MARCH 7, 2025

Next week, Governor Mike Kehoe will attend several meetings and events across the state and host several groups and organizations for meet and greets in the Governor's Office.

On Tuesday, March 11, Governor Kehoe will speak at the Missouri Association of Veterans Organizations (MAVO) Veterans Rally in the Capitol Rotunda.

On Wednesday, March 12, Governor Kehoe will attend the Boy Scouts Patron Breakfast in Jefferson City.

On Thursday, March 13, Governor and First Lady Kehoe will travel to Springfield to attend Convoy of Hope's International Women's Day Celebration.

On Friday, March 14, Governor and First Lady Kehoe will participate in Missouri Southern State University's Roy Blunt Health Science Innovation Center Topping Out Ceremony in Joplin. They will also visit the CASA Kid's Clubhouse in Springfield.

On Monday, March 17, Governor and First Lady Kehoe will travel to St. Louis to celebrate St. Patrick's Day by participating in the Ancient Order of Hibernians parade in Dogtown.

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

Governor Kehoe to speak at MAVO Veterans Rally

           When:         9:00 a.m.  

         Where:        Missouri State Capitol - First Floor Rotunda

         Media:        Open

Friday, March 14, 2025

Governor Kehoe to attend the Roy Blunt Health Science Innovation Center Topping Out Ceremony

           When:         10:00 a.m.  

         Where:        Missouri Southern State University

                             3950 Newman Rd., Joplin, MO 64801

         Media:        Open

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MARCH 5, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced Missouri counties, towns, and cities can now apply for Missouri Blue Shield designation, recognizing their commitment to enhancing public safety, strengthening support for law enforcement, and building sustainable public safety partnerships.

The Blue Shield Program, as outlined in Executive Order 25-03, is part of the Governor’s Safer Missouri initiative announced on his first day in office. Achieving the Blue Shield designation allows communities to access state grants for law enforcement training and equipment.

“Improving public safety is the top priority of our administration, and Missouri communities that are making public safety and support of law enforcement a priority should be recognized,” Governor Kehoe said. “We urge Missouri communities to apply for the Blue Shield designation to spread the word about the safer communities they’re building. We will continue to work with the General Assembly to make $10 million in grant funding for law enforcement training and equipment available to Blue Shield communities.”

The Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS) is administering the Blue Shield Program. Applications should be made by an official from the jurisdictions seeking the Blue Shield designation in coordination with the jurisdiction’s chief law enforcement officer. Applications and all supporting materials should be submitted online at this link.

DPS will review applications and begin making determinations on Blue Shield designations for counties, cities, and towns within two weeks of application submission. DPS encourages communities to apply early, because if grant funding is approved by the General Assembly, the department will begin accepting grant applications in July, when the fiscal year 2026 funding  becomes available. Questions on the application process can be directed to Courtney Kawelaske, Courtney.Kawelaske@dps.mo.gov.

Among the Blue Shield designation eligibility criteria are:

• Passage of a resolution demonstrating a commitment to public safety, including to reduce violent crime within the jurisdiction;
• Extraordinary investments in public safety funding;
• Community policing initiatives or local partnerships to invest in and/or improve public safety;
• Law enforcement officer recruitment and retention program;
• Demonstrated effectiveness in reducing crime or innovative programs that attempt to reduce crime;
• Participates in regional anti-crime task forces, or a commitment to be a willing partner with these in the future; and
• Compliance with Missouri crime reporting and traffic stop data requirements and other related statutes.

Blue Shield counties, cities, and towns must maintain their commitments each year to retain the Blue Shield designation via annual reporting on their ongoing efforts to support public safety to DPS. Once local governments are approved for a Blue Shield designation, they will receive a public relations toolkit to showcase their community’s commitment to public safety.

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MARCH 4, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Kehoe announced judicial appointments to the 21st and 9th Judicial Circuits.

Ellen W. Dunne, of Des Peres, was appointed as the Circuit Judge in the 21^st Judicial Circuit.

Judge Dunne currently serves as Associate Circuit Judge for the 21^st Judicial Circuit, a position in which she has held since 2017. She earned her Juris Doctor from Saint Louis University School of Law and holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Missouri. Prior to her judicial service, she practiced law for over two decades, representing clients in all types of civil matters. In addition to her judicial duties, Judge Dunne is an active member of the Missouri Bar Association, Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis, Lawyers Association of St. Louis, Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater St. Louis, and St. Louis County Bar Association. Judge Dunne will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Nancy M. Watkins McLaughlin from the circuit bench.

Adam Warren, of Chillicothe, was appointed as the Associate Circuit Judge for Sullivan County in the 9^th Judicial Circuit.

Mr. Warren currently serves as the Livingston County prosecuting attorney, a position he has held since 2011. He earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri School of Law and holds a Bachelor of Science in hospitality and restaurant administration from Missouri State University. Mr. Warren built a successful private practice as the owner of Warren Law Office, LLC. He also served in the Missouri Army National Guard from 2004 to 2011 before receiving a honorable discharge. Mr. Warren will fill the vacancy left by the recent passing of Judge Tracey Mason-White.

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MARCH 4, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced three appointments to various boards and filled two county office vacancies.

Scott Albers, of Country Club, was appointed to the Missouri Western State University Board of Governors.

Mr. Albers is the president of Public Refrigerated Warehousing at Nor-Am Cold Storage and has served in leadership roles at the company since 2009. Active in the community, he serves on the board of the Global Cold Chain Alliance and previously held roles with the Greater St. Joseph United Way and the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce. Albers earned a Bachelor of Arts in Finance from the University of Northern Iowa and a Master of Business Administration from the UCLA Anderson School of Business.

Kathy Lambertz, of Harrisonville, was appointed as the Cass County Clerk.

Ms. Lambertz currently serves as the chief deputy clerk in the Cass County Clerk's Office, a position she has held since 2019. She previously worked as a senior appraiser in the assessor's office from 2012 to 2019. With more than 30 years of experience in county government, she is also active in civic organizations, serving on the University of Missouri Extension Board and as an active member of the Harrisonville Kiwanis Club.

William "Blaine" Luetkemeyer, of St. Elizabeth, was appointed to the University of Missouri Board of Curators.

A retired U.S. Congressman, Mr. Luetkemeyer represented Missouri's 3rd Congressional District from 2013 to 2025 and the 9th Congressional District from 2009 to 2013. During his tenure in Congress, he played a key role on the House Financial Services Committee, chaired multiple subcommittees, and helped secure $20 million for the NextGen MU Research Reactor at the University of Missouri. Before serving in Congress, Luetkemeyer was a Missouri State Representative, and as the Director of the Missouri Division of Tourism. Mr. Luetkemeyer has decades of experience as a small businessman, having worked as a community banker and bank examiner. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Business Administration from Lincoln University. In recognition of his contributions to higher education, Mr. Luetkemeyer received the Henry S. Geyer Award from the Mizzou Alumni Association in 2023.

Todd Michalski, of St. Joseph, was appointed to the Missouri Western State University Board of Governors.

Mr. Michalski is the senior vice president of sales and marketing at Gray Manufacturing Company, Inc. He serves as a board member for the Missouri Western State University Foundation and the Automotive Lift Institute. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and minor in Marketing and Management from Missouri Western State University.

Dave Schatz, of Sullivan, was appointed as the Franklin County Presiding Commissioner.

Mr. Schatz is the vice president of Schatz Underground and the former president of Schatz Construction. He previously served as Missouri Senate President Pro Tem and was a State Senator from 2015 to 2022 and a State Representative from 2011 to 2014. A longtime business owner and community leader, Schatz remains active in local government, education initiatives, and community service throughout Franklin County.

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FEBRUARY 28, 2025

Next week, Governor Mike Kehoe will attend several meetings and events across the state.

On Monday, March 3, Governor Kehoe will host Major General Itai Veruv, Commander of the Israel Defense Forces Depth Corps and Commander of the IDF Military Colleges, in the Governor's Office.

On Tuesday, March 4, Governor Kehoe will travel to Linn to visit the State Tech Career Expo at State Technical College of Missouri. He will also host meet and greets with the Missouri Court Appointed Special Advocates Association, the Missouri Ambulance Association, and the American Red Cross.

On Wednesday, March 5, Governor Kehoe will speak at Missouri Nurse Advocacy Day and the Missouri Association of Sheltered Workshop Managers' annual "Day for Choice" in Jefferson City. He will then travel to Jackson to attend the ribbon cutting ceremony for Trussworks Jackson.

On Thursday, March 6, Governor Kehoe will meet with six Missouri educators who earned the Presidential Awards for Mathematics and Science Teaching in the Governor's Office.

On Friday, March 7, Governor and First Lady Kehoe will attend first Friday Mass at the governor's alma mater, Chaminade College Preparatory School, in St. Louis, where he will receive the inaugural “Spirit of Chaminade” award. 

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

Governor Kehoe to attend State Tech Career Expo

           When:         8:45 a.m.  

           Where:        State Technical College of Missouri

  One Technology Drive, Linn, MO 65051

           Media:        Open

Wednesday, March 5, 2025

Governor Kehoe to attend Trussworks Jackson ribbon cutting

           When:          1:00 p.m.  

           Where:        2860 Trussworks Blvd., Jackson, MO 63755

           Media:         Open

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FEBRUARY 28, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced three appointments to various boards.

James "Kent" Oberkrom, of Clinton, was appointed to the Board of Probation and Parole.

Mr. Oberkrom previously served as the Henry County Sheriff. Prior to serving as Sheriff, Oberkrom worked in the juvenile justice system as a deputy juvenile officer in the 27th Judicial Circuit. He has been a member and past-president of the Missouri Peace Officers Association and the Missouri Sheriffs’ Association. Mr. Oberkrom holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from the University of Central Missouri.

Bill Severn, of Country Club, was appointed to the Missouri Western State University Board of Governors.

Mr. Severn currently serves as the executive vice president for the News Press and Gazette Company, where he has worked for nearly 15 years. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Park Resource Management from Kansas State University.

Thaddus "Dan" Danford, of Kansas City, was appointed to the Missouri Western State University Board of Governors.

Mr. Danford is the founder and board chairman of Family Investment Center, an SEC-registered investment advisory firm, and has previously served on the Board of Governors for Missouri Western State University. He has been an active member of several professional and civic organizations, including serving as president of the Missouri Western State University Alumni Association. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Marketing and a Master of Business Administration from Missouri Western State University, as well as a Master of Science in Personal Finance from Kansas State University.

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FEBRUARY 21, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe appointed a new Associate Circuit Judge for the 16th Judicial Circuit and filled the Public Administrator vacancy in Caldwell County. 

John G. Gromowsky, of Kansas City, was appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for Jackson County in the 16th Judicial Circuit. 
Mr. Gromowsky is a seasoned attorney with extensive experience in both prosecution and defense. He is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and was commissioned as an infantry officer in the U.S. Army, where he served in several leadership roles, including a platoon leader and executive officer. Following his military service, he earned his Juris Doctor from DePaul University College of Law in Chicago. 
Gromowsky began his legal career as a law clerk in Jackson County before serving in multiple roles in the Jackson County Prosecutor's Office, including as a Drug Task Force Prosecutor, Community Prosecutor, and Violent Crimes Unit attorney. In private practice, he spent over 16 years as a defense lawyer, handling trial work and appeals, including cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. Active in his community, Mr. Gromowsky has served on public safety committees, coached youth sports, and held leadership positions within a local bar association. Mr. Gromowsky will fill the vacancy created by the appointment of Judge Lauren D. Barrett to the circuit court of the 16th Judicial Circuit. 

Crystal McBrayer, of Kingston, was appointed as the Caldwell County Public Administrator.
Ms. McBrayer is a longtime resident of Caldwell County and has experience in team leadership and community service. She is a graduate of Penny High School and currently works as a sales associate and team lead for Walmart. As Public Administrator, McBrayer will serve as the court-appointed guardian and conservator for individuals deemed incapacitated or disabled by the 43rd Judicial Circuit. She will also act as a personal representative for decedent estates and oversee the management of assets when no other responsible party is available.

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FEBRUARY 21, 2025

Next week, Governor Mike Kehoe will attend several meetings and events across the state.

On Monday, February 24, Governor Kehoe will present a proclamation for Loeys-Dietz Syndrome Awareness Month and give the keynote address at the Missouri Farm Bureau's Legislative Banquet in Jefferson City.

On Tuesday, February 25, Governor Kehoe will travel to Southwest Missouri to speak at the Missouri Association of Manufacturers' Midwest Manufacturers Trade Show & Conference in Branson. He will also travel to Springfield to visit BulkLoads and the Mid-States Organized Crime Information Center.

On Wednesday, February 26, Governor Kehoe will host a meet and greet with the Missouri Speech-Language-Hearing Association, meet with members of the International Women's Forum Missouri, and speak at Disability Rights Legislative Day in the Capitol Rotunda. He will also host a group of Missouri House Representatives for lunch at the Governor's Mansion. He will then stop by Senators Bean and Burger’s Taste of the South event in Jefferson City.

On Thursday, February 27, Governor and First Lady Kehoe will welcome members of the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus to the Governor's Mansion for lunch and host a meet and greet with Cape Girardeau Chamber members in the Governor's Office.

On Friday, February 28, Governor Kehoe will speak to members of the Hawthorn Foundation at their meeting in Fulton. He and the First Lady will also tour Gateway Studios in Chesterfield.

On Saturday, March 1, Governor and First Lady Kehoe will attend opening day of the catch-and-keep trout fishing season at Roaring River State Park.

Tuesday, February 25, 2025

Governor Kehoe to speak at Midwest Manufacturers Trade Show & Conference

           When:          8:45 a.m.  

           Where:      Branson Convention Center

                              200 S. Sycamore St., Branson, MO 65616

           Media:       Open

Wednesday, February 26, 2025

Governor Kehoe to speak at Disability Rights Legislative Day

           When:          11:15 a.m.  

           Where:        Missouri State Capitol - First Floor Rotunda

           Media:         Open

Saturday, March 1, 2025

Governor and First Lady Kehoe to participate in Trout Season Opening Day

           When:          6:30 a.m.  

         Where:        Roaring River State Park

                              12716 Farm Rd 2239, Cassville, MO 65625

           Media:       Open

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FEBRUARY 18, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe signed Executive Order 25-18, directing all Missouri state agencies to eliminate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives and ensure compliance with the constitutional principle of equal protection under the law. The order bars the use of state funds for DEI and prevents agencies from considering DEI in their hiring decisions.

“Missourians deserve a government that treats all individuals equally, without preferential treatment or discrimination based on immutable characteristics,” said Governor Kehoe. “Our state agencies must operate under a framework that ensures fairness, equal opportunity, and merit-based decision-making. This order reaffirms Missouri’s commitment to a constitutional, color-blind approach that serves all citizens fairly.”

The executive order includes the following key directives:

• Equal Protection of All People: State agencies must uphold the constitutional principle of equal treatment under the law;
• Elimination of Public Funds for DEI: State agencies are barred from using public funds for DEI-related positions, organizational structures, policies, procedures, practices, activities, training, programs, or contracts;
• Prohibition on Considering DEI in State Hiring Decisions: Agencies are prohibited from considering DEI factors in hiring decisions; and
• Compliance Review: Agencies must conduct a comprehensive review of existing contracts, programs, and policies within 90 days to ensure full compliance with the directive.

While this order directs the removal of DEI-based programs, it does not apply to any requirements in federal or state statute that uphold the rights and freedoms of Missouri citizens. State agencies will continue to enforce all laws that prohibit discrimination and ensure fairness for all citizens.

To view Executive Order 25-18, please click here.

Governor Kehoe Signs EO 25-18.JPG

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FEBRUARY 14, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe appointed a new Associate Circuit Judge for the 21st Judicial Circuit and filled four vacancies on various boards and commissions.

Justin W. Ruth, of University City, was appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for Saint Louis County in the 21st Judicial Circuit.

Mr. Ruth is a principal attorney at Riezman Berger, PC. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Virginia and a Juris Doctor from Washington University School of Law in St. Louis. He is also an active member of several bar associations, including the Missouri Bar, St. Louis County Bar, and the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis, where he has previously held leadership roles. Ruth was previously appointed by the Supreme Court of Missouri as a member of the OCDC Disciplinary Committee for Region XL. Mr. Ruth will fill the vacancy created by the appointment of Judge Amanda B. McNelley to the circuit court.

Alfred Brandt, of Linn, was appointed as a member of the State Milk Board.

Mr. Brandt was previously the owner of Brandt Dairy Farms, and has been a member of the State Milk Board since 2009, serving as the president from 2011 to 2024. He is also an active member of the Holstein Association USA Board and the St. George Parish Council. Previously, he served as President of Missouri Dairy and was a member of the Midwest Dairy Board for the MO-KAN division. Mr. Brandt holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Lincoln University.

Louise Secker, of Joplin, was appointed to the Missouri Community Service Commission.

Ms. Secker is a licensed real estate salesperson for Keller Williams Realty Elevate. She previously served as the Director of Development for Lafayette House in Joplin, Missouri. Beyond her professional career,  Ms. Secker has demonstrated a strong commitment to community service, holding leadership roles on the boards of Jasper County CASA, the Joplin Regional Community Foundation, and the Mount Hope Cemetery. She is also serves on the steering committee for One Joplin Collaborative and is an active member of the Friends of St. Avips, a nonprofit organization that supports fundraising efforts for the Spiva Center for the Arts.

Jennifer Keller, of Lee's Summit, was appointed as a member of the State Committee of Psychologists.

Ms. Keller is a licensed psychologist and serves as Senior Director of Behavioral Health - Counseling Clinics and Psychology at University Health. She is also the Section Chief of Psychology and a Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) School of Medicine. She holds a Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology from Forest Institute of Professional Psychology, her Bachelor of Science in Psychology, has completed an APA-accredited Pre-Doctoral Internship and holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy. With extensive experience in clinical psychology and behavioral health, Ms. Keller has held key leadership positions, including Preadolescent Program Director and Clinical Coordinator of Counseling. Since 2005, she has been an active member of the American Psychological Association and, since 2017, has served on the Missouri Psychological Association's Evidence-Based Practice Committee.

Timothy Flora, of Ellisville, was appointed to the Missouri State Board of Private Investigators and Private Fire Investigator Examiners.

Mr. Flora is the President and Certified Licensed Polygraph Examiner at Mid-West Protective Service, Inc., with over 40 years of experience in law enforcement, investigation, and fire safety. He holds a Master of Arts in Legal Studies from Webster University, a Bachelor of Science in Management from Tarkio College, and a Criminal Justice Certificate from Northeast Missouri State University. Mr. Flora has served in key leadership roles, including Director of the Metro West Fire Protection District and Chairman of the Central County Emergency 911 Dispatch Center. He has been a board member of the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis since 2005, and currently serves on the St. Louis County Fire Standards Commission.

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