(Radio Iowa) - A committee in the U-S Senate has voted for a bill that would require automakers to keep putting A-M radios in vehicles. 

Some companies, like Tesla and Ford, have begun leaving A-M radio out of electric vehicles, citing interference from the electric motors. Iowa Senator Joni Ernst -- one of many co-sponsors of the A-M Radio for Every Vehicle Act -- says A-M radio is a critical way for folks across the country to receive information.

 Iowa's other U-S Senator, Chuck Grassley, is also co-sponsoring the bill. He says A-M radio is the backbone of our emergency alert system, especially in rural areas, and Grassley says Iowans rely on A-M radio to catch up on local news, weather and commodity and livestock markets.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679583338814.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>(Radio Iowa) - A committee in the U-S Senate has voted for a bill that would require automakers to keep putting A-M radios in vehicles. Some companies, like Tesla and Ford, have begun leaving A-M radio out of electric vehicles, citing interference from the electric motors. Iowa Senator Joni Ernst -- one of many co-sponsors of the A-M Radio for Every Vehicle Act -- says A-M radio is a critical way for folks across the country to receive information. Iowa's other U-S Senator, Chuck Grassley, is also co-sponsoring the bill. He says A-M radio is the backbone of our emergency alert system, especially in rural areas, and Grassley says Iowans rely on A-M radio to catch up on local news, weather and commodity and livestock markets.

AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act clears US Senate panel

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">SHAUNEEN MIRANDA</a>&nbsp;

WASHINGTON — The largely partisan clash over whether to abolish the<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/demonstrators-us-capitol-rally-against-trumps-direct-attack-education" target="_blank">&nbsp;U.S. Department of Education</a>&nbsp;came to the forefront at a Wednesday hearing by a U.S. House education panel, as rumors continue to circulate over President Donald Trump’s plans to dismantle the federal agency that’s just four-and-a-half decades old.

Trump campaigned heavily on a pledge to get rid of the department, which, among many responsibilities, administers funding for key programs, including for low-income school districts and special education, and also administers federal student aid.

Trump is reported&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/education/2025/02/03/trump-education-department-dismantling-executive-order-draft/?utm_campaign=wp_the7&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=newsletter&amp;carta-url=https%3A%2F%2Fs2.washingtonpost.com%2Fcar-ln-tr%2F40e0f46%2F67a1feefb7704a156351bc82%2F64c1c5704dae0764a1593f12%2F32%2F103%2F67a1feefb7704a156351bc82" target="_blank">possibly issue some sort of executive order</a>&nbsp;that seeks to diminish the department internally and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-education-department-executive-order-8519eaa465385cc13f4ddcae90228dd3" target="_blank">calls on Congress to abolish the agency</a>. He alone does not have the authority to close the department, and the effort would require congressional approval.

Lawmakers clashed at a House Committee on Education and Workforce hearing focused on “the state of American education,” particularly school choice, parental rights in education and diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.

The president’s sweeping plan outlined throughout his campaign to “save American education” has already burst out of the floodgates since he took office last month.

He issued a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-orders-education-department-guide-states-use-federal-funds-school-choice" target="_blank">series of education-related executive orders</a>&nbsp;last week focused on prioritizing school choice funding, ending what the administration sees as “radical indoctrination in K-12 schooling” and taking “additional measures to combat anti-semitism.”

Trump also&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-puts-dei-staff-paid-leave-guts-environmental-justice-offices-across-government" target="_blank">signed executive orders</a>&nbsp;in January that gut DEI programs and activities across the federal government.

Rep. Tim Walberg, chair of the House education panel, said he is “pleased to see that the Trump administration is taking excellent steps to restore common sense, personal responsibility and parental choice through our education system.”

“In K-12 education, there’s much work that needs to be done,” the Michigan Republican said, pointing to the latest data from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nationsreportcard.gov/" target="_blank">National Assessment of Educational Progress</a>.

The report found that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nationsreportcard.gov/reports/mathematics/2024/g4_8/supporting-files/summary-of-results.pdf" target="_blank">average math and reading scores in 2024</a>&nbsp;for pupils in fourth grade and eighth grade were lower compared to before the coronavirus pandemic, in 2019.

Nicole Neily, president and founder of Parents Defending Education, a parents’ rights group, said “American education is in crisis.”

“For far too long, U.S. schools have focused on everything but educating children, and as last week’s NAEP scores have shown, our children are bearing the brunt of these bad decisions,” she said.

Meanwhile, Democrats on the panel warned over the repercussions of dismantling the Education Department.

“The irony is not lost on me that we’re here to discuss the state of American education while the current administration is actively discussing how to dismantle the main federal agency responsible for ensuring safe, quality education for all students,” said Rep. Bobby Scott, ranking member of the panel.

“We will fight any attempt to dismantle the department, and so, we don’t know what the plan will be, but count on our opposition to any plan that will abolish the Department of Education and the programs in it,” the Virginia Democrat added.

Connecticut Democratic Rep. Jahana Hayes noted that since being created in 1979, the Education Department “has been committed to ensuring high-quality education for children across the country.”

“As (Chairman Walberg) noted, there are about 1 million children who participate in private school choice programs, but 49.6 million children participate in public school education — what about them? Who is advocating for them?” Hayes said.

Janai Nelson, president and director-counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, said Trump’s executive orders to “restrict teaching and learning in inclusive and supportive environments and his threats to dismantle the Department of Education and upend critical enforcement of federal civil rights laws will demolish the very foundation of good citizenship.”

“We must reject these proposals out of the Project 2025 playbook and approach public education with common sense and common purpose, not separatism and self-dealing,” Nelson said.

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">SHAUNEEN MIRANDA</a>&nbsp;WASHINGTON — The largely partisan clash over whether to abolish the<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/demonstrators-us-capitol-rally-against-trumps-direct-attack-education" target="_blank">&nbsp;U.S. Department of Education</a>&nbsp;came to the forefront at a Wednesday hearing by a U.S. House education panel, as rumors continue to circulate over President Donald Trump’s plans to dismantle the federal agency that’s just four-and-a-half decades old.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739206873043.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Trump campaigned heavily on a pledge to get rid of the department, which, among many responsibilities, administers funding for key programs, including for low-income school districts and special education, and also administers federal student aid.Trump is reported&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/education/2025/02/03/trump-education-department-dismantling-executive-order-draft/?utm_campaign=wp_the7&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=newsletter&amp;carta-url=https%3A%2F%2Fs2.washingtonpost.com%2Fcar-ln-tr%2F40e0f46%2F67a1feefb7704a156351bc82%2F64c1c5704dae0764a1593f12%2F32%2F103%2F67a1feefb7704a156351bc82" target="_blank">possibly issue some sort of executive order</a>&nbsp;that seeks to diminish the department internally and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-education-department-executive-order-8519eaa465385cc13f4ddcae90228dd3" target="_blank">calls on Congress to abolish the agency</a>. He alone does not have the authority to close the department, and the effort would require congressional approval.Lawmakers clashed at a House Committee on Education and Workforce hearing focused on “the state of American education,” particularly school choice, parental rights in education and diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.The president’s sweeping plan outlined throughout his campaign to “save American education” has already burst out of the floodgates since he took office last month.He issued a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-orders-education-department-guide-states-use-federal-funds-school-choice" target="_blank">series of education-related executive orders</a>&nbsp;last week focused on prioritizing school choice funding, ending what the administration sees as “radical indoctrination in K-12 schooling” and taking “additional measures to combat anti-semitism.”Trump also&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-puts-dei-staff-paid-leave-guts-environmental-justice-offices-across-government" target="_blank">signed executive orders</a>&nbsp;in January that gut DEI programs and activities across the federal government.<h2>Restoring ‘common sense’</h2>Rep. Tim Walberg, chair of the House education panel, said he is “pleased to see that the Trump administration is taking excellent steps to restore common sense, personal responsibility and parental choice through our education system.”“In K-12 education, there’s much work that needs to be done,” the Michigan Republican said, pointing to the latest data from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nationsreportcard.gov/" target="_blank">National Assessment of Educational Progress</a>.The report found that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nationsreportcard.gov/reports/mathematics/2024/g4_8/supporting-files/summary-of-results.pdf" target="_blank">average math and reading scores in 2024</a>&nbsp;for pupils in fourth grade and eighth grade were lower compared to before the coronavirus pandemic, in 2019.Nicole Neily, president and founder of Parents Defending Education, a parents’ rights group, said “American education is in crisis.”“For far too long, U.S. schools have focused on everything but educating children, and as last week’s NAEP scores have shown, our children are bearing the brunt of these bad decisions,” she said.<h2>‘We will fight any attempt’</h2>Meanwhile, Democrats on the panel warned over the repercussions of dismantling the Education Department.“The irony is not lost on me that we’re here to discuss the state of American education while the current administration is actively discussing how to dismantle the main federal agency responsible for ensuring safe, quality education for all students,” said Rep. Bobby Scott, ranking member of the panel.“We will fight any attempt to dismantle the department, and so, we don’t know what the plan will be, but count on our opposition to any plan that will abolish the Department of Education and the programs in it,” the Virginia Democrat added.Connecticut Democratic Rep. Jahana Hayes noted that since being created in 1979, the Education Department “has been committed to ensuring high-quality education for children across the country.”“As (Chairman Walberg) noted, there are about 1 million children who participate in private school choice programs, but 49.6 million children participate in public school education — what about them? Who is advocating for them?” Hayes said.Janai Nelson, president and director-counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, said Trump’s executive orders to “restrict teaching and learning in inclusive and supportive environments and his threats to dismantle the Department of Education and upend critical enforcement of federal civil rights laws will demolish the very foundation of good citizenship.”“We must reject these proposals out of the Project 2025 playbook and approach public education with common sense and common purpose, not separatism and self-dealing,” Nelson said.

U.S. House members battle over eliminating Dept. of Education 

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/nikitaponomarenko/">NIKITA PONOMARENKO</a>

Grain Belt Express has filed nearly 40 eminent domain petitions against Missouri property owners since 2021 as it prepares to build a transmission line across the state.

The first eminent domain petition in Callaway County was filed last month for an easement of nearly an acre of land owned by Jordyn and Mitchell Christensen.

Grain Belt Express offered the property owners $8,046 for the easement, but the owners rejected the offer and the two parties could not agree on compensation.

If granted, the easement would be within an 81-acre piece of land on County Road 264.

Eminent domain is the power to acquire property for public use with compensation to the owners. This legal proceeding can allow the government or a company to gain access to land for its purposes, independent of the property owner’s wishes.

Grain Belt Express is a $7 billion clean-energy project run by Invenergy, an Illinois-based company. Stretching from Kansas to Indiana, the transmission line is designed to bring wind and solar energy to communities in Kansas, Missouri, Illinois and Indiana, as well as cities farther east.

According to the Grain Belt Express website, construction is scheduled to begin sometime this year and be completed by 2028, barring complications.

The line would run through eight counties in northern Missouri with a spur called the Tiger Connector in Callaway County. The Missouri Public Service Commission approved the Tiger Connector route in October 2023.

The connector extends from the main line near Moberly south to Kingdom City.

To build the 800-mile line across four states, Invenergy must secure land permits called easements. Original landowners retain ownership of the property but allow transmission infrastructure to be built with access to the site for construction and maintenance crews.

“Grain Belt Express team has already voluntarily secured over 1,450 easements needed for the project,” said Patrick Whitty, senior vice president of public affairs for transmission at Invenergy.

“These voluntary easement agreements provide tens of millions of dollars to project landowners, who maintain ownership and use of their land for farming, ranching, hunting and other uses.”

According to Invenegy, 97% of property owners in Kansas and Missouri have already agreed to the deals offered by the company.

In 2022, then-Gov. Mike Parson signed legislation requiring developers to pay landowners 150% of fair market value for property taken through eminent domain for electrical transmission projects.

The compromise legislation was reached after Republican legislators spent years fighting the project by seeking tougher eminent domain provisions.

Although it may seem profitable for landowners to reject offers and hold out for 150% compensation, going to court may be costly and not worth the risk, said James Owen, director of Renew Missouri, a local clean energy nonprofit organization.

“I do not believe it is going to be in anyone’s best interest to challenge this in court,” he said. “They’re going to have to pay attorney fees on that. It’s going to be dragged out.”

Since the first eminent domain proceeding in 2021 in Missouri, nearly 40 petitions have been filed by Grain Belt Express to clear the way for the line.

Five petitions were filed in 2021, 11 in both 2022 and 2023, and seven in 2024. Three more have been filed since January. Of that total, at least 17 have been dismissed.

Almost all of the petitions have been filed against property owners in the western part of the state and relate to Phase 1 of the project — the portion of the line that brings power from Kansas to mid-Missouri.

“For over a year, we have been negotiating voluntary easements along the Tiger Connector, which continues to this day,” Whitty said. “In certain cases, and always as a last resort when efforts to reach negotiated agreements have been exhausted, the only option available is a legal proceeding.”

According to Missouri Public Service officials, the Grain Belt Express can save Missouri residents roughly $17.6 billion on utilities by 2066. Invenegy already has agreements with 39 Missouri communities intended to save residents roughly $12 million each year in utility payments, Whitty said.

“I think it’s an enormous value to help keeping utility rates down and keeping them competitive, to attract businesses here,” Owen said.

“A lot of businesses want to be able to take clean energy as the main source of how their power is received.”

In the works since 2010, the Grain Belt Express is designed to carry 5,000 megawatts of electricity to the eastern half of the country. It would connect solar and wind farms in the Midwest to cities in the East, eventually contributing power to 3.1 million homes.

This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/grain-belt-express-files-dozens-of-eminent-domain-petitions-to-build-power-line-across-missouri/article_5f83c298-e5bd-11ef-8dcc-c33e4a2d3c2f.html" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739195184098.png" alt="The Grain Belt Express is designed to carry 5,000 megawatts of electricity to the eastern half of the country. It would connect solar and wind farms in the Midwest to cities in the East, eventually contributing power to 3.1 million homes (Robert Zullo/ States Newsroom)." />
 <figcaption>The Grain Belt Express is designed to carry 5,000 megawatts of electricity to the eastern half of the country. It would connect solar and wind farms in the Midwest to cities in the East, eventually contributing power to 3.1 million homes (Robert Zullo/ States Newsroom).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/nikitaponomarenko/">NIKITA PONOMARENKO</a>Grain Belt Express has filed nearly 40 eminent domain petitions against Missouri property owners since 2021 as it prepares to build a transmission line across the state.The first eminent domain petition in Callaway County was filed last month for an easement of nearly an acre of land owned by Jordyn and Mitchell Christensen.Grain Belt Express offered the property owners $8,046 for the easement, but the owners rejected the offer and the two parties could not agree on compensation.If granted, the easement would be within an 81-acre piece of land on County Road 264.Eminent domain is the power to acquire property for public use with compensation to the owners. This legal proceeding can allow the government or a company to gain access to land for its purposes, independent of the property owner’s wishes.Grain Belt Express is a $7 billion clean-energy project run by Invenergy, an Illinois-based company. Stretching from Kansas to Indiana, the transmission line is designed to bring wind and solar energy to communities in Kansas, Missouri, Illinois and Indiana, as well as cities farther east.According to the Grain Belt Express website, construction is scheduled to begin sometime this year and be completed by 2028, barring complications.The line would run through eight counties in northern Missouri with a spur called the Tiger Connector in Callaway County. The Missouri Public Service Commission approved the Tiger Connector route in October 2023.The connector extends from the main line near Moberly south to Kingdom City.To build the 800-mile line across four states, Invenergy must secure land permits called easements. Original landowners retain ownership of the property but allow transmission infrastructure to be built with access to the site for construction and maintenance crews.“Grain Belt Express team has already voluntarily secured over 1,450 easements needed for the project,” said Patrick Whitty, senior vice president of public affairs for transmission at Invenergy.“These voluntary easement agreements provide tens of millions of dollars to project landowners, who maintain ownership and use of their land for farming, ranching, hunting and other uses.”According to Invenegy, 97% of property owners in Kansas and Missouri have already agreed to the deals offered by the company.In 2022, then-Gov. Mike Parson signed legislation requiring developers to pay landowners 150% of fair market value for property taken through eminent domain for electrical transmission projects.The compromise legislation was reached after Republican legislators spent years fighting the project by seeking tougher eminent domain provisions.Although it may seem profitable for landowners to reject offers and hold out for 150% compensation, going to court may be costly and not worth the risk, said James Owen, director of Renew Missouri, a local clean energy nonprofit organization.“I do not believe it is going to be in anyone’s best interest to challenge this in court,” he said. “They’re going to have to pay attorney fees on that. It’s going to be dragged out.”Since the first eminent domain proceeding in 2021 in Missouri, nearly 40 petitions have been filed by Grain Belt Express to clear the way for the line.Five petitions were filed in 2021, 11 in both 2022 and 2023, and seven in 2024. Three more have been filed since January. Of that total, at least 17 have been dismissed.Almost all of the petitions have been filed against property owners in the western part of the state and relate to Phase 1 of the project — the portion of the line that brings power from Kansas to mid-Missouri.“For over a year, we have been negotiating voluntary easements along the Tiger Connector, which continues to this day,” Whitty said. “In certain cases, and always as a last resort when efforts to reach negotiated agreements have been exhausted, the only option available is a legal proceeding.”According to Missouri Public Service officials, the Grain Belt Express can save Missouri residents roughly $17.6 billion on utilities by 2066. Invenegy already has agreements with 39 Missouri communities intended to save residents roughly $12 million each year in utility payments, Whitty said.“I think it’s an enormous value to help keeping utility rates down and keeping them competitive, to attract businesses here,” Owen said.“A lot of businesses want to be able to take clean energy as the main source of how their power is received.”In the works since 2010, the Grain Belt Express is designed to carry 5,000 megawatts of electricity to the eastern half of the country. It would connect solar and wind farms in the Midwest to cities in the East, eventually contributing power to 3.1 million homes.This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/grain-belt-express-files-dozens-of-eminent-domain-petitions-to-build-power-line-across-missouri/article_5f83c298-e5bd-11ef-8dcc-c33e4a2d3c2f.html" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

Grain Belt Express files dozens of eminent domain petitions to build power line across Missouri

An investigation
is underway to determine why a shooting took place late Sunday morning at the
North Belt Walmart in St. Joseph.

The St. Joseph
Police Department reports the victim and the suspect knew each other. The
victim suffered sustained gunshot wounds and is receiving medical treatment, according
to the department.

Police say the
shooting took place shortly after 11am Sunday. Police report the identity of
the shooter has not been confirmed. The investigation continues.

The St. Joseph
Police Department encourages anyone with information about the shooting to
contact the department at 816-271-4777 or submit an anonymous tip
through the local Crime Stoppers hotline.

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

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostAn investigation
is underway to determine why a shooting took place late Sunday morning at the
North Belt Walmart in St. Joseph.The St. Joseph
Police Department reports the victim and the suspect knew each other. The
victim suffered sustained gunshot wounds and is receiving medical treatment, according
to the department.Police say the
shooting took place shortly after 11am Sunday. Police report the identity of
the shooter has not been confirmed. The investigation continues.The St. Joseph
Police Department encourages anyone with information about the shooting to
contact the department at 816-271-4777 or submit an anonymous tip
through the local Crime Stoppers hotline.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Investigation continues into shooting at St. Joseph N. Belt Walmart

 Cooper DeJean, Josh Sweat and the Philadelphia Eagles’ ferocious defense denied Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs a Super Bowl three-peat.&nbsp; It wasn’t even close.

DeJean got a pick six&nbsp; on his birthday, Sweat tormented Mahomes and the Eagles routed the Chiefs 40-22 on Sunday to secure the franchise’s second Super Bowl championship.

Jalen Hurts threw for two touchdowns and ran for a score on a tush push to earn Super Bowl MVP honors, and Vic Fangio's defense was so dominant that the Eagles didn't need much from Saquon Barkley.&nbsp; The game-changing running back finished with 57 yards, breaking Terrell Davis’ record for yards rushing in a season, playoffs included. Hurts threw for 221 yards.

“This is the ultimate team game. You can’t be great without the greatness of others. Great performance by everybody — offense, defense, special teams,” coach Nick Sirianni said. “We didn’t really ever care what anyone thought about how we won, or their opinions. All we want to do is win.”

Not in Kansas City’s worst nightmares could its fans have imagined such a lackluster performance. The Chiefs had won three of the previous five Super Bowls, losing 31-9 to Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers four years ago.

Mahomes was 8-0 against Fangio’s defenses before the longtime coordinator and former Broncos head coach outcoached Andy Reid, capping his first season with his hometown team. Reid fell to 3-3 in Super Bowls, including a loss with the Eagles.&nbsp; The Eagles sacked Mahomes six times, the most of his career, including 2.5 by Sweat. And they did it without Fangio calling a single blitz.

“Defense wins championships,” Hurts said. “We saw how they played today. We saw the difference they made in the game. They gave us opportunities, gave us short fields. And we’re able to do what we do.”

The Chiefs were aiming to become the third team in NFL history to win three straight championships and the first to three-peat in the Super Bowl era.

Hurts nearly led the Eagles to victory against the Chiefs two years ago in Arizona, but Mahomes led a comeback and Harrison Butker kicked the game-winning field goal in the final minute for a 38-35 victory. Mahomes rallied Kansas City to an overtime victory over San Francisco last year for the Chiefs' second straight title.

“That’s a great football team and we had to come out and play our best, and we did,” Sirianni said.

This time, a revamped Philly defense featuring eight new starters from the 2022 team made sure Mahomes had no chance to pull off his magic.

“Today was a rough day all around. Nothing went right. I didn’t coach well. Proud of our guys for fighting. We will learn from this,” Reid said. “Too many turnovers, too many penalties. Against a good football team, can’t do that.”

Barkley helped push Hurts into the end zone from the 1 to give Philadelphia a 7-0 lead in the first quarter.&nbsp; Up 10-0 after Jake Elliott’s 48-yard field goal, Sweat and Jalyx Hunt sacked Mahomes on consecutive plays. 

Mahomes then rolled out and made an errant throw that was picked by DeJean, who returned it 38 yards for a 17-0 lead.&nbsp; It was Mahomes’ first pick six in 21 career playoff games and ended a streak of 297 straight passes without an interception.

“We didn’t start how we wanted to. The turnovers hurt. I take all the blame for that,” Mahomes said. “I didn’t play to my standard.”

All-Pro linebacker Zack Baun picked Mahomes again late in the second quarter, and Hurts connected with A.J. Brown on a 12-yard TD pass for a 24-0 lead.&nbsp; Hurts threw a perfect 46-yard TD pass to DeVonta Smith to make it 34-0 late in the third.

Mahomes fired a 24-yard TD pass to Xavier Worthy to avoid the shutout, but the 2-point conversion failed. He threw two late, mostly meaningless TD passes, one to DeAndre Hopkins and another to Worthy.

The Green Bay Packers are the only NFL team to win three championships in a row, doing it from 1929-31 and 1965-67.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739157518917.png" alt="Photo courtesy Philadelphia Eagles" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Philadelphia Eagles</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post Cooper DeJean, Josh Sweat and the Philadelphia Eagles’ ferocious defense denied Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs a Super Bowl three-peat.&nbsp; It wasn’t even close.DeJean got a pick six&nbsp; on his birthday, Sweat tormented Mahomes and the Eagles routed the Chiefs 40-22 on Sunday to secure the franchise’s second Super Bowl championship.Jalen Hurts threw for two touchdowns and ran for a score on a tush push to earn Super Bowl MVP honors, and Vic Fangio's defense was so dominant that the Eagles didn't need much from Saquon Barkley.&nbsp; The game-changing running back finished with 57 yards, breaking Terrell Davis’ record for yards rushing in a season, playoffs included. Hurts threw for 221 yards.“This is the ultimate team game. You can’t be great without the greatness of others. Great performance by everybody — offense, defense, special teams,” coach Nick Sirianni said. “We didn’t really ever care what anyone thought about how we won, or their opinions. All we want to do is win.”Not in Kansas City’s worst nightmares could its fans have imagined such a lackluster performance. The Chiefs had won three of the previous five Super Bowls, losing 31-9 to Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers four years ago.Mahomes was 8-0 against Fangio’s defenses before the longtime coordinator and former Broncos head coach outcoached Andy Reid, capping his first season with his hometown team. Reid fell to 3-3 in Super Bowls, including a loss with the Eagles.&nbsp; The Eagles sacked Mahomes six times, the most of his career, including 2.5 by Sweat. And they did it without Fangio calling a single blitz.“Defense wins championships,” Hurts said. “We saw how they played today. We saw the difference they made in the game. They gave us opportunities, gave us short fields. And we’re able to do what we do.”The Chiefs were aiming to become the third team in NFL history to win three straight championships and the first to three-peat in the Super Bowl era.Hurts nearly led the Eagles to victory against the Chiefs two years ago in Arizona, but Mahomes led a comeback and Harrison Butker kicked the game-winning field goal in the final minute for a 38-35 victory. Mahomes rallied Kansas City to an overtime victory over San Francisco last year for the Chiefs' second straight title.“That’s a great football team and we had to come out and play our best, and we did,” Sirianni said.This time, a revamped Philly defense featuring eight new starters from the 2022 team made sure Mahomes had no chance to pull off his magic.“Today was a rough day all around. Nothing went right. I didn’t coach well. Proud of our guys for fighting. We will learn from this,” Reid said. “Too many turnovers, too many penalties. Against a good football team, can’t do that.”Barkley helped push Hurts into the end zone from the 1 to give Philadelphia a 7-0 lead in the first quarter.&nbsp; Up 10-0 after Jake Elliott’s 48-yard field goal, Sweat and Jalyx Hunt sacked Mahomes on consecutive plays. Mahomes then rolled out and made an errant throw that was picked by DeJean, who returned it 38 yards for a 17-0 lead.&nbsp; It was Mahomes’ first pick six in 21 career playoff games and ended a streak of 297 straight passes without an interception.“We didn’t start how we wanted to. The turnovers hurt. I take all the blame for that,” Mahomes said. “I didn’t play to my standard.”All-Pro linebacker Zack Baun picked Mahomes again late in the second quarter, and Hurts connected with A.J. Brown on a 12-yard TD pass for a 24-0 lead.&nbsp; Hurts threw a perfect 46-yard TD pass to DeVonta Smith to make it 34-0 late in the third.Mahomes fired a 24-yard TD pass to Xavier Worthy to avoid the shutout, but the 2-point conversion failed. He threw two late, mostly meaningless TD passes, one to DeAndre Hopkins and another to Worthy.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Patrick Mahomes connects with Xavier Worthy for a 50-yard TD 📺: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SBLIX?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SBLIX</a> on FOX 📱: Tubi + NFL app <a href="https://t.co/s7g5xqfmVB">pic.twitter.com/s7g5xqfmVB</a>&mdash; NFL (@NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1888788542387544263?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Green Bay Packers are the only NFL team to win three championships in a row, doing it from 1929-31 and 1965-67.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739158888084.jpeg" alt="Philadelphia Eagles tackle Jordan Mailata celebrates after defeating the Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL Super Bowl 59 football game, Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Doug Benc)" />
 <figcaption>Philadelphia Eagles tackle Jordan Mailata celebrates after defeating the Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL Super Bowl 59 football game, Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Doug Benc)</figcaption>
 </figure>

Short of history, Chiefs fall to Eagles 40-22 in Super Bowl 59

(Radio Iowa) - A group of Republican lawmakers has introduced six bills that would strengthen landowner rights in response to the potential use of eminent domain for a carbon capture pipeline. 

The Iowa Utilities Commission has given conditional approval for Summit Carbon Solutions to move forward with pipeline construction in Iowa to capture carbon dioxide from ethanol plants -- if South Dakota regulators approve construction of that segment of the pipeline. Republican Representative Charley Thomson of Charles City says the commission made several errors that must be addressed. 

House Speaker Pat Grassley says the six bills may be combined into one or two packages, but each of the six will get a subcommittee hearing first to bring attention to issues surrounding the carbon pipeline project. Over the past few years the House has passed several bills about eminent domain and pipelines that carry a hazardous substance like liquid carbon dioxide -- but none have passed the Iowa Senate.

(Radio Iowa) - A group of Republican lawmakers has introduced six bills that would strengthen landowner rights in response to the potential use of eminent domain for a carbon capture pipeline. The Iowa Utilities Commission has given conditional approval for Summit Carbon Solutions to move forward with pipeline construction in Iowa to capture carbon dioxide from ethanol plants -- if South Dakota regulators approve construction of that segment of the pipeline. Republican Representative Charley Thomson of Charles City says the commission made several errors that must be addressed. House Speaker Pat Grassley says the six bills may be combined into one or two packages, but each of the six will get a subcommittee hearing first to bring attention to issues surrounding the carbon pipeline project. Over the past few years the House has passed several bills about eminent domain and pipelines that carry a hazardous substance like liquid carbon dioxide -- but none have passed the Iowa Senate.

House GOP making another attempt at carbon pipeline regulations

(Radio Iowa) - An Iowa Senate subcommittee advanced a bill this week that would require parental consent for minors to get a vaccine to prevent H-P-V. 

The shot helps protect against strains of the virus that can cause six types of cancer. Senator Sandy Salmon, a Republican from Janesville, says parents should have a say over all their children’s vaccinations. Senator Janet Petersen, a Democrat from Des Moines, says she agrees with health care providers who spoke out against the legislation. She says the vaccine is safe and effective and the choice gives adolescents autonomy over their own bodies. 

The Centers for Disease Control recommends the H-P-V vaccine as a routine vaccination for 11- and 12-year-olds. Iowa is one of just a few states that does not require parental consent to get the vaccine.

(Radio Iowa) - An Iowa Senate subcommittee advanced a bill this week that would require parental consent for minors to get a vaccine to prevent H-P-V. The shot helps protect against strains of the virus that can cause six types of cancer. Senator Sandy Salmon, a Republican from Janesville, says parents should have a say over all their children’s vaccinations. Senator Janet Petersen, a Democrat from Des Moines, says she agrees with health care providers who spoke out against the legislation. She says the vaccine is safe and effective and the choice gives adolescents autonomy over their own bodies. The Centers for Disease Control recommends the H-P-V vaccine as a routine vaccination for 11- and 12-year-olds. Iowa is one of just a few states that does not require parental consent to get the vaccine.

Iowa kids would need parents' okay to get HPV shot under bill before legislators

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome to shine red and gold beginning tonight in celebration of the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl LIX appearance. The dome will shine red and gold from sunset to sunrise through Sunday, February 9. 

Governor and First Lady Kehoe will cheer on the Chiefs from Missouri on Sunday night as they take on the Philadelphia Eagles at Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, marking the Chiefs' third straight Super Bowl appearance.

"Missourians and fans across Chiefs Kingdom are once again celebrating the Kansas City Chiefs making it to the Super Bowl on this Red Friday," Governor Kehoe said in a news release. "We're proud to call the Kansas City Chiefs Missouri's team, and light our state's Capitol red and gold as the Chiefs seek a Super Bowl three-peat this Sunday." 

Governor Kehoe also announced a friendly bet with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro via social media.&nbsp; As part of the wager with Governor Shapiro, Governor Kehoe has bet Missouri-grown beef and an assortment of Kansas City favorites, including Gates Bar-B-Q Sauce, Scott's Kitchen BBQ Sauce and Rub, and Chase Candy Company Cherry Mash. 

"I'm predicting a 31-17 Chiefs Super Bowl victory," Governor Kehoe said. "I look forward to enjoying some Philly cheesesteaks from Governor Shapiro after the Chiefs bring home the Lombardi Trophy on Sunday."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738152364528.png" alt="Gov. Mike Kehoe begins his State of the State address by celebrating firsts in state leadership, such as the Senate’s first female president pro tem (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Mike Kehoe begins his State of the State address by celebrating firsts in state leadership, such as the Senate’s first female president pro tem (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostMissouri Governor Mike Kehoe has ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome to shine red and gold beginning tonight in celebration of the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl LIX appearance. The dome will shine red and gold from sunset to sunrise through Sunday, February 9. Governor and First Lady Kehoe will cheer on the Chiefs from Missouri on Sunday night as they take on the Philadelphia Eagles at Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, marking the Chiefs' third straight Super Bowl appearance."Missourians and fans across Chiefs Kingdom are once again celebrating the Kansas City Chiefs making it to the Super Bowl on this Red Friday," Governor Kehoe said in a news release. "We're proud to call the Kansas City Chiefs Missouri's team, and light our state's Capitol red and gold as the Chiefs seek a Super Bowl three-peat this Sunday." Governor Kehoe also announced a friendly bet with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro via social media.&nbsp; As part of the wager with Governor Shapiro, Governor Kehoe has bet Missouri-grown beef and an assortment of Kansas City favorites, including Gates Bar-B-Q Sauce, Scott's Kitchen BBQ Sauce and Rub, and Chase Candy Company Cherry Mash. "I'm predicting a 31-17 Chiefs Super Bowl victory," Governor Kehoe said. "I look forward to enjoying some Philly cheesesteaks from Governor Shapiro after the Chiefs bring home the Lombardi Trophy on Sunday."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">On Sunday, Missouri&#39;s Kansas City <a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Chiefs</a> will face the <a href="https://twitter.com/Eagles?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Eagles</a> once again in the Super Bowl. I like our chances at a three-peat, so let&#39;s make a deal, <a href="https://twitter.com/GovernorShapiro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GovernorShapiro</a>. If by some unlikely twist of fate, the Eagles win on Sunday, I’ll send you some Missouri-grown beef and… <a href="https://t.co/qqhTAqEqrV">pic.twitter.com/qqhTAqEqrV</a>&mdash; Governor Mike Kehoe (@GovMikeKehoe) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovMikeKehoe/status/1887894096670269502?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Gov. Kehoe's Super Bowl bet with PA governor includes St. Joseph favorite

Maryville City
Manager Greg McDanel will leave the city to become a city manager in
California.

McDanel, who
became Maryville City Manager in 2012, will become the new city manager of Seaside,
California. McDanel served the longest tenure of any city manager of Maryville.

McDanel will leave
the city March 7th. Assistant City Manager, Ryan Heiland, will serve
as interim city manager while the city searches for McDanel’s replacement.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMaryville City
Manager Greg McDanel will leave the city to become a city manager in
California.McDanel, who
became Maryville City Manager in 2012, will become the new city manager of Seaside,
California. McDanel served the longest tenure of any city manager of Maryville.McDanel will leave
the city March 7th. Assistant City Manager, Ryan Heiland, will serve
as interim city manager while the city searches for McDanel’s replacement.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

McDanel to leave Maryville to become city manager in California

USDA’s Economic Research Service forecasts inflation-adjusted U.S. net cash farm income, to increase by $30.6 billion from 2024 to nearly $194 billion in the coming year. U.S. net farm income, a broader measure of farm sector profitability, is forecast to increase by nearly $38 billion in the same timeframe. The projected growth comes after net farm income declined in 2023 and is forecast to have declined in 2024. 

USDA’s Economic Research Service forecasts inflation-adjusted U.S. net cash farm income, to increase by $30.6 billion from 2024 to nearly $194 billion in the coming year. U.S. net farm income, a broader measure of farm sector profitability, is forecast to increase by nearly $38 billion in the same timeframe. The projected growth comes after net farm income declined in 2023 and is forecast to have declined in 2024.

Farm sector profits to grow in 2025

A new commander of
the 139th Airlift Wing at Rosecrans Memorial Airport brings a new perspective
to the position.

Col. Barrett
Golden began his tenure at the 139th as an instructor at the
Advanced Airlift Tactics Training Center, moving to St. Joseph after serving
with the Air Guard at Channel Islands, California, which included a deployment to Afghanistan.

Golden says the
Training Center brings something to the 139th that should help
secure its future.

“If somebody ever
wanted to shut down a flying mission here, they need to understand the massive
strategic impact that would be to the entire mobility Air Force, not just
little St. Joe here and taking away a small C-130 chunk out of the fleet,” Golden
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.

Golden says he
will continue the work of his predecessor, Col. John Cluck, in strongly pursuing
the latest C-130 cargo planes for the 139th, but will always
consider contingencies to keep the base relevant to the Air Guard.

Golden will follow
a two-prong approach to the base’s future.

“I believe the
base out here in its future is going to be the premiere C-130J model flying
unit. I believe that we continue to grow and expand the Advanced Airlift Tactics
Training Center,” Golden says. “I’d like to get more bandwidth at the Advanced
Airlift Tactics Training Center.”

Golden says he
would like to see the Air Force require its pilots to complete the Advanced
Tactics Aircrew Course at Rosecrans before becoming lead pilots. Germany has
already adopted such a requirement. The center trains U.S. and allied military air
crews, so far serving 17 allied nations.

Golden says while
the 139th serves both the state and the nation, it could also expand
to incorporate operations that extend beyond its military mission.

“And I say that,
because the West Coast has had some terrible fires recently. The C-130 has the
capability of doing modular, airborne firefighting,” Golden says. “I would love
to be a firefighting schoolhouse and just be able to provide some of those domestic
capabilities, just because they would lay in very easily with the capabilities
the Advanced Airlift Tactics Training Center already has.”

Golden came to the
139th in the summer of 2011, serving as an instructor at the Tactics
Training Center. His work at the center differs from that of Cluck, who moved
up the ranks as a pilot. His background is different as well. Cluck would joke
that he was the local kid, coming from Wathena and spending his entire career
at the 139th.

Golden sees his
experience in other states as beneficial to his leadership, giving him some outside
perspective. 

A native of California,
Golden has found a new home in St. Joseph.

“But we moved here
in June of 2011 and we have absolutely fallen in love with the Midwest. My kids
have foundations set in their schools and this will probably be home for the
rest of my life,” Golden says.&nbsp; “We
absolutely love the Midwest mentality, the people of the Midwest. We’re on the bandwagon
with the Chiefs, the Royals, and all those things. So, absolutely, this is
home.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738950001916.jpeg" alt="Col. Barrett Golden speaks at the Rosecrans Memorial Airport terminal groundbreaking as (l to r) Airport Manager Julius Rice and St. Joseph Mayor John Josendale look on/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Col. Barrett Golden speaks at the Rosecrans Memorial Airport terminal groundbreaking as (l to r) Airport Manager Julius Rice and St. Joseph Mayor John Josendale look on/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA new commander of
the 139th Airlift Wing at Rosecrans Memorial Airport brings a new perspective
to the position.Col. Barrett
Golden began his tenure at the 139th as an instructor at the
Advanced Airlift Tactics Training Center, moving to St. Joseph after serving
with the Air Guard at Channel Islands, California, which included a deployment to Afghanistan.Golden says the
Training Center brings something to the 139th that should help
secure its future.“If somebody ever
wanted to shut down a flying mission here, they need to understand the massive
strategic impact that would be to the entire mobility Air Force, not just
little St. Joe here and taking away a small C-130 chunk out of the fleet,” Golden
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.Golden says he
will continue the work of his predecessor, Col. John Cluck, in strongly pursuing
the latest C-130 cargo planes for the 139th, but will always
consider contingencies to keep the base relevant to the Air Guard.Golden will follow
a two-prong approach to the base’s future.“I believe the
base out here in its future is going to be the premiere C-130J model flying
unit. I believe that we continue to grow and expand the Advanced Airlift Tactics
Training Center,” Golden says. “I’d like to get more bandwidth at the Advanced
Airlift Tactics Training Center.”Golden says he
would like to see the Air Force require its pilots to complete the Advanced
Tactics Aircrew Course at Rosecrans before becoming lead pilots. Germany has
already adopted such a requirement. The center trains U.S. and allied military air
crews, so far serving 17 allied nations.Golden says while
the 139th serves both the state and the nation, it could also expand
to incorporate operations that extend beyond its military mission.“And I say that,
because the West Coast has had some terrible fires recently. The C-130 has the
capability of doing modular, airborne firefighting,” Golden says. “I would love
to be a firefighting schoolhouse and just be able to provide some of those domestic
capabilities, just because they would lay in very easily with the capabilities
the Advanced Airlift Tactics Training Center already has.”Golden came to the
139th in the summer of 2011, serving as an instructor at the Tactics
Training Center. His work at the center differs from that of Cluck, who moved
up the ranks as a pilot. His background is different as well. Cluck would joke
that he was the local kid, coming from Wathena and spending his entire career
at the 139th.Golden sees his
experience in other states as beneficial to his leadership, giving him some outside
perspective. A native of California,
Golden has found a new home in St. Joseph.“But we moved here
in June of 2011 and we have absolutely fallen in love with the Midwest. My kids
have foundations set in their schools and this will probably be home for the
rest of my life,” Golden says.&nbsp; “We
absolutely love the Midwest mentality, the people of the Midwest. We’re on the bandwagon
with the Chiefs, the Royals, and all those things. So, absolutely, this is
home.”You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

New commander brings new perspective to 139th Airlift Wing

(Radio Iowa) - Iowans can expect much heavier-than-normal traffic on the state's roads Sunday, as people dart to the grocery store to stock up on snacks, or head for a tavern, restaurant or friend's house to watch the big game. 

Iowa State Patrol trooper Paul Gardner says Super Bowl Sunday could be far-from-super for those who don't follow the rules. Gardner says a designated driver will be your most valuable player to ensure you get home safely. O-W-I incidents are 22-percent higher on Super Bowl Sunday than any other Sunday, Gardner says, and almost half of fatalities involve a blood-alcohol content in a driver of point-0-8 or higher. 

There were two fatalities and ten personal injury accidents in Iowa during last year's Super Bowl weekend.

(Radio Iowa) - Iowans can expect much heavier-than-normal traffic on the state's roads Sunday, as people dart to the grocery store to stock up on snacks, or head for a tavern, restaurant or friend's house to watch the big game. Iowa State Patrol trooper Paul Gardner says Super Bowl Sunday could be far-from-super for those who don't follow the rules. Gardner says a designated driver will be your most valuable player to ensure you get home safely. O-W-I incidents are 22-percent higher on Super Bowl Sunday than any other Sunday, Gardner says, and almost half of fatalities involve a blood-alcohol content in a driver of point-0-8 or higher. There were two fatalities and ten personal injury accidents in Iowa during last year's Super Bowl weekend.

Iowa roads will be busier Sunday, so staying sober would be super

WASHINGTON —It has been a busy week in Washington for new 2nd District Kansas Congressman Derek Schmidt.

On Thursday, Schmidt presided over the House floor for the first time.

In addition, Schmidt this week announced he introduced the&nbsp;Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act along with five other members of the House including Missouri Congresswoman Ann Wagner.

&nbsp; The bill redirects unobligated funds collected through the&nbsp;False Claims Act&nbsp;to the Crime Victims Fund (CVF) through fiscal year (FY) 2029, stabilizing the CVF.

Schmidt also announced he has cosponsored four bills to protect Americans’ Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms.&nbsp;

H.R. 38, the&nbsp;Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act, provides nationwide reciprocity for concealed carry license holders and for residents of constitutional carry states.

H.R. 45, the&nbsp;Firearm Industry Non-Discrimination&nbsp;(FIND)&nbsp;Act, prevents any business that discriminates against firearm businesses or associations from contracting or subcontracting with the federal government.

H.R. 404, the&nbsp;Hearing Protection Act&nbsp;(HPA), reduces archaic barriers to purchasing a firearm suppressor.

Schmidt served as the&nbsp;Kansas Attorney General&nbsp;from 2011 to 2023. He was first elected to office serving in the&nbsp;Kansas Senate&nbsp; representing the&nbsp;15th district&nbsp;from 2001 to 2011. In 2022, Schmidt was the Republican nominee for&nbsp;governor of Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738931611218.png" alt="Images courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Images courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —It has been a busy week in Washington for new 2nd District Kansas Congressman Derek Schmidt.On Thursday, Schmidt presided over the House floor for the first time.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738931999797.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In addition, Schmidt this week announced he introduced the&nbsp;Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act along with five other members of the House including Missouri Congresswoman Ann Wagner.&nbsp; The bill redirects unobligated funds collected through the&nbsp;False Claims Act&nbsp;to the Crime Victims Fund (CVF) through fiscal year (FY) 2029, stabilizing the CVF.Schmidt also announced he has cosponsored four bills to protect Americans’ Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms.&nbsp;H.R. 38, the&nbsp;Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act, provides nationwide reciprocity for concealed carry license holders and for residents of constitutional carry states.H.R. 45, the&nbsp;Firearm Industry Non-Discrimination&nbsp;(FIND)&nbsp;Act, prevents any business that discriminates against firearm businesses or associations from contracting or subcontracting with the federal government.H.R. 404, the&nbsp;Hearing Protection Act&nbsp;(HPA), reduces archaic barriers to purchasing a firearm suppressor.Schmidt served as the&nbsp;Kansas Attorney General&nbsp;from 2011 to 2023. He was first elected to office serving in the&nbsp;Kansas Senate&nbsp; representing the&nbsp;15th district&nbsp;from 2001 to 2011. In 2022, Schmidt was the Republican nominee for&nbsp;governor of Kansas.

 Kan. Congressman presided over the House floor for the first time

The legislation allows drinks but prohibits the sale of intoxicating hemp edibles outside of marijuana dispensaries

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rebecca-rivas/">REBECCA RIVAS</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

Legislation allowing low-dose intoxicating hemp drinks to continue to be sold in grocery and liquor stores won the approval of committees in both the Missouri House and Senate this week.&nbsp;

A House committee advanced a bill 12 to 5 on Wednesday afternoon, followed the next morning by a 5 to 1 by a Senate committee.

While the bills carve out a place for hemp-THC seltzers to remain on store shelves, both bills ban intoxicating hemp edibles and vapes from being sold outside of marijuana dispensaries.&nbsp;

That point caused some reluctance from House public safety committee members who worried it would harshly impact a number of current Missouri companies that sell those products.&nbsp;

“This is a tough bill to vote on,” said Democratic state Rep. Mark Sharp of Kansas City, who voted in favor. “On the one hand, you’re regulating to the point where you want to keep children safe, especially in our urban areas. But on the other hand, you’re maybe over regulating.”

Sharp and several other lawmakers said they voted in favor to get “more eyes” on the bill when it reaches the full House, while others voted against because they’d prefer other legislation that has been filed this year.&nbsp;

Among the other proposals is the beer wholesalers’&nbsp;<a href="https://documents.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills251/hlrbillspdf/0718H.01I.pdf" target="_blank">legislation</a>, sponsored by Republican state Rep. Barry Hovis of Whitewater, which lays out regulations only for hemp beverages. Like both the bills approved this week, it would also establish the same three-tier distribution system that the alcohol industry has long abided by.

“I’m against monopolies, always have been,” said Hovis at the Wednesday House committee meeting, “and I still think that with the unknown of what it’s going to cost an independent business has been selling stuff that’s legal under the farm bill already. It could be tripling, quadrupling…”&nbsp;

Under both bills approved this week, all retailers must get a license to sell the beverages. But a key difference is which state agency is tasked with issuing and regulating the licenses.&nbsp;

The Senate bill, sponsored by Republican state Sen. Nick Schroer of Defiance, puts the job in the hands of the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control, which already regulates liquor retailers, distributors and manufacturers.&nbsp;

The House bill, sponsored by Republican state Rep. Chad Perkins of Bowling Green, will ask the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, which already houses the state’s cannabis regulating agency.

“This isn’t a final product,” Schroer said of his bill in the Senate committee Thursday. “If we’re going to have a regulated industry, implement consumer protections to make sure that the potency that’s on the packaging is exactly what it is. The main point is making sure that our kids don’t have access to this stuff.”

Schroer’s original&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/BillText.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=292" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;proposed to treat hemp-derived THC edibles, vapes and beverages the same as marijuana — meaning under the Division of Cannabis Regulation’s rules and exclusively sold in dispensaries.&nbsp;

The Missouri Cannabis Trade Association&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/01/22/missouri-cannabis-trade-group-offers-compromise-in-fight-over-regulating-intoxicating-hemp/">proposed an amendment</a>&nbsp;last month to carve out an exception for beverages, such as THC seltzers sold in cans. It capped the amount of THC at five milligrams per can and excluded drinks made with “synthetic” THC, or THC that has been converted from CBD using a chemical process.

That language is in both the House and Senate bills.&nbsp;

However, Brooklyn Hill, president of the Missouri Hemp Trade Association, said MoCann’s carve out is “not a solution to the problem.”

“This bill will still, even with the hemp beverage carve out, shut down hundreds of Missouri businesses and cost hundreds of Missourians their jobs,” Hill said.

Currently, Delta-8 THC products — including a large variety of drinks that are popular at bars and available at gas stations throughout the state — can be sold in Missouri stores because the intoxicating ingredient is derived from hemp, not marijuana.

Hemp is&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/10/11/farm-bill-debate-includes-hemp-regulation-as-issue-takes-center-stage-in-missouri-recall/">federally legal</a>, though several states have passed laws to prohibit intoxicating hemp products.&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/04/14/missouri-lawmakers-take-aim-at-unregulated-delta-8-thc-hemp-products/">Missouri legislators have tried</a>&nbsp;for the past two years to do that as well.&nbsp;

There’s no state or federal law saying teenagers or children can’t buy them or stores can’t sell them to minors — though some stores and vendors have taken it upon themselves to impose age restrictions of 21 and up.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=860121" target="_blank">proposal backed by the hemp association</a>&nbsp;would limit beverages and edibles to 100 mg of THC per serving, saying that some people who use the products medicinally require a higher dose. It directs the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control to regulate hemp licensees.

The Missouri Hemp Trade Association believes vehemently opposes establishing the three-tier system, saying it would create a monopoly on behalf of the distributors.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738932671240.jpeg" alt="Delta-8 THC products like this pineapple seltzer can be sold in stores in Missouri because the intoxicating ingredient, THC, is derived from hemp, not marijuana which is a controlled substance (Rebecca Rivas/The Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>Delta-8 THC products like this pineapple seltzer can be sold in stores in Missouri because the intoxicating ingredient, THC, is derived from hemp, not marijuana which is a controlled substance (Rebecca Rivas/The Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The legislation allows drinks but prohibits the sale of intoxicating hemp edibles outside of marijuana dispensaries</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rebecca-rivas/">REBECCA RIVAS</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Legislation allowing low-dose intoxicating hemp drinks to continue to be sold in grocery and liquor stores won the approval of committees in both the Missouri House and Senate this week.&nbsp;A House committee advanced a bill 12 to 5 on Wednesday afternoon, followed the next morning by a 5 to 1 by a Senate committee.While the bills carve out a place for hemp-THC seltzers to remain on store shelves, both bills ban intoxicating hemp edibles and vapes from being sold outside of marijuana dispensaries.&nbsp;That point caused some reluctance from House public safety committee members who worried it would harshly impact a number of current Missouri companies that sell those products.&nbsp;“This is a tough bill to vote on,” said Democratic state Rep. Mark Sharp of Kansas City, who voted in favor. “On the one hand, you’re regulating to the point where you want to keep children safe, especially in our urban areas. But on the other hand, you’re maybe over regulating.”Sharp and several other lawmakers said they voted in favor to get “more eyes” on the bill when it reaches the full House, while others voted against because they’d prefer other legislation that has been filed this year.&nbsp;Among the other proposals is the beer wholesalers’&nbsp;<a href="https://documents.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills251/hlrbillspdf/0718H.01I.pdf" target="_blank">legislation</a>, sponsored by Republican state Rep. Barry Hovis of Whitewater, which lays out regulations only for hemp beverages. Like both the bills approved this week, it would also establish the same three-tier distribution system that the alcohol industry has long abided by.“I’m against monopolies, always have been,” said Hovis at the Wednesday House committee meeting, “and I still think that with the unknown of what it’s going to cost an independent business has been selling stuff that’s legal under the farm bill already. It could be tripling, quadrupling…”&nbsp;Under both bills approved this week, all retailers must get a license to sell the beverages. But a key difference is which state agency is tasked with issuing and regulating the licenses.&nbsp;The Senate bill, sponsored by Republican state Sen. Nick Schroer of Defiance, puts the job in the hands of the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control, which already regulates liquor retailers, distributors and manufacturers.&nbsp;The House bill, sponsored by Republican state Rep. Chad Perkins of Bowling Green, will ask the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, which already houses the state’s cannabis regulating agency.“This isn’t a final product,” Schroer said of his bill in the Senate committee Thursday. “If we’re going to have a regulated industry, implement consumer protections to make sure that the potency that’s on the packaging is exactly what it is. The main point is making sure that our kids don’t have access to this stuff.”Schroer’s original&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/BillText.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=292" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;proposed to treat hemp-derived THC edibles, vapes and beverages the same as marijuana — meaning under the Division of Cannabis Regulation’s rules and exclusively sold in dispensaries.&nbsp;The Missouri Cannabis Trade Association&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/01/22/missouri-cannabis-trade-group-offers-compromise-in-fight-over-regulating-intoxicating-hemp/">proposed an amendment</a>&nbsp;last month to carve out an exception for beverages, such as THC seltzers sold in cans. It capped the amount of THC at five milligrams per can and excluded drinks made with “synthetic” THC, or THC that has been converted from CBD using a chemical process.That language is in both the House and Senate bills.&nbsp;However, Brooklyn Hill, president of the Missouri Hemp Trade Association, said MoCann’s carve out is “not a solution to the problem.”“This bill will still, even with the hemp beverage carve out, shut down hundreds of Missouri businesses and cost hundreds of Missourians their jobs,” Hill said.Currently, Delta-8 THC products — including a large variety of drinks that are popular at bars and available at gas stations throughout the state — can be sold in Missouri stores because the intoxicating ingredient is derived from hemp, not marijuana.Hemp is&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/10/11/farm-bill-debate-includes-hemp-regulation-as-issue-takes-center-stage-in-missouri-recall/">federally legal</a>, though several states have passed laws to prohibit intoxicating hemp products.&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/04/14/missouri-lawmakers-take-aim-at-unregulated-delta-8-thc-hemp-products/">Missouri legislators have tried</a>&nbsp;for the past two years to do that as well.&nbsp;There’s no state or federal law saying teenagers or children can’t buy them or stores can’t sell them to minors — though some stores and vendors have taken it upon themselves to impose age restrictions of 21 and up.&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=860121" target="_blank">proposal backed by the hemp association</a>&nbsp;would limit beverages and edibles to 100 mg of THC per serving, saying that some people who use the products medicinally require a higher dose. It directs the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control to regulate hemp licensees.The Missouri Hemp Trade Association believes vehemently opposes establishing the three-tier system, saying it would create a monopoly on behalf of the distributors.

Bills adding regulations to hemp-derived THC beverages advance in Missouri legislature

James Pointer was in his housing unit at the Moberly Correctional Center when the cap on a femoral catheter became dislodged

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

James Pointer’s life sentence in the Missouri Department of Corrections ended abruptly last week when he bled to death from an opening in his leg used to administer dialysis treatments.

Pointer, 76, was housed at the Moberly Correctional Center, where the state prison agency keeps offenders with kidney disease because it has a dialysis center, department spokeswoman Karen Pojmann wrote in an email to The Independent.

Pointer was pronounced dead at 5:13 p.m. last Friday and “had been on dialysis for many years, had been incarcerated since 2009 and had been at Moberly Correctional Center for 10 years,” Pojmann wrote.

Pointer was sentenced to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/cnet/cases/newHeader.do?inputVO.caseNumber=0822-CR03825-01&amp;inputVO.courtId=CT22#charges" target="_blank">life in prison without parole</a>&nbsp;in 2009 after pleading guilty in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.9news.com/article/news/local/former-dps-principal-murdered/73-342958055" target="_blank">murder of his estranged wife</a>&nbsp;in St. Louis.

An autopsy has been ordered, local law enforcement was notified and an investigation of the death is underway, Pojmann wrote.

Pojmann did not share any information regarding the manner of Pointer’s death. The Independent learned how he died from Déna Notz, a former corrections officer who founded an organization called Collectively Changing Corrections. Notz shared an email from a man incarcerated at the Moberly prison who saw Pointer bleeding.

“Friday night I witnessed a man I loved, James Pointer, a Vietnam veteran, bleed out from his femoral artery on a cold, dirty prison floor,” the inmate wrote. “It took medical so long to get to him that he died.”

“It doesn’t surprise me because of all the stuff I hear,” she said,“but I still cannot believe that something like this happened.”&nbsp;

The description of events was confirmed by Tammy Mogab, a woman whose brother Shawn Scrivens is an insulin-dependent diabetic housed at the Moberly prison. Scrivens told a Phelps County judge he had&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/column/tony-messenger/messenger-missouri-man-pleads-guilty-because-he-doesn-t-want-to-die-in-a-county/article_6284eb18-7352-11ee-8516-1fcd5d1a2d33.html" target="_blank">not received an insulin shot in 124 days</a>&nbsp;when he pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.

Mogab said she spoke to her brother on the telephone on Saturday as well as other men incarcerated at the prison.

“There are witnesses to the death of Mr. Pointer,”&nbsp; Mogab said, “and now all the dialysis patients are afraid to take their treatments.”

The Randolph County Ambulance District received an emergency call for the prison at 4:37 p.m. Friday and arrived on the scene at 4:49 p.m., district Superintendent Clay Joiner said.

“We did everything we could in this situation,” Joiner said.

Dialysis treats kidney failure and over time, preferred access points in a person’s arms can become scarred or otherwise unusable. A permanent catheter inserted into a blood vessel in the upper leg is a last-resort method.

Rapid bleeding can occur if the access port at the end of the tube becomes dislodged and there is no clamp to close off the tube.

The femoral artery is one of the largest in the human body. A person can bleed to death&nbsp;<a href="https://truerescue.com/blogs/knowledge/how-long-does-it-take-to-bleed-out-from-artery?srsltid=AfmBOorfNW_rbuszcmlUdMcgQ8B9fcaDz6QLvm2frF7sR-K9MDL_umXW" target="_blank">in 2 to 5 minutes</a>&nbsp;if no action is taken to staunch the flow of blood.

Joiner said he has responded to similar emergencies among dialysis patients in their homes.

“When your femoral artery is bleeding out, you have very little time,” Joiner said.

Randolph County Coroner Charlie Peel will rule on the cause of death for Pointer. He said that he is not ready to release any information about what he observed or was told by the department.

“We are in the middle of an investigation,” Peel said.

Many of the autopsies on people who die in the custody of the department are conducted at the Boone County Medical Examiner’s office in Columbia. Autopsy records obtained by The Independent for deaths at the Algoa and Jefferson City correctional centers show that in the past two years, the time elapsed from the date of the death to a completed report has ranged from 30 to more than 250 days.

There were 11 deaths at Moberly Correctional Center in 2024, fifth most among the 19 adult prisons operated by the department. The prison system recorded 139 deaths in 2024, the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/01/14/missouri-prison-deaths-increase-bringing-renewed-calls-for-scrutiny/">highest number of deaths in custody</a>&nbsp;in its history.

The inmate who wrote to Notz stated that it was the fourth time in the past month that Pointer’s access point opened. He blamed medical staff working for contractor Centurion Health, not department officers.

“How inept does a nurse have to be, does a company have to be, to allow this man to bleed out of an open artery four times in one month?” the inmate wrote. “DOC staff is not to blame for this atrocity.&nbsp; Medical staff is responsible and they alone must pay.”

Health care in Missouri’s prisons is performed by Centurion Health under a contract, recently renegotiated, that pays the company&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/01/30/missouri-supplemental-budget-shows-shortfall-in-medicaid-education-funding/">$21.65 per day</a>&nbsp;for each person in custody.&nbsp;

The state will pay Centurion approximately $203 million in the coming fiscal year, an increase of about 11% from the previous rate.

Centurion did not respond to telephone and email messages seeking comment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738926865477.png" alt="James Pointer, who died Jan. 31 at the Moberly Correctional Center when a problem developed with a femoral catheter for dialysis treatment. Pointer, 76, was serving life without parole for a 2008 murder (Department of Corrections photo)." />
 <figcaption>James Pointer, who died Jan. 31 at the Moberly Correctional Center when a problem developed with a femoral catheter for dialysis treatment. Pointer, 76, was serving life without parole for a 2008 murder (Department of Corrections photo).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>James Pointer was in his housing unit at the Moberly Correctional Center when the cap on a femoral catheter became dislodged</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>James Pointer’s life sentence in the Missouri Department of Corrections ended abruptly last week when he bled to death from an opening in his leg used to administer dialysis treatments.Pointer, 76, was housed at the Moberly Correctional Center, where the state prison agency keeps offenders with kidney disease because it has a dialysis center, department spokeswoman Karen Pojmann wrote in an email to The Independent.Pointer was pronounced dead at 5:13 p.m. last Friday and “had been on dialysis for many years, had been incarcerated since 2009 and had been at Moberly Correctional Center for 10 years,” Pojmann wrote.Pointer was sentenced to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/cnet/cases/newHeader.do?inputVO.caseNumber=0822-CR03825-01&amp;inputVO.courtId=CT22#charges" target="_blank">life in prison without parole</a>&nbsp;in 2009 after pleading guilty in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.9news.com/article/news/local/former-dps-principal-murdered/73-342958055" target="_blank">murder of his estranged wife</a>&nbsp;in St. Louis.An autopsy has been ordered, local law enforcement was notified and an investigation of the death is underway, Pojmann wrote.Pojmann did not share any information regarding the manner of Pointer’s death. The Independent learned how he died from Déna Notz, a former corrections officer who founded an organization called Collectively Changing Corrections. Notz shared an email from a man incarcerated at the Moberly prison who saw Pointer bleeding.“Friday night I witnessed a man I loved, James Pointer, a Vietnam veteran, bleed out from his femoral artery on a cold, dirty prison floor,” the inmate wrote. “It took medical so long to get to him that he died.”The email was chilling, Notz said.“It doesn’t surprise me because of all the stuff I hear,” she said,“but I still cannot believe that something like this happened.”&nbsp;The description of events was confirmed by Tammy Mogab, a woman whose brother Shawn Scrivens is an insulin-dependent diabetic housed at the Moberly prison. Scrivens told a Phelps County judge he had&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/column/tony-messenger/messenger-missouri-man-pleads-guilty-because-he-doesn-t-want-to-die-in-a-county/article_6284eb18-7352-11ee-8516-1fcd5d1a2d33.html" target="_blank">not received an insulin shot in 124 days</a>&nbsp;when he pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.Mogab said she spoke to her brother on the telephone on Saturday as well as other men incarcerated at the prison.“There are witnesses to the death of Mr. Pointer,”&nbsp; Mogab said, “and now all the dialysis patients are afraid to take their treatments.”The Randolph County Ambulance District received an emergency call for the prison at 4:37 p.m. Friday and arrived on the scene at 4:49 p.m., district Superintendent Clay Joiner said.“We did everything we could in this situation,” Joiner said.Dialysis treats kidney failure and over time, preferred access points in a person’s arms can become scarred or otherwise unusable. A permanent catheter inserted into a blood vessel in the upper leg is a last-resort method.Rapid bleeding can occur if the access port at the end of the tube becomes dislodged and there is no clamp to close off the tube.The femoral artery is one of the largest in the human body. A person can bleed to death&nbsp;<a href="https://truerescue.com/blogs/knowledge/how-long-does-it-take-to-bleed-out-from-artery?srsltid=AfmBOorfNW_rbuszcmlUdMcgQ8B9fcaDz6QLvm2frF7sR-K9MDL_umXW" target="_blank">in 2 to 5 minutes</a>&nbsp;if no action is taken to staunch the flow of blood.Joiner said he has responded to similar emergencies among dialysis patients in their homes.“When your femoral artery is bleeding out, you have very little time,” Joiner said.Randolph County Coroner Charlie Peel will rule on the cause of death for Pointer. He said that he is not ready to release any information about what he observed or was told by the department.“We are in the middle of an investigation,” Peel said.Many of the autopsies on people who die in the custody of the department are conducted at the Boone County Medical Examiner’s office in Columbia. Autopsy records obtained by The Independent for deaths at the Algoa and Jefferson City correctional centers show that in the past two years, the time elapsed from the date of the death to a completed report has ranged from 30 to more than 250 days.There were 11 deaths at Moberly Correctional Center in 2024, fifth most among the 19 adult prisons operated by the department. The prison system recorded 139 deaths in 2024, the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/01/14/missouri-prison-deaths-increase-bringing-renewed-calls-for-scrutiny/">highest number of deaths in custody</a>&nbsp;in its history.The inmate who wrote to Notz stated that it was the fourth time in the past month that Pointer’s access point opened. He blamed medical staff working for contractor Centurion Health, not department officers.“How inept does a nurse have to be, does a company have to be, to allow this man to bleed out of an open artery four times in one month?” the inmate wrote. “DOC staff is not to blame for this atrocity.&nbsp; Medical staff is responsible and they alone must pay.”Health care in Missouri’s prisons is performed by Centurion Health under a contract, recently renegotiated, that pays the company&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/01/30/missouri-supplemental-budget-shows-shortfall-in-medicaid-education-funding/">$21.65 per day</a>&nbsp;for each person in custody.&nbsp;The state will pay Centurion approximately $203 million in the coming fiscal year, an increase of about 11% from the previous rate.Centurion did not respond to telephone and email messages seeking comment.

Inmate on dialysis bleeds to death while serving life sentence in Missouri prison

DICKINSON COUNTY —A triple murder suspect captured in central Kansas is now being held in a jail in Missouri.

According to online jail record, 50-year-old Armondo Navarro was transferred on Wednesday and booked into the Platte County jail.

On Sunday morning, the Sheriff’s Office received a report of a vehicle in the ditch in the area of K-15 Highway and 2900 Avenue, north of Abilene, according to a media release from the Dickinson County Sheriff.

A deputy responded to the motorist assist and made contact with a man later identified as Navarro of Kansas City, Missouri.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738861731859.png" alt="Navarro photo Platte Co." />
 <figcaption>Navarro photo Platte Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY —A triple murder suspect captured in central Kansas is now being held in a jail in Missouri.According to online jail record, 50-year-old Armondo Navarro was transferred on Wednesday and booked into the Platte County jail.On Sunday morning, the Sheriff’s Office received a report of a vehicle in the ditch in the area of K-15 Highway and 2900 Avenue, north of Abilene, according to a media release from the Dickinson County Sheriff.A deputy responded to the motorist assist and made contact with a man later identified as Navarro of Kansas City, Missouri.The vehicle was out of the roadway and Navarro advised he was waiting for a tow truck. The deputy then left the scene but told Navarro he would check on him later.The Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office was later notified that Navarro was a suspect in a triple homicide that occurred on February 2, in Kansas City. Deputies returned to the area and confirmed the suspect was still with the vehicle.Additional deputies arrived as well as troopers with the Kansas Highway Patrol. While awaiting the arrival of an armored vehicle from the Junction City Police department, deputies observed Navarro leaving the area on 2900 Road and heading towards K-15 Highway.The Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit and another deputy contacted Navarro at 2900 Avenue and K-15 Highway. A brief foot pursuit ensued and the K-9 was deployed.&nbsp; Navarro surrendered to the K-9 unit and was taken into custody by deputies.He is being held in the Platte County jail on requested charges of first degree murder, armed criminal action, first degree assault and animal abuse, according to online records.&nbsp;KCPD Captain Jake Becchina identified the homicide victims as 73-year-old Sherri Duncan; 49-year-old Jodie Hopcus and 24-year-old Hailey Hopcus.

Kbct