Monday, October 05, 2026

Jason Smith: Trump Accounts are delivering for Missouri's children

(From Eighth District Congressman Jason Smth)

In the Working Families Tax Cuts that I authored, of all the provisions included, I truly believe the creation of Trump Accounts will be the most transformational for our country. 

As someone who grew up in a single-wide trailer, I know firsthand what this will mean to millions of working-class families like mine whose children will now get a head start in life. Regardless of whether a kid grows up on a city block or a county road, they will now have a financial foundation waiting for them when they turn 18 to learn a trade, start a business, or buy a home.








Additionally, for children born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028, the federal government will seed these accounts with a one-time $1,000 contribution. Eighteen years ago, just $1,000 put into the S&P 500 would be worth $7,800 today. That’s the power of compound interest. In addition to this head start for newborns, more than 100 companies, foundations, and generous individuals have pledged to contribute or are contributing to Trump Accounts, including a $6.25 billion pledge from Michael and Susan Dell to support millions of children in middle- and low-income families — one of the largest private direct investments in families in American history.

The families of more than 7 million children have already opened Trump Accounts for their kids, and this week the Treasury Department made an outstanding decision when they announced they will automatically enroll all 73 million children in a Trump account. This ensures that children whose parents haven’t heard about Trump accounts won’t be left behind, and will still have an opportunity to claim their account in the future.

Just as important, every one of these children now owns a piece of the American economy. The Democrat Party has been taken over by socialists who tell young people that government handouts and more government control are the solution to all of our nation’s problems. A Trump Account teaches the opposite. The benefits of capitalism are undeniable when you own a piece of it, and a kid who watches a balance grow year after year learns that early.








Time does most of the work, and families have plenty of ways to help it along. Parents can contribute up to $5,000 a year, and employers can add up to $2,500 without it counting toward the worker’s taxable income. Families can visit TrumpAccounts.gov for more information and can claim their child’s account through the official Trump Accounts app.

Trump Accounts give every child a stake in the economy, and it puts families in charge instead of Washington. I wrote the Working Families Tax Cuts with children from southeast Missouri in mind, and I’m going to continue fighting for them.

 

Nightmare on 7th Street: MODOT offers update on Route 66 project


(From MoDOT)

Progress Update for Route 66 Improvement Project for Week of Oct. 5

A project to make pavement, sidewalk, traffic and safety improvements along Missouri Route 66 (7th Street) in Joplin is underway. Here is an update of the work scheduled for the week of September 21.

Drivers are reminded that access to all businesses along Route 66 (7thStreet) will be maintained during hours of operation.








Work scheduled

Contractor installing new storm sewer on the north side of Route 66 (7th Street) between Highland Avenue and Patterson Avenue

Florida Avenue currently CLOSED on both sides of Route 66 (7thStreet) for pavement replacement, installation of new traffic signal infrastructure and to accommodate temporary traffic shift

Contractor coordinating with utility companies to complete traffic signal installation at Florida Avenue

Contractor is working on pavement replacement for north half of Route 66 (7th Street) between McConnell Avenue and Ozark Avenue

Liberty Electric preparing for upcoming relocation work on north side of Route 66 (7th Street) between St. Louis Avenue and Murphy Boulevard

Liberty Electric coordinating relocations of light poles with other utility companies between Main Street and Virginia Avenue

Missouri American Water doing water line relocation and tie-in work on north side of Route 66 (7th Street) between Virginia Avenue and Pennsylvania Avenue

City of Joplin doing sanitary sewer work on Kentucky Avenue north of Route 66 (7th Street)

City of Joplin planning night work for pipe crossing under Route 66 (7th Street) at Kentucky Avenue starting Monday, October 5

City of Joplin planning additional intermittent daytime traffic shifts on Route 66 (7th Street) between Pennsylvania Avenue and Kentucky Avenue








AT&T planning for relocation work at alley way between Pearl Avenue and Wall Avenue

Bluebird Fiber working on fiber relocation

Sparklight preparing for relocation of overhead lines at Route 66 (7th Street) and Florida Avenue

Traffic Impacts

At least one lane of Route 66 (7th Street) OPEN in both directions
Access to all business will be maintained during hours of operation
Signs and message boards will alert drivers approaching the work zone
No signed detours
Check MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map for road closings/traffic impacts

Weather and/or scheduling conflicts could alter the work schedule.








Project Details

The project will make improvements along the Route 66 (7th Street) corridor in Joplin between Jasper County Route P (Schifferdecker Avenue) and Loop 49 (Range Line Road).

As part of this project, the contractor will rebuild the pavement, bring sidewalks up to Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, and upgrade and replace several traffic signals along the corridor.

This contract also includes a project to rehabilitate the Oak Street bridge over I-49 in Carthage. That project is likely to start in 2027.

Project Information:Prime Contractor: D&E Plumbing & Heating LLC, Nixa
Construction Cost: $61.6 million
Contract Completion Date: December 1, 2028


Sunday, October 04, 2026

Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen fails Joplin Health Department inspection

Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, 321 E. 4th Street, failed a Joplin Health Department inspection Wednesday, according to information posted on the department website.

The restaurant received three priority violations and nine core violations.

The priority violations were for having shrimp and salmon in grill drawers being cold held above 41 degrees, for having fried chicken in hot holding equipment being hot held below 135 degrees and for having an unlabeled chemical container.

The core violations can be found at this link. 







***

The following establishments passed their inspections:

Macadoodles Beer, Wine & Spirit, 3105 E. 17th Street

Subway @ Rapid Roberts, Inc., 4549 43 Highway

Applebee's, 2825 E. 32nd Street

Lotus Garden, 1818 W. 7th Street (re-inspection)

Schlotzsky's, 3120 S. Main Street

Joplin Flea Market, Inc.- Concessions, 1200 S. Virginia Avenue







Dover Hill Elementary, 1100 N. Main Street

Journey Through Slime Event Studio, 2130 S. Main Street (re-inspection)

Briley's LLC, 901 S. Main Street

Jimmy's Egg, 1611 S. Range Line Road

Towne Place Suites Breakfast, 3400 S. Range Line Road

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Breakfast, 3400 S. Range Line Road

Aldi Food Market, 3205 E. 20th Street

St. Mary's Catholic School, 3025 S. Central City Road

Joplin City Jail, 303 E. 3rd Street


Four injured in head-on collision on Coyote Drive; Webb City man cited for felony DWI


A Webb City man charged with felony driving while intoxicated following a head-on collision 4:55 p.m. Saturday on Coyote Drive one mile south of Joplin.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2025 Toyota X5E driven by Stanley S. Cauble, 37, Webb City, crossed the center of the roadway and struck a 2018 Toyora 4Runner driven by a 31-year-old Fayetteville, Arkansas man head on.







The Fayetteville man and a passenger in his vehicle, a 27-year-old Joplin woman, were treated for moderate injuries at Mercy Joplin.

Caudle and a passenger in his vehicle, a 56-year-old Webb City woman, were treated for serious injuries at Freeman West Hospital, Joplin.

Saturday, October 03, 2026

Active explosive device disposed of in Pierce City


(From the Pierce City Police Department)

On October 2, 2026, Officers with the Pierce City Police Department responded to a report of an unexploded device. Officers arrived and confirmed that there was an active explosive device.

A safety perimeter was set up and the Springfield Bomb Squad/Fire Marshall responded to the scene.

The Fort Leonard Wood EOD team assisted with securing and transporting the devise to a safe area outside of Pierce City. The device was safely disposed of.








Nobody was hurt during this incident.

Previous news release

Please avoid Spruce and Olive Streets in between Adams and Pennsylvania due to a current emergency. The roads are closed and will be until further notice.

Thank you for your cooperation.


Carthage R-9 mourns loss of bus driver


(From the Carthage R-9 School District)

The Carthage R-9 School District is deeply saddened to share the passing of John LeMasters, a devoted member of our transportation team who faithfully served our students and families for seven years.

Mr. LeMasters was more than a school bus driver. He was a familiar, friendly face and an important part of the Carthage R-9 school community. Every morning and afternoon, he helped ensure students arrived at school and returned home safely, treating each child with patience, kindness, and care.








John truly cared about the students he transported and took great pride in being there for them. Even on days when he wasn’t feeling his best, he wanted to be behind the wheel, transporting “his” kids. He genuinely enjoyed spending time with his students and especially loved working alongside his wife, Carla, on Bus #32.

“John’s service to the district was about much more than driving a bus,” Transportation Director Ryan Huntley shared. “He built relationships, shared smiles and friendly conversations, and became someone that students, families, and staff could count on. Day after day, year after year, John quietly made a difference in the lives of countless children. His dedication, dependability, and genuine care for the students he served will not be forgotten. The district was fortunate to have him, and his years of service leave behind a legacy of kindness and commitment that will continue to be remembered.”








“John LeMasters was more than a bus driver; he was a friend, a trusted member of our school family, and someone who truly loved the students he served,” said Dr. Holley Goodnight, Assistant Superintendent of Business. “John had a huge heart and genuinely loved driving a school bus, spending time with his students, and being part of his work family. His friendship and contagious smile made an impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”

We extend our deepest sympathies to Carla, the LeMasters family, his transportation family, and all who knew and loved John. Carthage School District is grateful for his years of service and the lasting impact he made on our families.

Friday, October 02, 2026

St. Louis Avenue in Joplin to be closed north of 7th Street


(From MoDOT)

TRAFFIC ALERT: St. Louis Ave. CLOSED North of Route 66 (7th Street) in Joplin Beginning Oct. 7

Where: St. Louis Avenue north of Missouri Route 66 (7th Street) in Joplin

When: Beginning Wednesday, October 7 for up to three weeks

What: Contractor crews will install new storm sewer, sidewalk crossings and concrete approach







Traffic Impacts

St. Louis Avenue CLOSED on north side of Route 66 (7th Street) beginning Wednesday, October 7 for up to three weeks

Access to all business on St. Louis Avenue north of Route 66 (7thStreet) maintained during business hours

No signed detour

Signs and message boards will alert drivers approaching the work zone

Check MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map for road closings/traffic impacts

Weather and/or scheduling conflicts could alter the work schedule.

This work is part of a project to make improvements along the Route 66 (7th Street) corridor in Joplin between Jasper County Route P (Schifferdecker Avenue) and Loop 49 (Range Line Road). More information can be found by going to the project website.

Project Information

Prime Contractor: D&E Plumbing & Heating LLC, Nixa
Construction Cost: $61.6 million
Contract Completion Date: December 1, 2028

Jasper, Newton County sheriffs named to Missouri Sheriff Methamphetamine Relief Task Force


(From Gov. Mike Kehoe)

Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced eight gubernatorial appointments to various boards and commissions.

Randee Kaiser, of Carthage, was reappointed to the Missouri Sheriff Methamphetamine Relief Taskforce.

Sheriff Kaiser previously served as the assistant chief of police for the City of Carthage Police Department before being elected as Jasper County sheriff. He previously was a member of the Alliance of Southwest Missouri. Kaiser holds a Bachelor of Journalism from the University of Missouri - Columbia and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from Southeast Missouri State University.









Matthew Stewart, of Seneca
, was appointed to the Missouri Sheriff Methamphetamine Relief Taskforce.

Sheriff Stewart is the sheriff of Newton County. He previously served as executive director of the Children’s Center of Southwest Missouri. He is a member of the Missouri Sheriff’s Association and FBI National Academy Associates, and is the chair of the Tri‑State Major Case Squad. Stewart holds both a bachelor’s degree and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from Missouri Southern State University. He also completed the FBI National Academy Session #256.

Michael Bonham, of Freeburg, was reappointed to the Missouri Sheriff Methamphetamine Relief Taskforce.

Sheriff Bonham previously served as the deputy sheriff and chaplain for the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office before being elected as the Osage County Sheriff in 2016. He serves on the Osage County Anti‑Drug Community Action Team Board and the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, and is the second vice president of the Missouri Sheriffs' Association Executive Board. Bonham graduated from Lindbergh High School and attended the Berean School of the Bible.

Darryl Forte, of Kansas City, was appointed to the Missouri Sheriff Methamphetamine Relief Taskforce.

Sheriff Forte currently serves as the sheriff of Jackson County and was previously chief of police for the Kansas City Police Department. He is a member of the Prince Hall Masons Coles‑Finch Lodge 186. Forte holds an associate degree in administration of justice from Penn Valley Community College and a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration from Park College. He also holds a Master of Liberal Arts in Management and a Master of Laws from the University of Missouri–Kansas City.

Christopher Gahagan, of Kansas City, was appointed to the Clay County Board of Election Commissioners.

Mr. Gahagan was an attorney for McGonagle Spencer Gahagan PC before his retirement in 2023. He is the treasurer of Beyond the Bench KC – Specialty Court Support and was a founding member of the Hickman Mills Educational Foundation. Gahagan holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Law.








Jerald "Rusty" Saunders Jr., of Washington, was appointed to the Missouri Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Professional Land Surveyors, Professional Landscape Architects, and Licensed Interior Designers.

Mr. Saunders has worked at Loomis Associates, Inc. for more than 30 years and currently serves as president of the company. He is also the president of the Missouri Association of Landscape Architects and is a former president of the St. Louis Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects. Saunders holds a bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture from the University of Minnesota.

Franklin "Shane" Terhune, of Savannah, was appointed to the Missouri Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Professional Land Surveyors, Professional Landscape Architects, and Licensed Interior Designers.

Mr. Terhune has nearly 48 years of experience as a land surveyor. He is the owner of Terhune Surveying and Mapping and formerly served as the elected Andrew County Surveyor. He also served as a member and president of the Missouri Society of Professional Surveyors and is currently a member of the Metropolitan Community College Survey Advisory Board. Terhune is a graduate of Savannah High School.

David Spence, of St. Louis, was appointed to the Regional Convention and Visitors Commission.

Mr. Spence is the owner of Riverhorse on Main and Spence Vinyards and the chairman of Legacy Packaging. He serves on the St. Louis Sports Commission and the St. Louis Development Corporation. Spence holds a bachelor's degree in consumer economics from the University of Missouri - Columbia.


Pittsburg residents arrested for drug deal that led to overdose death


(From the Pittsburg Police Department)

On September 26, 2025, the Pittsburg Police Department initiated an investigation into the death of 35-year-old Ross W. Pitts, a resident of Pittsburg. Early in the investigation, detectives determined that Pitts’ death was believed to be the result of a drug overdose and that the controlled substances involved had allegedly been distributed within the Pittsburg city limits.

On October 2, 2026, at approximately 9:42 a.m., Pittsburg Police Department detectives arrested 43-year-old Talia Bree Blick-Davis, of Pittsburg. Later that same day, at approximately 1:20 p.m., Pittsburg detectives, with assistance from Girard Police Department officers, arrested 29-year-old Sophea Helen Gonzalez, of Pittsburg.








Both individuals were arrested in connection with the death of Ross W. Pitts and transported to the Crawford County Jail. They were charged with the following felony offenses:

• Distribution of a Controlled Substance Causing Death
• Distribution of a Controlled Substance
• Unlawful Distribution of a Controlled Substance Using a Communication Facility

Both Blick-Davis and Gonzalez are currently being held without bond.

Ms. Blick-Davis and Ms. Gonzalez are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The investigation into this incident is ongoing at this time. Anyone having information related to this incident, or other crimes, is urged to contact the Pittsburg Police Department at (620) 231-1700, or at our automated tip line, (620) 231-TIPS (8477). Callers may remain anonymous

Joplin Writers Faire tomorrow (Saturday) at Joplin Public Library


(From Joplin Public Library)

Saturday is the 10th Annual Joplin Writers’ Faire and you’re invited! 

Join Joplin Public Library and Post Art Library on Saturday, October 3rd, 10am-1pm, for the largest
Joplin Writer’s Faire yet: 50 booths featuring local & regional authors, book sales & signings, door prizes, poetry-on-demand, and other activities.

Visitors will have the chance to meet and mingle with writers and creators about their original works in children’s literature, comics, fiction, graphic novels, journalism, memoir, nonfiction, poetry, zines, and more.

The Joplin Writers’ Faire is a FREE, all-ages event held annually each October. It serves to connect writers to their existing and potentially new audiences while encouraging community support of local and regional writers.








JWF is a collaboration between the Joplin Public Library and Post Art Library, with generous contributions and continued support from the Friends of the Joplin Public Library.

Find it on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DWy4CYGAe/

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Note: I'll be there with copies of my new book, When Jesse James Came to Pineville, along with copies of my older books. Anyone who buys any of my books can also get a copy of my 2015 book Silver Lining in a Funnel Cloud: Greed, Corruption and the Joplin Tornado for $5.