Eight of the nine St. Joseph School Board candidates still in
the race spoke at the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce forum Thursday morning, an
hour-long event broadcast live on KFEQ.

School Board President LaTonya Williams told the Chamber
audience it is made up of some of the most influential people in St. Joseph and
that she represents those not in the room.

“As a child, I was in LD (Learning Disabilities) classes over
my stutter and to go from LD classes to the president of our school board is an
amazing accomplishment that I never imagined that I would have,” Williams
stated.

The forum held as a Chamber Public Affairs Coffee in the
conference room at the Stoney Creek Inn drew a packed crowd.

School Board Vice President Kenneth Reeder told the group he
is who he has always been.

“I remain, number one, an advocate for the taxpayers,” Reeder
said. “You guys are paying the bills. That’s why I’m on the school board and
want to be on the school board. Taxpayer first and then everything that will happen,
happens okay, because you trust us with your money.”

Reeder said he remains committed to early childhood education
and raising teacher pay.

Former school board member Tami Pasley said she is running again,
because she has a passion for the students and public education. Pasley pointed
out she has spent 34 years in education.

“Also to serve as the president of the Missouri State Teachers
Association, which is an association, not a union; 44,000 members across this
state,” Pasley said. “I was able to be the voice of Missouri Teachers as I
worked with both DESE (Department of Secondary and Elementary Education) and
the state legislature.”

Altec Engineering Manager, Mike Moore, said he had a simple
reason to get in the race.

“My ‘why’ for running is really because a well-supported,
highly functioning school district is absolutely critical to our community and our
businesses, quite frankly, with work force challenges that we’ve all had,” Moore
stated.

Jacob McMillian is the pastor of Journey Baptist Church.

“I want to make St. Joe a destination district,” McMillian
said. “I want to make it to where we can recruit and retain not only teachers,
but students and families, also. And the way we need to do that is improve
academic success. We’ve got to secure accreditation.”

Warren Ingram works for United Airlines and said that
education had shifted away from good-paying, high-skilled manufacturing jobs.

“I wanted to try and get back to the basics of blue collar
work,” Ingram said. “It seems that we’ve gotten rid of a lot of the shop
classes, a lot of that area of schooling that we need to get back to.”

Ingram said many Chamber members have experienced a shortage
of high-skill workers.

Sean Connors told the crowd he learned about service as the
son of a police officer.

“Service was always modeled for me,” Connors said. “And that’s
what I wanted to give back to the city of St. Joseph through the school board.”

Connors has worked in the classroom and said discipline issues
have hurt academics.

Missouri Western State University education instructor, Ronda
Chesney, is a former St. Joseph School District teacher.

“I want to be a collaborative member of this school board
where we can work together and make good decisions for our children,
financially and academically, so that the people in our community will want to
send their children to our schools,” Chesney said, adding she wants to shine
the light on the good things happening in the district.

Candidate Kim Dragoo did not attend the forum. Candidate Steven
Carrillo has dropped out of the race.

St. Joseph School District voters will elect three members to the St. Joseph Board of Education April 2nd.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711050122304.jpeg" alt="The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce hosted a forum for St. Joseph School Board candidates as part of its Public Affairs Coffee series broadcast live on KFEQ/Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce" />
 <figcaption>The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce hosted a forum for St. Joseph School Board candidates as part of its Public Affairs Coffee series broadcast live on KFEQ/Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostEight of the nine St. Joseph School Board candidates still in
the race spoke at the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce forum Thursday morning, an
hour-long event broadcast live on KFEQ.School Board President LaTonya Williams told the Chamber
audience it is made up of some of the most influential people in St. Joseph and
that she represents those not in the room.“As a child, I was in LD (Learning Disabilities) classes over
my stutter and to go from LD classes to the president of our school board is an
amazing accomplishment that I never imagined that I would have,” Williams
stated.The forum held as a Chamber Public Affairs Coffee in the
conference room at the Stoney Creek Inn drew a packed crowd.School Board Vice President Kenneth Reeder told the group he
is who he has always been.“I remain, number one, an advocate for the taxpayers,” Reeder
said. “You guys are paying the bills. That’s why I’m on the school board and
want to be on the school board. Taxpayer first and then everything that will happen,
happens okay, because you trust us with your money.”Reeder said he remains committed to early childhood education
and raising teacher pay.Former school board member Tami Pasley said she is running again,
because she has a passion for the students and public education. Pasley pointed
out she has spent 34 years in education.“Also to serve as the president of the Missouri State Teachers
Association, which is an association, not a union; 44,000 members across this
state,” Pasley said. “I was able to be the voice of Missouri Teachers as I
worked with both DESE (Department of Secondary and Elementary Education) and
the state legislature.”Altec Engineering Manager, Mike Moore, said he had a simple
reason to get in the race.“My ‘why’ for running is really because a well-supported,
highly functioning school district is absolutely critical to our community and our
businesses, quite frankly, with work force challenges that we’ve all had,” Moore
stated.Jacob McMillian is the pastor of Journey Baptist Church.“I want to make St. Joe a destination district,” McMillian
said. “I want to make it to where we can recruit and retain not only teachers,
but students and families, also. And the way we need to do that is improve
academic success. We’ve got to secure accreditation.”Warren Ingram works for United Airlines and said that
education had shifted away from good-paying, high-skilled manufacturing jobs.“I wanted to try and get back to the basics of blue collar
work,” Ingram said. “It seems that we’ve gotten rid of a lot of the shop
classes, a lot of that area of schooling that we need to get back to.”Ingram said many Chamber members have experienced a shortage
of high-skill workers.Sean Connors told the crowd he learned about service as the
son of a police officer.“Service was always modeled for me,” Connors said. “And that’s
what I wanted to give back to the city of St. Joseph through the school board.”Connors has worked in the classroom and said discipline issues
have hurt academics.Missouri Western State University education instructor, Ronda
Chesney, is a former St. Joseph School District teacher.“I want to be a collaborative member of this school board
where we can work together and make good decisions for our children,
financially and academically, so that the people in our community will want to
send their children to our schools,” Chesney said, adding she wants to shine
the light on the good things happening in the district.Candidate Kim Dragoo did not attend the forum. Candidate Steven
Carrillo has dropped out of the race.St. Joseph School District voters will elect three members to the St. Joseph Board of Education April 2nd.LISTEN TO FULL FORUM HERE:&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Full-St--Joseph-School-Board-Candidate-forum-e2hd3lb/a-ab3fa73" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>WATCH FULL FORUM HERE:<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7DSpRfTA_d8?si=R5A0lgzh3KHP8kFi" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>LISTEN TO THE JOURNAL HERE:&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Forum-introduces-St--Joseph-to-School-Board-Candidates-e2hd798/a-ab3ficn" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph School Board candidates outline goals in Chamber forum

KANSAS CITY —A third adult has been charged in connection with the fatal shooting of Lisa Lopez-Galvan on Feb. 14 and the wounding of at least 25 others outside Union Station in Kansas City after the celebration of the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl victory, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

Terry J. Young, 20,&nbsp; faces Murder in the 2nd Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon and two counts of Armed Criminal &nbsp;Action.

According to court records filed today, after the Chiefs' Super Bowl Parade at least 25 victims suffered gunshot wounds and Lopez-Galvan, 43, died from her wounds. The victims were caught in gunfire after the defendant and other individuals fired weapons in response to a verbal argument. Young and two other individuals walked up to an individual in another group. 

A verbal argument commenced. After one individual pulled out a firearm, Young pulled out a firearm and pointed it at and advanced toward the first individual. A review of surveillance video showed Young appearing to shoot several times. 

Police detectives searched the defendant's public social media that showed the defendant wearing the same distinctive backpack seen in the Union Station surveillance video. The cell phone data also showed the device was in the area of the shooting when it occurred.

&nbsp;Two other adults already face charges. Two juveniles also face charges in Family Court.

Prosecutor Baker said that she has experienced major investigations in her tenure as prosecutor, but the breath of the police investigation and the number of individuals impacted by these Feb. 14 shootings outside Union Stations stretches beyond anything she has seen before. "We get complicated cases, but this case has been challenging," she said.

But Baker noted police and prosecutors have reached an important point. &nbsp;"Everyone we've identified who discharged a firearm in response to the verbal altercation detailed here has been taken into custody," Baker said.

All involved shooters in this incident are in custody of adult and juvenile authorities. But, due to the scope of this continuing investigation, additional charges are still expected.&nbsp;

Baker praised KCPD homicide detectives who have worked this case and have closely collaborated with prosecutors. "Their response has been remarkable and quick given the size of this effort," Baker said.&nbsp;

Prosecutors requested Young be held on a $1 million cash bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711055357446.png" alt="Young-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Young-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A third adult has been charged in connection with the fatal shooting of Lisa Lopez-Galvan on Feb. 14 and the wounding of at least 25 others outside Union Station in Kansas City after the celebration of the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl victory, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.Terry J. Young, 20,&nbsp; faces Murder in the 2nd Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon and two counts of Armed Criminal &nbsp;Action.According to court records filed today, after the Chiefs' Super Bowl Parade at least 25 victims suffered gunshot wounds and Lopez-Galvan, 43, died from her wounds. The victims were caught in gunfire after the defendant and other individuals fired weapons in response to a verbal argument. Young and two other individuals walked up to an individual in another group. A verbal argument commenced. After one individual pulled out a firearm, Young pulled out a firearm and pointed it at and advanced toward the first individual. A review of surveillance video showed Young appearing to shoot several times. Police detectives searched the defendant's public social media that showed the defendant wearing the same distinctive backpack seen in the Union Station surveillance video. The cell phone data also showed the device was in the area of the shooting when it occurred.&nbsp;Two other adults already face charges. Two juveniles also face charges in Family Court.Prosecutor Baker said that she has experienced major investigations in her tenure as prosecutor, but the breath of the police investigation and the number of individuals impacted by these Feb. 14 shootings outside Union Stations stretches beyond anything she has seen before. "We get complicated cases, but this case has been challenging," she said.But Baker noted police and prosecutors have reached an important point. &nbsp;"Everyone we've identified who discharged a firearm in response to the verbal altercation detailed here has been taken into custody," Baker said.All involved shooters in this incident are in custody of adult and juvenile authorities. But, due to the scope of this continuing investigation, additional charges are still expected.&nbsp;Baker praised KCPD homicide detectives who have worked this case and have closely collaborated with prosecutors. "Their response has been remarkable and quick given the size of this effort," Baker said.&nbsp;Prosecutors requested Young be held on a $1 million cash bond.

Third adult charged in deadly shooting at Chiefs rally

A new program called St. Joseph Reads has a goal of teaching the St. Joseph community the importance of being literate.  

The goal of the program is using literacy to help improve both the community and individuals' lives 

Chairperson Carol Burns says one purpose of the initiative is to help people in the community know all the resources available to them. 

"We have some incredible libraries that are tremendous resources to our community, and we want to encourage people to take advantage of them," Burns tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "It's already here, it can be something as simple as taking your child to the library, participating in story hour, or if you don't have a library card getting a library card." 

Burns says the importance of literacy is something she feels that people have simply forgotten about, something she says the world has seen over the last decade 

"Literacy rates have dropped, and children are struggling with literacy, it was a fact before COVID but then COVID greatly increased the difficulties that children had with literacy," Burns explains. "And it's something that I feel like we've been hearing about for quite a long time." 

Burns says she feels this is something the community can come together to find ways to work together and enhance literacy in St. Joseph to improve the community.  

Burns says the group has worked on several programs that target almost every age group to share the importance of reading.

"We support the Dolly Parton (Imagination Library) and that's zero to five, and then we're getting kids ready for school with the kindergarten readiness so if we get that information out to parents," Burns says. "And it's kind of like a building block, we're looking at all ages of children and how what can we offer them, how can we help them."

Burns says the goal of the program is to help kids get through struggles with reading and show how fun it can be. 

A kickoff event introducing the program to the community will be held this evening at the East Hills Library from 4 to 5:30pm.&nbsp;The group also has several other projects in the works to encourage people to read. 

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

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post A new program called St. Joseph Reads has a goal of teaching the St. Joseph community the importance of being literate. The goal of the program is using literacy to help improve both the community and individuals' lives Chairperson Carol Burns says one purpose of the initiative is to help people in the community know all the resources available to them. "We have some incredible libraries that are tremendous resources to our community, and we want to encourage people to take advantage of them," Burns tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "It's already here, it can be something as simple as taking your child to the library, participating in story hour, or if you don't have a library card getting a library card." Burns says the importance of literacy is something she feels that people have simply forgotten about, something she says the world has seen over the last decade "Literacy rates have dropped, and children are struggling with literacy, it was a fact before COVID but then COVID greatly increased the difficulties that children had with literacy," Burns explains. "And it's something that I feel like we've been hearing about for quite a long time." Burns says she feels this is something the community can come together to find ways to work together and enhance literacy in St. Joseph to improve the community. Burns says the group has worked on several programs that target almost every age group to share the importance of reading."We support the Dolly Parton (Imagination Library) and that's zero to five, and then we're getting kids ready for school with the kindergarten readiness so if we get that information out to parents," Burns says. "And it's kind of like a building block, we're looking at all ages of children and how what can we offer them, how can we help them."Burns says the goal of the program is to help kids get through struggles with reading and show how fun it can be. A kickoff event introducing the program to the community will be held this evening at the East Hills Library from 4 to 5:30pm.&nbsp;The group also has several other projects in the works to encourage people to read. <div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/St--Joseph-Reads-showing-importance-of-reading-e2hcqem" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph Reads strives to spread the importance of literacy to the community

KFEQ's Brent Martin hosts the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce St. Joseph School District Candidate Forum, during the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce Public Affairs Coffee.&nbsp;

The forum will begin at 8 a.m. and will be streamed live from the Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center.

The forum is airing live on KFEQ (<a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/live-stream/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a>) , you can watch the candidate forum live on Youtube by clicking <a href="https://youtube.com/live/7DSpRfTA_d8?feature=share">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680121848113.png" alt="The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce is holding a candidate forum featuring candidates running for the St. Joseph School Board, the forum is hosted by KFEQ and St. Joseph Posts Brent Martin/ file photo" />
 <figcaption>The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce is holding a candidate forum featuring candidates running for the St. Joseph School Board, the forum is hosted by KFEQ and St. Joseph Posts Brent Martin/ file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>KFEQ's Brent Martin hosts the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce St. Joseph School District Candidate Forum, during the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce Public Affairs Coffee.&nbsp;The forum will begin at 8 a.m. and will be streamed live from the Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center.The forum is airing live on KFEQ (<a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/live-stream/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a>) , you can watch the candidate forum live on Youtube by clicking <a href="https://youtube.com/live/7DSpRfTA_d8?feature=share">HERE</a>.

LISTEN/WATCH LIVE: St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce hosts St. Joseph School District candidate forum

GENTRY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 9:30p.m. Wednesday in Gentry County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Chevy Impala driven by Leslie W. Potts, 35, Rosendale, was eastbound on U.S. 136 two miles north of Stanberry.

The driver failed to negotiate a curve. The car traveled off the north side of the road, struck a ditch and came to rest in the ditch

Grand River EMS transported Potts to Mosaic of Albany. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

GENTRY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 9:30p.m. Wednesday in Gentry County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Chevy Impala driven by Leslie W. Potts, 35, Rosendale, was eastbound on U.S. 136 two miles north of Stanberry.The driver failed to negotiate a curve. The car traveled off the north side of the road, struck a ditch and came to rest in the ditchGrand River EMS transported Potts to Mosaic of Albany. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man injured after car travels into a ditch

The St. Joseph City Council is seeking eligible residents from its District II to fill a vacant seat on the city council following Taylor Crouse's resignation.  

Mayor John Josendale says interested residents should come to city hall and submit a letter of interest to finish out the two-year term. 

Josendale says starting on March 29th, the council will begin an interview process with interested parties.  

"We'll then have each councilmember rank the people in their order then that will be tallied by the clerk," Josendale explains to KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "From that we'll take the top two and then that would be a vote of the council on a written ballot." 

Josendale says there are a few requirements interested residents should keep in mind.  

"They have to have lived in the city for a year, have to have lived in the district for at least the last six months, they have to have all their taxes, and everything paid, so those are some of the requirements," Josendale says.  

Residents from District II interested in filling the vacant seat should file a letter of intent to run at City Hall.  

Submissions will be reviewed by the council during an April 1st work session and mandatory interviews will take place on April 4th.  The city will then vote on the candidate to fill the vacancy during a meeting on April 9th. All meetings will be held in open session, allowing public attendance.  

The council hopes to swear in the candidate prior to the April 15th City Council meeting. 

Josendale says having to fill a vacant seat has only happened a couple of times, the most recent coming just a few years ago.  

"When actually at that time the deputy mayor died and had to be replaced on council," Josendale points out.  "But it's much more prevalent if a councilmember that lives in a specific district moves out of that district, which is what's happening in this case." 

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The St. Joseph City Council is seeking eligible residents from its District II to fill a vacant seat on the city council following Taylor Crouse's resignation. Mayor John Josendale says interested residents should come to city hall and submit a letter of interest to finish out the two-year term. Josendale says starting on March 29th, the council will begin an interview process with interested parties. "We'll then have each councilmember rank the people in their order then that will be tallied by the clerk," Josendale explains to KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "From that we'll take the top two and then that would be a vote of the council on a written ballot." Josendale says there are a few requirements interested residents should keep in mind. "They have to have lived in the city for a year, have to have lived in the district for at least the last six months, they have to have all their taxes, and everything paid, so those are some of the requirements," Josendale says. Residents from District II interested in filling the vacant seat should file a letter of intent to run at City Hall. Submissions will be reviewed by the council during an April 1st work session and mandatory interviews will take place on April 4th. The city will then vote on the candidate to fill the vacancy during a meeting on April 9th. All meetings will be held in open session, allowing public attendance. The council hopes to swear in the candidate prior to the April 15th City Council meeting. Josendale says having to fill a vacant seat has only happened a couple of times, the most recent coming just a few years ago. "When actually at that time the deputy mayor died and had to be replaced on council," Josendale points out. "But it's much more prevalent if a councilmember that lives in a specific district moves out of that district, which is what's happening in this case."

St. Joseph City Council begins process to fill vacant District II seat

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson says while the state is concerned
about the future of the 139th Airlift Wing in St. Joseph, it
believes recent investments at Rosecrans Memorial Airport should ensure its
future.

Parson acknowledges the state was worried a bit when the
Pentagon passed over the 139th to award the first round of new C-130
cargo planes.

“Well, I don’t think there’s any question we’re concerned
about it, but we do feel like we got a pretty good opportunity last time,
because a lot of those orders were filled to other installations. So, we feel
like we should be at the top of that list,” Parson tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “But
what we feel and what happens in Washington, D.C. are two different things. I
think we have a good chance to get the C-130Js here.”

The 139th has a fleet of C-130H planes. It is
awaiting word on whether it will receive the upgraded C-130J models.

Parson says erecting a new air traffic control tower and
terminal building at Rosecrans should be enough for the Pentagon to upgrade the
139th’s cargo planes from the “H” model to the “J” model.

“All the upkeeps they’re doing, all the updates they’re doing
and then just some of the new parts of the facility, new tower they’re going to
build and things like that are important. You have a tower out there that’s 50
years old. It probably doesn’t even meet the height requirements you have
today. Making those changes I think, showing that we’re real serious about
making investments in our state, should be a signal to the military that, hey,
we’re going to be here for the long haul.”

Parson visited the 139th as part of the Missouri
Military Preparedness and Enhancement Commission quarterly meeting. He also
held a book signing at the downtown St. Joseph Library and made a visit to
Missouri Western State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710877005040.jpeg" alt="Gov. Mike Parson/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Mike Parson/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Gov. Mike Parson says while the state is concerned
about the future of the 139th Airlift Wing in St. Joseph, it
believes recent investments at Rosecrans Memorial Airport should ensure its
future.Parson acknowledges the state was worried a bit when the
Pentagon passed over the 139th to award the first round of new C-130
cargo planes.“Well, I don’t think there’s any question we’re concerned
about it, but we do feel like we got a pretty good opportunity last time,
because a lot of those orders were filled to other installations. So, we feel
like we should be at the top of that list,” Parson tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “But
what we feel and what happens in Washington, D.C. are two different things. I
think we have a good chance to get the C-130Js here.”The 139th has a fleet of C-130H planes. It is
awaiting word on whether it will receive the upgraded C-130J models.Parson says erecting a new air traffic control tower and
terminal building at Rosecrans should be enough for the Pentagon to upgrade the
139th’s cargo planes from the “H” model to the “J” model.“All the upkeeps they’re doing, all the updates they’re doing
and then just some of the new parts of the facility, new tower they’re going to
build and things like that are important. You have a tower out there that’s 50
years old. It probably doesn’t even meet the height requirements you have
today. Making those changes I think, showing that we’re real serious about
making investments in our state, should be a signal to the military that, hey,
we’re going to be here for the long haul.”Parson visited the 139th as part of the Missouri
Military Preparedness and Enhancement Commission quarterly meeting. He also
held a book signing at the downtown St. Joseph Library and made a visit to
Missouri Western State University.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Gov. Parson confident 139th will get the new C-130J cargo planes

KANSAS CITY —A woman wounded in an officer-involved shooting is now in jail.

&nbsp;Zina Sokoli, 41, was charged with 1st degree Aggravated Assault on a Special Victim, according to the Platte County&nbsp;Prosecutor’s Office. She was released from the hospital Tuesday evening and is being held in the Platte County Detention Center with no bond, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

Just after 10a.m. Tuesday, police responded to North Ambassador Drive and NW Polo Drive of a call from petitioner of an ex parte order of protection who had concerns about the respondent, Zina Sokoli, and wanted police to speak to the respondent, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol who is in charge of the investigation.

As the two officers responded along North Ambassador Drive they observed Sokoki, the respondent, walking along the road. Officers attempted to speak with her. She was not compliant.&nbsp; She was armed and presented a hand gun. One of the officers discharged his duty gun and wounded her.

&nbsp;Officers immediately rendered medical aid&nbsp; and she was transported to an area hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries. No officers were injured.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710870969303.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A woman wounded in an officer-involved shooting is now in jail.&nbsp;Zina Sokoli, 41, was charged with 1st degree Aggravated Assault on a Special Victim, according to the Platte County&nbsp;Prosecutor’s Office. She was released from the hospital Tuesday evening and is being held in the Platte County Detention Center with no bond, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710935879289.png" alt="Sokoli-photo Platte Co." />
 <figcaption>Sokoli-photo Platte Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 10a.m. Tuesday, police responded to North Ambassador Drive and NW Polo Drive of a call from petitioner of an ex parte order of protection who had concerns about the respondent, Zina Sokoli, and wanted police to speak to the respondent, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol who is in charge of the investigation.As the two officers responded along North Ambassador Drive they observed Sokoki, the respondent, walking along the road. Officers attempted to speak with her. She was not compliant.&nbsp; She was armed and presented a hand gun. One of the officers discharged his duty gun and wounded her.&nbsp;Officers immediately rendered medical aid&nbsp; and she was transported to an area hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries. No officers were injured.

Woman wounded in KC officer shooting moved from hospital to jail

Members of the Missouri Military Preparedness and Enhancement Commission
met at the 139th Airlift Wing as the Missouri Air National Guard
awaits word on whether the wing based at Rosecrans Memorial Airport will receive
the upgraded C-130 cargo planes.

Missouri Military Advocate, Harry Roberts, says the commission
met Tuesday at the air base as the 139th waits for the Pentagon to
give the go ahead for Rosecrans to receive upgraded C-130s.

“If we’re able to secure those here for the 139th,
it’ll probably guarantee the mission here for another 30 to 40 years,” Roberts
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “Do I think we’re at a threat? Sure, you’re always
at a threat until you are able to secure that next set of air frames.”

Roberts, the former Buchanan County Presiding Commissioner,
says it is important for the commission to tour military installations across
the state. And while Whiteman Air Force Base in Knob Noster is known internationally
as the sole base for the B-2 stealth bomber and Ft. Leonard Wood has a
commanding presence as an Army base, the 139th based is not
overlooked. Roberts points out the 139th has an international
presence since it trains NATO crews and others at its Advanced Airlift Tactics
Training Center.

The Air National Guard unit at Rosecrans had hoped to be among
the first units to receive the new C-130J cargo planes to replace its C-130H fleet.
The Pentagon, though, passed over the base with its first allocations of the “J”
model.

Roberts points out the Air Guard has many more units to
upgrade, giving St. Joseph time.

“You have to have a minimum of 271 C-130s in the fleet,”
according to Roberts. “So, that helps make sure that we’re not really right now
at a big threat of losing our mission here, but it also helps extend the time
period in which we’re able to secure those new aircraft.”

Two factors play in St. Joseph’s favor. The 139th
Airlift Wing is in the midst of building an entirely new headquarters at
Rosecrans, in the northern portion of the airfield, away from the flood plain.
Rosecrans Memorial Airport is undergoing a complete makeover, something that
will replace an air traffic control tower and buildings constructed in the
1950s. A new runway has been opened. Construction is underway for other
improvements.

Gov. Mike Parson appointed Roberts Missouri Military Advocate
in 2022. In the role, Roberts has the task of keeping watch over a military
presence that generates considerable economic impact to Missouri.

“The overall economic impact to the state of Missouri, if you
figure all of it in, with our installations and also our defense contractors, like
Boeing and Honeywell, it can be worth anywhere between $10 to 15 billion of
federal funding a year,” Roberts states.

Roberts, who still lives in St. Joseph while working in
Jefferson City, says it was especially gratifying for him to show off the 139th
to the commission members.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710873460626.jpeg" alt="The 139th Airlift Wing C-130H cargo planes at Rosecrans Memorial Airport/file photo" />
 <figcaption>The 139th Airlift Wing C-130H cargo planes at Rosecrans Memorial Airport/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMembers of the Missouri Military Preparedness and Enhancement Commission
met at the 139th Airlift Wing as the Missouri Air National Guard
awaits word on whether the wing based at Rosecrans Memorial Airport will receive
the upgraded C-130 cargo planes.Missouri Military Advocate, Harry Roberts, says the commission
met Tuesday at the air base as the 139th waits for the Pentagon to
give the go ahead for Rosecrans to receive upgraded C-130s.“If we’re able to secure those here for the 139th,
it’ll probably guarantee the mission here for another 30 to 40 years,” Roberts
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “Do I think we’re at a threat? Sure, you’re always
at a threat until you are able to secure that next set of air frames.”Roberts, the former Buchanan County Presiding Commissioner,
says it is important for the commission to tour military installations across
the state. And while Whiteman Air Force Base in Knob Noster is known internationally
as the sole base for the B-2 stealth bomber and Ft. Leonard Wood has a
commanding presence as an Army base, the 139th based is not
overlooked. Roberts points out the 139th has an international
presence since it trains NATO crews and others at its Advanced Airlift Tactics
Training Center.The Air National Guard unit at Rosecrans had hoped to be among
the first units to receive the new C-130J cargo planes to replace its C-130H fleet.
The Pentagon, though, passed over the base with its first allocations of the “J”
model.Roberts points out the Air Guard has many more units to
upgrade, giving St. Joseph time.“You have to have a minimum of 271 C-130s in the fleet,”
according to Roberts. “So, that helps make sure that we’re not really right now
at a big threat of losing our mission here, but it also helps extend the time
period in which we’re able to secure those new aircraft.”Two factors play in St. Joseph’s favor. The 139th
Airlift Wing is in the midst of building an entirely new headquarters at
Rosecrans, in the northern portion of the airfield, away from the flood plain.
Rosecrans Memorial Airport is undergoing a complete makeover, something that
will replace an air traffic control tower and buildings constructed in the
1950s. A new runway has been opened. Construction is underway for other
improvements.Gov. Mike Parson appointed Roberts Missouri Military Advocate
in 2022. In the role, Roberts has the task of keeping watch over a military
presence that generates considerable economic impact to Missouri.“The overall economic impact to the state of Missouri, if you
figure all of it in, with our installations and also our defense contractors, like
Boeing and Honeywell, it can be worth anywhere between $10 to 15 billion of
federal funding a year,” Roberts states.Roberts, who still lives in St. Joseph while working in
Jefferson City, says it was especially gratifying for him to show off the 139th
to the commission members.<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Military-preparedness-meeting-held-in-St--Joseph-e2h9shh" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Military commission meets at 139th as it awaits word on upgraded planes

CLINTON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Tuesday in Clinton County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Kia Sorento driven by Kam A. Montgomery, 44, Lathrop, was northbound on SE Cannon Ball Road four miles south of Lathrop.

The SUV was traveling too fast for road conditions. It traveled off the east side of the road and struck a tree. Holt ambulance transported Montgomery to Liberty Hospital he was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

CLINTON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Tuesday in Clinton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Kia Sorento driven by Kam A. Montgomery, 44, Lathrop, was northbound on SE Cannon Ball Road four miles south of Lathrop.The SUV was traveling too fast for road conditions. It traveled off the east side of the road and struck a tree. Holt ambulance transported Montgomery to Liberty Hospital he was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man hospitalized after SUV strikes a tree

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A 16-year-old boy is facing a new felony charge over the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-super-bowl-parade-shooting-kansas-city-d9f4466b69cbb2dfe0f007414aebe730">mass shooting</a>&nbsp;at the Kansas City Chiefs’&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-chiefs-dynasty-kansas-city-d16a308684d97a6be2d269c8d56404be">Super Bowl celebration</a>&nbsp;that killed one person and wounded almost two dozen others, local juvenile authorities said Tuesday.

Authorities said the teenager was arraigned Tuesday on a charge of unlawful use of a weapon in shooting at a person. He was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-super-bowl-parade-shooting-kansas-city-278e2d3e2cfece1cbe958511e54127ad">being held</a>&nbsp;since the Feb. 14 mass shooting on a lesser felony charge of resisting arrest. For an adult offender, the new charge would be punishable by between five and 15 years in prison.

Authorities said that a Jackson County Family Court judge will hold a hearing to determine whether the teenager will be tried as an adult.

A second 16-year-old also continues to be held on a lesser gun charge.

State authorities also have charged two men&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-super-bowl-celebration-shooting-charges-7cb29dc9956d325103df9bf766a0c407">with second-degree murder</a>&nbsp;and several weapons counts in connection with the shootings. Police said the shooting happened when one group of people confronted another for staring at them.

In addition, three other Missouri men&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-super-bowl-shooting-kansas-city-parade-57662b493b2d987288dabca4bc5fd6f1">have been charged</a>&nbsp;in the shooting aftermath with federal counts related to the illegal purchase of high-powered rifles and guns with extended magazines.

Unsealed federal court documents said 12 people brandished firearms and at least six people fired weapons at the rally, which drew an estimated 1 million people to downtown Kansas City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708018861457.jpeg" alt="File Police clear the area following a shooting at the Kansas City Chiefs NFL football Super Bowl celebration in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. Multiple people were injured, a fire official said.(AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)." />
 <figcaption>File Police clear the area following a shooting at the Kansas City Chiefs NFL football Super Bowl celebration in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. Multiple people were injured, a fire official said.(AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann).</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A 16-year-old boy is facing a new felony charge over the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-super-bowl-parade-shooting-kansas-city-d9f4466b69cbb2dfe0f007414aebe730">mass shooting</a>&nbsp;at the Kansas City Chiefs’&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-chiefs-dynasty-kansas-city-d16a308684d97a6be2d269c8d56404be">Super Bowl celebration</a>&nbsp;that killed one person and wounded almost two dozen others, local juvenile authorities said Tuesday.Authorities said the teenager was arraigned Tuesday on a charge of unlawful use of a weapon in shooting at a person. He was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-super-bowl-parade-shooting-kansas-city-278e2d3e2cfece1cbe958511e54127ad">being held</a>&nbsp;since the Feb. 14 mass shooting on a lesser felony charge of resisting arrest. For an adult offender, the new charge would be punishable by between five and 15 years in prison.Authorities said that a Jackson County Family Court judge will hold a hearing to determine whether the teenager will be tried as an adult.A second 16-year-old also continues to be held on a lesser gun charge.State authorities also have charged two men&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-super-bowl-celebration-shooting-charges-7cb29dc9956d325103df9bf766a0c407">with second-degree murder</a>&nbsp;and several weapons counts in connection with the shootings. Police said the shooting happened when one group of people confronted another for staring at them.In addition, three other Missouri men&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-super-bowl-shooting-kansas-city-parade-57662b493b2d987288dabca4bc5fd6f1">have been charged</a>&nbsp;in the shooting aftermath with federal counts related to the illegal purchase of high-powered rifles and guns with extended magazines.Unsealed federal court documents said 12 people brandished firearms and at least six people fired weapons at the rally, which drew an estimated 1 million people to downtown Kansas City.

Teen faces new felony charge over the shooting at Chiefs' celebration

BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating three suspects on drug allegations.

Just after 10 p.m. Sunday, the Brown County Sheriffs Office Drug Task Force and Horton Police initiated a search warrant in Horton at a residence located at 137 W. 11th, according to Sheriff John Merchant.

Arrested on requested charges of Possession of Meth, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia were 42-year-old Jamie Long of Horton and 32-year-old Skyler Pahmahmie of Horton.&nbsp;

Arrested on charges of Possession of Meth andPossession of Drug Paraphernalia was 53-year-old Tisha Thomas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710795290296.png" alt="Pahmahmie-Brown Co." />
 <figcaption>Pahmahmie-Brown Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating three suspects on drug allegations.Just after 10 p.m. Sunday, the Brown County Sheriffs Office Drug Task Force and Horton Police initiated a search warrant in Horton at a residence located at 137 W. 11th, according to Sheriff John Merchant.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710795337429.png" alt="Long-photo Brown Co." />
 <figcaption>Long-photo Brown Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Arrested on requested charges of Possession of Meth, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia were 42-year-old Jamie Long of Horton and 32-year-old Skyler Pahmahmie of Horton.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710795370809.png" alt="Thomas-photo Brown Co." />
 <figcaption>Thomas-photo Brown Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Arrested on charges of Possession of Meth andPossession of Drug Paraphernalia was 53-year-old Tisha Thomas.

3 arrested after drug bust at Kansas home

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 6a.m. Tuesday in Livingston County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Toyota Camry driven by Michael S. Kinnison, 44, Salisbury, was westbound on U.S. 36 in Wheeling.

The car struck the left rear side of a 30-foot camper pulled by a 2003 Chevy Avalanche that had broken down and was blocking part of the driving lane.&nbsp;

The impact ripped out the left side of the camper and caused the Camry to overturn and strike the driver of the Avalanche identified as Heather L. Bolonyi-Holt, 39, St. Joseph, who was outside the vehicle.

Life-Flight transported Bolonyi-Holt to University Hospital. Kinnison was properly restrained and refused treatment at the scene, according to the MSHP.

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 6a.m. Tuesday in Livingston County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Toyota Camry driven by Michael S. Kinnison, 44, Salisbury, was westbound on U.S. 36 in Wheeling.The car struck the left rear side of a 30-foot camper pulled by a 2003 Chevy Avalanche that had broken down and was blocking part of the driving lane.&nbsp;The impact ripped out the left side of the camper and caused the Camry to overturn and strike the driver of the Avalanche identified as Heather L. Bolonyi-Holt, 39, St. Joseph, who was outside the vehicle.Life-Flight transported Bolonyi-Holt to University Hospital. Kinnison was properly restrained and refused treatment at the scene, according to the MSHP.

St. Joe woman air-lifted to hospital after struck by car

ST. JOSEPH —On Tuesday, Governor Mike Parson held a book signing for,&nbsp;No Turnin' Back, a commemorative biography about his life.

Governor Parson said. "Like so many Missouri families, Teresa and I have truly lived our American Dream, one of faith, family, and patriotic service. Life has pulled us in many different directions, but readers will find that everything led us here, to the opportunity of a lifetime to serve as the Governor and First Lady of the State of Missouri."&nbsp;

More information about the book can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnNhZmVvcmRlcmluZy5jb20vdXN0b3JldGhlbWVzL0FxdWFCbHVlLzEzMS9lbi1VUy9ob21lLyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjMuOTA3MTQ2NzEifQ.-_PFtG_istzC3Qe8dk6pGOeO7ENoNyPVK-Su4HLtGkQ/s/1504799427/br/237629881131-l__;!!EErPFA7f--AJOw!EVQO8qBNE3EsiH4cEu13pjZN0PLyEkHerH97UEvqeas3whqodLZsybUgOjKZvZ9w2QMeFeSgr6Yhm5ahUPbOUF7zq7RnMvcRS-NjCsJFVJRH$" target="_blank">mikeparson.com.</a>

ST. JOSEPH —On Tuesday, Governor Mike Parson held a book signing for,&nbsp;No Turnin' Back, a commemorative biography about his life.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thank you to the Historic Downtown Library in St. Joseph for hosting us for a No Turnin’ Back book signing event. We hope all who came out truly enjoy the book, a story of faith, family, and freedom! <a href="https://t.co/3tY1Zaf6x1">pic.twitter.com/3tY1Zaf6x1</a>&mdash; Governor Mike Parson (@GovParsonMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovParsonMO/status/1770146407728427253?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Governor Parson said. "Like so many Missouri families, Teresa and I have truly lived our American Dream, one of faith, family, and patriotic service. Life has pulled us in many different directions, but readers will find that everything led us here, to the opportunity of a lifetime to serve as the Governor and First Lady of the State of Missouri."&nbsp;More information about the book can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnNhZmVvcmRlcmluZy5jb20vdXN0b3JldGhlbWVzL0FxdWFCbHVlLzEzMS9lbi1VUy9ob21lLyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjMuOTA3MTQ2NzEifQ.-_PFtG_istzC3Qe8dk6pGOeO7ENoNyPVK-Su4HLtGkQ/s/1504799427/br/237629881131-l__;!!EErPFA7f--AJOw!EVQO8qBNE3EsiH4cEu13pjZN0PLyEkHerH97UEvqeas3whqodLZsybUgOjKZvZ9w2QMeFeSgr6Yhm5ahUPbOUF7zq7RnMvcRS-NjCsJFVJRH$" target="_blank">mikeparson.com.</a>

Governor holds book signing at historic downtown Library in St. Joseph

BROWN COUNTY—One person died in an accident on Monday in Brown County.

Just after 10:30a.m., the&nbsp;Brown County law enforcement dispatch received a 911 call reporting that an individual at TA Travel Plaza, 801 West First in Fairvew had fallen an estimated 60 feet while working on a sign in front of the business, according to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant.&nbsp;

First responders found the man who was unresponsive and pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;

The Brown County Sheriff's Office is in charge of the investigation.&nbsp; The sheriff's office has not released the name of the man who died.

BROWN COUNTY—One person died in an accident on Monday in Brown County.Just after 10:30a.m., the&nbsp;Brown County law enforcement dispatch received a 911 call reporting that an individual at TA Travel Plaza, 801 West First in Fairvew had fallen an estimated 60 feet while working on a sign in front of the business, according to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant.&nbsp;First responders found the man who was unresponsive and pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;The Brown County Sheriff's Office is in charge of the investigation.&nbsp; The sheriff's office has not released the name of the man who died.

Man dies after fall while working on sign of a business

A long-range plan for the St. Joseph School District is more
than just a proposal to reduce the number of high schools in the city from
three to two.

It also contains proposals to keep good teachers as well as
raise student academic scores.

St. Joseph School Superintendent Gabe Edgar proposed adopting
a four-day school week as a way to attract more quality teachers to the
district. The St. Joseph School Board narrowly defeated the proposal. Edgar
says there really aren’t many options to get and keep the teachers St. Joseph
needs.

“In order to get people in the classrooms, you’re going to
have to pay them more or you’re going to have to have something outside of the
box like the four-day week,” Edgar tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post during an interview
in his office. “And those are your only two options.”

This is the conclusion of our two-part series on the long-range
plan school administrators have drafted.

The St. Joseph School District is considering asking voters to
approve a 51-cent increase in the school levy in August to increase teacher
pay. Edgar says recruiting quality teachers and raising student academic scores
go hand-in-hand.

Edgar adds he is concerned about recent low student test
scores.

“I’m worried,” Edgar acknowledges. “I’ve said this. People
have heard me say this. I’ve said it publicly. I really think that we’re at a
crossroads and we’re going to have to get something figured out. Big change has
to happen in order to fix the academics.”

The district is considering individualized academic plans for
each student and not just academic, but vocational-technical as well; plans
designed to fit the individual student.

“We have to do a better job of offering an education to every
kid, not just a certain group of kids,” Edgar says. “And I think once we get to
the ‘every kid,’ then that’s where we become successful.”

Edgar points to the success of the Hillyard Technical Center
and states students who might not enjoy academics, might see promise in getting
their hands dirty and learning a skill that could lead to a high-paying job. But
he says the district must get to those students early, before they get
discouraged and drop out. Absenteeism plays a big role in poor academic scores.
Edgar says the district must find the interest of the student and tailor course
work toward that interest.

Edgar says administrators drafted the long-range plan for a
reason.

“Gets attention,” Edgar replies simply. “That’s my biggest
hope is that people realize that we do have problems recruiting and retaining
(teachers). We do have academic problems. We do have facility problem and
something has to happen.”

Edgar says he hopes the long-range plan evokes discussion, maintaining
his belief that the St. Joseph School District is on the brink of opportunity.

Click <a href="https://www.sjsd.k12.mo.us/our-district/strategic-plan">HERE</a> for a link to the long-range plan.

Click <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/7f7340bf-2de1-4d74-afa1-177b04fd3a25">HERE</a> for Part One.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710861292808.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph School Superintendent Gabe Edgar sits between School Board President LaTonya Williams and Vice President Kenneth Reeder/file photo" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph School Superintendent Gabe Edgar sits between School Board President LaTonya Williams and Vice President Kenneth Reeder/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA long-range plan for the St. Joseph School District is more
than just a proposal to reduce the number of high schools in the city from
three to two.It also contains proposals to keep good teachers as well as
raise student academic scores.St. Joseph School Superintendent Gabe Edgar proposed adopting
a four-day school week as a way to attract more quality teachers to the
district. The St. Joseph School Board narrowly defeated the proposal. Edgar
says there really aren’t many options to get and keep the teachers St. Joseph
needs.“In order to get people in the classrooms, you’re going to
have to pay them more or you’re going to have to have something outside of the
box like the four-day week,” Edgar tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post during an interview
in his office. “And those are your only two options.”This is the conclusion of our two-part series on the long-range
plan school administrators have drafted.The St. Joseph School District is considering asking voters to
approve a 51-cent increase in the school levy in August to increase teacher
pay. Edgar says recruiting quality teachers and raising student academic scores
go hand-in-hand.Edgar adds he is concerned about recent low student test
scores.“I’m worried,” Edgar acknowledges. “I’ve said this. People
have heard me say this. I’ve said it publicly. I really think that we’re at a
crossroads and we’re going to have to get something figured out. Big change has
to happen in order to fix the academics.”The district is considering individualized academic plans for
each student and not just academic, but vocational-technical as well; plans
designed to fit the individual student.“We have to do a better job of offering an education to every
kid, not just a certain group of kids,” Edgar says. “And I think once we get to
the ‘every kid,’ then that’s where we become successful.”Edgar points to the success of the Hillyard Technical Center
and states students who might not enjoy academics, might see promise in getting
their hands dirty and learning a skill that could lead to a high-paying job. But
he says the district must get to those students early, before they get
discouraged and drop out. Absenteeism plays a big role in poor academic scores.
Edgar says the district must find the interest of the student and tailor course
work toward that interest.Edgar says administrators drafted the long-range plan for a
reason.“Gets attention,” Edgar replies simply. “That’s my biggest
hope is that people realize that we do have problems recruiting and retaining
(teachers). We do have academic problems. We do have facility problem and
something has to happen.”Edgar says he hopes the long-range plan evokes discussion, maintaining
his belief that the St. Joseph School District is on the brink of opportunity.Click <a href="https://www.sjsd.k12.mo.us/our-district/strategic-plan">HERE</a> for a link to the long-range plan.Click <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/7f7340bf-2de1-4d74-afa1-177b04fd3a25">HERE</a> for Part One.<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/SJSD-Long-Range-Plan--Part-2-e2h9jik" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Long-range plan seeks to raise St. Joseph student scores - Part 2 of 2-part series

St. Joseph police are investigating what triggered a shooting
at 22nd and Garfield Monday night.

Police report a driver shot from his vehicle into another,
striking the vehicle, but not hitting the driver inside.

The victim, a 63-year-old man, made a report to police. He was not harmed, but several shots hit his vehicle. No
motive has been disclosed. The investigation continues.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph police are investigating what triggered a shooting
at 22nd and Garfield Monday night.Police report a driver shot from his vehicle into another,
striking the vehicle, but not hitting the driver inside.The victim, a 63-year-old man, made a report to police. He was not harmed, but several shots hit his vehicle. No
motive has been disclosed. The investigation continues.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph shooting hits car, but no one harmed

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

With a swipe at the intraparty foes who have&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/01/23/missouri-freedom-caucus-leaders-ousted-from-senate-chairmanships-over-stall-tactics/">disrupted the state Senate</a>&nbsp;for several years, Senate President Pro Tem Caleb Rowden on Monday dropped out of the Republican race for Secretary of State.

Rowden, who as of January was sitting on the largest campaign fund in the field, said in a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/calebrowden/status/1769742597906661843?s=20">statement released via social media</a>&nbsp;that when he announced in November, it was the best choice for his family but that he “no longer believe(s) that to be true.”

Rowden, a Columbia resident,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.columbiatribune.com/story/news/2012/09/12/profile-caleb-rowden-r/21601159007/">entered politics in 2012</a>&nbsp;when he ran for a Missouri House seat after a career as a Christian rock musician. He won&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.columbiatribune.com/story/news/2016/11/09/rowden-defeats-webber-to-hold/21833224007/">election to the Senate in 2016</a>&nbsp;and must leave office this year because of term limits.

Politics have changed in the 12 years since he first ran, Rowden said.

“While there have always been deep political and philosophical disagreements about how to get to a desired outcome, the desired outcome and the facts used to make decisions used to be shared values,” Rowden said. “More and more, the latter no longer seems to be the case. Consensus-building was once a trait that was admired and rewarded. That no longer seems to be the case.”

Rumors about Rowden’s possible withdrawal have been circulating for weeks. He had not filed for the office and was absent last month from Boone County Lincoln Days, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/03/02/gop-contenders-vie-for-attention-at-boone-county-lincoln-days/">major Republican gathering in his home county</a>.

With Rowden’s withdrawal, the remaining Republican candidates are Valentina Gomez, a real estate investor making her first bid for office, Greene County Clerk Shane Schoeller, state Sen. Denny Hoskins of Warrensburg and state Rep. Adam Schwadron of St. Charles.

On the Democratic side, the candidates are Monique Williams of St. Louis and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/government-politics/kirkwood-democrat-blasts-book-banning-in-kickoff-for-secretary-of-state-campaign/article_388e148a-e07e-11ee-9ce5-7b3dd9bdd949.html">state Rep. Barbara Phifer of Kirkwood</a>, who announced her candidacy last week.

Filing for office concludes next Tuesday.

Rowden had more than $400,000 in his campaign fund and joint fundraising committee to support his campaign, he reported in January. Gomez had $1,600, Schoeller had $54,000, Hoskins had $267,000 and Schwadron had $93,000.

Rowden has been one of the GOP’s top Senate leaders for six years. He was Senate Majority Leader from 2019 to 2023 before taking over the chamber’s top job.

For most of that time, Rowden has been beset by factional fights, first from a group that called itself&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/08/15/missouri-senate-conservative-caucus-disbands-after-two-years-of-ugly-gop-infighting/">the conservative caucus</a>&nbsp;and now with a Missouri chapter of the national Freedom Caucus. After several days of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/01/18/tempers-flare-in-missouri-senate-during-gop-fight-over-initiative-petition-changes/">vicious fights</a>&nbsp;over how to move forward with a proposal to raise the threshold for passing constitutional amendments, Rowden removed four members of the Freedom Caucus from committee chairmanships.

That put a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/01/26/boone-county-gop-committee-retracts-demand-for-resignation-of-missouri-senate-leaders/">target on Rowden</a>&nbsp;that led several local GOP party organizations to demand his resignation as Senate leader.

In his statement, Rowden said he was unsure whether politics will be fixed.

“I am not certain when these shifts started, and I am not certain when, or if, they will shift back,” Rowden said. “That is not for me to decide, but for the voters who elect men and women to serve in these positions.”

Remaining in politics isn’t in the best interest of his family, said Rowden, who has young children.

“I am as certain as I have ever been that this is the right decision for me and my family in this season of our lives,” Rowden said. “I have been given numerous small, but meaningful, moments in the last few weeks with my kids that have reminded me of the opportunities that exist for all three of them in the years to come, and how my presence and support in their lives can enhance those opportunities.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710847941279.png" alt=" Missouri Senate President Pro Tem Caleb Rowden, R-Columbia, addresses reporters in the Senate mezzanine after the second week of the legislative session Thursday (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Missouri Senate President Pro Tem Caleb Rowden, R-Columbia, addresses reporters in the Senate mezzanine after the second week of the legislative session Thursday (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>By RUDI KELLER,&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>With a swipe at the intraparty foes who have&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/01/23/missouri-freedom-caucus-leaders-ousted-from-senate-chairmanships-over-stall-tactics/">disrupted the state Senate</a>&nbsp;for several years, Senate President Pro Tem Caleb Rowden on Monday dropped out of the Republican race for Secretary of State.Rowden, who as of January was sitting on the largest campaign fund in the field, said in a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/calebrowden/status/1769742597906661843?s=20">statement released via social media</a>&nbsp;that when he announced in November, it was the best choice for his family but that he “no longer believe(s) that to be true.”Rowden, a Columbia resident,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.columbiatribune.com/story/news/2012/09/12/profile-caleb-rowden-r/21601159007/">entered politics in 2012</a>&nbsp;when he ran for a Missouri House seat after a career as a Christian rock musician. He won&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.columbiatribune.com/story/news/2016/11/09/rowden-defeats-webber-to-hold/21833224007/">election to the Senate in 2016</a>&nbsp;and must leave office this year because of term limits.Politics have changed in the 12 years since he first ran, Rowden said.“While there have always been deep political and philosophical disagreements about how to get to a desired outcome, the desired outcome and the facts used to make decisions used to be shared values,” Rowden said. “More and more, the latter no longer seems to be the case. Consensus-building was once a trait that was admired and rewarded. That no longer seems to be the case.”Rumors about Rowden’s possible withdrawal have been circulating for weeks. He had not filed for the office and was absent last month from Boone County Lincoln Days, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/03/02/gop-contenders-vie-for-attention-at-boone-county-lincoln-days/">major Republican gathering in his home county</a>.With Rowden’s withdrawal, the remaining Republican candidates are Valentina Gomez, a real estate investor making her first bid for office, Greene County Clerk Shane Schoeller, state Sen. Denny Hoskins of Warrensburg and state Rep. Adam Schwadron of St. Charles.On the Democratic side, the candidates are Monique Williams of St. Louis and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/government-politics/kirkwood-democrat-blasts-book-banning-in-kickoff-for-secretary-of-state-campaign/article_388e148a-e07e-11ee-9ce5-7b3dd9bdd949.html">state Rep. Barbara Phifer of Kirkwood</a>, who announced her candidacy last week.Filing for office concludes next Tuesday.Rowden had more than $400,000 in his campaign fund and joint fundraising committee to support his campaign, he reported in January. Gomez had $1,600, Schoeller had $54,000, Hoskins had $267,000 and Schwadron had $93,000.Rowden has been one of the GOP’s top Senate leaders for six years. He was Senate Majority Leader from 2019 to 2023 before taking over the chamber’s top job.For most of that time, Rowden has been beset by factional fights, first from a group that called itself&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/08/15/missouri-senate-conservative-caucus-disbands-after-two-years-of-ugly-gop-infighting/">the conservative caucus</a>&nbsp;and now with a Missouri chapter of the national Freedom Caucus. After several days of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/01/18/tempers-flare-in-missouri-senate-during-gop-fight-over-initiative-petition-changes/">vicious fights</a>&nbsp;over how to move forward with a proposal to raise the threshold for passing constitutional amendments, Rowden removed four members of the Freedom Caucus from committee chairmanships.That put a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/01/26/boone-county-gop-committee-retracts-demand-for-resignation-of-missouri-senate-leaders/">target on Rowden</a>&nbsp;that led several local GOP party organizations to demand his resignation as Senate leader.In his statement, Rowden said he was unsure whether politics will be fixed.“I am not certain when these shifts started, and I am not certain when, or if, they will shift back,” Rowden said. “That is not for me to decide, but for the voters who elect men and women to serve in these positions.”Remaining in politics isn’t in the best interest of his family, said Rowden, who has young children.“I am as certain as I have ever been that this is the right decision for me and my family in this season of our lives,” Rowden said. “I have been given numerous small, but meaningful, moments in the last few weeks with my kids that have reminded me of the opportunities that exist for all three of them in the years to come, and how my presence and support in their lives can enhance those opportunities.”

Caleb Rowden drops out of GOP race for Missouri Secretary of State

NODAWAY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Monday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Buick Encore driven by Karen K. Klemme 80, was southbound on U.S. 71 eight miles south of Maryville.

The SUV crossed the median, the northbound lanes of U.S. 71, traveled off the east side of the road and into a ditch.

Nodaway County EMS transported Klemme to Mosaic in St. Joseph.&nbsp; She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Monday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Buick Encore driven by Karen K. Klemme 80, was southbound on U.S. 71 eight miles south of Maryville.The SUV crossed the median, the northbound lanes of U.S. 71, traveled off the east side of the road and into a ditch.Nodaway County EMS transported Klemme to Mosaic in St. Joseph.&nbsp; She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman hospitalized after SUV travels into a ditch

BROWN COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations after a weekend arrest.

Just after 7:30p.m. March 16, deputies arrested 48-year-old Robert Hobbs of Fairview without incident on a Jackson County Felony Probation Violation Warrant, according to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant.

Hobbs was also arrested for a Kansas Department of Corrections Felony Parole Violation Warrant and a Felony Brown County $1000 cash Failure to Appear Warrant.&nbsp; He has previous convictions for drugs in 2017 and 2023, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710795662177.png" alt="Hobbs-photo Brown Co." />
 <figcaption>Hobbs-photo Brown Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BROWN COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations after a weekend arrest.Just after 7:30p.m. March 16, deputies arrested 48-year-old Robert Hobbs of Fairview without incident on a Jackson County Felony Probation Violation Warrant, according to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant.Hobbs was also arrested for a Kansas Department of Corrections Felony Parole Violation Warrant and a Felony Brown County $1000 cash Failure to Appear Warrant.&nbsp; He has previous convictions for drugs in 2017 and 2023, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Deputies capture wanted Kansas felon 

A long-range plan proposed by the administration
for the St. Joseph School District would make drastic changes throughout the
district in an effort to recruit teachers, shore up academics, and better use
buildings.

St. Joseph School Superintendent Gabe Edgar
states in the introduction of the long-range plan that the district stands on
the brink of opportunity.

“We have issues with academics. We have issues
with attendance rates. We have issues with graduation rates,” Edgar tells
KFEQ/St. Joseph Post during an interview in his office. “What I meant was, on
the brink of opportunity was, something has to give or it’s time for change.
So, I think we’re right there to make good things happen here in St. Joseph.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710780262200.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph School Superintendent Gabe Edgar/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph School Superintendent Gabe Edgar/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA long-range plan proposed by the administration
for the St. Joseph School District would make drastic changes throughout the
district in an effort to recruit teachers, shore up academics, and better use
buildings.St. Joseph School Superintendent Gabe Edgar
states in the introduction of the long-range plan that the district stands on
the brink of opportunity.“We have issues with academics. We have issues
with attendance rates. We have issues with graduation rates,” Edgar tells
KFEQ/St. Joseph Post during an interview in his office. “What I meant was, on
the brink of opportunity was, something has to give or it’s time for change.
So, I think we’re right there to make good things happen here in St. Joseph.”This is the first of a two-part series on the St.
Joseph School District long-range plan.Edgar says the long-range plan grew out of eight
straight months of discussing school boundaries without reaching a conclusion. Edgar
says it also grew out of the Vision Forward process in which the district
sought public input on its future.“Recruiting and retaining quality staff was something
that was talked about the whole time, throughout the Vision Forward process,
all 18 months,” Edgar says. “So that’s the first piece of this document, the
long-range plan document. The second piece was the academic challenges that we
face.”The long-range plan highlights some challenges the
St. Joseph School District faces in educating approximately 10,500 students.
Nearly three-quarters of the students attending St. Joseph schools qualify for
free or reduced lunch, a poverty rate of 73.4%, far above the average of 47.4% for
Missouri schools. The St. Joseph School District has a growing Hispanic
population. The long-range plan document pegs the percentage of Hispanic
students at 9.4%, but Edgar tells us that has grown to more than 10% since that
plan was printed. Slightly more than 65% of the student population is white
with 7.1% black. More than 13% of the student population is multi-racial.The document contains three objectives:&nbsp; retaining and hiring high-quality staff,
improving student performance, and supporting facilities for learning.One aspect of the long-range plan sure to stand
out in St. Joseph is Edgar’s call to switch from the three high school system
under which the district currently operates to a two high school system. Each
high school, under the plan, would educate an equal number of students.“It right-sizes the district all the way down,” according
to Edgar.And, Edgar says, it makes sense.“Right now we have 13 elementary schools. We don’t
need 13 elementary schools. We need 10,” Edgar says. “But we can’t get to 10
without right sizing the problem at the top.”The long-range plan also has proposals to help
get and keep quality teachers, which Edgar says is vital to the district
raising academic scores.Click <a href="https://www.sjsd.k12.mo.us/our-district/strategic-plan">HERE</a> for a link to the long-range plan.We explore those and more during part two of this
two-part series.<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/SJSD-Long-Range-Plan-e2h86ce" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

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