The Chris and Amy Show on KMOX

Chris Rongey and Amy Marxkors discuss the ongoing debate over the allocation of Rams settlement money in St. Louis, with two bills on the table—one for immediate infrastructure spending and another to spread funds over time for matching grants. KMOX reporter Sean Malone updates listeners on the St. Louis Police Department's 2024 crime report, highlighting a drop in murders but a rise in shootings. Malone also clarifies how crimes are categorized under the new NIBRS reporting system, confirming the inclusion of the homicide of hockey player Colin Brown in the 2024 statistics. The conversation shifts to concerns about the city’s snow removal efforts, particularly on secondary streets and in neighborhoods like Soulard and South City. Residents call in to voice their frustrations, sharing personal experiences of impassable streets that make it difficult for the elderly, children, and others to navigate. The hosts stress that these are serious public safety issues that need immediate attention, especially with the city's current budget surplus.

KMOX reporter Sean Malone joins Chris Rongey and Amy Marxkors in studio to discuss two bills under consideration by the St. Louis city committee, each proposing different timelines for the allocation of Rams settlement money. The first bill suggests a lump-sum payment for immediate spending, while the second bill proposes a long-term distribution strategy. Sean details the infrastructure priorities that are set to benefit from the funds, including downtown, North City, and southeast St. Louis, and the broader implications for the city’s financial future.

In Hour 2, Janet Ruiz from the Insurance Information Institute discusses the challenges of wildfire insurance in California, the role of the California FAIR Plan, and the complexities of insurance rates. She also highlights how flooding concerns extend beyond hurricane-prone areas and the growing availability of private flood insurance. Matt Pauly joins to talk about the University of Missouri Athletics' $15 million budget deficit, the rising costs of college sports, and the ongoing struggles of St. Louis sports teams, including SLU's loss to VCU, Mizzou's win over a top-five opponent, and the Blues' playoff push.

Matt Pauly joins Chris and Amy to discuss SLU's loss to VCU, Mizzou's big win over Florida, and the $15 million budget deficit facing the University of Missouri Athletics. The trio breaks down the St. Louis Blues' playoff hopes after a win against Calgary and raises concerns about the Cardinals' offseason moves, including Nolan Arenado's potential trade. The conversation also shifts to Patrick Mahomes' readiness for the NFL playoffs, the upcoming Chiefs-Texans matchup, and NFL games to look out for, including a preview of the KMOX broadcast.

Janet Ruiz, Director of Strategic Communication with the Insurance Information Institute, sheds light on the challenges and confusion surrounding insurance coverage amid disasters like the LA fires. She discusses wildfire insurance options, the role of the California FAIR Plan for high-risk areas, and the impact of state regulations like Prop 103. Janet also provides clarity on disaster preparedness, the importance of flood insurance, and how communities can navigate these crises effectively.

Hour 1 dives into the FDA's plan to ban Red Dye No. 3 by 2027/2028 and the growing concerns over processed foods and additives in the U.S. Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey's lawsuit against China over COVID-19 and allegations of PPE hoarding is explored. Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski discusses her work to secure compensation for Illinois communities, including Granite City, affected by Dow Chemical's radioactive waste. The hour also includes updates on the potential sale or merger of Granite City Works.

Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski joined Chris and Amy to discuss her efforts in addressing radioactive waste impacts in Illinois and ensuring investments in the Granite City Works facility. Nikki highlighted her work with Senators Hawley and Durbin to reauthorize the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA), aiming to include the 62060 zip code (Venice, Madison, and Granite City) for community compensation. She also shared concerns about the US Steel merger with Nippon, advocating for federal funding to maintain Granite City Works' operations. The conversation emphasized bipartisan collaboration and legislative strategies to support affected communities and industries.

Bernie Miklasz discusses the Los Angeles Rams' success since relocating from St. Louis, his frustration with owner Stan Kroenke, and the economic impact of the Rams’ departure. Bernie reflects on how some fans have moved on, while others still hold onto resentment. He also shares his personal decision to move past his anger towards Kroenke, choosing not to let him “live rent-free” in his mind.

In Hour 1, Chris and Amy dive into the proposed city administrator position aimed at modernizing St. Louis government. They explore how this role, common in larger cities, could streamline operations and bring more continuity across administrations. Ward 6 Alderwoman Daniela Velazquez joins the conversation to discuss the potential impacts on city services like trash collection, pothole repairs, and snow plowing. The conversation also examines the challenges and opportunities for improving the city’s $1.2 billion organization, including the benefits of removing politics from day-to-day operations.

Hour 2 shifts to the upcoming Winter Warm Up event, as Michael Hall, Executive Director of Cardinals Care, joins the show to share details about the event. Learn about new features, ticket pricing, and how the funds raised will support community initiatives like youth baseball and softball programs, along with field renovations. The hour continues with Bernie Miklasz discussing the Los Angeles Rams' success since relocating from St. Louis, his frustration with owner Stan Kroenke, and the economic impact of the Rams’ departure. Bernie reflects on how fans have moved on—or not—and shares his personal decision to move past his resentment.

In Hour 3, Earl Austin Jr., Billikens radio analyst, leads the discussion, breaking down the Billikens' recent improvement in the A-10 conference. The team’s improved defense, efficient ball movement, and the rise of 3-point shooting and analytics are all on the table, as well as the upcoming game against VCU. The conversation shifts to the Rams’ relocation from St. Louis to Los Angeles and its economic and emotional impacts on the city. Chris and Amy also explore the potential benefits of a city-county merger for St. Louis, which could streamline governance and resources.

Hour 3 kicks off with Earl Austin Jr., Billikens radio analyst, who joins Chris and Amy to break down the team’s recent improved performance in the A-10 conference. They discuss the Billikens’ stronger defense, improved ball movement, and the evolution of basketball strategy, including the rise of 3-point shooting and analytics. Earl also previews the upcoming game against VCU and reflects on how changes in basketball affect fan enjoyment.

The conversation then shifts to the Rams’ controversial relocation from St. Louis to Los Angeles, analyzing its impact on the city both economically and emotionally. Chris and Amy also explore the potential benefits of a city-county merger for the St. Louis region, considering how it might improve governance and resources.

Plus, they touch on Carrie Underwood’s performance at President Trump’s inauguration and share tips on properly using high beam headlights while driving at night.