With quarterback Patrick Mahomes and a smattering of other Chiefs players already on Missouri Western's campus, and 'Welcome Chiefs' signs in yards all over town, the energy surrounding training camp in 2021 is palpable.

After being confined to Kansas City in 2020 due to COVID-19, Missouri Western leadership and the Chiefs organization made every effort to extend their agreement and bring camp back to St. Joseph in 2021, as long as NFL protocol allowed for it.

The negotiations were successful and the NFL gave the go-ahead, as roughly 30 players arrived in St. Joseph Friday and over the weekend to get some early work done.

On Wednesday, veteran players, and a few thousand fans, will be back as well to mark the start of the 11th training camp at Missouri Western. The first was in 2010.

"The excitement is palpable," Chiefs president Mark Donovan said. "I would say, over a decade later, to be standing here today and knowing how efficient we are and what a great partnership we have, it really does set us up for success and we're very appreciative of that."

Donovan personally thanked outgoing Missouri Western athletic director Josh Looney - a former Chiefs public relations employee who oversaw multiple contract extensions between the team and university.

Looney is grateful for that ongoing partnership, but certainly does not take sole credit.

"I think that trust and knowledge of what's important has certainly helped this camp and the (contract) extension," Looney said. "But, it's all about this community, elected officials and our whole campus making this happen. Mosaic and being a partner with them. It can't be just one of us, or camp will not thrive."

Looney secured a contract that guarantees Chiefs training camp in St. Joseph through 2024.

"If it wasn't a competitive advantage for (the Chiefs) on the football side, they wouldn't be coming back to Missouri Western," Looney said. "And likewise, if it wasn't a great fan experience and we couldn't deliver there, they wouldn't be coming to Missouri Western."

University president Elizabeth Kennedy expressed confidence that the relationship between the Chiefs and St. Joseph benefits all involved.

"I'd like to thank President Donovan and the Chiefs for continuing to make Missouri Western their summer training camp home," Kennedy said. "We have very much appreciated our association with the Chiefs and believe that we and the community have benefited greatly."

Kennedy will help in the search for Missouri Western's next athletic director. Looney announced Monday that he's taking the A.D. job at North Alabama - a school that transitioned to Division I in 2018.

While interviewing candidates, Kennedy believes the training camp aspect of the Griffons' A.D. job will be an appealing part of the position.

"What an opportunity for an A.D. to come in and to connect, recruit, fundraise and engage with our community," Kennedy said of training camp, as she gets ready to experience it for the first time as Missouri Western's president. "It's my first camp, and I'm so excited."

Mosaic Life Care, the primary sponsor for Chiefs' training camp this year, was also recognized by both Donovan and Kennedy on Monday.

Mosaic has been leading the effort in trying to get more people in St. Joseph and Buchanan County vaccinated against COVID-19. Only 20 percent of Buchanan County residents are fully vaccinated.

There'll be practically no fan-to-player interaction at training camp this year, per NFL protocol. No traditional helmet walk with young fans, and no autographs after each practice.

As thousands of fans from near and far get ready to descend on St. Joseph for the next three weeks, Mosaic Chief Operations Officer Michael Pulido encourages everyone to stay safe and to be a team player in the fight against the virus.

"Our theme this year at Mosaic this year has been, 'Be a team player and get vaccinated,'" Pulido said. "We fought the fight against COVID for four quarters and thought the game was over. Now, we're in overtime. Our best weapon is the vaccine."

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627331903660.jpeg" alt="Mosaic Chief Operations Officer Michael Pulido (left) and Kansas City Chiefs President Mark Donovan (right) hold a ceremonial Mosaic Chiefs jersey in celebration of Chiefs' training camp coming back to St. Joseph in 2021. Mosaic Life Care is the primary sponsor of this year's camp. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Mosaic Chief Operations Officer Michael Pulido (left) and Kansas City Chiefs President Mark Donovan (right) hold a ceremonial Mosaic Chiefs jersey in celebration of Chiefs' training camp coming back to St. Joseph in 2021. Mosaic Life Care is the primary sponsor of this year's camp. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostWith quarterback Patrick Mahomes and a smattering of other Chiefs players already on Missouri Western's campus, and 'Welcome Chiefs' signs in yards all over town, the energy surrounding training camp in 2021 is palpable.After being confined to Kansas City in 2020 due to COVID-19, Missouri Western leadership and the Chiefs organization made every effort to extend their agreement and bring camp back to St. Joseph in 2021, as long as NFL protocol allowed for it.The negotiations were successful and the NFL gave the go-ahead, as roughly 30 players arrived in St. Joseph Friday and over the weekend to get some early work done.On Wednesday, veteran players, and a few thousand fans, will be back as well to mark the start of the 11th training camp at Missouri Western. The first was in 2010."The excitement is palpable," Chiefs president Mark Donovan said. "I would say, over a decade later, to be standing here today and knowing how efficient we are and what a great partnership we have, it really does set us up for success and we're very appreciative of that."Donovan personally thanked outgoing Missouri Western athletic director Josh Looney - a former Chiefs public relations employee who oversaw multiple contract extensions between the team and university.Looney is grateful for that ongoing partnership, but certainly does not take sole credit."I think that trust and knowledge of what's important has certainly helped this camp and the (contract) extension," Looney said. "But, it's all about this community, elected officials and our whole campus making this happen. Mosaic and being a partner with them. It can't be just one of us, or camp will not thrive."Looney secured a contract that guarantees Chiefs training camp in St. Joseph through 2024."If it wasn't a competitive advantage for (the Chiefs) on the football side, they wouldn't be coming back to Missouri Western," Looney said. "And likewise, if it wasn't a great fan experience and we couldn't deliver there, they wouldn't be coming to Missouri Western."University president Elizabeth Kennedy expressed confidence that the relationship between the Chiefs and St. Joseph benefits all involved."I'd like to thank President Donovan and the Chiefs for continuing to make Missouri Western their summer training camp home," Kennedy said. "We have very much appreciated our association with the Chiefs and believe that we and the community have benefited greatly."Kennedy will help in the search for Missouri Western's next athletic director. Looney announced Monday that he's taking the A.D. job at North Alabama - a school that transitioned to Division I in 2018.While interviewing candidates, Kennedy believes the training camp aspect of the Griffons' A.D. job will be an appealing part of the position."What an opportunity for an A.D. to come in and to connect, recruit, fundraise and engage with our community," Kennedy said of training camp, as she gets ready to experience it for the first time as Missouri Western's president. "It's my first camp, and I'm so excited."Mosaic Life Care, the primary sponsor for Chiefs' training camp this year, was also recognized by both Donovan and Kennedy on Monday.Mosaic has been leading the effort in trying to get more people in St. Joseph and Buchanan County vaccinated against COVID-19. Only 20 percent of Buchanan County residents are fully vaccinated.There'll be practically no fan-to-player interaction at training camp this year, per NFL protocol. No traditional helmet walk with young fans, and no autographs after each practice.As thousands of fans from near and far get ready to descend on St. Joseph for the next three weeks, Mosaic Chief Operations Officer Michael Pulido encourages everyone to stay safe and to be a team player in the fight against the virus."Our theme this year at Mosaic this year has been, 'Be a team player and get vaccinated,'" Pulido said. "We fought the fight against COVID for four quarters and thought the game was over. Now, we're in overtime. Our best weapon is the vaccine."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627332111017.jpeg" alt="Chiefs president Mark Donovan talks with reporters on Monday at Spratt Stadium to mark the start of Chiefs' training camp in 2021. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Chiefs president Mark Donovan talks with reporters on Monday at Spratt Stadium to mark the start of Chiefs' training camp in 2021. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Chiefs, Mosaic celebrate training camp's return to St. Joseph

Missouri Western State University Vice President of
Intercollegiate Athletics, Josh Looney, will be leaving the school to accept a
similar post at the University of North Alabama.

Looney says he wasn’t looking to leave.

“I right here had the best job in (NCAA) Division II. &nbsp;So, it would have to take something special to
draw me away from here,” Looney tells reporters at Spratt Stadium. “Hey, I grew
up in this league (MIAA). I love this league. The commissioner hired me when I
worked for the NCAA, our family loves St. Joseph. So, certainly not seeking out
opportunities, but again, sometimes opportunities find you.”

Looney came to Missouri Western in 2017 as the Athletic
Director. In 2019, he was promoted to Vice President of Intercollegiate
Athletics. He also serves as the
Interim Vice President of University Advancement and Executive Director of the
MWSU Foundation during the 2020-21 academic year.

Looney succeeds former Missouri Western Athletic Director Mark
Linder at North Alabama.

Looney says he wasn’t looking to leave the St. Joseph school,
but says an opportunity arose to take over the athletic department at the
University of North Alabama, which has transitioned from Division II to
Division I. Looney calls North Alabama a tremendous place with a very strong
reputation as a Division II powerhouse, moving up a division.

Looney says that when he looks back, it isn’t the wins and
losses that stand out, but the team he has assembled.

“People for sure,” Looney says. “I mean, you can look at
buildings and renovations and fundraising and the classroom success and all
those things, but if you don’t have buy-in from people to your culture; that’s
what your culture is, right? To where we know what’s important, we know what
our mission is and kind of that little bit of chip on our shoulder to, hey, let’s
not let the status quo ever be a thing here.”

Looney, who formerly worked for the Kansas City Chiefs, has been
instrumental in keeping the Chiefs at Missouri Western for their training camp.
He negotiated a new multi-year agreement with the NLF team in 2020. The Chiefs
open their 11th training camp at Missouri Western this week.

Missouri Western has enjoyed success during his tenure guiding
Griffon sports. 

The university reports that academically, Griffon student-athletes
have set new records for departmental GPA for seven consecutive semesters. In
the community, Missouri Western has been recognized with three consecutive NCAA
Awards of Excellence for its community contributions.

Eleven different Griffon teams made NCAA Division II postseason
appearances during his tenure.

Several facility improvements have taken place under Looney’s
watch, including a full renovation of the MWSU Fieldhouse, the Bill Snyder
Pavilion at Spratt Memorial Stadium, and locker room renovations for several
teams.

"I'm very sad personally and professionally to see Josh go," University president Elizabeth Kennedy said. "He's a great guy and he's done such tremendous things. Fundraising, facilities, the academic piece. That kind of legacy will set the stage very well at Missouri Western."

Missouri Western says the University will begin the search for
Looney’s successor immediately.

Looney
will begin his new duties at North Alabama in Florence on September 1st.

Looney succeeds another former Missouri Western Athletic Director
at North Alabama:&nbsp; Mark Linder. Lender
was Missouri Western AD for four years before taking over in Florence in 2007. Lender
stepped down at UNA earlier this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627338901297.jpeg" alt="Josh Looney. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Josh Looney. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University Vice President of
Intercollegiate Athletics, Josh Looney, will be leaving the school to accept a
similar post at the University of North Alabama.Looney says he wasn’t looking to leave.“I right here had the best job in (NCAA) Division II. &nbsp;So, it would have to take something special to
draw me away from here,” Looney tells reporters at Spratt Stadium. “Hey, I grew
up in this league (MIAA). I love this league. The commissioner hired me when I
worked for the NCAA, our family loves St. Joseph. So, certainly not seeking out
opportunities, but again, sometimes opportunities find you.”Looney came to Missouri Western in 2017 as the Athletic
Director. In 2019, he was promoted to Vice President of Intercollegiate
Athletics. He also serves as the
Interim Vice President of University Advancement and Executive Director of the
MWSU Foundation during the 2020-21 academic year.Looney succeeds former Missouri Western Athletic Director Mark
Linder at North Alabama.Looney says he wasn’t looking to leave the St. Joseph school,
but says an opportunity arose to take over the athletic department at the
University of North Alabama, which has transitioned from Division II to
Division I. Looney calls North Alabama a tremendous place with a very strong
reputation as a Division II powerhouse, moving up a division.Looney says that when he looks back, it isn’t the wins and
losses that stand out, but the team he has assembled.“People for sure,” Looney says. “I mean, you can look at
buildings and renovations and fundraising and the classroom success and all
those things, but if you don’t have buy-in from people to your culture; that’s
what your culture is, right? To where we know what’s important, we know what
our mission is and kind of that little bit of chip on our shoulder to, hey, let’s
not let the status quo ever be a thing here.”Looney, who formerly worked for the Kansas City Chiefs, has been
instrumental in keeping the Chiefs at Missouri Western for their training camp.
He negotiated a new multi-year agreement with the NLF team in 2020. The Chiefs
open their 11th training camp at Missouri Western this week.Missouri Western has enjoyed success during his tenure guiding
Griffon sports. The university reports that academically, Griffon student-athletes
have set new records for departmental GPA for seven consecutive semesters. In
the community, Missouri Western has been recognized with three consecutive NCAA
Awards of Excellence for its community contributions.Eleven different Griffon teams made NCAA Division II postseason
appearances during his tenure.Several facility improvements have taken place under Looney’s
watch, including a full renovation of the MWSU Fieldhouse, the Bill Snyder
Pavilion at Spratt Memorial Stadium, and locker room renovations for several
teams."I'm very sad personally and professionally to see Josh go," University president Elizabeth Kennedy said. "He's a great guy and he's done such tremendous things. Fundraising, facilities, the academic piece. That kind of legacy will set the stage very well at Missouri Western."Missouri Western says the University will begin the search for
Looney’s successor immediately.Looney
will begin his new duties at North Alabama in Florence on September 1st.Looney succeeds another former Missouri Western Athletic Director
at North Alabama:&nbsp; Mark Linder. Lender
was Missouri Western AD for four years before taking over in Florence in 2007. Lender
stepped down at UNA earlier this year.

MWSU AD Josh Looney says he wasn't looking to leave

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Buchanan County Jail. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. These are courtesy photos. This information is provided by the Buchanan County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The St. Joseph Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information.

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Buchanan County Jail. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. These are courtesy photos. This information is provided by the Buchanan County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The St. Joseph Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627318499674.jpeg" alt="BIGHAM GAGE NON SUPPORT 5000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>BIGHAM GAGE NON SUPPORT 5000 BOND</figcaption>
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 <figcaption>CHANDLER ANTHONY NON SUPPORT 5000 CASH BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627318521577.jpeg" alt="CRAIN TRENIDY NON SUPPORT 5000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>CRAIN TRENIDY NON SUPPORT 5000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627318532706.jpeg" alt="FOSTER SAMANTHA ASSAULT 30 DAYS IN JAIL" />
 <figcaption>FOSTER SAMANTHA ASSAULT 30 DAYS IN JAIL</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627318543017.jpeg" alt="JESCHKE DONALD POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>JESCHKE DONALD POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627318554153.jpeg" alt="MATHES WILLIAM PASSING BAD CHECK 10000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>MATHES WILLIAM PASSING BAD CHECK 10000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627318570426.jpeg" alt="MCCLAIN BRIAN STEALING 10000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>MCCLAIN BRIAN STEALING 10000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627318582097.jpeg" alt="MIX AMANDA STEALING RELATED OFFENSE 10000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>MIX AMANDA STEALING RELATED OFFENSE 10000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627318595290.jpeg" alt="PANKAU BRYSON POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>PANKAU BRYSON POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627318605394.jpeg" alt="PAUGH TIFFANY STEALING 10000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>PAUGH TIFFANY STEALING 10000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627318616129.jpeg" alt="POLING BRADLEY NON SUPPORT 1000 CASH BOND" />
 <figcaption>POLING BRADLEY NON SUPPORT 1000 CASH BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627318626537.jpeg" alt="SANCHEZ ALEX NON SUPPORT 1000 CASH BOND" />
 <figcaption>SANCHEZ ALEX NON SUPPORT 1000 CASH BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627318637443.jpeg" alt="SHANK HAVEN SEXUAL CONTACT WITH A PRISONER 25000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>SHANK HAVEN SEXUAL CONTACT WITH A PRISONER 25000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627318648170.jpeg" alt="TERHUNE RICHARD DWI 2 DAYS IN JAIL" />
 <figcaption>TERHUNE RICHARD DWI 2 DAYS IN JAIL</figcaption>
 </figure>

Buchanan County Jail Activity (7/19-7/26/21)

Buchanan County has joined a statewide trend toward financial
transparency, becoming the latest county to be included in the Missouri State Treasurer’s
Local Government Checkbook.

Presiding County Commissioner Lee Sawyer says the move became
official when State Treasurer Scott Fitzpatrick paid a visit to the Buchanan
County Courthouse.

“There are 114 counties in the state and we were 14th
on board. So, I think that’s pretty good,” Sawyer tells host Barry Birr on the
KFEQ Hotline. “It’s a good thing and it’s nice to have the state Treasurer come
in to your community and recognize the fact that we’re one of the leaders when
it comes to this kind of transparency.”

The Local Government Checkbook is an online data base
outlining all the spending decisions of the county. It can be accessed through
the Missouri State Treasurer’s Show-Me Checkbook website.

Sawyer says the name really discloses what you will find by
going to the web page.

“It is what it is. So, you get to see what all of our
transactions, whether it’s gravel that we purchased or services that we
provide; all kinds of things,” according to Sawyer. “It’s a neat deal.”

Click <a href="https://treasurer.mo.gov/showmecheckbook/">here</a> to access the Local Government Check through the
Missouri State Treasurer’s webpage.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostBuchanan County has joined a statewide trend toward financial
transparency, becoming the latest county to be included in the Missouri State Treasurer’s
Local Government Checkbook.Presiding County Commissioner Lee Sawyer says the move became
official when State Treasurer Scott Fitzpatrick paid a visit to the Buchanan
County Courthouse.“There are 114 counties in the state and we were 14th
on board. So, I think that’s pretty good,” Sawyer tells host Barry Birr on the
KFEQ Hotline. “It’s a good thing and it’s nice to have the state Treasurer come
in to your community and recognize the fact that we’re one of the leaders when
it comes to this kind of transparency.”The Local Government Checkbook is an online data base
outlining all the spending decisions of the county. It can be accessed through
the Missouri State Treasurer’s Show-Me Checkbook website.Sawyer says the name really discloses what you will find by
going to the web page.“It is what it is. So, you get to see what all of our
transactions, whether it’s gravel that we purchased or services that we
provide; all kinds of things,” according to Sawyer. “It’s a neat deal.”Click <a href="https://treasurer.mo.gov/showmecheckbook/">here</a> to access the Local Government Check through the
Missouri State Treasurer’s webpage.

Buchanan County joins Missouri financial transparency page

Missouri Western Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics,
Josh Looney, will be leaving the school to accept a similar post at the
University of North Alabama.

Looney began his career at Missouri Western on August 1st
of 2017, when he was named the eighth Director of Athletics at the St. Joseph
school. He won promotion as Vice
President of Intercollegiate Athletics in July 2019. Looney is also serving as
the Interim Vice President of University Advancement and Executive Director of
the MWSU Foundation during the 2020-21 academic year.

Looney will begin his new duties
at North Alabama in Florence on September 1st. North Alabama recently
moved from NCAA Division II competition to Division I.

“I am extremely grateful to Josh for all that he has done
for Missouri Western,” Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy said in a
written statement released by the university. “His positive attitude, his work
ethic, his creative problem-solving&nbsp;- these characteristics have been
tremendous assets and inspiration not only to the Department of Athletics but
to the University as a whole. He leaves behind a solid foundation for his
successor to build on and take us to even greater heights. While we will miss
Josh, we’re excited about the journey ahead for him and know that he will
continue to accomplish great things.”

Missouri Western has enjoyed success during his tenure
guiding Griffon sports. 

The university reports that academically,
Griffon student-athletes have set new records for departmental GPA for seven
consecutive semesters. In the community, Missouri Western has been recognized
with three consecutive NCAA Awards of Excellence for its community
contributions.

Eleven different Griffon teams made
NCAA Division II postseason appearances during his tenure.

Looney, who formerly worked for the Kansas City Chiefs, has
been instrumental in keeping the Chiefs at Missouri Western for their training
camp. He negotiated a new multi-year agreement with the NLF team in 2020. The
Chiefs open their 11th training camp at Missouri Western this week.

“My family and I are so grateful for our time at Missouri
Western and in the St. Joseph community,” Looney said
in a written statement. “Our daughters have had the incredible
opportunity to grow up around Griffon student-athletes, and they go to bed most
nights with stories about Max Griffon and 'No Boo-Cats.' Griffon coaches and
student-athletes have accomplished much during the past four years, spanning
many different areas, but the success we've had has always been the result of
'Griffs Supporting Griffs.' It's what makes this place special. Our family will
continue to cheer and support all of the successes that are ahead at MWSU...the
best is yet to come. Thank you and Griff Up!”

Missouri Western says the University will begin the search
for Looney’s successor immediately.

Looney succeed another former Missouri Western Athletic Director
at North Alabama:&nbsp; Mark Linder. Lender
was Missouri Western AD for four years before taking over in Florence in 2007. Lender
stepped down at UNA earlier this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627312304029.jpeg" alt="MWSU&nbsp; Athletics VP Josh Looney/File photo" />
 <figcaption>MWSU&nbsp; Athletics VP Josh Looney/File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics,
Josh Looney, will be leaving the school to accept a similar post at the
University of North Alabama.Looney began his career at Missouri Western on August 1st
of 2017, when he was named the eighth Director of Athletics at the St. Joseph
school. He won promotion as Vice
President of Intercollegiate Athletics in July 2019. Looney is also serving as
the Interim Vice President of University Advancement and Executive Director of
the MWSU Foundation during the 2020-21 academic year.Looney will begin his new duties
at North Alabama in Florence on September 1st. North Alabama recently
moved from NCAA Division II competition to Division I.“I am extremely grateful to Josh for all that he has done
for Missouri Western,” Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy said in a
written statement released by the university. “His positive attitude, his work
ethic, his creative problem-solving&nbsp;- these characteristics have been
tremendous assets and inspiration not only to the Department of Athletics but
to the University as a whole. He leaves behind a solid foundation for his
successor to build on and take us to even greater heights. While we will miss
Josh, we’re excited about the journey ahead for him and know that he will
continue to accomplish great things.”Missouri Western has enjoyed success during his tenure
guiding Griffon sports. The university reports that academically,
Griffon student-athletes have set new records for departmental GPA for seven
consecutive semesters. In the community, Missouri Western has been recognized
with three consecutive NCAA Awards of Excellence for its community
contributions.Eleven different Griffon teams made
NCAA Division II postseason appearances during his tenure.Several facility improvements have taken place under Looney’s
watch, including a full renovation of the MWSU Fieldhouse, the Bill Snyder
Pavilion at Spratt Memorial Stadium, and locker room renovations for several
teams.Looney, who formerly worked for the Kansas City Chiefs, has
been instrumental in keeping the Chiefs at Missouri Western for their training
camp. He negotiated a new multi-year agreement with the NLF team in 2020. The
Chiefs open their 11th training camp at Missouri Western this week.“My family and I are so grateful for our time at Missouri
Western and in the St. Joseph community,” Looney said
in a written statement. “Our daughters have had the incredible
opportunity to grow up around Griffon student-athletes, and they go to bed most
nights with stories about Max Griffon and 'No Boo-Cats.' Griffon coaches and
student-athletes have accomplished much during the past four years, spanning
many different areas, but the success we've had has always been the result of
'Griffs Supporting Griffs.' It's what makes this place special. Our family will
continue to cheer and support all of the successes that are ahead at MWSU...the
best is yet to come. Thank you and Griff Up!”Missouri Western says the University will begin the search
for Looney’s successor immediately.Looney succeed another former Missouri Western Athletic Director
at North Alabama:&nbsp; Mark Linder. Lender
was Missouri Western AD for four years before taking over in Florence in 2007. Lender
stepped down at UNA earlier this year.

MWSU AD Josh Looney leaving for North Alabama job

The use of e-cigarettes is on the rise in teens and young adults according to the St. Joseph Youth Alliance.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Youth Alliance Spokeswomen Angela Reynolds says the community is expressing concerns about vaping and the long-term effects vaping will have on users.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“A lot of people don’t realize that most of the vaping products that people are using do contain nicotine, so obviously you have all of the&nbsp;risk factors that you would have with basic cigarettes,” Reynolds tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Reynolds says&nbsp;e-cigarettes target a specific audience.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“They look like jump drives. They are very pretty. They come in colorful designs and they are marketing&nbsp;really towards kids with a lot of their flavoring that they’re having&nbsp;like strawberry, bubble gum, things like that,” says Reynolds.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Reynolds says using e-cigarettes at a young age makes you more susceptible&nbsp;to long term use.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“There’s also some correlation between kids that are vaping and then developing in the&nbsp;future&nbsp;to long-term&nbsp;actual cigarette use,” says Reynolds.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Reynolds says&nbsp;Nicotine can impact a young person’s brain development. It can hurt their learning, mood, impulse control, attention span, and memory. She adds, nicotine can actually change the&nbsp;brain chemistry and making young people&nbsp;more susceptible to addiction.&nbsp;

By WHITNEE ICE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;The use of e-cigarettes is on the rise in teens and young adults according to the St. Joseph Youth Alliance.&nbsp;&nbsp;Youth Alliance Spokeswomen Angela Reynolds says the community is expressing concerns about vaping and the long-term effects vaping will have on users.&nbsp;&nbsp;“A lot of people don’t realize that most of the vaping products that people are using do contain nicotine, so obviously you have all of the&nbsp;risk factors that you would have with basic cigarettes,” Reynolds tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;Reynolds says&nbsp;e-cigarettes target a specific audience.&nbsp;&nbsp;“They look like jump drives. They are very pretty. They come in colorful designs and they are marketing&nbsp;really towards kids with a lot of their flavoring that they’re having&nbsp;like strawberry, bubble gum, things like that,” says Reynolds.&nbsp;&nbsp;Reynolds says using e-cigarettes at a young age makes you more susceptible&nbsp;to long term use.&nbsp;&nbsp;“There’s also some correlation between kids that are vaping and then developing in the&nbsp;future&nbsp;to long-term&nbsp;actual cigarette use,” says Reynolds.&nbsp;&nbsp;Reynolds says&nbsp;Nicotine can impact a young person’s brain development. It can hurt their learning, mood, impulse control, attention span, and memory. She adds, nicotine can actually change the&nbsp;brain chemistry and making young people&nbsp;more susceptible to addiction.&nbsp;

E-cigarettes are on the rise of popularity in teens and young adults

BUCHANAN COUNTY—A Missouri teen was injured in an accident just after 12a.m. Monday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Chevy truck driven by Wesley H. Darnell, 18, St. Joseph, was northbound on Interstate 29 one mile north of Faucett.

The driver fell asleep. The truck traveled off the west side of the road. The truck returned to the road and the driver overcorrected. The truck traveled off the east side of the road and overturned.

A private vehicle transported a passenger Megan H. Schussler, 18, St. Joseph, to Mosaic Life Care. Darnell was not injured. Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—A Missouri teen was injured in an accident just after 12a.m. Monday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Chevy truck driven by Wesley H. Darnell, 18, St. Joseph, was northbound on Interstate 29 one mile north of Faucett.The driver fell asleep. The truck traveled off the west side of the road. The truck returned to the road and the driver overcorrected. The truck traveled off the east side of the road and overturned.A private vehicle transported a passenger Megan H. Schussler, 18, St. Joseph, to Mosaic Life Care. Darnell was not injured. Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

1 hospitalized after St. Joseph teen falls asleep at the wheel

DAVIESS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 1:30a.m. Sunday in Daviess County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Chevy Cavalier driven by Francisco Medina Flores, 20, San Antonio, Texas, was southbound on Interstate 35 just south of U.S. 69.

The car traveled off the east side of the road and the driver overcorrected. The car traveled off the west side of the road and the car overturned.

Daviess County ambulance transported Medina Flores to Cameron Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

DAVIESS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 1:30a.m. Sunday in Daviess County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Chevy Cavalier driven by Francisco Medina Flores, 20, San Antonio, Texas, was southbound on Interstate 35 just south of U.S. 69.The car traveled off the east side of the road and the driver overcorrected. The car traveled off the west side of the road and the car overturned.Daviess County ambulance transported Medina Flores to Cameron Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

20-year-old hospitalized after car overturns

BROWN COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal crash that occurred just before 7p.m. Saturday in Brown County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a vehicle was southbound on Prairie Road near 240th Street four miles east of Hiawatha.

The vehicle traveled off the road into the west ditch, continued southbound, jumped a creek, struck an embankment, continued southbound in a ditch, struck a wooden post and rolled on its top in a field.

Authorities did not release additional details Sunday or early Monday.

BROWN COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal crash that occurred just before 7p.m. Saturday in Brown County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a vehicle was southbound on Prairie Road near 240th Street four miles east of Hiawatha.The vehicle traveled off the road into the west ditch, continued southbound, jumped a creek, struck an embankment, continued southbound in a ditch, struck a wooden post and rolled on its top in a field.Authorities did not release additional details Sunday or early Monday.

KHP investigates violent, Brown County crash

NODAWAY COUNTY—A Missouri teen was injured in an accident just after 11:30a.m. Saturday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1999 Mercury Sable driven by Dakota L. Wray, 18, Hopkins, was southbound on Fairway Road five miles north of Maryville.

The driver failed to stop at a stop sign at U.S. 71 and traveled into the path of an eastbound 2017 Nisan Sentra driven by Fredrick A. Creamer, 36, Maryville.&nbsp;

The Mercury struck the right rear bumper of the Nissan.

Nodaway County EMS transported a 15-year-old girl from Maryville in the Mercury to Mosaic in Maryville. The drivers were not injured. The 15-year-old girl was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY—A Missouri teen was injured in an accident just after 11:30a.m. Saturday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1999 Mercury Sable driven by Dakota L. Wray, 18, Hopkins, was southbound on Fairway Road five miles north of Maryville.The driver failed to stop at a stop sign at U.S. 71 and traveled into the path of an eastbound 2017 Nisan Sentra driven by Fredrick A. Creamer, 36, Maryville.&nbsp;The Mercury struck the right rear bumper of the Nissan.Nodaway County EMS transported a 15-year-old girl from Maryville in the Mercury to Mosaic in Maryville. The drivers were not injured. The 15-year-old girl was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Maryville teen hospitalized after 2-car crash

MARYVILLE, Mo. (AP) — A Nebraska man who set a fire that forced the evacuation of a Missouri county jail has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for arson and other charges.

Ethen Mark Bentley, 29, of Stella, Nebraska, was sentenced July 16 after pleading guilty to first-degree arson for setting a fire in his cell in January at the Nodaway County Jail. Jail officials were forced to evacuate 20 inmates through smoky, narrow hallways. No one was injured.

The inmates were relocated to nearby county jails for about a month while the jail was repaired.

Bentley also pleaded guilty to two counts of first-degree assault, one count of second-degree domestic assault and one count of felony resisting arrest.

Those charges came after someone saw Bentley assault a woman in a moving vehicle, prosecutors said. He fled when police tried to stop the vehicle and eventually hit a Maryville Public Safety car head on, totaling both vehicles.

As part of the sentence, Bentley was ordered to pay $5,000 restitution to the county.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627073783192.png" alt="Bentley photo Platte Co" />
 <figcaption>Bentley photo Platte Co</figcaption>
 </figure>MARYVILLE, Mo. (AP) — A Nebraska man who set a fire that forced the evacuation of a Missouri county jail has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for arson and other charges.Ethen Mark Bentley, 29, of Stella, Nebraska, was sentenced July 16 after pleading guilty to first-degree arson for setting a fire in his cell in January at the Nodaway County Jail. Jail officials were forced to evacuate 20 inmates through smoky, narrow hallways. No one was injured.The inmates were relocated to nearby county jails for about a month while the jail was repaired.Bentley also pleaded guilty to two counts of first-degree assault, one count of second-degree domestic assault and one count of felony resisting arrest.Those charges came after someone saw Bentley assault a woman in a moving vehicle, prosecutors said. He fled when police tried to stop the vehicle and eventually hit a Maryville Public Safety car head on, totaling both vehicles.As part of the sentence, Bentley was ordered to pay $5,000 restitution to the county.

Man who set fire to Missouri jail sentenced to prison

A unanimous Missouri Supreme
Court ruling upholds Medicaid expansion and rejects arguments by legislators
that the voter-approved ballot issue violated the state constitution because it
didn’t include a funding source.

State Sen. Dan Hegeman of Cosby,
the Senate Appropriations Committee chair, says the unanimous ruling
disappointed him.

“I truly felt like the initiative
petition that passed last year basically did appropriate funds without a
funding source behind it and that’s the way the circuit court saw it,” Hegeman
tells St. Joseph Post. “The circuit court ruled it unconstitutional for that
reason.”

But, the Supreme Court overruled
the Cole County Circuit Court.

The Supreme Court ruled the
ballot initiative constitutional, stating it doesn’t remove the legislature’s
discretion in appropriating money to MO HealthNet.

The legislature refused to
appropriate the $130 million in state General Revenue funding requested by Gov.
Mike Parson to fund the $1.9 billion expansion of Medicaid under the Affordable
Care Act. Under the ACA, the federal government funds 90% of Medicaid
expansion. Voters last August approved expanding Medicaid to cover those
earning less than 138% of the federal poverty level, approximately 275,000
Missouri residents.

Hegeman says he has been in talks
with the Parson Administration as well as House leaders about what the next
steps will be.

“A lot of it’s timing,” Hegeman
says. “Do we need to have a special session to address this or do we wait until
the regular session? &nbsp;Do we appropriate
enough funds to get us to the regular session? Questions like that are where we
are right now.”

Hegeman says the state can afford
its $130 million share, at present.

“Right now, the state has resources
to be able to handle it, but what is going to be the long-term impact and how’s
that going to affect not only this program, but other programs that are going
to be diminished to fund this program?”

The Supreme Court unanimous
decision Thursday sends the case back to Cole County Circuit Court. The state
Supreme Court ruled that the 2020 ballot measure approving expansion of the
government-operated health care plan did not violate the Missouri Constitution
because it “does not appropriate money and does not remove the General
Assembly’s discretion in appropriating money to MO HealthNet.”

Last month, a Cole County judge
overturned the constitutional amendment that Republican Gov. Mike Parson had
refused to implement after the Republican-led Legislature didn’t provide any
funding.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA unanimous Missouri Supreme
Court ruling upholds Medicaid expansion and rejects arguments by legislators
that the voter-approved ballot issue violated the state constitution because it
didn’t include a funding source.State Sen. Dan Hegeman of Cosby,
the Senate Appropriations Committee chair, says the unanimous ruling
disappointed him.“I truly felt like the initiative
petition that passed last year basically did appropriate funds without a
funding source behind it and that’s the way the circuit court saw it,” Hegeman
tells St. Joseph Post. “The circuit court ruled it unconstitutional for that
reason.”But, the Supreme Court overruled
the Cole County Circuit Court.The Supreme Court ruled the
ballot initiative constitutional, stating it doesn’t remove the legislature’s
discretion in appropriating money to MO HealthNet.The legislature refused to
appropriate the $130 million in state General Revenue funding requested by Gov.
Mike Parson to fund the $1.9 billion expansion of Medicaid under the Affordable
Care Act. Under the ACA, the federal government funds 90% of Medicaid
expansion. Voters last August approved expanding Medicaid to cover those
earning less than 138% of the federal poverty level, approximately 275,000
Missouri residents.Hegeman says he has been in talks
with the Parson Administration as well as House leaders about what the next
steps will be.“A lot of it’s timing,” Hegeman
says. “Do we need to have a special session to address this or do we wait until
the regular session? &nbsp;Do we appropriate
enough funds to get us to the regular session? Questions like that are where we
are right now.”Hegeman says the state can afford
its $130 million share, at present.“Right now, the state has resources
to be able to handle it, but what is going to be the long-term impact and how’s
that going to affect not only this program, but other programs that are going
to be diminished to fund this program?”The Supreme Court unanimous
decision Thursday sends the case back to Cole County Circuit Court. The state
Supreme Court ruled that the 2020 ballot measure approving expansion of the
government-operated health care plan did not violate the Missouri Constitution
because it “does not appropriate money and does not remove the General
Assembly’s discretion in appropriating money to MO HealthNet.”Last month, a Cole County judge
overturned the constitutional amendment that Republican Gov. Mike Parson had
refused to implement after the Republican-led Legislature didn’t provide any
funding.

Supreme Court upholds Medicaid expansion, sends lawmakers scrambling

HARRISON COUNTY—Three people were injured in an accident just before 2a.m. Saturday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Volkswagen Jetta driven by Preston D. Trusty, 22, Eagleville, was northbound on U.S. 69 three miles north of Eagleville.

The Volkswagen struck a deer, continued northbound and struck an embankment.

NTA Ambulance transported Trusty and passengers Charles D. Bray, 21 and Peggy L. Lawson, 21, both of London, Kentucky to Harrison County Community Hospital. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

HARRISON COUNTY—Three people were injured in an accident just before 2a.m. Saturday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Volkswagen Jetta driven by Preston D. Trusty, 22, Eagleville, was northbound on U.S. 69 three miles north of Eagleville.The Volkswagen struck a deer, continued northbound and struck an embankment.NTA Ambulance transported Trusty and passengers Charles D. Bray, 21 and Peggy L. Lawson, 21, both of London, Kentucky to Harrison County Community Hospital. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

3 hospitalized after car strikes a deer, embankment

DEKALB COUNTY—A Missouri man was injured in an accident just before noon Friday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Harley Davidson driven by Dalton L. Dubea, 20, Moberly, was westbound on U.S. 36 one mile east of Stewartsville.

The driver lost control while changing lanes and the motorcycle overturned. Clinton-DeKalb County ambulance transported Dubea to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph. He was wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY—A Missouri man was injured in an accident just before noon Friday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Harley Davidson driven by Dalton L. Dubea, 20, Moberly, was westbound on U.S. 36 one mile east of Stewartsville.The driver lost control while changing lanes and the motorcycle overturned. Clinton-DeKalb County ambulance transported Dubea to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph. He was wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man hospitalized after motorcycle overturns

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas teen on multiple charges after he was injured in a police chase and crash Thursday in Atchison.

Just after 11:30p.m. Thursday, an officer attempted to stop a GMC pick up truck driven by&nbsp;Christopher Horton, 15, Atchison at 10th and U.S.59 in Atchison for traffic violations, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

 The truck fled from the officer northbound on 10th Street and because of the reckless driving of the fleeing vehicle police terminated the pursuit.

A short time later officers observed the pickup eastbound on Harper Drive at 8th Street. 

Officers deployed Stop Sticks at 3rd and Harper Drive.&nbsp; After running over the Stop Sticks, the vehicle still continued southbound on 2nd Street to Main and then westbound on Main where the pickup struck a building and the driver was ejected.

EMS transported Horton to Amberwell and then he was taken to a KU Medical Center.

When he is released from the hospital, the teen faces requested charges of fleeing and attempting to elude as well as reckless driving. Police believe alcohol to be a factor in the crash, according to Wilson.

Reports on the case are being submitted to the Atchison County Attorney’s Office.

ATCHISON COUNTY, Kan. —A Kansas teen was injured in an accident just after 12a.m. Friday in Atchison County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1998 GMC pickup driven by Christopher Horton, 15, Atchison, was westbound in the 1100 Block of Main Street fleeing law enforcement. 

The pickup left the roadway to the north, struck a building, and driver was ejected from the vehicle.

EMS transported Horton to KU Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP. Police have not released details on what prompted the chase.

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas teen on multiple charges after he was injured in a police chase and crash Thursday in Atchison.Just after 11:30p.m. Thursday, an officer attempted to stop a GMC pick up truck driven by&nbsp;Christopher Horton, 15, Atchison at 10th and U.S.59 in Atchison for traffic violations, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. The truck fled from the officer northbound on 10th Street and because of the reckless driving of the fleeing vehicle police terminated the pursuit.A short time later officers observed the pickup eastbound on Harper Drive at 8th Street. Officers deployed Stop Sticks at 3rd and Harper Drive.&nbsp; After running over the Stop Sticks, the vehicle still continued southbound on 2nd Street to Main and then westbound on Main where the pickup struck a building and the driver was ejected.EMS transported Horton to Amberwell and then he was taken to a KU Medical Center.When he is released from the hospital, the teen faces requested charges of fleeing and attempting to elude as well as reckless driving. Police believe alcohol to be a factor in the crash, according to Wilson.Reports on the case are being submitted to the Atchison County Attorney’s Office.-------ATCHISON COUNTY, Kan. —A Kansas teen was injured in an accident just after 12a.m. Friday in Atchison County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1998 GMC pickup driven by Christopher Horton, 15, Atchison, was westbound in the 1100 Block of Main Street fleeing law enforcement. The pickup left the roadway to the north, struck a building, and driver was ejected from the vehicle.EMS transported Horton to KU Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP. Police have not released details on what prompted the chase.

Police: Alcohol a factor in Atchison teen crash during chase

Buchanan County Prosecutor Ron Holliday will not file criminal charges in
the death of Mark Applegarth, found with a fatal wound in his home last year.

Applegarth’s wife, 62-year-old Dawn Applegarth, admitted to police
officers she shot her husband.

Holliday, in a statement released by his office, says he determined the
killing was legally justified, because Mark Applegarth, 60, had verbally and physically
abused his wife prior to the shooting. Holliday says Dawn Applegarth feared she
would be hurt or even killed by her husband.

St. Joseph police found Applegarth suffering from a gunshot wound in the couple’s home at 2400 block of 3rd Street May 7th.

Holliday says he thoroughly reviewed the evidence and discussed the case
with law enforcement. He says he also met with family members. Holliday says
evidence, including photographs, confirmed Dawn Applegarth had been beaten by
her husband and was in fear for her life.

Holliday says his office prosecuted Mark Applegarth for domestic abuse of
Dawn Applegarth earlier. The prosecutor adds toxicology screening conducted
during the autopsy revealed Mark Applegarth had methamphetamine and marijuana
in his blood at the time of the shooting.

This article has been updated to improve accuracy.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostBuchanan County Prosecutor Ron Holliday will not file criminal charges in
the death of Mark Applegarth, found with a fatal wound in his home last year.Applegarth’s wife, 62-year-old Dawn Applegarth, admitted to police
officers she shot her husband.Holliday, in a statement released by his office, says he determined the
killing was legally justified, because Mark Applegarth, 60, had verbally and physically
abused his wife prior to the shooting. Holliday says Dawn Applegarth feared she
would be hurt or even killed by her husband.St. Joseph police found Applegarth suffering from a gunshot wound in the couple’s home at 2400 block of 3rd Street May 7th.Holliday says he thoroughly reviewed the evidence and discussed the case
with law enforcement. He says he also met with family members. Holliday says
evidence, including photographs, confirmed Dawn Applegarth had been beaten by
her husband and was in fear for her life.Holliday says his office prosecuted Mark Applegarth for domestic abuse of
Dawn Applegarth earlier. The prosecutor adds toxicology screening conducted
during the autopsy revealed Mark Applegarth had methamphetamine and marijuana
in his blood at the time of the shooting.This article has been updated to improve accuracy.

Prosecutor declines to file criminal charges in St. Joseph shooting death

Vertical, a medical cannabis dispensary in St. Joseph is having its grand opening celebration tomorrow.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the grand opening this weekend Vertical will provide the opportunity for residents to apply for patient card&nbsp;certifications.&nbsp;

Vertical&nbsp;spokesperson Tammy&nbsp;Puyear says Vertical wants the community of St. Joseph to feel a sense of ownership with the company.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We want them to&nbsp;associate&nbsp;us with high quality products, products that work for them, a staff at the dispensary that makes them feel like the important and valued patient that they are and that we genuinely want to help them,” Puyear tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Puyear says there’s a big difference between a headshop in the 70s versus a medical cannabis dispensary.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The dispensary will have no scent to it what so ever,” says Puyear.&nbsp;“It won’t be like a headshop&nbsp;where&nbsp;you walk in and it smells like&nbsp;Patchouli&nbsp;and&nbsp;sandalwood&nbsp;and there’s&nbsp;incense&nbsp;burning.”&nbsp;

Puyear says today's cannabis is not quite what it used to be.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Today’s legal cannabis typically has much higher THC levels in it&nbsp;then say what you would&nbsp;buy&nbsp;from the guy down the street in the 80’s,” says Puyear.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Puyear says if a patient is new to cannabis, they need to think about what condition they are trying to treat.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The dispensary is located at 908 N Belt Highway.&nbsp;For store hours, visit Vertical’s website <a href="https://vertical-cannabis.com/">here</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626988010997.jpeg" alt="Dispensary General Manager Brian Williams / Photo: Whitnee Ice" />
 <figcaption>Dispensary General Manager Brian Williams / Photo: Whitnee Ice</figcaption>
 </figure>By WHITNEE ICE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Vertical, a medical cannabis dispensary in St. Joseph is having its grand opening celebration tomorrow.&nbsp;&nbsp;During the grand opening this weekend Vertical will provide the opportunity for residents to apply for patient card&nbsp;certifications.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626988176830.jpeg" alt="Dispensary floor / Photo: Whitnee Ice" />
 <figcaption>Dispensary floor / Photo: Whitnee Ice</figcaption>
 </figure>Vertical&nbsp;spokesperson Tammy&nbsp;Puyear says Vertical wants the community of St. Joseph to feel a sense of ownership with the company.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We want them to&nbsp;associate&nbsp;us with high quality products, products that work for them, a staff at the dispensary that makes them feel like the important and valued patient that they are and that we genuinely want to help them,” Puyear tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626988093211.jpeg" alt="Vertical product shelf / Photo: Whitnee Ice" />
 <figcaption>Vertical product shelf / Photo: Whitnee Ice</figcaption>
 </figure>Puyear says there’s a big difference between a headshop in the 70s versus a medical cannabis dispensary.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The dispensary will have no scent to it what so ever,” says Puyear.&nbsp;“It won’t be like a headshop&nbsp;where&nbsp;you walk in and it smells like&nbsp;Patchouli&nbsp;and&nbsp;sandalwood&nbsp;and there’s&nbsp;incense&nbsp;burning.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626988132257.jpeg" alt="Vertical product shelf / Photo: Whitnee Ice" />
 <figcaption>Vertical product shelf / Photo: Whitnee Ice</figcaption>
 </figure>Puyear says today's cannabis is not quite what it used to be.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Today’s legal cannabis typically has much higher THC levels in it&nbsp;then say what you would&nbsp;buy&nbsp;from the guy down the street in the 80’s,” says Puyear.&nbsp;&nbsp;Puyear says if a patient is new to cannabis, they need to think about what condition they are trying to treat.&nbsp;&nbsp;The dispensary is located at 908 N Belt Highway.&nbsp;For store hours, visit Vertical’s website <a href="https://vertical-cannabis.com/">here</a>.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626988220977.jpeg" alt="Vertical Dispensary / Photo: Whitnee Ice" />
 <figcaption>Vertical Dispensary / Photo: Whitnee Ice</figcaption>
 </figure>

Cannabis dispensary opens in St. Joseph Saturday

Our
renewed surge in COVID-19 cases continues.

The
St. Joseph Health Department reports a total of 254 new cases in Buchanan
County since last issuing a report on Monday; 73 on Tuesday, 84 on Wednesday,
and 97 on Thursday. The county now has a 15.43% positivity rate.

The
department also reports three additional coronavirus-related deaths; a man in
his 40's, a man in his 80's, and a woman in her 90's.

Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating 52 COVID-19 patients in its system; 51 in St.
Joseph and one in Maryville.

Buchanan
County now has recorded 12,112 cases since the coronavirus pandemic began, resulting in 192 deaths.

Andrew
County reports 15 new cases on its COVID-19 dashboard with 84 active cases.
Andrew County has recorded 2,350 total cases and 24 deaths.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostOur
renewed surge in COVID-19 cases continues.The
St. Joseph Health Department reports a total of 254 new cases in Buchanan
County since last issuing a report on Monday; 73 on Tuesday, 84 on Wednesday,
and 97 on Thursday. The county now has a 15.43% positivity rate.The
department also reports three additional coronavirus-related deaths; a man in
his 40's, a man in his 80's, and a woman in her 90's.Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating 52 COVID-19 patients in its system; 51 in St.
Joseph and one in Maryville.Buchanan
County now has recorded 12,112 cases since the coronavirus pandemic began, resulting in 192 deaths.Andrew
County reports 15 new cases on its COVID-19 dashboard with 84 active cases.
Andrew County has recorded 2,350 total cases and 24 deaths.

COVID-19 rebound continues locally

It appears no one suffer injury, but a couple of cars took
some hits, during an early evening shooting in St. Joseph.

St. Joseph police report more than 10 shots were fired around
7 o’clock Thursday night near 15th and Olive Streets.

Officers arrived at the scene and began flagging shell casings
near the intersection. It appears no one was hit by the shots, though area
residents have been less that cooperative with police. The shots fired did hit
a couple of cars parked near the intersection.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostIt appears no one suffer injury, but a couple of cars took
some hits, during an early evening shooting in St. Joseph.St. Joseph police report more than 10 shots were fired around
7 o’clock Thursday night near 15th and Olive Streets.Officers arrived at the scene and began flagging shell casings
near the intersection. It appears no one was hit by the shots, though area
residents have been less that cooperative with police. The shots fired did hit
a couple of cars parked near the intersection.

Cars hit, but no people struck, during St. Joseph shooting

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 10:30p.m. Thursday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Ford Crown Victoria driven by Paul E. Jackson, 83, St. Joseph, was northbound on Interstate 29 just south of Washington Township.

The car traveled off the road down an embankment and struck a ditch.

Buchanan County EMS transported Jackson and a passenger Joyce E. Jackson, 79, St. Joseph, to Mosaic Life Care. Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 10:30p.m. Thursday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Ford Crown Victoria driven by Paul E. Jackson, 83, St. Joseph, was northbound on Interstate 29 just south of Washington Township.The car traveled off the road down an embankment and struck a ditch.Buchanan County EMS transported Jackson and a passenger Joyce E. Jackson, 79, St. Joseph, to Mosaic Life Care. Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

2 from St. Joe hospitalized after car travels down embankment

With a new fall semester just over a month away, Missouri Western State University officials are doing what they can to get as many new students enrolled as they can.

Throughout the summer, MWSU has held on-campus Griffon Orientation, starting on June 15 and ending July 14.

Online orientation was available on July 20-21, and on-campus orientation will be offered for transfer students August 6 and non-traditional students August 7.

University president Elizabeth Kennedy says the on-campus orientation days were overall successful.

"We've been bringing students and we've allowed them to come with one parent or family member," Kennedy said on KFEQ's The Hotline. "It's been amazing to see the excitement."

Missouri Western also held a walk-in registration event on July 15 and has another one scheduled for August 24 from 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Classes for Missouri Western begin August 30.

The University held two walk-in enrollment events last year despite the pandemic, and were able to enroll 75 total students from both events. Kennedy says students waiting until August to make their final college decision is becoming a more common trend.

"We have a fair number of students who wait until August, so we're trying to encourage them," Kennedy said. "Having these open (walk-in) days, particularly if some was thinking about going to Mizzou or something and decided to stay here in St. Joseph, having that last opportunity for them to come in and get enrolled, we make it super easy."

Kennedy is also seeing an increase in transfer students as well as those who grew up in and around St. Joseph.

"The other piece I'm so glad to see is we have more and more students who were thinking about taking a year off last year due to COVID but have decided to come back," she said. "We're seeing a lot more transfer students coming especially from community colleges, which is wonderful. We're also seeing more St. Joseph students coming."

As of late June, over 600 students attended Griffon Orientation. Last fall, there were 4,902 students enrolled at MWSU - 690 of whom were new.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1568046608948.jpeg" alt="Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostWith a new fall semester just over a month away, Missouri Western State University officials are doing what they can to get as many new students enrolled as they can.Throughout the summer, MWSU has held on-campus Griffon Orientation, starting on June 15 and ending July 14.Online orientation was available on July 20-21, and on-campus orientation will be offered for transfer students August 6 and non-traditional students August 7.University president Elizabeth Kennedy says the on-campus orientation days were overall successful."We've been bringing students and we've allowed them to come with one parent or family member," Kennedy said on KFEQ's The Hotline. "It's been amazing to see the excitement."Missouri Western also held a walk-in registration event on July 15 and has another one scheduled for August 24 from 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.Classes for Missouri Western begin August 30.The University held two walk-in enrollment events last year despite the pandemic, and were able to enroll 75 total students from both events. Kennedy says students waiting until August to make their final college decision is becoming a more common trend."We have a fair number of students who wait until August, so we're trying to encourage them," Kennedy said. "Having these open (walk-in) days, particularly if some was thinking about going to Mizzou or something and decided to stay here in St. Joseph, having that last opportunity for them to come in and get enrolled, we make it super easy."Kennedy is also seeing an increase in transfer students as well as those who grew up in and around St. Joseph."The other piece I'm so glad to see is we have more and more students who were thinking about taking a year off last year due to COVID but have decided to come back," she said. "We're seeing a lot more transfer students coming especially from community colleges, which is wonderful. We're also seeing more St. Joseph students coming."As of late June, over 600 students attended Griffon Orientation. Last fall, there were 4,902 students enrolled at MWSU - 690 of whom were new.MWSU saw a 9.44 percent decrease in enrollment last fall compared to that of 2019. Because of this, University staff want to focus on student retention and making new students feel welcome.Missouri Western automatically enrolls new students into Griffon Edge - a four-day, one credit orientation that happens the week before classes start.According to the University's website, Griffon Edge "equips new students with comprehensive information about Missouri Western and its services to ease students' transition."MWSU also offers a University Experience Course, UNV 101, designed to help new students make the transition to college and garner the skills necessary to succeed.After a tough fall of 2020 for new students navigating through a pandemic and virtual learning, Kennedy is hopeful that this fall will be a very welcoming and enjoyable experience for newcomers."This formal (University Experience) program will deal with not only academics, but the whole collegiate experience," Kennedy said. "One of the things we're really focusing on this year is creating that sense of community and belonging for our students."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.