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St. Louis Community College officials are doing what they can to prepare their staff for emergencies, including the frightening prospect of an armed intruder. College staff, students and emergency responders practiced their reaction to a simulated mass shooting at the Forest Park campus Wednesday.

Campus Police Chief Richard Branahan says the school has been holding the drills for the last four years. "Because of all the things that have happened, and all of the school shootings in the past," Branahan said. "This is just part of continuing training we're doing with the officers throughout the district."

St. Louis Police, Fire Department, paramedics and even the FBI participated in Wednesday's simulation.

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Missouri Senate has advanced a proposed one cent sales tax to fund state and local transportation projects.

The tax would need approval by Missouri voters and would automatically go to another statewide vote after 10 years. It's expected to generate nearly $8 billion over a decade, with 10 percent dedicated to local transportation needs.

Senators gave the measure first-round approval Wednesday.

The legislation requires the Highways and Transportation Commission to develop a list of projects before the tax goes on the ballot. The commission would prepare an annual status report for the governor and the Legislature.

When the increased sales tax is in effect, Missouri's gas tax would be frozen and existing roads could not be become toll roads.

The Rams have lost their top wide receiver to the New England Patriots. The NFL Network is reporting that Danny Amendola agreed to terms Wednesday evening on a five-year, $31.5-million deal that includes $10-million in guaranteed money. That’s $6.1 million a year -- about $2 million more than Rams best offer.

Earlier in the day, Wes Welker announced he was leaving New England for a free agent deal with the Denver Broncos. That opened the door for Amendola.