DAVIESS COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 10:30a.m. Saturday in Daviess County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by a 70-year-old Wathena, Kansas, woman was eastbound on Route NN at MO 6 in Jamesport.&nbsp; The driver failed to yield at MO 6.&nbsp; A northbound 2023 Ford Bronco driven by a 24-year-old Trenton woman struck the van.

Daviess County EMS transported the Trenton woman to Wright Memorial Hospital.&nbsp; The other driver refused treatment at the scene. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.&nbsp; The&nbsp; &nbsp;Patrol no releases names of accident victims.

DAVIESS COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 10:30a.m. Saturday in Daviess County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by a 70-year-old Wathena, Kansas, woman was eastbound on Route NN at MO 6 in Jamesport.&nbsp; The driver failed to yield at MO 6.&nbsp; A northbound 2023 Ford Bronco driven by a 24-year-old Trenton woman struck the van.Daviess County EMS transported the Trenton woman to Wright Memorial Hospital.&nbsp; The other driver refused treatment at the scene. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.&nbsp; The&nbsp; &nbsp;Patrol no releases names of accident victims.

Mo. woman hospitalized after SUV, van crash

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/KFEQ-Week-in-Review-4122025-e31e7u8/a-absoag2" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Week in Review

A delegation from the greater St. Joseph
area has returned from a trip to Washington, D.C. in which members lobbied for
various interests in the region.

St. Joseph Deputy Mayor, Randy Schultz,
says a big push was lobbying for new cargo planes for the Air National Guard
139th Airlift Wing. Schultz points out the base at Rosecrans
Memorial Airport trains pilots from throughout the country and around the world
at the Advanced Airlift Tactics Training Center, using the new “J” model
C-130s.

“We train everybody in the world how to
fly the C-130s and the J models. We don’t have the J models, yet. So, that’s
why we’re out there pushing pretty hard for the last three years,” Schultz says
during an appearance on KFEQmmunity. “That does two things. That keeps our base
modernized, but then it also gives our base longevity to stay.”

The 139th generates up to $220
million in economic activity for the greater St. Joseph area.

Schultz says the delegation didn’t
receive any promises, but did get some positive signs when it met with the leader
of the Air National Guard. Schultz says the head of the Air Guard does notice
the region speaks with a unified voice.

“He sees us coming and he’s always amazed
how we all are one unit, one group, one voice.” 

Along with area political and business
leaders, the delegation includes education officials representing the St.
Joseph School District and Missouri Western State University along with North
Central Missouri College in Trenton.

Education and transportation are big
points of interest, according to Schultz.

“They’re all out there, too. Lobbying (for)
things they can help us with,” Schultz says. &nbsp;“It’s either infrastructure, money, things
like that.”

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

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA delegation from the greater St. Joseph
area has returned from a trip to Washington, D.C. in which members lobbied for
various interests in the region.St. Joseph Deputy Mayor, Randy Schultz,
says a big push was lobbying for new cargo planes for the Air National Guard
139th Airlift Wing. Schultz points out the base at Rosecrans
Memorial Airport trains pilots from throughout the country and around the world
at the Advanced Airlift Tactics Training Center, using the new “J” model
C-130s.“We train everybody in the world how to
fly the C-130s and the J models. We don’t have the J models, yet. So, that’s
why we’re out there pushing pretty hard for the last three years,” Schultz says
during an appearance on KFEQmmunity. “That does two things. That keeps our base
modernized, but then it also gives our base longevity to stay.”The 139th generates up to $220
million in economic activity for the greater St. Joseph area.Schultz says the delegation didn’t
receive any promises, but did get some positive signs when it met with the leader
of the Air National Guard. Schultz says the head of the Air Guard does notice
the region speaks with a unified voice.“He sees us coming and he’s always amazed
how we all are one unit, one group, one voice.” Along with area political and business
leaders, the delegation includes education officials representing the St.
Joseph School District and Missouri Western State University along with North
Central Missouri College in Trenton.Education and transportation are big
points of interest, according to Schultz.“They’re all out there, too. Lobbying (for)
things they can help us with,” Schultz says. &nbsp;“It’s either infrastructure, money, things
like that.”You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph delegation returns after lobbying in Washington, D.C.

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jakemarszewski/">Jake Marszewski</a>&nbsp;

Missouri’s child care crisis was debated again Wednesday, with a bill changing provisions for licensed in-home child care facilities passing through the state House.

State law allows up to two children aged 5 years or older that are related to the operator of a child care facility to be exempt from the maximum number of children for which the facility is licensed. A bill sponsored by state Rep. Jeff Farnan, a Republican from Stanberry, removes the age minimum with hope to increase space in day care facilities.

“At unlicensed day care facilities, we don’t know if these kids are getting the care that they deserve, so hopefully this bill will increase the slots in licensed daycare facilities,” Farnan said in an interview.

Lawmakers originally pushed for changes to the state’s in-home child care provisions after the legislature approved “Nathan’s Law” in 2019.

According to previous Missourian reporting, the law was written to limit the capacity of unlicensed child care homes. It is named after Nathan Blecha, a 3-month old who died at an unlicensed in-home day care in 2007.

While the exclusion limit was set for unlicensed day cares, the same wasn’t set for licensed ones. All children had to be counted regardless of age. Child care providers around the state were then forced to stop serving families so they could care for their own.

A bill was eventually passed in 2022 permitting licensed care providers to exempt up to two of their children as long as they are 5 years old.

Legislators recalled Nathan’s Law when during Wednesday’s debate.

“The reason we have ratios in place in day care centers is to ensure that every child there has the proper care that they need,” said state Rep. Keri Ingle, a Lee’s Summit Democrat. “This is unfortunately one of those bills that is trying to address a problem and will create an even bigger one. At stake are the lives of the children in this state.”

Safety of child care facilities is just one facet of the state’s child care crisis. According to previous Missourian reporting, 54% of Missourians live in child care deserts.

Emily van Schenkhof is the executive director of the Missouri Children’s Trust Fund, the state’s foundation for child abuse prevention. She testified against the bill during a March hearing in the Committee on Children and Families.

“We maintain that we need to solve the state’s child care crisis without decreasing the safety of children in Missouri, so we are disappointed that this bill is moving forward,” van Schenkhof said.

The new bill moves the state away from best practices of child care capacity limits, she said.

Farnan said he shares the same concerns about safety, but believes that licensed child care providers receive adequate help from the state.

“They have fire services, they have food services and they have people that come check on them regularly to make sure that they are getting the care that they deserve,” Farnan said.

Still, van Schenkhof said solving the crisis without decreasing the safety of children is difficult.

“It’s hard to change the root factors that are causing the child care crisis,” van Schenkhof said. “Even though passing a bill isn’t easy, it’s easier than the financial investments we’d need to make to solve our child care problem.

The bill passed by a vote of 103-39. It now moves to the Missouri Senate.

This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/house-bill-highlights-concerns-about-states-child-care-crisis/article_5d64c0ac-8102-4a96-8720-fb7d1ce4d6a4.html" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744462684222.png" alt="State Rep. Jeff Farnan, a Republican from Stanberry, testifies to a Missouri House committee during the 2024 legislative session (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications)." />
 <figcaption>State Rep. Jeff Farnan, a Republican from Stanberry, testifies to a Missouri House committee during the 2024 legislative session (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications).</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jakemarszewski/">Jake Marszewski</a>&nbsp;Missouri’s child care crisis was debated again Wednesday, with a bill changing provisions for licensed in-home child care facilities passing through the state House.State law allows up to two children aged 5 years or older that are related to the operator of a child care facility to be exempt from the maximum number of children for which the facility is licensed. A bill sponsored by state Rep. Jeff Farnan, a Republican from Stanberry, removes the age minimum with hope to increase space in day care facilities.“At unlicensed day care facilities, we don’t know if these kids are getting the care that they deserve, so hopefully this bill will increase the slots in licensed daycare facilities,” Farnan said in an interview.Lawmakers originally pushed for changes to the state’s in-home child care provisions after the legislature approved “Nathan’s Law” in 2019.According to previous Missourian reporting, the law was written to limit the capacity of unlicensed child care homes. It is named after Nathan Blecha, a 3-month old who died at an unlicensed in-home day care in 2007.While the exclusion limit was set for unlicensed day cares, the same wasn’t set for licensed ones. All children had to be counted regardless of age. Child care providers around the state were then forced to stop serving families so they could care for their own.A bill was eventually passed in 2022 permitting licensed care providers to exempt up to two of their children as long as they are 5 years old.Legislators recalled Nathan’s Law when during Wednesday’s debate.“The reason we have ratios in place in day care centers is to ensure that every child there has the proper care that they need,” said state Rep. Keri Ingle, a Lee’s Summit Democrat. “This is unfortunately one of those bills that is trying to address a problem and will create an even bigger one. At stake are the lives of the children in this state.”Safety of child care facilities is just one facet of the state’s child care crisis. According to previous Missourian reporting, 54% of Missourians live in child care deserts.Emily van Schenkhof is the executive director of the Missouri Children’s Trust Fund, the state’s foundation for child abuse prevention. She testified against the bill during a March hearing in the Committee on Children and Families.“We maintain that we need to solve the state’s child care crisis without decreasing the safety of children in Missouri, so we are disappointed that this bill is moving forward,” van Schenkhof said.The new bill moves the state away from best practices of child care capacity limits, she said.Farnan said he shares the same concerns about safety, but believes that licensed child care providers receive adequate help from the state.“They have fire services, they have food services and they have people that come check on them regularly to make sure that they are getting the care that they deserve,” Farnan said.Still, van Schenkhof said solving the crisis without decreasing the safety of children is difficult.“It’s hard to change the root factors that are causing the child care crisis,” van Schenkhof said. “Even though passing a bill isn’t easy, it’s easier than the financial investments we’d need to make to solve our child care problem.The bill passed by a vote of 103-39. It now moves to the Missouri Senate.This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/house-bill-highlights-concerns-about-states-child-care-crisis/article_5d64c0ac-8102-4a96-8720-fb7d1ce4d6a4.html" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

Missouri House approves changes to in-home child care regulations

The Buchanan County Sheriff's Department is continually looking to new technology to keep the community safe from con artists looking to steal money through scams. 

Sheriff Bill Puett says with the frequency of scams and the rise of artificial intelligence, it's important to verify information if you receive a call that you're unsure about. 

"When I say verify, go and verify the number, if I call you and say hey can I have your social security number and your date of birth and your credit card and your this and your that call me back at this number, that's kind of silly because I'm giving you the number to call me right back at," Puett tells KFEQ News. "So, make sure that you check and call the official number for the law enforcement entity or the court or whatever." 

Puett says his department is currently working on putting out a phone app as well that will help notify the public of information. 

Puett says the phone app would allow a lot of information about the department to be available to citizens right on their phones. 

"And it would also do push notifications about scams, and it will tie in with our Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, it will tie in with all those things," Puett explains.  "There's also some educational stuff on there, so there will be some opioid education information and just a variety of things, so it's kind of in its infancy and we're trying to get that up and running." 

Puett says having more ways to get information out to people means the quicker the department can be to protect residents in Buchanan County.  

"Whether it's Facebook or this app or whatever, there's certain news cycles, you guys are always great about when we put a release out about the scam, but it's got to wait until the next news cycle and somebody's got to catch the news, if they don't catch the news well then they might be a day or two behind," Puett says. 

Puett says a push notification going out notifying the community of a scam would be something that could help the community in being aware of things affecting the community.

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

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The Buchanan County Sheriff's Department is continually looking to new technology to keep the community safe from con artists looking to steal money through scams. Sheriff Bill Puett says with the frequency of scams and the rise of artificial intelligence, it's important to verify information if you receive a call that you're unsure about. "When I say verify, go and verify the number, if I call you and say hey can I have your social security number and your date of birth and your credit card and your this and your that call me back at this number, that's kind of silly because I'm giving you the number to call me right back at," Puett tells KFEQ News. "So, make sure that you check and call the official number for the law enforcement entity or the court or whatever." Puett says his department is currently working on putting out a phone app as well that will help notify the public of information. Puett says the phone app would allow a lot of information about the department to be available to citizens right on their phones. "And it would also do push notifications about scams, and it will tie in with our Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, it will tie in with all those things," Puett explains. "There's also some educational stuff on there, so there will be some opioid education information and just a variety of things, so it's kind of in its infancy and we're trying to get that up and running." Puett says having more ways to get information out to people means the quicker the department can be to protect residents in Buchanan County. "Whether it's Facebook or this app or whatever, there's certain news cycles, you guys are always great about when we put a release out about the scam, but it's got to wait until the next news cycle and somebody's got to catch the news, if they don't catch the news well then they might be a day or two behind," Puett says. Puett says a push notification going out notifying the community of a scam would be something that could help the community in being aware of things affecting the community.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Buchanan County Sheriff says new app could help fight scams, protect community

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/KFEQ-Morning-Sports-4112025-e31d850/a-absn1bp" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning Sports

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph Post<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/KFEQ-Morning-News-4112025-e31dmjd/a-absnk19" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning News

The budget bills include 45 new earmarked items in lawmakers’ districts for infrastructure, health care and tourism projects

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 Budget Committee approved almost $4 billion in construction funding Thursday, including 45 new earmarked items for projects that include a county government maintenance shed and a capital city parking garage.

About half of the spending is reauthorization of projects approved in past years and funded mainly from the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act. As of March 31, the state had $1.3 billion remaining to be spent from the $2.9 billion originally received from the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/05/06/missouri-senate-signs-off-on-3-billion-in-federal-covid-19-relief-funds/">federal COVID-19 relief</a>&nbsp;law.

Overall, the new items increased general revenue spending for construction projects by $76 million more than requested by Gov. Mike Kehoe. Adding the three construction bills to the operating budget approved in the House last week brings total spending proposed in the lower chamber to $51.7 billion, about $2 billion less than&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/01/28/gov-mike-kehoe-dips-deeply-into-surplus-as-missouri-budget-grows-to-nearly-54-billion/">Kehoe proposed in January</a>.

The construction budget will be debated in the full House on Tuesday.

Committee Chairman Dirk Deaton, a Republican from Noel said he was comfortable with adding general revenue items despite a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-approves-tax-cuts-for-capital-gains-diapers-and-low-income-seniors/">tax cut bill</a>&nbsp;awaiting a final vote and ongoing uncertainty about&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/25/federal-medicaid-cuts-could-leave-missouri-with-huge-budget-shortfall/">federal budget cuts</a>.

Current general revenue receipts are declining and a general revenue surplus built up to $5.7 billion two years ago is expected to be $2.5 billion at the end of June.

This may be the last year that lawmakers are able to tap the surplus for earmarked projects, Deaton said to reporters after the meeting.

“We’re still in a good position, but certainly those opportunities are diminishing,” he said. “And if it’s not next year, it’ll be the year after that.”

Deaton’s willingness to add dozens of small items for members is in contrast to his predecessor, former state Rep. Cody Smith. In past years, most earmarks were inserted during Senate consideration of the budget.

The change drew praise from the committee’s ranking Democrat, state Rep. Betsy Fogle of Springfield.

“This has been the most collaborative and productive budget year that I’ve been a part of,” Fogle said.

The smallest item added to the construction list is $60,000 for a maintenance and equipment shed for Dallas County government. The largest is $20 million for a new Jefferson City parking garage that is part of a $130 million hotel and conference center.

To find money for the parking garage Deaton cut funding requested by Kehoe for renovations of the remaining structures of the Missouri State Penitentiary to support its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.missouripentours.com/" target="_blank">use as a tourist attraction</a>.

The original request of $52 million was pared down to $15 million, Deaton said, because members of the committee are willing to spend money to preserve the buildings but balk at major renovations or improvements on the property.

“If we were just to say, let’s just tear all these buildings down, it would be more than $15 million, so just to try to help them keep what they have and stabilize that seemed appropriate to me,” Deaton said to reporters after the meeting.

The parking garage would replace a crumbling structure near the Governor’s mansion and help relieve some of the problems finding parking in downtown Jefferson City, Deaton said. And adding it in the House makes friends in the Senate, he added.

“We’ve had talks with our colleagues on the other side of the building, and there’s some members over there I know that are very passionate about it,” Deaton said.

Of the other earmarked items added Thursday, there are 15 health-related projects that include hospital and mental health facilities and seven infrastructure projects for roads, bridges and water. There’s grants for library renovations in Newton and Barry counties and tourism projects to fund construction at the General Omar Bradley Memorial in Moberly, the Starlight Theatre in Kansas City and the Pony Express Museum in St. Joseph.

Deaton didn’t greenlight every request, said Republican state Rep. Wendy Hausman of St. Peters.&nbsp;

“We had to prove that it’s beneficial throughout the state,” Hausman said.

The items that are funded are only a fraction of what he was asked to include, Deaton said.

“No matter what the resources we bring to bear, there’s always more need than there is opportunities to meet those needs,” he said.

Democrats were treated fairly and saw some of their items funded, Fogle said.

“The chair has continued to show a willingness to work with minority members and get some of our investments in the budget,” she said. “And today was a good day.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744367680106.png" alt=" House Budget Committee Chairman Dirk Deaton, a Republican from Noel, speaks during a Jan. 30 news conference with House Speaker Jon Patterson. (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications)" />
 <figcaption> House Budget Committee Chairman Dirk Deaton, a Republican from Noel, speaks during a Jan. 30 news conference with House Speaker Jon Patterson. (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The budget bills include 45 new earmarked items in lawmakers’ districts for infrastructure, health care and tourism projects</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 Budget Committee approved almost $4 billion in construction funding Thursday, including 45 new earmarked items for projects that include a county government maintenance shed and a capital city parking garage.About half of the spending is reauthorization of projects approved in past years and funded mainly from the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act. As of March 31, the state had $1.3 billion remaining to be spent from the $2.9 billion originally received from the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/05/06/missouri-senate-signs-off-on-3-billion-in-federal-covid-19-relief-funds/">federal COVID-19 relief</a>&nbsp;law.Overall, the new items increased general revenue spending for construction projects by $76 million more than requested by Gov. Mike Kehoe. Adding the three construction bills to the operating budget approved in the House last week brings total spending proposed in the lower chamber to $51.7 billion, about $2 billion less than&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/01/28/gov-mike-kehoe-dips-deeply-into-surplus-as-missouri-budget-grows-to-nearly-54-billion/">Kehoe proposed in January</a>.The construction budget will be debated in the full House on Tuesday.Committee Chairman Dirk Deaton, a Republican from Noel said he was comfortable with adding general revenue items despite a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-approves-tax-cuts-for-capital-gains-diapers-and-low-income-seniors/">tax cut bill</a>&nbsp;awaiting a final vote and ongoing uncertainty about&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/25/federal-medicaid-cuts-could-leave-missouri-with-huge-budget-shortfall/">federal budget cuts</a>.Current general revenue receipts are declining and a general revenue surplus built up to $5.7 billion two years ago is expected to be $2.5 billion at the end of June.This may be the last year that lawmakers are able to tap the surplus for earmarked projects, Deaton said to reporters after the meeting.“We’re still in a good position, but certainly those opportunities are diminishing,” he said. “And if it’s not next year, it’ll be the year after that.”Deaton’s willingness to add dozens of small items for members is in contrast to his predecessor, former state Rep. Cody Smith. In past years, most earmarks were inserted during Senate consideration of the budget.The change drew praise from the committee’s ranking Democrat, state Rep. Betsy Fogle of Springfield.“This has been the most collaborative and productive budget year that I’ve been a part of,” Fogle said.The smallest item added to the construction list is $60,000 for a maintenance and equipment shed for Dallas County government. The largest is $20 million for a new Jefferson City parking garage that is part of a $130 million hotel and conference center.To find money for the parking garage Deaton cut funding requested by Kehoe for renovations of the remaining structures of the Missouri State Penitentiary to support its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.missouripentours.com/" target="_blank">use as a tourist attraction</a>.The original request of $52 million was pared down to $15 million, Deaton said, because members of the committee are willing to spend money to preserve the buildings but balk at major renovations or improvements on the property.“If we were just to say, let’s just tear all these buildings down, it would be more than $15 million, so just to try to help them keep what they have and stabilize that seemed appropriate to me,” Deaton said to reporters after the meeting.The parking garage would replace a crumbling structure near the Governor’s mansion and help relieve some of the problems finding parking in downtown Jefferson City, Deaton said. And adding it in the House makes friends in the Senate, he added.“We’ve had talks with our colleagues on the other side of the building, and there’s some members over there I know that are very passionate about it,” Deaton said.Of the other earmarked items added Thursday, there are 15 health-related projects that include hospital and mental health facilities and seven infrastructure projects for roads, bridges and water. There’s grants for library renovations in Newton and Barry counties and tourism projects to fund construction at the General Omar Bradley Memorial in Moberly, the Starlight Theatre in Kansas City and the Pony Express Museum in St. Joseph.Deaton didn’t greenlight every request, said Republican state Rep. Wendy Hausman of St. Peters.&nbsp;“We had to prove that it’s beneficial throughout the state,” Hausman said.The items that are funded are only a fraction of what he was asked to include, Deaton said.“No matter what the resources we bring to bear, there’s always more need than there is opportunities to meet those needs,” he said.Democrats were treated fairly and saw some of their items funded, Fogle said.“The chair has continued to show a willingness to work with minority members and get some of our investments in the budget,” she said. “And today was a good day.”

Missouri House committee approves $4 billion for state construction projects

An evaluation is
underway in wake of the defeat of the $157 million school bond issue during
Tuesday’s election.

St. Joseph voters
rejected the proposed 60-cent increase in the school levy with nearly 54%
voting against the issue.

St. Joseph School
Superintendent, Gabe Edgar, says school officials along with members of the
school board now must sift through the message voters sent.

“There’re probably
two messages,” Edgar tells KFEQmmunity. “I don’t know whether they want to be a
three high school system or whether it was a tax increase issue.&nbsp; We’ll need to find that out and we’ll get the
information from the community and go from there.”

The bonds would
have financed construction of a new high school in south St. Joseph, part of
the long-range plan adopted by the Board of Education that would reduce the
number of high schools in St. Joseph from three to two. The plan also calls for
the number of elementary schools to be reduced from 13 to 10, what the district
and the school board call “right sizing” the district.

Edgar says the
Board of Education must decide whether voters objected to the tax increase or
the two high school model.

“That’s what the
board will have to discuss at the board work session next Monday, the 14th,
to see whether they want to continue with the long-range plan that they
approved in August,” Edgar says. “And we will provide recommendations along the
way from the administration.”

Edgar says he will
sit down with his superintendent cabinet, a group of 22 school officials, to
discuss next steps and what it will recommend to the Board of Education.

A lot is at sake as
the school board attempts to determine what direction to take in wake of the
defeat at the polls and whether to stick with the long-range plan.

“It changes the
high school system. It changes the model at the elementary and the model at the
middle school and so we have to put all those pieces together,” Edgar points
out. “It won’t take us long, but it looks very different than what it looked
like with two new high schools.”

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostAn evaluation is
underway in wake of the defeat of the $157 million school bond issue during
Tuesday’s election.St. Joseph voters
rejected the proposed 60-cent increase in the school levy with nearly 54%
voting against the issue.St. Joseph School
Superintendent, Gabe Edgar, says school officials along with members of the
school board now must sift through the message voters sent.“There’re probably
two messages,” Edgar tells KFEQmmunity. “I don’t know whether they want to be a
three high school system or whether it was a tax increase issue.&nbsp; We’ll need to find that out and we’ll get the
information from the community and go from there.”The bonds would
have financed construction of a new high school in south St. Joseph, part of
the long-range plan adopted by the Board of Education that would reduce the
number of high schools in St. Joseph from three to two. The plan also calls for
the number of elementary schools to be reduced from 13 to 10, what the district
and the school board call “right sizing” the district.Edgar says the
Board of Education must decide whether voters objected to the tax increase or
the two high school model.“That’s what the
board will have to discuss at the board work session next Monday, the 14th,
to see whether they want to continue with the long-range plan that they
approved in August,” Edgar says. “And we will provide recommendations along the
way from the administration.”Edgar says he will
sit down with his superintendent cabinet, a group of 22 school officials, to
discuss next steps and what it will recommend to the Board of Education.A lot is at sake as
the school board attempts to determine what direction to take in wake of the
defeat at the polls and whether to stick with the long-range plan.“It changes the
high school system. It changes the model at the elementary and the model at the
middle school and so we have to put all those pieces together,” Edgar points
out. “It won’t take us long, but it looks very different than what it looked
like with two new high schools.”You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Defeat at the polls, now St. Joseph school board assesses future

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph Post<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/KFEQ-Morning-News-4102025-e31c9p4/a-abslqp9" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

The NFL draft is in two weeks, which means a new NFL season, and Chiefs Training Camp, is just around the corner.  But will it be at Missouri Western State University? 

Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy says currently the university is in negotiations with the Chiefs and are what she calls "pushing paper across the table" for a new contract. 

"And I think those conversations are very, very positive, I would be just completely shocked if we weren't finalized and they'll be back," Kennedy tells KFEQ News.  "I think the Chiefs recognize the importance of the St. Joseph community, I was just meeting with some of their folks, and they even are saying well the season starts in St. Joseph, the championship starts in St. Joseph." 

Kennedy says last year was the final option year on the contract between Missouri Western and the Chiefs 

"And the reason we decided not to, we had the opportunity to get more option years, but then we wouldn't have been able to have any changes to the contract," Kennedy explains.  "And we'd been operating with a contract for so long, that some of it just wasn't making sense for the Chiefs or for us, so that's where we are now." 

Kennedy says they love having the Chiefs here, but does point out that contrary to popular belief, it is not a money maker for the university 

"We do it to enhance St. Joseph and to bring people in, and to really showcase the university for what it looks like but it's not a student recruitment strategy," Kennedy says.  "But I think having the Chiefs here is a lot of fun, they're wonderful guests, we love hosting them." 

Kennedy says hosting Chiefs Training Camp does force the university to adjust its schedule, but it provides an opportunity for Missouri Western. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722883273489.jpeg" alt="Chiefs fans take in Training Camp on the Missouri Western campus/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Chiefs fans take in Training Camp on the Missouri Western campus/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The NFL draft is in two weeks, which means a new NFL season, and Chiefs Training Camp, is just around the corner. But will it be at Missouri Western State University? Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy says currently the university is in negotiations with the Chiefs and are what she calls "pushing paper across the table" for a new contract. "And I think those conversations are very, very positive, I would be just completely shocked if we weren't finalized and they'll be back," Kennedy tells KFEQ News. "I think the Chiefs recognize the importance of the St. Joseph community, I was just meeting with some of their folks, and they even are saying well the season starts in St. Joseph, the championship starts in St. Joseph." Kennedy says last year was the final option year on the contract between Missouri Western and the Chiefs "And the reason we decided not to, we had the opportunity to get more option years, but then we wouldn't have been able to have any changes to the contract," Kennedy explains. "And we'd been operating with a contract for so long, that some of it just wasn't making sense for the Chiefs or for us, so that's where we are now." Kennedy says they love having the Chiefs here, but does point out that contrary to popular belief, it is not a money maker for the university "We do it to enhance St. Joseph and to bring people in, and to really showcase the university for what it looks like but it's not a student recruitment strategy," Kennedy says. "But I think having the Chiefs here is a lot of fun, they're wonderful guests, we love hosting them." Kennedy says hosting Chiefs Training Camp does force the university to adjust its schedule, but it provides an opportunity for Missouri Western. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

MWSU President Kennedy says university in talks with Chiefs on Training Camp

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/KFEQ-Morning-Sports-4102025-e31bjj6/a-abskugs" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

After a heavy lobbying effort, backers of video lottery games squeezed a slim majority out of the Missouri House on Wednesday, sending&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB970&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R" target="_blank">a bill</a>&nbsp;promising&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/04/missouri-house-committee-votes-to-legalize-video-slot-machines/">$350 million a year for schools</a>&nbsp;to the state Senate.

By an 83-73 vote — just one more than the minimum needed to pass — the House approved the bill that also promises to remove “gray market machines” from retail locations.

“This is not a solution in search of a problem,” said the sponsor, Republican Rep. Bill Hardwick of Dixon. “We have a genuine problem, a money problem, a regulatory problem, a commerce problem, and this is a solution for all of that.”

House leadership held the tally board open for more than 15 minutes as they searched for the votes needed to pass. The bill was given first-round approval on Monday but with only 74 votes.

After that backers and opponents scrambled to find votes, with&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/04/09/passing-video-lottery-bill-would-be-a-heavy-lift-in-missouri-senate/">both sides claiming Tuesday</a>&nbsp;that they would prevail.

The bill faces an uncertain future in the state Senate. Three video lottery bills have been proposed in the upper chamber but none have been given a hearing.

In the final vote, 54 Republicans were joined by 29 Democrats to pass the bill, while 18 Democrats and 55 Republicans opposed it.&nbsp;

The bill received support from nine of 10 Republicans who were absent on Monday and present on Wednesday. Five GOP members on each side of the question switched from yes to no or vice-versa.

Among Democrats, four members absent on Monday voted yes on Wednesday, while two Monday absentees voted no. Only one Democrat switched sides, voting no on Wednesday after voting yes on Monday.&nbsp;

Under the bill, the Missouri Lottery would be given the job of licensing video lottery terminal vendors and regulating their use in retail locations. While there would be a cap of eight machines in any location, the total number of machines that would be in use statewide is not capped.

The House added an amendment so counties and cities will be able to authorize — or ban — video lottery games in their home communities. It also added an amendment that declares any unlicensed games that offer cash prizes to winners to be illegal slot machines.

The games resembling casino slot machines that can be seen at retail locations throughout the state are unregulated. Called gray market or “no chance” games, operators claim they are not illegal under current law because a player can learn the outcome of the next play before committing their money.

The options for a player with a pending losing bet are to change games in search of a winner, ending their playing session or deliberately losing the bet to get to the next outcome.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol has&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/09/14/few-charges-result-from-scores-of-missouri-highway-patrol-gambling-investigations/">tried to initiate prosecutions</a>&nbsp;under anti-gambling laws, but most prosecutors have been reluctant to file charges.

And after years of operation, convenience store owners, fraternal lodges and other establishments have become dependent on the revenue.

The video lottery machines will be more trustworthy, supporters say, because the machines will be required to pay out at least 80% of the money wagered in prizes.&nbsp;

The remainder will be split three ways — the lottery will receive 34% of the net to support state education programs, with retailers and operators splitting the other 66%. The fiscal note for the bill estimates that within three years, there will be $1.1 billion annually for the three-way split generating approximately $350 million in state revenue.

Some opponents of the measure argue it is not strong enough to force gray market machine operators to shut down. Others said they do not support any expansion of gambling.

“I fully support my American Legion and VFW,” said state Rep. Dean Van Schoiack, a Republican from Savannah, “but they better be able to find a better way to raise funds than stealing from their members and their patrons.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744281612270.png" alt=" State Rep. Bill Hardwick, a Republican from Dixon, speaks March 25 on the Missouri House floor. (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications)" />
 <figcaption> State Rep. Bill Hardwick, a Republican from Dixon, speaks March 25 on the Missouri House floor. (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications)</figcaption>
 </figure>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>After a heavy lobbying effort, backers of video lottery games squeezed a slim majority out of the Missouri House on Wednesday, sending&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB970&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R" target="_blank">a bill</a>&nbsp;promising&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/04/missouri-house-committee-votes-to-legalize-video-slot-machines/">$350 million a year for schools</a>&nbsp;to the state Senate.By an 83-73 vote — just one more than the minimum needed to pass — the House approved the bill that also promises to remove “gray market machines” from retail locations.“This is not a solution in search of a problem,” said the sponsor, Republican Rep. Bill Hardwick of Dixon. “We have a genuine problem, a money problem, a regulatory problem, a commerce problem, and this is a solution for all of that.”House leadership held the tally board open for more than 15 minutes as they searched for the votes needed to pass. The bill was given first-round approval on Monday but with only 74 votes.After that backers and opponents scrambled to find votes, with&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/04/09/passing-video-lottery-bill-would-be-a-heavy-lift-in-missouri-senate/">both sides claiming Tuesday</a>&nbsp;that they would prevail.The bill faces an uncertain future in the state Senate. Three video lottery bills have been proposed in the upper chamber but none have been given a hearing.In the final vote, 54 Republicans were joined by 29 Democrats to pass the bill, while 18 Democrats and 55 Republicans opposed it.&nbsp;The bill received support from nine of 10 Republicans who were absent on Monday and present on Wednesday. Five GOP members on each side of the question switched from yes to no or vice-versa.Among Democrats, four members absent on Monday voted yes on Wednesday, while two Monday absentees voted no. Only one Democrat switched sides, voting no on Wednesday after voting yes on Monday.&nbsp;Under the bill, the Missouri Lottery would be given the job of licensing video lottery terminal vendors and regulating their use in retail locations. While there would be a cap of eight machines in any location, the total number of machines that would be in use statewide is not capped.The House added an amendment so counties and cities will be able to authorize — or ban — video lottery games in their home communities. It also added an amendment that declares any unlicensed games that offer cash prizes to winners to be illegal slot machines.The games resembling casino slot machines that can be seen at retail locations throughout the state are unregulated. Called gray market or “no chance” games, operators claim they are not illegal under current law because a player can learn the outcome of the next play before committing their money.The options for a player with a pending losing bet are to change games in search of a winner, ending their playing session or deliberately losing the bet to get to the next outcome.The Missouri State Highway Patrol has&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/09/14/few-charges-result-from-scores-of-missouri-highway-patrol-gambling-investigations/">tried to initiate prosecutions</a>&nbsp;under anti-gambling laws, but most prosecutors have been reluctant to file charges.And after years of operation, convenience store owners, fraternal lodges and other establishments have become dependent on the revenue.The video lottery machines will be more trustworthy, supporters say, because the machines will be required to pay out at least 80% of the money wagered in prizes.&nbsp;The remainder will be split three ways — the lottery will receive 34% of the net to support state education programs, with retailers and operators splitting the other 66%. The fiscal note for the bill estimates that within three years, there will be $1.1 billion annually for the three-way split generating approximately $350 million in state revenue.Some opponents of the measure argue it is not strong enough to force gray market machine operators to shut down. Others said they do not support any expansion of gambling.“I fully support my American Legion and VFW,” said state Rep. Dean Van Schoiack, a Republican from Savannah, “but they better be able to find a better way to raise funds than stealing from their members and their patrons.”

Bill legalizing video lottery games narrowly passes Missouri House

St. Joseph voters Tuesday
rejected a $157 million bond issue proposed by the St. Joseph School District
to finance a new high school.

Unofficial results
released by the Buchanan County Clerk’s office disclose that 6,081 voters cast
ballots against the proposal with only 5,262 voting in favor; a split of
53-46%. The issue would have raised the school tax levy by 60 cents. It needed
a 57% majority to pass.

St. Joseph Board
of Education Vice President, Mike Moore, says the community missed an
opportunity.

“As we think about
as a community competing with other regional schools for talent - teachers,
staff, coaches; and as we even think about competing with families to move to
the community of St. Joseph we’re falling behind, clearly,” Moore tells
KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.

Moore says the
results are disappointing, but not discouraging, though he says it will have an
impact on morale.

“Probably more importantly
is the message it sends to our kids and our staff,” Moore says. “Talked to a
lot of staff tonight (Tue.). They’re very disappointed.”

Moore says the
defeat leaves the district with problems that have not been addressed.

“We have serious problems
that include completely inequitable academic and activity offerings among the
three high schools today,” Moore says. “We have a feeder system that is
confusing and makes no sense from elementary to middle to high schools. We have
a middle school model that’s inconsistent across the community.”

The proposal to
build a new high school in south St. Joseph would have fit with the St. Joseph
School District long-range plan to reduce the number of high schools from three
to two.

Moore says the
school board still intends to carrying out the plan.

“I believe that
the votes are there and the commitment is there to move ahead and make those
improvements that I talked about even in light of this defeat.”

The school bond
issue passed in only four of the 15 precincts with the St. Joseph School
District. A bit more than 24% of the registered voters in Buchanan County cast
ballots in Tuesday’s elections.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph voters Tuesday
rejected a $157 million bond issue proposed by the St. Joseph School District
to finance a new high school.Unofficial results
released by the Buchanan County Clerk’s office disclose that 6,081 voters cast
ballots against the proposal with only 5,262 voting in favor; a split of
53-46%. The issue would have raised the school tax levy by 60 cents. It needed
a 57% majority to pass.St. Joseph Board
of Education Vice President, Mike Moore, says the community missed an
opportunity.“As we think about
as a community competing with other regional schools for talent - teachers,
staff, coaches; and as we even think about competing with families to move to
the community of St. Joseph we’re falling behind, clearly,” Moore tells
KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.Moore says the
results are disappointing, but not discouraging, though he says it will have an
impact on morale.“Probably more importantly
is the message it sends to our kids and our staff,” Moore says. “Talked to a
lot of staff tonight (Tue.). They’re very disappointed.”Moore says the
defeat leaves the district with problems that have not been addressed.“We have serious problems
that include completely inequitable academic and activity offerings among the
three high schools today,” Moore says. “We have a feeder system that is
confusing and makes no sense from elementary to middle to high schools. We have
a middle school model that’s inconsistent across the community.”The proposal to
build a new high school in south St. Joseph would have fit with the St. Joseph
School District long-range plan to reduce the number of high schools from three
to two.Moore says the
school board still intends to carrying out the plan.“I believe that
the votes are there and the commitment is there to move ahead and make those
improvements that I talked about even in light of this defeat.”The school bond
issue passed in only four of the 15 precincts with the St. Joseph School
District. A bit more than 24% of the registered voters in Buchanan County cast
ballots in Tuesday’s elections.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph school board VP contends city missed an opportunity in bond issue defeat

BROWN COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 6a.m. Wednesday in Brown County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Chevy Silverado driven by Charles Hopp, 98, Highland was westbound on U.S. 36 just east of Hiawatha.

The pickup traveled left of center and sideswiped an eastbound 2011 Nissan Altima driven by DeAndre&nbsp;Harris, 31, Sabetha. After impact the pickup traveled into the south ditch and struck a KDOT fence. The Nissan rotated counter clockwise off the roadway to the south and came to rest in the ditch.

Harris was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Chapel Oaks Funeral Home. EMS transported Hopp to KU Medical Center.&nbsp; Harris was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

BROWN COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 6a.m. Wednesday in Brown County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Chevy Silverado driven by Charles Hopp, 98, Highland was westbound on U.S. 36 just east of Hiawatha.The pickup traveled left of center and sideswiped an eastbound 2011 Nissan Altima driven by DeAndre&nbsp;Harris, 31, Sabetha. After impact the pickup traveled into the south ditch and struck a KDOT fence. The Nissan rotated counter clockwise off the roadway to the south and came to rest in the ditch.Harris was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Chapel Oaks Funeral Home. EMS transported Hopp to KU Medical Center.&nbsp; Harris was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after pickup sideswipes a car

Legendary UCLA gymnastics coach Valorie Kondos Field motivated a roomful of St. Joseph residents on ways to be better leaders with stories of her journey.  

Kondos Field says she hopes people take from her message that whatever they do, they enjoy it, it's challenging and fulfilling, and that they win the day, but says while that's what you do, that's not who you are 

"And when we can focus on who we are and sharing that with every single person we come in contact with throughout the day, I mean imagine if everybody in the world literally just shared their inner light with everyone, every moment of the day," Kondos Field tells reporters.  "I mean this world would literally just be palpable and pulsating with light, that is my goal." 

Kondos Field coached at UCLA for 28 years, winning seven national championships, and four Pac-12 coach of the year awards.  She retired in 2019.  

Kondos Field says when she retired, she knew she wanted to be able to share everything she had learned and have an impact 

"It's not about the money, it's not about more celebrity, it's not about any of that, I just want to be able to share what I have learned through my experience in the coaching world," Kondos Field explains.  "Especially having the blessing to be around people such as the great John Wooden, I mean what a blessing that was to have him in my life as like my grandfather."

Kondos Field had a pretty legendary mentor in another coaching legend, John Wooden.  

Kondos Field says she learned from Wooden the value of being yourself, and remembers a moment after winning her fourth national championship, when a reporter called her "the next John Wooden" during an interview alongside Coach Wooden 

"Before I could just say no, no, no that's blasphemy, Coach Wooden chimed in and he said, why would she want to be another Coach Wooden when she could be a great Valorie Kondos Field," Kondos Field recalls. 

Kondos Field says Wooden saying that helped release her from even trying to be like him 

"And just really realize who I was created to be, what God created me to be and all my blessings, and let's just fortify those and bring those to my work every day," Kondos Field says. 

Kondos Field spoke at Word of Life Church as part of a series put on by the Joseph Company.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744200888846.jpeg" alt="Legendary UCLA gymnastics coach Valorie Kondos Field spoke to St. Joseph residents at Word of Life Church about things she learned during her coaching career that helped shape her life and the way she lives and leads/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Legendary UCLA gymnastics coach Valorie Kondos Field spoke to St. Joseph residents at Word of Life Church about things she learned during her coaching career that helped shape her life and the way she lives and leads/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post Legendary UCLA gymnastics coach Valorie Kondos Field motivated a roomful of St. Joseph residents on ways to be better leaders with stories of her journey. Kondos Field says she hopes people take from her message that whatever they do, they enjoy it, it's challenging and fulfilling, and that they win the day, but says while that's what you do, that's not who you are "And when we can focus on who we are and sharing that with every single person we come in contact with throughout the day, I mean imagine if everybody in the world literally just shared their inner light with everyone, every moment of the day," Kondos Field tells reporters. "I mean this world would literally just be palpable and pulsating with light, that is my goal." Kondos Field coached at UCLA for 28 years, winning seven national championships, and four Pac-12 coach of the year awards. She retired in 2019. Kondos Field says when she retired, she knew she wanted to be able to share everything she had learned and have an impact "It's not about the money, it's not about more celebrity, it's not about any of that, I just want to be able to share what I have learned through my experience in the coaching world," Kondos Field explains. "Especially having the blessing to be around people such as the great John Wooden, I mean what a blessing that was to have him in my life as like my grandfather."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744200931406.jpeg" alt="Valorie Kondos Field/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Valorie Kondos Field/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Kondos Field had a pretty legendary mentor in another coaching legend, John Wooden. Kondos Field says she learned from Wooden the value of being yourself, and remembers a moment after winning her fourth national championship, when a reporter called her "the next John Wooden" during an interview alongside Coach Wooden "Before I could just say no, no, no that's blasphemy, Coach Wooden chimed in and he said, why would she want to be another Coach Wooden when she could be a great Valorie Kondos Field," Kondos Field recalls. Kondos Field says Wooden saying that helped release her from even trying to be like him "And just really realize who I was created to be, what God created me to be and all my blessings, and let's just fortify those and bring those to my work every day," Kondos Field says. Kondos Field spoke at Word of Life Church as part of a series put on by the Joseph Company.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744201022702.jpeg" alt="Wes Simmons (left) of the Joseph Company spoke with Valorie Kondos Field (middle). also known as Miss Val, and her husband Bobby Field (far right) during a presentation at Word of Life Church/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Wes Simmons (left) of the Joseph Company spoke with Valorie Kondos Field (middle). also known as Miss Val, and her husband Bobby Field (far right) during a presentation at Word of Life Church/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Legendary UCLA gymnastics coach 'Miss Val' shares life lessons with St. Joseph

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/KFEQ-Morning-Sports-492025-e31aeo6/a-absjet9" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/KFEQ-Morning-News-492025-e31aemj/a-absjer8" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

NEMAHA COUNTY —The community of Seneca, Kansas will honor a beloved priest who was shot and killed last week .

Father Arul Carasala&nbsp;will lie in state at Saints Peter &amp; Paul Catholic Church on Wednesday, April 9, 2025. Rosary prayers will be offered at 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM, and 7:00 PM, according to Lauer Funeral Home.

He will lie in state with an overnight vigil until 9:00 AM on Thursday.&nbsp; A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, April 10, 2025. 

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/nTkaBA4zrAY">Click here to view </a>the Mass streamed on YouTube.&nbsp;

 Following the service, Father Arul will return to India, where a Funeral Mass will be celebrated at his home parish, Sacred Heart Church, Kilachery Parish in Kilacheri, Tamil Nadu. His Funeral Mass will be live streamed on YouTube. He will be laid to rest at Sacred Heart Church Cemetery with his parents.

Memorials may be made to Fr. Arul Carasala Memorial 411 Pioneer Seneca, Kansas 66538.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.lauerfuneralhome.com/obituary/father-arul-raj-balaswamy-carasala/">Click here to read the full obituary.</a>

Gary Hermesch, 66, of Tulsa, Oklahoma. was charged Friday with Carasal's murder. He is being held in the Nemaha County Jail in lieu of $1 million bond, according to the Nemaha County Attorney Brad Lippert.

The charging complaint says that Hermesch “intentionally and with premeditation” killed Carasala, Lippert said. Authorities have not released a possible motive for the shooting or said whether the suspect and the priest knew each other.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744196756788.png" alt="Father Arul Carasala" />
 <figcaption>Father Arul Carasala</figcaption>
 </figure>NEMAHA COUNTY —The community of Seneca, Kansas will honor a beloved priest who was shot and killed last week .Father Arul Carasala&nbsp;will lie in state at Saints Peter &amp; Paul Catholic Church on Wednesday, April 9, 2025. Rosary prayers will be offered at 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM, and 7:00 PM, according to Lauer Funeral Home.He will lie in state with an overnight vigil until 9:00 AM on Thursday.&nbsp; A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, April 10, 2025. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/nTkaBA4zrAY">Click here to view </a>the Mass streamed on YouTube.&nbsp; Following the service, Father Arul will return to India, where a Funeral Mass will be celebrated at his home parish, Sacred Heart Church, Kilachery Parish in Kilacheri, Tamil Nadu. His Funeral Mass will be live streamed on YouTube. He will be laid to rest at Sacred Heart Church Cemetery with his parents.Memorials may be made to Fr. Arul Carasala Memorial 411 Pioneer Seneca, Kansas 66538.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.lauerfuneralhome.com/obituary/father-arul-raj-balaswamy-carasala/">Click here to read the full obituary.</a>Gary Hermesch, 66, of Tulsa, Oklahoma. was charged Friday with Carasal's murder. He is being held in the Nemaha County Jail in lieu of $1 million bond, according to the Nemaha County Attorney Brad Lippert.The charging complaint says that Hermesch “intentionally and with premeditation” killed Carasala, Lippert said. Authorities have not released a possible motive for the shooting or said whether the suspect and the priest knew each other.

Memorial services for slain Kansas priest

The bill’s sponsor has sought to give schools more ‘room for innovation’ for over a decade

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

The Missouri Senate set aside legislation Tuesday afternoon proposing alternative methods of school certification after senators discussed the impact of standardized testing and accountability for nearly two hours.

State Sen. Jill Carter, a Granby Republican, has filed the bill during each of her three years in office, but it has never passed the Senate. On Monday, she unsuccessfully attempted to add the legislation as an amendment to another education bill.

The bill debated Tuesday, she explained, is the brainchild of her time as a public-school parent.

She sought change in her local school district, talking first to parents, then to teachers and the school board. The hangup came from state officials, she said, who mandate that public schools administer a standardized test and score districts on the results.

She came to the State Capitol asking lawmakers to give school boards more autonomy. Now in the position of legislator, she has annually proposed her idea to decentralize standardized tests.

“It is putting public schools on the same playing field, giving them the same opportunities as private schools or parochial schools,” she said in the Senate Tuesday afternoon. “What we’re trying to do is get an even playing field so that they have the opportunity to be innovative.”

But her bill, which received praise from public-school groups at the committee level, has its critics in the state’s legislature.

State Sen. Curtis Trent, a Republican from Springfield, told Carter that he has concerns about accountability.

“There (should be) accountability when we are writing a taxpayer check and sending it to a government school,” he said.

Carter’s bill would allow schools to seek accreditation from national organizations, like those used by private schools, instead of being beholden to standards set by the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

The statewide standardized test, the Missouri Assessment Program, would only be used to meet federal requirements.

Carter added a five-year sunset to the bill, hoping to win over skeptics in the Senate, but it wasn’t enough to convince Trent. Districts would have no incentive to perform well without a performance report from the state, he told her.

Carter pointed to legislation that would allow public-school students to transfer to schools outside their address, dubbed open enrollment. Trent is sponsoring the Senate’s version of the proposal, which has sat on the body’s calendar for weeks without discussion. The&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/03/12/open-enrollment-bill-clears-missouri-house-for-fifth-year-in-a-row/">House’s open enrollment legislation</a>&nbsp;is due for Senate debate in coming days, with a Senate committee hearing scheduled for later this week.

“This is a both-and conversation and not an either-or,” Carter said.

Trent feared lawmakers would lose their grip on public schools if national accreditation agencies became responsible for assessing school performance.

“If we decouple the assessments from the accreditation process, we have to put something else in place that this body still has control of,” he said. “We don’t have any control over these nationwide accrediting agencies, so we will have ceded all of our authority as the General Assembly of Missouri from any control over these government schools.”

Despite opposition from Trent, the bill has supporters on both sides of the aisle.

State Sen. Mike Henderson, a Desloge Republican, said he has concerns about the state’s standardized test and wonders whether performance scores are accurate after speaking with his 12-year-old grandson about the assessment.

“He has already figured out (the test) didn’t really mean anything to him. It didn’t affect his grade,” Henderson said. “And he’s not the only one. Many of them have figured that out, so sometimes I wonder how true of a snapshot it is.”

State Sen. Maggie Nurrenbern, a Kansas City Democrat and former educator, applauded the bill for the “flexibility” teachers would get in the classroom.

“If we were to pass this, we would see drastic improvement and education,” she said, saying that educators are currently “handcuffed by state tests.”

After just under two hours of discussion, Senate Majority Leader Tony Luetkemeyer, a Parkville Republican, whispered to Carter, and she laid the bill aside, saying time had run out.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744194859967.png" alt="State Sen. Jill Carter, a Republican from Granby, presents a bill in a Senate committee earlier this year. She first started coming to the Missouri State Capitol as a public-school parent advocating for change for her son's school (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)" />
 <figcaption>State Sen. Jill Carter, a Republican from Granby, presents a bill in a Senate committee earlier this year. She first started coming to the Missouri State Capitol as a public-school parent advocating for change for her son's school (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The bill’s sponsor has sought to give schools more ‘room for innovation’ for over a decade</h2>BY:&nbsp;ANNELISE HANSHAW <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>The Missouri Senate set aside legislation Tuesday afternoon proposing alternative methods of school certification after senators discussed the impact of standardized testing and accountability for nearly two hours.State Sen. Jill Carter, a Granby Republican, has filed the bill during each of her three years in office, but it has never passed the Senate. On Monday, she unsuccessfully attempted to add the legislation as an amendment to another education bill.The bill debated Tuesday, she explained, is the brainchild of her time as a public-school parent.She sought change in her local school district, talking first to parents, then to teachers and the school board. The hangup came from state officials, she said, who mandate that public schools administer a standardized test and score districts on the results.She came to the State Capitol asking lawmakers to give school boards more autonomy. Now in the position of legislator, she has annually proposed her idea to decentralize standardized tests.“It is putting public schools on the same playing field, giving them the same opportunities as private schools or parochial schools,” she said in the Senate Tuesday afternoon. “What we’re trying to do is get an even playing field so that they have the opportunity to be innovative.”But her bill, which received praise from public-school groups at the committee level, has its critics in the state’s legislature.State Sen. Curtis Trent, a Republican from Springfield, told Carter that he has concerns about accountability.“There (should be) accountability when we are writing a taxpayer check and sending it to a government school,” he said.Carter’s bill would allow schools to seek accreditation from national organizations, like those used by private schools, instead of being beholden to standards set by the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.The statewide standardized test, the Missouri Assessment Program, would only be used to meet federal requirements.Carter added a five-year sunset to the bill, hoping to win over skeptics in the Senate, but it wasn’t enough to convince Trent. Districts would have no incentive to perform well without a performance report from the state, he told her.Carter pointed to legislation that would allow public-school students to transfer to schools outside their address, dubbed open enrollment. Trent is sponsoring the Senate’s version of the proposal, which has sat on the body’s calendar for weeks without discussion. The&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/03/12/open-enrollment-bill-clears-missouri-house-for-fifth-year-in-a-row/">House’s open enrollment legislation</a>&nbsp;is due for Senate debate in coming days, with a Senate committee hearing scheduled for later this week.“This is a both-and conversation and not an either-or,” Carter said.Trent feared lawmakers would lose their grip on public schools if national accreditation agencies became responsible for assessing school performance.“If we decouple the assessments from the accreditation process, we have to put something else in place that this body still has control of,” he said. “We don’t have any control over these nationwide accrediting agencies, so we will have ceded all of our authority as the General Assembly of Missouri from any control over these government schools.”Despite opposition from Trent, the bill has supporters on both sides of the aisle.State Sen. Mike Henderson, a Desloge Republican, said he has concerns about the state’s standardized test and wonders whether performance scores are accurate after speaking with his 12-year-old grandson about the assessment.“He has already figured out (the test) didn’t really mean anything to him. It didn’t affect his grade,” Henderson said. “And he’s not the only one. Many of them have figured that out, so sometimes I wonder how true of a snapshot it is.”State Sen. Maggie Nurrenbern, a Kansas City Democrat and former educator, applauded the bill for the “flexibility” teachers would get in the classroom.“If we were to pass this, we would see drastic improvement and education,” she said, saying that educators are currently “handcuffed by state tests.”After just under two hours of discussion, Senate Majority Leader Tony Luetkemeyer, a Parkville Republican, whispered to Carter, and she laid the bill aside, saying time had run out.

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