St. Joseph is
wrapping up several capital improvement projects spurred by federal COVID-19
recovery funds.

Fourth District
Councilmember Michael Grimm says the council intends for the improvements to
make an impact, such as improvements soon to come to Krug Park.

Grimm says the
park in north St. Joseph will be undergoing a transformation.

“The castle will
be redone. The inside will be set up so that if vendors want to use that for
say a wedding or a picnic of some sort, (for) a company, it’ll be set up so they’ll
have refrigeration and they’ll have heating and cooling,” according to Grimm.

St. Joseph is
spending a total of $10 ½ million on the renovations at Krug Park. Some of the
money comes from the federal funds, some from capital improvement money, and
some from the parks sales tax.

St. Joseph has
received a total of $39 million in federal COVID-19 money. The previous city
council distributed $18 million to non-profits and charities. The current city
council took a different take and decided to spend the money on capital
improvements.

Grimm believes
residents appreciated the new focus.

“I think the
people of the city realize that we’ve got a lot of problems and we can help
rectify some of that, whether it be Civic Arena or whether it be City Hall. We’re
spending a lot of money at City Hall.”

Money spent on
upgrading City Hall comes just before it celebrates its 100th
anniversary in 2027.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736955782107.jpeg" alt="Krug Park Castle/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Krug Park Castle/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph is
wrapping up several capital improvement projects spurred by federal COVID-19
recovery funds.Fourth District
Councilmember Michael Grimm says the council intends for the improvements to
make an impact, such as improvements soon to come to Krug Park.“We hope that
people say, ‘Wow’”Grimm says the
park in north St. Joseph will be undergoing a transformation.“The castle will
be redone. The inside will be set up so that if vendors want to use that for
say a wedding or a picnic of some sort, (for) a company, it’ll be set up so they’ll
have refrigeration and they’ll have heating and cooling,” according to Grimm.St. Joseph is
spending a total of $10 ½ million on the renovations at Krug Park. Some of the
money comes from the federal funds, some from capital improvement money, and
some from the parks sales tax.St. Joseph has
received a total of $39 million in federal COVID-19 money. The previous city
council distributed $18 million to non-profits and charities. The current city
council took a different take and decided to spend the money on capital
improvements.Grimm believes
residents appreciated the new focus.“I think the
people of the city realize that we’ve got a lot of problems and we can help
rectify some of that, whether it be Civic Arena or whether it be City Hall. We’re
spending a lot of money at City Hall.”Money spent on
upgrading City Hall comes just before it celebrates its 100th
anniversary in 2027.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736882954278.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph City Hall/file photo" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph City Hall/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

New focus spends federal funds on St. Joseph capital improvement projects

(Radio Iowa) - A study from the World Health Organization finds two-thirds of baby foods on grocery store shelves in Iowa and nationwide are safe to eat, but they aren't healthy.

 Ellen Compton, a registered dietician with the Gundersen Health System, says that's discouraging news for time-strapped parents who are often looking for quick, nutritious ways to feed their kids. Compton says a lot of food marketing can be deceptive, especially to busy parents who just want to grab and go and have a variety of food for their kids. 

Read the label, she says, as many foods that may appear to be a smart choice could prove otherwise when you delve through the fine print, with all sorts of sweeteners and additives.

(Radio Iowa) - A study from the World Health Organization finds two-thirds of baby foods on grocery store shelves in Iowa and nationwide are safe to eat, but they aren't healthy. Ellen Compton, a registered dietician with the Gundersen Health System, says that's discouraging news for time-strapped parents who are often looking for quick, nutritious ways to feed their kids. Compton says a lot of food marketing can be deceptive, especially to busy parents who just want to grab and go and have a variety of food for their kids. Read the label, she says, as many foods that may appear to be a smart choice could prove otherwise when you delve through the fine print, with all sorts of sweeteners and additives.

Iowa parents need to read baby food labels carefully

(Radio Iowa) - The 2025 Iowa legislative session is underway. All 100 members of the Iowa House have taken the oath of office for their two year terms.

 Two dozen senators, who serve four year terms, have been sworn into office. The legislature's opening day is full of traditions, including speeches from leaders. House Speaker Pat Grassley says lowering taxes and addressing concerns about immigration and social issues are why Republicans won big in November. Senate President Amy Sinclair of Allerton says Republicans hold "supermajorities" in both the House and Senate because for the past eight years Republicans have focused on conservative values. Senate Democratic Leader Janice Weiner says no one person and no single party has all the answers. 

House Democratic Leader Jennifer Konfrst says she's not confident the legislature will be able to escape the political divisions that doom solutions to child care and housing woes.

(Radio Iowa) - The 2025 Iowa legislative session is underway. All 100 members of the Iowa House have taken the oath of office for their two year terms. Two dozen senators, who serve four year terms, have been sworn into office. The legislature's opening day is full of traditions, including speeches from leaders. House Speaker Pat Grassley says lowering taxes and addressing concerns about immigration and social issues are why Republicans won big in November. Senate President Amy Sinclair of Allerton says Republicans hold "supermajorities" in both the House and Senate because for the past eight years Republicans have focused on conservative values. Senate Democratic Leader Janice Weiner says no one person and no single party has all the answers. House Democratic Leader Jennifer Konfrst says she's not confident the legislature will be able to escape the political divisions that doom solutions to child care and housing woes.

2025 Iowa legislative session is underway

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>

Controlling crime, expanding education options and cutting taxes will be the top priorities for Missouri, new Gov. Mike Kehoe said in his inauguration speech.

The brief speech, delivered before a crowd gathered on a cold, sunny day outside the Missouri Capitol, also traced the Republican’s journey from a north St. Louis home led by a single mother to the top political job in the state.

Instead of lamenting that she could not give her children the things richer families enjoyed, Kehoe said, she told them to pray and work harder.

“That’s been the guiding principle of my life,” Kehoe said Monday, after the oath of office was administered by former U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt. “Whenever we saw something that needed to be done, we didn’t complain. We prayed hard, and we worked hard.”

Other state officeholders sworn in Monday are David Wasinger, lieutenant governor, Denny Hoskins, secretary of state, Vivek Malek, state treasurer, and Andrew Bailey, attorney general. All are Republicans.

Kehoe, who will turn 63 on Friday, built a successful car dealership in Jefferson City before being appointed to the state Highways and Transportation Commission in 2005 by then-Gov. Matt Blunt. He made his first bid for public office with a run for the state Senate in 2010. The Republican was appointed to replace Mike Parson as lieutenant governor in 2018 after Parson was elevated to the governor’s office following the resignation of Eric Greitens.

“My life—growing up in the inner city, moving to a small town, building businesses, and operating a ranch—these experiences have taught me one thing: Missourians are more alike than we are different,” Kehoe said.

Kehoe won the governorship by prevailing in a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/06/mike-kehoe-wins-republican-nomination-for-missouri-governor/">hotly contested Republican primary</a>&nbsp;in August and then&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/05/republican-mike-kehoe-wins-missouri-governors-race-over-democrat-crystal-quade/">easily defeating</a>&nbsp;Democratic nominee Crystal Quade in November.

Monday’s speech didn’t offer many specifics on issues Kehoe said he wanted to address. During his campaign, he said he would&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/07/24/mike-kehoe-missouri-governor-republican-primary/">address crime and cut taxes</a>, including working to repeal the state income tax, during his four years in office.

Crime, Kehoe said, leaves people in fear and cuts down on productivity. He promised to issue executive orders later in the day to address specific issues facing law enforcement.

He also said he wanted to beef up police agencies.

“In the coming weeks, months and years,” he said, “my administration will be relentless in our pursuit to make Missouri a place where it’s easier to be a cop than a criminal.”&nbsp;

On education, Kehoe indicated he wanted to build on legislation that last year&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/06/03/missouri-education-package-establishes-long-time-priorities-stomping-smaller-bills/">expanded a tax credit used for private schools</a>&nbsp;and allowed for establishment of a charter school in Boone County, as well as increasing base teacher pay.

“Securing Missouri’s future means strengthening public education and expanding school choice

so that every single student has the opportunity to get a world class education,” Kehoe said.

While Kehoe campaigned to eliminate the income tax, promising to start with a tax cut early in his administration, he did not endorse any of the proposals introduced so far in this year’s session as his preferred plan.

Several Republican members of the state Senate, for example, have filed bills to replace Missouri’s progressive income tax with a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/12/11/flat-tax-proposals-aim-to-put-missouri-on-path-to-eliminate-income-tax/">flat tax of 4%</a>. Currently, Missourians pay 4.7% tax on the portion of their taxable income exceeding $8,900.&nbsp;

“My administration will focus on reducing taxes and cutting regulations, so families keep more of their own money,” Kehoe said, “and so job creators want to come here, expand here and hire more hard-working Missourians.”&nbsp;

Kehoe is the first sitting lieutenant governor to win the state’s top job since Democrat Mel Carnahan in 1993. Kehoe presided over the Senate for the final time a few hours before his noon inauguration and received a standing ovation when Senate Majority Leader Tony Luetkemeyer spoke of his 14 years as a senator and lieutenant governor.

“Our lieutenant governor has shown us how the Senate can benefit the leadership that prioritizes results over rhetoric,” Luetkemeyer said. “He’s a person focused on building bridges rather than burning them down.”

In his inaugural speech, Kehoe said he wanted to work for solutions and would remain open to proposals regardless of their source.

“This is my promise to you,” Kehoe said. “I will talk to anyone, w

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>Controlling crime, expanding education options and cutting taxes will be the top priorities for Missouri, new Gov. Mike Kehoe said in his inauguration speech.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">It is truly an honor to serve as the 58th Governor of the State of Missouri. Together, we will secure a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Missouri—not just for today, but for generations to come. Let’s get to work. <a href="https://t.co/njvsWsiLJb">pic.twitter.com/njvsWsiLJb</a>&mdash; Governor Mike Kehoe (@GovMikeKehoe) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovMikeKehoe/status/1878912383260963035?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The brief speech, delivered before a crowd gathered on a cold, sunny day outside the Missouri Capitol, also traced the Republican’s journey from a north St. Louis home led by a single mother to the top political job in the state.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736798179869.png" alt="Gov. Mike Kehoe delivers his inaugural address Monday, promising a Missouri "where it is easier to be a cop than a criminal" (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Mike Kehoe delivers his inaugural address Monday, promising a Missouri "where it is easier to be a cop than a criminal" (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>Instead of lamenting that she could not give her children the things richer families enjoyed, Kehoe said, she told them to pray and work harder.“That’s been the guiding principle of my life,” Kehoe said Monday, after the oath of office was administered by former U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt. “Whenever we saw something that needed to be done, we didn’t complain. We prayed hard, and we worked hard.”Other state officeholders sworn in Monday are David Wasinger, lieutenant governor, Denny Hoskins, secretary of state, Vivek Malek, state treasurer, and Andrew Bailey, attorney general. All are Republicans.Kehoe, who will turn 63 on Friday, built a successful car dealership in Jefferson City before being appointed to the state Highways and Transportation Commission in 2005 by then-Gov. Matt Blunt. He made his first bid for public office with a run for the state Senate in 2010. The Republican was appointed to replace Mike Parson as lieutenant governor in 2018 after Parson was elevated to the governor’s office following the resignation of Eric Greitens.“My life—growing up in the inner city, moving to a small town, building businesses, and operating a ranch—these experiences have taught me one thing: Missourians are more alike than we are different,” Kehoe said.Kehoe won the governorship by prevailing in a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/06/mike-kehoe-wins-republican-nomination-for-missouri-governor/">hotly contested Republican primary</a>&nbsp;in August and then&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/05/republican-mike-kehoe-wins-missouri-governors-race-over-democrat-crystal-quade/">easily defeating</a>&nbsp;Democratic nominee Crystal Quade in November.Monday’s speech didn’t offer many specifics on issues Kehoe said he wanted to address. During his campaign, he said he would&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/07/24/mike-kehoe-missouri-governor-republican-primary/">address crime and cut taxes</a>, including working to repeal the state income tax, during his four years in office.Crime, Kehoe said, leaves people in fear and cuts down on productivity. He promised to issue executive orders later in the day to address specific issues facing law enforcement.He also said he wanted to beef up police agencies.“In the coming weeks, months and years,” he said, “my administration will be relentless in our pursuit to make Missouri a place where it’s easier to be a cop than a criminal.”&nbsp;On education, Kehoe indicated he wanted to build on legislation that last year&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/06/03/missouri-education-package-establishes-long-time-priorities-stomping-smaller-bills/">expanded a tax credit used for private schools</a>&nbsp;and allowed for establishment of a charter school in Boone County, as well as increasing base teacher pay.“Securing Missouri’s future means strengthening public education and expanding school choiceso that every single student has the opportunity to get a world class education,” Kehoe said.While Kehoe campaigned to eliminate the income tax, promising to start with a tax cut early in his administration, he did not endorse any of the proposals introduced so far in this year’s session as his preferred plan.Several Republican members of the state Senate, for example, have filed bills to replace Missouri’s progressive income tax with a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/12/11/flat-tax-proposals-aim-to-put-missouri-on-path-to-eliminate-income-tax/">flat tax of 4%</a>. Currently, Missourians pay 4.7% tax on the portion of their taxable income exceeding $8,900.&nbsp;“My administration will focus on reducing taxes and cutting regulations, so families keep more of their own money,” Kehoe said, “and so job creators want to come here, expand here and hire more hard-working Missourians.”&nbsp;Kehoe is the first sitting lieutenant governor to win the state’s top job since Democrat Mel Carnahan in 1993. Kehoe presided over the Senate for the final time a few hours before his noon inauguration and received a standing ovation when Senate Majority Leader Tony Luetkemeyer spoke of his 14 years as a senator and lieutenant governor.“Our lieutenant governor has shown us how the Senate can benefit the leadership that prioritizes results over rhetoric,” Luetkemeyer said. “He’s a person focused on building bridges rather than burning them down.”In his inaugural speech, Kehoe said he wanted to work for solutions and would remain open to proposals regardless of their source.“This is my promise to you,” Kehoe said. “I will talk to anyone, w

Mike Kehoe was sworn in as Missouri’s 58th governor on the steps of the state Capitol

(Radio Iowa) - Des Moines Police say a suspect is in custody for the attempted murder of a man and a woman at a social club a few bocks from the Iowa Capitol. 

The shooting happened in the early morning hours of March 24th and an arrest warrant was issued a few days later for 26-year-old Cori Jayvon Shields. Des Moines Police say he was taken into custody in Illinois this past October -- and in mid-November a gun was recovered from a storm drain near the social club that is likely the gun that was used in the shooting. 

Shields has been transferred from Illinois and was booked into the Polk County Jail late Friday afternoon.

(Radio Iowa) - Des Moines Police say a suspect is in custody for the attempted murder of a man and a woman at a social club a few bocks from the Iowa Capitol. The shooting happened in the early morning hours of March 24th and an arrest warrant was issued a few days later for 26-year-old Cori Jayvon Shields. Des Moines Police say he was taken into custody in Illinois this past October -- and in mid-November a gun was recovered from a storm drain near the social club that is likely the gun that was used in the shooting. Shields has been transferred from Illinois and was booked into the Polk County Jail late Friday afternoon.

Des Moines Police make arrest after 10 month investigation of shooting near Iowa Capitol

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/greglarose/">GREG LAROSE</a>&nbsp;

An infectious disease expert says the relatively mild cases of avian influenza detected so far among dairy workers don’t warrant making a vaccine available to them, even as they work to contain and prevent spread of the contagious virus among herds.

Dr. Shira Doron, an epidemiologist and chief infection control officer for Tufts Medicine in Boston, said the minor spread of the H5N1 among humans – and no reported instances of human-to-human transmission – makes any widespread administration of a vaccine premature right now.

“There are also many logistical issues that would be associated with deployment of vaccine to farm workers – language barrier, undocumented status, compliance – so that is not the plan at this time, “ Doron said Friday morning during an Infectious Diseases Society of America teleconference.

H5N1 has circulated globally for decades, she said. Analysis of the strains currently circulating shows them to be poorly suited for transmission between humans and with low pandemic potential, according to Doron.

Human patients have also responded well to antiviral treatments such as Tamiflu, the doctor said.

The current avian flu strains have led to two severe cases in humans. One involved a 65-year-old person from Louisiana who contracted the virus from exposure to a combination of a non-commercial backyard flock and wild birds, state health officials said. It was&nbsp;<a href="https://lailluminator.com/2025/01/06/avian-flu-louisiana/" target="_blank">the nation’s first ever fatal human case</a>&nbsp;of avian flu, though the patient was reported to have underlying conditions that worsened after they contracted H5N1.

The other severe case was a teen in Canada who had to be admitted to a hospital’s intensive care unit. That patient contracted the virus from wild birds, Doron said.

Dr. Julio Figeroua, LSU Health chief of infectious diseases and a professor at Louisiana State University’s medical school in New Orleans, also took part in the IDSA teleconference. There have been no secondary avian flu cases related to the patient in Louisiana who died, he said.

“We have people who do hunting, hunting of geese and ducks, and so advisories have been put out to those for proper handling of those particular animals,” Figeroua said. “A lot of backyard flocks that are here and in urban and suburban areas are potentially also potential sources for transmission.”

In addition to 919 dairy herds in 16 states, the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain of bird flu has impacted more than 133 million poultry farms in all 50 states as of Wednesday, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Coordination about the various federal and state agencies responding to avian flu outbreaks will be crucial to containing its spread, especially as the incoming Trump administration takes over, Doron and Figueroa said.

Asked to provide an estimate for when the current H5N1 outbreak might be contained or peter out on its own, Doron said it’s difficult to determine at this point.

“I think it really is going to depend on how long immunity lasts, and it’s too early in the outbreak to know that,” she said. “… If the immunity doesn’t last more than a few months, then we could have ongoing spread indefinitely.”

This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://lailluminator.com/2025/01/10/avian-flu/" target="_blank">Louisiana Illuminator</a>, a States Newsroom affiliate.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733747978622.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/greglarose/">GREG LAROSE</a>&nbsp;An infectious disease expert says the relatively mild cases of avian influenza detected so far among dairy workers don’t warrant making a vaccine available to them, even as they work to contain and prevent spread of the contagious virus among herds.Dr. Shira Doron, an epidemiologist and chief infection control officer for Tufts Medicine in Boston, said the minor spread of the H5N1 among humans – and no reported instances of human-to-human transmission – makes any widespread administration of a vaccine premature right now.“There are also many logistical issues that would be associated with deployment of vaccine to farm workers – language barrier, undocumented status, compliance – so that is not the plan at this time, “ Doron said Friday morning during an Infectious Diseases Society of America teleconference.H5N1 has circulated globally for decades, she said. Analysis of the strains currently circulating shows them to be poorly suited for transmission between humans and with low pandemic potential, according to Doron.Human patients have also responded well to antiviral treatments such as Tamiflu, the doctor said.The current avian flu strains have led to two severe cases in humans. One involved a 65-year-old person from Louisiana who contracted the virus from exposure to a combination of a non-commercial backyard flock and wild birds, state health officials said. It was&nbsp;<a href="https://lailluminator.com/2025/01/06/avian-flu-louisiana/" target="_blank">the nation’s first ever fatal human case</a>&nbsp;of avian flu, though the patient was reported to have underlying conditions that worsened after they contracted H5N1.The other severe case was a teen in Canada who had to be admitted to a hospital’s intensive care unit. That patient contracted the virus from wild birds, Doron said.Dr. Julio Figeroua, LSU Health chief of infectious diseases and a professor at Louisiana State University’s medical school in New Orleans, also took part in the IDSA teleconference. There have been no secondary avian flu cases related to the patient in Louisiana who died, he said.“We have people who do hunting, hunting of geese and ducks, and so advisories have been put out to those for proper handling of those particular animals,” Figeroua said. “A lot of backyard flocks that are here and in urban and suburban areas are potentially also potential sources for transmission.”In addition to 919 dairy herds in 16 states, the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain of bird flu has impacted more than 133 million poultry farms in all 50 states as of Wednesday, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Coordination about the various federal and state agencies responding to avian flu outbreaks will be crucial to containing its spread, especially as the incoming Trump administration takes over, Doron and Figueroa said.Asked to provide an estimate for when the current H5N1 outbreak might be contained or peter out on its own, Doron said it’s difficult to determine at this point.“I think it really is going to depend on how long immunity lasts, and it’s too early in the outbreak to know that,” she said. “… If the immunity doesn’t last more than a few months, then we could have ongoing spread indefinitely.”This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://lailluminator.com/2025/01/10/avian-flu/" target="_blank">Louisiana Illuminator</a>, a States Newsroom affiliate.&nbsp;

No need to provide an avian flu vaccine for humans yet, expert says

St. Joseph has benefitted from the reinstatement
of the state tax credit for making movies in Missouri.

St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau
spokesman, Christian Mengel, says St. Joseph has attempted to be very open to
film production crews.

“Even though that this was a statewide thing, I
don’t think every community really saw it as an actual option or potential for
themselves,” Mengel tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline, “because I think
so many cities and towns, specifically of smaller destinations, when they hear,
oh film tax credit, they probably think oh that means Kansas City and St. Louis
are going to get all this business.”

A production crew wrapped up about three weeks in
both St. Joseph and Savannah for a Christmas-based mystery rom-com that
incorporates a lot of local flavor.

Mengel says the producer took an extra step to make
the film represent the area more accurately.

“They sent the script writer to basically say,
hey, if you’re inspired by anything in particular that fits this location, write
it into the script,” Mengel says. “And so, Savannah and St. Joseph basically kind
of got written into the script on the front end rather than trying to make the
place match what already existed on paper.”

Mengel says producers who read the fine print of
the state tax incentive legislation understand they can get an even bigger tax
break from Missouri if they move outside Kansas City and St. Louis and if they
produce something in an under-served area, such as Savannah.

“It’s considered an under-served community in the
grand scheme of the state,” Mengel says. “Andrew County is not Jackson County
in any listings in that sense. Not only that, when the film makers looked at
Savannah, it’s so much more affordable and accessible and I guess you’d just say
friendly, because you have that small town feel. Where if they’re in Kansas
City, they’re just another movie production that’s just in the area.”

It is a big deal for this area, though, according
to Mengel.

That fine print in the state film tax credit
provides a 5% boost for filming in rural Missouri, 5% extra if the production
office is located in an under-served area, and 5% if the production team hires
local talent.

Mengel estimates 60% of the Christmas rom com was
shot in Savannah with the remaining 40% shot in St. Joseph. The movie has a
working title of “A Christmystery.” Producers now will attempt to sell the film
to streaming services such as Hallmark or Netflix.

The movie shot in December came on the heels of
another production shot in St. Joseph this past summer. It also will be shopped
around to various streaming services.

The Missouri legislature allowed the state film
tax credit to expire. When lawmakers saw movies with a Missouri theme, such as
Ozark, shot in other states, they voted to reinstate the incentive.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph has benefitted from the reinstatement
of the state tax credit for making movies in Missouri.St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau
spokesman, Christian Mengel, says St. Joseph has attempted to be very open to
film production crews.“Even though that this was a statewide thing, I
don’t think every community really saw it as an actual option or potential for
themselves,” Mengel tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline, “because I think
so many cities and towns, specifically of smaller destinations, when they hear,
oh film tax credit, they probably think oh that means Kansas City and St. Louis
are going to get all this business.”A production crew wrapped up about three weeks in
both St. Joseph and Savannah for a Christmas-based mystery rom-com that
incorporates a lot of local flavor.Mengel says the producer took an extra step to make
the film represent the area more accurately.“They sent the script writer to basically say,
hey, if you’re inspired by anything in particular that fits this location, write
it into the script,” Mengel says. “And so, Savannah and St. Joseph basically kind
of got written into the script on the front end rather than trying to make the
place match what already existed on paper.”Mengel says producers who read the fine print of
the state tax incentive legislation understand they can get an even bigger tax
break from Missouri if they move outside Kansas City and St. Louis and if they
produce something in an under-served area, such as Savannah.“It’s considered an under-served community in the
grand scheme of the state,” Mengel says. “Andrew County is not Jackson County
in any listings in that sense. Not only that, when the film makers looked at
Savannah, it’s so much more affordable and accessible and I guess you’d just say
friendly, because you have that small town feel. Where if they’re in Kansas
City, they’re just another movie production that’s just in the area.”It is a big deal for this area, though, according
to Mengel.That fine print in the state film tax credit
provides a 5% boost for filming in rural Missouri, 5% extra if the production
office is located in an under-served area, and 5% if the production team hires
local talent.Mengel estimates 60% of the Christmas rom com was
shot in Savannah with the remaining 40% shot in St. Joseph. The movie has a
working title of “A Christmystery.” Producers now will attempt to sell the film
to streaming services such as Hallmark or Netflix.The movie shot in December came on the heels of
another production shot in St. Joseph this past summer. It also will be shopped
around to various streaming services.The Missouri legislature allowed the state film
tax credit to expire. When lawmakers saw movies with a Missouri theme, such as
Ozark, shot in other states, they voted to reinstate the incentive.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph area benefitting from renewal of state movie tax credit

State education officials credit recent legislative efforts for a small boost to teacher retention rates while setting guidelines for more growth

BY:&nbsp;ANNELISE HANSHAW <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>

More Missouri educators are staying in their jobs following efforts to raise teachers’ base pay and provide alternative measures for certification, the State Board of Education learned last week.

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education predicts schools will have fewer vacancies in the future, speaking positively about small gains and outlining a path for more improvement.

“It is encouraging data to see because it signals that while supply of new teachers is increasing, we’re also seeing a decrease in the demand for new teachers,” Paul Katnik, assistant commissioner in the office of educator quality, told the board.

Following Katnik’s&nbsp;<a href="https://dese.mo.gov/media/pdf/presentation-teacher-workforce-data-missouri-teacher-recruitment-and-retention-playbook" target="_blank">presentation</a>, the department announced the creation of a&nbsp;<a href="https://dese.mo.gov/media/pdf/teacher-recruitment-and-retention-playbook-january-2025" target="_blank">playbook</a>&nbsp;to improve teacher recruitment and retention in Missouri with eight cornerstones to guide lawmakers and education officials.

“The data confirms we’re making positive, incremental progress, and this indicates we are doing the right things,” Katnik said. “The data also indicates we have more work yet to do.”

Teacher retention in Missouri increased in the 2023-24 school year after a decrease the year prior. Among all Missouri teachers, 88.7% remained in the profession, compared to 88.2% the year prior.

Despite a continued push for teacher recruitment efforts from the state department, lawmakers have less emphasis on the problem than in years past with few bills filed addressing the issue head on.

“From what we passed last year, there will be a $700 million core increase, so that will be the increase this year,” state Rep. Ed Lewis, a Republican from Moberly, told The Independent. “Will we go beyond that? No, I can’t imagine that we have any appetite to go higher than that this year.”

Lewis has filed numerous bills aimed at teacher recruitment and retention in years past, and his legislation was made law in a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-governor-signs-468m-education-bill-that-boosts-teacher-pay-expands-charters/">large education package</a>&nbsp;last year. His proposals included a grant that helps upcoming teachers pay for college education, so long as they teach in Missouri afterward.

The new law is expected to pour hundreds of millions into schools alongside&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/09/14/lawmakers-consider-boosting-missouri-public-education-funding-by-300-million/">an increase to the formula that funds public schools</a>.

This year, Lewis hopes to just see “tweaks” to the existing measures and funding in the appropriations process.

“We have to realize that we just put a lot of money into education, and we’ve got to make sure that we appropriate all that and that we figure out how, long term going forward, we’re going to continue to meet the educational needs in public education,” he said.

Still, a few bills seek to expand programs to retain teachers.

State Rep. Kathy Steinhoff, a Democrat from Columbia, filed a&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB444&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;hoping to create a grant program incentivizing teachers to stay in their jobs. But, Steinhoff knows the appetite for public education spending is particularly weak this year.

Steinhoff’s bill would combine local efforts with a matching fund from the state to supplement teacher salaries by $5,000 to $6,000 annually.

Last year, the legislature increased the minimum teacher pay to $40,000 and $46,000 for those with at least 10 years of experience. Base pay for those with at least 10 years of experience will rise to $48,000 over two years.

The pay bump has caused compression in some districts, with teachers having served in a district for five years making little more than newcomers, Steinhoff said. And average teacher pay, which rose to over $55,000 this year in Missouri, is still “way behind” careers requiring similar levels of education.

Lewis said districts could use the increase to the foundation formula to make “more competitive” salary schedules, putting onus on local authorities to use the state funds for retention.

A&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB341&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;proposed by state Rep. Ben Keathley, a Republican from Chesterfield, seeks to dictate how much districts can spend on administrative salaries compared with teacher compensation. The bill would require districts to spend at least 88% of educator salaries on teachers in the 2026-27 school year, with that portion rising 1% annually until it reaches 95%.

Other bills filed addressing teacher pay include fixes to a provision passed last year that incentivizes a five-day school week, clarifying that a school calendar can be shorter based on inclement weather and still qualify.

Lewis also filed legislation that would sunset a fund created to help districts raise teacher salaries to the new minimum in 2035, unless the grant is renewed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736771004392.png" alt="The Missouri House of Representatives, as photographed during discussion of a bill aimed at teacher recruitment and retention (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>The Missouri House of Representatives, as photographed during discussion of a bill aimed at teacher recruitment and retention (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>State education officials credit recent legislative efforts for a small boost to teacher retention rates while setting guidelines for more growth</h2>BY:&nbsp;ANNELISE HANSHAW <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>More Missouri educators are staying in their jobs following efforts to raise teachers’ base pay and provide alternative measures for certification, the State Board of Education learned last week.The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education predicts schools will have fewer vacancies in the future, speaking positively about small gains and outlining a path for more improvement.“It is encouraging data to see because it signals that while supply of new teachers is increasing, we’re also seeing a decrease in the demand for new teachers,” Paul Katnik, assistant commissioner in the office of educator quality, told the board.Following Katnik’s&nbsp;<a href="https://dese.mo.gov/media/pdf/presentation-teacher-workforce-data-missouri-teacher-recruitment-and-retention-playbook" target="_blank">presentation</a>, the department announced the creation of a&nbsp;<a href="https://dese.mo.gov/media/pdf/teacher-recruitment-and-retention-playbook-january-2025" target="_blank">playbook</a>&nbsp;to improve teacher recruitment and retention in Missouri with eight cornerstones to guide lawmakers and education officials.“The data confirms we’re making positive, incremental progress, and this indicates we are doing the right things,” Katnik said. “The data also indicates we have more work yet to do.”Teacher retention in Missouri increased in the 2023-24 school year after a decrease the year prior. Among all Missouri teachers, 88.7% remained in the profession, compared to 88.2% the year prior.Despite a continued push for teacher recruitment efforts from the state department, lawmakers have less emphasis on the problem than in years past with few bills filed addressing the issue head on.“From what we passed last year, there will be a $700 million core increase, so that will be the increase this year,” state Rep. Ed Lewis, a Republican from Moberly, told The Independent. “Will we go beyond that? No, I can’t imagine that we have any appetite to go higher than that this year.”Lewis has filed numerous bills aimed at teacher recruitment and retention in years past, and his legislation was made law in a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-governor-signs-468m-education-bill-that-boosts-teacher-pay-expands-charters/">large education package</a>&nbsp;last year. His proposals included a grant that helps upcoming teachers pay for college education, so long as they teach in Missouri afterward.The new law is expected to pour hundreds of millions into schools alongside&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/09/14/lawmakers-consider-boosting-missouri-public-education-funding-by-300-million/">an increase to the formula that funds public schools</a>.This year, Lewis hopes to just see “tweaks” to the existing measures and funding in the appropriations process.“We have to realize that we just put a lot of money into education, and we’ve got to make sure that we appropriate all that and that we figure out how, long term going forward, we’re going to continue to meet the educational needs in public education,” he said.Still, a few bills seek to expand programs to retain teachers.State Rep. Kathy Steinhoff, a Democrat from Columbia, filed a&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB444&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;hoping to create a grant program incentivizing teachers to stay in their jobs. But, Steinhoff knows the appetite for public education spending is particularly weak this year.Steinhoff’s bill would combine local efforts with a matching fund from the state to supplement teacher salaries by $5,000 to $6,000 annually.Last year, the legislature increased the minimum teacher pay to $40,000 and $46,000 for those with at least 10 years of experience. Base pay for those with at least 10 years of experience will rise to $48,000 over two years.The pay bump has caused compression in some districts, with teachers having served in a district for five years making little more than newcomers, Steinhoff said. And average teacher pay, which rose to over $55,000 this year in Missouri, is still “way behind” careers requiring similar levels of education.Lewis said districts could use the increase to the foundation formula to make “more competitive” salary schedules, putting onus on local authorities to use the state funds for retention.A&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB341&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;proposed by state Rep. Ben Keathley, a Republican from Chesterfield, seeks to dictate how much districts can spend on administrative salaries compared with teacher compensation. The bill would require districts to spend at least 88% of educator salaries on teachers in the 2026-27 school year, with that portion rising 1% annually until it reaches 95%.Other bills filed addressing teacher pay include fixes to a provision passed last year that incentivizes a five-day school week, clarifying that a school calendar can be shorter based on inclement weather and still qualify.Lewis also filed legislation that would sunset a fund created to help districts raise teacher salaries to the new minimum in 2035, unless the grant is renewed.

Missouri lawmakers unlikely to prioritize teacher pay as past efforts bring growth

Washington, D.C.&nbsp;- U.S. Senator&nbsp;Roger&nbsp;Marshall, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, recently announced the creation of the Congressional Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Caucus, according to a statement from the Senator's office.

This new caucus will focus on nutrition, access to affordable, high-quality-nutrient-dense foods, improving primary care, and addressing the root causes of chronic diseases.&nbsp;

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Trump’s nominee for Department of Health &amp; Human Services (HHS) Secretary, has endorsed the creation of this new caucus that will work to build a stronger and healthier America. Senator&nbsp;Marshall, a physician who practiced medicine for over 25 years,&nbsp;met with Mr. Kennedy&nbsp;earlier this week to discuss his nomination to lead HHS. Senator&nbsp;Marshall&nbsp;endorsed Mr. Kennedy’s candidacy following the meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The MAHA caucus is committed to improving health outcomes by prioritizing nutrition, providing access to affordable, nutrient-dense foods, and focusing on primary care availability to tackle the root causes of chronic diseases,”&nbsp;Senator&nbsp;Marshall&nbsp;said.&nbsp;“With our 'Food is Medicine' approach, support from RFK Jr., and a shared goal to Make America Healthy Again, we aim to foster transparency, innovation, and a transformative agenda that builds a healthier, stronger nation."

Additional members of the MAHA Caucus include Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Rick Scott (R-FL), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), and Ron Johnson (R-WI).

"I met with RFK Jr., President Trump’s nominee to lead the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Like I told him, I’ve heard from young people across the country who are inspired by his message to Make America Healthy Again. During our meeting, Bobby and I had a great discussion about ways to make our food and health care system better. As a founding member of the Senate Make America Healthy Again Caucus, I look forward to working with my friend Senator&nbsp;Roger&nbsp;Marshall&nbsp;and our colleagues to make sure our food is safe, bring transparency to vaccines and health care, and Make America Healthy Again,”&nbsp;Senator Tuberville said.

“As the incoming Chairman of the Senate Special Committee on Aging, I want to give my full endorsement of the official Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Caucus. From the day we are born, we start aging—and my goal is that every American has the resources and information to live long, happy lives. If you have your health, you have everything and I am looking forward to working with my fellow MAHA members and RFK Jr. to Make America Healthy Again,”&nbsp;Senator Scott said.

“America is sicker than ever, and President Trump has made it a priority to address America’s chronic disease epidemic,”&nbsp;Senator Lummis said.&nbsp;“I am partnering with Dr.&nbsp;Roger&nbsp;Marshall&nbsp;to make America healthy again and hold the federal agencies who have failed the American people accountable.”

Making America Healthy Again is an effort that has broad support across the political spectrum.&nbsp; It is a completely nonpartisan issue. It should start by restoring integrity to scientific research and our federal agencies. I am happy to join the MAHA caucus and use our Senate platforms to inform the public and accomplish those goals,”&nbsp;Senator Johnson said.

Washington, D.C.&nbsp;- U.S. Senator&nbsp;Roger&nbsp;Marshall, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, recently announced the creation of the Congressional Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Caucus, according to a statement from the Senator's office.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">America is sick, and it’s time we hold federal agencies accountable. I’m partnering with <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RogerMarshallMD</a> to make America healthy again and address the chronic disease epidemic that has plagued our country.&mdash; Senator Cynthia Lummis (@SenLummis) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenLummis/status/1871201597063389479?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>This new caucus will focus on nutrition, access to affordable, high-quality-nutrient-dense foods, improving primary care, and addressing the root causes of chronic diseases.&nbsp;Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Trump’s nominee for Department of Health &amp; Human Services (HHS) Secretary, has endorsed the creation of this new caucus that will work to build a stronger and healthier America. Senator&nbsp;Marshall, a physician who practiced medicine for over 25 years,&nbsp;met with Mr. Kennedy&nbsp;earlier this week to discuss his nomination to lead HHS. Senator&nbsp;Marshall&nbsp;endorsed Mr. Kennedy’s candidacy following the meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;"The MAHA caucus is committed to improving health outcomes by prioritizing nutrition, providing access to affordable, nutrient-dense foods, and focusing on primary care availability to tackle the root causes of chronic diseases,”&nbsp;Senator&nbsp;Marshall&nbsp;said.&nbsp;“With our 'Food is Medicine' approach, support from RFK Jr., and a shared goal to Make America Healthy Again, we aim to foster transparency, innovation, and a transformative agenda that builds a healthier, stronger nation."Additional members of the MAHA Caucus include Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Rick Scott (R-FL), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), and Ron Johnson (R-WI)."I met with RFK Jr., President Trump’s nominee to lead the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Like I told him, I’ve heard from young people across the country who are inspired by his message to Make America Healthy Again. During our meeting, Bobby and I had a great discussion about ways to make our food and health care system better. As a founding member of the Senate Make America Healthy Again Caucus, I look forward to working with my friend Senator&nbsp;Roger&nbsp;Marshall&nbsp;and our colleagues to make sure our food is safe, bring transparency to vaccines and health care, and Make America Healthy Again,”&nbsp;Senator Tuberville said.“As the incoming Chairman of the Senate Special Committee on Aging, I want to give my full endorsement of the official Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Caucus. From the day we are born, we start aging—and my goal is that every American has the resources and information to live long, happy lives. If you have your health, you have everything and I am looking forward to working with my fellow MAHA members and RFK Jr. to Make America Healthy Again,”&nbsp;Senator Scott said.“America is sicker than ever, and President Trump has made it a priority to address America’s chronic disease epidemic,”&nbsp;Senator Lummis said.&nbsp;“I am partnering with Dr.&nbsp;Roger&nbsp;Marshall&nbsp;to make America healthy again and hold the federal agencies who have failed the American people accountable.”Making America Healthy Again is an effort that has broad support across the political spectrum.&nbsp; It is a completely nonpartisan issue. It should start by restoring integrity to scientific research and our federal agencies. I am happy to join the MAHA caucus and use our Senate platforms to inform the public and accomplish those goals,”&nbsp;Senator Johnson said.

Kan. U.S. Senator to lead Congressional Make America Healthy Again Caucus

(Radio Iowa) - There's a wide disparity in gasoline prices across Iowa right now, and depending on where you fill your tank, it may cost 50-cents more a gallon. 

Even the experts are flummoxed by what's happening. Brian Ortner, spokesman for Triple-A-Iowa, says they closely monitor gas prices daily, and he sees no explanation for the sudden jump to over three-dollars a gallon in parts of the state. Gas prices in northeast Iowa are significantly higher than in southwest Iowa, and Ortner says it's baffling. He says nothing stands out to explain the significant increase on prices, as crude oil prices are steady and wintertime means reduced demand and lower costs. 

The average price for a gallon of gas in Allamakee County in far northeast Iowa is three-11, while in southwest Iowa's Fremont County, the price is only two-66.

(Radio Iowa) - There's a wide disparity in gasoline prices across Iowa right now, and depending on where you fill your tank, it may cost 50-cents more a gallon. Even the experts are flummoxed by what's happening. Brian Ortner, spokesman for Triple-A-Iowa, says they closely monitor gas prices daily, and he sees no explanation for the sudden jump to over three-dollars a gallon in parts of the state. Gas prices in northeast Iowa are significantly higher than in southwest Iowa, and Ortner says it's baffling. He says nothing stands out to explain the significant increase on prices, as crude oil prices are steady and wintertime means reduced demand and lower costs. The average price for a gallon of gas in Allamakee County in far northeast Iowa is three-11, while in southwest Iowa's Fremont County, the price is only two-66.

Experts are stunned by sudden jump over $3 gallon at some Iowa gas stations

Eagle Media announced several key promotions and leadership updates within the Eagle team. These changes reflect the company's commitment to employee ownership and operational excellence in serving&nbsp; communities and customers.

Shannon Wiederholt – Chief Financial Officer &amp; VP of Corporate Operations

Shannon Wiederholt has been promoted to Chief Financial Officer (CFO) while also continuing the role of Vice President of Corporate Operations. Shannon has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership within our accounting team and has been instrumental in overseeing Eagle’s budgeting processes.

In her new role, Shannon will help guide our employee ownership processes, audits, and valuation. She will also oversee our radio/media operations in St Joseph and Maryville, Missouri. Heading into her 15th year with Eagle, Shannon is also a member of the Eagle Board of Directors. She resides in Shawnee, Kansas, with her husband Brandon and their three children.

Olivia Hasenauer – Regional Vice President of Nebraska Media Group

Olivia Hasenauer has been promoted to Regional Vice President of Nebraska Media Group. While continuing her current responsibilities, Olivia will now take on broader leadership roles, contributing to the strategic direction and vision of the company.

Since joining Eagle in 2011, Olivia has played a pivotal role in driving growth across our media markets and spearheading company-wide sales initiatives. A passionate advocate for employee ownership, Olivia lives in Hemingford, Nebraska, with her husband Neil and their two children.

Todd Lynd – Associate Director, Eagle Board of Directors

Todd Lynd, Market Manager for Eagle Media of Hays, will join the Eagle Board of Directors as an Associate Director starting this January. Under Todd’s leadership, Hays Media has become the flagship group of Eagle, showcasing top-performing radio stations and the award-winning Hays Post.

With over 25 years of leadership and a dedication to our 100/0 commitment to success, Todd’s market-level experience will be a valuable addition to the Board. Todd and his wife Chrisi live in Hays, Kansas.

Speed Marriott – New Ventures Group &amp; Training Leadership

Speed Marriott will transition away from a full-time position to focus on supporting Bryan Marriott, President of P1 Learning, in expanding Eagle’s New Ventures Group. P1 Learning is a leading training and educational platform offering innovative programs such as P1 Plus, Rising Above, and the 10 Minute Trainer Network.

Eagle’s Mid America Production division will be restructured and merged into P1 to create high-quality training video production. Speed will continue contributing to Eagle through his involvement in Flight Plan Marketing sessions across our markets. A current member of the Eagle Board of Directors, Speed lives in Shawnee, Kansas, with his wife Cathy.

Matt Althouse - Regional Vice President of Kansas Media Group

Earlier this month, it was announced the Matt Althouse was promoted to Vice President of Kansas Media Group. Matt will oversee Eagle’s Kansas Media operations along with his current leadership role in Hutchinson. Kansas Broadcasters picked Matt for their “Rising Star Award” in 2023 reflecting his success at Eagle Media.

Althouse is looking forward to this new role at Eagle, “As Employee Owners, our commitment is to continually enhance and refine how we deliver news, sports, and entertainment that matters to our communities”.

Matt has two children, and they reside in Hutchinson Kansas.

Eagle Chairman Gary Shorman is excited to make these announcements, “These promotions reflect Eagle’s ongoing commitment to nurturing leadership, fostering growth with employee ownership, and providing the best for our customers and communities.”

Eagle Media announced several key promotions and leadership updates within the Eagle team. These changes reflect the company's commitment to employee ownership and operational excellence in serving&nbsp; communities and customers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736543074917.png" alt="Shannon Wiederholt " />
 <figcaption>Shannon Wiederholt </figcaption>
 </figure>Shannon Wiederholt – Chief Financial Officer &amp; VP of Corporate OperationsShannon Wiederholt has been promoted to Chief Financial Officer (CFO) while also continuing the role of Vice President of Corporate Operations. Shannon has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership within our accounting team and has been instrumental in overseeing Eagle’s budgeting processes.In her new role, Shannon will help guide our employee ownership processes, audits, and valuation. She will also oversee our radio/media operations in St Joseph and Maryville, Missouri. Heading into her 15th year with Eagle, Shannon is also a member of the Eagle Board of Directors. She resides in Shawnee, Kansas, with her husband Brandon and their three children.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736543148352.png" alt="Olivia Hasenauer" />
 <figcaption>Olivia Hasenauer</figcaption>
 </figure>Olivia Hasenauer – Regional Vice President of Nebraska Media GroupOlivia Hasenauer has been promoted to Regional Vice President of Nebraska Media Group. While continuing her current responsibilities, Olivia will now take on broader leadership roles, contributing to the strategic direction and vision of the company.Since joining Eagle in 2011, Olivia has played a pivotal role in driving growth across our media markets and spearheading company-wide sales initiatives. A passionate advocate for employee ownership, Olivia lives in Hemingford, Nebraska, with her husband Neil and their two children.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736543188701.png" alt="Todd Lynd" />
 <figcaption>Todd Lynd</figcaption>
 </figure>Todd Lynd – Associate Director, Eagle Board of DirectorsTodd Lynd, Market Manager for Eagle Media of Hays, will join the Eagle Board of Directors as an Associate Director starting this January. Under Todd’s leadership, Hays Media has become the flagship group of Eagle, showcasing top-performing radio stations and the award-winning Hays Post.With over 25 years of leadership and a dedication to our 100/0 commitment to success, Todd’s market-level experience will be a valuable addition to the Board. Todd and his wife Chrisi live in Hays, Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736543217551.png" alt="Speed Marriott " />
 <figcaption>Speed Marriott </figcaption>
 </figure>Speed Marriott – New Ventures Group &amp; Training LeadershipSpeed Marriott will transition away from a full-time position to focus on supporting Bryan Marriott, President of P1 Learning, in expanding Eagle’s New Ventures Group. P1 Learning is a leading training and educational platform offering innovative programs such as P1 Plus, Rising Above, and the 10 Minute Trainer Network.Eagle’s Mid America Production division will be restructured and merged into P1 to create high-quality training video production. Speed will continue contributing to Eagle through his involvement in Flight Plan Marketing sessions across our markets. A current member of the Eagle Board of Directors, Speed lives in Shawnee, Kansas, with his wife Cathy.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736543278016.png" alt="Matt Althouse " />
 <figcaption>Matt Althouse </figcaption>
 </figure>Matt Althouse - Regional Vice President of Kansas Media GroupEarlier this month, it was announced the Matt Althouse was promoted to Vice President of Kansas Media Group. Matt will oversee Eagle’s Kansas Media operations along with his current leadership role in Hutchinson. Kansas Broadcasters picked Matt for their “Rising Star Award” in 2023 reflecting his success at Eagle Media.Althouse is looking forward to this new role at Eagle, “As Employee Owners, our commitment is to continually enhance and refine how we deliver news, sports, and entertainment that matters to our communities”.Matt has two children, and they reside in Hutchinson Kansas.Eagle Chairman Gary Shorman is excited to make these announcements, “These promotions reflect Eagle’s ongoing commitment to nurturing leadership, fostering growth with employee ownership, and providing the best for our customers and communities.”

Eagle Media announces key promotions to leadership team

Prolific author Milt Toratti, an Army veteran, has helped
veterans tell their stories in 160 books written over the past 69 years.

It took him much longer to help former POW Guy Gruters tell
his.

Toratti says he and Gruters first collaborated in 2008, but
two drafts didn’t work. A third attempt produced “Faith Conquers Through
Courage Tested,” a book about Gruters 5 ½ years in the infamous Hanoi Hilton
where the Viet Cong held &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; U.S.
prisoners during the Vietnam War.

Toratti says Gruters leaned on his Christian faith to make it
through years of torture.

“Guy Gruters actually started to evangelize, because what he
did in there was he said in order to survive I have to forgive my enemy,”
Toratti relates during a visit to the KFEQ Hotline. “And he forgave the
interrogators. He forgave the guards. He forgave them for beating him, because
that was his way of getting salvation and his belief in Christ and it made him
stronger because of that.”

Though the book focuses on the experiences of Gruters in the
Hoa Lo Prison, it touches on the stories of several POWs.

“Like James Stockdale. He became an admiral. He got the
Congressional Medal of Honor along with (George) Bud Day,” Toratti says. “But
James Stockdale tried to commit suicide, because he knew too much. But he didn’t
know how to lie well enough. So, he was going to commit suicide. Well, they
talked him out of that. He tried to commit suicide. He lived. And then, he went
on forward from there. But that’s how gruesome it was.”

Another prisoner in the Hanoi Hilton was John McCain, who
became a United States Senator and ran on the Republican ticket for president.

Faith and camaraderie go them through unimaginable conditions,
according to Toratti. The POWs devised a code of conduct to help them survive.
If the torture brought them to a breaking point, they could confess, but the confession
must be mixed with enough lies to confuse the enemy. The Viet Cong held more
than 600 prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. Toratti says he hopes the
book pays tribute to their sacrifice. &nbsp;

Planning is underway months in advance to welcome Gruters to
St. Joseph during a special ceremony to commemorate the terrorist attacks of
September 11th.

Michael Meierhoffer is leading the effort to bring Gruters to
St. Joseph on September 11th. The event is scheduled to be held at
Wyatt Park Baptist Church. Meierhoffer says the country should pay special
tribute to those imprisoned during the Vietnam War.

“Certainly, they’re at the tip of the spear, because there
were hundreds of thousands of men and women who went to Vietnam,” Meierhoffer
says. “And we can debate all day long whether we should have been there or
shouldn’t, but we were and I can tell you from a Navy perspective and a Navy
flyers perspective there were a lot of things that were done incorrectly. But
we are there and we’re going to celebrate what we can.”

Money raised during the event as well as through sale of the
book will benefit the Cameron Veterans Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736535478533.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostProlific author Milt Toratti, an Army veteran, has helped
veterans tell their stories in 160 books written over the past 69 years.It took him much longer to help former POW Guy Gruters tell
his.Toratti says he and Gruters first collaborated in 2008, but
two drafts didn’t work. A third attempt produced “Faith Conquers Through
Courage Tested,” a book about Gruters 5 ½ years in the infamous Hanoi Hilton
where the Viet Cong held &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; U.S.
prisoners during the Vietnam War.Toratti says Gruters leaned on his Christian faith to make it
through years of torture.“Guy Gruters actually started to evangelize, because what he
did in there was he said in order to survive I have to forgive my enemy,”
Toratti relates during a visit to the KFEQ Hotline. “And he forgave the
interrogators. He forgave the guards. He forgave them for beating him, because
that was his way of getting salvation and his belief in Christ and it made him
stronger because of that.”Though the book focuses on the experiences of Gruters in the
Hoa Lo Prison, it touches on the stories of several POWs.“Like James Stockdale. He became an admiral. He got the
Congressional Medal of Honor along with (George) Bud Day,” Toratti says. “But
James Stockdale tried to commit suicide, because he knew too much. But he didn’t
know how to lie well enough. So, he was going to commit suicide. Well, they
talked him out of that. He tried to commit suicide. He lived. And then, he went
on forward from there. But that’s how gruesome it was.”Another prisoner in the Hanoi Hilton was John McCain, who
became a United States Senator and ran on the Republican ticket for president.Faith and camaraderie go them through unimaginable conditions,
according to Toratti. The POWs devised a code of conduct to help them survive.
If the torture brought them to a breaking point, they could confess, but the confession
must be mixed with enough lies to confuse the enemy. The Viet Cong held more
than 600 prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. Toratti says he hopes the
book pays tribute to their sacrifice. &nbsp;Planning is underway months in advance to welcome Gruters to
St. Joseph during a special ceremony to commemorate the terrorist attacks of
September 11th.Michael Meierhoffer is leading the effort to bring Gruters to
St. Joseph on September 11th. The event is scheduled to be held at
Wyatt Park Baptist Church. Meierhoffer says the country should pay special
tribute to those imprisoned during the Vietnam War.“Certainly, they’re at the tip of the spear, because there
were hundreds of thousands of men and women who went to Vietnam,” Meierhoffer
says. “And we can debate all day long whether we should have been there or
shouldn’t, but we were and I can tell you from a Navy perspective and a Navy
flyers perspective there were a lot of things that were done incorrectly. But
we are there and we’re going to celebrate what we can.”Money raised during the event as well as through sale of the
book will benefit the Cameron Veterans Home.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Latest book from Toratti tells the stories of Vietnam POWs

The USDA’s Farm Service Agency is reminding producers, including dairy producers impacted by H5N1, that the deadline to apply for assistance through the ELAP Program is January 30. 

The Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-raised Fish Program funds are for losses due to specific adverse conditions that occurred in 2024. 

“The ELAP program provides an important financial safety net, helping our producers rebound from weather and disease impacts that are out of their control and not part of their operation’s ordinary risk profile,” says Zach Ducheneaux, FSA administrator. “These events threaten producers’ economic viability, so it’s important that USDA provide support.”

 ELAP provides relief to eligible producers to assist with losses that aren’t covered by other FSA disaster programs. Producers wanting to apply for ELAP assistance for calendar year 2024 should contact the FSA at their nearest USDA Service Center by January 30. 

To find a Service Center, visit farmers.gov.

The USDA’s Farm Service Agency is reminding producers, including dairy producers impacted by H5N1, that the deadline to apply for assistance through the ELAP Program is January 30. The Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-raised Fish Program funds are for losses due to specific adverse conditions that occurred in 2024. “The ELAP program provides an important financial safety net, helping our producers rebound from weather and disease impacts that are out of their control and not part of their operation’s ordinary risk profile,” says Zach Ducheneaux, FSA administrator. “These events threaten producers’ economic viability, so it’s important that USDA provide support.” ELAP provides relief to eligible producers to assist with losses that aren’t covered by other FSA disaster programs. Producers wanting to apply for ELAP assistance for calendar year 2024 should contact the FSA at their nearest USDA Service Center by January 30. To find a Service Center, visit farmers.gov.-NAFB

Disaster assistance application deadline approaching

The USDA will begin rebuilding its bird flu vaccine stockpile to make it match the current strain of the virus running through commercial flocks and wild birds. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the outbreak started in 2022 and has killed over 130 million birds, affecting commercial, backyard, and wild birds in all 50 states.

 In a press release, USDA says the U.S. had built poultry vaccine stocks after the last major outbreak in 2014-2015. Bird flu is also affecting U.S. dairy cattle herds and infected almost 70 people. Most of the exposed humans are farm workers who’ve been directly exposed to sick cattle or poultry. 

Egg and turkey farm groups have been calling for a vaccine, citing the severe economic toll it has taken on farmers after wiping out their flocks. In December, USDA reported infected dairy herds in California and Texas.

The USDA will begin rebuilding its bird flu vaccine stockpile to make it match the current strain of the virus running through commercial flocks and wild birds. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the outbreak started in 2022 and has killed over 130 million birds, affecting commercial, backyard, and wild birds in all 50 states. In a press release, USDA says the U.S. had built poultry vaccine stocks after the last major outbreak in 2014-2015. Bird flu is also affecting U.S. dairy cattle herds and infected almost 70 people. Most of the exposed humans are farm workers who’ve been directly exposed to sick cattle or poultry. Egg and turkey farm groups have been calling for a vaccine, citing the severe economic toll it has taken on farmers after wiping out their flocks. In December, USDA reported infected dairy herds in California and Texas.-NAFB

U.S. to rebuild bird flu vaccine stockpile

(Radio Iowa) - Thousands of Iowa athletes -- from toddlers to senior citizens -- will take part in the Winter Iowa Games, with some events starting next weekend. 

All ages and abilities are welcome to compete in sports including alpine ski racing, figure skating, trapshooting, hockey and snowshoeing. Games marketing director Cory Kennedy says this marks the 34th year for the annual winter sports festival, which features a range of indoor and outdoor sports. Registration is still open for most of the 16 events and as many as four-thousand athletes are expected, from three-year-olds to 90-year-olds. 

The first event is pickleball on January 18th in Dubuque, with the final event being ice hockey in Des Moines on March 16th. Other host communities include: Ankeny, Cedar Rapids, Eldora, Harlan, Iowa City, Ottumwa, Peosta and Waterloo.

(Radio Iowa) - Thousands of Iowa athletes -- from toddlers to senior citizens -- will take part in the Winter Iowa Games, with some events starting next weekend. All ages and abilities are welcome to compete in sports including alpine ski racing, figure skating, trapshooting, hockey and snowshoeing. Games marketing director Cory Kennedy says this marks the 34th year for the annual winter sports festival, which features a range of indoor and outdoor sports. Registration is still open for most of the 16 events and as many as four-thousand athletes are expected, from three-year-olds to 90-year-olds. The first event is pickleball on January 18th in Dubuque, with the final event being ice hockey in Des Moines on March 16th. Other host communities include: Ankeny, Cedar Rapids, Eldora, Harlan, Iowa City, Ottumwa, Peosta and Waterloo.

Iowans go for the gold amidst the white of winter

(Radio Iowa) - The two gun seasons for deer are now over and the D-N-R's Conservation Division Administrator Pete Hildreth says the numbers are still on pace to match last year, which was 104-thousand deer. 

There are still chances for hunters yet this year with the opening of the late muzzleloader season. There are two January antlerless deer only seasons that run from January 11 through the 19th. The population management January antlerless season is available only in Allamakee, Appanoose, Decatur, Lucas, Monroe, Wayne and Winneshiek counties. Hunters may use bows, muzzle loaders, handguns, shotguns, crossbows or rifles in that .223 caliber. 

The excess tag. January antlerless season is available in all counties with unsold county antlerless tags on January 11th, but license sales will only be available over the counter and not online until the quota is filled.

(Radio Iowa) - The two gun seasons for deer are now over and the D-N-R's Conservation Division Administrator Pete Hildreth says the numbers are still on pace to match last year, which was 104-thousand deer. There are still chances for hunters yet this year with the opening of the late muzzleloader season. There are two January antlerless deer only seasons that run from January 11 through the 19th. The population management January antlerless season is available only in Allamakee, Appanoose, Decatur, Lucas, Monroe, Wayne and Winneshiek counties. Hunters may use bows, muzzle loaders, handguns, shotguns, crossbows or rifles in that .223 caliber. The excess tag. January antlerless season is available in all counties with unsold county antlerless tags on January 11th, but license sales will only be available over the counter and not online until the quota is filled.

Deer Season Looks To Match Last Year's Take

Farm bill work hasn’t even started, but the new Senate GOP majority already has SNAP and the related Thrifty Food Plan in its crosshairs. 

The farm bill food stamp fight that blocked a Senate deal last year is showing its teeth again, but now with unified GOP government control that could yield the first budget since 2016.

Senior Senate Republican and new budget panel member John Cornyn could play a key role in fashioning spending cuts this year, including for farm bill programs Democrats fought for last year.

“By simply reducing payment errors for SNAP payments, for example, we could save an estimated 100 billion dollars. By implementing a real work requirement for means-tested programs like Congress did back during the Clinton presidency, we could save an incredible amount of money for the American people.”

The House Ag Committee tried last Congress and earlier to tighten SNAP requirements and, in a new farm bill push, to end secretarial discretion to boost benefits. Texas conservative Cornyn touched on that.

“Or we could repeal the controversial 2021 Thrifty Food Plan that would save as much as 300 billion dollars. You know, we’re talking about real money, Mr. President.”

Republicans slammed Ag Secretary Vilsack for upping pandemic SNAP benefits under the plan by some $250 billion without Congressional approval. Democrats claimed he had that authority under the 2018 farm bill.

But the committee-passed House GOP farm bill backed by a handful of Democrats would have allowed only inflationary SNAP increases.

Farm bill work hasn’t even started, but the new Senate GOP majority already has SNAP and the related Thrifty Food Plan in its crosshairs. The farm bill food stamp fight that blocked a Senate deal last year is showing its teeth again, but now with unified GOP government control that could yield the first budget since 2016.Senior Senate Republican and new budget panel member John Cornyn could play a key role in fashioning spending cuts this year, including for farm bill programs Democrats fought for last year.“By simply reducing payment errors for SNAP payments, for example, we could save an estimated 100 billion dollars. By implementing a real work requirement for means-tested programs like Congress did back during the Clinton presidency, we could save an incredible amount of money for the American people.”The House Ag Committee tried last Congress and earlier to tighten SNAP requirements and, in a new farm bill push, to end secretarial discretion to boost benefits. Texas conservative Cornyn touched on that.“Or we could repeal the controversial 2021 Thrifty Food Plan that would save as much as 300 billion dollars. You know, we’re talking about real money, Mr. President.”Republicans slammed Ag Secretary Vilsack for upping pandemic SNAP benefits under the plan by some $250 billion without Congressional approval. Democrats claimed he had that authority under the 2018 farm bill.But the committee-passed House GOP farm bill backed by a handful of Democrats would have allowed only inflationary SNAP increases.-NAFB

GOP again targeting SNAP, thrifty food plan for savings

Early indications are that U.S. farmers will increase planted grain acres this year despite continuing low prices. 

That’s according to a survey done by Farm Futures magazine. In the survey conducted in December, farmers in major corn-producing states seem swayed by an ongoing corn rally. However, more than half of the responding farmers plan no change in their crop mix. 

“In light of the corn market’s rally to six-month highs in late 2024 and early 2025, it makes sense that many farmers in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, and other top-producing states plan to ramp up their corn planting this year,” says Senior Editor Bruce Blythe. 

One factor that could change those plans is the soybean future prices.

 “A key question is whether soybean acres increase or decrease, given the outlook for heavy global supplies and weak prices,” Blythe said. 

Farmers also voiced continuing concerns about getting a 2025 Farm Bill in place.

Early indications are that U.S. farmers will increase planted grain acres this year despite continuing low prices. That’s according to a survey done by Farm Futures magazine. In the survey conducted in December, farmers in major corn-producing states seem swayed by an ongoing corn rally. However, more than half of the responding farmers plan no change in their crop mix. “In light of the corn market’s rally to six-month highs in late 2024 and early 2025, it makes sense that many farmers in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, and other top-producing states plan to ramp up their corn planting this year,” says Senior Editor Bruce Blythe. One factor that could change those plans is the soybean future prices. “A key question is whether soybean acres increase or decrease, given the outlook for heavy global supplies and weak prices,” Blythe said. Farmers also voiced continuing concerns about getting a 2025 Farm Bill in place.-NAFB

Kbct