SEPTEMBER 27, 2021

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson granted 12 pardons pursuant to Article IV, Section 7 of the Constitution of the State of Missouri. Official documents have been filed with the appropriate government agencies and are being sent to the individuals.

In the interest of privacy, the Governor's Office will not immediately release the names of the individuals granted clemency so that appropriate communications can be made to families. The information will be made available once families are notified.  

SEPTEMBER 24, 2021

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson announced seven appointments to various boards and commissions.

Kasey W. Griffin, of Ash Grove, was appointed to the State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors. 

Mr. Griffin has owned and operated Wilson-Griffin Funeral Homes since 2016. Previously, he was the Human Resources Manger for Missouri Cooperage-Independent Stave Company. Mr. Griffin has more than 17 years of experience in funeral services. He holds a Missouri Funeral Directors License and a Missouri Embalmers License. Mr. Griffin attended Kansas City Kansas Community College where he earned an Associates of Science in mortuary science. 

Courtney McGhee, of Florissant, was appointed to the State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors. 

Ms. McGhee is a licensed pharmacist and funeral director in the state of Missouri and currently works as a Emergency Medicine Clinical Pharmacist for the Missouri Baptist Medical Center. Ms. McGhee has also been the Funeral Director for Archway Memorial Chapel since 2015. She is a member of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy, American Pharmacists Association, and Missouri Pharmacy Association. Ms. McGhee earned her Doctor of Pharmacy from the St. Louis College of Pharmacy and earned a Master of Business Administration from Louisiana State University-Shreveport. 

Greg Russell, of Saint Thomas, was appointed to the State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors.  

Prior to his retirement, Mr. Russell worked as an insurance agent for Missouri Dental Insurance Services, Inc. His career also includes 18 years as funeral director and embalmer for Russell Colonial Funeral Home in St. Clair as well as 18 years as owner and operator of the St. Clair Monument Company. Mr. Russell earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Williams Woods University and graduated from the Kentucky School of Mortuary Science. 

Victoria Anne Schwinke, of Jefferson City, was appointed to the State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors. 

Ms. Schwinke is a retired higher education professional. Her career includes 22 years with the State Technical College of Missouri where she served as the Vice President of Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer before her retirement in 2020. Ms. Schwinke earned her Bachelor of Science in sociology from Emporia State University and Master of Education in practical arts and vocational technical education form the University of Missouri-Columbia. 

Franklin Shane Terhune, of Savannah, was appointed to the Missouri Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Professional Land Surveyors, and Professional Landscape Architects. 

Mr. Terhune has owned and operated Terhune Surveying and Mapping since 2010. Prior to establishing his own land surveying firm, he worked as a Land Surveyor for Bartlett & West. Mr. Terhune has also served as the Andrew County Surveyor since 1996 and as Past President and Board Member of the Missouri Society of Professional Surveyors. Mr. Terhune is a member of the National Society of Professional Surveyors and the Missouri Association of County Surveyors. 

Dan Wenzel, of Kansas City, was appointed to the Missouri Board of Examiners for Hearing Instrument Specialists. 

Mr. Wenzel has worked for Midwest Beltone, a hearing aid service in Kansas City, since 2012. Prior to joining Midwest Beltone, he was an Account Manager for DSI Systems Inc. Mr. Wenzel is a licensed Hearing Instrument Specialist in both Missouri and Kansas. He is also a member of the Missouri Hearing Society. Mr. Wenzel attended Devry University where he earned a degree in electronics and completed the Sony Technical Program at Sony Technical Development Center in Boston, Massachusetts. 

Trevor Wolfe, of Lake St. Louis, was appointed to the Missouri State Board of Nursing. 

Mr. Wolfe is the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Quality and Education Manager for Mercy St. Louis. Previously, he worked in SSM St. Joseph Health Center's CSN Emergency Department. Mr. Wolfe has more than 23 years of experience in the nursing, fire, and EMS fields. He is a member of the Missouri Nurses Association and is a member of the Association's Advocacy Council. Mr. Wolfe earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois. 

SEPTEMBER 23, 2021

Jefferson City — Governor Mike Parson today ordered U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff at government buildings in Jackson County on Friday, September 24, 2021, in honor of Independence Police Department Officer Blaize Madrid-Evans.

Officer Madrid-Evans received his Missouri Peace Officer license and was commissioned by the Independence Police Department on July 8, 2021. While still undergoing field training on September 15, Officer Madrid-Evans was shot and killed in the line of duty as he performed a residence check for a parole violator. 

Officer Madrid-Evans was an organ donor, and during a transplant surgery performed on September 18, Springfield Police Department Officer Mark Priebe received Madrid-Evans’ donated kidney. Officer Priebe was paralyzed in the line of duty in June 2020 in a deliberate, targeted attack on police.    

“At just age 22, and only two months after graduating from the police academy, Officer Blaize Madrid-Evans will be remembered as a selfless individual who was committed to helping others,” Governor Parson said. “Even as we mourn Officer Madrid-Evans’ senseless death, we are filled with hope because this brave officer’s organ donation will extend the life of Officer Mark Priebe. Officer Madrid-Evans' final, generous act is a lasting contribution to the public good.”

The flags will be held at half-staff on the day Officer Madrid-Evan laid to rest. To view the proclamation, click here. 

SEPTEMBER 21, 2021

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson announced that Missouri’s six state-contracted monoclonal antibody treatment sites will be operational for an additional 30 days.

“Monoclonal antibody treatments have been successful for many COVID-19 patients and have allowed us to lessen the strain on Missouri’s health care systems,” Governor Parson said. “However, this treatment is not a replacement for the vaccine. Encouraging more Missourians to choose vaccination is still the most effective path for us to move past COVID-19.”

The initial monoclonal antibody treatment contract with SLSCO of Galveston, Texas, was activated by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) in late August to provide monoclonal antibody (mAb) infusion treatment for 30 days at sites in Butler, Jackson, Jefferson, Pettis, and Scott counties as well as the City of St. Louis. 

These sites began operating between August 25-31. The 30-day extensions will apply to each site's respective operating timeline. To date, 1,732 patients have been treated with monoclonal antibody infusions through these sites, and several other health care systems are also providing this care to their patients as needed.  

Authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for emergency use, monoclonal antibody treatments may help people who are at high risk for serious COVID-19 symptoms to recover faster and reduce the likelihood of staying in the hospital. High-risk individuals with a recent COVID-19 diagnosis are encouraged to contact their health care provider to discuss possible treatment options.

Missouri patients and health care providers can learn more about the available treatment sites in Missouri and how to access them using this map. Treatment is completely free for patients when accessing one of the six state-operated treatment centers. 

For more information see Monoclonal Antibodies for COVID-19: Tips and Frequently Asked Questions or visit combatcovid.hhs.gov.

SEPTEMBER 21, 2021

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson joined with Governor Laura Kelly to announce the launch of the National Security Crossroads, a multi-state initiative aimed at raising awareness of and facilitating collaboration and efficiencies within national security missions in the Heartland region.

“We are proud to be home to such robust military and defense industries, and this initiative will be a valuable asset in strengthening national security and our region as a whole,” said Governor Parson. “This partnership will leverage our region’s existing industry, dedicated personnel, and strategic location in the heart of the nation to support military missions and members, expand new technologies and industries, attract skilled workers, and drive economic growth through good-paying job creation for both Missouri and Kansas.”

The National Security Crossroads represents a regional branding effort to bring awareness at all levels of government, as well as around the country, to the expanding base of security-related operations in the area. As the “heartland” of the United States, with a convenient location to all areas of the country, the region offers a strategic advantage in security and mission critical operations.

Seven major military bases are housed within the Crossroads area, covering the Army, Navy, and Air Force branches. The region also includes 11 national security installations, focusing on geospatial-intelligence, net-centric solutions, non-nuclear component manufacturing, combined arms preparations, strategic attack deterrents, bio-threat prevention, along with other critical technology and infrastructure concentrations.

“Kansas is proud of our outstanding national security assets and personnel,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This partnership will be instrumental in showing the world the increasing strategic and economic potential of our region. By emphasizing this significant advantage, we’re demonstrating that Kansas and Missouri are integral to our national security strength and capacity.”

The Crossroads region stretches from Wichita and Manhattan, Kansas, to the bi-state St. Louis area. With the development of the National Security Crossroads collaboration, the region continues to represent a growing base of operations for a variety of installations, including military, cybersecurity, and public-private partnerships.

The program facilitates workforce and talent growth and resiliency, as well as collaboration between installations that enable Crossroads members to be agile and resilient. The effort also seeks to educate state and federal legislators and others in the region on the value of the Crossroads and its associated missions.

The National Security Crossroads was a concept developed at the Kansas City National Security Campus (KCNSC) to facilitate regional cooperation, collaboration, and other initiatives such as workforce development. The KCNSC is managed and operated by Honeywell Federal Manufacturing & Technologies (FM&T), LLC.

“The National Security Crossroads is a means for federal agencies to draw in potential partners and suppliers who can strengthen national security and velocity through an affiliated network,” said Eric Wollerman, Honeywell FM&T President. “The Crossroads enables a smart network of partners to leverage contacts and information effectively throughout the region.” 

The launch of National Security Crossroads includes the unveiling of the initiative's new website, designed to introduce the public to the partners involved and to communicate the ongoing efforts of the collaborative initiative. Visitors to www.nationalsecuritycrossroads.com will also be able to access information on upcoming events, including webinars regarding regional updates.

SEPTEMBER 17, 2021

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

Teresa Creek, of Memphis, was appointed as the Scotland County Recorder of Deeds. 

Ms. Creek has served as the Deputy Recorder for the Scotland County Recorder of Deeds Office since 2019. Prior to joining the Recorder’s Office, she worked as the Administrative Secretary to the Superintendent of Scotland County R-I School District. 

Andrew Evans, of Kansas City, was appointed to the Amusement Ride Safety Board. 

Mr. Evans is the owner and sole manager of Evans Midland Empire Show, Inc. where he manages a crew of 25 employees and oversees the safety, construction, and operation of 15 mobile carnival rides on a weekly basis. He is a member of the Outdoor Amusement Business Association, Seasonal Employers Alliance, and Showmen’s League of America. Mr. Evans earned a Bachelor of Arts in personal financial management from the University of Missouri-Columbia. 

Antoine Lee, of Kansas City, was appointed to the Missouri Charter Public School Commission.

Rev. Lee is the Senior Pastor of Central Christian Church located in the Kansas City metropolitan area. He has spent a significant portion of his professional career as a bi-vocational minister but has also worked in corporate enterprise serving as the President of LMB commercial, a commercial real-estate lending company. Rev. Lee has been recognized as a community champion by both the Koinonia Group of the Seven Oaks neighborhood and Boston Heights Neighborhood Association. He has also been a keynote speaker for the National Convention of the Christian Church. Rev. Lee earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and a Master of Arts in Business Administration from Park University. He also earned a Master of Divinity from Central Baptist Theological Seminary. 

Joseph Nickell, of Rolla, was appointed to the Amusement Ride Safety Board. 

Mr. Nickell works as a Zipline Technician for Universal Zipline Technology where he helps design and construct course layouts that adhere to proper safety protocols. Mr. Nickell recently graduated from the Missouri University of Science and Technology with a Bachelor of Arts in civil engineering. While attending Missouri S&T, he completed a summer engineering and project management internship with Caron-Mitchell Inc. Engineering and Construction. 

Walter Alan Winders, of Laddonia, was appointed as the Audrain County Presiding Commissioner. 

Mr. Winders has served as the Audrain County Eastern District Commissioner since 2017. Prior to being elected Commissioner, he was the City Administrator for the City of Vandalia for 14 years. He is an active member of the Missouri Farm Bureau and Missouri Association of Counties. Mr. Winders was a member of the Missouri National Guard until his honorable discharge in 1985, and he earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Northeast Missouri State University.

SEPTEMBER 15, 2021

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson ordered that the United States and Missouri flags at all government buildings statewide be flown at half-staff on Thursday, September 16, 2021, in honor of United States Marine Lance Corporal Jared Schmitz, of Wentzville, Missouri. 

On Thursday, August 26, 2021, Lance Corporal Schmitz was killed in-the-line-of-duty while courageously assisting with evacuation efforts in Kabul, Afghanistan. 

“We owe a debt of gratitude to Lance Corporal Jared Schmitz that can never be repaid, but we will always remember and honor his service and sacrifice on behalf of our nation in the defense of freedom," Governor Parson said. “He put his life on the line protecting our service members and allies, and he made the ultimate sacrifice for his bravery. Our hearts go out to Lance Corporal Jared Schmitz’s family and friends.”

U.S. and Missouri flags will be held at half-staff on the day Lance Corporal Schmitz is laid to rest. To view the proclamation, click here.

SEPTEMBER 14, 2021

Jefferson City — Governor Mike Parson has arranged for multiple championship trophies from Missouri's professional sports teams to be on display at the State Capitol Rotunda during the Bicentennial Inaugural Parade and Ball. Championship trophies will be on display and available for photo opportunities for the general public on Saturday, September 18, 2021, from 8:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

The championship trophies to be viewed and available for photos for the general public include:

• Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl IV & LIV Trophies
• St. Louis Rams Super Bowl XXXIV Trophy
• Kansas City Royals World Series Trophies - 2015, 1985
• St. Louis Cardinals World Series Trophies (4 of 11 Titles) - 1967, 1982, 2006, 2011
• St. Louis Blues 2019 Stanley Cup Replica Trophy

"We are proud of all our professional sports teams, past and present, who have won these championships for Missouri fans," Governor Parson said. "Never before have these trophies all been in one location at the same time, and it is not likely that they will be again. So, we hope Missourians from all across the state will join us in Jefferson City this coming Saturday for the Bicentennial Inaugural Parade and Ball to take advantage of this historic opportunity."

This weekend on Saturday, September 18 at 10 a.m. in Jefferson City Governor Parson and First Lady Parson are hosting the Bicentennial Inaugural Parade. Also, on Saturday, September 18 at  5:00 p.m. in Jefferson City they will host the Bicentennial Inaugural Ball. The Governor and First Lady personally invite all Missourians to join them in celebrating the swearing-in of Missouri’s statewide elected officials and, more importantly, the history and significance of the state of Missouri.

For those planning to attend the Bicentennial Inaugural Ball, please RSVP using this link.

The Missouri State Capitol will also feature the Missouri Bicentennial Quilt, Missouri State Parks Quilt, and Missouri Bicentennial Mural on display from 8:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 18.

SEPTEMBER 11, 2021

Jefferson City — Today, on the 20th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, Governor Mike Parson released the following statement remembering those who were lost on that fateful day:

"Today, on the 20th anniversary of one of the darkest days in our nation’s history, we remember the heroes lost during the 9/11 attacks. On this day that brings such strong emotions and painful memories, our hearts go out to their families, friends, and loved ones."

"We honor and remember our firefighters, law enforcement officers, first responders, and Americans - from all walks of life - who risked their own lives and made the ultimate sacrifice, without hesitation, to help their fellow Americans. These brave men and women did more than what was asked and could have ever been expected of them, not because of any one person but out of love for one nation: our nation."

"On one of our worst days, we saw the best qualities of our nation and the purest expression of American patriotism. Americans from every corner of the nation donated, volunteered, and grieved because even though it may have occurred in another state, county, or city, it was a loss we shared."

"The courage, resiliency, and bravery demonstrated on that day reminds us to stand tall in the face of terrorism and always rise to confront the challenges we face. In the United States, we are strong and remain a beacon for hope and freedom because we refuse to unlearn the lesson these American heroes taught us: Our freedom may be shared but so is our obligation to defend it."

"On September 11, 2001, we suffered a great loss, but fear did not overcome us and tragedy did not break us, and we will never forget."

SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson announced that his administration will reject the Biden Administration's attempt to enforce an unconstitutional, federal vaccine mandate for Missourians and private businesses. The Office of the Governor has been in communication with leadership from the Missouri General Assembly and the Attorney General's Office to align resources for a pending legal fight. 

"This assault on individual liberty and free enterprise is a poorly executed attempt by the Biden Administration to reset after its disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan," Governor Parson said. "With our southern border in crisis and as we are experiencing out-of-control inflation, President Biden is desperate to divert attention from his failures. However, Missouri will not be a pawn in this publicity stunt that seeks to force Missourians to disclose private health care decisions and dictate private business operations."

Yesterday, during a speech at the White House, President Biden announced plans to use the Occupational Safety and Health Admisntration (OSHA) to issue an unconstitutional vaccine mandate for private employers. This action would infringe on Missouri's constitutional authority and exceeds the scope of the authority granted to either President Biden or OSHA. The President cannot legislate with the flick of his pen from the Oval Office and OSHA cannot dictate personal health care decisions for Missourians. Missouri is not under an OSHA state plan, and Governor Parson will not allow state employees to be used to enforce this unconstitutional action.

The United States Constitution does not give unelected and unaccountable federal bureaucrats authority over the personal health care decisions of Missourians. The Biden Administration is trying to use a federal agency to interfere with private businesses and personal decisions. This unconstitutional behavior is clearly meant as a distraction from the real problems the Biden administration has fostered since coming into office.

"When President Biden should be focused on protecting our troops and securing our borders, he has instead decided to inject himself into the private lives and business dealings of hard-working Missourians," said Speaker Rob Vescovo. "This is an obvious attempt by the President to shift attention away from his failures in Afghanistan where his disastrous withdrawal left American citizens behind. We in the Missouri House of Representatives will not stand for it, and we will do everything in our power to protect the personal liberties of Missourians."

The United States Supreme Court has said that states, not the federal government, are charged with the responsibility to protect public health within states under the 10th Amendment to the United States Constitution. Governor Parson believes the regulation of public health is a state issue and that the General Assembly has a say in the process.

"As a small business owner who would be subjugated to President Biden's unconstitutional mandate, I, nor the Missouri Senate, will stand idly by and allow this inexcusable power grab to harm Missourians," said President Pro-Tem Dave Schatz. "What the Biden Administration is attempting to do will only worsen the workforce shortages businesses across the country are facing and is an absolute affront to our American freedoms."

Missouri stands ready to meet this unconstitutional encroachment of power with strong legal action.