MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan.&nbsp;– The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will headline McConnell’s 2026 Frontiers in Flight Open House and Air Show, now scheduled for Oct. 17-18, 2026, according to a statement from the base.

The Thunderbirds are the Air Force’s premier aerial demonstration team, performing precision aerial maneuvers displaying Air Force high-performance aircraft to people worldwide. The show involves a mix of precision formation flying and intense solo routines demonstrating the capabilities of Air Force pilots and the F-16 Fighting Falcon.

The Thunderbirds last performed above the Wichita skies in September 2022.

Over 65,000 visitors arrived on day one of McConnell’s last air show on Aug. 24, 2024. The show never continued its second day after an unexpected wet microburst brought 54 mph wind gusts and torrential rain, leaving debris strewn around the flightline and air acts unable to operate safely.

The base looks forward to milder October weather and a historically lower chance of precipitation during next year’s show.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741967975433.png" alt="U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16 Fighting Falcons flies under a KC-135A, over the United States Aug. 16, 2024. The F-16 has a wingspan of 32 feet 8 inches. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Paula Arce)" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16 Fighting Falcons flies under a KC-135A, over the United States Aug. 16, 2024. The F-16 has a wingspan of 32 feet 8 inches. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Paula Arce)</figcaption>
 </figure>MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan.&nbsp;– The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will headline McConnell’s 2026 Frontiers in Flight Open House and Air Show, now scheduled for Oct. 17-18, 2026, according to a statement from the base.The Thunderbirds are the Air Force’s premier aerial demonstration team, performing precision aerial maneuvers displaying Air Force high-performance aircraft to people worldwide. The show involves a mix of precision formation flying and intense solo routines demonstrating the capabilities of Air Force pilots and the F-16 Fighting Falcon.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741968104926.png" alt="The United States Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron "Thunderbirds" perform air shows across the United States from March-November, 2023. During the 2023 season, the Thunderbirds performed 63 demonstrations across 32 locations as they celebrated their 70th anniversary. (U.S. Air Force video by Staff Sgt. Dakota Carter)" />
 <figcaption>The United States Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron "Thunderbirds" perform air shows across the United States from March-November, 2023. During the 2023 season, the Thunderbirds performed 63 demonstrations across 32 locations as they celebrated their 70th anniversary. (U.S. Air Force video by Staff Sgt. Dakota Carter)</figcaption>
 </figure>The Thunderbirds last performed above the Wichita skies in September 2022.Over 65,000 visitors arrived on day one of McConnell’s last air show on Aug. 24, 2024. The show never continued its second day after an unexpected wet microburst brought 54 mph wind gusts and torrential rain, leaving debris strewn around the flightline and air acts unable to operate safely.The base looks forward to milder October weather and a historically lower chance of precipitation during next year’s show.

U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds set to return to Kansas air show

The measure overturning a 1976 initiative banning charges for construction work in progress on new power plants is the third bill approved by lawmakers this year

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

The Missouri House on Thursday voted to repeal a utility&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/03/07/massive-utility-legislation-expected-to-boost-missouri-power-generation-and-energy-bills/">consumer protection law</a>&nbsp;passed by voters almost 50 years ago.

The bill that originated in the state Senate drew bipartisan support and opposition on the 96-44 vote, with 20 Democrats joining 76 Republicans to support it and 23 Republicans lining up with 21 Democrats to oppose it. Three Democratic members voted “present.”

With the vote,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=66" target="_blank">the bill</a>&nbsp;became the third measure to clear both chambers this session.

While the bill makes a variety of changes to utility law, the most controversial piece would give the Missouri Public Service Commission authority to allow customers to be charged for building new electric generating plants.

Known as a charge for Construction Work in Progress, or CWIP, it has been banned since 1976, when consumers were worried about the cost of nuclear power.

For backers of the bill, the question to be answered is whether Missouri will become the home to new electric generation plants. For opponents, the question is whether it will force power rates up faster than they would increase otherwise.

If Missouri utilities aren’t given the CWIP allowance, they will be forced to buy power in the interstate competitive market when demand peaks, state Rep. Josh Hurlbert, the bill’s handler, said during debate.

“If you truly care about the utility bills of your constituents, voting for this bill actually helps them, because it protects them from those massive prices at the other market,” Hurlbert said.

Opponents of the measure have argued it will add as much as $1,100 a year to residential utility bills. Arguments that the power will be cheaper with the bill than without it are hard to accept, said state Rep. Ray Reed, a Democrat from St. Louis County.

“Folks don’t care how bad it could have been,” Reed said. “They just see that eggs are $9 and that we voted for utility bills to go higher.”

The CWIP charge would be allowed for power plants that use natural gas to generate electricity. In another section, it would be allowed for new generating plants, including nuclear, that are part of an approved plan for meeting power demands.

Supporters have said it is unlikely it will be used for nuclear power because the plant would have to be completed by 2035, when the allowance for CWIP charges expires.

Passage of the CWIP repeal is the culmination of decades of work by utility companies. The last major effort came in 2009, as Ameren was seeking a license to build a new reactor at the Callaway nuclear plant.

Some of the Republican opponents to the measure objected to the heavy lobbying pressure for the bill. State Rep. Don Mayhew, a Republican from Crocker, said there were “squadrons” of lobbyists “roaming our halls” but he hadn’t heard from any utility customers asking for the bill to be passed.&nbsp;

Instead, he noted, even his voters, who get their power from rural electric cooperatives, are worried about higher prices. Electric cooperatives are not regulated by the PSC.

“I’ve had no less than 25 emails from constituents who are concerned about this, and I’ve reassured them that they’re in coop, this doesn’t affect them,” Mayhew said. “But that doesn’t mean I shouldn’t care about my friends and the Kansas City and the St Louis areas.”

State Rep. Brad Pollitt, a Sedalia Republican, said power from generating plants built in Missouri is more reliable than power from plants built elsewhere. Pollitt sponsored one of the House bills to repeal CWIP.

“It’s important that when we flip the switch, our lights come on,” Pollitt said. “In agriculture, it’s important that when we have hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of grain and grain bins, that those dryers are going to work.”

Passage of the bill drew praise from business interests and scorn from environmentalists.

“Reliable, resilient and affordable energy is essential to retaining and attracting business to the state,” said Kara Corches, president and CEO of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “This legislation will help Missouri meet the growing demand for energy.”

The bill upsets the balanced utility ratemaking process that weighs consumer protection against utility profits, the Sierra Club said in a statement.

“This bill will financially harm families and businesses,” said Jenn DeRose, Missouri senior organizer with the Sierra Club, “because increasing electric bills several years before a power plant begins producing power will drive up the price of everything, from eggs to electronics and beyond.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671461254643.png" alt="Photo by (Aaron Sanderford)" />
 <figcaption>Photo by (Aaron Sanderford)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The measure overturning a 1976 initiative banning charges for construction work in progress on new power plants is the third bill approved by lawmakers this year</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>The Missouri House on Thursday voted to repeal a utility&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/03/07/massive-utility-legislation-expected-to-boost-missouri-power-generation-and-energy-bills/">consumer protection law</a>&nbsp;passed by voters almost 50 years ago.The bill that originated in the state Senate drew bipartisan support and opposition on the 96-44 vote, with 20 Democrats joining 76 Republicans to support it and 23 Republicans lining up with 21 Democrats to oppose it. Three Democratic members voted “present.”With the vote,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=66" target="_blank">the bill</a>&nbsp;became the third measure to clear both chambers this session.While the bill makes a variety of changes to utility law, the most controversial piece would give the Missouri Public Service Commission authority to allow customers to be charged for building new electric generating plants.Known as a charge for Construction Work in Progress, or CWIP, it has been banned since 1976, when consumers were worried about the cost of nuclear power.For backers of the bill, the question to be answered is whether Missouri will become the home to new electric generation plants. For opponents, the question is whether it will force power rates up faster than they would increase otherwise.If Missouri utilities aren’t given the CWIP allowance, they will be forced to buy power in the interstate competitive market when demand peaks, state Rep. Josh Hurlbert, the bill’s handler, said during debate.“If you truly care about the utility bills of your constituents, voting for this bill actually helps them, because it protects them from those massive prices at the other market,” Hurlbert said.Opponents of the measure have argued it will add as much as $1,100 a year to residential utility bills. Arguments that the power will be cheaper with the bill than without it are hard to accept, said state Rep. Ray Reed, a Democrat from St. Louis County.“Folks don’t care how bad it could have been,” Reed said. “They just see that eggs are $9 and that we voted for utility bills to go higher.”The CWIP charge would be allowed for power plants that use natural gas to generate electricity. In another section, it would be allowed for new generating plants, including nuclear, that are part of an approved plan for meeting power demands.Supporters have said it is unlikely it will be used for nuclear power because the plant would have to be completed by 2035, when the allowance for CWIP charges expires.Other provisions in the bill would:<ul>
 <li>Allow “future test year” rates. Currently, rates are set after the PSC examines the actual costs incurred to deliver service and determines if each expense was prudent and necessary. In a future test year scenario, the utility would outline what it expects to spend and the costs would be pre-approved by the PSC.</li><li>Require electric utilities to submit plans projecting demand for at least 16 years into the future and plans for meeting those demands. This is the section that allows CWIP for any form of generation approved in the resource plan.</li><li>Increase the assessment on utility revenue to fund the PSC and, for the first time, add an assessment to support the Office of Public Counsel, which represents consumer interests before the commission.</li><li>Change the shut-off rule for hot and cold weather. Instead of using 24-hour forecasts, the rule would use 72-hour forecasts, prohibiting shutoffs for non-payment in summer if the temperature is expected to exceed 95 and winter if it is forecast to go below 32 within that period.</li>
 </ul>Passage of the CWIP repeal is the culmination of decades of work by utility companies. The last major effort came in 2009, as Ameren was seeking a license to build a new reactor at the Callaway nuclear plant.Some of the Republican opponents to the measure objected to the heavy lobbying pressure for the bill. State Rep. Don Mayhew, a Republican from Crocker, said there were “squadrons” of lobbyists “roaming our halls” but he hadn’t heard from any utility customers asking for the bill to be passed.&nbsp;Instead, he noted, even his voters, who get their power from rural electric cooperatives, are worried about higher prices. Electric cooperatives are not regulated by the PSC.“I’ve had no less than 25 emails from constituents who are concerned about this, and I’ve reassured them that they’re in coop, this doesn’t affect them,” Mayhew said. “But that doesn’t mean I shouldn’t care about my friends and the Kansas City and the St Louis areas.”State Rep. Brad Pollitt, a Sedalia Republican, said power from generating plants built in Missouri is more reliable than power from plants built elsewhere. Pollitt sponsored one of the House bills to repeal CWIP.“It’s important that when we flip the switch, our lights come on,” Pollitt said. “In agriculture, it’s important that when we have hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of grain and grain bins, that those dryers are going to work.”Passage of the bill drew praise from business interests and scorn from environmentalists.“Reliable, resilient and affordable energy is essential to retaining and attracting business to the state,” said Kara Corches, president and CEO of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “This legislation will help Missouri meet the growing demand for energy.”The bill upsets the balanced utility ratemaking process that weighs consumer protection against utility profits, the Sierra Club said in a statement.“This bill will financially harm families and businesses,” said Jenn DeRose, Missouri senior organizer with the Sierra Club, “because increasing electric bills several years before a power plant begins producing power will drive up the price of everything, from eggs to electronics and beyond.”

Bill repealing Missouri law limiting utility charges heads to Gov. Mike Kehoe

(Radio Iowa) - Forecasters say there's a rising risk of severe weather across a wide portion of Iowa Friday afternoon and evening, along with a drastic downshift in temperatures. 

National Weather Service Meteorologist Brian Pierce in the Davenport office says there's the potential for damaging winds, hail, and tornadoes. Pierce warns you to be "weather aware" tomorrow, especially between 5 and 11 P-M, as these storms will be moving at highway speeds, meaning, there will be less time to react. A powerful blizzard swept across Iowa last Wednesday, knocking out the lights to more than 20-thousand Iowa houses and bringing traffic to a standstill with whiteout conditions. Pierce says this approaching system may be even worse. 

While most of Iowa can expect high temperatures in the 70s today and tomorrow, Pierce says this incoming storm will bring much colder weather behind it. Lows by Saturday night will be in the 20s, with snow possible.

(Radio Iowa) - Forecasters say there's a rising risk of severe weather across a wide portion of Iowa Friday afternoon and evening, along with a drastic downshift in temperatures. National Weather Service Meteorologist Brian Pierce in the Davenport office says there's the potential for damaging winds, hail, and tornadoes. Pierce warns you to be "weather aware" tomorrow, especially between 5 and 11 P-M, as these storms will be moving at highway speeds, meaning, there will be less time to react. A powerful blizzard swept across Iowa last Wednesday, knocking out the lights to more than 20-thousand Iowa houses and bringing traffic to a standstill with whiteout conditions. Pierce says this approaching system may be even worse. While most of Iowa can expect high temperatures in the 70s today and tomorrow, Pierce says this incoming storm will bring much colder weather behind it. Lows by Saturday night will be in the 20s, with snow possible.

Storm system approaching Iowa may be stronger than last week's blizzard

(Radio Iowa) - The Iowa Attorney General says two Black Hawk and one Bremer County deputy acted appropriately following the death of a man they arrested. 

Deputies say Willie Earl Washington fled at speeds of more than 120 miles an hour when they tried to stop him for a traffic violation in December. Once he was stopped, deputies say Washington battled with them and they held him face down to put handcuffs on him. Washington said he couldn't breathe and was unresponsive when deputies turned him over. He later died at the hospital. 

The D-C-I investigation found Washington was face down approximately 87 seconds and the cause of death was a combination of cardiorespiratory arrest, an enlarged heart, obesity, methamphetamine use, and positioning. It concluded officers used no more force or time than was necessary to handcuff him.

(Radio Iowa) - The Iowa Attorney General says two Black Hawk and one Bremer County deputy acted appropriately following the death of a man they arrested. Deputies say Willie Earl Washington fled at speeds of more than 120 miles an hour when they tried to stop him for a traffic violation in December. Once he was stopped, deputies say Washington battled with them and they held him face down to put handcuffs on him. Washington said he couldn't breathe and was unresponsive when deputies turned him over. He later died at the hospital. The D-C-I investigation found Washington was face down approximately 87 seconds and the cause of death was a combination of cardiorespiratory arrest, an enlarged heart, obesity, methamphetamine use, and positioning. It concluded officers used no more force or time than was necessary to handcuff him.

AG Clears Deputies In Death Of Man They Arrested

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

Missouri’s Department of Social Services announced Thursday that it is appointing Sara Smith as the next director of Children’s Division, effective immediately.&nbsp;

Smith will be the agency’s&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/director-of-missouri-child-welfare-agency-stepping-down-next-month/">seventh</a>&nbsp;director since 2018.&nbsp;

Children’s Division administers child welfare services, including by investigating claims of child abuse and neglect and running the state’s foster care system.&nbsp;

Smith, previously the director of children’s residential programs and compliance within Children’s Division, has worked at the Department of Social Services for 19 years, according to a press release. Prior to working with the state, she worked at an organization focused on helping children experiencing abuse.&nbsp;

“Sara’s experience and dedication to supporting children and families make her an ideal leader for this vitally important role,” Gov. Mike Kehoe said in the press release. “Under Sara’s guidance, the Children’s Division will be able to make the necessary strides to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the children in our state.”

The agency has been without a permanent Children’s Division director since&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/director-of-missouri-child-welfare-agency-stepping-down-next-month/">Darrell Missey</a>&nbsp;stepped down Nov. 1 after three years. Missey’s tenure was the longest of the six directors the division saw during former Gov. Mike Parson’s six years in office.&nbsp;

The Department of Social Services’ director, Jess Bax, was&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/03/07/missouri-senate-approves-massive-child-welfare-bill-aimed-at-foster-care-system/">confirmed by the Missouri Senate last week</a>.&nbsp;

Bax praised Smith’s “deep commitment to child welfare, extensive experience, and strong leadership background” in the press release.

She added: “I want to applaud Governor Kehoe’s support throughout this transition and look forward to working with her to drive positive change and strengthen our efforts to support children and families.”

Smith said her new team will “focus on safety and streamlining processes to better serve kids and families.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Children’s Division has been under intense&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/28/missouri-senate-delays-vote-on-new-social-services-director-over-foster-care-concerns/">scrutiny from lawmakers and advocates</a>. They have pointed to issues ranging from a lack of appropriate placements for foster children, resulting in kids staying in hospitals and offices, to the division doing a poor job placing foster kids with family and failing to spend designated funding to keep kids safely at home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741889705649.png" alt="Sara Smith, director of Children’s Division (photo submitted)." />
 <figcaption>Sara Smith, director of Children’s Division (photo submitted).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/cbates/">CLARA BATES</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>Missouri’s Department of Social Services announced Thursday that it is appointing Sara Smith as the next director of Children’s Division, effective immediately.&nbsp;Smith will be the agency’s&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/director-of-missouri-child-welfare-agency-stepping-down-next-month/">seventh</a>&nbsp;director since 2018.&nbsp;Children’s Division administers child welfare services, including by investigating claims of child abuse and neglect and running the state’s foster care system.&nbsp;Smith, previously the director of children’s residential programs and compliance within Children’s Division, has worked at the Department of Social Services for 19 years, according to a press release. Prior to working with the state, she worked at an organization focused on helping children experiencing abuse.&nbsp;“Sara’s experience and dedication to supporting children and families make her an ideal leader for this vitally important role,” Gov. Mike Kehoe said in the press release. “Under Sara’s guidance, the Children’s Division will be able to make the necessary strides to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the children in our state.”The agency has been without a permanent Children’s Division director since&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/director-of-missouri-child-welfare-agency-stepping-down-next-month/">Darrell Missey</a>&nbsp;stepped down Nov. 1 after three years. Missey’s tenure was the longest of the six directors the division saw during former Gov. Mike Parson’s six years in office.&nbsp;The Department of Social Services’ director, Jess Bax, was&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/03/07/missouri-senate-approves-massive-child-welfare-bill-aimed-at-foster-care-system/">confirmed by the Missouri Senate last week</a>.&nbsp;Bax praised Smith’s “deep commitment to child welfare, extensive experience, and strong leadership background” in the press release.She added: “I want to applaud Governor Kehoe’s support throughout this transition and look forward to working with her to drive positive change and strengthen our efforts to support children and families.”Smith said her new team will “focus on safety and streamlining processes to better serve kids and families.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Children’s Division has been under intense&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/28/missouri-senate-delays-vote-on-new-social-services-director-over-foster-care-concerns/">scrutiny from lawmakers and advocates</a>. They have pointed to issues ranging from a lack of appropriate placements for foster children, resulting in kids staying in hospitals and offices, to the division doing a poor job placing foster kids with family and failing to spend designated funding to keep kids safely at home.

Missouri social services agency appoints new child welfare director

Industry experts have been predicting farmers may make a shift to planting more corn acres this spring due to tighter supplies and cut back on soybeans. However, recent reports say that President Donald Trump’s tariffs may mean America’s farmers might not make that shift after all. Bloomberg says levies on some products from Canada, Mexico, and China have shifted a key market indicator in favor of soybeans. 

Industry experts have been predicting farmers may make a shift to planting more corn acres this spring due to tighter supplies and cut back on soybeans. However, recent reports say that President Donald Trump’s tariffs may mean America’s farmers might not make that shift after all. Bloomberg says levies on some products from Canada, Mexico, and China have shifted a key market indicator in favor of soybeans.

Tariffs may threaten shift to more corn acres 

New data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says U.S. sales of Ag tractors and combines continued to decline in February 2025, in contrast to last year. U.S. sales of agricultural tractors declined 17.7 percent in February, while U.S. sales of combines fell by 48 percent. “While the recent decline in agricultural tractor and combine sales reflect current market challenges, including global trade concerns and tariffs, we continue to remain optimistic about the long-term future of agricultural equipment,” says Curt Blades of AEM. “The resilience and adaptability of our industry have been proven time and time again.” 

Four-wheel drive tractors took the biggest drop, falling 41 percent last month compared to February 2024. In Canada, four-wheel drive tractor sales rose 23.7 percent from February 2024, while self-propelled combine sales dropped 32 percent during the same time. Blades added,  “We are confident that through innovation and collaboration, equipment manufacturers can navigate these challenges.” 

New data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says U.S. sales of Ag tractors and combines continued to decline in February 2025, in contrast to last year. U.S. sales of agricultural tractors declined 17.7 percent in February, while U.S. sales of combines fell by 48 percent. “While the recent decline in agricultural tractor and combine sales reflect current market challenges, including global trade concerns and tariffs, we continue to remain optimistic about the long-term future of agricultural equipment,” says Curt Blades of AEM. “The resilience and adaptability of our industry have been proven time and time again.” Four-wheel drive tractors took the biggest drop, falling 41 percent last month compared to February 2024. In Canada, four-wheel drive tractor sales rose 23.7 percent from February 2024, while self-propelled combine sales dropped 32 percent during the same time. Blades added, “We are confident that through innovation and collaboration, equipment manufacturers can navigate these challenges.”

Sales of tractors and combines decline in February

Missouri Western State University will work with UMKC to bring a new dental clinic to St. Joseph.  

Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy says the opportunity for the university to partner with the University of Missouri Kansas City is exciting, particularly after the work UMKC has accomplished with Mosaic Life Care on its medical school in St. Joseph 

"We started conversations maybe a year and a half ago, just hey what do you think about this idea? How could we do it? Where might we put it?" Kennedy tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr.  "And of course funding, it's a $12 million, so funding is going to be key, but I think the opportunity for Missouri Western to expand our footprint if you will into the healthcare area."  

Kennedy says the university works closely with Mosaic to expand in that area, and this provides another educational opportunity. 

Kennedy says the prospect of this program is exciting. And she's most excited about having a functioning dental clinic on campus. 

"That will be able to serve the community members as well as our employees, our students, and that's also so important because having those services available to the community at a clinic rate as such as what they're planning is going to be huge," Kennedy explains. 

Kennedy says it's been wonderful working with UMKC Chancellor Mauli Agrawal and is eager to get the program moving forward.  

Kennedy says a goal of the program, much like with the UMKC School of Medicine in St. Joseph, is to keep students in rural Missouri 

"To expand the dental services in both programs for the graduates so that htey stay in rural communities, so they stay and live in areas like St. Joseph," Kennedy says.  "For our students that are interested in going into a field, it certainly provides another opportunity for them to participate with UMKC and that program and then graduate as a dentist from that dental school." 

Work must be done before it becomes a reality. UMKC proposes a $12 million renovation of space at Missouri Western. It needs approval for the program and needs to raise the money.

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

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post Missouri Western State University will work with UMKC to bring a new dental clinic to St. Joseph. Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy says the opportunity for the university to partner with the University of Missouri Kansas City is exciting, particularly after the work UMKC has accomplished with Mosaic Life Care on its medical school in St. Joseph "We started conversations maybe a year and a half ago, just hey what do you think about this idea? How could we do it? Where might we put it?" Kennedy tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "And of course funding, it's a $12 million, so funding is going to be key, but I think the opportunity for Missouri Western to expand our footprint if you will into the healthcare area." Kennedy says the university works closely with Mosaic to expand in that area, and this provides another educational opportunity. Kennedy says the prospect of this program is exciting. And she's most excited about having a functioning dental clinic on campus. "That will be able to serve the community members as well as our employees, our students, and that's also so important because having those services available to the community at a clinic rate as such as what they're planning is going to be huge," Kennedy explains. Kennedy says it's been wonderful working with UMKC Chancellor Mauli Agrawal and is eager to get the program moving forward. Kennedy says a goal of the program, much like with the UMKC School of Medicine in St. Joseph, is to keep students in rural Missouri "To expand the dental services in both programs for the graduates so that htey stay in rural communities, so they stay and live in areas like St. Joseph," Kennedy says. "For our students that are interested in going into a field, it certainly provides another opportunity for them to participate with UMKC and that program and then graduate as a dentist from that dental school." Work must be done before it becomes a reality. UMKC proposes a $12 million renovation of space at Missouri Western. It needs approval for the program and needs to raise the money.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

MWSU President Kennedy excited about UMKC dental clinic

(Radio Iowa) - The latest population report on monarch butterflies finds conservation efforts in Iowa and elsewhere are starting to show promising results. 

Iowa Monarch Conservation Consortium program specialist Mykayla Hagaman says researchers track the progress of the vital orange-and-black insect by measuring how much land the pollinators take up when overwintering in Mexico. This winter, they covered four-point-four acres, which is nearly double last year's count, but scientists say they need to occupy 15 acres to be sustainable. 

Hagaman says Iowans can help by creating more monarch habitat, which includes planting native milkweed and flowering species that bloom from early spring to late fall, to help provide nectar resources for monarchs during their migration.

(Radio Iowa) - The latest population report on monarch butterflies finds conservation efforts in Iowa and elsewhere are starting to show promising results. Iowa Monarch Conservation Consortium program specialist Mykayla Hagaman says researchers track the progress of the vital orange-and-black insect by measuring how much land the pollinators take up when overwintering in Mexico. This winter, they covered four-point-four acres, which is nearly double last year's count, but scientists say they need to occupy 15 acres to be sustainable. Hagaman says Iowans can help by creating more monarch habitat, which includes planting native milkweed and flowering species that bloom from early spring to late fall, to help provide nectar resources for monarchs during their migration.

Survey shows monarch numbers are rising and Iowans can help

An agri-business company
plans to build a 160,000 square foot facility in south St. Joseph, investing
$22 million in the community.

The St. Joseph
Chamber of Commerce has announced Nortian Foodtech will acquire a 24-acre tract
of heavy industrial land owned by the City of St. Joseph. The new production
facility will be located at 2202 Alabama St. in the Stockyards Industrial Park.

Nortian converts
by-products from the meat industry—materials that are often discarded—into
high-quality food-grade protein, according to the Chamber. The company expects
to hire nearly 140 workers by the end of five years of operations.

“We are proud
Nortian Foodtech chose Missouri and St. Joseph for its first U.S. location,” Gov.
Mike Kehoe said in a written statement released by the St. Joseph Chamber. “The
company’s decision to invest and grow in Missouri is testament to our strong
manufacturing industry and skilled workforce.”

The company is
taking advantage of the incentives offered by the Chapter 100 program, Missouri
Works, the Buchanan County Economic Development Forgivable Loan program. It
also will receive breaks on its utility bills from Evergy, Spire Gas, and
Missouri American Water Company.

Talks began with
the company last summer.

“We are very
pleased to have Nortian Foodtech select St. Joseph for its first U.S.
location,” St. Joseph President Natalie Hawn said in a written statement. “Nortian
Foodtech will provide an innovative and quality product for the food industry.
We appreciate the confidence of the company’s leadership team to select and
invest in St. Joseph and in Missouri.”

Andre Albuquerque,
Founder and CEO of Nortian, also issued a written statement: “St. Joseph is the
ideal location for Nortian Foodtech’s first U.S. facility. This investment
strengthens our mission to transform by-products into high-value food ingredients
through cutting-edge technology. We appreciate the support from local and state
partners and look forward to creating jobs and driving innovation in the
region."

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

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostAn agri-business company
plans to build a 160,000 square foot facility in south St. Joseph, investing
$22 million in the community.The St. Joseph
Chamber of Commerce has announced Nortian Foodtech will acquire a 24-acre tract
of heavy industrial land owned by the City of St. Joseph. The new production
facility will be located at 2202 Alabama St. in the Stockyards Industrial Park.Nortian converts
by-products from the meat industry—materials that are often discarded—into
high-quality food-grade protein, according to the Chamber. The company expects
to hire nearly 140 workers by the end of five years of operations.“We are proud
Nortian Foodtech chose Missouri and St. Joseph for its first U.S. location,” Gov.
Mike Kehoe said in a written statement released by the St. Joseph Chamber. “The
company’s decision to invest and grow in Missouri is testament to our strong
manufacturing industry and skilled workforce.”The company is
taking advantage of the incentives offered by the Chapter 100 program, Missouri
Works, the Buchanan County Economic Development Forgivable Loan program. It
also will receive breaks on its utility bills from Evergy, Spire Gas, and
Missouri American Water Company.Talks began with
the company last summer.“We are very
pleased to have Nortian Foodtech select St. Joseph for its first U.S.
location,” St. Joseph President Natalie Hawn said in a written statement. “Nortian
Foodtech will provide an innovative and quality product for the food industry.
We appreciate the confidence of the company’s leadership team to select and
invest in St. Joseph and in Missouri.”Andre Albuquerque,
Founder and CEO of Nortian, also issued a written statement: “St. Joseph is the
ideal location for Nortian Foodtech’s first U.S. facility. This investment
strengthens our mission to transform by-products into high-value food ingredients
through cutting-edge technology. We appreciate the support from local and state
partners and look forward to creating jobs and driving innovation in the
region."You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Agri-business coming to south St. Joseph

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

Wide-ranging legislation that would lower tax rates for individuals and businesses passed the Missouri House on Wednesday.

The 100 to 53 vote saw three Republicans joining with the Democrats in opposition. It now heads to the Senate for consideration.&nbsp;

A key provision&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB798&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R" target="_blank">in the bill</a>&nbsp;is a gradual reduction in the state income tax from 4.7% to 3.7% over the next 10 years. The yearly percentage point rate reduction would only go into effect if state revenues grow by at least $175 million per year.&nbsp;

When fully phased in, the bill’s fiscal note estimates a $1.3 billion reduction in state revenue.

“That number would indicate we meet every single trigger, every single year,” said House Speaker Pro Tem Chad Perkins, a Bowling Green Republican handling the legislation. “If things are going that incredibly well, we’re all going to do great. Let’s all hope that happens. That would mean Missouri’s economy is doing great.”

The corporate tax would also be reduced from 4% to 3.75% and the capital gains tax would be eliminated.

State Rep. David Tyson Smith, a Columbia Democrat, complained that the inclusion of the corporate and capital gains tax cuts focuses too much of the legislation on the wealthy — and does so while potentially putting the state’s budget at risk.&nbsp;

“Everyone appreciates a tax cut,” he said.&nbsp; “But why do we have to slide in tax cuts for the rich?”&nbsp;

Gov. Mike Kehoe entered office in January pledging to fulfill his campaign promise to eliminate the state’s income tax. Republican legislative leaders have echoed his call, pushing a handful of tax cut proposals in both the House and Senate.&nbsp;

One of those proposals — a $300 million capital gains tax cut — cleared the House earlier this year and needs only to be approved by the Senate before heading to Kehoe’s desk.

&nbsp;But on Tuesday, it ran into bipartisan opposition that stalled its momentum.&nbsp;

“It’s just very skewed to the most wealthy people,” state Sen. Mike Cierpiot, a Lee’s Summit Republican, said of the capital gains bill. “The 8,000 wealthiest families (in Missouri) will get more than half of the benefit.”

Federal money that bolstered the state budget for years is drying up, Cierpiot noted, and lawmakers must be mindful when considering anything that could reduce state revenue and impact services.&nbsp;

“Missouri is not like a lot of states,” he said. “If we cut taxes… we have to go back to the ballot to reinstate, so we have to be very careful.”

The top marginal rate for Missouri’s income tax has gradually declined from 6% in 2015 to 4.7% this year under legislation passed in 2014.

Two future tax cuts, to a 4.5% rate, are already in state law and will take effect if general revenue growth hits targets.

Income tax remains the single largest portion of state general revenue, with the individual income tax contributing 65% and the corporate income tax about 7% of the $13.4 billion received in fiscal 2024.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658243002664.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">JASON HANCOCK</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>Wide-ranging legislation that would lower tax rates for individuals and businesses passed the Missouri House on Wednesday.The 100 to 53 vote saw three Republicans joining with the Democrats in opposition. It now heads to the Senate for consideration.&nbsp;A key provision&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB798&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R" target="_blank">in the bill</a>&nbsp;is a gradual reduction in the state income tax from 4.7% to 3.7% over the next 10 years. The yearly percentage point rate reduction would only go into effect if state revenues grow by at least $175 million per year.&nbsp;When fully phased in, the bill’s fiscal note estimates a $1.3 billion reduction in state revenue.“That number would indicate we meet every single trigger, every single year,” said House Speaker Pro Tem Chad Perkins, a Bowling Green Republican handling the legislation. “If things are going that incredibly well, we’re all going to do great. Let’s all hope that happens. That would mean Missouri’s economy is doing great.”The corporate tax would also be reduced from 4% to 3.75% and the capital gains tax would be eliminated.State Rep. David Tyson Smith, a Columbia Democrat, complained that the inclusion of the corporate and capital gains tax cuts focuses too much of the legislation on the wealthy — and does so while potentially putting the state’s budget at risk.&nbsp;“Everyone appreciates a tax cut,” he said.&nbsp; “But why do we have to slide in tax cuts for the rich?”&nbsp;Gov. Mike Kehoe entered office in January pledging to fulfill his campaign promise to eliminate the state’s income tax. Republican legislative leaders have echoed his call, pushing a handful of tax cut proposals in both the House and Senate.&nbsp;One of those proposals — a $300 million capital gains tax cut — cleared the House earlier this year and needs only to be approved by the Senate before heading to Kehoe’s desk.&nbsp;But on Tuesday, it ran into bipartisan opposition that stalled its momentum.&nbsp;“It’s just very skewed to the most wealthy people,” state Sen. Mike Cierpiot, a Lee’s Summit Republican, said of the capital gains bill. “The 8,000 wealthiest families (in Missouri) will get more than half of the benefit.”Federal money that bolstered the state budget for years is drying up, Cierpiot noted, and lawmakers must be mindful when considering anything that could reduce state revenue and impact services.&nbsp;“Missouri is not like a lot of states,” he said. “If we cut taxes… we have to go back to the ballot to reinstate, so we have to be very careful.”The top marginal rate for Missouri’s income tax has gradually declined from 6% in 2015 to 4.7% this year under legislation passed in 2014.Two future tax cuts, to a 4.5% rate, are already in state law and will take effect if general revenue growth hits targets.Income tax remains the single largest portion of state general revenue, with the individual income tax contributing 65% and the corporate income tax about 7% of the $13.4 billion received in fiscal 2024.

Missouri House approves $1.3 billion tax cut plan

The state Supreme Court heard arguments Wednesday in a lawsuit targeting the voter-approved measures

Months after Missouri voters&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/05/missourians-vote-to-increase-minimum-wage-require-paid-sick-leave/">overwhelmingly approved a minimum wage increase and paid sick leave</a>&nbsp;requirements, the new laws face challenges this week in court and the state legislature.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, the state Supreme Court Court heard arguments in a lawsuit seeking to strike down Proposition A, which guarantees sick leave for hundreds of thousands of workers and gradually hikes the minimum wage to $15.&nbsp;

A day earlier, the Missouri House gave initial approval to a bill repealing the sick leave law and modifying the minimum wage.&nbsp;

“This is a one-two punch to businesses, and it creates a one size fits all approach,” said Republican state Rep. Sherri Gallick of Belton, who is sponsoring the legislation targeting the paid sick leave law.&nbsp;

A coalition of business groups and individuals argued Wednesday morning to the Missouri Supreme Court that the minimum wage and paid sick leave laws should be thrown out for violating constitutional rules on ballot initiatives.

“Both on the statutory side and the constitutional side, voters were misled,” Marc Ellinger, an attorney representing the plaintiffs, told the court. “The constitution was not complied with.”

The lawsuit,<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/12/09/business-groups-file-legal-challenge-to-voter-approved-minimum-wage-hike-sick-leave/">&nbsp;filed late last year</a>, argues the election results should be overturned because of several alleged constitutional violations, including violations of the state constitution’s&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=III++++50&amp;bid=31808&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">single-subject requirement&nbsp;</a>and a lack of a clear title.&nbsp;

It also contends that sick time and minimum wage are distinct issues that violate the single-subject rule, which should result in the election outcome being invalidated. It requests a new election be held, alleging the ballot title, which includes a summary of the proposition and its potential cost to the state, was misleading.&nbsp;

“This case is an example of where all of those procedures have been ignored,” Ellinger said.

A lawyer for Missouri Jobs with Justice, which led the campaign in support of Proposition A, said the court should uphold the law if at all possible, since voters approved it.

“The challengers ask you to overturn the will of the voters who exercised their fundamental right of the initiative,” said attorney Loretta Haggard, “based on technical issues that were not raised before the election.”

The measure won by a margin of over 400,000 votes. Haggard and other attorneys representing the responding parties wrote in a recent filing that the plaintiffs are asking the court “to tell these voters that their votes do not matter, and the court, not the people, will decide whether Proposition A should stay in effect,” calling it an “extraordinary request.”&nbsp;

Andrew Crane, an assistant attorney general representing the Secretary of State on Wednesday, defended the single subject of employee compensation, saying sick leave and pay “logically relate together…&nbsp;these are the kind things that employees and lawyers consider in any hiring decision.”&nbsp;

Robert Tillman, representing the auditor’s office, defended the fiscal note summary and said the plaintiffs didn’t prove any alleged irregularities that would have impacted the election.

“Even if contestants could establish election irregularities, they must then demonstrate that such irregularity sufficiently cast doubt for the entire election, to justify a new election.” Tillman said. “…As you can see from the record, contestants have offered no such evidence.”

The judges asked a few questions about whether they have jurisdiction to review the case, or whether a lower court would be the more appropriate venue.

Prop A&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/05/missourians-vote-to-increase-minimum-wage-require-paid-sick-leave/">passed</a>&nbsp;with 58% of the vote and had the support of numerous unions, workers’ advocacy groups, social justice and civil rights organizations, as well as over 500 business owners.&nbsp;A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/file.jsp?id=45428" target="_blank">group of businesses filed</a>&nbsp;a friend-of-the-court brief in this case defending the proposition.&nbsp;

Under the law, beginning May 1, the law requires employers with business receipts greater than $500,000 a year to provide at least one hour of paid leave for every 30 hours worked. Employers with fewer than 15 workers must allow workers to earn at least 40 hours per year, with larger employers mandated to allow at least 56 hours.&nbsp;

On Tuesday,&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/bill.aspx?bill=HB567&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R" target="_blank">a bill in Missouri’s House</a>&nbsp;to overturn the sick leave provisions and modify the minimum wage provisions was given initial approval. It needs to be approved one more time in the House before heading to the Senate for consideration.

Because the measure changed state law and not the constitution, the legislature can modify or overturn it without returning for a new vote of the people.

Gallick’s bill would repeal the paid sick leave provisions approved by voters.

It would also modify the minimum wage increase by no longer indexing it to inflation, a policy that has been<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/20/new-paid-sick-leave-requirement-targeted-by-missouri-republicans/">&nbsp;in place since 2007</a>. The minimum wage would still increase to $15 per hour in 2026, as voters approved, but it would not be adjusted for inflation thereafter.&nbsp;

Gallick has&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/20/new-paid-sick-leave-requirement-targeted-by-missouri-republicans/">argued</a>&nbsp;employees will “abuse” the sick leave.

In states that have adopted sick leave mandates, employees take, on average, two more sick days a year than prior to the law going into effect, a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nber.org/system/files/working_papers/w26832/w26832.pdf" target="_blank">National Bureau of Economic Research report</a>&nbsp;found.

<a href="https://www.epi.org/publication/paid-sick-leave-2023/" target="_blank">Studies</a>&nbsp;have found that offering paid sick time can increase workers’ productivity and reduce illness, and generally adds little or nothing to business expenses.

Republican state Rep. Scott Miller from St. Charles said “just because 57% of the people that voted that day, voted in favor of something, that doesn’t make it right. “They’re taking away the choice of businesses to engage in free market.”

Businesses are not equipped to handle the additional expenses from the proposition, said Republican state Rep. Jeff Vernetti of from Camdenton.

“I know that the will of the people will be brought up several times in this and I think that we’ve also got to represent the 87 counties that did not vote for this,” Vernetti said. “I think it’s our duty to respect the will of the people, but also at the same time, safeguard the long term prosperity of Missouri.”

Rep. Eric Woods, a Democrat from Kansas City, pointed out that Prop A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2024/11/05/us/elections/results-missouri-proposition-a-raise-minimum-wage.html" target="_blank">passed</a>&nbsp;in rural counties as well, including Clark, Adair, Mississippi and Henry.

“This isn’t a situation where Proposition A just passed in the cities,” he said, “this was a broad acceptance percentage wise.”&nbsp;

Lawmakers are wrong to treat voters as having been oblivious to what they were voting on, said state Rep. Keri Ingle, a Democrat from Lee’s Summit.

“The part that irks me is that you guys repeatedly call your constituents dumb,” Ingle said. “You say that they’re too stupid to understand what they voted for. I mean, you don’t use those words, but they hear you loud and clear, and they continue to vote for these policies.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686689481146.png" alt=" The Supreme Court of Missouri (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> The Supreme Court of Missouri (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The state Supreme Court heard arguments Wednesday in a lawsuit targeting the voter-approved measures</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/cbates/">CLARA BATES</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>Months after Missouri voters&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/05/missourians-vote-to-increase-minimum-wage-require-paid-sick-leave/">overwhelmingly approved a minimum wage increase and paid sick leave</a>&nbsp;requirements, the new laws face challenges this week in court and the state legislature.&nbsp;On Wednesday, the state Supreme Court Court heard arguments in a lawsuit seeking to strike down Proposition A, which guarantees sick leave for hundreds of thousands of workers and gradually hikes the minimum wage to $15.&nbsp;A day earlier, the Missouri House gave initial approval to a bill repealing the sick leave law and modifying the minimum wage.&nbsp;“This is a one-two punch to businesses, and it creates a one size fits all approach,” said Republican state Rep. Sherri Gallick of Belton, who is sponsoring the legislation targeting the paid sick leave law.&nbsp;A coalition of business groups and individuals argued Wednesday morning to the Missouri Supreme Court that the minimum wage and paid sick leave laws should be thrown out for violating constitutional rules on ballot initiatives.“Both on the statutory side and the constitutional side, voters were misled,” Marc Ellinger, an attorney representing the plaintiffs, told the court. “The constitution was not complied with.”The lawsuit,<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/12/09/business-groups-file-legal-challenge-to-voter-approved-minimum-wage-hike-sick-leave/">&nbsp;filed late last year</a>, argues the election results should be overturned because of several alleged constitutional violations, including violations of the state constitution’s&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=III++++50&amp;bid=31808&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">single-subject requirement&nbsp;</a>and a lack of a clear title.&nbsp;It also contends that sick time and minimum wage are distinct issues that violate the single-subject rule, which should result in the election outcome being invalidated. It requests a new election be held, alleging the ballot title, which includes a summary of the proposition and its potential cost to the state, was misleading.&nbsp;“This case is an example of where all of those procedures have been ignored,” Ellinger said.A lawyer for Missouri Jobs with Justice, which led the campaign in support of Proposition A, said the court should uphold the law if at all possible, since voters approved it.“The challengers ask you to overturn the will of the voters who exercised their fundamental right of the initiative,” said attorney Loretta Haggard, “based on technical issues that were not raised before the election.”The measure won by a margin of over 400,000 votes. Haggard and other attorneys representing the responding parties wrote in a recent filing that the plaintiffs are asking the court “to tell these voters that their votes do not matter, and the court, not the people, will decide whether Proposition A should stay in effect,” calling it an “extraordinary request.”&nbsp;Andrew Crane, an assistant attorney general representing the Secretary of State on Wednesday, defended the single subject of employee compensation, saying sick leave and pay “logically relate together…&nbsp;these are the kind things that employees and lawyers consider in any hiring decision.”&nbsp;Robert Tillman, representing the auditor’s office, defended the fiscal note summary and said the plaintiffs didn’t prove any alleged irregularities that would have impacted the election.“Even if contestants could establish election irregularities, they must then demonstrate that such irregularity sufficiently cast doubt for the entire election, to justify a new election.” Tillman said. “…As you can see from the record, contestants have offered no such evidence.”The judges asked a few questions about whether they have jurisdiction to review the case, or whether a lower court would be the more appropriate venue.Prop A&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/05/missourians-vote-to-increase-minimum-wage-require-paid-sick-leave/">passed</a>&nbsp;with 58% of the vote and had the support of numerous unions, workers’ advocacy groups, social justice and civil rights organizations, as well as over 500 business owners.&nbsp;A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/file.jsp?id=45428" target="_blank">group of businesses filed</a>&nbsp;a friend-of-the-court brief in this case defending the proposition.&nbsp;Under the law, beginning May 1, the law requires employers with business receipts greater than $500,000 a year to provide at least one hour of paid leave for every 30 hours worked. Employers with fewer than 15 workers must allow workers to earn at least 40 hours per year, with larger employers mandated to allow at least 56 hours.&nbsp;<h2>Legislature</h2>On Tuesday,&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/bill.aspx?bill=HB567&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R" target="_blank">a bill in Missouri’s House</a>&nbsp;to overturn the sick leave provisions and modify the minimum wage provisions was given initial approval. It needs to be approved one more time in the House before heading to the Senate for consideration.Because the measure changed state law and not the constitution, the legislature can modify or overturn it without returning for a new vote of the people.Gallick’s bill would repeal the paid sick leave provisions approved by voters.It would also modify the minimum wage increase by no longer indexing it to inflation, a policy that has been<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/20/new-paid-sick-leave-requirement-targeted-by-missouri-republicans/">&nbsp;in place since 2007</a>. The minimum wage would still increase to $15 per hour in 2026, as voters approved, but it would not be adjusted for inflation thereafter.&nbsp;Gallick has&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/20/new-paid-sick-leave-requirement-targeted-by-missouri-republicans/">argued</a>&nbsp;employees will “abuse” the sick leave.In states that have adopted sick leave mandates, employees take, on average, two more sick days a year than prior to the law going into effect, a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nber.org/system/files/working_papers/w26832/w26832.pdf" target="_blank">National Bureau of Economic Research report</a>&nbsp;found.<a href="https://www.epi.org/publication/paid-sick-leave-2023/" target="_blank">Studies</a>&nbsp;have found that offering paid sick time can increase workers’ productivity and reduce illness, and generally adds little or nothing to business expenses.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741862216947.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Republican state Rep. Scott Miller from St. Charles said “just because 57% of the people that voted that day, voted in favor of something, that doesn’t make it right. “They’re taking away the choice of businesses to engage in free market.”Businesses are not equipped to handle the additional expenses from the proposition, said Republican state Rep. Jeff Vernetti of from Camdenton.“I know that the will of the people will be brought up several times in this and I think that we’ve also got to represent the 87 counties that did not vote for this,” Vernetti said. “I think it’s our duty to respect the will of the people, but also at the same time, safeguard the long term prosperity of Missouri.”Rep. Eric Woods, a Democrat from Kansas City, pointed out that Prop A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2024/11/05/us/elections/results-missouri-proposition-a-raise-minimum-wage.html" target="_blank">passed</a>&nbsp;in rural counties as well, including Clark, Adair, Mississippi and Henry.“This isn’t a situation where Proposition A just passed in the cities,” he said, “this was a broad acceptance percentage wise.”&nbsp;Lawmakers are wrong to treat voters as having been oblivious to what they were voting on, said state Rep. Keri Ingle, a Democrat from Lee’s Summit.“The part that irks me is that you guys repeatedly call your constituents dumb,” Ingle said. “You say that they’re too stupid to understand what they voted for. I mean, you don’t use those words, but they hear you loud and clear, and they continue to vote for these policies.”

Lawmakers, business groups push rollback of Mo. minimum wage hike, sick leave law

The #21 Missouri Tigers open the SEC Tournament on Thursday, after earning a first round bye, taking on the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville.

Mississippi State advanced after beating LSU 91-62 in the opening round.&nbsp; In one game against the Bulldogs this season, the Tigers won on the road 88-61.

Missouri ended the season on a three game losing streak, with losses to Vanderbilt, Oklahoma and Kentucky.&nbsp; But even with that, Tigers head coach Dennis Gates doesn't believe there's any sort of fatigue

"No fatigue, no mental, emotional fatigue or anything like that, our guys have done a great job, if you look at our minutes distribution they've been below 30 minutes," Gates told reporters before the tournament.&nbsp; "And when you can do that with your depth, you obviously extend health, you extend the possibility of having mental or emotional fatigue that has not crept into our program."

The Tigers had a bounce back season this year, despite suffering a slump near the end, posting a 21-10 overall record in the regular season, and going 10-8 in the SEC one year after going through an 0-18 conference schedule.&nbsp; Gates hopes his team uses this SEC tournament as a springboard in preparing for the NCAA tournament.&nbsp;

"When you look at the history of the NCAA tournament, some winners have finished right where we are, some have finished right where we are," Gates says.&nbsp; "So, we're excited about the SEC tournament, it's an opportunity for us to win an SEC tournament championship, and that's our approach."

Missouri and Mississippi State will tipoff at 6pm on Thursday.&nbsp; Coverage on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) will begin at 5:30.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741833881515.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Mizzou Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Mizzou Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe #21 Missouri Tigers open the SEC Tournament on Thursday, after earning a first round bye, taking on the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville.Mississippi State advanced after beating LSU 91-62 in the opening round.&nbsp; In one game against the Bulldogs this season, the Tigers won on the road 88-61.Missouri ended the season on a three game losing streak, with losses to Vanderbilt, Oklahoma and Kentucky.&nbsp; But even with that, Tigers head coach Dennis Gates doesn't believe there's any sort of fatigue"No fatigue, no mental, emotional fatigue or anything like that, our guys have done a great job, if you look at our minutes distribution they've been below 30 minutes," Gates told reporters before the tournament.&nbsp; "And when you can do that with your depth, you obviously extend health, you extend the possibility of having mental or emotional fatigue that has not crept into our program."The Tigers had a bounce back season this year, despite suffering a slump near the end, posting a 21-10 overall record in the regular season, and going 10-8 in the SEC one year after going through an 0-18 conference schedule.&nbsp; Gates hopes his team uses this SEC tournament as a springboard in preparing for the NCAA tournament.&nbsp;"When you look at the history of the NCAA tournament, some winners have finished right where we are, some have finished right where we are," Gates says.&nbsp; "So, we're excited about the SEC tournament, it's an opportunity for us to win an SEC tournament championship, and that's our approach."Missouri and Mississippi State will tipoff at 6pm on Thursday.&nbsp; Coverage on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) will begin at 5:30.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

#21 Missouri to open SEC Tournament against Mississippi State on Thursday

(Radio Iowa) - Iowa school boards could decide to let eighth graders play high school sports during the school year under a bill that's passed the House. 

Under current law, eighth grader may play on varsity softball and baseball teams during the summer. Representative Skyler Wheeler of Hull, who is a high school baseball coach, says a couple of high schools in his area didn't have enough players to field girls basketball teams this past season and letting 8th graders play on the varsity could help. 

The bill passed the House on an 89 to two vote and goes to the Senate for consideration. Thirteen states currently allow eighth graders to compete at the varsity level during the school year.

(Radio Iowa) - Iowa school boards could decide to let eighth graders play high school sports during the school year under a bill that's passed the House. Under current law, eighth grader may play on varsity softball and baseball teams during the summer. Representative Skyler Wheeler of Hull, who is a high school baseball coach, says a couple of high schools in his area didn't have enough players to field girls basketball teams this past season and letting 8th graders play on the varsity could help. The bill passed the House on an 89 to two vote and goes to the Senate for consideration. Thirteen states currently allow eighth graders to compete at the varsity level during the school year.

Iowa could join 13 states that let 8th graders play on all high school sports teams

(Radio Iowa) - A bill that's cleared an Iowa Senate subcommittee would cut taxes that businesses pay to cover unemployment benefits when people get laid off from their jobs.

 Governor Reynolds, who made the same proposal last year, is asking lawmakers to lower the top unemployment tax rate and reduce the taxable wage base by half. The same bill stalled last year over concerns that the state might have to raise business taxes if there's a recession and Iowa's unemployment rate soars. 

Governor Reynolds says Iowa's Unemployment Trust Fund has too much money in it and she wants to provide more tax relief.

(Radio Iowa) - A bill that's cleared an Iowa Senate subcommittee would cut taxes that businesses pay to cover unemployment benefits when people get laid off from their jobs. Governor Reynolds, who made the same proposal last year, is asking lawmakers to lower the top unemployment tax rate and reduce the taxable wage base by half. The same bill stalled last year over concerns that the state might have to raise business taxes if there's a recession and Iowa's unemployment rate soars. Governor Reynolds says Iowa's Unemployment Trust Fund has too much money in it and she wants to provide more tax relief.

Senate subcommittee approves governor's bill to reduce an Iowa business tax

(Radio Iowa) - The director of the Iowa Department of Transportation says they have seen some federal programs put on pause. 

Scott Marler says that includes the New Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program to install electric chargers. The D-O-T had announced 16 million federal dollars would go to 28 projects to install electric vehicle charges across the state. D-O-T planner Stuart Anderson tells Radio Iowa that money has not gone out yet. Anderson says federal officials say they will announce new NEVI guidelines this spring. 

Marler says the weekly contractor reimbursement program used to process reimbursements through the Federal Highway Administration for Iowa's road and highway construction program is continuing at this time.

(Radio Iowa) - The director of the Iowa Department of Transportation says they have seen some federal programs put on pause. Scott Marler says that includes the New Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program to install electric chargers. The D-O-T had announced 16 million federal dollars would go to 28 projects to install electric vehicle charges across the state. D-O-T planner Stuart Anderson tells Radio Iowa that money has not gone out yet. Anderson says federal officials say they will announce new NEVI guidelines this spring. Marler says the weekly contractor reimbursement program used to process reimbursements through the Federal Highway Administration for Iowa's road and highway construction program is continuing at this time.

Program To Install Electric Vehicle Chargers On Hold

(Radio Iowa) - Iowa House has -- for a fourth year -- passed the "Public Expression Protection Act" to help Iowans facing lawsuits that backers of the bill say are meant to intimidate critics. 

Republican Representative Steven Holt of Denison sponsored the bill after a former Carroll policeman sued the local newspaper for what Holt says was truthful reporting on the policeman's relationships with teenage girls -- and the Carroll Times Herald had to spend 100-thousand dollars on a legal defense. Holt's bill would let Iowans being sued over public statements ask a judge to immediately review the case to see if it could be thrown out.

 If the lawsuit is ruled a "Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation" or SLAPP action, the person or group that filed the lawsuit could be forced to cover the legal fees of the person they sued. Thirty-four other states already have so-called "anti-SLAPP" laws.

(Radio Iowa) - Iowa House has -- for a fourth year -- passed the "Public Expression Protection Act" to help Iowans facing lawsuits that backers of the bill say are meant to intimidate critics. Republican Representative Steven Holt of Denison sponsored the bill after a former Carroll policeman sued the local newspaper for what Holt says was truthful reporting on the policeman's relationships with teenage girls -- and the Carroll Times Herald had to spend 100-thousand dollars on a legal defense. Holt's bill would let Iowans being sued over public statements ask a judge to immediately review the case to see if it could be thrown out. If the lawsuit is ruled a "Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation" or SLAPP action, the person or group that filed the lawsuit could be forced to cover the legal fees of the person they sued. Thirty-four other states already have so-called "anti-SLAPP" laws.

Iowa could join 34 other states with 'anti-SLAPP' laws

TOPEKA —Kansas Governor Laura Kelly issued a statement Wednesday about a “Black Mass” event scheduled for March 28, at the Kansas Statehouse.

The Satanic Grotto announced on social media they organized an event for inside the Capitol building that day.

(The video below is for mature audiences only)

In a statement from office, Governor Kelly wrote, "I have been informed about concerns regarding an event at the Statehouse on March 28, and I share those concerns.&nbsp; There are more constructive ways to protest and express disagreements without insulting or denigrating sacred religious symbols."

"However, as governor, I also have a duty to protect protesters’ constitutional rights to freedom of speech and expression, regardless of how offensive or distasteful I might find the content to be."Since these rights are constitutionally protected, the Governor’s Office has limited authority to respond to such actions."

"That said, it is important to keep the Statehouse open and accessible to the public while ensuring all necessary health and safety regulations are enforced."Therefore, all events planned for March 28 will be moved outdoors to the grounds surrounding the Statehouse. Again, no protests will be allowed inside the Statehouse on March 28."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741797937973.png" alt="Satanic Grotto" />
 <figcaption>Satanic Grotto</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —Kansas Governor Laura Kelly issued a statement Wednesday about a “Black Mass” event scheduled for March 28, at the Kansas Statehouse.The Satanic Grotto announced on social media they organized an event for inside the Capitol building that day.(The video below is for mature audiences only)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FTheSatanicGrotto%2Fvideos%2F1710299846574282%2F&show_text=false&width=267&t=1" width="267" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>In a statement from office, Governor Kelly wrote, "I have been informed about concerns regarding an event at the Statehouse on March 28, and I share those concerns.&nbsp; There are more constructive ways to protest and express disagreements without insulting or denigrating sacred religious symbols.""However, as governor, I also have a duty to protect protesters’ constitutional rights to freedom of speech and expression, regardless of how offensive or distasteful I might find the content to be."Since these rights are constitutionally protected, the Governor’s Office has limited authority to respond to such actions.""That said, it is important to keep the Statehouse open and accessible to the public while ensuring all necessary health and safety regulations are enforced."Therefore, all events planned for March 28 will be moved outdoors to the grounds surrounding the Statehouse. Again, no protests will be allowed inside the Statehouse on March 28."

🎥Governor moves controversial 'Black Mass' outside Kansas Statehouse

The Kansas City Chiefs have restructured the contracts of quarterback Patrick Mahomes and defensive tackle Chris Jones, freeing up&nbsp;$49.446 million in salary cap space

The report on the move came from a source telling ESPN's Field Yates on Wednesday morning.&nbsp;

The moves were needed to clear the cap space to needed to cover the Chiefs' activity in recent weeks. They placed the franchise tag on guard Trey Smith and re-signed linebacker Nick Bolton and wide receiver Hollywood Brown.&nbsp; They also added in free agency, most notably picking up offensive tackle Jaylon Moore and cornerback Kristian Fulton.

This is the fourth time Mahomes has reworked his contract since before the 2021 season. He signed a revised contract in 2023 that moved up some money he was scheduled to receive in later years of his contract, and a restructure in March 2024 created $21.6 million of salary cap space.

Mahomes is signed through the 2031 season at a total cost of almost $500 million.

-ESPN's Adam Teicher contributed to this report

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723743945433.jpeg" alt="Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes throws a pass during Chiefs practice/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes throws a pass during Chiefs practice/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Chiefs have restructured the contracts of quarterback Patrick Mahomes and defensive tackle Chris Jones, freeing up&nbsp;$49.446 million in salary cap spaceThe report on the move came from a source telling ESPN's Field Yates on Wednesday morning.&nbsp;The moves were needed to clear the cap space to needed to cover the Chiefs' activity in recent weeks. They placed the franchise tag on guard Trey Smith and re-signed linebacker Nick Bolton and wide receiver Hollywood Brown.&nbsp; They also added in free agency, most notably picking up offensive tackle Jaylon Moore and cornerback Kristian Fulton.This is the fourth time Mahomes has reworked his contract since before the 2021 season. He signed a revised contract in 2023 that moved up some money he was scheduled to receive in later years of his contract, and a restructure in March 2024 created $21.6 million of salary cap space.Mahomes is signed through the 2031 season at a total cost of almost $500 million.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721584304820.jpeg" alt="Chris Jones rides to the locker room following practice waving to fans/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Chris Jones rides to the locker room following practice waving to fans/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>-ESPN's Adam Teicher contributed to this reportYou can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Patrick Mahomes, Chris Jones restructure to help out Chiefs cap space

Festivities surrounding the Apple Blossom parade kick off this month with the Apple Blossom Royalty Pageant.  

Executive Director Michelle Wolfe says there has been good turnout for this year's pageant 

"14 princesses, 12 junior queens, and six queen candidates right now," Wolfe tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  

In the past, Wolfe says a lower turnout forced the Apple Blossom to extend the deadline.   

"But this year we are not extending the deadline, because we have plenty, I mean we will take more until the deadline, but we're not going to extend the deadline," Wolfe says.  "Gives me more time to get everything done." 

Wolfe says it feels wonderful to not have to extend the deadline 

"Because sometimes we're worried like are we going to have to cancel the pageant because we don't get enough people, I've done this for 25 years and I've never had to do that, so we're excited," Wolfe explains. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741794563886.jpeg" alt="Former winners of the Apple Blossom Pageant/ Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Former winners of the Apple Blossom Pageant/ Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostFestivities surrounding the Apple Blossom parade kick off this month with the Apple Blossom Royalty Pageant. Executive Director Michelle Wolfe says there has been good turnout for this year's pageant "14 princesses, 12 junior queens, and six queen candidates right now," Wolfe tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. In the past, Wolfe says a lower turnout forced the Apple Blossom to extend the deadline. "But this year we are not extending the deadline, because we have plenty, I mean we will take more until the deadline, but we're not going to extend the deadline," Wolfe says. "Gives me more time to get everything done." Wolfe says it feels wonderful to not have to extend the deadline "Because sometimes we're worried like are we going to have to cancel the pageant because we don't get enough people, I've done this for 25 years and I've never had to do that, so we're excited," Wolfe explains. Registration for the pageant ends this Saturday March 15th. Wolfe says the pageant will be held on March 29th. "It will start at 6pm for the princesses, the juniors will start 10 minutes after the end of the princess, and the queen will start 10 minutes after the juniors," Wolfe says. "There's no admission charge; it's at the Missouri Theatre." You can register for the pageant by clicking <a href="https://appleblossomparade.com/pageant/">HERE</a>.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

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