A 29-year-old St. Joseph man struck and injured while
attempting to cross South Belt Highway in the early morning hours of Thursday
remains in serious condition.

The St. Joseph Police Department identifies the victim as
Brecken Hobson.

The accident remains under investigation 

Police say Hobson attempted to cross the 2500 block of South
Belt Highway just after three o’clock in the morning Thursday. A vehicle struck
and injured him.

The driver stayed on the scene and cooperated with officers.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA 29-year-old St. Joseph man struck and injured while
attempting to cross South Belt Highway in the early morning hours of Thursday
remains in serious condition.The St. Joseph Police Department identifies the victim as
Brecken Hobson.The accident remains under investigation Police say Hobson attempted to cross the 2500 block of South
Belt Highway just after three o’clock in the morning Thursday. A vehicle struck
and injured him.The driver stayed on the scene and cooperated with officers.

Young St. Joseph man remains in serious condition after being hit by vehicle

UPDATE:&nbsp; The Noyes Home had to cancel due to weather. It will be re-scheduled.

<a href="https://noyeshome.org/">Noyes Home</a> welcomes St. Joseph area residents to a block party
this afternoon, a chance to celebrate with workers at the home, tour the
facilities, and eat free food.

Noyes Home Executive Director Chelsea Howlett says the Noyes
Home has held a block party every year since 2013, that is, until 2020.

“Obviously, the pandemic affected that,” Howlett tells
KFEQ/St. Joseph Post in an interview. “We were hopeful to have one last year,
but we ended up with COVID cases in-house and had to cancel last minute. So, we’re
supper excited to finally have a block party again this year.”

The Noyes Home is located at 801 North Noyes Boulevard. It
offers both short-term and long-term care for troubled youth.

The block party will feature free food and drink, plus games.
A farmer’s market will be on site and children’s artwork will be on display.

Howlett says another feature of the block party is a tour of
the facilities.

“You’re going to get to see a home,” Howlett says. “A lot of
times people say it seems like a really sad place and the reality is, it’s a
really joyful place. We have an amazing staff who truly care about our kids and
while the kids are going through really hard times, you hear more laughter than
you see tears.”

The Noyes Home block party at 801 North Noyes Boulevard begins
at five o’clock this afternoon and runs until 7pm.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689356468157.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostUPDATE:&nbsp; The Noyes Home had to cancel due to weather. It will be re-scheduled.<a href="https://noyeshome.org/">Noyes Home</a> welcomes St. Joseph area residents to a block party
this afternoon, a chance to celebrate with workers at the home, tour the
facilities, and eat free food.Noyes Home Executive Director Chelsea Howlett says the Noyes
Home has held a block party every year since 2013, that is, until 2020.“Obviously, the pandemic affected that,” Howlett tells
KFEQ/St. Joseph Post in an interview. “We were hopeful to have one last year,
but we ended up with COVID cases in-house and had to cancel last minute. So, we’re
supper excited to finally have a block party again this year.”The Noyes Home is located at 801 North Noyes Boulevard. It
offers both short-term and long-term care for troubled youth.The block party will feature free food and drink, plus games.
A farmer’s market will be on site and children’s artwork will be on display.Howlett says another feature of the block party is a tour of
the facilities.“You’re going to get to see a home,” Howlett says. “A lot of
times people say it seems like a really sad place and the reality is, it’s a
really joyful place. We have an amazing staff who truly care about our kids and
while the kids are going through really hard times, you hear more laughter than
you see tears.”The Noyes Home block party at 801 North Noyes Boulevard begins
at five o’clock this afternoon and runs until 7pm.

The Noyes Home block party returns in St. Joseph

The “Keep Missouri Farming” Tractor Cruise enters its 10th
year Saturday.

The cruise takes off from Mid Buchanan school in Faucett for
the Frazier Baptist Church in Agency, then back. The cruise raises money for
the Missouri Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture.

Former Missouri Farm Bureau board member Vernon Hart of Buchanan
County says the foundation works to raise awareness of agriculture among a
public more and more detached from the farm.

“People are so many generations away from agriculture they
think their food comes from the store, their milk comes from that jug,” Hart
tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “They don’t realize what goes into
raising an animal.”

Missouri Farm Bureau board member Jason Kurtz of Holt County
says the money raised by the cruise goes to the Farm Bureau Foundation which
raises awareness about agriculture among a public that knows little about
farming.

“As the years go by, and even from when I was in high school,
the urban-rural divide is getting wider each and every year,” Kurtz says. “So,
I think it is really important for people to understand where their food does
come from.”

It costs $35 for an open-cab tractor to be part of the cruise
and $50 if the tractor has a cab. Organizers expect at least 60 tractors to
participate.

Check in begins at 7:30 Saturday morning at the Mid-Buchanan
school at Faucett. The cruise will travel to Frazier Baptist Church in Agency
for lunch before returning to Mid-Buchanan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689355494268.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostThe “Keep Missouri Farming” Tractor Cruise enters its 10th
year Saturday.The cruise takes off from Mid Buchanan school in Faucett for
the Frazier Baptist Church in Agency, then back. The cruise raises money for
the Missouri Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture.Former Missouri Farm Bureau board member Vernon Hart of Buchanan
County says the foundation works to raise awareness of agriculture among a
public more and more detached from the farm.“People are so many generations away from agriculture they
think their food comes from the store, their milk comes from that jug,” Hart
tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “They don’t realize what goes into
raising an animal.”Missouri Farm Bureau board member Jason Kurtz of Holt County
says the money raised by the cruise goes to the Farm Bureau Foundation which
raises awareness about agriculture among a public that knows little about
farming.“As the years go by, and even from when I was in high school,
the urban-rural divide is getting wider each and every year,” Kurtz says. “So,
I think it is really important for people to understand where their food does
come from.”It costs $35 for an open-cab tractor to be part of the cruise
and $50 if the tractor has a cab. Organizers expect at least 60 tractors to
participate.Check in begins at 7:30 Saturday morning at the Mid-Buchanan
school at Faucett. The cruise will travel to Frazier Baptist Church in Agency
for lunch before returning to Mid-Buchanan.

Tractors, old and new, riding for a purpose Saturday

Students graduating with a bachelor’s degree in social work from Missouri Western State University will soon have an opportunity to also get their master's on the St. Joseph campus. &nbsp;

President Elizabeth Kennedy says they saw about 80 to 85% of students graduating with an undergraduate degree looking for a master’s program, signaling the need.&nbsp;

"So, we developed a master's program working with people in the behavioral health community to kind of refine that, and we've just recently got that pre accreditation when you first start your program, so we've opened that up to students in the fall," Kennedy tells host of the KFEQ Hotline Barry Birr. "We're very excited about that as a way to increase the mental health professionals in our community which there's such a need for." &nbsp;

Kennedy says the social work field has really evolved from the days of a social worker just connecting people with social services.&nbsp;

"Social workers work everywhere, they work in schools, they work in hospitals, they have their own practices," Kennedy explains. "And so having more individuals who have that training who know how to address not only the social issues but the more mental health problems and help people to become mentally healthy, thriving, productive citizens."&nbsp;

Missouri Western also received re accreditation for the social work bachelor's program for a maximum of eight years.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Students graduating with a bachelor’s degree in social work from Missouri Western State University will soon have an opportunity to also get their master's on the St. Joseph campus. &nbsp;President Elizabeth Kennedy says they saw about 80 to 85% of students graduating with an undergraduate degree looking for a master’s program, signaling the need.&nbsp;"So, we developed a master's program working with people in the behavioral health community to kind of refine that, and we've just recently got that pre accreditation when you first start your program, so we've opened that up to students in the fall," Kennedy tells host of the KFEQ Hotline Barry Birr. "We're very excited about that as a way to increase the mental health professionals in our community which there's such a need for." &nbsp;Kennedy says the social work field has really evolved from the days of a social worker just connecting people with social services.&nbsp;"Social workers work everywhere, they work in schools, they work in hospitals, they have their own practices," Kennedy explains. "And so having more individuals who have that training who know how to address not only the social issues but the more mental health problems and help people to become mentally healthy, thriving, productive citizens."&nbsp;Missouri Western also received re accreditation for the social work bachelor's program for a maximum of eight years.&nbsp;

Missouri Western State University launching new master's program for social work

A bipartisan group of lawmakers wants to lower the cost of complying with biofuel-blending mandates. 

Reuters says legislation was introduced that would direct the White House to let oil refiners purchase compliance credits (RINs) for biofuel blending laws at a lower cost than they’d pay on the open market. 

The group behind the bill says it would help struggling refineries stay afloat during a time of upheaval in the energy markets across the globe. 

Refiners have said for years that the costs of complying with the Renewable Fuel Standard mandates is too high. However, biofuel proponents like ethanol producers and corn farmers say the RFS increases the marketplace for their products. 

A news release says under the proposal, refiners could buy those biofuel credits at a fixed price only if they aren’t able to purchase them at cost-effective levels on the open market. The bill’s introduction caused RIN prices to drop.

A bipartisan group of lawmakers wants to lower the cost of complying with biofuel-blending mandates. Reuters says legislation was introduced that would direct the White House to let oil refiners purchase compliance credits (RINs) for biofuel blending laws at a lower cost than they’d pay on the open market. The group behind the bill says it would help struggling refineries stay afloat during a time of upheaval in the energy markets across the globe. Refiners have said for years that the costs of complying with the Renewable Fuel Standard mandates is too high. However, biofuel proponents like ethanol producers and corn farmers say the RFS increases the marketplace for their products. A news release says under the proposal, refiners could buy those biofuel credits at a fixed price only if they aren’t able to purchase them at cost-effective levels on the open market. The bill’s introduction caused RIN prices to drop.- NAFB

Legislation would lower the cost of biofuel-blending compliance

The USDA’s Rural Business-Cooperative Service is making $21 million in technical assistance grants available through the Rural Energy for America Program. 

The funds will help agricultural producers and rural small businesses access federal funds for renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements. 

“This will make sure rural Americans get access to the grants to make energy more affordable, create new economic opportunity, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” says Rural Business-Cooperative Service Administrator Dr. Karama Neal. 

Grant recipients can include state, tribal, or local governments, colleges and universities, electric cooperatives and utility companies, and for-profit and non-profit organizations. 

“The technical assistance grants will provide hands-on support to farmers, ranchers, and rural small business owners seeking federal funds for renewable energy systems like wind and solar,” she says. 

“This will help small businesses and producers lower energy costs and strengthen their operations.” Interested applicants should contact their USDA Rural Development state Office for information.

The USDA’s Rural Business-Cooperative Service is making $21 million in technical assistance grants available through the Rural Energy for America Program. The funds will help agricultural producers and rural small businesses access federal funds for renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements. “This will make sure rural Americans get access to the grants to make energy more affordable, create new economic opportunity, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” says Rural Business-Cooperative Service Administrator Dr. Karama Neal. Grant recipients can include state, tribal, or local governments, colleges and universities, electric cooperatives and utility companies, and for-profit and non-profit organizations. “The technical assistance grants will provide hands-on support to farmers, ranchers, and rural small business owners seeking federal funds for renewable energy systems like wind and solar,” she says. “This will help small businesses and producers lower energy costs and strengthen their operations.” Interested applicants should contact their USDA Rural Development state Office for information.- NAFB

USDA investments in lowering energy costs for Rural America

NODAWAY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10:30p.m. Thursday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 GMC Yukon driven by a 17-year-old Hopkins boy was westbound at the intersection of 280th Street and Katydid Road two miles southeast of Maryville.

The SUV traveled straight off the road at the T intersection and struck an embankment. Nodaway County Ambulance transported the driver to Mosaic in St. Joseph. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10:30p.m. Thursday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 GMC Yukon driven by a 17-year-old Hopkins boy was westbound at the intersection of 280th Street and Katydid Road two miles southeast of Maryville.The SUV traveled straight off the road at the T intersection and struck an embankment. Nodaway County Ambulance transported the driver to Mosaic in St. Joseph. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Mo. teen hospitalized after SUV strikes embankment

DAVIESS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 3:30p.m. Thursday in Daviess County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Randall D. McKee, 64, Chillicothe, was northbound on MO 190 four miles south of Jamesport.

The motorcycle struck a southbound horse and rider that crossed the center of the road.

Life-Flight Eagle transported McKee to Truman Medical Center. The rider on the horse was not injured. McKee was not wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

DAVIESS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 3:30p.m. Thursday in Daviess County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Randall D. McKee, 64, Chillicothe, was northbound on MO 190 four miles south of Jamesport.The motorcycle struck a southbound horse and rider that crossed the center of the road.Life-Flight Eagle transported McKee to Truman Medical Center. The rider on the horse was not injured. McKee was not wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

Mo. man injured after motorcycle strikes horse, rider

NODAWAY COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 6p.m. Thursday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Sterling Trash Truck driven by Cody A. Marriott, 33, Maryville, was southbound on Route Y two miles southeast of Graham.

The truck crossed the center line, began to skid, partially traveled off the west side of the road, returned to the road, began to overturn and came to rest in the road on the passenger side.

Nodaway County EMS transported Mariott and a passenger Enoch E. Ross, 28, Burlington Junction, to Mosaic in Maryville.&nbsp; They were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 6p.m. Thursday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Sterling Trash Truck driven by Cody A. Marriott, 33, Maryville, was southbound on Route Y two miles southeast of Graham.The truck crossed the center line, began to skid, partially traveled off the west side of the road, returned to the road, began to overturn and came to rest in the road on the passenger side.Nodaway County EMS transported Mariott and a passenger Enoch E. Ross, 28, Burlington Junction, to Mosaic in Maryville.&nbsp; They were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

2 injured after trash truck overturns

St. Joseph Parks and Recreation is holding the first of three community open house events at the Missouri Theater Thursday to share ideas about renovations at Krug Park.

Parks and Rec spokesperson Jessica Oshel says this event will provide a lot of information on several different areas of Krug.

"We're going to have different community surveys they can fill out," Oshel said. "Interactive tables which will really highlight the children's circus, castle, amphitheater, playground area, stonewalls and tunnels and the overall park itself. We really want to get the input from the community about what they want to see there."

The event is from 4-7 p.m. Thursday evening at the Missouri Theater downtown. A community survey is available on the St. Joseph Parks and Rec website to give people a chance to provide their input on Krug. That survey is available through July 24.

Oshel says gathering the public's input is vital and it's a way to show their tax dollars going toward something useful.

"It's a huge piece of the parks sales tax," she said. "It's going to be a multi-year project with multiple aspects of the renovation. For us, it's going to be a very large visual for people to be able to see towards the parks tax. That the money is actually going toward something."

Krug Park will receive up to $12 million in funding from the half-cent parks sales tax that was overwhelmingly approved by St. Joseph voters in 2021. That tax will sunset after 10 years.

Oshel says the biggest priorities at Krug are the castle, children's circus, picnic pavilions and the amphitheater. And again, she says the public’s input is key.

"They're able to be a part of the process and they understand that participating is really going to help us out and they're going to be able to have a say on what is happening to the park."

Oshel says there are several parts of the park that will be worked on very soon.

"The aspects that'll be worked on first are the upper tunnel and the amphitheater," Oshel said. "The castle improvements will begin and that'll include ADA solutions for the castle. The children's circus and castle restrooms, all of those projects will be started in FY 2023."

The parks department will hold another community open house in late summer and again in early fall.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689273431604.jpeg" alt="Krug Park's fountain. Photo by Brent Martin." />
 <figcaption>Krug Park's fountain. Photo by Brent Martin.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph Parks and Recreation is holding the first of three community open house events at the Missouri Theater Thursday to share ideas about renovations at Krug Park.Parks and Rec spokesperson Jessica Oshel says this event will provide a lot of information on several different areas of Krug."We're going to have different community surveys they can fill out," Oshel said. "Interactive tables which will really highlight the children's circus, castle, amphitheater, playground area, stonewalls and tunnels and the overall park itself. We really want to get the input from the community about what they want to see there."The event is from 4-7 p.m. Thursday evening at the Missouri Theater downtown. A community survey is available on the St. Joseph Parks and Rec website to give people a chance to provide their input on Krug. That survey is available through July 24.Oshel says gathering the public's input is vital and it's a way to show their tax dollars going toward something useful."It's a huge piece of the parks sales tax," she said. "It's going to be a multi-year project with multiple aspects of the renovation. For us, it's going to be a very large visual for people to be able to see towards the parks tax. That the money is actually going toward something."Krug Park will receive up to $12 million in funding from the half-cent parks sales tax that was overwhelmingly approved by St. Joseph voters in 2021. That tax will sunset after 10 years.Oshel says the biggest priorities at Krug are the castle, children's circus, picnic pavilions and the amphitheater. And again, she says the public’s input is key."They're able to be a part of the process and they understand that participating is really going to help us out and they're going to be able to have a say on what is happening to the park."Oshel says there are several parts of the park that will be worked on very soon."The aspects that'll be worked on first are the upper tunnel and the amphitheater," Oshel said. "The castle improvements will begin and that'll include ADA solutions for the castle. The children's circus and castle restrooms, all of those projects will be started in FY 2023."The parks department will hold another community open house in late summer and again in early fall.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689273487195.jpeg" alt="Photo by Brent Martin." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Brent Martin.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689273511306.jpeg" alt="Krug Park Amphitheater. Photo by Brent Martin." />
 <figcaption>Krug Park Amphitheater. Photo by Brent Martin.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Officials-hopeful-public-input-will-help-with-Krug-Park-improvements-e26tl5m" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph Parks and Rec holding Open House Thursday on Krug Park projects

ANDREW COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Thursday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Hyundai Tucson driven by Mary J. Kerner, 65, St. Joseph, was southbound on BUS Loop 29 just south of U.S. 71 in Country Club Village.

The driver lost consciousness. The SUV traveled off the left side of the road, struck the crossover at Willer Road and came to rest in the median.

A private vehicle transported Kerner to Mosaic Life Care. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Thursday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Hyundai Tucson driven by Mary J. Kerner, 65, St. Joseph, was southbound on BUS Loop 29 just south of U.S. 71 in Country Club Village.The driver lost consciousness. The SUV traveled off the left side of the road, struck the crossover at Willer Road and came to rest in the median.A private vehicle transported Kerner to Mosaic Life Care. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

St. Joe woman lost consciousness before SUV crash

With highs staying in the mid to upper 90's this summer it’s important to remain vigilant of the dangers of heat exhaustion. &nbsp;

American Red Cross spokesperson Angie Springs says one of the best ways to avoid heat exhaustion is to stay hydrated and drink water.&nbsp;

"Water is the best thing for you to use to hydrate yourself," Springs tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "Make sure that you are not only just drinking water when you're outside, but before you go outside, make sure that you're staying hydrated so that you can ensure that you don't hopefully get overheated when you're outside or that you get dehydrated."&nbsp;

Springs says it’s also important to make sure you don't overwork yourself in the heat and you wear loose clothing.&nbsp;

Springs says people often might not keep the dangers of the heat top of mind while out in it. &nbsp;

"Most of the time when you're outside you think I need to drink water, I need to stay hydrated maybe grab that electrolyte drink whatever the case may be, but really get in tune with your body and know when you really need to take a break," Springs explains. "You need to step out of the hot, you need to cool down, really being in tune to listening to your body when you need to stop."&nbsp;

Springs advises if you have to work outside to do it early in the morning or later in the afternoon and not in the hottest parts of the day. &nbsp;

While you're outside in the summer heat being sure to take care of yourself, you should also be sure to keep an eye on those four-legged friends. &nbsp;

Springs says it’s also important to keep an eye on your pets this summer&nbsp;

"Make sure that you're not taking your dog out for a walk during the hottest part of the day, making them walk on hot concrete that sort of thing," Springs explains. "Make sure that if you're animals are outside, they have plenty of fresh water to drink and that they have shade, something to get out of the hot sun if they are outdoors."&nbsp;

Springs says pets’ health is just as important as our own and you should make sure to take care of your entire family during the dog days of summer. &nbsp;

Highs for the remainder of the week will gravitate around 90.&nbsp; They'll jump back up to the mid-90s in the middle of next week.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;With highs staying in the mid to upper 90's this summer it’s important to remain vigilant of the dangers of heat exhaustion. &nbsp;American Red Cross spokesperson Angie Springs says one of the best ways to avoid heat exhaustion is to stay hydrated and drink water.&nbsp;"Water is the best thing for you to use to hydrate yourself," Springs tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "Make sure that you are not only just drinking water when you're outside, but before you go outside, make sure that you're staying hydrated so that you can ensure that you don't hopefully get overheated when you're outside or that you get dehydrated."&nbsp;Springs says it’s also important to make sure you don't overwork yourself in the heat and you wear loose clothing.&nbsp;Springs says people often might not keep the dangers of the heat top of mind while out in it. &nbsp;"Most of the time when you're outside you think I need to drink water, I need to stay hydrated maybe grab that electrolyte drink whatever the case may be, but really get in tune with your body and know when you really need to take a break," Springs explains. "You need to step out of the hot, you need to cool down, really being in tune to listening to your body when you need to stop."&nbsp;Springs advises if you have to work outside to do it early in the morning or later in the afternoon and not in the hottest parts of the day. &nbsp;While you're outside in the summer heat being sure to take care of yourself, you should also be sure to keep an eye on those four-legged friends. &nbsp;Springs says it’s also important to keep an eye on your pets this summer&nbsp;"Make sure that you're not taking your dog out for a walk during the hottest part of the day, making them walk on hot concrete that sort of thing," Springs explains. "Make sure that if you're animals are outside, they have plenty of fresh water to drink and that they have shade, something to get out of the hot sun if they are outdoors."&nbsp;Springs says pets’ health is just as important as our own and you should make sure to take care of your entire family during the dog days of summer. &nbsp;Highs for the remainder of the week will gravitate around 90.&nbsp; They'll jump back up to the mid-90s in the middle of next week.&nbsp;

Be careful out there, it's hot. Drink water. Take breaks

The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers rose 0.2 percent in June, after increasing 0.1 percent in May, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

The index for food at home was unchanged over the month, while the index for food away from home rose 0.4 percent in June. 

The index for fruits and vegetables increased 0.8 percent in June, following a 1.3 percent increase in May. 

The cereals and bakery products index rose 0.1 percent over the month, while the index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs decreased 0.4 percent in June. The other food at home index decreased 0.2 percent in June after increasing 0.4 percent the previous month. 

The index for dairy and related products fell 0.3 percent over the month, and the index for nonalcoholic beverages declined 0.1 percent in June. The food at home index rose 4.7 percent over the last 12 months, while the index for food away from home rose 7.7 percent.

The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers rose 0.2 percent in June, after increasing 0.1 percent in May, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The index for food at home was unchanged over the month, while the index for food away from home rose 0.4 percent in June. The index for fruits and vegetables increased 0.8 percent in June, following a 1.3 percent increase in May. The cereals and bakery products index rose 0.1 percent over the month, while the index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs decreased 0.4 percent in June. The other food at home index decreased 0.2 percent in June after increasing 0.4 percent the previous month. The index for dairy and related products fell 0.3 percent over the month, and the index for nonalcoholic beverages declined 0.1 percent in June. The food at home index rose 4.7 percent over the last 12 months, while the index for food away from home rose 7.7 percent.- NAFB

Monthly food prices unchanged in Consumer Price Index

A large swath of St. Joseph residents will experience low water pressure over the next few days while valve replacement is being completed by Missouri American Water.

Spokesperson Christie Barnhart says about 19-hundred Missouri American customers are experiencing low water pressure while work is being done.

"So we're just letting them know, we issued an alert through our emergency notification system, just to let the know that from about 7am to 5pm during the day they might experience low water pressure," Barnhart tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "But our goal is to, we're replacing a 30 inch valve and we're doing that today and the work should be done by early evening."

Barnhart says the work on the water line valve will likely take the full day to complete. 

"We're anticipating that the low pressure will be between seven and five and then in the evening hours the pressure will be normal," Barnhart explains. "And that is based on us successfully getting this new valve installed today, which so far things are going well, but I do want to reiterate that there are no precautionary boil advisories associted with this at all."

Barnhart says the valve work should be completed at the end of the day, but the project is large enough that customers could experience low pressure for the next few days.

The area affected stretches from 32nd Street to 16th, from Frederick Avenue to Felix with a portion north of Frederick between 22nd and 16th.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689261952130.png" alt="Outage map provided by Missouri American Water" />
 <figcaption>Outage map provided by Missouri American Water</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostA large swath of St. Joseph residents will experience low water pressure over the next few days while valve replacement is being completed by Missouri American Water.Spokesperson Christie Barnhart says about 19-hundred Missouri American customers are experiencing low water pressure while work is being done."So we're just letting them know, we issued an alert through our emergency notification system, just to let the know that from about 7am to 5pm during the day they might experience low water pressure," Barnhart tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "But our goal is to, we're replacing a 30 inch valve and we're doing that today and the work should be done by early evening."Barnhart says the work on the water line valve will likely take the full day to complete. "We're anticipating that the low pressure will be between seven and five and then in the evening hours the pressure will be normal," Barnhart explains. "And that is based on us successfully getting this new valve installed today, which so far things are going well, but I do want to reiterate that there are no precautionary boil advisories associted with this at all."Barnhart says the valve work should be completed at the end of the day, but the project is large enough that customers could experience low pressure for the next few days.The area affected stretches from 32nd Street to 16th, from Frederick Avenue to Felix with a portion north of Frederick between 22nd and 16th.

Several St. Joseph residents experiencing low water pressure during water line work

A pedestrian crossing in the middle of the 2500 block of
South Belt Highway in St. Joseph during the early morning hours was struck by a
vehicle and seriously injured.

St. Joseph police report a young man was crossing the Belt
when a car hit him, causing serious injuries. The victim has been taken to the
hospital.

The driver stayed on the scene and cooperated with officers.
The investigation continues.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA pedestrian crossing in the middle of the 2500 block of
South Belt Highway in St. Joseph during the early morning hours was struck by a
vehicle and seriously injured.St. Joseph police report a young man was crossing the Belt
when a car hit him, causing serious injuries. The victim has been taken to the
hospital.The driver stayed on the scene and cooperated with officers.
The investigation continues.

Pedestrian struck by car, seriously injured in St. Joseph

Hearing focuses on allegations of ‘inadequate representation’ by attorney general’s office in case with far-reaching public health impact

By ANNELISE HANSHAW <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/01/30/open-enrollment-missouri-school-choice/">Missouri Independent</a>

The Missouri Supreme Court heard arguments Wednesday focused on how former Attorney General Eric Schmitt handled a case that&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/11/23/missouri-judge-local-covid-orders/">pronounced local health authorities’ efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19</a>&nbsp;“null and void” in 2021.

Attorney Neal Perryman represented two counties and three health centers who argued Wednesday that they should have been able to intervene in the original Cole-County case after the attorney general refused to file an appeal.

Deputy Solicitor General Maria Lanahan disagreed, saying the local governmental agencies can’t intervene post-judgement and don’t have a vested interest in the original case.

“(Appellants) have no right in coming in and trying to take the attorney general’s job in determining what is in the state’s interest,” Lanahan told the court.

Perryman said the county is set up, by state statute, to participate in health orders but has lost that power thanks to the original ruling in Cole County.

“We lost a significant part of our authority to issue orders,” he said. “We can’t do what we used to be able to do.”

In November 2021,&nbsp;Cole County Circuit Court Judge Daniel Green&nbsp;declared local health authorities’ COVID-19 mandates violated the Missouri Constitution.

Perryman said Wednesday that the judge’s ruling came “out of the blue” and local officials were “confident, based on the summary judgment papers, there would be an appeal.”

But while the Department of Health and Senior Services wanted to appeal the case, Schmitt — who resigned as attorney general last year to take a seat in the U.S. Senate — refused.

Chuck Hatfield, who served in the attorney general’s office under Democrat Jay Nixon,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/12/02/missouri-health-director-wanted-to-appeal-judges-covid-ruling-ag-schmitt-refused/">previously told The Independent</a>&nbsp;it is “extremely unusual” for the attorney general’s office to oppose a client’s order.

After Schmitt announced he wouldn’t appeal the decision,&nbsp;St. Louis County, Jackson County, Cooper County Public Health Center administrator Melanie Hutton, the Livingston County Health Center board of trustees and the Jefferson County Health Center board of trustees&nbsp;attempted to take the case into their own hands and away from the attorney general’s office.&nbsp;

But Green did not allow them to file a motion for a new trial or to appeal the judgment.

The issue has now found its way to the Missouri Supreme Court, which will decide if the counties have a right to intervene.

Fifteen days after Judge Green struck down local COVID orders as unconstitutional, Schmitt sent threatening letters to school districts and local public health agencies ordering them to cease all COVID mitigation policies.

“All mask mandates, quarantine orders, and other public health orders that are based on any of the invalidated regulations or issued outside the protections of the Missouri Administrative Procedure Act are null and void,” his letter said.

In court Wednesday and in their 67-page filing, the local government agencies seeking to intervene in the case argued that instead of filing an appeal, Schmitt “immediately weaponized the judgment against local governments and schools across the state.”

In May, a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/05/27/judge-rules-missouri-ag-had-no-authority-to-order-end-of-school-mask-mandates/">&nbsp;Jackson County judge ruled</a>&nbsp;that Schmitt lacked authority to tell school districts to end mask mandates. Perryman said the Jackson County ruling describes the “chaos caused throughout the state” as a result of local health orders being nullified by Judge Green.

<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/01/31/ruling-nixing-local-covid-orders-hampering-health-agencies-response-to-other-diseases/">The Cole County ruling extended beyond COVID-19</a>&nbsp;as local health authorities questioned whether it undermined their authority to deal with other potential public health issues, such as outbreaks of RSV.&nbsp;

Perryman said the state has provided no clarity.

Judges’ questions Wednesday morning revolved around whether procedure permits post-judgment intervention. Ordinarily, parties file to enter a case before a ruling is issued.

Perryman told the court that the counties didn’t have a reason to intervene until after Schmitt refused to appeal.

Mathis countered that “motions to intervene are not post-trial motions.”

Judge Patricia Breckenridge, who asked the majority of questions Wednesday, inquired whether “substantial justice” changes procedure. Substantial justice refers to the fairness of a case; sometimes, judges will relax their procedural requirements to provide what they consider to be a fair trial.

Mathis said substantial justice hasn’t been a determining factor for post-judgment intervention in this court.

“How must the court handle a case like this where the state wasn’t defending the state adequately?” Breckenridge asked, saying the attorney general’s office “ambiguously defended” DHSS rules.

Breckenridge also acknowledged the case’s widespread effect, asking Perryman if there was another way to litigate against Green’s ruling.

“So if you aren’t able to intervene,” she said, “there is no way to undo the impact on everyone who is not part of the suit as to the effect of the judgment of this case?”&nbsp;

Perryman said options would be severely limited or nonexistent because the regulations at the heart of the case are no longer in place.

<h2>Hearing focuses on allegations of ‘inadequate representation’ by attorney general’s office in case with far-reaching public health impact</h2>By ANNELISE HANSHAW <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/01/30/open-enrollment-missouri-school-choice/">Missouri Independent</a>The Missouri Supreme Court heard arguments Wednesday focused on how former Attorney General Eric Schmitt handled a case that&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/11/23/missouri-judge-local-covid-orders/">pronounced local health authorities’ efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19</a>&nbsp;“null and void” in 2021.Attorney Neal Perryman represented two counties and three health centers who argued Wednesday that they should have been able to intervene in the original Cole-County case after the attorney general refused to file an appeal.Deputy Solicitor General Maria Lanahan disagreed, saying the local governmental agencies can’t intervene post-judgement and don’t have a vested interest in the original case.“(Appellants) have no right in coming in and trying to take the attorney general’s job in determining what is in the state’s interest,” Lanahan told the court.Perryman said the county is set up, by state statute, to participate in health orders but has lost that power thanks to the original ruling in Cole County.“We lost a significant part of our authority to issue orders,” he said. “We can’t do what we used to be able to do.”<h2>Case background</h2>In November 2021,&nbsp;Cole County Circuit Court Judge Daniel Green&nbsp;declared local health authorities’ COVID-19 mandates violated the Missouri Constitution.Perryman said Wednesday that the judge’s ruling came “out of the blue” and local officials were “confident, based on the summary judgment papers, there would be an appeal.”But while the Department of Health and Senior Services wanted to appeal the case, Schmitt — who resigned as attorney general last year to take a seat in the U.S. Senate — refused.Chuck Hatfield, who served in the attorney general’s office under Democrat Jay Nixon,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/12/02/missouri-health-director-wanted-to-appeal-judges-covid-ruling-ag-schmitt-refused/">previously told The Independent</a>&nbsp;it is “extremely unusual” for the attorney general’s office to oppose a client’s order.After Schmitt announced he wouldn’t appeal the decision,&nbsp;St. Louis County, Jackson County, Cooper County Public Health Center administrator Melanie Hutton, the Livingston County Health Center board of trustees and the Jefferson County Health Center board of trustees&nbsp;attempted to take the case into their own hands and away from the attorney general’s office.&nbsp;But Green did not allow them to file a motion for a new trial or to appeal the judgment.The issue has now found its way to the Missouri Supreme Court, which will decide if the counties have a right to intervene.Fifteen days after Judge Green struck down local COVID orders as unconstitutional, Schmitt sent threatening letters to school districts and local public health agencies ordering them to cease all COVID mitigation policies.“All mask mandates, quarantine orders, and other public health orders that are based on any of the invalidated regulations or issued outside the protections of the Missouri Administrative Procedure Act are null and void,” his letter said.In court Wednesday and in their 67-page filing, the local government agencies seeking to intervene in the case argued that instead of filing an appeal, Schmitt “immediately weaponized the judgment against local governments and schools across the state.”In May, a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/05/27/judge-rules-missouri-ag-had-no-authority-to-order-end-of-school-mask-mandates/">&nbsp;Jackson County judge ruled</a>&nbsp;that Schmitt lacked authority to tell school districts to end mask mandates. Perryman said the Jackson County ruling describes the “chaos caused throughout the state” as a result of local health orders being nullified by Judge Green.<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/01/31/ruling-nixing-local-covid-orders-hampering-health-agencies-response-to-other-diseases/">The Cole County ruling extended beyond COVID-19</a>&nbsp;as local health authorities questioned whether it undermined their authority to deal with other potential public health issues, such as outbreaks of RSV.&nbsp;Perryman said the state has provided no clarity.<h2>Arguments</h2>Judges’ questions Wednesday morning revolved around whether procedure permits post-judgment intervention. Ordinarily, parties file to enter a case before a ruling is issued.Perryman told the court that the counties didn’t have a reason to intervene until after Schmitt refused to appeal.Mathis countered that “motions to intervene are not post-trial motions.”Judge Patricia Breckenridge, who asked the majority of questions Wednesday, inquired whether “substantial justice” changes procedure. Substantial justice refers to the fairness of a case; sometimes, judges will relax their procedural requirements to provide what they consider to be a fair trial.Mathis said substantial justice hasn’t been a determining factor for post-judgment intervention in this court.“How must the court handle a case like this where the state wasn’t defending the state adequately?” Breckenridge asked, saying the attorney general’s office “ambiguously defended” DHSS rules.Breckenridge also acknowledged the case’s widespread effect, asking Perryman if there was another way to litigate against Green’s ruling.“So if you aren’t able to intervene,” she said, “there is no way to undo the impact on everyone who is not part of the suit as to the effect of the judgment of this case?”&nbsp;Perryman said options would be severely limited or nonexistent because the regulations at the heart of the case are no longer in place.

Mo. Supreme Court to decide if counties can appeal ruling striking down COVID orders

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.

Just after 11p.m. Tuesday, police conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by 21-year-old Caleb A. Cummins, of&nbsp; Atchison, in the 400 block U.S.59 for a traffic violation, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson. The officer found drugs and and arrested Cummins.

He is being held on requested charges that include possession of methamphetamine, possession of fentanyl, possession of drug paraphernalia, and illegal use of a vehicle license tag.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689167435732.png" alt="Cummins-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Cummins-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.Just after 11p.m. Tuesday, police conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by 21-year-old Caleb A. Cummins, of&nbsp; Atchison, in the 400 block U.S.59 for a traffic violation, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson. The officer found drugs and and arrested Cummins.He is being held on requested charges that include possession of methamphetamine, possession of fentanyl, possession of drug paraphernalia, and illegal use of a vehicle license tag.

Police: Kansas man was transporting fentanyl

GRUNDY COUNTY —Authorities&nbsp; investigating a drowning in Grundy County released additional details on Wednesday.

Just after 11 p.m. Monday, Marine Troopers assisted Trenton police with a report of a possible drowning in the Thompson River, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

A 17-year-old boy from Jamesport was walking across the Thompson River near SW Beech Lane. He fell into a deep hole, went under the water and did not resurface.

The Trenton Volunteer Fire Department recovered the body. The boy was pronounced deceased at the scene.

GRUNDY COUNTY —Authorities are investigating a drowning in Grundy County.

Just after 11 p.m. Monday, Marine Troopers assisted Trenton police with a report of a possible drowning in the Thompson River, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol

 The victim identified as a 17-year-old boy from Jamesport was recovered by the Trenton Volunteer Fire Department and pronounced deceased at the scene.

The MSHP released no additional details early Tuesday.

GRUNDY COUNTY —Authorities&nbsp; investigating a drowning in Grundy County released additional details on Wednesday.Just after 11 p.m. Monday, Marine Troopers assisted Trenton police with a report of a possible drowning in the Thompson River, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.A 17-year-old boy from Jamesport was walking across the Thompson River near SW Beech Lane. He fell into a deep hole, went under the water and did not resurface.The Trenton Volunteer Fire Department recovered the body. The boy was pronounced deceased at the scene.--------------------------GRUNDY COUNTY —Authorities are investigating a drowning in Grundy County.Just after 11 p.m. Monday, Marine Troopers assisted Trenton police with a report of a possible drowning in the Thompson River, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol The victim identified as a 17-year-old boy from Jamesport was recovered by the Trenton Volunteer Fire Department and pronounced deceased at the scene.The MSHP released no additional details early Tuesday.

MSHP: NW Missouri teen fell into deep hole before drowning

The St. Joseph School District still has many open positions to fill before the start of the 2023-24 school year, and officials within the district are doing what they can to attract qualified candidates.

The District is holding a Hiring Fair on Thursday at the Administration Building on North 26th Street from 2-6 p.m.

Brian Kraus, assistant superintendent for human resources at the district, says there's a wide variety of jobs available.

"What we're hoping to do is just introduce people who might be interested in working for the school district to the wide variety of positions we have available," Kraus said. "Often times, when people think about school districts, people think teachers. While that's obviously a huge part of our work force, we have about 110 occupational categories."

Kraus says working for the district has several unique advantages.

"A lot of our positions are 9-9.5 months," he said. "So if they want to do something else in the summer or have the summer off, they can. We have a lot of different positions where it's regular hours. We have a very good benefits package."

Anyone interested in attending the hiring fair is encouraged to bring a resume with them. Attendees will be able to apply for jobs in person at the fair, or they can do so online at SJSD.info/jobs.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph School District still has many open positions to fill before the start of the 2023-24 school year, and officials within the district are doing what they can to attract qualified candidates.The District is holding a Hiring Fair on Thursday at the Administration Building on North 26th Street from 2-6 p.m.Brian Kraus, assistant superintendent for human resources at the district, says there's a wide variety of jobs available."What we're hoping to do is just introduce people who might be interested in working for the school district to the wide variety of positions we have available," Kraus said. "Often times, when people think about school districts, people think teachers. While that's obviously a huge part of our work force, we have about 110 occupational categories."Kraus says working for the district has several unique advantages."A lot of our positions are 9-9.5 months," he said. "So if they want to do something else in the summer or have the summer off, they can. We have a lot of different positions where it's regular hours. We have a very good benefits package."Anyone interested in attending the hiring fair is encouraged to bring a resume with them. Attendees will be able to apply for jobs in person at the fair, or they can do so online at SJSD.info/jobs.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph School District holding Hiring Fair Thursday

ATCHISON —A 12 year old boy escaped serious injury in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Wednesday in Atchison in a bicycle, pickup accident.

The boy was northbound on 4th Street on his bicycle when he entered the intersection at U.S. 59 and collided with a pickup truck driven by a 60-year-old, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.

The pickup was westbound on U.S. 59 and had entered the intersection on a green light. 

The 12-year-old was wearing a safety helmet and only suffered a few cuts and bruises, according to Wilson.&nbsp; He was treated at the scene by EMS and was going to subsequently be taken by private vehicle to the hospital for examination.

ATCHISON —A 12 year old boy escaped serious injury in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Wednesday in Atchison in a bicycle, pickup accident.The boy was northbound on 4th Street on his bicycle when he entered the intersection at U.S. 59 and collided with a pickup truck driven by a 60-year-old, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.The pickup was westbound on U.S. 59 and had entered the intersection on a green light. The 12-year-old was wearing a safety helmet and only suffered a few cuts and bruises, according to Wilson.&nbsp; He was treated at the scene by EMS and was going to subsequently be taken by private vehicle to the hospital for examination.

12-year-old avoids serious injury after bicycle, pickup accident

A group of farm-state Senators Tuesday introduced the USDA Spending Accountability Act. 

The bill was introduced by Republican Senators Chuck Grassley of Iowa, Roger Marshall of Kansas and Mike Braun of Indiana. 

The legislation would limit the disbursal of funds through the USDA’s financing institution, known as the Commodity Credit Cooperation, to be permitted only when authorized by Congress. 

The Secretary of Agriculture has broad discretionary authority in spending excess CCC funds. This includes reimbursing farmers for losses due to trade disputes and funding climate grants, often to multinational corporations. 

Recent instances of discretionary spending abuse have prompted bipartisan concern, as these programs are enacted without input from Congress and allow USDA to act as authorizer and appropriator. 

By removing this discretionary authority, the Congressional Budget Office estimates that the USDA Spending Accountability Act would save $8 billion over ten years. The substantial savings created by this bill would assist Congress in its goal to find savings in the Farm Bill.

A group of farm-state Senators Tuesday introduced the USDA Spending Accountability Act. The bill was introduced by Republican Senators Chuck Grassley of Iowa, Roger Marshall of Kansas and Mike Braun of Indiana. The legislation would limit the disbursal of funds through the USDA’s financing institution, known as the Commodity Credit Cooperation, to be permitted only when authorized by Congress. The Secretary of Agriculture has broad discretionary authority in spending excess CCC funds. This includes reimbursing farmers for losses due to trade disputes and funding climate grants, often to multinational corporations. Recent instances of discretionary spending abuse have prompted bipartisan concern, as these programs are enacted without input from Congress and allow USDA to act as authorizer and appropriator. By removing this discretionary authority, the Congressional Budget Office estimates that the USDA Spending Accountability Act would save $8 billion over ten years. The substantial savings created by this bill would assist Congress in its goal to find savings in the Farm Bill.- NAFB

USDA Spending Accountability Act introduced

Wholesale egg prices reached record highs in 2022 after avian flu resulted in significant reductions in egg-laying flocks, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. 

Avian flu is a disease that spreads rapidly in birds and poultry and is often lethal. Cumulative losses attributable to the disease amounted to more than 43 million egg-laying hens. 

At the height of the disease, in the last weeks of December 2022, weekly egg inventories were 29 percent lower than at the beginning of the year, and prices reached a high of $5.37 per dozen. 

With no new outbreaks reported in 2023, the size of the egg-laying flock has gradually increased since late 2022. In turn, wholesale prices have fallen sharply, reaching $0.89 per dozen in the first week of May 2023. 

As of the week ending June 30, 2023, egg inventories were about 24 percent higher than the lowest 2022 values. During the same week, the average price was $1.23 per dozen, about 77 percent lower than the highest average weekly price in 2022.

Wholesale egg prices reached record highs in 2022 after avian flu resulted in significant reductions in egg-laying flocks, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Avian flu is a disease that spreads rapidly in birds and poultry and is often lethal. Cumulative losses attributable to the disease amounted to more than 43 million egg-laying hens. At the height of the disease, in the last weeks of December 2022, weekly egg inventories were 29 percent lower than at the beginning of the year, and prices reached a high of $5.37 per dozen. With no new outbreaks reported in 2023, the size of the egg-laying flock has gradually increased since late 2022. In turn, wholesale prices have fallen sharply, reaching $0.89 per dozen in the first week of May 2023. As of the week ending June 30, 2023, egg inventories were about 24 percent higher than the lowest 2022 values. During the same week, the average price was $1.23 per dozen, about 77 percent lower than the highest average weekly price in 2022.- NAFB

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