During the afternoon/evening hours of October 9^th, 2026, Franklin County Detectives applied for and executed search warrants for the vehicle and devices the suspect was found to be in possession of at the time of the traffic stop initiated by Sullivan Police Officers. After conducting necessary interviews and collecting evidence, the case was presented to the Franklin County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review.  A felony NO BOND warrant was obtained charging the suspect identified as Christopher Stamel a 39-year-old white male from the Labadie, MO area with Terroristic Threats in the 1^st degree.  

I want to thank not only the Sheriff’s Office personnel but also law enforcement agencies and out school officials across Franklin County for assisting in a fast-paced investigation and bringing the incident to a successful conclusion.

For two years, East Central College President Dr. Jon Bauer helped bring the needs of rural colleges and their students to the national stage as chair of the Rural Community College Alliance’s board of directors.

Bauer recently completed his term leading the national organization, which advocates for rural community colleges. He will continue serving on its board, a position he has held since 2020.

His term concluded during RCCA’s annual conference, held Sept. 16-18 at Northwest Mississippi Community College in Senatobia, Mississippi, where he received an award recognizing his service.

“It has been an honor to serve as national chair,” Bauer said. “I’ll continue serving on the RCCA board of directors and remain fully engaged in the work of this important organization.”

RCCA’s mission reflects the work colleges like ECC do in their own communities: helping students prepare to transfer, training workers for local employers and providing educational and cultural opportunities close to home.

The alliance advocates for rural and tribal colleges, brings their leaders together to share ideas and helps institutions connect with resources to support students. According to RCCA, rural community and tribal colleges serve 3.4 million students at approximately 600 colleges across the country.

“Rural community colleges are often the most accessible path to higher education for the people we serve,” Bauer said. “Students can prepare for a career or begin a bachelor’s degree without leaving their community. RCCA helps ensure those students and the colleges serving them have a voice in decisions about higher education.”

Bauer was elected chair in September 2024. During his term, ECC hosted the organization’s 2025 national conference, bringing college leaders from across the country to Union.

At this year’s conference, colleagues continued to compliment ECC’s work as host, Bauer said, recognizing the programming, logistics and hospitality provided by college employees.

“Our team did an outstanding job hosting last year’s conference,” he said. “Colleagues from other states went out of their way to compliment ECC again this year. That speaks to the care and effort our employees put into making it a great experience.”

His continued board service will keep ECC involved in RCCA’s efforts to strengthen rural colleges and the opportunities they provide for students.

On 10/7/26 - A Franklin County Sheriff's Department deputy assigned to the Joint Terrorism Task Force was notified of a Facebook post, stating, “Let’s shoot people at school tomorrow”. As a precautionary measure schools were contacted to be in a Secure Mode. The poster used an alias account; our investigators were able to develop a person of interest. The alleged suspects vehicle was identified on a Flock camera in Eureka, Mo. All Law Enforcement were notified in the surrounding area, at approximately, 1:30 PM a Sullivan Police Officer stopped the car where the alleged suspect was taken into custody without incident. Our agency in investigating this as a terrorist threat and will release further information as it is obtained. Currently, there is no threat to the community or schools.

I wanted to thank the partnership off all law enforcement agencies and the school within the county when an incident like this occurs it is imperative that everyone works together to keep our children safe.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) congratulates 11 new conservation agents upon their graduation from MDC’s 2026 Conservation Agent Training Academy.

The agent class of 2026 took the Conservation Agent’s Oath during a special graduation ceremony Tuesday, Oct. 6, at Runge Nature Center in Jefferson City.

Protection Programs Supervisor and Training Academy Director, Major Brian Ham, reminded agents they’re stepping into a role that requires character, integrity, and dedication.

“The reward for your past six months of hard work is not today’s ceremony or the badge that you now wear, it’s what you will become and the impact you will make on the conservation of Missouri’s resources,” Ham said. “We’ve given you the skills, but the foundation of being an agent - the character, the integrity and the work ethic - comes from within. Never forget or take lightly the responsibility you have to the citizens of Missouri.”

The new agents spent the past six months housed at the Highway Patrol Academy in Jefferson City, where they received more than 1,200 hours of intense instruction both in and out of the classroom. Agents received training in criminal investigations, defensive tactics, firearms qualifications, and technical instruction in fish, forest, and wildlife management. Training also included courses in legal studies, communications and conducting education programs, and First Aid/First Responder and CPR certification.

Upon successful completion of this training, agents are issued a Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) license from the Missouri Department of Public Safety. The conservation agent training program is also certified by the U.S. Department of the Labor’s Office of Apprenticeship.

The new agents joining the ranks protecting Missouri’s fish, forest, and wildlife include: Lauren Akin, Hunter Carter, Dylan Chambers, Hayden Kueffer, Matthew Masek, Tyler Niemeier, Morgan Potts, Gavin Rowbotham, Jacob Smith, Jenna Stiek and Jenna VanBooven.

The new agents have been assigned their counties. However, they will be involved in field training operations and special assignments while under the supervision of veteran agents for a six-week period during which they will acquire vital field experience.

For more information on MDC careers, visit jobs.mdc.mo.gov.

State Budget Director Trevor Foley announced today that net general revenue collections for September 2026 increased 3.0 percent compared to those for September 2025, from $1.13 billion last year to $1.16 billion this year.

Net general revenue collections for 2026 fiscal year-to-date increased 3.9 percent compared to September 2025, from $3.00 billion last year to $3.12 billion this year.

GROSS COLLECTIONS BY TAX TYPE

Individual income tax collections

• Increased 1.6 percent for the year, from $1.93 billion last year to $1.96 billion this year.
• Decreased 2.3 percent for the month. 

Pass through entity tax collections

• Decreased 29.3 percent for the year, from $59.0 million last year to $41.7 million this year. 
• Decreased 55.7 percent for the month. 

Sales and use tax collections

• Increased 6.1 percent for the year, from $857.1 million last year to $909.8 million this year. 
• Increased 7.0 percent for the month.   

Corporate income and corporate franchise tax collections

• Increased 42.2 percent for the year, from $159.5 million last year to $226.8 million this year. 
• Increased 58.3 percent for the month. 

All other collections

• Decreased 8.1 percent for the year, from $222.3 million last year to $204.3 million this year. 
• Increased 13.0 percent for the month. 

Refunds

• Decreased 0.9 percent for the year, from $228.4 million last year to $226.4 million this year.  
• Increased 43.2 percent for the month.  

 The figures included in the monthly general revenue report represent a snapshot in time and can vary widely based on a multitude of factors. 

PR 2026 09

Contact: Division of Budget and Planning (OA), 573-751-2345.

Press Contact: communications@oa.mo.gov.

Date & Time: Saturday, November 28, 2026, starting at 2:00 PM [1]
Location: Historic Main Street (15 E. Main St., Union, MO 63084) [1, 2]
Host / Sponsor: United Bank of Union in partnership with the City of Union, the Union Area Chamber of Commerce, and ReDiscover Union [1]
Highlights:
• Local small business vendor booths
• Food trucks
• Live music
• Visits with Santa
• Christmas lighting display on Main Street
• Little Entrepreneurs activities [1]

On October 6, 2026, at approximately 3:30 p.m. Washington Police personnel along with the Washington Fire Department and the Washington Area Ambulance District were dispatched to a traffic crash at the intersection of Hwy 100 and South Point Road.

The initial on-scene investigation determined that the crash occurred between a 2023 Ford Van, operated by a 36 year-old male from Villa Ridge, MO, and a 2024 Jeep Cherokee, operated by a 78-year-old female from Villa Ridge, MO. Initial investigation determined that the 2024 Jeep was traveling Westbound Mo 100 and was attempting to make a left turn on South Point Road when it was struck by the Ford Van, which had been traveling Eastbound Mo 100.

The driver of the Jeep was transported to local hospitals for treatment, where she was later pronounced deceased as a result of the crash.

The investigation into the circumstances leading up to the crash is ongoing, and no further information will be released at this time.

Immediate next of kin have been notified.

Cooler, longer nights mean deer and other wild animals are on the move. Most deer strikes with vehicles occur during October and November between the hours of 6-7 a.m. and 6-9 p.m. The Missouri Department of Transportation is reminding motorists to be prepared and never drive distracted.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, in 2025, Missouri drivers experienced more than 2,800 crashes involving deer, with six deaths and 435 injuries reported. Missouri ranked 15^th in the country in deer-vehicle collisions last year according to the State Farm annual report.

Rural areas are not the only places where vehicle strikes occur. MoDOT offers the following safety tips for avoiding collisions with deer and other wild animals:

• Always wear your seat belt. It’s easy: Buckle Up Phone Down.
• Control your speed, stay alert and avoid distractions.
• Don’t swerve to avoid hitting an animal. Swerving can cause motorists to lose control and travel off the road or into oncoming traffic.
• Deer rarely travel alone. Slow down and keep an eye out for more deer. If a deer crosses the road in front of you, there is a good chance another deer will be following it.
• Don’t follow too closely. Remember: the driver in front of you might have to stop suddenly to avoid hitting a deer.

MoDOT maintenance crews work to address any animal debris in the driving lanes. Individuals can report an animal carcass in the roadway to MoDOT by calling 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636) or by visiting modot.org/report-road-concern.

East Central College’s fall enrollment has grown by nearly 400 students in two years, reaching its highest level since 2017.

There are 2,758 students enrolled this fall, up 83 students, or 3.1%, from last fall. Credit hours increased by 1,382, or 5.3%, to 27,358.

Enrollment increased 12.8% last fall and continued to grow this year. ECC now has 387 more students than it did in fall 2024, a two-year increase of 16.3%.

“This is significant growth for ECC,” said ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer. “We’ve seen enrollment grow for two consecutive years, and we now have our largest fall enrollment since 2017. It’s a strong indication that students see the value of an ECC education.”

The increase in credit hours this year is largely tied to more students attending full time. ECC has 1,313 full-time students, its largest full-time student population since 2016. That is an increase of 98 students, or 8.1%, over last fall.

Enrollment also increased among students attending college for the first time, transferring to ECC from other colleges and returning from the previous spring semester:

• First-time students increased 6.4% to 848.
• Transfer students increased 15.1% to 145.
• Continuing students increased 9.6% to 955.

ECC’s enrollment is up in Union, Rolla and Washington. The Union campus has 1,163 students, up 6.8% from last fall, while Rolla enrollment rose 1.3% to 400. In Washington, enrollment increased from 10 to 59 students, primarily because of the addition of the Licensed Practical Nursing program.

Male student enrollment reached 1,037, an increase of 161 since fall 2024.

“Enrollment is the work of the entire college,” Bauer said. “Our faculty and staff each play a role in helping students choose ECC and continue their education. I want to congratulate them on the work that has contributed to this growth.”

These figures reflect enrollment as of Sept. 21, the college’s official fall enrollment reporting date. At that point, dual credit enrollment was down 12.6% from last fall, with additional registrations still being processed.

More enrollment data and ECC’s Census Enrollment 10-Year Trend dashboard are available at www.eastcentral.edu.

This week, FEMA awarded more than $10.5 million in grant funding to fire departments, first responder organizations, and other institutions focused on firefighter safety and fire prevention in Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska. These awards will enable agencies to get the equipment, staff and support they need to carry out their critical, life-saving missions. This week’s fire grant funding brings the total amount awarded to Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska this year to $25.4 million. Nationwide, FEMA awarded $648 million through its three fire grant programs.

“Firefighters and other first responders are everyday heroes, helping their neighbors and communities when they need it most,” said FEMA Administrator Cameron Hamilton. “Through this grant funding, FEMA is building the capability of these local organizations to respond to disasters and emergencies. By empowering fire departments to get the staff, training and equipment they need, FEMA is strengthening the resilience of American communities nationwide.”

FEMA is administering these funds through its Assistance to Firefighters Grants and its Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant program. Awards issued this week include:

• More than $3.8 million to the city of Omaha in Omaha, Nebraska, for the hiring of firefighters.
• More than $2.3 million to the Shawnee Heights Fire District in Tecumseh, Kansas, for the hiring of firefighters.
• More than $1.7 million to the Kansas State Association of Fire Chiefs in Lawrence, Kansas, for recruitment and retention.
• More than $1.3 million to the city of Olathe in Olathe, Kansas, to improve operations and safety.
• Nearly $1.3 million to the Metro North Fire Projection District in St. Louis, Missouri, for the hiring of firefighters.

For information on all the awards issued this year, visit the fire grant program webpages on FEMA.gov: the Assistance to Firefighters Grants, the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant program, and the Fire Prevention and Safety grant program.

Bow hunters are already in the field and firearm deer hunters are busy sighting in.  With all the focus on clothing, deer stands, and field dressing gear, it’s easy to overlook an even more basic, yet essential skill—knot tying.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is presenting a Knot Tying for Deer Hunters program Thursday, Oct. 8 from 10 a.m. – noon at Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area near Washington.  The class is free and open to anyone age 11 years and up.

Deer hunters will learn 10 basic knots that will help them during the next deer hunt. This class will cover helpful knots that can be used for hauling out a deer after being harvested, getting it loaded into a truck with only one person, and hanging it up for processing.  There will even be knots for setting up a homemade deer blind, and more.

Mastering knot tying can have major advantages in the field when hunting deer.  These skills can transfer to many other outdoor pursuits as well.

Knot Tying for Deer Hunters is a free class; however, advanced online registration is required at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/oYP.

To reach Caldwell Memorial Wildlife Area from Washington, take Highway 47 south 1.5 miles, then Bieker Road south two miles.

Stay informed of MDC latest programs by going to the MDC St. Louis regional events page at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZP6.

Franklin County, Missouri – Turning Point Advocacy Services (TPAS) is proud to announce the official opening of its Franklin County Survivor Hub on September 29, 2026, expanding access to survivor-centered advocacy, resources, and support for individuals and families experiencing domestic violence in Franklin County. This is a great way to kick off Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

The Survivor Hub represents an important step in TPAS’s continued commitment to bringing services closer to the people who need them. Located in Franklin County, Missouri, the Hub will provide a welcoming, supportive space where survivors can connect with advocates, access resources, work toward greater safety and stability, and build connections with community partners.

“This space represents more than the opening of a new building, it represents our commitment to making sure survivors in Franklin County have access to support and resources close to home,” said Melanie Martin, MA, CNP, Executive Director of Turning Point Advocacy Services. “We know that reaching out for help can be difficult, and our goal is to create a space where survivors feel welcomed, respected, and empowered to make the decisions that are right for them. We are excited about what this Hub will mean for survivors and families across Franklin County.”

The Franklin County Survivor Hub will offer a variety of services and resources, including:

?       Advocacy and individualized safety planning

?       Connections to community resources and partner agencies

?       Access to computers, Wi-Fi, printing, scanning, and copying

?       Employment and career support, including resume and interview assistance

?       Resource education and referrals

?       Workshops and opportunities for community connection

?       Space for community partners to provide services and resources

?       Family and child-focused resources as programming continues to develop

The Hub is designed to be a low-barrier, survivor-centered space where individuals can access support without having to navigate multiple agencies on their own. TPAS is continuing to build partnerships throughout Franklin County to bring additional resources and services into the Hub, creating opportunities for survivors to access multiple forms of support in one location.

The space was made possible through ARPA funding, along with the continued support of donors, ELS Properties, community partners, volunteers, and advocates who believe in creating safer communities for survivors and their children.

While the Hub will initially focus on outreach, advocacy, resources, and community connection, TPAS has a long-term vision for expanding services at the location as funding becomes available.

“Opening the Survivor Hub is just the beginning,” Martin said. “We want this to be a place where survivors can come not only for immediate support, but also to find resources, build connections, and take steps toward the future they want for themselves and their families. We are grateful to the Franklin County community for helping us make this vision a reality.”

Turning Point Advocacy Services serves survivors and their children across seven Missouri counties: Franklin, Gasconade, Lincoln, Montgomery, St. Charles, St. Louis, and Warren. Through advocacy, emergency shelter, safety planning, counseling, economic empowerment, legal advocacy, outreach, and other supportive services, TPAS works alongside survivors as they move toward safety, stability, and empowerment.

For more information about the Franklin County Survivor Hub or Turning Point Advocacy Services, visit www.turningpointdvs.com or call 1-888-873-SAFE (7233).

The Missouri Department of Transportation will host an open house-style public meeting on Interstate 44/Route 50 Interchange Improvements Project from 4-6 p.m. on Thursday, October 15 at the Union Community Center.

The center is located at 1329 Union Ave, Union, MO 63084. There will be no formal presentation.

The purpose of the public meeting is to provide the public and stakeholders with the opportunity to learn about the potential interchange and intersection designs and gather community feedback to be considered by the potential Design-Build teams. Your input is essential and will help guide MoDOT and the Design-Build teams to develop a design that best meets the project goals.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the project, and a survey will be available to submit input on the project. Join us for an in-person public meeting to help guide the future of this important interchange. For those unable to attend the in-person meeting, the information shared, as well as the survey link, will be available on the project website. The survey will be open until Friday, October 30. 

Access for people with disabilities is available. Those who require special services at the public meeting should notify Senior Communications Specialist Rachel V. Sudduth by Thursday, October 8, at 314-343-7731 so arrangements can be made.

To learn more information about the project and sign up for project updates, visit Forward 44: U.S. 50 Interchange Improvements Project | Missouri Department of Transportation.          

With deer and turkey hunting underway in Missouri, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds non-hunters to practice safety measures when afield during hunting seasons.  

“Safety while hunting is ultimately the responsibility of the hunter,” said MDC Hunter Education Coordinator Justin McGuire. “Hunters must clearly identify their targeted game animals before even putting their fingers on the triggers of their firearms or before drawing their bows when archery hunting. They must also be aware of what is behind their targets and should never shoot at movement or sound.”

McGuire added that non-hunters out in hunting areas can also practice some safety measures.

He and MDC offer these safety tips for non-hunters:

• Wear bright clothing to be more visible, such as a bright orange hat, jacket, or pack.
• Place a bright orange vest or bandana on the canines who join you and keep them leashed.
• Avoid earth-toned or animal-colored clothing such as tan and brown.
• Be aware that hunters are often most active during the early morning and late afternoon, when game animals are most active. Be especially aware of your own visibility during these times when light is dim.
• Stay on designated trails. Trails are designed to improve the safety of public users and to protect sensitive habitats. Enjoying recreational activities only on designated trails will reduce the likelihood of entering hunting areas.
• Whenever venturing into the outdoors, let someone know where you are going and when to expect your return.
• Make yourself known. If you hear shooting, raise your voice, and let hunters know you are in the area.
• Be courteous. Once a hunter is aware of your presence, don’t make unnecessary noise to disturb wildlife. Avoid conflict.
• Identify hunting seasons and lands open to hunting. Learn where and when hunting is taking place. Plan your recreation activities based on this information. Find information on Missouri hunting seasons at mo.gov/hunting-trapping.
• Find conservation areas that allow hunting and those that do not by using the MDC Places to Go web feature at mo.gov/discover-nature/places.

Archery deer and turkey hunting runs through Nov. 13 and opens again Nov. 25 through Jan. 15, 2027. Firearms turkey hunting is open Oct. 1-31. Firearms deer hunting opens with the early antlerless portion Oct. 9-11 followed by several other firearms portions through Jan. 5, 2027.

Learn more about deer and turkey hunting online at mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/deer and mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/turkey.

Missouri’s archery deer season is underway, and hunters statewide are heading to the woods to hunt deer.  The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds bow hunters to review current regulations, practice safe hunting habits, and consider helping others through the Share the Harvest program.

“Hunters should have the proper permits and be familiar with the rules for notching and checking their harvest,” said Jefferson County Conservation Agent Dominick Montileone.  “It is also important to know the regulations that apply to the area where you are hunting, especially when hunting on Conservation Areas.”

Agent Montileone said the best tool for finding new and current regulations is in the current 2026 Fall Deer & Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information Booklet.  This can be found at hunting/fishing permit retailers and at any MDC office.  It is also available for viewing and PDF download at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZVo.  The free MO Hunting mobile app for iOS and Android can be helpful as well for those who prefer to purchase and carry permits electronically.  Learn more and download the app at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZoQ.

Safety is another important part of the season. As most hunting accidents involve improper tree stand practices, Agent Montileone reminds all hunters who use stands to employ a safety harness or fall-arrest system.  Also, inspect all tree stand hardware thoroughly to make sure it is in good condition before climbing.  Always use a haul line to raise and lower archery gear, and arrows should never be carried while climbing.  Hunters must make certain broadhead arrows are always properly quivered when moving to and from a hunting position.

Keeping safety in the forefront the moment a deer is in sight is also crucial. “Hunters should always be certain of their target and what is beyond it before taking a shot,” Agent Montileone said.  “Seeing movement or hearing sounds alone are never a justification to shoot.”

It’s also a good safety practice to let someone know where you are hunting and when you plan to return.

After the hunt, Agent Montileone encourages hunters who harvest a deer this season to consider participating in Missouri’s Share the Harvest program. “Share the Harvest gives hunters an opportunity to donate all or part of their deer to help provide meat to local families in need,” he said.

Through this voluntary program, donated deer are taken to participating meat processors, where the venison is processed and distributed through food banks and other organizations across the state, Agent Montileone explained. Hunters can choose how much of their deer they would like to donate and can keep the remaining portion for themselves.

“Share the Harvest is a great way for hunters to put their harvest to good use while helping others in their community,” said Agent Montileone.

Hunters might even consider purchasing an extra permit so they can take a deer for themselves, and another to donate to Share the Harvest. Hunters interested in donating should contact a participating processor before bringing in their deer to find out about the donation process and any requirements.

“As the archery season continues, MDC encourages hunters to enjoy their time outdoors, respect landowners and other hunters, and follow Missouri’s hunting regulations,” Agent Montileone said. 

“Taking a few extra minutes to prepare and make safety a priority can help ensure a successful and enjoyable hunting season.”

Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe signed an executive order Wednesday providing input-cost relief and added flexibility for farmers during the fall harvest season.

The 30-day waiver declares a state of emergency and allows farmers and haulers operating commercial vehicles licensed for farm use to use dyed diesel fuel on state highways. The order also temporarily increases the allowable weight cap for eligible agricultural loads to 90,000 pounds.

The exemption applies to shipments of livestock, grain, timber and other seasonally harvested agricultural products transported from the field to storage, market or stockpile locations, or from farm storage to market. The regulatory relief is intended to provide Missouri farmers with additional flexibility as they manage high diesel costs.

"Missouri farmers are dealing with higher costs at nearly every turn, and diesel is a major expense for getting crops harvested and transported," said Missouri Farm Bureau President Garrett Hawkins. "This temporary flexibility gives farmers another tool to help manage those costs and keep moving the products that feed and fuel our state and our nation. We appreciate Gov. Kehoe recognizing the challenges farmers are facing and taking action to provide some relief."

The executive order is effective through Oct. 30, 2026.

Red-dyed diesel, commonly known as farm diesel, is sold without a motor-fuel tax because it is primarily used in off-road agricultural equipment such as tractors and combines. The executive order applies only to Missouri state highways and local roads. It does not waive federal restrictions on dyed diesel fuel or authorize its use on interstate highways or U.S. highways subject to federal regulations.

Small Business Christmas is coming to Historic Main Street!

United Bank of Union is proud to sponsor Small Business Christmas as the 4th annual event makes its exciting move to Historic Main Street this year. In partnership with the City of Union, Union Area Chamber of Commerce, and ReDiscover Union, this beloved holiday tradition is bringing even more festive fun to downtown Union.

Join us for a day of shopping local, good food, festive music, and holiday magic while supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs!

Local small business vendor booths
Food trucks
Live music
Visits with Santa
Christmas lighting display
Little Entrepreneurs

The Missouri Corn Growers Association appreciates Gov. Mike Kehoe’s action to help Missouri farmers manage rising fuel and transportation costs during harvest.

Gov. Kehoe signed Executive Order 26-19 today, declaring a State of Emergency and temporarily allowing farmers and haulers in commercial vehicles licensed for farm use to use red-dyed diesel for agricultural purposes on Missouri state highways. The order also adjusts commercial vehicle weight limitations for agricultural transportation, increasing the allowable weight from 88,000 to 90,000 pounds.

“Missouri farmers are working hard to get this year’s crop out of the field, but higher fuel costs are making an already tough year even tougher,” said Missouri Corn CEO Bradley Schad. “We appreciate Gov. Kehoe recognizing the challenges farmers are facing and taking steps to provide additional flexibility during harvest.”

Red-dyed diesel is commonly used for off-road agricultural purposes. Under the executive order, the temporary relief is effective today and expires Oct. 30, 2026, unless extended in whole or in part. Allowing farmers and haulers in commercial vehicles licensed for farm use to use dyed diesel for agricultural purposes on state highways gives producers another option to manage fuel costs and availability during harvest.

Missouri Corn has been working with state officials to find solutions as farmers face rising costs across the board. The increased weight allowance will also help move more grain with fewer trips. Eligible harvest loads will be allowed to reach 90,000 pounds, subject to the requirements of the order, applicable routes and bridge restrictions.

“Missouri farmers are doing everything they can to make this harvest work,” Schad said. “We appreciate the governor’s continued partnership in looking at all options to help keep the combines rolling.”

The executive order addresses Missouri enforcement and does not waive federal restrictions on dyed diesel or authorize its use on interstates or U.S. highways where prohibited by federal law. Farmers should review the executive order for effective dates, eligibility requirements, and restrictions before using dyed diesel in highway vehicles.

• Elder Road (Villa Ridge) will be closed Monday, October 5, 2026, at 8am through Friday, October 9, 2026, at 3pm for culvert pipe replacement. The closure is 200 ft east of Walnut Grove Road (0.67 miles west of Coleman Road).  The road will be closed day and night to all traffic including emergency vehicles. 

If you have any questions, please contact the Franklin County Highway Department at 636-583-6361.

On September 19, 2026, at approximately 3:15 p.m., deputies with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 3100 block of Highway A regarding a report of a possible deceased person in the backyard of a residence.

Upon arrival, deputies located a deceased female in an advanced state of decomposition. An apparent gunshot wound was observed, and a firearm and shell casing was located near the deceased.

Detectives from the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and began processing the area and collecting evidence. During the investigation, detectives knew that an 18-year-old female, that was in foster care,  had been reported missing from a nearby residence several days earlier.  Investigators also learned that the missing female had reportedly left that residence with a firearm that was subsequently reported stolen.

Investigators have countless hours of case investigation and contacting all parties involved, to include Case Workers, Division of Family Services, foster parents, biological parents, and neighbors. The circumstances of the case, the proximity of the location, the description of the deceased, and the recovery of the firearm are among the factors investigators are examining as they worked to determine the identity of the deceased and the circumstances surrounding her death. On today’s date, 9/28/26, our office was notified from the Medical Examiner’s Office that they were able to make identification of the deceased; she is identified as 18-year-old Kylie Crockett from the St. Louis area. Pictures of tattoos obtained by our detectives was used to make positive identity.

The final determination regarding the cause and manner of death will be made following the Medical Examiner’s examination and completion of the investigation.

Our agency has been in contact with the biological parents’ multiple times. There have been some questions as to why a release has not been sent out, out of respect for the families of victims, our agency normally does not release death investigation information, unless there is a threat to the community.

Additional information will be provided when a full medical examiners review has been completed.

If anyone has any additional information pertaining to this case, we are asking you to reach out to our detectives at 636-583-2560.

This week, FEMA awarded nearly $15 million in grant funding for fire departments and other first responder organizations in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska. FEMA disburses this money to support firefighters and other emergency personnel because they are often the first ones on the scene when disaster strikes. They play an essential role in keeping American communities safe. By empowering these emergency responders to strengthen and expand their capacity, FEMA is contributing to the nation’s overall resilience.

FEMA is administering these funds through its three Fiscal Year 2025 fire grant programs: the Assistance to Firefighters Grants, Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant program, and Fire Prevention and Safety grant program. FEMA published the funding opportunities in May 2026, making $648 million available across all three programs. Over the next week, FEMA will continue awarding these funds directly to fire departments, first responder agencies, and other organizations focused on fire prevention and firefighter safety.

The funding announced today in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska includes nearly $10.5 million under FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grants. Recipients can use this money to outfit responders with compliant personal protective equipment, acquire emergency response vehicles, and develop health, wellness, and resiliency initiatives to prepare responders for incidents. Examples of awards include:

• $500,000 to the Department of Public Safety in Des Moines, Iowa
• $1 million to the Wichita Fire Department in Wichita, Kansas
• $500,000 to the Missouri Division of Fire Safety in Jefferson City, Missouri
• More than $83,000 to the Nebraska State Fire Marshal in Grand Island, Nebraska

FEMA also awarded over $2.8 million to departments in Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri under its Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant program. Recipients can use the money to cover personnel costs for firefighters, as well as recruitment efforts and retention programs. Example of an award is:

• Nearly $325,000 to the city of Andover Fire Department in Andover, Kansas

FEMA also awarded nearly $1.5 million to departments in Iowa and Kansas under its Fire Prevention and Safety grant program. Recipients can use the money to fund scientific research and technology development that will strengthen community fire prevention programs and/or improve firefighter safety, health and well-being. Example of an award is:

• $1 million to the Iowa State University of Science and Technology in Ames, Iowa

FEMA will continue awarding funding for its Fiscal Year 2025 fire grant programs over the next week. For information on all the awards issued thus far, visit the fire grants programs webpages: Assistance to Firefighters Grants, Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response, and Fire Prevention and Safety.

East Central College will bring area manufacturers together Wednesday, Oct. 14, to discuss artificial intelligence, the economic outlook and resources available to their businesses.

Hosted by ECC’s Center for Workforce Development, the fourth annual Manufacturing Summit will run from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Business & Industry Center in Union. The free event is part of National Manufacturing Month.

There is no registration fee, but seating is limited. Register by noon Friday, Oct. 9, at eastcentral.edu/cwd/ or call 636-649-5806.

Summit topics include:

• Practical uses for AI in manufacturing
• Economic trends affecting manufacturing and the labor market
• Clemco Industries’ NASCAR Cup Series sponsorship
• Resources from APEX Accelerator and Child Care Aware® of Missouri

Attendees can also network with industry peers and tour ECC’s Business & Industry Center training labs. A light breakfast will be served.

Dr. Sean Siebert and Simon Siebert of Invent Yourself, LLC, will explore how manufacturers can use AI for forecasting, business intelligence, cash flow management, workforce support and better operational decisions. Dr. Sean Siebert founded the AI and strategic management firm. Simon Siebert is its director of artificial intelligence and leads the development of AI tools for practical use.

Featured speaker Kathleen Navin, a senior economist at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, will close the summit with an economic outlook covering manufacturing, the labor market and broader regional and national trends. At the St. Louis Fed, she analyzes economic and banking conditions in the United States and regionally. She previously served as executive director of U.S. economics at S&P Global Market Intelligence.