Eagle Eye News On Demand

Missouri's Senate President has used a football analogy to indicate a deal has finally been reached between Columbia-based MU Health Care and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield. MU Health Care's 1,200 providers and seven hospitals have been out of Anthem's commercial network since April 1, when the two sides failed to reach an agreement to renew the contracts. Senate President Pro Tem Cindy O'Laughlin (R-Shelbina) made a Facebook post on Friday, saying “touchdown” and saying we'll learn details this week. "Missouri Times" publisher Scott Faughn discussed the issue this morning on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri," telling listeners that he believes MU Health Care will accept Anthem's offer this week. Mr. Faughn credits Anthem, UM System President Dr. Mun Choi and Pro Tem O'Laughlin for breaking the logjam. Mr. Faughn is in southern Missouri's Vernon County this morning. He also discussed Nevada, Missouri and former Missouri Lt. Governor Bill "Full-time" Phelps during the live interview with hosts Randy Tobler and Stephanie Bell:

Mizzou's athletic director has been on the job in Columbia for 14 months. Laird Veatch joined host Fred Parry in-studio for the hour Saturday morning on 939 the Eagle's “CEO Roundtable” program. They discussed numerous issues, including the $250-million Memorial Stadium improvement project, the north end zone project and name, image and likeness (NIL). Mizzou officials say the stadium project will elevate the fan experience at Faurot and will solidify Mizzou's competitive standing in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The project is scheduled to be done in 2026, which will be Memorial Stadium's 100th anniversary. Laird Veatch tells listeners that NIL is an opportunity for Mizzou. He also spoke in-detail about the north end zone project and says the greatest moment in Mizzou sports history is when the university entered the SEC in 2012. “I'm sure at the time it was a little controversial and people struggled with it. There has been no move that's happened for this place that's impacted us more. And you think about now where we're at and where we would be if we hadn't. I mean it's a dramatic platform to be on,” Mr. Veatch tells listeners. Mr. Veatch grew up in Manhattan, Kansas and played football for Coach Bill Snyder at Kansas State. He's spent time at Kansas State, Iowa State, Missouri, Memphis, and with Learfield. Mr. Veatch praises UM System President Dr. Mun Choi, saying is great to work with and gets athletics. He also says Mizzou volleyball should get more attention from fans:

Former manager for Columbia's Water and Light department discussing transmission lines, renewable energy and sneaky financial practices

While they are talking, there is NO agreement yet between Columbia-based MU Health Care and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield. MU Health Care is considering the new offer from Anthem. Mid-Missouri patients impacted by the dispute are expressing their frustration on 939 the Eagle's Facebook page. Listener Judy Cain says the two sides need to come to an agreement. She says she has Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield and is tired of waiting to see her specialist, because she's not paying out of pocket. Missouri Senate President Pro Tem Cindy O'Laughlin (R-Shelbina), who represents Moberly and Mexico in the 939 the Eagle mid-Missouri listening area, wants to see the two sides sign the contract. She says Anthem has doubled their rate increase offer and says the latest proposal includes paying doctors more. Pro Tem O'Laughlin joined “Wake Up Missouri” hosts Randy Tobler and Stephanie Bell on 939 the Eagle this morning, saying both sides have thought the other wasn't being fair and that costs are a top concern from both sides. Pro Tem O'Laughlin tells listeners that this issue needs to be resolved quickly, adding that she's cautiously optimistic MU Health Care and Anthem will reach an agreement soon:

President Donald Trump has signed what he calls the “big, beautiful bill” into law. It makes his first-term tax cuts permanent and also provides billions of dollars for border security. Democratic critics say it will cut Medicaid and food assistance for millions, including vulnerable residents. U.S. Rep. Eric Burlison (R-Springfield) joined host Gary Nolan live on 939 the Eagle's “Gary Nolan show” to discuss the bill. Congressman Burlison voted for the bill. Congressman Burlison tells listeners that if you are disabled or a senior or are a pregnant woman receiving Medicaid, there will be no changes, adding that your situation may improve a bit. He complains that able-bodied young adults who choose not to work have been receiving Medicaid, and says the bill stops that. Congressman Burlison also discussed tariffs on the show:

The powerful Missouri Senate leader who represents Moberly and Mexico in the 939 the Eagle mid-Missouri listening area wants to see Columbia-based MU Health Care and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield renew their contract this week. Senate President Pro Tem Cindy O'Laughlin (R-Shelbina) made that call in a Facebook post, saying Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield has made what seems to be a reasonable offer. She says Anthem has doubled their rate increase offer and will allow policy exceptions to remain in place. Pro Tem O'Laughlin also says Anthem's latest proposal includes paying doctors more. She is encouraging the two sides to sign the contract renewal by tomorrow (Thursday) so thousands of patients can see their doctors at MU Health. MU Health Care's 1,200 providers, 80 clinics and seven hospitals have been out of Anthem's commercial network since April 1, when the two sides failed to reach an agreement to renew the contracts. About 90,000 people are impacted. "Wake Up Missouri" hosts Dr. Randy Tobler and Stephanie Bell discussed the issue in-detail this morning along with 939 the Eagle's Brian Hauswirth:

The historic deadly flooding in Texas has prompted the deployment of 52 members of Columbia-based Missouri Task Force One (MO-TF1) to the Lone Star State. The “Dallas Morning News” reports there are at least 104 confirmed deaths from the Texas flooding, and searches are continuing on this Tuesday morning. MO-TF1 is part of the Boone County Fire Protection District, and they've been deployed with a focus on water rescue operations and human remains detection (HRD) capabilities. MO-TF1 members left for Texas Monday evening, while two Incident Support team members left this morning. They'll be supporting search and rescue operations in response to the historic flooding. Mizzou atmospheric science professor Tony Lupo joined hosts Randy Tobler and Stephanie Bell this morning on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri." Professor Lupo says the historic Texas flooding was caused by the remnants of a June 29th tropical storm. He also discusses the difficulty in being precise in forecasting:

There's still no agreement in place between Columbia-based MU Health Care and Anthem. A Missouri Senate committee held a hearing on the issue last week at the Statehouse in Jefferson City. MU Health Care chief executive officer Ric Ransom testifies that MU Health Care and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield have not been able to find common ground during contract negotiations. He and Anthem executives testified before the Missouri Senate Insurance and Banking Committee in Jefferson City. MU Health Care's 1,200 providers, 80 clinics and seven hospitals have been out of Anthem's commercial network since April 1, when the two sides failed to reach an agreement to renew the contracts. "Missouri Times" publisher Scott Faughn joined hosts Stephanie Bell and Jennifer Bukowsky on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri". Mr. Faughn tells listeners that both Anthem and MU Health Care need to find common ground. Faughn also discussed a possible challenge to State Sen. Curtis Trent (R-Springfield) in 2026:

The high-profile 1976 disappearance and murder of a Columbia waitress is the focus of a new book called “The Life of a Murder.” The book is written by retired Boone County Judge Gary Oxenhandler, who presided over Johnny Wright's murder trial. Wright was able to avoid detection for more than three decades before being captured in Georgia and eventually convicted of second degree murder for waitress Rebecca “Becky” Doisy's death. Wright died of apparent natural causes at the maximum-security Jefferson City Correctional Center in 2015. Judge Oxenhandler retired from the bench in 2016, after he reached the mandatory retirement age of 70. He joined host Fred Parry Saturday morning on 939 the Eagle's “CEO Roundtable”, telling listeners that Becky Doisy was from the St. Louis area and a Mizzou student who worked at Ernie's, especially on the weekends. He says she was well-liked and had a large circle of friends. Becky Doisy was a 1971 graduate of Kirkwood high school. Oxenhandler says one of the first things he did before writing the book is contact the Disciplinary Commission for Judges and Attorneys and ask if he could do this. They told him yes, noting he's not a judge anymore. He tells listeners that they also advised him to say retired Judge Gary Oxenhandler rather than Judge Oxenhandler. The retired judge introduces readers to each of the key players from a first-person perspective and emphasizes there are many things about the Johnny Wright case that he didn't know when he presided over the trial. “I found in the records three other women that Johnny Wright had attacked. That would never … the only … I never heard anything about that in getting. Now had the state … the state was aware of it, and the defense was aware of it. But there has to be more of a connection than these events. And … but I learned about it afterwards,” Oxenhandler tells host Parry. Gary Oxenhandler grew up in the St. Louis suburb of University City, coming to Columbia to attend college in 1965. He was drafted into the U.S. military and finished law school at Mizzou. Then-Missouri Governor Bob Holden (D) appointed Gary Oxenhandler to the bench in 2002. Oxenhandler was re-elected twice and served as presiding judge in Boone County for three years. He presided over about 250 jury trials, including the Wright case. Ernie's Steakhouse is mentioned several times in the book and during Fred's interview. Judge Oxenhandler's book is currently available at Skylark bookshop in downtown Columbia and will be available on Amazon in a few weeks. Gary Oxenhandler is also a former Columbia Chamber of Commerce president. He and his wife Janet will celebrate their 56th wedding anniversary this week:

A U.S. House vote on President Trump's $3.3 trillion "big, beautiful bill" is being delayed due to a lengthy speech from House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-New York). Leader Jeffries have been speaking for hours on the House floor, saying the bill guts Medicaid and doesn't protect it. U.S. Rep. Bob Onder (R), who represents mid-Missouri's Columbia, Ashland, Jefferson City, Fulton and Boonville on Capitol Hill, joined host Randy Tobler live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri." Congressman Onder tells listeners that Leader Jeffries is wrong about Medicaid and the bill. Congressman Onder says there is waste, fraud and abuse in the Medicaid program and says work requirements are needed. He also tells listeners that the bill bans illegal immigrants from receiving Medicaid:

The full U.S. House is expected to vote today on what President Trump calls the "big, beautiful bill." Missouri Senate Appropriations Committee chair Lincoln Hough (R-Springfield) discussed the bill during a live interview on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri". Senator Hough tells listeners that Missouri faces a $2-billion reduction involving Medicaid and the FRLA allowance under the bill. Chairman Hough says he's had a number of Missouri state senators urging him to support the bill and has asked all of them if they've read the bill. Senator Hough also discussed Governor Kehoe's line-item vetoes on "Wake Up":

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey (R) has announced that his office has launched a probe of the city of Columbia's DEI programs. DEI stands for diversity, equity and inclusion. General Bailey made the announcement this morning on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri." He tells listeners that his office wants records and is demanding accountability. General Bailey tells "Wake Up Missouri" hosts Randy Tobler and Stephanie Bell that Columbia has also recently recommitted themselves to an accountability system:

A series of thunderstorms with more than 80 mile per hour winds moved through Springfield and the Ozarks on Sunday. News director Don Louzader at Zimmer's KWTO in Springfield reports trees were blown down in Springfield, Lockwood and along Highway 160 in Dade County. City Utilities of Springfield reports more than 37,000 residents were without power. Springfield City Utilities says customers should report outages by calling (888) 863-9001. Missouri House Majority Floor Leader Alex Riley (R-Springfield) joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri", telling listeners that it looks like a mini-hurricane hit his district and the Ozarks. He says Battlefield had wind gusts of more than 100 miles per hour on Sunday, adding that numerous trees and limbs are down and that houses have significant damage. Leader Riley also discussed his recent trip to France as part of Governor Mike Kehoe's trade mission there. Governor Kehoe says Missouri exported $266-million in products to France in 2024, adding that more than 40 French companies are currently operating in Missouri. The nonprofit Hawthorn Foundation funded the trade mission. The governor and Leader Riley say they look forward to strengthening existing business relationships while encouraging opportunities for further growth. Paris-based Schneider Electric, which broke ground in May on a $73-million expansion at their plant on Columbia's Route B, hosted Governor Kehoe, Leader Riley, State Sen. Travis Fitzwater (R-Holts Summit) and others at their headquarters in Paris. Schneider's expansion in Columbia will mean 241 new jobs that will pay more than $48,000 annually:

U.S. Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri) is praising Saturday's successful attack by the U.S. military on three nuclear sites in Iran … in Fordow, Natanz and Esfahan. The B-2 stealth bombers that dropped the bombs are based at Whiteman Air Force Base near western Missouri's Knob Noster. Senator Schmitt, who serves on the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined Randy and Sammie Tobler live this morning on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri." Senator Schmitt tells listeners that he plans to travel to Knob Noster to thank the Whiteman B-2 pilots in-person. Senator Schmitt also praises President Trump, saying his instinct is peace and not endless war. Senator Schmitt describes Saturday's attacks as surgical and tactical:

Columbia-based Scout and Nimble has a national presence. It's an e-commerce site that Jesse and Sam Bodine founded to sell furniture and home décor across the country. Jesse grew up in southwest Missouri's Springfield and earned a nursing degree in college but followed her passion for furniture and home décor. Sam grew up in St. Louis and attended college in Columbia, where he met Jesse. The name Scout and Nimble is a tribute to Jesse Bodine's grandmother, who was known as “Yai-Yai.” Jesse says her grandmother exemplified perseverance, determination and grit. The Scout and Nimble website was launched in 2014. Jesse and Sam joined host Fred Parry Saturday morning on 939 the Eagle's “CEO Roundtable”. Fred also tackled proposed trade tariffs with them and the most significant challenges furnishing companies are facing today. Jesse and Sam also discussed the Scout House:

One of the most popular segments each week on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" is the winners and losers segment every Friday morning at 8:30. Host Randy Tobler, who is celebrating a birthday, was joined this morning by 939 the Eagle's John Marsh, Brian Hauswirth and Producer Drake:

U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Missouri) says the Senate, which is controlled by Republicans, wants to keep Green New Deal subsidies. Senator Hawley describes them as "Green New Scam" subsidies. Senator Hawley says those subsidies would be paid for by defunding rural hospitals in Missouri and other states. U.S. Rep. Bob Onder (R), who represents mid-Missouri's Columbia, Jefferson City, Fulton, Boonville and Linn on Capitol Hill, joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" this morning. Congressman Onder tells hosts Randy Tobler and Stephanie Bell that "every penny" in the Green New Deal should be defunded. Congressman Onder says rural hospitals must be protected but says Medicaid must be reformed. Congressman Onder also discussed Iran and Israel on the show and tells listeners that it's not in the best interest of the United States to be at war with Iran:

Missouri's governor has signed legislation into law providing $50-million to plan and design a new 20-megawatt state-of-the-art research reactor at Mizzou. Governor Mike Kehoe (R) also signed other bills into law this weekend providing $125-million in funding for storm and tornado relief and emergency aid to low-income households impacted by severe weather. Governor Kehoe also signed legislation providing tax incentives and one-time tax credits aimed at keeping the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals in Missouri. "Missouri Times" publisher Scott Faughn joined hosts Randy Tobler and Stephanie Bell live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri." Mr. Faughn praises Governor Kehoe's ability to close a deal, saying he did that with the stadium legislation. But Faughn describes this month's special session as the "I-70 special session", saying that if you live in Cole County or southeast Missouri's Bootheel, you received nothing:

The Columbia Board of Realtors says the median home sold price in Boone County in April was about $309,000. The Board of Realtors says the median home price in Columbia was down in April 13 percent to $313,000. Local homebuilder Orie Hemme of Hemme Construction joined host Fred Parry in-studio Saturday morning on 939 the Eagle's “CEO Roundtable” to discuss home prices, inventory and work Hemme is doing in other communities. Mr. Hemme says they just received their first eight building permits for Amberton Place, which will be built next to Valley View Gardens. He tells listeners that Hemme will be building 118 homes near West Gibbs road. “And it's all focused on more affordable, attainable housing. So we call it cottage-style,” Mr. Hemme tells listeners. Hemme Construction is currently building homes in Old Hawthorne and in the Glades, and they've built 135 houses in Nursery Heights. Orie Hemme also says remodeling is getting more popular and is about half of Hemme's business now. He says they have a full remodel division now at Hemme Construction. Orie Hemme grew up in Columbia and was part of the first graduating class at Fr. Tolton high school. He graduated with a business degree from the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg. The 29-year-old Hemme has worked for his father for about seven years. Mr. Hemme also notes that while Hemme Construction has traditionally been known as homebuilders building custom homes, they also have rental properties. He and Mr. Parry also discussed the growing popularity of building homes in towns like Hallsville, Ashland, Centralia and Boonville:

Missouri lawmakers have given final approval this week to legislation providing tornado/storm relief and providing tax incentives aimed at keeping the Chiefs and Royals in Missouri. Missouri lawmakers have also approved Governor Kehoe's request to provide $50-million for a new research reactor in Columbia. State Rep. Jim Schulte (R-New Bloomfield) joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" and tells listeners that he's received some e-mails from residents who say the stadium bills are corporate welfare. Rep. Schulte disagrees with that and says it's not corporate welfare but is supporting the state and the economy. Rep. Schulte says the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals would have to pay for the first half of the construction costs. Schulte, who retired in 2013 from the Missouri National Guard and served two combat tours in Afghanistan, also discussed Israel's strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities:

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey (R) says state government is aware of reports of anti-ICE protests planned across Missouri on Saturday. General Bailey says state government is coordinating with local law enforcement to advance of the protests. General Bailey joined hosts "Wake Up Missouri" hosts Randy Tobler and Jennifer Bukowsky live this morning, saying peaceful protests are at the heart of who we are as Americans. But General Bailey tells listeners there is nothing peaceful about anarchy and chaos, adding that Missouri will not allow what is happening in California. General Bailey supports the Trump administration's decision to deploy the National Guard and U-S Marines to Los Angeles:

Missouri House Majority Leader Alex Riley (R-Springfield) wants to be the next House Speaker. Majority Leader Riley became the first Missouri House Majority Leader elected from Springfield/Greene County in 100 years. He joined hosts Randy Tobler and Stephanie Bell on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" and also discussed the importance of fiscal conservatism. Leader Riley tells listeners that the House did not pass HB 19 because they wanted to keep at least $1-billion on the bottom line. He also says the bill was full of pork-barrel projects in House and Senate districts, including his own:

"Missouri Times" publisher Scott Faughn says this is one of the most bizarre special sessions he's ever seen. The Senate approved the three proposals in Governor Mike Kehoe's (R) special session call: storm damage, tax incentives aimed at keeping the Chiefs and Royals in Missouri and $50-million for a proposed new research reactor at Mizzou in Columbia. Mr. Faughn appeared live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri", telling hosts Randy Tobler and Stephanie Bell that the Senate took orders from Governor Kehoe and from the House and didn't push back. Mr. Faughn also discussed State Sen. Rick Brattin's (R-Raymore) vote for stadium legislation. Faughn tells listeners that that Senator Brattin came back to Jefferson City this year as a different senator who wants to accomplish things. Faughn also criticizes the Freedom Caucus, saying it's a way for trial attorneys to protect their ability to file lawsuits:

Columbia's Brook Harlan is one of five chef instructors at the Columbia Area Career Center (CACC). Six of his students have won national championships in culinary over the years, along with three in baking. Mr. Harlan joined host Fred Parry in-studio for the hour Saturday morning on 939 the Eagle's "CEO Roundtable" to discuss the program. Mr. Harlan and others will be taking 15 students to Atlanta soon to compete for national championships again. Mr. Harlan grew up in Columbia, attending Grant elementary, West Middle School and Rock Bridge high school. Harlan originally wanted to be a professional skateboarder or professional baseball player when growing up, but chose food. He starred on the "Food Network" and was one of eight finalists on a popular show show in 2005. His resume is impressive: he's worked at the old Glenn's in Columbia and at Katy Station, and also spent time at Commander's Palace in New Orleans, considered to be one of the best restaurants in the South. He's a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. Mr. Harlan tells listeners the competition in these national championships is intense and says about 80 or so CPS students a year either go into culinary work or to college for further preparation:

Missouri Treasurer Vivek Malek (R) has led the effort in Jefferson City to divest from China. He's been pushing Vanguard on the issue as well. Vanguard, the world's second-largest investment firm, has filed paperwork with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to launch its first-ever emerging market fund that deliberately excludes Chinese equities. Treasurer Malek joined hosts Randy Tobler and Stephanie Bell on "Wake Up Missouri":

A mid-Missouri state senator who is carrying legislation that provides tax incentives to the Chiefs and Royals says $2-billion in economic activity is at stake if the teams leave for Kansas. State Sen. Kurtis Gregory (R-Marshall) represents Cooper and Howard counties in the 939 the Eagle listening area. Senator Gregory joined hosts Randy Tobler and Stephanie Bell on “Wake Up Missouri” this morning to discuss the bill. Meantime, State Rep. Tim Taylor (R-Speed) tells 939 the Eagle that he expects Missouri House committee hearings in Jefferson City on Monday and Tuesday for special session bills and for the Missouri House to be in session Wednesday morning at 10. The Missouri Senate has approved legislation aimed at keeping the Chiefs and Royals in Missouri, along with $50-million in funding to plan and design a new research reactor at Mizzou in Columbia. The Senate has also approved $125-million for tornado and storm relief. Critics call the stadium bill corporate welfare, saying taxpayers shouldn't fund stadiums. Senator Gregory disagrees with that viewpoint:

State Sen. Stephen Webber (D-Columbia) was heard shouting on the Missouri Senate floor in Jefferson City during last week's Senate bill-signings, which are normally routine. He was upset over how President Pro Tem Cindy O'Laughlin (R-Shelbina) handled that day. State Sen. Travis Fitzwater (R-Holts Summit) joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" to discuss the special session and what happened that day. Senator Fitzwater tells listeners that passions are high now, emphasizing that he gets along with Senator Webber and has a lot of respect for him, despite policy disagreements. Senator Fitzwater wants to see a path forward in the Missouri Senate for the special session. He also tells listeners that his proposed constitutional amendment to reduce the Missouri House's size is a worthy policy discussion:

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: