Kingshighway improvements approved by City Council

The Rolla City Council recently approved an agreement with the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) that will have a far-reaching impact not only on the development of Kingshighway, but possibly the future development of Rolla.

The most immediate impact of the agreement, which was approved by City Ordinance, will result in the relocation of the traffic signal currently at the intersection of Kingshighway and Fairgrounds Road to the future intersection of Kingshighway and Bryant Drive by MoDOT. The new signals, which will be funded by MoDOT at an estimated cost of $161,151, will be installed this year with completion estimated to correspond with the completion of the Bryant Drive extension improvements in December 2010.

Bryant Drive (located next to Pizza Inn and the Sylvan Learning Center), will be extended between the Fairgrounds Auto Dealership and the new McDonald’s Restaurant north to Fairgrounds Road. These improvements will also provide one of the gateway entrances to the new Innovation Park being developed by Missouri S&T.

Also included in the agreement with MoDOT and newly approved ordinance, but slated for 2012, will be improving the Kingshighway Interchange with Interstate 44. These improvements will consist of the installation of two roundabouts, which will greatly improve the capacity and safety of these heavily traveled intersections. The current traffic signals at the Martin Springs Drive intersection will be removed and replaced with a roundabout, and the second roundabout will be located on the north side of the Kingshighway/I-44 overpass. This configuration is commonly referred to as a dog bone design because of the location of the roundabouts at both ends of the highway. Plans also include the eventual stripping by MoDOT of the I-44 overpass at Kingshighway so there will be two east-bound lanes and two west-bound lanes. The estimated cost of these improvements is $1,760,051. The improvements are part of the Statewide Transportation Improvement Plan, which will be funded by MoDOT.

In addition to these improvements, the City of Rolla will be responsible (as MoDOT relinquishes ownership to the City for Kingshighway) for widening Kingshighway from three to five lanes from the Martin Springs Drive/Kingshighway interchange (adjacent to HJ Drive) to the new intersection of Bryant Drive. This will be done during the same time frame in 2012 as the interchange improvements and is estimated to cost $250,000.

These significant improvements to Kingshighway and the new Bryant Drive extension will greatly enhance traffic flow and safety, and create a more welcoming, attractive appearance for visitors coming off I-44. The improvements will also send a message to future developers, investors and businesses/industries that Rolla is a progressive City planning for its future growth and prosperity.

In closing I’d like to say how pleased I was with how quickly and professionally the milling, paving and stripping of 10th Street from Forum Drive to Pine Street was accomplished last week by Rolla Asphalt and the City’s Public Works Department, which oversaw the paving project. In addition to thanking all who were involved in that effort, I would also like to extend my thanks and appreciation to our residents for your patience, cooperation and understanding as this important project was completed. I think we will all appreciate the smooth ride along 10th Street from Pine to Forum in the weeks and months to come.

Please also remember that this weekend is the “Back to School Sales Tax Holiday” that officially began last night at 12:01 a.m. and ends at midnight on Sunday, Aug. 8. The sales tax holiday (City tax savings of 2.5% and State tax savings of 4.225%), is intended to provide tax relief to families with children attending school by exempting the sales tax on clothing, personal computers, certain computer software, and school supplies. The ASA Boys 10U-18U and Mens 23U Fast Pitch Softball National Tournament also continues through this weekend at the Ber Juan Sportsplex located off 18th Street in Rolla. More than 2,500 individuals are expected to participate and attend the national tournament. Let’s all extend a warm Rolla welcome to all of the players, coaches, and staff (and parents, grandparents, family and friends), who will travel hundreds of miles across the U.S. to participate in the tournament.

Public Works Dept. ramps up street paving projects

With over 100 miles of streets in the City of Rolla, maintaining and enhancing all the streets and roadways in the city is a continuous, ongoing effort that is managed by the City’s Public Works and Street Departments.

If you happen to travel 10th Street from Forum Drive to Pine Street on a regular basis, I’m sure you noticed that Rolla Asphalt began milling that section of street on Wednesday in preparation for it to be paved this Monday, Aug. 2 and Tuesday, Aug. 3 – weather permitting. The City realizes how heavily this east/west corridor is traveled, and that the milling and paving is unavoidably causing delays and detours in traffic. While we realize that this project is causing some inconvenience and time delay for our residents, we ask that you please drive with caution while traveling this portion of street, and consider using some of the adjacent streets in the City that detour around this area while construction is underway. If everything goes as scheduled, the project should be completed by this Wednesday, and I think the community will be glad to be traveling a much smoother section of road that has needed attention for some time now.

In addition to the paving of 10th Street from Forum to Pine Street, the Public Works Department will also begin several asphalt sealing projects in the next week or so. This micro surfacing procedure is being provided by Donelson Construction Company of Clever, Missouri. It is a modified quick set surfacing system that will provide an approximate one-quarter-inch-thick pavement resurfacing. Micro surfacing is an economical alternative to hot asphalt mix overlays, which typically applies a minimum of one – and one-half-inches of pavement resurfacing.

Streets (and portions of streets) that are scheduled for this micro surfacing in the coming weeks include: Arkansas Avenue (Bardlsey to Farrar), Allyson Court (Holt to cul de sac); Avon Court (Winchester to cul de sac); Broadway (Forum to Eastwood); Brookside Lane (Sycamore to cul de sac), California Dr. (Forum to McCutchen); Carmel Court (cul de sac to California); Carol Street (Tory to cul de sac); Carriage Lane (Sycamore/Countryside intersection to Ironhorse);Chestnut Drive (Sycamore to McFarland); Cobblestone Drive (Ironhorse to Cul de sac); Cottage Court (Brookside to cul de sac); Countryside Drive (Sycamore/Carriage intersection to cul de sac); Crabapple Court (Hawthorne to 174’ N. of Hawthorne); Crescent Ridge (Countryside to cul de sac); Cronnin Court (cul de sac to 4th); Cypress Drive (79’ N. of Pheasant Hill to Sycamore); Del Mar Court (cul de sac to Forum); Devonshire Lane (Winchester W. intersection to 172’ NE of Winchester E. Int. and Winchester to 172’ NE of Winchester); Eagle Wing (dead end to S. edge of Cypress); Eastwood Drive (315’ W. of Forum W. edge of McCutchen); 5th Street (Holloway to Woodland); 14th Street (Holloway to Farrar and Iowa to Holloway); 4th Street (Holloway to dead end); Great Oaks/Forest Dr. (Woodland S. to Woodland N.); Hauck Drive (10th to Forum); Hawthorne Drive (Woodland to dead end); Heller Street (14th to Missouri); Hillview Dr. (Broadway to McCutchen); Holloway St. (14th to Missouri); Holt Avenue (Tory to 438’ N. of Tory); Homelife Plaza (dead end to Forum); Ironhorse Road (162’ S. of Countryside to S. edge of Countryside); La Jolla Court (cul de sac to Tory Ave.); Leroy Street (14th to Missouri); Malibu Court (cul de sac to California); Martin Street (14th to Missouri); McFarland Drive (Hwy. 72 E. Int. to Hwy. 72 W. Int.); Missouri Avenue (Bardsley to Farrar); Monterrey Court (cul de sac to California); Ozark Street (Southern most end to Missouri); Pershing Drive (Hillview to McCutchen); Pershing Place (Independence to McCutchen); San Fernando Court (Cul de sac to California); Scenic Drive (Truman to Broadway); 6th Street (Holloway to 257’ E. of Holloway); Spencer Street (14th to 18th ); Stratford Lane (Winchester to Devonshire); Sycamore Drive (Countryside/Carriage Int. to N. Curb of Brookside); Sydney Court (McFarland to cul de sac); Tory Avenue (Farrar to Forum Dr.); Truman Avenue (McCutchen to Pershing and Forum to McCutchen); Winchester Drive (Chestnut to Newcastle and Hwy. O to Chestnut); Woodland Drive (Salem to 257’ E. of Holloway); and Woodlawn Court (Forum to cul de sac) and Woodlawn Drive (Forum to McCutchen).

While this work may take several days to complete, streets that are being sealed will remain open with temporary one-lane traffic established. Flagmen will be present to direct traffic, and motorists and pedestrians are urged to remain cautious when traveling through the areas of work. Delays up to 20 minutes should be expected. For more information, please call the Public Works Department at 364-8659.

In closing I’d like to remind everyone that the State “Back to School Sales Tax Holiday” officially begins at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 6, and ends at midnight on Sunday, Aug. 8. The sales tax holiday (City tax savings of 2.5% and State tax savings of 4.225%), is intended to provide tax relief to families with children attending school by exempting the sales tax on clothing, personal computers, certain computer software, and school supplies.

If you like watching fast pitch softball on a national scale, be sure to attend the prestigious ASA Boys 10U-18U and Mens 23U Fast Pitch Softball National Tournament hosted by the City’s Parks and Recreation Department Aug. 4-8 at the Ber Juan Sportsplex in Rolla. More than 2,500 individuals are expected to participate and attend this 5-day national tournament, which will provide some very exciting and entertaining fast pitch softball. I’d like to extend a warm Rolla welcome to all of the players, coaches, and staff (and parents, grandparents, family and friends), who will travel hundreds of miles across the U.S. to participate in the tournament. I’m looking forward to this unique opportunity for the City to host such a high-level sporting event at the Ber Juan Sportsplex.

Police Chief Chat

The Rolla Police Department handled 693 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 13 alarms, 33 hang up 911 calls, 17 check the well being requests, 32 traffic complaints, 98 traffic stops, 23 arrests, 6 property destruction calls, 13 stealing incidents, 6 escorts, 34 animal control issues, 5 burglary reports, 26 accidents, 24 assists of other agencies, 4 assaults, 4 fights and 2 runaway juveniles. This call total is down 19 calls from last week, yet another busy week!

This past week, the Rolla Police Department’s own “Behind the Badge” organization teamed with the Dave Weinbaum and McDonald’s of Rolla to host a fundraiser to benefit our annual Rolla Police Department Award’s Banquet Ceremonies. The awards ceremonies are held each year in recognition of the hard work and dedication provided by our police officers throughout the year to the community. On Tuesday of this week, Mr. Weinbaum donated a percentage of proceeds generated between 4-8 p.m. at each of the three Rolla area McDonald’s restaurants. Our officers were on hand to greet the customers and briefly explain the event. The night was not only a lot of fun but also an opportunity to meet some great folks and have a delicious dinner. Thanks to Dave Weinbaum, Rolla McDonald’s Restaurants and Behind the Badge.

The Rolla Police Department would like to congratulate our own Communications Chief Paula Volkmer and her husband MSHP Sgt. Eric Volkmer, on the recent graduation of their son Paul Volkmer from the 91st Recruit Class of the Missouri State Highway Academy in Jefferson City, Missouri. Paul is the oldest of the 3 Volkmer siblings in that he has one brother who is a RHS 2009 graduate and - Army PFC, and one sister (upcoming junior at RHS). Paul is a 2007 Rolla High School graduate. In 2009 he earned an Associate Degree in Drafting and Design from East Central College. He also attended Drury University while waiting to enter the MSHP Academy in February 2010. Paul is a third generation trooper on both sides of the family, both grandfathers (retired now), his uncle and his father are Missouri State Highway Patrolmen. Paul was the youngest member of the 91st Recruit Class and was elected by his classmates as the Vice-Commander of the class. Though there has been at least one member of his family assigned to Troop I (Rolla) since 1966, Paul was happily assigned to start his career in Troop G (Willow Springs). Besides his very proud family, Paul has been blessed with many good friends in attendance to celebrate this milestone in his life. Congratulations Paul and we wish you a very successful law enforcement career!

We learned this past week from the Rolla Street Department that here will be extensive road surfacing completed over the next week on 10th Street between Cedar and Forum Drive. The lanes will be marked with orange cones and signage will direct motorists traveling through the construction area. The Rolla Police Department will provide patrol officers and VIPS volunteers to assist with traffic control. Please use extreme caution in these areas.

In closing, I would like to feature some information released by Anne McClay concerning the Veterans Memorial Park! She would like to remind everyone that they still have t-shirts available. They are $15 apiece (white with color logo or black with white logo). Cotton…preshrunk…accurate sizing….S, M, L, XL and XXL.

They are also selling memorial bricks. The first batch of bricks will be placed in the concrete walk surrounding the Armed Forces Pentagon (scheduled for completion on September 11th, 2010). The company doing the brickwork puts black paint in the letters so they stand out. Each 4”x8” brick can have up to 4 lines of text, max. 21 characters per line (the company recommends 18 so the letters are easier to read), each line center justified. The bricks do NOT have to be for someone who has passed away. If you have a group that would like to donate, or have a loved one currently serving in the military, or want to put your family’s name on the brick…all are perfectly okay (for instance, our department purchased a brick for Dave Brown who also happened to serve in the U.S. Army). NO profanity of any type will be allowed! The bricks are $50 apiece. We will be sending off the first order next week. After the first order, we will send in an order for every ten that we receive. I’ve attached an order form. And if you happen to know someone that may be interested or you belong to a group, we would appreciate your passing along the information! Any help you can give is GREATLY appreciated! They also have a facebook page and a website, so for those of you on facebook, please visit

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/South-Central-Regional-Veterans-Group/112804515431296?ref=sgm and give us a “like” or visit our website at www.scrvg.org

This is a very good cause dedicated to those who gave their all for us.

Have a great week!

Staff Sergeant Rick Williams

Rolla’s Wellness Program reduces absenteeism, lowers health costs

Rolla’s Wellness Program reduces absenteeism, lowers health costs

At a time when health care insurance costs are escalating nationwide, the City of Rolla’s formula for proactive health and wellness has paid big dividends to not only City employees, but the residents of Rolla as well.

Improving employee wellness, and saving dollars for taxpayers, however isn’t the only bright spot in this City’s approach to finding innovative ways to overcome escalating health care costs. The City’s wellness program, now in its third year, also is paying off in a reduction of absenteeism and lower health care costs, said City Finance Director Steffanie Rogers, who is a member of the City’s Health Insurance Committee. The City’s absenteeism for 2008, which was 12,339 hours, dropped significantly to 11,513 hours in 2009.

As a direct result of the new wellness program, Rolla city employees have not had a health insurance premium increase for three years, and health care costs actually went down in 2009. In 2008, the City spent $2.2 million on preventable disease treatment and that number dropped in 2009 to $1.9 million.

“The City’s health care costs have remained relatively stable in comparison to the national average, which experiences a 7 to 18 percent annual increase, said Rogers. “The City’s savings will more than pay for the newly implemented $50,000 employee wellness program recently approved by the Rolla City Council in May 2010. And better yet, the cost of the program will not be put on the backs of the residents of Rolla, but will be funded by a reserve account in the City’s self-insurance fund.”

While some City’s may be considering ways to increase employee premiums to address the rising cost of health care to their employees, the City of Rolla is offering monetary incentives ($5 per pay period) to employees to participate in annual health-risk assessments with additional incentives to improve their scores. There is also a new incentive offered for fitness center membership reimbursement (capped at $150), and weekly comp. time (up to 1 hr.) for documented physical activity.

Additional enhancements to the 2010 wellness program include a voluntary fitness assessment with a trained fitness instructor (timed running, push-ups, sit-ups and stretching), which will offer employees an opportunity to participate in the physical fitness weekly comp. time option. Other incentives include a monthly wellness newsletter, a stress management program with the local hospital (Phelps County Regional Medical Center) as a partner, which will include stress management workshops, and chair massages once a quarter at the luncheons, and an in-house Weight Watchers program. Since the City is self-insured, tracking participation, PT time earned, and the overall success of the program is easy.

The overall goals of the wellness program – reduction in absenteeism, a reduction in preventable disease health insurance claims, increased awareness of healthy lifestyle choices and support of employees making healthy lifestyle choices – are being met and are paying off, Rogers said.

To reinforce the City’s focus on health and fitness, the City’s Employee Advisory Council (EAC) is hosting the first annual Employee and Family SplashZone Night at the City’s outdoor water park where employees and family members are invited to spend the evening swimming, riding the water slides and enjoying a free bbq dinner provided by a local vendor in the community.

“Wellness is something the City is trying to emphasize as a way of life not only at the workplace, but also at home, and during leisure activities,” said City Administrator John Butz. “We would really like to establish the City’s wellness program as a model for other cities across Missouri and the nation who are seeking ways to reverse sky-rocketing health care premiums, absenteeism and overall employee wellness.”

Civilian Service Awards presented to Rolla area residents

Civilian Service Awards presented to Rolla area residents

Rolla Mayor Bill Jenks,III and Rolla Police Chief Mark Kearse recognized the heroic efforts of four Rolla area residents who were presented with the Civilian Service Award on July 23, 2010 for assisting with the apprehension of two robbery suspects involved in the July 2, 2010 robbery at Hillcrest Pharmacy (located at 1100 S. Hwy. 63) in Rolla.

(Pictured: Rolla Mayor Bill Jenks, III, and Rolla Police Chief Mark Kearse present Civilian Service Awards to four Rolla area residents who assisted the Rolla Police Department with the apprehension of two robbery suspects involved in the July 2, 2010 robbery at Hillcrest Pharmacy. Pictured (l to r) are: Mayor Bill Jenks; Brian Clifton, Hillcrest Pharmacy; George Moran, Rolla Manor Care; Larry Jackson, Rolla Manor Care; and Rolla Police Chief Mark Kearse. Not pictured is Patti Hallum).

The four individuals who received the prestigious Civil Service Award included Larry Jackson, Certified Nursing Aid, Rolla Manor Care; George Moran, C.N.A., Rolla Manor Care; Brian Clifton and Patti Hallum, both employees of Hillcrest Pharmacy.

“The quick, courageous and selfless actions of these four individuals brought about the successful apprehension of both robbery suspects,” said Chief Kearse during the recognition ceremony held in the conference room at the Rolla Police Department. “If it were not for your quick thinking and fearless actions, the identity of the suspects may never have been discovered.”

Any civilian whose assistance to the Rolla Police Department, given without regard to personal welfare, having a positive bearing on the outcome of an incident, and contributing to the furtherance of law enforcement in the community, is deserving of special honor.

“The Rolla Police Department needs to have community support to be able to do our jobs to the fullest extend possible, said Chief Kearse. “And I wish to extend to all of you our sincere thanks for your assistance in helping restrain the suspects until officers arrived.”

Parks and Rec. to host ASA National Fast Pitch Softball Tournament (Aug. 4-8) at Ber Juan Sportsplex

Parks and Rec. to host ASA National Fast Pitch Softball Tournament (Aug. 4-8) at Ber Juan Sportsplex

The City of Rolla’s Parks and Recreation Department, which oversees the maintenance and operations of over 310 acres of park land, 33 parks, Ber Juan Sportsplex, Ber Juan Tennis Complex, Skate Park, and Rolla Cemetery, was instrumental in brining the prestigious ASA Boys 10U-18U and Mens 23U Fast Pitch Softball National Tournament to be held Aug. 4-8 at the Ber Juan Sportsplex in Rolla.

I think I speak for our Parks and Recreation Director Ken Kwantes, when I say it is a tremendous honor for our City to be hosting this National Championship Tournament, which will provide a rare opportunity for the residents of Rolla, Phelps County and the surrounding Meramec Valley Region a chance to be part of a very exciting National Championship Tournament. Hosting a tournament of this magnitude on a national level is a reflection on how well maintained and operated the Ber Juan Sportsplex has been over the years by the Parks and Recreation staff. And anyone who has participated in any number of softball leagues held throughout the year at the Ber Juan Sportsplex knows that the well manicured and maintained fields, expansive grandstand seating, batting cages and concession stands provide a very unique and welcoming experience for all who utilize the facility.

I encourage the entire community to attend the five-day ASA national tournament, which should provide some very exciting and entertaining fastpitch softball, and also provide a warm welcome to all of the players, coaches, and staff (and parents, grandparents, family and friends), who will travel hundreds of miles across the U.S. to participate in the tournament.

Rolla Historic Walking Tour Plaques

Rolla Historic Walking Tour Plaque

You can now download a PDF slideshow of all the blue  "Historic Walking Tour Plaques"  hung all over Rolla that highlight many of the historic locations around the city. 

The file is about 9 megabytes in size so on a slow connection it might take a few minutes.

To download Rolla Historic Walking Tour Plaques right click on the link below and select "Save as" or "Save Target As"

RIGHT CLICK HERE to download.

Parks and Rec. to host ASA National Fast Pitch Softball Tournament

The City of Rolla’s Parks and Recreation Department, which oversees the maintenance and operations of over 310 acres of park land, 33 parks, Ber Juan Sportsplex, Ber Juan Tennis Complex, Skate Park, and Rolla Cemetery, was instrumental in brining the prestigious ASA Boys 10U-18U and Mens 23U Fast Pitch Softball National Tournament to be held Aug. 4-8 at the Ber Juan Sportsplex in Rolla.

I think I speak for our Parks and Recreation Director Ken Kwantes, when I say it is a tremendous honor for our City to be hosting this National Championship Tournament, which will provide a rare opportunity for the residents of Rolla, Phelps County and the surrounding Meramec Valley Region a chance to be part of a very exciting National Championship Tournament. Hosting a tournament of this magnitude on a national level is a reflection on how well maintained and operated the Ber Juan Sportsplex has been over the years by the Parks and Recreation staff. And anyone who has participated in any number of softball leagues held throughout the year at the Ber Juan Sportsplex knows that the well manicured and maintained fields, expansive grandstand seating, batting cages and concession stands provide a very unique and welcoming experience for all who utilize the facility.

I encourage the entire community to attend the five-day ASA national tournament, which should provide some very exciting and entertaining fastpitch softball, and also provide a warm welcome to all of the players, coaches, and staff (and parents, grandparents, family and friends), who will travel hundreds of miles across the U.S. to participate in the tournament.

The national ASA softball tournament comes on the heels of the highly successful and well attended Licking Summer Camps (eight weekends of girls’ basketball and girls’ volleyball team camp competition) that have been held over the last few weekends at The Centre, Rolla’s Health and Recreation facility, located in Ber Juan Park. Hundreds of athletes, and their coaches, and families and friends partake in the Licking Camps. The Licking Summer Camps started in 1993 under the direction of David Almany, Camp Director, and former Athletic Director and Boy’s Basketball Coach at Licking High School. Coach Almany began the event in Licking, but over the years, other communities including Rolla, St. James & Houston also hosted camps. This year over 900 teams and 15,000 athletes are expected to participate in the Licking Summer Camps.

While the campers are in town competing they and family members and friends are typically staying at area hotels/motels, visiting restaurants, grocery stores, shops, retail outlets and purchasing fuel for their vehicles. The impact this has on Rolla and St. James and our local economy is quite significant. In addition to the use of SplashZone and The Centre, a lot of the teams will also come into town early on Thursday evenings or stay over on Sunday to take a float trip on one of the many popular floating streams in the area. For an up-to-date schedule and extensive camp information on the Licking Summer Camps, please visit www.lickingcamps.com. And if you happen to be planning a work-out or a swim at The Centre or SplashZone this weekend, I hope you’ll have an opportunity to stop by and watch some of the Licking Summer Camp basketball games at The Centre (located at 1200 North Holloway Street) this weekend and next weekend in Rolla.

In closing I’d like to remind everyone that today is the final day of the four-day Phelps County Fair, which is being held at the Phelps County Fairgrounds located on Hwy. 63 South in Rolla. For a complete list of events, hours and activities at the Fair, please visit http://www.phelpscountyfair.com.

Bryant Drive Extension underway

Construction and renovation projects (including more new restaurants and businesses) of all shapes and sizes are popping up around Rolla. Most notably, is the impressive new building being constructed at Missouri S&T’s Innovation Park located on 10th Street, and the early phases of the new Bryant Drive Extension that will create a new traffic intersection at Bryant Drive and Kingshighway.

You may have noticed some of the heavy equipment and signs of early construction work next to the McDonald’s restaurant on Kingshighway, and next to the Webster University and Pizza Inn parking lots where the new Bryant Drive Extension begins. Development agreements among the City of Rolla, Fairgrounds Chevrolet and McDonald’s for the Bryant Drive Extension were approved by the Rolla City Council at the June 21, 2010 Council meeting, and the City received the green light to proceed with this significant project.

These development agreements culminate several months of planning and negotiations with these three entities as well as the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) to provide a new transportation facility to serve not only these existing and new developments, but also provide an integral link in the development of the Rolla West Area. These three entities will be providing the rights of way and the City of Rolla will be constructing the road improvements. The road extension is estimated to be $580,000. This extension of Bryant Drive is scheduled for construction beginning in mid-August 2010 and will correspond with the construction of the new McDonald’s Restaurant.

The new Bryant Drive Extension will provide one of the gateway entrances to the new Missouri S&T Innovation Park, and improve traffic mobility on Kingshighway and Fairgrounds Road. Sometime this summer MoDOT will be relocating the traffic light now located at the intersection of Fairgrounds Road and Kingshighway to the new intersection that will be built at the intersection of Bryant Drive and Kingshighway just west of the McDonald’s restaurant. When the new Bryant Drive Extension, intersection and McDonald’s restaurant are complete, this area on Kingshighway will be significantly enhanced – bringing more attention to the progressive, welcoming image of our City.

What is most encouraging and exciting about the many developments occurring in Rolla, including the new Benton Square in Rolla’s new Arts and Entertainment District, the opening of the St. John’s Facility on Martin Springs Drive, the new Walgreens at Hwy. 72 and Ridgeview Road, and adjacent inline retail center, several new restaurants and businesses, is that there are multiple new projects and developments that are springing up all across Rolla. This sends a message to visitors, investors, and developers that Rolla is a City on the move, where things are happening, and where folks traveling on I-44 and Hwy. 63, and of course South Central Missouri, should stop by and spend an afternoon, a day or a weekend.

In closing I’d like to remind everyone that the Phelps County Fair is just around the corner and runs from July 21 to July 24 at the Phelps County Fairgrounds located off Route 63 South. The next Rolla City Council meeting will be held Monday, July 19 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Rolla City Hall, 901 N. Elm Street. For more City events and news, visit the City’s Website at www.rollacity.org/events or join us on Facebook, Twitter, or the City’s BLOG.

Police Chief Chat

This past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 765 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 26 traffic complaints, 76 traffic stops, 34 arrests, 14 check the well being requests, 16 suspicious nature calls, 7 escorts, 39 animal control issues, 7 reports of recovered property, 2 soliciting complaints, 36 security checks, 104 disturbance calls–72 of those were firework complaints that were deemed necessary for an officer to act on. This call total is down 128 calls from last week.

Over the past couple years we have seen a dramatic increase in the popularity of the small motorized scooters in and around the Rolla area. It appears as if the rising fuel costs have prompted motorists into purchasing and operating this type of vehicle. Basically these small vehicles can be categorized into 2 main groups. Scooters and Mopeds. Scooters are typically a small composite bodied two-wheeled motorized vehicle designed to carry the driver and sometimes will allow room for a passenger. These scooters are typically equipped with engines of a displacement of either 50 cubic centimeters or less and are very low powered and sometimes governed or limited to 30 miles per hour. To operate these vehicles, motorists must possess a valid driver’s license, but the license need not be endorsed for motorcycle operation. Drivers need not wear a helmet, register the vehicle annually with the Department of Revenue or maintain liability insurance. Interstate Highway operation is prohibited. In addition the vehicles must be equipped with a front facing white light (headlight) and a red colored taillight. Mopeds are more bicycle like machines that offer a gasoline engine in addition to the traditional pedal cranks that may be used without the engine’s support.

In our area we have received several traffic complaints on motorists on this type of vehicle and have investigated several accidents involving driver’s of these vehicles. Contributing factors in these accidents is that the vehicles are small and not readily seen by other motorists. They are low powered and drop to very low speeds on inclines. Many times the operator’s have had no training on their operation and very little experience. And in some cases, the operator’s unsafe operation leads to the crash. With this in mind we encourage scooter/moped operator’s to undergo training in the operation of their vehicle. To practice away from traffic until operating skills are up to par. And always be sure to wear bright colored clothing, eye protection and above all a DOT approved helmet.

Monday of this week was a designated monthly training day, which is a day set aside for an entire shift of patrol officers to receive pertinent training on job related subject matter. This month Sheriff Rick Lisenbe invited our agency to take advantage of the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department’s Firearm Training Simulator. Sgt. John Frey, Cpl. Adam Meyer, Spo. Chrissy Smith, Spo. Tommy Davis, Pto. Casey Chapman and Pto. Steven Gray took part in the extensive firearms training utilizing the multi-faceted simulator. Thanks Sheriff!

Last week, Pto. Steve Roukie left the Rolla Police Department after nearly 2 years of dedicated service to seek other opportunities. Steve is a fine officer and we wish him the best in his future endeavors. With Steve leaving, this does create a vacancy in our patrol division and we posted the job announcement this week. If you are a certified police officer, attending an accredited law enforcement academy or have successfully graduated from the same, you may be what we are looking for. Our officers must be community policing oriented and fit in with our Rolla Police Department family. We offer a competitive salary, family health and dental plans, life insurance, ten (10) paid holidays and one (1) personal holiday, two (2) weeks vacation and twelve (12) sick days a year. We also provide all equipment, uniforms, and the opportunity to qualify for a take home patrol car. If you would like to apply for this position you may do so by stopping by the Police Department and picking up an application or you may apply online at www.rollacity.org.

This past week we also lost a member of our Animal Control Division with the resignation of shelter associate Janet Ray. Janet has served with the Animal Control Division for a little over 1 ½ years and is leaving to seek other opportunities. We also wish Janet great success in her endeavors and will miss her as she was a great employee. The shelter associate position is a part-time position totaling approximately 22 hours per week. The position offers a competitive salary, a flexible schedule and provides an opportunity to work closely with animals housed in the shelter. The position would be perfect for someone with some extra time on their hands and who enjoys being around dogs, cats, ferret’s, and just about any type of animal that needs a good home. To apply, stop by the Rolla Police Department or apply online at www.rollacity.org. This position should be announced early next week.

Have a great week!

Chief Mark Kearse

Fun Show slated at Veterans Memorial Park

Summer in Rolla and the Meramec Valley Region continues to be fun-filled and action packed following Route 66 Summerfest and last weekend’s 75th Annual Lions Club Carnival, which, thanks to the great weather, and record-breaking crowds, was yet another huge success. A special thanks goes out to all the hard working members of the Rolla Lions Club, and all the organizations, businesses and individuals who donate their time, money and talent to make this one of the great festivals of the year in Rolla, and South Central Missouri.

While everyone is most likely still flying their U.S. flags, and in a patriotic spirit from the 4th of July weekend, the Fun Show was held Saturday, July 10 at Veterans Memorial Park. The event, hosted by the South Central Regional Veterans Group (SCRVG), was held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park, located on Southview Drive (also appropriately named Veterans Memorial Parkway),  off Hwy. 72 behind Casey’s. Admission to the event was free, but a $15 registration fee was required for anyone who enters the Fun Show competition. Classic and vintage cars and modified trucks of all makes, models and sizes will be on display, while visitors check out the chrome and leather, and take in the music of the 50s, 60s, and 70s.
The Fun Show is one of many events planned this year by the SCRVG as a way to raise awareness and funds for the new 11-acre Veterans Memorial Park. The SCRVG recently participated in the Route 66 Summerfest where members mingled with visitors, passed out literature and sold over $1,000 of new Veterans Memorial Park T-shirts (4-color and black and white versions available). The attractive, eye-catching T-shirts, which were designed by local artist, Bruce Wade, are on sale now for $15 and can be purchased at Rolla City Hall. Engraved memorial bricks, which will initially be placed around the Armed Forces Pentagon, will also be for sale at the Fun Show and through the SCRVG. For more information, please contact Anne McClay, Project Coordinator in the City’s Engineering Division in the Public Works Department located on the 4th Floor at Rolla City Hall (901 N. Elm Street). Anne can be reached at 426-6955.

In addition to the events listed above, $300 was also raised for Veterans Memorial Park during the Fire Truck Pull competition at Summerfest, which was coordinated by SSgt. Rick Williams with the Rolla Police Department. The winning team was Fairgrounds Chevrolet.

Proceeds from the Fire Truck Pull, the Fun Show today and the sale of Veterans Memorial Park T-shirt and engraved Veterans Memorial Park memorial bricks will go towards Phase II of Veterans Memorial Park, which will include the new Armed Forces Pentagon – a five-sided memorial that will feature three flags (U.S., Missouri State and P.OW./M.I.A.). The SCRVG is now finalizing the design and construction of the Armed Forces Pentagon, which, with the generous assistance of local businesses, volunteers and students at RTI, should be completed by Sept. 11 of this year! Another event being planned by this dynamic and energetic group of veterans and community leaders, is a BBQ, bluegrass, raffle and silent auction, tentatively scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 16 at the National Guard Armory in Rolla. We will keep you updated as more details on this fun event are finalized.

As an Army veteran, and big supporter of Phelps For the Fort, I am very excited about the progress, and level of energy that the SCRVG is displaying toward building awareness, recognition and bricks and mortar projects for what I believe will be one of the most outstanding Veterans Parks in the state of Missouri. Rolla has so much momentum going with the new Rolla Arts and Entertainment District, the Benton Square Development, the finalized development agreement for the Bryant Drive Extension (Rolla West Phase II), the first building being constructed at the Missouri S&T Innovation Park (on 10th Street), all the new restaurants that are being established or re-established, and the many exciting retail expansions, that the timing couldn’t be better to be continuing with Phase II of Veterans Memorial Park.

Let's keep the momentum going all through 2010! I hope to see you at the Fun Show today!


Mayor Bill Jenks, III

July 4th is time for celebration and gratitude

For residents in the Meramec Valley Region the legendary Lion Clubs Carnival – celebrating 75 years - is one of the central focuses of July 4th with carnival rides, delicious food, games of all kinds, fabulous fireworks (July 4 at 11 p.m.); fellowship, and of course the highlight of the carnival, the announcement of the winner of a shiny new red 2010 Chevy Camero at midnight on July 4th.

If you need a place to cool off, you may consider stopping by SplashZone, Rolla’s outdoor water park, located in Ber Juan Park next to The Centre on 14th Street. SplashZone is open Monday through Friday, 12-noon to 7 p.m., weekends from 12-noon to 6 p.m. The Centre, Rolla’s Health and Recreation complex, located at 1200 N. Holloways Street, is also a great place to get out of the heat, enjoy their 63,000-square-foot facility, and swim in the indoor pool, which features a three-story slide, Olympic-size pool, lazy river and vortex.

Looking beyond the Fourth, I would also encourage everyone to consider attending another patriotic event at the Veterans Memorial Park Fun Show next Saturday, July 10 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park, (located off Hwy. 72 on Southview Drive). Admission to the event is free, but a $15 registration fee is required for anyone who enters the Fun Show competition. Classic and vintage cars and modified trucks of all makes, models and sizes will be participating and on display, while visitors check out the chrome and leather, and take in the music of the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Food concessions will be provided by the Rolla Road Riders Motorcycle Club. The event is hosted by the South Central Veterans Memorial Park Committee. For more information, please contact Jerry Bumpus at 573-647-7601.

In closing, please keep in mind all the members of the U.S. Armed Services this weekend both in the U.S. and abroad, who over the years, have served our country. We need to always remember that if it wasn’t for the brave men and women in uniform throughout the years and today, we would not be experiencing the peace, joy and freedom that we do. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers as you enjoy the freedoms and celebrations that they have made possible, and continue to make possible for all of us.

Have a safe, enjoyable holiday weekend

The Rolla Police Department handled 658 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 38 hang up 911 calls, 28 disturbance calls (domestic or other), 21 traffic complaints, 61 traffic stops, 24 arrests, 4 runaways, 4 benevolent fund requests, 11 destructions of property, 5 telephone harassment calls, 2 mental health calls, 1 malicious mischief, 2 fingerprint requests and 2 fight calls. This total is down 84 calls from last week.

As you know, the country will be celebrating Independence Day this weekend and the Rolla community will follow suit. Traditionally part of the celebration involves the use of fireworks over this period. If you and your family decide to take part in this activity please use caution and a little bit of common sense. Parents should monitor all fireworks use and be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions when discharging the product. City ordinance under Section 14-2 of the Rolla City Code states that any individual or organization may discharge fireworks, without a permit, from July 1 to July 5 only! The discharge of fireworks during any other day of the year is prohibited. Please also remember that fireworks may not be discharged between the hours of midnight and 8 a.m., and no fireworks shall be discharged within 50 feet of any stand, booth, or other location where fireworks are being sold. It is also unlawful for anyone to discharge fireworks in City parks any day throughout the year (Section 31-1, Rolla City Code).

Another 4th of July tradition is the annual Lion’s Club Carnival. This carnival has become one of the premiere carnivals in the area and is attended each year by thousands of participants who enjoy the rides, games and of course the outstanding fireworks display that seems to get better each year. This year the 75th Annual Rolla Lions Club Carnival will be held Thursday, July 1 through Sunday, July 4. The Rolla Police Department and Rolla Fire and Rescue will be on site with the Homeland Security Mobile Command Post that will be used to provide dispatch services in the event of an injury or mishap at the park. Central Communications telecommunicators will be utilizing the on-board dispatching system to relay information back to the 9-1-1 Center. We will also have officers patrolling the site so if you need assistance or need to report unsafe activity, please contact them. And please remember that traffic congestion in the area is extremely high during the carnival and motorists need use caution when traveling in or near the Lion’s Club Park.

Over the last several weeks the Rolla Police Department has received several cases involving counterfeit money. The large majority of the bills are $100.00 and $20.00 in denomination. The bills at first glance do appear to be genuine, but upon further examination there are significant watermarks missing or altered on the bills. If a person receives a $100.00 bill as payment for anything please look at the bill thoroughly. If the bill looks questionable do not take it as payment or look for the color shifting ink, the red and blue fibers built into to the bill, or the security strip on the bill. There are several other security features on paper currency, but the three mentioned are the easiest and quickest to look for. Please don’t solely depend on a counterfeit pen as proof of the bill being genuine, as like most things in this world the pens can be fooled. If you would like further information about the security features to look for on money please go to either www.secretservice.gov or www.moneyfactory.gov.

Last week, Spo. Jaime Solis and Telecommunication Supervisor Stacey Smith attended 40 hrs. of training in Crisis Hostage Negotiation offered by the Midwest Counterdrug Training Center in Springfield, Missouri. The training provided was job specific for each officer and orchestrated from that point of view. And speaking of training, I would like to take this opportunity to welcome our newest member to the Rolla Police Department family. Telecommunicator Tom Grisham began his employment on Tuesday of this week in the Central Communications Division. Tom will undergo several weeks of intense training on emergency dispatching for Police, Fire, EMS and many other facets of emergency response. Tom is not really new to the RPD family in that he is engaged to be married to Kandi Trentham who is a long time employee in our Records Division! Welcome aboard Tom and good luck in your training!

Have a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend!

Police Chief, Mark Kearse
Rolla Police Dept.

VIPS making impact, helping with summer school traffic

This past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 742 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 29 accidents, 49 hang up 911 calls, 35 disturbance calls (domestic or other), 25 traffic complaints, 41 traffic stops, 17 arrests, 35 assist of other agencies, 4 benevolent fund requests, 2 abandon vehicle reports, 5 escorts, 68 security checks and 12 suspicious nature calls. This week’s total call volume is up 60 calls from last week!

Well at the end of May the Rolla Public Schools let out for the summer, or did they? Actually beginning June 1st and running through June 30th, school is back in session, at least for some students who are attending the summer school sessions held at Wyman Elementary. For those students and faculty it is business as usual. Students and faculty arrive each morning and leave at the end of the day creating traffic congestion in that part of town, which is somewhat busy anyway. Since the beginning of June, if you’ve been  in the area of Wyman Elementary School in the morning and at noon, you might have noticed School Resource Officer Sgt. Wayne Rapier and two members of the VIPS team assisting parents and children with the traffic flow around the school. Whether you are one of those folks directly involved in driving the children to school, or you a simply driving by the complex, please be extra careful and slow down in the area of the school. Thanks to Sgt. Wayne Rapier, VIPS/Reserve Officer Dave Reynolds and VIPS volunteer Don Rowland.

On Thursday, Sgt. Jeremy Martens, Spo. Tony Lauth, Spo. Ben Tinsley, Spo. Frank Hawkins and Spo. Leann Robertson conducted a driver’s license checkpoint between 7:45 and 8:30 a.m., in the 1100 block of east 18th St. This time frame and location was selected after receiving several traffic complaints in that particular area. During this operation it is estimated that over 500 motorists were contacted. This action yielded 1 citation for driving while suspended, 1 citation for driving while revoked, and 1 citation for failure to provide insurance, all within just 45 minutes! Great job folks!

On Thursday evening we completed our 3rd of 3 Neighborhood Watch Zone meetings in an effort to bolster participation in this great program. In each of the meetings S/Sgt. Rick Williams provided information on home security and protection and how the Neighborhood Watch concept will work in our community. Rolla Fire and Rescue Training Officer Ron Smith,  provided information on the upcoming Community Emergency Response Team training that will enable citizens to fend for themselves in the event of a major disaster until emergency services can arrive. Volunteers in Police Services Coordinator Vince Giacolone and VIPS volunteers Dave Reynolds and Katherine Mattison were available to discuss the VIPS program and the services provided by those volunteers. American Red Cross personnel Edna Bridges and Christy Woolsey presented services offered by that agency and provided information on how to volunteer. And finally Phelps County Health Department representatives Beverly Stewart and Debbie Rhodes provided informational brochures on the “Ready in 3” program and discussed other services provided by their agency. I would like to thank all the representatives and taking time to help bolster these very worthy programs and would also like to thank the Rolla Recreation Centre and the 1st Assembly of God Church for their support. Great job folks. If for some reason you were unable to attend either of the 3 Zone meetings, and are interested in starting or enhancing a Neighborhood Watch program contact S/Sgt. Rick Williams at 308-1213.

In closing, I would like to offer a quick reminder to please be aware of the dramatic increase in bicyclists and motorcyclists in our community. Higher temperatures, higher fuel costs and fitness are the key factors in this choice in transportation. As you know, motorcycles, scooters and bicycles are much more difficult to see in traffic and the sad fact is that most motorists are used to watching for full size passenger cars and trucks, and not the cycles. This mind set is what leads to the car-truck/motorcycle collisions that are commonly much worse on the cyclists. Please use caution while driving and take an extra split second to check traffic closely before pulling from a private drive, business or intersection. Cyclists of all kinds are encouraged to wear a safe helmet, bright colored clothing or safety vest, and too also use extreme caution while riding.

Have a great week!

Council gives green light to energy savings initiative with Siemens

Energy savings, increased efficiencies, and the opportunity to reduce the City of Rolla’s carbon footprint, were all reasons the Rolla City Council gave a green light for the City to enter into a performance contract agreement with Siemens Industry, Inc., Building Technologies Division.

Considering that the City of Rolla spends between $650,000 and $700,000 annually on utilities for our many services and facilities (approximately 3% of our total budget), saving upwards of 20% or about $150,000 a year on our utility expenses should be an investment that will pay for itself.

While the project affects several different departments, it is considered a single comprehensive energy effort. The largest improvements consist of major pump and blower upgrades at the City’s  wastewater treatment plant (Southeast Wastewater Treatment Plant, the City’s largest treatment facility), which have depreciated and need to be replaced in the near future. Other improvements range from a new roof at the Rolla Police Department headquarters, to the replacement of the inefficient lighting, both inside and outside, at the RPD headquarters, The Centre, both Fire and Rescue stations, Rolla City Hall, and all three of the City’s wastewater treatment plants. The upgrades extend all the way down to the temperature controls on vending machines and the replacement of HID Metal Halide lamps in the gymnasium and natatorium at The Centre with a T-5 electronic ballast high output lighting system. For a complete list of all the energy upgrades and the facilities included in the scope of work, please visit the City’s Website at www.rollacity.org/admin/agenda.shtm.

Working with the Missouri Water Utility Partnership (consisting of the EPA, DNR, Missouri S&T and Siemens) in mid-2009, the City of Rolla was one of 10 Missouri communities chosen to pursue a full energy analysis on all facilities in a 20% reduction in energy consumption. The performance agreement recently approved by City Council with Siemens, which was selected by the City to pursue a full energy audit and ultimately a scope of services, was made possible by recently passed Missouri state legislation that allows a contractor to guarantee the utility savings towards the lease or debt service payments to the cost of financing energy efficiency projects.

By engaging in this comprehensive effort, the City believes we are setting a standard for other Missouri communities to be good stewards of their resources. In addition, the representatives from Siemens commented at the June 21 City Council meeting that it intends to use Rolla as a model to other Missouri cities and communities who are considering such an energy conservation program. Siemens also commented that they intend to use Rolla as a showcase to try out other new energy saving equipment at no charge to the City in the next six months or so.

In closing I’d like to remind everyone to mark their calendars for the annual Lions Club Carnival which begins this Thursday, July 1 and runs through Sunday, July 4. Please also note that SplashZone, Rolla’s outdoor water park, located next to The Centre in Ber Juan Park, will be celebrating the 4th with Independence Dollar Day where everyone gets in for just $1. Rolla City Hall and the Environmental Services Department will also be closed on Monday, July 5 in observance of the Independence Day Holiday. Monday’s trash will be picked up on Tuesday and Tuesday’s trash will be picked up on Wednesday.

The Rolla City Council meeting, normally held on the first Monday of the month, will be held on Wednesday, July 7 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall (901 N. Elm Street). It was necessary to schedule the City Council meeting on Wednesday, July 7 instead of Tuesday, because Rolla Municipal Court will be held in the Council Chambers on Tuesday at 4:30 p.m.

Please have a safe and memorable July 4th weekend, and remember to keep all the members of the U.S. Armed Services in your thoughts and prayers as you enjoy the freedoms and celebrations that they make possible for all of us.

July 4th celebrated big at Lions Club Carnival (July 1-4)

No sooner have we kicked off the summer festivities in Rolla with the Route 66 Summerfest, the 75th Anniversary of the Rolla Lions Club Carnival is just around the bend. You will know that the 4th of July is getting closer when you start seeing the caravan of trucks and carnival rides setting up in Lions Club Park on 1061 South Bishop Avenue, along with all the tents, vendors, and hundreds of Lions Club volunteers who help make the Lions Club Carnival one of the most iconic, memorable events of the year in Rolla.

This four-day carnival, which unites friends and family from years’ past, and attracts thousands of visitors throughout South Central Missouri, begins Thursday, July 1 and runs through Independence Day, Sunday, July 4. Organizers of the Lions Club Carnival always incorporate the July 4th holiday in the festival, because it is the cornerstone of the carnival’s history. So whenever you are thinking about the 4th of July weekend, America’s Independence, our men and women serving in the Armed Forces in the U.S. and abroad, and family celebrations, you can simultaneously think of Lions Club Carnival. I hope to see everyone there!

What is truly unique and uplifting about the Lions Club Carnival is that it is coordinated, planned and operated by the members of the Rolla Lions Club who volunteer numerous hours of sweat equity (no exaggeration here) to ensure all the game, food and drink booths are staffed, and that the Midway (carnival rides), new car raffle, and fireworks display(s) are ready to go.

This year the Rolla Lions Club will be raffling off a new 2010 Chevy Camaro, and the winner of the car will be announced on the evening of July 4 at midnight. The carnival midway opens at 7 p.m. every night. Wrist band nights (one price gets you unlimited entrance to all rides) are Thursday, July 1 and Saturday, July 3. There will also be a matinee on Saturday, July 3 from 1-4 p.m., when wrist bands also will be available. Two outstanding fireworks displays will be held during the Rolla Lions Club Carnival on Friday, July 2 at 11 p.m. and on Sunday, July 4 at 11 p.m. The matinee on Saturday, July 3 will be featuring some retro pricing at the hamburger and cotton candy stands. The evening session on July 3 will begin with a concert at 5:45 p.m. by the Missouri Lions All State High School Band. They will be playing for about 45 minutes in front of the fountain in the park. Everyone is invited to attend this performance. For more information, please call 573.364.4386.

Another big event that is just around the corner is the American Solar Challenge, which is a 1,200-mile solar car race throughout the Midwest that our own Missouri S&T students will be participating in. Rolla was fortunate once again to be included among one of the stages of the race, which starts tomorrow, June 20 in Broken Arrow, Okla., and ends June 26 in Naperville, Ill. The solar car teams will be arriving in Rolla sometime around 11 a.m. on Wednesday, June 23, and the public is invited to view their arrival, cheer on the teams, and participate in the festivities planned that day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the Missouri S&T campus next to the Gail Bullman Multipurpose building (located at the corner of Bishop Avenue and 10th Street). The teams will spend the night in Rolla and depart the next morning on Thursday, June 24 at 9 a.m. for the next leg of the race. The entire community is welcomed and encouraged to stop by during the above times listed and be part of the American Solar Challenge festivities!

In closing I’d like to remind everyone that Rolla City Hall will be closed on Monday, July 5 in observance of the Independence Day Holiday. The Rolla City Council meeting, normally held on the first Monday of the month, will be held on Wednesday, July 7 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall (901 N. Elm Street). It was necessary to schedule the City Council meeting on Wednesday, July 7 instead of Tuesday, because Rolla Municipal Court will be held in the Council Chambers on Tuesday at 4:30 p.m.

To be included in other notices and updates regarding upcoming events, meetings and happenings, please join the City’s official Facebook pa

Police Chief Chat

This past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 682 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 20 accidents, 51 hang up 911 calls, 29 disturbance calls (domestic or other), 40 traffic complaints, 50 traffic stops, 16 arrests, 25 assist of other agencies, 2 burglaries, 2 benevolent fund requests, 1 open door investigation, 3 escorts, 74 security checks, and 16 stealing reports.

On Wednesday, June 16, 2010, officers of the South Central Drug Task Force, the Rolla Police Department, and the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department concluded a short term narcotics investigation in the 1200 block of East 14th Street in Rolla, Missouri. As a result of the investigation, the following person was arrested and incarcerated at the Phelps County Jail: Renetha Wells, age 39 of Rolla, was arrested for unlawful use of a weapon by being a felon in possession of a handgun, receiving stolen property (firearm), and possession of marijuana. The charges for which the above mentioned suspects were arrested are merely accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

On Thursday, June 17, 2010, officers of the South Central Drug Task Force, the Rolla Police Department, and the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department concluded a short term narcotics investigation in the 800 block of Avon Court in Rolla, Missouri. As a result of the investigation, the following person was arrested and incarcerated at the Phelps County Jail: James P. Bailey, age 19 of Rolla, was arrested for possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute, possession of methamphetamine, and endangering the welfare of a child in the 1st degree. The charges for which the above mentioned suspects were arrested are merely accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

In addition to the above mentioned drug arrests, the South Central Drug Task Force, Rolla Police Department and members of the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department served

2 additional search warrants in the City of Rolla where illegal drugs and weapons were seized. The details of these investigations will be released very soon. Great job to the South Central Task Force, Phelps County Sheriff’s Department and the Rolla Police Department. We will continue to aggressively pursue those that choose to violate the law here in the Phelps County area and do our best to rid this community of these persistent criminals!

On Friday, June 18, 2010, Spo. Leann Robertson responded to a domestic dispute on Vichy Road, involving a male and female. After the incident, the father of one of the involved parties contacted me and wanted to discuss the manner in which the situation was handled by the responding officer (Robertson)! The father wanted me to know that Leann was very professional, had compassion, cared and listened, and yet did an outstanding job keeping the scene under control. In appreciation he offered to buy her dinner, which is an offer we could not accept. Leann, every person we deal with, every call you handle and every time someone sees you drive by they are judging you and the Rolla Police Department. Compassion is probably the strongest way to get people to believe in you and the Rolla Police Department. Again, thank you for your service!

On Wednesday of this week, I had the honor of addressing over 100 members and guests at the monthly Rolla Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon held at the Oak Meadow Country Club. The topic of my presentation was the progress the Rolla Police Department has undergone under my leadership and what future challenges I anticipate for the agency. When I was appointed Chief over 3 years ago, I already had visions and a direction on where I felt, the Rolla Police Department should head. In my previous 25 years of law enforcement experience, all but about 1 ½ years was spent with my hometown police department. I began my career as a patrol officer handling calls, making arrests, investigating criminal activity and working rotating shifts, all the while trying to support a family on a very meager salary. Through my years at the Rolla Police Department I had the privilege of working under 3 different Police Chiefs whom in my opinion, were each outstanding in his own right, even though each one offered very different management styles.

Using the experiences gathered from working under each of the management styles and witnessing first hand, the effects these styles have on employees, I soon decided if I were to ever be appointed Chief of Police for the Rolla Police Department, I would instill upon my employees, the following philosophy: The backbone of our decision making will begin by using the principles of the Three Pillars! The Three Pillars and principles are that the Employees, Citizens and Professionalism of the Department are all equal in regards to importance! All decisions made will take into consideration the improvements of these three areas, and not by taking from one to add to another. We will only add to each area to improve those areas! Our employees are reminded that we are a Team, we are Professionals, we are all Assets, we are a Family and we will serve the citizens in a professional and caring manner. It is our job to bring the utmost respect to law enforcement profession and to the Rolla Police Department. Well, as you know, my dream to become the Chief of Police of the Rolla Police Department has come true and the principles of the Three Pillars is what governs our service to you!

In regards to what lies ahead for the Rolla Police Department, I would like to offer that I truly believe we are one of the best, if not the best police department in the state! Especially when manpower, call volume and crime rates are considered. The Rolla Police Department offers a very diverse mixture of enforcement techniques, pro-active strategies and resource management to do the best we can do to keep our community safe. We are desperately in need of more police officers but with the current economic situation our chances to bolster our manpower are minimal. Sadly, in recent years, we have seen a migration of a non-local criminal element coming into our community from other areas. This trend is on the rise due to a variety of reasons such as a slowed economy, available housing and shelter type assistance programs and many other variables. The Rolla Police Department has adopted the 95%-4%-1%er rule in that we believe that 95% of our citizens are good law-abiding citizens.

95% of the people are good law-abiding citizens. They make mistakes, break minor traffic laws, minor infractions and sometimes make a bad decision like you and I. They are your mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters and relatives. Treat them as such, we do!

4% of the people are petty criminals. They steal, break into cars, damage property, drink too much, use illegal drugs and struggle to live in our community because they have weaknesses. They deserve respect! However, we will enforce the laws to better them and the our community.

1% ers. These are the true predators of our society. They deal their poisons to the 95% and the 4%. They rape, murder, burglarize, assault and cause catastrophic situations upon the good people! These are our targets! We will enforce the laws to the fullest extent when dealing with the 1%ers! They are not welcome in our community!

We will treat the 100% as our best friend until they cause us to do differently!

In closing, I would like to remind you that our 3rd of 3 Neighborhood Watch Zone meetings will be held on Thursday, June 24, 2010 at the 1st Assembly of God Church, located at 1608 N. Oak St. The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. and is free to the public. We will offer information on Neighborhood Watch, Community Emergency Response (CERT), Volunteers in Police Services (VIPS), and the services of the American Red Cross. We will also have representatives from the Phelps County Health Department who will provide information on emergency sheltering. Hope to see you Thursday!

Have a great week!

Chief Mark Kearse

Route 66 Summerfest made possible through community effort

Thanks to the planning and organizing efforts of Rolla’s Nick Barrack and Dawn Smith, who once again generously hosted and co-chaired the nostalgic Route 66 Summerfest June 4-5 in the Downtown Festival Park, Rolla was like a magnet for thousands in the Meramec Valley Region over the past weekend.
From classic cars and vintage motorcycles, to the nostalgic ride along memory lane “Route 66 Cruise-in” from St. James to Rolla, the ceremonial crowning of Miss Route 66, three different sporting events (tennis, volleyball, and Tour d’ Phelps bike ride), Movies Under the Stars Double Feature, a street dance featuring FANFARE, a Ghost Walk at Rolla Cemetery, the Downhill Derby, Fire Truck Pull, and a half a dozen other events, Summerfest offers something for just about everyone. The work, time, resources and energy expended by Nick and Dawn and everyone else involved in the planning and coordination of Summerfest is to be commended.
I would also like to express my appreciation to the members of the Rolla Police Department, Rolla Fire and Rescue, Environmental Services, Public Works and Parks and Recreation Departments for providing support and services throughout the 2-day event. All of these departments work together seamlessly to provide the resources necessary to help make the Downtown Festival Park the centerpiece of this popular festival every year.
Although it takes tremendous teamwork and cooperation to pull off an event the size, duration and magnitude of Summerfest, the event is a testament to how well the business community, Rolla Area Chamber of Commerce, Rolla Downtown Business Association, downtown merchants, law enforcement agencies, the Friends of Tennis, and other volunteers and groups such as Arts Rolla, the South Central Regional Veterans Group, and many others pulled together to make this festival both enjoyable and memorable for all who attend. And while we are on the subject of identifying the many individuals and groups who make this event possible, I’d like to recognize the City’s very own Steve Hargis, Director of Public Works, who from 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday night provided free mouth-watering, buttered popcorn to over 500 visitors during the Movies Under the Stars Double Feature at the Bandshell. Steve volunteered his entire Friday night to continuously pop and serve hundreds of cups of free popcorn (complements of the Parks and Recreation and Public Works Departments), which he has done at several Movies Under the Stars events in conjunction with Summerfest and the Rolla Area Chamber of Commerce. Some call him “Steve the Popcorn Man,” but I consider him also to be one of the best Public Works directors in the state of Missouri, and we are very fortunate to have Steve’s expertise, volunteer spirit and community-mindedness here at the City of Rolla. We appreciate all you do Steve, both at work and during the countless hours of volunteer time you log while serving the citizens of the area.
Fortunately, through foresight and vision, the Downtown Festival Park, where the Downtown Bandshell, Frisco Caboose, picnic area, and festival parking lots are located, can be used for a variety of community-wide festivals and activities, that include the Downtown Farmer’s Market, which is held every Tuesday from 7 a.m. to 12-noon. Other events held in the Downtown Festival Park include Movies Under the Stars, Music Under the Stars, outdoor concerts, the St. Pat’s celebration and coronation held in March, and Christmas tree lighting ceremony. The inaugural Parade of Nations event, being coordinated by Missouri University of Science and Technology, will culminate at the Downtown Bandshell on Saturday, Sept. 18, and I hope many of you will join us as the City joins the University in celebrating the rich culture and diversity that the students at Missouri S&T bring to our community.
In other summer festival related news, I have received official word from Jim Fels, President of the Lions Club, that the 75th Annual Rolla Lions Club Carnival will be held Thursday, July 1 through Sunday, July 4 at Rolla Lions Club Park located at 1061 S. Bishop Avenue (U.S. 63 South) in Rolla. This year the Rolla Lions Club will be raffling off a new 2010 Chevy Camaro, and the winner of the car will be announced on the evening of July 4 at midnight. The carnival midway opens at 7 p.m. every night. Wrist band nights (one price gets you unlimited entrance to all rides) are Thursday, July 1 and Saturday, July 3. There will also be a matinee on Saturday, July 3 from 1-4 p.m., when wrist bands also will be available. Two outstanding fireworks displays will be held during the Rolla Lions Club Carnival on Friday, July 2 at 11 p.m. and on Sunday, July 4 at 11 p.m. The matinee on Saturday, July 3 will be featuring some retro pricing at the hamburger and cotton candy stands. The evening session on July 3 will begin with a concert by the Missouri Lions All State High School Band. They will be playing for about 45 minutes in front of the fountain in the park. The concert will start at 5:45 p.m.
For a complete list of events for this four-day July 4th celebration, please visit http://www.rollalions.org/~lions/carnival. For more information, please call 573.364.4386.

Police Chief Chat

The Rolla Police Department handled 805 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 56 hang up 911 calls, 28 disturbance calls (domestic or other), 26 traffic complaints, 131 traffic stops, 24 arrests, 15 assist of other agencies, 49 follow up investigations, 3 tow stickers applied, 14 escorts, 40 animal control type calls, 5 abandoned vehicle calls, 10 intoxicated persons calls. This total is up 19 calls from last week!

In reference to the officer involved shooting incident on Saturday, June 5, 2010, I would like to offer this statement. As Chief of Police I first want to say that the shooting incident that took place is a terrible tragedy, these types of events affect so many people. Our prayers go out to the officer and his family, as well as to A.J. and his family. There are so many different levels of emotion that surround an incident like this and it is usually best to say very little and to be careful about what we write. We (RPD) and those involved appreciate the support and understanding offered during this difficult time. I started our Chief Chat column and FaceBook site as a way to communicate with the public and to give you insight into the Rolla Police Department. I do not like censoring people as I believe in free speech, so please be respectful to all involved, as I will step in if need be. Thank you.

On Monday, June 7th, 2010, Cpt. Jason Smith attended a reception in Springfield, Missouri honoring the Barwick/Newton National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund and hosted by the Burlington Northern / Santa Fe Railroad. The Barwick/Newton National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund was established in 2004 in honor of St. Louis Metropolitan Police Officer Michael Barwick and Missouri State Highway Patrolman Michael Newton, both of whom were killed in the line of duty. The fund will assist with transportation and other expenses incurred by family members of fallen officers who travel to Washington D.C. to participate in National Police Week for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Dedication ceremonies where the names of the fallen officers are added to the memorial each year. Burlington Northern / Santa Fe Railway sponsored the event where attendees were treated to Hors D’oeuvres aboard the BNSF Lake Superior and Valley View business cars while traveling on a round trip to Lebanon, Missouri. Along the route BNSF surprised the attendees and staff of the Barwick/Newton fund with a generous donation of $5,000.00 for the cause.

On Saturday, June 5, 2010, we held our annual bicycle / small equipment auction at the Rolla Police Department. Over 55 recovered or abandoned bicycles were sold as well as other lawn maintenance equipment for a total just over $1,000.00. Special thanks to auctioneer Mike Flett and City of Rolla Finance Director Stephanie Melton for their assistance.

Also on Saturday, June 5, 2010 we held our 3rd Annual Fire Truck Pull to benefit the Veteran’s Memorial Park. We had 3 teams of 10 members competing to pull a fully loaded Rolla Fire and Rescue fire truck a distance of 20 feet for the best elapsed time. This year’s winner was the Fairground Auto Plaza team and team Captain Mark Wood who took the 1st Place Trophy with an elapsed time of 9.8 seconds. Second Place was awarded to the American Legion Team and team Captain S/Sgt. Hawkins with an elapsed time of 10.8 seconds. And in Third Place was the Rolla Police Department team with team Captain Detective Hank Harper with an elapsed time of 10.9 seconds! The event raised $300.00 for the Veteran’s Memorial Park located on Southview Drive. Thanks for helping us help the veterans!

Police Chief Chat

This past week, Rolla Police Department handled 786 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 21 accidents, 35 hang up 911 calls, 20 disturbance calls (domestic or other), 35 traffic complaints, 149 traffic stops, 20 arrests, 1 pursuit, 18 assist of other agencies, 21 stealing calls, 3 fingerprints, 63 security checks, 10 keep the peace calls, 1 missing person and 7 escort requests. This total is up 85 calls from last week.

In an effort to curb prescription drug abuse by teens, The Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, the Phelps County Child Advocacy Network and Prevention Consultants of Missouri have teamed with Walgreen’s Pharmacy to host the first “Prescription Take Back Day” to be held on Saturday, June 12, 2010 at the Rolla Walgreen store located at 120 S. Bishop Avenue. The program is an opportunity to rid your homes and medicine cabinets of unused and unneeded prescription medication that if not properly disposed of, may wind up in the wrong hands, creating the likelihood of abuse. For more information on the “Prescription Take Back Day, call 368-4755.

On Saturday, June 5, 2010 the Rolla Police Department and Rolla Fire and Rescue will be hosting the 3rd Annual “Fire Truck Pull” to benefit the Veteran’s Memorial Park. This event will be held in conjunction with the Rt. 66 Summerfest celebration taking place this weekend. At this writing there are only 3 teams signed up for the Fire Truck Pull and they are from Fairgrounds Auto Plaza, Rolla Fire and Rescue and the Rolla Police Department. So, there is still a need for several more teams. There is still time to enter a team as the event is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. on Saturday.

We are hosting this event in support of our local veterans who as US servicemen and women proudly and unselfishly served in the US Armed Forces is preservation of our freedom. We feel it is our duty to do what we can to ensure that they are not only remembered when they are gone, but also to help them achieve their goal of providing a Veteran’s Memorial that can be enjoyed while they are still here. To enter a team contact S/Sgt. Rick Williams at 308-1213. Thank you for helping us, help our veterans!

With the Rt. 66 Summerfest in full swing we encourage all of you to bring your families and take part in the many fun-filled events planned for this year’s summer celebration. There are many activities scheduled all thru the day that are not only enjoyable for the participants, but are also a load of fun for the crowd. The events include sporting events such as bicycle rides and races, vendors and exhibits, Segway rides, military displays, food courts, live music, 2 feature length movies, car and motorcycle shows, cruises and cruise-ins and many other events. Be sure to have a great time and be safe. Kudos to the Summerfest Committee for bringing us this mult-faceted summer celebration each year. Great job folks!

In closing, remember our annual bicycle and small equipment auction will be held Saturday, June 5, 2010 at the Rolla Police Department beginning at 9:00 am. We have between 50 and 100 bicycles available and other small equipment. This is a great opportunity to get a good deal on a good bike.

Have a great week!

Chief Mark Kearse

Police Chief Chat

Another busy week in that we handled 701 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 22 accidents, 36 hang up 911 calls, 28 disturbance calls (domestic or other), 35 traffic complaints, 55 traffic stops, 28 arrests, 11 suspicious nature calls, 27 stealing calls, 13 escorts, 3 runaway juveniles, and 8 public relation events. Total calls for this week are up by 2 calls over last week!

Memorial Day weekend is here! Traditionally, Memorial Day weekend is the kick-off holiday for the summer. Families will be hitting the highways and traveling to visit relatives, state parks, theme parks, lakes, rivers, streams and many other attractions to enjoy the extended weekend. Before you travel, plan your route by allowing for increased traffic, road construction, higher temperatures and inattentive drivers. Be sure your vehicle is safe for travel and that your tires and brakes are in good shape. Prepare an emergency travel kit that includes items such as bottled water, a flashlight, emergency flares or reflective triangles, cell phone and charger, small hand tools and a first-aid kit. And most of all be sure to drive friendly, obey all traffic laws and if you plan to use alcohol, do not drink and drive.

Last week, Cpt. Jason Smith and reserve Pto. Paul Rueff traveled to Willow Springs to attend training offered by the Office of Homeland Security on the implementation of the new (P-25) radio system. The P-25 system will be implemented in the next couple years and is a radio system that will be utilized by all emergency responders that will allow interoperability between all agencies across Missouri. The system will have a distinct advantage over the present system in the event of a catastrophic incident involving multiple jurisdictions in that all responding agencies will be utilizing the same radio band and frequency!

On Tuesday of this week the Rolla Police Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol and the South Central Corrections Facility in Licking, Missouri took part in the 25th Annual running of the Law Enforcement Torch Run to benefit Special Olympics. Over 30 officers met at the Wal-Mart Supercenter in Rolla where they received the ceremonial torch and a send off by Rolla Mayor Bill Jenks. Runners then hit the road by traveling north on Bishop Avenue, then west on Kingshighway to I-44 where they continued west all the way to the Phelps/Pulaski county line where the torch was then transferred and taken to Lebanon, Missouri. The following day the torch was then relayed to Springfield, Missouri for the opening of the Special Olympic Summer Games. We would like to thank all the participating agencies for their support and special thanks to our event sponsors: Rolla Fire and Rescue, Pepsi-Cola of Rolla, the Wal-Mart Supercenter and MoDot! We would also like to thank Mayor Bill Jenks, City of Rolla Communications Director Scott Grahl and his son Owen.

As you may have read in the Rolla Daily News, on Wednesday of this week, Central Dispatch received a call of a female reporting an assault by a known male. Senior Patrol Officer Tommy Davis responded to the call and spotted the male suspect in a vehicle fleeing from the scene. Spo. Davis overtook the suspect and attempted to stop him, but the male refused to stop and attempted to flee from Davis. The suspect traveled south of Rolla and attempted a high speed left turn, causing the vehicle to leave the roadway and strike a tree. The male suspect jumped from the vehicle and fled into a heavily wooded area. Officer Davis requested assistance and was joined by members of the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, the Missouri State Highway Patrol and officers from the Rolla Police Department.

A manhunt ensued utilizing perimeter patrol, stationary observation, aircraft and K-9 units, and building and wooded area searches. This operation continued for approximately 3 hours without success. A resident of the area arrived home in the afternoon and discovered the residence burglarized and a vehicle stolen from the garage. The vehicle description was broadcast to all searching agencies due to the possibility of the subject of the manhunt being involved in the burglary. Late that afternoon the manhunt was concluded and arrest warrants were sought against the suspect for the crimes committed. Thank you to all the responding agencies for their quick response and assistance in this operation.

On Thursday night, the Rolla Police Department held the 1st of 3, Neighborhood Watch Zone meetings at the Community Hall. S/Sgt. Rick Williams addressed the attending citizens on the importance and successes of the Neighborhood Watch program and the intended implementation of this crime prevention program to all neighborhoods in the community. Most of the city is currently covered by a Neighborhood Watch program, but many of the areas need to be rejuvenated to keep the program successful. Rolla Fire and Rescue Training Officer Ron Smith was also on hand to present information on the plan to establish Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training in each of the designated Neighborhood Watch Zones. CERT volunteers will be trained in basic first aid, fire suppression and disaster preparation in each of the zones to be utilized in the event of a catastrophic situation where professional first responders are unable to respond! Christy Woolsey of the American Red Cross provided information on the services and needs of that volunteer organization. And finally, Volunteers in Police Services (VIPS) Coordinator Vince Giacolone and VIPS volunteer Katherine Mattison were present and discussed the services that program provides. The next Neighborhood Watch Zone meeting will be held on Thursday, June 10, 2010 @ 6:30 p.m. at the Rolla Centre at 1200 Holloway St. in Rolla. All citizens are encouraged to attend.

In closing, The Rolla Police Department and Rolla Fire and Rescue want to take this opportunity to encourage civic groups, service clubs, military organizations, business owners and just about everyone to come forward and enter a team in our 3rd Annual Fire Truck Pull to benefit the Veteran’s Memorial Park. This event will be held next Saturday, June 5, 2010 at 4:00 p.m, in conjunction with the Rt. 66 Summerfest! In this fun and worthwhile competition, teams of up to 10 members will attempt to pull a fully loaded Rolla Fire and Rescue fire truck. Trophies will be awarded to 1st and 2nd place finishers. We feel we owe it to our servicemen and women who proudly and unselfishly served in the US Armed Forces to do what we can to ensure that they are not only remembered when they are gone, but also to help them achieve their goal of providing a Veteran’s Memorial that can be enjoyed while they are still here. To date, we only have 2 or 3 teams entered for the event. To enter or sponsor a team contact S/Sgt. Rick Williams at 308-1213. To date, we only have 2 or 3 teams signed, and could use several more! Please help us help the veterans!

Have a great week and a fun and safe Memorial Day holiday!

Chief Mark Kearse