Carthage City Councilwoman Kate Gilpin resigns

(From the City of Carthage)

The City of Carthage would like to extend our thoughts and prayers to Ward 1 Councilmember Kate Gilpin, who submitted her resignation effective immediately due to health reasons.

In light of this vacancy, the City of Carthage is seeking candidates to fill the remainder of the term, which runs through April 2026. Interested individuals may contact Mayor Flanigan at b.flanigan@carthagemo.gov, Miranda at m.deal@carthagemo.gov, or call 417-237-7003 for more information.

Eligibility Requirements:

Must be a registered voter in Ward 1

At least 21 years of age

No felony convictions

No unpaid city or county taxes, fees, or balances—including Carthage Water & Electric and Carthage Library

Decorative transom from historic Jane Chinn Home to be presented to Webb City historians

(From Historic Murphysburg Preservation, Inc.)

On May 11, 2025, the historic Jane Chinn House at 302 S.Pennsylvania Street in Webb City, Missouri, circa 1893, suffered a significant fire. 

After the fire, the owners sold the property to Evan Slaughter. Before razing the house, Mr. Slaughter facilitated an extensive, months-long architectural salvage project in order to save various interior and exterior elements of the 132-year-old house.

A significant item that was salvaged was the decorative transom that hung above the entry door facing Third Street.

It was determined that the initials of Daniel Stewart were etched in the middle of the glass. Mr. Stewart was married to Jane when they built the house. 

After Mr. Stewart’s death, Jane married Charles R. Chinn, Sr.

In September, Historic Murphysburg Preservation, Inc. (HMP), a non-profit organization in Joplin, stepped forward and volunteered to remove salvageable items such as woodwork, doors, transoms, hardware, windows, etc. 

Chris Ferguson, HMP board president said, “We were excited to accept Mr. Slaughter’s donation of the elements to our organization, especially because our volunteers were already experienced in historic architectural removal.” Mr. Ferguson said the items were transported to a storage area, measured, cataloged, photographed and is now offered for sale. 

Some items have already been “rehomed” to Historic Murphysburg District houses and Webb City houses.

At 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, HMP will turn over the transom in a presentation to the Webb City Area Genealogical Society. The group has agreed to proudly display the transom in their office at the Webb City Library at 101 South Liberty Street.

For more information on the salvaged items, contact Paula Callihan at (417) 208-9376 or murphysburg@gmail.com.

(Photos by Mary Anne Phillips)

Woman killed in fire at SE Newton County home

(From the Newton County Sheriff's Office)

On October 29, 2025 at approximately 1:50PM, the Newton County Central Dispatch Center received a call of a structure fire at 28252 Highway HH in Newton County. Deputies along with the Midway Fire Department, Stella Fire Department, Wheaton Fire Department and Newton County Ambulance responded to the scene.

Firefighters found the residence to be fully engulfed whenever they arrived on scene. Firefighters worked on the fire for most of the afternoon and into the evening. 

Once the fire had been brought under control, a search of the residence was conducted by Firefighters and the Missouri State Fire Marshall’s Office. A deceased female was located inside of the residence. Detectives with the Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene to conduct a death investigation.

The Newton County Sheriff’s Office and the Missouri State Fire Marshall’s Office are conducting a joint investigation into the possible cause of the fire. An autopsy has been scheduled for tomorrow, October 31, 2025. The name of the victim is not being released at this time, pending notification of next of kin. At this time, it does not appear that this structure fire is related to the structure fire that occurred at 17723 Highway O.

If anyone has any information about the fire, we ask that you contact Detective Dale Brashers with the Newton County Sheriff’s Office or you can contact the State Fire Marshall’s Office.

Newton County Prosecutor's office charges suspect in series of arson fires, thefts

The Newton County Sheriff's Office arrested Engman following a fire at a home near the Wanda Methodist Church.

According to the probable cause statement, Engman was driving a vehicle matching the description of one that had been seen at a Newtonia address.

I have received information recently that the female who lives there was involved in other thefts of wire and arsons in the Newtonia area.

The following news release was issued this morning by the Newton County Sheriff's Office:

On October 29, 2025, at approximately 12:09PM, the Newton County Central Dispatch Center received a call of a structure fire at 17723 Highway O in Newton County. 

Deputies along with the Midway Fire Department, Stella Fire Department, and Granby Fire Department responded to the scene. While enroute to the scene, Deputies received information of a suspicious vehicle that was seen leaving from the area shortly after the fire had been noticed. The vehicle was described as an orange PT Cruiser. 

After the fire was extinguished, it was determined that the house was abandoned and that there had been electrical wiring removed from the house in the area where the fire had started.

While in the area, a Detective with the Newton County Sheriff’s Office located a vehicle that matched the description of the suspicious vehicle that was seen leaving the area. The Detective was able to make a traffic stop on the vehicle. 

As a result of the investigation into this suspicious fire, Cheyenne Engman, a 28 year old female from Shell Knob, was arrested and transported to the Newton County Jail. Charges for Arson and Theft have been forwarded to the Newton County Prosecutor. At this time, it does not appear that this structure fire is related to the structure fire at 28252 Highway HH.

The Newton County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to follow up on leads with this fire, and we are asking for the public’s assistance. If anyone has any information about the fire, we ask that you contact Detective Dale Brashers with the Newton County Sheriff’s Office or you can contact the State Fire Marshall’s Office Arson Tip Line at 1-800-39-ARSON.

Lamar man charged with statutory rape of 14-year-old Joplin girl

The Jasper County Prosecuting Attorney's office filed a statutory rape charge Wednesday against a Lamar man.

An arrest warrant was issued for Saylor Kelly Sheat (DOB 2002) with bond set at $50,000 cash or surety.

From the probable cause statement:

On 10/19/2025 Saylor Sheat began talking with a 14-year-old confidential juvenile victim on Snapchat.

Sheat and the juvenile arranged to meet. Sheat drove 45 minutes from his house and picked up the
juvenile from her house. They drove to a park where they had sex. 

The juvenile disclosed that she told Sheat she was 14 years old in the Snapchat messages. 

Sheat gave a confession that he had sex with the juvenile.

The case was investigated by the Joplin Police Department.

Joplin city officials hold groundbreaking for Ewert Park renovations

(From the City of Joplin)

City officials and community members joined Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce members to celebrate the upcoming renovation of Ewert Park with a groundbreaking today. Members of East Town served with City staff to review options and develop plans for this 14-acre park.

“Today, this historical park’s future looks bright as the renovation brings many upgraded and new amenities to our community,” said Joplin Mayor Keenan Cortez. “In creating these plans, the City collaborated with community members to reflect the park’s rich history and its importance to so many. This renovation will revitalize a beloved neighborhood space while honoring the strong roots it has provided for East Town residents and the wider community.”

Ewert Park is- and has been- the heart of the surrounding neighborhood. A Splash Park is being added and will be the largest of its kind in the area, providing a unique, family-friendly attraction for everyone to enjoy!

Park improvements are expected to include the following:A new splash park with landscaping and improvements to the current bathhouse building
A new playground to replace the current playground
A 12-foot-wide ice ribbon that will weave in and around the splash park
A covered basketball/multiuse courts to replace the existing tennis courts
A multi-functional stage and amphitheater with power for speaker systems and lighting for nighttime events
A park kiosk with design elements that highlight the history of Ewert Park
Interpretive signage that provides education on historical elements and events throughout the park
Increased security lighting and camera systems

“This will be an exciting addition to Joplin for residents to enjoy year-round,” said Paul Bloomberg, Director of Parks and Recreation. “The committee considered many types of elements to be included in this park before making final decisions. They’ve done a great job, and the park will have something for all ages, as well as share some of the park’s history since it opened in 1925.”

Originally opened on July 12, 1925, Ewert Park covers about 14 acres. Paul Ewert, a U.S. attorney, purchased and donated the land to create a vibrant community park for the African American residents of East Town, Joplin. Many have enjoyed the swimming pool, playground, dance pavilion, and shelter house throughout the years. The pool was upgraded twice during this time.

The $9.9 million project is funded by a combination of the Parks & Stormwater Sales Tax and Use Tax revenues earmarked for beautification. Completion of this renovation is anticipated in mid to late 2026.

To sign up for project alerts, visit the project website (www.ewertsplashpark.com).

For more information about Ewert Splash Park, please contact Paul Bloomberg, City of Joplin Parks and Recreation Director, at pbloombe@joplinmo.org.

Kehoe announces steps to provide food for at-risk Missourians during shutdown

(From Gov. Mike Kehoe)

Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced additional steps his administration is taking to expedite food assistance for at-risk Missourians, given the impending loss of November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits due to the Democrat-led federal government shutdown.

SNAP benefits are 100 percent federally funded, with each recipient receiving benefits from the federal government via their Electronic Benefit Transfer card. There is no mechanism for state appropriations to be transferred to cover this funding. The Missouri Department of Social Services stands ready to issue November SNAP benefits as soon as possible once the federal government is reopened.

“Democrats in Washington continue to hold the federal government hostage for political leverage, leaving Missouri's most vulnerable uncertain if they will have food on the table next month,” said Governor Kehoe. “While the State of Missouri cannot fully replace federal SNAP benefits for those who rely on them, we are working to expedite additional funding sources to assist Missouri's senior population and food banks.”

Governor Kehoe has directed a full $10.6 million fund transfer from the Senior Services Growth and Development Fund to Missouri Area Agencies on Aging. This funding will be critical in supporting Missouri’s Area Agencies on Aging in providing meals to seniors.

Additionally, Governor Kehoe has ordered a $5 million distribution to Missouri food banks using Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funding. This action takes the place of a regular appropriation typically issued later in the year but is being issued now given an increase in need due the loss of SNAP benefits.

Missourians in need of food assistance or looking to volunteer or donate are directed to Feeding Missouri – a coalition of six Missouri Food Banks working to provide hunger relief to every county in the state.

 

KOAM announces expansion of weather team, new role for Doug Heady

(From KOAM)

KOAM News is expanding its weather team and introducing a new, future-focused role for Chief Meteorologist Doug Heady as part of the station’s ongoing commitment to innovation, technology, and community safety.

Beginning in 2026, Heady will transition into the position of Streaming & Severe Weather Specialist, serving KOAM as an independent contractor. In this new capacity, he will focus his expertise on two critical areas: enhancing KOAM’s severe weather coverage and leading the growth of streaming content across KOAM platforms.

“Doug has been a trusted voice for viewers in this region for many years,” said Brook Arnold, KOAM General Manager. “This new role allows him to concentrate his talents where he creates the most impact — helping us deliver lifesaving information and reaching audiences wherever they are. It also represents how KOAM is leaning into new technology and rethinking workflows to better serve our community.” Doug’s daily weather forecasting will be even more convenient for consumers to watch at home and on the go. His updated daily weather forecasts will be available 24/7 through the free KOAM+ streaming app. The app is available for download on your smart TV at no cost to viewers.

To further strengthen its weather coverage, KOAM is also adding another meteorologist to the team. The addition underscores KOAM’s long-standing commitment to accurate, accessible, and community-focused weather reporting.

“KOAM has always been the most trusted source for local weather,” Arnold added. “These changes make our weather team stronger than ever — combining decades of experience with new talent and modern platforms to serve viewers 24/7.”

Carthage man charged with DWI for sixth time

A Carthage man with three DWI convictions and five DWI arrests, was charged for sixth time after he was arrested by the Carthage Police Department Tuesday,

An arrest warrant was issued today for James Matthew Hancock (DOB 1983) with bond set at $5,000 cash or surety.

From the probable cause statement:

The facts supporting this belief are as follows: On 10/28/2025 at approximately 1252 I, Cpl. Snow, conducted a traffic stop in the Mazoo Liqour, 119 N. Baker, on a tan 2004 Ford Taurus MO LP#EK4T4J for fail to signal as it turned into the parking lot from Baker.

When getting the driver’s, James Hancock, phone out of the vehicle for him, I smelled a strong odor of alcohol in the vehicle. I also observed an empty clear vodka bottle on top of other items in the front passenger floorboard. I asked if Hancock had anything to drink today due to the vehicle having a strong odor of alcohol. Hancock nodded his head yes. I asked him how much and he said enough. 

Hancock told his wife, who he was on the phone with, that I was confronting him and that I knew. While standing under the awning and speaking with Hancock from a few feet away, I could smell a moderate odor of alcohol emanating from his person.

I told Hancock I wanted to conduct Standardized Field Sobriety Tests on him and he agreed to do them, but advised he was not going to pass.

The first test I conducted was the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus. I told Hancock to get in the starting position with his feet together and his hands down to his sides. I explained the test I would be conducting and what he should do during the test. Hancock advised he understood my instructions. Hancock then said he would not pass it though. 

During the test Hancock had a difficult time keeping his head still and following the tip of my finger with his eyes. During the tests I observed lack of smooth pursuit and onset of nystagmus prior to 45 degrees in both of Hancock's eyes. This was a total of 4 clues

Hancock could/would not follow my finger well enough for me to observe distinct sustained nystagmus at maximum deviation.

The next test I attempted to conduct was the Walk and Turn. I asked if Hancock could imagine a straight line in front of him and he said no. I told Hancock to get into the starting position with his right foot in front of his left in a line and his hands down to his sides. Hancock said he could not do it. Hancock ultimately decided to try and perform the test. 

I instructed Hancock to get into the starting position with his right foot in front of his left in a line and his hands down to his sides again. Hancock lost his balance multiple times having to catch himself with the wall next to him one of the times.

Hancock exited the starting position, apologizing and advising he could not do it.

Ptl. Haddock conducted the interview portion of the Alcohol Influence Report.

Questions/Answers:

What were you doing during the last 3 hour prior to contact with law enforcement? Trying not to detox/be sober.

Were you operating the vehicle at the time of the stop? Yes.

Have you been drinking? Yes.

What were you drinking? Vodka.

Time started? Didn't even stop.

How much? A few shots.

Where? Home.

Are you under the influence of an alcoholic beverage? No.

Have you used marijuana or any other drug, legal or illegal, in the last 72 hours?

Yes.

When? Yesterday.

Where? Home.

How much? 1 gram.

What? Marijuana.

Hancock has a total of 4 active actions against his license. The most recent is a chemical revocation effective on 03/09/2025 with an eligibility date of 03/09/2026.

Hancock has been convicted of DWI charges 3 times and charged with DWI 5 times according to his criminal history. This is his 6th charge for DWI.

Change of plea hearing set for Joplin man charged with sexually exploiting live-in babysitter

A 10 a.m. December 18 change-of-plea hearing has been scheduled in U. S. District Court in Springfield for a Joplin man charged with sexual exploitation of a minor.

The charge was filed against Joshua Stanley Miloszewski, 35, after a search warrant revealed videos of him having sex with his 16-year-old live-in babysitter, according to the probable cause affidavit.

According to the indictment, Miloszewski's alleged crimes occurred between March 18, 2024 and February 5, 2025.

The Turner Report: Federal charge filed against Joplin man one day after search warrant turns up sex video with 16-year-old girl