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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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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FEBRUARY 14, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe ordered U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff at all government buildings in Macon County on Sunday, February 16, 2025, from sunrise to sunset in honor of U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Shelbe Faye Butner, who was tragically killed in the line of duty on January 30, 2025, while conducting a training exercise at Fort Stewart United States Army post in Georgia.

“Staff Sergeant Shelbe Faye Butner was dedicated to serving our country with honor, courage, and unwavering commitment,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “Staff Sergeant Butner considered the welfare of others a personal responsibility and was guided by her love of country to serve our nation. Her sacrifice reminds us of the bravery and dedication of the men and women who put themselves in harm's way to protect our freedoms. Claudia and I join Shelbe's family and friends in honoring her service and mourning her loss.”

A 2015 graduate of Macon High School, Staff Sergeant Butner enlisted in the U.S. Army on June 1, 2015. She earned the Military Occupational Specialty Code 88M as an Army Motor Transport Operator and completed several advanced training courses, including the Army Basic Leader Course, Air Assault School, and Drill Sergeant School. She was assigned to the 6th Squadron - 8th Cavalry Regiment, where she was promoted to Staff Sergeant on August 1, 2022.

Staff Sergeant Butner was a proud and accomplished soldier, serving in the United States Army for nine years, including a tour in Kuwait. Throughout her career, Staff Sergeant Butner earned many commendations, including the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War Expeditionary Medal, and numerous others.

The flags will be flown at half-staff on the day of Butner's interment services. To view the governor’s proclamation, click here.

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FEBRUARY 10, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe signed Executive Order 25-17 as a precautionary measure to prepare for hazardous winter weather expected to impact the State of Missouri starting tomorrow, Tuesday, February 11. The Order waives certain hours of service requirements for commercial vehicles transporting residential heating fuel and activates the Missouri National Guard for state and local response efforts, if needed.

"With hazardous winter weather forecasted for this week across much of the state, we want to be as prepared as possible," Governor Kehoe said. "We ask that all Missourians be proactive, stay aware, and use extreme caution during these potentially dangerous winter weather events. This Order helps ensure homes in Missouri can stay warm and that state government and our National Guard members stand ready to assist."

Executive Order 25-17 suspends hours of service regulations for motor carriers transporting residential heating fuels, including propane, natural gas, and heating oil. The Order also gives the Adjutant General of the State of Missouri the authority to call and order into active service such portions of the organized militia as he deems necessary to aid Missourians.

After a round of light snow primarily across the Ozarks Monday night into Tuesday, the National Weather Service forecasts a more significant winter storm to impact the state beginning overnight Tuesday into Wednesday. Heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain are expected to lead to widespread travel impacts. Mainly snow is expected north of the I-44 corridor with a chance of at least four inches across northern Missouri, and a wintery mix is expected along and south of the I-44 corridor.

Motorists are encouraged to postpone travel if possible. If you must travel, use extreme caution and check road conditions before driving to help determine if your trip can be completed safely. The Missouri Department of Transportation's (MoDOT) Traveler Information Map app can be accessed on desktop and mobile devices here.

Executive Order 25-17 will expire on March 10, 2025. To view the Order, please click here.

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