Keep safety top of mind this Independence
Day holiday weekend.

National Fireworks Association President,
Stacy Schneitter-Blake of St. Joseph, says those who sell fireworks urge their
customers to be safe as they celebrate.

“We always want to make sure that people that
are using fireworks for their celebration are taking the correct safety
measures,” Schneitter-Balke tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.

Schneitter-Blake with Schneitter
Fireworks and Importers says just a few steps will ensure your celebration
remains safe.

“We always want to make sure you’re
buying from a reputable company. Always have water handy. Make sure to brace
your cakes, your fountains, definitely your mortar shells,” Schneitter-Blake
says. “We want to make sure that people are celebrating safely this 4th
of July season.”

A couple of websites have safety tips as
well:&nbsp; the National Fireworks Association
website as well as the website maintained by the American Pyrotechnics Safety
and Education Foundation.

Click <a href="https://www.nationalfireworks.com/safety-resources">HERE</a> for the National Fireworks
Association safety tips.

Click <a href="https://www.celebratesafely.org/safety-resources">HERE</a> for by the American
Pyrotechnics Safety and Education Foundation safety tips.

You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostKeep safety top of mind this Independence
Day holiday weekend.National Fireworks Association President,
Stacy Schneitter-Blake of St. Joseph, says those who sell fireworks urge their
customers to be safe as they celebrate.“We always want to make sure that people that
are using fireworks for their celebration are taking the correct safety
measures,” Schneitter-Balke tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.Schneitter-Blake with Schneitter
Fireworks and Importers says just a few steps will ensure your celebration
remains safe.“We always want to make sure you’re
buying from a reputable company. Always have water handy. Make sure to brace
your cakes, your fountains, definitely your mortar shells,” Schneitter-Blake
says. “We want to make sure that people are celebrating safely this 4th
of July season.”A couple of websites have safety tips as
well:&nbsp; the National Fireworks Association
website as well as the website maintained by the American Pyrotechnics Safety
and Education Foundation.Click <a href="https://www.nationalfireworks.com/safety-resources">HERE</a> for the National Fireworks
Association safety tips.Click <a href="https://www.celebratesafely.org/safety-resources">HERE</a> for by the American
Pyrotechnics Safety and Education Foundation safety tips.You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

Keep safe this Independence Day holiday

There should be
plenty of fireworks and prices shouldn’t be too much higher than last year,
despite the trade war between the United States and China.

That, according to
Stacy Schneitter-Blake with Schneitters Fireworks and Importers of St. Joseph.
Schneitter-Blake, the president of the National Fireworks Association, says
nearly all the fireworks we shoot off this Independence Day are imported.

“For the consumer
fireworks it’s 95 to 99% comes from China,” Schneitter-Blake tells KFEQ/St.
Joseph Post.

Schneitter-Blake
says most fireworks stands bought their fireworks early, before tariffs drove
up the price. Fireworks wholesalers and retailers didn’t have to worry much
about tariffs in the past. Schneitter-Blake says federal policy exempted
fireworks from tariffs until 2019. Now, fireworks are in the thick of trade
talks, especially this time of year.

Schneitter-Blake
says she hasn’t seen a big impact on National Fireworks Association members
this year.

“What I’m seeing
right now, the prices are very similar as they have been in the past years,” Schneitter-Blake
says. “They might have some, you know, maybe a little, slight difference in
price.”

“We did leave some
product in China,” according to Schneitter-Blake. “We have a lot of fireworks
here, but I would encourage people to shop early in case there are certain
items that we might be limited on.”

Schneitter-Blake
says some fireworks manufacturers in China had to shut down production. They
don’t have warehouse space and increasingly higher tariffs dampened demand from
America. A 10% tariff early in the year quickly doubled and as the trade war
escalated, tariffs on goods from China soared to 145% at one time.

Schneitter-Blake does
advise consumers to shop early for their fireworks this Independence Day
holiday. She says fireworks stands might be short on some items. Still, she
doesn’t see much of an interruption to the celebrations this year.

“So, going into
the 2026 season, we’re a little more leery about what that might happen to for
next year, going into the 250th, semiquincentennial of our country,”
Schneitter-Blake says.

The concern for
next year is heightened by the approaching 250th anniversary
celebration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

“My concerns right
now are going into 2026,” Schneitter-Blake says. “Next year, for the
semiquincentennial, the 4th of July lands on a Saturday. It’s kind
of the perfect storm for a 250th anniversary of our country landing on
a Saturday as well, on a weekend.”

Schneitter-Blake
says the National Fireworks Association and the American Pyrotechnics
Association are working together to lobby the federal government to once again exempt
fireworks from tariffs.

Schneitters
Fireworks and Importers is a retail, wholesale company that supplies fireworks
to many companies that put on fireworks displays. It is celebrating its 130th
anniversary. Schneitter-Blake says her parents and grandparents were founding
members of the National Fireworks Association to have more of a say in federal policy.
Schneitter-Blake has made several trips to Washington, D.C. to lobby for
association members.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostThere should be
plenty of fireworks and prices shouldn’t be too much higher than last year,
despite the trade war between the United States and China.That, according to
Stacy Schneitter-Blake with Schneitters Fireworks and Importers of St. Joseph.
Schneitter-Blake, the president of the National Fireworks Association, says
nearly all the fireworks we shoot off this Independence Day are imported.“For the consumer
fireworks it’s 95 to 99% comes from China,” Schneitter-Blake tells KFEQ/St.
Joseph Post.Schneitter-Blake
says most fireworks stands bought their fireworks early, before tariffs drove
up the price. Fireworks wholesalers and retailers didn’t have to worry much
about tariffs in the past. Schneitter-Blake says federal policy exempted
fireworks from tariffs until 2019. Now, fireworks are in the thick of trade
talks, especially this time of year.Schneitter-Blake
says she hasn’t seen a big impact on National Fireworks Association members
this year.“What I’m seeing
right now, the prices are very similar as they have been in the past years,” Schneitter-Blake
says. “They might have some, you know, maybe a little, slight difference in
price.”Supply might be a
different story.“We did leave some
product in China,” according to Schneitter-Blake. “We have a lot of fireworks
here, but I would encourage people to shop early in case there are certain
items that we might be limited on.”Schneitter-Blake
says some fireworks manufacturers in China had to shut down production. They
don’t have warehouse space and increasingly higher tariffs dampened demand from
America. A 10% tariff early in the year quickly doubled and as the trade war
escalated, tariffs on goods from China soared to 145% at one time.Schneitter-Blake does
advise consumers to shop early for their fireworks this Independence Day
holiday. She says fireworks stands might be short on some items. Still, she
doesn’t see much of an interruption to the celebrations this year.Next year could be
a different story.“So, going into
the 2026 season, we’re a little more leery about what that might happen to for
next year, going into the 250th, semiquincentennial of our country,”
Schneitter-Blake says.The concern for
next year is heightened by the approaching 250th anniversary
celebration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.“My concerns right
now are going into 2026,” Schneitter-Blake says. “Next year, for the
semiquincentennial, the 4th of July lands on a Saturday. It’s kind
of the perfect storm for a 250th anniversary of our country landing on
a Saturday as well, on a weekend.”Schneitter-Blake
says the National Fireworks Association and the American Pyrotechnics
Association are working together to lobby the federal government to once again exempt
fireworks from tariffs.Schneitters
Fireworks and Importers is a retail, wholesale company that supplies fireworks
to many companies that put on fireworks displays. It is celebrating its 130th
anniversary. Schneitter-Blake says her parents and grandparents were founding
members of the National Fireworks Association to have more of a say in federal policy.
Schneitter-Blake has made several trips to Washington, D.C. to lobby for
association members.You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

Trade war with China shouldn't affect your 4th celebration, at least not much

Northern Missouri
Congressman Sam Graves fully supports President Trump’s military action against
Iran.

Graves, a
Republican, says Trump is justified in helping Israel strike against Iran’s
nuclear weapons program.

“They are a state
sponsor of terrorism,” Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “Whether that’s
helping Hamas or helping Hezbollah or helping other groups when it comes to
IEDs and targeting Americans and going after Israel. We just simply can’t allow
that to happen.”

Graves asserts
Trump did not have to consult with Congress, because it was a military action, targeting
specific strategic sites; not an act of war.

“I think he was
absolutely within his power,” Graves says. “You know I’ve had this argument
before, for instance with President Bush back when we struck Iraq. And it’s the
same thing. It’s well within his authority to do this and we are not at war
with Iran.”

Graves also points
out President Trump had warned Iran prior to ordering the military strikes. B2
stealth bombers from Whiteman Air Force Base conducted military strikes against
three targets in Iran over the past weekend.

Though Graves
expresses optimism that the conflict might end with Iran capitulating, he
understands that attacks create anxiety among Americans.

“Well, I know it’s
a troubling time for folks, but I think we will come through this just fine,”
Graves says. “And, again, we can’t allow a terrorist state to have nuclear weapons,
militarized nuclear weapons and this is what this is all about.”

A fragile cease
fire is in effect between Iran and Israel.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostNorthern Missouri
Congressman Sam Graves fully supports President Trump’s military action against
Iran.Graves, a
Republican, says Trump is justified in helping Israel strike against Iran’s
nuclear weapons program.“They are a state
sponsor of terrorism,” Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “Whether that’s
helping Hamas or helping Hezbollah or helping other groups when it comes to
IEDs and targeting Americans and going after Israel. We just simply can’t allow
that to happen.”Graves asserts
Trump did not have to consult with Congress, because it was a military action, targeting
specific strategic sites; not an act of war.“I think he was
absolutely within his power,” Graves says. “You know I’ve had this argument
before, for instance with President Bush back when we struck Iraq. And it’s the
same thing. It’s well within his authority to do this and we are not at war
with Iran.”Graves also points
out President Trump had warned Iran prior to ordering the military strikes. B2
stealth bombers from Whiteman Air Force Base conducted military strikes against
three targets in Iran over the past weekend.Though Graves
expresses optimism that the conflict might end with Iran capitulating, he
understands that attacks create anxiety among Americans.“Well, I know it’s
a troubling time for folks, but I think we will come through this just fine,”
Graves says. “And, again, we can’t allow a terrorist state to have nuclear weapons,
militarized nuclear weapons and this is what this is all about.”A fragile cease
fire is in effect between Iran and Israel.You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

Congressman Graves backs Trump action against Iran

A St. Joseph state
representative who supported the incentive package for the Kansas City Chiefs
and Royals approved during the special legislative session sees it as an
economic development issue.

Rep. Brenda
Shields, a Republican, says the state needed to act to keep the Chiefs from
crossing the state line into Kansas and keep the Royals from moving to another
city. Shields understands many object to offering incentives to professional
teams.

“And if Missouri
was the only state offering incentives, I could question incentives, but there
are incentives offered for every industry across every state in America,” Shields
tells KFEQmmunity. “Incentives are just part of the deal of growing your
economy in your state, because businesses are going to go where they get the
best deal. And currently, right now, Kansas had a deal on the table that they
would pay for 70% of the build of a new stadium.”

Missouri lawmakers
met in special session the first two weeks of the month to primarily consider
an incentive package to keep the Chiefs and Royals in Missouri. The special
session called by Gov. Mike Kehoe also delivered disaster aid for homeowners in
the St. Louis area as well as a few capital improvement projects, such as the
nuclear reactor own by the University of Missouri vital to cancer research.

Shields says the
Missouri economy has become stagnant and cannot afford the loss of a 
Chiefs and Royals.

“We’ve lost a
Congressional seat, because Missouri hasn’t grown,” Shields points out. “We
used to have nine. Now we have eight. I think that should be evident to
everyone that we need to do everything we can to continue to grow Missouri’s
economy.”

The prestige
factor plays a role as well.

“Prestige has a
lot of impact,” Shields says. “When we are attracting businesses to our state,
they are looking for the amenities that they need for their employees.”

Shields says the
Chiefs and Royals generate tremendous tax revenue and economic activity to
Missouri. Shields adds keeping the teams provides that little extra used to
attract other businesses to the state.

“They want to know
what type of amenities that you have in your community. Is it major league baseball,
major league football? Is it arts?&nbsp; It’s
the whole package. And how we draw top quality to our state is based upon what
we have to offer them in their spare time.”

Gov. Mike Kehoe
has signed the three bills approved in the special session into law.

You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA St. Joseph state
representative who supported the incentive package for the Kansas City Chiefs
and Royals approved during the special legislative session sees it as an
economic development issue.Rep. Brenda
Shields, a Republican, says the state needed to act to keep the Chiefs from
crossing the state line into Kansas and keep the Royals from moving to another
city. Shields understands many object to offering incentives to professional
teams.“And if Missouri
was the only state offering incentives, I could question incentives, but there
are incentives offered for every industry across every state in America,” Shields
tells KFEQmmunity. “Incentives are just part of the deal of growing your
economy in your state, because businesses are going to go where they get the
best deal. And currently, right now, Kansas had a deal on the table that they
would pay for 70% of the build of a new stadium.”Missouri lawmakers
met in special session the first two weeks of the month to primarily consider
an incentive package to keep the Chiefs and Royals in Missouri. The special
session called by Gov. Mike Kehoe also delivered disaster aid for homeowners in
the St. Louis area as well as a few capital improvement projects, such as the
nuclear reactor own by the University of Missouri vital to cancer research.Shields says the
Missouri economy has become stagnant and cannot afford the loss of a 
Chiefs and Royals.“We’ve lost a
Congressional seat, because Missouri hasn’t grown,” Shields points out. “We
used to have nine. Now we have eight. I think that should be evident to
everyone that we need to do everything we can to continue to grow Missouri’s
economy.”The prestige
factor plays a role as well.“Prestige has a
lot of impact,” Shields says. “When we are attracting businesses to our state,
they are looking for the amenities that they need for their employees.”Shields says the
Chiefs and Royals generate tremendous tax revenue and economic activity to
Missouri. Shields adds keeping the teams provides that little extra used to
attract other businesses to the state.“They want to know
what type of amenities that you have in your community. Is it major league baseball,
major league football? Is it arts?&nbsp; It’s
the whole package. And how we draw top quality to our state is based upon what
we have to offer them in their spare time.”Gov. Mike Kehoe
has signed the three bills approved in the special session into law.<div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/4JYeXBt82kHEieStTXKeda?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ.

Shields says Chiefs-Royals package provides economic boost

NODAWAY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Wednesday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported 2008 Dodge Magnum driven by a 28-year-old Elmo man was southbound on Route KK at 135th Street one mile north of Elmo. The driver fell asleep. The vehicle crossed the center line and struck the rear drivers side of a northbound 2008 Chevy 1500 driven by a 65-year-old Clarinda, Iowa man.

Nodaway County EMS transported the 28-year-old to the hospital in Clarinda, Iowa. The pickup driver was not injured. The injured driver was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

NODAWAY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Wednesday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported 2008 Dodge Magnum driven by a 28-year-old Elmo man was southbound on Route KK at 135th Street one mile north of Elmo. The driver fell asleep. The vehicle crossed the center line and struck the rear drivers side of a northbound 2008 Chevy 1500 driven by a 65-year-old Clarinda, Iowa man.Nodaway County EMS transported the 28-year-old to the hospital in Clarinda, Iowa. The pickup driver was not injured. The injured driver was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Mo. driver fell asleep just before 2-vehicle crash

GRUNDY COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just before 1:30p.m. in Grundy County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Toyota Corolla driven by 49-year-old Princeton man was southbound on U.S. 65 one mile northeast of Tindall. The car reportedly crossed the center line and collided with a northbound 2023 Ford Maverick driven by a 54-year-old Trenton man.

EMS transported a 10-year-old male passenger in the car to Children's Mercy. EMS transported the driver of the Toyota and a 73-year-old female passenger in the car to Wright Memorial Hospital. The driver of the pickup was not injured. All four were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

GRUNDY COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just before 1:30p.m. in Grundy County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Toyota Corolla driven by 49-year-old Princeton man was southbound on U.S. 65 one mile northeast of Tindall. The car reportedly crossed the center line and collided with a northbound 2023 Ford Maverick driven by a 54-year-old Trenton man.EMS transported a 10-year-old male passenger in the car to Children's Mercy. EMS transported the driver of the Toyota and a 73-year-old female passenger in the car to Wright Memorial Hospital. The driver of the pickup was not injured. All four were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

2 adults, 10-year-old injured in car, pickup crash

A veteran
legislative reporter says a decision at the end of the Missouri legislature’s
regular session could cast a long shadow on the special session that is underway
in Jefferson City.

Missourinet News
Director, Alisa Nelson, says the decision by House Budget Committee chair, Dirk
Deaton of Seneca, to kill House Bill 19, the $513 million capital improvement
bill, set a sour tone that just might carry over.

“I mean the session
was going so well until that point,” Nelson tells KFEQmmunity. “I mean in terms
of the personalities and the dynamics and things and all the different
lawmakers working together in a pretty bipartisan fashion to some degree. It
was going so well until then and then it just really went downhill after that.”

Nelson says
tension built in the Missouri Senate even further when the House approved a tax
incentive package for the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals just after killing the
capital improvement bill. Several senators questioned why House leadership
could kill a bill funding capital improvements throughout the state, claiming
the state needed to be careful about spending, then turn around and approve tax
breaks for the two professional sports teams.

Then, Senate
Republicans picked up a rarely used parliamentary procedure to cut off debate
and force a vote on two controversial issues – sending the abortion issue back
to voters and removing paid sick leave provisions from the voter-approved
minimum wage law. The move further angered Senate Democrats.

The Senate
adjourned two days early. The House adjourned a day early.

Nelson points to
the decision by Deaton to bypass HB 19 and not bring it to a vote as the
turning point. She says Deaton’s decision to kill the capital improvement
package took nearly everyone by surprise and angered many.

“So, there was definitely
some bad blood that occurred because of the timing of all of this and I think
that bad blood and that friction and all of that will spill over into this
special session.”

Nelson says Gov. Mike
Kehoe must find a way to cut through that tension and bring the legislature
back together if he is to steer the Chiefs/Royals incentives through the
General Assembly.

The special
session will also consider a much scaled down version of HB 19 along with tax breaks
for St. Louis area homeowners who suffered property damage during recent severe
storms.

By BRENT MARTINA veteran
legislative reporter says a decision at the end of the Missouri legislature’s
regular session could cast a long shadow on the special session that is underway
in Jefferson City.Missourinet News
Director, Alisa Nelson, says the decision by House Budget Committee chair, Dirk
Deaton of Seneca, to kill House Bill 19, the $513 million capital improvement
bill, set a sour tone that just might carry over.“I mean the session
was going so well until that point,” Nelson tells KFEQmmunity. “I mean in terms
of the personalities and the dynamics and things and all the different
lawmakers working together in a pretty bipartisan fashion to some degree. It
was going so well until then and then it just really went downhill after that.”Nelson says
tension built in the Missouri Senate even further when the House approved a tax
incentive package for the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals just after killing the
capital improvement bill. Several senators questioned why House leadership
could kill a bill funding capital improvements throughout the state, claiming
the state needed to be careful about spending, then turn around and approve tax
breaks for the two professional sports teams.Then, Senate
Republicans picked up a rarely used parliamentary procedure to cut off debate
and force a vote on two controversial issues – sending the abortion issue back
to voters and removing paid sick leave provisions from the voter-approved
minimum wage law. The move further angered Senate Democrats.The Senate
adjourned two days early. The House adjourned a day early.Nelson points to
the decision by Deaton to bypass HB 19 and not bring it to a vote as the
turning point. She says Deaton’s decision to kill the capital improvement
package took nearly everyone by surprise and angered many.“So, there was definitely
some bad blood that occurred because of the timing of all of this and I think
that bad blood and that friction and all of that will spill over into this
special session.”Nelson says Gov. Mike
Kehoe must find a way to cut through that tension and bring the legislature
back together if he is to steer the Chiefs/Royals incentives through the
General Assembly.The special
session will also consider a much scaled down version of HB 19 along with tax breaks
for St. Louis area homeowners who suffered property damage during recent severe
storms.

One decision sent the Missouri legislative session into tailspin

Missouri lawmakers
return to Jefferson City today for a special legislative session, primarily to
consider an incentive package to keep the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals in
Missouri.

State Sen. Rusty
Black, a Republican from Chillicothe, says discussions continue as Gov. Mike
Kehoe attempts to gain the votes needed to approve the package.

“I do think that there’s
a path for this to end up on the governor’s desk and signed, but I certainly
don’t think all the negotiation is over yet,” Black says.

Kansas has an
offer on the table to lure both the Chiefs and the Royals across the state
line. Other cities, such as Nashville and Salt Lake City, are reputably
interested in luring the Royals away.

Black says
supporters must overcome objections that the issue only concerns western
Missouri.

“If you’re from
St. Louis, this is for Kansas City and we don’t care about that,” Black says. “And
we’ve got to get past some of that I believe if we’re going to get this piece
of legislation passed.”

Black says St.
Louis should actually be an example. He recalls driving by the former Edward Jones
Dome, now the Dome at America’s Center, and noticing it hasn’t spurred economic
development in downtown St. Louis since the Rams left.

Black views this as
an economic development issue.

“And sports teams
in my mind, professional sports teams in Rusty Black’s mind, they’re somewhat
like talking about a Ford plant closing down or a General Motors plant closing
down or, in St. Joe, all of the sudden Altec decides that they’re going to
leave, that has a lot more economic impact than inside their chain link fence.”

The governor also
wants lawmakers to consider a few capital improvement projects as well as tax
incentives for St. Louis area homeowners who suffered property damage in the
recent storms.

Black says there
could be a possibility of reviving projects for St. Joseph, along with
improvements for North Central Missouri College and other northwest Missouri
interests in the original $500 million capital improvement package.

“At this point in
time, they’re not in there, but it’s not like that I’m not paying attention to
what’s going to move forward and if the opportunity comes, I’m probably going
to ask for those things to be included again,” Black says.

Another obstacle
to overcome in this special legislative session is the way the regular session
ended. The Missouri Senate adjourned abruptly and early with much acrimony
after Republicans used a parliamentary procedure to cut off debate and force
votes on two controversial issues.

Black says the
tensions haven’t been smoothed over, at least not yet.

“We’re going to
have to work through those and hope that we can find a path even though there’s
still hurt feelings,” Black says.

Lawmakers will
also consider authorizing tax breaks for St. Louis area homeowners who suffered
property damage during recent storms.

By BRENT MARTINMissouri lawmakers
return to Jefferson City today for a special legislative session, primarily to
consider an incentive package to keep the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals in
Missouri.State Sen. Rusty
Black, a Republican from Chillicothe, says discussions continue as Gov. Mike
Kehoe attempts to gain the votes needed to approve the package.“I do think that there’s
a path for this to end up on the governor’s desk and signed, but I certainly
don’t think all the negotiation is over yet,” Black says.Kansas has an
offer on the table to lure both the Chiefs and the Royals across the state
line. Other cities, such as Nashville and Salt Lake City, are reputably
interested in luring the Royals away.Black says
supporters must overcome objections that the issue only concerns western
Missouri.“If you’re from
St. Louis, this is for Kansas City and we don’t care about that,” Black says. “And
we’ve got to get past some of that I believe if we’re going to get this piece
of legislation passed.”Black says St.
Louis should actually be an example. He recalls driving by the former Edward Jones
Dome, now the Dome at America’s Center, and noticing it hasn’t spurred economic
development in downtown St. Louis since the Rams left.Black views this as
an economic development issue.“And sports teams
in my mind, professional sports teams in Rusty Black’s mind, they’re somewhat
like talking about a Ford plant closing down or a General Motors plant closing
down or, in St. Joe, all of the sudden Altec decides that they’re going to
leave, that has a lot more economic impact than inside their chain link fence.”The governor also
wants lawmakers to consider a few capital improvement projects as well as tax
incentives for St. Louis area homeowners who suffered property damage in the
recent storms.Black says there
could be a possibility of reviving projects for St. Joseph, along with
improvements for North Central Missouri College and other northwest Missouri
interests in the original $500 million capital improvement package.“At this point in
time, they’re not in there, but it’s not like that I’m not paying attention to
what’s going to move forward and if the opportunity comes, I’m probably going
to ask for those things to be included again,” Black says.Another obstacle
to overcome in this special legislative session is the way the regular session
ended. The Missouri Senate adjourned abruptly and early with much acrimony
after Republicans used a parliamentary procedure to cut off debate and force
votes on two controversial issues.Black says the
tensions haven’t been smoothed over, at least not yet.“We’re going to
have to work through those and hope that we can find a path even though there’s
still hurt feelings,” Black says.Lawmakers will
also consider authorizing tax breaks for St. Louis area homeowners who suffered
property damage during recent storms.

Lawmakers return to Jefferson City to decide fate of Chiefs-Royals

The St. Louis Cardinals have been trending in the right direction as of late, but saw a minor setback against the top team from the American League Central, falling to the Detroit Tigers 5-1 in the series finale Wednesday afternoon at Busch Stadium, losing the series 2-1.&nbsp;

Detroit opened the scoring in the second after back to back singles by Riley Greene and Spencer Torkelson, Colt Keith grounding into a sacrifice double play that allowed Greene to race home for a run.&nbsp; In the fourth inning, Torkelson doubled home Greene for another run, and Greene scored again in the sixth inning on a&nbsp;Dillon Dingler pushing the Tigers to a 3-0 lead.&nbsp;

St. Louis scored their lone run in the bottom half of the sixth, Willson Contreras singling home Victor Scott who singled to start the inning.&nbsp; In the eighth, Detroit added the final two runs, a Trey Sweeney sacrifice fly first scoring Torkelson before&nbsp;Javier Báez singled to drive in Keith.&nbsp;

Cardinals starter Andre Pallante took the loss, falling to 4-3 on the season, pitching 5 2/3 innings giving up three runs on four hits, striking out three and walking four.&nbsp; Alec Burleson led the Cardinals, who had just five hits, at the plate going 2-4.

St. Louis has an off day on Thursday and will welcome Arizona to town on Friday.&nbsp; Miles Mikolas (3-2, 3.77 ERA) is set to start for the Cardinals while the Diamondbacks starter is listed as TBD.&nbsp; First pitch is at 7:15pm, pregame coverage being joined at 7:05 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe St. Louis Cardinals have been trending in the right direction as of late, but saw a minor setback against the top team from the American League Central, falling to the Detroit Tigers 5-1 in the series finale Wednesday afternoon at Busch Stadium, losing the series 2-1.&nbsp;Detroit opened the scoring in the second after back to back singles by Riley Greene and Spencer Torkelson, Colt Keith grounding into a sacrifice double play that allowed Greene to race home for a run.&nbsp; In the fourth inning, Torkelson doubled home Greene for another run, and Greene scored again in the sixth inning on a&nbsp;Dillon Dingler pushing the Tigers to a 3-0 lead.&nbsp;St. Louis scored their lone run in the bottom half of the sixth, Willson Contreras singling home Victor Scott who singled to start the inning.&nbsp; In the eighth, Detroit added the final two runs, a Trey Sweeney sacrifice fly first scoring Torkelson before&nbsp;Javier Báez singled to drive in Keith.&nbsp;Cardinals starter Andre Pallante took the loss, falling to 4-3 on the season, pitching 5 2/3 innings giving up three runs on four hits, striking out three and walking four.&nbsp; Alec Burleson led the Cardinals, who had just five hits, at the plate going 2-4.St. Louis has an off day on Thursday and will welcome Arizona to town on Friday.&nbsp; Miles Mikolas (3-2, 3.77 ERA) is set to start for the Cardinals while the Diamondbacks starter is listed as TBD.&nbsp; First pitch is at 7:15pm, pregame coverage being joined at 7:05 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Cards trending in right direction lately, but fall to Tigers 5-1 in finale

A Georgia man has
been arrested in Maryville in connection with a 19-year-old cold case.

Georgia Bureau of
Investigation officials say 58-year-old Jon Worrell has been the prime suspect
in the shooting death of his wife in 2006.

The Bureau reports
Worrell, who had been living in Maryville, was taken into custody without incident.

Thirty-nine-year-old Doris
Worrell was found shot and killed at Jon's Sports Park in Douglas, Georgia in
September of 2006.

The Missouri State
Highway Patrol, the Buchanan County Sheriff's Office, Nodaway County Sheriff's
Office, and the Maryville Department of Public Safety assisted Georgia law
enforcement in make the arrest.

Georgia officials say
an extradition hearing will be held to return Worrell to Georgia.

You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747845292431.png" alt="Jon Worrell- Photo Coffee County Georgia Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Jon Worrell- Photo Coffee County Georgia Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA Georgia man has
been arrested in Maryville in connection with a 19-year-old cold case.Georgia Bureau of
Investigation officials say 58-year-old Jon Worrell has been the prime suspect
in the shooting death of his wife in 2006.The Bureau reports
Worrell, who had been living in Maryville, was taken into custody without incident.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747845466660.png" alt="Doris Worrell- Photo Coffee County Georgia Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Doris Worrell- Photo Coffee County Georgia Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>Thirty-nine-year-old Doris
Worrell was found shot and killed at Jon's Sports Park in Douglas, Georgia in
September of 2006.The Missouri State
Highway Patrol, the Buchanan County Sheriff's Office, Nodaway County Sheriff's
Office, and the Maryville Department of Public Safety assisted Georgia law
enforcement in make the arrest.Georgia officials say
an extradition hearing will be held to return Worrell to Georgia.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Georgia fugitive arrested in Maryville in 19-year-old cold case

The Northwest Missouri State University Board of Regents has approved some new programs for students heading into a new school year.  

Starting in the fall semester, Northwest will offer a Bachelor of Science in Technology Systems Management degree in agricultural mechanics and manufacturing.  

Provost Jamie Hooyman says Northwest has always had a strong ag mechanics program, but this is about changing with demands of the workforce 

"Mechanics aren't the same now as they were 50 years ago, so this also gives the students abilities to get some course work in robotics, technologies, safety, AC/DC," Hooyman tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  

Hooyman says it's advancing what was a staple in ag mechanics 

"They're also bringing in what's a lot of the requirements, what's nowadays to be able to continue in those fields," Hooyman says.  

The new program will be solely offered on campus.  Also starting in the fall, Northwest will offer a new Master of Science degree in management science, which will be available online or on campus 

Hooyman says this course is about data collection and teaching students how to use AI responsibly in this world where it's part of everyday life 

"How do you use it and how do you use critical thinking tools to make sure that the information that you're getting is good?" Hooyman asks.  "So, what this degree will do is focus a lot on the analytical tools and deciphering information to make sure that the corporation is able to move forward using good data." 

Hooyman says the new program is huge because when you're basing decisions to determine people's future on data, you need to make sure the data you find is correct.  

In the spring semester, a Bachelor of Science degree in public administration will be offered to students.  Hooyman says this degree is incredibly important to help keep young leaders in the area 

"And help build the communities to make them stronger so we don't lose all of our youth to the cities," Hooyman explains.  "But they can also go work in large cities and things like that, public administration has been a high request area for many years, and we're excited to finally be able to launch it." 

The program will be available both online and on campus and is designed to increase readiness in areas such as accounting, economics, or media. 

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The Northwest Missouri State University Board of Regents has approved some new programs for students heading into a new school year. Starting in the fall semester, Northwest will offer a Bachelor of Science in Technology Systems Management degree in agricultural mechanics and manufacturing. Provost Jamie Hooyman says Northwest has always had a strong ag mechanics program, but this is about changing with demands of the workforce "Mechanics aren't the same now as they were 50 years ago, so this also gives the students abilities to get some course work in robotics, technologies, safety, AC/DC," Hooyman tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. Hooyman says it's advancing what was a staple in ag mechanics "They're also bringing in what's a lot of the requirements, what's nowadays to be able to continue in those fields," Hooyman says. The new program will be solely offered on campus. Also starting in the fall, Northwest will offer a new Master of Science degree in management science, which will be available online or on campus Hooyman says this course is about data collection and teaching students how to use AI responsibly in this world where it's part of everyday life "How do you use it and how do you use critical thinking tools to make sure that the information that you're getting is good?" Hooyman asks. "So, what this degree will do is focus a lot on the analytical tools and deciphering information to make sure that the corporation is able to move forward using good data." Hooyman says the new program is huge because when you're basing decisions to determine people's future on data, you need to make sure the data you find is correct. In the spring semester, a Bachelor of Science degree in public administration will be offered to students. Hooyman says this degree is incredibly important to help keep young leaders in the area "And help build the communities to make them stronger so we don't lose all of our youth to the cities," Hooyman explains. "But they can also go work in large cities and things like that, public administration has been a high request area for many years, and we're excited to finally be able to launch it." The program will be available both online and on campus and is designed to increase readiness in areas such as accounting, economics, or media. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

NWMSU Board of Regents approves new programs to launch in new school year

Erick Fedde’s return to Nationals Park couldn’t have gone much better for him or the St. Louis Cardinals.&nbsp; The right-hander pitched his first career complete game as St. Louis shut out the Nationals 10-0 in the opener of a three-game series Friday night.

Fedde was Washington’s first-round pick in 2014 and played part of six seasons with the team before spending 2023 playing in South Korea. He split last season between the White Sox and St. Louis, but did not make a return to the stadium he debuted in for either team.

It was the Cardinals’ first complete game since Jordan Montgomery threw a one-hit shutout against the Cubs on Aug. 22, 2022.&nbsp; With the win, St. Louis has also now&nbsp;won six in a row for the first time since July 15-20, 2023.

The Cardinals poured it on early, leading 6-0 by the end of the first five innings.&nbsp; Two runs scored in the first, both on one hit as Willson Contreras doubled to score Lars Nootbaar and Masyn Winn.&nbsp;&nbsp;Iván Herrera, in his return from the injured list, drove in Brendan Donovan in the third inning on a sacrifice fly.&nbsp; Another single run scored in the fourth on another sacrifice fly, this time by Victor Scott II driving in&nbsp;Pagés.

In the fifth inning,&nbsp;Herrera added another RBI scoring Nolan Arenado with his third double of the season, advancing Contreras to third base.&nbsp; Contreras scored in the next at bat on the third sacrifice fly of the game, this time by Jordan Walker, extending the lead to 6-0 before&nbsp;Pagés struck out and Scott flew out to end the inning.&nbsp;

St. Louis eventually extended their lead again in the eighth inning, a three run inning.&nbsp; Walker was hit by a pitch before back to back walks to&nbsp;Pagés and Scott loaded the bases.&nbsp; Winn drove in Walker with a single, keeping the bases loaded, before&nbsp;Pagés came home to score on a wild pitch.&nbsp; Donovan walked, reloading the bases, and after Arenado flew out to right field, Contreras was walked to bring home Scott on the bases loaded walk.&nbsp;

Scott drove in the final run in the ninth inning on a groundout, Walker coming home to score.&nbsp;

Andre Pallante takes the mound for the Cardinals tomorrow against the Nationals&nbsp;Trevor Williams.&nbsp; First pitch is at 3:05pm with pregame being joined at 2:55 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746848477157.jpeg" alt="Cardinals starting pitcher Erick Fedde pitched the first Cardinals complete game shutout since 2022 as St. Louis beat the Washington Nationals 10-0 in the series opener Friday/ Photo courtesy of the Cardinals on X" />
 <figcaption>Cardinals starting pitcher Erick Fedde pitched the first Cardinals complete game shutout since 2022 as St. Louis beat the Washington Nationals 10-0 in the series opener Friday/ Photo courtesy of the Cardinals on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostErick Fedde’s return to Nationals Park couldn’t have gone much better for him or the St. Louis Cardinals.&nbsp; The right-hander pitched his first career complete game as St. Louis shut out the Nationals 10-0 in the opener of a three-game series Friday night.Fedde was Washington’s first-round pick in 2014 and played part of six seasons with the team before spending 2023 playing in South Korea. He split last season between the White Sox and St. Louis, but did not make a return to the stadium he debuted in for either team.It was the Cardinals’ first complete game since Jordan Montgomery threw a one-hit shutout against the Cubs on Aug. 22, 2022.&nbsp; With the win, St. Louis has also now&nbsp;won six in a row for the first time since July 15-20, 2023.The Cardinals poured it on early, leading 6-0 by the end of the first five innings.&nbsp; Two runs scored in the first, both on one hit as Willson Contreras doubled to score Lars Nootbaar and Masyn Winn.&nbsp;&nbsp;Iván Herrera, in his return from the injured list, drove in Brendan Donovan in the third inning on a sacrifice fly.&nbsp; Another single run scored in the fourth on another sacrifice fly, this time by Victor Scott II driving in&nbsp;Pagés.In the fifth inning,&nbsp;Herrera added another RBI scoring Nolan Arenado with his third double of the season, advancing Contreras to third base.&nbsp; Contreras scored in the next at bat on the third sacrifice fly of the game, this time by Jordan Walker, extending the lead to 6-0 before&nbsp;Pagés struck out and Scott flew out to end the inning.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Iván Herrera is picking up where he left off! <a href="https://t.co/U2IjYrrnAC">pic.twitter.com/U2IjYrrnAC</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1920994743833579675?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>St. Louis eventually extended their lead again in the eighth inning, a three run inning.&nbsp; Walker was hit by a pitch before back to back walks to&nbsp;Pagés and Scott loaded the bases.&nbsp; Winn drove in Walker with a single, keeping the bases loaded, before&nbsp;Pagés came home to score on a wild pitch.&nbsp; Donovan walked, reloading the bases, and after Arenado flew out to right field, Contreras was walked to bring home Scott on the bases loaded walk.&nbsp;Scott drove in the final run in the ninth inning on a groundout, Walker coming home to score.&nbsp;Andre Pallante takes the mound for the Cardinals tomorrow against the Nationals&nbsp;Trevor Williams.&nbsp; First pitch is at 3:05pm with pregame being joined at 2:55 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Cardinals shutout Nats 10-0 as Fedde goes the distance

The series opener between the Boston Red Sox and the Kansas City Royals was a pitchers duel all the way through, until the Royals finally made something happen in the 12th inning, Freddy Fermin hitting a walk off single for a 2-1 win, and Kansas City's seventh straight victory.&nbsp;

For the first time in 47 years, Kansas City has won 16 of their last 18 games, and are 9-1 over their last 10 games, staying hot at the top of the American League Central where the Detroit Tigers are 8-2 over their last 10 games, as are the Cleveland Guardians.&nbsp;

Locked in a 0-0 tie entering the 11th inning, Boston picked up the first run of the game off Daniel Lynch, Rafael Devers grounding out and driving in&nbsp;Ceddanne Rafaela who opened the inning at second base, but the Royals came right back in the bottom half with a game tying RBI hit from Vinnie Pasquantino, scoring Drew Waters.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the 12th, Cavan Biggio bunted automatic runner Michael Massey over to third, with Fermin bringing him home moments later with the RBI single.

That picked up an incredible pitching performance from the Royals, with six pitchers only allowing one run in 12 innings. Reliever Steven Cruz earned his first career MLB win after recording two outs in the 12th inning.&nbsp;&nbsp;Royals starter Michael Lorenzen picked up where Michael Wacha and Kris Bubic had left off the past two days, throwing another seven scoreless innings. Lorenzen only allowed three hits and one hit batter, didn’t walk anyone and struck out seven.

Cole Ragans will pitch the second game of the series tomorrow and will take on&nbsp;Garrett Crochet for the Red Sox.&nbsp; First pitch will be at 6:10pm with pregame coverage beginning at 5:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746848264494.jpeg" alt="Royals catcher Freddy Fermin delivered a walk off single in the 12th inning to push the Royals win streak to seven games, beating the Boston Red Sox 2-1 in the series opener Friday/ Photo courtesy of the Royals on X" />
 <figcaption>Royals catcher Freddy Fermin delivered a walk off single in the 12th inning to push the Royals win streak to seven games, beating the Boston Red Sox 2-1 in the series opener Friday/ Photo courtesy of the Royals on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe series opener between the Boston Red Sox and the Kansas City Royals was a pitchers duel all the way through, until the Royals finally made something happen in the 12th inning, Freddy Fermin hitting a walk off single for a 2-1 win, and Kansas City's seventh straight victory.&nbsp;For the first time in 47 years, Kansas City has won 16 of their last 18 games, and are 9-1 over their last 10 games, staying hot at the top of the American League Central where the Detroit Tigers are 8-2 over their last 10 games, as are the Cleveland Guardians.&nbsp;Locked in a 0-0 tie entering the 11th inning, Boston picked up the first run of the game off Daniel Lynch, Rafael Devers grounding out and driving in&nbsp;Ceddanne Rafaela who opened the inning at second base, but the Royals came right back in the bottom half with a game tying RBI hit from Vinnie Pasquantino, scoring Drew Waters.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the 12th, Cavan Biggio bunted automatic runner Michael Massey over to third, with Fermin bringing him home moments later with the RBI single.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Count. On. Fred‼️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HEYHEYHEYHEY?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HEYHEYHEYHEY</a> <a href="https://t.co/71oJEWhO89">pic.twitter.com/71oJEWhO89</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1921035530432635127?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>That picked up an incredible pitching performance from the Royals, with six pitchers only allowing one run in 12 innings. Reliever Steven Cruz earned his first career MLB win after recording two outs in the 12th inning.&nbsp;&nbsp;Royals starter Michael Lorenzen picked up where Michael Wacha and Kris Bubic had left off the past two days, throwing another seven scoreless innings. Lorenzen only allowed three hits and one hit batter, didn’t walk anyone and struck out seven.Cole Ragans will pitch the second game of the series tomorrow and will take on&nbsp;Garrett Crochet for the Red Sox.&nbsp; First pitch will be at 6:10pm with pregame coverage beginning at 5:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Freddy Fermin gives KC 7th straight with 2-1 walk off win over Boston

Northwest Missouri State University's esports program is set to host two camps for students this summer interested in pursuing the sport in college. 

The first session is a day camp scheduled for July 14 through July 18. at the J.W. Jones Student Union on the third floor in the esports lab. The second session is an overnight boot camp from July 23 through July 25. Session two will take place in the exact location as session one. 

Northwest Missouri State University's esports program can be reached at esports@nwmissouri.edu or 660-562-1759.&nbsp; To learn session prices and sign up for camp dates, click <a href="https://secure.touchnet.com/C21165_ustores/web/store_cat.jsp?STOREID=183&amp;CATID=356&amp;SINGLESTORE=true">HERE</a>.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostNorthwest Missouri State University's esports program is set to host two camps for students this summer interested in pursuing the sport in college. The first session is a day camp scheduled for July 14 through July 18. at the J.W. Jones Student Union on the third floor in the esports lab. The second session is an overnight boot camp from July 23 through July 25. Session two will take place in the exact location as session one. Northwest Missouri State University's esports program can be reached at esports@nwmissouri.edu or 660-562-1759.&nbsp; To learn session prices and sign up for camp dates, click <a href="https://secure.touchnet.com/C21165_ustores/web/store_cat.jsp?STOREID=183&amp;CATID=356&amp;SINGLESTORE=true">HERE</a>.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

NWMSU ESports to host summer camps to attract new prospects

Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville has announced a restructuring of its academic units to meet the changing needs of higher education.  

Provost Jamie Hooyman says the goal of the restructuring was to increase collaboration in units and help to delineate roles for people in each area 

"We had people doing multiple different tasks, some were able to accomplish those, some had too much on their plate, so really looking at roles and responsibilities," Hooyman tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  "Also looking at the student learning process and how do we make that better, that's why we're here, higher education is all about the learning experience for the students." 

Effective July 1, Northwest’s academic schools and departments will be reorganized within four colleges, each led by a dean charged with ensuring the quality of academic programs, research, faculty development and student outcomes. 

Hooyman says the restructuring is to help meet the everchanging needs of higher education.  Hooyman says the change will also help encourage collaboration in departments 

"Take for example the Agriculture and Natural Sciences, by putting those together there are a lot of different ways those two units can collaborate more effectively, because when you're talking soils and working through that and then you have the agricultural side, there are a lot of ways they complement each other," Hooyman explains.  

The academic restructure returns Northwest to a structure in place before its current arrangement was implemented in 2016. 

Along with a restructuring of academics at Northwest Missouri State University next semester, the school will be bringing a brand-new center for students.  

The Center for Engagement and Community Connections will help offer resources for students in several areas including financial concerns, academics, and professional development.  

Hooyman says often times students may not know where all of the offices are on campus that can help them 

"So this office will help, it's right in the middle of the union which is easy access for a lot of our students, so they will also collaborate with a lot of different offices to make sure the services are available and the students know where they're at and how we can help them, things like that," Hooyman says.  

Hooyman says the center will also help broaden first-year peer mentoring and other mentorship programs, including those for first-generation and transfer students. 

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville has announced a restructuring of its academic units to meet the changing needs of higher education. Provost Jamie Hooyman says the goal of the restructuring was to increase collaboration in units and help to delineate roles for people in each area "We had people doing multiple different tasks, some were able to accomplish those, some had too much on their plate, so really looking at roles and responsibilities," Hooyman tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "Also looking at the student learning process and how do we make that better, that's why we're here, higher education is all about the learning experience for the students." Effective July 1, Northwest’s academic schools and departments will be reorganized within four colleges, each led by a dean charged with ensuring the quality of academic programs, research, faculty development and student outcomes. Hooyman says the restructuring is to help meet the everchanging needs of higher education. Hooyman says the change will also help encourage collaboration in departments "Take for example the Agriculture and Natural Sciences, by putting those together there are a lot of different ways those two units can collaborate more effectively, because when you're talking soils and working through that and then you have the agricultural side, there are a lot of ways they complement each other," Hooyman explains. The academic restructure returns Northwest to a structure in place before its current arrangement was implemented in 2016. Along with a restructuring of academics at Northwest Missouri State University next semester, the school will be bringing a brand-new center for students. The Center for Engagement and Community Connections will help offer resources for students in several areas including financial concerns, academics, and professional development. Hooyman says often times students may not know where all of the offices are on campus that can help them "So this office will help, it's right in the middle of the union which is easy access for a lot of our students, so they will also collaborate with a lot of different offices to make sure the services are available and the students know where they're at and how we can help them, things like that," Hooyman says. Hooyman says the center will also help broaden first-year peer mentoring and other mentorship programs, including those for first-generation and transfer students. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

NWMSU reorganizing academics, opening new center come fall semester

Springtime brings the farmer's market to Maryville and Downtown Marville will kick it off by hosting a Spring into Fun event this weekend.  

DeAnn Davison with Downtown Maryville says the second annual event is the kickoff to the farmers market season in downtown 

"We focus on our local vendors, but then we also have kids' games, we have some live music performances going on in our park downtown, so there's just a lot of activities and things to try to bring vibrancy to our downtown," Davison tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  "And it is a free event, so we just welcome everybody to come downtown and hopefully enjoy a beautiful spring day." 

Last year the event saw 1,400 people visit downtown Maryville and several local vendors selling their goods filling the Nodaway County Courthouse Square during the inaguaral kickoff event.  

Davison says over 70 vendors will participate in this year's event with several types of goods for sale 

"So definitely we have produce and as the growing season continues there gets to be more variety, so we definitely have produce that's available this time of year," Davison explains. "We have flower bouquets, a lot of baked goods, cookies, cakes, pies, cinnamon rolls, things like that but then we focus on anything that's homemade as well." 

Davison says there are local artisans that may make jewelry, candles, leatherwork, or custom gifts and it's really a hodgepodge of items for sale 

The event will also feature live music, games for kids, food trucks, and new this to this year's event will be a classic car show.  

Davison says the idea for a car show came from volunteers who have done the work to put together the car show 

"They reached out to some local car clubs and some different groups and so we're hoping Saturday morning we'll have a great variety of some classic cars," Davison says. 

The event runs from 12 to 6pm on Saturday May 10th on the Nodaway County Courthouse Square in downtown Maryville and is free to attend. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746556256118.jpeg" alt="The Spring into Fun event in downtown Maryville kicks off the farmers market season.&nbsp; The second annual event will be held on Saturday in the Nodaway County Courthouse Square from 12 to 6 pm and is free to attend/ Photo courtesy of Downtown Maryville Facebook&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The Spring into Fun event in downtown Maryville kicks off the farmers market season.&nbsp; The second annual event will be held on Saturday in the Nodaway County Courthouse Square from 12 to 6 pm and is free to attend/ Photo courtesy of Downtown Maryville Facebook&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post Springtime brings the farmer's market to Maryville and Downtown Marville will kick it off by hosting a Spring into Fun event this weekend. DeAnn Davison with Downtown Maryville says the second annual event is the kickoff to the farmers market season in downtown "We focus on our local vendors, but then we also have kids' games, we have some live music performances going on in our park downtown, so there's just a lot of activities and things to try to bring vibrancy to our downtown," Davison tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And it is a free event, so we just welcome everybody to come downtown and hopefully enjoy a beautiful spring day." Last year the event saw 1,400 people visit downtown Maryville and several local vendors selling their goods filling the Nodaway County Courthouse Square during the inaguaral kickoff event. Davison says over 70 vendors will participate in this year's event with several types of goods for sale "So definitely we have produce and as the growing season continues there gets to be more variety, so we definitely have produce that's available this time of year," Davison explains. "We have flower bouquets, a lot of baked goods, cookies, cakes, pies, cinnamon rolls, things like that but then we focus on anything that's homemade as well." Davison says there are local artisans that may make jewelry, candles, leatherwork, or custom gifts and it's really a hodgepodge of items for sale The event will also feature live music, games for kids, food trucks, and new this to this year's event will be a classic car show. Davison says the idea for a car show came from volunteers who have done the work to put together the car show "They reached out to some local car clubs and some different groups and so we're hoping Saturday morning we'll have a great variety of some classic cars," Davison says. The event runs from 12 to 6pm on Saturday May 10th on the Nodaway County Courthouse Square in downtown Maryville and is free to attend. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746556348291.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Downtown Maryville Facebook&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Downtown Maryville Facebook&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

As farmers market season begins, Spring into Fun this weekend in Maryville

Savannah Parks and Recreation has announced 2025 season will be the final summer for the Savannah Aquatic Center.

"For more than 60 years, the pool has been a cherished part of our community," the department wrote on social media. "However, the costs of maintaining the aging facility have grown beyond what is financially sustainable. Structural issues, including a shifting substructure, make even necessary repairs - such as re-plastering - an unwise investment due to the risk of early failure."

The department says the next steps for the city will depend on the public. 

"Should the community want to pursue a new aquatic facility, it will not happen automatically. It will require individuals to step forward - bringing ideas, organizing fundraisers, coordinating efforts, and doing the legwork."

There is currently no committee or agency waiting to take on the project, the department said.&nbsp; The Parks Board will begin discussing potential next steps this month.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostSavannah Parks and Recreation has announced 2025 season will be the final summer for the Savannah Aquatic Center."For more than 60 years, the pool has been a cherished part of our community," the department wrote on social media. "However, the costs of maintaining the aging facility have grown beyond what is financially sustainable. Structural issues, including a shifting substructure, make even necessary repairs - such as re-plastering - an unwise investment due to the risk of early failure."The department says the next steps for the city will depend on the public. "Should the community want to pursue a new aquatic facility, it will not happen automatically. It will require individuals to step forward - bringing ideas, organizing fundraisers, coordinating efforts, and doing the legwork."There is currently no committee or agency waiting to take on the project, the department said.&nbsp; The Parks Board will begin discussing potential next steps this month.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Savannah Parks Department announces final summer for aquatic center

Nodaway County
Economic Development has announced Amazon will open a new, 11-Thousand, 800-square-foot
last-mile sorting and delivery facility in Maryville.

Both Nodaway
County Economic Development and the City of Maryville acknowledge early this
year a new facility was going up, but neither released details.

“The City of
Maryville is excited to welcome Amazon to our community,” Maryville Interim City
Manager, Ryan Heiland, said in a written statement released by the city. “This
investment brings not only new jobs but also strengthens our local
infrastructure and reinforces Maryville’s position as a growing hub for
business and innovation in northwest Missouri. We look forward to a long and
successful partnership.”

The new facility
will receive packages, load them onto vehicles, and then deliver them directly
to customers.

The Amazon
facility in Maryville is expected to employ 30 workers. It will be located at
site covering a little more than seven acres at 701 Wilson Industrial Road.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostAmazon is coming
to Maryville.Nodaway County
Economic Development has announced Amazon will open a new, 11-Thousand, 800-square-foot
last-mile sorting and delivery facility in Maryville.Both Nodaway
County Economic Development and the City of Maryville acknowledge early this
year a new facility was going up, but neither released details.“The City of
Maryville is excited to welcome Amazon to our community,” Maryville Interim City
Manager, Ryan Heiland, said in a written statement released by the city. “This
investment brings not only new jobs but also strengthens our local
infrastructure and reinforces Maryville’s position as a growing hub for
business and innovation in northwest Missouri. We look forward to a long and
successful partnership.”The new facility
will receive packages, load them onto vehicles, and then deliver them directly
to customers.The Amazon
facility in Maryville is expected to employ 30 workers. It will be located at
site covering a little more than seven acres at 701 Wilson Industrial Road.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Amazon setting up shop in Maryville

A statue installed
in 1940 to honor the riders of the Pony Express will undergo renovation.

Workers have
removed the statue from its base at 10th and Frederick Avenue will
be repaired and cleaned. A protective coating will be added to preserve the
statue. Work is expected to be completed by summer in time for the height of
the tourism season.

The project is
being undertaken by the City of St. Joseph Parks Department.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744735529316.jpeg" alt="Workers prepare the Pony Express statue in downtown St. Joseph for removal/Photo by Justin Peacock" />
 <figcaption>Workers prepare the Pony Express statue in downtown St. Joseph for removal/Photo by Justin Peacock</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA statue installed
in 1940 to honor the riders of the Pony Express will undergo renovation.Workers have
removed the statue from its base at 10th and Frederick Avenue will
be repaired and cleaned. A protective coating will be added to preserve the
statue. Work is expected to be completed by summer in time for the height of
the tourism season.The project is
being undertaken by the City of St. Joseph Parks Department.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744735662387.jpeg" alt="A crane prepares to remove the Pony Express statue from its base/Photo by Justin Peacock" />
 <figcaption>A crane prepares to remove the Pony Express statue from its base/Photo by Justin Peacock</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Pony Express statue to undergo cleaning, preservation

(Radio Iowa) - The Iowa Senate has voted to make a passing score on the U-S citizenship test a requirement for getting a high school diploma. 

The requirement would start for high school graduation in the 2026-27 school year. The bill passed on a 38-to-seven vote. Key supporters say civics education is lagging and a better understanding of how government works could help end the partisan divided in the country. Critics say the real problem is that social studies classes have been devalued, and making students memorize answers to a test won't help them understand history, economics, and how government works. 

The bill must be passed by the House, too, before it goes to the governor -- who backs the requirement that students score at least 60 percent on the citizenship test in order to graduate.

(Radio Iowa) - The Iowa Senate has voted to make a passing score on the U-S citizenship test a requirement for getting a high school diploma. The requirement would start for high school graduation in the 2026-27 school year. The bill passed on a 38-to-seven vote. Key supporters say civics education is lagging and a better understanding of how government works could help end the partisan divided in the country. Critics say the real problem is that social studies classes have been devalued, and making students memorize answers to a test won't help them understand history, economics, and how government works. The bill must be passed by the House, too, before it goes to the governor -- who backs the requirement that students score at least 60 percent on the citizenship test in order to graduate.

Kbct