AGP Executive Report

Joplin Tourism Leadership: Patrick Tuttle, who has led the Joplin Convention and Visitors Bureau for 15 years, will retire Dec. 11, with a national search for his replacement expected to begin later this fall. Lake of the Ozarks Event Watch: Thousands of Juggalos are descending on Lake of the Ozarks for the Gathering of the Juggalos in Macks Creek, and authorities say a man nicknamed “Bluntman” was arrested for allegedly trying to bring large amounts of marijuana and psilocybin mushrooms to the festival. MoDOT Hiring: Missouri Department of Transportation is recruiting for winter maintenance crews, with year-round roles available and pay starting at $20 an hour depending on experience, plus training and benefits. Roadwork for Travelers: MoDOT announced lane reductions and width restrictions on I-55 and nearby routes in Pemiscot County for pavement repairs and sign installation, with work scheduled in late August and early September. Back-to-School Safety: Missouri Highway Patrol is reminding drivers to watch for pedestrians and young drivers during the school year, especially around bus routes and dismissal times. Local Lodging Alert: Springfield’s On Your Side reports travelers booking a Motel 6 online are arriving to find the property is no longer affiliated with Motel 6 and refunds are difficult to get. Route 66 Travel Inspiration: A look at how Historic Route 66 still survives as a patchwork of frontage roads, towns, and preserved landmarks across multiple states, even after the interstate system replaced parts of the original highway.

Tourism Funding: Phelps County’s Tourism Development Council recommended awarding $20,000 to The Hope Center for a fundraising event that organizers say brings overnight visitors; commissioners will vote Aug. 17 after concerns about tying about a quarter of the council’s budget to one project. Family Fun in Hannibal: The Budweiser Clydesdales will roll into Hannibal for a community parade on Sept. 26 (1 p.m.) celebrating the 150th anniversaries of Tom Sawyer and Anheuser-Busch, with bounce houses, games, and live music afterward. Public Health: Missouri has 1,950 lab-confirmed cyclospora cases, up 24% from the prior week, but doctors say the outbreak may be nearing its summer peak. Road & Safety Updates: A rollover on US-61 in Ralls County injured four teens early Wednesday; in St. Charles County, a crash on I-70 sent a Honda driver to the hospital with minor injuries. Local Travel Costs: GasBuddy reports Wright County hit its lowest regular price of $3.64 for the week ending Aug. 8. Scam Watch: Boonville logged two scam reports in July, tying for 31st among Missouri cities.

Road Safety: AAA says speeding has become “normalized,” with many drivers treating 5–10 mph over the limit as the new normal—an issue for parents teaching young drivers. Festival Travel & Weather: The Gathering of the Juggalos in Macks Creek (Aug. 19–22) faces heavy-rain concerns, with Camden County under a flash-flood risk as campgrounds sit close to the Niangua River. Local Food Stops: Haymaker’s cookout in Taylor, Missouri, is back open after a closure that sent regulars driving to Quincy for meals; reconstruction is planned to bring fueling back soon. Outdoor Adventure Story: A Montana man’s 20-year horse-and-wagon trek has reached northeast Missouri, with plans to keep heading west toward Alaska. Gas Prices (Trip Planning): GasBuddy reports show midgrade deals around $4.04 in Putnam County and $3.66 in Barton County, plus E85 at $3.54 in Dunklin County—useful for Ozarks road trips. Community & Services: The Missouri Bar is asking rural residents to weigh in on access to legal services, including how far they’d travel for a lawyer and interest in virtual visits. Health & Tourism Partners: A Columbia session will cover ADA website compliance and CIPA tracking risks for hotels and tourism businesses.

Local Tax Vote: Jefferson County voters rejected Proposition T, a proposed 5% hotel-motel “bed tax” meant to fund the county tourism commission, with 62.87% voting no—critics said the ballot wording made it sound confusing for travelers. Road & Travel Planning: MoDOT will close westbound I-70 lanes overnight at the I-70/I-64/U.S. 61 interchange Aug. 24-28 (9 p.m.-5 a.m.) for bridge girder work, with detours in place. Wildlife & Outdoor Season: The Missouri Department of Conservation updated deer hunting rules for 2026-27, including a reduced antlered buck limit for nonresidents, moving the Early Youth Portion to Oct. 24-25, and removing the antler-point restriction in the final 18 counties. Downtown Safety Policy: Columbia leaders asked the city to research an “urban camping” ordinance after downtown businesses and groups requested clearer standards and enforcement. Family Travel Timing: Missouri’s back-to-school start is delayed by state law, pushing many districts later than usual—important for planning late-summer trips. Outdoor Events: Friends of the Missouri National Recreational River are inviting the public to National Park Week Aug. 22-30 for hikes, kayaking, fishing, yoga, and more along the Missouri River.

Downtown Safety & Housing: Columbia downtown leaders asked the city to study a potential “urban camping” ordinance, aiming for clearer enforcement and better outreach to programs or housing. Road & Travel Updates: MoDOT says the Callaway County Route H bridge over Middle River reopened Aug. 15 ahead of schedule after a deck replacement; Route ZZ (New Madrid) and Route K (Pemiscot) are set for one-lane, 10-foot width-restricted asphalt overlay work Aug. 24–Sept. 28. Outdoor & Hunting: Missouri Department of Conservation updated 2026-27 deer rules, including a lower antlered buck limit for most nonresidents and an earlier youth weekend; MDC also reminded hunters about chronic wasting disease regulation changes. Family Fun Outdoors: The Ozark Adventure Club is reopening a 1,500–1,700-acre McDonald County property (Oct. 1) with horseback riding, kayaking, paddleboarding, and gravel cycling routes. Local Community Events: Taney County Health Department launched “Building Communities for Better Health,” starting with public surveys and focus groups. Fuel Watch: GasBuddy reported some of the week’s lowest prices in multiple counties, including E85 in Callaway and premium/midgrade deals across the state.

Missouri Deer Season Updates: The Missouri Department of Conservation is tightening rules for the upcoming deer season, including cutting the antlered buck limit for nonresident deer hunting permits from two to one (nonresident landowner permits stay at two). MDC also removed chronic wasting disease management zones and the CWD portion of firearms deer season, while shifting mandatory CWD sampling to every county once every four years (this season: Nov. 14-15 in 28 counties). Outdoor Plans: MDC’s Rockwoods Reservation in Wildwood will host beginner birding (10 a.m.) and a birding hike (noon-2 p.m.) on Sept. 14. Family Fun: The Lake West Chamber’s Annual Kids’ Fishing Derby returns Sept. 13 at Captain Ron’s in Sunrise Beach (free for ages 4-14; registration starts at noon, fishing at 1 p.m.). Road & Travel Costs: Airfare remains high for summer travelers as jet fuel prices push ticket costs up, while MoDOT has short-term roadwork ahead—Route N seal coat work Aug. 18-21 in Cape Girardeau/Bolliger counties. Roadside Stop: Meramec Caverns near Stanton was named one of America’s best roadside attractions, a Route 66-era must-stop for cave lovers.

Women’s Walk Across America in St. Louis: A cross-country relay walk protesting attacks on women’s rights passed through St. Louis, with more than 100 participants joining for parts of the 3,300-mile journey to Washington, D.C. Back-to-school road safety: Missouri Highway Patrol is urging drivers to slow down and watch for students and bus activity as school resumes, citing crash patterns around stopped buses and distracted driving. MoDOT roadwork (Northern Missouri): Planned maintenance and closures include seal coat operations in Knox County and lane restrictions/culvert work affecting Routes in Macon County—check MoDOT’s traveler map before heading out. Local history for kids: Ashe County elementary schools will receive a Daniel Boone young reader’s biography and teacher resources through the NC Daniel Boone Heritage Trail, funded by tourism grants and partners. Scam watch (BBB): Mansfield reported 1 scam in July; Hollister logged 2—BBB Scam Tracker highlights ongoing fraud losses and common phishing and employment schemes. Gas prices (week ending Aug. 8): Taney County regular hit $3.59, while DeKalb diesel reached $4.68—use GasBuddy to plan cheaper stops. Military history on the move: A Military Vehicle Preservation Association convoy (based in Independence, Missouri) rolled along parts of the Lewis and Clark Trail, bringing historic vehicles to communities along the route.

Highway Safety/Drugs: A Queen City woman faces eight charges after a two-vehicle crash on Adair County’s Highway 11, with authorities alleging drug impairment and injuries. Fuel Watch: GasBuddy reports show diesel and gas prices staying volatile across Missouri, including the lowest diesel in Cedar County ($4.59) and Shannon County ($4.79) for the week ending Aug. 8, plus a Missouri-wide diesel average of $4.85. Air Travel Costs: Summer airfares remain high as jet fuel costs rise, with Missouri airport domestic fares averaging $461 (Lambert), $478 (Kansas City), and $495 (Springfield-Branson) in early 2026. Back-to-School Relief: Independence families got 250 free backpacks at a local event, while Jefferson City-area giveaways at Trinity Lutheran and Building Community Bridges helped stretch budgets. Inclusive Summer Camp: Special Olympics Missouri and partners launched Camp Beyond, a six-week inclusive camp at the Training for Life campus in Jefferson City. Local Roadwork: MoDOT road projects and closures are planned across mid-Missouri, including Boone County work affecting I-70 ramps and Routes J/O. Community Safety/Scams: BBB Scam Tracker lists Missouri cities with reports in July, with Columbia among the top 5 statewide for scam incidents.

Back-to-School Help: Independence families got a boost Saturday as Let’s Go BBQ handed out 250 backpacks packed with supplies at Independence Center, aiming to ease rising costs for parents and reduce the burden on teachers. Public Safety on I-70: Police located an Amber Alert suspect on Interstate 70 near Blue Springs, and the child was found safe with no injuries. Community Relief: A Kansas City-area nonprofit, the Colombian Cultural Association MO-KAN, is collecting donations for Colombia earthquake victims, with drop-offs at St. Anthony Parish. Travel & Roadside Reality (Gas Watch): Ozark County saw the lowest premium gas price at $4.99 (week ending Aug. 8), while Cass County’s lowest midgrade hit $3.82 and Platte County’s cheapest E85 was $3.30. Scam Alerts: BBB Scam Tracker ranked Columbia among Missouri’s top cities for scam reports in July, with 14 incidents. Food Safety: Jefferson County Health Department released routine food inspection scores for the week of Aug. 2, with results ranging from 80–100.

Gas Prices Watch: Christian County’s lowest midgrade gas hit $3.54 (week ending Aug. 8), while Morgan County’s lowest premium was $4.49—another reminder that Missouri fuel costs can swing fast. Scam Alerts: Columbia landed in the top 5 for Missouri scam reports in July, with 14 incidents, and BBB notes employment scams were the most common. Lake of the Ozarks Boating: LakeExpo’s Boat Gas Report is out for Aug. 15-16, with dock fuel prices posted for weekend planning. Road Work for Travelers: MoDOT announced multiple Southeast Missouri lane impacts starting Aug. 24, including Route Z bridge replacement in Cape Girardeau County (detours) plus one-lane asphalt overlay reductions on Routes Z, Y, M, and CC in Dunklin and Pemiscot counties through late September. Food Safety / Health: FDA is traveling to Mexico as it continues its cyclosporiasis investigation tied to a Taylor Farms outbreak involving shredded iceberg lettuce. Outdoor Caution: A Kansas City man died after a falling rock incident at Glacier National Park, underscoring how quickly travel risks can turn serious.

Public Health Watch: Hawaiʻi DOH confirmed a fifth cyclosporiasis case in 2026, involving a U.S. military member who traveled internationally and to another state with rising cases; officials say the public risk remains low as investigations continue. Travel Safety Reminder: A Kansas City man, Rex Schowengerdt, died after a falling rock struck him while riding in a Jeep on Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road. Roadwork for Drivers: MoDOT announced multiple Southeast Missouri lane impacts starting Aug. 24, including Route Z bridge replacements in Cape Girardeau County (detour via Routes 25/A/F) and one-lane asphalt overlay reductions on Route Z (Dunklin), Route Y (Pemiscot), Route M (Pemiscot), and Route CC (Pemiscot). Family Fun in Branson: Silver Dollar City unveiled Miner’s Mountain Express, a spring 2027 family coaster inspired by Marvel Cave mining history, with a half-mile-plus track and a new Daredevil Pass area. Local Community & Tourism Economy: Columbia leaders outlined downtown safety steps after public criticism, including added camera coverage and other initiatives aimed at keeping visitors and residents safe.

Missouri State Fair Update: The Missouri State Fair in Sedalia runs Aug. 13–23 with a patriotic theme, “Show-Me Stars and Stripes,” plus attractions like the Freedom Truck traveling museum and concerts and food events. New Theme-Park Ride: Silver Dollar City in Stone County unveiled Miner’s Mountain Express, a family coaster opening in spring 2027, themed to Ozarks mining and Marvel Cave history. Family Travel Safety Note: An early I-70 crash involving sea lions led to the cancellation of a live animal show at the fair; officials say the sea lions were evaluated and are in excellent health. Gas Prices Watch: AAA says the national regular average is climbing again to about $4.07; locally, GasBuddy reports some of the lowest deals include $3.29 regular in Johnson County and $4.17 premium in Pettis County (week ending Aug. 8). Roadwork for Travelers: MoDOT schedules sidewalk/ADA improvements in Cedar and Greene counties starting Aug. 17, plus pavement repair closures/reductions on Route J in Pemiscot County (Aug. 17–20) and other Northeast Missouri maintenance. Food Recall Alert: Whole Foods recalled prepared foods in multiple states, including Missouri, due to jalapeno peppers potentially contaminated with Salmonella; customers are urged not to eat affected salsa, guacamole, pico de gallo, and dips with best-by dates Aug. 7–16.

Travel & Tourism Updates: Kirksville Regional Airport cut the ribbon on a bigger, modern terminal at 27161 David Hall Trail, with officials noting it’s the only Essential Air Service airport in northern Missouri. New Attractions & Events: The Governor Michael L. Parson Arena opened at the Missouri State Fairgrounds, a $31 million, multi-use venue expected to boost tourism, with rodeo among the first events. Road Trips & Fuel Watch: GasBuddy reports show Missouri regular and midgrade prices staying volatile—St. Louis city hit a low of $3.87/gal for midgrade (week ending Aug. 8), Randolph County regular dipped to $3.70/gal, and Stone County premium reached $3.96/gal. Family Fun & Local Culture: Dover’s 12-year-old team returned from the Cal Ripken World Series with “lasting memories” despite going 0-4 in pool play. Public Safety & Traveler Services: The Missouri State Highway Patrol launched a public opinion survey covering traveler and boater concerns, plus perceptions of the Patrol’s performance and demeanor. Community Notes: Downtown Kirksville street improvements are set to begin next week with overnight work and no-parking rules on several downtown streets.

Nostalgia Tourism: A new survey from Advance Funds Network asked Americans and Canadians 45+ to name the summer spots that feel most like childhood—highlighting classic “vacation memories” businesses like boardwalks, ice cream windows, and family attractions. State Fair Update: The Missouri State Fair’s Sea Lion Splash show was canceled after a crash involving the sea lions’ transport vehicle; the animals were unharmed and vets confirmed they’re in excellent health. Outdoor Programs: Missouri Department of Conservation is offering free, registration-required September events at Meramec Conservation Area near Sullivan, including a Five Mile Loop Hike, Compass and Map class, and Wild Edibles. Business Travel: American Express reports major events are driving business travel in 2026, with most travelers saying hosting clients at events helps win and keep business—good news for Missouri venues planning conference seasons. Road Access Watch: Platte City’s Highway 92 redesign is moving forward despite business owner concerns about reduced left turns and access; construction is expected to start as early as next spring. Gas Watch: GasBuddy price reports show local variation across Missouri counties, with Dent County’s lowest regular hitting $3.84 (week ending Aug. 8) and diesel lows like $4.96 in Carter County.

Back-to-School Help in Mid-Missouri: Powerhouse Community Development Corporation is hosting a Community Back-to-School Bash in Columbia Friday (noon–6) at the MU Health Care Pavilion, packing thousands of free backpacks and school supplies for elementary through high school students. Road & Bridge Updates (MoDOT): Southwest Missouri drivers get new load postings and repairs—weight limits posted on the U.S. 60 bridge over Lake Springfield in Springfield and on U.S. 54 over the Missouri & Northern Arkansas Railroad in Nevada; plus Route F pavement repairs in Cape Girardeau County (Aug. 17–19) and a weather-postponed closure of the U.S. 69 ramp to I-35 southbound at the Iowa line (Aug. 13–14). Local Travel Picks: A new list highlights “100 Missouri Places You Need to Visit at Least Once,” with top stops like the Gateway Arch and Forest Park. Fuel Watch: GasBuddy reports the lowest E15 price in Holt County at $3.64/gal (week ending Aug. 1), with diesel deals also appearing across multiple counties. Community Events: A Kansas City fundraiser, Comida KC at Union Station, benefits Hispanic families through scholarships, mentorships, and year-round community programs.

Rural Health Workforce: MU’s Rural Immersion Program welcomed 19 future healthcare students for a five-day look at what keeps northwestern Missouri communities healthy, from access and workforce shortages to how agriculture, schools, and behavioral health all connect. Homelessness & Local Policy: North Kansas City’s new ban on camping/sleeping in public spaces is drawing criticism after a local service provider said the city moved too fast without bringing in organizations already serving people experiencing homelessness. Sight & Sound Branson Tourism: The biblical theater chain is marking 50 years with new productions and expansion plans; its Branson, Missouri venue helps bring in nearly 2 million guests annually. Travel Safety—Drowning Warning: Missouri drowning deaths rose to the highest level since 2021, with 30 fatalities reported Jan. 1–July 31 and more already in August—an urgent reminder for lake and river visitors. Road Work for Drivers: MoDOT is scheduling ramp closures and bridge replacement work affecting U.S. 71 and U.S. 69, with dates starting Aug. 12—check routes before you go. Gas Watch: GasBuddy reports the lowest regular price in Bollinger County at $3.89/gal for the week ending Aug. 1.