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.

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

<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

Farmers may shift grain acreage in 2025

NEW YORK —During an online Teams meeting, President-elect Donald Trump was sentenced Friday in his&nbsp;hush money case. The judge did not impose any prison time, probation, a fine or other conditions.

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/event/public-affairs-event/recorded-audio-president-elect-trump-sentenced-in-hush-money-case/430047">Click here </a>to listen to the sentencing hearing

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736520956783.png" alt="File photo President-elect Trump during a meeting with Republic Governors on Thursday night -image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>File photo President-elect Trump during a meeting with Republic Governors on Thursday night -image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK —During an online Teams meeting, President-elect Donald Trump was sentenced Friday in his&nbsp;hush money case. The judge did not impose any prison time, probation, a fine or other conditions.<a href="https://www.c-span.org/event/public-affairs-event/recorded-audio-president-elect-trump-sentenced-in-hush-money-case/430047">Click here </a>to listen to the sentencing hearing

🎧Listen to Trump sentencing: No prison, probation or conditions

(Radio Iowa) - Nominations are now being taken for the 2025 Iowa Character Awards, to recognize Iowans who go above and beyond as leaders, volunteers and role models in their communities.

 Amy Smit, spokeswoman for Character Counts in Iowa, says the categories include: citizens, organizations, businesses, athletic teams, and more. Smit says they're looking for people who show the Six Pillars of Character: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Good Citizenship. 

Since the program's launch, more than 100 individual Iowans and businesses have been recognized with an Iowa Character Award. Nominations can be made at Iowa Character Awards-dot-org. Winners will be announced in June.

(Radio Iowa) - Nominations are now being taken for the 2025 Iowa Character Awards, to recognize Iowans who go above and beyond as leaders, volunteers and role models in their communities. Amy Smit, spokeswoman for Character Counts in Iowa, says the categories include: citizens, organizations, businesses, athletic teams, and more. Smit says they're looking for people who show the Six Pillars of Character: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Good Citizenship. Since the program's launch, more than 100 individual Iowans and businesses have been recognized with an Iowa Character Award. Nominations can be made at Iowa Character Awards-dot-org. Winners will be announced in June.

Iowans can now submit the names of their mentors and local heroes

(Radio Iowa) - Iowans who bundle up to brave the evening chill will be able to see a relatively rare event in the January night sky, what some are calling the Parade of Planets. 

Allison Jaynes, a physics and astronomy professor at the University of Iowa, says Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn are all shifting into near-alignment, and two more planets will join the celestial conga line later this month. 

From January 21st through the 25th, all six planets will be visible, though you'll need binoculars or a telescope to see Uranus and Neptune. They will not be in a tight, straight line, as some graphics depict, but they will be in the same region of the sky. Jaynes suggests using a smartphone app, like Stellarium, to orient yourself among the stars.

(Radio Iowa) - Iowans who bundle up to brave the evening chill will be able to see a relatively rare event in the January night sky, what some are calling the Parade of Planets. Allison Jaynes, a physics and astronomy professor at the University of Iowa, says Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn are all shifting into near-alignment, and two more planets will join the celestial conga line later this month. From January 21st through the 25th, all six planets will be visible, though you'll need binoculars or a telescope to see Uranus and Neptune. They will not be in a tight, straight line, as some graphics depict, but they will be in the same region of the sky. Jaynes suggests using a smartphone app, like Stellarium, to orient yourself among the stars.

This month, the planets really will align over Iowa, well, sort of

A 52-year-old St. Joseph man convicted by a Buchanan County
jury of child molestation has been sentenced to 64 years in prison.

Fifth Judicial Circuit Judge Daniel Kellogg sentenced Timothy
Brown on four separate counts involving sexual assault against a minor. Kellogg
sentenced Brown to 50 years in prison for statutory sodomy. He also sentenced
Brown to 10 years for enticement of a child and another 10 years for child
molestation, but both sentences are to be served concurrently. Brown has also been
sentenced to 4 years for sexual misconduct of a minor.

Brown volunteered for the youth group at Frederick Boulevard
Baptist Church in St. Joseph. The jury in November found Brown guilty of
sexually molesting a 14-year-old girl.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707501170480.jpeg" alt="Timothy Brown/Buchanan County Sheriff's photo" />
 <figcaption>Timothy Brown/Buchanan County Sheriff's photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA 52-year-old St. Joseph man convicted by a Buchanan County
jury of child molestation has been sentenced to 64 years in prison.Fifth Judicial Circuit Judge Daniel Kellogg sentenced Timothy
Brown on four separate counts involving sexual assault against a minor. Kellogg
sentenced Brown to 50 years in prison for statutory sodomy. He also sentenced
Brown to 10 years for enticement of a child and another 10 years for child
molestation, but both sentences are to be served concurrently. Brown has also been
sentenced to 4 years for sexual misconduct of a minor.Brown volunteered for the youth group at Frederick Boulevard
Baptist Church in St. Joseph. The jury in November found Brown guilty of
sexually molesting a 14-year-old girl.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post
@StJosephPost.

St. Joseph man sentenced to 64 years in prison for child molestation

Missouri Gov.-elect Mike Kehoe has chosen a St. Joseph native
to become the next Missouri Adjutant General.

Kehoe will appoint Brigadier General Charles D. Hausman as the
next Adjutant General of the Missouri National Guard, the state’s senior
military officer. 

The change of command will take place February 1st, following
the selection of Major General Levon E. Cumpton to serve as the U.S. Army
Europe and Africa’s Chief of Staff and Deputy Commanding General for the Army
National Guard.

“General Hausman’s distinguished career is underscored by his
strong character, remarkable leadership, and solid dedication to our great
state and nation,” Gov.-Elect Kehoe said in a written statement released by his
staff. “His record of excellence will be invaluable as he guides the Guard with
an unwavering commitment to ensuring the Missouri National Guard is manned,
trained, equipped and resourced for its dual state and federal missions.”

Hausman has more than 36 years of service in the Missouri
National Guard, and currently serves full time as an Army Assistant Adjutant
General.

“I am humbled and honored by Governor-Elect Kehoe’s confidence
in me, and I am grateful to have the opportunity to lead the Soldiers and
Airmen of the Missouri National Guard. It is my great privilege to serve the
people of Missouri,” Brigadier General Hausman said in a written statement. 

Hausman has commanded at every level from company to brigade
and held key staff positions such as Executive Officer of the 35th Combat
Aviation Brigade, Deputy Director of Manpower and Personnel of Joint Force
Headquarters, Deputy Commander of 70th Troop Command, and Director of Aviation
and Safety of Joint Force Headquarters.

Hausman has also served abroad including in Iraq, Kuwait, and
Afghanistan.

Hausman is a seasoned aviation officer and combat veteran. He
has earned multiple military awards including the Distinguished Service Medal,
Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and Master Army Aviator
Badge.

Hausman received a Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation
Technology from the University of Central Missouri in 1991 and a Master of
Science degree in Aviation Safety at UCM in 1993. He completed a Master of Arts
degree in National Security and Strategic Studies through the United States
Naval War College in 2015. 

Hausman is a native of Saint Joseph, Missouri. He currently
resides in Jefferson City with his wife, Julie, and has two adult children,
Alex and Libby.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736424110416.jpeg" alt="Brigadier General Charles D. Hausman/Photo courtesy of Gov.-elect Mike Kehoe's office" />
 <figcaption>Brigadier General Charles D. Hausman/Photo courtesy of Gov.-elect Mike Kehoe's office</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Gov.-elect Mike Kehoe has chosen a St. Joseph native
to become the next Missouri Adjutant General.Kehoe will appoint Brigadier General Charles D. Hausman as the
next Adjutant General of the Missouri National Guard, the state’s senior
military officer. The change of command will take place February 1st, following
the selection of Major General Levon E. Cumpton to serve as the U.S. Army
Europe and Africa’s Chief of Staff and Deputy Commanding General for the Army
National Guard.“General Hausman’s distinguished career is underscored by his
strong character, remarkable leadership, and solid dedication to our great
state and nation,” Gov.-Elect Kehoe said in a written statement released by his
staff. “His record of excellence will be invaluable as he guides the Guard with
an unwavering commitment to ensuring the Missouri National Guard is manned,
trained, equipped and resourced for its dual state and federal missions.”Hausman has more than 36 years of service in the Missouri
National Guard, and currently serves full time as an Army Assistant Adjutant
General.“I am humbled and honored by Governor-Elect Kehoe’s confidence
in me, and I am grateful to have the opportunity to lead the Soldiers and
Airmen of the Missouri National Guard. It is my great privilege to serve the
people of Missouri,” Brigadier General Hausman said in a written statement. Hausman has commanded at every level from company to brigade
and held key staff positions such as Executive Officer of the 35th Combat
Aviation Brigade, Deputy Director of Manpower and Personnel of Joint Force
Headquarters, Deputy Commander of 70th Troop Command, and Director of Aviation
and Safety of Joint Force Headquarters.Hausman has also served abroad including in Iraq, Kuwait, and
Afghanistan.Hausman is a seasoned aviation officer and combat veteran. He
has earned multiple military awards including the Distinguished Service Medal,
Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and Master Army Aviator
Badge.Hausman received a Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation
Technology from the University of Central Missouri in 1991 and a Master of
Science degree in Aviation Safety at UCM in 1993. He completed a Master of Arts
degree in National Security and Strategic Studies through the United States
Naval War College in 2015. Hausman is a native of Saint Joseph, Missouri. He currently
resides in Jefferson City with his wife, Julie, and has two adult children,
Alex and Libby.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph native to become next Missouri Adjutant General

(Radio Iowa) - Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley -- the only current member of congress who was serving when Jimmy Carter was president -- says Carter was a man of many talents. 

Grassley says he and Carter were bitten by different political bugs, but had the same foundational experience as two small town boys, anchored in their faith. Grassley, who turned 91 in September, was born in New Hartford, Iowa and his childhood home did not have electricity or indoor plumbing. Carter's family home in Plains, Georgia, did not have electricity and running water until Carter was a teenager. 

Grassley, during a speech in the U-S Senate yesterday,said there's no doubt Carter lived a life of service, even beyond the borders of the United States. Carter's funeral at the National Cathedral in Washington is scheduled to begin today at 10 a-m Iowa time.

(Radio Iowa) - Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley -- the only current member of congress who was serving when Jimmy Carter was president -- says Carter was a man of many talents. Grassley says he and Carter were bitten by different political bugs, but had the same foundational experience as two small town boys, anchored in their faith. Grassley, who turned 91 in September, was born in New Hartford, Iowa and his childhood home did not have electricity or indoor plumbing. Carter's family home in Plains, Georgia, did not have electricity and running water until Carter was a teenager. Grassley, during a speech in the U-S Senate yesterday,said there's no doubt Carter lived a life of service, even beyond the borders of the United States. Carter's funeral at the National Cathedral in Washington is scheduled to begin today at 10 a-m Iowa time.

Iowa Senator Grassley delivers tribute to Jimmy Carter

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

The Republican from Lee’s Summit received 152 votes. His rival, state Rep. Justin Sparks, garnered only 10

The Missouri legislature made history Wednesday as Republicans elected the first Asian-American speaker of the House and the first woman to be president pro tem of the state Senate.

In the House, state Rep. Jon Patterson of Lee’s Summit won an overwhelming victory over a challenger from&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/01/08/house-speaker-fight-battles-over-abortion-rights-and-taxes-loom-as-missouri-lawmakers-return/">within the Republican conference</a>, state Rep. Justin Sparks, helped to the 152-10 victory by votes from minority Democrats.

State Sen. Cindy O’Laughlin, a Republican from Shelbina, was elected unanimously to be the upper chamber’s top job after two years as the GOP floor leader.

At a news conference after the House session, Patterson called the challenge “disappointing” and said Sparks forced the vote for personal reasons.

“This was not about Amendment 3 (which restored abortion rights) or any policy agenda,” Patterson said. “This was a person with an oceanic ego who took it upon himself to make this day about himself.”

Patterson, the majority leader in the previous General Assembly who was nominated months ago by the Republican conference. Sparks’ bid was always a longshot because he needed at least 30 votes to prevent Patterson from winning a majority on Republican votes alone.

When Democrats nominated their floor leader, state Rep. Ashley Aune of Kansas City, she withdrew and urged colleagues to support Patterson, ending any chance Sparks had of blocking the election.

In nominating Patterson, Republican state Rep. Phil Amato of Arnold told a story about meeting and playing golf with him, only later to learn he is a surgeon.

“Right then and there I knew this man had his feet firmly planted on the ground,” Amato said.

Aune, who represents the 52 Democrats in the chamber, said she was encouraged that Patterson will be a fair leader who will represent the chamber well.

“I am confident,” she said, “he will be a speaker for all 163 members.”

At a Democratic news conference after the session, Aune said she told Patterson ahead of the vote that she intended to withdraw. She received no promises but said she and Patterson have a respectful relationship and she expects that to continue.

“We work very well together, and while I haven’t been given explicit assurances,” Aune said, “what I will say is I do trust him to be fair and to listen to me and to my caucus members when we have an issue.”

Sparks based his campaign on a call for changes to the House rules and objections to the fundraising tactics of the House Republican majority. In nominating Sparks, freshman state Rep. Bryant Wolfin of Ste. Genevieve said the chamber needs reform.

“The speaker holds a level of authority that would make even a monarch blush,” Wolfin said. “The culture in this building discourages dissent and rewards obedience to leadership over the service to our constituents.”

The odds against Sparks’ bid are shown by the rarity of successful efforts to block the majority party’s nominee from becoming speaker. The last time was in 1996, when 11 Democrats voted present and four joined Republicans to prevent the election of state Rep. Sam Leake to replace outgoing Speaker Bob Griffin, who resigned midway through a term.

The defeat forced Democrats to select a new candidate, state Rep. Steve Gaw, who was able to unite his caucus.

After winning the election, Patterson told the House in a prepared speech that he wanted to address issues unfinished from last year, enact bills to help cities recruit and retain police officers and limit the availability of abortion, made legal again in Missouri by a voter-enacted constitutional amendment.

“While we respect the will of the voters, we must clarify the provisions of Amendment 3 and make Missouri the most pro-life state it can be,” Patterson said.

That does not include attempting to repeal Amendment 3, Patters said at his news conference.&nbsp;He also said he does not support efforts to roll back the provisions of Proposition A, which raised the minimum wage to $13.75 per hour and requires most employers to provide paid sick and family leave starting May 1.

“We may take a look at some of the provisions, but I have not heard serious discussions about repeal, and I don’t favor delaying implementation,” Patterson said.

The unfinished business, Patterson said, includes legislation to prevent the state from&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/bill-stopping-missouri-from-seizing-benefits-owed-to-foster-kids-advances-in-senate/">seizing Social Security benefits</a>&nbsp;from foster children who qualify for disability benefits or whose parents have died. He also called for increased funding for mental health services for children.

“We must prioritize the most vulnerable among us, especially our foster children,” Patterson said.

Other unfinished business, Patterson said, is legislation to encourage businesses&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/12/03/tax-credits-to-expand-child-care-among-hundreds-of-bills-filed-for-2025-missouri-legislature/">to provide on-site child care</a>&nbsp;and expansion of existing child care centers.

“Missouri’s families continue to be burdened with trying to find childcare spots that are too hard to find and too expensive,” he said.

In the Senate, O’Laughlin set an agenda focused on issues affecting children, including the foster care system, education and health.&nbsp;

“When families and communities are strong, when children are well nourished and well educated and when our streets are safe, Missouri thrives,” she said.

O’Laughlin said the state needs to address the “root causes of poverty and addiction” in child welfare cases.

“If you take a hard look at our child welfare system, you will see a system that is failing,” she said. “Failing to meet families where they are, failing to understand their struggles and failing to provide meaningful assistance in their time of need.”

O’Laughlin also advocated for a “refocus on results that matter” in education, pointing to the state’s low rate of children being about to read at grade level, and for a tough-on-crime approach that doesn’t “release[] dangerous individuals back onto the streets to reoffend.”&nbsp;

She emphasized her role as the first woman elected president pro tem of the state Senate.&nbsp;

“And as a woman, I’ve seen firsthand how the role of the family has been transformed and sadly, too often, trivialized,” she said. “Mothers have been undervalued. Fathers have been dismissed. And the institution of marriage has been diminished.”

Several women who previously served in the Senate attended in celebration.&nbsp;

“We must support strong, healthy families, expand access to quality education, ensure safe neighborhoods and set high expectations for the next generation,” O’Laughlin said. “This is the foundation for success and prosperity.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736422668072.png" alt=" House Speaker Jon Patterson, R-Lee’s Summit, speaks to reporters Wednesday after defeating Republican rival Justin Sparks. (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications)" />
 <figcaption> House Speaker Jon Patterson, R-Lee’s Summit, speaks to reporters Wednesday after defeating Republican rival Justin Sparks. (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a>&nbsp;AND&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/cbates/">CLARA BATES</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a> <h2>The Republican from Lee’s Summit received 152 votes. His rival, state Rep. Justin Sparks, garnered only 10</h2>The Missouri legislature made history Wednesday as Republicans elected the first Asian-American speaker of the House and the first woman to be president pro tem of the state Senate.In the House, state Rep. Jon Patterson of Lee’s Summit won an overwhelming victory over a challenger from&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/01/08/house-speaker-fight-battles-over-abortion-rights-and-taxes-loom-as-missouri-lawmakers-return/">within the Republican conference</a>, state Rep. Justin Sparks, helped to the 152-10 victory by votes from minority Democrats.State Sen. Cindy O’Laughlin, a Republican from Shelbina, was elected unanimously to be the upper chamber’s top job after two years as the GOP floor leader.At a news conference after the House session, Patterson called the challenge “disappointing” and said Sparks forced the vote for personal reasons.“This was not about Amendment 3 (which restored abortion rights) or any policy agenda,” Patterson said. “This was a person with an oceanic ego who took it upon himself to make this day about himself.”Patterson, the majority leader in the previous General Assembly who was nominated months ago by the Republican conference. Sparks’ bid was always a longshot because he needed at least 30 votes to prevent Patterson from winning a majority on Republican votes alone.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736422623955.png" alt=" House Minority Leader Ashley Aune of Kansas City, surrounded by members of the Democratic caucus, speaks Wednesday at news conference after the 2025 legislative session opened. (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent)" />
 <figcaption> House Minority Leader Ashley Aune of Kansas City, surrounded by members of the Democratic caucus, speaks Wednesday at news conference after the 2025 legislative session opened. (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent)</figcaption>
 </figure>When Democrats nominated their floor leader, state Rep. Ashley Aune of Kansas City, she withdrew and urged colleagues to support Patterson, ending any chance Sparks had of blocking the election.In nominating Patterson, Republican state Rep. Phil Amato of Arnold told a story about meeting and playing golf with him, only later to learn he is a surgeon.“Right then and there I knew this man had his feet firmly planted on the ground,” Amato said.Aune, who represents the 52 Democrats in the chamber, said she was encouraged that Patterson will be a fair leader who will represent the chamber well.“I am confident,” she said, “he will be a speaker for all 163 members.”At a Democratic news conference after the session, Aune said she told Patterson ahead of the vote that she intended to withdraw. She received no promises but said she and Patterson have a respectful relationship and she expects that to continue.“We work very well together, and while I haven’t been given explicit assurances,” Aune said, “what I will say is I do trust him to be fair and to listen to me and to my caucus members when we have an issue.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736422582767.png" alt=" State Rep. Justin Sparks, R-Wildwood, greets a supporter following a rally of supporters backing his bid to be Missouri House Speaker. (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent)" />
 <figcaption> State Rep. Justin Sparks, R-Wildwood, greets a supporter following a rally of supporters backing his bid to be Missouri House Speaker. (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent)</figcaption>
 </figure>Sparks based his campaign on a call for changes to the House rules and objections to the fundraising tactics of the House Republican majority. In nominating Sparks, freshman state Rep. Bryant Wolfin of Ste. Genevieve said the chamber needs reform.“The speaker holds a level of authority that would make even a monarch blush,” Wolfin said. “The culture in this building discourages dissent and rewards obedience to leadership over the service to our constituents.”The odds against Sparks’ bid are shown by the rarity of successful efforts to block the majority party’s nominee from becoming speaker. The last time was in 1996, when 11 Democrats voted present and four joined Republicans to prevent the election of state Rep. Sam Leake to replace outgoing Speaker Bob Griffin, who resigned midway through a term.The defeat forced Democrats to select a new candidate, state Rep. Steve Gaw, who was able to unite his caucus.After winning the election, Patterson told the House in a prepared speech that he wanted to address issues unfinished from last year, enact bills to help cities recruit and retain police officers and limit the availability of abortion, made legal again in Missouri by a voter-enacted constitutional amendment.“While we respect the will of the voters, we must clarify the provisions of Amendment 3 and make Missouri the most pro-life state it can be,” Patterson said.That does not include attempting to repeal Amendment 3, Patters said at his news conference.&nbsp;He also said he does not support efforts to roll back the provisions of Proposition A, which raised the minimum wage to $13.75 per hour and requires most employers to provide paid sick and family leave starting May 1.“We may take a look at some of the provisions, but I have not heard serious discussions about repeal, and I don’t favor delaying implementation,” Patterson said.The unfinished business, Patterson said, includes legislation to prevent the state from&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/bill-stopping-missouri-from-seizing-benefits-owed-to-foster-kids-advances-in-senate/">seizing Social Security benefits</a>&nbsp;from foster children who qualify for disability benefits or whose parents have died. He also called for increased funding for mental health services for children.“We must prioritize the most vulnerable among us, especially our foster children,” Patterson said.Other unfinished business, Patterson said, is legislation to encourage businesses&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/12/03/tax-credits-to-expand-child-care-among-hundreds-of-bills-filed-for-2025-missouri-legislature/">to provide on-site child care</a>&nbsp;and expansion of existing child care centers.“Missouri’s families continue to be burdened with trying to find childcare spots that are too hard to find and too expensive,” he said.In the Senate, O’Laughlin set an agenda focused on issues affecting children, including the foster care system, education and health.&nbsp;“When families and communities are strong, when children are well nourished and well educated and when our streets are safe, Missouri thrives,” she said.O’Laughlin said the state needs to address the “root causes of poverty and addiction” in child welfare cases.“If you take a hard look at our child welfare system, you will see a system that is failing,” she said. “Failing to meet families where they are, failing to understand their struggles and failing to provide meaningful assistance in their time of need.”O’Laughlin also advocated for a “refocus on results that matter” in education, pointing to the state’s low rate of children being about to read at grade level, and for a tough-on-crime approach that doesn’t “release[] dangerous individuals back onto the streets to reoffend.”&nbsp;She emphasized her role as the first woman elected president pro tem of the state Senate.&nbsp;“And as a woman, I’ve seen firsthand how the role of the family has been transformed and sadly, too often, trivialized,” she said. “Mothers have been undervalued. Fathers have been dismissed. And the institution of marriage has been diminished.”Several women who previously served in the Senate attended in celebration.&nbsp;“We must support strong, healthy families, expand access to quality education, ensure safe neighborhoods and set high expectations for the next generation,” O’Laughlin said. “This is the foundation for success and prosperity.”

Jon Patterson easily wins race for Missouri House speaker over right-wing challenger

WASHINGTON —United States Capitol Police officers prevented a man from bringing a machete and three knives past a screening checkpoint in the Capitol Visitor Center.

Just after 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, during security screening at the CVC’s north doors, USCP officers spotted a machete in a bag, which was going through the x-ray machine. Officers stopped the machine and searched the bag, which contained a machete and three knives.&nbsp;

“Our officers know they cannot let their guard down for one second,” said U.S. Capitol Police Chief J. Thomas Manger. “It is this constant focus and attention to detail that helps keep this campus safe.”

44-year-old Mel J. Horne, of Washington, D.C., was arrested for multiple counts of Carrying a Dangerous Weapon.&nbsp;

Security screening was temporarily stopped at the north side of the Capitol Visitor Center, while the USCP investigated, but the checkpoint was reopened approximately an hour later. Public viewing for the lying in state was not stopped and will continue throughout the night, into Thursday morning.&nbsp;

Horne will be interviewed by USCP investigators to determine his motive. At this time there is no on-going threat towards the Congress, the U.S. Capitol, or the public.

WASHINGTON —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an incident Wednesday in Washington.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730837573908.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —United States Capitol Police officers prevented a man from bringing a machete and three knives past a screening checkpoint in the Capitol Visitor Center.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736381404606.png" alt="Photo U.S. Capitol Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Capitol Police</figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, during security screening at the CVC’s north doors, USCP officers spotted a machete in a bag, which was going through the x-ray machine. Officers stopped the machine and searched the bag, which contained a machete and three knives.&nbsp;“Our officers know they cannot let their guard down for one second,” said U.S. Capitol Police Chief J. Thomas Manger. “It is this constant focus and attention to detail that helps keep this campus safe.”44-year-old Mel J. Horne, of Washington, D.C., was arrested for multiple counts of Carrying a Dangerous Weapon.&nbsp;Security screening was temporarily stopped at the north side of the Capitol Visitor Center, while the USCP investigated, but the checkpoint was reopened approximately an hour later. Public viewing for the lying in state was not stopped and will continue throughout the night, into Thursday morning.&nbsp;Horne will be interviewed by USCP investigators to determine his motive. At this time there is no on-going threat towards the Congress, the U.S. Capitol, or the public.-----------WASHINGTON —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an incident Wednesday in Washington.Just after 2:00 p.m., U.S. Capitol Police officers stopped and arrested a man who tried to get a machete into the Capitol Visitor Center, according to a media release.Three knives were also found in the bag, along with the machete. Security screening was temporarily stopped at the north side of the Capitol Visitor Center while police investigated.The man is being held on multiple requested charges of Carrying a Dangerous Weapon. Check the Post for more information once it is available.

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