Associated Press went a long way for its new correspondent for southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas.
According to an AP release, Marcus Kabel, chief correspondent for Reuters in Vienna, Austria, has been named to the post. He will be based in Springfield with a satellite office somewhere in northwest Arkansas, the release said. Part of his job will be to cover developments at Wal-Mart.
Kabel is originally from St. Louis.
Thursday, June 30, 2005
Great Southern adds three banks
Springfield-based Great Southern Bancorp, Inc., will acquire three branches from People's Bank of the Ozarks, according to PR Newswire. Great Southern has branches in more than 30 Missouri communities, including Joplin and Neosho.
The three new banks are in Camdenton, Climax Springs, and Greenview. The deal will be complete at the end of business Aug. 5, according to the article.
The three new banks are in Camdenton, Climax Springs, and Greenview. The deal will be complete at the end of business Aug. 5, according to the article.
Bragg killer's appeal rejected
The Missouri Southern District Court of Appeals Tuesday rejected another attempt by convicted triple-murderer Alis Ben Johns to have his conviction set aside. Johns, who murdered Wilma Bragg of Stark City in 1997, had filed for a writ of prohibition against the prosecuting attorney in Pulaski County, where his initial trial was held.
Johns had filed an application for a writ of prohibition two years ago, but it, too, was denied. His initial appeal to the Missouri Supreme Court was rejected on Dec. 5, 2000. Johns pleaded guilty in November 2000 in Newton County Circuit Court to Mrs. Bragg's murder.
In the 2000 appeal, Johns, who is on Missouri's Death Row, was trying to win a new trial after his murder conviction for the October 1, 1996, slaying of a former friend, Thomas Stewart. The majority opinion, written by Chief Justice William Ray Price, held that Johns was competent to stand trial.
"At a pretrial competency hearing, the court found the state's experts more credible and persuasive than the defense experts. Johns' low IQ scores did not render him incompetent. Evidence suggests that Johns could consult with his lawyer and understand the proceedings."
The court also rejected Johns' claim that a second change of venue should have been granted in the case. "Jury selection took place hundreds of miles from the trial almost two years after Johns' capture," the opinion said. "Although about 80 percent of the potential jurors were exposed to publicity, all who had fixed opinions were stricken and all Johns' jurors testified that they would be fair and impartial."
The court also disagreed with the major contention made by Johns' attorney during oral arguments...that he should have been allowed to introduce evidence of his victim's known penchant for violence, saying it was "properly excluded because Johns did not show he knew (of it)."
The decision by the initial trial judge to permit evidence of the six-month manhunt on which he led state authorities to be introduced was also backed by the Supreme Court. "Johns' attempt to flee shows his consciousness of guilt and the methodology of his flight, such as taking a hostage to evade capture, makes this evidence admissible," the opinion said. The court also disagreed with Johns' lawyer on numerous other points, saying:
-It was permissible to introduce Johns' previous conviction for second degree assault.
-The state's closing penalty phase arguments, stating a strong opinion that Johns should die, were permissible. In the dissenting opinion, Justice J. Wolff said he felt Johns should be granted a new trial because he was not allowed to present a self-defense theory, which would have relied on Stewart's tendency toward becoming violent when he had been drinking. Wolff also said Johns' lawyers should have been able to present evidence that Stewart chased Johns before Johns killed him.
The history of the case was laid out in the opinion. Johns began spending time with Stewart in the spring of 1996. They spent a considerable amount of time drinking together. On the night of Oct. 1, 1996, Johns accepted a ride from Stewart's girlfriend, Deborah Tedder. Stewart, who had been fighting with Ms. Tedder earlier in the day, followed in his truck and eventually confronted the two on rural Highway KK in Pulaski County. All three were drunk, according to the opinion.
The confrontation became violent and two of Ms. Tedder's car windows were shattered. Johns got out of the car, wielding a .22 caliber pistol. He shot Stewart seven times, killing him. At 10 p.m., Robert and Christina Deardeuff passed by while returning home from a family gathering. They saw Stewart's gray Chevrolet truck stopped in the northbound lane with a small white car near it. Deardeuff saw Stewart lying face down between the two vehicles. As they approached the second vehicle, Deardeuff slowed down and offered help. Johns said several times, according to the opinion, "Everything's all right. Just go on."
After the Deardeuffs left, Johns and Ms. Tedder took off. About an hour later, Kristine Brockes came upon Stewart's truck while heading home from her job at Fort Leonard Wood. She found Stewart's body lying face down and called the police. Police were unable to find the murder weapon, but did find seven .22 caliber shell casings, a pile of glass and two spots of blood where Ms. Tedder's car had been parked. Ms. Tedder was located the next morning, according to the opinion.
While she was being questioned, officers noticed the shattered windows on her car, blood on the fender and a bullet hole in the left rear quarter of the vehicle. Ms. Tedder told them that Johns might have been involved in Stewart's death. According to the opinion, Johns had been living on a small farm that was owned by Pearl Rose. When police arrived at the farm, they were too late. Johns was already on the run. He remained on the run for the next six months.
During this time, he committed two other murders. On Feb. 7, 1997, Ron Wilson returned to his home to find Johns standing on the front porch with a shotgun that he had just stolen from inside, according to the opinion.
After firing once into the ceiling and once at Wilson, Johns fled with Wilson's car, two guns, a hunting knife and a watch. On Feb. 26, 1997, he forcibly entered the home of Bud and Melinda Veverka and held the couple at gunpoint while he warmed himself by the stove. This robbery proved largely unsuccessful, the opinion said, as Johns was only able to steal two dollars, a wallet and some juice. Though no one was injured in the two robberies, "Johns' next victims were less fortunate."
On Feb. 28, 1997, police found Leonard Voyles lying dead in his Camden County home. He died from a single .22 caliber gunshot wound to the head. An inventory of his home revealed that Voyles' Ford Ranger truck and his .22 caliber rifle were missing. A shoe print was found that matched Johns' right boot.
"In addition," the opinion said, "law enforcement officers recovered Johns' fingerprints from Voyles' stolen truck, which was found on March 8, 1997. Three miles away from where the pickup was found, police found the body of Wilma Bragg, 57, Stark City, at her home on March 9, 1997.
The investigation revealed that Mrs. Bragg's killer shot her two times in the back of the head while she lay face down on her bed with her hands tied behind her back. DNA testing of a cigarette butt implicated Johns in the murder and impression analysis confirmed that the rifle stolen from Voyles' home was used to kill Bragg. Johns left with Mrs. Bragg's 1991 Toyota, which was later recovered with the rifle still inside.
"During the following weeks, Johns and his girlfriend, Beverly Guehrer, burglarized four additional homes. At each home, Johns left fingerprints or took property that was later found in his possession.
"On April 7, 1997, the crime spree came to an end when officers of the Missouri Water Patrol encountered Johns in a cabin while searching Cole Camp Creek in Benton County. As the officers approached the cabin, Johns threw open the door and emerged with Ms. Guehrer held in front of him as a human shield. With one arm around Ms. Guehrer's neck and the other aiming a rifle at her head, Johns said, 'I've got a hostage, I'll shoot her.' As Johns made a sudden movement to escape, Officer Eric Gottman shot him in the abdomen and placed him under arrest.
"Johns was taken to Bothwell Hospital in Sedalia," the opinion said. "On April 9, 1997, Deputy Robin Peppinger of the Pulaski County Sheriff's Department received permission from the medical staff to conduct an interview. Deputy Peppinger informed Johns of his Miranda rights and Johns confessed that on Oct. 1, 1996, he was with Tedder when a vehicular chase and confrontation occurred on Highway KK. He claimed that Stewart smashed the glass out of Ms. Tedder's car and assaulted her. Johns also claimed that he tried to intervene, but Stewart knocked him to the ground. Johns alleged that Stewart reached into his pocket, which prompted Johns to shoot him once in self-defense. Deputy Peppinger made an audiotape of the interview.'
"The State charged Johns with murder in the first degree and armed criminal action on May 22, 1997. In July, Johns informed Deputy John Ward of the Pulaski County Sheriff's Department that he wished to speak to him. Ward again informed Johns of his Miranda rights and asked whether Johns would like his attorneys present. Johns declined. In this interview, Johns claimed that he wanted to 'get it over with." He mused that the state penitentiary would be less restrictive than his current incarceration. Johns again confessed to the killing of Stewart, but he also claimed that Stewart had threatened to kill him.He gave police the location of the pistol used in the killing, though the weapon was never recovered due to an overgrowth of the grass in the area. Johns also confessed to the murders of Leonard Voyles and Wilma Bragg. He described in detail how he shot his victims in the head with a .22 caliber rifle that he had taken from the Voyles home. Finally, he described the location of the two vehicles that he had stolen from the victims."
The opinion continued, "As the date of the trial approached, the trial court heard evidence regarding Johns' mental competency. Johns presented the testimony of Dr. Robert A. Briggs, a neuropsychologist in private practice; Dr. Phillip J. Murphy, a clinical psychologist in private practice and Dr. Dorothy O. Lewis, a professor of psychology at New York University School of Medicine. The State offered the testimony of Dr. John Zimmerscheid, a staff psychiatrist at Fulton State Hospital. All of the expert witnesses agreed that Johns grew up in a troubled home. Johns' father was an alcoholic who had twice been institutionalized at Fulton State Hospital. He subjected the family to persistent abuse, and his wife eventually , shot him in self-defense. Johns' mother was also troubled, suffering from chronic depression and anxiety. As a child, Johns endured multiple head injuries and debilitation seizures. His I. Q. was below average and at times fell into the 'mentally retarded' classification. He never learned to read or write and began abusing alcohol at the age of 15," the opinion said.
"Johns continued to show memory lapses as an adult. He could not relate the date, his present location, his birth date, his age, or the current president of the United States. Johns also asserted that an Indian spirit helped him evade capture for six months by causing him to become invisible. Though the State's expert, Dr. Zimmerscheid, noted Johns' troubled history and sub-average intellect, he stated that Johns retained the basic reasoning and communication ability to understand the charges levied against him and to aid his attorneys in the preparation of his defense.
"In his interview with Dr. Zimmerscheid, Johns knew the meaning of the terms 'guilty' and 'not guilty'. He understood the roles of the prosecutor, defense counsel, judge and jury. During the interview, Johns indicated that he committed the crime and wanted to take responsibility for it. Dr. Zimmerscheid found no indications of depression, psychosis or hallucinations. He specifically noted that Johns was able to communicate appropriately and effectively. Though Johns showed only a 'borderline' intellect, Dr Zimmerscheid concluded that Johns was competent to stand trial."
"The defense experts disagreed," the opinion continued. "They concluded that Johns' history, combined with several neurological tests indicated that Johns was episodically psychotic, delusional and brain damaged. They reasoned that his learning deficiencies combined with his memory problems and delusions rendered him unable to appreciate the charges or reasonably aid his attorneys. After hearing the testimony, the trial court was persuaded by the opinion of the State's witness. The court found Johns competent to stand trial.
"To ensure a fair trial," the opinion continued, "the trial court determined that the jury should be summoned from outside of Pulaski County. Consequently, jury selection commenced on Jan. 11, 1999, in Adair County." The trial began on Jan. 16, 1999, "Johns appeared in orange pants and leg braces, which were placed on the outside of the pants at Johns' request." Evidence about Stewart's murder, the other two murders and the numerous robberies and burglaries was presented. The defense presented evidence of Johns' limited mental capacity.
The jury deliberated for six hours and found Johns guilty on both counts. It deliberated for three hours and twenty minutes before sentencing him to death during the penalty phase of the trial.
Johns had filed an application for a writ of prohibition two years ago, but it, too, was denied. His initial appeal to the Missouri Supreme Court was rejected on Dec. 5, 2000. Johns pleaded guilty in November 2000 in Newton County Circuit Court to Mrs. Bragg's murder.
In the 2000 appeal, Johns, who is on Missouri's Death Row, was trying to win a new trial after his murder conviction for the October 1, 1996, slaying of a former friend, Thomas Stewart. The majority opinion, written by Chief Justice William Ray Price, held that Johns was competent to stand trial.
"At a pretrial competency hearing, the court found the state's experts more credible and persuasive than the defense experts. Johns' low IQ scores did not render him incompetent. Evidence suggests that Johns could consult with his lawyer and understand the proceedings."
The court also rejected Johns' claim that a second change of venue should have been granted in the case. "Jury selection took place hundreds of miles from the trial almost two years after Johns' capture," the opinion said. "Although about 80 percent of the potential jurors were exposed to publicity, all who had fixed opinions were stricken and all Johns' jurors testified that they would be fair and impartial."
The court also disagreed with the major contention made by Johns' attorney during oral arguments...that he should have been allowed to introduce evidence of his victim's known penchant for violence, saying it was "properly excluded because Johns did not show he knew (of it)."
The decision by the initial trial judge to permit evidence of the six-month manhunt on which he led state authorities to be introduced was also backed by the Supreme Court. "Johns' attempt to flee shows his consciousness of guilt and the methodology of his flight, such as taking a hostage to evade capture, makes this evidence admissible," the opinion said. The court also disagreed with Johns' lawyer on numerous other points, saying:
-It was permissible to introduce Johns' previous conviction for second degree assault.
-The state's closing penalty phase arguments, stating a strong opinion that Johns should die, were permissible. In the dissenting opinion, Justice J. Wolff said he felt Johns should be granted a new trial because he was not allowed to present a self-defense theory, which would have relied on Stewart's tendency toward becoming violent when he had been drinking. Wolff also said Johns' lawyers should have been able to present evidence that Stewart chased Johns before Johns killed him.
The history of the case was laid out in the opinion. Johns began spending time with Stewart in the spring of 1996. They spent a considerable amount of time drinking together. On the night of Oct. 1, 1996, Johns accepted a ride from Stewart's girlfriend, Deborah Tedder. Stewart, who had been fighting with Ms. Tedder earlier in the day, followed in his truck and eventually confronted the two on rural Highway KK in Pulaski County. All three were drunk, according to the opinion.
The confrontation became violent and two of Ms. Tedder's car windows were shattered. Johns got out of the car, wielding a .22 caliber pistol. He shot Stewart seven times, killing him. At 10 p.m., Robert and Christina Deardeuff passed by while returning home from a family gathering. They saw Stewart's gray Chevrolet truck stopped in the northbound lane with a small white car near it. Deardeuff saw Stewart lying face down between the two vehicles. As they approached the second vehicle, Deardeuff slowed down and offered help. Johns said several times, according to the opinion, "Everything's all right. Just go on."
After the Deardeuffs left, Johns and Ms. Tedder took off. About an hour later, Kristine Brockes came upon Stewart's truck while heading home from her job at Fort Leonard Wood. She found Stewart's body lying face down and called the police. Police were unable to find the murder weapon, but did find seven .22 caliber shell casings, a pile of glass and two spots of blood where Ms. Tedder's car had been parked. Ms. Tedder was located the next morning, according to the opinion.
While she was being questioned, officers noticed the shattered windows on her car, blood on the fender and a bullet hole in the left rear quarter of the vehicle. Ms. Tedder told them that Johns might have been involved in Stewart's death. According to the opinion, Johns had been living on a small farm that was owned by Pearl Rose. When police arrived at the farm, they were too late. Johns was already on the run. He remained on the run for the next six months.
During this time, he committed two other murders. On Feb. 7, 1997, Ron Wilson returned to his home to find Johns standing on the front porch with a shotgun that he had just stolen from inside, according to the opinion.
After firing once into the ceiling and once at Wilson, Johns fled with Wilson's car, two guns, a hunting knife and a watch. On Feb. 26, 1997, he forcibly entered the home of Bud and Melinda Veverka and held the couple at gunpoint while he warmed himself by the stove. This robbery proved largely unsuccessful, the opinion said, as Johns was only able to steal two dollars, a wallet and some juice. Though no one was injured in the two robberies, "Johns' next victims were less fortunate."
On Feb. 28, 1997, police found Leonard Voyles lying dead in his Camden County home. He died from a single .22 caliber gunshot wound to the head. An inventory of his home revealed that Voyles' Ford Ranger truck and his .22 caliber rifle were missing. A shoe print was found that matched Johns' right boot.
"In addition," the opinion said, "law enforcement officers recovered Johns' fingerprints from Voyles' stolen truck, which was found on March 8, 1997. Three miles away from where the pickup was found, police found the body of Wilma Bragg, 57, Stark City, at her home on March 9, 1997.
The investigation revealed that Mrs. Bragg's killer shot her two times in the back of the head while she lay face down on her bed with her hands tied behind her back. DNA testing of a cigarette butt implicated Johns in the murder and impression analysis confirmed that the rifle stolen from Voyles' home was used to kill Bragg. Johns left with Mrs. Bragg's 1991 Toyota, which was later recovered with the rifle still inside.
"During the following weeks, Johns and his girlfriend, Beverly Guehrer, burglarized four additional homes. At each home, Johns left fingerprints or took property that was later found in his possession.
"On April 7, 1997, the crime spree came to an end when officers of the Missouri Water Patrol encountered Johns in a cabin while searching Cole Camp Creek in Benton County. As the officers approached the cabin, Johns threw open the door and emerged with Ms. Guehrer held in front of him as a human shield. With one arm around Ms. Guehrer's neck and the other aiming a rifle at her head, Johns said, 'I've got a hostage, I'll shoot her.' As Johns made a sudden movement to escape, Officer Eric Gottman shot him in the abdomen and placed him under arrest.
"Johns was taken to Bothwell Hospital in Sedalia," the opinion said. "On April 9, 1997, Deputy Robin Peppinger of the Pulaski County Sheriff's Department received permission from the medical staff to conduct an interview. Deputy Peppinger informed Johns of his Miranda rights and Johns confessed that on Oct. 1, 1996, he was with Tedder when a vehicular chase and confrontation occurred on Highway KK. He claimed that Stewart smashed the glass out of Ms. Tedder's car and assaulted her. Johns also claimed that he tried to intervene, but Stewart knocked him to the ground. Johns alleged that Stewart reached into his pocket, which prompted Johns to shoot him once in self-defense. Deputy Peppinger made an audiotape of the interview.'
"The State charged Johns with murder in the first degree and armed criminal action on May 22, 1997. In July, Johns informed Deputy John Ward of the Pulaski County Sheriff's Department that he wished to speak to him. Ward again informed Johns of his Miranda rights and asked whether Johns would like his attorneys present. Johns declined. In this interview, Johns claimed that he wanted to 'get it over with." He mused that the state penitentiary would be less restrictive than his current incarceration. Johns again confessed to the killing of Stewart, but he also claimed that Stewart had threatened to kill him.He gave police the location of the pistol used in the killing, though the weapon was never recovered due to an overgrowth of the grass in the area. Johns also confessed to the murders of Leonard Voyles and Wilma Bragg. He described in detail how he shot his victims in the head with a .22 caliber rifle that he had taken from the Voyles home. Finally, he described the location of the two vehicles that he had stolen from the victims."
The opinion continued, "As the date of the trial approached, the trial court heard evidence regarding Johns' mental competency. Johns presented the testimony of Dr. Robert A. Briggs, a neuropsychologist in private practice; Dr. Phillip J. Murphy, a clinical psychologist in private practice and Dr. Dorothy O. Lewis, a professor of psychology at New York University School of Medicine. The State offered the testimony of Dr. John Zimmerscheid, a staff psychiatrist at Fulton State Hospital. All of the expert witnesses agreed that Johns grew up in a troubled home. Johns' father was an alcoholic who had twice been institutionalized at Fulton State Hospital. He subjected the family to persistent abuse, and his wife eventually , shot him in self-defense. Johns' mother was also troubled, suffering from chronic depression and anxiety. As a child, Johns endured multiple head injuries and debilitation seizures. His I. Q. was below average and at times fell into the 'mentally retarded' classification. He never learned to read or write and began abusing alcohol at the age of 15," the opinion said.
"Johns continued to show memory lapses as an adult. He could not relate the date, his present location, his birth date, his age, or the current president of the United States. Johns also asserted that an Indian spirit helped him evade capture for six months by causing him to become invisible. Though the State's expert, Dr. Zimmerscheid, noted Johns' troubled history and sub-average intellect, he stated that Johns retained the basic reasoning and communication ability to understand the charges levied against him and to aid his attorneys in the preparation of his defense.
"In his interview with Dr. Zimmerscheid, Johns knew the meaning of the terms 'guilty' and 'not guilty'. He understood the roles of the prosecutor, defense counsel, judge and jury. During the interview, Johns indicated that he committed the crime and wanted to take responsibility for it. Dr. Zimmerscheid found no indications of depression, psychosis or hallucinations. He specifically noted that Johns was able to communicate appropriately and effectively. Though Johns showed only a 'borderline' intellect, Dr Zimmerscheid concluded that Johns was competent to stand trial."
"The defense experts disagreed," the opinion continued. "They concluded that Johns' history, combined with several neurological tests indicated that Johns was episodically psychotic, delusional and brain damaged. They reasoned that his learning deficiencies combined with his memory problems and delusions rendered him unable to appreciate the charges or reasonably aid his attorneys. After hearing the testimony, the trial court was persuaded by the opinion of the State's witness. The court found Johns competent to stand trial.
"To ensure a fair trial," the opinion continued, "the trial court determined that the jury should be summoned from outside of Pulaski County. Consequently, jury selection commenced on Jan. 11, 1999, in Adair County." The trial began on Jan. 16, 1999, "Johns appeared in orange pants and leg braces, which were placed on the outside of the pants at Johns' request." Evidence about Stewart's murder, the other two murders and the numerous robberies and burglaries was presented. The defense presented evidence of Johns' limited mental capacity.
The jury deliberated for six hours and found Johns guilty on both counts. It deliberated for three hours and twenty minutes before sentencing him to death during the penalty phase of the trial.
Not much news in Ruestman interview
For the first time today, I listened through the entire hour of The McCormack Files, John McCormack's radio program on KBTN Radio in Neosho. The guest was Rep. Marilyn Ruestman and I was hoping to hear her views on a number of issues.
I heard her say that stem cell research was going to be a controversial issue and she would study it. Other than that, McCormack and the callers really didn't ask her about much of anything important.
I waited in vain for a question about the ridiculous new requirements for people who want to renew their driver's licenses or obtain new ones. Did she agree with Governor Blunt's effusive praise of the Department of Revenue for how it has implemented these new regulations? I suppose we will never know. Not if we have to rely on John McCormack to ask the questions.
Of course, in the past there might have been some listener who posed the question, but there were only two or three callers (one person called twice).
Besides the driver's license requirements, there were no questions about education funding, no questions about the Moark expansion and how Ms. Ruestman felt about environmental issues, no questions about the trip to Hot Springs that she took, which was partially paid for by lobbyists, and no questions about her votes on any issues whatsoever.
Believe it or not, she was on the program for an entire hour.
Now that is public service programming.
I heard her say that stem cell research was going to be a controversial issue and she would study it. Other than that, McCormack and the callers really didn't ask her about much of anything important.
I waited in vain for a question about the ridiculous new requirements for people who want to renew their driver's licenses or obtain new ones. Did she agree with Governor Blunt's effusive praise of the Department of Revenue for how it has implemented these new regulations? I suppose we will never know. Not if we have to rely on John McCormack to ask the questions.
Of course, in the past there might have been some listener who posed the question, but there were only two or three callers (one person called twice).
Besides the driver's license requirements, there were no questions about education funding, no questions about the Moark expansion and how Ms. Ruestman felt about environmental issues, no questions about the trip to Hot Springs that she took, which was partially paid for by lobbyists, and no questions about her votes on any issues whatsoever.
Believe it or not, she was on the program for an entire hour.
Now that is public service programming.
ConAgra earnings decline
Associated Press reports that ConAgra, which has a plant in Carthage, had a 40 percent decline in its fourth-quarter earnings. Net income was $101.9 million, or 20 cents per share, compared to $169.3 million or 32 cents per share last year.
How mistakes are perpetuated
Back on the subject of getting things right.
I know the change of Jon's Pharmacy in Neosho to John's Pharmacy, which was made in The Joplin Globe's story yesterday on the allegedly drunk driver who ran into the funeral procession was a minor thing, but that minor mistake was compounded when the article was picked up by Associated Press.
This morning's Springfield News-Leader carried the story, complete with the John's Pharmacy reference. There is no telling how many other newspapers picked up on it. Most of them did not use the pharmacy name, but the story, because of the novelty of a drunk driver plowing into the funeral procession of someone who was killed by a drunk driver, was picked up by newspapers and broadcast affiliates throughout the United States.
Today, the misinformation might just be one letter in the name of a business. Tomorrow, it might be something that materially affects the meaning of a story.
***
And yes, to answer the response I am expecting before it arrives, I make plenty of mistakes. I work as hard as I can to try to cut down on them, but I am sure I will make more. But part of the role of this blog is to critique local media and that is what I am doing.
***
And now on to my mistakes. Earlier, in my first mention of the John's/Jon's situation, I said Jon's is owned by Jon Genisio of Neosho. That was a mistake on my part. Though the pharmacy still carries his name, a reader informs me that Jon's was sold a few years back to Gary Massey. I will remove that reference from my earlier post, but I will leave it on this one because when you make mistakes you need to own up to them.
I know the change of Jon's Pharmacy in Neosho to John's Pharmacy, which was made in The Joplin Globe's story yesterday on the allegedly drunk driver who ran into the funeral procession was a minor thing, but that minor mistake was compounded when the article was picked up by Associated Press.
This morning's Springfield News-Leader carried the story, complete with the John's Pharmacy reference. There is no telling how many other newspapers picked up on it. Most of them did not use the pharmacy name, but the story, because of the novelty of a drunk driver plowing into the funeral procession of someone who was killed by a drunk driver, was picked up by newspapers and broadcast affiliates throughout the United States.
Today, the misinformation might just be one letter in the name of a business. Tomorrow, it might be something that materially affects the meaning of a story.
***
And yes, to answer the response I am expecting before it arrives, I make plenty of mistakes. I work as hard as I can to try to cut down on them, but I am sure I will make more. But part of the role of this blog is to critique local media and that is what I am doing.
***
And now on to my mistakes. Earlier, in my first mention of the John's/Jon's situation, I said Jon's is owned by Jon Genisio of Neosho. That was a mistake on my part. Though the pharmacy still carries his name, a reader informs me that Jon's was sold a few years back to Gary Massey. I will remove that reference from my earlier post, but I will leave it on this one because when you make mistakes you need to own up to them.
DOR officials overwhelmed with response
If you need any more evidence that state officials and bureaucrats are out of touch with reality, it can be found in today's Springfield News-Leader.
Apparently, Missouri Department of Revenue officials were shocked when they discovered that people would be upset by the new hoops they are being forced to jump through just to renew their driver's licenses.
"We didn't think it would be as big an issue as it has become," Department of Revenue spokeswoman Maura Browning told the News-Leader. "What we've done in the last week is make the requirements easier to understand."
She got the first part right, but she's still clueless on the second. Apparently, one change the DOR has made involves women who have remarried. They no longer will be required to bring documentation to prove each of the name changes they have gone through. All they will have to bring, according to the News-Leader article, is a Social Security card or a Medicare card.
What this proves is that when people complain, things can get done. Well, they need to keep complaining. I don't think anyone minds the effort to make sure that driver's licenses are going to people who belong here legally, but doesn't the DNR have records? Can't these records be cross-referenced with records from other agencies, without people having to dig through all kinds of documents and waiting in long lines to get their licenses? Why do they collect all of this information on us if they are not going to use it responsibly. This would definitely be a responsible use of that information.
Missourians need to keep complaining until the DOR and Governor Blunt come up with a more reasonable solution to this problem. The first resort for government is always to require more paperwork. I don't necessarily have a problem with that...but it is the government workers who should be doing it, not the people who are paying their salaries. They could spend time before sending out renewal notices checking up on people, working with other agencies to verify any information they needed to have verified. If the agencies don't want to cooperate, then the governor, the state legislature, or heaven help us, the courts, should intervene.
Then, and only then, if a problem came up, the DOR could contact the person and take care of the problem.
When people apply for a license for the first time, there should already be enough information available on those people through various government sources. If there are questions, those could be checked out.
Government should exist to serve the people not create problems for them. I know it is a novel concept, but if there is any time it should be followed, this is the time.
Do not roll over and accept this because I guarantee you if we do, this will not be the end of it.
Apparently, Missouri Department of Revenue officials were shocked when they discovered that people would be upset by the new hoops they are being forced to jump through just to renew their driver's licenses.
"We didn't think it would be as big an issue as it has become," Department of Revenue spokeswoman Maura Browning told the News-Leader. "What we've done in the last week is make the requirements easier to understand."
She got the first part right, but she's still clueless on the second. Apparently, one change the DOR has made involves women who have remarried. They no longer will be required to bring documentation to prove each of the name changes they have gone through. All they will have to bring, according to the News-Leader article, is a Social Security card or a Medicare card.
What this proves is that when people complain, things can get done. Well, they need to keep complaining. I don't think anyone minds the effort to make sure that driver's licenses are going to people who belong here legally, but doesn't the DNR have records? Can't these records be cross-referenced with records from other agencies, without people having to dig through all kinds of documents and waiting in long lines to get their licenses? Why do they collect all of this information on us if they are not going to use it responsibly. This would definitely be a responsible use of that information.
Missourians need to keep complaining until the DOR and Governor Blunt come up with a more reasonable solution to this problem. The first resort for government is always to require more paperwork. I don't necessarily have a problem with that...but it is the government workers who should be doing it, not the people who are paying their salaries. They could spend time before sending out renewal notices checking up on people, working with other agencies to verify any information they needed to have verified. If the agencies don't want to cooperate, then the governor, the state legislature, or heaven help us, the courts, should intervene.
Then, and only then, if a problem came up, the DOR could contact the person and take care of the problem.
When people apply for a license for the first time, there should already be enough information available on those people through various government sources. If there are questions, those could be checked out.
Government should exist to serve the people not create problems for them. I know it is a novel concept, but if there is any time it should be followed, this is the time.
Do not roll over and accept this because I guarantee you if we do, this will not be the end of it.
Missouri's teen drivers among worst
The National Safety Council has issued a ranking of the deadliest states in the country for teen-related driving fatalities. Missouri ranked eighth. The worst ranking went to the District of Columbia.
Who is Chuck Wells?
I read with interest The Lamar Democrat's story in its Wednesday edition about somebody named Chuck Wells, who suggests that Barton County Memorial Hospital come up with a five-year plan.
I probably should know this name, but nowhere in the article, which was written by Democrat editor, does it tell me who in the heck this Chuck Wells is and why the hospital board should be listening to him so intently.
And judging from the recommendations the man made, that knowledge would be helpful. The article indicates Wells thinks the board should consider moving the hospital because lenders prefer to loan money for relocation projects rather than rebuilding projects. Maybe so, but I sure would like to have more than this man's word for it before I consider any move away from a site that has served the county well since 1948.
I have a feeling the man probably is extremely knowledgeable, but readers have no way of knowing when the newspaper doesn't provide us with enough information for a thorough evaluation.
***
While we are talking about the Democrat, the newspaper's website has a message on its homepage "Webmaster on vacation, next digital news Mid-July." Hmm, that would have been about the time I would have expected the site to be updated.
I probably should know this name, but nowhere in the article, which was written by Democrat editor, does it tell me who in the heck this Chuck Wells is and why the hospital board should be listening to him so intently.
And judging from the recommendations the man made, that knowledge would be helpful. The article indicates Wells thinks the board should consider moving the hospital because lenders prefer to loan money for relocation projects rather than rebuilding projects. Maybe so, but I sure would like to have more than this man's word for it before I consider any move away from a site that has served the county well since 1948.
I have a feeling the man probably is extremely knowledgeable, but readers have no way of knowing when the newspaper doesn't provide us with enough information for a thorough evaluation.
***
While we are talking about the Democrat, the newspaper's website has a message on its homepage "Webmaster on vacation, next digital news Mid-July." Hmm, that would have been about the time I would have expected the site to be updated.
Wednesday, June 29, 2005
Calling all copy editors
Today's Joplin Globe featured an article on the upcoming preliminary hearing of accused killer Jim Edward Ryan in Barton County Circuit Court in Lamar. In that story, the Globe kept referring to the victim, John Kullie, as John Cooley, and to his wife (Ryan's sister) as Becky Cooley, when she, of course, is Becky Kullie.
That's what happens when you don't ask for spelling on names and assume that a name is spelled in the common fashion. If the Globe reporter checked with case.net to find out if John Cooley had a record, he would have found nothing. But checking for John Kullie's record is an entirely different matter. Though it may not have had any bearing on the case, the reporter would have discovered that John Kullie had several brushes with the law and had spent some time in prison. He had been before judges in Jasper and Newton counties.
He would have discovered that Rebecca Kullie was awaiting a June 16 hearing in Jasper County Circuit Court on felony marijuana possession charges. She was granted a continuance and now has a 1:30 p.m. July 13 hearing set before Judge Stephen Carlton.
I don't know if those little tidbits of information would have made any difference, but if you don't know how to spell the name, you are not going to come across them.
***
The story on the drunk driver who interrupted the funeral procession told how the driver went off the square and slammed into John's Pharmacy. No such place exists. However, Jon's Pharmacy does.
I will be the first to admit, it's a lot easier for me. When I make a mistake, I can get back on the internet and fix it. People who write for newspapers have no such luxuries.
That's what happens when you don't ask for spelling on names and assume that a name is spelled in the common fashion. If the Globe reporter checked with case.net to find out if John Cooley had a record, he would have found nothing. But checking for John Kullie's record is an entirely different matter. Though it may not have had any bearing on the case, the reporter would have discovered that John Kullie had several brushes with the law and had spent some time in prison. He had been before judges in Jasper and Newton counties.
He would have discovered that Rebecca Kullie was awaiting a June 16 hearing in Jasper County Circuit Court on felony marijuana possession charges. She was granted a continuance and now has a 1:30 p.m. July 13 hearing set before Judge Stephen Carlton.
I don't know if those little tidbits of information would have made any difference, but if you don't know how to spell the name, you are not going to come across them.
***
The story on the drunk driver who interrupted the funeral procession told how the driver went off the square and slammed into John's Pharmacy. No such place exists. However, Jon's Pharmacy does.
I will be the first to admit, it's a lot easier for me. When I make a mistake, I can get back on the internet and fix it. People who write for newspapers have no such luxuries.
Miss America Pageant to change
I thought about my former Newtonia neighbor Debra Miles a while ago when I read an article about changes that are being planned with the Miss America Pageant.
You would have never known it to see her on the street or at Gum's Store, or with her husband, Mitch, but Mrs. Miles, during her pre-marriage days in Kansas, under her maiden name of Debra Barnes, had been crowned Miss America. Mrs. Miles has never been one to put on airs.
The last time I talked with her was when she was living in Carthage (she may still be, I have been out of touch) and she agreed to speak at an assembly at Diamond Middle School.
Considering the changes that the Miss America Pageant is going through, I don't know if she would even want to have her name associated with it. Televised rating have been going down for the pageant for years, which some have speculated has to do with its wholesome atmosphere.
It will no longer be carried on network television and it will no longer be held in August. According to the Washington Post story I was just reading, it will on Country Music Television (CMT), which asked that it be moved to January. It will also no longer be a one-day televised event. The powers-that-be at the pageant and CMT plan to change it into just another reality series.
This would include taping all of the preliminaries, following around the contestants, probably trying to stir up conflict between them; something to spice things up. I doubt that it will ever turn into CMT's version of "The Bachelorette," but it sure isn't going to be the Miss America Pageant.
You would have never known it to see her on the street or at Gum's Store, or with her husband, Mitch, but Mrs. Miles, during her pre-marriage days in Kansas, under her maiden name of Debra Barnes, had been crowned Miss America. Mrs. Miles has never been one to put on airs.
The last time I talked with her was when she was living in Carthage (she may still be, I have been out of touch) and she agreed to speak at an assembly at Diamond Middle School.
Considering the changes that the Miss America Pageant is going through, I don't know if she would even want to have her name associated with it. Televised rating have been going down for the pageant for years, which some have speculated has to do with its wholesome atmosphere.
It will no longer be carried on network television and it will no longer be held in August. According to the Washington Post story I was just reading, it will on Country Music Television (CMT), which asked that it be moved to January. It will also no longer be a one-day televised event. The powers-that-be at the pageant and CMT plan to change it into just another reality series.
This would include taping all of the preliminaries, following around the contestants, probably trying to stir up conflict between them; something to spice things up. I doubt that it will ever turn into CMT's version of "The Bachelorette," but it sure isn't going to be the Miss America Pageant.
Blunt claims no expenditures
Registered lobbyist Andrew Blunt, brother of Governor Matt Blunt, and son of Seventh District Congressman Roy Blunt, filed four no-expenditure reports, one for each month from January through April with the Missouri Ethics Commission.
That doesn't necessarily mean he wasn't lobbying, since I would imagine it is pretty easy for the governor's brother to get calls returned.
Expenditure forms for May have not been placed on the Ethics Commission's website yet.
Some were surprised that Blunt's March disclosure form did not show any gifts for legislators. State Democrats have filed a complaint with the Commission, claiming that Blunt should have filed a report covering the little vacation retreat taken by nine Republican legislators, including Marilyn Ruestman, R-Joplin, and Speaker of the House Rod Jetton, to Hot Springs, Ark., during the House break that month.
As The Turner Report revealed last month Blunt added six clients to his lobbying list following his brother's election in November. Those added were: Ameren UE, St. Louis; Burlington Northern Railway, Springfield; Farmer Companies, Jefferson City; Health Management Systems, Odessa; Heritage Information Systems, Richmond, Va., and Missouri Automobile Dealers Association, Jefferson City.
A seventh, ACS Heritage Inc., Richmond, Va., a consulting company which makes it money by offering management and cost-cutting services to government programs, insurance companies and large employers, was added June 20, as was revealed in the June 23 Turner Report.
According to the company's website, "through a sophisticated suite of proprietary, web-enabled software applications, ACS-Heritage helps clients decrease costs and improve the quality of their prescription drug programs."
Also noted on the website, "ACS-Heritage was founded in 1980 and currently serves more than 14 Medicaid programs, several national commercial insurers, over a dozen Blue Cross Blue Shield licenses, and some of the largest employer groups in the country."
Organizations and special interests already on Blunt's client list were: Kraft Foods, Northfield, Ill., Miller Brewing Company, Milwaukee, Wis.; Missouri Hospital Association, Jefferson City; Phillip Morris, Richmond, Va., PSRI, Jefferson City; Southwestern Bell (SBC), Jefferson City; Systems & Methods, Carrolton, Ga.; and United Parcel Service, Leawood, Kan.
That doesn't necessarily mean he wasn't lobbying, since I would imagine it is pretty easy for the governor's brother to get calls returned.
Expenditure forms for May have not been placed on the Ethics Commission's website yet.
Some were surprised that Blunt's March disclosure form did not show any gifts for legislators. State Democrats have filed a complaint with the Commission, claiming that Blunt should have filed a report covering the little vacation retreat taken by nine Republican legislators, including Marilyn Ruestman, R-Joplin, and Speaker of the House Rod Jetton, to Hot Springs, Ark., during the House break that month.
As The Turner Report revealed last month Blunt added six clients to his lobbying list following his brother's election in November. Those added were: Ameren UE, St. Louis; Burlington Northern Railway, Springfield; Farmer Companies, Jefferson City; Health Management Systems, Odessa; Heritage Information Systems, Richmond, Va., and Missouri Automobile Dealers Association, Jefferson City.
A seventh, ACS Heritage Inc., Richmond, Va., a consulting company which makes it money by offering management and cost-cutting services to government programs, insurance companies and large employers, was added June 20, as was revealed in the June 23 Turner Report.
According to the company's website, "through a sophisticated suite of proprietary, web-enabled software applications, ACS-Heritage helps clients decrease costs and improve the quality of their prescription drug programs."
Also noted on the website, "ACS-Heritage was founded in 1980 and currently serves more than 14 Medicaid programs, several national commercial insurers, over a dozen Blue Cross Blue Shield licenses, and some of the largest employer groups in the country."
Organizations and special interests already on Blunt's client list were: Kraft Foods, Northfield, Ill., Miller Brewing Company, Milwaukee, Wis.; Missouri Hospital Association, Jefferson City; Phillip Morris, Richmond, Va., PSRI, Jefferson City; Southwestern Bell (SBC), Jefferson City; Systems & Methods, Carrolton, Ga.; and United Parcel Service, Leawood, Kan.
Blunt comments on Bush speech available
For anyone interested in reading Seventh District Congressman Roy Blunt's reaction to President Bush's speech from last night, go to the following link:
http://press.arrivenet.com/pol/article.php/661103.html
http://press.arrivenet.com/pol/article.php/661103.html
Blunt promises vote on Social Security accounts
Seventh District Congressman Roy Blunt is promising that President Bush's Social Security bill will be sent to the House floor in August or September...complete with the controversial private investment accounts.
An article in today's New York Times quotes Blunt and other Republican leaders who say they will push for passage of the president's plan, even though it has been greeted with little enthusiasm by the public.
"This is not too far too fast. ... This is a step we can take right now," Blunt is quoted as saying in an Associated Press article.
The plan calls for paying for the investment accounts through the temporary surplus in the system, plus borrowing more money and increasing the federal debt, according to the article.
An article in today's New York Times quotes Blunt and other Republican leaders who say they will push for passage of the president's plan, even though it has been greeted with little enthusiasm by the public.
"This is not too far too fast. ... This is a step we can take right now," Blunt is quoted as saying in an Associated Press article.
The plan calls for paying for the investment accounts through the temporary surplus in the system, plus borrowing more money and increasing the federal debt, according to the article.
Blunt signs immunization bill
Former Carthage City Councilwoman Lujene Clark's battle to ban vaccines containing more than a trace amount of mercury reached a successful conclusion today, for this state at least, when Missouri Governor Matt Blunt signed a bill, sponsored by Sen. Norma Champion, R-Springfield, banning such vaccines for pregnant women and for children under the age of three, beginning in April 2007.
According to Associated Press, the bill requires insurance companies to cover mercury-free vaccines at the same rate as those that contain mercury.
Mrs. Clark and her husband, emergency room physician Dr. Alan Clark, began the battle after their son was diagnosed with a form of autism which they believe was caused by mercury in vaccines.
An October 2004 Joplin Globe feature detailed how the Clarks have fought the battle against the mercury-laden vaccines, not only in Jefferson City, but in state capitals throughout the U. S., and in Washington, D. C.
According to Associated Press, the bill requires insurance companies to cover mercury-free vaccines at the same rate as those that contain mercury.
Mrs. Clark and her husband, emergency room physician Dr. Alan Clark, began the battle after their son was diagnosed with a form of autism which they believe was caused by mercury in vaccines.
An October 2004 Joplin Globe feature detailed how the Clarks have fought the battle against the mercury-laden vaccines, not only in Jefferson City, but in state capitals throughout the U. S., and in Washington, D. C.
Fortress buys controlling interest in care centers
Fortress Investment, a global firm that recently bought Liberty Group Publishing, announced the purchase of controlling interest in Alterra Healthcare Corporation, according to the Milwaukee Business Journal.
The article indicated Fortress plans to merge Alterra with Chicago-based Brookdale Living Communities, Inc. Brookdale has a few nursing homes in the St. Louis area. Alterra does not have any in Missouri, but has a number in Kansas and Oklahoma.
Oklahoma cites with with Alterra homes, most of them going under the Sterling name, include Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Ada, Bartlesville, Bethany, Broken Arrow, Claremore, Duncan, Durant, Edmond, Enid, Lawton, Midwest City, Norman, Owasso, Ponca City, Stillwater, and Weatherford.
Kansas communities served by Alterra include: Topeka, Wichita, Great Bend, Hays, Junction City, Salina, Tallgrass, Wellington, Abilene, Arkansas City, Derby, Dodge City, and Emporia.
In addition to the purchase of Liberty Group Publishing, which includes The Carthage Press, the Neosho Daily News, the Neosho Post, and The Big Nickel, Fortress was recently in the news for buying troubled pop star Michael Jackson's debt from Bank of America. The collateral for that debt includes the rights to Jackson's own music and a 50 percent share of the Beatles' publishing rights.
The article indicated Fortress plans to merge Alterra with Chicago-based Brookdale Living Communities, Inc. Brookdale has a few nursing homes in the St. Louis area. Alterra does not have any in Missouri, but has a number in Kansas and Oklahoma.
Oklahoma cites with with Alterra homes, most of them going under the Sterling name, include Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Ada, Bartlesville, Bethany, Broken Arrow, Claremore, Duncan, Durant, Edmond, Enid, Lawton, Midwest City, Norman, Owasso, Ponca City, Stillwater, and Weatherford.
Kansas communities served by Alterra include: Topeka, Wichita, Great Bend, Hays, Junction City, Salina, Tallgrass, Wellington, Abilene, Arkansas City, Derby, Dodge City, and Emporia.
In addition to the purchase of Liberty Group Publishing, which includes The Carthage Press, the Neosho Daily News, the Neosho Post, and The Big Nickel, Fortress was recently in the news for buying troubled pop star Michael Jackson's debt from Bank of America. The collateral for that debt includes the rights to Jackson's own music and a 50 percent share of the Beatles' publishing rights.
Jarden buys Holmes Group
Jarden Corporation, owner of the Sunbeam plant in Neosho, announced today it had bought The Holmes Group, Inc., a transaction valued at $625 million. The purchase was made with $420 million in cash and 4.1 million shares of Jarden common stock, according to the Jarden news release.
Holmes manufactures and distributes home environment and small kitchen electric appliances, with name brands including Crock Pot, Harmony, Holmes, Bionaire, Rival, Seal-a-Meal, and WhiteMountain. The transaction will close during the third quarter, the release said.
"Holmes has also developed its own state-of-the-art manufacturing, distribution and new product development facilities in China within the last five years, having had an active manufacturing presence in China for over fifteen years. Holmes has annual revenues of approximately $700 million," the news release said.
Holmes manufactures and distributes home environment and small kitchen electric appliances, with name brands including Crock Pot, Harmony, Holmes, Bionaire, Rival, Seal-a-Meal, and WhiteMountain. The transaction will close during the third quarter, the release said.
"Holmes has also developed its own state-of-the-art manufacturing, distribution and new product development facilities in China within the last five years, having had an active manufacturing presence in China for over fifteen years. Holmes has annual revenues of approximately $700 million," the news release said.
More about new driver's license requirements
Women who have been married two or three times (or more) and older residents could have particular problems (as well as the people who are waiting in line behind them) when they try to renew their driver's licenses.
The problem is explained well in this article from today's St. Louis Post-Dispatch:
http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/neighborhoods/stories.nsf/news/story/04C9E131B297C7298625702E006D7F3C?OpenDocument
The problem is explained well in this article from today's St. Louis Post-Dispatch:
http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/neighborhoods/stories.nsf/news/story/04C9E131B297C7298625702E006D7F3C?OpenDocument
A few comments on tonight's 6 p.m. news
Just a few notes on today's local TV newscasts:
-KSN's report showed Governor Matt Blunt signing the education bill at Webb City and telling the people there about how much money it would bring to Joplin. I enjoyed that.
-I like KOAM anchor Rhonda Justice's new hairstyle, but nevertheless, I will continue to wear my hair like KODE substitute anchor Alan Matthews.
-Matthews is certainly doing a bangup job filling in while the search for Jimmy Siedlecki's replacement continues. It would be a shame if he got passed over for some 25-year-old from Florida.
-Good reporting from all three stations on the ongoing search for the bodies of long missing Oklahoma teens Ashley Freeman and Lauria Bible.
-KODE's Alan Cavanna was on the spot again for coverage of an Oklahoma man allegedly killing his brother.
-This last item has nothing to do with today's news, but is a criticism for an apparently major story, first broken by Joplin Globe reporter Roger McKinney June 25 that every other media outlet missed and which the Globe underplayed. McKinney's story had me from the lead which read:
GALENA, Kan. - A Galena police officer is no longer employed by the department after an incident where he reportedly shot and killed an injured dog three times without contacting the dog's owners.
What a story! It's bad enough that officer shot and killed the dog the first time without contacting its owner, but to do it a second and third time, that's grotesque. The man deserved to lose his job.
I thought cats were the only animals with more than one life.
-KSN's report showed Governor Matt Blunt signing the education bill at Webb City and telling the people there about how much money it would bring to Joplin. I enjoyed that.
-I like KOAM anchor Rhonda Justice's new hairstyle, but nevertheless, I will continue to wear my hair like KODE substitute anchor Alan Matthews.
-Matthews is certainly doing a bangup job filling in while the search for Jimmy Siedlecki's replacement continues. It would be a shame if he got passed over for some 25-year-old from Florida.
-Good reporting from all three stations on the ongoing search for the bodies of long missing Oklahoma teens Ashley Freeman and Lauria Bible.
-KODE's Alan Cavanna was on the spot again for coverage of an Oklahoma man allegedly killing his brother.
-This last item has nothing to do with today's news, but is a criticism for an apparently major story, first broken by Joplin Globe reporter Roger McKinney June 25 that every other media outlet missed and which the Globe underplayed. McKinney's story had me from the lead which read:
GALENA, Kan. - A Galena police officer is no longer employed by the department after an incident where he reportedly shot and killed an injured dog three times without contacting the dog's owners.
What a story! It's bad enough that officer shot and killed the dog the first time without contacting its owner, but to do it a second and third time, that's grotesque. The man deserved to lose his job.
I thought cats were the only animals with more than one life.
Comments on Wooden death are interesting
If you get a chance, take some time to go to the Joplin Globe's website and read the comments concerning today's article on the investigation into eight-year-old foster child Braxton Wooden's death.
The one at the bottom was the one that interested me, and bothered me the most. It ripped the Globe for continuing to run articles on the case, saying that it happened June 2 and the Globe should let up on it.
This same kind of response came up a few weeks back when the Globe was writing about the situation involving the Joplin police officers and handcuffing the boy at the elementary school. The newspaper was accused, as usual in these cases, of sensationalizing it and blowing it up out of proportion.
Thank God not everyone is as close-minded as these people. If we just let the bad stories disappear, they would keep happening again and again. Without the light shed on the Wooden boy's death by the Globe and the local TV stations, this situation might have just blown over without Social Services and the foster parenting system coming under a much-needed closer examination.
We cannot just close our ears and shut our eyes when bad things happen. That is what the media's job is.
Should the media report only bad news? Of course not, but when it is there, that's when the media has to rise to the occasion. In the Braxton Wooden case, the Globe, KODE, KOAM, and KSNF have done their jobs well.
The one at the bottom was the one that interested me, and bothered me the most. It ripped the Globe for continuing to run articles on the case, saying that it happened June 2 and the Globe should let up on it.
This same kind of response came up a few weeks back when the Globe was writing about the situation involving the Joplin police officers and handcuffing the boy at the elementary school. The newspaper was accused, as usual in these cases, of sensationalizing it and blowing it up out of proportion.
Thank God not everyone is as close-minded as these people. If we just let the bad stories disappear, they would keep happening again and again. Without the light shed on the Wooden boy's death by the Globe and the local TV stations, this situation might have just blown over without Social Services and the foster parenting system coming under a much-needed closer examination.
We cannot just close our ears and shut our eyes when bad things happen. That is what the media's job is.
Should the media report only bad news? Of course not, but when it is there, that's when the media has to rise to the occasion. In the Braxton Wooden case, the Globe, KODE, KOAM, and KSNF have done their jobs well.
A little more about Lamar R-1 budget
I forgot to mention a little item that irritated me when I read it in Lamar Democrat reporter Chris Morrow's account of the June 21 Lamar R-1 Board of Education meeting.
Nothing wrong with Chris' article. It was the best reporting of a Lamar school board meeting I have seen in the Democrat in a long time.
Check out this paragraph:
"Overall, the budget allows for an eight percent increase, or $2,000, on the base salary for teachers raising it to $27,000. Non-certified staff will receive a five percent increase. The administrators were added into the pay scale at the 10th year master's degree level, which means that although they received a 6.7 percent increase, as a percentage, they received less of an increase than the teachers."
I am sure the Lamar teachers chuckled ruefully when they heard that one. Let me explain it in simple terms. If a teacher who is making $25,000 (a simple number for me to work with) receives an eight percent pay increase, then that teacher's salary goes up to $27,000 a year, or a $2,000 pay increase. On the other hand, if an administrator is making $60,000 a year, which is not uncommon for superintendents at smaller schools, and is given a 6.7 percent raise, that would bring the administrator's salary up to somewhere in the area of $64,000 a year. If you want to give the administrators that size of a pay increase, I don't have any problem with it, but please don't insult the intelligence of teachers and district patrons by making it sound as if the teachers are getting the better deal. They are getting a much appreciated $2,000 a year pay increase, but administrators who already make double what the teachers make in most instances, will also receive nearly double the pay increase.
Of course, some of the teachers are also coaches and will pick up a few more dollars, but that's taking us back to the last point of contention.
Nothing wrong with Chris' article. It was the best reporting of a Lamar school board meeting I have seen in the Democrat in a long time.
Check out this paragraph:
"Overall, the budget allows for an eight percent increase, or $2,000, on the base salary for teachers raising it to $27,000. Non-certified staff will receive a five percent increase. The administrators were added into the pay scale at the 10th year master's degree level, which means that although they received a 6.7 percent increase, as a percentage, they received less of an increase than the teachers."
I am sure the Lamar teachers chuckled ruefully when they heard that one. Let me explain it in simple terms. If a teacher who is making $25,000 (a simple number for me to work with) receives an eight percent pay increase, then that teacher's salary goes up to $27,000 a year, or a $2,000 pay increase. On the other hand, if an administrator is making $60,000 a year, which is not uncommon for superintendents at smaller schools, and is given a 6.7 percent raise, that would bring the administrator's salary up to somewhere in the area of $64,000 a year. If you want to give the administrators that size of a pay increase, I don't have any problem with it, but please don't insult the intelligence of teachers and district patrons by making it sound as if the teachers are getting the better deal. They are getting a much appreciated $2,000 a year pay increase, but administrators who already make double what the teachers make in most instances, will also receive nearly double the pay increase.
Of course, some of the teachers are also coaches and will pick up a few more dollars, but that's taking us back to the last point of contention.
Kahl bound over for trial
Brandon Kahl, 25, Lamar, charged with involuntary manslaughter in connection with the June 7 death of two-year-old Alexander Cole, waived his preliminary hearing Tuesday in Barton County Circuit Court, and was bound over for trial.
Cole was the son of Kahl's live-in girlfriend. He is free on $15,000 bond. The bond includes the
stipulation that Kahl have no contact with anyone under the age of 17, and he must live with either his father, Terry Kahl, or his grandmother, Lucille Kahl.
Cole was the son of Kahl's live-in girlfriend. He is free on $15,000 bond. The bond includes the
stipulation that Kahl have no contact with anyone under the age of 17, and he must live with either his father, Terry Kahl, or his grandmother, Lucille Kahl.
Ryan preliminary hearing rescheduled
The preliminary hearing for accused killer Jim Edward Ryan has been rescheduled to 1 p.m. July 12 in Barton County Circuit Court. The hearing had originally been scheduled for June 28.
Ryan is charged with the May 25 beating death of John Kullie in Lamar Heights. Authorities say Ryan killed Kullie, his brother-in-law, with a tire jack. Ryan is charged with first degree murder and armed criminal action and is being held in the Barton County Jail in lieu of $500,000 bond.
Ryan is charged with the May 25 beating death of John Kullie in Lamar Heights. Authorities say Ryan killed Kullie, his brother-in-law, with a tire jack. Ryan is charged with first degree murder and armed criminal action and is being held in the Barton County Jail in lieu of $500,000 bond.
"Contempt of Court' Lindstedt files new motion
Martin Lindstedt, formerly of Granby, now spending at least 660 days in the Newton County Jail, thanks to 22 30-day contempt citations by Judge Kevin Selby, has taken the judge to task in a new motion filed today in Newton County Circuit Court.
Lindstedt, who was already in jail in lieu of $100,000 bond awaiting trial on a statutory sodomy charge, filed a motion "for this corrupt regime court judge to alter, amend, abolish and/or reconsider corrupt judgment to unlawfully assign Division III Newton County Juvenile Judge Kevin Lee Selby to hear prisoner's case."
Lindstedt, who must have missed school the day they talked about how to win friends and influence people, has a long history of filing frivolous lawsuits and unsuccessfully running for public office. Several attempts have been made to hold hearings in the present case, but each time they have been disrupted by Lindstedt.
Lindstedt, who was already in jail in lieu of $100,000 bond awaiting trial on a statutory sodomy charge, filed a motion "for this corrupt regime court judge to alter, amend, abolish and/or reconsider corrupt judgment to unlawfully assign Division III Newton County Juvenile Judge Kevin Lee Selby to hear prisoner's case."
Lindstedt, who must have missed school the day they talked about how to win friends and influence people, has a long history of filing frivolous lawsuits and unsuccessfully running for public office. Several attempts have been made to hold hearings in the present case, but each time they have been disrupted by Lindstedt.
Aug. 2 hearing set for Holman in Barton County
Accused double murderer Micah Holman, 32, Carthage, has an Aug. 2 hearing in Barton County Circuit Court on an unrelated felony stealing charge, according to court records.
Holman is charged with two counts of first degree murder, two counts of armed criminal action, and one count each of burglary and arson in Jasper County in connection with the June 4 murders of Marvin and Peggy Steverson of Carthage.
Holman is charged with two counts of first degree murder, two counts of armed criminal action, and one count each of burglary and arson in Jasper County in connection with the June 4 murders of Marvin and Peggy Steverson of Carthage.
Pineville officer charged with DWI, assault
Suspended Pineville police officer Terry D. Bates was officially charged with driving while intoxicated and assault, both misdemeanors, today in McDonald County Circuit Court.
Bates, 35, has been under suspension since the June 12 incident in which he was stopped by a Missouri Highway Patrol trooper. His arraignment has been scheduled for 10 a.m. Monday, July 25. News reports following Bates' arrest indicate he had a blood alcohol content more than twice the legal limit. Bates has also been charged with failure to drive on the right half of the roadway.
The reports said the assault was on a nine-year-old girl at a get-together in Noel. He allegedly grabbed the girl by the arm. Court records indicate an Anderson man filed a child protection order against Bates on June 13, though the temporary order was dismissed without prejudice June 27.
Bates, 35, has been under suspension since the June 12 incident in which he was stopped by a Missouri Highway Patrol trooper. His arraignment has been scheduled for 10 a.m. Monday, July 25. News reports following Bates' arrest indicate he had a blood alcohol content more than twice the legal limit. Bates has also been charged with failure to drive on the right half of the roadway.
The reports said the assault was on a nine-year-old girl at a get-together in Noel. He allegedly grabbed the girl by the arm. Court records indicate an Anderson man filed a child protection order against Bates on June 13, though the temporary order was dismissed without prejudice June 27.
Sex offender registration challenged
Missouri's sex offender registry is under legal attack, according an Associated Press article.
Documents filed yesterday say the law is unfair because it makes all offenders register for life whether they are violent rapists or someone who committed a consensual act as a teenager.
In the documents, lawyers argue that the law is "overly broad and deprives people of their constitutionally protected due process and equal protection rights." The documents were filed in connection with an appeal of a Jan. 6 Jackson County decision, which upheld the sex offender registry.
Documents filed yesterday say the law is unfair because it makes all offenders register for life whether they are violent rapists or someone who committed a consensual act as a teenager.
In the documents, lawyers argue that the law is "overly broad and deprives people of their constitutionally protected due process and equal protection rights." The documents were filed in connection with an appeal of a Jan. 6 Jackson County decision, which upheld the sex offender registry.
Latest release shows Blunt is out of touch
On many occasions, I have read a politician's news release and I have strongly disagreed with whatever it is the politician is saying. The latest release by Governor Matt Blunt, however, has me downright angry.
Our governor is praising the new program which requires Missourians to have to provide all kinds of identification to prove that they are Missourians and that they are who they say they are.
Of course, the Department of Revenue officials have given it a snappy name, "Show Me Proof," but all it amounts to is another way of creating more of a need for the kind of bureaucracy that Governor Blunt is supposed to abhor.
"While protecting Missourians by cracking down on identity theft and fraud," the news release starts, "the Missouri Department of Revenue on July 1 will unveil "Show Me Proof," a new customer-friendly program that fine-tunes and simplifies the new lawful presence requirements to obtain or renew a driver license, nondriver license, or instruction permit."
Wait until you hear what Governor Blunt's idea of "customer-friendly" is.
The news release continues, "The program is designed to make it easier for customers and the department to meet their legal obligations and is consistent with Governor Matt Blunt's charge to agency directors to make state government more accessible and responsible to citizens."
Then the governor commends Director of Revenue Trish Vincent and her staff for the program, saying, "They have taken a confusing and difficult legal obligation and turned it into a straightforward program that has real benefits to Missourians."
After that nonsense, the governor, who I'm sure wrote every word of the news release (sarcasm alert), gets down to explaining "Show Me Proof." Here is the rest of the release:
Beginning July 1, customers will have to Show Me Proof and will be required to show proof of lawful presence, show proof of identity, and show proof of residency when the customer obtains a new license or permit or renews a license or permit for the first time after July 1.
“There are all kinds of reasons for the department to implement Show Me Proof, but most importantly, we are protecting the identities of Missourians,” said department director Trish Vincent. “Show Me Proof will help ensure that license holders are who they say they are.”
For more detailed information about the new identification requirements, including a guide to obtaining the required documentation, please visit the department’s web site at http://www.dor.mo.gov/ or call (573) 751-2730. On the department’s web site, click the “Show Me Proof” icon to go directly to the new requirements.
What this glib news release does not tell you is exactly how many items they want you to have when you apply for a new driver's license or for a renewal. In addition to an authentic birth certificate, you have to take some kind of utility bill or voter registration card to show that you live where you say you live, you have to provide a Social Security card to prove your identity, you have to have documents to prove a change of name if you have married, the list goes on and on. In fact, the section of the DOR site that shows how to get the proof you need is nine pages long. That should really simplify things.
The simple fact is there's nothing simple or customer friendly about these ridiculous new requirements. It is easy for Governor Blunt to say how simple the requirements are. When it comes time for him to get his driver's license, I can guarantee you he will not have to stand in line for two or three hours. And believe me, it is going to be a nightmare. In many locations in this state, you already have people who are brand new at working at license fee offices. Now you are going to have these people take the time to go through four or five documents for each person who comes in.
Why should a person who has lived in Missouri for 65 years have to prove citizenship? You can't tell me there was not an easier way to live up to federal and state requirements. This shows a lack of imagination, and even worse, a lack of consideration for Missourians.
And on top of that, our governor has the nerve to tell us that it's customer-friendly.
I would suggest contacting your state senator or state representative, but I am sure they are probably on the phone to the governor or writing him and saying, "Oh, yes, Governor Blunt, you are right, this is the most customer-friendly idea I have ever seen. Is there anything else we can kiss?"
Our governor is praising the new program which requires Missourians to have to provide all kinds of identification to prove that they are Missourians and that they are who they say they are.
Of course, the Department of Revenue officials have given it a snappy name, "Show Me Proof," but all it amounts to is another way of creating more of a need for the kind of bureaucracy that Governor Blunt is supposed to abhor.
"While protecting Missourians by cracking down on identity theft and fraud," the news release starts, "the Missouri Department of Revenue on July 1 will unveil "Show Me Proof," a new customer-friendly program that fine-tunes and simplifies the new lawful presence requirements to obtain or renew a driver license, nondriver license, or instruction permit."
Wait until you hear what Governor Blunt's idea of "customer-friendly" is.
The news release continues, "The program is designed to make it easier for customers and the department to meet their legal obligations and is consistent with Governor Matt Blunt's charge to agency directors to make state government more accessible and responsible to citizens."
Then the governor commends Director of Revenue Trish Vincent and her staff for the program, saying, "They have taken a confusing and difficult legal obligation and turned it into a straightforward program that has real benefits to Missourians."
After that nonsense, the governor, who I'm sure wrote every word of the news release (sarcasm alert), gets down to explaining "Show Me Proof." Here is the rest of the release:
Beginning July 1, customers will have to Show Me Proof and will be required to show proof of lawful presence, show proof of identity, and show proof of residency when the customer obtains a new license or permit or renews a license or permit for the first time after July 1.
“There are all kinds of reasons for the department to implement Show Me Proof, but most importantly, we are protecting the identities of Missourians,” said department director Trish Vincent. “Show Me Proof will help ensure that license holders are who they say they are.”
For more detailed information about the new identification requirements, including a guide to obtaining the required documentation, please visit the department’s web site at http://www.dor.mo.gov/ or call (573) 751-2730. On the department’s web site, click the “Show Me Proof” icon to go directly to the new requirements.
What this glib news release does not tell you is exactly how many items they want you to have when you apply for a new driver's license or for a renewal. In addition to an authentic birth certificate, you have to take some kind of utility bill or voter registration card to show that you live where you say you live, you have to provide a Social Security card to prove your identity, you have to have documents to prove a change of name if you have married, the list goes on and on. In fact, the section of the DOR site that shows how to get the proof you need is nine pages long. That should really simplify things.
The simple fact is there's nothing simple or customer friendly about these ridiculous new requirements. It is easy for Governor Blunt to say how simple the requirements are. When it comes time for him to get his driver's license, I can guarantee you he will not have to stand in line for two or three hours. And believe me, it is going to be a nightmare. In many locations in this state, you already have people who are brand new at working at license fee offices. Now you are going to have these people take the time to go through four or five documents for each person who comes in.
Why should a person who has lived in Missouri for 65 years have to prove citizenship? You can't tell me there was not an easier way to live up to federal and state requirements. This shows a lack of imagination, and even worse, a lack of consideration for Missourians.
And on top of that, our governor has the nerve to tell us that it's customer-friendly.
I would suggest contacting your state senator or state representative, but I am sure they are probably on the phone to the governor or writing him and saying, "Oh, yes, Governor Blunt, you are right, this is the most customer-friendly idea I have ever seen. Is there anything else we can kiss?"
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Former KODE reporter coaches candidates
During my web surfing tonight, I came across another familiar name from KODE's past. Former reporter Evan Rosen now works with candidates for public office, helping them to "communicate effectively for free media opportunities and speeches," according to a website called completecampaigns.com Rosen works for Impact Video Communications.
According to his bio, during his journalism days, Rosen interviewed Bill Clinton, John Glenn, Michael Dukakis, Dan Quayle, and Ralph Nader. In addition to KODE, he also worked at KICU in San Jose, WABC in New York, WXYZ in Detroit, WTOL in Toledo, and WCBN in Ann Arbor, Mich.
According to his bio, during his journalism days, Rosen interviewed Bill Clinton, John Glenn, Michael Dukakis, Dan Quayle, and Ralph Nader. In addition to KODE, he also worked at KICU in San Jose, WABC in New York, WXYZ in Detroit, WTOL in Toledo, and WCBN in Ann Arbor, Mich.
A blast from the past
I came across a neat little website for area media buffs a few moments ago.
Former KODE weekend anchor Steve Tommey has a page of photos from his time in Joplin, including his days working with the weekend team consisting of Tommey, Mary Ann Croce, Russ Riesinger, and Marny Stanier. And yes, that would be the same Marny Stanier who later went on to The Weather Channel (and who is now suing The Weather Channel in federal court for age and sex discrimination in connection with her firing).
You can find the site at: http://www.stevetommey.com/tvalbum.html
Tommey is now commercial director/producer at WB 19 in Tulsa.
Former KODE weekend anchor Steve Tommey has a page of photos from his time in Joplin, including his days working with the weekend team consisting of Tommey, Mary Ann Croce, Russ Riesinger, and Marny Stanier. And yes, that would be the same Marny Stanier who later went on to The Weather Channel (and who is now suing The Weather Channel in federal court for age and sex discrimination in connection with her firing).
You can find the site at: http://www.stevetommey.com/tvalbum.html
Tommey is now commercial director/producer at WB 19 in Tulsa.
Globe reports foster parents' license revoked
Mark and Treva Gordon of Alba will no longer be able to care for foster children, according to the Jeff Lehr-written article in Wednesday morning's Joplin Globe.
The Department of Social Services found evidence of child neglect in connection with the death of Braxton Wooden, 8, a foster child who was in their care.
The Department of Social Services found evidence of child neglect in connection with the death of Braxton Wooden, 8, a foster child who was in their care.
News of Moark controversy spreads across nation
The dispute over Moark's plans to expand its operation in Neosho has been featured on the pages and websites of many newspapers across the United States.
Among those who have carried the Associated Press story, based on Melissa DeLoach's article in today's Joplin Globe are: The Miami Herald, Fort Wayne, Indiana Journal-Gazette, Duluth, Minnesota News-Tribune, Fort Worth, Texas, Star-Telegram, Monterey County, Calif., Herald, and the Charlotte, N. C. Observer.
Among those who have carried the Associated Press story, based on Melissa DeLoach's article in today's Joplin Globe are: The Miami Herald, Fort Wayne, Indiana Journal-Gazette, Duluth, Minnesota News-Tribune, Fort Worth, Texas, Star-Telegram, Monterey County, Calif., Herald, and the Charlotte, N. C. Observer.
Hammons to expand Rogers hotel
John Q. Hammons Hotels LLC, Springfield, announced today it will expand the 248-room Embassy Suites in Rogers, by adding a 152-room tower, according to Arkansas Business. A company news release says that will make it "the largest all-suites property in Arkansas."
The project is expected to be completed in early 2006.
Hammons, of course, got his start in Newton County, growing up in Fairview.
The project is expected to be completed in early 2006.
Hammons, of course, got his start in Newton County, growing up in Fairview.
Hance appears ready to plead guilty
Former Seneca police officer and McDonald County sheriff candidate Randy Hance is expected to plead guilty to weapons charges 8:30 a.m. Friday, July 15, in U. S. District Court in Springfield.
Hance is being held without bond after a federal judge determined he might harm his ex-wife, others, or himself.
Hance's attorney, Shawn Askinosie of Springfield, had indicated in earlier court filings that he was negotiating a plea agreement with the government.
Hance is being held without bond after a federal judge determined he might harm his ex-wife, others, or himself.
Hance's attorney, Shawn Askinosie of Springfield, had indicated in earlier court filings that he was negotiating a plea agreement with the government.
Siedlecki/Gomer connection
I had never noticed it, but today's Omaha TV News at http://omanews.blogspot.com/ questions whether new WOWT morning anchor and former KODE anchor Jimmy Siedlecki and TV's Gomer Pyle, Jim Nabors, were separated at birth.
Vinita radio station sells
A businessman who owns numerous Grove interests, including the Cherokee Queen riverboats, bought KITO-AM and FM in Vinita for $900,000, according to Radio and Records.
This is the first radio station owned by Larry Steckline, owner of Mid America Ag Network, Inc., and an agribusiness reporter for more than three decades. Steckline's wife is former Kansas attorney general and gubernatorial candidate Carla Stovall.
The station was previously owned by DLB Broadcasting Corporation, headed by Dave Boyd, president.
This is the first radio station owned by Larry Steckline, owner of Mid America Ag Network, Inc., and an agribusiness reporter for more than three decades. Steckline's wife is former Kansas attorney general and gubernatorial candidate Carla Stovall.
The station was previously owned by DLB Broadcasting Corporation, headed by Dave Boyd, president.
News-Leader report on Medicaid problems top-notch
The Springfield News-Leader, in its Sunday edition, offered a thorough explanation of the effects the Medicaid cuts are going on to have on people and institutions throughout the Springfield area.
I would love to see that emulated by The Globe, the Daily, the Press, or maybe even some of the weeklies in the Joplin area.
Now is the time for newspapers (and it could also be done by broadcast media) to look into the burdens, if any, these cuts are going to place on social service agencies, hospitals, clinics, such institutions as Crosslines, The Salvation Army, Area Agency on Aging, etc., as well as the people themselves.
Will this turn out to be the savior of the state budget that Gov. Matt Blunt thinks it is, or will it turn out to be the economic nightmare that University of St. Louis researchers forecast several months ago? Perhaps the answer lies somewhere in-between.
Whatever it is, the media needs to get on top of this story and stay on top of it.
I would love to see that emulated by The Globe, the Daily, the Press, or maybe even some of the weeklies in the Joplin area.
Now is the time for newspapers (and it could also be done by broadcast media) to look into the burdens, if any, these cuts are going to place on social service agencies, hospitals, clinics, such institutions as Crosslines, The Salvation Army, Area Agency on Aging, etc., as well as the people themselves.
Will this turn out to be the savior of the state budget that Gov. Matt Blunt thinks it is, or will it turn out to be the economic nightmare that University of St. Louis researchers forecast several months ago? Perhaps the answer lies somewhere in-between.
Whatever it is, the media needs to get on top of this story and stay on top of it.
Nodler, fellow senators ready to try again
In a column in the Sunday Kansas City Star, Otto Fajen, legislative director for the Missouri National Education Association, says Gary Nodler, R-Joplin, and his fellow state senators Charlie Shields and Matt Bartle, who favored legislation keeping judges from making decision concerning school finances are ready to try it again.
That decision, if Fajen is correct, is mostly likely caused by the decision of more than 250 school districts across the state, including many in this area, to continue a lawsuit claiming that they are not being adequately financed through the state's Foundation Formula.
That decision, if Fajen is correct, is mostly likely caused by the decision of more than 250 school districts across the state, including many in this area, to continue a lawsuit claiming that they are not being adequately financed through the state's Foundation Formula.
Monday, June 27, 2005
Blunt vetoes Alzheimer's research, okays Amtrak
Many of the articles last week concerning Governor Matt Blunt's line-item vetoes on the budget noted that the legislature had restored some of the items Blunt said he wanted cut, so the governor simply vetoed those items.
That included $227,000 for Alzheimer's research. The governor and his aides said they didn't think that money was necessary since it was used primarily for seed money for efforts to get federal grants.
Apparently, the governor felt strongly about continuing to subsidize rail traffic in the state since he allowed the restored money for Amtrak service between Kansas City and St. Louis to escape a veto.
That included $227,000 for Alzheimer's research. The governor and his aides said they didn't think that money was necessary since it was used primarily for seed money for efforts to get federal grants.
Apparently, the governor felt strongly about continuing to subsidize rail traffic in the state since he allowed the restored money for Amtrak service between Kansas City and St. Louis to escape a veto.
More on Lamar R-1 extra duty pay
After reading, the Saturday Lamar Democrat, I felt compelled to write a little more about the extra duty pay situation in the Lamar R-1 School District.
The article was written by Chris Morrow, who worked for me for a brief time in the 1990s at The Carthage Press. He writes, "Another point of contention regarded the increase of the coaching stipends. The budget called for increases for coaches and the band director. However, other extracurricular stipends for the sponsors of programs like VICA and DECA were not increased."
Morrow writes that R-1 Athletic Director Iver Johnson looked into how much pay coaches were receiving at other Big Eight Conference schools and the increases were needed to bring Lamar into line with those.
That was apparently enough to satisfy the four board members who voted in favor of the budget. What I did not read (and I guarantee you that if it had been mentioned, Chris would have written about it) was all the research the district did to find out how much people are getting paid to work with extracurricular academic programs (and I am not just talking about DECA and VICA, but a wide variety of other activities). It wasn't mentioned, because no one looked into it.
It wasn't mentioned, I am sure, because it never occurred to anybody to look into it.
Most likely, if it had been looked into, it would have been discovered that these people are being paid next to nothing. And that's a shame. What a wonderful opportunity to set a school district apart by stressing academics first.
Later in his article, Chris writes, "Board member Michelle Crockett questioned the salary of librarians and counselors. Before the revenue problems of the last few years, counselors and librarians had been on a 10-month pay schedule. However, they were dropped back to a nine-month schedule. This budget calls for librarians to receive an additional one week of pay for 2005-2006 and counselors to receive two. 'My concern is that it used to be that both had a month,' said Crockett, who went on to point out the disparity of the increases.' "
I must not know much about running a school district. My inclination would have to been to have returned the counselors and librarians to 10-month schedules and held the line on the stipend increase for coaches.
That's my answer, here was the one that the Democrat reports R-1 Superintendent Mike Resa giving Mrs. Crockett: "We are gradually adding things back. We are bringing it along slowly. That is the best answer I can give you."
I would be willing to bet that answer did not satisfy Mrs. Crockett or most of the patrons of the Lamar R-1 School District.
The article was written by Chris Morrow, who worked for me for a brief time in the 1990s at The Carthage Press. He writes, "Another point of contention regarded the increase of the coaching stipends. The budget called for increases for coaches and the band director. However, other extracurricular stipends for the sponsors of programs like VICA and DECA were not increased."
Morrow writes that R-1 Athletic Director Iver Johnson looked into how much pay coaches were receiving at other Big Eight Conference schools and the increases were needed to bring Lamar into line with those.
That was apparently enough to satisfy the four board members who voted in favor of the budget. What I did not read (and I guarantee you that if it had been mentioned, Chris would have written about it) was all the research the district did to find out how much people are getting paid to work with extracurricular academic programs (and I am not just talking about DECA and VICA, but a wide variety of other activities). It wasn't mentioned, because no one looked into it.
It wasn't mentioned, I am sure, because it never occurred to anybody to look into it.
Most likely, if it had been looked into, it would have been discovered that these people are being paid next to nothing. And that's a shame. What a wonderful opportunity to set a school district apart by stressing academics first.
Later in his article, Chris writes, "Board member Michelle Crockett questioned the salary of librarians and counselors. Before the revenue problems of the last few years, counselors and librarians had been on a 10-month pay schedule. However, they were dropped back to a nine-month schedule. This budget calls for librarians to receive an additional one week of pay for 2005-2006 and counselors to receive two. 'My concern is that it used to be that both had a month,' said Crockett, who went on to point out the disparity of the increases.' "
I must not know much about running a school district. My inclination would have to been to have returned the counselors and librarians to 10-month schedules and held the line on the stipend increase for coaches.
That's my answer, here was the one that the Democrat reports R-1 Superintendent Mike Resa giving Mrs. Crockett: "We are gradually adding things back. We are bringing it along slowly. That is the best answer I can give you."
I would be willing to bet that answer did not satisfy Mrs. Crockett or most of the patrons of the Lamar R-1 School District.
CFI workmen's comp award tossed out
An over-the-road truck driver for CFI who was awarded worker's compensation benefits after suffering a heart attack on the job will not receive them.
In a ruling handed down by the Missouri Court of Appeals, Southern District, today, the decision to give Lawrence Gardner benefits was overturned by the judges, who sent it back to the Labor and Industrial Relations Commission with an order to deny the claim.
According to the ruling, Gardner was 45 when he began working for CFI in 1999. "Ordinarily, he pulled 53-foot vans and his only duty was to drive the truck. Once or twice each year, he had to secure his load by nailing boards beside pallets to keep the pallets from sliding on the wooden floor of the trailer."
The opinion continues, "On April 13, 2001, Gardner drove from Phoenix, Ariz., to El Paso, Texas, to pick up a load of coiled wire." After spending the night in El Paso, he drove to the business to pick up his load and blocked the load, using a claw hammer and nails to fasten two-by-fours to the trailer floor to secure the pallets.
He did that for about two hours, according to the opinion, when he began to feel "dizzy," and began having "pretty intense pains" in his shoulders and chest.
Gardner thought he had the flu, so he returned to the CFI terminal to rest, but the symptoms continued. He felt better the next day and left El Paso with the load. The symptoms soon returned and he went to an emergency room at a hospital in Van Horn, Texas. He was transferred to an El Paso hospital, where it was determined Gardner had suffered a heart attack.
"The record shows that before his heart attack, Gardner did not exercise, he was overweight (260 to 265 pounds for several years), he had high blood pressure history, and he had been a pack-a-day smoker since age 18.
After hearing the medical testimony, and examining Gardner's record, an administrative law judge ruled in favor of CFI, however, that ruling was overturned by the Labor and Industrial Relations Commission, which ruled his strenuous activity during the loading was the "significant precipitating factor," and said the heart attack was "clearly job related."
In its ruling, the court said "we conclude from a review of the whole record that Commission's finding that Claimant's April 14-15 work related incidents were substantial factors in causing his myocardial infarction was not supported by competent and substantial evidence and were contrary to the overwhelming weight of the evidence."
In a ruling handed down by the Missouri Court of Appeals, Southern District, today, the decision to give Lawrence Gardner benefits was overturned by the judges, who sent it back to the Labor and Industrial Relations Commission with an order to deny the claim.
According to the ruling, Gardner was 45 when he began working for CFI in 1999. "Ordinarily, he pulled 53-foot vans and his only duty was to drive the truck. Once or twice each year, he had to secure his load by nailing boards beside pallets to keep the pallets from sliding on the wooden floor of the trailer."
The opinion continues, "On April 13, 2001, Gardner drove from Phoenix, Ariz., to El Paso, Texas, to pick up a load of coiled wire." After spending the night in El Paso, he drove to the business to pick up his load and blocked the load, using a claw hammer and nails to fasten two-by-fours to the trailer floor to secure the pallets.
He did that for about two hours, according to the opinion, when he began to feel "dizzy," and began having "pretty intense pains" in his shoulders and chest.
Gardner thought he had the flu, so he returned to the CFI terminal to rest, but the symptoms continued. He felt better the next day and left El Paso with the load. The symptoms soon returned and he went to an emergency room at a hospital in Van Horn, Texas. He was transferred to an El Paso hospital, where it was determined Gardner had suffered a heart attack.
"The record shows that before his heart attack, Gardner did not exercise, he was overweight (260 to 265 pounds for several years), he had high blood pressure history, and he had been a pack-a-day smoker since age 18.
After hearing the medical testimony, and examining Gardner's record, an administrative law judge ruled in favor of CFI, however, that ruling was overturned by the Labor and Industrial Relations Commission, which ruled his strenuous activity during the loading was the "significant precipitating factor," and said the heart attack was "clearly job related."
In its ruling, the court said "we conclude from a review of the whole record that Commission's finding that Claimant's April 14-15 work related incidents were substantial factors in causing his myocardial infarction was not supported by competent and substantial evidence and were contrary to the overwhelming weight of the evidence."
Final KOM Reunion planned
Good news and bad news.
The good news is that the old KOM League will have another reunion, this one scheduled for Sept. 7-9, 2006, in Carthage. The bad news is, according to John Hall's latest KOM update, it will be the last one.
Hall said 50 rooms have been reserved at the Best Western Precious Moments Motel in Carthage. Part of the event will also be held at Carl Lewton Stadium. "For the last time," Hall wrote, "the KOM Leaguers will take the field and be introduced and then a tribute to all our 'fallen comrades' will follow. For any of you who ever loved a deceased former KOM Leaguer you will want to take in this time of honoring their memory."
In addition to members of the old KOM minor league baseball teams, who played in the 1940s and early 1950s (the KOM stands for Kansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri), Hall said he is extending a special invitation to "the former Joplin Miners and Baxter Springs Whiz Kids."
Hall has done a remarkable job of organizing previous reunions, including one which I had the pleasure of covering in the summer of 1998. That one featured an oldtimers' baseball game. Of course, the youngest of the KOM League players would now be at least in their early 70s.
Hall is also the author of the KOM League history, as well as the recent well-received biography of another former area minor league baseball player, Mickey Mantle, "Mickey Mantle: Before the Glory."
The good news is that the old KOM League will have another reunion, this one scheduled for Sept. 7-9, 2006, in Carthage. The bad news is, according to John Hall's latest KOM update, it will be the last one.
Hall said 50 rooms have been reserved at the Best Western Precious Moments Motel in Carthage. Part of the event will also be held at Carl Lewton Stadium. "For the last time," Hall wrote, "the KOM Leaguers will take the field and be introduced and then a tribute to all our 'fallen comrades' will follow. For any of you who ever loved a deceased former KOM Leaguer you will want to take in this time of honoring their memory."
In addition to members of the old KOM minor league baseball teams, who played in the 1940s and early 1950s (the KOM stands for Kansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri), Hall said he is extending a special invitation to "the former Joplin Miners and Baxter Springs Whiz Kids."
Hall has done a remarkable job of organizing previous reunions, including one which I had the pleasure of covering in the summer of 1998. That one featured an oldtimers' baseball game. Of course, the youngest of the KOM League players would now be at least in their early 70s.
Hall is also the author of the KOM League history, as well as the recent well-received biography of another former area minor league baseball player, Mickey Mantle, "Mickey Mantle: Before the Glory."
Vintage Stock expands to Nashville, other cities
Today's Nashville Business Journal has an article on Joplin-based Vintage Stock's plans to expand its second-hand empire to that city, plus other markets.
The article says the company is searching for sites for six stores in Middle Tennessee, as well as Memphis, Indianapolis, Dallas, San Antonio, and as mentioned earlier in The Turner Report, St. Louis.
The Staubach Co. of Dallas, formed by former Dallas Cowboy quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Roger Staubach, is conducting the site search for Vintage Stock, according to the article.
***
On an unrelated matter, I was wondering if any reader can tell me if Shannon Marti from Carthage is still working for Staubach Co. I lost track of her a few years back, but she was working for the company in Dallas at that time.
The article says the company is searching for sites for six stores in Middle Tennessee, as well as Memphis, Indianapolis, Dallas, San Antonio, and as mentioned earlier in The Turner Report, St. Louis.
The Staubach Co. of Dallas, formed by former Dallas Cowboy quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Roger Staubach, is conducting the site search for Vintage Stock, according to the article.
***
On an unrelated matter, I was wondering if any reader can tell me if Shannon Marti from Carthage is still working for Staubach Co. I lost track of her a few years back, but she was working for the company in Dallas at that time.
Meerwald claims he was misled
Hard-working Melissa DeLoach of the Globe, has stories on both the Moark situation and the appeal filed by convicted drunk driver Edward Meerwald in Tuesday's Globe.
In Ms. DeLoach's article on Meerwald, he claims he pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter in connection with the July 31, 2004, deaths of James Dodson, 68, Neosho, and Dodson's granddaughter, Jessica Mann, 8, Joplin, because he was told if he didn't, he would have armed criminal action charges filed against him.
In Ms. DeLoach's article on Meerwald, he claims he pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter in connection with the July 31, 2004, deaths of James Dodson, 68, Neosho, and Dodson's granddaughter, Jessica Mann, 8, Joplin, because he was told if he didn't, he would have armed criminal action charges filed against him.
Globe picks up on Joplin Independent scoop
After a five-day wait, the Joplin Globe will have an article in its Tuesday edition on the interest that the state of Oklahoma's secretary of the environment is showing concerning Moark's plans to expand in Neosho.
The Joplin Independent carried that story June 23, but hey, better late than never.
The Joplin Independent carried that story June 23, but hey, better late than never.
GAO Taser report holds interest
It probably won't be long before area law enforcement agencies start getting hit with lawsuits over the use of Tasers. In fact, Tasers are mentioned, albeit briefly in former Newton County Jail inmate Oscar Alvarez' lawsuit against county officials.
Today, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) Congress' investigative arm issued a report on Tasers, examining their use at seven agencies. Some recommendations concerning policies for the use of these weapons are included in the report, which can be found at the GAO website at: http://www.gao.gov
Today, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) Congress' investigative arm issued a report on Tasers, examining their use at seven agencies. Some recommendations concerning policies for the use of these weapons are included in the report, which can be found at the GAO website at: http://www.gao.gov
Walton heir dies in plane crash
ABC news is reporting that John Walton, son of Wal-Mart founder Sam Walton, died in a small plane crash earlier today.
McLean trial set for July 25
Brandie McLean, Webb City, will go on trial for two counts of forgery July 25, according to Jasper County Circuit Court records.
Ms. McLean recently withdrew her guilty plea to the charges, as well as charges of endangering the welfare of a child, when she learned the guilty pleas could keep her from regaining custody of four of her five children. The children were taken away from her last year after the two-year-old was seen playing on the roof while Ms. McLean slept inside.
The fifth child, Braxton Wooden, 8, was shot to death while living in a foster home in Alba.
Ms. McLean recently withdrew her guilty plea to the charges, as well as charges of endangering the welfare of a child, when she learned the guilty pleas could keep her from regaining custody of four of her five children. The children were taken away from her last year after the two-year-old was seen playing on the roof while Ms. McLean slept inside.
The fifth child, Braxton Wooden, 8, was shot to death while living in a foster home in Alba.
Witnesses lined up for Wyrick trial
It appears forensic evidence is the key to the case that will be presented against Joplin teen Travis Wyrick in his felony leaving the scene of an accident trial scheduled for Aug. 19 in Jasper County Circuit Court.
Among the items listed in discovery, which are designed to convince a jury that Wyrick was responsible for the hit-and-run death of Joplin High School senior Jamison Alexander are:
-Photographs of the Chevy Trailblazer
-Autopsy photographs
-Photographs of the accident scene
-Photographs of Mr. Alexander at the hospital
-The lab report
-The autopsy report.
Among the witnesses who have been endorsed for the trail are Jasper County Coroner Jerry Neil, crime lab expert Phillip Whittle, pathologist Ron Yoder, forensic analyst Ruthanna Hunter, and Dr. Keith Norton of Cox Medical Services, who conducted the autopsy.
Among the items listed in discovery, which are designed to convince a jury that Wyrick was responsible for the hit-and-run death of Joplin High School senior Jamison Alexander are:
-Photographs of the Chevy Trailblazer
-Autopsy photographs
-Photographs of the accident scene
-Photographs of Mr. Alexander at the hospital
-The lab report
-The autopsy report.
Among the witnesses who have been endorsed for the trail are Jasper County Coroner Jerry Neil, crime lab expert Phillip Whittle, pathologist Ron Yoder, forensic analyst Ruthanna Hunter, and Dr. Keith Norton of Cox Medical Services, who conducted the autopsy.
An indigency hearing for Martin "Contempt of Court" Lindstedt has been scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Thursday, June 30, before Judge Kevin Selby in Newton County Circuit Court.
Lindstedt, who last week was sentenced to serve 660 days in jail for contempt of court, has not cooperated with court officials in any of the hearings held so far in his statutory sodomy case.
The perennial candidate for every office from U. S. Senator to sheriff to school board member, doesn't appear to want an attorney, and apparently attorneys don't want him either. Court records indicate the indigency hearing was scheduled after the public defender objected to being appointed to serve as Lindstedt's lawyer.
Docket Entry:
Lindstedt, who last week was sentenced to serve 660 days in jail for contempt of court, has not cooperated with court officials in any of the hearings held so far in his statutory sodomy case.
The perennial candidate for every office from U. S. Senator to sheriff to school board member, doesn't appear to want an attorney, and apparently attorneys don't want him either. Court records indicate the indigency hearing was scheduled after the public defender objected to being appointed to serve as Lindstedt's lawyer.
Docket Entry:
Former Freeman Neosho doctor to be deposed
A July 7 video deposition will be taken of former Freeman Neosho doctor William Bentz in connection with the malpractice suit filed by Wanda Duncan against Bentz, Dr. Jeffrey Wool, Neidra DePuy, Margaret Bond, Freeman Neosho, and Freeman Health System.
The Duncan case is one of a series of malpractice suits filed against the above-named defendants, in connection with allegations that Dr. Wool allegedly practiced medicine while under the influence of drugs.
The Duncan case is one of a series of malpractice suits filed against the above-named defendants, in connection with allegations that Dr. Wool allegedly practiced medicine while under the influence of drugs.
Newton County officials deny everything
In their reply to Oscar Alvarez' amended lawsuit against county officials, filed today in U. S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri, they denied nearly everything except that Ken Copeland is the sheriff and Ron Doerge used to be sheriff.
For the most part they either denied the allegations in Alvarez' complaint or said they didn't have enough knowledge one way or the other about them.
In his complaint, Alvarez claims former jailers Adam Babbitt and Shane Smith left his cell door unlocked and allowed other prisoners to enter his cell and beat him up.
In the response, county officials say that doing something like that would be a violation of county policy.
For the most part they either denied the allegations in Alvarez' complaint or said they didn't have enough knowledge one way or the other about them.
In his complaint, Alvarez claims former jailers Adam Babbitt and Shane Smith left his cell door unlocked and allowed other prisoners to enter his cell and beat him up.
In the response, county officials say that doing something like that would be a violation of county policy.
Hearing set for former Jasper councilman
A pre-trial conference is set for 1:30 p.m. July 28 in Newton County Circuit Court for former Jasper city councilman Nicky Crews, who is charged with possession of child pornography and possession of marijuana. Crews was arrested at a Newton Country truck stop Feb. 3.
Crews waived his formal arraignment June 23 and entered a not guilty plea.
Crews waived his formal arraignment June 23 and entered a not guilty plea.
Saturday, June 25, 2005
Those darned press releases
I was just checking the ACLU's press release concerning the announcement this week that Webb City High School junior LaStaysha Myers is dropping her First Amendment lawsuit against R-7 school officials.
A portion of the news release reads, "After months of negotiation, Webb City High School recently informed Myers that it would no longer illegally censor her for wearing t-shirts bearing gay-supportive messages."
I am not privy to the exact words that Webb City school officials used, but I guarantee you not one of them ever said they had been illegally censoring Ms. Myers. I doubt if the word illegal came up even once (at least not from the school district's side).
School officials continue to maintain that they did nothing wrong. As I have written before, I am a bit conflicted. I would prefer that students not wear anything that has writing on it unless it is the school's name or nickname, but with fashions the way they are these days, unless you go to school uniforms that is never going to happen.
I am a still bit perplexed by Webb City school officials' claim that students were allowed to wear t-shirts with gay pride messages until they began creating problems. That claim was made during the Myers lawsuit, but I can't recall any mention in school officials' response in the initial lawsuit brought by Brad Mathewson saying that he had ever been allowed to wear shirts with gay pride messages.
Correct me if I am wrong (and someone always does), but this appeared to me to be a case of revisionist history designed to bolster the school district's legal position.
A portion of the news release reads, "After months of negotiation, Webb City High School recently informed Myers that it would no longer illegally censor her for wearing t-shirts bearing gay-supportive messages."
I am not privy to the exact words that Webb City school officials used, but I guarantee you not one of them ever said they had been illegally censoring Ms. Myers. I doubt if the word illegal came up even once (at least not from the school district's side).
School officials continue to maintain that they did nothing wrong. As I have written before, I am a bit conflicted. I would prefer that students not wear anything that has writing on it unless it is the school's name or nickname, but with fashions the way they are these days, unless you go to school uniforms that is never going to happen.
I am a still bit perplexed by Webb City school officials' claim that students were allowed to wear t-shirts with gay pride messages until they began creating problems. That claim was made during the Myers lawsuit, but I can't recall any mention in school officials' response in the initial lawsuit brought by Brad Mathewson saying that he had ever been allowed to wear shirts with gay pride messages.
Correct me if I am wrong (and someone always does), but this appeared to me to be a case of revisionist history designed to bolster the school district's legal position.
It's a lawsuit waiting to happen
It sounds plausible, but there is no truth to the rumor that Newton County Jail inmates are planning on suing Judge Kevin Selby for sentencing perennial candidate and loser Martin Lindstedt to 660 days in jail for contempt of court.
"It will lower the property values, that's for sure," rumors had one prisoner saying. The prisoners reportedly are content to have Lindstedt remain in solitary confinement, though they would prefer that he be in solitary confinement in Jasper County or McDonald County or anywhere but Newton County.
"It's people like him that give prisoners a bad name," an anonymous prisoner allegedly said. (You can't be too careful when you're writing a post like this.)
Residents of Granby, where Lindstedt was living before he changed his permanent address to the Newton County Jail, are reportedly raising funds for Judge Selby's reelection campaign, and are touting him for governor in 2008.
"It will lower the property values, that's for sure," rumors had one prisoner saying. The prisoners reportedly are content to have Lindstedt remain in solitary confinement, though they would prefer that he be in solitary confinement in Jasper County or McDonald County or anywhere but Newton County.
"It's people like him that give prisoners a bad name," an anonymous prisoner allegedly said. (You can't be too careful when you're writing a post like this.)
Residents of Granby, where Lindstedt was living before he changed his permanent address to the Newton County Jail, are reportedly raising funds for Judge Selby's reelection campaign, and are touting him for governor in 2008.
Where have all the good coaches gone?
I am sure Lamar R-1 Superintendent Mike Resa made some of his hard working teachers happy with his comments from today's Joplin Globe story.
The article, which concerned last Tuesday's Board of Education meeting, talked about a question asked by new board member Michelle Crockett, who wanted to know why extra duty pay for coaches was being increased, while the same thing was not being done for teachers who work with students involved in other extracurricular activities.
According to the article, Resa said he had "made the decision to raise the stipends for coaches so that the district could be competitive with other schools in recruiting coaches."
I doubt that if that answer satisfied Mrs. Crockett. It sure as heck didn't satisfy me.
Though I am probably running afoul of every sports fanatic in The Turner Report's readership, I stress emphatically: This is what is wrong with education today.
Don't get me wrong. I love school sports. I wrote more than 3,000 sports stories during my newspaper days, including more than 1,000 Sports Talk columns, but don't tell me that this is the kind of message that should be sent to teachers who pretty much donate their time to work with students in academic-oriented extracurricular activities.
In most cases, these teachers only receive a couple of hundred dollars, compared to the four-figure stipends received by coaches. I love it administrators say they would rather increase the extra-duty pay of coaches (who already receive more) than add a few dollars to teachers who handle Student Council or Math League or Academic Bowl, and then they wonder why the teachers don't love them for the fine human beings that they are.
***
Continuing on the same general subject, many people don't realize that a large number of teachers, especially those with less than five years of experience, do not get paid a cent for the extra duty work they do, especially at smaller schools. After five years, Missouri teachers become eligible for the state's Career Ladder program (if their schools are paying a portion of it, which many don't). At that point, quite a few school boards and administrators in this area are content to let the teachers get paid for working with students on extracurricular academic activities through that program, while they continue to make sure that athletics are fully funded through the regular school budget.
The article, which concerned last Tuesday's Board of Education meeting, talked about a question asked by new board member Michelle Crockett, who wanted to know why extra duty pay for coaches was being increased, while the same thing was not being done for teachers who work with students involved in other extracurricular activities.
According to the article, Resa said he had "made the decision to raise the stipends for coaches so that the district could be competitive with other schools in recruiting coaches."
I doubt that if that answer satisfied Mrs. Crockett. It sure as heck didn't satisfy me.
Though I am probably running afoul of every sports fanatic in The Turner Report's readership, I stress emphatically: This is what is wrong with education today.
Don't get me wrong. I love school sports. I wrote more than 3,000 sports stories during my newspaper days, including more than 1,000 Sports Talk columns, but don't tell me that this is the kind of message that should be sent to teachers who pretty much donate their time to work with students in academic-oriented extracurricular activities.
In most cases, these teachers only receive a couple of hundred dollars, compared to the four-figure stipends received by coaches. I love it administrators say they would rather increase the extra-duty pay of coaches (who already receive more) than add a few dollars to teachers who handle Student Council or Math League or Academic Bowl, and then they wonder why the teachers don't love them for the fine human beings that they are.
***
Continuing on the same general subject, many people don't realize that a large number of teachers, especially those with less than five years of experience, do not get paid a cent for the extra duty work they do, especially at smaller schools. After five years, Missouri teachers become eligible for the state's Career Ladder program (if their schools are paying a portion of it, which many don't). At that point, quite a few school boards and administrators in this area are content to let the teachers get paid for working with students on extracurricular academic activities through that program, while they continue to make sure that athletics are fully funded through the regular school budget.
Friday Sentinel still has page-two cartoon
Apparently, Webb City Sentinel Publisher Bob Foos intends to continue the newspaper's long-time tradition of having a cartoon at the top of page two. I had wondered what would happen after the recent death of Nic Frising, whose work graced the Sentinel's pages for as long as I can remember.
Friday's edition featured cartoonist Curtis Smith's take on the ongoing Joplin Air Fest. I guarantee you Nic Frising would be pleased to see another cartoonist getting a chance. And though it would be unfair and unrealistic to expect another Nic Frising, I look forward to still being able to see as local cartoon in a weekly newspaper. It is one of the touches that continues to make the Sentinel one of the top weekly newspapers in southwest Missouri.
Friday's edition featured cartoonist Curtis Smith's take on the ongoing Joplin Air Fest. I guarantee you Nic Frising would be pleased to see another cartoonist getting a chance. And though it would be unfair and unrealistic to expect another Nic Frising, I look forward to still being able to see as local cartoon in a weekly newspaper. It is one of the touches that continues to make the Sentinel one of the top weekly newspapers in southwest Missouri.
KSPR reporter takes Cincinnati position
Anna Townsend, most recently a reporter on KSPR, the ABC affiliate in Springfield, is the new host for the "Good Morning Cincinnati" program on WKRC, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer.
Ms. Townsend, a 2001 University of Missouri graduate, was chosen from among seven finalists, the Enquirer said.
Ms. Townsend, a 2001 University of Missouri graduate, was chosen from among seven finalists, the Enquirer said.
Vintage Stock to open 12 stores in St. Louis
The Friday St. Louis Post Dispatch reports that Joplin-based Vintage Stock plans to open 12 stories in the St. Louis area by 2007, as part of a 22-store expansion.
The stores sell mostly used CDs, DVDs and video games, as well as books and comic books. The franchise began with the original Book Barn on Main in Joplin.
The article quotes some skeptics who question whether Vintage Stock can be successful at a time when some big-time outfits such as Blockbuster and GameStop are already offering discounted used products, but it noted that the success of the stores already operated by Vintage Stock proves that the concept can work.
The stores sell mostly used CDs, DVDs and video games, as well as books and comic books. The franchise began with the original Book Barn on Main in Joplin.
The article quotes some skeptics who question whether Vintage Stock can be successful at a time when some big-time outfits such as Blockbuster and GameStop are already offering discounted used products, but it noted that the success of the stores already operated by Vintage Stock proves that the concept can work.
Jarden CEO featured in Times interview
The quality of Sunbeam products has been what has kept the company and name viable, Jarden CEO Martin Franklin said in this weeks' Sunday New York Times interview. Jarden bought the Sunbeam line and the rest of American Household earlier this year.
That was the reason Sunbeam survived the controversial leadership of Al Dunlop, which led it into bankruptcy in the late 1990s.
"In Sunbeam’s case," Franklin said, "product quality never suffered, and the customer was always cared for. The road to recovery in this case rested with a strong balance sheet and stable ownership."
Sunbeam has a plant in Neosho.
That was the reason Sunbeam survived the controversial leadership of Al Dunlop, which led it into bankruptcy in the late 1990s.
"In Sunbeam’s case," Franklin said, "product quality never suffered, and the customer was always cared for. The road to recovery in this case rested with a strong balance sheet and stable ownership."
Sunbeam has a plant in Neosho.
Talks resume in Leggett company strike
An informal negotiating session was held Friday between Airo Die Casting and labor union negotiators as a strike of 300 workers continues at the Pittsburgh, Pa., plant, which is owned by Carthage-based Leggett & Platt. No agreements were reached, except to continue talks, according to an article in the Pittsburg Tribune-Review.
The workers went on strike June 12 after working without a contract for approximately four and a half months.
The two sides are hoping to meet early next week, the article said.
The workers went on strike June 12 after working without a contract for approximately four and a half months.
The two sides are hoping to meet early next week, the article said.
Friday, June 24, 2005
Meerwald asks for sentence to be set aside
The drunk driver who killed a Neosho man and his eight-year-old granddaughter, has filed a motion to set aside his seven-year prison sentence.
Despite the fact that he was the one who voluntarily pleaded guilty, Edward Meerwald, 51, formerly of Noel, now residing at the Jefferson City Correctional Center, filed a petition June 6 to have the verdict set aside, according to court records.
His attempt to get out of his prison sentence will be funded by the taxpayers. Anne R. Wells, Neosho, has been appointed to serve as a public defender for Meerwald, according to court records.
Meerwald pleaded guilty March 11 in McDonald County Circuit Court to two counts of involuntary manslaughter in connection with the deaths of James Dodson, 68, Neosho, and his granddaughter Jessica Mann, 8, Joplin.
Meerwald was drunk on July 30, 2004, when his car left Highway 86 and hit Mr. Dodson and Miss Mann as they were standing in Dodson's driveway.
The deaths led to a successful attempt by Sen. Gary Nodler, R-Joplin, to pass a bill increasing sentences for drunk drivers convicted of involuntary manslaughter.
Despite the fact that he was the one who voluntarily pleaded guilty, Edward Meerwald, 51, formerly of Noel, now residing at the Jefferson City Correctional Center, filed a petition June 6 to have the verdict set aside, according to court records.
His attempt to get out of his prison sentence will be funded by the taxpayers. Anne R. Wells, Neosho, has been appointed to serve as a public defender for Meerwald, according to court records.
Meerwald pleaded guilty March 11 in McDonald County Circuit Court to two counts of involuntary manslaughter in connection with the deaths of James Dodson, 68, Neosho, and his granddaughter Jessica Mann, 8, Joplin.
Meerwald was drunk on July 30, 2004, when his car left Highway 86 and hit Mr. Dodson and Miss Mann as they were standing in Dodson's driveway.
The deaths led to a successful attempt by Sen. Gary Nodler, R-Joplin, to pass a bill increasing sentences for drunk drivers convicted of involuntary manslaughter.
Trial date set for Blankenship
An Oct. 26 trial date has been set for alleged internet pervert Gary Reed Blankenship.
Newton County Circuit Court records indicate pre-trial conference is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sept. 6.
The former O'Sullivan Industries official is charged with eight counts of possession of child pornography, one count of promoting obscenity and one count of enticement of a child in connection with one of Diamond police officer Jim Murray's internet stings. Blankenship was arrested Jan. 27.
Newton County Circuit Court records indicate pre-trial conference is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sept. 6.
The former O'Sullivan Industries official is charged with eight counts of possession of child pornography, one count of promoting obscenity and one count of enticement of a child in connection with one of Diamond police officer Jim Murray's internet stings. Blankenship was arrested Jan. 27.
Lindstedt cited for contempt
Martin Lindstedt continued to waste the taxpayers' time and money during an appearance Thursday in Newton County Circuit Court.
The perennial candidate, who faces statutory sodomy charges, was given an opportunity to speak about the many motions he has filed with the court, but refused, so Judge Kevin Selby dismissed the motions.
Since Lindstedt has not yet found an attorney, Selby appointed a public defender for him. Naturally, Lindstedt refused, according to court records. Selby cited Lindstedt for contempt of court and sentenced him to 660 days in jail.
Lindstedt's preliminary hearing has been scheduled for 1:30 p.m. July 21.
The perennial candidate, who faces statutory sodomy charges, was given an opportunity to speak about the many motions he has filed with the court, but refused, so Judge Kevin Selby dismissed the motions.
Since Lindstedt has not yet found an attorney, Selby appointed a public defender for him. Naturally, Lindstedt refused, according to court records. Selby cited Lindstedt for contempt of court and sentenced him to 660 days in jail.
Lindstedt's preliminary hearing has been scheduled for 1:30 p.m. July 21.
Nightly News anchor begins blog
NBC Nightly News anchor Brian Williams, who began his television news career at KOAM, has started a blog on the MSNBC site. You can find it at:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/8045532/
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/8045532/
Changes coming to Neosho Post
Changes are on the way at The Neosho Post.
The Post, which has mainly been a vehicle for recycling Neosho Daily News stories since Liberty Group Publishing bought it from publisher Jimmie Sexton, will have quite a bit more substance in the future.
Reports are that Kay and Russell Hiveley, whose works have contributed greatly to the success of the Daily in recent years, will play significant roles in the revamping of the weekly.
That should provide a welcome change for Neosho readers, as well as providing them with a reason to invest in the Post.
The Post, which has mainly been a vehicle for recycling Neosho Daily News stories since Liberty Group Publishing bought it from publisher Jimmie Sexton, will have quite a bit more substance in the future.
Reports are that Kay and Russell Hiveley, whose works have contributed greatly to the success of the Daily in recent years, will play significant roles in the revamping of the weekly.
That should provide a welcome change for Neosho readers, as well as providing them with a reason to invest in the Post.
Oklahoma official concerned about Moark plan
The new media has broken another big story.
Mary Winn of The Joplin Independent today posted a letter written by Miles Tolbert, Secretary of the Environment for the state of Oklahoma to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
It seems Tolbert, after coming across Moark's expansion plans has serious concerns about the effect they may have on Elk River in Oklahoma. The letter was dated June 17.
Check out the letter at http://www.joplinindependent.com/display_article.php/mariwinn1119571950
Mary Winn of The Joplin Independent today posted a letter written by Miles Tolbert, Secretary of the Environment for the state of Oklahoma to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
It seems Tolbert, after coming across Moark's expansion plans has serious concerns about the effect they may have on Elk River in Oklahoma. The letter was dated June 17.
Check out the letter at http://www.joplinindependent.com/display_article.php/mariwinn1119571950
Pierce City receives unwanted attention
The quest of a St. Louis man to have his grandfather's remains moved from a grave in Pierce City to Springfield has hit the national wires.
Earlier this month, I wrote about Charles Brown's discovery, while working on genealogy, that all of the African-Americans in Pierce City had been run out of town following the lynching of an African-American in 1901.
Brown's efforts to have his ancestor's remains moved and the problems he ran into with Pierce City officials were covered locally by the Springfield News-Leader and Monett Times, but a St. Louis Post-Dispatch story moved on the wires Tuesday, so more attention is likely to be paid to Pierce City.
If you recall, U. S. Rep. William "Lacy" Clay, D-St. Louis, has filed a bill asking that a commission be formed to explore the removal of African-Americans from a number of southwest Missouri towns, including Pierce City, Webb City, Aurora, and Cassville, and is asking that reparations be paid to the descendants of those who were mistreated during those instances, which took place between 1894 and 1901.
Earlier this month, I wrote about Charles Brown's discovery, while working on genealogy, that all of the African-Americans in Pierce City had been run out of town following the lynching of an African-American in 1901.
Brown's efforts to have his ancestor's remains moved and the problems he ran into with Pierce City officials were covered locally by the Springfield News-Leader and Monett Times, but a St. Louis Post-Dispatch story moved on the wires Tuesday, so more attention is likely to be paid to Pierce City.
If you recall, U. S. Rep. William "Lacy" Clay, D-St. Louis, has filed a bill asking that a commission be formed to explore the removal of African-Americans from a number of southwest Missouri towns, including Pierce City, Webb City, Aurora, and Cassville, and is asking that reparations be paid to the descendants of those who were mistreated during those instances, which took place between 1894 and 1901.
Thursday, June 23, 2005
Judge adds to Perelman award
The judge handling the lawsuit brought by financier Ron Perelman against the Morgan Stanley investment firm added $130 million today to the $1.4 billion the jury already awarded him. Morgan Stanley has been given until July 1 to appeal the verdict.
A Florida jury ruled that the investment firm withheld information about the Sunbeam company's dire financial situation when Perelman paid a fortune to buy Sunbeam stocks in 1998. Shortly after the transaction was finalized, Sunbeam, which has a plant in Neosho, filed for bankruptcy.
Forbes reports Morgan Stanley lawyers as saying they expect they will have the verdict overturned.
A Florida jury ruled that the investment firm withheld information about the Sunbeam company's dire financial situation when Perelman paid a fortune to buy Sunbeam stocks in 1998. Shortly after the transaction was finalized, Sunbeam, which has a plant in Neosho, filed for bankruptcy.
Forbes reports Morgan Stanley lawyers as saying they expect they will have the verdict overturned.
Blunt's brother adds new client
The massive reduction in Medicaid benefits is causing problems for thousands of Missourians, but at least one is poised to make money from it.
Missouri Ethics Commission documents indicate lobbyist Andrew Blunt, brother of Missouri Governor Matt Blunt, registered a new client Monday...ACS Heritage Inc., Richmond, Va., a consulting company which makes it money by offering management and cost-cutting services to government programs, insurance companies and large employers.
According to the company's website, "through a sophisticated suite of proprietary, web-enabled software applications, ACS-Heritage helps clients decrease costs and improve the quality of their prescription drug programs."
Also noted on the website, "ACS-Heritage was founded in 1980 and currently serves more than 14 Medicaid programs, several national commercial insurers, over a dozen Blue Cross Blue Shield licenses, and some of the largest employer groups in the country."
Any bets that this consulting company is going to be doing a lot of business and making a lot of money in Missouri?
Missouri Ethics Commission documents indicate lobbyist Andrew Blunt, brother of Missouri Governor Matt Blunt, registered a new client Monday...ACS Heritage Inc., Richmond, Va., a consulting company which makes it money by offering management and cost-cutting services to government programs, insurance companies and large employers.
According to the company's website, "through a sophisticated suite of proprietary, web-enabled software applications, ACS-Heritage helps clients decrease costs and improve the quality of their prescription drug programs."
Also noted on the website, "ACS-Heritage was founded in 1980 and currently serves more than 14 Medicaid programs, several national commercial insurers, over a dozen Blue Cross Blue Shield licenses, and some of the largest employer groups in the country."
Any bets that this consulting company is going to be doing a lot of business and making a lot of money in Missouri?
Alvarez files amended complaint
Former prisoner Oscar Alvarez filed an amended complaint today in U. S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri against the Newton County Sheriff's Department and Sheriff Ken Copeland, once again alleging that two former jailers made sure his cell door was unlocked and allowed other prisoners to come in and beat him.
The details of Alvarez' new complaint can be found in the June 20 Turner Report.
The details of Alvarez' new complaint can be found in the June 20 Turner Report.
1st Amendment lawsuit dismissed
LaStaysha Myers filed a notice of dismissal of her First Amendment lawsuit against the Webb City R-7 School District today in U. S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri. No reason was given in court documents.
The case was dismissed without prejudice, meaning that is can be refiled.
Ms. Myers was one of a dozen Webb City High School students who were sent home after they refused to change gay pride t-shirts they wore to support their fellow student Brad Mathewson. Ms. Myers is not gay but wanted to show support for her friend.
She filed the lawsuit against Superintendent Ron Lankford, High School Principal Steven Gollhofer, and Assistant Principal Jeff Thornberry.
In court filings, school officials have indicated Ms. Myers and other students will be allowed to wear t-shirts with gay pride messages on them during the 2005-2006 school year.
The case was dismissed without prejudice, meaning that is can be refiled.
Ms. Myers was one of a dozen Webb City High School students who were sent home after they refused to change gay pride t-shirts they wore to support their fellow student Brad Mathewson. Ms. Myers is not gay but wanted to show support for her friend.
She filed the lawsuit against Superintendent Ron Lankford, High School Principal Steven Gollhofer, and Assistant Principal Jeff Thornberry.
In court filings, school officials have indicated Ms. Myers and other students will be allowed to wear t-shirts with gay pride messages on them during the 2005-2006 school year.
Oklahoma rides receive regular inspections
Recent reports of deaths and injuries from amusement park rides have prompted reports on how inspections are conducted in states across the U. S.
Associated Press reports that Oklahoma is one state that takes inspections of fair and carnival rides seriously. "All amusement rides, from go-carts and rental inflatables to the roller coasters at Six Flags Inc.'s Frontier City, are inspected by the Oklahoma Department of Labor.
"Only two injuries were reported to the Department of Labor through May this year, both of them go-cart accidents at the Incredible Pizza Company in Tulsa."
For information on how Missouri treats amusement park rides, check out the June 14 Turner Report entry on an overlooked state audit.
Associated Press reports that Oklahoma is one state that takes inspections of fair and carnival rides seriously. "All amusement rides, from go-carts and rental inflatables to the roller coasters at Six Flags Inc.'s Frontier City, are inspected by the Oklahoma Department of Labor.
"Only two injuries were reported to the Department of Labor through May this year, both of them go-cart accidents at the Incredible Pizza Company in Tulsa."
For information on how Missouri treats amusement park rides, check out the June 14 Turner Report entry on an overlooked state audit.
Skelton demands clear plan for Iraq
Fourth District Congressman Ike Skelton, whose district includes Lamar, introduced a resolution in the House Wednesday calling for President Bush to develop a specific plan to improve the training of Iraqi security forces.
The demand came after the president said that no timetable for bringing American troops home could be established until the Iraqis are capable of handling security themselves.
This should not be seen as just another instance of a Democrat taking potshots at the president. Skelton is a member of the rapidly vanishing middle-of-the-road Democrat and has a strong pro-military background.
Skelton is the ranking Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee.
The demand came after the president said that no timetable for bringing American troops home could be established until the Iraqis are capable of handling security themselves.
This should not be seen as just another instance of a Democrat taking potshots at the president. Skelton is a member of the rapidly vanishing middle-of-the-road Democrat and has a strong pro-military background.
Skelton is the ranking Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee.
Flag burning amendment passes House
A constitutional amendment to ban flag burning moved one step closer to reality Wednesday when it passed the House by a 286-130 vote. Among those voting for the bill were the two area congressmen, Republican Roy Blunt and Democrat Ike Skelton, both of whom were among the bill's 186 co-sponsors.
An informal poll taken by the Associated Press indicates it will have a harder time clearing the Senate.
An informal poll taken by the Associated Press indicates it will have a harder time clearing the Senate.
Comments on Matthews featured on blog entry
Check out yesterday's blog entries for some comments on the apparent tryout longtime morning show host Alan Matthews has been receiving for the vacant KODE 5, 6 and 10 anchor position.
While Matthews reads well and is extremely personable, his bio on the KODE website doesn't indicate much hard news background since his early days of covering city council and school board meetings for radio stations. That is not an insurmountable obstacle, but when both KSNF and KOAM have dual anchors with considerable hard news credibility (even with Live with Gary and Tiffany), it would seem to put KODE at a disadvantage, which is not good considering the recent string of strong newscasts the station has put together.
On the other hand, Matthews has paid his dues at KODE and definitely deserves consideration.
***
Alan Matthews and Malorie Maddox were both kind to me, Renee Jones, the other sponsor, and the members of the Diamond Middle School Student Council when we made an appearance on KODE's morning show four years ago.
At the time, the student council was sponsoring a book drive to help stock the shelves of the new middle school library. Under the leadership of President Sarah Simpson, who graduated from Diamond High School in May, the council collected more than 2,000 books, probably 1,000 of which are still on the shelves. Our drive was called "Help Us to Help Our Shelves."
Many of those books came after our appearance on KODE. During different segments, we were questioned by both of the hosts, and both were extremely professional and helpful to a bunch of nervous students.
Now for those of you who are looking for hidden motives behind the items I put on this blog, I should mention that I contacted KSNF, which at the time had the same duo, Gary Bandy and Tiffany Alaniz, who are doing my favorite 5 p.m. show now. I never heard back from their producer.
Aha, the conspiracy theorists are going. So that explains the things he writes about Gary and Tiffany's new program.
I should mention that I never heard back from the producer of KOAM's morning show either. And despite the courtesy and professionalism Ms. Maddox and Matthews showed me at KODE, I still usually watched Ms. Alaniz and Bandy (sorry, but I still believe the news person should receive top billing) each morning as I prepared for another day at school.
While Matthews reads well and is extremely personable, his bio on the KODE website doesn't indicate much hard news background since his early days of covering city council and school board meetings for radio stations. That is not an insurmountable obstacle, but when both KSNF and KOAM have dual anchors with considerable hard news credibility (even with Live with Gary and Tiffany), it would seem to put KODE at a disadvantage, which is not good considering the recent string of strong newscasts the station has put together.
On the other hand, Matthews has paid his dues at KODE and definitely deserves consideration.
***
Alan Matthews and Malorie Maddox were both kind to me, Renee Jones, the other sponsor, and the members of the Diamond Middle School Student Council when we made an appearance on KODE's morning show four years ago.
At the time, the student council was sponsoring a book drive to help stock the shelves of the new middle school library. Under the leadership of President Sarah Simpson, who graduated from Diamond High School in May, the council collected more than 2,000 books, probably 1,000 of which are still on the shelves. Our drive was called "Help Us to Help Our Shelves."
Many of those books came after our appearance on KODE. During different segments, we were questioned by both of the hosts, and both were extremely professional and helpful to a bunch of nervous students.
Now for those of you who are looking for hidden motives behind the items I put on this blog, I should mention that I contacted KSNF, which at the time had the same duo, Gary Bandy and Tiffany Alaniz, who are doing my favorite 5 p.m. show now. I never heard back from their producer.
Aha, the conspiracy theorists are going. So that explains the things he writes about Gary and Tiffany's new program.
I should mention that I never heard back from the producer of KOAM's morning show either. And despite the courtesy and professionalism Ms. Maddox and Matthews showed me at KODE, I still usually watched Ms. Alaniz and Bandy (sorry, but I still believe the news person should receive top billing) each morning as I prepared for another day at school.
Was suspected serial killer's confession taped?
A reader posed an excellent question about the so-called confession that suspected serial killer Jeremy Jones made about the deaths of two Oklahoma girls and the subsequent disposal of their bodies.
Was the confession taped? If it was, then that pretty much strips away any news value from Jones' denial of the confession. However, it has been six days since he said he did not confess and no one has jumped forward to produce any evidence that he did.
I still question KSN's decision to run Tiffany Alaniz' interview with Jones over several nights. It doesn't appear that much is being added to the story each night...not enough at least to warrant spreading it out over multiple newscasts.
On the other hand, it is the type of local story that draws interest...and therefore viewers...so who can blame KSN?
Was the confession taped? If it was, then that pretty much strips away any news value from Jones' denial of the confession. However, it has been six days since he said he did not confess and no one has jumped forward to produce any evidence that he did.
I still question KSN's decision to run Tiffany Alaniz' interview with Jones over several nights. It doesn't appear that much is being added to the story each night...not enough at least to warrant spreading it out over multiple newscasts.
On the other hand, it is the type of local story that draws interest...and therefore viewers...so who can blame KSN?
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
Another gift added to Hunter total
Apparently, Rep. Steve Hunter, the undisputed king among legislative gift recipients, erred in his earlier disclosure report filed with the Missouri Ethics Commission.
The new total listed for Hunter for the months of January through May is $2,426.39, up $61.59 from the total printed in The Turner Report June 10. Since that time, Hunter has amended his report, seemingly to add $61.59 from Chris Liese, lobbying partner of former State Rep. Gary Burton, R-Joplin, for meal, food and beverage. Liese is listed on Ethics Commission records as a lobbyist for Isle of Capri Casinos, St. John's Regional Medical Center, and numerous other organizations and special interests. On the same day, Hunter accepted $53 from Craig Overfelt, lobbyist for the Missouri Bankers Association, for meals, food and beverage.
For some reason, lobbyists' disclosure forms for May have not yet been placed on the Ethics Commission website. As I have mentioned earlier, they must be reviewed by the representatives and senators first to make sure there are no mistakes.
Since May 1, Hunter has accepted $1,032.94 worth of gifts from lobbyists, according to Ethics Commission documents. If Hunter had accepted absolutely no gifts from lobbyists from January through April, he still would have ranked 20th out of the 163 representatives for amount of gifts claimed on the disclosure forms.
If you only count the gifts Hunter received from lobbyists in April and May, and leave out the first three months, the Joplin legislator would still rank seventh among the 163 representatives. In April, Hunter received $537.76, giving him a two-month total of $1,570.70.
The new total listed for Hunter for the months of January through May is $2,426.39, up $61.59 from the total printed in The Turner Report June 10. Since that time, Hunter has amended his report, seemingly to add $61.59 from Chris Liese, lobbying partner of former State Rep. Gary Burton, R-Joplin, for meal, food and beverage. Liese is listed on Ethics Commission records as a lobbyist for Isle of Capri Casinos, St. John's Regional Medical Center, and numerous other organizations and special interests. On the same day, Hunter accepted $53 from Craig Overfelt, lobbyist for the Missouri Bankers Association, for meals, food and beverage.
For some reason, lobbyists' disclosure forms for May have not yet been placed on the Ethics Commission website. As I have mentioned earlier, they must be reviewed by the representatives and senators first to make sure there are no mistakes.
Since May 1, Hunter has accepted $1,032.94 worth of gifts from lobbyists, according to Ethics Commission documents. If Hunter had accepted absolutely no gifts from lobbyists from January through April, he still would have ranked 20th out of the 163 representatives for amount of gifts claimed on the disclosure forms.
If you only count the gifts Hunter received from lobbyists in April and May, and leave out the first three months, the Joplin legislator would still rank seventh among the 163 representatives. In April, Hunter received $537.76, giving him a two-month total of $1,570.70.
Perspective needed in Wooden death
The responses to The Joplin Globe's article on Brandie McLean's outrage over the Jasper County prosecuting attorney's decision not to file charges against an Alba couple whose teenage son shot her son, Braxton Wooden, 8, to death are predictable and understandable.
While I'm certain that having their son taken away from them for the next few years for the fatal shooting of the eight-year-old during a game of cops and robbers, the simple fact is the gun should never have been where children had access to it.
The Division of Family Services also bears some responsibility. It appears the agency did not do a thorough check of these foster parents. And Ms. McLean and the readers are absolutely correct that this is far worse than the incident which prompted authorities to take away Ms. McLean's five children...when she fell asleep and her two-year-old ended up on the roof of her Webb City home.
That being said, today's Globe article neglects the mention of prior incidents in Ms. McLean's background that might have contributed to the decision to remove the children.
Ms. McLean had already pleaded guilty...not only to the endangering the welfare of a child charge that was filed against her as a result of the incident that led to the removal of her children...but also to two forgery charges. She has since withdrawn those guilty pleas and hired a lawyer, which she has every right to do. And two forgery charges does not make Ms. McLean a bad mother by any means.
But as the June 4 Turner Report mentioned, those are not the only brushes Ms. McLean has had with the law. First, take into consideration the Globe's own reporting on the removal of Ms. McLean's children. "Police found McLean and a 16-year-old female friend asleep in the living room of the home. McLean had acknowledged that the situation was dangerous for her son. But she said she had been put on the antipsychotic drug, Seroquel, by a doctor about a week before the incident to treat her depression and stress, and that the drug made her sleepy all the time."
The endangerment charge and the forgery charges came only two years after Ms. McLean pleaded guilty in Jasper County Circuit Court to a charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia. She was sentenced to one year in the county jail, the sentence was suspended, and she was placed on unsupervised probation for one year, according to court records.
The June 4 Turner Report also noted that she has had a problem with showing up for scheduled court hearings. Court records indicate she failed to appear five times for hearings on the forgery charges.
On April 7, 2004, Braxton Wooden's father, Braxton Wooden Sr., 29, Joplin, convicted felon with a long record, was charged with domestic assault after being arrested by the Webb City Police Department. On that same day, Ms. McLean filed for a protection order against him. She was granted a temporary restraining order, but when the time came for the hearing for a full order of protection, Ms. McLean did not show up. Wooden was sentenced to three years in prison for the assault and is currently at the Western Missouri Correctional Center in Cameron.
Ms. McLean was also picked up by Joplin police officers at 3:30 a.m. Monday morning for driving while revoked. While none of these actions excuses anything that happened when Braxton Wooden was living with the foster parents, they do indicate that the little boy had the deck stacked against him from the start.
Should the heat be turned up on public officials for how they handle this case? Absolutely. Should we feel sympathy for a woman who will never see her child again? Of course, we should. I can't even imagine what she must be going through.
But please do not play up the sympathy angle to the point where we forget what actually happened in this case. The Division of Family Services may have made mistakes in this case, but the decision to remove Braxton Wooden and his siblings from Ms. McLean's custody, whether you agree with it or not, was justifiable.
While I'm certain that having their son taken away from them for the next few years for the fatal shooting of the eight-year-old during a game of cops and robbers, the simple fact is the gun should never have been where children had access to it.
The Division of Family Services also bears some responsibility. It appears the agency did not do a thorough check of these foster parents. And Ms. McLean and the readers are absolutely correct that this is far worse than the incident which prompted authorities to take away Ms. McLean's five children...when she fell asleep and her two-year-old ended up on the roof of her Webb City home.
That being said, today's Globe article neglects the mention of prior incidents in Ms. McLean's background that might have contributed to the decision to remove the children.
Ms. McLean had already pleaded guilty...not only to the endangering the welfare of a child charge that was filed against her as a result of the incident that led to the removal of her children...but also to two forgery charges. She has since withdrawn those guilty pleas and hired a lawyer, which she has every right to do. And two forgery charges does not make Ms. McLean a bad mother by any means.
But as the June 4 Turner Report mentioned, those are not the only brushes Ms. McLean has had with the law. First, take into consideration the Globe's own reporting on the removal of Ms. McLean's children. "Police found McLean and a 16-year-old female friend asleep in the living room of the home. McLean had acknowledged that the situation was dangerous for her son. But she said she had been put on the antipsychotic drug, Seroquel, by a doctor about a week before the incident to treat her depression and stress, and that the drug made her sleepy all the time."
The endangerment charge and the forgery charges came only two years after Ms. McLean pleaded guilty in Jasper County Circuit Court to a charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia. She was sentenced to one year in the county jail, the sentence was suspended, and she was placed on unsupervised probation for one year, according to court records.
The June 4 Turner Report also noted that she has had a problem with showing up for scheduled court hearings. Court records indicate she failed to appear five times for hearings on the forgery charges.
On April 7, 2004, Braxton Wooden's father, Braxton Wooden Sr., 29, Joplin, convicted felon with a long record, was charged with domestic assault after being arrested by the Webb City Police Department. On that same day, Ms. McLean filed for a protection order against him. She was granted a temporary restraining order, but when the time came for the hearing for a full order of protection, Ms. McLean did not show up. Wooden was sentenced to three years in prison for the assault and is currently at the Western Missouri Correctional Center in Cameron.
Ms. McLean was also picked up by Joplin police officers at 3:30 a.m. Monday morning for driving while revoked. While none of these actions excuses anything that happened when Braxton Wooden was living with the foster parents, they do indicate that the little boy had the deck stacked against him from the start.
Should the heat be turned up on public officials for how they handle this case? Absolutely. Should we feel sympathy for a woman who will never see her child again? Of course, we should. I can't even imagine what she must be going through.
But please do not play up the sympathy angle to the point where we forget what actually happened in this case. The Division of Family Services may have made mistakes in this case, but the decision to remove Braxton Wooden and his siblings from Ms. McLean's custody, whether you agree with it or not, was justifiable.
Former KODE anchor returns to home area
Former KODE anchor Amy Anderson is right back in the action in her new position as a reporter at KCTV 5 in Kansas City.
Ms. Anderson was on the scene this morning shortly after a fire broke out at the Isle of Capri casino. The sprinkler system put out the fire and no one was injured.
Ms. Anderson, who grew up in Overland Park, returned to the Kansas City area after a stint at a station in Orlando, Fla., where she had the opportunity to cover the hotly-contested presidential election of 2000.
Ms. Anderson was on the scene this morning shortly after a fire broke out at the Isle of Capri casino. The sprinkler system put out the fire and no one was injured.
Ms. Anderson, who grew up in Overland Park, returned to the Kansas City area after a stint at a station in Orlando, Fla., where she had the opportunity to cover the hotly-contested presidential election of 2000.
Graham Packaging buys KCK facility
Graham Packaging, which bought the Tetra Pak business in Joplin earlier this year, continued its growth with the purchase of Consolidated Container Company's Kansas City, Kan., plant, according to today's Kansas City Business Journal.
Company officials told the Journal that all 68 employees have been transferred to Graham Packaging and that existing production levels will be maintained and may be expanded. It was good news for employees since the plant originally had been scheduled to close at the end of last month.
Graham Packaging officials told the Journal they will use the facility to supply containers for Procter & Gamble.
Company officials told the Journal that all 68 employees have been transferred to Graham Packaging and that existing production levels will be maintained and may be expanded. It was good news for employees since the plant originally had been scheduled to close at the end of last month.
Graham Packaging officials told the Journal they will use the facility to supply containers for Procter & Gamble.
Judge won't throw out charges against Black
Former Hollinger International CEO Conrad Black and his associate David Radler will have to stand trial on securities fraud charges after a federal judge refused to toss them last week.
Today's Chicago Sun-Times reports that the judge ruled the lawsuit can continue. Hollinger International at one time owned hundreds of newspapers in the U. S., including the Sun-Times, The Carthage Press, and the Neosho Daily News.
SEC investigators claim Black and Radler bilked Hollinger out of millions of dollars.
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Today's Chicago Sun-Times reports that the judge ruled the lawsuit can continue. Hollinger International at one time owned hundreds of newspapers in the U. S., including the Sun-Times, The Carthage Press, and the Neosho Daily News.
SEC investigators claim Black and Radler bilked Hollinger out of millions of dollars.
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Fourteen years for Mornin' Mail
It sure doesn't seem like it has been that long, but H. J. Johnson's daily newsletter, The Mornin' Mail, a Carthage fixture, is beginning its 14th year, according to today's edition:
"Don’t know if ya noticed," he writes, "but as of this week we’re beginnin’ the fourteenth year as the Mornin’ Mail. Some folks think we’ve been around for ever, but we started puttin’ the Mail out on the street on June 18, 1992. We are in fact the only newspaper to be actually printed in Carthage at this time."
I am still not certain I would call it a newspaper, though the definition of a newspaper seems more fluid these days than it did when I was in that business, but it has provided strong coverage of Carthage city government for 14 years.
"Don’t know if ya noticed," he writes, "but as of this week we’re beginnin’ the fourteenth year as the Mornin’ Mail. Some folks think we’ve been around for ever, but we started puttin’ the Mail out on the street on June 18, 1992. We are in fact the only newspaper to be actually printed in Carthage at this time."
I am still not certain I would call it a newspaper, though the definition of a newspaper seems more fluid these days than it did when I was in that business, but it has provided strong coverage of Carthage city government for 14 years.
Maddox newscast pulls in ratings
Omaha TV News reports that former KODE news anchor Malorie Maddox's morning show topped the latest Nielsen ratings.
I would love to see the May Nielsen ratings for the Joplin market. I am sure that numbers for KODE and KSNF have not been falling since that is what Nexstar Broadcasting CEO Perry Sook has been claiming at every meeting of potential investors.
I wonder why that matters to him since his stations do not buy the Nielsen service any more.
I would love to see the May Nielsen ratings for the Joplin market. I am sure that numbers for KODE and KSNF have not been falling since that is what Nexstar Broadcasting CEO Perry Sook has been claiming at every meeting of potential investors.
I wonder why that matters to him since his stations do not buy the Nielsen service any more.
Tuesday, June 21, 2005
Death sought for man arrested by Neosho police
Benton County, Ark., prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for Timothy Glenn Howell, who is charged with killing Elvin Ramirez Sept. 4, 2004, by stabbing him in the heart. Howell and his son, Timothy McChristian, are both charged with the murder, according to today's Benton County Dail Record.
The two were captured by the Neosho Police Department just hours after the murder, the article said.
Prosecutors say there are two reasons why the death penalty is being sought: the depravity of the crime and the fact that Howell has been convicted of murder before.
The two were captured by the Neosho Police Department just hours after the murder, the article said.
Prosecutors say there are two reasons why the death penalty is being sought: the depravity of the crime and the fact that Howell has been convicted of murder before.
DynoNobel shipment closes interstate in Ohio
A driver transporting dynamite for DynoNobel closed eastbound lanes of I-70 in Madison County, Ohio, for more than 10 hours when he fell asleep and his truck hauling 38 pounds of dynamite flipped over this morning, according to the Columbus Dispatch.
The newspaper said Kenneth R. Fontenot, 43, Noel, was eastbound approaching the ramps to Route 56 when the accident occurred at about 3:30 a.m.
Central Township Fire Chief Bill Conway told the Dispatch a half-dozen homes were evacuated as a precaution. A hazardous materials cleanup crew, complete with protective suits, unloaded the cargo, the newspaper said.
Fontenot was treated for minor injuries, as was an unnamed passenger. A truck from Tri-State in Joplin picked up the load later in the morning and took it to its destination: mining companies in New York and Pennsylvania, according to the article.
The newspaper said Kenneth R. Fontenot, 43, Noel, was eastbound approaching the ramps to Route 56 when the accident occurred at about 3:30 a.m.
Central Township Fire Chief Bill Conway told the Dispatch a half-dozen homes were evacuated as a precaution. A hazardous materials cleanup crew, complete with protective suits, unloaded the cargo, the newspaper said.
Fontenot was treated for minor injuries, as was an unnamed passenger. A truck from Tri-State in Joplin picked up the load later in the morning and took it to its destination: mining companies in New York and Pennsylvania, according to the article.
Hard times hit Enesco
The transfer of Precious Moments from Enesco to Precious Moments, Inc., has not staved off the financial problems faced by Enesco, according to an article today from Associated Press.
The company is eliminating an unspecified number of jobs, including that of its chief operating officer, the article said. COO Jeffrey S. Smith will stay on through July 15 to help with the transfer of Precious Moments.
The company is eliminating an unspecified number of jobs, including that of its chief operating officer, the article said. COO Jeffrey S. Smith will stay on through July 15 to help with the transfer of Precious Moments.
Class action suit filed against ConAgra
A class action suit filed in U. S. District Court in Nebraska claims ConAgra Foods overstated its financial projections for fiscal year 2005, making misleading statements regarding company business, according to MarketWatch.
The lawsuit also alleges ConAgra officials did not carry out "necessary internal controls" to reach its financial projections, Marketwatch said.
The lawsuit also alleges ConAgra officials did not carry out "necessary internal controls" to reach its financial projections, Marketwatch said.
Big decisions for Globe
I am eager to see the Wednesday morning Globe to see how the editors handled placement of several major news stories.
During one news cycle, the following things happened:
-President Bush indicated that he is willing to compromise on his Social Security plan.
-A top-ranking military official has said that the U. S. and the insurgents are "at a stalemate" in Iraq.
-A former KKK official was found guilty of manslaughter in connection with the 1964 murders of three civil rights workers...murders that spurred the passage of landmark civil rights legislation.
The Globe's website indicates that the top local story is going to be Brandie McLean's dissatisfaction with the Jasper County prosecuting attorney's decision not to press charges against the Alba foster parents whose natural son shot her son, Braxton Wooden, to death. That story, obviously, is going to get major play.
I just wonder how the Globe editors will handle the feel-good tabloid story about the young scout who was found alive in Utah after a lengthy search. I would play that story with a little plug above the banner and let the really important national and international stories get the space they deserve on page one.
Remember that the stories a newspaper puts on page one are an indication of what the newspaper's editors think is important.
During one news cycle, the following things happened:
-President Bush indicated that he is willing to compromise on his Social Security plan.
-A top-ranking military official has said that the U. S. and the insurgents are "at a stalemate" in Iraq.
-A former KKK official was found guilty of manslaughter in connection with the 1964 murders of three civil rights workers...murders that spurred the passage of landmark civil rights legislation.
The Globe's website indicates that the top local story is going to be Brandie McLean's dissatisfaction with the Jasper County prosecuting attorney's decision not to press charges against the Alba foster parents whose natural son shot her son, Braxton Wooden, to death. That story, obviously, is going to get major play.
I just wonder how the Globe editors will handle the feel-good tabloid story about the young scout who was found alive in Utah after a lengthy search. I would play that story with a little plug above the banner and let the really important national and international stories get the space they deserve on page one.
Remember that the stories a newspaper puts on page one are an indication of what the newspaper's editors think is important.
What is the plan for KODE?
I didn't see the 6 or 10 p.m. newscasts today, but I noticed that for a second day in a row, Alan Matthews has shared anchor duties with Tara Brown on the 5 p.m. news.
Is Matthews being showcased for the top job, or is he just lightening the load on Ms. Brown?
Anyone with information, please drop me a line or add a reply.
Is Matthews being showcased for the top job, or is he just lightening the load on Ms. Brown?
Anyone with information, please drop me a line or add a reply.
Carthage felon's appeal rejected
The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals today rejected Douglas Gollhofer's attempt to have his 10-year sentence reduced.
Gollhofer, 33, Carthage, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. He admitted that he possessed four firearms on Jan. 26, 2003, in Jasper County, including a .308 caliber Winchester rifle with ammunition; a .22 caliber Remington rifle; a 12 gauge Magtech shotgun, and a 12 gauge Harrington and Richardson shotgun.
Under federal law, it is illegal for a felon to possess firearms or ammunition. Gollhofer has a long record of convictions, primarily in Jasper and Barton counties, on charges including burglary, assault, and resisting arrest. He also has numerous drunk driving citations.
The case against Gollhofer was investigated by the Carthage Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.
Gollhofer's sole argument was that his sentence was too strict and that guidelines were followed that should not have been, according to recent court rulings. The appellate court said that the court still had it within its discretion to give Gollhofer the 10-year sentence.
Gollhofer, 33, Carthage, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. He admitted that he possessed four firearms on Jan. 26, 2003, in Jasper County, including a .308 caliber Winchester rifle with ammunition; a .22 caliber Remington rifle; a 12 gauge Magtech shotgun, and a 12 gauge Harrington and Richardson shotgun.
Under federal law, it is illegal for a felon to possess firearms or ammunition. Gollhofer has a long record of convictions, primarily in Jasper and Barton counties, on charges including burglary, assault, and resisting arrest. He also has numerous drunk driving citations.
The case against Gollhofer was investigated by the Carthage Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.
Gollhofer's sole argument was that his sentence was too strict and that guidelines were followed that should not have been, according to recent court rulings. The appellate court said that the court still had it within its discretion to give Gollhofer the 10-year sentence.
Area woman charged with theft
A woman who allegedly used an education voucher to pay off her mortgage has been charged with theft in U. S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri.
Kerry D. Smith, 42, allegedly was given an Americorps Voucher and Payment to be used to pay an education loan "when in truth and fact, and as the defendant well knew at the time," the award was to be used to repay a mortgage loan," a violation of federal law.
The crime allegedly took place on July 12 to July 13, 2004, according to court documents.
Kerry D. Smith, 42, allegedly was given an Americorps Voucher and Payment to be used to pay an education loan "when in truth and fact, and as the defendant well knew at the time," the award was to be used to repay a mortgage loan," a violation of federal law.
The crime allegedly took place on July 12 to July 13, 2004, according to court documents.
Not as much publicity as Michael Jackson
With the undue attention that was paid to the recently-concluded Michael Jackson trial, it is easy to forget that thousands of child molestation cases are filed across the United States each day.
Because of the nature of these cases and the necessity of having children testify against adults with no other witnesses to the crime, many child molesters are never brought to justice.
One who was was William E. Ernst, Branson, who will continue serving his seven-year prison sentence after the Missouri Supreme Court Tuesday decided not to hear his appeal.
Ernst had already been rejected by the Southern District Court of Appeals.
On the face of it, there are some similarities between the case brought by Taney County authorities against Ernst and the one brought in California against Jackson. In both cases, prosecutors were allowed to call witnesses who talked about an older man inviting children to share his bed. Both cases also had the accused plying the children with alcohol.
The judge's decision to allow the testimony of the other children was cited by Ernst, 69, in his original appeal. Ernst's case was a bench trial, meaning that the judge made the final decision on Ernst's fate.
According to the appeal file, Ernst was 66 when he became friends with an 11-year-old girl referred to as L. F. Her mother was struggling to raise four kids on her own and owned a restaurant near where Ernst lived, according to the court file.
L. F. worked for her mother as a waitress and talked with Ernst from time to time. Ernst bought clothes and toys for the family and often had L. F. and her siblings stay with him overnight, the court file said.
At some point in 2001, when L. F. was 14, Ernst started telling her that "she needed to sleep with him because God wanted her to do so that she could be an angel in heaven and wouldn't make God mad." He also began giving her alcohol during that period.
"On Jan. 31, 2002, when L. F. was 15 years old, Ernst took her to the mall buy a dress for an upcoming school dance. In (his) truck on the way home from the mall, (he) told her that she needed to have sexual intercourse with him 'to get it done and over with, that this was a good time and and just stop waiting around to do it.
When they returned to Ernst's place, he had sex with her and afterward, the girl said, she felt "numb" and "disgusted. As they were lying in the bed, Ernst said, "God's proud of you."
After that, each time L. F. saw Ernst at the restaurant, he told her not to tell anyone about what had happened. Later, he asked her if she would have sex with him, "but not for God.' She refused, according to the court file.
On April 16, 2002, L. F. told her mother what had happened. After that, Ernst was arrested and, charged with statutory rape in the second degree, and after the bench trial two years later, Ernst was found guilty and sentenced to seven years in prison.
During the trial, one of L. F.'s young cousins was called as a witness. She told of an incident in which Ernst asked her to come to bed with him. He didn't try anything, the cousin said, but he made her feel extremely uncomfortable and eventually, she left his bed and returned to the couch where she had been sleeping. The judge allowed the testimony to show that Ernst had made a habit of inviting children into his bed.
Because of the nature of these cases and the necessity of having children testify against adults with no other witnesses to the crime, many child molesters are never brought to justice.
One who was was William E. Ernst, Branson, who will continue serving his seven-year prison sentence after the Missouri Supreme Court Tuesday decided not to hear his appeal.
Ernst had already been rejected by the Southern District Court of Appeals.
On the face of it, there are some similarities between the case brought by Taney County authorities against Ernst and the one brought in California against Jackson. In both cases, prosecutors were allowed to call witnesses who talked about an older man inviting children to share his bed. Both cases also had the accused plying the children with alcohol.
The judge's decision to allow the testimony of the other children was cited by Ernst, 69, in his original appeal. Ernst's case was a bench trial, meaning that the judge made the final decision on Ernst's fate.
According to the appeal file, Ernst was 66 when he became friends with an 11-year-old girl referred to as L. F. Her mother was struggling to raise four kids on her own and owned a restaurant near where Ernst lived, according to the court file.
L. F. worked for her mother as a waitress and talked with Ernst from time to time. Ernst bought clothes and toys for the family and often had L. F. and her siblings stay with him overnight, the court file said.
At some point in 2001, when L. F. was 14, Ernst started telling her that "she needed to sleep with him because God wanted her to do so that she could be an angel in heaven and wouldn't make God mad." He also began giving her alcohol during that period.
"On Jan. 31, 2002, when L. F. was 15 years old, Ernst took her to the mall buy a dress for an upcoming school dance. In (his) truck on the way home from the mall, (he) told her that she needed to have sexual intercourse with him 'to get it done and over with, that this was a good time and and just stop waiting around to do it.
When they returned to Ernst's place, he had sex with her and afterward, the girl said, she felt "numb" and "disgusted. As they were lying in the bed, Ernst said, "God's proud of you."
After that, each time L. F. saw Ernst at the restaurant, he told her not to tell anyone about what had happened. Later, he asked her if she would have sex with him, "but not for God.' She refused, according to the court file.
On April 16, 2002, L. F. told her mother what had happened. After that, Ernst was arrested and, charged with statutory rape in the second degree, and after the bench trial two years later, Ernst was found guilty and sentenced to seven years in prison.
During the trial, one of L. F.'s young cousins was called as a witness. She told of an incident in which Ernst asked her to come to bed with him. He didn't try anything, the cousin said, but he made her feel extremely uncomfortable and eventually, she left his bed and returned to the couch where she had been sleeping. The judge allowed the testimony to show that Ernst had made a habit of inviting children into his bed.
Clay trial pushed back once more
The embezzlement trial of former Joplin Boys and Girls Club director Rob Clay has been delayed again, according to Jasper County Circuit Court records.
The next motions hearing in the case is scheduled for 9 a.m. Monday, July 11. Clay, who is accused of stealing at least $25,000, according to the charge and quite possibly more than $100,000, according to print and broadcast media reports, was originally scheduled to stand trial March 24 and again June 16.
He was originally charged with the crime early in 2004.
The next motions hearing in the case is scheduled for 9 a.m. Monday, July 11. Clay, who is accused of stealing at least $25,000, according to the charge and quite possibly more than $100,000, according to print and broadcast media reports, was originally scheduled to stand trial March 24 and again June 16.
He was originally charged with the crime early in 2004.
What did Judge Selby do to deserve this?
Sympathies are extended to Judge Kevin Selby, who has the unenviable task of being the latest magistrate assigned to handle the case of perennial candidate (and perennial loser) Martin Lindstedt.
The assignment was officially recorded in Newton County Circuit Court records today, along with Lindstedt's latest filings, the same kind of quasi-judicial diatribe he has been foisting upon the courts for years.
Lindstedt is being held in the Newton Count Jail awaiting trial for statutory sodomy.
He has filed a motion, according to circuit court records, to remind "regime court that prisoner remains unlawfully imprisoned, has not been lawfully arraigned, remains held in lieu of excessive bond (his bond is $100,000 and might have already been lowered, except he won't hire a lawyer), has not had access to his legal file, no access to legal resources to defend himself, that this entire case should be dismissed due to prosecutorial and judicial corruption as well as lack of evidence plus a demand that this regime court conduct inquiry under revised statutes of Missouri (RSMO) 221.130 into the misconduct of Sheriff Ken Copeland in setting unlawful and inhumane jail conditions and feloniously tampering with and withholding prisoner's political, religious, racial, legal and personal mail."
On June 13, Lindstedt filed a motion asking to be released on his own recognizance and "for dismissal of unlawful bogus case maliciously prosecuted."
The sad part of all this, in addition, of course, to the crime Lindstedt is accused of committing, is that taxpayer dollars are being spent to deal with each of his frivolous motions, both in this case and in every nonsensical civil suit he has brought in federal court over the years.
The assignment was officially recorded in Newton County Circuit Court records today, along with Lindstedt's latest filings, the same kind of quasi-judicial diatribe he has been foisting upon the courts for years.
Lindstedt is being held in the Newton Count Jail awaiting trial for statutory sodomy.
He has filed a motion, according to circuit court records, to remind "regime court that prisoner remains unlawfully imprisoned, has not been lawfully arraigned, remains held in lieu of excessive bond (his bond is $100,000 and might have already been lowered, except he won't hire a lawyer), has not had access to his legal file, no access to legal resources to defend himself, that this entire case should be dismissed due to prosecutorial and judicial corruption as well as lack of evidence plus a demand that this regime court conduct inquiry under revised statutes of Missouri (RSMO) 221.130 into the misconduct of Sheriff Ken Copeland in setting unlawful and inhumane jail conditions and feloniously tampering with and withholding prisoner's political, religious, racial, legal and personal mail."
On June 13, Lindstedt filed a motion asking to be released on his own recognizance and "for dismissal of unlawful bogus case maliciously prosecuted."
The sad part of all this, in addition, of course, to the crime Lindstedt is accused of committing, is that taxpayer dollars are being spent to deal with each of his frivolous motions, both in this case and in every nonsensical civil suit he has brought in federal court over the years.
Monday, June 20, 2005
Area service academy students recognized
In a news release issued today, Seventh District Congressman Roy Blunt recognized the area students attending military academies. That list includes:
Students continuing their education at service academies- Landon Bell, Carthage, Naval Academy; Alexander Seifert, Joplin, Air Force Academy.
Students who graduated this spring- Avery Barnett, Carthage, West Point; Christopher Erlewine, Neosho, Air Force Academy; Michael Gentry, Joplin, Air Force Academy; DeAnna Moos, Joplin, West Point; Megan Storm, Joplin, Air Force Academy.
Students continuing their education at service academies- Landon Bell, Carthage, Naval Academy; Alexander Seifert, Joplin, Air Force Academy.
Students who graduated this spring- Avery Barnett, Carthage, West Point; Christopher Erlewine, Neosho, Air Force Academy; Michael Gentry, Joplin, Air Force Academy; DeAnna Moos, Joplin, West Point; Megan Storm, Joplin, Air Force Academy.
Skelton opposes Social Security privatization
Fourth District Congressman Ike Skelton, who represents the Lamar area, is strongly opposed to President Bush's plan to privatize Social Security. Read the congressman's thoughts at the following link:
http://www.house.gov/skelton/col050619.htm
http://www.house.gov/skelton/col050619.htm
Eck case nearing dismissal
Convicted child molester Martin Anthony Eck, who is suing Jasper County Sheriff Archie Dunn and county commissioners for $10 million, claiming his dental needs were not taken care of during his stay in county facilities, has 20 days to tell a U. S. District Court judge why his case should continue or it will be dismissed.
The county's lawyers on June 10 filed suggestions in support of their motion for summary judgment and cited a persuasive witness who bolstered their arguments...Martin Anthony Eck.
In his deposition, according to court documents, Eck admitted:
-the jail nurse told him the county would provide transportation to a dentist of his choosing is his family could arrange and pay for the visit.
-he did not give the nurse the name of a dentist.
-he was provided with Tylenol and Ora-Gel to help manage his pain
-while he has been in state prison, no dentist has told him that his teeth are rotting and must be pulled.
-he never noticed any redness or swelling in his jaw while he was at the Jasper County Jail.
The county's lawyers on June 10 filed suggestions in support of their motion for summary judgment and cited a persuasive witness who bolstered their arguments...Martin Anthony Eck.
In his deposition, according to court documents, Eck admitted:
-the jail nurse told him the county would provide transportation to a dentist of his choosing is his family could arrange and pay for the visit.
-he did not give the nurse the name of a dentist.
-he was provided with Tylenol and Ora-Gel to help manage his pain
-while he has been in state prison, no dentist has told him that his teeth are rotting and must be pulled.
-he never noticed any redness or swelling in his jaw while he was at the Jasper County Jail.
Alvarez allowed to file amended petition
U. S. District Court Judge Richard E. Dorr signed an order today allowing former Newton County Jail inmate Oscar Alvarez to file an amended petition in his lawsuit against Newton County Sheriff Ken Copeland.
Alvarez' initial petition claimed former jailers Adam Babbitt and Shane Smith opened his cell door, allowing other prisoners to enter his cell and beat him. Former Sheriff Ron Doerge was listed as a defendant in the original petition, but was removed from the lawsuit by the judge and replaced by Copeland.
In the amended petition, filed last month in U. S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri, Alvarez claims that Babbitt or Smith did the following:
-"Unlocked Alvarez' cell door
-"Turned off the video surveillance camera monitoring Alvarez' cell, or arranged for it to be turned off
-"Unlocked the cell doors of two other prisoners or arranged for their cell doors to be unlocked
-"Allowed one of the inmates to stand watch while another inmate entered Alvarez' cell and attacked Alvarez causing him serious bodily injury.
The new petition says that Doerge "either instructed the jailers under his control to use disciplinary measures designed to violated, or having the effect of violating, inmates' constitutional rights."
Those disciplinary measures, according to the lawsuit, were: "taking beds and blankets away from inmates, taking away shower privileges, locking inmates in solitary confinement for up to 30 days at a time, locking inmates in solitary confinement with other inmates for the purpose of inciting or encouraging those inmates to fight with one another, denying water to inmates for up to 10 hours at a time, and inappropriately using tasers for the purpose of disciplining inmates."
Because of these policies, the petition said, Alvarez received facial injuries and suffers from "headaches, back injuries and brain damage."Alvarez continues to suffer from emotional distress, the petition said, because he feared for his life following the alleged attack in his cell.
The beating violated his Eighth Amendment right against cruel and unusual punishment, according to the petition. The petition asks for unspecified monetary damages. The new petition came on the next to last day before the court deadline for changing the petition.
Under the schedule filed March 16 in federal court, the trial is set for Feb. 21, 2006, with a pretrial hearing planned for Feb. 10 in Springfield.
Alvarez' initial petition claimed former jailers Adam Babbitt and Shane Smith opened his cell door, allowing other prisoners to enter his cell and beat him. Former Sheriff Ron Doerge was listed as a defendant in the original petition, but was removed from the lawsuit by the judge and replaced by Copeland.
In the amended petition, filed last month in U. S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri, Alvarez claims that Babbitt or Smith did the following:
-"Unlocked Alvarez' cell door
-"Turned off the video surveillance camera monitoring Alvarez' cell, or arranged for it to be turned off
-"Unlocked the cell doors of two other prisoners or arranged for their cell doors to be unlocked
-"Allowed one of the inmates to stand watch while another inmate entered Alvarez' cell and attacked Alvarez causing him serious bodily injury.
The new petition says that Doerge "either instructed the jailers under his control to use disciplinary measures designed to violated, or having the effect of violating, inmates' constitutional rights."
Those disciplinary measures, according to the lawsuit, were: "taking beds and blankets away from inmates, taking away shower privileges, locking inmates in solitary confinement for up to 30 days at a time, locking inmates in solitary confinement with other inmates for the purpose of inciting or encouraging those inmates to fight with one another, denying water to inmates for up to 10 hours at a time, and inappropriately using tasers for the purpose of disciplining inmates."
Because of these policies, the petition said, Alvarez received facial injuries and suffers from "headaches, back injuries and brain damage."Alvarez continues to suffer from emotional distress, the petition said, because he feared for his life following the alleged attack in his cell.
The beating violated his Eighth Amendment right against cruel and unusual punishment, according to the petition. The petition asks for unspecified monetary damages. The new petition came on the next to last day before the court deadline for changing the petition.
Under the schedule filed March 16 in federal court, the trial is set for Feb. 21, 2006, with a pretrial hearing planned for Feb. 10 in Springfield.
KSN scores with Jones interview
It was good to see KSN emphasizing hard news coverage once more during its Live with Gary and Tiffany" program today.
Several weeks ago, I praised the station's sending out anchor Tiffany Alaniz for on-the-spot reporting. I remember an article that was written about Ms. Alaniz in one of Liberty Group Publishing's free magazines a while back in which she talked about her initial reluctance to become a morning show host because she loved reporting so much.
Admittedly, I am prejudiced because I don't care for the fluff on local newscasts, but I much prefer Ms Alaniz as a top-flight reporter instead of as a foil for Gary Bandy.
Today, after the weather forecast, Ms. Alaniz began her news segment with her interview with accused serial killer Jeremy Jones. Apparently, Jones was in a talkative mood Friday since he was also interviewed by The Joplin Globe's Jeff Lehr. One advantage the broadcast media has over print is that through the use of a recording of the telephone conversation we were actually able to hear Jones' voice. It was chilling to hear him describe himself as "a lover, not a killer."
Though Alabama authorities say he has confessed to the murders of Ashley Freeman and Lauria Bible, and subsequent dumping of their bodies in a Galena strip pit, he has denied ever saying that in his interviews with Ms. Alaniz and Lehr.
One thing disturbs me about KSNF's interview. According to Ms. Alaniz, it is going to be spread out over the next few evenings. While I realize that gives people a reason to watch KSN every night this week, wouldn't it be more of a service to the people who knew Ashley Freeman and Lauria Bible not to take the piecemeal approach and instead present it in a larger dose?
On the other hand, that is probably not a major complaint.
To get back to the original message in this posting, Ms Alaniz also scored on Friday with a report on the delay for the search for the bodies of the two missing women. It is good to see her getting back into the reporting game.
Several weeks ago, I praised the station's sending out anchor Tiffany Alaniz for on-the-spot reporting. I remember an article that was written about Ms. Alaniz in one of Liberty Group Publishing's free magazines a while back in which she talked about her initial reluctance to become a morning show host because she loved reporting so much.
Admittedly, I am prejudiced because I don't care for the fluff on local newscasts, but I much prefer Ms Alaniz as a top-flight reporter instead of as a foil for Gary Bandy.
Today, after the weather forecast, Ms. Alaniz began her news segment with her interview with accused serial killer Jeremy Jones. Apparently, Jones was in a talkative mood Friday since he was also interviewed by The Joplin Globe's Jeff Lehr. One advantage the broadcast media has over print is that through the use of a recording of the telephone conversation we were actually able to hear Jones' voice. It was chilling to hear him describe himself as "a lover, not a killer."
Though Alabama authorities say he has confessed to the murders of Ashley Freeman and Lauria Bible, and subsequent dumping of their bodies in a Galena strip pit, he has denied ever saying that in his interviews with Ms. Alaniz and Lehr.
One thing disturbs me about KSNF's interview. According to Ms. Alaniz, it is going to be spread out over the next few evenings. While I realize that gives people a reason to watch KSN every night this week, wouldn't it be more of a service to the people who knew Ashley Freeman and Lauria Bible not to take the piecemeal approach and instead present it in a larger dose?
On the other hand, that is probably not a major complaint.
To get back to the original message in this posting, Ms Alaniz also scored on Friday with a report on the delay for the search for the bodies of the two missing women. It is good to see her getting back into the reporting game.
McLean arrested for driving while revoked
It couldn't have helped Brandie McLean's attempt to regain custody of her four children when she was arrested for driving while revoked this morning by Joplin police officers.
According to the arrest report on the Joplin Police Department's website, Ms. McLean, 28, was arrested at 3:15 a.m. this morning at 24th and New Hampshire, and was released a little over an hour later after posting $500 bail.
For more information about Ms. McLean and her legal difficulties, see the item directly below this one.
According to the arrest report on the Joplin Police Department's website, Ms. McLean, 28, was arrested at 3:15 a.m. this morning at 24th and New Hampshire, and was released a little over an hour later after posting $500 bail.
For more information about Ms. McLean and her legal difficulties, see the item directly below this one.
Public defender no longer needed for McLean
A $300 judgment for public defender services was assessed against Brandie McLean, 28, Webb City, June 17, according to Jasper County Circuit Court records.
Ms. McLean, if you recall, is the woman whose eight-year-old son Braxton Wooden was shot to death while staying with foster parents in Alba. Braxton Wooden, along with Ms. McLean's other four children, were taken away from her after her two-year-old son was seen on the roof of her home, while Ms. McLean was sleeping inside. She had pleaded guilty to endangering the welfare of a child and two non-related forgery counts when her son was killed. At that point, she withdrew the guilty plea, saying that she realized the plea would damage her chances of regaining custody of her children.
Prior to her son's death, she had been represented by the Jasper County Public Defender's office. After the death, she hired Joplin attorney Juddson McPherson, who indicated in a recent TV interview that his client was considering filing a lawsuit against the foster parents who were in charge of Ms. McLean's son when he was shot to death.
Ms. McLean, if you recall, is the woman whose eight-year-old son Braxton Wooden was shot to death while staying with foster parents in Alba. Braxton Wooden, along with Ms. McLean's other four children, were taken away from her after her two-year-old son was seen on the roof of her home, while Ms. McLean was sleeping inside. She had pleaded guilty to endangering the welfare of a child and two non-related forgery counts when her son was killed. At that point, she withdrew the guilty plea, saying that she realized the plea would damage her chances of regaining custody of her children.
Prior to her son's death, she had been represented by the Jasper County Public Defender's office. After the death, she hired Joplin attorney Juddson McPherson, who indicated in a recent TV interview that his client was considering filing a lawsuit against the foster parents who were in charge of Ms. McLean's son when he was shot to death.
New trial date set in hit-and-run case
A new trial date is set for Travis Wyrick, 18, Joplin, who is charged with felony leaving the scene of an accident in connection with the January hit-and-run death of Joplin High School senior Jamison Alexander.
The trial, originally scheduled for July 27, has been pushed back to Aug. 19, according to Jasper County Circuit Court records. Pretrial motions, originally scheduled for today, will instead be taken up on July 18.
The trial, originally scheduled for July 27, has been pushed back to Aug. 19, according to Jasper County Circuit Court records. Pretrial motions, originally scheduled for today, will instead be taken up on July 18.
Arraignment set for former Jasper councilman
A 1:15 p.m. Thursday, June 23 arraignment has been scheduled in Newton County Circuit Court for former Jasper City Councilman Nicky Crews, who is charged with possession of child pornography and possession of marijuana.
Crews was arrested Feb. 3 at a Newton County truck stop.
Crews was arrested Feb. 3 at a Newton County truck stop.
Sentencing set in illegal alien case
A Mexican citizen who pleaded guilty April 8 to transporting 12 illegal aliens for profit will be sentenced 11 a.m. Thursday, July 14, in Springfield, according to a document filed today in U. S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri.
The Joplin Police Department arrested Yovani Diaz-Cruz March 12 and a federal grand jury indicted him later that month. Diaz-Cruz was arrested after JPD officers came across a 1995 GMC Safari Van parked at the corner of Main and F with Diaz-Cruz in the driver's seat. Twelve other Hispanic men were found hiding under a nearby bridge. Believing them to be undocumented aliens, Joplin Police called the U. S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement office in Springfield. All 12 men admitted to being Mexican citizens illegally in this country, according to court documents.
"They claim to have paid between 1,000 and 2,000 dollars for transportation from Phoenix, Ariz., to Georgia or Kentucky," Special Agent James Webb said in an affidavit filed in U. S. District Court. "Three of the 12 claimed to have paid 5,500 pesos as their fee for transportation. The group identified (Diaz) as the driver of the vehicle."
A check with the FBI database determined that Diaz had been deported from this country twice, on March 10, 2003, and April 20, 2003, both times from Nogales, Ariz.
The Joplin Police Department arrested Yovani Diaz-Cruz March 12 and a federal grand jury indicted him later that month. Diaz-Cruz was arrested after JPD officers came across a 1995 GMC Safari Van parked at the corner of Main and F with Diaz-Cruz in the driver's seat. Twelve other Hispanic men were found hiding under a nearby bridge. Believing them to be undocumented aliens, Joplin Police called the U. S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement office in Springfield. All 12 men admitted to being Mexican citizens illegally in this country, according to court documents.
"They claim to have paid between 1,000 and 2,000 dollars for transportation from Phoenix, Ariz., to Georgia or Kentucky," Special Agent James Webb said in an affidavit filed in U. S. District Court. "Three of the 12 claimed to have paid 5,500 pesos as their fee for transportation. The group identified (Diaz) as the driver of the vehicle."
A check with the FBI database determined that Diaz had been deported from this country twice, on March 10, 2003, and April 20, 2003, both times from Nogales, Ariz.
Area reps named in Oklahoman investigation
Two northeast Oklahoma representatives were among more than 70 legislators who have attempted to have prisoners, including murderers, moved from one prison to another to accommodate their needs or the needs of their families, according to a page-one investigation in the Sunday Daily Oklahoman.
Among those named in the report were Joe Eddins, D-Vinita, and Larry Glenn, D-Miami.
Numerous reasons were offered for the transfers, but one unbelievable one came from a request by a governor's aide who asked if a prisoner could be moved to another prison where needlepoint was offered.
Among those named in the report were Joe Eddins, D-Vinita, and Larry Glenn, D-Miami.
Numerous reasons were offered for the transfers, but one unbelievable one came from a request by a governor's aide who asked if a prisoner could be moved to another prison where needlepoint was offered.
What kind of news judgment was this?
On a strong Sunday page one that was led by reporter Jeff Lehr's newsmaking interview with suspected serial killer Jeremy Jones, why on earth did the Joplin Globe put a story about the infamous runaway bride on page one?
It wasn't as if the story was going to sell newspapers. Even if Globe editors thought it would, it was at the bottom of page one and not above the fold, so it was not going to be seen in vending machines or on the racks by store counters.
On a day when there was an increase in attacks by insurgents in Iraq, it is an insult that Globe editors thought the runaway bride was worthy of page one coverage. If a tabloid story like that occurred in this area or as KSN would put it, if a four-state bride ran away from a four-state wedding and is believed to be hiding somewhere in the four states, that is a different matter. I have no problem with a newspaper or a television station giving a tabloid story top-drawer treatment...if it happened here...but when you put nonsense like the runaway bride on page one, you are indicating to your viewers that that's the kind of news you think is important. Perhaps a nice touch would have been to have had a Father's Day feature at the bottom of the page. Just a thought.
***
For anyone interested in some of the thought processes Globe editors go through on an everyday basis, check out the homepage on the Globe's website, www.joplinglobe.com and find the Talk Back ad. If you click on it, you will find archived programs of the weekly radio show done by Globe Editor Edgar Simpson and KDMO in Carthage. Last week, Simpson and Globe Metro Editor Carol Stark had an informative program, in which they talked about the Globe selects the stories it covers. They also talked about many of the big stories currently in the news including the efforts to put a law enforcement sales tax on the ballot and the Joplin police situation.
It wasn't as if the story was going to sell newspapers. Even if Globe editors thought it would, it was at the bottom of page one and not above the fold, so it was not going to be seen in vending machines or on the racks by store counters.
On a day when there was an increase in attacks by insurgents in Iraq, it is an insult that Globe editors thought the runaway bride was worthy of page one coverage. If a tabloid story like that occurred in this area or as KSN would put it, if a four-state bride ran away from a four-state wedding and is believed to be hiding somewhere in the four states, that is a different matter. I have no problem with a newspaper or a television station giving a tabloid story top-drawer treatment...if it happened here...but when you put nonsense like the runaway bride on page one, you are indicating to your viewers that that's the kind of news you think is important. Perhaps a nice touch would have been to have had a Father's Day feature at the bottom of the page. Just a thought.
***
For anyone interested in some of the thought processes Globe editors go through on an everyday basis, check out the homepage on the Globe's website, www.joplinglobe.com and find the Talk Back ad. If you click on it, you will find archived programs of the weekly radio show done by Globe Editor Edgar Simpson and KDMO in Carthage. Last week, Simpson and Globe Metro Editor Carol Stark had an informative program, in which they talked about the Globe selects the stories it covers. They also talked about many of the big stories currently in the news including the efforts to put a law enforcement sales tax on the ballot and the Joplin police situation.
AP picks up serial killer interview
Associated Press has picked up The Joplin Globe's page-one story Sunday that suspected serial killer Jeremy Jones told Globe reporter Jeff Lehr, in a telephone interview Friday night that he has never killed anyone and that police officers would be wasting their time if they searched strip pits near Galena to find missing Ashley Freeman and Lauria Bible.
Things could hardly get worse
I knew what kind of a day it was going to be when my car broke down at Northpark Mall and I had to walk all the way to the 15th Street Wal-Mart where the Joplin Chamber of Commerce was holding its annual Man of the Year presentation.
I checked my watch and found out I still had plenty of time to get there before the ceremony started, so I immediately began walking, leaving my car behind. As though of you who read my report on this year's Chamber of Commerce annual banquet know, I am not comfortable in this kind of gathering. I have always had extreme claustrophobia, so putting me into a banquet room at Wal-Mart with hundreds of people (some with shopping carts) was not my idea of a good time.
When I finally arrived, I breathed a sigh of relief, seeing that the banquet had not yet started. I saw Carthage Press Managing Editor Ron Graber, armed with his trusty camera, waving at me, so I waved back. I headed over to talk to him, but a lady tapped me on the shoulder and said I needed to get to the interview room since I was the last man of the year candidate to be interviewed.
As I headed that way, suddenly a microphone, attached to the outstretched arm of KSN's Gary Bandy, was stuck in my face. "And now," he said, in that silky, smooth voice that four-state viewers have come to love (and they have to be four-state viewers since the adjective four-state is attached to everything on KSN's newscasts), "And we have with us a candidate for man of the year, the diminutive Daniel Turner."
Normally, I would have disputed the use of the term "diminutive" (especially since Gary Bandy is one of the few people who is actually shorter than I am), but I was too stunned to say anything, except "My name's Randy."
I don't remember anything about the two or three questions he asked me, except I was happy when he moved on to his next victim. I heard a couple several feet away from me talking about the unfortunate experience I had just gone through. The woman said to the man, "That was ambush journalism. I just hate that."
The man nodded. "That Gary Bandy. He thinks he's Mike Wallace."
I didn't have a chance to feel bad about the ambush interview. I heard a woman's voice calling my name, "Randy, Randy, we need you over here."
When I got over there, she said it was time for my interview for man of the year and pointed me toward the man who would be conducting the interview. As I approached him, he stood and extended his hand. "Mister Turner," he said, smiling, but suddenly the smile vanished. "The Chamber of Commerce is an important organization, Mister Turner."
"I know it is," I stammered, not knowing exactly where this was going.
"Then why didn't you wear a tie to the banquet?'
"I was going to buy one here at Wal-Mart," I explained, hoping the answer would satisfy him, but apparently, it didn't.
"You should have worn a tie," he grumbled, then looking me over, he added, "and some pants would have been nice."
It was at that point that I woke up, so I will never know if I was the Joplin Chamber of Commerce's man of the year.
I checked my watch and found out I still had plenty of time to get there before the ceremony started, so I immediately began walking, leaving my car behind. As though of you who read my report on this year's Chamber of Commerce annual banquet know, I am not comfortable in this kind of gathering. I have always had extreme claustrophobia, so putting me into a banquet room at Wal-Mart with hundreds of people (some with shopping carts) was not my idea of a good time.
When I finally arrived, I breathed a sigh of relief, seeing that the banquet had not yet started. I saw Carthage Press Managing Editor Ron Graber, armed with his trusty camera, waving at me, so I waved back. I headed over to talk to him, but a lady tapped me on the shoulder and said I needed to get to the interview room since I was the last man of the year candidate to be interviewed.
As I headed that way, suddenly a microphone, attached to the outstretched arm of KSN's Gary Bandy, was stuck in my face. "And now," he said, in that silky, smooth voice that four-state viewers have come to love (and they have to be four-state viewers since the adjective four-state is attached to everything on KSN's newscasts), "And we have with us a candidate for man of the year, the diminutive Daniel Turner."
Normally, I would have disputed the use of the term "diminutive" (especially since Gary Bandy is one of the few people who is actually shorter than I am), but I was too stunned to say anything, except "My name's Randy."
I don't remember anything about the two or three questions he asked me, except I was happy when he moved on to his next victim. I heard a couple several feet away from me talking about the unfortunate experience I had just gone through. The woman said to the man, "That was ambush journalism. I just hate that."
The man nodded. "That Gary Bandy. He thinks he's Mike Wallace."
I didn't have a chance to feel bad about the ambush interview. I heard a woman's voice calling my name, "Randy, Randy, we need you over here."
When I got over there, she said it was time for my interview for man of the year and pointed me toward the man who would be conducting the interview. As I approached him, he stood and extended his hand. "Mister Turner," he said, smiling, but suddenly the smile vanished. "The Chamber of Commerce is an important organization, Mister Turner."
"I know it is," I stammered, not knowing exactly where this was going.
"Then why didn't you wear a tie to the banquet?'
"I was going to buy one here at Wal-Mart," I explained, hoping the answer would satisfy him, but apparently, it didn't.
"You should have worn a tie," he grumbled, then looking me over, he added, "and some pants would have been nice."
It was at that point that I woke up, so I will never know if I was the Joplin Chamber of Commerce's man of the year.
Sunday, June 19, 2005
Gutteridge profiled in Morning Sun
One of my favorite interviews of all time occurred back in the 1980s. I can't remember which Lamar group had him as a speaker, but former Chicago White Sox manager Don Gutteridge, who is profiled in today's Pittsburg Morning Sun had a wealth of stories to tell, and I was sorry I only got to hear a few of them.
According to the article, Gutteridge is the only surviving member of the fabled St. Louis Cardinals Gashouse Gang of the 1930s. He later played in the only all-St. Louis World Series in 1944 as a member of the losing Browns (now the Baltimore Orioles). He again played on the losing side in the Series two years later as a member of the Boston Red Sox.
The article can be found at http://morningsun.net/stories/061905/spo_20050619056.shtml
You may have to register to be able to read it, but the registration is free.
According to the article, Gutteridge is the only surviving member of the fabled St. Louis Cardinals Gashouse Gang of the 1930s. He later played in the only all-St. Louis World Series in 1944 as a member of the losing Browns (now the Baltimore Orioles). He again played on the losing side in the Series two years later as a member of the Boston Red Sox.
The article can be found at http://morningsun.net/stories/061905/spo_20050619056.shtml
You may have to register to be able to read it, but the registration is free.
White Sox being carried on local radio
The best news for baseball fans in the Joplin area came when St. Louis Cardinals games returned to WMBH a few weeks back. Of course, the Kansas City Royals can be heard on KKOW-AM, but can anyone explain why Chicago White Sox games are being carried on 1230 AM?
I don't mind it. I listened to the last couple of innings of a great game between the White Sox and the Dodgers last night, but it just seems a bit strange.
I don't mind it. I listened to the last couple of innings of a great game between the White Sox and the Dodgers last night, but it just seems a bit strange.
Saturday, June 18, 2005
First Precious Moments/Disney figurines on tap
The first-ever Precious Moments and Disney character integrated figurines will be unveiled Sept. 3 and 4 at Disney World in Florida, according to the Disney World website. Disney will be the only place where the figurines are available.
Figurines bought at the event will be signed by sculptor Shuhei Fujioka, Nagoya, Japan, who works from ideas and art supplied by Precious Moments Chapel creator Sam Butcher, formerly of Carthage.
More information can be found at http://www.register123.com/event/profile/web/index.cfm?PKwebID=0x2266857bc&varPage=home
Figurines bought at the event will be signed by sculptor Shuhei Fujioka, Nagoya, Japan, who works from ideas and art supplied by Precious Moments Chapel creator Sam Butcher, formerly of Carthage.
More information can be found at http://www.register123.com/event/profile/web/index.cfm?PKwebID=0x2266857bc&varPage=home
Nexstar news head says journalists must earn trust
Recent flareups over use of anonymous sources and calls for a shield law for the press were discussed at the National Association of Hispanic Journalists convention earlier today in Fort Worth, Texas, according to the San Antonio Express News.
Susana Schuler, corporate news director for Nexstar Broadcasting, which owns KSNF in Joplin and KSFX in Springfield, and operates KODE in Joplin and KOLR in Springfield, participated in a panel discussion over these topics.
"Nobody has to trust us to be accurate and accountable," said Ms.Schuler. "It is something we earn and I just think we haven't earned it well as of late."
Susana Schuler, corporate news director for Nexstar Broadcasting, which owns KSNF in Joplin and KSFX in Springfield, and operates KODE in Joplin and KOLR in Springfield, participated in a panel discussion over these topics.
"Nobody has to trust us to be accurate and accountable," said Ms.Schuler. "It is something we earn and I just think we haven't earned it well as of late."
Leggett brings scab workers to striking plant
Thirty-five to 40 scab workers were brought into Airo De Casting Inc., a Pittsburgh, Pa., company owned by Carthage-based Leggett & Platt Friday, stirring speculation the company is responding to a strike called last week by 300 workers represented by Local 1357 of Laborers International Union of North America, according to an article in Friday's Pittsburg Tribune-Review.
The arrival of the workers came after an ad was placed in the Tribune-Review trumpeting "competitive wages" and a "benefits package."
The York Pa. Review says the workers at Airo De Casting have been working under an expired contract since Jan 31 and have come to an impasse over health-care benefits and wages.
The arrival of the workers came after an ad was placed in the Tribune-Review trumpeting "competitive wages" and a "benefits package."
The York Pa. Review says the workers at Airo De Casting have been working under an expired contract since Jan 31 and have come to an impasse over health-care benefits and wages.
Moark opponents called 'terrorists'
The continued overkill, started by Neosho Mayor Howard Birdsong and directed against opponents of the proposed Moark expansion also took to the airwaves recently.
Neoshoforums.com has an audiotape and transcription of KBTN talk show host John McCormack refusing to talk to an opponent of the expansion and referring to the organized opposition to Moark's plan as "terrorists."
As Neosho Forums, the Turner Report, and The Neosho Daily News have reported, Birdsong's over-the-top letter, read at the last City Council meeting, and McCormack's use of the term "terrorists" stem from an e-mail written by Les Bond, Neosho, the full text of which is reprinted below:
"Mayor Howard Birdsong,
Since you chose not to represent us on the 'Moark Issue' by having the topic put on the council agenda, we promise to do all within our powers to get you removed from the Neosho City Council. There may be some other city issues that will bear investigating, also."
Les and Wanda Bond
707 Peterson Road
If this is terrorism, I would hate to hear how McCormack would describe Al Qaeda.
Neoshoforums.com has an audiotape and transcription of KBTN talk show host John McCormack refusing to talk to an opponent of the expansion and referring to the organized opposition to Moark's plan as "terrorists."
As Neosho Forums, the Turner Report, and The Neosho Daily News have reported, Birdsong's over-the-top letter, read at the last City Council meeting, and McCormack's use of the term "terrorists" stem from an e-mail written by Les Bond, Neosho, the full text of which is reprinted below:
"Mayor Howard Birdsong,
Since you chose not to represent us on the 'Moark Issue' by having the topic put on the council agenda, we promise to do all within our powers to get you removed from the Neosho City Council. There may be some other city issues that will bear investigating, also."
Les and Wanda Bond
707 Peterson Road
If this is terrorism, I would hate to hear how McCormack would describe Al Qaeda.
Accused serial killer denies reports
The Sunday Joplin Globe features staff writer Jeff Lehr's interview with accused serial killer Jeremy Jones, who denies telling Alabama officers that he killed Ashley Freeman and Lauria Bible and dumped their bodies in mining pits near Galena.
The article says Jones denied his admissions during a telephone interview Friday night.
The article says Jones denied his admissions during a telephone interview Friday night.
Bill could remove campaign contributions from Web
Senate Bill 420, which I have addressed before in this blog, appears to create a number of serious problems for people who want easy access to public information.
The bill would make it a crime to print the addresses or other information about public officials, whether they are elected or appointed, on the Internet. Officials interviewed for an article in today's Kansas City Star say it would be impossible to do and they would simply have to remove all records from the Internet. Of course, the proponents of the bill say people could go back to the old fashioned way of looking up records...going to whatever courthouse you need to go to and laboriously digging them up. The same people who say that are probably people who have the ability to order other people to do their digging for them.
The compliance officer for the Missouri Ethics Commission notes that the law requires that the names and addresses of those who contribute to political candidates must be filed on campaign disclosure forms. If the bill is signed by Governor Matt Blunt, who reportedly is still thinking it over, those forms would probably no longer be on the Internet.
Plus, as I have mentioned before, this would also require the removal of information on court websites about public officials who are involved in criminal or civil cases. The portion of the bill that involves internet records was the idea of the late Richard Byrd, according to the Star. Byrd reportedly added the amendment following the murder of an Illinois judge's family.
While Byrd's intentions were no doubt honorable, it should be remembered, people who want to do harm, unfortunately, will find other ways to get hold of the information they are seeking.
All a bill like SB 420 does is throw roadblocks in the way of honest, hard-working taxpayers.
The bill would make it a crime to print the addresses or other information about public officials, whether they are elected or appointed, on the Internet. Officials interviewed for an article in today's Kansas City Star say it would be impossible to do and they would simply have to remove all records from the Internet. Of course, the proponents of the bill say people could go back to the old fashioned way of looking up records...going to whatever courthouse you need to go to and laboriously digging them up. The same people who say that are probably people who have the ability to order other people to do their digging for them.
The compliance officer for the Missouri Ethics Commission notes that the law requires that the names and addresses of those who contribute to political candidates must be filed on campaign disclosure forms. If the bill is signed by Governor Matt Blunt, who reportedly is still thinking it over, those forms would probably no longer be on the Internet.
Plus, as I have mentioned before, this would also require the removal of information on court websites about public officials who are involved in criminal or civil cases. The portion of the bill that involves internet records was the idea of the late Richard Byrd, according to the Star. Byrd reportedly added the amendment following the murder of an Illinois judge's family.
While Byrd's intentions were no doubt honorable, it should be remembered, people who want to do harm, unfortunately, will find other ways to get hold of the information they are seeking.
All a bill like SB 420 does is throw roadblocks in the way of honest, hard-working taxpayers.
Joplin police officer receives thorn
The Springfield News-Leader's editorial page from time to time features praise and criticism under the title "Roses and Thorns."
Receiving one of today's thorns is a name that has become familiar to Joplin residents. Here's how the News-Leader put it:
"A THORN: To Joplin police officer Charles Ward, who snapped handcuffs on a grade-school student last year after questioning the kid about a confrontation with the officer's son from several days before. The term "abuse of power" quickly comes to mind. The FBI is now looking into the incident to determine whether civil rights were violated. Perhaps now Joplin residents can find out how the city disciplined Ward."
Receiving one of today's thorns is a name that has become familiar to Joplin residents. Here's how the News-Leader put it:
"A THORN: To Joplin police officer Charles Ward, who snapped handcuffs on a grade-school student last year after questioning the kid about a confrontation with the officer's son from several days before. The term "abuse of power" quickly comes to mind. The FBI is now looking into the incident to determine whether civil rights were violated. Perhaps now Joplin residents can find out how the city disciplined Ward."
Bills sponsored by Hunter change over years
There was a time when State Rep. Steve Hunter, R-Joplin, had a broader interest than business-based legislation.
In his first year in the Missouri legislature, Hunter didn't sponsor any bills, but he co-sponsored a bill which would have regulated internet access for minors, and another similar to the one signed into law by Governor Matt Blunt Thursday restricting the sale of precursors for making methamphetamine.
In 2002, Hunter was involved in legislation that, had it been passed by the General Assembly, would have increased the fee for admission to casinos by a dollar and put that extra money into funding performance-based salary increases for teachers. He co-sponsored a bill that would have prevented students who committed any kind of felony sex crime from being readmitted to public schools.
The 2003 legislative session, Hunter sponsored a bill which would have exempted food sales made by religious, charitable and nonprofit organizations from the state food code laws and rules and another law which would have made manufacturing a controlled substance within 2,000 feet of a school a felony.
The 2003 legislative session ended in May, and to all intents and purposes that was also the end of the Steve Hunter who didn't concentrate on pro-business legislation.
What happened in the meantime?
Approximately three weeks after the end of the 2003 General Assembly, Steve Hunter was hired as a membership recruiter for Associated Industries of Missouri, a powerful pro-business lobbying organization. Financial disclosure forms filed by Hunter with the Missouri Ethics Commission indicate that he was employed by the organization in 2003 and 2004 and received at least $1,000 from it in both years. Unfortunately, all officeholders are required to state on these forms is if they received $1,000, they do not have to be specific.
Perhaps it was Hunter's prior business experience that made him attractive to Associated Industries. Or perhaps it was because he was chairman of the House Workforce Development and Workplace Safety Committee...the committee that deals with the workers' compensation legislation that has been so important to Missouri businesses, as well as being a member of the interim committee on Job Creation and Economic Development.
Ethics Commission records show that in 2003, Hunter received $216.25 in gifts from Associated Industries lobbyists, including $112.60 on four dates in October and November, well after he began working for the organization.
The expenditure reports show Hunter received $8.81 for meals, food, and beverage from lobbyist James W. Kistler on Nov. 13, 2003, as well as $65 in travel from Kistler on the same date. Hunter had another $21.72 for meal, food and beverage from Kistler two days later. The expenditure forms show an $8 meal from Kistler on Nov. 12 and a $9.07 meal from him on Oct. 22.
Other dates on which the Joplin legislator received gifts from Associated Industries lobbyists during the 2003 session were:
Jan. 21- $35.75 for meals from David Smith
April 9- $26.23 for meals from Smith
May 1- $31.59 for meals from Smith
May 21- $10.08 for meals from Gary Marble, Associated Industries president and former representative from Neosho
Those gifts were among the $2,025.17 Hunter received from lobbyists during the 2003 calendar year, again ranking him among the top legislators in that category.
During the 2005 legislative session, it appeared that Hunter carried the ball for his other employer while he was being paid to work for the taxpayers. He sponsored the workers' compensation bill that had been aggressively pushed by Associated Industries and when the legislative session ended last month, Hunter put on his other hat and went to six "Lunch and Learn" presentations put on by Associated Industries. At those sessions, he explained how his legislation would benefit them.
As a legislator, Hunter also sponsored three bills his other employer favors that would have crippled labor unions in the state.
A few months after Hunter began his other job, reporter Aaron Kessler of The Joplin Globe asked him if the new job didn't present him with a conflict of interest. "I don't see it as a conflict of interest at all," Hunter told The Globe, adding he would not benefit "one iota" from his position as a state representative.
"We're citizen legislators, not full-time," Hunter told the newspaper. "I'm like an outside salesman (for Associated Industries). It's not a conflict."
For the record, according to the last Missouri State Manual (the blue book), state representatives, including Hunter, receive "a salary of $31,351 per year, a weekly allowance for
miles traveled going to and returning from their place of meeting and expenses for each day the
General Assembly is in session."
It might be added that Hunter's 2003 and 2004 financial disclosure forms show that he received more than $1,000 both years from three sources: the Missouri House of Representatives, Associated Industries of Missouri, and Phillips, Ward and Associates, a Joplin advertising firm.
As for what kind of salary Hunter receives from his other job, he would not tell The Globe during that September 2003 interview and neither would Gary Marble, who told the newspaper, "I'd rather not discuss that."
Marble added, "I'm comfortable everything was legal...pure as the driven snow."
In his first year in the Missouri legislature, Hunter didn't sponsor any bills, but he co-sponsored a bill which would have regulated internet access for minors, and another similar to the one signed into law by Governor Matt Blunt Thursday restricting the sale of precursors for making methamphetamine.
In 2002, Hunter was involved in legislation that, had it been passed by the General Assembly, would have increased the fee for admission to casinos by a dollar and put that extra money into funding performance-based salary increases for teachers. He co-sponsored a bill that would have prevented students who committed any kind of felony sex crime from being readmitted to public schools.
The 2003 legislative session, Hunter sponsored a bill which would have exempted food sales made by religious, charitable and nonprofit organizations from the state food code laws and rules and another law which would have made manufacturing a controlled substance within 2,000 feet of a school a felony.
The 2003 legislative session ended in May, and to all intents and purposes that was also the end of the Steve Hunter who didn't concentrate on pro-business legislation.
What happened in the meantime?
Approximately three weeks after the end of the 2003 General Assembly, Steve Hunter was hired as a membership recruiter for Associated Industries of Missouri, a powerful pro-business lobbying organization. Financial disclosure forms filed by Hunter with the Missouri Ethics Commission indicate that he was employed by the organization in 2003 and 2004 and received at least $1,000 from it in both years. Unfortunately, all officeholders are required to state on these forms is if they received $1,000, they do not have to be specific.
Perhaps it was Hunter's prior business experience that made him attractive to Associated Industries. Or perhaps it was because he was chairman of the House Workforce Development and Workplace Safety Committee...the committee that deals with the workers' compensation legislation that has been so important to Missouri businesses, as well as being a member of the interim committee on Job Creation and Economic Development.
Ethics Commission records show that in 2003, Hunter received $216.25 in gifts from Associated Industries lobbyists, including $112.60 on four dates in October and November, well after he began working for the organization.
The expenditure reports show Hunter received $8.81 for meals, food, and beverage from lobbyist James W. Kistler on Nov. 13, 2003, as well as $65 in travel from Kistler on the same date. Hunter had another $21.72 for meal, food and beverage from Kistler two days later. The expenditure forms show an $8 meal from Kistler on Nov. 12 and a $9.07 meal from him on Oct. 22.
Other dates on which the Joplin legislator received gifts from Associated Industries lobbyists during the 2003 session were:
Jan. 21- $35.75 for meals from David Smith
April 9- $26.23 for meals from Smith
May 1- $31.59 for meals from Smith
May 21- $10.08 for meals from Gary Marble, Associated Industries president and former representative from Neosho
Those gifts were among the $2,025.17 Hunter received from lobbyists during the 2003 calendar year, again ranking him among the top legislators in that category.
During the 2005 legislative session, it appeared that Hunter carried the ball for his other employer while he was being paid to work for the taxpayers. He sponsored the workers' compensation bill that had been aggressively pushed by Associated Industries and when the legislative session ended last month, Hunter put on his other hat and went to six "Lunch and Learn" presentations put on by Associated Industries. At those sessions, he explained how his legislation would benefit them.
As a legislator, Hunter also sponsored three bills his other employer favors that would have crippled labor unions in the state.
A few months after Hunter began his other job, reporter Aaron Kessler of The Joplin Globe asked him if the new job didn't present him with a conflict of interest. "I don't see it as a conflict of interest at all," Hunter told The Globe, adding he would not benefit "one iota" from his position as a state representative.
"We're citizen legislators, not full-time," Hunter told the newspaper. "I'm like an outside salesman (for Associated Industries). It's not a conflict."
For the record, according to the last Missouri State Manual (the blue book), state representatives, including Hunter, receive "a salary of $31,351 per year, a weekly allowance for
miles traveled going to and returning from their place of meeting and expenses for each day the
General Assembly is in session."
It might be added that Hunter's 2003 and 2004 financial disclosure forms show that he received more than $1,000 both years from three sources: the Missouri House of Representatives, Associated Industries of Missouri, and Phillips, Ward and Associates, a Joplin advertising firm.
As for what kind of salary Hunter receives from his other job, he would not tell The Globe during that September 2003 interview and neither would Gary Marble, who told the newspaper, "I'd rather not discuss that."
Marble added, "I'm comfortable everything was legal...pure as the driven snow."
Friday, June 17, 2005
Street named after Gibbons
The Purdy City Council voted this week to rename the street by the school Gabby Gibbons Drive in honor of the long-time educator and coach, according to today's Monett Times.
Gibbons spent several years as a teacher in the East Newton R-6 School District, where he coached varsity boys and girls basketball at different times.
Gibbons spent several years as a teacher in the East Newton R-6 School District, where he coached varsity boys and girls basketball at different times.
Camera coverage planned for McLean hearing
Cameras will be in the courtroom when the next hearing in the child welfare case against Brandie McLean, 28, Webb City, is heard in Jasper County Circuit Court.
Court records indicate KOAM's request was approved June 9. Under court rules, one station is designated to make the requests for TV coverage, while one newspaper, The Joplin Globe, makes requests for any camera coverage for the print media.
Ms. McLean, if you recall, had originally pleaded guilty to a charge of endangering the welfare of a child, but hired a new lawyer and withdrew her plea following the shooting death of her eight-year-old son Braxton Wooden while he was in foster care in Alba. She also faces two forgery charges.
Ms. McLean said she withdrew her plea after learning that it could keep her from having her other children returned to her custody. They were taken away from her last year by Family Services after her two-year-old son was found on the roof of her house while she was sleeping inside.
Ms. McLean's new lawyer, Juddson McPherson, Joplin, indicated in a TV newscast earlier this week that his client was considering filing a lawsuit against the foster parents who were in charge of Braxton Wooden when he was shot to death.
Court records indicate KOAM's request was approved June 9. Under court rules, one station is designated to make the requests for TV coverage, while one newspaper, The Joplin Globe, makes requests for any camera coverage for the print media.
Ms. McLean, if you recall, had originally pleaded guilty to a charge of endangering the welfare of a child, but hired a new lawyer and withdrew her plea following the shooting death of her eight-year-old son Braxton Wooden while he was in foster care in Alba. She also faces two forgery charges.
Ms. McLean said she withdrew her plea after learning that it could keep her from having her other children returned to her custody. They were taken away from her last year by Family Services after her two-year-old son was found on the roof of her house while she was sleeping inside.
Ms. McLean's new lawyer, Juddson McPherson, Joplin, indicated in a TV newscast earlier this week that his client was considering filing a lawsuit against the foster parents who were in charge of Braxton Wooden when he was shot to death.
Woman denies being priest's girlfriend
It seems KY3 is a bit behind on this story since the Springfield News-Leader carried it last week, but the woman named as Father Phillip Bucher's girlfriend in a sexual harassment lawsuit against Bucher, Bishop John J. Liebrecht, and the Springfield-Cape Girardeau Diocese has denied any improper relationship with Bucher.
The Turner Report was the first media outlet to report the lawsuit, in which Glenna McKitterick of Branson says she was sexually harassed by Bucher, then was fired after complaining about it.
The Springfield television station reports that Bucher and the woman named in the lawsuit as his girlfriend, Carol Giannini, own a house together in Albuquerque, N. M., and have owned at least two homes in that city since the mid-1990s. "We just own things together like you own things together, like an investment," Ms. Giannini told KY3.
The court file in Springfield also contains cards Ms. Giannini sent to her grandchildren signed "Grandma and Phillip," according to the report.
It’s unfair to see a totally healthy relationship like ours tossed into the worst light," Ms. Giannini told the TV station.
The Turner Report was the first media outlet to report the lawsuit, in which Glenna McKitterick of Branson says she was sexually harassed by Bucher, then was fired after complaining about it.
The Springfield television station reports that Bucher and the woman named in the lawsuit as his girlfriend, Carol Giannini, own a house together in Albuquerque, N. M., and have owned at least two homes in that city since the mid-1990s. "We just own things together like you own things together, like an investment," Ms. Giannini told KY3.
The court file in Springfield also contains cards Ms. Giannini sent to her grandchildren signed "Grandma and Phillip," according to the report.
It’s unfair to see a totally healthy relationship like ours tossed into the worst light," Ms. Giannini told the TV station.
Felts featured in USA Today article
The bad experiences Jim Felts of Lamar suffered due to cell phone company mergers was featured in an article in Wednesday's USA Today. You can read the article at:
http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/telecom/2005-06-15-cingular-usat_x.htm
http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/telecom/2005-06-15-cingular-usat_x.htm
Neosho firm lands casino expansion contract
Branco Enterprises, Neosho, is the general contractor for a casino expansion project in Newkirk, Okla., according to the Newkirk Herald Journal.
Groundbreaking ceremonies for the project were held last week. Forty thousand square feet of gaming space will be added to the bingo hall, according to the newspaper. When that is completed, the casino will have more than 1,000 gaming machines and 10 card-playing tables.
The Neosho firm is expected to begin construction work almost immediately, the article said.
Groundbreaking ceremonies for the project were held last week. Forty thousand square feet of gaming space will be added to the bingo hall, according to the newspaper. When that is completed, the casino will have more than 1,000 gaming machines and 10 card-playing tables.
The Neosho firm is expected to begin construction work almost immediately, the article said.
Joplin man, son featured in Topeka newspaper
A neat little father and son story about Tom Owen, Joplin, his 10-year-old son Mac, and golfing great Jack Nicklaus was featured last weekend in the Topeka Capital-Journal.
You can find the feature at http://www.cjonline.com/stories/061105/gol_nicklaus.shtml
You can find the feature at http://www.cjonline.com/stories/061105/gol_nicklaus.shtml
Arkansas arrests linked to Joplin forgeries
The arrests of two teenagers Tuesday in Pea Ridge, Ark., have been connected to prescription drug forgeries in Joplin and other area towns, according to an article in the Wednesday Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.
Rogers police officials told the newspaper Jose Vargas and Brian Conner, both 18 of Rogers, were charged with one count of commercial burglary and theft of property. The two have been connected to a string of burglaries at pharmacies in Pea Ridge, Rogers, Bella Vista, Bentonville, Lowell, and Fayetteville, according to the article. During each burglary, Xanax and cough syrup with codeine or hydrodocone were stolen.
Investigators have traced forged prescriptions linked to the burglary ring from Joplin to Fort Smith, the article said.
Rogers police officials told the newspaper Jose Vargas and Brian Conner, both 18 of Rogers, were charged with one count of commercial burglary and theft of property. The two have been connected to a string of burglaries at pharmacies in Pea Ridge, Rogers, Bella Vista, Bentonville, Lowell, and Fayetteville, according to the article. During each burglary, Xanax and cough syrup with codeine or hydrodocone were stolen.
Investigators have traced forged prescriptions linked to the burglary ring from Joplin to Fort Smith, the article said.
Planning continues for Maple Leaf Festival
Planning for the annual Carthage Maple Leaf Festival will continue during a 4 p.m. meeting Tuesday, June 21.
The festival theme and artwork and event lineup will be discussed, as well as planning to find sponsors for events.
The festival theme and artwork and event lineup will be discussed, as well as planning to find sponsors for events.
Appeal heard in popcorn case
The Missouri Southern District Court of Appeals heard arguments June 9 in Springfield in the case of a Jasper man who was awarded $20 million by a Jasper County jury in the first of numerous lawsuits against International Flavors and Fragrances.
The jury awarded Eric Peoples, 33, $18 million and awarded his wife, Cassandra $2 million, after determining Peoples' lungs were damaged by a chemical used in butter flavoring at the Jasper Popcorn Company.
Lawyers for International Flavors and Fragrances, Inc., and Bush Boake Allen Inc., filed the appeal last summer following the March 15, 2004, verdict.
The jury awarded Eric Peoples, 33, $18 million and awarded his wife, Cassandra $2 million, after determining Peoples' lungs were damaged by a chemical used in butter flavoring at the Jasper Popcorn Company.
Lawyers for International Flavors and Fragrances, Inc., and Bush Boake Allen Inc., filed the appeal last summer following the March 15, 2004, verdict.
Joplinite enters area news scene
It appears a new voice has entered the Joplin media scene.
I don't know who is doing it, but The Joplinite premiered today at http://joplinite.blogspot.com/ I look forward to seeing how the new blog progresses.
I don't know who is doing it, but The Joplinite premiered today at http://joplinite.blogspot.com/ I look forward to seeing how the new blog progresses.
KODE, KSN back off Webb City police story
In the heat of competition, mistakes are made and it appears that is what happened to KODE and KSNF Monday when they aired a report saying that a Webb City police officer was being investigated for child abuse. That report was even cited positively in this blog. I wrote "KODE continued its winning streak with a report on a child abuse investigation centered on a Webb City police officer, also covered on KSNF, while KSNF picked up Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmonson's filing of a lawsuit against Tyson and other poultry companies." I was wrong in praising the Webb City story. The two stations jumped the gun on this one.
They had to retract the story, noting that Jasper County Prosecuting Attorney Dean Dankelson was not going to file any charges.
The question now is: Should the story have run in the first place? Once the name of the officer was broadcast, his reputation was damaged, no doubt about it. When the stations report later that no charges are going to be brought, that doesn't do much to mitigate the harm. First, not everyone who watched the first report saw the second one. Second, there will always be people who think he did it.
A Webb City police officer has been labeled a child abuser now, even though there have never been any charges filed against him.
In hindsight, it is easy to see the two stations should have waited until charges were filed before reporting the story. Perhaps they could have noted that an investigation was being conducted into the possibility that a Webb City police officer abused his child, without naming the officer. Of course, that would have put every Webb City police officer with children under suspicion.
I would hope that the news director for the two stations used this opportunity to review guidelines over when a story should run. If a similar situation arises in the future, the stations should either wait until charges are filed or make absolutely sure they have the story pinned down.
This story should never have run.
They had to retract the story, noting that Jasper County Prosecuting Attorney Dean Dankelson was not going to file any charges.
The question now is: Should the story have run in the first place? Once the name of the officer was broadcast, his reputation was damaged, no doubt about it. When the stations report later that no charges are going to be brought, that doesn't do much to mitigate the harm. First, not everyone who watched the first report saw the second one. Second, there will always be people who think he did it.
A Webb City police officer has been labeled a child abuser now, even though there have never been any charges filed against him.
In hindsight, it is easy to see the two stations should have waited until charges were filed before reporting the story. Perhaps they could have noted that an investigation was being conducted into the possibility that a Webb City police officer abused his child, without naming the officer. Of course, that would have put every Webb City police officer with children under suspicion.
I would hope that the news director for the two stations used this opportunity to review guidelines over when a story should run. If a similar situation arises in the future, the stations should either wait until charges are filed or make absolutely sure they have the story pinned down.
This story should never have run.
Thursday, June 16, 2005
Nexstar battling Little Rock sports rumors
Nexstar Broadcasting, owner of KSNF, is denying a rumor in heavy circulation in Little Rock that it is eliminating its local sports department at its affiliate KARK.
"There's a rumor going around that we're closing down our sports department and that's not true," Jeff Whatley, assistant news director, told Arkansas Business. "For competitive reasons, we can't go into it, but we are enhancing our sports and restructuring it as a way to enhance, not take away from us."
The rumors come in the wake of the departure of station general manager Perry Chester last week. As the Arkansas Business article noted, KARK, like KSNF in Joplin and KSFX in Springfield, have stopped paying for Nielsen ratings and Associated Press.
"There's a rumor going around that we're closing down our sports department and that's not true," Jeff Whatley, assistant news director, told Arkansas Business. "For competitive reasons, we can't go into it, but we are enhancing our sports and restructuring it as a way to enhance, not take away from us."
The rumors come in the wake of the departure of station general manager Perry Chester last week. As the Arkansas Business article noted, KARK, like KSNF in Joplin and KSFX in Springfield, have stopped paying for Nielsen ratings and Associated Press.
Changes coming to Globe website
Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc., owner of The Joplin Globe and 88 other newspapers, announced earlier this week that it will use the Zope4Media platform to host the websites for all of its newspapers.
In a Market Newswire article, CNHI CEO (more initials than you can shake a stick at) Michael Reed said, "This new platform allows us to leverage all of our resources on the Web and build dynamic sites for the future."
CNHI's vice president of internet operations, Bill Blevins said in the article that the internet developers from the company's dailies are "thrilled with the technology, flexibility and value the Zope platform brings to our sites."
The switch to the new platform began in May with the launch of a new content syndication site, www.CNHIns.com where personnel at the Globe and other CNHI newsrooms share stories and photographs, the article said.
The Globe and other newspapers will move their sites to the new platform by the end of the year, according to the article.
In a Market Newswire article, CNHI CEO (more initials than you can shake a stick at) Michael Reed said, "This new platform allows us to leverage all of our resources on the Web and build dynamic sites for the future."
CNHI's vice president of internet operations, Bill Blevins said in the article that the internet developers from the company's dailies are "thrilled with the technology, flexibility and value the Zope platform brings to our sites."
The switch to the new platform began in May with the launch of a new content syndication site, www.CNHIns.com where personnel at the Globe and other CNHI newsrooms share stories and photographs, the article said.
The Globe and other newspapers will move their sites to the new platform by the end of the year, according to the article.
Internet pervert hearing scheduled
A 10 a.m. Monday, June 20, pre-trial hearing is scheduled for alleged internet pervert Gary Reed Blankenship, Neosho.
The former O'Sullivan Industries official is charged with eight counts of possession of child pornography, one count of promoting obscenity and one count of enticement of a child in connection with one of Diamond police officer Jim Murray's internet stings. Blankenship was arrested Jan. 27.
The former O'Sullivan Industries official is charged with eight counts of possession of child pornography, one count of promoting obscenity and one count of enticement of a child in connection with one of Diamond police officer Jim Murray's internet stings. Blankenship was arrested Jan. 27.
Next hearing July 13 for Holman
The next hearing for accused double murderer Micah Holman, 32, Carthage, who pleaded not guilty during a video arraignment this morning, is scheduled for 9 a.m. July 13 in Jasper County Circuit Court.
Holman is charged with two counts of first degree murder, two counts of armed criminal action, and one count each of burglary and arson in connection with the June 4 murders of Marvin and Peggy Steverson of Carthage.
Though a video arraignment was held this morning as a matter of safety and convenience, Barton County Circuit Court records indicate Holman was taken to Lamar Wednesday for an arraignment on stealing charges. His next hearing is set for June 28 in that case.
A July 11 preliminary hearing is scheduled for Holman in Judge Joe Schoeberl's court on a charge of domestic assault in connection with a Jan. 24 incident.
Holman is charged with two counts of first degree murder, two counts of armed criminal action, and one count each of burglary and arson in connection with the June 4 murders of Marvin and Peggy Steverson of Carthage.
Though a video arraignment was held this morning as a matter of safety and convenience, Barton County Circuit Court records indicate Holman was taken to Lamar Wednesday for an arraignment on stealing charges. His next hearing is set for June 28 in that case.
A July 11 preliminary hearing is scheduled for Holman in Judge Joe Schoeberl's court on a charge of domestic assault in connection with a Jan. 24 incident.
Joplin center cited in state audit
A failure to record a storage space addition at the Joplin Welcome Center on a timely basis was cited in a state audit of the Missouri Department of Economic Development's Division of Tourism, which was released today.
"The division did not record approximately $45,700 for the cost of the new storage space addition at the Joplin Welcome Center on the capital asset records in a timely matter," the audit said."
"The construction was completed in May 2003 and had not been added to the capital asset records until we brought this to the division's attention in April 2004," the audit said. "The failure to properly record and reconcile property items reduces the control and accountability over capital assets."
Division officials said the information had mistakenly been sent to another division.
The audit also featured criticism of promotional expenditures that the auditors said were trivial.
"The division did not record approximately $45,700 for the cost of the new storage space addition at the Joplin Welcome Center on the capital asset records in a timely matter," the audit said."
"The construction was completed in May 2003 and had not been added to the capital asset records until we brought this to the division's attention in April 2004," the audit said. "The failure to properly record and reconcile property items reduces the control and accountability over capital assets."
Division officials said the information had mistakenly been sent to another division.
The audit also featured criticism of promotional expenditures that the auditors said were trivial.
Maddox, Siedlecki reunited
The Omaha TV News blog reports that former KODE anchors Malorie Maddox and Jimmy Siedlecki were reunited as morning show co-hosts on WOWT in Omaha today. Siedlecki, who completed his second stint in Joplin television last Friday, was originally scheduled to make his first appearance in Omaha next Monday, but the date was moved up because Ms. Maddox is beginning vacation that day. Omaha TV News can be found at: http://omanews.blogspot.com/
Wednesday, June 15, 2005
Bail reduction made despite protest
The decision to reduce the bail for alleged child-killer Brandon Kahl, 25, Lamar, was made over the objection of Prosecuting Attorney Steven Kaderly, according to Barton County Circuit Court records.
Bond had initially been set at $25,000, but was reduced to $15,000 after a request by Kahl's lawyer, James Nichols, according to court records. Stipulations for the bond include Kahl living with either his father or his grandfather, and not coming into contact with anyone under the age of 17.
Kahl, whose next court hearing is scheduled for June 28, allegedly caused the death of Alexander Cole, 2, by crushing the boy's chest, rupturing his heart. Court records indicate Kahl was angry with the child because he kept crying and getting out of bed.
Bond had initially been set at $25,000, but was reduced to $15,000 after a request by Kahl's lawyer, James Nichols, according to court records. Stipulations for the bond include Kahl living with either his father or his grandfather, and not coming into contact with anyone under the age of 17.
Kahl, whose next court hearing is scheduled for June 28, allegedly caused the death of Alexander Cole, 2, by crushing the boy's chest, rupturing his heart. Court records indicate Kahl was angry with the child because he kept crying and getting out of bed.
Lindstedt appeal rejected
Saying that the judge is acting like a "squeamish virgin" was probably not the best way to get him to rule in your favor.
That's the lesson perennial loser Martin Lindstedt discovered today when that judge, U. S. District Court Judge Richard E. Dorr, ruled against Lindstedt's attempt to reinstate his lawsuit against Governor Matt Blunt.
"Upon due consideration of the arguments and suggestions of the Plaintiff, Plaintiffs’ Motion to Alter or Amend Judgment is hereby DENIED." You couldn't blame the judge if he was trying to emphasize his decision with the capital letters, but that's just the way judges write all of their decisions.
In his petition to have his lawsuit reinstated, Lindstedt, whose mailing address is the Newton County Jail, where he awaits trial on statutory sodomy charges, claimed he was being railroaded by county officials and then lectured and scolded Judge Dorr.
"This court acts like the prostitute who discovers that men will pay for sex- that it has other purposes than procreation." He said that the judge is "making up the law as he goes along."
Lindstedt brought suit against Blunt for not allowing him to put his nickname "Mad Dog" on the ballot and for not listing his website on the secretary of state's website as he did for other candidates.
That's the lesson perennial loser Martin Lindstedt discovered today when that judge, U. S. District Court Judge Richard E. Dorr, ruled against Lindstedt's attempt to reinstate his lawsuit against Governor Matt Blunt.
"Upon due consideration of the arguments and suggestions of the Plaintiff, Plaintiffs’ Motion to Alter or Amend Judgment is hereby DENIED." You couldn't blame the judge if he was trying to emphasize his decision with the capital letters, but that's just the way judges write all of their decisions.
In his petition to have his lawsuit reinstated, Lindstedt, whose mailing address is the Newton County Jail, where he awaits trial on statutory sodomy charges, claimed he was being railroaded by county officials and then lectured and scolded Judge Dorr.
"This court acts like the prostitute who discovers that men will pay for sex- that it has other purposes than procreation." He said that the judge is "making up the law as he goes along."
Lindstedt brought suit against Blunt for not allowing him to put his nickname "Mad Dog" on the ballot and for not listing his website on the secretary of state's website as he did for other candidates.
Ambition steered Michigan city away from Rohr
Joplin City Manager Mark Rohr had his supporters when he applied for the vacant city manager job at Battle Creek, Mich., last year.
"Rohr cut an imposing figure during his interview with a deep voice and a hint of southern drawl, resembling more professional athlete than public servant," the Battle Creek Enquirer says in an article about the job performance of the man the city council selected, Battle Creek's long-time number two man Wayne Wiley.
"I don't think it's a secret that I thought Mark Rohr was the more dynamic of the two, the one who could command respect," Commissioner Mark Behnke told the Enquirer. "I was ready to vote in support of Mark Rohr because I thought he could think outside the box and help move Battle Creek along."
"I like Mr. Rohr," Mayor John Godfrey said during the city manager interviews on May 8, 2004, according to the Enquirer. "He is a dynamic young man and that's a concern for me. There is no reason we should expect to have him here for very long. I really don't want to go through (a city manager search) again."
"Rohr cut an imposing figure during his interview with a deep voice and a hint of southern drawl, resembling more professional athlete than public servant," the Battle Creek Enquirer says in an article about the job performance of the man the city council selected, Battle Creek's long-time number two man Wayne Wiley.
"I don't think it's a secret that I thought Mark Rohr was the more dynamic of the two, the one who could command respect," Commissioner Mark Behnke told the Enquirer. "I was ready to vote in support of Mark Rohr because I thought he could think outside the box and help move Battle Creek along."
"I like Mr. Rohr," Mayor John Godfrey said during the city manager interviews on May 8, 2004, according to the Enquirer. "He is a dynamic young man and that's a concern for me. There is no reason we should expect to have him here for very long. I really don't want to go through (a city manager search) again."
Rohr asks for new trial in Ohio lawsuit
Joplin City Manager Mark Rohr, who won a libel suit May 13 in Piqua, Ohio, but was awarded no damages, is asking for a new trial, according to today's Dayton Daily News.
Rohr, who served as city manager at Piqua before coming to Joplin, sued Piqua bar owner Charles "Mo" Gustin, claiming he defamed him in a May 2002 letter to state officials who were considering revoking Gustin's liquor license, according to the Daily News article.
In the new trial request, the article said, Rohr's lawyer, Grant Kerber, says the award of zero is less than the "nominal damages" to which Judge Jeffrey Welbaum said Rohr was entitled. Kerber also noted that the eight jurors had not signed the verdict forms properly, writing "nominal damages," instead of their names.
Rohr, who served as city manager at Piqua before coming to Joplin, sued Piqua bar owner Charles "Mo" Gustin, claiming he defamed him in a May 2002 letter to state officials who were considering revoking Gustin's liquor license, according to the Daily News article.
In the new trial request, the article said, Rohr's lawyer, Grant Kerber, says the award of zero is less than the "nominal damages" to which Judge Jeffrey Welbaum said Rohr was entitled. Kerber also noted that the eight jurors had not signed the verdict forms properly, writing "nominal damages," instead of their names.
Area stations bring home state awards
Joplin area TV and radio stations earned six awards from the Missouri Broadcasters Association last week.
Area winners were:
Station Sponsored Community Event- Medium Market Radio- Certificate of Merit- KSYN, Joplin, "Zimmer Golf Tournament: No Cheating."
Promotion- Class III Television- Winner- KOAM "Here for You."
Feature Reporting- Small Market Radio- Certificate of Merit- KDMO, Carthage, "Martha, Cancer Survivor"
Sports- Class III Television- Winner- KSNF, "Operation Pigskin," Certificate of Merit, KOAM, "Nick Ross"
Commercial- Medium Market Radio- KIXQ, "Columbus Ford/Behind the Jingle"
Area winners were:
Station Sponsored Community Event- Medium Market Radio- Certificate of Merit- KSYN, Joplin, "Zimmer Golf Tournament: No Cheating."
Promotion- Class III Television- Winner- KOAM "Here for You."
Feature Reporting- Small Market Radio- Certificate of Merit- KDMO, Carthage, "Martha, Cancer Survivor"
Sports- Class III Television- Winner- KSNF, "Operation Pigskin," Certificate of Merit, KOAM, "Nick Ross"
Commercial- Medium Market Radio- KIXQ, "Columbus Ford/Behind the Jingle"
VHS tapes out at Wal-Mart, Target
The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette is reporting today that VHS tapes will no longer be available at either Wal-Mart or Target stores in the near future, except for a few major releases. The stores have already been phasing them out in favor of DVDs.
The Washington Post is saying that Wal-Mart will reduce its inventory of VHS tapes, but will continue to sell them monitoring how well they do on a store-by-store basis.
The Washington Post is saying that Wal-Mart will reduce its inventory of VHS tapes, but will continue to sell them monitoring how well they do on a store-by-store basis.
AP picks up Joplin police story
The Joplin Globe's story on the FBI investigation into the actions taken by two Joplin police officers who handcuffed an 11-year-old boy at a Joplin elementary school has been picked up by Associated Press.
Considering the nature of the situation, it would not be surprising to see some coverage by out-of-the-area media as the story develops.
Considering the nature of the situation, it would not be surprising to see some coverage by out-of-the-area media as the story develops.
News-Leader story details Pierce City situation
Rep. William Clay's proposal for a panel to investigate the forced departure of African Americans from Pierce City in 1901 is detailed in an article in today's Springfield News-Leader. The article includes reactions by Seventh District Congressman Roy Blunt and State Representative Jack Goodman, R-Mount Vernon. The article can be found at:
http://springfield.news-leader.com/news/today/20050615-Townapologizesf.html
http://springfield.news-leader.com/news/today/20050615-Townapologizesf.html
Tuesday, June 14, 2005
KODE report raises questions
KODE's catch-up story on the hearing in the case of the Alba teen who shot eight-year-old Braxton Wooden brought up a topic that was bound to come up sooner or later and has been widely hinted at.
At some point, Wooden's mother, Brandie McLean, 28, is going to file a lawsuit against the Division of Family Services for removing her son from her custody and putting him in a situation that eventually ended in his death.
Her new lawyer, Juddson McPherson indicated to KODE that the possibility was being explored. A cynic might think that was why Ms. McLean suddenly changed lawyers and changed the guilty plea she had entered in her child neglect case. Realistically, how many jurors would be inclined to award big bucks to a woman who admitted to neglecting her children, thus leading to their removal from her home and placement in foster care in the first place.
I don't presume to know what happened in the all-too-short time that Braxton Wooden had on this planet.
As I noted in the June 4 Turner Report, Ms. McLean's five children were removed from her custody on Sept. 20, 2004, after her two-year-old son was seen on the roof of her house at 123 E. 3rd Street in Webb City.
A Joplin Globe article indicated police found Ms. McLean and a 16-year-old female friend asleep in the home. Ms. McLean claimed she had been placed on an antipsychotic drug that made her sleepy all of the time.
Though she has withdrawn her guilty pleas to child endangerment and a forgery charge, Ms. McLean already has a criminal record. She pleaded guilty in Jasper County Circuit Court to a charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia, was sentenced to a year in the county jail, but the sentence was suspended. She was placed on unsupervised probation for one year, according to court records.
The boy's father was never a viable option. Braxton Wooden Sr., 29, is serving a three-year sentence at the Western Missouri Correctional Center in Cameron after pleading guilty to domestic assault. He was already on probation at the time.
Court records show he pleaded gulty Oct. 18, 2000, in Jasper County Circuit Court to unlawful use of drug paraphernalia and was sentenced to one year in the county jail. The sentence was suspended and he was placed on unsupervised probation for a year.
On Jan. 23, 2002, Wooden was arrested for felony marijuana possession. After he pleaded guilty on April 12, 2002, he was sentenced to three years in prison, but served only four months, from June 21 to Oct. 24, 2002, of shock time before being released.
Jasper County Circuit Court records show that he was extradited to Kansas for another crime, but do not give the nature of the crime.He was charged with domestic assault on April 7, 2004, after he was arrested by the Webb City Police Department. On that same date, Brandie McLean filed for a protection order against him. She was granted a temporary restraining order.When the hearing for a full protection order took place five days later, Ms. McLean failed to show.
At some point, Wooden's mother, Brandie McLean, 28, is going to file a lawsuit against the Division of Family Services for removing her son from her custody and putting him in a situation that eventually ended in his death.
Her new lawyer, Juddson McPherson indicated to KODE that the possibility was being explored. A cynic might think that was why Ms. McLean suddenly changed lawyers and changed the guilty plea she had entered in her child neglect case. Realistically, how many jurors would be inclined to award big bucks to a woman who admitted to neglecting her children, thus leading to their removal from her home and placement in foster care in the first place.
I don't presume to know what happened in the all-too-short time that Braxton Wooden had on this planet.
As I noted in the June 4 Turner Report, Ms. McLean's five children were removed from her custody on Sept. 20, 2004, after her two-year-old son was seen on the roof of her house at 123 E. 3rd Street in Webb City.
A Joplin Globe article indicated police found Ms. McLean and a 16-year-old female friend asleep in the home. Ms. McLean claimed she had been placed on an antipsychotic drug that made her sleepy all of the time.
Though she has withdrawn her guilty pleas to child endangerment and a forgery charge, Ms. McLean already has a criminal record. She pleaded guilty in Jasper County Circuit Court to a charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia, was sentenced to a year in the county jail, but the sentence was suspended. She was placed on unsupervised probation for one year, according to court records.
The boy's father was never a viable option. Braxton Wooden Sr., 29, is serving a three-year sentence at the Western Missouri Correctional Center in Cameron after pleading guilty to domestic assault. He was already on probation at the time.
Court records show he pleaded gulty Oct. 18, 2000, in Jasper County Circuit Court to unlawful use of drug paraphernalia and was sentenced to one year in the county jail. The sentence was suspended and he was placed on unsupervised probation for a year.
On Jan. 23, 2002, Wooden was arrested for felony marijuana possession. After he pleaded guilty on April 12, 2002, he was sentenced to three years in prison, but served only four months, from June 21 to Oct. 24, 2002, of shock time before being released.
Jasper County Circuit Court records show that he was extradited to Kansas for another crime, but do not give the nature of the crime.He was charged with domestic assault on April 7, 2004, after he was arrested by the Webb City Police Department. On that same date, Brandie McLean filed for a protection order against him. She was granted a temporary restraining order.When the hearing for a full protection order took place five days later, Ms. McLean failed to show.
Globe article: Calls prompted FBI probe
In its Wednesday edition, The Joplin Globe details how the FBI came to its decision to investigate the actions of two Joplin police officers who handcuffed an 11-year-old boy at a Joplin school.
U. S. Attorney Todd Graves asked the FBI to look into the matter after receiving complaints about the situation, according to the Globe article. FBI officials did not tell the Globe who had made the complaints.
U. S. Attorney Todd Graves asked the FBI to look into the matter after receiving complaints about the situation, according to the Globe article. FBI officials did not tell the Globe who had made the complaints.
What a sorry message to send
It's easy to criticize the choices made by editors when they decide what belongs on page one and what the day's lead story is. I have been in that position, and from time to time, my choices were criticized.
Therefore, I should be the last one to want to criticize the story selection of a fellow member of the journalistic fraternity.
However, it's a heck of a lot of fun, so let's do it.
The Globe had an opportunity to show a modicum of restraint and not lead with the Michael Jackson story. And it had good reason not to lead with it.
First off, an FBI investigation has been launched into the police misconduct case that the Globe has done so much solid work to keep in the public eye. Globe editors did make sure the FBI story was above the fold, so it did receive prominent attention, but why not play up a stronger local story, one which has resonated not just throughout Joplin, but throughout the entire area instead of a tabloid-brand national story.
If I had been the editor (something I'm sure Joplin Globe readers are happy is not the case), I would have done something a little unexpected. You have to run the Jackson story somewhere in the newspaper, no doubt about it. Jackson is a cultural icon, though obviously a warped cultural icon.
Run the story, but run it inside and scrap the man-on-the-street sidebar. Man-on-the-street pieces had their day, but newspapers cost five cents apiece in that day. Put a reference to the Jackson story above the banner. That will serve to let any reader who is actually interested in Michael Jackson to know that the newspaper has trial coverage. You can even say something like "comprehensive coverage of the Jackson verdict on page 5." If people really want to read about it, they will know it's in the paper and there is plenty of it. At the same time, you are wasting only a small portion of page one, the showcase page where you tell your readers what news you believe is the most important.
With the Jackson story on an inside page, where it belongs, the editor has options. It would be easy to go with a banner headline about the FBI investigation, but why not pick the day after the Jackson verdict to give lead coverage to a trial that, in the long run, is far more important than a child molestation case involving a washed-up rock star?
On the back page of the Globe's A section, the editors ran a three-paragraph article on the beginning of jury selection for the Klansman charged with the murder of three civil rights workers in 1964 in Mississippi. The murders played a key role in the civil rights movement in the '60s. It is a far more interesting story than the freak show surrounding Michael Jackson.
That was the story that would have caught the attention of the public if it had been placed at the top of page one. Apparently, Globe editors did not think the story was worth more than a paltry three paragraphs.
Oh, well. Maybe that kind of off-the-wall thinking is why I'm no longer making that kind of decision. In this era of scandal stories, wardrobe malfunctions, and celebrity gossip, it looks like my brand of journalism is woefully out of date.
Therefore, I should be the last one to want to criticize the story selection of a fellow member of the journalistic fraternity.
However, it's a heck of a lot of fun, so let's do it.
The Globe had an opportunity to show a modicum of restraint and not lead with the Michael Jackson story. And it had good reason not to lead with it.
First off, an FBI investigation has been launched into the police misconduct case that the Globe has done so much solid work to keep in the public eye. Globe editors did make sure the FBI story was above the fold, so it did receive prominent attention, but why not play up a stronger local story, one which has resonated not just throughout Joplin, but throughout the entire area instead of a tabloid-brand national story.
If I had been the editor (something I'm sure Joplin Globe readers are happy is not the case), I would have done something a little unexpected. You have to run the Jackson story somewhere in the newspaper, no doubt about it. Jackson is a cultural icon, though obviously a warped cultural icon.
Run the story, but run it inside and scrap the man-on-the-street sidebar. Man-on-the-street pieces had their day, but newspapers cost five cents apiece in that day. Put a reference to the Jackson story above the banner. That will serve to let any reader who is actually interested in Michael Jackson to know that the newspaper has trial coverage. You can even say something like "comprehensive coverage of the Jackson verdict on page 5." If people really want to read about it, they will know it's in the paper and there is plenty of it. At the same time, you are wasting only a small portion of page one, the showcase page where you tell your readers what news you believe is the most important.
With the Jackson story on an inside page, where it belongs, the editor has options. It would be easy to go with a banner headline about the FBI investigation, but why not pick the day after the Jackson verdict to give lead coverage to a trial that, in the long run, is far more important than a child molestation case involving a washed-up rock star?
On the back page of the Globe's A section, the editors ran a three-paragraph article on the beginning of jury selection for the Klansman charged with the murder of three civil rights workers in 1964 in Mississippi. The murders played a key role in the civil rights movement in the '60s. It is a far more interesting story than the freak show surrounding Michael Jackson.
That was the story that would have caught the attention of the public if it had been placed at the top of page one. Apparently, Globe editors did not think the story was worth more than a paltry three paragraphs.
Oh, well. Maybe that kind of off-the-wall thinking is why I'm no longer making that kind of decision. In this era of scandal stories, wardrobe malfunctions, and celebrity gossip, it looks like my brand of journalism is woefully out of date.
Ryan prelim set for June 28
The preliminary hearing for accused killer Jim Edward Ryan, 42, Lamar, is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. June 28 in Barton County Circuit Court.
Ryan is charged with the May 25 beating death of John Kullie in Lamar Heights. Authorities say Ryan killed Kullie, his brother-in-law with a tire jack. Ryan is charged with first degree murder and armed criminal action and is being held in the Barton County Jail in lieu of $500,000 bond.
Ryan is charged with the May 25 beating death of John Kullie in Lamar Heights. Authorities say Ryan killed Kullie, his brother-in-law with a tire jack. Ryan is charged with first degree murder and armed criminal action and is being held in the Barton County Jail in lieu of $500,000 bond.
State audit points out amusement ride dangers
The death of another young child on an amusement park ride, this one on the Mission Space ride at Disney World in Florida, again makes me wonder why in the world Missouri media almost totally ignored the state audit issued in March on similar-type rides in this state. About the only place in which the audit was taken seriously was on this blog. Below, I am reprinting my March 31 coverage of that audit:
Fairs and carnivals have always been among the major attractions in rural areas of southwest Missouri. Among the sites that always greet fairgoers are the long lines to the rides....rides that spin at fantastic rates of speed...rides that dangle screaming children dozens of feet in the air...rides that make fairs and carnivals a special time in a young person's life and a fond memory for those who remember them from their youth.
These beloved rides may provide memories, but they also may be accidents waiting to happen, according to a report issued today by the Missouri state auditor's office.As usual, one of the reasons cited by public officials who are charged with protecting the public is, "we can't do it because we don't have enough money."
The report said, "Auditors found 15 amusement ride companies operating rides (including go-carts, bumper boats, and a ferris wheel) without permits. Company representatives told auditors they did not know about the state permit law or failed to renew ride permits. Division of Fire Safety staff said they have not received adequate funding to more fully monitor for rides operating without a permit."
The audit checked laws in 28 states and found 13 of them require rides to be checked each time they are set up at a new location. In Missouri, rides only have to be inspected once a year. The audit says that 830 rides operated in the state last year.
If accidents are happening on rides in Missouri, the law may not require that anyone be notified. While the auditors found 17 states which require notification if an accident on a ride requires the use of first aid, Missouri only wants to know about it if a death or hospitalization is required.
If you are looking for independent inspectors to evaluate rides, you may find it in other states but not in Missouri, according to the audit. "One amusement company owner inspects his own rides," the audit said, and he is doing so legally.
Safety inspectors are also looking at some things that the average person might consider to be essential. "The division's inspection checklist does not include evaluating ride operator and passenger requirements, such as the location of an operator when a ride is in use, or enforcement of passenger weight and height requirements. Division staff said they had not considered including ride operation issues in their inspection until fall 2004. " Surprisingly, rides at the Missouri State Fair were found to have operation violations last year, according to the audit.
"The public's safety has not been adequately safeguarded," the report said.
***
This would be an excellent topic for either a print or broadcast investigation, especially considering that when the audit was first issued no one was thinking about fairs and carnivals. They are all over the place now and will continue to be during the next two or three months.
Fairs and carnivals have always been among the major attractions in rural areas of southwest Missouri. Among the sites that always greet fairgoers are the long lines to the rides....rides that spin at fantastic rates of speed...rides that dangle screaming children dozens of feet in the air...rides that make fairs and carnivals a special time in a young person's life and a fond memory for those who remember them from their youth.
These beloved rides may provide memories, but they also may be accidents waiting to happen, according to a report issued today by the Missouri state auditor's office.As usual, one of the reasons cited by public officials who are charged with protecting the public is, "we can't do it because we don't have enough money."
The report said, "Auditors found 15 amusement ride companies operating rides (including go-carts, bumper boats, and a ferris wheel) without permits. Company representatives told auditors they did not know about the state permit law or failed to renew ride permits. Division of Fire Safety staff said they have not received adequate funding to more fully monitor for rides operating without a permit."
The audit checked laws in 28 states and found 13 of them require rides to be checked each time they are set up at a new location. In Missouri, rides only have to be inspected once a year. The audit says that 830 rides operated in the state last year.
If accidents are happening on rides in Missouri, the law may not require that anyone be notified. While the auditors found 17 states which require notification if an accident on a ride requires the use of first aid, Missouri only wants to know about it if a death or hospitalization is required.
If you are looking for independent inspectors to evaluate rides, you may find it in other states but not in Missouri, according to the audit. "One amusement company owner inspects his own rides," the audit said, and he is doing so legally.
Safety inspectors are also looking at some things that the average person might consider to be essential. "The division's inspection checklist does not include evaluating ride operator and passenger requirements, such as the location of an operator when a ride is in use, or enforcement of passenger weight and height requirements. Division staff said they had not considered including ride operation issues in their inspection until fall 2004. " Surprisingly, rides at the Missouri State Fair were found to have operation violations last year, according to the audit.
"The public's safety has not been adequately safeguarded," the report said.
***
This would be an excellent topic for either a print or broadcast investigation, especially considering that when the audit was first issued no one was thinking about fairs and carnivals. They are all over the place now and will continue to be during the next two or three months.
Video arraignment scheduled for Holman
A video arraignment has been scheduled for 8 a.m. Thursday for accused double-murderer Micah J. Holman, 32, Carthage.
Holman, who remains in the Jasper County Jail in lieu of half a million dollars bond, is charged with killing Marvin and Peggy Steverson, Carthage, June 4, then burning their home to cover the crime. Holman is charged with two counts of first degree murder, two counts of armed criminal action, and single counts of arson and burglary.
Holman, who remains in the Jasper County Jail in lieu of half a million dollars bond, is charged with killing Marvin and Peggy Steverson, Carthage, June 4, then burning their home to cover the crime. Holman is charged with two counts of first degree murder, two counts of armed criminal action, and single counts of arson and burglary.
Juvenile shooting scoop lifts KOAM
After a miserable Monday shutout for KOAM, the station's news team bounced back with an exclusive on the disposition of the hearing for the juvenile who shot eight-year-old Braxton Wooden to death earlier this month in Alba.
Veteran reporter Lisa Olliges covered all the bases in her report, which revealed that the teen son of the foster parents with whom Braxton Wooden was living, shot the boy to death while playing a game of cops and robbers.
No trial was held, Ms. Olliges noted, since the teen had already admitted that he was responsible. He was placed into the custody of Missouri's Division of Youth Services, where he will stay until he turns 17.
As in the scoop that KODE and KSNF had Monday concerning the FBI investigation into two Joplin police officers' questioning and handcuffing of an 11-year-old, what makes this story the scoop of the day is the public interest in it. When people hear about something like this happening, they want to know why, and just hope that they never have to go through anything like that in their own lives.
Though KOAM had the big story, it was by no means a washout for the competition. KODE appeared to have the jump on sex charges against a church bus driver in Delaware County, Okla.
Both KOAM and KSNF had updates on this morning's arraignment for Brandon Kahl, 25, Lamar, who is charged with involuntary manslaughter in connection with the death of two-year-old Alexander Cole of Lamar.
Again, I will note that the stations are working hard to pin down stories, the competition improves the newscasts, and the real winners are the viewers.
Veteran reporter Lisa Olliges covered all the bases in her report, which revealed that the teen son of the foster parents with whom Braxton Wooden was living, shot the boy to death while playing a game of cops and robbers.
No trial was held, Ms. Olliges noted, since the teen had already admitted that he was responsible. He was placed into the custody of Missouri's Division of Youth Services, where he will stay until he turns 17.
As in the scoop that KODE and KSNF had Monday concerning the FBI investigation into two Joplin police officers' questioning and handcuffing of an 11-year-old, what makes this story the scoop of the day is the public interest in it. When people hear about something like this happening, they want to know why, and just hope that they never have to go through anything like that in their own lives.
Though KOAM had the big story, it was by no means a washout for the competition. KODE appeared to have the jump on sex charges against a church bus driver in Delaware County, Okla.
Both KOAM and KSNF had updates on this morning's arraignment for Brandon Kahl, 25, Lamar, who is charged with involuntary manslaughter in connection with the death of two-year-old Alexander Cole of Lamar.
Again, I will note that the stations are working hard to pin down stories, the competition improves the newscasts, and the real winners are the viewers.
Sentencing set for clinic director
It appears that after months of motions and hearings, the end is near in the case of the former director of the Community Clinic of Joplin, who is charged with misdemeanor stealing.
A hearing was held June 7 for Nina Brueckner, 57, Joplin, according to Jasper County Circuit Court records, and a "final disposition/sentencing hearing" is set for 1:30 p.m. June 28 in Judge Steve Carlton's court.
Ms. Brueckner is accused of stealing a package of T-bone steaks worth $60 and a $5.99 roll of film from Dillon's on May 7, 2004, without paying. Shortly after her arrest, she resigned as clinic director, a job she had held for six years.
A hearing was held June 7 for Nina Brueckner, 57, Joplin, according to Jasper County Circuit Court records, and a "final disposition/sentencing hearing" is set for 1:30 p.m. June 28 in Judge Steve Carlton's court.
Ms. Brueckner is accused of stealing a package of T-bone steaks worth $60 and a $5.99 roll of film from Dillon's on May 7, 2004, without paying. Shortly after her arrest, she resigned as clinic director, a job she had held for six years.
Government to inflict more burdens
On the pretext of keeping us safe, the federal and state government are combining to create more misery for Missourians...especially when it comes time to renewing driver's licenses.
The following release was posted on the Missouri Department of Revenue website.
I will let you read through the entire release, but basically, you are going to need more than the normal type of identification if you want to renew your license.
Even if you have had a driver's license under the same name for the past 40 years, you will have to bring your birth certificate or your passport. And that starts in 17 days.
JEFFERSON CITY – Beginning July 1, the Missouri Department of Revenue will implement new driver licensing and ID requirements aimed at ensuring the validity of the licenses it issues. The changes are a result of Senate Bill 1233, passed in 2004 and signed by former Gov. Bob Holden, and require proof of “lawful presence” – the rightful legal claim to be present in the United States. Across the country, only 12 states do not require proof of lawful presence.
“Missourians need to know about these changes so they can plan ahead for getting a license or ID,” said department director Trish Vincent. “I understand it isn’t as convenient, but with cooperation from our customers, we can implement these changes smoothly.”
Whether a Missourian is renewing a permit, driver license or nondriver license, or applying for the first time, specific identification will be required. For the department to continue its focus on customer service it will depend on its customers who are U.S. citizens to be prepared with one of the following – a U.S. birth certificate (state or local government issued), a valid U.S. passport, a Certificate of Citizenship, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of Birth Abroad.
When a customer arrives at a license office, he or she will need to show documentation indicating how their name has changed, if at all, through time. Some examples:
John Doe was born in Rolla and has lived in Missouri all his life. His name has never changed. To renew his license, John will have to show a U.S. birth certificate or a valid U.S. passport to show his “lawful presence” in the United States.
Jane Doe was born in Nixa and moved from state to state as a child with her parents. Jane is married and has settled in St. Joseph and needs to renew her driver license. Her maiden name is Deer. To renew her license, Jane will need to show her birth certificate or a valid U.S. Passport. If Jane presents a birth certificate, she will be required to present an official copy of her marriage license, which will indicate why her name has changed from Jane Deer to Jane Doe.
Jill Doe was born in the U.S. and has a valid Passport in her married name. Even though Jill is married and her name has changed from her birth certificate, she can present her Passport as proof of lawful presence.
Janice Doe needs to obtain a new driver license since she has just divorced. Her current driver license says “Janice Doe” but she would like to revert to her maiden name, “Janice Fawn.” If Janice brings in her birth certificate, she will also need to show an official copy of her marriage license AND an official copy of her divorce decree. This shows Janice’s history of name changes. If Janice has a valid U.S. Passport that has her name as “Janice Doe,” she must bring in a copy of her divorce decree to show that her name has now changed to her maiden name, Janice Fawn.
Non-U.S. citizens must also be prepared to present proper identification that indicates their current status. Some examples of appropriate documents for non-U.S. citizens include a valid passport, I-94, I-20, a VISA, or an Employment Authorization Document.
“A driver license has become the most requested form of ID in America and we all depend on the accuracy of the information present on a license,” said Vincent. “By adhering to a stronger, more consistent system, we can play a role in creating a safer driving environment and protecting the identity and security of law-abiding Missourians.”
The new requirements will help in cracking down on identity theft, America’s fastest growing crime. According to statistics from the ID Theft Clearinghouse, over 635,000 Americans reported themselves as victims of identity theft or fraud in 2004. These victims reported losses of more than $547 million.
“I understand some of our customers will find the new requirements difficult,” said Vincent, “but we are committed to providing the best customer service possible, and also to ensure that the work we do can be counted on by our customers, taxpayers, law enforcement, and everyone else who uses driver licenses as a means of identification.”
There are far simpler ways to take care of the problems mentioned in the news release than the ridiculous rules that have been put in place. If you think it has taken a long time to conduct business at the license office up to this point, just wait until next month. Now is the time to contact Congressman Roy Blunt and any state official you can think of about this. Don't let them get away with telling you that everyone has to make sacrifices in order to keep this country safe. That is true, but it has nothing to do with this. Common sense when issuing driver's licenses and better cooperation between government agencies would take care of this problem without making average, taxpaying citizens have to suffer.
The following release was posted on the Missouri Department of Revenue website.
I will let you read through the entire release, but basically, you are going to need more than the normal type of identification if you want to renew your license.
Even if you have had a driver's license under the same name for the past 40 years, you will have to bring your birth certificate or your passport. And that starts in 17 days.
JEFFERSON CITY – Beginning July 1, the Missouri Department of Revenue will implement new driver licensing and ID requirements aimed at ensuring the validity of the licenses it issues. The changes are a result of Senate Bill 1233, passed in 2004 and signed by former Gov. Bob Holden, and require proof of “lawful presence” – the rightful legal claim to be present in the United States. Across the country, only 12 states do not require proof of lawful presence.
“Missourians need to know about these changes so they can plan ahead for getting a license or ID,” said department director Trish Vincent. “I understand it isn’t as convenient, but with cooperation from our customers, we can implement these changes smoothly.”
Whether a Missourian is renewing a permit, driver license or nondriver license, or applying for the first time, specific identification will be required. For the department to continue its focus on customer service it will depend on its customers who are U.S. citizens to be prepared with one of the following – a U.S. birth certificate (state or local government issued), a valid U.S. passport, a Certificate of Citizenship, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of Birth Abroad.
When a customer arrives at a license office, he or she will need to show documentation indicating how their name has changed, if at all, through time. Some examples:
John Doe was born in Rolla and has lived in Missouri all his life. His name has never changed. To renew his license, John will have to show a U.S. birth certificate or a valid U.S. passport to show his “lawful presence” in the United States.
Jane Doe was born in Nixa and moved from state to state as a child with her parents. Jane is married and has settled in St. Joseph and needs to renew her driver license. Her maiden name is Deer. To renew her license, Jane will need to show her birth certificate or a valid U.S. Passport. If Jane presents a birth certificate, she will be required to present an official copy of her marriage license, which will indicate why her name has changed from Jane Deer to Jane Doe.
Jill Doe was born in the U.S. and has a valid Passport in her married name. Even though Jill is married and her name has changed from her birth certificate, she can present her Passport as proof of lawful presence.
Janice Doe needs to obtain a new driver license since she has just divorced. Her current driver license says “Janice Doe” but she would like to revert to her maiden name, “Janice Fawn.” If Janice brings in her birth certificate, she will also need to show an official copy of her marriage license AND an official copy of her divorce decree. This shows Janice’s history of name changes. If Janice has a valid U.S. Passport that has her name as “Janice Doe,” she must bring in a copy of her divorce decree to show that her name has now changed to her maiden name, Janice Fawn.
Non-U.S. citizens must also be prepared to present proper identification that indicates their current status. Some examples of appropriate documents for non-U.S. citizens include a valid passport, I-94, I-20, a VISA, or an Employment Authorization Document.
“A driver license has become the most requested form of ID in America and we all depend on the accuracy of the information present on a license,” said Vincent. “By adhering to a stronger, more consistent system, we can play a role in creating a safer driving environment and protecting the identity and security of law-abiding Missourians.”
The new requirements will help in cracking down on identity theft, America’s fastest growing crime. According to statistics from the ID Theft Clearinghouse, over 635,000 Americans reported themselves as victims of identity theft or fraud in 2004. These victims reported losses of more than $547 million.
“I understand some of our customers will find the new requirements difficult,” said Vincent, “but we are committed to providing the best customer service possible, and also to ensure that the work we do can be counted on by our customers, taxpayers, law enforcement, and everyone else who uses driver licenses as a means of identification.”
There are far simpler ways to take care of the problems mentioned in the news release than the ridiculous rules that have been put in place. If you think it has taken a long time to conduct business at the license office up to this point, just wait until next month. Now is the time to contact Congressman Roy Blunt and any state official you can think of about this. Don't let them get away with telling you that everyone has to make sacrifices in order to keep this country safe. That is true, but it has nothing to do with this. Common sense when issuing driver's licenses and better cooperation between government agencies would take care of this problem without making average, taxpaying citizens have to suffer.
Kahl's bond reduced
Brandon Kahl, 25, Lamar, has been released on $15,000 bond after his arraignment this morning in Barton County Circuit Court on charges of involuntary manslaughter in connection with the June 7 death of two-year-old Alexander Cole. Cole was the son of Kahl's girlfriend.
Bond initially had been set at $25,000, but it was lowered this morning. Special conditions were attached to the bond, including a stipulation that Kahl have no contact with anyone under the age of 17, and he must live with either his father, Terry Kahl, or his grandmother, Lucille Kahl.
The next hearing date for Kahl has not been scheduled.
Bond initially had been set at $25,000, but it was lowered this morning. Special conditions were attached to the bond, including a stipulation that Kahl have no contact with anyone under the age of 17, and he must live with either his father, Terry Kahl, or his grandmother, Lucille Kahl.
The next hearing date for Kahl has not been scheduled.
Thursday trial date set for Clay
A Thursday, June 16, trial date has been scheduled for former Joplin Boys and Girls Club director Rob Clay's trial on stealing charges, according to Jasper County Circuit Court records.
Clay is charged with stealing more than $25,000 from the organization.
Clay is charged with stealing more than $25,000 from the organization.
Wyrick trial date delayed
The trial date for Travis Wyrick, 18, Joplin, who is charged with felony leaving the scene of an accident in connection with the hit-and-run death of Joplin High School student Jamison Alexander, has been moved back to at least July 27, and possibly Aug. 19, according to court records.
Motions are scheduled to be heard June 20.
Motions are scheduled to be heard June 20.
MAP grading workshops planned
Teachers are learning to grade MAP tests at locations across the state, including two in southwest Missouri.
During the workshops, which are put on by the State Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and test publisher McGraw-Hill, teachers score a portion of the MAP tests taken this spring.
According to a news release from the state department, teachers train for four days before beginning to grade tests. A large portion of the tests is graded electronically, but human scoring must be done for essay-type short-response questions.
In Southwest Missouri, workshops are being held June 7-24 at Webb City High School and at Central High School in Springfield.
During the workshops, which are put on by the State Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and test publisher McGraw-Hill, teachers score a portion of the MAP tests taken this spring.
According to a news release from the state department, teachers train for four days before beginning to grade tests. A large portion of the tests is graded electronically, but human scoring must be done for essay-type short-response questions.
In Southwest Missouri, workshops are being held June 7-24 at Webb City High School and at Central High School in Springfield.
Williams has it right in Jackson frenzy
Switching between the network and cable news programs last night was pretty much an exercise in futility...especially if you were tired of all of nonsense surrounding the Michael Jackson verdict.
One newsman who did get it right was NBC Nightly News anchor Brian Williams, who started his career at KOAM. This was how Williams concluded his broadcast last night:
"In the time since Jackson's arrest, a president's been elected, a pope has died and been replaced, a tsunami has changed the world and Iraqis have voted. Also, consider this: Since the Jackson arrest: 1,322 Americans have died and another 11,000 have been wounded, in two armed conflicts overseas. Tonight, at long last, it is time to move on."
One newsman who did get it right was NBC Nightly News anchor Brian Williams, who started his career at KOAM. This was how Williams concluded his broadcast last night:
"In the time since Jackson's arrest, a president's been elected, a pope has died and been replaced, a tsunami has changed the world and Iraqis have voted. Also, consider this: Since the Jackson arrest: 1,322 Americans have died and another 11,000 have been wounded, in two armed conflicts overseas. Tonight, at long last, it is time to move on."
Monday, June 13, 2005
Taylor makes Senate Top 10 list
Though five southwest Missouri representatives placed among the top 13 in gifts received from lobbyists, area senators did not have their hands out quite as much, according to documents filed with the Missouri Ethics Commission.
In the immediate area, of the three legislators who represent counties normally covered by The Turner Report, only one, Larry Gene Taylor, who represents McDonald County, placed in the top 10, and he came in 10th. In the broader southwest Missouri region, only one other senator, Dan Clemens of Marshfield, made the list, finishing fourth.
Despite the fact that only 11 of the state's 33 senators are Democrats, five of them made the top 10, led by Maida Coleman, St. Louis, who placed second. Four of the five Democrats ranked in the top seven.
The Top 10 and the amounts they received were:
1. David Klindt, R-Bethany, $2,870.22
2. Maida Coleman, D-St. Louis, $2,140.62
3. Pat Dougherty, D-St. Louis, $1,329.74
4. Dan Clemens, R-Marshfield, $1,153.09
5. John Cauthorn, R-Mexico, $1,065.13
6. Timothy Green, D-St. Louis, $1,014.14
7. Yvonne Wilson, D-Kansas City, $998.18
8. Chris Koster, R-Harrisonville, $971.67
9. Chuck Graham, D-Columbia $945.81
10. Larry Gene Taylor, R-Shell Knob $896.35
On the other end of the spectrum, one state senator, Kevin Engler, R-Farmington, accepted no gifts from lobbyists, according to Ethics Commission documents.
Among Southwest Missouri senators, placing behind Clemens and Taylor were: Gary Nodler, R-Joplin, 21st with $474.33, Delbert Scott, R-Lowry City, 23rd with $298.12; Norma Champion, R-Springfield, 26th with $192.75; and Chuck Purgason, R-Caulfield, 30th with $61.29.
***
Now for a closer examination of Southwest Missouri's senators and the gifts they received from lobbyists.
Larry Gene Taylor, R-Shell Knob- Taylor's $896.35 total includes $289.28, broken into two increments of $144.64 on April 19 for "meal, food and beverage" from lobbyists Francis Flotron and Richard McIntosh, who represent the lobbyist firm of Flotron and McIntosh, a firm that represents, among others, the Missouri Hospital Association. Taylor also received $216.16 for "meal, food and beverage" from Flotron on Jan. 8, and $166.84 from Aquila lobbyist Steve Murray on Jan. 5.
Gary Nodler, R-Joplin- Nearly half of Nodler's $474.33 came in a two-day spree provided by Alan "Chip" Mason, Silver Dollar City lobbyist, who provided a gift worth $130.95 on March 23, and another one worth $90.30 the next day, for a total of $221.25. The May 2005 lobbyist forms have not been turned into the Missouri Ethics Commission yet (they have to be checked for errors by the legislators first), but Nodler received $100 for entertainment and $50 for meals, food and beverage May 7 from L. Kent Gaines, who has a host of clients, including SBC and Monsanto.
Delbert Scott, R-Lowry City- The most Scott received among his $298.12 from lobbyists, was $70 from Fred Dreiling, who according to the filing was representing his own firm. Scott also received $50.33 in meals, food and beverage from George Burruss, Missouri Motor Carriers Association.
Norma Champion, R-Springfield- I still remember Aunt Norma fondly from her days as host of KYTV's Children's Hour in the 1960s (she must have been six years old when she was host for that program). Of Ms. Champion's $192.75, the most, $50 for meals, food and beverage came March 1 from Stephen Knorr, University of Missouri.
Dan Clemens, R-Marshfield- Topping the list with $210.17 for meal, food and beverage on March 15 was David Hale, Missouri Hospital Assocication. Clemens reported receiving 32 gifts from lobbyists totaling $1,153.09 during the 2005 session.
Chuck Purgason, R-Caulfield- Purgason accepted only three gifts from lobbyists, totaling $61.29, according to the Ethics Commission documents. Former State Representative Gary Marble, R-Neosho, provided $48.75 of that for meals, food and beverage April 20, representing Associated Industries of Missouri.
In the immediate area, of the three legislators who represent counties normally covered by The Turner Report, only one, Larry Gene Taylor, who represents McDonald County, placed in the top 10, and he came in 10th. In the broader southwest Missouri region, only one other senator, Dan Clemens of Marshfield, made the list, finishing fourth.
Despite the fact that only 11 of the state's 33 senators are Democrats, five of them made the top 10, led by Maida Coleman, St. Louis, who placed second. Four of the five Democrats ranked in the top seven.
The Top 10 and the amounts they received were:
1. David Klindt, R-Bethany, $2,870.22
2. Maida Coleman, D-St. Louis, $2,140.62
3. Pat Dougherty, D-St. Louis, $1,329.74
4. Dan Clemens, R-Marshfield, $1,153.09
5. John Cauthorn, R-Mexico, $1,065.13
6. Timothy Green, D-St. Louis, $1,014.14
7. Yvonne Wilson, D-Kansas City, $998.18
8. Chris Koster, R-Harrisonville, $971.67
9. Chuck Graham, D-Columbia $945.81
10. Larry Gene Taylor, R-Shell Knob $896.35
On the other end of the spectrum, one state senator, Kevin Engler, R-Farmington, accepted no gifts from lobbyists, according to Ethics Commission documents.
Among Southwest Missouri senators, placing behind Clemens and Taylor were: Gary Nodler, R-Joplin, 21st with $474.33, Delbert Scott, R-Lowry City, 23rd with $298.12; Norma Champion, R-Springfield, 26th with $192.75; and Chuck Purgason, R-Caulfield, 30th with $61.29.
***
Now for a closer examination of Southwest Missouri's senators and the gifts they received from lobbyists.
Larry Gene Taylor, R-Shell Knob- Taylor's $896.35 total includes $289.28, broken into two increments of $144.64 on April 19 for "meal, food and beverage" from lobbyists Francis Flotron and Richard McIntosh, who represent the lobbyist firm of Flotron and McIntosh, a firm that represents, among others, the Missouri Hospital Association. Taylor also received $216.16 for "meal, food and beverage" from Flotron on Jan. 8, and $166.84 from Aquila lobbyist Steve Murray on Jan. 5.
Gary Nodler, R-Joplin- Nearly half of Nodler's $474.33 came in a two-day spree provided by Alan "Chip" Mason, Silver Dollar City lobbyist, who provided a gift worth $130.95 on March 23, and another one worth $90.30 the next day, for a total of $221.25. The May 2005 lobbyist forms have not been turned into the Missouri Ethics Commission yet (they have to be checked for errors by the legislators first), but Nodler received $100 for entertainment and $50 for meals, food and beverage May 7 from L. Kent Gaines, who has a host of clients, including SBC and Monsanto.
Delbert Scott, R-Lowry City- The most Scott received among his $298.12 from lobbyists, was $70 from Fred Dreiling, who according to the filing was representing his own firm. Scott also received $50.33 in meals, food and beverage from George Burruss, Missouri Motor Carriers Association.
Norma Champion, R-Springfield- I still remember Aunt Norma fondly from her days as host of KYTV's Children's Hour in the 1960s (she must have been six years old when she was host for that program). Of Ms. Champion's $192.75, the most, $50 for meals, food and beverage came March 1 from Stephen Knorr, University of Missouri.
Dan Clemens, R-Marshfield- Topping the list with $210.17 for meal, food and beverage on March 15 was David Hale, Missouri Hospital Assocication. Clemens reported receiving 32 gifts from lobbyists totaling $1,153.09 during the 2005 session.
Chuck Purgason, R-Caulfield- Purgason accepted only three gifts from lobbyists, totaling $61.29, according to the Ethics Commission documents. Former State Representative Gary Marble, R-Neosho, provided $48.75 of that for meals, food and beverage April 20, representing Associated Industries of Missouri.
Moark controversy continues
The new media continues to play a role in shaping local issues.
Check out www.neoshoforums.com , which has copies of e-mails sent by Neosho city officials concerning efforts by Moark expansion opponents to be placed on the agenda for last week's City Council meeting.
It appears that Mayor Howard Birdsong, whose long tirade against Moark opponents caught everyone offguard last week has been leading an effort to prevent them from making their objections heard at what should be a public forum.
Check it out.
Check out www.neoshoforums.com , which has copies of e-mails sent by Neosho city officials concerning efforts by Moark expansion opponents to be placed on the agenda for last week's City Council meeting.
It appears that Mayor Howard Birdsong, whose long tirade against Moark opponents caught everyone offguard last week has been leading an effort to prevent them from making their objections heard at what should be a public forum.
Check it out.
Top-flight ACLU lawyer to enter case
A petition to add a prominent ACLU lawyer to the team representing Webb City High School junior LaStaysha Myers in her First Amendment lawsuit against school officials was filed today in U. S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri.
Rose Saxe, a New York lawyer and a member of the ACLU's Gay and Lesbian Project, has been involved in two prominent cases during this calendar year. In one of the cases, Ms. Saxe is representing six lesbians who are suing the state of Wisconsin seeking domestic partner health insurance and family leave protections.
She entered the second case, which is before the 10th District Court of Appeals in Denver, Colo, as a friend of the court, filing a brief in favor of a Colorado phlebotomist who was fired from his job after telling his employer he was HIV-positive.
The petition to add Ms. Saxe to the team was filed by Joplin attorney William Fleischaker, the primary attorney of record in the case. Kenneth Choe, another prominent member of the ACLU's Gay and Lesbian Project, is also on Ms. Myers' team.
Ms. Myers brought suit against Superintendent Ron Lankford, High School Principal Steven Gollhofer, and Assistant Principal Jeff Thornberry, after she was not allowed to wear gay pride t-shirts in support of her fellow student Brad Mathewson. Ms. Myers is not gay, but wanted to show support for her friend.
She and a dozen other students were sent home after they refused to change their shirts.
School officials have said Ms. Myers will be able to wear this kind of shirt during the 2005-2006 school year, but have left open the option to change their minds if any problems arise.
Rose Saxe, a New York lawyer and a member of the ACLU's Gay and Lesbian Project, has been involved in two prominent cases during this calendar year. In one of the cases, Ms. Saxe is representing six lesbians who are suing the state of Wisconsin seeking domestic partner health insurance and family leave protections.
She entered the second case, which is before the 10th District Court of Appeals in Denver, Colo, as a friend of the court, filing a brief in favor of a Colorado phlebotomist who was fired from his job after telling his employer he was HIV-positive.
The petition to add Ms. Saxe to the team was filed by Joplin attorney William Fleischaker, the primary attorney of record in the case. Kenneth Choe, another prominent member of the ACLU's Gay and Lesbian Project, is also on Ms. Myers' team.
Ms. Myers brought suit against Superintendent Ron Lankford, High School Principal Steven Gollhofer, and Assistant Principal Jeff Thornberry, after she was not allowed to wear gay pride t-shirts in support of her fellow student Brad Mathewson. Ms. Myers is not gay, but wanted to show support for her friend.
She and a dozen other students were sent home after they refused to change their shirts.
School officials have said Ms. Myers will be able to wear this kind of shirt during the 2005-2006 school year, but have left open the option to change their minds if any problems arise.
Bad night for KOAM
On the same night that Joplin city officials announced an FBI investigation into the actions of two Joplin police officers, the same day that a Webb City police officer becomes the target of an investigation into child abuse, the same day that Oklahoma's attorney general files an environmental lawsuit against a number of area chicken companies...KOAM devoted the first five minutes of its 10 p.m. newscast to the Michael Jackson verdict.
The verdict, which nearly every member of Channel 7's audience must have already known about long before 10 p.m., was thoroughly explored during the first three minutes of the program, then was followed by totally unnecessary, man-on-the-street reaction to the Jackson verdict.
By its selection of the Jackson verdict as its lead story, KOAM sent the message that it believed this was the most important story for its viewers. In fact, though there is a spot for it in the news program, Michael Jackson's guilt or innocence really has no meaning whatsoever to people in the four-state area.
While KOAM indulged in its five-minute Jacksonfest, KODE and KSNF struck quickly with what was undeniably the most important news story to the largest number of viewers...the FBI probe into two Joplin police officers' handcuffing at a Joplin elementary school of an 11-year-old boy who allegedly spit on the son of one of the officers off campus. This story has not died down since it was first brought to light, thanks not only to the work of The Joplin Globe, but also to some citizens who recognize this is not proper behavior for police officers. City officials' coverup of the disciplinary actions taken against these officers has also kept the story in the public eye.
KODE and KSN recognized the importance of the story, leading with it on both the 6 and 10 p.m. newscasts. At 10 p.m., they were able to add quotes from Police Chief Kevin Lindsey and Mayor Phil Stinnett.
KOAM had only a brief mention of the probe, read by anchor Dowe Quick, at least seven or eight minutes into the 10 p.m. newscast. As far as I could determine, it was not mentioned during the 6 p.m. newscast.
City officials were all available for interviews tonight during the second city gathering in a public park. It would have been a simple matter for KOAM to jump on the story and find an angle, but it appears the station did not assign anyone or have anyone available to go to the get-together.
KODE continued its winning streak with a report on a child abuse investigation centered on a Webb City police officer, also covered on KSNF, while KSNF picked up Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmonson's filing of a lawsuit against Tyson and other poultry companies.
KODE, unfortunately, also did a man-on-the-street about the Jackson verdict, but it was placed sufficiently well into the broadcast. I would have much preferred a man-on-the-street asking about the FBI investigation. What has made this story have legs is that people do not like the idea of police officers putting 11-year-olds in handcuffs...especially off-duty police officers. People imagine their children being put in the same situation and it naturally angers people. I would much rather have seen the reaction to this story than to a story that has already been covered beyond its worth. (I will even include The Turner Report's continuing coverage of Fortress Investment's purchase of Michael Jackson's debt in that category.)
The first night of the post-Siedlecki era, was a winner for KODE, and it should be noted that KSNF had a strong evening, also, with Tiffany Alaniz doing solo work at the anchor desk.
KODE and KSNF both were quick to update their websites with the information on the FBI probe.
KOAM did have an update on its 10 p.m. newscast on the attempt of a Lamar mother whose two-year-old son was murdered last week, to regain custody of her child, but it was a weak recovery. I fully hope to see a comeback by KOAM tomorrow. If all three stations start clicking on their newscasts, the viewers will be the winners.
The verdict, which nearly every member of Channel 7's audience must have already known about long before 10 p.m., was thoroughly explored during the first three minutes of the program, then was followed by totally unnecessary, man-on-the-street reaction to the Jackson verdict.
By its selection of the Jackson verdict as its lead story, KOAM sent the message that it believed this was the most important story for its viewers. In fact, though there is a spot for it in the news program, Michael Jackson's guilt or innocence really has no meaning whatsoever to people in the four-state area.
While KOAM indulged in its five-minute Jacksonfest, KODE and KSNF struck quickly with what was undeniably the most important news story to the largest number of viewers...the FBI probe into two Joplin police officers' handcuffing at a Joplin elementary school of an 11-year-old boy who allegedly spit on the son of one of the officers off campus. This story has not died down since it was first brought to light, thanks not only to the work of The Joplin Globe, but also to some citizens who recognize this is not proper behavior for police officers. City officials' coverup of the disciplinary actions taken against these officers has also kept the story in the public eye.
KODE and KSN recognized the importance of the story, leading with it on both the 6 and 10 p.m. newscasts. At 10 p.m., they were able to add quotes from Police Chief Kevin Lindsey and Mayor Phil Stinnett.
KOAM had only a brief mention of the probe, read by anchor Dowe Quick, at least seven or eight minutes into the 10 p.m. newscast. As far as I could determine, it was not mentioned during the 6 p.m. newscast.
City officials were all available for interviews tonight during the second city gathering in a public park. It would have been a simple matter for KOAM to jump on the story and find an angle, but it appears the station did not assign anyone or have anyone available to go to the get-together.
KODE continued its winning streak with a report on a child abuse investigation centered on a Webb City police officer, also covered on KSNF, while KSNF picked up Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmonson's filing of a lawsuit against Tyson and other poultry companies.
KODE, unfortunately, also did a man-on-the-street about the Jackson verdict, but it was placed sufficiently well into the broadcast. I would have much preferred a man-on-the-street asking about the FBI investigation. What has made this story have legs is that people do not like the idea of police officers putting 11-year-olds in handcuffs...especially off-duty police officers. People imagine their children being put in the same situation and it naturally angers people. I would much rather have seen the reaction to this story than to a story that has already been covered beyond its worth. (I will even include The Turner Report's continuing coverage of Fortress Investment's purchase of Michael Jackson's debt in that category.)
The first night of the post-Siedlecki era, was a winner for KODE, and it should be noted that KSNF had a strong evening, also, with Tiffany Alaniz doing solo work at the anchor desk.
KODE and KSNF both were quick to update their websites with the information on the FBI probe.
KOAM did have an update on its 10 p.m. newscast on the attempt of a Lamar mother whose two-year-old son was murdered last week, to regain custody of her child, but it was a weak recovery. I fully hope to see a comeback by KOAM tomorrow. If all three stations start clicking on their newscasts, the viewers will be the winners.
December date set for Jackson loan payback
If Michael Jackson, acquitted today of child molestation charges, does not pay back a $200 million loan by December, Fortress Investment, the company which recently bought Liberty Group Publishing, may have another valuable commodity on its hands.
As mentioned earlier in The Turner Report, Fortress bought Jackson's debt from Bank of America and the collateral on that debt includes the publishing rights to Jackson's own music, plus the rights to the Beatles' music. As I have enjoyed writing the past few weeks, that would make Fortress owners of both the Beatles music and the Big Nickel (as well as The Carthage Press, the Neosho Daily News, and 300 other Liberty publications).
CNN reports that Jackson is not technically in debt since the value of what he owns is worth more than the amount he owes, but "the bulk of Jackson's assets is the Beatles catalog. And his ability to hold onto that property -- and avoid a deep financial crisis-- rests on his ability to generate enough cash to make his loan payments."
As mentioned earlier in The Turner Report, Fortress bought Jackson's debt from Bank of America and the collateral on that debt includes the publishing rights to Jackson's own music, plus the rights to the Beatles' music. As I have enjoyed writing the past few weeks, that would make Fortress owners of both the Beatles music and the Big Nickel (as well as The Carthage Press, the Neosho Daily News, and 300 other Liberty publications).
CNN reports that Jackson is not technically in debt since the value of what he owns is worth more than the amount he owes, but "the bulk of Jackson's assets is the Beatles catalog. And his ability to hold onto that property -- and avoid a deep financial crisis-- rests on his ability to generate enough cash to make his loan payments."
Expert witnesses named by Edison
Larrie Reynolds, president of Newton Learning, the summer school division of Edison Schools, will be one of two expert witnesses called by the defense when the Diamond R-4 School District's lawsuit against the company begins April 24, 2006. The other one will be Otto Shroyer, who drew an acknowledgment from R-4 Board members at a board meeting that the company had actually made considerable money for the school district when it ran the summer school program in 2002.
"Mr. Shroyer and Dr. Reynolds may specifically explain the state of Missouri's funding formula to assist the court in concluding that plaintiff has not paid all funds due and owing to Edison Schools under the parties' contract," said the disclosure notice filed today in U. S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri.
Shroyer and Reynolds will face off against the big gun expert witness designated May 31 by the district, Superintendent Mark Mayo.
The lawsuit was brought by district officials, who claim they do not owe as much to Edison as Edison claims.
R-4 School District taxpayers, of course, are footing the bill for this legal exercise.
"Mr. Shroyer and Dr. Reynolds may specifically explain the state of Missouri's funding formula to assist the court in concluding that plaintiff has not paid all funds due and owing to Edison Schools under the parties' contract," said the disclosure notice filed today in U. S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri.
Shroyer and Reynolds will face off against the big gun expert witness designated May 31 by the district, Superintendent Mark Mayo.
The lawsuit was brought by district officials, who claim they do not owe as much to Edison as Edison claims.
R-4 School District taxpayers, of course, are footing the bill for this legal exercise.
Birdsong tirade was worse than I thought
When I wrote about the seemingly over-the-top response Neosho Mayor Howard Birdsong made to constituent Les Bond's brief e-mail, what I wrote was based on The Joplin Globe's coverage of the story.
The full extent of Birdsong's overreaction was not apparent to me until I read his response over the weekend in the Wednesday Neosho Daily News. Talk about talking a nuclear weapon to swat a fly.
All Bond did was promise to work to keep Birdsong from re-elected. Last I heard, that is the way America is supposed to operate. I didn't see any demeaning insults or inflammatory statements in Bond's e-mail.
I would hate to think how Birdsong would deal with the police situation which is faced by the Joplin City Council.
I was surprised by the Neosho Daily News editorial saying that everyone needed to settle down. If the Daily editorial writer was referring simply to the exchange between Birdsong and Bond, it owes an apology to Bond. If it refers to the entire Moark situation, I still don't see the problem. Citizens are organizing and have followed proper procedures so far, as far as I can tell. Perhaps advising everyone to stay calm is a good idea, but I haven't seen anything happening so far except two sides preparing for a battle over an issue. That is the way things have worked in this country for a long time.
The full extent of Birdsong's overreaction was not apparent to me until I read his response over the weekend in the Wednesday Neosho Daily News. Talk about talking a nuclear weapon to swat a fly.
All Bond did was promise to work to keep Birdsong from re-elected. Last I heard, that is the way America is supposed to operate. I didn't see any demeaning insults or inflammatory statements in Bond's e-mail.
I would hate to think how Birdsong would deal with the police situation which is faced by the Joplin City Council.
I was surprised by the Neosho Daily News editorial saying that everyone needed to settle down. If the Daily editorial writer was referring simply to the exchange between Birdsong and Bond, it owes an apology to Bond. If it refers to the entire Moark situation, I still don't see the problem. Citizens are organizing and have followed proper procedures so far, as far as I can tell. Perhaps advising everyone to stay calm is a good idea, but I haven't seen anything happening so far except two sides preparing for a battle over an issue. That is the way things have worked in this country for a long time.
FBI Probe, not Jackson, is top story
The three local stations chose to lead their 5 p.m. newscasts with the Michael Jackson verdict. I don't question that there is considerable interest in this case, though I do wonder why. I would question the judgment of KODE and KSN that it should have been the top story on their newscasts. When reporters Courtney Cullor for KSNF and Dan Tjordman for KODE have a major development in what has been one of the biggest local stories of the year, reward them with the lead story, don't make them play second fiddle to a washed-up alleged pervert. People who were interested in the Jackson story, already knew about the verdict. I can't believe anyone would have switched to one of the other channels to find out more about Jackson...not if the stations had led with the Joplin police story.
The story has not died in the months since it took place. Every time the Globe runs an article about it on its website, it receives one comment after another. Most people do not take the time to write letters to the editor, unless it is part of some organized campaign. This situation has brought out the letters, as evidenced by the Globe's full-page of them devoted to the subject a few weeks back.
Perhaps a better approach would have been to simply say, "We will have news about the Michael Jackson verdict later, but first the FBI has opened an investigation of two Joplin police officers," or something like that. Never underestimate the intelligence of the viewer.
It was also a much better mix tonight on KSN's "Live with Gary and Tiffany." Before it got to the Michael Jackson story, KSN led with Gary Bandy's weather, which, considering the storms we have had today, was the proper decision. There was little nonsense and I doubt if anyone turned the station because they weren't getting their daily dosage of Gary and Tiffany's witty banter.
The story has not died in the months since it took place. Every time the Globe runs an article about it on its website, it receives one comment after another. Most people do not take the time to write letters to the editor, unless it is part of some organized campaign. This situation has brought out the letters, as evidenced by the Globe's full-page of them devoted to the subject a few weeks back.
Perhaps a better approach would have been to simply say, "We will have news about the Michael Jackson verdict later, but first the FBI has opened an investigation of two Joplin police officers," or something like that. Never underestimate the intelligence of the viewer.
It was also a much better mix tonight on KSN's "Live with Gary and Tiffany." Before it got to the Michael Jackson story, KSN led with Gary Bandy's weather, which, considering the storms we have had today, was the proper decision. There was little nonsense and I doubt if anyone turned the station because they weren't getting their daily dosage of Gary and Tiffany's witty banter.
KODE, KSN get scoop on FBI probe
KODE and KSN were on top of today's announcement that the FBI will investigate two Joplin police officers who handcuffed an 11-year-old boy at an elementary school.
The reports, featured on the 5 and 6 p.m. newscasts, featured a telephone quote from a Joplin-based FBI agent. The two stations were also quick on posting the information on their websites.
Surprisingly, The Joplin Globe, which has done so much to make sure that this miscarriage of justice is not forgotten, has not had an update on its website. I would assume by this time the Globe is aware of the latest development.
Both KODE and KSN had 6 p.m. newscasts filled with local items today, including the news that a Webb City police officer is under investigation for child abuse. Both stations covered the allegation that the Fairland police chief was intoxicated in public (note to The Joplin Globe, he was not charged with alleged intoxication in public, he was charged with intoxication in public, the charge is the allegation).
KOAM seemed a little behind everybody today, featuring the Brandon Kahl arrest, which was broken two days ago by KSN.
The strong performance was especially important for KODE, which began life without Jimmy Siedlecki today. Siedlecki will be teamed with former KODE co-anchor Malorie Maddox in Omaha, Neb., on the WOWT morning show, a week from today.
The reports, featured on the 5 and 6 p.m. newscasts, featured a telephone quote from a Joplin-based FBI agent. The two stations were also quick on posting the information on their websites.
Surprisingly, The Joplin Globe, which has done so much to make sure that this miscarriage of justice is not forgotten, has not had an update on its website. I would assume by this time the Globe is aware of the latest development.
Both KODE and KSN had 6 p.m. newscasts filled with local items today, including the news that a Webb City police officer is under investigation for child abuse. Both stations covered the allegation that the Fairland police chief was intoxicated in public (note to The Joplin Globe, he was not charged with alleged intoxication in public, he was charged with intoxication in public, the charge is the allegation).
KOAM seemed a little behind everybody today, featuring the Brandon Kahl arrest, which was broken two days ago by KSN.
The strong performance was especially important for KODE, which began life without Jimmy Siedlecki today. Siedlecki will be teamed with former KODE co-anchor Malorie Maddox in Omaha, Neb., on the WOWT morning show, a week from today.
Arraignment set for Kahl
A 9 a.m. Tuesday arraignment has been scheduled for Brandon Wayne Kahl, 25, Lamar, who is charged with first degree involuntary manslaughter in connection with the June 7 death of two-year-old Alexander Cole.
A $25,000 bond has been set for Kahl, who was the boyfriend of Cole's mother, according to news reports.
A $25,000 bond has been set for Kahl, who was the boyfriend of Cole's mother, according to news reports.
Sunday, June 12, 2005
Braxton Wooden death featured in editorial
Today's Springfield News-Leader features a strong editorial concerning the role of Family Services in the shooting death of eight-year-old Braxton Wooden last week in Alba. Check out the editorial at:
http://springfield.news-leader.com/opinions/today/20050612-Boysdeathraises.html
http://springfield.news-leader.com/opinions/today/20050612-Boysdeathraises.html
Saturday, June 11, 2005
The greatest gift is receiving
Earlier editions of The Turner Report Friday and today listed the 20 representatives who received the most gifts from lobbyists during the 2005 General Assembly session, led by Rep. Steve Hunter, R-Joplin, with $2,364.80.
The gifts he received were examined during a posting earlier today. Now it's time to examine the records of the rest of the top 20. You might find some clear connections with the type of legislation that was passed during the recently-completed session.
No. 2- Shannon Cooper, R-Clinton, $2,266.81- During a three-day period, March 15-17, Cooper received more than $800 worth of gifts from lobbyists. On March 15, he received $600 described as "entertainment" from Allen James Snider, lobbyist for the University of Missouri, and $13.20 in "meals, food and beverage from Sarah Topp, lobbyist for Ameristar Casinos.Two days later, three lobbyists, all representing Ameristar, William Gamble, Jorgen Schleiman and Betsy Morgan, each gave him $79.41 worth of gifts. Gamble and Schleiman's gifts were listed as "travel" while Ms. Morgan's was "meals, food and beverage." Cooper also received $138.89 in gifts, $87.50 for entertainment, and $51.39 for meals, food and beverage from James E. Farrell, lobbyist for the city of St. Louis.
No. 3- Connie Johnson, D-St. Louis, $2,047.24- Ms. Johnson got the first week of the session off to a rousing start, with $575 in meals, food and beverage from William Gamble of Ameristar on Jan. 7, $131.78 in meals from Samuel Licklider, lobbyist for Empire District Electric Company on Jan. 8, $118.50 in meals from John Bardgett, representing the Missouri Association of Rehabilitation Facilities on Jan. 10, then $101.58, including $54 for a meal and $47.58 for another meal from Richard Wiles, Missouri Soft Drink Association on Jan. 12. Other big-ticket items for Ms. Johnson include $147.60, meals, food and beverage, Anheuser-Busch; $106.23, meals, Cheryl Dozier, Alliance for School Choice; $100, Sara Schuett, Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys; $275, meals, Catherine Barrie, Missouri Bar; $103.25, Rodney Gray, City of Branson and insurance interests. Ms. Johnson's meals were taken care of for three straight days, March 18, 19, and 20, by former State Representative Jerry Burch, lobbyist for the Missouri Hospital Association and Southwest Missouri State University, with each meal listed at $95.56. Fine eating if you can get it.
No. 4- Wes Wagner, D-DeSoto, $1,908.78- Wagner accepted $235.86 in meals from James R. Moody, lobbyist for Holcim, Inc., on Jan. 10, and $500 in entertainment from Rodney D. Forth of Anheuser-Busch on April 1.
No. 5- Richard Byrd, R-Kirkwood, $1,686.24- Byrd, recognized as the driving force behind tort reform, died of a heart attack May 13. On March 23, Byrd received $480, broken into four $120 installments for travel from Ameristar Casino lobbyists William Gamble, Jorgen Schleiman, Betsy Morgan, and Sarah Topp. On April 2, Byrd received $357.40 in gifts, including $170 for entertainment and $187.40 for meals from John Sondag of Southwestern Bell. The next day, it was $120 in meals from Mel Nicholson, SSM Healthcare.
No. 6- Mark Wright, R-Springfield, $1,682.68- The lobbyists' gifts didn't end when the legislative session ended for Wright, who received $240 in entertainment from John Bardgett, Missouri Association of Rehabilitation Facilities on May 24. He also received $261.90 described as "gift" from Chip Mason, lobbyist for the Herschend family and their Silver Dollar City business on March 26 and $152.80 for meals from Mary Strate, Missouri Beer Wholesalers.
No. 7- Bob Behnen, R-Kirksville, $1,669.85- Meet Bob Behnen, the hungriest man in Jefferson City. On Jan. 10, Behnen received meals from the following lobbyists: Kent Gaines, Monsanto, $200; William Gamble, Ameristar Casinos, $200; David Winton, Family Resource Center, $100; Brad Thielemier, Missouri State Troopers Association, $68.20; and Ralph Cupelli, Truman State University, $65. If you haven't been counting, that's $633.20.
No. 8- Thomas George, D-Florissant, $1,425.97- The unions kept Rep. George happy. He received $139.32 in meals on Jan. 5, and $105.17 in meals three days later from Herb Johnson of AFL-CIO. He also received $73.73 in entertainment from John Britton, Anheuser-Busch on Jan. 21, and $212.29 in meals, food and beverage from Mary Strate, Missouri Beer Wholesalers Jan. 27.
No. 9- Bryan Stevenson, R-Webb City, $1,361.51- Close to half of Stevenson's total, $635 came from Stephen M. Murrell, Missouri Bar, for "printing and publication." Stevenson also received $186.08 in meals from Mark J. Rhoads, Herzog and Rhoads, Jan. 10, and $186.08 in meals from from Kathryn Ann Harness, St. Luke's Health System on the same day. He received a third meal, a little cheaper, $44 from Kyna Iman, Missouri Southern State University, on the same day.
No. 10- Fred Kratky, D-St. Louis, $1,324.53- Empire District Electric's lobbyist, Samuel Licklider, paid a total of $502.61 for three "meals, food and beverage" for Kratky. Mary Strate supplied $231. 84 worth of meals, food and most likely beverage, for the Missouri Beer Wholesalers.
No. 11- Rod Jetton, R-Marble Hill, $1,318.89- The House Speaker, who receives profuse praise from Joplin Globe Editor Edgar Simpson in the Sunday, June 12, edition, appears to have made a couple of gambling excursions courtesy of William A. Gamble of Ameristar Casinos. Ethics Commission reports show Gamble paying $247 for travel for Jetton on Feb. 5, and an additional $113.98 for travel on Feb. 18. SBC took over the job of entertaining the speaker on March 13 with Marsha Haskell footing the bill for $220 worth of "entertainment." Jetton started out his tort reforming year with $223.59 in meals from Randy Scherr, lobbyist for several health interests on Jan. 25.
No. 12- Ed Wildberger, D-St. Joseph, $1,217.30- The largest item on Wildberger's plate was $501.65 from John M. Corbett, Missouri State Council of Firefighters for meals, food and beverage on Jan. 28. Herzog and Rhoads lobbyists Datra Herzog and Mark J. Rhoads, each supplied Wildberger with $113.11 in meals, food and beverage May 12.
No. 13- Ron Richard, R-Joplin, $1,202.34- The universities kept Richard supplied with gifts. He received $120 March 6, $120 Jan. 29, and $56 Jan. 4, all for entertainment from Allen James Snider, University of Missouri. Kyna Iman, Missouri Southern State University supplied $100 in meals, food and beverage Jan. 10.
No. 14- Jack Goodman, R-Mount Vernon, $1,199.69- The health interests paid big bucks to Goodman, with Jerry Burch, representing Missouri Hospital Association providing $156.44 in meals, food and beverage Jan. 10, the same day that Francis Flotron, Missouri Hospital Association, provided an additional $156.44 for the same thing, and Kathryn Ann Harness of Metro St. Louis provided the far cheaper $156.43 in meal, food and beverage.
No. 15- Steve Hobbs, R-Mexico, $1,155.12- Hobbs was also a prime recipient of the health interests' largesse, receiving $66.66 for meal, food and beverage from John Bardgett, Missouri Association of Rehabilitation Facilities, Jan. 10, the same day he received $200 from Francis Flotron of Missouri Hospital Association for the same purpose.
No. 16- Jim Avery, R-Crestwood, $1,148.95- It was mostly entertainment for Avery, who received $85 for entertainment and $9.370 for meal, food and beverage from John Sondag, SBC, on April 2. Thomas Irwin, St Louis Chamber and Regional Growth Association, paid $84 for entertainment on April 10 and $168 for it on May 8. After the session was over, on May 25, Gene Maggard of SBC paid $125 for entertainment for Avery.
No. 17- Joe Smith, R-St. Charles, $1,147.06- Smith received $200 from Francis Flotron, Missouri Hospital Association, for meal, food and beverage on Jan. 10.
No. 18- Brian Yates, R-Lee's Summit, $1,108.54- More than half of Yates' total, $600 was for entertainment from Allen James Snider of MU on March 10.
No. 19- Mike Sutherland, R-Warrenton, $1,080.49- Sutherland received a $116 "gift" from Chris Liese, former state representative Gary Burton, R-Joplin's lobbying partner. The Ethics Commission report does not specifically list which business Liese was representing, but he and Burton are into everything from insurance to education to casinos.
No. 20- Leonard Hughes, D-Kansas City, $1,045.58- Hughes' big-ticket items included $240.80 for meal from Dawn Heidbreder, Missouri Energy Development Association Jan. 25, and $348.75 in meals, from Patrick Lynn, Lynn Governmental Solutions April 20. Lynn was a top aide to former Governor Bob Holden.
The gifts he received were examined during a posting earlier today. Now it's time to examine the records of the rest of the top 20. You might find some clear connections with the type of legislation that was passed during the recently-completed session.
No. 2- Shannon Cooper, R-Clinton, $2,266.81- During a three-day period, March 15-17, Cooper received more than $800 worth of gifts from lobbyists. On March 15, he received $600 described as "entertainment" from Allen James Snider, lobbyist for the University of Missouri, and $13.20 in "meals, food and beverage from Sarah Topp, lobbyist for Ameristar Casinos.Two days later, three lobbyists, all representing Ameristar, William Gamble, Jorgen Schleiman and Betsy Morgan, each gave him $79.41 worth of gifts. Gamble and Schleiman's gifts were listed as "travel" while Ms. Morgan's was "meals, food and beverage." Cooper also received $138.89 in gifts, $87.50 for entertainment, and $51.39 for meals, food and beverage from James E. Farrell, lobbyist for the city of St. Louis.
No. 3- Connie Johnson, D-St. Louis, $2,047.24- Ms. Johnson got the first week of the session off to a rousing start, with $575 in meals, food and beverage from William Gamble of Ameristar on Jan. 7, $131.78 in meals from Samuel Licklider, lobbyist for Empire District Electric Company on Jan. 8, $118.50 in meals from John Bardgett, representing the Missouri Association of Rehabilitation Facilities on Jan. 10, then $101.58, including $54 for a meal and $47.58 for another meal from Richard Wiles, Missouri Soft Drink Association on Jan. 12. Other big-ticket items for Ms. Johnson include $147.60, meals, food and beverage, Anheuser-Busch; $106.23, meals, Cheryl Dozier, Alliance for School Choice; $100, Sara Schuett, Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys; $275, meals, Catherine Barrie, Missouri Bar; $103.25, Rodney Gray, City of Branson and insurance interests. Ms. Johnson's meals were taken care of for three straight days, March 18, 19, and 20, by former State Representative Jerry Burch, lobbyist for the Missouri Hospital Association and Southwest Missouri State University, with each meal listed at $95.56. Fine eating if you can get it.
No. 4- Wes Wagner, D-DeSoto, $1,908.78- Wagner accepted $235.86 in meals from James R. Moody, lobbyist for Holcim, Inc., on Jan. 10, and $500 in entertainment from Rodney D. Forth of Anheuser-Busch on April 1.
No. 5- Richard Byrd, R-Kirkwood, $1,686.24- Byrd, recognized as the driving force behind tort reform, died of a heart attack May 13. On March 23, Byrd received $480, broken into four $120 installments for travel from Ameristar Casino lobbyists William Gamble, Jorgen Schleiman, Betsy Morgan, and Sarah Topp. On April 2, Byrd received $357.40 in gifts, including $170 for entertainment and $187.40 for meals from John Sondag of Southwestern Bell. The next day, it was $120 in meals from Mel Nicholson, SSM Healthcare.
No. 6- Mark Wright, R-Springfield, $1,682.68- The lobbyists' gifts didn't end when the legislative session ended for Wright, who received $240 in entertainment from John Bardgett, Missouri Association of Rehabilitation Facilities on May 24. He also received $261.90 described as "gift" from Chip Mason, lobbyist for the Herschend family and their Silver Dollar City business on March 26 and $152.80 for meals from Mary Strate, Missouri Beer Wholesalers.
No. 7- Bob Behnen, R-Kirksville, $1,669.85- Meet Bob Behnen, the hungriest man in Jefferson City. On Jan. 10, Behnen received meals from the following lobbyists: Kent Gaines, Monsanto, $200; William Gamble, Ameristar Casinos, $200; David Winton, Family Resource Center, $100; Brad Thielemier, Missouri State Troopers Association, $68.20; and Ralph Cupelli, Truman State University, $65. If you haven't been counting, that's $633.20.
No. 8- Thomas George, D-Florissant, $1,425.97- The unions kept Rep. George happy. He received $139.32 in meals on Jan. 5, and $105.17 in meals three days later from Herb Johnson of AFL-CIO. He also received $73.73 in entertainment from John Britton, Anheuser-Busch on Jan. 21, and $212.29 in meals, food and beverage from Mary Strate, Missouri Beer Wholesalers Jan. 27.
No. 9- Bryan Stevenson, R-Webb City, $1,361.51- Close to half of Stevenson's total, $635 came from Stephen M. Murrell, Missouri Bar, for "printing and publication." Stevenson also received $186.08 in meals from Mark J. Rhoads, Herzog and Rhoads, Jan. 10, and $186.08 in meals from from Kathryn Ann Harness, St. Luke's Health System on the same day. He received a third meal, a little cheaper, $44 from Kyna Iman, Missouri Southern State University, on the same day.
No. 10- Fred Kratky, D-St. Louis, $1,324.53- Empire District Electric's lobbyist, Samuel Licklider, paid a total of $502.61 for three "meals, food and beverage" for Kratky. Mary Strate supplied $231. 84 worth of meals, food and most likely beverage, for the Missouri Beer Wholesalers.
No. 11- Rod Jetton, R-Marble Hill, $1,318.89- The House Speaker, who receives profuse praise from Joplin Globe Editor Edgar Simpson in the Sunday, June 12, edition, appears to have made a couple of gambling excursions courtesy of William A. Gamble of Ameristar Casinos. Ethics Commission reports show Gamble paying $247 for travel for Jetton on Feb. 5, and an additional $113.98 for travel on Feb. 18. SBC took over the job of entertaining the speaker on March 13 with Marsha Haskell footing the bill for $220 worth of "entertainment." Jetton started out his tort reforming year with $223.59 in meals from Randy Scherr, lobbyist for several health interests on Jan. 25.
No. 12- Ed Wildberger, D-St. Joseph, $1,217.30- The largest item on Wildberger's plate was $501.65 from John M. Corbett, Missouri State Council of Firefighters for meals, food and beverage on Jan. 28. Herzog and Rhoads lobbyists Datra Herzog and Mark J. Rhoads, each supplied Wildberger with $113.11 in meals, food and beverage May 12.
No. 13- Ron Richard, R-Joplin, $1,202.34- The universities kept Richard supplied with gifts. He received $120 March 6, $120 Jan. 29, and $56 Jan. 4, all for entertainment from Allen James Snider, University of Missouri. Kyna Iman, Missouri Southern State University supplied $100 in meals, food and beverage Jan. 10.
No. 14- Jack Goodman, R-Mount Vernon, $1,199.69- The health interests paid big bucks to Goodman, with Jerry Burch, representing Missouri Hospital Association providing $156.44 in meals, food and beverage Jan. 10, the same day that Francis Flotron, Missouri Hospital Association, provided an additional $156.44 for the same thing, and Kathryn Ann Harness of Metro St. Louis provided the far cheaper $156.43 in meal, food and beverage.
No. 15- Steve Hobbs, R-Mexico, $1,155.12- Hobbs was also a prime recipient of the health interests' largesse, receiving $66.66 for meal, food and beverage from John Bardgett, Missouri Association of Rehabilitation Facilities, Jan. 10, the same day he received $200 from Francis Flotron of Missouri Hospital Association for the same purpose.
No. 16- Jim Avery, R-Crestwood, $1,148.95- It was mostly entertainment for Avery, who received $85 for entertainment and $9.370 for meal, food and beverage from John Sondag, SBC, on April 2. Thomas Irwin, St Louis Chamber and Regional Growth Association, paid $84 for entertainment on April 10 and $168 for it on May 8. After the session was over, on May 25, Gene Maggard of SBC paid $125 for entertainment for Avery.
No. 17- Joe Smith, R-St. Charles, $1,147.06- Smith received $200 from Francis Flotron, Missouri Hospital Association, for meal, food and beverage on Jan. 10.
No. 18- Brian Yates, R-Lee's Summit, $1,108.54- More than half of Yates' total, $600 was for entertainment from Allen James Snider of MU on March 10.
No. 19- Mike Sutherland, R-Warrenton, $1,080.49- Sutherland received a $116 "gift" from Chris Liese, former state representative Gary Burton, R-Joplin's lobbying partner. The Ethics Commission report does not specifically list which business Liese was representing, but he and Burton are into everything from insurance to education to casinos.
No. 20- Leonard Hughes, D-Kansas City, $1,045.58- Hughes' big-ticket items included $240.80 for meal from Dawn Heidbreder, Missouri Energy Development Association Jan. 25, and $348.75 in meals, from Patrick Lynn, Lynn Governmental Solutions April 20. Lynn was a top aide to former Governor Bob Holden.
Oct 2 trial for t-shirt case...in 2006
An Oct. 2, 2006, trial date has been scheduled for Webb City High School junior LaStaysha Myers' First Amendment lawsuit against R-7 school officials.
A scheduling order signed by Judge Gary Fenner was filed in U. S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri Friday. The order says that:
-Any motion to add parties must be filed on or before Aug. 1, 2005
-Any motions to amend the pleadings must be made on or before Oct. 1, 2005.
-All discovery motions must be filed on or before Nov. 10, 2005.
-All pretrial discovery must be completed on or before Dec. 10, 2005.
Ms. Myers has until July 10 to designated any expert witnesses she might call, while R-7 officials have until Aug. 10. Each sides will provide affidavits from each expert witness which will include "a complete statement of all opinions to be expressed and the basis and reason therefore, the data or other information considered by the witness in forming the opinions, any exhibits to be used in a summary of or support for the opinions, the qualifications of the witness (including a list of all publications authored by the witness within the preceding 10 years), the compensation to be paid for the study and testimony, and a listing of any other cases in which the witness has testified as an expert at trial or by deposition with the preceding four years."
A final pre-trial conference for the case will be held 2:30 p.m. Sept. 1, 2006, according to the scheduling order.
Rules for the trial were also filed by Judge Fenner.
The scheduling order indicates the judge has rejected the request by Ms. Myers' attorneys that all depositions, discovery, and motions be moved up and the trial held in August to keep Ms. Myers from having her First Amendment rights violated during the 2005-2006 school year.
Ms. Myers, as regular readers of The Turner Report are aware, filed suit last spring against R-7 Superintendent Ron Lankford, High School Principal Steven Gollhofer, and Assistant Principal Jeff Thornberry, claiming her First Amendment right to freedom of expression was violated when she was one of a dozen students who were sent home after refusing to change gay pride T-shirts they were wearing in support of fellow student Brad Mathewson.
Mathewson earlier had been told to change gay pride T-shirts he wore and filed a similar lawsuit against the school district, which was later dismissed after he dropped out of school.
More details about Ms. Myers' lawsuit can be found in earlier editions of The Turner Report.
A scheduling order signed by Judge Gary Fenner was filed in U. S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri Friday. The order says that:
-Any motion to add parties must be filed on or before Aug. 1, 2005
-Any motions to amend the pleadings must be made on or before Oct. 1, 2005.
-All discovery motions must be filed on or before Nov. 10, 2005.
-All pretrial discovery must be completed on or before Dec. 10, 2005.
Ms. Myers has until July 10 to designated any expert witnesses she might call, while R-7 officials have until Aug. 10. Each sides will provide affidavits from each expert witness which will include "a complete statement of all opinions to be expressed and the basis and reason therefore, the data or other information considered by the witness in forming the opinions, any exhibits to be used in a summary of or support for the opinions, the qualifications of the witness (including a list of all publications authored by the witness within the preceding 10 years), the compensation to be paid for the study and testimony, and a listing of any other cases in which the witness has testified as an expert at trial or by deposition with the preceding four years."
A final pre-trial conference for the case will be held 2:30 p.m. Sept. 1, 2006, according to the scheduling order.
Rules for the trial were also filed by Judge Fenner.
The scheduling order indicates the judge has rejected the request by Ms. Myers' attorneys that all depositions, discovery, and motions be moved up and the trial held in August to keep Ms. Myers from having her First Amendment rights violated during the 2005-2006 school year.
Ms. Myers, as regular readers of The Turner Report are aware, filed suit last spring against R-7 Superintendent Ron Lankford, High School Principal Steven Gollhofer, and Assistant Principal Jeff Thornberry, claiming her First Amendment right to freedom of expression was violated when she was one of a dozen students who were sent home after refusing to change gay pride T-shirts they were wearing in support of fellow student Brad Mathewson.
Mathewson earlier had been told to change gay pride T-shirts he wore and filed a similar lawsuit against the school district, which was later dismissed after he dropped out of school.
More details about Ms. Myers' lawsuit can be found in earlier editions of The Turner Report.
Internet pervert to remain behind bars
Don't get excited by the headline.
This is an actual convicted internet pervert, not an alleged internet pervert like former O'Sullivan Industries official Gary Reed Blankenship of Neosho, but the decision issued Wednesday by the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals on a Kansas case may be the first appellate court ruling on the legality of internet scam operations to collar perverts who are trolling the Internet for underage children. Several of those netted by Diamond police officer Jim Murray with his internet traps have been convicted, but none have appealed as directly on the issue of so-called entrapment as the Kansas case does.
First, a little background on the case, taken from the court record.
On May 17, 2002, Lester William Crayton, 47, Hays, Kan., sent an Internet chat room request to an undercover detective, who was posing as a 14-year-old girl. After the detective answered, Crayton asked the alleged minor "numerous sexually-oriented questions, described graphic sexual activity to her, and asked her to send him a picture of herself."
At that point, Crayton sent her "computer-generated images as examples of nude photos that he had received from other minors. He also offered to teach her about sex, (had sex with himself) as the detective looked on via webcam, and offered to buy the minor a bus ticket from Illinois to Kansas so that they could engage in sexual relations," according to the opinion.
The police kept in touch with Crayton. In chats on May 29, June 6, and June 18, 2002, he continued to talk about providing her with bus transportation to Kansas, continuing to describe "sexual acts he would perform on the minor and made plans to photograph her in various stages of undress."
On June 24, according to the opinion, the detectives received a bus ticket addressed to the fictitious 14-year-old. Three days later, they set up surveillance at a Kansas bus stop. When police saw Crayton waiting they approached him, questioned him and he admitted he had bought the bus ticket and sent it to the "minor" and that his goal was to have sex with her.
Crayton pleaded guilty to one count of using a facility of interstate commerce to attempt to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity. He was given a longer sentence because "the intended victim was under 16 years old," and even longer because he used a computer to try to get an underaged victim to "engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing sexually explicit material. Crayton was eventually sentenced to nine years in prison.
Crayton appealed the severity of his sentence, giving three arguments.
First, he said he did not commit an actual crime, it was merely an attempt.
Second, He said the court erred because he did not seek "by notice or advertisement" a minor in order to have sex to produce sexually explicit material.
Finally, he said, the sentence should not have been increased because his intended victim was underage since this intended victim did not exist.
The appellate panel ruled there was no doubt Crayton had planned to have sex and record it. As far Crayton's contention that there was no underage girl, the opinion said, "Defendant does not deny that he intended to victimize a 14-year-old girl, but contends only that this enhancement does not apply because the intended victim did not actually exist and because the officers with whom he communicated were not less than 16 years old. We reject defendant's argument."
The 10th District Court covers a number of states, including Kansas and Oklahoma, so the ruling applies directly in those states, but does not necessarily apply to any Missouri case.
This is an actual convicted internet pervert, not an alleged internet pervert like former O'Sullivan Industries official Gary Reed Blankenship of Neosho, but the decision issued Wednesday by the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals on a Kansas case may be the first appellate court ruling on the legality of internet scam operations to collar perverts who are trolling the Internet for underage children. Several of those netted by Diamond police officer Jim Murray with his internet traps have been convicted, but none have appealed as directly on the issue of so-called entrapment as the Kansas case does.
First, a little background on the case, taken from the court record.
On May 17, 2002, Lester William Crayton, 47, Hays, Kan., sent an Internet chat room request to an undercover detective, who was posing as a 14-year-old girl. After the detective answered, Crayton asked the alleged minor "numerous sexually-oriented questions, described graphic sexual activity to her, and asked her to send him a picture of herself."
At that point, Crayton sent her "computer-generated images as examples of nude photos that he had received from other minors. He also offered to teach her about sex, (had sex with himself) as the detective looked on via webcam, and offered to buy the minor a bus ticket from Illinois to Kansas so that they could engage in sexual relations," according to the opinion.
The police kept in touch with Crayton. In chats on May 29, June 6, and June 18, 2002, he continued to talk about providing her with bus transportation to Kansas, continuing to describe "sexual acts he would perform on the minor and made plans to photograph her in various stages of undress."
On June 24, according to the opinion, the detectives received a bus ticket addressed to the fictitious 14-year-old. Three days later, they set up surveillance at a Kansas bus stop. When police saw Crayton waiting they approached him, questioned him and he admitted he had bought the bus ticket and sent it to the "minor" and that his goal was to have sex with her.
Crayton pleaded guilty to one count of using a facility of interstate commerce to attempt to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity. He was given a longer sentence because "the intended victim was under 16 years old," and even longer because he used a computer to try to get an underaged victim to "engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing sexually explicit material. Crayton was eventually sentenced to nine years in prison.
Crayton appealed the severity of his sentence, giving three arguments.
First, he said he did not commit an actual crime, it was merely an attempt.
Second, He said the court erred because he did not seek "by notice or advertisement" a minor in order to have sex to produce sexually explicit material.
Finally, he said, the sentence should not have been increased because his intended victim was underage since this intended victim did not exist.
The appellate panel ruled there was no doubt Crayton had planned to have sex and record it. As far Crayton's contention that there was no underage girl, the opinion said, "Defendant does not deny that he intended to victimize a 14-year-old girl, but contends only that this enhancement does not apply because the intended victim did not actually exist and because the officers with whom he communicated were not less than 16 years old. We reject defendant's argument."
The 10th District Court covers a number of states, including Kansas and Oklahoma, so the ruling applies directly in those states, but does not necessarily apply to any Missouri case.
Nexstar to drop Nielsen ratings for Springfield
KSFX, Fox 27, will no longer buy the Nielsen ratings when its contract with the company runs out.
Broadcasting and Cable magazine reports the Nexstar Broadcasting station will also cancel its deals in Lubbock, Texas, and Hagerstown, Md. Those are the only communities in which Nexstar still buys the Nielsen ratings, the article said.
KSNF in Joplin is among Nexstar stations which have canceled the service.
Nexstar Senior Vice President Brian Jones said, "They placed a value on the product that we are not willing to pay."
Nexstar is the only major broadcasting company to break its ties with Nielsen, according to the article.
Broadcasting and Cable magazine reports the Nexstar Broadcasting station will also cancel its deals in Lubbock, Texas, and Hagerstown, Md. Those are the only communities in which Nexstar still buys the Nielsen ratings, the article said.
KSNF in Joplin is among Nexstar stations which have canceled the service.
Nexstar Senior Vice President Brian Jones said, "They placed a value on the product that we are not willing to pay."
Nexstar is the only major broadcasting company to break its ties with Nielsen, according to the article.
Panel requested for area racial violence probe
It has kind of flown under the radar, but Congressman William Clay, D-St. Louis, has asked the U. S. House of Representatives to form a committee to investigate the removal of African Americans from six southwest Missouri communities between 1894 and 1901.
The goal is to examine "the feasibility and appropriateness of providing reparations to such residents," according to the bill description of House Resolution 1977 on the U. S. House of Representatives website.
The resolution, which has been referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary, calls for an investigation of events that turned Aurora, Monett, Newburg, Pierce City, Cassville, and Webb City into so-called "Negro-free" communities at the turn of the century.
The genesis of the bill was explored in a June 2 St. Louis Post-Dispatch column by Sylvester Brown Jr. Charles Brown Jr., a former St. Louis public school teacher, was exploring his family history while recovering from a stroke. His quest took him to Peirce City (which is the way the city's name was originally spelled).
A front page article in the Aug. 25, 1901, St. Louis Post-Dispatch told how approximately 300 blacks were driven out of Peirce City and threatened with death if they ever returned...after three of them had already been killed, one by lynching.
Brown's column says, "The terror began after the body of Gisela E. Wild, a 23-year-old white, church-going socialite was found in the woods. Authorities suspected she was killed fending off a rapist. The Lawrence Chieftain, a local newspaper, described Wild as one of many 'sainted women' lost 'in defense of their purity.' Witnesses reported seeing a "Negro" in the vicinity of the killing. A mob of 1,000 angry, armed whites - some arriving by train, gathered to hunt down the killers."
That 1901 newspaper article said Peirce City joined the ranks of the other cities that had already been declared "colorless."
No one talked much about the horror of that 1901 time until Monett Times Editor Murray Bishoff wrote about it 14 years ago, stirring up a frenzy in a town that did not want to remember that part of its past.
When Brown was looking for an ancestor's grave, he received no help from the local cemetery association or the groundskeeper, the Post-Dispatch column reported. They offered no help in verifying his ancestor's remains and said Brown would have to pay back taxes and pay for an expensive DNA test.
Brown refused, went to court, and lost. His fortunes changed, the Post-Dispatch column said, when Marco Williams, co-owner of Two Tone Productions, Inc., a New York film company, contacted him, saying the company was filming a documentary about cities that had kicked out all of their black residents.
When it became known that the company was going to film Brown's efforts to recover his great-grandfather's body, Pierce City officials changed their minds and said Brown would not have to pay back taxes or pay for the DNA tests.
James Cobb's body was removed from the Pierce City cemetery with Brown and the film crew in attendance on June 2. The body was taken to Springfield to reunite Mr. Cobb with family members who relocated there after being driven out of Peirce City.
The goal is to examine "the feasibility and appropriateness of providing reparations to such residents," according to the bill description of House Resolution 1977 on the U. S. House of Representatives website.
The resolution, which has been referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary, calls for an investigation of events that turned Aurora, Monett, Newburg, Pierce City, Cassville, and Webb City into so-called "Negro-free" communities at the turn of the century.
The genesis of the bill was explored in a June 2 St. Louis Post-Dispatch column by Sylvester Brown Jr. Charles Brown Jr., a former St. Louis public school teacher, was exploring his family history while recovering from a stroke. His quest took him to Peirce City (which is the way the city's name was originally spelled).
A front page article in the Aug. 25, 1901, St. Louis Post-Dispatch told how approximately 300 blacks were driven out of Peirce City and threatened with death if they ever returned...after three of them had already been killed, one by lynching.
Brown's column says, "The terror began after the body of Gisela E. Wild, a 23-year-old white, church-going socialite was found in the woods. Authorities suspected she was killed fending off a rapist. The Lawrence Chieftain, a local newspaper, described Wild as one of many 'sainted women' lost 'in defense of their purity.' Witnesses reported seeing a "Negro" in the vicinity of the killing. A mob of 1,000 angry, armed whites - some arriving by train, gathered to hunt down the killers."
That 1901 newspaper article said Peirce City joined the ranks of the other cities that had already been declared "colorless."
No one talked much about the horror of that 1901 time until Monett Times Editor Murray Bishoff wrote about it 14 years ago, stirring up a frenzy in a town that did not want to remember that part of its past.
When Brown was looking for an ancestor's grave, he received no help from the local cemetery association or the groundskeeper, the Post-Dispatch column reported. They offered no help in verifying his ancestor's remains and said Brown would have to pay back taxes and pay for an expensive DNA test.
Brown refused, went to court, and lost. His fortunes changed, the Post-Dispatch column said, when Marco Williams, co-owner of Two Tone Productions, Inc., a New York film company, contacted him, saying the company was filming a documentary about cities that had kicked out all of their black residents.
When it became known that the company was going to film Brown's efforts to recover his great-grandfather's body, Pierce City officials changed their minds and said Brown would not have to pay back taxes or pay for the DNA tests.
James Cobb's body was removed from the Pierce City cemetery with Brown and the film crew in attendance on June 2. The body was taken to Springfield to reunite Mr. Cobb with family members who relocated there after being driven out of Peirce City.