MARCH 14, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, in honor of Pilot Grove Area Fire Protection District Deputy Chief Donald R. Kammerich, Governor Mike Kehoe ordered U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff at government buildings in Cooper County, the Fire Fighters Memorial of Missouri in Kingdom City, and firehouses statewide on Saturday, March 15, 2025, from sunrise to sunset.

“Donald Kammerich’s life was dedicated to his family, hard work and giving back to his Cooper County community,” Governor Mike Kehoe said. “For over 35 years, he put himself at risk to protect others from fires and emergencies as a volunteer with the Pilot Grove Area Fire Protection District. He rose to the rank of Deputy Chief because of his bravery, reliability, and unshakeable commitment to his neighbors and community. Claudia and I are keeping his family and fellow firefighters in our prayers.”    

On March 10, Deputy Chief Kammerich, 64, and the Pilot Grove Area Fire Protection District responded to and extinguished two different natural cover fires in the late morning and afternoon. Kammerich suffered a medical emergency in his home and passed away that evening.

The flags will be held at half-staff on the day Deputy Chief Kammerich is laid to rest. To view the Governor’s proclamation, click here.

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MARCH 13, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, in honor of Johnson County Fire Protection District Captain Vernon Collett, Governor Mike Kehoe ordered U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff at government buildings in Johnson County, the Fire Fighters Memorial of Missouri in Kingdom City, and firehouses statewide on Friday, March 14, 2025, from sunrise to sunset.

“Vernon Collett’s full-time job was with the Johnson County Road and Bridge Department, but he also had a calling to serve his community as a volunteer firefighter with the Johnson County Fire Protection District,” Governor Mike Kehoe said. “For over 29 years, Captain Collett responded to countless fires, vehicle crashes, and other emergencies. He died fulfilling the responsibility he had taken on in order to protect others. We will remember Captain Collett as a model public servant who selflessly supported his community.”

On March 8, Captain Collett, 60, responded and was extinguishing a controlled burn that had grown out of control when he collapsed from a medical emergency and died at the scene.

The flags will be held at half-staff on the day Captain Collett is laid to rest. To view the Governor’s proclamation, click here.

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MARCH 13, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, in a press conference at the Missouri State Capitol, Governor Mike Kehoe joined Republican legislative leadership in highlighting the work accomplished by the General Assembly in the first weeks of legislative session.

"I told the members of the legislature during my first State of the State Address that I want to work with them—not against them—because I believe we can only secure Missouri’s future if we work together," said Governor Mike Kehoe. "Missouri Republicans are united and taking action, and I am proud of the collaborative efforts of the General Assembly to pass meaningful legislation and deliver real results for Missourians." 

Governor Kehoe also praised Republicans for prioritizing public safety at the start of this session by passing Representative Christ's House Bill 495, which  gives law enforcement the tools they need to crack down crime and illegal immigration and enacts citizen board to oversee the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department.

"From day one, the Missouri Senate Republican Caucus has been united in our mission to pass conservative, common-sense policies that make Missouri stronger," said Senator Cindy O'Laughlin, Missouri Senate President Pro Tem. "We’ve already accomplished a great deal this session, and with strong leadership from Governor Kehoe and a united Republican majority, we will continue to work on policies that protect our communities, support families, and grow our economy."

During the press conference, Senator O'Laughlin, Senator Luetkemeyer, and Speaker Patterson highlighted the actions taken by the House and Senate during the first half of legislative session, many of which received bipartisan support.

“At the start of session, House Republicans committed to working together to make life safer, better, and more affordable for Missouri families,” Speaker Jon Patterson said. “More than 50 bills have passed out of the House, including legislation to improve public safety, protect children in foster care, increase access to child care, expand school choice, support expectant mothers, strengthen religious freedoms, cut income taxes, provide property tax relief, and improve government transparency. We are proud of the work accomplished thus far, and we will continue to work together with Governor Kehoe and our Senate colleagues to improve the lives of Missourians across our great state.”

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MARCH 13, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced two appointments to various boards and commissions, and filled one county vacancy.

Steve Black, of Maysville, was appointed to the Northwest Missouri State University Board of Regents.

Mr. Black is a cattle and grain farmer and business consultant specializing in manufacturing, operations management, performance improvement and strategic guidance on acquisition due diligence in Northwest Missouri. He previously worked at Johnson Controls, Inc., where he most recently served as the vice president of Air Distribution Technologies (ADTI) Operations for the North American manufacturing and distribution operations. He has served as a member of several civic organizations including the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater St. Joseph. Black holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Northwest Missouri State University.

Brian Munzlinger, of Williamstown, was appointed to the Mid-America Port Commission.

Mr. Munzlinger is a lifelong farmer and former state legislator with extensive experience in agriculture, trade, and infrastructure policy. He served as a Missouri State Senator from 2011 to 2019 and a State Representative from 2003 to 2010, where he chaired the Agriculture, Food Production, and Outdoor Resources Committee. Munzlinger also served on the Missouri Board of Probation and Parole from 2019 to 2024. Munzlinger is an active member of several agricultural- and rural policy-based organizations including the Missouri Farm Bureau, Missouri Soybean Association, Missouri Corn Growers Association and the NEMO Grain Processors Co-op board. He earned his Bachelor of Science in General Agriculture from the University of Missouri in Columbia. 

Lynn Portell, of Potosi, was appointed as the Washington County Commissioner.

Mr. Portell is a retired utility professional with more than three decades of experience at Arkansas Power and Light (now Ameren), where he held several leadership roles. A lifelong resident of Washington County, he has been actively involved in the community, serving as board president of Pleasant Hill Christian Church for several years.

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MARCH 10, 2025

Jefferson City — Governor Mike Kehoe has ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome to shine purple on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, in recognition of Missouri Alzheimer’s Awareness Day.

To help raise awareness around this devastating disease, the Missouri legislature has named the second Tuesday in March Alzheimer's Awareness Day. Governor Kehoe also issued a proclamation designating March 11, 2025, as Alzheimer’s Awareness Day in Missouri, as outlined in Missouri Revisor of Statutes Section 9.160. The proclamation highlights the importance of continued research, education, and support for those affected by the disease.

“Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease that affects far too many Missouri families,” Governor Kehoe said. “By lighting the Missouri State Capitol dome purple, we stand with those facing this disease, honor the families and caregivers who support them, and advocate for critical research to find a cure.”

The dome will light up purple at sunset tomorrow and remain lit until sunrise. The color purple is the signature color of the Alzheimer’s Association. As a symbol of awareness and advocacy, purple stands for the courage and resilience of the individuals battling Alzheimer’s and the supporters who stand by them every day.

Photos of the Capitol lighted purple will be available on Governor Kehoe's Flickr Page.

• March 11, 2025, Alzheimer's Awareness Day.pdf

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

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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