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Missouri's 2025 legislative special session begins today in Jefferson City. Governor Mike Kehoe (R) has included a top priority of Mizzou officials in the special session call: $25-million to plan and design a new research reactor at Mizzou in Columbia. Governor Mike Kehoe notes MURR leads the nation in producing critical medical isotopes. The governor notes that when you enter the lobby of the MU Research Reactor (MURR) near Providence in Columbia, there is a digital clock that shows how many lives they save per day by the radioisotopes they develop in MURR. Mizzou officials signed a ceremonial agreement in April to partner with a consortium to build a new 20-megawatt state-of-the-art research reactor near south Columbia's Discovery Ridge. Governor Kehoe's special session call also includes tornado and storm assistance and legislation aimed at keeping the Chiefs and Royals in Missouri. Senate Minority Leader Doug Beck (D-Affton) joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" to discuss the session. Leader Beck wants to see more focus on the storm/tornadol damage. He also tellis listeners there will be three separate bills:

Missouri lawmakers will return to Jefferson City today for a special legislative session on three major topics: tornado and storm assistance, legislation aimed at keeping the Chiefs and Royals in Missouri and $25-million in funding for a new research reactor at Mizzou. Governor Mike Kehoe (R) tells Capitol reporters that the Chiefs and Royals are Missouri's teams and that they drive billions of dollars in economic activity through tourism, job creation along with hotels and restaurants. The governor says the Show-Me Sports Investment Act will allow the Chiefs and Royals to bond an annual appropriation valued to their current state tax revenues. Kansas lawmakers in both parties have been trying to lure the Chiefs and Royals to the Sunflowers State. State Sen. Nick Schroer (R-O'Fallon) joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" to preview the special session. He tells "Wake Up" that the governor has a great team and that he'll meet with Governor Kehoe's team today to learn details about the Chiefs/Royals bill. Senator Schroer wants to see tax relief included in the special session:

The Comobuz publisher describes former Columbia Public Schools (CPS) superintendent Dr. Brian Yearwood as an impressive guy. Dr. Yearwood has been named as the next superintendent of Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) in Louisville, Kentucky. Comobuz publisher Mike Murphy joined host Fred Parry in-studio for the hour Saturday on 939 the Eagle's "CEO Roundtable." Mr. Murphy says district officials in Louisville were impressed with the sharp increase in the annual performance report (APR) for CPS from 70.1 percent in 2023 to 86.5 percent in 2024, under Dr. Yearwood. That's a 16 percent increase. Fred Parry tells listeners that Dr. Yearwood was fired by CPS. Mr. Murphy also updated listeners on the status of the former IBM building on Columbia's Lemone Industrial and businessman Raman Puri's plan to build a convention center near Menards in north Columbia. Mr. Parry and Mr. Murphy also discussed the Comobuz model and they discussed the status of the "Columbia Daily Tribune" and the "Columbia Missourian." Fred tells listeners that it's hard for him to read the Tribune. They also discussed voter interest in Columbia issues, with Fred complaining that 75 percent of registered voters didn't vote in Columbia's April municipal election:

Columbia-based Shelter Insurance is one of the ten largest employers in Columbia/Boone County, with about 13-hundred employees here and a $98-million payroll at their Columbia headquarters. Shelter Insurance president and chief executive officer Rockne Corbin joined host Fred Parry in-studio for the hour Saturday on 939 the Eagle's “CEO Roundtable” program. Mr. Corbin tells listeners that annual revenues for Shelter, for the entire company, are $3.7 billion. Mr. Parry and Mr. Corbin tackled numerous topics during Saturday's interview, including the numerous tornadoes and storms this spring in Missouri and the Midwest. Mr. Corbin says the hot spots for tornadoes ten years ago would have been Oklahoma, Kansas and Nebraska. He says it's now Missouri, Arkansas and Kentucky. Mr. Corbin grew up in Jefferson City and graduated from JC. He graduated from Central Missouri State in Warrensburg before serving four years in the U-S Army. Mr. Corbin began his career with Shelter as a claims adjuster and climbed many roofs after storms, describing that time as a foundational experience. Shelter opened its doors in 1946 as MFA Mutual Insurance. They now operate in 21 states, have Shelter Life and also own a lot of real estate, including the Gerbes building near their Columbia headquarters. Education, health care and insurance have traditionally been the three main pillars of Columbia's economy. That's still the case in many ways today with Shelter. Mr. Parry and Mr. Corbin also discussed a few lighter subjects like the upcoming Shelter Fountain celebration and the return of the concerts in the gardens. Those concerts ran for 43 seasons until the COVID pandemic. The concerts returned last Sunday after a five-year hiatus:

The U.S. House voted early this morning to approve what President Donald Trump calls the "Big, Beautiful bill" that involves issues like taxes, immigration, defense and other topics. The final vote was 215-214. U.S. Rep. Eric Burlison (R-Springfield) joined hosts Randy Tobler and Jennifer Bukowsky on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri". Congressman Burlison voted for the bill, saying it extends the Trump tax cuts, finishes the border wall and also defunds Planned Parenthood. Congressman Burlison is still concerned about spending. Democrats blast the bill and say it will cause Medicaid cuts and increase the deficit. Congressman Burlison's district also includes Joplin and Branson:

President Donald Trump (R) is pushing House Republicans to pass what he calls the "big beautiful bill". The president met with House Republicans on Tuesday. U.S. Rep. Bob Onder (R-Missouri) backs the president's plan. Congressman Onder represents Columbia, Jefferson City, Ashland, Fulton and Boonville on Capitol Hill. He joined hosts Randy Tobler and Peter Thiele live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" to discuss the plan. Congressman Onder emphasizes that the GOP plan protects the most vulnerable with Medicaid, saying the elderly and disabled will be protected. The congressman expresses frustration with moderate Republicans. He says every time there's a plan to cut spending in Washington, moderate Republicans fall into the Democrats' trap. Democrats say the budget plan will hurt the poor:

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey (R) traveled to Washington last week to deliver a speech. Bailey is a combat veteran who volunteered to be deployed to Iraq and served two tours there as an armored Cavalry officer. General Bailey tells listeners that Ukraine has gotten creative in the war. He also praises President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance for working to end the war. General Bailey tells listeners that too much blood has been shed in what he describes as a senseless war. He also discussed abortion and Planned Parenthood during the live interview with hosts Jennifer Bukowsky and Stephanie Bell:

The Puri Group's announcement about a planned Columbia convention center has attracted interest from Jefferson City officials. They want to see the Truman Hotel property near Highway 54 demolished. Jefferson City Mayor Ron Fitzwater describes the Truman Hotel as an eyesore. A number of listeners do as well. Mayor Fitzwater appeared live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri." He's also disappointed that the House didn't approve a bill that contained millions of dollars for a parking garage in downtown Jefferson City and money for the MSP cleanup:

Columbia-based Boone Electric Cooperative has about 30,000 members in Boone as well as Audrain, Callaway, Howard, Monroe and Randolph counties. Boone Electric Cooperative was incorporated in June 1936 during the Great Depression. It was Missouri's first rural electric cooperative. By 1937, they served 140 members in rural Boone County. Boone Electric general manager and chief executive officer Todd Culley joined host Fred Parry in-studio for the hour Saturday on 939 the Eagle's “CEO Roundtable” program. Mr. Culley tells listeners that Boone Electric now has about 30,000 members and 36,000 meters, saying they are primarily a distribution cooperative. Boone Electric have nine directors. It was formed during the Rural Electrification Administration (REA) under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Some old-timers still use the term REA today. Boone Electric now has 3,200 miles of distribution lines, with 1,400 of those underground. Mr. Culley grew up in Boone County, Indiana, a rural area north of Indianapolis. He tells listeners that Boone Electric has always had a national reputation. Mr. Culley has been in the position for about 18 years. He replaced Roger Clark and Bob Alderson before him. Mr. Alderson served as Boone Electric's chief executive officer from 1977 to 2000, one of the longest-serving CEOs in Boone Electric history. Mr. Parry and Mr. Culley also discussed the June 18 food truck frenzy during the one-hour interview. The food truck frenzy will take place at Boone Electric headquarters on Rangeline:

Missouri's 2025 legislative session ended with bitter feelings in the Missouri Senate between Democrats and Republicans. The session also included tension between the House and Senate and State Rep. Marlene Terry (D-Florissant) being removed from committees by her own party's leaders because of her vote in favor of school choice. Despite the tension, State Rep. Melanie Stinnett (R-Springfield) is impressed with the work the Legislature did this year, especially in the House. Republican Governor Mike Kehoe will hold an end-of-session press conference at 9 this morning in Jefferson City. Rep. Stinnett says Kehoe could call a special session involving the Chiefs/Royals:

You'll have an opportunity next week to pay your respects to the late former Missouri Governor Kit Bond at the Statehouse in Jefferson City. The 86-year-old Bond died Tuesday in St. Louis. Mr. Bond served two terms as governor, from 1973-1977 and again from 1981 to 1985. He then served four terms in the U-S Senate from 1987-2010. "Missouri Times" publisher Scott Faughn joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" to reflect on Mr. Bond's legacy. Faughn describes Kit Bond as the "real deal", telling listeners that he brought home more federal funding to Missouri than anyone else in history. Faughn says Mr. Bond produced, not on social media but in results. Faughn says Kit Bond preferred Brookfield and Tarkio over Twitter, referring to two rural northern Missouri towns. Governor Mike Kehoe says a state memorial service is planned for Tuesday at noon at the Missouri Capitol in Jefferson City. The public is invited to attend. Governor Bond will lie in state in the Missouri Capitol Rotunda for a 24-hour period following the state memorial service, allowing members of the public to pay their respects. Mr. Faughn also discussed legislation involving the Chiefs and Royals during the live interview:

The final budget approved by Missouri lawmakers on Friday did not include $500-million in construction projects across the state. House Budget Committee chairman Dirk Deaton (R-Noel) says it purely was a financial decision. Missouri Senate Appropriations Committee chairman Lincoln Hough (R-Springfield) joined us live on "Wake Up Missouri" and says Chairman Deaton didn't inform state senators about the decision. Chairman Hough says the decision will make getting other bills approved during the final week of the 2025 session that much tougher. Chairman Hough says he's received messages of frustration from Missouri House and Senate colleagues over the House decision. He says $50-million for Mizzou's second research reactor that battles cancer is now not funded, along with repairs at the Dent County sheltered workshop and at a foster care building in Bates County:

Longtime UM System president Dr. Mun Choi is currently in his ninth year in the position. He also serves as the Mizzou chancellor. President Choi started in his position in March 2017. He joined host Fred Parry in-studio for the hour Saturday morning on 939 the Eagle's “CEO Roundtable” program. While the Missouri House's Friday budget vote eliminated $50-million for NextGen MURR, the final budget approved by Missouri lawmakers on Friday includes a three percent overall increase for Mizzou. President Choi praises Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe (R), telling listeners that the governor will do wonderful things by supporting higher education. President Choi and Mr. Parry spoke in-detail about the ceremonial agreement to partner with a consortium to build a new 20-megawatt state-of-the-art research reactor near south Columbia's Discovery Ridge. President Choi says NextGen MURR will allow Mizzou to lead the nation in producing critical medical isotopes. The new reactor is expected to take eight to ten years to complete. Mizzou is partnering with a consortium that includes Hyundai Engineering America and the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) for the design and licensing of the new reactor. President Choi says there is a positive attitude at the university and also a positive perception about Mizzou by the public. President Choi also updated listeners on the massive $250-million Memorial Stadium improvement project at Mizzou in Columbia. President Choi says it will preserve the stadium's tradition-rich elements while embracing a vibrant future. Mizzou officials envision about 160,000 square feet of new construction, including 98,000 square feet that will be enclosed as part of new premium seating areas:

FBI Director Kash Patel plans to relocate about 1,000 employees from Washington to field offices around the nation. U.S. Rep. Mark Alford (R-Raymore) addressed the issue on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri", telling listeners that he supports the plan. Congressman Alford says Director Patel's plan would add 32 agents and personnel to the FBI's Kansas City regional office. Congressman Alford says that office is less than a year old. The congressman also addressed a recent protest at his Columbia office from State Rep. David Tyson Smith (D-Columbia), who wanted Congressman Alford to push back against what he calls tyranny. Congressman Alford says the protest was on a Saturday and that he was at a relative's funeral in Houston. He addresses the comments from Rep. Tyson Smith:

Missouri House and Senate budget negotiators had a long night Wednesday, as they try to hammer out differences between the budgets approved by the GOP-controlled House and Senate. A conference committee will meet again this morning at the Statehouse in Jefferson City. The proposed overall budget is about $50-billion. State Rep. Bishop Davidson (R-Republic) joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri". He outlined some of the differences between the House and Senate budgets. Rep. Davidson is the Missouri House Budget Committee's vice chair, and says some programs cut by the Senate have been restored. Rep. Davidson is a vocal supporter of school choice and touted Mo Scholars during the interview. Friday is the deadline for Missouri lawmakers to approve a budget:

Missouri's Constitution requires Missouri lawmakers to approve a balanced budget by Friday. While the GOP has supermajorities in both legislative chambers, there are still a number of uncertainties. Senate President Pro Tem Cindy O'Laughlin (R-Shelbina) joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" to discuss the budget and education. Pro Tem O'Laughlin tells listeners that the budget is very complicated, adding that she believes there will be a consensus between Republicans on education. Pro Tem O'Laughlin says Republican Governor Mike Kehoe wants to give parents choice in schools and she agrees with that. Senator O'Laughlin says parents need the best opportunity for their children with education:

President Donald Trump has appointed State Rep. Ben Baker (R-Neosho) as the state director of Rural Development for the USDA. Baker says it will be a great honor to serve the Trump administration. "Missouri Times" publisher Scott Faughn praises the appointment, saying former Rep. Baker has one of the ten most influential public jobs in Missouri with USDA. Faughn says Mr. Baker has a huge job and that he's respected by legislative colleagues in Jefferson City. Mr. Faughn also discussed potential rule changes in the Missouri Senate and comments made from the dais by Lt. Governor Dave Wasinger:

The Columbia Center for Urban Agriculture (CCUA) started in 2008. Its mission is feeding and educating our community. CCUA executive director Billy Polansky joined host Fred Parry in-studio Saturday morning on 939 the Eagle's “CEO Roundtable” program. Mr. Polansky tells listeners that the CCUA aims to connect people with agriculture and their food. The CCUA also helps get young people interested in farming and it grows food for the Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri. Mr. Polansky updated listeners on the status of the welcome center at the Agriculture Park, saying the lowest of four bids was about $4.7 million. “It's an 11,000 square foot building. It's going to have office space, a commercial kitchen, event space and a resource library as well,” Mr. Polansky tells listeners. He notes that when people go to the park, they're unsure if they can even be there, saying this will be a “front door” for the park. People will be able to take a tour by going into the welcome center, and they'll also be able to sign up for CCUA programs. Mr. Polansky also updated listeners Saturday on the “food as medicine” and produce prescription programs. The ten-acre Columbia agriculture park is open year-round for you to enjoy. The park includes production fields, a food forest and a greenhouse:

The Missouri Senate discussed/ debated open enrollment legislation for more than four hours on Wednesday. State Sen. Curtis Trent (R-Springfield), a vocal supporter of open enrollment, joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri." He describes open enrollment as common sense and says it would make a difference in children's lives across the state. He also says there are academic reasons why some parents want to change schools, and says it would help with bullying cases as well. The Missouri House has approved open enrollment. There are GOP opponents to the bill in both chambers, as well as opposition from Democrats. Critics say it would hurt public schools. Supporters disagree with that:

Columbia Parks and Recreation oversees 3,800 acres of parkland, 79 parks and 62 miles of trails. It also has 56 playgrounds. Gabe Huffington has served as Columbia Parks and Recreation director for three years and has worked for the department for 17 years. Mr. Huffington grew up in southwest Missouri's Buffalo. He joined host Fred Parry in-studio for the hour on 939 the Eagle's “CEO Roundtable.” Mr. Huffington emphasizes that safety is the biggest priority for the department, and he discussed this month's chaotic double shooting at Cosmo Park. Mr. Huffington tells listeners that the department currently has one park ranger and they're working to hire three additional rangers. He also confirms there are 13 flock cameras installed at various Columbia parks. Columbia Parks and Recreation now has 87 full-time employees. Mr. Huffington also discussed the recent dedication of the Perche creek trail and the upcoming dedication of the new Cosmo bike trail on May 22. He also updated listeners on the Easter Sunday tornado damage in Cosmo park and LA Nickell golf course. About 50 trees had significant damage. Mr. Huffington also updated listeners on the Columbia sports fieldhouse and on the former Boone County fairgrounds. Mr. Parry and Mr. Huffington also updated listeners on efforts to create facilities that support sports tourism:

Pope Francis' funeral is scheduled for Saturday. He died this week at the age of 88. Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe is a Roman Catholic and a parishioner at the Cathedral of St. Joseph in Jefferson City. Governor Kehoe joined us live on 939 the Eagle's “Wake Up Missouri”, telling listeners that the Pope's death is sad for all Catholics. Governor Kehoe describes Francis as the “People's Pope”, noting he's requested a simple burial. Governor Kehoe hopes the next Pope will be someone who connects with our youth and can keep young people in the church:

Columbia Regional Airport's (COU) manager is optimistic about the restoration of passenger air service between Columbia and Denver. COU staff members have been working with airlines to try to restore air service to Denver. Columbia has received a $1-million federal grant for the restoration or reinstatement of air service to Denver. That grant was from the U-S Department of Transportation. Columbia Regional Airport manager Michael Parks spoke to host Fred Parry Saturday morning on 939 the Eagle's “CEO Roundtable.” Mr. Parks tells listeners he sees United Airlines returning to Columbia. “You know Denver was very successful prior to COVID coming in. You know we were even looking at adding a second Denver route. That was flying on the 50-passenger jet is what we currently had with United Airlines. I do see United coming back,” Mr. Parks tells host Parry. Parks also says it is hard to get an additional flight. American Airlines currently offers daily fights from Columbia to both Chicago and Dallas/Fort Worth. Mr. Parks also discussed enplanement and flight numbers and how they compare to numbers before the COVID pandemic. Mr. Parks says that 2019 was the busiest year ever at COU, saying 135,000 passengers departed Columbia Regional Airport that year. United Airlines was still offering flights in 2019. COVID happened in 2020. “Fast forward to last year, we just went over 100,000 passengers flying out, So 200,000 passengers for the year. With that, that's only American Airlines,” Mr. Parks says. Parks has worked at Columbia Regional Airport for 25 years. He has 12 employees in public safety and another ten in maintenance/administration. Michael Parks grew up in the small rural town of Whiting, Iowa. That's where part of the movie “Children of the Corn” was filmed. Fred and Mr. Parks also discussed road improvements near the airport:

Omnibus election-related legislation that also reinstates Missouri's presidential preference primary has been given final approval by the Missouri House this week. The vote was 85-64, which means many Republicans voted against the bill, which is sponsored by veteran State Rep. Rudy Veit (R-Wardsville). It takes 82 votes to pass a bill in the Missouri House. Mr. Veit is one of the Missouri House's senior members. Representative Veit joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri", telling listeners that Republicans who voted no on the bill have concerns with the costs of a presidential primary:

Kansas City will be a host city for the 2026 World Cup. Then-Missouri Governor Mike Parson (R) signed bipartisan legislation from then-Senate Minority Leader John Rizzo (D-Independence) that both parties say was critical for Kansas City being named as a 2026 World Cup host city. Senator Rizzo's bill provides a sales tax exemption for 2026 World Cup tickets to matches at Arrowhead Stadium. Senator Rizzo and other supporters say the 2026 World Cup will generate $695-million in economic activity for Missouri. Rizzo compares it to multiple Super Bowls over a 30-day period. Missouri Lt. Governor Dave Wasinger (R) agrees with those numbers. Lt. Governor Wasinger joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri". He tells listeners that FIFA has 12 full-time employees in Kansas City preparing for the World Cup, which he says will draw a few hundred thousand fans to Kansas City. Wasinger says he was just in Kansas City. He also praises the Trump administration's response to recent Missouri tornadoes and flooding, saying they have called him several times asking what Missouri needs. Lt. Goverrnor Wasinger was recently at the White House for a signing ceremony, and tells listeners he was impressed with his seat:

Five people were shot in three separate incidents across Columbia this weekend. One happened Friday night on McGuire in a dispute involving drag racing. Two men were shot in downtown Columbia early Sunday morning, just blocks from the police station. CPD says charges are pending against two juveniles in that case. No arrests have been made for Saturday night's chaotic double shooting in Columbia's Cosmopolitan park on the Business Loop. One victim was in critical but stable condition and the other victim was in serious condition, at last check. Missouri attorney general Andrew Bailey joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri." He tells listeners that he's heartbroken over the violence in Columbia, where he grew up. He emphasizes the importance of supporting law enforcement officers and says Missouri needs to look statewide at juvenile law reform. He also discussed the abortion issue:

Jefferson City's approximately 14,000 state employees will receive a pay increase in July. The only question is how much they'll receive. Missouri Senate Appropriations Committee chairman Lincoln Hough (R-Springfield) joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" this morning. Chairman Hough notes the Senate has approved a one percent pay increase for state employees for every two years of service, up to ten percent. Chairman Hough emphasizes the importance of retaining state employees. During the live interview, he also expressed frustration with a computer system that crashed on Tuesday, impacting the Missouri Senate. Chairman Hough didn't mince words during the interview, saying taxpayers have paid $250-million for a computer system that's not working. He also talked the 404 error on his computer:

Five people were shot in three different incidents in Columbia this weekend. A man was shot on Columbia's McGuire Boulevard during a Friday evening argument and suffered minor injuries. A man and woman were shot in Cosmo park late Saturday night during a large party, and two men were shot early Sunday morning in downtown Columbia, just blocks from CPD. Columbia's first-ever Office of Violence Prevention administrator D'Markus Thomas-Brown joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" this morning. Mr. Thomas-Brown tells listeners that we need community transformation. He says he's saddened by this weekend's violence, calling it tragic. Mr. Thomas-Brown also tells listeners that we need unity and bipartisan fixes to the violence. He says Republicans and Democrats have great ideas to bring to the table:

Missouri's 2025 legislative session in Jefferson City has about a month left. The session ends on Friday May 16 at 6 pm. "Missouri Times" publisher Scott Faughn joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" this morning and he praises the job that the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) is doing. Mr. Faughn tells listeners that MoDOT is accomplishing the things Missourians want. MoDOT is thanking you for your patience during this weekend's I-70 bridge demolition in Columbia, which caused heavy backups Saturday morning and early Saturday afternoon. MoDOT finished the demolition of the I-70 bridge near Columbia's Big O Tires ahead of schedule. ALL lanes of I-70 are now open. Mr. Faughn is also pleased with the job that MoDOT director Ed Hassinger is doing. Mr. Faughn also predicts the GOP-controlled Legislature will approve a big school choice bill, but not this year. He also discussed abortion and IP, which stands for initiative petition:

Columbia-based Boone Health says it continues to accept all commercial Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield insurance plans. While negotiations continue, Anthem and Columbia-based MU Health Care have still not reached an agreement. Boone Health president Brady Dubois addressed the issue Saturday morning in-studio on 939 the Eagle's “CEO Roundtable” program. Mr. Dubois tells listeners he doesn't know any details about MU Health Care's negotiations with Anthem and did not comment on those negotiations. Mr. Dubois emphasizes that Boone Health continues to accept all commercial Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield insurance plans. “What we're focused on is how do we make sure that folks want to receive health care locally that they're able to access in-network providers, in-network health care,” Mr. Dubois tells listeners. He also says Boone Health is working to absorb patients into its Boone medical clinics and also affiliated providers like Missouri Cancer Associates or Columbia Orthopaedic Group. Mr. Dubois says they are working hard to absorb capacity to make sure people stay in-network. Host Fred Parry and President Dubois also discussed retiring Stephens College president Dianne Lynch's departure from the Boone board, and Mr. Dubois updated listeners on how the Stephens nursing program partnership is progressing. Mr. Dubois says Boone Health serves residents in 26 counties, and that the 392-bed Boone Hospital has 360 medical staff members. He says there are also 160 employed providers. Mr. Dubois grew up in both Texas and Louisiana, and he also served in the U.S. Navy for eight years. He tells listeners that he falls more in love with his staff members everyday, praising their dedication and hard work. Mr. Dubois also served previously as a health care executive in northwest Missouri's St. Joseph and at the Detroit medical center:

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) says the rough winter in January and February caused numerous potholes. MoDOT state maintenance director Darin Hamelink joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" to discuss potholes and what the agency is doing. Mr. Hamelink tells listeners that MoDOT has already spent $8-million this year on potholes, with $5-million of that being spent on labor. He urges you to slow down and move over a lane when you see a MoDOT crew making repairs, and to never driver distracted. Mr. Hamelink also encourages you to call 1-888-ASK-MODOT to report potholes. You need to be specific on where the pothole is. We also addressed the growing problem of litter, which is costing Missouri taxpayers millions of dollars a year:

One of Missouri's top business leaders says many small businesses around the Show-Me State are struggling to hire employees. NFIB Missouri president Brad Jones joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri", saying the number of small businesses in Missouri that have jobs that they cannot fill jumped from 34 percent in February to 40 percent in March. Mr. Jones tells listeners that its troubling. He also addressed Proposition A, which was approved by Missouri voters in November. It increased Missouri's minimum wage to $13.75 an hour in January and raises it to $15 an hour in 2026. The voter-approved measure will also adjust the minimum wage based on changes in the Consumer Price Index starting in 2027. It also includes sick leave provisions. Mr. Jones tells listeners that some of his members are worried about how they will deal with the sick leave provision, with their staffing issues:

Boone County's clerk is forecasting a 25 percent voter turnout for Tuesday's election. Columbia's hotly-contested three-way mayoral race is dominating news headlines, and there's also a key race in Columbia's Fourth ward between Councilman Nick Foster and challenger Ron Graves. Three candidates seek two seats on Columbia's school board, and voters in the Boone County Fire Protection District will cast ballots on a $6-million bond issue. Boone County clerk Brianna Lennon joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" to discuss the election. She tells listeners that more than 3,000 registered voters in Boone County have already cast no-excuse absentee ballots, including about 600 this weekend. Clerk Lennon also reminds voters that you'll need to bring a photo ID with you to the polls on Tuesday:

If a powerful Missouri lawmaker has his way, the Katy trail would be renamed the Bishop Davidson trail and the Missouri State Fair would be renamed as the Bishop Davidson fair. Missouri House Rules Committee chairman Scott Cupps (R-Shell Knob) has filed those and other similar bills essentially to send a message. "Missouri Times" publisher Scott Faughn joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri", telling listeners that Rep. Cupps wanted to be the Missouri House Budget Committee's vice chairman. House Speaker Jonathan Patterson (R-Lee's Summit) chose Rep. Bishop Davidson (R-Republic) instead. Mr. Faughn outlined why that's still an issue. It's not a partisan issue: all three men are key Republican lawmakers. Mr. Faughn also discussed Missouri attorney general Andrew Bailey and the Democrat Bailey beat in November, Elad Gross. Mr. Faughn thinks Mr. Gross would have a better chance being elected to the Missouri Legislature than winning a statewide race:

Motorists on Paris road can see the new multi-million dollar community center being built near Sylvan and Towne in northeast Columbia's Whitegate neighborhood, which has high poverty. United Community Builders is building the 22,500 square foot facility, which will be called the Beacon of Light. Senior Bishop and executive director Damian Dean and new development director Rochara Knight of United Community Builders joined host Fred Parry in-studio for the hour Saturday on 939 the Eagle's “CEO Roundtable” program. United Community Builders is an offshoot of United Community Cathedral church. Bishop Dean tells listeners that church's mission is to build and release capable people. He grew up in north St. Louis and came to Columbia to attend Mizzou. Ms. Knight is from Moberly, which is about 35 miles north of Columbia. Bishop Dean expects the Beacon of Light to open in early fall, weather permitting. He says the center's purpose will be to inspire and to educate people to achieve in life, adding that northeast Columbia has been a resource desert. The Whitegate neighborhood has many children, and there's no playground for two miles. He also credits donors for helping raise money for the center. “We will have a regulation-size high school gymnasium … basketball court. We're really thankful for (former Mizzou basketball star) Laurence Bowers and (former Shelter Insurance chief executive officer) Matt Moore and (former Columbia Insurance Group chief executive officer) Gary Thompson for really pushing us during the capital campaign to get a regulation-sized gym,” Bishop Dean tells listeners. He says the center will also have a community room for the public to use, adding that the center will be open Monday-Saturday. Bishop Dean also emphasizes the importance of respect for authority as well as the importance of integrity, honesty and a work ethic. He says United Community Builders gets its funding from individual donors, business owners and grants:

There were no serious injuries or deaths from Wednesday's tornado that struck mid-Missouri's Pilot Grove. The tornado struck the Katy Manor nursing home, and downed power lines on and near Highway 135. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Pleasant Hill had a survey team in Pilot Grove by Wednesday afternoon. The NWS in Pleasant Hill says it was an EF-2 tornado with 135 mile per hour winds. The tornado was on the ground for six miles. State Rep. Tim Taylor (R-Speed), who represents Pilot Grove in the Legislature, tells 939 the Eagle that neighbors helped neighbors after the tornado. State Sen. Kurtis Gregory (R-Marshall), who also represents Pilot Grove, agrees. Senator Gregory tells listeners that he's grateful that there were no serious injuries or deaths. Senator Gregory joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" and tells listeners that the sirens did not fire in Cooper County. We also discussed his health care bill, Senate Bill 79. The Missouri Senate has approved it. Missouri Farm Bureau backs Senator Gregory's bill, saying many farmers, small business owners and individuals not covered by group health insurance plans struggle to find affordable options on the marketplace:

University of Missouri officials have been planning a ribbon-cutting ceremony for 11:30 this morning for the $20-million three-story expansion of the MU Research Reactor (MURR), which is near Providence in Columbia. 939 the Eagle News covered the October 2023 groundbreaking ceremony, where then-Governor Mike Parson and others ground broke with a shovel in 90-degree plus heat. UM System President Dr. Mun Choi predicts the expansion will drive more research that will improve and save lives. President Choi has told 939 the Eagle that the expansion will increase radioisotope productions. MURR officials say 1.6-million patients benefit from the medical isotopes produced there every year. UM curator Michael Williams spoke at the 2023 groundbreaking ceremony, noting that MURR is the nation's only producer of four medical isotopes used in lifesaving treatments for liver, thyroid, pancreatic and prostate cancer. Former Congressman Blaine Luekemeyer, who is now a member of the UM Board of Curators, joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri." We also discussed the situation wth MU Health Care and Anthem:

Columbia-based MU Health Care has established a dedicated call center to answer your questions, after the failure of MU Health Care and Anthem to reach an agreement to renew their contracts. MU Health Care's facilities, including its seven hospitals and 1,200 providers, are now out of Anthem's commercial network, effective today. The contract expired Monday night. MU Health Care says this means patients may have to pay more out of pocket to see MU Health Care doctors or may need to find a new, in-network provider for their care. MU Health Care chief operating officer Tonya Johnson joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" to discuss the issue. Ms. Johnson tells listeners that MU Health Care is open to coming back to the table. But she emphasizes that they need to see something meaningful from Anthem. You can call MU Health Care's dedicated call center weekdays from 8 am to 6 pm. That number is (573) 650-5409. MU Health Care is blasting Anthem, saying its actions have put members, MU Health Care's patients, in a troublesome and frustrating situation. Anthem has criticized MU Health Care. Anthem released a statement on Monday which says MU Health Care's proposed price increases would increase healthcare costs “many times faster than wage growth for Missouri consumers.” Anthem says it cannot agree to price increases like this for its members. We asked Ms. Johnson about Anthem's statements, and she is saddened by them:

The Office of Child Advocate (OCA) was established by the Missouri Legislature in 2002 as an agent of accountability with Missouri's Children's Division (CD). The OCA operates under the Office of Administration (OA) and is independent of the Missouri Department of Social Services, Children's Division, the Department of Mental Health, and the juvenile court. Former State Rep. Becky Ruth (R-Festus) is the director of the Office of Child Advocate. She joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" to discuss child abuse awareness month, which is in April. Then-President Ronald Reagan first observed child abuse awareness month in 1983. Director Ruth spoke about the trauma and the external and internal scars that victims of child abuse face. She's helping to organize Saturday's parade in downtown Jefferson City to observe child abuse awareness month. Director Ruth tells listeners that at least 60 entries will be in the parade, adding that you'll also see Batman, Superman and the Chick-fil-A cow. The parade, which begins Saturday morning at 10, will start on High street and go to Capitol Avenue. Director Ruth hopes for a good turnout and invites you to attend. She also says the rural southeast Missouri town of Potosi helped give her and others the idea of Saturday's parade. Potosi has had a parade to observe child abuse awareness month for years:

Columbia's My Life Clinic at Providence and Wilkes started as Open Arms pregnancy center in 1992. It aims to support women and families experiencing an unexpected or unsupported pregnancy. They offer services such as pregnancy testing and ultrasound services. Their website also says they provide prenatal and parenting education on pregnancy, baby care, health, birth, parenting, budgeting, and more. My Life Clinic executive director Cassidy Teter joined host Fred Parry in-studio Saturday morning on 939 the Eagle's “CEO Roundtable” to discuss My Life. Ms. Teter tells listeners that 98 percent of their support comes from the local community, from businesses, churches and individuals. My Life Clinic is a not-for-profit organization. Ms. Teter grew up in the Kansas City suburb of Liberty. She graduated from Liberty high school and attended Dallas Baptist University on a tennis scholarship. She transferred to Mizzou in Columbia her junior year, earning a degree in biology. Ms. Teter tells listeners that she wanted to help women and children, adding that her mother taught her the value of life. After graduating from Mizzou, Cassidy worked at University Hospital in Columbia and volunteered at My Life. Host Fred Parry praises Ms. Teter for how she connects with the community:

The Boone County Recorder of Deeds office is a critical one that is often overlooked. You will visit Boone County Recorder of Deeds Bob Nolte's office when you get married, if you're refinancing a house, for some land transfers and for military discharge paperwork. Mr. Nolte joined host Fred Parry in-studio Saturday morning on 939 the Eagle's "CEO Roundtable". Mr. Nolte earned his bachelor's degree in history from New York State's Binghamton University and earned his master's degree in education administration from USC. He worked in the Mizzou Athletics department under then-Athletic Director Mike Alden in the compliance office and served as director of compliance too. Mr. Nolte praises Mr. Alden, describing him as a great leader and adding that he has a photographic memory with names. One of the issues Mr. Nolte raised awareness about during the interview is deed fraud, which he describes as "any type of transferring ownership illegally," He says it can take numerous different methods. While Mr. Nolte says there have been no examples of residential deed fraud in Boone County, he wants everyone to be aware of the issue and to know about it. Mr. Nolte brought up Graceland in Memphis. A woman from southern Missouri's Stone County pleaded guilty in February to federal charges for trying to defraud Elvis Presley's family of millions of dollars and to steal the family's ownership interest in Graceland in Memphis. Mr. Parry and Recorder of Deeds Nolte also discussed senior real estate applications and REAL ID during the interview. Starting in May, every air traveler 18 and older will be required to present a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or ID card or another ID form accepted by TSA to board federally-regulated domestic flights. Mr. Nolte also discussed the good working relationship that the various Boone County elected officials have:

Despite snow and ice this winter and hail and strong winds this spring, a key state lawmaker says MoDOT's $405-million project to rebuild and six-lane I-70 between Columbia and Kingdom City is on schedule. It's part of a $2.8 billion project to rebuild and six-lane I-70 across Missouri from Wentzville to Blue Springs. State Rep. Jim Schulte (R-New Bloomfield) joined us live on "Wake Up Missouri":

Missouri's Department of Natural Resources (DNR) director says needles, human waste and trash from Columbia's homeless camps can significantly contribute to pollution and water quality issues in the Hinkson creek. Director Kurt Schaefer joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" to discuss the concerns. He says DNR has received around 30 water quality complaints about Columbia homeless encampments since late 2022. DNR has written a letter to city officials, saying trash and human waste from the homeless camps can significantly contribute to pollution and water quality issues. Director Schaefer tells "Wake Up" that while there are multiple homeless camps in Columbia, the big one he's referring to is near I-70 and Highway 63. He notes some of that camp is on state Department of Transportation (MoDOT) property, telling listeners that MoDOT will be receiving a letter today that is similar to the one Columbia received in late February. Director Schaefer wants detailed plans from the city of Columbia and MoDOT on what they plan to do to address the concerns. Columbia spokeswoman Sydney Olsen has told 939 the Eagle that the city will continue to work with DNR to address the concerns. Olsen says the city has procedures in place involving illegal camping, adding that the city has made it easier for residents to report it. She also emphasizes the importance of keeping streams and waterways as clean as possible:

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe is hopeful about a federal disaster declaration following Friday evening's deadly tornado outbreak that killed at least 12 people. Governor Kehoe says the destruction from the tornado outbreak is growing. Governor Kehoe says the tornadoes destroyed 368 houses and caused major damage to another 366 homes. Governor Kehoe also says that about 8,000 Missourians remain without power. That's down from 47,000 on Monday. Crews from Ameren Missouri and numerous other utilities have been working around-the-clock to try to restore power. U.S. Rep. Bob Onder (R), who represents Columbia, Jefferson City, Fulton and Kingdom City on Capitol Hill, joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri." Congressman Onder tells listeners that he's confident that President Trump will issue a federal disaster declaration, adding that he, U.S. Rep. Jason Smith (R-Salem) and others will participate in a conference call this morning with the governor about the tornado damage. Congressman Onder says Friday evening's tornado blew a big chunk of his roof off his home in St. Charles County. Congressman Onder says there were many power outages and hail damage in his sprawling district. Congressman Onder will be in Columbia later this morning to tour MU Health Care's Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopment. Congressman Onder praises the work the Thompson Center is doing. He also discussed other issues on Capitol Hill, and tells listeners that Democrats are in disarray and are on the wrong side of issues like transgender bills and the issue of women's sports:

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey (R) describes a federal judge's decision to rule in favor of Missouri's $24-billion lawsuit against China as historic. The lawsuit accuses China of hoarding personal protective equipment during the COVID pandemic. General Bailey joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri". He tells listeners that he based the lawsuit on a 1976 law passed by the U.S. Congress. Then-President Gerald Ford signed that bill into law. While some question what Missouri can now do, General Bailey says they intend to collect every penny by seizing Chinese-owned assets like Missouri farmland. We also discussed Friday night's deadly tornado outbreak across Missouri, during the live interview. At least 12 people have been killed and more than 13,000 are still without power. The governor says the tornado outbreak destroyed 368 Missouri houses, adding that another 356 homes sustained major damage. General Bailey tells listeners that his office will not tolerate any scams nor price gouging against storm victims. He emphasizes that his office stands to protect tornado victims. He encourages anyone who has been scammed or experienced price gouging to call his office's consumer protection hotline at 1-800-392-8222:

Missouri's governor describes the devastation from Friday evening's deadly tornado outbreak across the state as heartbreaking. Governor Mike Kehoe and Missouri state troopers say at least 12 people have been killed in the storms. The governor says one person is still missing. He says about 47,000 Missourians remain without power this (Monday) morning. The hardest-hit areas were in southern Missouri, with six fatalities in Wayne County and three in Ozark County. Governor Kehoe says 19 tornadoes impacted Missouri on Friday night. "Missouri Times" publisher Scott Faughn joined us live on 939 the Eagle this morning. Mr. Faughn, a former mayor in southeast Missouri, doesn't think that the governor will need to call a special session to address the damage. Faughn predicts the federal government will handle most of the expenses. That would require a federal disaster declaration. Faughn also discussed possible friction between State Rep. Marlene Terry (D-St. Louis) and House Minority Leader Ashley Aune (D-Kansas City) over school choice legislation from a year ago:

The longtime president of the nation's second oldest women's college is in her final few months before she retires. Longtime Stephens College president Dianne Lynch is finishing her 16th and final year as president at Stephens in Columbia, which was founded in 1833. She joined host Fred Parry in-studio this weekend on 939 the Eagle's "CEO Roundtable" and tells listeners that Stephens has an incredibly rich, consistent history of being first in innovating around education, teaching and learning. She also says it's important to have new leadership after 16 years, including fresh ideas. One of the things she's most proud of during her 16 years is the millions of dollars that have been poured into campus improvements. That includes roof work, air conditioning work and windows. Stephens has invested more than $13-million in campus improvements in the past three years. President Lynch is also proud that the chapel has been restored. Stephens' enrollment numbers are solid: they welcomed their largest undergraduate class in a decade this past fall, with its fall class up 60 percent from the fall of 2023. President Lynch will be moving back to Vermont, and will miss Columbia. She describes it as the friendliest community, and will miss her favorite spots like Murry's, the Heidelberg and Ragtag. It's no secret that President Lynch's favorite food is the onion rings and dinner salads at Murry's. She also addressed the sensitive issue of downtown Columbia's security during the one-hour interview. President Lynch describes downtown Columbia as vibrant and awesome, adding that it's 95 percent safe. There's one other note about President Lynch that will be part of her legacy: she secured the largest gift in Stephens' history: a $2.5 million annual donation in perpetuity, effective doubling Stephens' endowment”

The Missouri Senate could vote this month on legislation that would repeal the law that says Mizzou is the exclusive grantor of degrees like medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, law and engineering. A Missouri Senate committee has voted to repeal the law. Missourians for Improving Higher Education co-founder Tom Strong, who's a Mizzou donor, is pushing for repeal. He tells 939 the Eagle's “Wake Up Missouri” that repeal would help students in rural southeast Missouri. Mr. Strong joined us live on "Wake Up" on Wednesday, saying Southeast Missouri State would love to have an engineering program. The University of Missouri opposes the bill. Mizzou vice provost Dr. Jim Spain testified at the Statehouse in Jefferson City recently and joined us live this morning on "Wake Up." Dr. Spain tells listeners that this is about efficiency with the funding that is available. He emphasizes that Mizzou's priority has been on student success. Dr. Spain also says all schools compete for students and emphasizes Mizzou is not against the other schools in question like SEMO or Missouri State:

The Missouri Senate Education Committee has voted to approve legislation that would repeal a law that the University of Missouri be the state's only public research university. State Sen. Lincoln Hough's (R-Springfield) Senate Bill 11 would also repeal the law that says Mizzou is the exclusive grantor of research doctorates and professional degrees like dentistry, law, medicine, optometry, pharmacy and veterinary medicine. It would also repeal the law's provision that says degrees in engineering may only be conferred by Mizzou "or a public institution of higher education in collaboration with the University of Missouri." Missourians for Improving Higher Education co-founder Tom Strong is pushing the bill. Mr. Strong, who graduated from Mizzou's School of Law, joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" and emphasizes it's not an anti-Mizzou bill. He notes he is a major donor to Mizzou and that his name is on a room at the law school in Columbia. Mr. Strong tells listeners that Senator Hough's bill allows other universities to perform as they can perform. He says Missouri State would love to have an engineering school and a pharmacy school, and that Southeast Missouri State in Cape Girardeau would like to have an engineering school. Mr. Strong says high school students who want to pursue engineering are leaving for other states. He also says students in the Bootheel are closer to Ole Miss in Oxford than they are to Mizzou in Columbia. He's hopeful the bill will pass:

NFIB Missouri is a member-driven organization that advocates for small and independent businesses nationwide. One of their top priorities has been workforce challenges and hiring employees. NFIB Missouri's Brad Jones, who has been their state director for 11 years, joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri." Mr. Jones tells listeners that 38 percent of Missouri small businesses currently have jobs they cannot fill. He says it continues to be a challenge. We also discussed Schneider Electric's planned $73-million expansion in Columbia. They plan to add a significant amount of manufacturing lines. Schneider Electric's proposed expansion is expected to create 241 new jobs that would pay above Boone County's average wage, which means the jobs will pay more than $48,000. While Jones praises the planned expansion, he predicts that the company will have to recruit some employees from elsewhere in Missouri and even in other parts of the country:

Southwest Missouri's largest employer is pushing state lawmakers for passage of bipartisan child care tax credit legislation. CoxHealth testifies that it is experiencing workforce shortages due to the childcare crisis, adding that their patients can suffer. Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Kara Corches says the bill is also the Chamber's top priority. Corches tells 939 the Eagle that 80 percent of business leaders in Missouri have struggled to recruit and retain workers due to child care issues. The Missouri House has given final approval to the legislation from State Rep. Brenda Shields (R-St. Joseph) on s 120-34 vote. Ms. Corches says the bill will increase access to safe, affordable and high-quality child care. "Missouri Times" publisher Scott Faughn joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" to discuss the bill. He says State Sen. Nick Schroer (R-O'Fallon) will play a key role in it. Mr. Faughn is impressed with the way Senator Schroer is conducting himself in Jefferson City this session:

A prominent businessman who founded Midway USA in Boone County 48 years ago is serving again as its chief executive officer. Larry Potterfield joined host Fred Parry in-studio for the hour Saturday morning on 939 the Eagle's “CEO Roundtable.” Midway USA is a shooting, hunting, outdoor and fishing internet retailer, and has about 350 employees. Mr. Potterfield tells listeners that he suffered a stroke in August and was on the floor for about two hours before his wife found him. He says while he speaks a little slower and has a small speech impediment, he's back at work and is serving again as chief executive officer. Mr. Potterfield says he can still fish and hunt, two things he loves. Mr. Potterfield says he'll remain as chief executive officer until the new one is hired, adding that the company generally promotes from within. Midway USA's massive 400,000 square foot distribution center is at 40 and Route J near Rocheport, and anyone who's driven in that area has seen a two-story brick and limestone building going up called the Roosevelt building, which will house Midway USA's administration. Mr. Potterfield says he was in the new building last week taking publicity photos and that drywall is going in upstairs. He expects the building to open in November. “We will move in all through the summer. The last move-in date is the first week in November, and there will be no construction people on-crew anywhere the 10th of November,” Mr. Potterfield tells listeners. Columbia-based Coil Construction is handling the massive project. Potterfield praises Randy Coil and his company, saying they do a great job. Midway USA is a private, family business. Mr. Potterfield grew up on a farm in northeast Missouri's Marion County, near Hannibal. He grew up in Ely. Longtime mid-Missourians will remember that Midway USA started as Ely Arms. Mr. Potterfield is also big on trees and spends top dollars for Midway USA's landscaping. He's told 939 the Eagle that the landscaping budget alone at Midway USA is $1.3 million: