Missouri Press-Bar Commission welcomes four new members

The Missouri Press-Bar Commission welcomed four new members – Amos Bridges, Hon. Ginger Gooch, Katie Kull, and Hon. Traci Fann – at its May meeting.  

The commission, comprised of journalists, judges, and lawyers, was formed in 1972 to improve interactions and understanding between journalists and members of the legal profession. The commission creates projects and programs to better educate the public and encourage cooperation between the press and legal professionals to strengthen service to the First and Sixth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution. 

Amos Bridges is the editor-in-chief of the Springfield News-Leader and said he believes that it is an important duty of the press to show the public how the court system works.  

"I look forward to working with our partners within The Missouri Bar to ensure Missourians enjoy continued access to clear and comprehensive information about the court system in a way that preserves those traditions and adapts to the latest technology," he said. 

Hon. Ginger Gooch was appointed to the Supreme Court of Missouri on Oct. 30, 2023. She previously served as a judge for the Missouri Court of Appeals-Southern District. 

"I am delighted to serve as the Supreme Court of Missouri’s liaison to the Missouri Press-Bar Commission,” she said. “I look forward to working with everyone and learning more about the work of the commission." 

Katie Kull is a reporter for the St. Louis Post Dispatch, where she covers the federal courts and the 22nd Judicial Circuit. 

"I joined the Missouri Press-Bar Commission because I want to play an active role in creating a more just society through an informed populous,” Kull said. “I look forward to advocating for transparency in the courts and fostering relationships between members of the bar and the press." 

Hon. Traci Fann serves as Raytown municipal judge.  

“As a member of the judiciary, educating the public about their rights is very important to me,” Fann said. “It is imperative that when news is disseminated to the public it is accurate so that citizens can be properly informed.” 

Members of the press are also encouraged to utilize the free media resources, including the recently updated Media Law Handbook, legal glossary, and News Reporter’s Handbook on Law and Courts. These materials are created by the Missouri Press-Bar Commission and are available through The Missouri Bar’s website.