The St. Joseph Sports Commission has announced the schedule for the third annual Holiday Hoops Classic at Civic Arena in downtown St. Joseph. 

The Holiday Hoops Classic showcases boys and girls high school basketball teams from seven schools in Buchanan County along with other teams of interest from around the area, competing in a classic doubleheader format. 

The annual holiday showcase features 16 games over three days beginning on Thursday, December 19th with the Lafayette girls facing Columbia Battle while the Lafayette boys will face will see Oak Park, a Class 6 final four team in 2024. 

In addition to Holiday Hoops the St. Joseph Sports Commission has also announced the inaugural New Year's showcase, featuring 14 games that will be contested over two days, also at Civic Arena.

The games will also be played in a boys and girls doubleheader format, opening on Friday January 3rd with the Leblond girls and boys facing Lafayette County.

Ticket information will be released in late fall in which all sales will be facilitated online and through the Civic Arena Box Office.

The schedule for Holiday Hoops and the inaugural winter showcase is listed below:

2024 ST. JOSEPH AREA SPORTS HALL OF FAME HOLIDAY HOOPS PRESENTED BY UNITED FIBER

6:00 PM – Lafayette vs. Columbia Battle (G)

12:30 PM – LeBlond vs. North Andrew (G)

6:30 PM – Benton vs. Park Hill South (G)

10:00 AM – St. Joseph Christian vs. DeKalb (G)

11:30 AM – St. Joseph Christian vs. DeKalb (B)

1 PM – North Platte vs. Platte Valley (G)

2:30 PM  - North Platte vs. Platte Valley (B)

5:30 PM – Mid-Buchanan vs. Maysville (B)

2025 ST. JOSEPH SPORTS COMMISSION HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL WINTER SHOWCASE

12:30 PM – LeBlond vs. Lafayette County (G)

2:00 PM – LeBlond vs. Lafayette County (B)

3:30 PM – Benton vs. Riverview Gardens (G)

5:00 PM – Benton vs. Riverview Gardens (B)

10:00 AM – North Platte vs. East Atchison (G)

11:30 AM – North Platte vs. East Atchison (B)

4:00 PM – Central vs. Riverview Gardens (G)

5:30 PM – Central vs. Riverview Gardens (B)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718831191596.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Sports Commision" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Sports Commision</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Sports Commission has announced the schedule for the third annual Holiday Hoops Classic at Civic Arena in downtown St. Joseph. The Holiday Hoops Classic showcases boys and girls high school basketball teams from seven schools in Buchanan County along with other teams of interest from around the area, competing in a classic doubleheader format. The annual holiday showcase features 16 games over three days beginning on Thursday, December 19th with the Lafayette girls facing Columbia Battle while the Lafayette boys will face will see Oak Park, a Class 6 final four team in 2024. In addition to Holiday Hoops the St. Joseph Sports Commission has also announced the inaugural New Year's showcase, featuring 14 games that will be contested over two days, also at Civic Arena.The games will also be played in a boys and girls doubleheader format, opening on Friday January 3rd with the Leblond girls and boys facing Lafayette County.Ticket information will be released in late fall in which all sales will be facilitated online and through the Civic Arena Box Office.The schedule for Holiday Hoops and the inaugural winter showcase is listed below:2024 ST. JOSEPH AREA SPORTS HALL OF FAME HOLIDAY HOOPS PRESENTED BY UNITED FIBERThursday, December 196:00 PM – Lafayette vs. Columbia Battle (G)7:30 PM – Lafayette vs. Oak Park (B)Friday, December 2012:30 PM – LeBlond vs. North Andrew (G)2:00 PM – LeBlond vs. North Andrew (B)3:30 PM – Savannah vs. Macon (G)5 PM – Savannah vs. Macon (B)6:30 PM – Benton vs. Park Hill South (G)8 PM – Benton vs. Park Hill South (B)Saturday, December 2110:00 AM – St. Joseph Christian vs. DeKalb (G)11:30 AM – St. Joseph Christian vs. DeKalb (B)1 PM – North Platte vs. Platte Valley (G)2:30 PM - North Platte vs. Platte Valley (B)4 PM – Mid-Buchanan vs. Maysville (G)5:30 PM – Mid-Buchanan vs. Maysville (B)7 PM – Central vs. KC Kipp (G)8:30 PM – Central vs. Chillicothe (B)2025 ST. JOSEPH SPORTS COMMISSION HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL WINTER SHOWCASEFriday, January 3:12:30 PM – LeBlond vs. Lafayette County (G)2:00 PM – LeBlond vs. Lafayette County (B)3:30 PM – Benton vs. Riverview Gardens (G)5:00 PM – Benton vs. Riverview Gardens (B)6:30 PM – Central vs. West Plains (G)8:00 PM – Central vs. Hogan Prep (B)Saturday, January 4:10:00 AM – North Platte vs. East Atchison (G)11:30 AM – North Platte vs. East Atchison (B)1:00 PM – LeBlond vs. Lathrop (G)2:30 PM – LeBlond vs. Lathrop (B)4:00 PM – Central vs. Riverview Gardens (G)5:30 PM – Central vs. Riverview Gardens (B)7:00 PM – Benton vs. West Plains (G)8:30 PM – Benton vs. KC Central (B)

St. Joseph Sports Commission announces Holiday Hoops schedule, inaugural New Year's showcase

(Radio Iowa) - It’s been a wet spring in Iowa but water utilities in the Des Moines metro area are asking people to save water because of high nitrate levels in the Des Moines and Raccoon rivers. 

For now, Des Moines Water Works C-E-O Ted Corrigan says tap water is held below the legal limit by running a nitrate removal facility and mixing in low-nitrate water from wells and reservoirs. As people start watering lawns and demand increases, Corrigan says those low-nitrate sources won’t keep up. 

Conservations measures may have to be implemented, he says, not due to water quantity but rather water quality. The two rivers are a major source of drinking water for around 600-thousand people in central Iowa.

(Radio Iowa) - It’s been a wet spring in Iowa but water utilities in the Des Moines metro area are asking people to save water because of high nitrate levels in the Des Moines and Raccoon rivers. For now, Des Moines Water Works C-E-O Ted Corrigan says tap water is held below the legal limit by running a nitrate removal facility and mixing in low-nitrate water from wells and reservoirs. As people start watering lawns and demand increases, Corrigan says those low-nitrate sources won’t keep up. Conservations measures may have to be implemented, he says, not due to water quantity but rather water quality. The two rivers are a major source of drinking water for around 600-thousand people in central Iowa.

Water restrictions loom in central Iowa due to nitrates, not drought

The St. Joseph Mustangs scored four runs in the first three innings and went onto to beat the Sedalia Bombers 5-2 on Tuesday night at Liberty Park Stadium in Sedalia.

Carson Schrack was 3-for-5 at the plate with a run scored. Kyle Hepburn hit a two-run homer in the first inning to get things going.

Lafayette grad Jayden Little was 2-for-5 with two RBIs. Starting pitcher Aron Harrington was sharp, striking out seven and walking only one over 4.2 innings.

Bishop LeBlond alum Jaren Guck closed it out with a scoreless ninth inning, striking out two.

The Mustangs improve to 17-2 with their fifth straight win. St. Joseph is on the road Wednesday night at Jefferson City. First pitch is at 7 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658894396488.jpeg" alt="Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs scored four runs in the first three innings and went onto to beat the Sedalia Bombers 5-2 on Tuesday night at Liberty Park Stadium in Sedalia.Carson Schrack was 3-for-5 at the plate with a run scored. Kyle Hepburn hit a two-run homer in the first inning to get things going.Lafayette grad Jayden Little was 2-for-5 with two RBIs. Starting pitcher Aron Harrington was sharp, striking out seven and walking only one over 4.2 innings.Bishop LeBlond alum Jaren Guck closed it out with a scoreless ninth inning, striking out two.The Mustangs improve to 17-2 with their fifth straight win. St. Joseph is on the road Wednesday night at Jefferson City. First pitch is at 7 p.m.

Mustangs score win at Sedalia Tuesday night

Dozens of Missouri doctors joined in asking the court to uphold a federal law that allows doctors to perform emergency abortions in states with bans

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

When a woman experiencing a second trimester miscarriage came into the hospital bleeding through her clothes, Dr. Jennifer Smith couldn’t immediately help her.&nbsp;

Not while her fetus still had a heartbeat.

Too scared to wait for the miscarriage to progress far enough to be admitted to the hospital in Missouri, the woman and her husband drove to Illinois where she could obtain an abortion.&nbsp;

Until the situation is life-threatening to the mother, her hands are tied, said Smith, an OB-GYN in St. Louis. But at least in the worst emergency cases, Smith knows she can help thanks to a federal law called&nbsp;Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA).

“It’s just hard to imagine that we’re living in a time where that actually may not be true,” Smith said.&nbsp;

<a target="_blank" href="https://idahocapitalsun.com/2024/04/24/supreme-court-justices-appear-split-over-whether-to-protect-abortion-care-during-emergencies/">The U.S. Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;will soon decide whether a federal law mandating hospitals treat and stabilize every patient, regardless of their ability to pay, includes providing abortions where they are otherwise illegal.

In the case, the Biden administration sued Idaho to block enforcement of its abortion ban, arguing that it violated EMTALA by denying women abortions in emergency situations. Idaho bans abortions in almost all cases, with exceptions to save the life of the pregnant woman or when the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest.&nbsp;

In response,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/DocketPDF/23/23-727/290151/20231120154722276_2023-11-20%20Motion%20with%20Appendix.pdf">Idaho argued</a>&nbsp;that the federal law only requires “stabilizing treatment for&nbsp;the unborn children of pregnant women.” Idaho is asking the court to lift a temporary injunction blocking enforcement of its abortion ban in hospital emergency rooms.

The government is arguing that EMTALA&nbsp;requires hospitals to provide abortions needed to stabilize or save the life of a pregnant patient It also protects doctors from prosecution.

Without the law, hospitals and health care workers would have to wait until a mother is actually dying to proceed with a life-saving abortion, Smith said. St. Louis area hospitals still perform abortions for ectopic pregnancies, a nonviable pregnancy that if left unaddressed can be life-threatening to the mother, Smith said. But without EMTALA, she’s not so sure.

“It leaves every person involved in the care open to be prosecuted,” Smith said.

In May,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://19thnews.org/2024/05/doctors-letter-supreme-court-abortion-medical-emergencies/">nearly 6,000 physicians</a>&nbsp;across the country signed a letter on behalf of the Committee to Protect Health Care asking the Supreme Court to uphold the federal law.&nbsp;

Smith was among 32 Missouri doctors to sign on.

In June 2022, Missouri became the first state to ban abortion following the Supreme Court case overturning the landmark Roe v. Wade decision. The ban was triggered under a law passed in 2019 that made it effective with the Supreme Court action.

The 2019 law states abortions will only be permitted in cases of a medical emergency when “a delay will create a serious risk of substantial and irreversible physical impairment of a major bodily function.”

Health care providers who perform abortions not necessary to save the woman’s life can be charged with a class B felony. If convicted, they would face up to 15 years in prison and their medical license could also be suspended or revoked.&nbsp;

Because of this ban, some doctors and hospitals in Idaho recently stopped admitting pregnant patients who came into the emergency room, potentially needing abortions to save their lives. Instead, women are being transferred to other states for treatment during emergency situations.&nbsp;

Since Roe was overturned, a Missouri hospital became one of the first in the nation to be cited for violating EMTALA by denying a pregnant woman emergency care.&nbsp;

In August 2022,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/05/01/hospitals-in-joplin-kck-cited-for-denying-emergency-abortion-to-missouri-woman/">Mylissa Farmer entered a Joplin emergency room</a>&nbsp;after her water broke at about 18 weeks pregnant. Even though the pregnancy was no longer viable, because the fetus had a heartbeat, and because Farmer’s condition wasn’t immediately life-threatening, she was turned away. She returned the next day, was kept overnight and then released without additional treatment.

Freeman Health in Joplin was later cited for being in violation of federal law.&nbsp;

“Although her doctors advised her that her condition could rapidly deteriorate, they also advised that they could not provide her with the care that would prevent infection, hemorrhage, and potentially death because, they said, the hospital policies prohibited treatment that could be considered an abortion,” the report from the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services stated. “This was a violation of the EMTALA protections that were designed to protect patients like her.”

Smith said that while she and her colleagues often aren’t able to immediately help patients who experience situations like Farmer, she can at least direct them to care a short drive away in Illinois.&nbsp;

Prior to the Dobbs decision that overturned Roe, Smith said if a pregnant patient experienced premature rupture of the membranes, they could deliver the baby so the family could have some memories to hold on to.&nbsp;

Often parents would get copies of their child’s footprints and say their goodbyes.

Now, since they can’t act while the fetus has a heartbeat, Smith said she refers patients to abortion clinics in Illinois where they can receive a surgical abortion. But as a result, they don’t get to hold their baby, and often have to navigate anti-abortion protesters on the way.&nbsp;

To Smith, it’s not worth risking the mother’s life and well-being to wait for her condition to deteriorate.&nbsp;

“To delay the care of the mother based on the beating heart of the baby is so counterproductive,” she said. “ … It just takes one emergency that we don’t act on or that we delay to change the life of a whole community.”

A decision in favor of Idaho could impair care for pregnant patients with serious injuries from car accidents or gunshots, or who suffer a stroke, Smith said. In those cases,&nbsp; saving the mother sometimes isn’t possible without first delivering the pregnancy, whether viable or not.&nbsp;

Pregnant women can quickly lose blood in emergency situations, potentially putting the mother and child’s lives at risk, she said.&nbsp;

“Unless you’re a trauma physician, it’s an amount of blood that nobody else in the hospital deals with. It’s an unbelievable amount and it can happen so fast,” she said. “If you have to wait and question your legal standing, the likelihood of saving that patient intact, saving the baby, saving her uterus, all of it, it just goes down all the time.”

The Supreme Court could rule on the EMTALA case as early as next week. Until then, doctors continue holding their breath.&nbsp;

“They’re just singling out pregnancy at this point,” Smith said. “But once you start chipping away at rights, it’s really unclear where the end point is.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718794587714.png" alt=" Jennifer Smith, an OBGYN, speaks about medical challenges without legal abortions in Missouri during a rally held by Missourians for Constitutional Freedom Friday morning (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Jennifer Smith, an OBGYN, speaks about medical challenges without legal abortions in Missouri during a rally held by Missourians for Constitutional Freedom Friday morning (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Dozens of Missouri doctors joined in asking the court to uphold a federal law that allows doctors to perform emergency abortions in states with bans</h2>BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">ANNA SPOERRE</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>When a woman experiencing a second trimester miscarriage came into the hospital bleeding through her clothes, Dr. Jennifer Smith couldn’t immediately help her.&nbsp;Not while her fetus still had a heartbeat.Too scared to wait for the miscarriage to progress far enough to be admitted to the hospital in Missouri, the woman and her husband drove to Illinois where she could obtain an abortion.&nbsp;Until the situation is life-threatening to the mother, her hands are tied, said Smith, an OB-GYN in St. Louis. But at least in the worst emergency cases, Smith knows she can help thanks to a federal law called&nbsp;Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA).“It’s just hard to imagine that we’re living in a time where that actually may not be true,” Smith said.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://idahocapitalsun.com/2024/04/24/supreme-court-justices-appear-split-over-whether-to-protect-abortion-care-during-emergencies/">The U.S. Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;will soon decide whether a federal law mandating hospitals treat and stabilize every patient, regardless of their ability to pay, includes providing abortions where they are otherwise illegal.In the case, the Biden administration sued Idaho to block enforcement of its abortion ban, arguing that it violated EMTALA by denying women abortions in emergency situations. Idaho bans abortions in almost all cases, with exceptions to save the life of the pregnant woman or when the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest.&nbsp;In response,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/DocketPDF/23/23-727/290151/20231120154722276_2023-11-20%20Motion%20with%20Appendix.pdf">Idaho argued</a>&nbsp;that the federal law only requires “stabilizing treatment for&nbsp;the unborn children of pregnant women.” Idaho is asking the court to lift a temporary injunction blocking enforcement of its abortion ban in hospital emergency rooms.The government is arguing that EMTALA&nbsp;requires hospitals to provide abortions needed to stabilize or save the life of a pregnant patient It also protects doctors from prosecution.Without the law, hospitals and health care workers would have to wait until a mother is actually dying to proceed with a life-saving abortion, Smith said. St. Louis area hospitals still perform abortions for ectopic pregnancies, a nonviable pregnancy that if left unaddressed can be life-threatening to the mother, Smith said. But without EMTALA, she’s not so sure.“It leaves every person involved in the care open to be prosecuted,” Smith said.In May,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://19thnews.org/2024/05/doctors-letter-supreme-court-abortion-medical-emergencies/">nearly 6,000 physicians</a>&nbsp;across the country signed a letter on behalf of the Committee to Protect Health Care asking the Supreme Court to uphold the federal law.&nbsp;Smith was among 32 Missouri doctors to sign on.In June 2022, Missouri became the first state to ban abortion following the Supreme Court case overturning the landmark Roe v. Wade decision. The ban was triggered under a law passed in 2019 that made it effective with the Supreme Court action.The 2019 law states abortions will only be permitted in cases of a medical emergency when “a delay will create a serious risk of substantial and irreversible physical impairment of a major bodily function.”Health care providers who perform abortions not necessary to save the woman’s life can be charged with a class B felony. If convicted, they would face up to 15 years in prison and their medical license could also be suspended or revoked.&nbsp;Because of this ban, some doctors and hospitals in Idaho recently stopped admitting pregnant patients who came into the emergency room, potentially needing abortions to save their lives. Instead, women are being transferred to other states for treatment during emergency situations.&nbsp;Since Roe was overturned, a Missouri hospital became one of the first in the nation to be cited for violating EMTALA by denying a pregnant woman emergency care.&nbsp;In August 2022,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/05/01/hospitals-in-joplin-kck-cited-for-denying-emergency-abortion-to-missouri-woman/">Mylissa Farmer entered a Joplin emergency room</a>&nbsp;after her water broke at about 18 weeks pregnant. Even though the pregnancy was no longer viable, because the fetus had a heartbeat, and because Farmer’s condition wasn’t immediately life-threatening, she was turned away. She returned the next day, was kept overnight and then released without additional treatment.Freeman Health in Joplin was later cited for being in violation of federal law.&nbsp;“Although her doctors advised her that her condition could rapidly deteriorate, they also advised that they could not provide her with the care that would prevent infection, hemorrhage, and potentially death because, they said, the hospital policies prohibited treatment that could be considered an abortion,” the report from the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services stated. “This was a violation of the EMTALA protections that were designed to protect patients like her.”Smith said that while she and her colleagues often aren’t able to immediately help patients who experience situations like Farmer, she can at least direct them to care a short drive away in Illinois.&nbsp;Prior to the Dobbs decision that overturned Roe, Smith said if a pregnant patient experienced premature rupture of the membranes, they could deliver the baby so the family could have some memories to hold on to.&nbsp;Often parents would get copies of their child’s footprints and say their goodbyes.Now, since they can’t act while the fetus has a heartbeat, Smith said she refers patients to abortion clinics in Illinois where they can receive a surgical abortion. But as a result, they don’t get to hold their baby, and often have to navigate anti-abortion protesters on the way.&nbsp;To Smith, it’s not worth risking the mother’s life and well-being to wait for her condition to deteriorate.&nbsp;“To delay the care of the mother based on the beating heart of the baby is so counterproductive,” she said. “ … It just takes one emergency that we don’t act on or that we delay to change the life of a whole community.”A decision in favor of Idaho could impair care for pregnant patients with serious injuries from car accidents or gunshots, or who suffer a stroke, Smith said. In those cases,&nbsp; saving the mother sometimes isn’t possible without first delivering the pregnancy, whether viable or not.&nbsp;Pregnant women can quickly lose blood in emergency situations, potentially putting the mother and child’s lives at risk, she said.&nbsp;“Unless you’re a trauma physician, it’s an amount of blood that nobody else in the hospital deals with. It’s an unbelievable amount and it can happen so fast,” she said. “If you have to wait and question your legal standing, the likelihood of saving that patient intact, saving the baby, saving her uterus, all of it, it just goes down all the time.”The Supreme Court could rule on the EMTALA case as early as next week. Until then, doctors continue holding their breath.&nbsp;“They’re just singling out pregnancy at this point,” Smith said. “But once you start chipping away at rights, it’s really unclear where the end point is.”

Emergency care for pregnant women at stake in Supreme Court case, Missouri doctor warns

&nbsp;HALL COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the deadly stabbing of a Missouri man during an attempted robbery at a rest area on Interstate 80 in Nebraska.

Just after 7 a.m. Wednesday, deputies responded to a disturbance at the westbound rest area at 4148 Interstate 80, according to a media release from the Hall County, Nebraska sheriff office.&nbsp; 

First responders found two victims who had suffered wounds from an assault with a knife. EMS transported both victims, a 72-year-old man and a 71-year-old woman, both of Eureka, Missouri, to the hospital in Grand Island.&nbsp; The man died of his injuries and the woman was reported in critical condition..

Local law enforcement provide the Nebraska State Patrol with a description of the suspect vehicle.&nbsp; Troopers located the vehicle and were able to make an arrest of a 22-year-old man from Elyria, Ohio.&nbsp;

Police have not released the names of the victims.

&nbsp;HALL COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the deadly stabbing of a Missouri man during an attempted robbery at a rest area on Interstate 80 in Nebraska.Just after 7 a.m. Wednesday, deputies responded to a disturbance at the westbound rest area at 4148 Interstate 80, according to a media release from the Hall County, Nebraska sheriff office.&nbsp; First responders found two victims who had suffered wounds from an assault with a knife. EMS transported both victims, a 72-year-old man and a 71-year-old woman, both of Eureka, Missouri, to the hospital in Grand Island.&nbsp; The man died of his injuries and the woman was reported in critical condition..Local law enforcement provide the Nebraska State Patrol with a description of the suspect vehicle.&nbsp; Troopers located the vehicle and were able to make an arrest of a 22-year-old man from Elyria, Ohio.&nbsp;Police have not released the names of the victims.

Mo. man dies after knife attack at Nebraska highway rest area

(Radio Iowa) - Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird is urging Iowans to call in tips to a new cold case unit in her office.

The legislature has provided Bird's office with over half a million dollars and she'll be hiring three investigators to review the more than 400 unsolved murders or missing person cases in Iowa. Steve Ponsetto (pawn-SET-oh), a retired state trooper and Division of Criminal Investigation agent, will lead the office. He says they will review homicides and cases involving unidentified human remains as well as people who've gone missing under suspicious circumstances if local investigators have exhausted all leads.

The program will be launched July 1st when the next state budgeting year starts.

(Radio Iowa) - Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird is urging Iowans to call in tips to a new cold case unit in her office.The legislature has provided Bird's office with over half a million dollars and she'll be hiring three investigators to review the more than 400 unsolved murders or missing person cases in Iowa. Steve Ponsetto (pawn-SET-oh), a retired state trooper and Division of Criminal Investigation agent, will lead the office. He says they will review homicides and cases involving unidentified human remains as well as people who've gone missing under suspicious circumstances if local investigators have exhausted all leads.The program will be launched July 1st when the next state budgeting year starts.

AG Launches Cold Case Unit

(Radio Iowa) - A federal judge has temporarily blocked enforcement of Iowa's immigration law to make illegal reentry a state crime.

 The law is designed to give state officials authority to arrest and deport immigrants who'd previously been deported or denied legal entry into the U.S. In his ruling, U-S District Court Judge Stephen Locher (LOH-ker) said as a matter of politics, the new legislation might be defensible, but he said as a matter of constitutional law, it is not.

 Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird will appeal the ruling. Governor Kim Reynolds says the state must act because President Biden has failed to secure the southern border.

(Radio Iowa) - A federal judge has temporarily blocked enforcement of Iowa's immigration law to make illegal reentry a state crime. The law is designed to give state officials authority to arrest and deport immigrants who'd previously been deported or denied legal entry into the U.S. In his ruling, U-S District Court Judge Stephen Locher (LOH-ker) said as a matter of politics, the new legislation might be defensible, but he said as a matter of constitutional law, it is not. Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird will appeal the ruling. Governor Kim Reynolds says the state must act because President Biden has failed to secure the southern border.

Federal judge blocks enforcement of Iowa's immigration law

By TONY GUERRERO&nbsp;Hays Post

Police have arrested a suspect on charges of second-degree murder for the death of a 5-month-old boy on April 2 in Hays.

According to a media release from the Hays Police Department, 28-year-old Abraham Duran Leon of Hays was arrested on June 17.

Emergency personnel were dispatched at 12:15 p.m. on April 2 to Room 206 at the Rodeway Inn, 3404 Vine St., responding to a report that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/obituaries/fernando-leon">Fernando Leon III</a>, an infant, was not breathing.

Abraham, the father of Fernando, was also present in the motel room and was arrested for interference with law enforcement before being released days later, according to Chief of Police Don Scheibler.

Hays police officers arrived as Ellis County EMS was performing CPR on Fernando. He was then transported to Hays Medical Center, where he was pronounced deceased.

The Hays Police Department and the Ellis County Coroner's office investigated the death. An autopsy report revealed the child had methamphetamine in his system and died from complications related to methamphetamine intoxication.

Abraham Leon is currently held in the Ellis County Jail and is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The child's mother, Brandi Niehoff, who has been ruled out as a suspect, was previously convicted in connection with the death of the child's older brother.

The investigation into the death of Fernando Leon III continues and anyone with information should call Detective J.B. Burkholder at 785-625-1030.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712771901192.png" alt="Leon-photo Ellis County" />
 <figcaption>Leon-photo Ellis County</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO&nbsp;Hays PostPolice have arrested a suspect on charges of second-degree murder for the death of a 5-month-old boy on April 2 in Hays.According to a media release from the Hays Police Department, 28-year-old Abraham Duran Leon of Hays was arrested on June 17.Emergency personnel were dispatched at 12:15 p.m. on April 2 to Room 206 at the Rodeway Inn, 3404 Vine St., responding to a report that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/obituaries/fernando-leon">Fernando Leon III</a>, an infant, was not breathing.Abraham, the father of Fernando, was also present in the motel room and was arrested for interference with law enforcement before being released days later, according to Chief of Police Don Scheibler.Hays police officers arrived as Ellis County EMS was performing CPR on Fernando. He was then transported to Hays Medical Center, where he was pronounced deceased.The Hays Police Department and the Ellis County Coroner's office investigated the death. An autopsy report revealed the child had methamphetamine in his system and died from complications related to methamphetamine intoxication.Abraham Leon is currently held in the Ellis County Jail and is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.The child's mother, Brandi Niehoff, who has been ruled out as a suspect, was previously convicted in connection with the death of the child's older brother.The investigation into the death of Fernando Leon III continues and anyone with information should call Detective J.B. Burkholder at 785-625-1030.

Father arrested for death of 5-month old son in NW Kansas

Northern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves defends sending
military aid to Ukraine as it continues to fight off the invasion of Russia.

Russia invaded Ukraine in February of 2022, sparking a war
that continues to rage.

Graves, a Republican, says the United States must stop
Russia’s advance before it reaches the Baltic states.

“Those are allied nations with the United States. Those are NATO
nations,” Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “And by the way, we already have
troops in those countries, but we will have U.S. military personnel fighting
Russians. So, we have to do everything we can to make sure that this is
executed in Ukraine and it doesn’t move into those NATO countries that have an alliance
with the United States.”

Graves, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, also
backs military aid to Israel, saying the country needs to stand strong with its
best ally in the Middle East as it fights Hamas, which attacked Israel in
October in what Graves calls one of the most heinous attacks witnessed in
modern history.

“This idea that we should back off and give refuge to Hamas so
that they can reconstitute I think is just ridiculous,” Graves says. “I think
we need to stand strong with Israel and give them whatever they need when it
comes to arms. &nbsp;We can’t be weak; we can’t
show weakness and that is exactly what the United States is doing right now.”

Graves objects to President Joe Biden putting stipulations on
the military aid sent to Israel. And Graves says Hamas has used human shields
in defend itself against Israeli forces.

“Hamas is a terrorist organization and allowing them to
reconstitute, which is exactly what the president is going to do if he were to
get his way, I think it’s very weak and it shows a very weak posture,” according
to Graves.

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

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostNorthern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves defends sending
military aid to Ukraine as it continues to fight off the invasion of Russia.Russia invaded Ukraine in February of 2022, sparking a war
that continues to rage.Graves, a Republican, says the United States must stop
Russia’s advance before it reaches the Baltic states.“Those are allied nations with the United States. Those are NATO
nations,” Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “And by the way, we already have
troops in those countries, but we will have U.S. military personnel fighting
Russians. So, we have to do everything we can to make sure that this is
executed in Ukraine and it doesn’t move into those NATO countries that have an alliance
with the United States.”Graves, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, also
backs military aid to Israel, saying the country needs to stand strong with its
best ally in the Middle East as it fights Hamas, which attacked Israel in
October in what Graves calls one of the most heinous attacks witnessed in
modern history.“This idea that we should back off and give refuge to Hamas so
that they can reconstitute I think is just ridiculous,” Graves says. “I think
we need to stand strong with Israel and give them whatever they need when it
comes to arms. &nbsp;We can’t be weak; we can’t
show weakness and that is exactly what the United States is doing right now.”Graves objects to President Joe Biden putting stipulations on
the military aid sent to Israel. And Graves says Hamas has used human shields
in defend itself against Israeli forces.“Hamas is a terrorist organization and allowing them to
reconstitute, which is exactly what the president is going to do if he were to
get his way, I think it’s very weak and it shows a very weak posture,” according
to Graves.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Congressman Graves backs military aid to Ukraine and Israel

Lawyers representing Planned Parenthood and the Missouri Attorney General argued Monday over HIPPA protections during a St. Louis Circuit Court hearing

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

ST. LOUIS — A circuit court judge heard arguments Monday over whether the Missouri attorney general’s efforts to access medical records of transgender youth violate privacy protections.

Monday’s hearing was convened at the request of Bailey in the hopes that the court would amend a previous order that requires patients to waive HIPAA rights before their medical records could be shared. If they don’t waive HIPAA, their documents would be exempt from the attorney general’s request for medical records.

HIPAA, which stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, protects patients from their providers disclosing their personally identifiable health information.

St. Louis Circuit Court Judge Joseph Whyte did not immediately rule following the hearing. Richard Muniz, interim president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri, said if the decision is unfavorable, his organization will appeal.

“Our commitment to our patients is that we will fight this as long as we need to,” Muniz told The Independent. “Today, we’ve already signaled that we are going to appeal because we think that we shouldn’t have to turn over documents, especially patient records, but we shouldn’t have to partake in this investigation at all.”

Bailey launched his investigation in March 2023 looking into gender-affirming care of minors after the affidavit of Jamie Reed, who worked at Washington University’s adolescent Transgender Center. In April, another circuit court judge ruled that Bailey may continue his investigation — adding that patients must waive HIPAA rights before their private health information could be shared.

Children’s Mercy in Kansas City, Washington University and Planned Parenthood Great Plains are also arguing against the attorney general’s civil investigative demands.

The April decision, beyond giving patients the ability to protect their medical records, granted Bailey power to investigate Planned Parenthood under the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act, a state law that allows the attorney general’s office to investigate deceptive marketing practices.

Matthew Eddy, an attorney representing Planned Parenthood said during his arguments Monday that the attorney general’s authority under the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act has yet to be fully litigated.

Health care providers are fearful of what the attorney general might do with more information.&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/05/24/therapists-social-workers-face-scrutiny-in-missouri-ag-investigation-of-transgender-care/">Prior reporting by The Independent</a>&nbsp;revealed Bailey’s use of the Division of Professional Registration, which is investigating therapists as a result of a complaint from his office.

After the attorney general’s office received a list of minor patients that received care at the Washington University Transgender Center and other documents, therapists and social workers that had written letters of support for patients to go to the Transgender Center had their licenses at risk. As of early May, 16 of 57 cases were still open.

Deputy Solicitor General Sam Freeland, representing the attorney general, argued Monday that&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/45/164.512">a federal regulation</a>&nbsp;allows medical records to be released when ordered by the court. He told the judge this exception was “not discussed by the plaintiff.”

“HIPAA has not barred the disclosure of the documents in question,” Freeland argued.

He said Planned Parenthood had the burden of proof to show that HIPAA covers the documents.

“Planned Parenthood has proven the general rule that HIPAA protects disclosure,” he said. “The burden is on the respondent to show that the exception applies.”

Eddy further attacked the premise of Bailey’s investigation, which Freeland argued was not on the table Monday.

He said the attorney general’s civil investigative demands, which Eddy said were titled as an investigation into the Washington University Transgender Center, “had no allegations as to Planned Parenthood’s conduct.”

“He can’t point to a single complaint from a patient, a patient’s parent,” Eddy said.

Eddy said the attorney general “had 54 incredibly broad requests for information.”

“Included in the requests are information that would be deeply sensitive to transgender minors,” he told the judge.

Muniz told reporters one of the requests was for “any document that mentions TikTok,” calling the investigation a “sprawling phishing expedition.”

In press releases, Bailey has expressed a belief that all gender-affirming medical providers are connected.

“I launched this investigation to obtain the truth about how this clandestine network of clinics subjected children to puberty blockers and irreversible surgery, often without parental consent,” he said in a statement following the hearing Monday. “We are moving forward undeterred with our investigation into Planned Parenthood. I will not stop until all bad actors are held accountable.”

Muniz said Planned Parenthood does not have a formal relationship with Washington University, which was the focus of Reed’s affidavit and the beginning of Bailey’s investigation.

Supporters of Planned Parenthood rallied before the hearing, calling the investigation a political attack.

“(Bailey) only wants (the records) so he can politicize gender affirming care and to put a target on transgender and gender-non-conforming patients,” Margot Riphagen, Planned Parenthood St. Louis’s vice president of external affairs, said during the rally.

Katy Erker-Lynch, executive director of LGBTQ advocacy organization PROMO, called the attorney general’s actions “scary.”

“He has pushed credentialing committees of social workers, professional counselors and family and marital therapists to investigate every single provider on the eastern side of the state that has offered a letter of support for a trans or gender expansive kid to receive care,” she said, referencing a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/05/24/therapists-social-workers-face-scrutiny-in-missouri-ag-investigation-of-transgender-care/">Division of Professional Registration investigation</a>&nbsp;that stemmed from the AG’s complaint.

Around 40 people attended the rally, filling the courtroom until a small group were standing in the back. Most wore t-shirts with phrases like “protect trans kids” or “I fight with Planned Parenthood” and filed into the seats behind Planned Parenthood’s lawyers before sitting on the opposing side.

“Thank you,” a few people told Eddy as they walked out of the St. Louis courtroom.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718739260758.jpeg" alt=" Advocates with PROMO and Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri rally outside of the St. Louis Civil Courts building Monday afternoon (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Advocates with PROMO and Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri rally outside of the St. Louis Civil Courts building Monday afternoon (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Lawyers representing Planned Parenthood and the Missouri Attorney General argued Monday over HIPPA protections during a St. Louis Circuit Court hearing</h2>BY:&nbsp;ANNELISE HANSHAW&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>ST. LOUIS — A circuit court judge heard arguments Monday over whether the Missouri attorney general’s efforts to access medical records of transgender youth violate privacy protections.Monday’s hearing was convened at the request of Bailey in the hopes that the court would amend a previous order that requires patients to waive HIPAA rights before their medical records could be shared. If they don’t waive HIPAA, their documents would be exempt from the attorney general’s request for medical records.HIPAA, which stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, protects patients from their providers disclosing their personally identifiable health information.St. Louis Circuit Court Judge Joseph Whyte did not immediately rule following the hearing. Richard Muniz, interim president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri, said if the decision is unfavorable, his organization will appeal.“Our commitment to our patients is that we will fight this as long as we need to,” Muniz told The Independent. “Today, we’ve already signaled that we are going to appeal because we think that we shouldn’t have to turn over documents, especially patient records, but we shouldn’t have to partake in this investigation at all.”Bailey launched his investigation in March 2023 looking into gender-affirming care of minors after the affidavit of Jamie Reed, who worked at Washington University’s adolescent Transgender Center. In April, another circuit court judge ruled that Bailey may continue his investigation — adding that patients must waive HIPAA rights before their private health information could be shared.Children’s Mercy in Kansas City, Washington University and Planned Parenthood Great Plains are also arguing against the attorney general’s civil investigative demands.The April decision, beyond giving patients the ability to protect their medical records, granted Bailey power to investigate Planned Parenthood under the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act, a state law that allows the attorney general’s office to investigate deceptive marketing practices.Matthew Eddy, an attorney representing Planned Parenthood said during his arguments Monday that the attorney general’s authority under the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act has yet to be fully litigated.Health care providers are fearful of what the attorney general might do with more information.&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/05/24/therapists-social-workers-face-scrutiny-in-missouri-ag-investigation-of-transgender-care/">Prior reporting by The Independent</a>&nbsp;revealed Bailey’s use of the Division of Professional Registration, which is investigating therapists as a result of a complaint from his office.After the attorney general’s office received a list of minor patients that received care at the Washington University Transgender Center and other documents, therapists and social workers that had written letters of support for patients to go to the Transgender Center had their licenses at risk. As of early May, 16 of 57 cases were still open.<h2>Hearing</h2>Deputy Solicitor General Sam Freeland, representing the attorney general, argued Monday that&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/45/164.512">a federal regulation</a>&nbsp;allows medical records to be released when ordered by the court. He told the judge this exception was “not discussed by the plaintiff.”“HIPAA has not barred the disclosure of the documents in question,” Freeland argued.He said Planned Parenthood had the burden of proof to show that HIPAA covers the documents.Eddy this was “simply not correct.”“Planned Parenthood has proven the general rule that HIPAA protects disclosure,” he said. “The burden is on the respondent to show that the exception applies.”Eddy further attacked the premise of Bailey’s investigation, which Freeland argued was not on the table Monday.He said the attorney general’s civil investigative demands, which Eddy said were titled as an investigation into the Washington University Transgender Center, “had no allegations as to Planned Parenthood’s conduct.”“He can’t point to a single complaint from a patient, a patient’s parent,” Eddy said.Eddy said the attorney general “had 54 incredibly broad requests for information.”“Included in the requests are information that would be deeply sensitive to transgender minors,” he told the judge.Muniz told reporters one of the requests was for “any document that mentions TikTok,” calling the investigation a “sprawling phishing expedition.”In press releases, Bailey has expressed a belief that all gender-affirming medical providers are connected.“I launched this investigation to obtain the truth about how this clandestine network of clinics subjected children to puberty blockers and irreversible surgery, often without parental consent,” he said in a statement following the hearing Monday. “We are moving forward undeterred with our investigation into Planned Parenthood. I will not stop until all bad actors are held accountable.”Muniz said Planned Parenthood does not have a formal relationship with Washington University, which was the focus of Reed’s affidavit and the beginning of Bailey’s investigation.Supporters of Planned Parenthood rallied before the hearing, calling the investigation a political attack.“(Bailey) only wants (the records) so he can politicize gender affirming care and to put a target on transgender and gender-non-conforming patients,” Margot Riphagen, Planned Parenthood St. Louis’s vice president of external affairs, said during the rally.Katy Erker-Lynch, executive director of LGBTQ advocacy organization PROMO, called the attorney general’s actions “scary.”“He has pushed credentialing committees of social workers, professional counselors and family and marital therapists to investigate every single provider on the eastern side of the state that has offered a letter of support for a trans or gender expansive kid to receive care,” she said, referencing a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/05/24/therapists-social-workers-face-scrutiny-in-missouri-ag-investigation-of-transgender-care/">Division of Professional Registration investigation</a>&nbsp;that stemmed from the AG’s complaint.Around 40 people attended the rally, filling the courtroom until a small group were standing in the back. Most wore t-shirts with phrases like “protect trans kids” or “I fight with Planned Parenthood” and filed into the seats behind Planned Parenthood’s lawyers before sitting on the opposing side.“Thank you,” a few people told Eddy as they walked out of the St. Louis courtroom.

Planned Parenthood to fight Mo. AG push for transgender youth medical records

The St. Joseph Mustangs won their fourth straight game with a 7-1 win against the Warren County Crop Dusters at Fareway Fields in Norwalk, Iowa Monday night.

Carson Schrack went 2-for-4 at the plate with a double and two runs scored. Jackson Glueck was 2-for-4 with a run scored as well. Savannah native Truman Bodenhausen was 2-for-3 with three RBIs.

On the hill, St. Joseph Christian alum Camden Lutz tossed a complete game, allowing just five hits and one earned run. He struck out four and walked two.

The Mustangs are now 16-2 on the season. St. Joseph plays at Sedalia Tuesday night at 7 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1659155945013.jpeg" alt="Camden Lutz. Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Camden Lutz. Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs won their fourth straight game with a 7-1 win against the Warren County Crop Dusters at Fareway Fields in Norwalk, Iowa Monday night.Carson Schrack went 2-for-4 at the plate with a double and two runs scored. Jackson Glueck was 2-for-4 with a run scored as well. Savannah native Truman Bodenhausen was 2-for-3 with three RBIs.On the hill, St. Joseph Christian alum Camden Lutz tossed a complete game, allowing just five hits and one earned run. He struck out four and walked two.The Mustangs are now 16-2 on the season. St. Joseph plays at Sedalia Tuesday night at 7 p.m.

Camden Lutz tosses complete game, Mustangs win fourth straight Monday

(Radio Iowa) - The state says swimming is not advised at Pine Lake State Park in Hardin County due to high E-coli levels, while two public beaches at Storm Lake in Buena Vista County also exceed the state’s advisory threshold for the bacteria. 

That makes a total of 12 state park beach advisories issued so far this year. Daniel Kendall, the Iowa D-N-R's lake and beach monitoring coordinator, says people should enjoy Iowa’s lakes and rivers, but he strongly recommends wearing life jackets and that you wash off well after playing in the water. 

Kendall says people most at risk of getting sick are children younger than 5, adults 65 and older, and people with underlying medical conditions, like cancer and diabetes.

(Radio Iowa) - The state says swimming is not advised at Pine Lake State Park in Hardin County due to high E-coli levels, while two public beaches at Storm Lake in Buena Vista County also exceed the state’s advisory threshold for the bacteria. That makes a total of 12 state park beach advisories issued so far this year. Daniel Kendall, the Iowa D-N-R's lake and beach monitoring coordinator, says people should enjoy Iowa’s lakes and rivers, but he strongly recommends wearing life jackets and that you wash off well after playing in the water. Kendall says people most at risk of getting sick are children younger than 5, adults 65 and older, and people with underlying medical conditions, like cancer and diabetes.

Summer hasn't started and already 12 state park lakes advise 'no swimming'

(Radio Iowa) - Western Iowa is seeing more widespread cases of trees becoming infested with the emerald ash borer. The first case was discovered in Woodbury County last year and that’s where Lindsay Meylor works as a horticulture educator with the I-S-U Extension and Outreach. 

Meylor says her office is now fielding frequent calls from people, wondering how to save their trees. If the tree is already in decline, she recommends taking it down and planting a different type. Meylor says insecticide is best applied before any signs of damage, and treatment -- which can cost hundreds of dollars per application -- will have to continue throughout the life of the tree. 

The insect can kill a tree within two years. The pest first appeared in eastern Iowa in 2010 and has since been detected in 98 of Iowa's 99 counties, all but Emmett in northwest Iowa.

(Radio Iowa) - Western Iowa is seeing more widespread cases of trees becoming infested with the emerald ash borer. The first case was discovered in Woodbury County last year and that’s where Lindsay Meylor works as a horticulture educator with the I-S-U Extension and Outreach. Meylor says her office is now fielding frequent calls from people, wondering how to save their trees. If the tree is already in decline, she recommends taking it down and planting a different type. Meylor says insecticide is best applied before any signs of damage, and treatment -- which can cost hundreds of dollars per application -- will have to continue throughout the life of the tree. The insect can kill a tree within two years. The pest first appeared in eastern Iowa in 2010 and has since been detected in 98 of Iowa's 99 counties, all but Emmett in northwest Iowa.

Tree-killing insect is infesting more trees in western Iowa

A former mental patient who confessed to the 1980 murder of a St.
Joseph State Hospital librarian will be released from the Chillicothe women’s prison
unless prosecutors decide to retry her.

A judge has overturned the conviction of Sandra Hemme in the death
of 31-year-old librarian Patricia Jeschke. Hemme, who is now 63, has spent 43
years in prison after her conviction in Jeschke’s death.

Livingston County Circuit Judge Ryan Horsman found Hemme has a
credible claim of innocence. Prosecutors have 30 days to decide whether another
trial should be held.

The Innocence Project, which petitioned for Hemme’s release, claims
investigators ignored her mental state and evidence that implicated discredited
police officer Michael Holman, who was fired from the St. Joseph Police Department
and died in 2015. Judge Horsman wrote that no evidence points to Hemme, but
directly ties Holman to the murder scene.

An initial plea of guilty by Hemme was thrown out by the court,
but a jury convicted her of murder in 1985 after a one-day trial.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687623288901.png" alt="Sandra Hemme" />
 <figcaption>Sandra Hemme</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA former mental patient who confessed to the 1980 murder of a St.
Joseph State Hospital librarian will be released from the Chillicothe women’s prison
unless prosecutors decide to retry her.A judge has overturned the conviction of Sandra Hemme in the death
of 31-year-old librarian Patricia Jeschke. Hemme, who is now 63, has spent 43
years in prison after her conviction in Jeschke’s death.Livingston County Circuit Judge Ryan Horsman found Hemme has a
credible claim of innocence. Prosecutors have 30 days to decide whether another
trial should be held.The Innocence Project, which petitioned for Hemme’s release, claims
investigators ignored her mental state and evidence that implicated discredited
police officer Michael Holman, who was fired from the St. Joseph Police Department
and died in 2015. Judge Horsman wrote that no evidence points to Hemme, but
directly ties Holman to the murder scene.An initial plea of guilty by Hemme was thrown out by the court,
but a jury convicted her of murder in 1985 after a one-day trial.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Judge orders Hemme released after serving 43 years for St. Joseph murder

The Kansas City Chiefs announced dates for training camp at Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph.

This marks the 14th year of training camp at Missouri Western. All times and dates are subject to change. All practices will take place on the Mosaic Training Fields. There'll be 19 practices in all.

Open practices begin July 21 and conclude&nbsp; August 15. All training camp practices will be free of charge to the public, unless otherwise noted.

Training camp tickets must be reserved in advance at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chiefs.com/trainingcamp/" target="_blank">www.chiefs.com/trainingcamp/</a>.

Due to expected interest and demand, attendance each day will be limited. Ticket reservations will begin at 10 a.m. on Thursday, June 20 for Chiefs Season Ticket Members followed by the general public on Friday, June 21 at 10 a.m.

Fans can reserve a maximum of six tickets per practice, and can reserve tickets for a maximum of three separate practices.

Paid practice days will require advance payment to reserve tickets, while only Chiefs Season Ticket Members have the option to reserve tickets for the exclusive Season Ticket Member days.

Chiefs Tailgate Suites will be available for purchase in the North Endzone for groups of 10 or more. Tailgate Suites offer a private viewing space next to the field with food and beverage and climate-controlled access in the Tailgate Suite.&nbsp; For more information, or to reserve your tailgate suite, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chiefs.com/trainingcamp" target="_blank">www.chiefs.com/trainingcamp</a>.&nbsp;

All tickets are mobile entry only through the Chiefs Mobile app. Tickets and parking are subject to the Chiefs ticket terms which can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chiefs.com/tickets/terms/specialeventticketterms" target="_blank">www.chiefs.com/tickets/terms/specialeventticketterms</a>.

Missouri Western will charge a $5 parking fee per vehicle per day, with the exception of the two exclusive Chiefs Season Ticket Member days when parking is free. Fans are required to pre-purchase parking, and that can be done during the ticket reservation process.

Missouri Western will charge a $5 admission fee on three different days – Sunday, July 21; Saturday, July 27 (Family Fun Day) and Sunday, August 4.

The Chiefs will host two free, exclusive Season Ticket Member days that are not open to the public – Monday, July 22 and Wednesday, August 7. Ambassador Day will take place on Monday, July 29 and Military Appreciation Day will be Thursday, August 15. Team autograph sessions are scheduled to take place July 21, July 22, July 27, August 4 and August 7.

Weather and field conditions are evaluated daily. All dates and times are subject to change. If practice is moved indoors due to&nbsp; weather, it will be closed to the general public. Fans will be notified by email and/or text message as soon as a decision is made.

Dates&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Times Sunday, July 21&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m $5 Admission *Team Autograph Session

Monday, July 22&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Exclusive Season Ticket Member Day - (Not Open to General Public)&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; *Team Autograph Session

Tuesday, July 23&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m.&nbsp; &nbsp; Autographs: Linebackers

Wednesday, July 24&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m.&nbsp; &nbsp;Autographs: DBs

Thursday, July 25&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No Practice

Friday, July 26&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; *Autographs: Quarterbacks, Running Backs &amp; Specialists

Saturday, July 27&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m. *$5 Admission– Family Fun Day -&nbsp;Team Autograph Session

Sunday, July 28&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m.&nbsp; &nbsp;Autographs: WRs and TEs

Monday, July 29&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m.&nbsp; Ambassador Day *Autographs: Offensive/Defensive Line

Tuesday, July 30&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No Practice

Wednesday, July 31&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;Autographs: Linebackers

Thursday, Aug. 1&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m. Autographs: DBs

Friday, Aug. 2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m. *Autographs: QBs, RBs, Special Teams

Saturday, Aug. 3&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No Practice

Sunday, Aug. 4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m.$5 Admission *Team Autograph Session

Monday, Aug. 5&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m. Autographs: WRs, TEs

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690280396128.png" alt="Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Chiefs announced dates for training camp at Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph.This marks the 14th year of training camp at Missouri Western. All times and dates are subject to change. All practices will take place on the Mosaic Training Fields. There'll be 19 practices in all.Open practices begin July 21 and conclude&nbsp; August 15. All training camp practices will be free of charge to the public, unless otherwise noted.Training camp tickets must be reserved in advance at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chiefs.com/trainingcamp/" target="_blank">www.chiefs.com/trainingcamp/</a>.Due to expected interest and demand, attendance each day will be limited. Ticket reservations will begin at 10 a.m. on Thursday, June 20 for Chiefs Season Ticket Members followed by the general public on Friday, June 21 at 10 a.m.Fans can reserve a maximum of six tickets per practice, and can reserve tickets for a maximum of three separate practices.Paid practice days will require advance payment to reserve tickets, while only Chiefs Season Ticket Members have the option to reserve tickets for the exclusive Season Ticket Member days.Chiefs Tailgate Suites will be available for purchase in the North Endzone for groups of 10 or more. Tailgate Suites offer a private viewing space next to the field with food and beverage and climate-controlled access in the Tailgate Suite.&nbsp; For more information, or to reserve your tailgate suite, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chiefs.com/trainingcamp" target="_blank">www.chiefs.com/trainingcamp</a>.&nbsp;All tickets are mobile entry only through the Chiefs Mobile app. Tickets and parking are subject to the Chiefs ticket terms which can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chiefs.com/tickets/terms/specialeventticketterms" target="_blank">www.chiefs.com/tickets/terms/specialeventticketterms</a>.Missouri Western will charge a $5 parking fee per vehicle per day, with the exception of the two exclusive Chiefs Season Ticket Member days when parking is free. Fans are required to pre-purchase parking, and that can be done during the ticket reservation process.Missouri Western will charge a $5 admission fee on three different days – Sunday, July 21; Saturday, July 27 (Family Fun Day) and Sunday, August 4.The Chiefs will host two free, exclusive Season Ticket Member days that are not open to the public – Monday, July 22 and Wednesday, August 7. Ambassador Day will take place on Monday, July 29 and Military Appreciation Day will be Thursday, August 15. Team autograph sessions are scheduled to take place July 21, July 22, July 27, August 4 and August 7.Weather and field conditions are evaluated daily. All dates and times are subject to change. If practice is moved indoors due to&nbsp; weather, it will be closed to the general public. Fans will be notified by email and/or text message as soon as a decision is made.Dates&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Times Sunday, July 21&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m $5 Admission *Team Autograph SessionMonday, July 22&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Exclusive Season Ticket Member Day - (Not Open to General Public)&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; *Team Autograph SessionTuesday, July 23&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m.&nbsp; &nbsp; Autographs: LinebackersWednesday, July 24&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m.&nbsp; &nbsp;Autographs: DBsThursday, July 25&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No PracticeFriday, July 26&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; *Autographs: Quarterbacks, Running Backs &amp; SpecialistsSaturday, July 27&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m. *$5 Admission– Family Fun Day -&nbsp;Team Autograph SessionSunday, July 28&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m.&nbsp; &nbsp;Autographs: WRs and TEsMonday, July 29&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m.&nbsp; Ambassador Day *Autographs: Offensive/Defensive LineTuesday, July 30&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No PracticeWednesday, July 31&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;Autographs: LinebackersThursday, Aug. 1&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m. Autographs: DBsFriday, Aug. 2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m. *Autographs: QBs, RBs, Special TeamsSaturday, Aug. 3&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No PracticeSunday, Aug. 4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m.$5 Admission *Team Autograph SessionMonday, Aug. 5&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m. Autographs: WRs, TEsTuesday, Aug. 6&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m. *Autographs: Offensive Line &amp; Defensive LineWednesday, Aug. 7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m. Exclusive Season Ticket Member Day - (Not Open to General Public) *Team Autograph SessionThursday, Aug. 8&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No PracticeFriday, Aug. 9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No PracticeSaturday, Aug. 10&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Preseason Game – Chiefs @ Jaguars – 6 p.m. CTSunday, Aug. 11 &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No PracticeMonday, Aug. 12&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Practice – 10:15 a.m.&nbsp;Autographs: LinebackersTuesday, Aug. 13&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m. Autographs: DBsWednesday, Aug. 14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 9:15 a.m.&nbsp;Autographs: OL/DLThursday, Aug. 15&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Practice – 8:15 a.m. *Military Appreciation Day – Final Camp Practice

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