KANSAS CITY —A Jackson County judge sentenced to 18 years in prison two men convicted in November of multiple felony and misdemeanor charges in connection with a gun battle on a January afternoon inside Crown Center in Kansas, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

In November, following a bench trial, the judge convicted Brian Favela, 23, and Joel Olivas, 24, identified by prosecutors as East Side gang members of two counts of Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Class B felonies, and two counts of Armed Criminal Action, as well as three misdemeanor counts of Harassment in the 2nd Degree. 

The judge dismissed one count of Unlawful Use of a Weapon and Armed Criminal Action finding not enough evidence was shown to overcome Missouri's self-defense laws on those two counts.

An agreement among parties capped a prison sentence for these defendants at 25 years. Prosecutors, in a sentencing memorandum, asked the judge to impose that maximum amount due to the devastating nature of the shootings. On Thursday, the judge set the sentence at 18 years for each defendant.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709159804082.png" alt="Favela photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Favela photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Jackson County judge sentenced to 18 years in prison two men convicted in November of multiple felony and misdemeanor charges in connection with a gun battle on a January afternoon inside Crown Center in Kansas, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705578003872.png" alt="View of Crown Center business with police crime scene tape -image courtesy KMBC" />
 <figcaption>View of Crown Center business with police crime scene tape -image courtesy KMBC</figcaption>
 </figure>In November, following a bench trial, the judge convicted Brian Favela, 23, and Joel Olivas, 24, identified by prosecutors as East Side gang members of two counts of Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Class B felonies, and two counts of Armed Criminal Action, as well as three misdemeanor counts of Harassment in the 2nd Degree. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709159745533.png" alt="Olivas photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Olivas photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The judge dismissed one count of Unlawful Use of a Weapon and Armed Criminal Action finding not enough evidence was shown to overcome Missouri's self-defense laws on those two counts.An agreement among parties capped a prison sentence for these defendants at 25 years. Prosecutors, in a sentencing memorandum, asked the judge to impose that maximum amount due to the devastating nature of the shootings. On Thursday, the judge set the sentence at 18 years for each defendant.

Two going to prison for gang gun battle at Crown Center

The only thing the Chiefs had to worry about in the final minutes Sunday was Patrick Mahomes' ankle.

Mahomes threw two touchdown passes before limping off with an ankle injury in the fourth quarter, Xavier Worthy ran for a score and Kansas City finally had a relatively easy win, 21-7 over the mistake-prone Cleveland Browns.

Mahomes connected for TDs in the first half with Juju Smith-Schuster and Noah Gray as the Chiefs (13-1) built a 21-0 lead and then slogged their way through an ugly second half.

The defending Super Bowl champions have 10 wins by seven points or less, with six coming on the game's final play.

Mahomes didn't finish the game, leaving when he got his ankle rolled up on while being tackled by Dalvin Tomlinson on a fourth-down incompletion. Carson Wentz replaced him for the final 5:23. Mahomes finished 19 of 38 for 159 yards.

After the game, Mahomes said X-rays were negative. He said he would have lobbied harder to stay in if the Browns had gotten within one score.

“We'll get into the rehab part, the treatment part and try to get back on a short week,” said Mahomes, noting the Chiefs will play again Saturday — the second of three games in 11 days. “With all the adrenaline from the game, it's hard to tell now (if he can play). Usually, it's the day after when you get a good sense of it."

Before Wentz went in, Mahomes had his left ankle re-taped while on the bench. He walked gingerly off the field but didn't favor it while in the locker room or going to his postgame news conference. He was driven to the Chiefs' buses on a cart.

Coach Andy Reid was relieved Mahomes was not more seriously hurt.

“It's not broken, that's all I can tell you,” Reid said. “We'll have to see how it goes down the road.”

The Browns (3-11) tried to put up a fight, but had six turnovers. Other than a 62-yard TD run from Jerome Ford, Cleveland had few offensive highlights and too many self-inflicted miscues.

Jameis Winston threw more three interceptions — two in the end zone to give him eight in his last three games — and the Browns had two fumbles. The five turnovers made things much easier on Mahomes and the Chiefs, not that they needed a lot of help.

Cleveland running back Nick Chubb suffered a broken foot. It's another setback for the star, who had a devastating knee injury last season.

Winston was pulled after his third pick and replaced by second-year QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson, who also was intercepted. Coach Kevin Stefanski would not commit to a starter for next week.

“You can not turn the ball over six times and expect to win,” Stefanski said. “At any level.”

Cleveland's Jerry Jeudy had 11 catches for 108 yards and went over 1,000 for the season.

The Chiefs' second TD — Mahomes' 6-yard pass to Gray with 4:46 left in the first half — came on the same play Browns star defensive end Myles Garrett left the field in extreme pain with an apparent eye injury.

Garrett was rushing Mahomes and being blocked by Chiefs left tackle Joe Thuney when he suddenly stopped. The league's reigning Defensive Player of the Year immediately grabbed his face mask and pulled off his helmet, flinging it away before dropping to the turf.

He was face down for several minutes before being helped off. As Garrett walked toward the locker room holding a towel to his face, Thuney came over and patted him on the back. Garrett was only gone for a short period before he ran back on to the field and finished the game.

“Thank God, he's OK,” Stefanski said.

The Chiefs took a 21-0 lead early in the third, capitalizing on a pick by Winston that went off Chubb's hands. Four plays later, Worthy took a deep pitch from Mahomes, turned the corner and scored.

Kansas City's first score was set up by Cleveland's first turnover.

After the Browns forced a three-and-out on Kansas City's first possession, Cleveland's James Proche II fumbled during a punt return and the Chiefs recovered at the 21.

Mahomes then connected with Schuster for a 7-yard TD with 12:12 left in the first quarter.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe only thing the Chiefs had to worry about in the final minutes Sunday was Patrick Mahomes' ankle.Mahomes threw two touchdown passes before limping off with an ankle injury in the fourth quarter, Xavier Worthy ran for a score and Kansas City finally had a relatively easy win, 21-7 over the mistake-prone Cleveland Browns.Mahomes connected for TDs in the first half with Juju Smith-Schuster and Noah Gray as the Chiefs (13-1) built a 21-0 lead and then slogged their way through an ugly second half.The defending Super Bowl champions have 10 wins by seven points or less, with six coming on the game's final play.Mahomes didn't finish the game, leaving when he got his ankle rolled up on while being tackled by Dalvin Tomlinson on a fourth-down incompletion. Carson Wentz replaced him for the final 5:23. Mahomes finished 19 of 38 for 159 yards.After the game, Mahomes said X-rays were negative. He said he would have lobbied harder to stay in if the Browns had gotten within one score.“We'll get into the rehab part, the treatment part and try to get back on a short week,” said Mahomes, noting the Chiefs will play again Saturday — the second of three games in 11 days. “With all the adrenaline from the game, it's hard to tell now (if he can play). Usually, it's the day after when you get a good sense of it."Before Wentz went in, Mahomes had his left ankle re-taped while on the bench. He walked gingerly off the field but didn't favor it while in the locker room or going to his postgame news conference. He was driven to the Chiefs' buses on a cart.Coach Andy Reid was relieved Mahomes was not more seriously hurt.“It's not broken, that's all I can tell you,” Reid said. “We'll have to see how it goes down the road.”The Browns (3-11) tried to put up a fight, but had six turnovers. Other than a 62-yard TD run from Jerome Ford, Cleveland had few offensive highlights and too many self-inflicted miscues.Jameis Winston threw more three interceptions — two in the end zone to give him eight in his last three games — and the Browns had two fumbles. The five turnovers made things much easier on Mahomes and the Chiefs, not that they needed a lot of help.Cleveland running back Nick Chubb suffered a broken foot. It's another setback for the star, who had a devastating knee injury last season.Winston was pulled after his third pick and replaced by second-year QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson, who also was intercepted. Coach Kevin Stefanski would not commit to a starter for next week.“You can not turn the ball over six times and expect to win,” Stefanski said. “At any level.”Cleveland's Jerry Jeudy had 11 catches for 108 yards and went over 1,000 for the season.The Chiefs' second TD — Mahomes' 6-yard pass to Gray with 4:46 left in the first half — came on the same play Browns star defensive end Myles Garrett left the field in extreme pain with an apparent eye injury.Garrett was rushing Mahomes and being blocked by Chiefs left tackle Joe Thuney when he suddenly stopped. The league's reigning Defensive Player of the Year immediately grabbed his face mask and pulled off his helmet, flinging it away before dropping to the turf.He was face down for several minutes before being helped off. As Garrett walked toward the locker room holding a towel to his face, Thuney came over and patted him on the back. Garrett was only gone for a short period before he ran back on to the field and finished the game.“Thank God, he's OK,” Stefanski said.The Chiefs took a 21-0 lead early in the third, capitalizing on a pick by Winston that went off Chubb's hands. Four plays later, Worthy took a deep pitch from Mahomes, turned the corner and scored.Kansas City's first score was set up by Cleveland's first turnover.After the Browns forced a three-and-out on Kansas City's first possession, Cleveland's James Proche II fumbled during a punt return and the Chiefs recovered at the 21.Mahomes then connected with Schuster for a 7-yard TD with 12:12 left in the first quarter.

Chiefs move closer to clinching first round bye with 21-7 win over Browns

Three bills are backed by hemp industry leaders, while one has the support of the Missouri Cannabis Trade Association

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

Every time Missouri lawmakers have proposed legislation to essentially ban intoxicating-hemp products in the last few years, the hemp industry has mounted a united opposition to stop them.

Products like Delta-8 THC drinks can currently be bought everywhere from bars to coffee shops statewide.&nbsp;

Year after year, hemp business owners and distributors have asked the state to impose age restrictions and testing requirements, rather than ban the products outright.

“We don’t have any mechanism to regulate them right now, and so they’re in no man’s land,” said Steven Busch, owner of Krey Distributing, one of the state’s alcohol distributors. “And that’s our biggest problem right now — that there are no rules. The 21-plus rule isn’t even law, though everyone’s doing it.”

Now for the first time, leaders of the hemp industry are pushing their own legislation to establish business licenses and regulations.

But the industry is far from united.&nbsp;

Three bills have been pre-filed — one backed by Busch, one supported by the Missouri Beer Wholesalers Association and one backed by the Missouri Hemp Trade Association. Other bills are waiting in the wings to potentially be added as amendments.

The beer wholesalers’ legislation, sponsored by Republican state Rep. Barry Hovis of Whitewater, lays out regulations only for hemp beverages, which would regulate popular bar drinks like Missouri-based Mighty Kind cannabis seltzers. It would also establish the same three-tier distribution system that the alcohol industry has long abided by.

The bill backed by Busch and sponsored by Republican state Rep. Dave Hinman of O’Fallon would regulate beverages as well, but it also includes guidelines for edibles, vapes and tinctures.&nbsp;

The hemp trade association believes both bills set the maximum THC content for all items too low. The association also vehemently opposes the three-tier system.

“It creates a monopoly on behalf of the distributors,” said Craig Katz, spokesman for the Missouri Hemp Trade Association. “It may have worked over decades in the alcohol industry and they’re used to it, but it doesn’t really work for the hemp industry.”

It’s not only the alcohol industry that’s used to the system.&nbsp;

All three bills direct the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control to regulate hemp licensees, and the state agency has used the three-tier system since prohibition ended in the 1930s. It prohibits distribution companies from holding a license for retail or manufacturing facilities. Back then, it was intended to prevent market domination by restricting any one tier from having financial interest in another.

On the other end of the spectrum, Republican state Sen. Nick Schroer of Defiance has once again proposed legislation that would essentially ban a good portion of intoxicating hemp products outright and require the eligible ones only to be sold in regulated marijuana dispensaries.&nbsp;

His bill is supported by the Missouri Cannabis Trade Association.&nbsp;

Andrew Mullins, executive director for MoCannTrade, said all sides agree that unregulated, intoxicating products are a health and public safety risk. The “only real question” for policymakers, he said, is whether the state should establish a “dual, parallel, expensive system of regulation” for these intoxicating products, which often have the THC potency as those found in highly-regulated dispensaries.&nbsp;

“Hemp and marijuana come from the same plant,” Mullins said. “If it’s non-intoxicating, it’s hemp. If it comes from the cannabis plant and it’s intoxicating – it’s marijuana and Missouri law should treat it as such.”

Busch and the hemp trade association worked together over the summer to&nbsp; write one piece of legislation, but then a rift over distribution and THC content severed the groups in September. And it’s evident in the nearly-identical language in the two bills.

“We were working with them for almost four months, trying to gather feedback and get in alignment,” Busch said. “One of their board members took our bill, our work product, and decided that they were going to use whatever parts of it they wanted.”

Katz doesn’t deny that they included some of the language, but said the association also sourced from other places.

Busch’s bill proposes to limit edibles to only 5 mg of THC per serving and beverages to 10mg of THC per serving.

The association’s bill would limit it to 100 mg of THC per serving, saying that some people who use the products medicinally require a higher dose.

Brian Riegel, owner of South Point Hemp manufacturer, said some of his customers use the products for arthritis and other pain.&nbsp;

“If they were taking something that’s been federally legal for the last six years,” he said, “in August they’re going back to being a criminal again.”&nbsp;

Katz said the three-tier system prevents small businesses from selling their products online to customers, and it might be difficult for them to get picked up by distributors.&nbsp;

Another major difference is that Busch’s proposal would essentially ban THCA flower, which makes up nearly 50% of the industry, Katz said, and is growing.&nbsp;

Missourians can walk into a CBD shop right now and buy something that looks just like the canisters of marijuana buds and joints sold in state-regulated dispensaries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Busch said he has no problem with the beer wholesalers’ bill, as it’s closely aligned with his. However, he doesn’t believe Missouri lawmakers can “responsibly” stop at beverages.&nbsp;

“Let’s say that bill passed, then we still haven’t addressed what the governor identified this summer as illicit products being sold to children,” Busch said. “We’re not going to have anything different than we have right now.”

He believes this session will be different because all parties – from regulators to hemp retailers – believe that some legislation must get passed this year.

“The regulated marijuana side and our side,” Busch said, “we want to get something done because otherwise, every month or year that goes by… the market gets bigger and bigger. And there’s no way to police it.”

The argument that banning these products would harm thousands of small businesses in Missouri and further feed what critics call the marijuana “monopoly” was largely successful in blocking proposed legislation in the past.

However, the state has upped the stakes this year.

While Gov. Mike Parson’s attempt this summer to&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/12/hemp-industry-leaders-call-missouri-governors-order-banning-thc-products-an-overreach/">ban intoxicating hemp</a>&nbsp;through an executive order remains on hold, administrative rules are currently making their way to accomplish that goal.

The Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control proposed new state rules in November that would ban the sale of hemp-derived products for any licensed liquor retailer. Those rules must be approved by a legislative committee that oversees administrative rules.&nbsp;

The Missouri Hemp Trade Association’s attorney Chuck Hatfield submitted a public comment to the division, saying it doesn’t have the authority to implement a ban through rules — only legislation.

The division is authorized to “issue, suspend, or revoke liquor licenses, enforce Missouri’s alcohol and tobacco laws, and collect revenue from alcoholic beverage excise taxes and license fees,” Hatfield states in the comment.&nbsp;

“Until the legislature acts,” it states, “[the division’s] hands are tied with respect to hemp-derived products.”&nbsp;

The division was only one part of the enforcement efforts outlined in Parson’s order.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services’ preliminary budget requests&nbsp;<a href="https://oa.mo.gov/sites/default/files/FY26_DHSS_Appropriation_Book.pdf" target="_blank">$877,000&nbsp;</a>to fund more food inspectors to implement Parson’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sos.mo.gov/library/reference/orders/2024/eo10" target="_blank">executive order</a>.&nbsp;

Those funds would become available on July 1, if lawmakers approve the request as part of the state budget.&nbsp;

The department estimates that 40,000 food establishments and smoke shops and 1,800 food manufacturers could potentially be affected by the governor’s order, the budget request states, “but the majority of these facilities are at low-risk of requiring investigation.”

“It is estimated that all seven inspection staff can conduct 2,900-3,500 site visits annually,” it states.&nbsp;

The department also budgeted $160,000 to hire two full-time attorneys, in the event that business owners challenge enforcement actions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734358244994.jpeg" alt=" Year after year, hemp business owners and distributors have asked the state to impose age restrictions and testing requirements, rather than ban the products outright (Rebecca Rivas/Missouri Independent)" />
 <figcaption> Year after year, hemp business owners and distributors have asked the state to impose age restrictions and testing requirements, rather than ban the products outright (Rebecca Rivas/Missouri Independent)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Three bills are backed by hemp industry leaders, while one has the support of the Missouri Cannabis Trade Association</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rebecca-rivas/">REBECCA RIVAS</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Every time Missouri lawmakers have proposed legislation to essentially ban intoxicating-hemp products in the last few years, the hemp industry has mounted a united opposition to stop them.Products like Delta-8 THC drinks can currently be bought everywhere from bars to coffee shops statewide.&nbsp;Year after year, hemp business owners and distributors have asked the state to impose age restrictions and testing requirements, rather than ban the products outright.“We don’t have any mechanism to regulate them right now, and so they’re in no man’s land,” said Steven Busch, owner of Krey Distributing, one of the state’s alcohol distributors. “And that’s our biggest problem right now — that there are no rules. The 21-plus rule isn’t even law, though everyone’s doing it.”Now for the first time, leaders of the hemp industry are pushing their own legislation to establish business licenses and regulations.But the industry is far from united.&nbsp;Three bills have been pre-filed — one backed by Busch, one supported by the Missouri Beer Wholesalers Association and one backed by the Missouri Hemp Trade Association. Other bills are waiting in the wings to potentially be added as amendments.The beer wholesalers’ legislation, sponsored by Republican state Rep. Barry Hovis of Whitewater, lays out regulations only for hemp beverages, which would regulate popular bar drinks like Missouri-based Mighty Kind cannabis seltzers. It would also establish the same three-tier distribution system that the alcohol industry has long abided by.The bill backed by Busch and sponsored by Republican state Rep. Dave Hinman of O’Fallon would regulate beverages as well, but it also includes guidelines for edibles, vapes and tinctures.&nbsp;The hemp trade association believes both bills set the maximum THC content for all items too low. The association also vehemently opposes the three-tier system.“It creates a monopoly on behalf of the distributors,” said Craig Katz, spokesman for the Missouri Hemp Trade Association. “It may have worked over decades in the alcohol industry and they’re used to it, but it doesn’t really work for the hemp industry.”It’s not only the alcohol industry that’s used to the system.&nbsp;All three bills direct the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control to regulate hemp licensees, and the state agency has used the three-tier system since prohibition ended in the 1930s. It prohibits distribution companies from holding a license for retail or manufacturing facilities. Back then, it was intended to prevent market domination by restricting any one tier from having financial interest in another.On the other end of the spectrum, Republican state Sen. Nick Schroer of Defiance has once again proposed legislation that would essentially ban a good portion of intoxicating hemp products outright and require the eligible ones only to be sold in regulated marijuana dispensaries.&nbsp;His bill is supported by the Missouri Cannabis Trade Association.&nbsp;Andrew Mullins, executive director for MoCannTrade, said all sides agree that unregulated, intoxicating products are a health and public safety risk. The “only real question” for policymakers, he said, is whether the state should establish a “dual, parallel, expensive system of regulation” for these intoxicating products, which often have the THC potency as those found in highly-regulated dispensaries.&nbsp;“Hemp and marijuana come from the same plant,” Mullins said. “If it’s non-intoxicating, it’s hemp. If it comes from the cannabis plant and it’s intoxicating – it’s marijuana and Missouri law should treat it as such.”<h2>‘No way to police it’</h2>Busch and the hemp trade association worked together over the summer to&nbsp; write one piece of legislation, but then a rift over distribution and THC content severed the groups in September. And it’s evident in the nearly-identical language in the two bills.“We were working with them for almost four months, trying to gather feedback and get in alignment,” Busch said. “One of their board members took our bill, our work product, and decided that they were going to use whatever parts of it they wanted.”Katz doesn’t deny that they included some of the language, but said the association also sourced from other places.Busch’s bill proposes to limit edibles to only 5 mg of THC per serving and beverages to 10mg of THC per serving.The association’s bill would limit it to 100 mg of THC per serving, saying that some people who use the products medicinally require a higher dose.Brian Riegel, owner of South Point Hemp manufacturer, said some of his customers use the products for arthritis and other pain.&nbsp;“If they were taking something that’s been federally legal for the last six years,” he said, “in August they’re going back to being a criminal again.”&nbsp;Katz said the three-tier system prevents small businesses from selling their products online to customers, and it might be difficult for them to get picked up by distributors.&nbsp;Another major difference is that Busch’s proposal would essentially ban THCA flower, which makes up nearly 50% of the industry, Katz said, and is growing.&nbsp;Missourians can walk into a CBD shop right now and buy something that looks just like the canisters of marijuana buds and joints sold in state-regulated dispensaries.&nbsp;&nbsp;Busch said he has no problem with the beer wholesalers’ bill, as it’s closely aligned with his. However, he doesn’t believe Missouri lawmakers can “responsibly” stop at beverages.&nbsp;“Let’s say that bill passed, then we still haven’t addressed what the governor identified this summer as illicit products being sold to children,” Busch said. “We’re not going to have anything different than we have right now.”He believes this session will be different because all parties – from regulators to hemp retailers – believe that some legislation must get passed this year.“The regulated marijuana side and our side,” Busch said, “we want to get something done because otherwise, every month or year that goes by… the market gets bigger and bigger. And there’s no way to police it.”<h2>The state fights back</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725657142729.png" alt="Gov. Mike Parson speaks at his Capitol press conference announcing Executive Order 24-10 that bans the sale of intoxicating hemp products in Missouri “until such time approved sources can be regulated by the FDA or State of Missouri through legislative action,” he said (photo courtesy of Missouri Governor’s Office)." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Mike Parson speaks at his Capitol press conference announcing Executive Order 24-10 that bans the sale of intoxicating hemp products in Missouri “until such time approved sources can be regulated by the FDA or State of Missouri through legislative action,” he said (photo courtesy of Missouri Governor’s Office).</figcaption>
 </figure>The argument that banning these products would harm thousands of small businesses in Missouri and further feed what critics call the marijuana “monopoly” was largely successful in blocking proposed legislation in the past.However, the state has upped the stakes this year.While Gov. Mike Parson’s attempt this summer to&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/12/hemp-industry-leaders-call-missouri-governors-order-banning-thc-products-an-overreach/">ban intoxicating hemp</a>&nbsp;through an executive order remains on hold, administrative rules are currently making their way to accomplish that goal.The Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control proposed new state rules in November that would ban the sale of hemp-derived products for any licensed liquor retailer. Those rules must be approved by a legislative committee that oversees administrative rules.&nbsp;The Missouri Hemp Trade Association’s attorney Chuck Hatfield submitted a public comment to the division, saying it doesn’t have the authority to implement a ban through rules — only legislation.The division is authorized to “issue, suspend, or revoke liquor licenses, enforce Missouri’s alcohol and tobacco laws, and collect revenue from alcoholic beverage excise taxes and license fees,” Hatfield states in the comment.&nbsp;“Until the legislature acts,” it states, “[the division’s] hands are tied with respect to hemp-derived products.”&nbsp;The division was only one part of the enforcement efforts outlined in Parson’s order.The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services’ preliminary budget requests&nbsp;<a href="https://oa.mo.gov/sites/default/files/FY26_DHSS_Appropriation_Book.pdf" target="_blank">$877,000&nbsp;</a>to fund more food inspectors to implement Parson’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sos.mo.gov/library/reference/orders/2024/eo10" target="_blank">executive order</a>.&nbsp;Those funds would become available on July 1, if lawmakers approve the request as part of the state budget.&nbsp;The department estimates that 40,000 food establishments and smoke shops and 1,800 food manufacturers could potentially be affected by the governor’s order, the budget request states, “but the majority of these facilities are at low-risk of requiring investigation.”“It is estimated that all seven inspection staff can conduct 2,900-3,500 site visits annually,” it states.&nbsp;The department also budgeted $160,000 to hire two full-time attorneys, in the event that business owners challenge enforcement actions.

Missouri lawmakers file bills enacting new regulations on intoxicating hemp products

Banning foreign ownership of farmland has been a hot button topic in Missouri, and is expected to be one again in the legislature’s upcoming session. 

Currently, no more than one-percent of Missouri’s agricultural land can be owned by a foreign entity. 

Chillicothe Senator Rusty Black’s legislation would ban foreign businesses and governments from acquiring ag land in the state.

&nbsp;“It goes back to the language that was in state statute before it was changed in 2013 that no foreign entity, person, or business can own farmland within our state to farm," Black tells Missourinet

The idea has been muddied up with different viewpoints of foreign ownership over the years, including attempts to prevent ANY ownership of land across Missouri rather than just agricultural land.

Black says that he understands this takes the right to sell to whomever they want away from farmers, BUT.

“If you’re a farmland owner then that does cut out somebody that you can sell to, right? So, I do understand that. And that causes, even I have neighbors around me that we discuss it. I’m thinking, their right of way from choosing who they can sell to, but I think, overall, for our state, that this is the direction we need to go," Black says

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719235999080.jpeg" alt="Senator Rusty Black speaks with KFEQ News Director Brent Martin/ File photo" />
 <figcaption>Senator Rusty Black speaks with KFEQ News Director Brent Martin/ File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Banning foreign ownership of farmland has been a hot button topic in Missouri, and is expected to be one again in the legislature’s upcoming session. Currently, no more than one-percent of Missouri’s agricultural land can be owned by a foreign entity. Chillicothe Senator Rusty Black’s legislation would ban foreign businesses and governments from acquiring ag land in the state.&nbsp;“It goes back to the language that was in state statute before it was changed in 2013 that no foreign entity, person, or business can own farmland within our state to farm," Black tells MissourinetThe idea has been muddied up with different viewpoints of foreign ownership over the years, including attempts to prevent ANY ownership of land across Missouri rather than just agricultural land.Black says that he understands this takes the right to sell to whomever they want away from farmers, BUT.“If you’re a farmland owner then that does cut out somebody that you can sell to, right? So, I do understand that. And that causes, even I have neighbors around me that we discuss it. I’m thinking, their right of way from choosing who they can sell to, but I think, overall, for our state, that this is the direction we need to go," Black says-MissouriNet

Back by popular Republican demand next year: Bills to ban foreign ownership of Missouri farmland

Nonresidents represent three-fourths of 19,467 abortions in Kansas

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Demand for abortion in Kansas skyrocketed by 58% during 2023 in response to near-total bans on the procedure in Missouri and Oklahoma and strict limits in other Midwest states.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment says Kansas documented 7,849 abortions in 2021. The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/06/24/on-dobbs-decision-anniversary-kansas-abortion-rights-supporters-look-to-next-battle/">strike down Roe v. Wade</a>&nbsp;and the 2019 Kansas Supreme Court’s opinion that women had a state constitutional right to terminate a pregnancy were factors in the rise in Kansas abortions to 12,319 in 2022.

Kansas’ total of abortions substantially escalated in 2023 to 19,467, KDHE said, for the 58% uptick compared to 2022.

In 2022, nonresidents received 8,475 abortions. The number of out-of-state patients reached 15,111 in 2023. In terms of Kansas residents, last year’s 4,356 abortions was an increase of 512 from 2022.

“Access to abortion shouldn’t depend on zip codes, but legal battles in states like Arizona mean that access to care is hanging in the balance,” said Trust Women, which operates a clinic in Wichita.

Passage of a Missouri constitutional amendment in November to reestablish reproductive freedom could have an influence on nonresident abortions in Kansas during 2025.

“The courts are thoughtfully reviewing years of complex anti-abortion laws and bans in Missouri,” said Planned Parenthood Great Plains. “While this process takes time, rest assured we are committed to continue fighting for Missourians’ access to their new constitutional right.”

In 2019, the Kansas Supreme Court held the state’s Bill of Rights contained the right to control one’s own body and exercise self-determination. The justices said this fundamental state right included decisions about pregnancy.

Soon after reversal of Roe v. Wade in 2022, Kansas voters overwhelmingly rejected a proposed amendment to the Constitution that would have opened the door to more strict abortion laws.

Danielle Underwood, spokeswoman for Kansas For Life, said the state’s two-year increase in abortions didn’t represent interests of Kansans.

“Anyone who says this is what Kansans voted for is a liar and on the wrong side of history,” Underwood said. “The surge of abortions in Kansas is a heartbreaking reminder of the abortion industry’s relentless targeting of vulnerable women who are no longer protected by enforceable informed consent laws or basic abortion facility inspection and safety standards.”

In 2024, the state Supreme Court struck down anti-abortion statutes, including the ban on a second trimester procedure and laws regulating abortion providers more aggressively than other health professionals. Under current standards, an abortion in Kansas may be performed up to 22 weeks of pregnancy.

In 2024, Nebraska voters inserted a 12-week ban into its state constitution. Iowa enforces a six-week ban. Missouri and Oklahoma have been prohibiting abortion except to protect individuals from life-threatening situations.

Last year, KDHE reported, 69% of Kansas resident abortions occurred prior to nine weeks of gestational age. About 90% were prior to the 13th week, KDHE said. Eighty-five percent of women receiving Kansas abortions last year were unmarried.

KDHE said the abortion ratio of 128 per 1,000 live births for Kansas residents in 2023 was 14.5% higher than the ratio of 111.8 per 1,000 live births in 2022. The ratio had dropped from 151 abortions per 1,000 live births in 2004.

During 2023, Kansas recorded 34,041 live births among residents of the state. The rate per 1,000 people in Kansas was the lowest since state officials began tracking the figure in 1912.

The number of Kansas pregnancies for individuals under 20 years of age in 2023 was 2,041, down 2.6% from 2022. It represented the lowest pregnancy rate for this age group in 20 years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734232610750.png" alt=" The Kansas Department of Health and Environment says the number of abortions performed in Kansas during 2023 climbed to 19,467, which was 58% greater than the 12,319 total in 2022. Three-fourths of last year's abortion patients lived in other states and traveled to Kansas for the procedure. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> The Kansas Department of Health and Environment says the number of abortions performed in Kansas during 2023 climbed to 19,467, which was 58% greater than the 12,319 total in 2022. Three-fourths of last year's abortion patients lived in other states and traveled to Kansas for the procedure. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Nonresidents represent three-fourths of 19,467 abortions in Kansas</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Demand for abortion in Kansas skyrocketed by 58% during 2023 in response to near-total bans on the procedure in Missouri and Oklahoma and strict limits in other Midwest states.The Kansas Department of Health and Environment says Kansas documented 7,849 abortions in 2021. The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/06/24/on-dobbs-decision-anniversary-kansas-abortion-rights-supporters-look-to-next-battle/">strike down Roe v. Wade</a>&nbsp;and the 2019 Kansas Supreme Court’s opinion that women had a state constitutional right to terminate a pregnancy were factors in the rise in Kansas abortions to 12,319 in 2022.Kansas’ total of abortions substantially escalated in 2023 to 19,467, KDHE said, for the 58% uptick compared to 2022.In 2022, nonresidents received 8,475 abortions. The number of out-of-state patients reached 15,111 in 2023. In terms of Kansas residents, last year’s 4,356 abortions was an increase of 512 from 2022.“Access to abortion shouldn’t depend on zip codes, but legal battles in states like Arizona mean that access to care is hanging in the balance,” said Trust Women, which operates a clinic in Wichita.Passage of a Missouri constitutional amendment in November to reestablish reproductive freedom could have an influence on nonresident abortions in Kansas during 2025.“The courts are thoughtfully reviewing years of complex anti-abortion laws and bans in Missouri,” said Planned Parenthood Great Plains. “While this process takes time, rest assured we are committed to continue fighting for Missourians’ access to their new constitutional right.”In 2019, the Kansas Supreme Court held the state’s Bill of Rights contained the right to control one’s own body and exercise self-determination. The justices said this fundamental state right included decisions about pregnancy.Soon after reversal of Roe v. Wade in 2022, Kansas voters overwhelmingly rejected a proposed amendment to the Constitution that would have opened the door to more strict abortion laws.Danielle Underwood, spokeswoman for Kansas For Life, said the state’s two-year increase in abortions didn’t represent interests of Kansans.“Anyone who says this is what Kansans voted for is a liar and on the wrong side of history,” Underwood said. “The surge of abortions in Kansas is a heartbreaking reminder of the abortion industry’s relentless targeting of vulnerable women who are no longer protected by enforceable informed consent laws or basic abortion facility inspection and safety standards.”In 2024, the state Supreme Court struck down anti-abortion statutes, including the ban on a second trimester procedure and laws regulating abortion providers more aggressively than other health professionals. Under current standards, an abortion in Kansas may be performed up to 22 weeks of pregnancy.In 2024, Nebraska voters inserted a 12-week ban into its state constitution. Iowa enforces a six-week ban. Missouri and Oklahoma have been prohibiting abortion except to protect individuals from life-threatening situations.Last year, KDHE reported, 69% of Kansas resident abortions occurred prior to nine weeks of gestational age. About 90% were prior to the 13th week, KDHE said. Eighty-five percent of women receiving Kansas abortions last year were unmarried.KDHE said the abortion ratio of 128 per 1,000 live births for Kansas residents in 2023 was 14.5% higher than the ratio of 111.8 per 1,000 live births in 2022. The ratio had dropped from 151 abortions per 1,000 live births in 2004.During 2023, Kansas recorded 34,041 live births among residents of the state. The rate per 1,000 people in Kansas was the lowest since state officials began tracking the figure in 1912.The number of Kansas pregnancies for individuals under 20 years of age in 2023 was 2,041, down 2.6% from 2022. It represented the lowest pregnancy rate for this age group in 20 years.

Kansas abortions rise 58% in 2023 amid tight restrictions in nearby states

For the second year in a row, the Kansas State women's basketball team overcame a slow first half, to take a win back to Manhattan in the Bill Snyder Women's Basketball Classic, hosted by the St. Joseph Sports Commission, winning 74-48. 

After being outscored 26-25 in the first half, Kansas State ran away with the game in the second half, outscoring the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders 49-22.  

Center Ayoka Lee says in the second half the team played better together 

"Like I think we got it inside a little earlier, so that helped, I think we had a little bit more movement so it was harder for them to get help inside, we were knocking it down so that also makes it hard, you kind of have to pick what you want to guard," Lee tells reporters during the postgame press conference. "So yeah, I thought we just played more cohesively and that helped a lot."

Lee led the Wildcats with 16 points in the win as Kansas State improved to 2-0 in the Bill Snyder Classic.  Forward Temira Poindexter and guard Jaelynn Glynn each scored 15 points.  

Maryville's Serena Sundell said after the game she wishes this event would have happened all four years she's been in Manhattan, but to come back the last two is special 

"I've played so much basketball here, so just to see so many familiar faces in the crowd and being swarmed after the game, you feel like a little celebrity, so it's really cool," Sundell says.  "This is a great event, hopefully next year I can come back and be in the stands cheering on my teammates, but yeah it's a really special moment for someone who's from around this area." 

Sundell scored just five points in the win but tallied 11 assists with no turnovers.

Kansas State head coach Jeff Mittie, a former coach at Missouri Western, applauded St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett Esely for his work putting on this event 

"Brett and his staff do a great job representing St. Joe," Mittie points out.  "And for me, went to school here, played here, started my coaching career here, Shannon and I started our family here, this is always going to be a special place, so we do like coming back, I don't get back enough, but this is a good event and we certainly like it."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734233150922.jpeg" alt="The Kansas State Wildcats and Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders played in the second annual Bill Snyder Women's Basketball Classic at Civic Arena on Saturday/Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas State Wildcats and Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders played in the second annual Bill Snyder Women's Basketball Classic at Civic Arena on Saturday/Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post For the second year in a row, the Kansas State women's basketball team overcame a slow first half, to take a win back to Manhattan in the Bill Snyder Women's Basketball Classic, hosted by the St. Joseph Sports Commission, winning 74-48. After being outscored 26-25 in the first half, Kansas State ran away with the game in the second half, outscoring the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders 49-22. Center Ayoka Lee says in the second half the team played better together "Like I think we got it inside a little earlier, so that helped, I think we had a little bit more movement so it was harder for them to get help inside, we were knocking it down so that also makes it hard, you kind of have to pick what you want to guard," Lee tells reporters during the postgame press conference. "So yeah, I thought we just played more cohesively and that helped a lot."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734233196974.jpeg" alt="Kansas State's Ayoka Lee goes up for a shot that would be called off due to an offensive foul/Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State's Ayoka Lee goes up for a shot that would be called off due to an offensive foul/Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Lee led the Wildcats with 16 points in the win as Kansas State improved to 2-0 in the Bill Snyder Classic. Forward Temira Poindexter and guard Jaelynn Glynn each scored 15 points. Maryville's Serena Sundell said after the game she wishes this event would have happened all four years she's been in Manhattan, but to come back the last two is special "I've played so much basketball here, so just to see so many familiar faces in the crowd and being swarmed after the game, you feel like a little celebrity, so it's really cool," Sundell says. "This is a great event, hopefully next year I can come back and be in the stands cheering on my teammates, but yeah it's a really special moment for someone who's from around this area." Sundell scored just five points in the win but tallied 11 assists with no turnovers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734233266080.jpeg" alt="Kansas State's Serena Sundell, from Maryville, works around Middle Tennesee guard Jalynn Gregory/Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State's Serena Sundell, from Maryville, works around Middle Tennesee guard Jalynn Gregory/Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State head coach Jeff Mittie, a former coach at Missouri Western, applauded St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett Esely for his work putting on this event "Brett and his staff do a great job representing St. Joe," Mittie points out. "And for me, went to school here, played here, started my coaching career here, Shannon and I started our family here, this is always going to be a special place, so we do like coming back, I don't get back enough, but this is a good event and we certainly like it."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734233302257.jpeg" alt="Kansas State head coach Jeff Mittie, an alum and former coach of Missouri Western, coaches up his team during the Bill Snyder Women's Basketball Classic/Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State head coach Jeff Mittie, an alum and former coach of Missouri Western, coaches up his team during the Bill Snyder Women's Basketball Classic/Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State is now 11-1 on the season.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;More photos from the matchup<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fstjoepost%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02JbHDjTmZHyC2PyEJDSBBJgtR51ED8ViGobqPCqX8wqqFmxpiGQssNbhXdX8ETJdCl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="773" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Kansas State takes home win in second annual Bill Snyder Women's Classic

The highly pathogenic avian influenza was detected in a commercial turkey flock in Palo Alto County just days after the bird flu was detected in an egg-laying flock in Sioux County. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship announced only days ago, the fifth detection this year of the H5N1 influenza virus, and Gov. Kim Reynolds extended a disaster proclamation issued for Sioux County on Friday, to include Palo Alto County. 

The department also announced last Monday another case of HPAI was detected in Sioux County, also in a commercial egg-laying flock. The avian flu has also appeared in dairy cattle since spring of this year and has affected nearly 60 humans who have come into contact with those infected animals. The consumption of poultry and egg products does remain safe, according to the department, as is the consumption of pasteurized dairy products. The USDA announced a new mandatory dairy testing program for the avian flu back on December 6.

The highly pathogenic avian influenza was detected in a commercial turkey flock in Palo Alto County just days after the bird flu was detected in an egg-laying flock in Sioux County. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship announced only days ago, the fifth detection this year of the H5N1 influenza virus, and Gov. Kim Reynolds extended a disaster proclamation issued for Sioux County on Friday, to include Palo Alto County. The department also announced last Monday another case of HPAI was detected in Sioux County, also in a commercial egg-laying flock. The avian flu has also appeared in dairy cattle since spring of this year and has affected nearly 60 humans who have come into contact with those infected animals. The consumption of poultry and egg products does remain safe, according to the department, as is the consumption of pasteurized dairy products. The USDA announced a new mandatory dairy testing program for the avian flu back on December 6.

Bird Flu detected in Iowa flock, disaster proclamation extended

Farm labor has been an ongoing issue for the ag industry. With Republicans in control of both the House and Senate beginning January 3rd and President Trump returning to the White House on January 20th, American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says that he’ll be pushing lawmakers on Capitol Hill next year to revise the H-2A Visa program. The H-2A program allows U.S. employers to temporarily hire non-immigrants from different countries for agricultural services throughout the year. 

Farm labor has been an ongoing issue for the ag industry. With Republicans in control of both the House and Senate beginning January 3rd and President Trump returning to the White House on January 20th, American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says that he’ll be pushing lawmakers on Capitol Hill next year to revise the H-2A Visa program. The H-2A program allows U.S. employers to temporarily hire non-immigrants from different countries for agricultural services throughout the year.

Judge blocks rule strengthening protections for temporary farmworkers

(Radio Iowa) - Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird is proposing a constitutional amendment to give judges authority to allow children to provide closed circuit testimony against an alleged abuser. 

It's a response to a recent Iowa Supreme Court ruling that said defendants have the right to confront their accusers in the courtroom. Bird says unless something changes, kids will be too scared to testify and abuse cases will get dropped. 

The case overturned by the court's ruling in June involved two 10-year-olds whose testimony was livestreamed into the courtroom, so they didn't have to directly face their father, who was accused of beating their two year old brother.

(Radio Iowa) - Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird is proposing a constitutional amendment to give judges authority to allow children to provide closed circuit testimony against an alleged abuser. It's a response to a recent Iowa Supreme Court ruling that said defendants have the right to confront their accusers in the courtroom. Bird says unless something changes, kids will be too scared to testify and abuse cases will get dropped. The case overturned by the court's ruling in June involved two 10-year-olds whose testimony was livestreamed into the courtroom, so they didn't have to directly face their father, who was accused of beating their two year old brother.

Iowa A.G. proposes amendment on child testimony in court

This recall involves all Stanley Switchback and Trigger Action stainless steel travel mugs sold in the United States, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The recalled double-walled mugs were sold in a variety of colors including white, black and green, in 12 oz., 16 oz. and 20 oz. sizes with a polypropylene lid. The Stanley logo appears on the front and bottom of the mug. The recalled mugs have one of the following product identification numbers printed on the bottom of the mug.&nbsp;

<a href="https://stanley1913tmrecall.expertinquiry.com/">Click here to&nbsp;</a>get a replacement

These mug's lid threads can shrink when exposed to heat and torque, causing the lid to detach during use, posing a burn hazard.

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled travel mugs and contact Stanley to receive a free replacement lid, including shipping.

Amazon.com, Walmart, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Target and other stores nationwide and online from June 2016 through December 2024 for between $20 and $50, depending on the model.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734095354911.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>This recall involves all Stanley Switchback and Trigger Action stainless steel travel mugs sold in the United States, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.The recalled double-walled mugs were sold in a variety of colors including white, black and green, in 12 oz., 16 oz. and 20 oz. sizes with a polypropylene lid. The Stanley logo appears on the front and bottom of the mug. The recalled mugs have one of the following product identification numbers printed on the bottom of the mug.&nbsp;<a href="https://stanley1913tmrecall.expertinquiry.com/">Click here to&nbsp;</a>get a replacementThese mug's lid threads can shrink when exposed to heat and torque, causing the lid to detach during use, posing a burn hazard.Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled travel mugs and contact Stanley to receive a free replacement lid, including shipping.Amazon.com, Walmart, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Target and other stores nationwide and online from June 2016 through December 2024 for between $20 and $50, depending on the model.

Stanley recalls travel mugs due to possible burn hazard

On Thursday, the FBI and DHS jointly issued a statement on reported drone sightings in New Jersey:

“We have no evidence at this time that the reported drone sightings pose a national security or public safety threat or have a foreign nexus. The FBI, DHS and our federal partners, in close coordination with the New Jersey State Police, continue to deploy personnel and technology to investigate this situation and confirm whether the reported drone flights are actually drones or are instead manned aircraft or otherwise inaccurate sightings.

“Historically, we have experienced cases of mistaken identity, where reported drones are, in fact, manned aircraft or facilities. We are supporting local law enforcement in New Jersey with numerous detection methods but have not corroborated any of the reported visual sightings with electronic detection. To the contrary, upon review of available imagery, it appears that many of the reported sightings are actually manned aircraft, operating lawfully. There are no reported or confirmed drone sightings in any restricted air space. 

“We take seriously the threat that can be posed by unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), which is why law enforcement and other agencies continue to support New Jersey and investigate the reports. To be clear, they have uncovered no such malicious activity or intent at this stage. While there is no known malicious activity occurring in New Jersey, the reported sightings there do, however, highlight the insufficiency of&nbsp;current authorities."

On Thursday, the FBI and DHS jointly issued a statement on reported drone sightings in New Jersey:“We have no evidence at this time that the reported drone sightings pose a national security or public safety threat or have a foreign nexus. The FBI, DHS and our federal partners, in close coordination with the New Jersey State Police, continue to deploy personnel and technology to investigate this situation and confirm whether the reported drone flights are actually drones or are instead manned aircraft or otherwise inaccurate sightings.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">John Kirby on drone activity in and around New Jersey: &quot;We have no evidence at this time that the reported drone sightings pose a national security or a public safety threat or have a foreign nexus... We have not been able to...corroborate any of the reported visual sightings.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/xfxFaJQUaN">pic.twitter.com/xfxFaJQUaN</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1867283595619930459?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“Historically, we have experienced cases of mistaken identity, where reported drones are, in fact, manned aircraft or facilities. We are supporting local law enforcement in New Jersey with numerous detection methods but have not corroborated any of the reported visual sightings with electronic detection. To the contrary, upon review of available imagery, it appears that many of the reported sightings are actually manned aircraft, operating lawfully. There are no reported or confirmed drone sightings in any restricted air space. “We take seriously the threat that can be posed by unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), which is why law enforcement and other agencies continue to support New Jersey and investigate the reports. To be clear, they have uncovered no such malicious activity or intent at this stage. While there is no known malicious activity occurring in New Jersey, the reported sightings there do, however, highlight the insufficiency of&nbsp;current authorities."

🎥FBI and DHS issue statement on reported drone sightings

That's a saying that rings true as former quarterback John McMenamin has officially been named the 21st head coach of the Northwest Missouri State University football program. 

Not many coaches get the chance to come back and coach at their alma mater, and McMenamin says the opportunity still hasn't fully sunk in. 

"I talk to Andy (Peterson) and I'm like can you believe this, or my buddies they'll text and say holy moly congrats, can't wait to get going, and can you believe this, and that's neat but then it's also what drives you," McMenamin tells reporters following his introductory press conference.  "You're never going to let someone down for taking a chance on you and jumping in, so I'm over the moon excited." 

McMenamin played quarterback in Maryville from 1998 to 2002, helping the Bearcats to two national championships and four MIAA championships.  

McMenamin also played under legendary Northwest coach Mel Tjeerdsma.  He says still to this day he looks to Tjeerdsma for advice 

"Called him every year and talked, if i needed a coaching question, because my father wasn't around, I would call him, and he would give you advice one way or another," McMenamin says.  "And so, when we got this job, he was the first person to call and he was over the moon excited for me, and that just means the world, and so I'll still be calling him." 

"He said he might have to start charging me for some of this advice, that's why I tried to get the budget increased, so they could pay Coach Tjeerdsma for his advice."

McMenamin has had several coaching stops along the way, including Nebraska-Omaha, Central Missouri, Wayne State College, and most notably division one Tulane.  

McMenamin says the kind of football team that Northwest fans will get to see from him is a team that's fast, physical, and relentless 

"We'll play fast, we will be very, very physical, and we won't quit, we might not be very good at some point, but we will not quit" McMenamin explains.  "And so that is the way that team will play from start to finish, that's the way we'll practice, that's the way we'll lift in the weight room, we've got to start practicing how we do it, but that's what they'll be and they'll have the biggest cheerleader behind them in me." 

McMenamin's last head coaching job was at Wayne State College in 2021, where he led the team to its first seven-win season in 11 years, going 7-4. 

During his time at Tulane as co-offensive coordinator, he helped orchestrate the biggest single season turnaround, the Green Wave going from 2-10 to 10-2 with a Cotton Bowl victory over USC. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734051594834.jpeg" alt="John McMenamin was introduced today during a press conference as the 21st head football coach in Northwest Missouri State history/ Photo courtesy of Northwest Athletics" />
 <figcaption>John McMenamin was introduced today during a press conference as the 21st head football coach in Northwest Missouri State history/ Photo courtesy of Northwest Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post Once a Bearcat, always a Bearcat. That's a saying that rings true as former quarterback John McMenamin has officially been named the 21st head coach of the Northwest Missouri State University football program. Not many coaches get the chance to come back and coach at their alma mater, and McMenamin says the opportunity still hasn't fully sunk in. "I talk to Andy (Peterson) and I'm like can you believe this, or my buddies they'll text and say holy moly congrats, can't wait to get going, and can you believe this, and that's neat but then it's also what drives you," McMenamin tells reporters following his introductory press conference. "You're never going to let someone down for taking a chance on you and jumping in, so I'm over the moon excited." McMenamin played quarterback in Maryville from 1998 to 2002, helping the Bearcats to two national championships and four MIAA championships. McMenamin also played under legendary Northwest coach Mel Tjeerdsma. He says still to this day he looks to Tjeerdsma for advice "Called him every year and talked, if i needed a coaching question, because my father wasn't around, I would call him, and he would give you advice one way or another," McMenamin says. "And so, when we got this job, he was the first person to call and he was over the moon excited for me, and that just means the world, and so I'll still be calling him." "He said he might have to start charging me for some of this advice, that's why I tried to get the budget increased, so they could pay Coach Tjeerdsma for his advice."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734051714275.jpeg" alt="John McMenamin/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>John McMenamin/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>McMenamin has had several coaching stops along the way, including Nebraska-Omaha, Central Missouri, Wayne State College, and most notably division one Tulane. McMenamin says the kind of football team that Northwest fans will get to see from him is a team that's fast, physical, and relentless "We'll play fast, we will be very, very physical, and we won't quit, we might not be very good at some point, but we will not quit" McMenamin explains. "And so that is the way that team will play from start to finish, that's the way we'll practice, that's the way we'll lift in the weight room, we've got to start practicing how we do it, but that's what they'll be and they'll have the biggest cheerleader behind them in me." McMenamin's last head coaching job was at Wayne State College in 2021, where he led the team to its first seven-win season in 11 years, going 7-4. During his time at Tulane as co-offensive coordinator, he helped orchestrate the biggest single season turnaround, the Green Wave going from 2-10 to 10-2 with a Cotton Bowl victory over USC. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734051771331.jpeg" alt="John McMenamin hugs Northwest athletic director Andy Peterson before taking the podium as Northwest President Lance Tatum looks on/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>John McMenamin hugs Northwest athletic director Andy Peterson before taking the podium as Northwest President Lance Tatum looks on/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

New NWMSU football coach John McMenamin promises fast, physical playstyle

On Thursday President Joseph R. Biden granted clemency consisting of 39 pardons and 1,499 commutations.&nbsp;It's the largest single-day act of clemency in modern history.

<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/12/12/clemency-recipient-list-7/">Click here to read the list</a>&nbsp; of 1,499&nbsp; commutations.

The list of the 39 individuals pardoned is below.

Nina Simona Allen is a 49-year-old woman who was convicted of a non-violent offense in her 20s. In the years since, Ms. Allen returned to school to earn a post-baccalaureate degree and two master’s degrees. She now works in the field of education. Ms. Allen strengthens her community by volunteering at a local soup kitchen and at a nursing home. Ms. Allen is described by people who know her as a dependable, hardworking woman of integrity.

KELSIE LYNN BECKLIN – Falcon Heights, Minnesota

Kelsie Lynn Becklin is a 38-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense at the age of 21. After successfully serving her sentence, Ms. Becklin has furthered her education and recently completed a Ph.D. program. In addition to her graduate program research and academic writing, Ms. Becklin mentors previously incarcerated individuals who also seek to pursue higher education. She is also an active volunteer in her community. Friends and professors attest to her work ethic, dedication, and genuine care for others.

Duran Arthur Brown is a 44-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense. Mr. Brown received early termination of his probationary sentence and has advanced his education and maintained consistent employment in the field of education. Mr. Brown is also a veteran of the U.S. Navy, and during his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and several other medals and awards. Following his honorable discharge, Mr. Brown served in the U.S. Navy Reserve. He is described by colleagues as caring and compassionate.

Norman O’Neal Brown is a 56-year-old man who was convicted of non-violent drug offenses when he was 22 years old. If Mr. Brown had been sentenced under current law and today’s sentencing practices, he likely would have received a shorter sentence. After serving over 20 years in prison, President Obama commuted his sentence in 2015. Since then, Mr. Brown has worked with several non-profit organizations, including those focused on rehabilitation, reentry, and justice-impacted youth. Mr. Brown volunteers at several national and community-based organizations that help support incarcerated and formerly-incarcerated people and serves as a board member for a non-profit dedicated to sentencing reform. Family members and colleagues describe Mr. Brown as a man of grace and integrity and an exceptional human being.

ARTHUR LAWRENCE BYRD – Clinton, Maryland

Arthur Lawrence Byrd is a 58-year-old man who pleaded guilty to non-violent offenses at the age of 23. In the years since, Mr. Byrd has been employed as an equipment operator, where he has received various certificates in recognition and appreciation for his work and safety record. He is also active in his church community and contributes to the church’s coat drive and food pantry. People who know him attest to his willingness to help others, his work ethic, and his character.

SARAH JEAN CARLSON – Coon Rapids, Minnesota

Sarah Jean Carlson is a 49-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense. She received early termination of her probationary sentence. Since then, she has furthered her education and worked in addiction counseling at a faith-based rehabilitation center. Ms. Carlson also volunteers in her local community and at her church. Community members emphasize that Ms. Carlson goes above and beyond to help as many people in crisis as possible.

BRANDON SERGIO CASTROFLAY – Alexandria, Virginia

Brandon Sergio Castroflay is a 49-year-old man who pleaded guilty to non-violent, drug-related offenses at age 21. After successfully completing his sentence, Mr. Castroflay continued his career in the U.S. Army and then went on to work as a civilian for both the U.S. Army and the U.S. Air Force. Mr. Castroflay received multiple awards related to his work. He also took night classes to earn a bachelor’s degree while also working full-time. Mr. Castroflay volunteers for several charitable organizations that support Gold Star families and wounded service members. Mr. Castroflay has been described as exceptionally hard working, dedicated, and trustworthy by those who know him.

ROSETTA JEAN DAVIS – Colville, Washington

Rosetta Jean Davis is a 60-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to non-violent drug offenses. After successfully serving her sentence, Ms. Davis has maintained steady employment, including by working as a peer supporter for those struggling with substance abuse. Colleagues, family, friends, and neighbors all speak highly of her, citing her hard work, dependability, and willingness to serve as an example of rehabilitation to those with criminal records or who are battling addiction.

Stevoni Wells Doyle is a 47-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to non-violent offenses at the age of 24. After her conviction, she completed a master’s program and has worked as a licensed substance use disorder counselor. She volunteers in her community and fosters animals. Community members describe her as a great mentor and a person of integrity.

GREGORY S. EKMAN – Fountain Valley, California

Gregory S. Ekman is a 58-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent drug offense at the age of 25. After successfully serving his sentence, Mr. Ekman has maintained consistent employment and has engaged in extensive community service, including with a youth group and with his local church. Friends and associates uniformly praise his character, honesty, and dedication to family. During his U.S. Air Force service, Mr. Ekman received the Training Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, and Air Force Longevity Service Award.

SHANNAN RAE FAULKNER – Muldrow, Oklahoma

Shannan Rae Faulkner is a 56-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent drug offense. After successfully serving her sentence, she furthered her education and now works as a counselor and recovery coach with female trauma victims and people with disabilities. Ms. Faulkner also volunteers with organizations dedicated to preventing sexual assault and domestic violence, as well as with local charities. Colleagues attest to her inspirational character, her integrity, and the remarkable impact she makes on the lives of those she helps.

TRYNITHA FULTON – New Orleans, Louisiana

Trynitha Fulton is a 46-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to non-violent offenses she committed when she was 23 years old. Since her conviction, she has earned a master’s degree and worked in the education field. Ms. Fulton also contributes to her community by coaching and volunteering, including for an organization that feeds homeless individuals. She also founded two non-profits dedicated to supporting and helping youth. Ms. Fulton has been described as someone who goes above and beyond for her community.

PAUL JOHN GARCIA – Las Vegas, New Mexico

Paul John Garcia is a 72-year-old man who pleaded guilty to non-violent theft offenses. Since his conviction, he has maintained steady employment in the medical field. Mr. Garcia engages in community service, including with a charity supporting and mentoring youth. Mr. Garcia is a veteran who served in the U.S. Navy, where he received the National Defense Service Medal and other medals and awards. He is known for his extraordinary and compassionate delivery of patient care and his volunteerism.

Kim Douglas Haman is a 75-year-old man who pleaded guilty to non-violent offenses. Mr. Haman is also a veteran of the U.S. Army, where he served in the Vietnam War and earned awards, including the U.S. Army Commendation Medal and the Bronze Star. He was honorably discharged. After his conviction, Mr. Haman worked at a vehicle parts production facility and retired after 16 years of service. Mr. Haman has gained the reputation of being an excellent handyman and a devoted family man who is sincere, honest, and hardworking.

SHERRANDA JANELL HARRIS – Norwalk, Connecticut

Sherranda Janell Harris is a 43-year-old woman who was convicted of a non-violent drug offense when she was 24 years old. In the years since, Ms. Harris has maintained employment in the finance and real estate fields. Ms. Harris is an engaged parent and spends most of her free time with her child. She is also committed to her church and has taken care of fellow parishioners. Ms. Harris has been described as a role model for young women in her community.

TERENCE ANTHONY JACKSON – Seattle, Washington

Terence Anthony Jackson is a 36-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent drug offense he committed when he was 23 years old. If Mr. Jackson had been sentenced under current law and sentencing practices, he would have likely received a shorter sentence. In the years since his release, Mr. Jackson has worked in the legal industry and is pursuing a degree while he works full-time. In addition to studying, Mr. Jackson has volunteered in his community, including as a barber to children in need. He is described by those who know him as dependable and caring and as someone who always tries to help others.

Edwin Allen Jones is a 60-year-old man who pleaded guilty to non-violent drug offenses. Mr. Jones served in the U.S. Army and achieved the rank of Captain before being honorably discharged. Since successfully completing his sentence, Mr. Jones has had a notable legal career. Mr. Jones also participates in local government and volunteers for addiction recovery groups. Mr. Jones is described by community members as thoughtful, forward thinking, and trustworthy.

JAMAL LEE KING – North Ridgeville, Ohio

Jamal Lee King is a 53-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense. Mr. King is a U.S. Army veteran. He received the National Defense Service Medal and several other awards before being honorably discharged. He received early termination of his probationary sentence and has since worked in various jobs. Mr. King contributes to his community through his church and by caring for his elderly neighbors. His community members describe him as trustworthy and honest.

JERRY DONALD MANNING – Sun Prairie, Wisconsin

Jerry Donald Manning is a 70-year-old man who was convicted of non-violent offenses. Mr. Manning received early termination of his probationary sentence and has since advanced his education and career in aviation. He is active in his community, coaching soccer, attending church, and serving as a bible study teacher. Mr. Manning is a veteran of the U.S. Army. While in service, he was awarded a medal during Operation Desert Storm, and was honorably discharged. Friends and colleagues attest to his character, describing him as a good, honest man and a great leader.

HONI LORI MOORE – Rock Springs, Wyoming

Honi Lori Moore is a 46-year-old woman who committed a non-violent drug offense when she was 19 years old. Since her release, she has maintained consistent employment in the mining industry and has furthered her education by earning certificates. Ms. Moore is a member of two charitable organizations and has provided critical support to individuals in need, including fire safety, rescue, and first aid. Friends, neighbors, and colleagues describe Ms. Moore as honest, courageous, trustworthy, and dependable.

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