February 12, 2012

Report: Missouri campus facilities deteriorating

A study of Missouri’s 34 state colleges and universities [Download PDF] shows major problems that can limit learning and might even endanger some students. The campus-by-campus study reports on major space problems on many campuses, the poor condition of science facilities, and the effects of years of poor funding for maintenance and repair.

The report says increased enrollments are taxing the capacities of campuses to house and instruct students. It says campuses have converted closets and storage areas to provide space for faculty.

Some science labs date to the 60s and in some of those labs where some new equipment has been jammed into old rooms, teachers cannot adequately see students doing experiments–a safety issue.

[Read more...]

Utility president expresses concerns about cap-and-trade costs

Much of the attention in Washington, D.C., is focused on the health care overhaul legislation. But cap-and-trade legislation, designed to reduce carbon emissions, is still out there and one of Missouri’s largest utility companies is warning about possible consequences of that passing.

Kansas City Power & Light’s President and Chief Executive Officer Bill Downey insists the company is not opposed to cleaning our environment. In fact, he makes it clear KCP&L favors moving in the direction of a cleaner environment, but he has concerns about the path that is being proposed to get there. [Read more...]

Bond blasts Democrats on health care bill

Senator Bond has blasted the Democrats’ plan to reform health care, saying it by-passes some simple solutions that would go a long way to covering a majority of Americans who are now uninsured.

Bond, a Republican, took to the floor of the Senate to criticize Democrats for neglecting a major player in the health care debate.

“Small businesses drive this economy,” Bond told colleagues. “They’re also the sector most in need of real health reform that will reduce costs and make it easier to buy insurance.” [Read more...]

Be cold-weather ready before you hit the road

Missourians are getting a taste of snow, ice and frigid temps this week. The Highway Patrol reminds motorists to take simple precautions that can save lives and limbs.

Lt. Scott Meyer with Troop H in Northwest Missouri assisted many motorists who were stranded, stuck or had crashed. He says when the roads are slick and the conditions are treachorous, a few supplies are warranted.

Meyer says driving on “E” isn’t a good idea either. If a motorist does run off the road and it takes a while for help to arrive, it’s necessary to keep the car running to heat the inside. Meyer recommends never letting the gas tank get below half a tank in cold and inclement weather conditions.

The Highway Patrol recommends carrying:

- a cell phone

- blankets

- a warm coat, boots, heavy socks, gloves and a hat

 - a small shovel, a bag of sand or kitty litter, which can help to gain traction when stuck

- flares or an orange triangle marker to place by vehicle if stuck, stranded

- flashlight

Meyer says two basics are perhaps the most important though: drivers need to pay attention to the road and slow down when weather conditions are a factor.

Jessica Machetta reports [Download / listen Mp3]

Royals release Jacobs and Bale

The Kansas City Royals released first baseman/DH Mike Jacobs and left-handed pitcher John Bale. The moves were made prior to this morning’s Rule 5 Draft in Indianapolis, Ind., putting the Royals’ Major League roster at 38 prior to their selection.

[Read more...]