By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/1qIqM66G08P2frvGFVrYBB?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning Sports

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/78IdXeMK53UkhHBiphsbBV?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning News 

A move is underway
in Congress to address an apparent oversight:&nbsp;
that members of the Air National Guard don’t benefit from the college
tuition assistance offered members of the Army National Guard.

Northern Missouri
Congressman, Sam Graves, sponsors bi-partisan legislation to address the
discrepancy.

“If you join the
Army National Guard, you get tuition assistance to go to college and a lot of
members, or a lot of young people, join the Army Guard as a result of that,” Graves
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “But Air National Guard, they don’t have that same
opportunity. So, what this does is just make it the very same rules as the Army
National Guard.”

Graves says he has
no idea how the discrepancy developed.

He does know it
has hurt recruitment efforts of the Air National Guard. That, he hopes, is soon
to change.

“It’s going to be
a big difference and that means the Air National Guard is going to be able to
compete with Army National Guard on a level playing field,” according to
Graves.

Graves has
co-sponsored the legislation along with Congressmen Brad Finstad of Minnesota
and Eric Sorenson of Illinois.

Under the
legislation, federal college tuition assistance would be provided for drill
status guard members of the Air National Guard, such as those stationed with
the 139th Airlift Wing at Rosecrans Memorial Airport in St. Joseph.

By BRENT MARTINA move is underway
in Congress to address an apparent oversight:&nbsp;
that members of the Air National Guard don’t benefit from the college
tuition assistance offered members of the Army National Guard.Northern Missouri
Congressman, Sam Graves, sponsors bi-partisan legislation to address the
discrepancy.“If you join the
Army National Guard, you get tuition assistance to go to college and a lot of
members, or a lot of young people, join the Army Guard as a result of that,” Graves
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “But Air National Guard, they don’t have that same
opportunity. So, what this does is just make it the very same rules as the Army
National Guard.”Graves says he has
no idea how the discrepancy developed.He does know it
has hurt recruitment efforts of the Air National Guard. That, he hopes, is soon
to change.“It’s going to be
a big difference and that means the Air National Guard is going to be able to
compete with Army National Guard on a level playing field,” according to
Graves.Graves has
co-sponsored the legislation along with Congressmen Brad Finstad of Minnesota
and Eric Sorenson of Illinois.Under the
legislation, federal college tuition assistance would be provided for drill
status guard members of the Air National Guard, such as those stationed with
the 139th Airlift Wing at Rosecrans Memorial Airport in St. Joseph.

Move underway to give Air Guard members college tuition help

HOLT COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 1a.m. Wednesday in Holt County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Freightliner semi driven by a 46-year-old Schulter, Oklahoma man was northbound on Interstate 29 just south of Mound City.&nbsp; The vehicle's towed unit had equipment failure, struck an emergency cross over, became detached and overturned in the median. A northbound 2022 Volvo semi driven by a 64-year-old Omaha, Nebraska, man attempted to avoid the Freightliner. The Volvo skidded off the east side of the road, struck the Freightliner and overturned.

Holt-Atchison EMS transported the Volvo semi driver to Mosaic in St. Joseph. The Freighliner driver was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

HOLT COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 1a.m. Wednesday in Holt County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Freightliner semi driven by a 46-year-old Schulter, Oklahoma man was northbound on Interstate 29 just south of Mound City.&nbsp; The vehicle's towed unit had equipment failure, struck an emergency cross over, became detached and overturned in the median. A northbound 2022 Volvo semi driven by a 64-year-old Omaha, Nebraska, man attempted to avoid the Freightliner. The Volvo skidded off the east side of the road, struck the Freightliner and overturned.Holt-Atchison EMS transported the Volvo semi driver to Mosaic in St. Joseph. The Freighliner driver was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Driver hospitalized in St. Joe after semi accident

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Tuesday in Livingston County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Ford F150 driven by a 45-year-old Hale woman was eastbound on Route H two miles east of Avalon. The pickup traveled off the south side of the road, struck a ditch and came to rest in a private driveway.

Chillicothe EMS transported the driver to Hedrick Medical Center. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Tuesday in Livingston County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Ford F150 driven by a 45-year-old Hale woman was eastbound on Route H two miles east of Avalon. The pickup traveled off the south side of the road, struck a ditch and came to rest in a private driveway.Chillicothe EMS transported the driver to Hedrick Medical Center. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Missouri woman injured after pickup accident

HARRISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Tuesday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1995 Chevy S10 driven by a 42-year-old Bethany woman was southbound on U.S. 69 four miles north of Bethany. The pickup traveled off the west side of the road and the driver overcorrected. The vehicle began to skid across the road, traveled off the east side of the road, and struck multiple metal objects.

Life Flight Eagle transported the driver to Truman Medical Center. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

HARRISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Tuesday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1995 Chevy S10 driven by a 42-year-old Bethany woman was southbound on U.S. 69 four miles north of Bethany. The pickup traveled off the west side of the road and the driver overcorrected. The vehicle began to skid across the road, traveled off the east side of the road, and struck multiple metal objects.Life Flight Eagle transported the driver to Truman Medical Center. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Mo. woman air lifted to hospital after violent pickup crash

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is encouraging the public to prioritize safety and responsible decision-making during this year’s New Year’s celebrations. 

With the goal of preventing traffic crashes and DWI arrests, officials remind Missourians that the choices made behind the wheel directly impact the safety of everyone on the road.

Statistics from the 2024 - 2025 holiday period underscore the importance of these warnings: during that timeframe, Missouri saw 264 traffic crashes resulting in 118 injuries and one fatality.

The 2026 New Year’s holiday counting period begins at 6 p.m., Dec. 31, and will conclude at 11:59 p.m., Jan. 1, 2026. 

For those whose holiday plans involve alcohol, Sgt. Shane Hux, with Troop H in St. Joseph, says, "Plan ahead and have a designated, sober driver."

To further ensure a safe arrival, travelers are reminded to wear seatbelts and ensure all passengers are buckled up.

Additionally, drivers should remain mindful that Missouri is now a hands-free state. Motorists are urged to stay focused, obey all traffic laws, and yield the right-of-way when necessary.

Due to ongoing road construction across the state, the Patrol suggests using the MoDOT Traveler Information Map to plan routes in advance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565002090325.png" alt="MSHP" />
 <figcaption>MSHP</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHThe Missouri State Highway Patrol is encouraging the public to prioritize safety and responsible decision-making during this year’s New Year’s celebrations. With the goal of preventing traffic crashes and DWI arrests, officials remind Missourians that the choices made behind the wheel directly impact the safety of everyone on the road.Statistics from the 2024 - 2025 holiday period underscore the importance of these warnings: during that timeframe, Missouri saw 264 traffic crashes resulting in 118 injuries and one fatality.The 2026 New Year’s holiday counting period begins at 6 p.m., Dec. 31, and will conclude at 11:59 p.m., Jan. 1, 2026. For those whose holiday plans involve alcohol, Sgt. Shane Hux, with Troop H in St. Joseph, says, "Plan ahead and have a designated, sober driver."To further ensure a safe arrival, travelers are reminded to wear seatbelts and ensure all passengers are buckled up.Additionally, drivers should remain mindful that Missouri is now a hands-free state. Motorists are urged to stay focused, obey all traffic laws, and yield the right-of-way when necessary. Due to ongoing road construction across the state, the Patrol suggests using the MoDOT Traveler Information Map to plan routes in advance.

Missouri State Highway Patrol urges safe driving for New Year’s holiday

The InspireU Children’s Discovery Center in Downtown St. Joseph is kicking off 2026 early with a morning of activities throughout the children’s museum dedicated to fostering physical health, mental wellness, and educational enrichment. 

Roy Moye will emcee a morning of play and music at InspireU during Noon Years Eve starting at 9am and running until 1am on Wednesday. Roy blends his professional background in aerospace engineering with his passion for music to educate the next generation of innovators through the fusion of science, technology, engineering, and math, or STEM. Roy's mission is to use the power of music to inspire young multicultural minds to explore hidden career paths.  

Other celebratory activities around the museum will include festive crafts, face painting, confetti eruptions, yummy treats, games, and more, ending with a countdown and balloon drop at noon.  All ages are welcome. Children 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Children under one are free. 

All activities are included with ticket purchase. InspireU will be closed to general admission on Wednesday,. Admission to the special InspireU family event must be purchased separately from general admission 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734626748603.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe InspireU Children’s Discovery Center in Downtown St. Joseph is kicking off 2026 early with a morning of activities throughout the children’s museum dedicated to fostering physical health, mental wellness, and educational enrichment. Roy Moye will emcee a morning of play and music at InspireU during Noon Years Eve starting at 9am and running until 1am on Wednesday. Roy blends his professional background in aerospace engineering with his passion for music to educate the next generation of innovators through the fusion of science, technology, engineering, and math, or STEM. Roy's mission is to use the power of music to inspire young multicultural minds to explore hidden career paths. Other celebratory activities around the museum will include festive crafts, face painting, confetti eruptions, yummy treats, games, and more, ending with a countdown and balloon drop at noon. All ages are welcome. Children 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Children under one are free. All activities are included with ticket purchase. InspireU will be closed to general admission on Wednesday,. Admission to the special InspireU family event must be purchased separately from general admission You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

InspireU kicking off New Year's celebrations early with Noon Years Eve

The United, a historic ballroom at 602 Felix St., will officially reopen to the public Wednesday with a New Year’s Eve celebration aimed at revitalizing the downtown entertainment scene.

The "Downtown New Year’s Eve Bash" marks a new chapter for the venue, which has undergone extensive cleaning and renovations following years of sporadic use. Organizers intend for the space to become a premier destination for weddings, celebrations and community gatherings.

Managing partner of the United, Stacy Fisher, says, "This is our way of reintroducing ourselves into historic downtown, and we can't wait for people to see our space."

The celebration is a joint effort between the ballroom and several local businesses, including The Den, Parkway Distillery, River Bluff Brewing, Felix Street Gourmet and 1st Barrel Brewery.&nbsp;

"We wanted to create an event that brings people downtown and gives them a chance to experience The United in a fun, welcoming way," organizers said in a statement. "This building has so much history, and now it’s ready for its next chapter."

Regional band Under the Influence will provide live music for the evening.

Fisher adds, "The band will go on at 9:00 and we will definitely have food for people, with some heavy appetizers." Fisher notes the food is included as part of the cover charge, which also features a champagne toast at midnight.

The doors open at 8 p.m. for guests 21 and older. The ticket also provides access to participating downtown bars.

Early bird tickets are $20, while tickets at the door are $25. Tickets can be purchased via the event’s Facebook page or by scanning QR codes found on promotional posters throughout the downtown area.

Tickets are also available for a VIP Experience for $50, but is limited to 35 guests.

Organizers said they view the event as a catalyst for future collaborations and a busier schedule of events at the historic site.

The "Downtown New Year’s Eve Bash" is a 21+ event.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1767127064992.jpeg" alt="Courtesy of United" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of United</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHThe United, a historic ballroom at 602 Felix St., will officially reopen to the public Wednesday with a New Year’s Eve celebration aimed at revitalizing the downtown entertainment scene.The "Downtown New Year’s Eve Bash" marks a new chapter for the venue, which has undergone extensive cleaning and renovations following years of sporadic use. Organizers intend for the space to become a premier destination for weddings, celebrations and community gatherings.Managing partner of the United, Stacy Fisher, says, "This is our way of reintroducing ourselves into historic downtown, and we can't wait for people to see our space."The celebration is a joint effort between the ballroom and several local businesses, including The Den, Parkway Distillery, River Bluff Brewing, Felix Street Gourmet and 1st Barrel Brewery.&nbsp;"We wanted to create an event that brings people downtown and gives them a chance to experience The United in a fun, welcoming way," organizers said in a statement. "This building has so much history, and now it’s ready for its next chapter."Regional band Under the Influence will provide live music for the evening.Fisher adds, "The band will go on at 9:00 and we will definitely have food for people, with some heavy appetizers." Fisher notes the food is included as part of the cover charge, which also features a champagne toast at midnight.The doors open at 8 p.m. for guests 21 and older. The ticket also provides access to participating downtown bars.Early bird tickets are $20, while tickets at the door are $25. Tickets can be purchased via the event’s Facebook page or by scanning QR codes found on promotional posters throughout the downtown area.Tickets are also available for a VIP Experience for $50, but is limited to 35 guests.Organizers said they view the event as a catalyst for future collaborations and a busier schedule of events at the historic site.The "Downtown New Year’s Eve Bash" is a 21+ event.

Historic United Ballroom to reopen with Downtown New Year’s Eve Bash

City of St. Joseph offices will be closed in observance of New Year's Day.

For Jan. 1, city offices will be closed for the holiday. The Remington Nature Center, The REC Center, landfill, and recycling center will all be closed as well.

City offices will be open Dec. 31, however the Remington Nature Center will be closed.

The City of St. Joseph is wishing everyone a happy and safe New Year's.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757352623169.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph City Hall_statue, downtown.JPG" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph City Hall_statue, downtown.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHCity of St. Joseph offices will be closed in observance of New Year's Day.For Jan. 1, city offices will be closed for the holiday. The Remington Nature Center, The REC Center, landfill, and recycling center will all be closed as well.City offices will be open Dec. 31, however the Remington Nature Center will be closed.The City of St. Joseph is wishing everyone a happy and safe New Year's.

City of St. Joseph offices to close for New Year's Day

A juvenile has
been taken into custody in wake of a shooting in north St. Joseph.

The St. Joseph
Police Department reports officers responded to a residence in the 3100 block
of North 10th Street shortly after six o’clock Monday evening. A young
man, a juvenile, had suffered gunshot wounds. He has been taken to Children’s
Mercy Hospital in Kansas City. His wounds are not considered life-threatening.

The investigation
into the shooting continues.

Anyone with information that may assist
investigators is encouraged to contact the St. Joseph Police Department at
816-271-4777 or submit an anonymous tip through the TIPS Hotline at 816-238-TIPS
(8477).

You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA juvenile has
been taken into custody in wake of a shooting in north St. Joseph.The St. Joseph
Police Department reports officers responded to a residence in the 3100 block
of North 10th Street shortly after six o’clock Monday evening. A young
man, a juvenile, had suffered gunshot wounds. He has been taken to Children’s
Mercy Hospital in Kansas City. His wounds are not considered life-threatening.The investigation
into the shooting continues.Anyone with information that may assist
investigators is encouraged to contact the St. Joseph Police Department at
816-271-4777 or submit an anonymous tip through the TIPS Hotline at 816-238-TIPS
(8477).You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

Juvenile in custody after St. Joseph shooting that wounded another juvenile

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/7afLhYLN4YbCyHabbK1Kja?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/0t0ULMCf4yhtaqdjUI0Dee?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning News

St. Joseph firefighters responded to a fatal structure fire late Monday night at Wesley Senior Towers in Downtown St. Joseph.

Fire investigator with the St. Joseph Fire Department, Casey Crockett, says firefighters were called around 11:00 p.m. to a report of a smoke alarm. An apartment on the 11th floor was on fire.

Smoke and heat were contained to the unit. Fire crews located a person inside the apartment and removed them from the residence. A Facebook post from the St. Joseph Fire Department says the person was pronounced deceased on scene, but no further information is available at this time.

The fire was quickly brought under control, with no extension to other units.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696621093343.jpeg" alt="emergency 911 fire truck pixabay.jpg" />
 <figcaption>emergency 911 fire truck pixabay.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHSt. Joseph firefighters responded to a fatal structure fire late Monday night at Wesley Senior Towers in Downtown St. Joseph.Fire investigator with the St. Joseph Fire Department, Casey Crockett, says firefighters were called around 11:00 p.m. to a report of a smoke alarm. An apartment on the 11th floor was on fire.Smoke and heat were contained to the unit. Fire crews located a person inside the apartment and removed them from the residence. A Facebook post from the St. Joseph Fire Department says the person was pronounced deceased on scene, but no further information is available at this time.The fire was quickly brought under control, with no extension to other units.The fire is under investigation.

St. Joseph firefighters respond to fire at Wesley Senior Towers; one found deceased

Area military
installations and personnel will benefit from the Defense Bill approved by
Congress and signed into law by the president.

Northern Missouri
Congressman, Sam Graves, says $200 million has been authorized for two more
C-130J cargo planes for the Air National Guard. Graves hopes they will be
assigned to the 139th Airlift Wing at Rosecrans Memorial Airport,
but admits to frustration that the 139th’s fleet hasn’t been
upgraded already.

“Frustration, yes,”
Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “I’m frustrated because we didn’t make it in
the last tranche that came out and so, working real hard to make sure it
happens in this tranche that’s going to come out next. It’s a matter of time
and it’s frustrating, because we really need those particularly with the training
school that’s there.”

The 139th
now operates with the outdated C-130H model cargo planes. Rosecrans Memorial
Airport has undergone significant upgrades in an effort to land the new C-130J
model planes.

Graves says money
has been allocated for a C-130J simulator at Rosecrans.

“There are only
two places in the country that can handle a J model simulator; Rosecrans being
one of those,” Graves says. “I also highlighted the Advanced Airlift Tactics (Training)
Center and on top of that there’s money in there too for training for advanced
airlift tactics for domestic work, for responding to disasters and that sort of
thing.”

The Defense Bill
contains a provision that requires the Air Force to maintain the Air National
Guard C-130 aircraft.

Nearly $700
million has been allocated for small arms ammunition production at the Lake
City Army Ammunition Plant in Liberty. Another $1 billion has been set aside
for upgrades to the factory.

Money also has
been allocated for Whiteman Air Force Base in Knob Noster as well as Ft.
Leonard Wood.

Eastern Kansas
Congressman, Derek Schmidt, says personnel stationed at Ft. Leavenworth will
see benefits from the bill.

“But the people
who are serving at (Ft.) Leavenworth now will benefit, for example, the 3.8%
pay raise for military personnel that was included in the bill, will benefit
from some additional support for child care for our military personnel,”
Schmidt points out.

A provision in the
bill allows the Irwin Army Community Hospital at Ft. Riley to treat veterans as
well as active military personnel.

“Over time, we
think it will allow veterans who are in the area who wish to, it would be their
choice, but who wish to seek medical services on post at Irwin Army Community
Hospital, would ultimately be able to do so,” Schmidt says. “That would enable
Irwin to make sure that it stays strong and fully supportive within the health
care system, maybe add some specialty services.”

The legislation
includes a directive to keep the National Simulation Center at Ft. Leavenworth.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1767037075536.jpeg" alt="C-130H/Photo courtesy of the 139th Airlift Wing" />
 <figcaption>C-130H/Photo courtesy of the 139th Airlift Wing</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostArea military
installations and personnel will benefit from the Defense Bill approved by
Congress and signed into law by the president.Northern Missouri
Congressman, Sam Graves, says $200 million has been authorized for two more
C-130J cargo planes for the Air National Guard. Graves hopes they will be
assigned to the 139th Airlift Wing at Rosecrans Memorial Airport,
but admits to frustration that the 139th’s fleet hasn’t been
upgraded already.“Frustration, yes,”
Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “I’m frustrated because we didn’t make it in
the last tranche that came out and so, working real hard to make sure it
happens in this tranche that’s going to come out next. It’s a matter of time
and it’s frustrating, because we really need those particularly with the training
school that’s there.”The 139th
now operates with the outdated C-130H model cargo planes. Rosecrans Memorial
Airport has undergone significant upgrades in an effort to land the new C-130J
model planes.Graves says money
has been allocated for a C-130J simulator at Rosecrans.“There are only
two places in the country that can handle a J model simulator; Rosecrans being
one of those,” Graves says. “I also highlighted the Advanced Airlift Tactics (Training)
Center and on top of that there’s money in there too for training for advanced
airlift tactics for domestic work, for responding to disasters and that sort of
thing.”The Defense Bill
contains a provision that requires the Air Force to maintain the Air National
Guard C-130 aircraft.Nearly $700
million has been allocated for small arms ammunition production at the Lake
City Army Ammunition Plant in Liberty. Another $1 billion has been set aside
for upgrades to the factory.Money also has
been allocated for Whiteman Air Force Base in Knob Noster as well as Ft.
Leonard Wood.Kansas benefits as
well.Eastern Kansas
Congressman, Derek Schmidt, says personnel stationed at Ft. Leavenworth will
see benefits from the bill.“But the people
who are serving at (Ft.) Leavenworth now will benefit, for example, the 3.8%
pay raise for military personnel that was included in the bill, will benefit
from some additional support for child care for our military personnel,”
Schmidt points out.A provision in the
bill allows the Irwin Army Community Hospital at Ft. Riley to treat veterans as
well as active military personnel.“Over time, we
think it will allow veterans who are in the area who wish to, it would be their
choice, but who wish to seek medical services on post at Irwin Army Community
Hospital, would ultimately be able to do so,” Schmidt says. “That would enable
Irwin to make sure that it stays strong and fully supportive within the health
care system, maybe add some specialty services.”The legislation
includes a directive to keep the National Simulation Center at Ft. Leavenworth.You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

Area military installation & personnel to benefit from Defense Bill

A young man has
been left wounded after a shooting in north St. Joseph.

St. Joseph police
say the male juvenile has been hospitalized, being treated for gunshot wounds. A
suspect has been taken into custody as the investigation continues.

The St. Joseph
Police Department reports officers responded to the 31-Hundred block of 10th
Street shortly after six o’clock Monday night. Emergency crews rushed the
young man to the hospital. The extent of his wounds is not known at this time.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA young man has
been left wounded after a shooting in north St. Joseph.St. Joseph police
say the male juvenile has been hospitalized, being treated for gunshot wounds. A
suspect has been taken into custody as the investigation continues.The St. Joseph
Police Department reports officers responded to the 31-Hundred block of 10th
Street shortly after six o’clock Monday night. Emergency crews rushed the
young man to the hospital. The extent of his wounds is not known at this time.You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

St. Joseph shooting leaves young man wounded

The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services (CMS) on Monday announced that all 50 states will receive awards under the Rural Health Transformation Program, a $50 billion initiative established under President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts legislation (Public Law 119-21) to strengthen and modernize health care in rural communities across the country, according to a statement from CMS.&nbsp;

In 2026, states will receive first-year awards from CMS averaging $200 million within a range of $147 million to $281 million. Missouri will receive&nbsp;$216,276,818, Kansas&nbsp;$221,898,008.

&nbsp;This unprecedented federal investment will help states expand access to care in rural communities, strengthen the rural health workforce, modernize rural facilities and technology, and support innovative models that bring high-quality, dependable care closer to home.&nbsp;

“More than 60 million Americans living in rural areas have the right to equal access to quality care,”&nbsp;said Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “This historic investment puts local hospitals, clinics, and health workers in control of their communities’ healthcare. Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, rural Americans will now have affordable healthcare close to home, free from bureaucratic obstacles.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Today marks an extraordinary milestone for rural health in America,”&nbsp;said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. “Thanks to Congress establishing this investment and President Trump for his leadership, states are stepping forward with bold, creative plans to expand rural access, strengthen their workforces, modernize care, and support the communities that keep our nation running. CMS is proud to partner with every state to turn their ideas into lasting improvements for rural families.”

A Nationwide Commitment to Strengthen Rural Health Care

The Rural Health Transformation Program is a national commitment to improving the health and well-being of rural communities across the country. With this funding, states will implement comprehensive strategies to improve care delivery, support providers, and advance new approaches to coordinating health care services across rural communities. Across the country, many states are planning efforts that will:

States will advance Make Rural America Healthy Again goals by expanding preventive, primary, maternal, and behavioral health services and creating new access points that bring care closer to home and help preserve strong local health systems. Many states are implementing evidence-based, outcomes-driven strategies—such as physical fitness and nutrition programs, food-as-medicine initiatives, and chronic disease prevention models—to address root causes of diseases and manage chronic conditions. States will also strengthen rural emergency care through improved emergency medical services (EMS) communication, treat-in-place options, and coordinated transfers.

States will support clinical workforce training, residencies, recruitment and retention incentives, and new pathways that help students begin health care careers in their own communities. States are also investing in programs to train and support the existing clinical workforce and build futures close to home.&nbsp;

Investments will modernize rural facilities and equipment; strengthen cybersecurity and interoperability; and expand telehealth, remote patient monitoring, and digital tools that enable timely access to care. States are also exploring the use of technology such as AI scribes and clinical workflow improvement tools to reduce burdens on clinicians.&nbsp;

States will prioritize streamlining operations, empowering providers to enhance coordination of care and resources, and building partnerships across the state with the goal of keeping care local. This includes establishing specialized hub-and-spoke models, rural regional centers of excellence, comprehensive data-sharing platforms, and rural clinically integrated networks.

States will test new primary care and value-based care models, strengthen partnerships among rural and other providers, and promote regional collaboration that improves health sustainability and patient outcomes.

The Rural Health Transformation Program’s $50 billion in funds will be allocated to approved states over five years, with $10 billion available each year from 2026 through 2030. As directed by Public Law 119-21:

CMS made funding awards to all 50 states.&nbsp;

The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services (CMS) on Monday announced that all 50 states will receive awards under the Rural Health Transformation Program, a $50 billion initiative established under President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts legislation (Public Law 119-21) to strengthen and modernize health care in rural communities across the country, according to a statement from CMS.&nbsp;In 2026, states will receive first-year awards from CMS averaging $200 million within a range of $147 million to $281 million. Missouri will receive&nbsp;$216,276,818, Kansas&nbsp;$221,898,008.&nbsp;This unprecedented federal investment will help states expand access to care in rural communities, strengthen the rural health workforce, modernize rural facilities and technology, and support innovative models that bring high-quality, dependable care closer to home.&nbsp;“More than 60 million Americans living in rural areas have the right to equal access to quality care,”&nbsp;said Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “This historic investment puts local hospitals, clinics, and health workers in control of their communities’ healthcare. Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, rural Americans will now have affordable healthcare close to home, free from bureaucratic obstacles.”&nbsp;&nbsp;“Today marks an extraordinary milestone for rural health in America,”&nbsp;said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. “Thanks to Congress establishing this investment and President Trump for his leadership, states are stepping forward with bold, creative plans to expand rural access, strengthen their workforces, modernize care, and support the communities that keep our nation running. CMS is proud to partner with every state to turn their ideas into lasting improvements for rural families.”A Nationwide Commitment to Strengthen Rural Health CareThe Rural Health Transformation Program is a national commitment to improving the health and well-being of rural communities across the country. With this funding, states will implement comprehensive strategies to improve care delivery, support providers, and advance new approaches to coordinating health care services across rural communities. Across the country, many states are planning efforts that will:<ul>
 <li>Bring More Care Within Reach</li>
 </ul>States will advance Make Rural America Healthy Again goals by expanding preventive, primary, maternal, and behavioral health services and creating new access points that bring care closer to home and help preserve strong local health systems. Many states are implementing evidence-based, outcomes-driven strategies—such as physical fitness and nutrition programs, food-as-medicine initiatives, and chronic disease prevention models—to address root causes of diseases and manage chronic conditions. States will also strengthen rural emergency care through improved emergency medical services (EMS) communication, treat-in-place options, and coordinated transfers.<ul>
 <li>Strengthen and Sustain the Rural Clinical Workforce</li>
 </ul>States will support clinical workforce training, residencies, recruitment and retention incentives, and new pathways that help students begin health care careers in their own communities. States are also investing in programs to train and support the existing clinical workforce and build futures close to home.&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Modernize Rural Health Infrastructure and Technology</li>
 </ul>Investments will modernize rural facilities and equipment; strengthen cybersecurity and interoperability; and expand telehealth, remote patient monitoring, and digital tools that enable timely access to care. States are also exploring the use of technology such as AI scribes and clinical workflow improvement tools to reduce burdens on clinicians.&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Driving Structural Efficiency &amp; Empowering the Community Providers</li>
 </ul>States will prioritize streamlining operations, empowering providers to enhance coordination of care and resources, and building partnerships across the state with the goal of keeping care local. This includes establishing specialized hub-and-spoke models, rural regional centers of excellence, comprehensive data-sharing platforms, and rural clinically integrated networks.<ul>
 <li>Advance Innovative Care Models and Payment Reform</li>
 </ul>States will test new primary care and value-based care models, strengthen partnerships among rural and other providers, and promote regional collaboration that improves health sustainability and patient outcomes.Awardees and Funding AmountsThe Rural Health Transformation Program’s $50 billion in funds will be allocated to approved states over five years, with $10 billion available each year from 2026 through 2030. As directed by Public Law 119-21:<ul>
 <li>50% of the funding is distributed equally among all approved states. This provides states with a strong foundation to begin implementing their Rural Health Transformation Plans; and</li><li>50% is allocated based on a variety of factors.&nbsp;As described in the&nbsp;<a href="https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/360442">Notice of Funding Opportunity</a>, those factors include individual state metrics around rurality and a state’s rural health system, current or proposed state policy actions that enhance access and quality of care in rural communities, and application initiatives or activities that reflect the greatest potential for, and scale of, impact on the health of rural communities. All scoring factors are outlined further in the Notice of Funding Opportunity.</li>
 </ul>CMS made funding awards to all 50 states.&nbsp;

Missouri secures $221 Million in 2026 from Rural Healthcare Transformation Fund

The fund held $5.8 billion, a record, at the end of June 2023. Without changes to the budget, State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick warns, the money will all be gone by June 2028

BY:&nbsp;&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>

Missouri’s budget faces a fiscal cliff by mid-2028 when accumulated surpluses will be depleted, state Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick said in a report released Monday&nbsp;<a href="https://auditor.mo.gov/AuditReport/ViewReport?report=2025101&amp;token=0111925473" target="_blank">analyzing spending trends</a>&nbsp;since 2000.

The report, following soon after revenue projections estimating general revenue will be&nbsp;$400 million less than expected, warns that a recession could deplete the surplus even faster, by the end of fiscal 2027.

“The time is now to make the tough decisions that will prevent drastic, emergency budget cuts from being necessary in the months and years ahead,” Fitzpatrick said in a news release.&nbsp;

Fitzpatrick, the auditor since 2023, was previously chairman of the House Budget Committee. When he was a lawmaker, from 2013 to 2019, state revenues were tight and often subject to large cuts when growth was sluggish.

Few current legislators have experienced shrinking budgets, Fitzpatrick said.

“Many current legislators have only been in office during these last few years during which strong economic growth and a huge influx of federal money have made hard budget decisions unnecessary,” Fitzpatrick said. “But they’re about to face the challenge of crafting a budget in the face of slowing revenue growth and reduced federal funding.“

Gov. Mike Kehoe on Jan. 13 will deliver his budget proposal for fiscal 2027. When he released the reduced revenue estimate on Dec. 17, Kehoe warned of a tight budget coming and a need to limit new spending.

There will be upward pressure on the general revenue fund from changes to&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/03/26/medicaid-snap-cuts-could-create-a-massive-hole-in-missouri-budget-cost-thousands-of-jobs/">shared federal programs</a>&nbsp;and spending from soon-to-be-depleted funds that substitute for general revenue. At the same time, the estimate shows, there will be downward pressure on revenues due to the bill eliminating the state income tax on&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/07/10/capital-gains-exemption-and-motor-vehicle-fee-hike-bills-signed-by-missouri-governor/">capital gains</a>&nbsp;pushed through by Republicans in Missouri and changes to the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/02/proposed-federal-tax-changes-could-mean-170m-or-more-cut-to-missouri-state-revenues/">federal tax code</a>&nbsp;pushed through by Republicans in Congress.

The budget for fiscal 2026, which ends on June 30, projects general revenue spending on state operations at $15 billion, with another $725 million appropriated for building projects. General revenue receipts for the year should be about $13.15 billion, a decline of 2.1% over fiscal 2025, according to the estimate released Dec. 17.

If the estimate is correct, it would be the fourth consecutive year when state revenues&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/09/17/missouri-tax-revenues-declining-in-first-months-of-fiscal-year-raising-concerns/">lag behind inflation</a>&nbsp;and the first time revenues have declined year-over-year outside of a recession or COVID-impacted fiscal 2020.

Previous estimates had projected revenue growth for the year.

The Dec. 17 estimate forecasts growing revenues in the coming budget year, and Fitzpatrick used the 25-year average of year-over-year growth to project further.

Fitzpatrick said if lawmakers add nothing to the current budget for three years, and the revenue estimate is accurate, the general revenue fund balance, which reached a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/06/30/missouri-surplus-peaking-at-8-billion-as-governor-prepares-to-act-on-state-budget/">record $5.8 billion</a>&nbsp;on June 30, 2023, will be depleted before fiscal 2028 ends on June 30, 2028.

The general revenue fund balance was $3.4 billion at the end of November. The state will be about $370 million short in fiscal 2028, Fitzpatrick’s report projects.

If a recession hits and Missouri experiences a repetition of the worst decline this century, Fitzpatrick said, the balance will be depleted as much as a year earlier. The gap between revenue and spending could reach $3.8 billion, the report states.

“Economic trends are unpredictable and we need to make sure Missouri is ready to face any challenge,” he said.

Spending has exceeded revenues in each year since fiscal 2023, with the surplus providing the difference. The surplus was accumulated by replacing state funds with federal COVID-19 pandemic aid and year-over-year revenue windfalls due to inflation and rapid wage growth.

In a statement issued Monday afternoon, House Budget Committee Chairman Dirk Deaton, a Republican from Noel, said Fitzpatrick’s projection is not surprising.

“His analysis confirms what I have said both in private and public comments over the past year about the long-term condition of the state budget,” Deaton said. “Specifically, the concern about a structural deficit created when ongoing general revenue spending exceeds what the state collects within a given fiscal year.”

Keeping spending flat into future years will be difficult. This year’s state budget includes about $1.2 billion in spending from non-general revenue funds that will be depleted at the end of the fiscal year. Department budget requests have identified&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/10/09/missouri-public-schools-medicaid-need-1-billion-more-to-continue-current-programs/">about $1 billion in spending</a>&nbsp;in just a handful of large items that must come from general revenue for programs to continue at their current level.

“There are certainly significant mandatory increases that we’re going to have to deal with,” state Budget Director Dan Haug said in an interview with The Independent earlier this month.

Fitzpatrick’s report notes that Missouri has a budget reserve fund holding about $900 million but that it cannot be used to cover shortfalls except in an emergency.

The report does not address whether other funds, holding about $2.5 billion for major projects, should be recaptured for general revenue. It also does not estimate the potential impact of future tax cuts in law and being proposed.

Ongoing expenses have increased for public education, increased payments to medical and mental health providers and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/09/missouri-state-employee-pay-raise-advances-with-vote-on-spending-bill/">state employee payrolls</a>. The budget has also been increased by lawmakers sprinkling hundreds of millions in&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/30/missouri-governor-hits-earmarks-with-veto-pen-as-he-signs-state-budget/">earmarked projects</a>&nbsp;into spending bills to fund local needs or help favored organizations.&nbsp;

State lawmakers asked by The Independent about the budget said they expect cuts in a number of programs when Kehoe presents his plan.

State Rep. Jeff Vernetti, a Republican from Camdenton on the House Budget Committee, said decreasing revenues will force spending reductions.

“I think every single department across the state, every single area, needs to be looked at so that Missouri can not have a crisis on its hands.”

State Rep. Betsy Fogle of Springfield, the ranking Democrat on the House Budget Committee, said Republicans are facing the impact of policies that put tax cuts ahead of state obligations.

The capital gains tax cut will reduce revenue by $500 million but Republicans, when it passed, insisted it was closer to $110 million annually.

“I do not understand how they think outcomes in this state will change when they continue to blow holes in our budget through things like the elimination of the capital gains tax,” Fogle said.

State Sen. Maggie Nurrenbern, a Kansas City Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Committee, echoed Fogle’s criticism of GOP tax policies. Additional costly tax cuts for top earners are already in state law, she said.

“Because of the decisions of Republican politicians to give tax cuts to the most wealthy, fundamental state services are going to suffer,” Nurrenbern said.

Reducing ongoing programs now will protect future budgets from cuts, Fitzpatrick said in the news release.

“The longer Missouri waits to take action,” Fitzpatrick said, “the harder this exercise will become.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751110830433.png" alt="&nbsp;Missouri Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick on Monday forecast the state will burn through the rest of its general revenue surplus by June 2028 unless spending increases slow.&nbsp;He is shown speaking to reporters during a Jan. 23, 2024, news conference. (Jason Hancock/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Missouri Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick on Monday forecast the state will burn through the rest of its general revenue surplus by June 2028 unless spending increases slow.&nbsp;He is shown speaking to reporters during a Jan. 23, 2024, news conference. (Jason Hancock/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The fund held $5.8 billion, a record, at the end of June 2023. Without changes to the budget, State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick warns, the money will all be gone by June 2028</h2>BY:&nbsp;&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>Missouri’s budget faces a fiscal cliff by mid-2028 when accumulated surpluses will be depleted, state Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick said in a report released Monday&nbsp;<a href="https://auditor.mo.gov/AuditReport/ViewReport?report=2025101&amp;token=0111925473" target="_blank">analyzing spending trends</a>&nbsp;since 2000.The report, following soon after revenue projections estimating general revenue will be&nbsp;$400 million less than expected, warns that a recession could deplete the surplus even faster, by the end of fiscal 2027.“The time is now to make the tough decisions that will prevent drastic, emergency budget cuts from being necessary in the months and years ahead,” Fitzpatrick said in a news release.&nbsp;Fitzpatrick, the auditor since 2023, was previously chairman of the House Budget Committee. When he was a lawmaker, from 2013 to 2019, state revenues were tight and often subject to large cuts when growth was sluggish.Few current legislators have experienced shrinking budgets, Fitzpatrick said.“Many current legislators have only been in office during these last few years during which strong economic growth and a huge influx of federal money have made hard budget decisions unnecessary,” Fitzpatrick said. “But they’re about to face the challenge of crafting a budget in the face of slowing revenue growth and reduced federal funding.“Gov. Mike Kehoe on Jan. 13 will deliver his budget proposal for fiscal 2027. When he released the reduced revenue estimate on Dec. 17, Kehoe warned of a tight budget coming and a need to limit new spending.There will be upward pressure on the general revenue fund from changes to&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/03/26/medicaid-snap-cuts-could-create-a-massive-hole-in-missouri-budget-cost-thousands-of-jobs/">shared federal programs</a>&nbsp;and spending from soon-to-be-depleted funds that substitute for general revenue. At the same time, the estimate shows, there will be downward pressure on revenues due to the bill eliminating the state income tax on&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/07/10/capital-gains-exemption-and-motor-vehicle-fee-hike-bills-signed-by-missouri-governor/">capital gains</a>&nbsp;pushed through by Republicans in Missouri and changes to the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/02/proposed-federal-tax-changes-could-mean-170m-or-more-cut-to-missouri-state-revenues/">federal tax code</a>&nbsp;pushed through by Republicans in Congress.The budget for fiscal 2026, which ends on June 30, projects general revenue spending on state operations at $15 billion, with another $725 million appropriated for building projects. General revenue receipts for the year should be about $13.15 billion, a decline of 2.1% over fiscal 2025, according to the estimate released Dec. 17.If the estimate is correct, it would be the fourth consecutive year when state revenues&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/09/17/missouri-tax-revenues-declining-in-first-months-of-fiscal-year-raising-concerns/">lag behind inflation</a>&nbsp;and the first time revenues have declined year-over-year outside of a recession or COVID-impacted fiscal 2020.Previous estimates had projected revenue growth for the year.The Dec. 17 estimate forecasts growing revenues in the coming budget year, and Fitzpatrick used the 25-year average of year-over-year growth to project further.Fitzpatrick said if lawmakers add nothing to the current budget for three years, and the revenue estimate is accurate, the general revenue fund balance, which reached a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/06/30/missouri-surplus-peaking-at-8-billion-as-governor-prepares-to-act-on-state-budget/">record $5.8 billion</a>&nbsp;on June 30, 2023, will be depleted before fiscal 2028 ends on June 30, 2028.The general revenue fund balance was $3.4 billion at the end of November. The state will be about $370 million short in fiscal 2028, Fitzpatrick’s report projects.If a recession hits and Missouri experiences a repetition of the worst decline this century, Fitzpatrick said, the balance will be depleted as much as a year earlier. The gap between revenue and spending could reach $3.8 billion, the report states.“Economic trends are unpredictable and we need to make sure Missouri is ready to face any challenge,” he said.Spending has exceeded revenues in each year since fiscal 2023, with the surplus providing the difference. The surplus was accumulated by replacing state funds with federal COVID-19 pandemic aid and year-over-year revenue windfalls due to inflation and rapid wage growth.In a statement issued Monday afternoon, House Budget Committee Chairman Dirk Deaton, a Republican from Noel, said Fitzpatrick’s projection is not surprising.“His analysis confirms what I have said both in private and public comments over the past year about the long-term condition of the state budget,” Deaton said. “Specifically, the concern about a structural deficit created when ongoing general revenue spending exceeds what the state collects within a given fiscal year.”Keeping spending flat into future years will be difficult. This year’s state budget includes about $1.2 billion in spending from non-general revenue funds that will be depleted at the end of the fiscal year. Department budget requests have identified&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/10/09/missouri-public-schools-medicaid-need-1-billion-more-to-continue-current-programs/">about $1 billion in spending</a>&nbsp;in just a handful of large items that must come from general revenue for programs to continue at their current level.“There are certainly significant mandatory increases that we’re going to have to deal with,” state Budget Director Dan Haug said in an interview with The Independent earlier this month.Fitzpatrick’s report notes that Missouri has a budget reserve fund holding about $900 million but that it cannot be used to cover shortfalls except in an emergency.The report does not address whether other funds, holding about $2.5 billion for major projects, should be recaptured for general revenue. It also does not estimate the potential impact of future tax cuts in law and being proposed.Ongoing expenses have increased for public education, increased payments to medical and mental health providers and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/09/missouri-state-employee-pay-raise-advances-with-vote-on-spending-bill/">state employee payrolls</a>. The budget has also been increased by lawmakers sprinkling hundreds of millions in&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/30/missouri-governor-hits-earmarks-with-veto-pen-as-he-signs-state-budget/">earmarked projects</a>&nbsp;into spending bills to fund local needs or help favored organizations.&nbsp;State lawmakers asked by The Independent about the budget said they expect cuts in a number of programs when Kehoe presents his plan.State Rep. Jeff Vernetti, a Republican from Camdenton on the House Budget Committee, said decreasing revenues will force spending reductions.“I think every single department across the state, every single area, needs to be looked at so that Missouri can not have a crisis on its hands.”State Rep. Betsy Fogle of Springfield, the ranking Democrat on the House Budget Committee, said Republicans are facing the impact of policies that put tax cuts ahead of state obligations.The capital gains tax cut will reduce revenue by $500 million but Republicans, when it passed, insisted it was closer to $110 million annually.“I do not understand how they think outcomes in this state will change when they continue to blow holes in our budget through things like the elimination of the capital gains tax,” Fogle said.State Sen. Maggie Nurrenbern, a Kansas City Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Committee, echoed Fogle’s criticism of GOP tax policies. Additional costly tax cuts for top earners are already in state law, she said.“Because of the decisions of Republican politicians to give tax cuts to the most wealthy, fundamental state services are going to suffer,” Nurrenbern said.Reducing ongoing programs now will protect future budgets from cuts, Fitzpatrick said in the news release.“The longer Missouri waits to take action,” Fitzpatrick said, “the harder this exercise will become.”

Missouri auditor warns of vanishing state general revenue surplus as spending rises

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that ten people died in traffic crashes over the 2025 Christmas holiday. 

The counting period began at 6 p.m. Dec. 24, and ended at 11:59 p.m. on Dec. 28.

In addition to the fatalities, troopers responded to 258 total crashes and 94 injuries. The Patrol&nbsp; also remained active in enforcement, making 93 arrests for driving while intoxicated over the long weekend.

The fatalities were reported across several regions of the state. These incidents occurred in areas patrolled by Troop A in Lee’s Summit, Troop B in Macon, Troop C in St. Charles, Troop E in Poplar Bluff, Troop G in Willow Springs, and Troop H in St. Joseph.

The 2025 totals were higher than the previous year, which saw only three deaths. However, it was noted the couting

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that ten people died in traffic crashes over the 2025 Christmas holiday. The counting period began at 6 p.m. Dec. 24, and ended at 11:59 p.m. on Dec. 28.In addition to the fatalities, troopers responded to 258 total crashes and 94 injuries. The Patrol&nbsp; also remained active in enforcement, making 93 arrests for driving while intoxicated over the long weekend.The fatalities were reported across several regions of the state. These incidents occurred in areas patrolled by Troop A in Lee’s Summit, Troop B in Macon, Troop C in St. Charles, Troop E in Poplar Bluff, Troop G in Willow Springs, and Troop H in St. Joseph.The 2025 totals were higher than the previous year, which saw only three deaths. However, it was noted the couting

10 dead, 93 arrested in Missouri holiday traffic

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/tyler-kirwan/">Tyler Kirwan</a>

Contracts are in place for a project that will test the wastewater of public schools in Missouri for signs of fentanyl and other drug use.

The Missouri Department of Public Safety has been negotiating with Mighty Good Solutions DBA Stercus Bioanalytics, and the Missouri-based company is now the contractor on a $7 million statewide project.

The project is planned to test the wastewater of 12 schools around Missouri for drug use and was touted by Gov. Mike Kehoe in January.

“In an effort to identify areas of high fentanyl use in schools across the state, we are including $4 million in investment for fentanyl testing in wastewater systems at schools,” Kehoe said during his first State of the State address in January.

An additional $3 million was allocated to the project to fund wastewater testing involving law enforcement efforts. The project was then moved from the Missouri Department of Health and Human services to the Department of Public Safety, Mike O’Connell, public safety communications director, said in an email.

“I believe that at that point, the decision was made to move the whole program to DPS,” O’Connell said.

Last month, Missouri school superintendents received emails asking them to notify the agency if they are interested in enrolling in the wastewater test program, O’Connell said.

In the email sent to superintendents and obtained by the Missourian, the program is said to include ongoing weekly testing that will provide insights into short- and long-term trends.

“Through the collection of one small wastewater sample per week, schools will receive near real-time insights into local substance misuse trends at no cost and with no additional responsibilities for your staff,” said Mark James, director of the Department of Public Safety in the email.

The project dates are not yet set, but the email asks that superintendents request inclusion in the program by this week, adding that the data from the testing may be used to shape initiatives that attempt to counteract drug use.

Opioid overdose is the leading cause of death for those aged 18 to 44 in Missouri, according to the Health and Human Services website.

The project had received $2 million in funding from former Gov. Mike Parson in his 2025 budget. No wastewater testing in schools has taken place yet.

The company in charge of testing, Mighty Good Solutions, says on their website, “By analyzing wastewater for specific biomarkers, we provide governments with powerful tools to detect narcotics prevalence, understand usage patterns, and identify trends — all through anonymous, macro-level data.”

Plans for testing don’t give specific details on how the Department of Public Safety will use the data to help combat opioid usage. Other states have been in conversations with the same company, and Mississippi lawmakers are currently considering them for wastewater testing.

This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/contractors-selected-for-fentanyl-testing-in-school-wastewater/article_a72ac90b-b955-4643-afe9-ab4b48097fab.html#tncms-source=topstory" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608245358476.png" alt="DEA image" />
 <figcaption>DEA image</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/tyler-kirwan/">Tyler Kirwan</a>Contracts are in place for a project that will test the wastewater of public schools in Missouri for signs of fentanyl and other drug use.The Missouri Department of Public Safety has been negotiating with Mighty Good Solutions DBA Stercus Bioanalytics, and the Missouri-based company is now the contractor on a $7 million statewide project.The project is planned to test the wastewater of 12 schools around Missouri for drug use and was touted by Gov. Mike Kehoe in January.“In an effort to identify areas of high fentanyl use in schools across the state, we are including $4 million in investment for fentanyl testing in wastewater systems at schools,” Kehoe said during his first State of the State address in January.An additional $3 million was allocated to the project to fund wastewater testing involving law enforcement efforts. The project was then moved from the Missouri Department of Health and Human services to the Department of Public Safety, Mike O’Connell, public safety communications director, said in an email.“I believe that at that point, the decision was made to move the whole program to DPS,” O’Connell said.Last month, Missouri school superintendents received emails asking them to notify the agency if they are interested in enrolling in the wastewater test program, O’Connell said.In the email sent to superintendents and obtained by the Missourian, the program is said to include ongoing weekly testing that will provide insights into short- and long-term trends.“Through the collection of one small wastewater sample per week, schools will receive near real-time insights into local substance misuse trends at no cost and with no additional responsibilities for your staff,” said Mark James, director of the Department of Public Safety in the email.The project dates are not yet set, but the email asks that superintendents request inclusion in the program by this week, adding that the data from the testing may be used to shape initiatives that attempt to counteract drug use.Opioid overdose is the leading cause of death for those aged 18 to 44 in Missouri, according to the Health and Human Services website.The project had received $2 million in funding from former Gov. Mike Parson in his 2025 budget. No wastewater testing in schools has taken place yet.The company in charge of testing, Mighty Good Solutions, says on their website, “By analyzing wastewater for specific biomarkers, we provide governments with powerful tools to detect narcotics prevalence, understand usage patterns, and identify trends — all through anonymous, macro-level data.”Plans for testing don’t give specific details on how the Department of Public Safety will use the data to help combat opioid usage. Other states have been in conversations with the same company, and Mississippi lawmakers are currently considering them for wastewater testing.This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/contractors-selected-for-fentanyl-testing-in-school-wastewater/article_a72ac90b-b955-4643-afe9-ab4b48097fab.html#tncms-source=topstory" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>.&nbsp;

Contractors selected for fentanyl testing in Missouri school wastewater

Once again, St. Joseph residents stepped up to help those in need during Christmas through the Adopt A family program.  

With hours to spare, three families were left to be adopted on Christmas Eve, but AFL-CIO Community Services reports those families were taken care of moments before the deadline.   

Executive Director Nichi Seckinger says generous people came to adopt, and some local businesses stepped in to help donate some money to cover gift costs as well. 

"We ended up in a pretty good position when everything was said and done,” Seckinger tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  “I think it was about 1:30 on Christmas Eve we had everybody adopted and shopped for and ready to go, so it was a huge relief, and I’m really glad that our staff and our folks also got to go home and celebrate the holiday.” 

In all, 881 families were adopted this Christmas, which Seckinger says is around the same as last year.  Several others went through the gift room to find presents as well. 

Seckinger says it's unreal to see how the community always steps up and says every year even when there's fear not everyone will get adopted.  

"When the community just keeps coming together and keeps taking care of these folks and gives people, they don’t even know a merry Christmas and a reason to celebrate and a much better way to end the year, it’s remarkable,” Seckinger explains.  “It is absolutely remarkable to know that they’re here, and that they’ve reliably been there for 43 years now.” 

Seckinger says they receive a lot of calls from around the country looking for programs like Adopt a Family and hear from places even larger than St. Joseph that these types of programs don't exist. 

Seckinger says while this year money donations were down substantially, leaving the gap to cover very large, the community stepped up at the end 

"Being able to get that met and have other people step up and other organizations step up, we saw some donors this year that we’ve not had before,” Seckinger says.  “And so it’s good when you know that when you put that call out people really understand and they really know that when we say it, we mean it, it’s not a ploy, it’s not a scare tactic, we are really in a position where we have to get that help to be able to carry it over.” 

Seckinger believes that speaks to the reputation of the program and respect it's gained from people over its 43 years of serving those in need in St. Joseph. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1767030270289.jpeg" alt="The Adopt A Family program served all the families up for adoption this year, plus several others through it's gift room, marking a successful 43rd year for the program/ Photo courtesy of the Adopt A Family program Facebook." />
 <figcaption>The Adopt A Family program served all the families up for adoption this year, plus several others through it's gift room, marking a successful 43rd year for the program/ Photo courtesy of the Adopt A Family program Facebook.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostOnce again, St. Joseph residents stepped up to help those in need during Christmas through the Adopt A family program. With hours to spare, three families were left to be adopted on Christmas Eve, but AFL-CIO Community Services reports those families were taken care of moments before the deadline. Executive Director Nichi Seckinger says generous people came to adopt, and some local businesses stepped in to help donate some money to cover gift costs as well. "We ended up in a pretty good position when everything was said and done,” Seckinger tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “I think it was about 1:30 on Christmas Eve we had everybody adopted and shopped for and ready to go, so it was a huge relief, and I’m really glad that our staff and our folks also got to go home and celebrate the holiday.” In all, 881 families were adopted this Christmas, which Seckinger says is around the same as last year. Several others went through the gift room to find presents as well. Seckinger says it's unreal to see how the community always steps up and says every year even when there's fear not everyone will get adopted. "When the community just keeps coming together and keeps taking care of these folks and gives people, they don’t even know a merry Christmas and a reason to celebrate and a much better way to end the year, it’s remarkable,” Seckinger explains. “It is absolutely remarkable to know that they’re here, and that they’ve reliably been there for 43 years now.” Seckinger says they receive a lot of calls from around the country looking for programs like Adopt a Family and hear from places even larger than St. Joseph that these types of programs don't exist. Seckinger says while this year money donations were down substantially, leaving the gap to cover very large, the community stepped up at the end "Being able to get that met and have other people step up and other organizations step up, we saw some donors this year that we’ve not had before,” Seckinger says. “And so it’s good when you know that when you put that call out people really understand and they really know that when we say it, we mean it, it’s not a ploy, it’s not a scare tactic, we are really in a position where we have to get that help to be able to carry it over.” Seckinger believes that speaks to the reputation of the program and respect it's gained from people over its 43 years of serving those in need in St. Joseph. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Adopt A Family takes care of those in need for successful 43rd year of program

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/0WyF6NfiLMrK6Em6OXTXfY?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/1r8tcIXIbnWB3ohc0BoXvH?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Falls from tree stands have surpassed firearm-related incidents as the leading cause of injury for deer hunters, according to a recent national study. While environmental factors and equipment failure play a role, experts say human error is a primary driver of these accidents.

Megan Anderson, an injury prevention coordinator at Emplify Health by Gundersen, noted that while bad weather and faulty stand construction contribute to falls, many incidents occur simply because a hunter loses their balance while perched on the platform.

To mitigate these risks, Anderson recommends that all hunters wear a full-body harness. Safety advocates emphasize that a harness can provide a critical fail-safe for those positioned on wooden platforms high above the ground.

The safety warning comes as several deer hunting seasons remain active, with some set to run through Jan. 25. The risk is widespread, as statistics show that 80% of firearm hunters and 90% of bow hunters utilize tree stands during the season.

By RYAN SKAITHFalls from tree stands have surpassed firearm-related incidents as the leading cause of injury for deer hunters, according to a recent national study. While environmental factors and equipment failure play a role, experts say human error is a primary driver of these accidents.Megan Anderson, an injury prevention coordinator at Emplify Health by Gundersen, noted that while bad weather and faulty stand construction contribute to falls, many incidents occur simply because a hunter loses their balance while perched on the platform.To mitigate these risks, Anderson recommends that all hunters wear a full-body harness. Safety advocates emphasize that a harness can provide a critical fail-safe for those positioned on wooden platforms high above the ground.The safety warning comes as several deer hunting seasons remain active, with some set to run through Jan. 25. The risk is widespread, as statistics show that 80% of firearm hunters and 90% of bow hunters utilize tree stands during the season.

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