President Joe Biden announced on Sunday his decision to end his reelection bid. On Monday, Missouri governor Mike Parson released a statement on the decision.

President Joe Biden announced on Sunday his decision to end his reelection bid. On Monday, Missouri governor Mike Parson released a statement on the decision.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Family is what matters most, and while Teresa and I dedicated yesterday to celebrating our granddaughter’s 5th birthday, I did want to offer my thoughts on Sunday’s news: <a href="https://t.co/5EysTlXgP0">pic.twitter.com/5EysTlXgP0</a>&mdash; Governor Mike Parson (@GovParsonMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovParsonMO/status/1815503970812481764?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Missouri governor comments on Biden dropping out of 2024 race

WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas. On Monday Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.

&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;announced Sunday&nbsp;that he is dropping his reelection bid against Donald Trump. He has not been seen in public since last week.

WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas. On Monday Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721673941588.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;announced Sunday&nbsp;that he is dropping his reelection bid against Donald Trump. He has not been seen in public since last week.

Read doctor's Monday update on Biden's COVID recovery

(Radio Iowa) - Researchers have discovered what's known as a "remnant prairie" at the Iowa State University Horticulture Research Station and they're working to restore it.

 Remnant prairies have never been plowed or completely converted into non-native species. Only about zero-point-one percent of this original habitat remains in Iowa, though it once covered nearly 80-percent of the state. The one-and-a-half acre area beside a lake north of Ames was totally overgrown, but three years ago, a researcher recognized seeds pods under snow while working on a fish habitat project. 

Prairie specialists came out that spring to confirm it was a remnant. Most prairies you visit are reconstructions, seeded prairies on old crop fields, while remnants are rare. Reconstructed prairies are becoming more common, and they account for one-to-two-percent of the state.

(Radio Iowa) - Researchers have discovered what's known as a "remnant prairie" at the Iowa State University Horticulture Research Station and they're working to restore it. Remnant prairies have never been plowed or completely converted into non-native species. Only about zero-point-one percent of this original habitat remains in Iowa, though it once covered nearly 80-percent of the state. The one-and-a-half acre area beside a lake north of Ames was totally overgrown, but three years ago, a researcher recognized seeds pods under snow while working on a fish habitat project. Prairie specialists came out that spring to confirm it was a remnant. Most prairies you visit are reconstructions, seeded prairies on old crop fields, while remnants are rare. Reconstructed prairies are becoming more common, and they account for one-to-two-percent of the state.

Rare unplowed land near Ames may be how Iowa prairie looked 150 years ago

(Radio Iowa) - Many parks, trails, waterways and docks in northeast Iowa are reopening as early summer floodwaters recede, but safety for parkgoers remains a concern as bacteria and other contaminant levels in area rivers remain high. 

Lori Eberhard, park director for George Wyth State Park in Black Hawk County, says even though the rivers might look safer with the water levels down, the risk of illness for swimmers remains high. The Iowa D-N-R tests bodies of water weekly, but contaminants are still elevated due to stagnation and sediment that comes with flooding. 

When hiking, Eberhard stresses caution even when the ground appears stable, as weakened trees may just fall down. The D-N-R says around a dozen beaches at Iowa lakes are not recommended for swimming this week due to high levels of e-coli, algae toxins, or both.

(Radio Iowa) - Many parks, trails, waterways and docks in northeast Iowa are reopening as early summer floodwaters recede, but safety for parkgoers remains a concern as bacteria and other contaminant levels in area rivers remain high. Lori Eberhard, park director for George Wyth State Park in Black Hawk County, says even though the rivers might look safer with the water levels down, the risk of illness for swimmers remains high. The Iowa D-N-R tests bodies of water weekly, but contaminants are still elevated due to stagnation and sediment that comes with flooding. When hiking, Eberhard stresses caution even when the ground appears stable, as weakened trees may just fall down. The D-N-R says around a dozen beaches at Iowa lakes are not recommended for swimming this week due to high levels of e-coli, algae toxins, or both.

Even with flood waters gone, Iowa beaches and trails may still not be safe

The Chiefs secondary lost a big piece when cornerback L'Jarius Sneed was traded to the Tennessee Titans this offseason.  

While replacing one of the top corners in the league won't be easy, there are people there to fill those shoes, like third year corner Trent McDuffie.  

Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo it's yet to be determined if McDuffie will fill those shoes. 

"Almost every game we had LJ travel with "top receiver", whether we do that with Trent or not we'll see, it'll just be a game-by-game plan," Spagnuolo tells the media following practice. "We'll see who the other corner is, who the nickel is, there's still a lot of unknowns right now, we've got some work to do back there we certainly miss LJ, I miss him every day." 

Another one of those players the Chiefs are looking to replace is linebacker Willie Gay, who signed with the New Orleans Saints this offseason.  

Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagunolo says while they'll miss the energy of Gay, there are guys who can step up to fill that role. 

"Drue (Tranquill), we've got Drue has been there and played that spot, Jack Cochrane has been doing a terrific job, Leo (Chenal) is going to probably have different roles than he had last year, in conjunction with Nick (Bolton) we have some young guys out there," Spagnuolo explains.  

"So hopefully if we can find five, six, however many linebackers and get some good ones." 

The Chiefs will practice again tomorrow at 9:15. That practice is open to the public; tickets must be acquired online.

With threepeat on mind as camp starts, Clark Hunt says eliminate distractions

A goal on many a mind this season is the chance to make history, a three peat as Super Bowl Champions 

Chiefs CEO Clark Hunt's message to the team prior to camp was to eliminate distractions 

"The players, the coaches, everybody in the organization have a lot of people reaching out to them, a lot of people asking about the potential threepeat," Hunt tells the media. "And really to be successful in the National Football League you've got to focus on the task at hand, which is the next team you're playing." 

Hunt says in turn as the reigning champs the Chiefs also have a target on their backs and every team will be playing their best football against them.  

Chiefs' rookie receiver Xavier Worthy missed practice on Monday due to an illness. 

The Chiefs also announced they have signed former Missouri safety Tyree Gillispie and released safety Trey Dean 

Gillespie was on the Chiefs’ practice squad in December and January last season and re-signed with the team in February before getting cut again when the team signed undrafted rookie free agents. He also spent time with the Texans last summer after playing three games for the Jaguars in 2022 and 11 games for the Raiders in 2021. 

Gillespie had eight tackles in those 14 appearances. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721674165746.jpeg" alt="The Chiefs defense huddles up during the first training camp practice at Missouri Western State University/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>The Chiefs defense huddles up during the first training camp practice at Missouri Western State University/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The Chiefs secondary lost a big piece when cornerback L'Jarius Sneed was traded to the Tennessee Titans this offseason. While replacing one of the top corners in the league won't be easy, there are people there to fill those shoes, like third year corner Trent McDuffie. Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo it's yet to be determined if McDuffie will fill those shoes. "Almost every game we had LJ travel with "top receiver", whether we do that with Trent or not we'll see, it'll just be a game-by-game plan," Spagnuolo tells the media following practice. "We'll see who the other corner is, who the nickel is, there's still a lot of unknowns right now, we've got some work to do back there we certainly miss LJ, I miss him every day." Another one of those players the Chiefs are looking to replace is linebacker Willie Gay, who signed with the New Orleans Saints this offseason. Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagunolo says while they'll miss the energy of Gay, there are guys who can step up to fill that role. "Drue (Tranquill), we've got Drue has been there and played that spot, Jack Cochrane has been doing a terrific job, Leo (Chenal) is going to probably have different roles than he had last year, in conjunction with Nick (Bolton) we have some young guys out there," Spagnuolo explains. "So hopefully if we can find five, six, however many linebackers and get some good ones." The Chiefs will practice again tomorrow at 9:15. That practice is open to the public; tickets must be acquired online.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721674208033.png" alt="Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo signs autographs for fans/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo signs autographs for fans/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>With threepeat on mind as camp starts, Clark Hunt says eliminate distractions A goal on many a mind this season is the chance to make history, a three peat as Super Bowl Champions Chiefs CEO Clark Hunt's message to the team prior to camp was to eliminate distractions "The players, the coaches, everybody in the organization have a lot of people reaching out to them, a lot of people asking about the potential threepeat," Hunt tells the media. "And really to be successful in the National Football League you've got to focus on the task at hand, which is the next team you're playing." Hunt says in turn as the reigning champs the Chiefs also have a target on their backs and every team will be playing their best football against them. Injury update and roster moves Chiefs' rookie receiver Xavier Worthy missed practice on Monday due to an illness. The Chiefs also announced they have signed former Missouri safety Tyree Gillispie and released safety Trey Dean Gillespie was on the Chiefs’ practice squad in December and January last season and re-signed with the team in February before getting cut again when the team signed undrafted rookie free agents. He also spent time with the Texans last summer after playing three games for the Jaguars in 2022 and 11 games for the Raiders in 2021. Gillespie had eight tackles in those 14 appearances. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Players will need to step up to fill new roles in Chiefs defense

WASHINGTON —&nbsp;Vice President Kamala Harris&nbsp;spoke Monday at a White House celebration with the NCAA championship teams, her first appearance since President Biden announced he was leaving the race.

Harris is set to travel to Wilmington Monday afternoon to meet with Biden campaign staff.

WASHINGTON —&nbsp;Vice President Kamala Harris&nbsp;spoke Monday at a White House celebration with the NCAA championship teams, her first appearance since President Biden announced he was leaving the race.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/VP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VP</a>: &quot;Joe Biden&#39;s legacy of accomplishment over the past three years is unmatched in modern history.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/m12gjVAkD6">pic.twitter.com/m12gjVAkD6</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1815421541628125644?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721650226823.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Harris is set to travel to Wilmington Monday afternoon to meet with Biden campaign staff.

🎥Harris makes first public comments since Biden ended campaign

(Radio Iowa) - There's an unresolved legal challenge to the law that would ban most abortions in Iowa -- and Planned Parenthood clinics in Iowa will continue to provide abortions up to the 20th week of a pregnancy. 

The Iowa Supreme Court ruled on June 28th that a six-week abortion ban is legal under Iowa's constitution, but the A-C-L-U of Iowa has filed a petition asking the justices to rehear the case. The district court judge who would lift the injunction that's blocked the law from taking effect cannot act until that matter is resolved. 

Ruth Richardson of Planned Parenthood of North Central States says the situation is temporary relief. She says once the ban on nearly all abortions takes effect, Planned Parenthood has developed plans to help patients get out of state abortions if their pregnancy is beyond that early window.

(Radio Iowa) - There's an unresolved legal challenge to the law that would ban most abortions in Iowa -- and Planned Parenthood clinics in Iowa will continue to provide abortions up to the 20th week of a pregnancy. The Iowa Supreme Court ruled on June 28th that a six-week abortion ban is legal under Iowa's constitution, but the A-C-L-U of Iowa has filed a petition asking the justices to rehear the case. The district court judge who would lift the injunction that's blocked the law from taking effect cannot act until that matter is resolved. Ruth Richardson of Planned Parenthood of North Central States says the situation is temporary relief. She says once the ban on nearly all abortions takes effect, Planned Parenthood has developed plans to help patients get out of state abortions if their pregnancy is beyond that early window.

Iowa's six-week abortion law remains in legal limbo

WASHINGTON—&nbsp;The Secret Service director&nbsp;Kim Cheatle testified Monday before the House Oversight committee as calls mount for her to resign over security failures at a rally where a 20-year-old gunman&nbsp;attempted to assassinate&nbsp;former President&nbsp;Donald Trump.

Click below to watch a replay of the hearing.

Rep. Eric Burlison, Rep. Cori Bush of Missouri and Rep. Jake LaTurner of Kansas are members of the House Oversight Committee.

WASHINGTON—&nbsp;The Secret Service director&nbsp;Kim Cheatle testified Monday before the House Oversight committee as calls mount for her to resign over security failures at a rally where a 20-year-old gunman&nbsp;attempted to assassinate&nbsp;former President&nbsp;Donald Trump.Click below to watch a replay of the hearing.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hyP3tKtgtnw?si=Pqhet5TaSu_xleoJ&amp;start=999" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Rep. Eric Burlison, Rep. Cori Bush of Missouri and Rep. Jake LaTurner of Kansas are members of the House Oversight Committee.

🎥 Secret Service director testifies on attempted assassination of Donald Trump

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden announced Sunday he was dropping out of the 2024 race following a disastrous debate with Republican Donald Trump.&nbsp;

Lawmakers immediately called for Biden to resign from office.

In a statement from his office, Kansas 4th District Rep. Ron Estes wrote, "President Joe Biden's announcement that he will suspend his reelection campaign is an admission of something that Americans have observed for a long time – he is not fit to be president, which also means he can no longer serve as commander in chief."

Biden's announcement throws the Democratic Party into chaos just months before the election. Biden has thrown his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris, the party’s instant favorite for the nomination at its August convention in Chicago.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720133821321.png" alt="File photo White House" />
 <figcaption>File photo White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden announced Sunday he was dropping out of the 2024 race following a disastrous debate with Republican Donald Trump.&nbsp;Lawmakers immediately called for Biden to resign from office.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">If Joe Biden is unable to serve another term, then he must resign right now. If he&#39;s unfit to campaign, he should not have the nuclear codes - it&#39;s that simple.&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1815100264380252171?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">If Joe Biden isn&#39;t fit to run for re-election, he&#39;s clearly no longer fit to serve as President. He already did what he thought was best for his party. Now he needs to do what’s best for our country. It’s time for President Biden to resign from office.&mdash; Rep. Sam Graves (@RepSamGraves) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepSamGraves/status/1815101527431745620?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Then RESIGN your office. If you can’t run a mere political campaign, you can’t be President <a href="https://t.co/wbO9fs0TyN">https://t.co/wbO9fs0TyN</a>&mdash; Josh Hawley (@HawleyMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/HawleyMO/status/1815082478417358942?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">At this unprecedented juncture in American history, we must be clear about what just happened. The Democrat Party forced the Democrat nominee off the ballot, just over 100 days before the election. Having invalidated the votes of more than 14 million Americans who selected Joe…&mdash; Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerJohnson/status/1815093011669516433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Joe Biden should resign. If he’s not capable of being a candidate after he won the primary he’s not capable of being President. <a href="https://t.co/pb7LTFFxpd">https://t.co/pb7LTFFxpd</a>&mdash; Eric Schmitt (@Eric_Schmitt) <a href="https://twitter.com/Eric_Schmitt/status/1815099700233855036?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>In a statement from his office, Kansas 4th District Rep. Ron Estes wrote, "President Joe Biden's announcement that he will suspend his reelection campaign is an admission of something that Americans have observed for a long time – he is not fit to be president, which also means he can no longer serve as commander in chief."Biden's announcement throws the Democratic Party into chaos just months before the election. Biden has thrown his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris, the party’s instant favorite for the nomination at its August convention in Chicago.&nbsp;

Lawmakers: Biden must resign after ending reelection campaign

KANSAS CITY —Detectives are asking for assistance from the public in identifying an individual who police believe may have information regarding a homicide that occurred on on June 17, 2023 in the 6700 block of Richmond Avenue in Kansas City, according to a social media report from KCPD.

Please call the homicide/missing persons unit directly at 816-234-5043, or the TIPS hotline at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously to the TIPS hotline.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721338918107.png" alt="photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Detectives are asking for assistance from the public in identifying an individual who police believe may have information regarding a homicide that occurred on on June 17, 2023 in the 6700 block of Richmond Avenue in Kansas City, according to a social media report from KCPD.Please call the homicide/missing persons unit directly at 816-234-5043, or the TIPS hotline at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously to the TIPS hotline.

KCPD needs help to ID man who may have info about deadly shooting

(Radio Iowa) - Cyclists are converging in western Iowa this weekend for the Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa, commonly known as RAGBRAI. 

Glenwood is the starting point for the 434 mile route. Glenwood City Administrator Amber Farnan expects the town of about five-thousand to more than triple in size on Saturday night. Riders will exit Glenwood Sunday morning, headed to spend Sunday night in Red Oak. 

The other overnight stops are in Atlantic, Winterset, Knoxville, Ottumwa, Mount Pleasant and Burlington. This the 51st year for RAGBRAI and while this year's route is the shortest ever -- it's also the hilliest.

(Radio Iowa) - Cyclists are converging in western Iowa this weekend for the Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa, commonly known as RAGBRAI. Glenwood is the starting point for the 434 mile route. Glenwood City Administrator Amber Farnan expects the town of about five-thousand to more than triple in size on Saturday night. Riders will exit Glenwood Sunday morning, headed to spend Sunday night in Red Oak. The other overnight stops are in Atlantic, Winterset, Knoxville, Ottumwa, Mount Pleasant and Burlington. This the 51st year for RAGBRAI and while this year's route is the shortest ever -- it's also the hilliest.

RAGBRAI begins this weekend in Glenwood, ends 434 miles later in Burlington

&nbsp;WASHINGTON —U.S. Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri wrote&nbsp;a letter to&nbsp;Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas,&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2fx.com%2fHawleyMO%2fstatus%2f1814278991605350726&amp;redir_log=668494987763288" target="_blank">demanding</a>&nbsp;answers behind the U.S. Secret Service’s botched security rollout at President Donald Trump’s July 13 rally.

The letter comes after multiple whistleblowers contacted Senator Hawley’s office with disturbing new information behind the assassination attempt on the former president.

“Whistleblowers who have direct knowledge of the event have approached my office. According to the allegations, the July 13 rally was considered to be a ‘loose’ security event,”&nbsp;wrote Senator Hawley.

“For example, detection canines were not used to monitor entry and detect threats in the usual manner. Individuals without proper designations were able to gain access to backstage areas. Department personnel did not appropriately police the security buffer around the podium and were also not stationed at regular intervals around the event’s security perimeter,”&nbsp;Senator Hawley continued.

Senator Hawley is a member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee which&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2foutreach.senate.gov%2fiqextranet%2fiqClickTrk.aspx%3f%26cid%3dSenHawley%26crop%3d14515QQQ9232341QQQ8086479QQQ8019990%26report_id%3d%26redirect%3dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.hawley.senate.gov%252fhawley-demands-full-scale-investigation-by-congress-into-attempted-assassination-of-president-trump%252f%26redir_log%3d794174422822921&amp;redir_log=832193208462131" target="_blank">conducts</a>&nbsp;oversight of Secretary Mayorkas’ DHS.

Immediately following the assassination attempt against President Trump, Senator Hawley&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2foutreach.senate.gov%2fiqextranet%2fiqClickTrk.aspx%3f%26cid%3dSenHawley%26crop%3d14392QQQ9230180QQQ8085138QQQ8019990%26report_id%3d%26redirect%3dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.hawley.senate.gov%252fhawley-demands-full-scale-investigation-by-congress-into-attempted-assassination-of-president-trump%252f%26redir_log%3d794174422822921&amp;redir_log=646663966612131" target="_blank">demanded</a>&nbsp;that the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee launch a comprehensive, transparent investigation into the incident with sworn testimony from DHS and Secret Service officials.&nbsp;That investigation was&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2foutreach.senate.gov%2fiqextranet%2fiqClickTrk.aspx%3f%26cid%3dSenHawley%26crop%3d14392QQQ9230180QQQ8085138QQQ8019990%26report_id%3d%26redirect%3dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.hsgac.senate.gov%252fmedia%252freps%252fpaul-and-peters-announce-bipartisan-homeland-security-and-governmental-affairs-committee-investigation-into-security-failures-and-the-assassination-attempt-on-former-president-donald-trump%252f%26redir_log%3d287783080511620&amp;redir_log=448394230822865" target="_blank">confirmed</a>&nbsp;this week along with plans to feature public testimony from agency leadership.

Senator Hawley then&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.hawley.senate.gov%2fhawley-requests-more-records-behind-assassination-attempt-on-president-trump-opens-office-whistleblower-tip-line%2f&amp;redir_log=745274266151011" target="_blank">opened</a>&nbsp;a whistleblower tip line within his office earlier this week, pledging to protect the anonymity of all who contact his staff in an effort to shed light on last Saturday’s disastrous security breach.&nbsp;

Senator Hawley has also written two additional oversight letters—<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2foutreach.senate.gov%2fiqextranet%2fiqClickTrk.aspx%3f%26cid%3dSenHawley%26crop%3d14392QQQ9230180QQQ8085138QQQ8019990%26report_id%3d%26redirect%3dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.hawley.senate.gov%252fwp-content%252fuploads%252f2024%252f07%252fHawley-letter-to-DHS-IG-.pdf%26redir_log%3d536796294054560&amp;redir_log=088027971831792" target="_blank">one</a>&nbsp;to the DHS Inspector General and a&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2foutreach.senate.gov%2fiqextranet%2fiqClickTrk.aspx%3f%26cid%3dSenHawley%26crop%3d14392QQQ9230180QQQ8085138QQQ8019990%26report_id%3d%26redirect%3dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.hawley.senate.gov%252fwp-content%252fuploads%252f2024%252f07%252fHawley-letter-to-BlackRock-re-Trump-investigation-.pdf%26redir_log%3d816819426384762&amp;redir_log=091259807621997" target="_blank">second</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;BlackRock’s CEO—requesting all records related to the staggering security failures on July 13.&nbsp;

Click here to read the full letter&nbsp;sent Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720911723876.png" alt="Image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;WASHINGTON —U.S. Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri wrote&nbsp;a letter to&nbsp;Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas,&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2fx.com%2fHawleyMO%2fstatus%2f1814278991605350726&amp;redir_log=668494987763288" target="_blank">demanding</a>&nbsp;answers behind the U.S. Secret Service’s botched security rollout at President Donald Trump’s July 13 rally. The letter comes after multiple whistleblowers contacted Senator Hawley’s office with disturbing new information behind the assassination attempt on the former president.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721410507537.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“Whistleblowers who have direct knowledge of the event have approached my office. According to the allegations, the July 13 rally was considered to be a ‘loose’ security event,”&nbsp;wrote Senator Hawley.“For example, detection canines were not used to monitor entry and detect threats in the usual manner. Individuals without proper designations were able to gain access to backstage areas. Department personnel did not appropriately police the security buffer around the podium and were also not stationed at regular intervals around the event’s security perimeter,”&nbsp;Senator Hawley continued.Senator Hawley is a member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee which&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2foutreach.senate.gov%2fiqextranet%2fiqClickTrk.aspx%3f%26cid%3dSenHawley%26crop%3d14515QQQ9232341QQQ8086479QQQ8019990%26report_id%3d%26redirect%3dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.hawley.senate.gov%252fhawley-demands-full-scale-investigation-by-congress-into-attempted-assassination-of-president-trump%252f%26redir_log%3d794174422822921&amp;redir_log=832193208462131" target="_blank">conducts</a>&nbsp;oversight of Secretary Mayorkas’ DHS.Immediately following the assassination attempt against President Trump, Senator Hawley&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2foutreach.senate.gov%2fiqextranet%2fiqClickTrk.aspx%3f%26cid%3dSenHawley%26crop%3d14392QQQ9230180QQQ8085138QQQ8019990%26report_id%3d%26redirect%3dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.hawley.senate.gov%252fhawley-demands-full-scale-investigation-by-congress-into-attempted-assassination-of-president-trump%252f%26redir_log%3d794174422822921&amp;redir_log=646663966612131" target="_blank">demanded</a>&nbsp;that the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee launch a comprehensive, transparent investigation into the incident with sworn testimony from DHS and Secret Service officials.&nbsp;That investigation was&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2foutreach.senate.gov%2fiqextranet%2fiqClickTrk.aspx%3f%26cid%3dSenHawley%26crop%3d14392QQQ9230180QQQ8085138QQQ8019990%26report_id%3d%26redirect%3dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.hsgac.senate.gov%252fmedia%252freps%252fpaul-and-peters-announce-bipartisan-homeland-security-and-governmental-affairs-committee-investigation-into-security-failures-and-the-assassination-attempt-on-former-president-donald-trump%252f%26redir_log%3d287783080511620&amp;redir_log=448394230822865" target="_blank">confirmed</a>&nbsp;this week along with plans to feature public testimony from agency leadership.Senator Hawley then&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.hawley.senate.gov%2fhawley-requests-more-records-behind-assassination-attempt-on-president-trump-opens-office-whistleblower-tip-line%2f&amp;redir_log=745274266151011" target="_blank">opened</a>&nbsp;a whistleblower tip line within his office earlier this week, pledging to protect the anonymity of all who contact his staff in an effort to shed light on last Saturday’s disastrous security breach.&nbsp;Senator Hawley has also written two additional oversight letters—<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2foutreach.senate.gov%2fiqextranet%2fiqClickTrk.aspx%3f%26cid%3dSenHawley%26crop%3d14392QQQ9230180QQQ8085138QQQ8019990%26report_id%3d%26redirect%3dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.hawley.senate.gov%252fwp-content%252fuploads%252f2024%252f07%252fHawley-letter-to-DHS-IG-.pdf%26redir_log%3d536796294054560&amp;redir_log=088027971831792" target="_blank">one</a>&nbsp;to the DHS Inspector General and a&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2foutreach.senate.gov%2fiqextranet%2fiqClickTrk.aspx%3f%26cid%3dSenHawley%26crop%3d14392QQQ9230180QQQ8085138QQQ8019990%26report_id%3d%26redirect%3dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.hawley.senate.gov%252fwp-content%252fuploads%252f2024%252f07%252fHawley-letter-to-BlackRock-re-Trump-investigation-.pdf%26redir_log%3d816819426384762&amp;redir_log=091259807621997" target="_blank">second</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;BlackRock’s CEO—requesting all records related to the staggering security failures on July 13.&nbsp;Click here to read the full letter&nbsp;sent Friday.

Whistleblower: Most of Trump’s security detail last Saturday not Secret Service

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/paige-gross/">PAIGE GROSS</a>

Air travel, banking, media and hospital systems are just some of the industries affected by a bug in a software update that has scrambled business operations for many globally Friday morning.

Many of those who use Microsoft Windows are likely experiencing a “blue screen of death” or an error page. The issue is due to a single bug in a software update from cybersecurity company CrowdStrike, which provides antivirus software for Microsoft users.

The company pushed out an update to the software overnight, and at 1:30 a.m. EST, CrowdStrike said its “Falcon Sensor” software was causing Microsoft Windows to crash and display a blue screen,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/technology/global-cyber-outage-grounds-flights-hits-media-financial-telecoms-2024-07-19/" target="_blank">Reuters reported</a>.

CrowdStrike President and CEO George Kurtz released a statement early Friday morning<a href="https://x.com/George_Kurtz/status/1814235001745027317" target="_blank">&nbsp;on X</a>, saying that the incident was not a security concern or a cyberattack. He added that the issue has been identified and that the company has been deploying a fix.

“We refer customers to the support portal for the latest updates and will continue to provide complete and continuous updates on our website,” Kurtz said.

The bug was causing major delays and cancellations at airports across the globe. Flight tracking data site&nbsp;<a href="https://www.flightaware.com/live/cancelled" target="_blank">FlightAware&nbsp;</a>noted nearly 24,000 delays and 2,300 cancellations globally by 9:30 a.m. Friday. While some airlines have been able to resume operation of their digital systems, others are finding analogue solutions in the meantime.

The U.S. Department of Transportation said it was monitoring the situation and suggested those experiencing travel delays and cancellations to use its&nbsp;<a href="http://flightrights.gov/" target="_blank">FlightRights.gov</a>&nbsp;website to help navigate their delays in travel.

Some states’ 911 and non-emergency lines were experiencing issues, including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.alaskasnewssource.com/2024/07/19/alaska-experiencing-statewide-911-outage/" target="_blank">Alaska</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://wjla.com/news/local/microsoft-global-outage-metro-service-dc-virginia-maryland-fairfax-county-systems-down-impacts-it-tech-airports-dulles-regean-dca-iad-airlines-banks-media-reporting-issues-widespread-911-call-centers-police-fire-ems" target="_blank">Virginia</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nj.gov/governor/news/news/562024/approved/20240719a.shtml" target="_blank">New Jersey</a>.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy released a statement early Friday morning saying that the state had activated its State Emergency Operations Center in response to the disruptions and has provided guidance to other agencies about how to work through the situation.

“We are also engaging county and local governments, 911 call centers, and utilities to assess the impact and offer our assistance.,” he said.

Microsoft released&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MSFT365Status/status/1814251159537729592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1814251159537729592%7Ctwgr%5E5f8cc315987d34735a3ace896336faf95a49a44f%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2F6abc.com%2Fpost%2Fhow-global-outage-is-impacting-services-philadelphia%2F15070804%2F" target="_blank">a trouble shooting guide</a>&nbsp;on X early Friday morning.

By 10 a.m. Friday, some global companies were seeing relief in their outages.&nbsp;<a href="https://downdetector.com/" target="_blank">Downdetector</a>, which tracks real-time outages, showed companies like Visa, Zoom, UPS and Southwest Airlines gaining more normal operations than they were experiencing in the early morning hours.

Speaking to the hosts of Today this morning, Kurtz said he was “deeply sorry for the impact we’ve caused to customers, to travelers, to anyone affected.” He said some customers have been able to reboot and are seeing progress getting online, and that trend will likely continue throughout the day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721398046262.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/paige-gross/">PAIGE GROSS</a>Air travel, banking, media and hospital systems are just some of the industries affected by a bug in a software update that has scrambled business operations for many globally Friday morning.Many of those who use Microsoft Windows are likely experiencing a “blue screen of death” or an error page. The issue is due to a single bug in a software update from cybersecurity company CrowdStrike, which provides antivirus software for Microsoft users.The company pushed out an update to the software overnight, and at 1:30 a.m. EST, CrowdStrike said its “Falcon Sensor” software was causing Microsoft Windows to crash and display a blue screen,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/technology/global-cyber-outage-grounds-flights-hits-media-financial-telecoms-2024-07-19/" target="_blank">Reuters reported</a>.CrowdStrike President and CEO George Kurtz released a statement early Friday morning<a href="https://x.com/George_Kurtz/status/1814235001745027317" target="_blank">&nbsp;on X</a>, saying that the incident was not a security concern or a cyberattack. He added that the issue has been identified and that the company has been deploying a fix.“We refer customers to the support portal for the latest updates and will continue to provide complete and continuous updates on our website,” Kurtz said.The bug was causing major delays and cancellations at airports across the globe. Flight tracking data site&nbsp;<a href="https://www.flightaware.com/live/cancelled" target="_blank">FlightAware&nbsp;</a>noted nearly 24,000 delays and 2,300 cancellations globally by 9:30 a.m. Friday. While some airlines have been able to resume operation of their digital systems, others are finding analogue solutions in the meantime.The U.S. Department of Transportation said it was monitoring the situation and suggested those experiencing travel delays and cancellations to use its&nbsp;<a href="http://flightrights.gov/" target="_blank">FlightRights.gov</a>&nbsp;website to help navigate their delays in travel.Some states’ 911 and non-emergency lines were experiencing issues, including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.alaskasnewssource.com/2024/07/19/alaska-experiencing-statewide-911-outage/" target="_blank">Alaska</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://wjla.com/news/local/microsoft-global-outage-metro-service-dc-virginia-maryland-fairfax-county-systems-down-impacts-it-tech-airports-dulles-regean-dca-iad-airlines-banks-media-reporting-issues-widespread-911-call-centers-police-fire-ems" target="_blank">Virginia</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nj.gov/governor/news/news/562024/approved/20240719a.shtml" target="_blank">New Jersey</a>.New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy released a statement early Friday morning saying that the state had activated its State Emergency Operations Center in response to the disruptions and has provided guidance to other agencies about how to work through the situation.“We are also engaging county and local governments, 911 call centers, and utilities to assess the impact and offer our assistance.,” he said.Microsoft released&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MSFT365Status/status/1814251159537729592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1814251159537729592%7Ctwgr%5E5f8cc315987d34735a3ace896336faf95a49a44f%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2F6abc.com%2Fpost%2Fhow-global-outage-is-impacting-services-philadelphia%2F15070804%2F" target="_blank">a trouble shooting guide</a>&nbsp;on X early Friday morning.By 10 a.m. Friday, some global companies were seeing relief in their outages.&nbsp;<a href="https://downdetector.com/" target="_blank">Downdetector</a>, which tracks real-time outages, showed companies like Visa, Zoom, UPS and Southwest Airlines gaining more normal operations than they were experiencing in the early morning hours.Speaking to the hosts of Today this morning, Kurtz said he was “deeply sorry for the impact we’ve caused to customers, to travelers, to anyone affected.” He said some customers have been able to reboot and are seeing progress getting online, and that trend will likely continue throughout the day.

IT glitch causing delays in flights, business operations globally

(Radio Iowa) - Iowa law allows schools to start on August 23rd this year -- but the fall semester will begin September 5th in the Rock Valley school district as the community recovers from severe flash flooding that hit in June. 

Rock Valley Superintendent Mike Van Voorst says district officials hope returning to classes can bring some normalcy to students' lives. School rooms aren't ready, though, so the district's youngest students will begin the school year in a Rock Valley church and third, fourth and fifth graders will start school in cleaned, sanitized but unfinished classrooms. 

The State of Iowa is constructing six temporary classrooms that will be used by students in sixth through 12th grades and those older students will rotate back and forth to unfinished spaces in the school building where reconstruction is underway.

(Radio Iowa) - Iowa law allows schools to start on August 23rd this year -- but the fall semester will begin September 5th in the Rock Valley school district as the community recovers from severe flash flooding that hit in June. Rock Valley Superintendent Mike Van Voorst says district officials hope returning to classes can bring some normalcy to students' lives. School rooms aren't ready, though, so the district's youngest students will begin the school year in a Rock Valley church and third, fourth and fifth graders will start school in cleaned, sanitized but unfinished classrooms. The State of Iowa is constructing six temporary classrooms that will be used by students in sixth through 12th grades and those older students will rotate back and forth to unfinished spaces in the school building where reconstruction is underway.

Rock Valley School start delayed until September

Former Missouri Chamber of Commerce President,
Dan Mehan, has retired after 29 years with the Chamber, 26 as president.

Mehan looks back with pride on the Chamber’s
accomplishments, especially its wins in the Missouri legislature, pushing for
workers compensation reform, changes to civil jurisprudence, economic
development, and infrastructure.

“Nothing less than historic this last year when
we’ve funded I-70 reconstruction and serious improvements for Interstate 44 as
well,” Mehan tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.

The Missouri legislature has approved widening
Interstate 70 between Kansas City and St. Louis from four lanes to six lanes.
Construction has begun in mid-Missouri. This year, the legislature approved
widening I-44 at congested points between the Oklahoma state line and St.
Louis.

Mehan began as a lobbyist for the Chamber,
representing its interests during legislative sessions in Jefferson City, testifying
before legislative committees and meeting with legislators.

As president, Mehan led the Chamber to become
more active politically, forming both the Missouri Chamber Political Action
Committee and the Missouri Political Institute.

“This is not a sport for the timid, politics that
is,” Mehan says. “Business deserves and has the right to be heard as much as any
constituency out there.”

Mehan also helped the Chamber establish a 15-year
strategic plan called Missouri 2030:&nbsp; An
Agenda to Lead, which he says has been instrumental in passing some needed
economic proposals.

“Very proud of that impact that we’ve been able
to have and the support that we’ve been able to earn,” Mehan says. “At first,
there’s going to be doubt in any new idea, but once you prove it and once we
were able to do what we said we were going to do, then the support and the confidence
and the trust just flowed from that.”

The Missouri Chamber of Commerce search for a
successor begins soon.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721401940804.jpeg" alt="Former Missouri Chamber of Commerce President Dan Mehan/Photo courtesy of Missouri Chamber of Commerce" />
 <figcaption>Former Missouri Chamber of Commerce President Dan Mehan/Photo courtesy of Missouri Chamber of Commerce</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostFormer Missouri Chamber of Commerce President,
Dan Mehan, has retired after 29 years with the Chamber, 26 as president.Mehan looks back with pride on the Chamber’s
accomplishments, especially its wins in the Missouri legislature, pushing for
workers compensation reform, changes to civil jurisprudence, economic
development, and infrastructure.“Nothing less than historic this last year when
we’ve funded I-70 reconstruction and serious improvements for Interstate 44 as
well,” Mehan tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.The Missouri legislature has approved widening
Interstate 70 between Kansas City and St. Louis from four lanes to six lanes.
Construction has begun in mid-Missouri. This year, the legislature approved
widening I-44 at congested points between the Oklahoma state line and St.
Louis.Mehan began as a lobbyist for the Chamber,
representing its interests during legislative sessions in Jefferson City, testifying
before legislative committees and meeting with legislators.As president, Mehan led the Chamber to become
more active politically, forming both the Missouri Chamber Political Action
Committee and the Missouri Political Institute.“This is not a sport for the timid, politics that
is,” Mehan says. “Business deserves and has the right to be heard as much as any
constituency out there.”Mehan also helped the Chamber establish a 15-year
strategic plan called Missouri 2030:&nbsp; An
Agenda to Lead, which he says has been instrumental in passing some needed
economic proposals.“Very proud of that impact that we’ve been able
to have and the support that we’ve been able to earn,” Mehan says. “At first,
there’s going to be doubt in any new idea, but once you prove it and once we
were able to do what we said we were going to do, then the support and the confidence
and the trust just flowed from that.”The Missouri Chamber of Commerce search for a
successor begins soon.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MO Chamber President Mehan steps down after 29 years

A former St. Joseph State Hospital mental patient,
incarcerated for the past 43 years for a 1980 St. Joseph murder, could soon be
free.

The Missouri Supreme Court has cleared the way for the release
of Sandra Hemme from the Chillicothe women’s prison.

Livingston County Circuit Judge Ryan Horsman earlier found
there is credible evidence of Hemme’s innocence. An appeals court agreed and
ruled Hemme should be released while the case is under review.

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey objected to her
release and pressed his case before the Missouri Supreme Court, but Hemme’s attorneys
argued that keeping her incarcerated any longer would be a “draconian outcome.”

The Missouri Supreme Court has upheld the lower court ruling
that would allow her to be placed in the custody of her sister in Higginsville.

Hemme is now 64. She has been serving life in prison after her
conviction in the death of St. Joseph State Hospital librarian Patricia
Jeschke. Judge Horsman, though, found evidence in the case points to her actual
innocence, stating she is a victim of a manifest injustice. Hemme confessed to
the crime, but evidence implicated Michael Holman, a St. Joseph police officer
fired from the force. Holman died in 2015.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721392702152.png" alt="Sandra Hemme/Missouri Dept. of Corrections photo" />
 <figcaption>Sandra Hemme/Missouri Dept. of Corrections photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA former St. Joseph State Hospital mental patient,
incarcerated for the past 43 years for a 1980 St. Joseph murder, could soon be
free.The Missouri Supreme Court has cleared the way for the release
of Sandra Hemme from the Chillicothe women’s prison.Livingston County Circuit Judge Ryan Horsman earlier found
there is credible evidence of Hemme’s innocence. An appeals court agreed and
ruled Hemme should be released while the case is under review.Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey objected to her
release and pressed his case before the Missouri Supreme Court, but Hemme’s attorneys
argued that keeping her incarcerated any longer would be a “draconian outcome.”The Missouri Supreme Court has upheld the lower court ruling
that would allow her to be placed in the custody of her sister in Higginsville.Hemme is now 64. She has been serving life in prison after her
conviction in the death of St. Joseph State Hospital librarian Patricia
Jeschke. Judge Horsman, though, found evidence in the case points to her actual
innocence, stating she is a victim of a manifest injustice. Hemme confessed to
the crime, but evidence implicated Michael Holman, a St. Joseph police officer
fired from the force. Holman died in 2015.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Hemme, convicted of 1980 St. Joseph murder, could soon be free

MILWAUKEE —&nbsp;Donald Trump accepted the GOP presidential nomination on Thursday at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/republican-national-convention">the Republican National Convention</a>&nbsp;in Milwaukee.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?c5124681/presidential-nominee-donald-trump">Click here to watch</a> Trump's full acceptance speech

The former president began his acceptance speech with a personal message that drew directly from his brush with death at the campaign rally on Saturday.

Trump said, "I’m not supposed to be here tonight."

Meanwhile, Trump and his campaign have&nbsp;not released information&nbsp;about his injury or the treatment he received. The former president on Thursday described his story of surviving the attack — and vowed he would not talk about it again.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721382561480.png" alt="Image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>MILWAUKEE —&nbsp;Donald Trump accepted the GOP presidential nomination on Thursday at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/republican-national-convention">the Republican National Convention</a>&nbsp;in Milwaukee.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?c5124681/presidential-nominee-donald-trump">Click here to watch</a> Trump's full acceptance speech<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Balloon drop <a href="https://twitter.com/GOPconvention?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GOPconvention</a>. <a href="https://t.co/FebXGCL3nk">pic.twitter.com/FebXGCL3nk</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814153606767210595?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Donald Trump kisses the helmet of firefighter Corey Comperatore, who was killed during Saturday&#39;s rally. <a href="https://t.co/qdGdcwr9G9">pic.twitter.com/qdGdcwr9G9</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814133511626031333?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Donald Trump: “I am running to be president for all America, not half of America because there is no victory in winning for half of America. So, tonight with faith and devotion I proudly accept your nomination for president of the United States.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/HuspXIyYGL">pic.twitter.com/HuspXIyYGL</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814128352028205504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The former president began his acceptance speech with a personal message that drew directly from his brush with death at the campaign rally on Saturday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/MELANIATRUMP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MELANIATRUMP</a> enters the Republican National Convention. <a href="https://t.co/h2GI4sZggJ">pic.twitter.com/h2GI4sZggJ</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814122476194156875?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Trump Dance Cam at <a href="https://twitter.com/GOPconvention?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GOPConvention</a> <a href="https://t.co/NcHThSRH84">pic.twitter.com/NcHThSRH84</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814101438294839807?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Trump said, "I’m not supposed to be here tonight."Meanwhile, Trump and his campaign have&nbsp;not released information&nbsp;about his injury or the treatment he received. The former president on Thursday described his story of surviving the attack — and vowed he would not talk about it again.

🎥Trump urges unity after assassination attempt during RNC finale

The K State womens basketball team will come to St. Joseph once again as the St. Joseph Sports Commission announces the second annual Bill Snyder Women's Classic. 

The game will feature an intriguing non conference matchup between the Kansas State Wildcats and the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders.  Tip off in the game is currently scheduled for 5pm on December 14th.

“We have a lot of sports momentum on several levels in St. Joseph right now and to have the honor of once again hosting Division I Women’s Basketball College Basketball between two programs that won a combined 56 games last season including each winning a game in the NCAA Tournament will be an absolute thrill and must ticket come this December,” said Brett Esely, Executive Director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission in a news release

The title of the game further signifies and celebrates the legend of St. Joseph native and College Football Hall of Fame Coach Bill Snyder.  

This will be the 4thall-time meeting between the two schools including the 2nd time on a neutral floor with Kansas State holding a 2-1 series advantage. K-State won the first two matchups 54-53 at MTSU in 2001 and 79-61 in Manhattan in 2002.  The Blue Raiders won the most recent match-up in 2010, 63-49 on a neutral court.

“The resumes of both of these teams not only in recent history, but all-time is simply impressive.  To think that a marquee matchup like this between two nationally ranked programs with coaches who have won more than 1,100 career games combined play right here in St. Joseph is an extremely big deal and we look forward to a packed house creating a great environment for this game this December,” Esely stated.

In the inaugural Bill Snyder Classic played December 9, 2023, K-State defeated Mizzou in front of a capacity crowd 84-56.

Ticket information will be released in mid to late August. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702496764040.jpeg" alt="Civic Arena hosted the the inaugural Bill Snyder Classic between K-State and Mizzou women's basketball/ File Photo by Brent Martin." />
 <figcaption>Civic Arena hosted the the inaugural Bill Snyder Classic between K-State and Mizzou women's basketball/ File Photo by Brent Martin.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe K State womens basketball team will come to St. Joseph once again as the St. Joseph Sports Commission announces the second annual Bill Snyder Women's Classic. The game will feature an intriguing non conference matchup between the Kansas State Wildcats and the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders. Tip off in the game is currently scheduled for 5pm on December 14th.“We have a lot of sports momentum on several levels in St. Joseph right now and to have the honor of once again hosting Division I Women’s Basketball College Basketball between two programs that won a combined 56 games last season including each winning a game in the NCAA Tournament will be an absolute thrill and must ticket come this December,” said Brett Esely, Executive Director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission in a news releaseThe title of the game further signifies and celebrates the legend of St. Joseph native and College Football Hall of Fame Coach Bill Snyder. This will be the 4thall-time meeting between the two schools including the 2nd time on a neutral floor with Kansas State holding a 2-1 series advantage. K-State won the first two matchups 54-53 at MTSU in 2001 and 79-61 in Manhattan in 2002. The Blue Raiders won the most recent match-up in 2010, 63-49 on a neutral court.“The resumes of both of these teams not only in recent history, but all-time is simply impressive. To think that a marquee matchup like this between two nationally ranked programs with coaches who have won more than 1,100 career games combined play right here in St. Joseph is an extremely big deal and we look forward to a packed house creating a great environment for this game this December,” Esely stated.In the inaugural Bill Snyder Classic played December 9, 2023, K-State defeated Mizzou in front of a capacity crowd 84-56.Ticket information will be released in mid to late August.

Division One women's basketball returns to St. Joe in 2nd annual Bill Snyder Classic

WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas. On Thursday afternoon,&nbsp;Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.

The president's diagnosis comes amid intense scrutiny of his health and stamina after a disastrous debate with former President Donald Trump that sparked a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-trump-poll-drop-out-debate-democrats-59eebaca6989985c2bfbf4f72bdfa112">flurry of concern</a>&nbsp;among Democrats that Biden is not up to the rigors of winning another presidential term.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721330354017.png" alt="President Joe Biden preparing to board Air Force One on his way to Delaware Wednesday- image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>President Joe Biden preparing to board Air Force One on his way to Delaware Wednesday- image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas. On Thursday afternoon,&nbsp;Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721329858359.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721330819270.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The president's diagnosis comes amid intense scrutiny of his health and stamina after a disastrous debate with former President Donald Trump that sparked a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-trump-poll-drop-out-debate-democrats-59eebaca6989985c2bfbf4f72bdfa112">flurry of concern</a>&nbsp;among Democrats that Biden is not up to the rigors of winning another presidential term.

Read Thurs. update from Biden's doctor on the President's health

(Radio Iowa) - New state rules regulating hemp products have gone into effect this week. 

According to the Iowa Hemp Alliance, up to 80 percent of the products at the businesses who've joined the group are prohibited under the new regulations. In mid-May Governor Reynolds signed the law to limit the amount of T-H-C -- the ingredient that causes the high -- that can be in consumable hemp products sold in Iowa. 

Hemp retailers say the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services rules have a per serving T-H-C limit that isn't in the law and they've sued. Climbing Kites -- a popular hemp-infused sparkling water -- had been brewed in Iowa, but operations have been moved to Illinois and Ohio.

(Radio Iowa) - New state rules regulating hemp products have gone into effect this week. According to the Iowa Hemp Alliance, up to 80 percent of the products at the businesses who've joined the group are prohibited under the new regulations. In mid-May Governor Reynolds signed the law to limit the amount of T-H-C -- the ingredient that causes the high -- that can be in consumable hemp products sold in Iowa. Hemp retailers say the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services rules have a per serving T-H-C limit that isn't in the law and they've sued. Climbing Kites -- a popular hemp-infused sparkling water -- had been brewed in Iowa, but operations have been moved to Illinois and Ohio.

State rules limiting hemp-infused consumables now in effect

Tractors will be cruising around the countryside in Holt County this weekend as part of the 11th annual Keep Missouri Farming Tractor Cruise fundraiser to benefit the Missouri Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture.

Jason Kurtz, with Missouri Farm Bureau, says registration will be held at 7:30 Saturday morning at Squaw Creek Trap Range in Mound City.

All age tractors may participate but it was noted they cannot have duals or implements attached. The registration cost for open-station tractors is $35 and air-conditioned tractors are $50. Lunch is included with that fee.

After traveling a total of forty miles throughout the county, lunch will be served at 11:30 at River of Hope Fellowship. Vernon Hart, with Missouri Farm Bureau, says, "Its a pork lunch with three or four sides. So we have a great meal for the drivers." Hart added that members of the public can attend the lunch and tickets will be available on-site. The cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children.

By RYAN SKAITHSt. Joseph PostTractors will be cruising around the countryside in Holt County this weekend as part of the 11th annual Keep Missouri Farming Tractor Cruise fundraiser to benefit the Missouri Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture.Jason Kurtz, with Missouri Farm Bureau, says registration will be held at 7:30 Saturday morning at Squaw Creek Trap Range in Mound City.All age tractors may participate but it was noted they cannot have duals or implements attached. The registration cost for open-station tractors is $35 and air-conditioned tractors are $50. Lunch is included with that fee.After traveling a total of forty miles throughout the county, lunch will be served at 11:30 at River of Hope Fellowship. Vernon Hart, with Missouri Farm Bureau, says, "Its a pork lunch with three or four sides. So we have a great meal for the drivers." Hart added that members of the public can attend the lunch and tickets will be available on-site. The cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children.The tractor cruise begins at 9:00 a.m.

Keep Missouri Farming Tractor Cruise in Holt County this Weekend

Early practices in Chiefs training camp on the Missouri Western campus have been key for one rookie running back, transitioning to a new sport.  

Louis Rees-Zammit is a former union rugby player from Wales that has long dreamed of playing in the NFL and is getting his chance with the Chiefs.  

Rees-Zammit says a key for him right now is getting to know the playbook. 

"Cause I'm playing catchup with a lot of people that have played American football since they were little kids, six years old, so there's no time to rest for me," Rees-Zammit tells the media following practice. "I've got to give this my all because ultimately this is my dream and to make it come true then I've got to play, I've got to be a step ahead of a lot of people." 

Rees-Zammit says the first goal to consider his rookie campaign successful is to make the team and knows a big part of that will be contributing on special teams. 

"Been working really hard on that with Coach (Dave) Toub and Coach (Andy) Hill, and just learning the playbook as I said," Rees-Zammit says. "Learning the running back roles, being able to learn pass protection, and then learning my routes off that, I think all of that adds up and the main way I'm going to make this team is by learning pass protection and being able to be a key role on special teams."

Entering a packed tight end room, the Chiefs fourth round pick has one goal in mind during his first Chiefs Training Camp. 

Jared Wiley from TCU says his biggest goal this training camp is just to prove he can contribute 

"I know what's in our room, we've got me, Irv (Smith Jr.), Noah (Gray), Gerrit (Prince), obviously Trav, we have a really talented group," Wiley explains. "So if I can find a way to come in and contribute as much as I possibly can, whether it's on special teams, anything they want me to do on offense, that'd be my biggest goal just to prove that i belong in that room and to be able to be on the field with those guys." 

One more practice will be held for rookies and quarterbacks tomorrow.  The full team reports to St. Joseph tomorrow evening, before the first full practice open to the public on Sunday where there will be a $5 admission fee.  

Tickets must be purchased online to attend and can be found by clicking <a href="https://www.chiefs.com/trainingcamp/">HERE </a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721325806548.jpeg" alt="Louise Rees-Zammit during the first Chiefs training camp practice runs down the field/ Phtoo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Louise Rees-Zammit during the first Chiefs training camp practice runs down the field/ Phtoo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post Early practices in Chiefs training camp on the Missouri Western campus have been key for one rookie running back, transitioning to a new sport. Louis Rees-Zammit is a former union rugby player from Wales that has long dreamed of playing in the NFL and is getting his chance with the Chiefs. Rees-Zammit says a key for him right now is getting to know the playbook. "Cause I'm playing catchup with a lot of people that have played American football since they were little kids, six years old, so there's no time to rest for me," Rees-Zammit tells the media following practice. "I've got to give this my all because ultimately this is my dream and to make it come true then I've got to play, I've got to be a step ahead of a lot of people." Rees-Zammit says the first goal to consider his rookie campaign successful is to make the team and knows a big part of that will be contributing on special teams. "Been working really hard on that with Coach (Dave) Toub and Coach (Andy) Hill, and just learning the playbook as I said," Rees-Zammit says. "Learning the running back roles, being able to learn pass protection, and then learning my routes off that, I think all of that adds up and the main way I'm going to make this team is by learning pass protection and being able to be a key role on special teams."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721325905460.jpeg" alt="Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes makes a cut during the first Chiefs Training Camp practice as Louis Rees-Zammit looks on/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes makes a cut during the first Chiefs Training Camp practice as Louis Rees-Zammit looks on/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>Entering a packed tight end room, the Chiefs fourth round pick has one goal in mind during his first Chiefs Training Camp. Jared Wiley from TCU says his biggest goal this training camp is just to prove he can contribute "I know what's in our room, we've got me, Irv (Smith Jr.), Noah (Gray), Gerrit (Prince), obviously Trav, we have a really talented group," Wiley explains. "So if I can find a way to come in and contribute as much as I possibly can, whether it's on special teams, anything they want me to do on offense, that'd be my biggest goal just to prove that i belong in that room and to be able to be on the field with those guys." One more practice will be held for rookies and quarterbacks tomorrow. The full team reports to St. Joseph tomorrow evening, before the first full practice open to the public on Sunday where there will be a $5 admission fee. Tickets must be purchased online to attend and can be found by clicking <a href="https://www.chiefs.com/trainingcamp/">HERE </a>

One Chiefs rookie is not just new to the team, but new to the sport

(Radio Iowa) - Iowa is seeing a bumper crop of bugs this summer, with flying and biting pests aplenty that are making the great outdoors much less great for humans. 

The state's had a lot of rain in recent weeks and standing water can quickly become a breeding ground for many thousands of mosquitoes. Zach Schumm, an insect specialist at Iowa State University, says at least 57 different species of mosquitoes live in Iowa. 

Schumm says to use an insect repellent, wear long sleeves and long pants when outside, and avoid being outdoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes tend to feed. He also suggests you patrol your yard and make sure there's no standing water in flower pots, buckets, tires, gutters or elsewhere.

(Radio Iowa) - Iowa is seeing a bumper crop of bugs this summer, with flying and biting pests aplenty that are making the great outdoors much less great for humans. The state's had a lot of rain in recent weeks and standing water can quickly become a breeding ground for many thousands of mosquitoes. Zach Schumm, an insect specialist at Iowa State University, says at least 57 different species of mosquitoes live in Iowa. Schumm says to use an insect repellent, wear long sleeves and long pants when outside, and avoid being outdoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes tend to feed. He also suggests you patrol your yard and make sure there's no standing water in flower pots, buckets, tires, gutters or elsewhere.

Expert offers weapons to help Iowans in the battle of the bugs

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/graceburwell/">GRACE BURWELL</a>

University of Missouri custodian Cathy Persinger had to move out of Columbia, because she can no longer afford to live in the city, she said during a town hall Saturday afternoon at the Unitarian Universalist Church.

“When I asked (the university) for a raise because I was stressed out, they told me about food banks and stuff on campus, which I’ve been going to those already,” said Persinger, who makes a little over $15 an hour. “And it’s not enough.”

Several university workers and community members echoed similar concerns. More than 150 attended the town hall, which focused on discussions surrounding MU’s new proposed parking model, changes to employee benefits, wages and more.

The event was organized by MU Workers United and Laborers International Union of North America (LiUNA) Local 955.

LiUNA representative Andrew Hutchinson said the university’s reluctance to bargain over worker issues led to Saturday’s town hall.

“The university basically says, ‘We want to talk this out over a table,’ and then we get to the table and the rules change as we’re talking, or they just go ahead and change things anyway,” Hutchinson said.

MU spokesperson Christian Basi said the university has always been open to having discussions with the union.

“Anytime they’ve asked, we have always sat down and had open conversations with them about our challenges related to those various issues, and we’re happy to explain and talk about decisions, as well as get their input,” Basi said.

Parking has been a recent hot-button issue on campus. Effective January 2025 for faculty and staff, the university plans to shift to a demand-based parking model with tiered pricing, a change from its current salary-based model.

Hutchinson said that the cost to park at work is detrimental for many union members, who make $15 or $16 an hour. Town hall attendees echoed this, mentioning concerns about safety and the availability of shuttle services from parking locations.

“The university spent months not giving us a response and then rolled out this parking hike increase overnight without even letting us respond to it at the bargaining table,” Hutchinson said.

Basi said the new model will allow employees to pay as little as $5 a month for parking, a decrease of at least $16.50 a month from the current model.

“Not only did we listen to the union, but we were able to provide an option that significantly reduces — it doesn’t eliminate — but it significantly reduces the cost of parking for people if they choose to take advantage of the option,” he said. “Instead of making people pay based on their salary, we have put together a structure that says the most in-demand parking will be the most expensive, and as you go out from the core campus, it becomes less expensive.”

The university understands the need to run shuttles more often and at different times of day and is working to ensure that happens, Basi said.

Town hall attendees also shared frustrations about changes to worker wages and benefits.

Darrell Dillon, an electrician at MU, said benefits for employees have been chipped away over the 14 years he has worked at the university.

“I was promised retirement if I stayed with them long enough, I was promised a pension, I was promised insurance, I was promised vacation, sick leave and personal days,” Dillon said. “I was promised a standard raise across the board when I first started, then we get the merit raise system, which is no more than a popularity contest.”

Basi said the university’s merit-based raise system has been shown to best reward staff who are doing quality work and also encourages good employees.

Any individual who is hired while the university’s pension plan was active will receive their pension, Basi said.

“Anytime we do changes to benefits, we have had significant communications to faculty and staff, depending on who it is impacting,” Basi said. “It is something that we work very hard to do, is to make sure that we have a competitive wage, good benefits and access to affordable parking, to ensure folks that the university itself is trying to make the work environment as welcoming as possible.”

An overall theme of attendees’ and organizers’ perspectives were the university’s commitment to and respect for its employees.

“There’s a lot of folks that received raises during COVID-19, because they were essential workers at the hospital, they received (critical) staffing pay,” Hutchinson said. “The university hospital says they can take it away at any time, and it has folks terrified because all of a sudden, in a couple of weeks, they could lose a massive part of their paycheck, and (workers) have no control over it.”

Eric Maze, public relations manager for MU Health Care, said 10 critical staffing pay plans are still in use at the hospital through September 14, 2024.

“Critical staffing plans are reviewed every 12 weeks to determine if staffing challenges continue, are forecasted to continue or new challenges have developed,” Maze said in an email. “Critical staffing plans will continue to be part of our compensation strategy.”

This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/local/mu-workers-voice-parking-pay-concerns-at-union-town-hall/article_716185d2-4062-11ef-bb7b-9f1c2c38dd33.html#tncms-source=Top%20Story" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian.</a>&nbsp;It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716488707174.png" alt="The iconic columns of the University of Missouri-Columbia campus (University of Missouri photo)." />
 <figcaption>The iconic columns of the University of Missouri-Columbia campus (University of Missouri photo).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/graceburwell/">GRACE BURWELL</a>University of Missouri custodian Cathy Persinger had to move out of Columbia, because she can no longer afford to live in the city, she said during a town hall Saturday afternoon at the Unitarian Universalist Church.“When I asked (the university) for a raise because I was stressed out, they told me about food banks and stuff on campus, which I’ve been going to those already,” said Persinger, who makes a little over $15 an hour. “And it’s not enough.”Several university workers and community members echoed similar concerns. More than 150 attended the town hall, which focused on discussions surrounding MU’s new proposed parking model, changes to employee benefits, wages and more.The event was organized by MU Workers United and Laborers International Union of North America (LiUNA) Local 955.LiUNA representative Andrew Hutchinson said the university’s reluctance to bargain over worker issues led to Saturday’s town hall.“The university basically says, ‘We want to talk this out over a table,’ and then we get to the table and the rules change as we’re talking, or they just go ahead and change things anyway,” Hutchinson said.MU spokesperson Christian Basi said the university has always been open to having discussions with the union.“Anytime they’ve asked, we have always sat down and had open conversations with them about our challenges related to those various issues, and we’re happy to explain and talk about decisions, as well as get their input,” Basi said.<h2>Parking</h2>Parking has been a recent hot-button issue on campus. Effective January 2025 for faculty and staff, the university plans to shift to a demand-based parking model with tiered pricing, a change from its current salary-based model.Hutchinson said that the cost to park at work is detrimental for many union members, who make $15 or $16 an hour. Town hall attendees echoed this, mentioning concerns about safety and the availability of shuttle services from parking locations.“The university spent months not giving us a response and then rolled out this parking hike increase overnight without even letting us respond to it at the bargaining table,” Hutchinson said.Basi said the new model will allow employees to pay as little as $5 a month for parking, a decrease of at least $16.50 a month from the current model.“Not only did we listen to the union, but we were able to provide an option that significantly reduces — it doesn’t eliminate — but it significantly reduces the cost of parking for people if they choose to take advantage of the option,” he said. “Instead of making people pay based on their salary, we have put together a structure that says the most in-demand parking will be the most expensive, and as you go out from the core campus, it becomes less expensive.”The university understands the need to run shuttles more often and at different times of day and is working to ensure that happens, Basi said.<h2>Wages and benefits</h2>Town hall attendees also shared frustrations about changes to worker wages and benefits.Darrell Dillon, an electrician at MU, said benefits for employees have been chipped away over the 14 years he has worked at the university.“I was promised retirement if I stayed with them long enough, I was promised a pension, I was promised insurance, I was promised vacation, sick leave and personal days,” Dillon said. “I was promised a standard raise across the board when I first started, then we get the merit raise system, which is no more than a popularity contest.”Basi said the university’s merit-based raise system has been shown to best reward staff who are doing quality work and also encourages good employees.Any individual who is hired while the university’s pension plan was active will receive their pension, Basi said.“Anytime we do changes to benefits, we have had significant communications to faculty and staff, depending on who it is impacting,” Basi said. “It is something that we work very hard to do, is to make sure that we have a competitive wage, good benefits and access to affordable parking, to ensure folks that the university itself is trying to make the work environment as welcoming as possible.”<h2>Commitment</h2>An overall theme of attendees’ and organizers’ perspectives were the university’s commitment to and respect for its employees.“There’s a lot of folks that received raises during COVID-19, because they were essential workers at the hospital, they received (critical) staffing pay,” Hutchinson said. “The university hospital says they can take it away at any time, and it has folks terrified because all of a sudden, in a couple of weeks, they could lose a massive part of their paycheck, and (workers) have no control over it.”Eric Maze, public relations manager for MU Health Care, said 10 critical staffing pay plans are still in use at the hospital through September 14, 2024.“Critical staffing plans are reviewed every 12 weeks to determine if staffing challenges continue, are forecasted to continue or new challenges have developed,” Maze said in an email. “Critical staffing plans will continue to be part of our compensation strategy.”This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/local/mu-workers-voice-parking-pay-concerns-at-union-town-hall/article_716185d2-4062-11ef-bb7b-9f1c2c38dd33.html#tncms-source=Top%20Story" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian.</a>&nbsp;It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

University of Missouri employees voice concerns about benefits, wages at union town hall

MILWAUKEE— President Trump's vice presidential nominee JD Vance spoke Wednesday night to the Republican National Convention.

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8TlBHRtrvM">Click here </a>to watch his full acceptance speech

MILWAUKEE— President Trump's vice presidential nominee JD Vance spoke Wednesday night to the Republican National Convention.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">JD Vance: &quot;Our movement is about single moms like mine, who struggled with money and addiction, but never gave up. I&#39;m proud to say that tonight my my mom is here, 10 years, clean and sober. I love you mom.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/sl2P0hDk5i">pic.twitter.com/sl2P0hDk5i</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1813783939099828705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">JD Vance: &quot;I stand here humbled and I&#39;m overwhelmed with gratitude to say I officially accept your nomination to be Vice President of the United States of America.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/xSq3U4sLeR">pic.twitter.com/xSq3U4sLeR</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1813770852082860461?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8TlBHRtrvM">Click here </a>to watch his full acceptance speech

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