Stories for January 2011

Blizzard warning for Mid-Missouri

Heavy snow expected Tuesday, into Wednesday

The National Weather Service (NWS) predicts a dangerous blizzard, with freezing drizzle overnight turning into heavy snow on Tuesday, will hit much of Missouri.

OUR OPINION: Embrace smoking ban as a change for the better

A change in Jefferson City effective today will be deemed significant by some residents and will pass unnoticed by others.

Small resigns as NB superintendent

More than four months after he was placed on paid administrative leave by the New Bloomfield R-3 School District Board of Education, Christopher Small has resigned as superintendent of the district.

JC smoking ban takes effect Monday

Businesses in Jefferson City will be smoke-free starting Monday.

No maintenance for county roads not in system

Callaway County residents of private subdivisions with roads that are not part of the county’s road system must make arrangements for their own road maintenance, including snow plowing.

School board races generate plethora of candidates

All four school board races in Callaway County will be a contest this year, with at least one more candidate than there are open positions on each board for the April 5 election.

Kaufman steps in as new Auxvasse fire chief

After serving as interim fire chief with the Auxvasse Fire Department since November of 2009, Nicholas Kaufman will now serve as full fire chief for the department.

Maylee case continued

A triple-homicide suspect in Callaway County had a hearing on Friday.

Hornets falter late in Boonville loss

Perhaps it was after a jump shot from Boonville junior guard Jason Luster rattled off every part of the rim and fell through the hoop that the momentum swung and stayed with the Pirates in Friday night’s game against the Fulton Hornets.

Hornets, Bulldogs to show off rivalry at Mizzou Arena

During a press conference last Wednesday promoting today’s MFA Oil/Break Time Shootout, Mexico Bulldogs head coach Brennan Scanlon made it known how big of an honor it was to be playing in the annual mid-Missouri prep basketball showcase.

No. 23 Columbia College roughs up No. 14 Lady Owls 71-55

The No. 14 William Woods University Lady Owls watched their eight-game winning streak come to a stunning stop in a 71-55 AMC loss to No. 23 Columbia College on Saturday at Anderson Arena.

Chamber leaders urge members to unite

As members gathered in their best 1950’s attire for the 2011 Kingdom of Callaway Chamber of Commerce annual banquet at the Auto World Museum Friday night, leaders of the organization made the focus of the event a continued message to work together.

Calls not from sheriff’s association

Recent calls from a group claiming to be a part of the sheriff’s department attempting to solicit donations have angered residents.

MSD students seek support for trip to national science fair in NY

Mitchell Simmons Jr. and Courtney McCarty will experience their first airplane flight in March, as long as they are able to raise the required funds.

Commission creates county human resources agency

In a few weeks, Callaway County will have a newly organized Human Resources Department to deal with personnel issues involving the county’s 160 employees.

Lady Hornets stumble in Boonville loss

The Fulton Lady Hornets’ trigger fingers betrayed them in a big way.

No. 14 Lady Owls stretch winning streak to eight

William Woods University senior forward Rachel Baker responded with 18 points Thursday night to help send the No. 14 Lady Owls to a 77-60 American Midwest Conference victory over Missouri Baptist University.

City debates future of Wren building

In the year since the Fulton City Council declared the old Wren Building to be surplus property, the city has struggled to generate interest in it.

Auxvasse appoints fire chief, commission members

Mayor Kevin Phares appointed Nicholas Kaufman as fire chief at Tuesday evening’s Auxvasse City Council meeting. Kaufman has been serving as interim fire chief since November of 2009 when the previous fire chief, Jeff Lindsey, stepped down and moved out of state.

Three students produce short film ‘Young and Reckless’

When Jason Knowles came aboard the William Woods University staff last fall, his goal was to revamp the film production school at the university.

Hornets’ 1981 state champion wrestling, track teams to join Wall

The Fulton Hornets found 1981 to be a prosperous year.

Third-quarter slide sinks Lady Wildcats

There couldn’t have been more of an offensive contrast between the New Bloomfield Lady Wildcats and the Sturgeon Lady Bulldogs.

FPS drops early release in February

After having already missed five full school days due to weather this year, Fulton Public Schools officials have decided not to do early-release Wednesdays in February.

Our Opinion: Awash in horrifying side effects

Side effects may include hallucinations, paranoia, rapid heart rates, self-mutilation, suicidal thoughts and death by poisoning. Sound appealing?

Council OKs long-term gas purchase

In an effort to keep residential customers’ rates steady, the Fulton City council voted to commit to purchasing 50 percent of its natural gas for the next five years during its regular meeting Tuesday night.

‘Mad Hungarian’ shares tales of baseball and life with WWU students

While his arm made Al Hrabosky one of the most effective relievers in Major League Baseball in the ‘70s, his on-diamond antics and Fu Manchu mustache helped make him famous.

Fulton schools prepare for safety upgrades

Fulton Public Schools soon will be taking big steps toward improving student safety as the next round of bond-funded construction begins in the next few weeks, including more secure entrances at the high school and middle school and new cameras district-wide.

T-Birds squander late lead in Russellville loss

The North Callaway Thunderbirds allowed an eight-point, fourth-quarter lead to slip out of their grasp in a 45-42 loss to the Russellville Indians on Tuesday night.

Local unemployed on roller coaster ride

Figures for 2010 show Callaway County’s jobless rate was on a roller coaster ride throughout the last year and it’s creeping back up.

CEC endorses Nuclear Plant bill

Members of the board of directors of Callaway Electric Cooperative have approved a resolution supporting passage of proposed state legislation for a second reactor at the Callaway Nuclear Plant.

Fulton’s McBride among those recognized for MLK dedication

Jack McBride of Fulton has been on the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Statewide Celebration Commission of Missouri since 1993.

Prosecutor’s office welcomes new attorney

There has been a new face making regular appearances at the Callaway County Courthouse over the past two weeks.

HS man pled guilty to bank robbery

A Holts Summit man has pled guilty to a charge of first-degree robbery in connection with a bank robbery in Holts Summit last October.

New Bloomfield man charged with possession of a controlled substance

A New Bloomfield man has been charged in connection with a drug bust that took place earlier this month in Jefferson City.

Amphitheater construction planned at Greenway Park in Holts Summit

The Board of Aldermen Monday night discussed construction of a new amphitheater as part of an overall plan to upgrade the city’s Greenway Park.

SoCal teaches life skill in bowling

On Wednesday, a group of high school students from South Callaway descended upon Fulton — to bowl. The students were knocking down pins at the Fulton Bowling Center. The unit was part of the school’s physical education and lifetime sports classes.

Hornets prevail in Jim Wallace Classic

The timing couldn’t have been more right for the state-ranked Fulton Hornets wrestling team to win its own tournament for the first time.

William Woods women cruise past Stephens

The No. 14 ranked Lady Owls ran their American Midwest Conference record to 6-0 and 19-1 overall witha 75-41 victory over Stephens College on Saturday afternoon. It was the team's seventh straight win.

Carnahan speaks at women’s exhibit

Jean Carnahan has done many things — first lady of Missouri while husband Mel was Governor, speaker, author, historian and she was Missouri’s first female senator.

Solar energy farm eyes Callaway

A 100-acre solar energy farm may be coming to Callaway County.

NoCal school board braves weather to conduct business

Though school was canceled Thursday, the North Callaway School Board still held a brief session Thursday evening.

Luetkemeyer wants new health care reform

Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer has voted for a resolution directing U.S. House committees to develop a new health-care legislation.

Crusaders demolish Hornets in 64-36 runaway

“Helias has a lot of good shooters and I think if we can contest every shot and find those shooters, we’ll have a chance to win.”

No. 14 Lady Owls remain perfect in AMC

Senior forward Rachel Baker tallied 18 points Thursday night as the No. 14 William Woods University Lady Owls remained unbeaten in the AMC with a 64-54 win over Park University at Anderson Arena.

Petition to repeal smoking ordinance lacks support

A petition to repeal Fulton’s new indoor smoking ban failed to gather the nearly 800 signatures needed to place the issue back before local voters in April.

OUR OPINION: Detailed accounting of state job cuts needed

Not again. In his State of the State address Wednesday, Gov. Jay Nixon announced an additional, unspecified 800 job cuts for state employees.

Winter weather advisory canceled

UPDATE: The Winter Weather Advisory for Central Missouri has been canceled.

Firemen battle rural residential blaze

A fireman keeps flames away from a nearby propane tank after a rural residence caught fire at 2:30 p.m. Thursday.

NB board studies ways to monitor student success

The R3 School Board Thursday night began discussing ways to monitor and improve student achievement.

Chamber banquet set Jan. 28

The annual Kingdom of Callaway Chamber of Commerce banquet will see a change of venue this year.

Mid-Mo. lawmakers reflect on Nixon address

Gov. Jay Nixon’s third State of the State address generated mixed reactions from Mid-Missouri’s 10 lawmakers.

NoCal senior accepts scholarship to Amherst

Austin Govero’s dream of becoming a doctor took a step closer to reality recently — a big step.

Davis to enter MHSBCA Hall of Fame

Monday, Jan. 3, was a memorable day in the life of Darrell Davis.

Hornets try to get act together, starting tonight vs. Helias

There’s no panic right now in the camp of the Fulton Hornets basketball team. Just 13 games in, there is ample time to attain the goals of the season — a North Central Missouri Conference championship followed by a district title.

Blue Jays’ shooting hardships play factor in first SLIAC loss

The Westminster College Blue Jays were off the mark in experiencing their first SLIAC loss of the season.

County hit with deep snowfall

Snow began to fall in Callaway County about 4:30 p.m. Wednesday and when Callaway County residents woke up Thursday morning they found from 7-9 inches of snow had fallen during the night.

High school teacher’s book serves as tribute to Midwest

Justin Hamm has lived in the Midwest his whole life.

Weather leads to postponement of senior citizen prom

It may not happen this weekend, but sometime in the near future the North Callaway FFA has a date with area senior citizens.

Our Opinion: Volunteers advocate for children

Who speaks for the children? In the case of children navigating the labyrinth of the judiciary, 11 adult advocates recently were authorized by Cole County’s court system to advance a child’s best interests.

Our Opinion: Ground governor's flight policy

We urge lawmakers to pursue efforts to bring Gov. Jay Nixon’s flight plans down to Earth.

Weather closes Callaway schools today

As a snow storm moved through the area late Wednesday Fulton Public Schools, North Callaway R-I, South Callaway R-II and New Bloomfield R-III all called off classes for today by 8:30 p.m. because of hazardous road conditions.

Race for Fulton mayor tops filings for city offices in county

When the filing deadline for the April 5 city elections in Callaway County ended Tuesday, a race for mayor emerged in Fulton, and no one filed for one alderman position in Holts Summit.

Gov. proposes smaller state budget

Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon proposed flat funding for public schools and cuts to colleges Wednesday while acknowledging during his annual State of the State speech that “times are tough” and even small job gains are cause for celebration.

Residents can help keep hydrants clear of snow

The ability to find a hydrant in a time of emergency is essential to the duties of a Fulton firefighter. When snow is forecasted, keeping hydrants clear is important for city residents.

Bulldogs fend off Eagles, win third straight

South Callaway first-year head coach Tony Brandt believes his Bulldogs are beginning to show a better understanding of his system.

Fulton educators train for potential intruders

The first time, we sat in the dark, crouched in corners, hiding behind desks and under tables, locked in closets, listening to the yelling and the blasts in the classroom next door, wondering whether we would be next or if the shooter would move on further down the hall calling out names, trying to find his intended victims.

Snow expected to taper off this afternoon

Snow continues to accumulate around much of Missouri, with an additional one to three inches expected before tapering off to flurries from northwest to southeast Missouri this afternoon.

School Closings and Cancellations for Thursday, Jan. 20

School closings and other cancellations for Thursday, Jan. 20, 2011 are posted here.

Our Opinion: Lawmakers burn public with exemption

Smoking remains on the list of rules that apply to almost everyone except elected lawmakers.

Commission speaks on state of the county

As Missourians prepare to hear from Gov. Jay Nixon regarding the state of the state tonight, the Callaway County Commission took time Tuesday to offer a similar assessment of the county’s status as it heads into 2011.

Fulton passes on speed enforecement photos

The Fulton Traffic Commission decided Tuesday to drop a proposal to use photos to enforce speed limits in Fulton.

Kritzer blasts CAMPO as unfair to Callaway County

Callaway County Western District Commissioner Doc Kritzer sharply criticized the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO) Tuesday before he was re-appointed by the commission as the county’s CAMPO representative.

Fraternity creates ‘Brothers for Others’ to contribute to community

“Excellence is our aim” is Kappa Alpha Order’s motto, and the fraternity is trying to put this into action by starting an outreach program called Brothers for Others.

No. 2 Hornets rebound, smother Hickman

The state-ranked Fulton Hornets wrestling team was resolute in regrouping after its first dual loss of the season.

North Callaway student killed in bus accident

An accident with a North Callaway R-I school bus resulted in the death of a student Tuesday afternoon.

OUR OPINION: Restrictions on meth create illicit industry

Efforts to choke the supply of a meth ingredient have created a new criminal cottage industry.

Oprah grants Fulton couple ‘trip of a lifetime’

It was an unexpected dream vacation.

SoCal talks late starts, state funding

The South Callaway School Board recently discussed the option of late starts during times of inclement weather.

Four people injured in weekend accidents

Four people were injured in two weekend accidents in Callaway County.

Lady T-Birds end South Callaway tourney with a win

The Lady Birds won their second straight game and ended the South Callaway Tournament on a good note with a 55-34 win over New Bloomfield on Saturday afternoon at South Callaway High School.

Ameren Mo. defends EPA charges

Fear that the Obama Administration will use its regulatory muscle against coal-fired power plants has pushed rural electric cooperatives and city-owned power plants around Missouri to team up with Ameren Missouri in seeking an early site permit for a second nuclear reactor at the Callaway Nuclear Power Plant.

Bike bridge picks up speed

It may not look like a bridge right now, but that soon will not be the case for the pedestrian and bike path on the Missouri River bridge.

Fulton accident leads to arrest

An accident that tied up traffic in Fulton Thursday afternoon resulted in the arrest of one of the drivers involved in the collision.

Shooting touch abandons Wildcats in semifinal loss

It would have been pointless for New Bloomfield head coach Tyler Clark to make much of a fuss over a foul-shooting disparity between his Wildcats and their opponents, the New Haven Shamrocks, in the semifinals of the South Callaway Tournament on Friday night.

Lady Hornets have ‘some fun,’ take seventh at California

The Fulton Lady Hornets ended a rough week at the 17th-annual California Tournament by finding a way to enjoy themselves.

State tax notification change prompts taxpayer criticism

The Nixon Administration’s decision to shift the Department of Revenue’s 1099-G tax notification from a letter to a postcard has attracted taxpayer criticism.

Swingin' for SERVE

Organization to host fundraising dance competition

“To watch us dance is to hear our hearts speak.” —Hopi Indian Saying SERVE, Inc. is searching for 20 pairs of Callaway residents who are willing to speak with their hearts — and their feet —on behalf of the service organization.

Portable heater sparks house fire

Nyle Beatty stood with one of his dogs watching firefighters work to extinguish flames at his home Friday morning after some wood in front of his portable heater caught on fire.

Local attorney appointed as New Bloomfield judge

Fulton attorney Casey L. Clevenger was hired Thursday night as the new Municipal Court judge for the City of New Bloomfield.

Fulton schools review financial status, future

The Fulton School Board was updated on the district’s current fiscal status and budget outlook during Wednesday night’s regular meeting.

Blattner tries hand at new store

John Blattner of Fulton believes in the old business axiom of finding a niche and filling it.

Access Mo. scholarships to increase

Rather than the cuts proposed in previous years, Missouri students at private colleges and universities this year can expect small increases in annual Access Missouri scholarships.

Westminster to make holiday a learning experience

Callaway County students may be out of school in observation of Martin Luther King Day on Monday, but Westminster College still is hoping to make it a day of learning.

$688,000 contract let on bridge near Mokane

Construction is expected to be completed this year for improvements on the Auxvasse Creek Bridge near Mokane on Missouri 94 in Callaway County.

Lady Wildcats find scoring scarce in first-round loss

The score spoke for itself and the effort was on full display, but New Bloomfield Lady Wildcats head coach Brett Craighead felt the need to shoot from the hip on his team’s performance against the New Haven Lady Shamrocks.

Lady Hornets fall hard in consolation semis

The Fulton Lady Hornets committed almost as many turnovers (31) as shots attempted (33) in Thursday night’s 72-40 loss to Kansas City Central in the consolation semifinals of the 17th-annual California Tournament.

Baker, No. 14 Lady Owls overpower Hannibal-LaGrange 73-61

Senior forward Rachel Baker delivered a game-high 20 points and the No. 14 William Woods University Lady Owls shot 60 percent in Thursday night’s 73-61 AMC victory over Hannibal-LaGrange University at Anderson Arena.

SoCal Tournament postponed three days, but still on

Weather has been a major concern in the area for the last several days. Schools have been out of session and athletic events canceled — including the annual South Callaway Basketball Tournament.

Dog alerts deaf owner, saves her from fire

Teresa Jackson wondered what had gotten into her chihuahua Saturday morning when the dog suddenly started running back and forth and barking excitedly.

Woman indicted in two bank robberies

A federal grand jury Thursday indicted a Jefferson City woman on two counts of bank robbery and, in a separate indictment, charged three men with conspiracy to distribute cocaine and marijuana in Boone, Callaway and Cooper counties.

Our Opinion: Follow sensible procedures for dome access

We urge lawmakers who recently received keys accessing the upper reaches of the Capitol dome to adhere to recommended policies and procedures.

Our Opinion: 'Rebooting' initiative yields bold ideas

“Rebooting Government” is the catchy title of a Senate initiative to solicit ideas to streamline structure and cut costs. But is this simply a feel-good exercise to mollify the public while state services are being cut? Or is government embracing people’s ideas and taking action?

New chamber president hopes to expand broadband, businesses

The office of Kingdom of Callaway Chamber of Commerce board president will change hands for the new year with Stan Crawford stepping into the role.

Countdown to relay begins

The kickoff for the 2011 Relay for Life of Callaway County is being held at 6 p.m. on Jan. 18 at the Callaway Electric Co-op, and event organizers are hoping for a good turnout and a strong start for the annual fundraiser.

Auxvasse may soon boast a Dollar General

Construction may soon begin on a proposed Dollar General store on the east side of Auxvasse.

Fulton man charged in Checker Cab robbery

Cole County Judge Jon Beetem sentenced a Fulton man Wednesday after he pleaded guilty to the robbery of a Checker Cab driver in April 2010.

Auxvasse water, sewer rates to rise

Households in Auxvasse will see a cost increase on their next water and sewer bills because of a rate hike that was approved at Tuesday’s board of aldermen meeting.

Hornets use fast start to reach California semifinals

An outburst at the outset helped put the Fulton Hornets back on track.

Fulton club wins own 28th Wrestling Classic

Featuring 17 individual champions, the Fulton Parks and Rec Wrestling Club captured the team title in its own 28th-annual Fulton Wrestling Classic last Saturday at Fulton High School’s Roger D. Davis Gymnasium.

Tax value of some vehicles increased in 2010

Some Callaway County taxpayers who paid their county personal property taxes recently were upset to learn that their tax assessment on some used truck and sport utility vehicles increased in 2010.

Pets need extra care in winter weather

With windchills in the negative digits this week, staying indoors is at the top of many people’s lists to stay warm, but some may forget about key members of the family — pets.

Fulton considers late start snow days

Only three weeks into winter Fulton Public Schools already have used three snow days — two this week — due to dangerous road conditions and extreme temperatures.

School and other weather-related announcements for Thursday, Jan. 13, 2011

School and other weather-related announcements for Thursday, Jan. 13, 2011, include the following.

Fulton, county schools close for second day

A four-inch snowstorm Monday accompanied by gusty winds forced cancellation of classes Tuesday and Wednesday in Fulton and other Callaway County public schools.

First Callaway baby of the year born Jan. 6

Callaway’s first new citizen of the year has made an appearance.

Snow covered roadways cause accidents, few injuries in Callaway

Five people died on Missouri roads from winter weather on Monday, but none were in Callaway County.

Tea party group to host Qur’an talk

The Callaway Patriots Tea Party is hoping a special guest speaker can help better educate area residents about Islam.

Fulton squads look to start tourney tonight

After postponements the past two nights because of snow, the Fulton Hornets and Lady Hornets basketball teams are scheduled to play their first-round games tonight at the California Tournament.

New snow policy reduces complaint calls

Callaway County has adopted a new snow clearing policy that was successful in reducing calls from residents complaining about slick roads.

School Closings and Cancellations for Wednesday, Jan. 12

School closings and other cancellations for Wed., Jan. 12, 2011, are posted here.

OUR OPINION: Explanation preferable to revision

In approaching American literary classics, explanation is preferable to revision. We believe removing certain language in new versions of two Mark Twain novels is misguided, although we understand the reasoning.

43 jobs to be saved at Fulton State Hospital

Marty Martin-Forman, chief operating officer of Fulton Sate Hospital, said Monday she is overjoyed to learn that more state jobs have been moved to the Fulton hospital, partially offsetting planned job losses.

Mo. gov. spares man whose execution was imminent

Missouri’s governor decided to spare a convicted murderer’s life Monday, a little more than a day before the man was scheduled to die by injection for a 1994 killing.

UW set to reach goal end of Feb

The Annual Callaway County United Way Fundraising Campaign is wrapping up and United Way officials are pleased with the results so far.

Snow causes early school dismissal, several car accidents

With the onset of heavy snow Monday came numerous car accidents.

Iberia’s late binge takes down Bulldogs

Iberia scored eight unanswered points during a 30-second span late in the fourth quarter last Friday night and rallied to edge the South Callaway Bulldogs 67-65.

No. 13 Lady Owls build big first-half lead, bury Harris-Stowe

The No. 13 William Woods University Lady Owls crafted a commanding 25-point halftime lead in rolling to an 86-49 AMC romp over Harris-Stowe State University on Saturday.

School Closings and Cancellations for Tuesday, Jan. 11

School closings and other cancellations for Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2011 are posted here.

Riddle offers bill to foster nuclear power site permit

Rep. Jeanie Riddle, R-Mokane, has introduced legislation that allows Ameren Missouri to recover costs of obtaining an early site permit for a second reactor at the Callaway Nuclear Power Plant.

Twain tweeking receives mixed reaction in Callaway

Even though Mark Twain warned that “persons attempting to find a motive in this narrative will be prosecuted,” in his book “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,” readers have found both motive and controversy.

Hornets fall in overtime at Moberly

Fulton Hornets senior guard Anthony Porter hit six 3-pointers on Friday night but none were more important than his final one.

Fulton police arrest two after drug deal

Two Fulton men are behind bars after Fulton Police got a tip that the men were participating in a drug deal on Tuesday night.

Fulton woman wins $25,000 in lottery game

Teresa White of Fulton started the new year with extra money after winning $25,000 in a Missouri Lottery Club Keno game she played on New Year’s Day.

Murder suspect arraigned

FULTON — Sandra Plunkett appeared Friday at the Callaway County Courthouse for her arraignment on the first-degree murder charge of killing her husband, Paul Plunkett.

County budget includes pay raises

The Callaway County Commission Thursday afternoon completed preliminary action on the county’s 2011 budget that grants 3 percent pay raises to all county employees.

Local businesses use Facebook to gather clients, increase traffic

Lydia Schuster believes in Facebook.

Wife to be arraigned today on murder charges

The first court appearance for a Holts Summit woman accused of killing her husband, a former Jefferson City police officer, is scheduled for this morning at the Callaway County Courthouse in Fulton.

Women’s Ministries opens doors for weekly public prayers, classes

Women looking for help through prayer now have a new place to turn.

Jean Carnahan to open exhibit at Westminster

As a former Missouri first lady and the first Missouri woman to serve in the United States Senate, Jean Carnahan is considered an important and influential woman in her own right.

KC Country to host family nights

“Gotta dance!” Event organizers at KC Country are hoping Fred Astaire’s refrain from the movie “Singing in the Rain” soon will become the chorus for area families on weekends.

Fulton man injured when car overturns

Ronald L. Smith, 69, Fulton, was injured seriously Tuesday when his car hit an icy patch on Route C and overturned.

New personal property tax forms in the mail

Newly redesigned 2011 personal property tax assessment forms were mailed Tuesday to Callaway County residents.

Westminster women still unbeaten in league play after win over MacMurray

The Blue Jays improved to 3-0 in the St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference with an 83-65 road win over MacMurray College on Tuesday night. Westminster is now 6-5 overall and 3-0 in the SLIAC.

Our Opinion: Federal agency's lobbying inappropriate

Is it appropriate for a tax-funded federal agency essentially to lobby the public about congressional action on federal health care? You be the judge.

Commission plans to complete county budget by end of week

Gary Jungermann, the newly-elected Callaway County presiding commissioner, set a goal Tuesday of completing work on the county’s 2011 budget by the end of this week.

Latham not to run for second term

After four years at the helm of Fulton’s City Council, Mayor Charles Latham has decided not to seek another term in office this April.

Mo. schools due $255M but unlikely to get it

Missouri schools are due a nearly $255 million state funding increase next year. But they’re unlikely to get it.

Flu reports below normal this year

With the holiday season just completed, the flu season is ready to begin.

Our Opinion: Help shape a safer U.S. 54

Don’t miss the opportunity to share your experiences and help shape profound public safety improvements.

Murder suspect's nursing license recently revoked

The state recently revoked Sandra Plunkett’s nursing license for “gross negligence” during a night shift at St. Mary’s Health Center.

Wife charged with killing husband

Holts Summit woman arrested during interrogation

Sandra Plunkett, 37, was charged Tuesday with first-degree murder in the New Year’s Day shooting death of her husband, retired Jefferson City police officer Paul Plunkett.

Wife arrested in husband's fatal shooting

Holts Summit police on Tuesday arrested Sandra Plunkett, 37, in the fatal shooting of her husband, Paul Plunkett, on New Year’s Day.

OUR OPINION: Flu bug creeps onto health care radar

The flu bug no longer is flying under the radar. Confirmed cases of the seasonal virus have been sporadic thus far, but health officials warn the flu reaches its zenith in January and February.

Weekend nets five impaired driver arrests

Callaway County escaped the New Year’s weekend with no fatal accidents and five impaired driver arrests.

Library to launch new eBook system

As sales of digital readers such as the Nook and the Kindle continue to soar, the Daniel Boone Regional Library is preparing to meet this new literary demand.

Former Auxvasse man authors first book

Phil Mills Jr. first came up with the idea to write a book after an incident as a junior at Auxvasse High School.

New Bloomfield wins at South Callaway soundly

A 12-9 halftime lead almost guarantees that a a close game was in store between the New Bloomfield and the South Callaway, right? Not on this night.

JCPD saddened by death of former officer

The Jefferson City Police Department on Monday mourned the loss of retired officer Paul Plunkett, who was fatally shot at his home on Saturday, saying it is “deeply saddened” by his death.

Two Holts Summit men arrested after separate high-speed chases

Two Holts Summit men were arrested during the weekend after they were involved in separate high-speed chases by area law enforcement officers.

Second suspect of burglary turns himself in

The second suspect in the burglary attempt on Finally Tammy’s turned himself in at about 1 p.m. Sunday to authorities at Callaway County Jail, Fulton police reported.

WWU $11.7 million expansion to include new visitor center

William Woods University in Fulton plans to convert the current presidential home on the campus to an alumni and visitor center after President Jahnae H. Barnett retires.

University students jump in to help inmates turn jeans to quilts

When Cory Harlan toured the Jefferson City Correctional Center with his Intro to Criminal Justice class, what he saw sparked an idea.

New alert system called 15,000 phones

For the first time, Callaway County’s Emergency Management Center (EOC) Friday morning activated its countywide system providing automated telephone calls informing all county homes and businesses of a tornado watch.

Holts Summit murder investigation continues

Victim was retired Jefferson City police officer

Authorities on Sunday continued to follow leads in the apparent homicide of Holts Summit resident Paul Plunkett.

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