Sharp, 1st in Earlybird Madness and 3rd in Finish the Film
• Zoe Hamilton, 1st in Earlybird Madness
• Abbie Weiler, 1st in Earlybird Madness and 1st in Radio Story
• Luke Bryant, 1st in Earlybird Madness and 3rd in Finish the Film
• Katie Saiko, 1st in 76 Hour Broadcast Challenge, 1st in Earlybird Madness and 2nd in 5 Second Film
• Gladis Hernandez, 1st in 76 Hour Broadcast Challenge
• Ashlyn Vauble, 2nd in 5 Second Film
• Kaylee Sun, 1st in Earlybird Madness
• Elijah Conaway, 1st in Earlybird Madness and 2nd in Backpack Journalist
• Joseph Tetlow, 3rd in Finish the Film
• Mariah Oke-Thomas, 1st in Spot Feature
• Kayla Helms, 1st in Spot Feature
• Sai Vuda, 1st in Radio Story
• Emma Brown, 2nd in Edit the Scene
• Kelsey Zimmerman, 2nd in Edit the Scene
• Addie Pearman, 2nd in Radio Story
• Kennasyn Ray, 2nd in Radio Story
• Maggie Courtney, 3rd in 5 Second Film
• Sophie Payne, 3rd in 5 Second Film

Hillcrest Team Awards

• 1st place, Anchor Team:  Brooke Blair, Madison Letterman and Garrett Cates
• 1st place, Edit the Package:  Gabby Deckard and Sarah Hale
• 2nd place, Broadcast News Story Upload:  Hayden Pyle, Colby Bogle
• 3rd place, Humorous Feature Upload:  McKenzie Turner, Garrett Cates, Trevor Roy, Madison Letterman
• 3rd place, Radio Story:  Hayden Pyle, Anna Daniel

Grant Avenue to close between Chase and Commercial next week

(From the City of Springfield)

Grant Avenue will close between Chase Street and Commercial Street beginning 5 a.m. Monday, Nov. 26 through 6 a.m. Monday, Dec. 3 for a Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) railroad contractor to continue making necessary repairs to the Grant Avenue railroad bridge.

This closure is necessary for the safety of the traveling public due to the work being performed. 

Motorists are advised to use the marked detour assigned on Commercial Street south of the closure and Atlantic Street north of the closure to Kansas Expressway.

Reward offered for information leading to arrest of man wanted on Jasper County drug charge, other felony warrants

(From Springfield Crimestoppers)

This week's featured fugitive is Nichlos LittleJohn. He may sometimes use the alias first name spelling of Nicholas or Nichols.

Littlejohn has four felony warrants issued out of Christian County for 1st Degree Assault or Attempt, Jasper County for Delivery of Controlled Substance, Greene County for Forgery, and Lawrence County for Forgery. 

Littlejohn is a 26 year old white male, approximately 6’2”, 245 lbs, with brown hair, and blue eyes. He has full “sleeves” of tattoos down both arms. 

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

Video- Complete Springfield City Council meeting

Springfield City Council approves 2019 legislative priorities

Springfield City Council unanimously approved a resolution adopting its 2019 legislative priorities, which will guide the City’s elected officials and staff in their work with state and federal legislators in the coming year.

“City Council is concerned with the legislative matters at the state and federal levels, which have an impact on our governmental operations locally,” said Mayor Ken McClure. “At our retreat in early November, Council identified a number of important legislative items that may be considered on the federal and state levels in the upcoming year. Adoption of these priorities empowers City officials, staff and representatives to advocate on the City’s behalf, before and to members of  the federal and state legislative bodies.”

2019 Core Priorities 

• Retain Local Control – In general, the City of Springfield opposes legislation that would reduce or remove local authority, including the setting of user and license fees.

• Avoid Unfunded Mandates – In general, the City of Springfield opposes any bill that would result in a new net cost and related tax burden to the City of Springfield and/or its citizens.

• Promote Public Safety – Includes support for public safety funding, statewide scrap metal reporting, seat belt requirements, public health funding, immunization funding, and the establishment of a national Public Health Emergency Fund.

• Promote Economic Vitality – Includes support for strengthening Springfield’s ability to compete for jobs, support for education and workforce development, protection of our natural environment, support for transportation, affordable housing, downtown revitalization, tourism funding, and broadband access and digital literacy for all citizens.

• Promote Fiscal Sustainability – Includes support for meaningful ethics reform, a statewide tobacco tax, support of water quality pollutant trading, and Medicaid transformation.

High Priorities 

• Internet Sales Tax – The City asks our local delegation to introduce and support legislation that will “level the retail market playing field” in accordance with the intent of the recent South Dakota v. Wayfair Supreme Court case by appropriately including Internet sales in the current Use Tax statute.

• Hotel/Motel Tax – The City asks our local delegation to introduce and support legislation enabling the Springfield electorate to either increase the hotel/motel tax or to adopt a convention and tourism and/or convention and sport tax in addition to the hotel/motel tax, like what is allowed for Kansas City and St. Louis.

• Statewide Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) – The City of Springfield encourages our local delegation to introduce and support legislation to establish a statewide PDMP. Although the City of Springfield and Greene County have each implemented local PDMPs, it is in everyone’s best interest to establish a statewide PDMP.

Municipal Court Issues

• Modify Certain Provisions from Senate Bill 5 (passed in 2015) – The City asks our local delegation to introduce and support legislation that will modify the unintended consequences to municipalities that are adversely affected by legislation directed toward municipal court policies and procedures in another portion of the state. The City understands that some counties may need to be treated differently than others, and the Senate Bill 5 provisions may be appropriate for some counties. With this in mind, our legislative municipal court objectives include:

• Reversal of Section 302.341.2’s RSMo, which eliminated the FACT (Failure to Appear in Court for Traffic Violation) driver’s license suspension procedure (302.341.1) for “minor traffic violations” with reinstatement of the FACT procedure. Most “traffic violations” are “minor traffic violations.” Under current law, the driver’s license for those who fail to appear in Municipal Court can no longer be suspended for minor traffic violations. As a result, arrest warrants are immediately issued for these defendants. The FACT process did allow for driver’s license suspensions, but provided for a 30-day warning/grace period. This process gives defendants a chance to address their case before their license is suspended. Additionally, we have found a much higher compliance rate with the FACT process than with the warrant process.
• Repeal of sections 479.353(3) RSMo and 479.360.1(3) RSMo. Missouri Supreme Court Rule 37.65, effective July 1, 2015, comprehensively addresses how courts are to proceed procedurally in enforcing money judgments.
• A reasonable increase to or elimination of the cap on municipal fines for a third or subsequent offense.

• Community Service Support – The City of Springfield asks our local delegation to introduce and support language to once again allow municipal courts to sentence to community service and require program cost recovery from nonindigent probationers.

Chronic Nuisance Properties and Dangerous Buildings

• Chronic Nuisance Properties – The City of Springfield asks our local delegation to introduce and support legislation that will modify the provisions passed by the Legislature in 2016 that require all tenants be personally notified when corrective action on the property is necessary. When considering a recent U.S. Supreme Court case determination that addressed proper notice, this statutory requirement results in the City being required to publicly post the names of all tenants. The City is also seeking authority to collect all nuisance-abatement costs through the County Collector’s Office, even when a property changes ownership.

• Clarify State Statutes on Nuisance Issues – The City asks our local delegation to introduce and support a bill that will clarify the state’s intent to allow municipalities to recover costs associated with the processing nuisance actions.
• Provide accelerated abatement process for Chronic Nuisances – the City asks our local delegation to introduce and support a bill that will allow a single, one-year notice for the abatement of tall grass, weed and junk nuisances.

• Revisions to dangerous building statutes – The City of Springfield asks our local delegation to introduce and support legislation that will allow mailing alternatives to certified mail, and the recovery of costs related to interim structure stabilization, installation of property access control measures, unpaid permit fees, and other directly related out-of-pocket costs.

Other Priorities

• Pay Day Loans – The City asks our local delegation to introduce and support legislation that will cap the amount of interest that can be charged by pay-day loan and car title loan companies that tend to prey on the poor. According to the State Commissioner of Finance’s report to the Governor, the average interest rate for “pay day” loans in Missouri in 2016 was 462 percent.

• Medicaid Suspension - The City of Springfield asks our local delegation to support the appropriation of funds necessary to continue Medicaid coverage while a person is incarcerated. An acceptable alternative would be to introduce and sponsor legislation to suspend the Medicaid benefit for those incarcerated rather than to terminate the benefit. Termination of Medicaid results in disruption of mental health and/or substance abuse care that is critical to life stability. We believe that eliminating or minimizing this disruption can be a positive factor for reducing recidivism and the burden to the criminal justice system. Similar approaches have been adopted by 31 states.