(Radio Iowa) - The Iowa Food System Coalition wants to make locally-produced food the norm, not the exception, and is releasing a 250-page plan to get there in a decade. 

One priority is to make it easier to get food from the farm to the table, by supporting more local and regional infrastructure, like small-scale processing for specialty crops, grains, dairy and livestock. Coalition executive director Chris Schwartz says more than 40 partners across Iowa helped shape the plan. Schwartz says the plan aims to make Iowa's food system more nutritious and more environmentally sustainable. 

Strategies include improving farmers’ access to land and expanding incentives to adopt practices that protect Iowa’s soil, water and air. The coalition also wants to invest in more refrigerated trucks and food hubs, which aggregate and distribute local products.

(Radio Iowa) - The Iowa Food System Coalition wants to make locally-produced food the norm, not the exception, and is releasing a 250-page plan to get there in a decade. One priority is to make it easier to get food from the farm to the table, by supporting more local and regional infrastructure, like small-scale processing for specialty crops, grains, dairy and livestock. Coalition executive director Chris Schwartz says more than 40 partners across Iowa helped shape the plan. Schwartz says the plan aims to make Iowa's food system more nutritious and more environmentally sustainable. Strategies include improving farmers’ access to land and expanding incentives to adopt practices that protect Iowa’s soil, water and air. The coalition also wants to invest in more refrigerated trucks and food hubs, which aggregate and distribute local products.

Plan unveiled to make Iowa's food system more local and sustainable

Max’s Law has been signed by Governor Mike Parson, successfully
ending a three-year effort to honor St. Joseph’s K-9 Max, shot and killed in
the summer of 2021.

Max’ Law increases the penalty for killing a police dog or any
police animal.

St. Joseph Police Chief Paul Luster attended the bill signing
ceremony this morning in Jefferson City and says the change is needed.

“It’s important to know that those dogs are part of the police
family and they serve a very purposeful and useful function in policing,”
Luster tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “And to have a law in effect that will properly
hold those accountable that have a desire to hurt one of those animals is very
important to our community and to our profession.”

Luster says even with his years in police work, he didn’t
realize how light the penalty was for killing a police dog.

“I had no idea that it was just treated like a property crime,”
Luster says. “They spoke this morning that there was a higher penalty for
breaking a window of a police car than there was for killing a police dog. That’s
just not acceptable given the importance of what those K-9 officers do for us.
I was very surprised to learn that and very satisfied to know that we’ll have
the proper legislation in effect now.”

K-9 Max was shot and killed chasing a suspect on June 30th of 2021.

Several police dogs and their handlers attended the bill
signing ceremony in the governor’s office. K-9 Max’s handler, Officer Lucas
Winder, attended as well.

In all, Luster says it was an emotional day.

“It was kind of overwhelming there being in the governor’s
office and having Gov. Parson sign into law Max’s Law named after our K-9 there
in St. Joe,” Luster says. “To have his handler, Officer Winder, there as well was
a pretty overwhelming experience.”

State Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer, a Republican from Parkville,
sponsored the legislation. Luetkemeyer first carried the legislature the year
after K-9 Max was shot and killed. That legislation couldn’t overcome a
filibuster mounted on the last day of the legislative session. Last year, Gov.
Parson vetoed the anti-crime bill that contained Max’s Law, objecting to an
unrelated provision in the bill. Luetkemeyer removed that provision in the bill
this year.

The bill goes into effect on August 28th.

Click <a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/24info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=438">HERE</a> for the text to Senate Bill 754.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720548766586.jpeg" alt="Gov. Mike Parson signs the anti-crime bill containing Max's Law. Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer is to Parson's left along with K-9 Max's handler, St. Joseph Police Officer Lucas Winder. St. Joseph Police Chief Paul Luster is in the back./Photo by Alisa Nelson, Missourinet" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Mike Parson signs the anti-crime bill containing Max's Law. Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer is to Parson's left along with K-9 Max's handler, St. Joseph Police Officer Lucas Winder. St. Joseph Police Chief Paul Luster is in the back./Photo by Alisa Nelson, Missourinet</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMax’s Law has been signed by Governor Mike Parson, successfully
ending a three-year effort to honor St. Joseph’s K-9 Max, shot and killed in
the summer of 2021.Max’ Law increases the penalty for killing a police dog or any
police animal.St. Joseph Police Chief Paul Luster attended the bill signing
ceremony this morning in Jefferson City and says the change is needed.“It’s important to know that those dogs are part of the police
family and they serve a very purposeful and useful function in policing,”
Luster tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “And to have a law in effect that will properly
hold those accountable that have a desire to hurt one of those animals is very
important to our community and to our profession.”Luster says even with his years in police work, he didn’t
realize how light the penalty was for killing a police dog.“I had no idea that it was just treated like a property crime,”
Luster says. “They spoke this morning that there was a higher penalty for
breaking a window of a police car than there was for killing a police dog. That’s
just not acceptable given the importance of what those K-9 officers do for us.
I was very surprised to learn that and very satisfied to know that we’ll have
the proper legislation in effect now.”K-9 Max was shot and killed chasing a suspect on June 30th of 2021.Several police dogs and their handlers attended the bill
signing ceremony in the governor’s office. K-9 Max’s handler, Officer Lucas
Winder, attended as well.In all, Luster says it was an emotional day.“It was kind of overwhelming there being in the governor’s
office and having Gov. Parson sign into law Max’s Law named after our K-9 there
in St. Joe,” Luster says. “To have his handler, Officer Winder, there as well was
a pretty overwhelming experience.”State Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer, a Republican from Parkville,
sponsored the legislation. Luetkemeyer first carried the legislature the year
after K-9 Max was shot and killed. That legislation couldn’t overcome a
filibuster mounted on the last day of the legislative session. Last year, Gov.
Parson vetoed the anti-crime bill that contained Max’s Law, objecting to an
unrelated provision in the bill. Luetkemeyer removed that provision in the bill
this year.The bill goes into effect on August 28th.Click <a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/24info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=438">HERE</a> for the text to Senate Bill 754.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720549178344.jpeg" alt="K-9 Max/file photo" />
 <figcaption>K-9 Max/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Three years in the making:  Max's Law signed into law by Gov. Parson

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden's performance during the debate last month&nbsp;raised concerns&nbsp;about his age and health. Late Monday, the White House released a letter from President Biden’s doctor, Dr. Kevin O’Connor on the multiple visits to the White House by Dr. Kevin Cannard, who is an expert on Parkinson’s.

The letter from the doctor came hours after White House press secretary had no answers about why the neurologist has visited numerous times over the past year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720133821321.png" alt="White House file photo" />
 <figcaption>White House file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden's performance during the debate last month&nbsp;raised concerns&nbsp;about his age and health. Late Monday, the White House released a letter from President Biden’s doctor, Dr. Kevin O’Connor on the multiple visits to the White House by Dr. Kevin Cannard, who is an expert on Parkinson’s.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720526697169.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720526734368.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/PressSec?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PressSec</a> Karine Jean-Pierre to <a href="https://twitter.com/edokeefe?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@edokeefe</a>: &quot;It doesn&#39;t matter how hard you push me. It doesn&#39;t matter how angry you get with me. I&#39;m not going to confirm a name...What I can say share with you is that the president has seen a neurologist for his physical three times.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/oZQjMiIOPv">pic.twitter.com/oZQjMiIOPv</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1810397009150619756?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The letter from the doctor came hours after White House press secretary had no answers about why the neurologist has visited numerous times over the past year.

Read new note from President Biden's doctor explaining neurologist's visits

MILWAUKEE —The Trump campaign and Republican National Committee announced the program themes for next week's GOP convention in Milwaukee and released their 2024 Platform.

<a href="https://cdn.nucleusfiles.com/be/beb1a388-1d88-4389-a67d-c1e2d7f8bedf/2024-gop-platform-july-7-final.pdf?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=ncl_amplify&amp;utm_campaign=240708-2024_gop_platform_make_america_great_again&amp;utm_content=ncl-4NsN8UE5x2&amp;_nlid=4NsN8UE5x2&amp;_nhids=Nog6f1V6">Click here to read</a>&nbsp;the full 16-page platform document

The points of the platform are listed below

&nbsp;The platform will be voted on in full at the GOP convention next week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718556066582.png" alt="File photo -Former President Trump during a campaign stop last month -photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>File photo -Former President Trump during a campaign stop last month -photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>MILWAUKEE —The Trump campaign and Republican National Committee announced the program themes for next week's GOP convention in Milwaukee and released their 2024 Platform.<a href="https://cdn.nucleusfiles.com/be/beb1a388-1d88-4389-a67d-c1e2d7f8bedf/2024-gop-platform-july-7-final.pdf?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=ncl_amplify&amp;utm_campaign=240708-2024_gop_platform_make_america_great_again&amp;utm_content=ncl-4NsN8UE5x2&amp;_nlid=4NsN8UE5x2&amp;_nhids=Nog6f1V6">Click here to read</a>&nbsp;the full 16-page platform document<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720521521992.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The points of the platform are listed below<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720484913719.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;The platform will be voted on in full at the GOP convention next week.

Read the Trump inspired Republican Party 2024 platform document

KANSAS CITY—An Amtrak train struck a tree Monday afternoon near Washington, Missouri.

According to a statement from the rail service, "Just before 5p.m. Monday, Amtrak Train 319 made contact with a tree on the tracks east of Washington, Missouri. There were no injuries to the 124 passengers and five crew members aboard the train made up of one locomotive and seven railcars, but rear axle of the locomotive lost contact with the tracks."

Power has since been restored to the train and Amtrak is making arrangements to transport passengers on to their destinations."

As of 6:25 p.m. and due to ongoing delays, Amtrak canceled Train 319 and made other arrangements to transported passengers. Washington, Missouri is three hours east of Kansas City.

KANSAS CITY—An Amtrak train struck a tree Monday afternoon near Washington, Missouri.According to a statement from the rail service, "Just before 5p.m. Monday, Amtrak Train 319 made contact with a tree on the tracks east of Washington, Missouri. There were no injuries to the 124 passengers and five crew members aboard the train made up of one locomotive and seven railcars, but rear axle of the locomotive lost contact with the tracks."Power has since been restored to the train and Amtrak is making arrangements to transport passengers on to their destinations."As of 6:25 p.m. and due to ongoing delays, Amtrak canceled Train 319 and made other arrangements to transported passengers. Washington, Missouri is three hours east of Kansas City.

Amtrak train derails in Missouri after striking a tree

JOHNSON COUNTY —A Kansas man accused in the death of his mother at her home in Olathe has been charged for the crime.

Last week, 40-year-old Brian Christopher Thode was charged with first degree murder and cruelty to animals, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's office. The charges are in connection with the June 29, death of 72-year-old Nancy Thode.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Just before 6 p.m. June 29, police were dispatched to the 1000 block of East Oakview Street in Olathe for a death investigation, according to&nbsp;Police Sergeant John Moncayo.

Officers arrived and discovered Nancy Thode unresponsive with significant injuries. She was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Brian Thode also “unlawfully, knowingly, maliciously and feloniously” killed a cat and a bird, according to a charging document in the case. Thode remains jailed on a $3,000,000.00 bond. He is due back in court July 17, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720003596616.png" alt="Thode-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Thode-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —A Kansas man accused in the death of his mother at her home in Olathe has been charged for the crime.Last week, 40-year-old Brian Christopher Thode was charged with first degree murder and cruelty to animals, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's office. The charges are in connection with the June 29, death of 72-year-old Nancy Thode.&nbsp;&nbsp;Just before 6 p.m. June 29, police were dispatched to the 1000 block of East Oakview Street in Olathe for a death investigation, according to&nbsp;Police Sergeant John Moncayo.Officers arrived and discovered Nancy Thode unresponsive with significant injuries. She was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;Brian Thode also “unlawfully, knowingly, maliciously and feloniously” killed a cat and a bird, according to a charging document in the case. Thode remains jailed on a $3,000,000.00 bond. He is due back in court July 17, according to online jail records.

Kan. man charged with his mother's murder, animal cruelty

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan.—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.

Just after 9:30p.m. July 3, a Sheriff’s Deputy stopped a vehicle on 150th near U.S. Highway 75 for a traffic infraction, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

The driver Kathy Lynn Jauch, 56, of Golden, Colorado, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on a requested charge of possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720316459572.png" alt="Jauch photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Jauch photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY, Kan.—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.Just after 9:30p.m. July 3, a Sheriff’s Deputy stopped a vehicle on 150th near U.S. Highway 75 for a traffic infraction, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.The driver Kathy Lynn Jauch, 56, of Golden, Colorado, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on a requested charge of possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sheriff: Colo. woman was transporting meth in Kansas

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jacob-fischler/">JACOB FISCHLER</a>

President Joe Biden pledged Monday to stay in his race for reelection, even after a weekend in which a growing number of Democrats asked for him to withdraw and a key U.S. House Republican called for an investigation into the president’s doctor.

In&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/24794331-bidenletterjuly8" target="_blank">a letter</a>&nbsp;to congressional Democrats, Biden argued that the calls for him to drop out of the presidential race — with just 119 days until Election Day — ignored the results of Democratic primaries and caucuses that he handily won and said he remained the best candidate to defeat former President Donald Trump.

The two-page letter ended with a call for party unity and an end to the public back-and-forth among Democrats over whether Biden should leave the race, after a June 27 debate performance that shook some high-ranking Democrats’ confidence in his ability to overcome his polling deficit against Trump.

“The question of how to move forward has been well-aired for over a week now,” Biden wrote. “And it’s time for it to end. We have one job. And that is to beat Donald Trump.”

Congress returns Monday from a weeklong July Fourth recess after several days in which members of both parties continued to press the issue of Biden’s fitness for office.

Republicans also began pressing for more details. House Oversight and Accountability Chair James Comer&nbsp;<a href="https://oversight.house.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Letter-to-OConnor-070724.pdf" target="_blank">on Sunday called</a>&nbsp;for Biden’s physician, Dr. Kevin O’Connor, to submit to a transcribed interview about his assessments of Biden and O’Connor’s business dealings with James Biden, the president’s brother.

The Kentucky Republican said Biden and the White House had sent mixed messages about recent medical examinations of the president.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters last week that Biden had not been examined by a doctor since his regular checkup in February.

But Biden told a group of Democratic governors the same day that he was “checked out by a doctor” following the debate, Comer wrote.

Following the debate, Biden, attempting to explain a low, raspy voice, said he’d had a cold.

Comer also questioned if O’Connor could accurately report Biden’s health, or if he was compromised by a conflict of interest because of his involvement with James Biden’s rural health care company, Americore. James Biden has testified to the committee that he sought O’Connor’s counsel for the business.

The White House did not respond to a message seeking comment about Comer’s request.

The holiday weekend also saw more U.S. House Democrats join a list of those asking Biden to step aside rather than seek reelection.

In&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/AngieCraigMN/status/1809577054062432688" target="_blank">a written statement</a>&nbsp;on Saturday, Minnesota’s Angie Craig became the first member from a competitive district to call on the president to quit the race. Craig is the fifth member to publicly call for the president’s withdrawal.

Additional members are making private calls, according to media reports.

Four Democrats who lead House committees — Jerry Nadler of New York on the Judiciary Committee, Adam Smith of Washington on the Armed Services Committee, Mark Takano of California on the Veterans’ Affairs Committee and Joe Morelle of New York on the House Administration Committee — said during a caucus leadership call on Sunday that Biden should withdraw,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2024/07/07/jerry-nadler-adam-smith-congress-biden-00166733" target="_blank">according to reports</a>.

Other&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/07/politics/house-democrats-biden-out/index.html" target="_blank">accounts reported</a>&nbsp;more members on the call, including Susan Wild of Pennsylvania and Jim Himes of Connecticut, also opposed Biden’s continued candidacy. Wild&nbsp;<a href="https://penncapital-star.com/briefs/susan-wild-pennsylvania-expressed-concern-biden-electability-during-call-house-democrats/" target="_blank">later told</a>&nbsp;the Pennsylvania Capital-Star she expressed concerns about Biden’s electability.

In an impromptu call in to the MSNBC show “Morning Joe” on Monday, Biden insisted again he was staying in the race and called for any opponents he had to “challenge” him at the party’s convention in Chicago next month.

Biden, who has secured enough pledged delegates through primary and caucus wins to clinch the nomination, would be heavily favored in a contested convention.&nbsp;<a href="https://democrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2024-Call-for-Convention.pdf" target="_blank">Democratic Party rules</a>&nbsp;mandate pledged delegates “shall in all good conscience reflect the sentiments of those who elected them,” but are not legally required to cast their convention vote for their pledged candidate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720316947280.png" alt="President Joe Biden raises the hand of Vice President Kamala Harris as they view the Independence Day firework display over the National Mall from the balcony of the White House -image from White House video" />
 <figcaption>President Joe Biden raises the hand of Vice President Kamala Harris as they view the Independence Day firework display over the National Mall from the balcony of the White House -image from White House video</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jacob-fischler/">JACOB FISCHLER</a>President Joe Biden pledged Monday to stay in his race for reelection, even after a weekend in which a growing number of Democrats asked for him to withdraw and a key U.S. House Republican called for an investigation into the president’s doctor.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This morning, I sent a letter to my fellow Democrats on Capitol Hill. In it, I shared my thoughts about this moment in our campaign. It’s time to come together, move forward as a unified party, and defeat Donald Trump. <a href="https://t.co/ABtAaJrr0n">pic.twitter.com/ABtAaJrr0n</a>&mdash; Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1810301614965604827?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>In&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/24794331-bidenletterjuly8" target="_blank">a letter</a>&nbsp;to congressional Democrats, Biden argued that the calls for him to drop out of the presidential race — with just 119 days until Election Day — ignored the results of Democratic primaries and caucuses that he handily won and said he remained the best candidate to defeat former President Donald Trump.The two-page letter ended with a call for party unity and an end to the public back-and-forth among Democrats over whether Biden should leave the race, after a June 27 debate performance that shook some high-ranking Democrats’ confidence in his ability to overcome his polling deficit against Trump.“The question of how to move forward has been well-aired for over a week now,” Biden wrote. “And it’s time for it to end. We have one job. And that is to beat Donald Trump.”<h2>Comer seeks interview with Biden doctor</h2>Congress returns Monday from a weeklong July Fourth recess after several days in which members of both parties continued to press the issue of Biden’s fitness for office.Republicans also began pressing for more details. House Oversight and Accountability Chair James Comer&nbsp;<a href="https://oversight.house.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Letter-to-OConnor-070724.pdf" target="_blank">on Sunday called</a>&nbsp;for Biden’s physician, Dr. Kevin O’Connor, to submit to a transcribed interview about his assessments of Biden and O’Connor’s business dealings with James Biden, the president’s brother.The Kentucky Republican said Biden and the White House had sent mixed messages about recent medical examinations of the president.White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters last week that Biden had not been examined by a doctor since his regular checkup in February.But Biden told a group of Democratic governors the same day that he was “checked out by a doctor” following the debate, Comer wrote.Following the debate, Biden, attempting to explain a low, raspy voice, said he’d had a cold.Comer also questioned if O’Connor could accurately report Biden’s health, or if he was compromised by a conflict of interest because of his involvement with James Biden’s rural health care company, Americore. James Biden has testified to the committee that he sought O’Connor’s counsel for the business.The White House did not respond to a message seeking comment about Comer’s request.<h2>More Democrats call for withdrawal</h2>The holiday weekend also saw more U.S. House Democrats join a list of those asking Biden to step aside rather than seek reelection.In&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/AngieCraigMN/status/1809577054062432688" target="_blank">a written statement</a>&nbsp;on Saturday, Minnesota’s Angie Craig became the first member from a competitive district to call on the president to quit the race. Craig is the fifth member to publicly call for the president’s withdrawal.Additional members are making private calls, according to media reports.Four Democrats who lead House committees — Jerry Nadler of New York on the Judiciary Committee, Adam Smith of Washington on the Armed Services Committee, Mark Takano of California on the Veterans’ Affairs Committee and Joe Morelle of New York on the House Administration Committee — said during a caucus leadership call on Sunday that Biden should withdraw,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2024/07/07/jerry-nadler-adam-smith-congress-biden-00166733" target="_blank">according to reports</a>.Other&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/07/politics/house-democrats-biden-out/index.html" target="_blank">accounts reported</a>&nbsp;more members on the call, including Susan Wild of Pennsylvania and Jim Himes of Connecticut, also opposed Biden’s continued candidacy. Wild&nbsp;<a href="https://penncapital-star.com/briefs/susan-wild-pennsylvania-expressed-concern-biden-electability-during-call-house-democrats/" target="_blank">later told</a>&nbsp;the Pennsylvania Capital-Star she expressed concerns about Biden’s electability.In an impromptu call in to the MSNBC show “Morning Joe” on Monday, Biden insisted again he was staying in the race and called for any opponents he had to “challenge” him at the party’s convention in Chicago next month.Biden, who has secured enough pledged delegates through primary and caucus wins to clinch the nomination, would be heavily favored in a contested convention.&nbsp;<a href="https://democrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2024-Call-for-Convention.pdf" target="_blank">Democratic Party rules</a>&nbsp;mandate pledged delegates “shall in all good conscience reflect the sentiments of those who elected them,” but are not legally required to cast their convention vote for their pledged candidate.

Biden tells congressional Dems he is staying in the race, urges end to speculation

A public informational meeting will be held
August 1st to discuss the future of Lake Contrary.

Buchanan County officials will be available. An
expert will describe the methods used to eliminate the existing vegetation that
has overtaken the lake.

Presiding County Commissioner Scott Nelson says
if Lake Contrary is to be restored, the foliage needs to be removed first.

“It’s not just kill what you see. You’ve got to
kill the root ball, because the type of dredging we’re thinking about is hydro-dredging,”
Nelson tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “So, you don’t want to clog
up the hydro-dredge with root balls. So, they have to be decomposed; one way,
shape, or form they have to be decomposed.”

Lake Contrary, located just south of St. Joseph,
no longer resembles a lake. It is overgrown with vegetation. It could take six
months to get rid of it.

Nelson estimates the cost of restoring Lake
Contrary at $8 million, though he is quick to say that is a high estimate. Nelson
sees value in restoring Lake Contrary.

“And I’ve said it before. People will agree.
People will disagree. But it is my opinion that if we are able to have a
recreational lake in our county, I think that’s a good thing.”

Nelson says some counties assess a dedicated tax
for such projects, but he doesn’t believe that will be necessary.

“I don’t want to do that,” Nelson says. “I don’t
want to raise taxes. I want to do it with whatever money we have, soft money which
I call it. I don’t want to raise taxes to do it.”

Such soft money, according to Nelson, includes
interests accrued on various accounts.

Buchanan County has scheduled an informational
meeting on the future of Lake Contrary August 1st. The public meeting begins at six o’clock Thursday,
August 1st, at the Remington Nature Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720445370024.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA public informational meeting will be held
August 1st to discuss the future of Lake Contrary.Buchanan County officials will be available. An
expert will describe the methods used to eliminate the existing vegetation that
has overtaken the lake.Presiding County Commissioner Scott Nelson says
if Lake Contrary is to be restored, the foliage needs to be removed first.“It’s not just kill what you see. You’ve got to
kill the root ball, because the type of dredging we’re thinking about is hydro-dredging,”
Nelson tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “So, you don’t want to clog
up the hydro-dredge with root balls. So, they have to be decomposed; one way,
shape, or form they have to be decomposed.”Lake Contrary, located just south of St. Joseph,
no longer resembles a lake. It is overgrown with vegetation. It could take six
months to get rid of it.Nelson estimates the cost of restoring Lake
Contrary at $8 million, though he is quick to say that is a high estimate. Nelson
sees value in restoring Lake Contrary.“And I’ve said it before. People will agree.
People will disagree. But it is my opinion that if we are able to have a
recreational lake in our county, I think that’s a good thing.”Nelson says some counties assess a dedicated tax
for such projects, but he doesn’t believe that will be necessary.“I don’t want to do that,” Nelson says. “I don’t
want to raise taxes. I want to do it with whatever money we have, soft money which
I call it. I don’t want to raise taxes to do it.”Such soft money, according to Nelson, includes
interests accrued on various accounts.Buchanan County has scheduled an informational
meeting on the future of Lake Contrary August 1st. The public meeting begins at six o’clock Thursday,
August 1st, at the Remington Nature Center.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Public gets a chance for input on the future of Lake Contrary

Kansas City Royals’ catcher Salvador Perez, shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. and starting pitchers Seth Lugo and Cole Ragans were all named to the American League All-Star roster announced Sunday afternoon on MLB Network.

It’s the first time since 2016 that the Royals have four All-Star representatives, and Ragans and Lugo are the first Royals pitchers to be named to an All-Star Game since Jason Vargas in 2017.

This is also the first time in franchise history that the Royals have two All-Star starting pitchers in the same season.

Salvy will be playing in his ninth career All-Star Game. He notched his 1,500th career hit Sunday against the Rockies after hitting his 250th career homer earlier this season. Salvy and George Brett, who was a 13-time All-Star, are the only two players in Royals history to reach both of those milestones.

This year's Midsummer Classic is Tuesday, July 16 at 7 p.m. The game will be played at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717611577983.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr.(AP Photo/Phil Long)." />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr.(AP Photo/Phil Long).</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostKansas City Royals’ catcher Salvador Perez, shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. and starting pitchers Seth Lugo and Cole Ragans were all named to the American League All-Star roster announced Sunday afternoon on MLB Network.It’s the first time since 2016 that the Royals have four All-Star representatives, and Ragans and Lugo are the first Royals pitchers to be named to an All-Star Game since Jason Vargas in 2017.This is also the first time in franchise history that the Royals have two All-Star starting pitchers in the same season.Salvy will be playing in his ninth career All-Star Game. He notched his 1,500th career hit Sunday against the Rockies after hitting his 250th career homer earlier this season. Salvy and George Brett, who was a 13-time All-Star, are the only two players in Royals history to reach both of those milestones.This year's Midsummer Classic is Tuesday, July 16 at 7 p.m. The game will be played at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas.

Four Royals earn spot in MLB All-Star game

Even as you keep fireworks safety in mind, other safety
measures will make for an enjoyable Independence Day celebration.

American Red Cross spokeswoman Angie Springs says a little
time in preparation can make for a safe and fun 4th.

“So, the little things that we can do to hopefully make it
that much more enjoyable,” Springs tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “Again, we all
enjoy watching fireworks in the sky, watching those big nighttime displays. We
just want to make sure everyone is safe, because again this is a holiday to be
celebrated, not one that you’re then having to deal with an emergency.”

Many like to hit the lake, the river, or the pool during these
summer days.

Springs says it’s vitally important to keep an eye on the children.

“Want to make sure that they are supervised in or near that
water. Make sure that you’re paying attention to them,” Springs says. “So, put
your phones down, keep your eyes on the water, make sure that those young
children have proper floatation devises. So, those lifejackets, make sure that they
are being safe when they’re in and around that water.”

The simple act of paying attention pays big dividends.

“It’s those little things that we can do during this holiday
season to help keep everyone safe,” according to Springs. “We want everyone to
have a great time and, again, its America’s holiday, you want to be out on the
water, you want to be enjoying those fireworks. But the more that we can keep
in mind those safety tips, the better off we’re going be. So just make sure
that you’re aware at all times.”

Springs advises to keep an eye on the weather and to get out
of the water and get inside at the first sign of lightning. Keep hydrated on
hot summer days by drinking plenty of water and limiting alcohol.

Other safety tips from the American Red Cross include:

FIREWORKS
SAFETY&nbsp;The safest way to
enjoy fireworks is to attend a public firework show put on by professionals.
Many states outlaw most fireworks, especially in dry climates prone to forest
fires. Consider celebrating with glow sticks, noise makers or silly string
instead. If you are setting fireworks off at home, follow these safety steps:

WATER SAFETY&nbsp;Children and adults should learn to swim so
they at least&nbsp;achieve the skills of water competency: be able to enter the water, get a breath,
stay afloat, change position, swim a distance and &nbsp;get out of the water
safely. Whether swimming in a pool, at the beach or visiting a waterpark,
always swim in an area where lifeguards are on duty.

BEACH SAFETY&nbsp;If you plan to swim in the ocean, a lake or
river, be aware that swimming in these environments is different than swimming
in a pool. Be sure you have the skills for these environments.

WATER PARK
SAFETY&nbsp;Wear protective
clothing, including a hat and some kind of cover-up for when you’ve had enough
sun. Use sunscreen before leaving home and reapply during the day.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostEven as you keep fireworks safety in mind, other safety
measures will make for an enjoyable Independence Day celebration.American Red Cross spokeswoman Angie Springs says a little
time in preparation can make for a safe and fun 4th.“So, the little things that we can do to hopefully make it
that much more enjoyable,” Springs tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “Again, we all
enjoy watching fireworks in the sky, watching those big nighttime displays. We
just want to make sure everyone is safe, because again this is a holiday to be
celebrated, not one that you’re then having to deal with an emergency.”Many like to hit the lake, the river, or the pool during these
summer days.Springs says it’s vitally important to keep an eye on the children.“Want to make sure that they are supervised in or near that
water. Make sure that you’re paying attention to them,” Springs says. “So, put
your phones down, keep your eyes on the water, make sure that those young
children have proper floatation devises. So, those lifejackets, make sure that they
are being safe when they’re in and around that water.”The simple act of paying attention pays big dividends.“It’s those little things that we can do during this holiday
season to help keep everyone safe,” according to Springs. “We want everyone to
have a great time and, again, its America’s holiday, you want to be out on the
water, you want to be enjoying those fireworks. But the more that we can keep
in mind those safety tips, the better off we’re going be. So just make sure
that you’re aware at all times.”Springs advises to keep an eye on the weather and to get out
of the water and get inside at the first sign of lightning. Keep hydrated on
hot summer days by drinking plenty of water and limiting alcohol.Other safety tips from the American Red Cross include:FIREWORKS
SAFETY&nbsp;The safest way to
enjoy fireworks is to attend a public firework show put on by professionals.
Many states outlaw most fireworks, especially in dry climates prone to forest
fires. Consider celebrating with glow sticks, noise makers or silly string
instead. If you are setting fireworks off at home, follow these safety steps:<ul>
 <li>Never give fireworks to small children,
 and never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles,
 structures or flammable materials.</li><li>Always follow the instructions on the
 packaging.</li><li>Keep a supply of water close by as a
 precaution.</li><li>Make sure the person lighting fireworks
 always wears eye protection.</li><li>Light only one firework at a time and
 never attempt to relight "a dud."</li><li>Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away
 from children and pets.</li>
 </ul>WATER SAFETY&nbsp;Children and adults should learn to swim so
they at least&nbsp;achieve the skills of water competency: be able to enter the water, get a breath,
stay afloat, change position, swim a distance and &nbsp;get out of the water
safely. Whether swimming in a pool, at the beach or visiting a waterpark,
always swim in an area where lifeguards are on duty.<ul>
 <li>Watch the weather and get out at the first
 sign of lightning or rumble of thunder. Stay indoors and away from water
 for 30 minutes after the last lightning flashes or thunder roars.</li><li>Provide close and constant attention to
 children you are supervising in or near water.</li><li>Fence pools and spas with adequate
 barriers, including four-sided fencing.</li><li>Children, inexperienced swimmers, and all
 boaters should wear properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life
 jackets.</li>
 </ul>BEACH SAFETY&nbsp;If you plan to swim in the ocean, a lake or
river, be aware that swimming in these environments is different than swimming
in a pool. Be sure you have the skills for these environments.<ul>
 <li>Make sure you swim sober and that you
 always swim with a buddy. Know your limitations and make sure you have
 enough energy to swim back to shore.</li><li>Protect your neck — don’t dive headfirst.
 Walk carefully into open waters. Watch out for and avoid aquatic life.</li><li>If you are caught in a rip current, try
 not to panic. Signal to those on shore that you need assistance. Swim
 parallel to the shore until you are out of the current. Once you are free,
 swim toward shore. If you can't swim to the shore, float or tread water
 until you are free of the rip current and then head toward shore.</li>
 </ul>WATER PARK
SAFETY&nbsp;Wear protective
clothing, including a hat and some kind of cover-up for when you’ve had enough
sun. Use sunscreen before leaving home and reapply during the day.<ul>
 <li>Parents — keep an eye on the kids. If they
 can’t swim or are less than four feet tall, have them wear a U.S. Coast
 Guard approved life jacket.</li><li>Signal a lifeguard if you see someone is
 in trouble. Yell if you need to grab attention, but don’t go in after the
 person yourself.</li><li>Set up a meeting place in case someone
 gets separated from your group. Use the buddy system to make sure no child
 is alone.</li>
 </ul>You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Have an enjoyable, and safe, Independence Day

(Radio Iowa) - State officials estimate two-thousand homes were damaged or destroyed during recent flooding in northwest Iowa. After previous flooding in Cherokee, FEMA bought out 40 properties. 

Another 70 homes in Cherokee were destroyed in this year's flooding and Cherokee Mayor Craig Schmidt doesn't know where people will go because all the other nearby towns have the same problem -- no workers and no housing. 

Governor Reynolds says the state needs to figure out how to combine state and local resources and get new homes built as quickly as possible. The governor says she and her staff are trying to come up with some type of transitional housing plan as well as incentives for developers that build homes and apartments.

(Radio Iowa) - State officials estimate two-thousand homes were damaged or destroyed during recent flooding in northwest Iowa. After previous flooding in Cherokee, FEMA bought out 40 properties. Another 70 homes in Cherokee were destroyed in this year's flooding and Cherokee Mayor Craig Schmidt doesn't know where people will go because all the other nearby towns have the same problem -- no workers and no housing. Governor Reynolds says the state needs to figure out how to combine state and local resources and get new homes built as quickly as possible. The governor says she and her staff are trying to come up with some type of transitional housing plan as well as incentives for developers that build homes and apartments.

NW Iowa flooding exacerbates Iowa's housing shortage

Fourth of July will bring several travelers out for their holiday plans and the Missouri Highway Patrol says to be careful.  

Seargent Shane Hux with Troop H says as you hit the road, be sure to plan ahead with increased traffic and more construction happening.  

"Look for slower moving vehicles, whether that be pickups pulling campers, boats that are going to be out there being pulled by pickups," Hux tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So just allow (time), there's going to be some congestion out there in areas due to the construction, there's going to be traffic crashes so there's going to be lane blockages, things like that." 

While traveling for the Fourth of July, the Missouri Highway Patrol advises to be aware of extra distractions on the roads. 

Hux says if you see fireworks as you're traveling you want to watch, be sure to pull off the road.  

"We never recommend just stopping on the shoulder of the interstate or two-lane highway to get out and look at these," Hux explains.  "Find a safe location where you can get out and enjoy those." 

And Hux also says to be sure as you're traveling, to never fire any fireworks out of a vehicle, or out of a boat if you're on the water 

"Make sure you're in a designated area, make sure children are supervised when they are shooting these fireworks, and by all means do not discharge those from a motor vehicle when you're going up and down the highway," Hux says. 

The highway patrol will be out in full force starting at 6pm tonight through Sunday just before midnight. 

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post Fourth of July will bring several travelers out for their holiday plans and the Missouri Highway Patrol says to be careful. Seargent Shane Hux with Troop H says as you hit the road, be sure to plan ahead with increased traffic and more construction happening. "Look for slower moving vehicles, whether that be pickups pulling campers, boats that are going to be out there being pulled by pickups," Hux tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So just allow (time), there's going to be some congestion out there in areas due to the construction, there's going to be traffic crashes so there's going to be lane blockages, things like that." While traveling for the Fourth of July, the Missouri Highway Patrol advises to be aware of extra distractions on the roads. Hux says if you see fireworks as you're traveling you want to watch, be sure to pull off the road. "We never recommend just stopping on the shoulder of the interstate or two-lane highway to get out and look at these," Hux explains. "Find a safe location where you can get out and enjoy those." And Hux also says to be sure as you're traveling, to never fire any fireworks out of a vehicle, or out of a boat if you're on the water "Make sure you're in a designated area, make sure children are supervised when they are shooting these fireworks, and by all means do not discharge those from a motor vehicle when you're going up and down the highway," Hux says. The highway patrol will be out in full force starting at 6pm tonight through Sunday just before midnight.

Missouri State Highway Patrol says drive safely this Fourth of July

The Kansas Turnpike is now cashless and tolls are no longer being collected on the roadway. To complete the conversion process, account information is being migrated into the new system, DriveKS. During this time, KTA’s customer service centers are closed and self-service platforms are unavailable. We’ll be ready to help again, beginning July 8.&nbsp;

The PlanThe Kansas Turnpike will convert to cashless tolling on July 1. Here’s what you need to know:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719937245239.png" alt="View of a digital sign Monday on the Turnpike in Douglas County" />
 <figcaption>View of a digital sign Monday on the Turnpike in Douglas County</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Turnpike is now cashless and tolls are no longer being collected on the roadway. To complete the conversion process, account information is being migrated into the new system, DriveKS. During this time, KTA’s customer service centers are closed and self-service platforms are unavailable. We’ll be ready to help again, beginning July 8.&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>We’re busy getting DriveKS, the new toll payment system, ready for cashless tolling. Account information will be unavailable June 29-July 7 as information from myKTAG.com and PayKTA.com is moved to DriveKS.com.</li><li>Any toll statements due during the conversion window can be paid during the month of July without issue.</li><li>Customers who have received a new KTAG can&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-lUxMVZ5rc&amp;t=6s">watch the KTAG installation video here</a>.</li><li>Customer service centers will reopen July 8, ready to help again. When the conversion is complete,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://driveks.com/">DriveKS.com</a>&nbsp;will be the site for all Kansas toll payments or to manage your account.</li><li>At that time, customers will need to delete the old myKTAG app and download the new DriveKS app from the App Store or Google Play.</li>
 </ul>The PlanThe Kansas Turnpike will convert to cashless tolling on July 1. Here’s what you need to know:<ul>
 <li>Beginning June 29, self-service platforms, including paykta.com and myktag website and mobile app will be disabled to prepare for the conversion to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://driveks.com/">DriveKS.com</a>.</li><li>Cash customers traveling on the turnpike overnight on June 30/July 1 should follow the instructions of on-road personnel and signage when exiting.</li><li>While the conversion of the roadway will occur quickly in the early morning hours of July 1, the back-office system, which includes toll payments and account management, will take approximately one week.</li><li>KTA’s three customer service centers will be closed and self-service platforms, including the web sites and mobile app, will be unavailable June 29-July 7. During this week, teams will work to migrate all account information into the new system and there will be no account access – for customers or customer service representatives.</li><li>Customers will be unable to pay for violation or video tolls between June 29-July 7. Any tolls due during this time can be paid during the month of July without issue.</li>
 </ul>

Successful start to cashless tolls on the Kansas Turnpike

As people pull their grills out this summer for cookouts and barbecues, there's an unknown danger that Mosaic Life Care wants them to be aware of. 

Dr. Cythia Brownfield with Mosaic says people should avoid using wire brushes to clean off the grill after cooking.  Brownfield says there's a danger of the wire bristles breaking off and getting into your food. 

"And end up having it lodged into their throat, or even worse swallowing it into their stomach, it can actually penetrate through your intestines and cause significant disease, possibly even death, and usually it requires a surgical emergency to correct it," Brownfield tells reporters. "These can break off very easily, they're hard to see." 

Brownfield says instead of those brushes, there are other options, including brushes that have coils rather than bristles. 

"There's also ones that are stone," Brownfield explains. "There are some that can melt, so you have to be careful that if you're cleaning your grill when it's hot you have to make sure that that grill brush is safe to use on a hot grill, also you can even just use your regular spatula that you flip your burgers with and use that to scrub."

Brownfield says approximately 130 cases a year have been reported, but it could be far more because of being under reported. 

Brownfield says while the number of cases reported may seem low, it's a problem that can easily be solved 

"So even though it's rare, the same thing we look at with consumre safety products, sometimes these injuries can be rare but if they're easily fixed, it's the right thing to do to make that shift," Brownfield says. 

Brownfield says cases became more prevalent as more people during the pandemic cooked at home and out on the grill. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720018845893.jpeg" alt="Dr. Cynthia Brownfield talks to the media about the danger of using wire brushes on your grill/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Cynthia Brownfield talks to the media about the danger of using wire brushes on your grill/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post As people pull their grills out this summer for cookouts and barbecues, there's an unknown danger that Mosaic Life Care wants them to be aware of. Dr. Cythia Brownfield with Mosaic says people should avoid using wire brushes to clean off the grill after cooking. Brownfield says there's a danger of the wire bristles breaking off and getting into your food. "And end up having it lodged into their throat, or even worse swallowing it into their stomach, it can actually penetrate through your intestines and cause significant disease, possibly even death, and usually it requires a surgical emergency to correct it," Brownfield tells reporters. "These can break off very easily, they're hard to see." Brownfield says instead of those brushes, there are other options, including brushes that have coils rather than bristles. "There's also ones that are stone," Brownfield explains. "There are some that can melt, so you have to be careful that if you're cleaning your grill when it's hot you have to make sure that that grill brush is safe to use on a hot grill, also you can even just use your regular spatula that you flip your burgers with and use that to scrub."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720018972144.jpeg" alt="Wire brushes (bottom right) should not be used on your grill for danger of bristles breaking off, like the bristle featured just above, instead you should use a brush like the one on the left/ Photo by Matt Pike, " />
 <figcaption>Wire brushes (bottom right) should not be used on your grill for danger of bristles breaking off, like the bristle featured just above, instead you should use a brush like the one on the left/ Photo by Matt Pike, </figcaption>
 </figure>Brownfield says approximately 130 cases a year have been reported, but it could be far more because of being under reported. Brownfield says while the number of cases reported may seem low, it's a problem that can easily be solved "So even though it's rare, the same thing we look at with consumre safety products, sometimes these injuries can be rare but if they're easily fixed, it's the right thing to do to make that shift," Brownfield says. Brownfield says cases became more prevalent as more people during the pandemic cooked at home and out on the grill. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

There may be a hidden danger in cleaning your BBQ grill

The St. Joseph Mustangs lost at Clarinda Tuesday, 5-2. The Mustangs (26-5) trailed 5-0 after the fourth and scored their only two runs of the game in the top of the ninth, but fell short in their rally attempt.

Clarinda outhit St. Joseph 13-7. The Mustangs also stranded 10 baserunners. Trevor McCollum was 2-for-4 with a double and an RBI.

 Landon Reith got the start and took the loss on the mound, giving up five earned runs through four innings, striking out five and walking none.

St. Joseph is back home to face Chillicothe on Wednesday night at 7 p.m.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs lost at Clarinda Tuesday, 5-2. The Mustangs (26-5) trailed 5-0 after the fourth and scored their only two runs of the game in the top of the ninth, but fell short in their rally attempt.Clarinda outhit St. Joseph 13-7. The Mustangs also stranded 10 baserunners. Trevor McCollum was 2-for-4 with a double and an RBI. Landon Reith got the start and took the loss on the mound, giving up five earned runs through four innings, striking out five and walking none.St. Joseph is back home to face Chillicothe on Wednesday night at 7 p.m.

Mustangs fall at Clarinda Tuesday night

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/ghills/">GRACE HILLS</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

HOLTON — Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly on Tuesday praised Republican Sen. Dennis Pyle’s work to sustain Kelly’s vetoes of earlier tax-cut packages to create a bipartisan compromise.

Kelly said that while she was in the Senate, she watched Pyle, of Hiawatha, “work tirelessly” for 10 years to eliminate a state income tax on Social Security.

State taxes will be&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/06/21/gov-kelly-signs-tax-reduction-bill-passed-with-bipartisan-majorities-in-special-session/">reduced by $1.2 billion</a>&nbsp;through income and property tax cuts over the next three years. Kansas was one of 12 states to tax Social Security income. Kelly and Pyle worked together to eliminate that tax, which will save Kansas seniors more than $150 million in the first year, Pyle said.&nbsp;

Kelly and Pyle appeared together in Hiawatha and Holton to promote the bill and for a ceremonial bill signing. Both cities are in Pyle’s distinct. Kelly said they chose the cities to recognize Pyle’s work. After three vetoes of previous plans, Kelly approved a tax-cut package passed on the June 18 special session.&nbsp;

Pyle said his constituents are concerned with “ever-increasing” property taxes. A provision of the special session bill will exempt the first $75,000 of a home’s value from the statewide mill levy, compared with the current exemption of $42,000.

“I would like to see more property tax relief for all property types,” Pyle said. “But I appreciate Gov. Kelly for prioritizing property tax cuts.”

Kelly vetoed previous tax cuts proposals that were more expensive.&nbsp;

Pyle “stuck with me to sustain those vetoes until we got a package that really eliminated the Social Security tax and some other things, but also left enough in the coffers for us to be able to pay our bills and fully fund our schools,” Kelly said

The governor and lawmakers, sitting on a $3 billion surplus, were eager to cut taxes during an election year. GOP leaders originally introduced a flax tax plan, replacing the state’s three-tier income tax system with a single rate. Kelly vetoed that plan after an&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/03/13/new-kansas-flat-tax-proposal-would-mainly-benefit-states-top-20-of-earners-analysis-shows/">analysis showed</a>&nbsp;it would mainly benefit the state’s top 20% of wage earners. The governor and legislative leaders eventually compromised on a plan that establishes a two-tier income tax structure, despite concerns that it still benefits higher wage earners.&nbsp;

“It wasn’t easy,” Kelly said. “Legislative leadership made multiple attempts at unsustainable tax cuts that would eventually set us back to an era of crumbling roads and bridges and crippling debt.”

Mike Pirner, spokesman for Senate President Ty Masterson, and Carrie Rahfaldt, spokeswoman for House Speaker Dan Hawkins, didn’t respond to requests to comment for this story.

Kelly said in her time in the Senate, “all people talked about” was property tax. Kelly said she would have preferred more property tax cuts. She said that could be discussed during next year’s session.

“I’m not sure the state could do much more,” Kelly said. “So we’d have to look for avenues. But we have to wait till the numbers come in.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720006711563.png" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly ceremonially signs the tax-cut bill in Holton on July 2 as Sen. Dennis Pyle watches. “You’re looking at 20 years of hard work,” Kelly said (Grace Hills/Kansas Reflector)." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly ceremonially signs the tax-cut bill in Holton on July 2 as Sen. Dennis Pyle watches. “You’re looking at 20 years of hard work,” Kelly said (Grace Hills/Kansas Reflector).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/ghills/">GRACE HILLS</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>HOLTON — Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly on Tuesday praised Republican Sen. Dennis Pyle’s work to sustain Kelly’s vetoes of earlier tax-cut packages to create a bipartisan compromise.Kelly said that while she was in the Senate, she watched Pyle, of Hiawatha, “work tirelessly” for 10 years to eliminate a state income tax on Social Security.State taxes will be&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/06/21/gov-kelly-signs-tax-reduction-bill-passed-with-bipartisan-majorities-in-special-session/">reduced by $1.2 billion</a>&nbsp;through income and property tax cuts over the next three years. Kansas was one of 12 states to tax Social Security income. Kelly and Pyle worked together to eliminate that tax, which will save Kansas seniors more than $150 million in the first year, Pyle said.&nbsp;Kelly and Pyle appeared together in Hiawatha and Holton to promote the bill and for a ceremonial bill signing. Both cities are in Pyle’s distinct. Kelly said they chose the cities to recognize Pyle’s work. After three vetoes of previous plans, Kelly approved a tax-cut package passed on the June 18 special session.&nbsp;The bill took effect July 1.&nbsp;Pyle said his constituents are concerned with “ever-increasing” property taxes. A provision of the special session bill will exempt the first $75,000 of a home’s value from the statewide mill levy, compared with the current exemption of $42,000.“I would like to see more property tax relief for all property types,” Pyle said. “But I appreciate Gov. Kelly for prioritizing property tax cuts.”Kelly vetoed previous tax cuts proposals that were more expensive.&nbsp;Pyle “stuck with me to sustain those vetoes until we got a package that really eliminated the Social Security tax and some other things, but also left enough in the coffers for us to be able to pay our bills and fully fund our schools,” Kelly saidThe governor and lawmakers, sitting on a $3 billion surplus, were eager to cut taxes during an election year. GOP leaders originally introduced a flax tax plan, replacing the state’s three-tier income tax system with a single rate. Kelly vetoed that plan after an&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/03/13/new-kansas-flat-tax-proposal-would-mainly-benefit-states-top-20-of-earners-analysis-shows/">analysis showed</a>&nbsp;it would mainly benefit the state’s top 20% of wage earners. The governor and legislative leaders eventually compromised on a plan that establishes a two-tier income tax structure, despite concerns that it still benefits higher wage earners.&nbsp;“It wasn’t easy,” Kelly said. “Legislative leadership made multiple attempts at unsustainable tax cuts that would eventually set us back to an era of crumbling roads and bridges and crippling debt.”Mike Pirner, spokesman for Senate President Ty Masterson, and Carrie Rahfaldt, spokeswoman for House Speaker Dan Hawkins, didn’t respond to requests to comment for this story.Kelly said in her time in the Senate, “all people talked about” was property tax. Kelly said she would have preferred more property tax cuts. She said that could be discussed during next year’s session.“I’m not sure the state could do much more,” Kelly said. “So we’d have to look for avenues. But we have to wait till the numbers come in.”

Gov. Kelly praises Sen. Dennis Pyle’s bipartisan efforts on tax bill in Hiawatha and Holton

(Radio Iowa) - Iowa dairy producers who've been impacted by bird flu can now apply for federal emergency funding. 

The U-S-D-A expanded its Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm Raised Fish Program to help cover lost profits from the virus. Dairy farmers are required to discard milk from sick cows to prevent the spread of pathogens. 

Matt Russell, executive director of U-S-D-A-Iowa Farm Service Agency, says expanding the program supports dairy farmers and creates an incentive to get tested. To be eligible, Russell says producers need a positive test result from the National Veterinary Services Laboratories.

(Radio Iowa) - Iowa dairy producers who've been impacted by bird flu can now apply for federal emergency funding. The U-S-D-A expanded its Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm Raised Fish Program to help cover lost profits from the virus. Dairy farmers are required to discard milk from sick cows to prevent the spread of pathogens. Matt Russell, executive director of U-S-D-A-Iowa Farm Service Agency, says expanding the program supports dairy farmers and creates an incentive to get tested. To be eligible, Russell says producers need a positive test result from the National Veterinary Services Laboratories.

Federal funds okayed for Iowa dairies hit by bird flu

(Radio Iowa) - The Mississippi River at Burlington was above flood stage by Sunday night and is expected to reach more than four feet above food stage by Friday. 

Matt Wilson, a hydrologist with the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, says it's not clear yet how high the river will rise in eastern Iowa, but all the rain in Minnesota and Wisconsin is coming south in flood waves. Shannon Prado -- the coordinator of Des Moines County Emergency Management -- says there's some limited flooding in Burlington, but nothing is reaching critical infrastructure due to city's floodwall. 

Docks are being pulled out of the Burlington riverfront along that floodwall and Prado says Hesco barriers that create temporary levies are being put up in the area.

(Radio Iowa) - The Mississippi River at Burlington was above flood stage by Sunday night and is expected to reach more than four feet above food stage by Friday. Matt Wilson, a hydrologist with the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, says it's not clear yet how high the river will rise in eastern Iowa, but all the rain in Minnesota and Wisconsin is coming south in flood waves. Shannon Prado -- the coordinator of Des Moines County Emergency Management -- says there's some limited flooding in Burlington, but nothing is reaching critical infrastructure due to city's floodwall. Docks are being pulled out of the Burlington riverfront along that floodwall and Prado says Hesco barriers that create temporary levies are being put up in the area.

'Flood waves' from Minnesota, Wisconsin rolling down eastern Iowa's Mississippi River corridor

The pollster, paid by American Dream PAC and Mike Kehoe’s campaign, predicted that if Bill Eigel attracts campaign cash, ‘this could become a true three-way contest’

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">JASON HANCOCK</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>

After months of polls showing Bill Eigel in a distant third place in the GOP primary for Missouri governor, a new survey suggests he may be within striking distance of the frontrunners.&nbsp;

And the poll giving Eigel a boost was paid for by one of his campaign rivals, though it doesn’t appear to be intended for public consumption.&nbsp;

American Dream PAC, the political action committee supporting Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe, commissioned the June poll but has not released it to the public. The Independent found it and the accompanying analysis on an obscure page of the PACs website last week before it was taken down.&nbsp;

Similar to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article289438628.html" target="_blank">a series of polls released in recent weeks</a>, the American Dream PAC survey found a dead heat between Kehoe and Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft for the lead in the GOP primary.

But it is the first poll suggesting Eigel, a Republican state senator, may be gaining ground.

The poll found Kehoe and Ashcroft tied at 27%, with Eigel in third place with 16%. Roughly a quarter of respondents were undecided.&nbsp;

Other recent polls put Eigel in single digits.&nbsp;

“If Eigel is able to attract additional resources, this could become a true three-way contest,” according to analysis of the June survey provided to American Dream PAC by its pollster, American Viewpoint.&nbsp;

The poll was conducted in early June, before Eigel’s campaign took in $415,000 in donations last week from trial attorneys and before either Ashcroft or Eigel were on the air with TV ads.&nbsp;

Eigel’s campaign did not respond to a request for comment. Kehoe’s campaign did not address questions about Eigel’s poll numbers.&nbsp;

But Jason Cabel Roe, Ashcroft’s spokesman, said he’s skeptical Eigel could be in double-digits before his campaign had launched any TV ads.&nbsp;

“There have been about 15 public polls released in the last year, and 13 of them have had Eigel somewhere between 4-8 points,” Roe said. “He just hasn’t done anything to move numbers, so I don’t see how he could’ve doubled his vote share without spending money.”

The 800 people who participated in the survey were reached by cell phone, landline and text message, with a margin of error of 3.5%. According to the most recent campaign disclosures, American Viewpoint in January was paid $79,500 by American Dream PAC and $64,300 by Kehoe’s campaign.&nbsp;

In addition to acting as a possible barometer for the race, the polling documents also shed some light on Kehoe’s potential strategy in the campaign’s final weeks.&nbsp;

Ashcroft has led the GOP primary from the start, benefitting from two terms as secretary of state and a last name with a long history in Missouri politics. His dad, John Ashcroft, served as state auditor, state attorney general, governor, U.S. Senator and U.S. attorney general.

Kehoe has managed to erase Ashcroft’s lead in recent months because his campaign has used its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article285983436.html" target="_blank">massive fundraising advantage</a>&nbsp;to monopolize TV airwaves, the polling firm concluded in its analysis.&nbsp;

Ashcroft and Eigel only recently launched their first TV ads

“Kehoe now leads in the two markets where there has been advertising,” the analysis concluded, later adding: “Kehoe’s reach is fairly consistent across groups, and geographically it lines up with advertising.”

Outside of the two markets where Kehoe’s ads have been airing — St. Louis and Springfield — the race remains a function of name ID.&nbsp;

Kehoe leads in mid-Missouri, where he previously served as a state senator, and Ashcroft has an advantage in Kansas City and smaller markets.&nbsp;This means, the polling firm concluded, that Kehoe’s campaign needs to dedicate resources to those markets where he trails Ashcroft.&nbsp;

“This race is more about geography at this point than any one key demographic group,” the polling firm concluded.&nbsp;

Kehoe is strongest with “more centrist and traditional GOP voters,” the analysis found, while Ashcroft leads with “very conservative and Trump movement voters.”&nbsp;

Eigel, meanwhile, “cannot be ignored as a factor in this race,” the polling firm concluded, with “ideology and Trump movement affiliation” as the driving factor on his vote share.&nbsp;

Of the quarter of poll respondents who were undecided, liberal and moderate primary voters are more likely to be undecided than conservatives.

Illegal immigration and border security are the top issues in the race, the polling firm found, particularly among very conservative primary voters. Ashcroft leads with those citing border security, while Kehoe is stronger among those focused on the economy.

For months, American Dream PAC has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZhyR7krP7U&amp;t=11s" target="_blank">hammered Ashcroft in TV ads</a>&nbsp;over his support of legislation to reduce Missouri’s current&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/government-politics/gop-candidates-for-governor-fight-over-who-s-most-opposed-to-china-owning-missouri-farmland/article_e9428844-19ca-11ef-ba39-f72af30a3ea9.html" target="_blank">1% cap on foreign-owned agricultural land to 0.5%</a>, arguing he should have supported a complete ban.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ashcroft’s campaign has noted that foreign ownership of Missouri farmland was banned until 2013, when the legislature enacted the 1% cap. Kehoe voted in favor of that legislation while serving in the state Senate, and it opened the door for a Chinese company to purchase Smithfield Foods and its 40,000 acres of Missouri farmland.

While the polling firm concluded that American Dream’s China ads have been effective, it suggests there could be diminishing returns in markets where they’ve been on the air for months. So the campaign should consider switching to ads focused on critical race theory.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719948989418.png" alt=" GOP candidates for governor, from left, Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe, Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft and state Sen. Bill Eigel (official photos)." />
 <figcaption> GOP candidates for governor, from left, Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe, Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft and state Sen. Bill Eigel (official photos).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The pollster, paid by American Dream PAC and Mike Kehoe’s campaign, predicted that if Bill Eigel attracts campaign cash, ‘this could become a true three-way contest’</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">JASON HANCOCK</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>After months of polls showing Bill Eigel in a distant third place in the GOP primary for Missouri governor, a new survey suggests he may be within striking distance of the frontrunners.&nbsp;And the poll giving Eigel a boost was paid for by one of his campaign rivals, though it doesn’t appear to be intended for public consumption.&nbsp;American Dream PAC, the political action committee supporting Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe, commissioned the June poll but has not released it to the public. The Independent found it and the accompanying analysis on an obscure page of the PACs website last week before it was taken down.&nbsp;Similar to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article289438628.html" target="_blank">a series of polls released in recent weeks</a>, the American Dream PAC survey found a dead heat between Kehoe and Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft for the lead in the GOP primary.But it is the first poll suggesting Eigel, a Republican state senator, may be gaining ground.The poll found Kehoe and Ashcroft tied at 27%, with Eigel in third place with 16%. Roughly a quarter of respondents were undecided.&nbsp;Other recent polls put Eigel in single digits.&nbsp;“If Eigel is able to attract additional resources, this could become a true three-way contest,” according to analysis of the June survey provided to American Dream PAC by its pollster, American Viewpoint.&nbsp;The poll was conducted in early June, before Eigel’s campaign took in $415,000 in donations last week from trial attorneys and before either Ashcroft or Eigel were on the air with TV ads.&nbsp;Eigel’s campaign did not respond to a request for comment. Kehoe’s campaign did not address questions about Eigel’s poll numbers.&nbsp;But Jason Cabel Roe, Ashcroft’s spokesman, said he’s skeptical Eigel could be in double-digits before his campaign had launched any TV ads.&nbsp;“There have been about 15 public polls released in the last year, and 13 of them have had Eigel somewhere between 4-8 points,” Roe said. “He just hasn’t done anything to move numbers, so I don’t see how he could’ve doubled his vote share without spending money.”The 800 people who participated in the survey were reached by cell phone, landline and text message, with a margin of error of 3.5%. According to the most recent campaign disclosures, American Viewpoint in January was paid $79,500 by American Dream PAC and $64,300 by Kehoe’s campaign.&nbsp;In addition to acting as a possible barometer for the race, the polling documents also shed some light on Kehoe’s potential strategy in the campaign’s final weeks.&nbsp;Ashcroft has led the GOP primary from the start, benefitting from two terms as secretary of state and a last name with a long history in Missouri politics. His dad, John Ashcroft, served as state auditor, state attorney general, governor, U.S. Senator and U.S. attorney general.Kehoe has managed to erase Ashcroft’s lead in recent months because his campaign has used its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article285983436.html" target="_blank">massive fundraising advantage</a>&nbsp;to monopolize TV airwaves, the polling firm concluded in its analysis.&nbsp;Ashcroft and Eigel only recently launched their first TV ads“Kehoe now leads in the two markets where there has been advertising,” the analysis concluded, later adding: “Kehoe’s reach is fairly consistent across groups, and geographically it lines up with advertising.”Outside of the two markets where Kehoe’s ads have been airing — St. Louis and Springfield — the race remains a function of name ID.&nbsp;Kehoe leads in mid-Missouri, where he previously served as a state senator, and Ashcroft has an advantage in Kansas City and smaller markets.&nbsp;This means, the polling firm concluded, that Kehoe’s campaign needs to dedicate resources to those markets where he trails Ashcroft.&nbsp;“This race is more about geography at this point than any one key demographic group,” the polling firm concluded.&nbsp;Kehoe is strongest with “more centrist and traditional GOP voters,” the analysis found, while Ashcroft leads with “very conservative and Trump movement voters.”&nbsp;Eigel, meanwhile, “cannot be ignored as a factor in this race,” the polling firm concluded, with “ideology and Trump movement affiliation” as the driving factor on his vote share.&nbsp;Of the quarter of poll respondents who were undecided, liberal and moderate primary voters are more likely to be undecided than conservatives.Illegal immigration and border security are the top issues in the race, the polling firm found, particularly among very conservative primary voters. Ashcroft leads with those citing border security, while Kehoe is stronger among those focused on the economy.For months, American Dream PAC has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZhyR7krP7U&amp;t=11s" target="_blank">hammered Ashcroft in TV ads</a>&nbsp;over his support of legislation to reduce Missouri’s current&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/government-politics/gop-candidates-for-governor-fight-over-who-s-most-opposed-to-china-owning-missouri-farmland/article_e9428844-19ca-11ef-ba39-f72af30a3ea9.html" target="_blank">1% cap on foreign-owned agricultural land to 0.5%</a>, arguing he should have supported a complete ban.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ashcroft’s campaign has noted that foreign ownership of Missouri farmland was banned until 2013, when the legislature enacted the 1% cap. Kehoe voted in favor of that legislation while serving in the state Senate, and it opened the door for a Chinese company to purchase Smithfield Foods and its 40,000 acres of Missouri farmland.While the polling firm concluded that American Dream’s China ads have been effective, it suggests there could be diminishing returns in markets where they’ve been on the air for months. So the campaign should consider switching to ads focused on critical race theory.&nbsp;Gabby Picard, spokeswoman for Kehoe’s campaign, said the poll shows that Ashcroft’s once commanding lead in the GOP primary “has evaporated into thin air.” Kehoe, she said, has the momentum.“Missourians are not buying the charade from Bill Eigel and Jay Ashcroft,” she said, “and the manure their campaigns have been shoveling.”Roe, the spokesman for Ashcroft’s campaign, said it isn’t surprising that the race has tightened since Kehoe has spent millions of dollars and had the TV airwaves to himself for months.“Frankly,” Roe said, “given the amount spent, he should be in much better shape than he is.”

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