Friday, September 30, 2016

Jerry Hoover and FIrehouse Band to play benefit concert at Springfield Art Museum

(From the Springfield Art Museum)

Jerry Hoover in Concert to Benefit Play It Forward SWMO

October 7, 2016 - 7 PM
Museum Auditorium
$5 donation to Play It Forward SWMO

Please join the Springfield Art Museum and Play It Forward SWMO for the first in a series of First Friday concerts featuring the incomparable Jerry Hoover and the Firehouse Band. A $5 donation to Play It Forward SWMO covers admission to the concert. Admission to the Springfield Art Museum is free.

All donations benefit Play It Forward SWMO, whose mission is to provide quality musical instruments to music programs and individuals in our community that are most in need. In addition, funds raised are used to repair and refurbish donated instruments. This concert series was designed not only to increase awareness for Play It Forward SWMO’s programs, but to highlight the diverse talents of musicians throughout the area. A new musical guest, scheduled by Play It Forward SWMO’s Director Ruell Chappell, will be featured at each concert.

With generous support from Reliable Superstore, Car-Fi, and Panera Bread, guests of “Music, Art & Bagels” will enjoy complimentary snacks, free Museum parking, a roaring evening of jazz and Dixieland favorites, and can then take advantage of the free First Friday Art Walk Shuttle that will ferry them to Art Walk locations around downtown.

Billy Long: Halting Table Rock Lake Shoreline Management Plan

(From Seventh District Congressman Billy Long)

On September 28, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R.5303, “Water Resources Development Act of 2016.” This bill was a major piece of legislation focused on harbors, locks, dams, flood protection and other water resources focusing on infrastructure. The bill passed with my support by a vote of 399-25.

Within this piece of legislation is an amendment I proposed that passed the full House regarding the Table Rock Lake Shoreline Management Plan. The Army Corps of Engineers is currently undertaking a revision of the lake’s Shoreline Management Plan and has in place a moratorium on dock permits to halt development along the lake.

Because of the current moratorium on dock permits, if you own land around Table Rock Lake and want to build a dock, you aren’t able to. If you already have a dock, but the dock is damaged or needs to be updated, you cannot even get a permit to repair it. Individuals around Table Rock Lake have not been able to update their docks for almost two years.

I have met with the community and the Army Corps of Engineers numerous times throughout this process, and the overwhelming consensus from my constituents is that their input is not being taken seriously on an issue that will have far reaching effects on the local economy and for those living on the lake.

Table Rock Lake is one of southwest Missouri’s premier destination spots as well as the home to lots of folks. Not having their voices heard became very frustrating for them and that’s when I knew I owed it to my constituents to lend a hand.

My amendment will accomplish four things: delay the Shoreline Management Plan update by 5 years, lift the moratorium on issuing permits for new or existing docks, extend the public comment period and require a study on the permit fee structure.

My amendment that is in the bill will allow time for those in southwest Missouri to not only have their voices heard and offer recommendations, but give them time to fully understand what the plan does, how it will affect them and what steps need to be taken in order to be fully prepared for the implementation of the updated Shoreline Management Plan.

Agenda posted for Tuesday Springfield City Council lunch meeting

City Council Lunch
Tuesday, October 4, 2016
12:00 Noon
Springfield-Greene County Public Safety Center,
330 W Scott St, Springfield, MO 65802

TENTATIVE AGENDA 

1. Follow-up from City Council meeting of October 3, 2016.

2. Amplified Sound Ordinance Draft.

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

Agenda posted for Springfield Community Involvement Committee

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE
 of the COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT COMMITTEE

 Councilwoman Jan Fisk, Chair
Councilwoman Phyllis Ferguson
Councilman Tom Prater
Mayor Pro Tem Ken McClure

DATE: Tuesday, October 4, 2016
TIME: 11:00 a.m.
LOCATION: Springfield-Greene County Public Safety Center, 330 W. Scott St.

TENTATIVE AGENDA

1. Legislative Priorities
2. Any and all other matters which fall within the jurisdiction of this Committee

Springfield Police service dog Aries retires

(From the Springfield Police Department)

Police service dog, Aries, of the Springfield Police Department officially retired from his duties on Sept. 9 due to long-term ailments.

Aries was born on Jan. 9, 2009, in Holland and has served the SPD as K9 handler, Officer Tom Spence’s partner since 2011. In Aries’ 5-year career serving the department, he had approximately 764 deployments and was responsible for locating 23 suspects and making 71 narcotics finds. He also led the department to approximately 80 arrests.

The SPD appreciates the service of Aries to the department and toward the safety of officers as well as the Springfield community. Aries will continue living at the home of Officer Spence and enjoying his retirement years.

Greene County Dissolution of Marriage Petitions

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

Carolyn Jo Beckett vs Robert Lee Beckett
Sharon Kay McGeorge vs John Kip McGeorge
Victoria Lynn Duberry vs Brian Michael Gould
Ariana E. Owatula vs. Olaniyi A Owatula
Kasey Deanna Chenia vs Jameel Nmn Chenia
Patricia Lee Allen vs. Dane Shelton Allen
Angela Acree vs Robert Torp
Devin Walter Dankert vs. Anna Marie Dankert
Brooke Megan Bogner vs Brett Michael Bogner
Arielle Luria Carter vs. Anthony David Carter
Robert Lee Brosam vs. Rebecca Sue Brosam
Sarah Elina Wear vs. Daniel William Wear
Thera Nicole Border vs Robert Lee Border
Bart C. Pinkerton vs. Rebecca L. Pinkerton
Monteza Paulina Gigante vs Clifford Dewayne Gigante
Keith Edward Pryor vs Tara Pryor
Britian D Yocum vs. Stacey N. Yocum
Evan James Clark vs Laci Chantele Clark
Adam Lee Owens vs. Talitha Rebekah Owens
Michael Wayne Tipler vs Michelle Coleen Tipler
Constance Tedford vs Shannon L. Tedford
Greg Kenneth Ragan vs Jeanette Lynn Ragan
Kendra Beth Daniels vs. Tyler Austin Daniels
Cathy Marie Houts vs. Leslie Charles Houts
Phillip Downs vs Rose M. Downs
Kimberly Dawn Blair vs. David Wesley Blair
Adil Baraka vs Gina Lynette Baraka

Springfield teen injured in rollover crash near Branson

A Springfield teen was injured in a one-vehicle accident 8 a.m. today on MO 248, 3.5 miles north of Branson.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2003 Mitsubishi Gallant driven by Jessalyn L Hedrick, 19, Springfield, traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a Chevron sign and an embankment and overturned.

Hedrick was treated for minor injuries at Cox Hospital, Branson.

Springfield man injured in two-vehicle accident

A Springfield man was injured in a two-vehicle accident 7:45 a.m. today on Farm Road 143, one mile north of Springfield.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2000 Lincoln Continental driven by Jim L. Carr, 63, Springfield, was stopped to make a turn and was struck from behind by a 2005 Lincoln Town Car driven by Zonetta L. Loney, 64, Springfield.

Carr was treated for minor injuries at Mercy Hospital. Springfield.

Thursday, September 29, 2016

Springfield City Council to hear recommendations on Commercial Street TIF

(From the City of Springfield)


After hosting two public input meetings with Commercial Street businesses, residents and property owners to determine how to spend more than half a million dollars captured from the Commercial Street Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Plan, staff from the City’s Economic Development office will present recommendations at the Monday, Oct. 3 City Council meeting at 6:30 p.m. at Historic City Hall.
Annual TIF revenues were just under $160,000 in 2015 and are projected to be nearly $180,000 by 2019. The total C-Street TIF revenue available to spend sits at about $538,000, according to Sarah Kerner, interim director of Economic Development.
“The overwhelming majority of participants in the August and September public input meetings stated their preference was to acquire property from BNSF Railway for construction of the proposed Frisco Lane, but they would like to see some smaller projects that will immediately improve C-Street experience as well. We are recommending that City Council allocate funding to improve an alley on the west end of Historic Commercial Street to provide a better link to public parking,” Kerner says.
The remaining funds will be banked for future use.
Frisco Lane is the area behind the C-Street businesses that runs parallel to the railroad tracks north of Commercial Street between Benton and Campbell avenues. The businesses have long wanted better access to the north side of their properties for parking, trash collection and deliveries.
The cost to acquire the Frisco Lane property is about $976,000. The City will pay about $708,000 toward that with rail credits obtained in the sale of the West Wye to BNSF, Kerner says. The $268,000 balance will be paid for with TIF funds. Construction work to stabilize and secure the property and convert it to a service lane and employee parking area will cost about $80,000 and will be paid for with TIF funds.
An alleyway improvement to provide an accessible pedestrian walkway from C-Street to the public parking lot at Campbell Avenue and Blaine Street will cost about $50,000 and will be paid for with TIF funds.
Background on C-Street TIF
The Commercial Street Historic District was approved by Springfield City Council in early 2006 with the recommendation to use tax increment financing for the C-Street redevelopment plan. The C-Street TIF Plan was adopted by Council in April 2008. The redevelopment area’s boundaries are Grant Avenue to the west and Janss Lumber to the east.
Tax increment financing provides for the redirection of the incremental increase in sales and property tax revenue resulting from a redevelopment project to be used for public improvement project-related costs, infrastructure and capital improvements. No TIF revenues may be used for private projects.
“TlF is based on the premise that there will be an increase in the value of real property, new jobs and other economic activity within the redevelopment area as redevelopment occurs,” Kerner says. “As the property is improved, the assessed value of real property in the redevelopment area increases above the base level. By capturing the increase in the assessed value of the property over the base level, a tax increment is produced.”
These tax increments, also referred to as "payments in lieu of taxes" or PILOTS, are transferred to a special allocation fund that is administered by the city. The City and county also transfers 50% of all incremental sales tax revenues to this fund. The money collected in the special allocation fund is then used to pay directly for the redevelopment project costs or to retire bonds or other obligations issued to pay such costs.

Health Sciences Academy eighth graders donate $2,000 in baby supplies to non-profit

(From Springfield Public Schools)

Health Sciences Academy eighth-graders completed a massive community service project as part of their reproductive health unit. 

The 50 eighth-graders hosted a baby shower for Newborns in Need - Southwest Missouri Chapter, a local non-profit that provides essential items for newborns in the Springfield area. HSA eighth-graders personally reached out to local organizations, businesses and schools to collect more than $2,000 in baby supplies.

Complete video- Springfield School Board discusses facility improvements

(From Springfield Public Schools)

Future facility improvements were the focus of study and discussion during the Springfield school board's annual retreat Tuesday night. Board members spent several hours reviewing the two options proposed in the facility master plan, considering what additional information they might need and identifying potential next steps.

The board agreed that a key focus for the next 30 to 60 days will be to collect community input through a variety of channels, including an online survey and public meetings. Details about opportunities for input will be available in October. View a summary of the proposed options.

Springfield Public Schools to offer free flu shots to students

(From Springfield Public Schools)

Springfield Public Schools, in cooperation with Jordan Valley Community Health Center, Springfield-Greene County Health Department, CoxHealth and Mercy Springfield, will offer seasonal flu vaccine free of charge to any SPS student as supply allows. Children will receive the Inactivated Influenza (Flu Shot) Vaccine with written parental consent.

CDC recommends everyone six months of age and older should get a flu vaccine every season. People should begin getting vaccinated soon after flu vaccine becomes available, ideally by October, to ensure that as many people as possible are protected before flu season begins. However, as long as flu viruses are circulating in the community, it’s not too late to get vaccinated.

View clinic schedule.

2016-2017 consent form.

Learn more about flu prevention here.

Springfield second and third graders to hunt for Treasures of the City

(From the City of Springfield)

Second- and third-grade students and their families will tour the City's Government Plaza while they treasure-hunt for knowledge of municipal government at the 27th annual "Treasures of the City" Partners in Education event, hosted by the City of Springfield and Springfield Public Schools.

The event will take place 5:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 4 at the Busch Municipal Building, 840 Boonville Ave. Designed to complement the students' social studies curriculum, "Treasures of the City" brings concepts discussed in the classroom to life as students interact with elected officials and government employees.

Springfield Public Schools' Partners in Education program is designed to link business and community organizations to the district while enriching the educational experiences of students and complementing the educational process of teachers.

"Treasures of the City" is organized by the City of Springfield's Department of Public Information.

Springfield Fire Department, Parents as Teachers to provide families with fire extinguishers

(From the Springfield Fire Department)

During the month of October, which is designated as Fire Prevention Month, the Springfield Fire Department will give 270 residential fire extinguishers to Parents as Teachers participants. Families will also be eligible for free smoke alarms. The extinguishers and alarms are funded by grants from FEMA and the Bee Payne-Stewart Foundation.

Beginning Monday, October 3rd, the Springfield Fire Department and Parents as Teachers (PAT) will host 4 open houses throughout the month at area fire stations. During the open houses, families can tour the fire station, see a fire truck and meet firefighters.

Families may also qualify to bring home a free fire extinguisher. To qualify, families must currently participate or register to participate in Parents as Teachers and live in the city of Springfield. They must also currently not own a residential fire extinguisher and agree to complete a short training session during the open house. The training lasts less than 5 minutes and includes a hands-on demonstration on how to use a fire extinguisher. "This partnership ensures 250 Springfield families will now have access to a potentially life-saving device," said Chief David Hall. "Giving more parents access to a fire extinguisher and teaching them how and when to use it will help reduce the risk to our most vulnerable citizens - young children."

Open houses will be held from 9-11 a.m. each Monday in October at the following locations:
•October 3: Fire Station #10, 2245 E. Galloway
•October 10: Fire Station #4, 2423 N. Delaware
•October 17: Fire Station #5, 2750 W. Kearney
•October 24: Fire Station #8, 1405 S. Scenic

The fire extinguishers were paid for with a Fire Prevention and Safety Grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and are available while supplies last.

Additionally, Parents as Teachers is the recipient of a $2,500 donation from the Bee Payne-Steward Foundation. This donation will be used to purchase smoke alarms. The Springfield Fire Department will install these alarms in the homes of Parents as Teachers families. The Springfield Fire Department and Parents as Teachers have a goal to ensure every PAT family has an alarm on every level of the home and in every bedroom. "We are honored to be the recipient of this donation," said PAT Director Missy Riley. "We know more than half of Parents as Teachers families do not have adequate smoke alarm protection. We are excited to use these funds to help protect more families."

Parents As Teachers is a free, voluntary program offered through the Springfield Public School system to help ensure Kindergarten readiness. PAT serves families with children prenatal to kindergarten entry. It is a program based on home visits and screenings.

Wednesday, September 28, 2016

Federal grand jury indicts Springfield man for bomb threats against IHOP

A federal grand jury indicted Anthony G. Dozier, 32, Springfield, Tuesday for making bomb threats against the Springfield IHOP and IHOP's headquarters in Glendale, California.

Authorities claim Dozier called the IHOP on South Glenstone Avenue August 8 and said he was going to blow up the IHOP on North Kansas Expressway.

Dozier is also alleged to have threatened to blow up the company's corporate headquarters two days later.

Dozier told officials  the manager at the IHOP on North Kansas Expressway fired him in December 2015.

Springfield man sentenced to 15 years for meth conspiracy

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

A Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Greene, Polk, Christian, Jasper, Laclede and Webster counties.
 Jeffrey M. Gardner, 34, of Springfield, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to 15 years in federal prison without parole.
 On April 14, 2016, Gardner pleaded guilty to participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Gardner admitted that he sold 44 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential law enforcement source for $1,100 on Dec. 20, 2013. Gardner also admitted that he sold 57 grams of methamphetamine to the confidential source for $2,350 on Jan. 9, 2014.
 Beginning in 2012, the Drug Enforcement Administration, assisted by other agencies, began investigating a large-scale methamphetamine distribution network in southwest Missouri involving several sources of supply both inside and outside of the state. Co-defendant Kenna Harmon, 37, of Republic, Mo., has pleaded guilty to being the leader of the drug-trafficking conspiracy along with her husband, Daniel Harmon. Daniel Harmon was indicted in the Eastern District of Missouri and pleaded guilty to possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
 In total, the Harmon drug-trafficking organization was responsible for the distribution of over 45 kilograms of methamphetamine from June 1, 2013, through Nov. 29, 2014. The Harmons obtained pound amounts of methamphetamine from sources in Kansas City and St. Louis, Mo., and in Oklahoma for distribution in the Springfield, Mo., area.
 This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Randall D. Eggert, Nhan D. Nguyen and Cynthia J. Hyde. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, IRS-Criminal Investigation, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Springfield, Mo., Police Department and Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).

Springfield man indicted on heroin, firearms charges

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

A Springfield, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand jury today for distributing heroin and illegally possessing a firearm.
 Michael Sutton, 33, of Springfield, was charged in a three-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield.
 Today’s indictment alleges that Sutton distributed heroin on April 19, 2016, and again on May 26, 2016.
 Sutton is also charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to the indictment, Sutton was in possession of a Colt Night Defender .45-caliber handgun on Aug. 19, 2016. Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition.
 This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jody Larison. It was investigated by the Springfield, Mo., Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Springfield man indicted on child pornography charge

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

 A Springfield, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand jury today for receiving and distributing child pornography.
 Michael V. Lucas, 31, of Springfield, was charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield. Today’s indictment replaces a federal criminal complaint that was filed against Lucas on Sept. 21, 2016. Lucas remains in federal custody without bond.
 The federal indictment alleges that Lucas received and distributed child pornography from Jan. 1, 2016, to Sept. 22, 2016.
 According to an affidavit filed in support of the original criminal complaint, a federal law enforcement agent in Phoenix, Ariz., encountered a person later identified as Lucas among the participants who were live streaming images and videos of child pornography over the Internet on Sept. 15, 2016. During the live streaming session, the affidavit says, Lucas claimed to have molested two 13- and 16-year-old victims and said he would attempt to broadcast a future sexual encounter with the victims.
 Lucas was partially visible in a reflection during the live stream, the affidavit says. The federal agent engaged in two additional live streaming sessions that day in which Lucas allegedly participated and continued to share images and videos of child pornography.
 On Sept. 19, 2016, according to the affidavit, Lucas was identified by the agent posting messages in a known pedophile group. These messages described the number of videos he possessed as well as advertising his new Skype group. Lucas was live streaming videos of child pornography, the affidavit says, and his reflection could be seen. Lucas also shared two links to a Dropbox account that contained images of child pornography, the affidavit says, and claimed that he was in possession of more than 1,000 videos of child pornography.
 On Sept. 20, 2016, Lucas allegedly was live streaming and moved the position of the camera to show his face. Lucas allegedly also displayed a handgun and loaded magazine for the weapon during the course of the stream.
 A federal law enforcement agent in Springfield executed a search warrant at Lucas’s residence on Sept. 22, 2016, and Lucas was arrested.
 This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Kelleher. It was investigated by Immigration and Custom Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Southwest Missouri Cybercrimes Task Force.

Springfield Public Schools announces Hall of Fame inductees

Springfield Public Schools 
is pleased to announce three outstanding individuals as
2016 Hall of Fame inductees.
Inductees will be honored during a luncheon on Oct. 20.
To learn more about the event or for ticket information, click here.

View profiles of the inductees featured in 417 Magazine.



Dr. Adam J. Gordon
Glendale High School, Class of 1987
Professor of Medicine, Clinical and Translational Science and Advisory Dean, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and  
VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System



Johnny Morris
Glendale High School, Class of 1966
Founder of Bass Pro Shops and conservationist

William Jason Wagasy
Glendale High School, Class of 1992
Special Operation Chief (SEAL) Ret. and
Gary Sinise Foundation ambassador

Springfield Fire Department announces changes in phone numbers

(From the Springfield Fire Department)

Please be informed that as of September 28, 2016, the Springfield Fire Department administrative offices has a new phone number. To reach fire department headquarters, citizens should now call 874-2300. In case of an emergency, dial 911.

Additionally, the Springfield Fire Department has established a media line. Reporters may call 874-2301 twenty-four hours a day. The number will be forwarded to the public information officer or chief on-call, who will return your call as quickly as possible. Please refrain from calling dispatch or the cell phones of fire department staff. Please note: the phone number listed above is for media only. Other citizens should call the Springfield Fire Department administrative offices at 874-2300.

Springfield Police Department awards officers for service, bravery

(From the Springfield Police Department)

The Springfield Police Department hosted an awards ceremony at 3 p.m. on Sept. 28 at the Springfield Regional Police and Fire Training Center. Officers were commended for their service, and in some cases, their bravery and extraordinary actions.
SPD’s Leadership Council Award recipients:
Life Saving Award: 
This award is presented to department personnel who personally save a life, normally involving one of the learned life supporting processes outside of routine measures.
Cpl. Brian Crum , Officer Jennifer Sandage and Officer Betsy Shipley, Life Saving Award
On Jan. 17, 2016, Cpl. Crum responded to a call of a subject who may have committed suicide by carbon monoxide poisoning. When Cpl. Crum arrived on scene, he found a male in a small garage who was slumped into the open window of the driver’s door of a parked car. He dragged the male out of the garage onto the driveway. He noticed the male did not have a pulse and began CPR while notifying dispatch to have EMS expedite. Officer Sandage arrived on scene and began rescue breaths with an Ambu Bag, which Cpl. Crum had requested. Officer Shipley then arrived on scene and took over compressions for Cpl. Crum until EMS arrived. Dr. Christopher Morrison, who was the attending physician, would later advise the department that the actions of the officers involved “likely saved” the victim’s life.
Officer Dorian Bernet, Life Saving Award
On May 18, 2016, Officer Dorian Bernet and Officer Anna King had just cleared a call for service in the area of the Wayo Restaurant, 2119 S. Glenstone. While on the parking lot of that restaurant, two visibly upset females, who were yelling frantically, approached both officers. The officers were advised that a female subject, later identified as Abigail Grindle, was choking and was becoming unconscious inside the restaurant. Officer Bernet and Officer King responded inside and located Ms. Grindle being held up by another female. Though the Heimlich maneuver had unsuccessfully been tried, Officer Bernet immediately attempted the Heimlich maneuver again and was successful in his attempt to dislodge the obstruction. Officer King later praised him and advised that when he made the decision to intervene, Ms. Grindle was limp and blue in color. Officer King indicated that Officer Bernet’s decisive actions undoubtedly saved Ms. Grindle’s life.
Command Commendation: This is awarded to department personnel who distinguish themselves by a single act or series of actions that impact the community in a positive manner, or significantly improve the ability of the SPD to fulfill its mission. Actions must be creditable, show intelligent and determined effort beyond reasonably expected job performance and must produce documentable results.
Cpl. Chris Barb, Command Commendation
On May 1, 2014, officers discovered Gary and Jan Tyrrell deceased in their Springfield home from an apparent double homicide. Cpl. Barb was assigned as the lead investigator in the case. During his investigation, Cpl. Barb developed information on a possible suspect. Cpl. Barb discovered that the suspect had sold several silver coins the day after the Tyrrells’ bodies were discovered, which matched the value of coins he discovered were missing from the Tyrrells’ residence. Cpl. Barb was able to obtain the suspect’s DNA from pieces of evidence recovered at the crime scene. He would later get a positive match of that DNA to the suspect he had identified. Ultimately, the suspect pleaded guilty to the murders of the Tyrrells. Cpl. Barb displayed extreme professionalism, ingenuity, diligence and teamwork during this difficult investigation, which exemplifies his dedicated service to the citizens of Springfield and to the Springfield Police Department.
Officer Jim Cooney, Command Commendation
On Feb. 27, 2016, Officer Dave Laws was seriously injured after being dragged by a vehicle in the area of Glenstone and Division. The vehicle left the scene westbound on Division. Officer Cooney arrived in the area of Calhoun and Rogers in an attempt to locate the suspect. Officer Cooney observed a male subject matching the suspect description walking in the area. Officer Cooney made contact with the subject and after a brief interview with him determined he was the suspect in question. Officer Cooney directed other officers to his location to try and locate the suspect vehicle in the area. The suspect’s vehicle was subsequently located a short time later, southeast of Officer Cooney’s location. Officer Cooney arrested the suspect on several outstanding warrants, which allowed detectives to get a confession during their interview with him. Officer Cooney’s initiative, quick actions and investigative skills during this incident exemplify his service to the citizens of Springfield and to the Springfield Police Department.
Purple Heart Award: 
This is awarded to department personnel who are seriously injured in the line of duty. The Purple Heart will only be awarded once during an individual’s career. Any subsequent actions deemed worthy of a Purple Heart will be documented with an oak leaf cluster attached to the original award.
Officer Dave Laws, Purple Heart
On Feb. 27, 2016, Officer Laws observed a suspicious, occupied vehicle in the area of Glenstone and Division. He attempted to contact the driver of the vehicle who refused to acknowledge him. As Officer Laws opened the driver’s door to make contact, the driver placed the vehicle in reverse and began to back up. Officer Laws was able to get the driver to stop the vehicle, but as he attempted to detain him, the driver accelerated forward. Officer Laws was not able to keep his grip on the side of the truck bed, at which point his right leg became trapped in the driver’s rear wheel well. He was able to hang onto the bed of the truck while drawing his handgun and firing rounds at the driver in an attempt to stop his actions, all while being dragged a significant distance by the vehicle. Officer Laws was able to finally free his leg and fell away from the truck and into the street. He sustained significant injuries to his right leg and various additional injuries to his left leg, knees, hands, elbows and head. His display of extreme bravery, dedication to duty and will to survive serves as an excellent example to all in our profession.

Agenda posted for Monday Springfield City Council meeting

Upcoming Council Meeting Agenda
October 3, 2016 - 6:30 p.m.

1.
ROLL CALL.
2.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES. September 19, 2016 – Regular, September 20, 2016 – Special, And September 27, 2016 - Special
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.
Swear in Kelly Guenther and Nick Baker to the Tree City USA Citizen Advisory Committee.
5.
CITY MANAGER REPORT AND RESPONSES TO QUESTIONS RAISED AT THE PREVIOUS CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS.
6.
SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE. Citizens Have Spoken. May Be Voted On.
7.
Council Bill 2016-220. (Hosmer)
A general ordinance amending the Springfield Land Development Code, Section 36-306, Zoning Maps, by rezoning approximately 0.90 acres of property, generally located at 222 East Primrose Street, from Planned Development 21 Amendment 1 District, to a GR, General Retail District; and adopting an updated Official Zoning Map. (Staff and Planning and Zoning Commission recommend approval). (By: Lipscomb Properties LLC; 222 East Primrose Street; Z-13-2016.)
Documents:
  1. 2016-220.PDF
8.
Amended Council Bill 2016-221. (Fishel)
A general ordinance amending the Springfield Land Development Code, Section 36-306, Zoning Maps, by rezoning approximately 0.6 acres of property, generally located at 1811 East Sunset Drive, from Planned Development No. 97, to O-1, Office District; and adopting an updated Official Zoning Map. (Staff and Planning and Zoning Commission recommend approval). (By: 1811 E. Sunset, LLC; 1811 E. Sunset Drive; Z-11-2016 Conditional Overlay District No. 112.)
Documents:
  1. 2016-221AMENDED.PDF
9.
Council Bill 2016-222. (Fulnecky)
A general ordinance amending the Springfield Land Development Code, Section 36-306, Zoning Maps, by rezoning approximately 2.4 acres of property, generally located at 1606 East Blaine Avenue, from R-SF, Single-Family Residential District, to R-LD, Low-Density Multi-Family Residential District with Conditional Overlay District No. 110; and adopting an updated Official Zoning Map. (Staff and Planning and Zoning Commission recommend approval). (By: John Peterson; 1606 East Blaine Avenue; Z-14-2016 & Conditional Overlay District No. 110.)
Documents:
  1. 2016-222.PDF
10.
RESOLUTIONS.
11.
EMERGENCY BILLS.
12.
PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS.
13.
GRANTS. Citizens May Speak. May Be Voted On.
14.
Council Bill 2016-225. (McClure)
A special ordinance authorizing the City Manager, or their designee, to apply for and accept a Youth Homeless Demonstration Program Grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, in an amount not to exceed $2,000,000, with funds to be used for the development and implementation of a coordinated community plan to end youth homelessness; to execute any sub-grant agreements that may be necessary or convenient, and to exercise any and all powers necessary or convenient to implement the grant; and declaring that this bill qualifies for approval in one reading.
Documents:
  1. 2016-225.PDF
15.
AMENDED BILLS.
16.
COUNCIL BILLS FOR PUBLIC HEARING.
17.
FIRST READING BILLS. Citizens May Speak. Not Anticipated To Be Voted On.
18.
Council Bill 2016-226. (Ferguson)
A special ordinance establishing a budget for the Commercial Street Tax Increment Financing District Special Allocation Fund for Fiscal Year 2016-17 in the amount of $570,035.53; approving expenditures from said Special Allocation Fund for property acquisition costs and certain public improvement projects within the Commercial Street Increment Financing District in an amount not to exceed $400,000.00; and also using certain rail credits obtained in the sale of the West Wye to BNSF in the amount of $707,849.57 to partially fund the acquisition of a portion of Frisco Lane in connection with the aforementioned public improvement projects.
Documents:
  1. 2016-226.PDF
19.
PETITIONS, REMONSTRANCES, AND COMMUNICATIONS.
Ms. Madison Weiler wishes to address City Council.
20.
NEW BUSINESS.
The Mayor recommends the following appointments to the Tree City USA Citizen Advisory Committee:  Zach Clapper with term to expire December 1, 2016 and Mindy Spitz with term to expire December 1, 2017.

The City Manager recommends the following appointment, who has been serving as an alternate, to the Board of Adjustment: Derek Lee with term to expire January 1, 2017.

The City Manager recommends the following reappointments to the Park Board:  Sarah McCallister with term to expire June 1, 2018, and Sid Needam with term to expire June 1, 2019.

As per RSMo. 109.230 (4), City records that are on file in the City Clerk’s office and have met the retention schedule will be destroyed in compliance with the guidelines established by the Secretary of State’s office.
21.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS.
22.
MISCELLANEOUS.
23.
CONSENT AGENDA – FIRST READING BILLS. See Item #3.
24.
Council Bill 2016-227. (Fisk)
A general ordinance amending the Springfield City Code Chapter 36 Land Development Code, Article 1 – Administration and Enforcement of Codes, Division 4 Permits and Fees,  Section 36-128, ‘When permit is required’; and 36-146 ‘Fees,’ to correct inaccurate cross-references.
Documents:
  1. 2016-227.PDF
25.
CONSENT AGENDA – ONE READING BILLS. See Item #3.
26.
Council Bill 2016-228. (Schilling)
A resolution declaring the intent of the City of Springfield to annex approximately 4.7 acres of Greene County right-of-way; which annexation has been petitioned by the property owners, generally located between the 2800 and 3000 blocks of West Republic Street, and is more fully described in this resolution, generally referenced as Annexation A-2-16.
Documents:
  1. 2016-228.PDF
27.
CONSENT AGENDA – SECOND READING BILLS. Citizens Have Spoken. May Be Voted On.
28.
Council Bill 2016-213. (Stephens) Due To The Zone 2 Vacancy, This Bill Was Republished With New Sponsorship.
A special ordinance approving the transfer of the City’s interest in real property located at 1436 North Rogers Avenue to Springfield Community Gardens.
Documents:
  1. 2016-213.PDF
29.
Council Bill 2016-223. (Ferguson)
A special ordinance authorizing the Director of Planning and Development to accept the dedication of the public streets and easements to the City of Springfield, Missouri, as shown on the Preliminary Plat of Andy Land Subdivision, generally located at 3830 South Glenstone Avenue, upon the applicant filing and recording a final plat that substantially conforms to the preliminary plat; and authorizing the City Clerk to sign the final plat upon compliance with the terms of this ordinance. (Staff recommends that City Council accept the public streets and easements).
Documents:
  1. 2016-223.PDF
30.
END OF CONSENT AGENDA.
31.
CLOSED SESSION:
City Council will hold a closed meeting to discuss legal actions, causes of action, litigation, privileged and confidential communications pursuant to Section 610.021 (1), RSMo.; and this meeting, record, and vote shall be closed and the City Council shall stand adjourned at the end of the closed session.

Students to volunteer Thursday during Parkview Cares Day

(From the City of Springfield)

Instead of spending the day in the classroom tomorrow, Parkview High School students will be volunteering at dozens of sites in Springfield as part of the third annual Parkview Cares Day.

Freshman, sophomore and junior students don yellow volunteer T-shirts and spend their day performing a wide variety of tasks. Seniors spend the day job shadowing with a professional in their field of interest.

Planned activities include working in a clothing bank, reading to elementary students, painting, and preparing emergency food kits.

"Parkview Cares Day is our way of giving our students the unique opportunity to get up close and personal to learn about and give back to their community in meaningful ways," said counselor Joyce Cooper, Parkview Cares Day organizer. "This is one of the most highly anticipated events of our year and our kids love the experience of being out for the day, sometimes getting their hands dirty and engaging in activities they might never get to do otherwise."

Several Parkview Cares Day locations are located in Springfield’s Zone 1, including Boys and Girls Clubs, Study Alternative School’s clothing bank, Westport Elementary and Middle School, Campbell Elementary School and The Rare Breed. Zone 1 is the area of Springfield that city and community leaders have targeted for an 18-month-long“blitz” to improve quality of life and begin programming to lift people out of poverty.

Parkview Cares Day is made possible by a grant from the Foundation for Springfield Public Schools, and reflects the goals of the Parkview Leadership School by showing students the value of serving others and learning leadership in the process. The hours they spend volunteering count toward their Leadership School requirements.

The Leadership School, the only one of its kind in the district, is a specialized program where students discover their unique leadership skills while taking ownership of their learning, which helps set them up to take charge of their future.

The program fosters student achievement by creating a culture that promotes integrity, trust, loyalty, courage, responsibility, respect, compassion and humility, as well as the confidence to positively influence others.

Students are provided additional opportunities to learn, communicate, and practice their personal leadership skills in a variety of authentic, hands-on experiences by partnering with our local business, service, governmental and educational communities. Students who complete the four-year Leadership School program earn a Leadership program transcript, letter of recommendation, and a signified diploma for a distinction in leadership. Qualifying students will have opportunities for leadership scholarships.

Tuesday, September 27, 2016

Overnight fire at Essex Apartments caused by careless disposal of a cigarette

(From the Springfield Fire Department)

The Springfield Fire Department is reminding smokers to dispose of their cigarettes safely, following an overnight apartment fire.

Springfield firefighters were called to Essex Apartments on West Battlefield around 1:45 a.m. Tuesday morning. When the arrived, they found the deck of one of the apartments on fire. Fortunately, they were able to extinguish it before it could spread. The fire was caused by a smoker who disposed of a cigarette in a plastic container. That container caught on fire which then spread to the deck.

The Springfield Fire Department reminds smokers that only approved ashtrays should be used to dispose of cigarettes. Smokers should also follow these tips:
•Use a sturdy ashtray or can filled with sand to collect ashes. Do not use aflammable container such as Tupperware and never use a potted plant. Potting
soil contains combustible materials.
•Ashtrays should be set on something sturdy and hard to ignite, like a table.
• Put it out. The cigarette really needs to be completely stubbed out in the ashtray.
• Do not let cigarette butts pile up on top of one another. Empty your ashtrayoften by first soaking the cigarette butts in water. NEVER toss hot cigarette butts
or ashes in the trash.
• If you are drowsy, put it out. Fires caused by cigarettes often start on or next tothe victim – in bed, on a sofa or in the trash.
• Check to make sure your smoke alarms are in good working order.

Careless smoking is the number one cause of fire fatalities in the City of Springfield and one of the leading causes of all house fires. Springfield's rate of careless smoking fires is 4 times the national average.

Springfield man indicted for illegal firearms

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

A Springfield  man was indicted by a federal grand jury today as an armed career criminal who illegally possessed firearms and ammunition.
 Christopher M. Behn, 39, of Springfield, was charged with being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield.
Today’s indictment alleges that Behn was in possession of a Harrington & Richardson pump model .12-gauge shotgun, a New England Firearms .410-gauge shotgun, a Mossberg .22-caliber semi-automatic rifle, a Springfield Armory .45-caliber semi-automatic pistol, a Taurus .38-caliber revolver, a Citadel .22-caliber semi-automatic pistol, a DSA .223-caliber semi-automatic rifle and ammunition on Nov. 6, 2015.
 Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Due to his prior felony convictions, Behn is charged as an armed career criminal, which upon conviction carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison without parole.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nhan D. Nguyen. It was investigated by the Springfield, Mo., Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.