Friday, January 31, 2014

Video- St. Mary's fifth graders help at Ronald McDonald House

A KOAM report KOAM TV 7

Video- Legacy of Joplin Tornado victim Will Norton lives on

A report from KOAM's Liz Holliday KOAM TV 7

Video- Verdict reached in Joplin murder trial

A KOAM report KOAM TV 7

Complete video- East Middle School ribbon cutting

From Jet 14

Video- FEMA officer speaks at East Middle School ribbon cutting

Video- Webb City High School News

Civil rights film series to be shown at Missouri Southern

(From Southern News Service)

Missouri Southern State University’s Spiva Library is one of a select few institutions across the country to be awarded the “Created Equal: America’s Civil Rights Struggle” grant.
 The series, which began Jan. 29, features four documentary films that chronicle the history of the Civil Rights movement in America and discussions led by local scholars.
 “We hope that it helps community members and students grasp the long effort to achieve life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness for all Americans,” said Amber Carr, public services librarian at Missouri Southern.
 The film series will include:
 Wednesday, Feb. 5: “Slavery by Another Name”
 The film focuses on new forms of forced labor that kept thousands of African Americans in bondage until the onset of World War II.
 The discussion will be led by Dr. Norton Wheeler, an associate professor at MSSU where he teaches courses in Asian history and in U.S. history, including African American history. He is currently engaged in research projects involving Frederick Douglass and George Washington Carver.
 Wednesday, Feb. 12: “The Loving Story”
 The film is the account of Richard and Mildred Loving, who were arrested in 1958 for violating Virginia’s ban on interracial marriage. Their struggle culminated in a landmark Supreme Court decision that overturned anti-miscegenation laws in the United States.
 Dr. Ree Wells-Lewis will lead the discussion following the film. Wells-Lewis Lewis earned her Ph.D. from Louisiana State University in sociology, with a minor in cultural anthropology in 1993. Beginning in graduate school, Professor Wells incorporated medical sociology into most of her academic, applied, and community service pursuits. She received a Medical Sociology Research Internship award from the Medical Sociology section of the American Sociological Association, 1989-90.
 Wednesday, Feb. 26: “Freedom Riders”
 Based on Raymond Arsenault’s book, the documentary offers an inside look at the brave band of activists who challenged segregation in the Deep South.
 The discussion will be led by Dr. Steven Wagner, a professor of history at Missouri Southern since 2000. He teaches a variety of courses in 20th century United States history, including the Civil Rights era. He received his Ph.D. from Purdue University in 1999, and is the author of “Eisenhower Republicanism: Pursuing the Middle Way,” published in 2006.
 Each event will include film clips and a discussion at noon in Cornell Auditorium in Plaster Hall. A screening of the full film and a discussion will be offered at 7 p.m. in Phelps Theatre, located in Billingsly Student Center. A special screening of “Slavery by Another Name” will be offered at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, at George Washington Carver National Monument.
 All of the programs are free and open to the public.
 The series was made possible through the National Endowment for the Humanities as part of its Bridging Cultures initiative, in partnership with the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History.

Newsmakers program to focus on Girl Scouts

(From Southern News Service)

The weekend of Feb. 8 is National Girl Scout Cookie Weekend, and the “Newsmakers” interview program airing next week ties into that theme with information about Girl Scouts and their annual cookie sales.
 Guests include Lori Enyart, from the Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland, and Emily Boyer, a local Girl Scout who sold more than 2,000 boxes of cookies. During the program they explain cookie sales and how they benefit girls. They also discuss other opportunities in Girl Scouting.
 The program will air the following dates and times on KGCS-TV:
 Sunday, Feb. 2 – 6 p.m.
Monday, Feb. 3 – 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Feb. 4 – 5:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Feb. 5 – 5:30 p.m.
Thursday, Feb. 6 – 5:30 p.m.
 The interview will also air at 5:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, on KOAM-TV.

KGCS programming may be seen over the air on digital channel 22, and on regional cable television systems including Cable One, Mediacom and Suddenlink.  The station operates as a service of the Department of Communication at Missouri Southern State University.

Webb City student serving as intern for Jackson legislator

Hannah Smith, Webb City, a political science and journalism major at the University of Missouri is serving as an intern in the office of Rep. Donna Lichtenegger, R-Jackson.

Miss Smith says her future goals are to earn a master's degree in public affairs and become a press secretary for either a United States Senator or a member of the U. S. House of Representatives.

Thursday, January 30, 2014

Video- Angie Besendorfer hopes to be remembered for design of Joplin schools

From Jet 14

Complete video- Soaring Heights ribbon cutting

From Jet 14

Schweich releases Jasper County Circuit Court state audit

(From State Auditor Thomas Schweich)

State Auditor Tom Schweich today released the audit of the Twenty-Ninth Judicial Circuit-Jasper County.

In the areas audited, the overall performance of this entity was Fair.

As of Dec. 31, 2012, the court held approximately $183,000 related to 257 deposed cases. The
circuit clerk does not periodically review accrued case costs owed to the court, and audit staff
noted several errors on the Justice Information System list of accrued case costs.

The circuit clerk's office prepares and submits billings for certain incarceration costs to the state,
but it lacks procedures to ensure billings are correct. Overbillings totaling $4,060 were
identified.

To read the full report, visit:
http://www.auditor.mo.gov/AuditReports/AudRpt.aspx?c=Year%202014

Parks and Recreation plans family activities

(From the City of Joplin)

Joplin Parks and Recreation will be hosting two family-oriented activities in February and encourage citizens to reserve their spaces.
On Friday, February 14, parents can enjoy a night out while the kids have fun at the Parks and Recreation activity, Kids’ Night Out. Offered for children ages 5 to 12, and held at the Joplin Athletic Center, this event offers a variety of fun and entertainment plus pizza and snacks. The evening includes Wii video games, craft projects and other active games for children. The event runs from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. and is offered for $15 per child.
Children will be supervised by Joplin Parks and Recreation staff who hosts the summer day camps, including members who are certified in CPR and first aid treatments.
On Saturday, February 22, dads and their daughters are invited to Joplin Parks and Recreation Department’s 15th Annual Daddy Daughter Date Night. Dads can bring their favorite gal(s) to an evening of music, dancing, games, buffet dinner and prizes. The event is held from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at McAuley High School Gymnasium. A professional photographer will also be available.
This unique event is open for girls ages 3 to 12, and is priced at $30 per couple, and $10 per additional child. Seating is limited to 120 couples.
For more information or to purchase tickets for either event, stop by the Joplin Athletic Complex, 3301 West 1st Street, or call 417-625-4750.

MSSU Presidential Search Committee schedules meeting

(From Southern News Service)

The Missouri Southern State University Presidential Search Committee will meet at 3 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 4, in Room 356 of Billingsly Student Center.
 The meeting is open for anyone interested to attend.

JHS theater students excel at state conference

(From Joplin Schools)

Joplin High School students in the International Thespian Society recently traveled to the annual Missouri State Thespian Conference in Kansas City.

Ashley Trotnic, JHS drama teacher, took 22 students to compete for awards in individual monologues, duet musical, solo musical, duet acting and group acting. The students were also able to audition for college scholarships in drama.

"The students are given so many amazing opportunities at State Conference," said Trotnic. "At conference they can see shows presented by high schools from around the state, take workshops with theater professionals, and show their skills in individual events."

A special congratulations goes out to the following students:
  • Erica Zeyn competed in the Individual Event for monologue and received superior scores. She will go on to perform her monologues at the Fine Arts Education Day in Jefferson City. She also auditioned for acting scholarships and received callbacks from 14 colleges and universities.
  • Jaytrick Carols auditioned for acting scholarships and received callbacks from 11 colleges and universities.
  • Ethan Settle auditioned for acting scholarships and received callbacks from 6 colleges and universities.
  • Katherine Weaver auditioned for stage management scholarships and received callbacks from 10 colleges and universities.

Video- Second day coverage of Hartman murder trial

A KOAM report KOAM TV 7

Eleven students chosen for MSSU Super Leaders program

(From Southern News Service)

Eleven students have been accepted into the spring 2014 Super Leaders program.
Super Leaders is a joint effort between Missouri Southern and the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals Network. The purpose is to identify, cultivate and motivate future community leaders who are currently enrolled in college.
Candidates must complete an application, pay an application fee or apply for a fee scholarship, and complete an interview.
The students chosen for the Super Leaders program are:
Cena Bass, accounting and human resources major from Diamond, Mo.Jared Beasley, sociology major from Borger, Texas
William Bruan, undecided major from Joplin, Mo.
Aliza Fahle, undecided major from Yuma, Ariz.
Gage Hanlon, marketing major from Lenwood, Iowa
Lindsey Miller, psychology and criminal justice major from Shawnee, Kan.
Matthew Pulsipher, marketing and Spanish major from Lebanon, Mo.
Chase Starr-Kercheval, psychology major from Diamond, Mo.
Kenzo Van Baal, biochemistry major from Breda, Netherlands
Joseph Vanhorn, management major from Springfield, Mo.
Elaina Warren, Spanish and juvenile justice major from Joplin, Mo.
 The students will spend the semester exploring the Joplin region to learn about career and volunteer opportunities, expand their professional network, and gain an understanding of the community as a whole. 
 The first session, Leadership Development Day, will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, in Billingsly Student Center.  Students will spend the day exploring their core motives, personality traits and team dynamics. 

Additional sessions will include:

Friday, Feb. 7: 1 – 6 p.m., Marketing, Media, and AdvertisingFriday, Feb. 21: 1 – 6 p.m., Small Business and Economic Development
Friday, March 7:  1 – 6 p.m., Non-Profit and Civic Organizations
Friday, March 28: 1 – 6 p.m., Manufacturing and International Business
Friday, April 11: 1 – 6 p.m., Healthcare and Business
Friday, April 25: 1 – 6 p.m., Science and Technology
Saturday, April 26: 2 – 3 p.m., Induction Ceremony

Missing 16-year-old girl found

(From the Joplin Police Department)

Gwen M. Stanley was located this morning and she is in good health. She had been hiding at a friend’s house and that person has been arrested with charges pending.
Investigators with the Joplin Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Southwest Missouri Cyber Crime Task Force, National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, Joplin Police and K-9 officers worked long and hard to bring this case to a successful conclusion.
We want to thank everyone for their assistance with various tips and sending out this information.

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

Fire Department responds to blaze at 5270-A E. Sunny Acres Ln

(From the Joplin Fire Department)

The Joplin Fire Department responded to a reported Structure Fire at 5270-A E Sunny Acres Ln at 8:37 AM, Wednesday, 29 January, 2014. Fire crews arrived on the scene at 8:45 AM to find a single story wood framed duplex with heavy smoke showing from apartment A. Crews fought the fire in a bedroom and then checked the attic, declaring the fire out at 9:14 AM. There was extensive fire, smoke and water damage to a bedroom, and throughout the apartment. Crews remained on scene until 10:39 AM, Wednesday, 29 January.

The house was occupied at the time of the fire and the occupant escaped quickly. The occupant is Cecili Coggin. The Duplex is owned by Shoal Ridge Development.

No injuries were reported to either fire personnel or others in the area. 5 Joplin Fire units and 16 Joplin Fire personnel responded as well as JPD and METS. Duenweg FD provided a tanker for water.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation at the time of this writing.

KGCS to air marijuana forum

(From Southern News Service)

The legalization of marijuana has become a topic of discussion around the country. Last week, a program was held at Missouri Southern State University to discuss the issues. 
KGCS-TV was there to record the forum presented by the Alliance of Southwest Missouri.  The program will air two times in the upcoming week.
The forum can be seen at the following times:
Sunday, Feb. 2 – 7 p.m.
Wednesday, Feb. 5 – 8 p.m. 
KGCS programming may be seen over the air on digital channel 22 and on regional cable television systems including Cable One, Mediacom and Suddenlink.  The station operates as a service of the Department of Communication at Missouri Southern State University.

Smoking cause of structure fire at 1705 S. Byers Ave.

(From the Joplin Fire Department)

The Joplin Fire Department responded to a reported Structure Fire at 1705 S Byers Ave at 11:49 PM, Tuesday, 28 January, 2014.

 Fire crews arrived on the scene at 11:55 PM to find a single story wood framed residential structure with light smoke showing. Crews fought the fire in a bedroom and then checked the attic, declaring the fire out at 0:19 AM. There was extensive fire, smoke and water damage to a bedroom, light fire damage to a porch and light smoke damage to the rest of the house. Crews remained on scene until 1:54 AM, Wednesday, 29 January. 

The house was occupied at the time of the fire and occupants escaped quickly. A resident said she woke up to find her house on fire on the exterior at the corner of the bedroom where it meets the porch. She then called 911. Occupant names are unavailable at this time.


No injuries were reported to either fire personnel or others in the area. Six Joplin Fire units and 16 Joplin Fire personnel responded as well as JPD and METS. 


The cause of the fire was determined to be improper use of smoking materials.

MSSU business instructors to present paper at Dallas conference

(From Southern News Service)

This semester, all instructors teaching business communication classes in the Missouri Southern State University School of Business will be using the same steps to complete a formative assessment of their students.

It’s a way to not only chart the progress the students are making, but t0 determine how to help them succeed in the classroom.

The metric used to conduct the assessment was developed last year by Dr. Beverly Block and Michelle Dawson. They believe that it has the potential to benefit other schools which are going through the accreditation process.

They will attend the Association for Business Communication Conference – to be held March 12-15 in Dallas, Texas – to present a paper on which they have collaborated: “Using the Business Communication Course to Evaluate Written and Oral Communication in Formative Assessment.”

“Part of the accreditation process is that we do assessments, and there are two types we have to look at,” says Block. “One is formative, the other is summative. Michelle and I were given the duty to do the formative assessment piece.”

The formative assessment required them to develop a process to see where business communication students are about halfway through the course. They created a three-point scale for instructors to use to grade their students on a written and oral communication assignment.

“While students get feedback on all of their assignments, they get very specific feedback on this one,” says Dawson. “The rubric that Beverly and I developed analyzes three different areas of their performance – grammar and mechanics, appropriate style and format.

“For the oral communication formative assessment, we have them do a webcam mock interview. We then use the rubric to provide very specific feedback similar to the writing piece.”

The two instructors used the assessment process in their own classes during the fall semester. Now, during the spring semester, it is being utilized by all of the business communication instructors.

It’s a way for teachers to “compare apples to apples and oranges to oranges,” says Block.

“We’re all trying to teach the same things and trying to make sure we’re actually getting to where we want our students to be. And, if not, that’s what this is for … to help us figure out how to get there.”

Block and Dawson plan to collaborate on a follow-up paper that examines the results of their formative assessment process and hope to share it with an even wider audience.

“This is not something we’ve seen anywhere else,” says Block. “We came up with it on our own, and it’s something that could be helpful to other groups.

“There’s a national conference in Chicago and one of the big topics there is summative and formative assessment. I think we’ll be able to add to this paper and present it there too. We have some high hopes for this.”

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Limb drop-off site reopened through Saturday

(From the City of Joplin)

City of Joplin crews continue to pick up ice storm damaged tree limbs and leaves. The City appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation dealing with these cleanup projects.
The following is an update of the various programs.
Curbside pickup of ice storm damage tree limbs continues. City crews are actively proceeding through the City to remove the piles for residents. Residents do NOT need to call the City for pick up service. Also, please do not pile limbs on top of the leaf piles.
Drop-off site reopens this week. The City will reopen the limb drop off site for one last time during this ice storm cleanup project. The drop off site, located at 1702 North Schifferdecker Avenue, will be open from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, January 29, 30 and 31; and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, February 1.
Residents can also bring their live Christmas trees to that site as well during those times. The drop-off site is located six tenths of a mile north of Belle Center Road on the west side of Schifferdecker Avenue. This free drop off service is for Joplin residents only. Professional contractors will not be allowed to dump.
Christmas tree drop-off sites are open until Friday, January 31 at Humphreys Park, McClelland Park and the Public Works Center, 1301 West 2nd Street. Please be sure to remove all decorations from the trees before leaving them at these locations. Signs will direct residents to the drop-off area.
City’s leaf pick up program has resumed. As this program comes to a close, additional information will be released regarding alternatives for those residents who were missed.
For more information, call the Public Works Center at 417-624-0820 Ext. 564, or Lynden Lawson, Assistant Public Works Director of Operations at 417-624-0820 Ext. 560.

Monday, January 27, 2014

Tenants escape as fire consumes Joplin apartment building

(From the Joplin Fire Department)

The Joplin Fire Department responded to a reported Structure Fire at 530 ½ S Brownell Ave at 4:35 PM, Monday, 27 January, 2014. Fire crews arrived on the scene at 4:38 PM to find a two story wood frame structure with smoke and flame coming from the rear entrance. Crews fought the fire with hand lines and used chain saws to open ventilation holes to access the fire, declaring the fire out at 6:18 PM. There was extensive fire, smoke and water damage throughout the house. Crews remained on scene until 7:58 PM, 27 January. 

The house is rented by Emma Bell who was not home at the time. Two adult males who were in the house, and called in the fire, escaped the house as fire crews arrived. 


No injuries were reported to either fire personnel or others in the area. 6 Joplin Fire units and 18 Joplin Fire personnel responded as well as JPD and METS. The American Red Cross was called to assist the occupants with overnight accommodations. 


The fire is still under investigation at the time of this report.

Video- Donations needed for Webb City family after fire destroys home

A KSN report

Video- Brad's Beat: Thomas Jefferson students recognized for their Chinese skills

A report from KSN's Brad Douglas

Video- Joplin apartment building suffers extensive fire damage

A KODE report

Video- Joplin man sentenced to seven years for officer-involved shooting

A KODE report

Joplin Police Department searching for missing 16-year-old girl

(From the Joplin Police Department)

The Joplin Police Department Investigation Bureau is seeking assistance in locating a Missing/ Endangered 16 year old female, Gwen Marie Stanley.
Stanley is described as 5’8” tall, 125 pounds, red hair, and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a black jacket, blue sweater, black pants and white tennis shoes.
Stanley left church at 2700 E. 44th Street, Joplin, MO on 01/25/14 around 10:30 hours and has not been seen or heard from since. If you know of her current location or have any information as to her location please contact the Joplin Police Department at 417-623-3131 or your local law enforcement agency.

Iron Gates Road, 23rd to 24th to be closed Tuesday, Wednesday

(From the City of Joplin)

Beginning Tuesday, January 28, 2014 from 7:00 am until Wednesday, January 29, 2014 at 5:00 p.m., Iron Gates Rd. from 23rd St. to 24th St. will be closed. Crews will be working on a stormwater project. Drivers are urged to use extreme caution in these areas and will need to utilize alternate routes during this period if possible.
If you have any questions, please call the Engineering Department at 624-0820, ext. 530.

24th St. to be closed at W. Highland beginning Wednesday

(From City of Joplin)

Beginning Wednesday, January 29, 2014 from 7:00 am until Friday, January 31, 2014 at 5:00 p.m., 24th St. at W. Highland Ave. will be closed. Crews will be working on a stormwater project.
Drivers are urged to use extreme caution in these areas and will need to utilize alternate routes during this period if possible.
If you have any questions, please call the Engineering Department at 624-0820, ext. 530.

House at 3215 S. Bedford Place suffers extensive damage in fire

(From Joplin Fire Department)

The Joplin Fire Department responded to a reported Structure Fire at 3215 S Bedford Place at 9:54 PM, Sunday, 26 January, 2014. Fire crews arrived on the scene at 10:00 PM to find a one story wood frame structure with an active attic fire. The NWS reports winds were estimated to be out of the north at 22 MPH with gusts to 36 MPH. The fire quickly became a defensive situation with crews leaving the structure and fighting the fire from the outside. The structure suffered extensive damage from fire, smoke and water. Crews remained on scene until 1:33 AM on Monday, 27 January.

The home is owned by James Waddell.


No injuries were reported to either fire personnel or others in the area. 7 Joplin Fire units and 14 Joplin Fire personnel responded as well as JPD. Redings Mill FD assisted in the initial attack on the fire and stood by to help as needed. 


The cause of the fire is under investigation as the time of this writing.

Joplin, Webb City departments battle fire at 817 W. Broadway

(From Joplin Fire Department)

The Joplin Fire Department responded to a reported Structure Fire at 817 W Broadway at 0:49 AM, Saturday, 25 January, 2014. Fire crews arrived on the scene at 0:59 AM to find the Webb City Fire Department working a fully involved single story wood framed residential structure fire. JFD was assigned as an attack crew to work one side of the structure. JFD aided in the extinguishment of the fire and overhauled the area. Crews remained on scene until 3:14 AM on Saturday, 25 January. 

No home ownership information is available at this time.


No injuries were reported to either fire personnel or others in the area. 2 Joplin Fire units and 5 Joplin Fire personnel responded. 


The cause of the fire is under investigation as the time of this writing.

JFD responds to small structure fire at 1302 W. Cambridge

(From Joplin Fire Department)

The Joplin Fire Department responded to a reported Structure Fire at 1302 W Cambridge at 3:44 AM, Saturday, 25 January, 2014. Fire crews arrived on the scene at 3:51 AM to find a two story wood frame structure with light smoke showing from a small fire at the rear of the structure, extending up the exterior wall. Crews used a hand line to extinguish the fire and used a fan to remove smoke from the house. Crews remained on scene until 4:49 AM on Saturday, 25 January. 
Home ownership information was unavailable. 


No injuries were reported to either fire personnel or others in the area. Six Joplin Fire units and 17 Joplin Fire personnel responded as well as JPD and METS. 


Resident stated her children and their friends had been smoking outside in the general area of the fire.

Missouri Southern to hold student technology competition

(From Southern News Service)

About 80 students from across Southwest Missouri will compete in science-, technology-, engineering- and mathematics-related competitions during the second annual MSSU Regional TSA Conference.
 The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 31, in the Engineering Technology Department at the Ummel Technology Building.
 It will include students from Joplin, Carl Junction, Butler, Adrian, and Belton in grades six through 12. The students will compete in wide range of STEM competitions including VEX Robotics, Technology Problem Solving, Debating Technology Issues, Technology Bowl and Structural Engineering.
 This event also will feature Missouri’s first Humanoid Robotics competition for secondary school students. They will be judged on their ability to program a humanoid robot to dance to a song they have selected or tell a story the students have written or summarized.
 TSA, the Technology Student Association, is recognized as the only Career and Technology Student Association exclusively dedicated to students interested in STEM fields. It allows students to demonstrate and expand their high-tech knowledge and skills. It also offers students opportunities to participate in leadership activities that will prepare them for the high-tech, science or engineering workplace. Students competing in this event may advance to compete at the state conference for a chance to earn the right to compete at the national conference in Washington, D.C., in June.
 “This year, our conference has more than tripled in participation from last year,” says Missouri TSA State President Steven Stokes, from Carl Junction High School. “This really shows that Southwest Missouri is a leader in our state association and STEM education in Missouri.”

Mind reader to appear at Missouri Southern

(From Southern News Service)

 Mind reader and “America’s Got Talent” semi-finalist Eric Dittelman will perform at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 4, in Corley Auditorium at Missouri Southern State University.
 During his 2012 run on season 7 of “America’s Got Talent,” Dittelman wowed the audience and judges alike with his ability to read the minds and influence the thoughts of both. He has also been featured in publications such as Entertainment Weekly, Rolling Stone and National Enquirer.

 The event is sponsored by the Missouri Southern Campus Activities Board, which will also give away free “I Saw Eric Dittelman Live at MSSU” T-shirts to the first 100 Missouri Southern students who present a valid ID at the event.

 The Campus Activities Board is comprised of volunteer students who work throughout the school year with the Student Activities Office. CAB not only makes recommendations for what events to host on campus, but also helps to facilitate and advertise those events.

 The one-hour performance is free and open to the public. Accommodations related to a disability should be made to Landon Adams in the Student Activities Office at 417-625-9669 at least 72 hours prior to the events.

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Officials hope to turn Duquesne Elementary into community center

A report from KOAM's Kelly Reid KOAM TV 7

More accidents reported since new Joplin interchange opened

A KOAM report KOAM TV 7

Joplin City Council approves lease agreement for Joe Becker Stadium

A KOAM report KOAM TV 7

Video- MSSU students react to Gov. Nixon's tuition freeze proposal

A KOAM report KOAM TV 7

Video- Joplin Business Expo concludes

A KOAM report KOAM TV 7

Video- Joplin's new minor league owners to let fans name team

A KOAM report KOAM TV 7

Video- Barry Williams of Brady Bunch fame at Joplin Business Expo

Video- Joplin High School New Expressions Show Choir performs at Mt. Vernon

Thomas Jefferson brings Saturday gifted program for fifth, sixth graders

(From Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School)

Duke University’s DukeTIP Academic Adventures are open to students in 5th and 6th grades, and are comprised of one full day of intensive academic study, where students choose a topic not typically covered in school. 

The program offers hands-on learning experiences with motivated peers in an environment where creativity and critical thinking meet. 

Through a partnership between Duke TIP and Thomas Jefferson, your child has the opportunity to participate in a fascinating Academic Adventures on Saturdays throughout the year. Academic Adventures classes are designed to be true adventures, where students engage in learning, thinking, and creating. This enrichment program offers challenge and excitement for gifted students. 

 This opportunity is open to all current participants in the Duke TIP 4th/5th Grade Talent Search (currently enrolled in the 5th or 6th grade).

New Joplin police chief chosen

(From City of Joplin)

The City of Joplin is pleased to announce the appointment of Assistant Chief of Police Jason Burns to serve as the next police chief for the City of Joplin. Police Chief Lane Roberts announced his retirement on January 13 of this year.
Assistant Chief Burns has worked for the City of Joplin since 1996, starting out as Police Officer II and rising to the current rank of assistant chief. He has served as assistant chief since March 21, 2008.
City Manager Mark Rohr made the appointment earlier today. “I believe Jason can and will continue the high performance of the police department attained under Chief Roberts’ leadership. His level of professionalism is evident as we’ve seen during his tenure in the department.”
Roberts is pleased with this appointment, commenting “I ultimately believe that Jason will prove to be the best police chief in history. I am now leaving my position confident that the department is in good hands.”
Roberts’ last day with the City will be March 28, 2014. Burns will take over the position effective March 29, with an annual salary of $80,000.
For more information, contact Lynn Onstot, Public Information Officer, at 417-624-0820, ext. 204. To contact the Police Department about this announcement, please call 417-623-3131, ext. 696.

Brother Moses presentations at MSSU postponed until Jan. 28

(From Southern News Service)

Due to continued snowfall that has delayed flights in the Washington, D.C., area, the Wednesday evening and Thursday afternoon presentations by Martin Luther King Jr. authority and impersonator Greenfair “Brother” Moses III have been rescheduled.
“Let Freedom Ring” will be presented at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 28, in Cornell Auditorium, located in Plaster Hall. Brother Moses will deliver one of the most powerful speeches of all time. It was a speech that King labored over as he wondered whether or not to use the phrase “I have a dream.”
The presentation of “A Knock at Midnight” will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday in Cornell Auditorium. Brother Moses will present King’s sermon and will be joined by the MSSU Chamber Singers.
Both programs are free and open to the public.

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Newsmakers Video- Interview with Joplin Public Works Director Nick Heatherly

Let Freedom Ring presentation at MSSU postponed until Thursday

(From Southern News Service)

Due to inclement weather and flight cancellations in the Washington, D.C., area, the Wednesday afternoon presentation by Martin Luther King Jr. authority and impersonator Greenfair “Brother” Moses III has been rescheduled.
“Let Freedom Ring” will be presented at 1 p.m. Thursday in Corley Auditorium. Brother Moses will deliver one of the most powerful speeches of all time. It was a speech that King labored over as he wondered whether or not to use the phrase “I have a dream.”
A presentation of “A Knock at Midnight” is still planned for 7 p.m. Wednesday in Corley Auditorium. Brother Moses will present King’s sermon and will be joined by the MSSU Chamber Singers.
Both programs are free and open to the public.

MSSU campus pronounced OK following lockdown

(From Southern News Service)

Officials at Missouri Southern State University have announced that residence halls are secure after reports that a suspicious person had been seen on campus this afternoon.
A RAVE mobile alert was sent out at 2:43 p.m. warning that a suspicious person had been spotted in the field between the Mills H. Anderson Public Safety Center and the university’s residence halls.
Students reported that the person walked from the field toward the residence halls. Campus police were notified and conducted a search of the halls, which were locked down.
“The safety of our students is our utmost priority,” said Darren Fullerton, vice president for student affairs and enrollment management.  “Upon notification of a potential incident, the residence halls were locked down and a thorough search of each hall was completed by the university police department.”

Southern Theatre to present Escanada in Da Moonlight

(From Southern News Service)

 Southern Theatre will present “Escanaba in Da Moonlight” Tuesday, Jan. 28, through Saturday, Feb. 1, in the Bud Walton Theatre on the campus of Missouri Southern State University.  The play, written by Jeff Daniels, is directed by Tim Klein.
 When the Soady clan reunites for the opening day of deer season at the family's Upper Peninsula camp, 35-year-old Reuben Soady brings with him the infamous reputation of being the oldest Soady in family history never to bag a buck. In a hunting story to beat all hunting stories, “Escanaba in Da Moonlight” spins a hilarious tale of humor, horror and heart as Reuben goes to any and all lengths to remove himself from the wrong end of the family record book.
 The cast includes: Jackson Curtright as Remnar Soady; Shelly Keezer as Woolf Moon Dance; Moose Leighton as Jimmer Negamanee; Cameron Lopez as Ranger Tom T. Treado; Ryan Odenbrett as Reuben Soady; and Jon Sodoli as Albert Soady.
 Admission is free for MSSU students, faculty and staff; $3 for adults; $1 for  senior citizens; and $1 for non­-MSSU students.
 Please note, the play is for mature audiences only due to explicit language and adult situations.
 The Southern Theatre box office is open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. For reservations, call 417-625-3190.
 To purchase tickets online, go to: http://www.mssu.edu/ticket-office.

City encourages citizens to report potholes

(From the City of Joplin)

With extreme temperature fluctuations during this winter, City crews recognize the potential increase of potholes developing, and encourage citizens to contact us with locations of these as they see them. Potholes generally develop along roadways due to moisture and frequent temperature variations, making this time of year a prime time for these depressions to occur.
“Our streets are seeing a lot more volume and heavier loads due to the amount of construction work taking place throughout the city,” said Lynden Lawson, Assistant Director of Public Works for Operations “So we want our citizens to call us if they see a pothole so we can get it repaired quickly. Public safety is a top priority for the City of Joplin.”
Citizens can report potholes by going to the City’s website at www.joplinmo.org and clicking on bottom left tab, “Report a Concern” and following the prompts. New users will have to enter their email address and a password to take full advantage of the system. Or they may simply call 417-624-0820, ext. 564 to report the location of a pothole.
According to Lawson, potholes are a high priority in street maintenance, following signal repair, and missing stop signs. “In taking care of our city’s streets, it helps to have extra sets of eyes to let us know locations of potholes. Our City staff notifies us when they see them, and we appreciate our citizens contacting us if they see ways we can make improvements, such as fixing a pothole.”
If approaching a pothole, drivers are encouraged to slow down and pass the area carefully to avoid a severe impact to their vehicle. Please note the location, and when safely possible, contact the city staff using the methods noted in this release so the road repair can be made.

Minor league baseball returns to Joplin; City Council approves lease

A few moments ago, the Joplin City Council approved a lease with the WLD Suarez Group, which will bring minor league baseball back to Joplin for the first time in decades.

Last week, the council approved spending $4 million to refurbish Joe Becker Stadium for the El Paso Diablos, which team owners say will be renamed.

City of Joplin's quarterly newsletter is available

(From the City of Joplin)

City of Joplin residents recently received the January 2014 issue of “The Citizen”, the City’s quarterly newsletter in their mailboxes in the past few days.
This issue includes an article announcing the release of Joplin Pays It Forward, a book of essays on the lessons the community learned from the 2011 disaster. Residents may also be interested in the article announcing the exhibition of a local artist Thomas Hart Benton’s work at City Hall.
An article regarding the Joplin Housing Assistance Program (J-HAP) can be found on page 3 of January’s newsletter. J-HAP is a forgivable loan program created to help potential homeowners buy homes in the redevelopment area. The program is part of a plan to combat population loss and encourage population growth. More information on J-HAP and its qualifications can be found in the article.
Other articles include a highlight of children’s activities at the Joplin Public Library and an explanation of trash pickup procedures during periods of inclement weather.
The January 2014 newsletter is the first of the quarterly publication for 2014, with the next issue to be published in April. The newsletter is mailed to every household in the City of Joplin, as well as posted on the City’s website at www.joplinmo.org/pdf/citizen.
For more information or to submit ideas for upcoming articles, contact Lynn Onstot, Public Information Officer, at 417-624-0820, ext. 204.

Monday, January 20, 2014

Sunday, January 19, 2014

Joplin Police DWI Arrests- January 13-17

The Joplin Poilce Department arrested the following people for DWI or DUI during the past week:

Matthew Dylan Hoffman, 32, Joplin
Dawn Marie Chaney, 46, Alba
Byron Burge, 47, Springfield
Brent Hensley, 27, Joplin, DUI, drugs
Dustin Matthew Storm, 31, Joplin

Neosho man charged with DWI after one-car accident near Joplin

Joshua E. Kinkade, 32, Neosho, was arrested for driving while intoxicated, careless and imprudent driving, and for not wearing a seatbelt following a one-car accident 10:15 p.m.Saturday on Dutch Elm Drive, two miles south of Joplin.

According to the Highway Patrol report, Kinkade, heading southbound in his 1999 Chevrolet, ran off the road and struck a tree.

Kinkade and a passenger in his car, Tara L. Hogan, 29, Seneca, were taken to Freeman West Hospital, where they were treated for minor injuries.

Joplin Police looking for armed robbery suspect

A KOAM report KOAM TV 7

Friday, January 17, 2014

City presents proclamation to FEMA administrator for Joplin Tornado help

A KSN report

MODOT discusses proposal for new Joplin overpass project

A KODE report

Video- El Vaquero, destroyed by Joplin Tornado, reopens

A KODE report

Video- Corvette added to Joplin mural

Video- Students take center stage at Irving Elementary ribbon cutting

KOAM TV 7

VIdeo- FEMA official speaks at Irving Elementary ribbon cutting

A Jet 14 video

Video- Principal gives a tour of Soaring Heights Elementary

A Jet 14 video

Video- C. J. Huff at Irving Elementary ribbon cutting: Mission accomplished!

Video- Webb City R-7 update with Superintendent Anthony Rossetti

Video- Joplin R-8 Board President Jeff Flowers speaks at Irving Elementary ribbon cutting

A Jet 14 video

Video- Danny Thomas speaks at Irving Elementary ribbon cutting

From Jet 14

TJ students receive national recognition in Noetic Math Contest

(From Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School)

Congratulations to the TJ students who received national recognition in the 2014 Spring Noetic Math Contest. The contest is a biannual math challenge for elementary students, and the goal is to encourage young students' interest in math as they develop their problem solving skills. 
 During the contest, students were given 45 minutes to solve 20 problems that covered a broad range of math skills including computation and number properties, algebra, geometry, probability, and statistics.

 The TJ students competed against more than 19,000 other students from 368 public and private schools nationwide. This program provides challenge beyond regular school curriculum, strengthens creative problem solving, and logical reasoning skills, further develops students' intellect in math, and helps students excel in math.

5th graders earning recognition are: Samaya Badrieh and Owen D’Amour (tied for 1st , 2nd & 3rdfrom left), Sonia Carlson (2nd Place, left), and Johanna “JoJo” Jeyaraj & Matthias Laureyn (tied for 3rd Place, 3rd& 4th from left).  Killian Helms (not pictured) and Dylan Kumbani (left) also earned national honorable mention.











4h graders earning recognition are: A.J. Jenkins (1st place, 4th from left), Luke Miller (2nd place, left), and Shrihari Nagarajan (3rd place, 3rd from left).  Dev Bhatt (center) and Alea Davis (2ndfrom left) also earned national honorable mention, and A.J. Jenkins made the National Honor Roll.

Nine Thomas Jefferson students selected for Kansas City Chinese Speech Competition finals

(From Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School)

Nine TJ students were notified yesterday that they were selected to compete in the final round of the Kansas City Chinese Speech Competition on Sunday.

Division I-A: 5th graders Sonia Carlson and Johanna Jeyaraj. Division II-A: 6th graders Savannah Dillard and Bella Scutti, and 7th graders Hallah Butcher, Hannah Triplett, and Haaris Rehman. Division III-B: 9th gradersJasmine Butcher and Hannah Mueller.

Students in Ms. Gao’s 5th, 6th, 8th, and 9th grade Chinese classes prepared and practiced giving a speech in Chinese (from memory). The students submitted videos of their performance, and contest officials viewed and judged the entries this week. The regional Chinese speech competition is presented by several organizations including the Confucius Institute at the University of Kansas, and the University of Missouri at Kansas City. At last year’s competition, TJ students earned 1st place in the High School division, and 1st and 3rd place in the Middle School divisions.

Changes made on Missouri Southern Board of Governors

(From Southern News Service)

Richard Walter marked the end of his term on the Missouri Southern State University Board of Governors during the board meeting held Friday, Jan. 17.

Walter, of Webb City, had retired in 2005 as a district engineer with the Missouri Department of Transportation. He was appointed to the eight-member board by Gov. Matt Blunt in November 2007. His term expired on Aug. 30, 2013, but he continued to serve on the board until his replacement was announced.

Having served three terms as vice chair before serving as the board’s chairman, Walter was replaced by Tracy Combs Flanigan, who was appointed to the board earlier this month by Gov. Jay Nixon.

“It was very educational and enjoyable,” Walter said of his term on the Board of Governors. “I feel blessed and honored to have been associated with the university and the board.”

Walter will continue to serve as co-chair of the presidential search committee.

Lynn Ewing, the board’s vice chair, will serve as acting chair until the board holds an election, which is expected to take place in February.

“I’m pleased that Richard Walter has agreed to continue to serve on the presidential search committee,” said Ewing. “I’ll miss his work on the board. He was always willing to ask the hard questions.

“On behalf of the board, I’d like to welcome Tracy Combs Flanigan. We’re looking forward to working with her.”

Flanigan, a Carthage resident, operates a private practice in Carthage and Fort Worth, Texas. She serves as outside legal counsel to the Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railway Co., and previously as assistant general counsel for the company.

Her term on the Board of Governors will end on Aug. 30, 2019.

MSSU Board of Governors gives formal charge to Presidential Search Committee

(From Southern News Service)

The 12 members of the committee that will guide the search for the next president at Missouri Southern State University received their formal charge during the university’s Board of Governors meeting on Friday, Jan. 16.

Members of the committee, which is co-chaired by Board of Governors member Dr. Sherry Buchanan and former board member Richard Walter, are:

· Aaron Baker, Rogers, Ark., representing MSSU alumni.

· Rob O’Brian, Joplin, representing the community.

· Chris D. Churchwell, Joplin, representing the Missouri Southern Foundation.

· Doug Crandall, Joplin, representing the community.

· Judy Day, Neosho, representing the community.

· Mike Wilson, Joplin, representing the Lionbackers.

· Raymond Dunaway, Galena, Kan., representing the MSSU student body.

· Dr. Joy Dworkin, Joplin, representing the MSSU faculty.

· Darren Fullerton, Joplin, representing the MSSU administration.

· Alicia Hughes, Joplin, representing the MSSU staff.

· Dr. Charles McGinty, Joplin, representing the community.

· Dr. Chad Stebbins, Joplin, representing the MSSU faculty.

“The charge from the Board of Governors authorizes the committee to perform the task of finding the next president,” said Buchanan. “We’ll have our first meeting in February to discuss how we want to go about the search, the type of person we want to find and the process we should use.”

The presidential search committee is scheduled to meet from 3 to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 4, in Room 356 of Billingsly Student Center.

MSSU athletes to help Children's Haven move to new location

(From Southern News Service)

Following the annual MLK Breakfast on Monday, Jan. 20, at Missouri Southern State University, a group of student athletes will offer their time to help a local organization make a big transition.
About 50 student athletes and coaches will gather at 9:30 a.m. at Children’s Haven, 701 S. Picher Ave., to help the shelter – which temporarily houses children and teens in times of family crisis – move into a new, larger home that has been built next door.
The 14,202-square-foot house will double the organization’s amount of space as well as the number of children that can be served – from 12 to 24 at a time. It includes a family visiting room, intake office, a wellness room, a nursery and a separate living room for teens. The basement includes a safe room that doubles as an activity area for kids.
“Children’s Haven’s new house has been made possible by support from the community,” said Stephanie Theis, executive director. “For Missouri Southern to be here to help us move further shows this community’s commitment to make what we do possible.”
Kelly Wilson, director of Advising, Counseling & Testing Services at Missouri Southern, is coordinating the service project and says it fits perfectly with Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which has become a national day of service.
“It’s known as a day on, not a day off,” said Wilson.