A local group of square dancers is lacing up their dancing shoes to teach lessons in St. Joseph to a new generation. &nbsp;

The Savannah Sashayers have been around for nearly 43 years, dancing and enjoying social gatherings every Sunday in Savannah. &nbsp;

Member Angie Houk says one of the greatest things about square dancing is it's unlike any other dancing&nbsp;

"When you do a tango or anything, you have to know what those steps are, the greatest thing about square dancing is you have a caller that is telling you what moves to do, you honestly don't have to think about it all you have to do is listen," Houk tells host of the KFEQ Hotline Barry Birr. "And he tells you what to do and it just takes all of the stress out of it."&nbsp;

The group will be providing lessons in St. Joseph and accepting new dancers through June 20th. &nbsp;

Houk says the group accepts anyone and everyone. &nbsp;

"We welcome kids, bring your kids, your daughters, sons, your nieces' nephews," Houk says. &nbsp;

"Singles, you don't have to have a partner, it is a great way to meet handsome men or beautiful girls, women of any age" fellow member Nancy Savely.&nbsp;

The lessons will be at Brookdale Church on Tuesdays.&nbsp; The first is free, the next ones cost five dollars. &nbsp;

Houk says it doesn't take much to square dance, simply saying that if you can walk, you can square dance&nbsp;

"People say you know my hips couldn't take it, my knees couldn't take it, if you can walk out your house and go get your mail, you can square dance," Houk points out.&nbsp;

You can follow Matt on Twitter at @KfeqMatt or St. Joseph Post at @StJosephPost

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686157360774.jpeg" alt="The Savannah Sashayers have been gathering together and enjoying square dancing for 43 years and are giving lessons this summer in St. Joseph/ Photo courtesy of the Savannah Sashayers Facebook page" />
 <figcaption>The Savannah Sashayers have been gathering together and enjoying square dancing for 43 years and are giving lessons this summer in St. Joseph/ Photo courtesy of the Savannah Sashayers Facebook page</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;A local group of square dancers is lacing up their dancing shoes to teach lessons in St. Joseph to a new generation. &nbsp;The Savannah Sashayers have been around for nearly 43 years, dancing and enjoying social gatherings every Sunday in Savannah. &nbsp;Member Angie Houk says one of the greatest things about square dancing is it's unlike any other dancing&nbsp;"When you do a tango or anything, you have to know what those steps are, the greatest thing about square dancing is you have a caller that is telling you what moves to do, you honestly don't have to think about it all you have to do is listen," Houk tells host of the KFEQ Hotline Barry Birr. "And he tells you what to do and it just takes all of the stress out of it."&nbsp;The group will be providing lessons in St. Joseph and accepting new dancers through June 20th. &nbsp;Houk says the group accepts anyone and everyone. &nbsp;"We welcome kids, bring your kids, your daughters, sons, your nieces' nephews," Houk says. &nbsp;"Singles, you don't have to have a partner, it is a great way to meet handsome men or beautiful girls, women of any age" fellow member Nancy Savely.&nbsp;The lessons will be at Brookdale Church on Tuesdays.&nbsp; The first is free, the next ones cost five dollars. &nbsp;Houk says it doesn't take much to square dance, simply saying that if you can walk, you can square dance&nbsp;"People say you know my hips couldn't take it, my knees couldn't take it, if you can walk out your house and go get your mail, you can square dance," Houk points out.&nbsp;"Absolutely," Savely agrees.&nbsp;You can follow Matt on Twitter at @KfeqMatt or St. Joseph Post at @StJosephPost

Sashay your way into a new hobby with the Savannah Sashayers this summer

Warm temperatures in the mountainous region of the upper Missouri River Basin has led to a quick melt of the mountain snowpack. 

The rapid melting combined with precipitation in the western half of the Basin resulted in above-average inflow into the reservoir system. 

May runoff for the Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 4.9 million acre-feet, 144 percent of average. 

John Reemus of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says, "With much of the mountain snowpack already melted, the basin will need additional rainfall to continue the trend of above-average runoff." The annual runoff forecast above Sioux City, Iowa, is 26.8 million acre-feet, 104 percent of average. 

While portions of the Basin received above-normal rainfall, precipitation was below normal during May. Gavins Point Dam releases will provide minimum-service navigation flow support at all four target locations of Sioux City, Omaha, Nebraska City, and Kansas City through the first half of the navigation season which ends on July 1.

Warm temperatures in the mountainous region of the upper Missouri River Basin has led to a quick melt of the mountain snowpack. The rapid melting combined with precipitation in the western half of the Basin resulted in above-average inflow into the reservoir system. May runoff for the Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 4.9 million acre-feet, 144 percent of average. John Reemus of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says, "With much of the mountain snowpack already melted, the basin will need additional rainfall to continue the trend of above-average runoff." The annual runoff forecast above Sioux City, Iowa, is 26.8 million acre-feet, 104 percent of average. While portions of the Basin received above-normal rainfall, precipitation was below normal during May. Gavins Point Dam releases will provide minimum-service navigation flow support at all four target locations of Sioux City, Omaha, Nebraska City, and Kansas City through the first half of the navigation season which ends on July 1.- NAFB

Rapid snowmelt results in higher Missouri River runoff

Northern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves praises the United States
Supreme Court decision on the Biden Administration’s Waters of the United
States’ (WOTUS) rule, calling the ruling a huge win for agriculture as well as
all property owners.

Graves, a Republican, succeeded in getting a bill through
Congress that would restrict the reach of the EPA under the Clean Water Act
only to see the president veto it. Graves doesn’t expect the Biden Administration
to accept this defeat in the courts, either.

“I’m sure that the president and some of the extremists are
going to come back with something else now, because this thing just seems to
get batted around all the time,” Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “The
Supreme Court did us a huge favor by at least taking us back to reasonable
restrictions.”

The ruling, though, might not be clearcut.

The Supreme Court ruled unanimously against the EPA that had
told an Idaho couple they couldn’t build a home near Priest Lake, claiming the
property as a protected wetland. The justices, though, split on what test the
EPA should use in administering the Clean Water Act.

Graves argues WOTUS went well beyond the authority Congress granted
in the Clean Water Act and could have been applied to streams, even ditches,
that Congress never intended to subject to regulation. Graves complains WOTUS
gave the EPA too much power.

“So, whoever the individual was who was coming out if they had
a bone to pick with you, they could shut you down on being able to use your
property the way you want and we have to make sure that doesn’t happen,” Graves
says. “The Clean Water Act is pretty specific when it comes to navigable
waterways and we just need to keep it that way.”

Graves says if the EPA needs guidance, it should consider the
actual wording of the Clean Water Act approved by Congress in 1972.

“The original bill, obviously done in the 1970s, I think it
spells it out quite clearly and we need to follow that,” according to Graves.

The Supreme Court ruling came in the <a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/22pdf/21-454_4g15.pdf">Sackett v. Environmental
Protection Agency</a>.

You can follow Brent @GBrentKFEQ&nbsp;and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686151178495.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostNorthern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves praises the United States
Supreme Court decision on the Biden Administration’s Waters of the United
States’ (WOTUS) rule, calling the ruling a huge win for agriculture as well as
all property owners.Graves, a Republican, succeeded in getting a bill through
Congress that would restrict the reach of the EPA under the Clean Water Act
only to see the president veto it. Graves doesn’t expect the Biden Administration
to accept this defeat in the courts, either.“I’m sure that the president and some of the extremists are
going to come back with something else now, because this thing just seems to
get batted around all the time,” Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “The
Supreme Court did us a huge favor by at least taking us back to reasonable
restrictions.”The ruling, though, might not be clearcut.The Supreme Court ruled unanimously against the EPA that had
told an Idaho couple they couldn’t build a home near Priest Lake, claiming the
property as a protected wetland. The justices, though, split on what test the
EPA should use in administering the Clean Water Act.Graves argues WOTUS went well beyond the authority Congress granted
in the Clean Water Act and could have been applied to streams, even ditches,
that Congress never intended to subject to regulation. Graves complains WOTUS
gave the EPA too much power.“So, whoever the individual was who was coming out if they had
a bone to pick with you, they could shut you down on being able to use your
property the way you want and we have to make sure that doesn’t happen,” Graves
says. “The Clean Water Act is pretty specific when it comes to navigable
waterways and we just need to keep it that way.”Graves says if the EPA needs guidance, it should consider the
actual wording of the Clean Water Act approved by Congress in 1972.“The original bill, obviously done in the 1970s, I think it
spells it out quite clearly and we need to follow that,” according to Graves.The Supreme Court ruling came in the <a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/22pdf/21-454_4g15.pdf">Sackett v. Environmental
Protection Agency</a>.You can follow Brent @GBrentKFEQ&nbsp;and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Congressman-Sam-Graves-on-Supreme-Courts-WOTUS-decision-e25dejj" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

Graves praises Supreme Court WOTUS ruling

With the summer driving season now underway, the nation's average price of gasoline declined 3.9 cents from a week ago to $3.51 per gallon. 

The national average diesel price fell 3.4 cents last week and is $3.88 per gallon. 

However, GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan warns OPEC could change the course of fuel prices this summer. OPEC+ agreed Sunday to additional production cuts, while Saudi Arabia is going above and beyond and cutting July production. 

As a result, De Haan says, "oil prices are likely to see upward pressure as global supplies, which have remained tight, promise to become even tighter as a result." 

Oil prices could rally this week and push fuel prices higher, but De Haan says any rise in average prices should be fairly small. U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a 2.3 percent fall last week, with the most common U.S. gas price at $3.39 per gallon.

With the summer driving season now underway, the nation's average price of gasoline declined 3.9 cents from a week ago to $3.51 per gallon. The national average diesel price fell 3.4 cents last week and is $3.88 per gallon. However, GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan warns OPEC could change the course of fuel prices this summer. OPEC+ agreed Sunday to additional production cuts, while Saudi Arabia is going above and beyond and cutting July production. As a result, De Haan says, "oil prices are likely to see upward pressure as global supplies, which have remained tight, promise to become even tighter as a result." Oil prices could rally this week and push fuel prices higher, but De Haan says any rise in average prices should be fairly small. U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a 2.3 percent fall last week, with the most common U.S. gas price at $3.39 per gallon.- NAFB

OPEC could derail fuel price declines

A committee formed by the Missouri Association of Counties is working to find solutions to help get mentally ill people treatment, rather than incarceration. 

Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett, a member of that committee, says on any given day Missouri jails could be holding 190 to 200 mentally ill inmates as they wait for beds in mental health facilities. 

"Often times those individuals sit between 8 to 12 months and the issue with that is the staffing in jails are not designed, or do they have the resources, to deal with individuals in mental health crisis," Puett tells host of the KFEQ Hotline Barry Birr. 

Puett says the committee is working hard to make sure they get people and resources where they need to be to help the mentally ill.

"Because it is not just a jail issue, it is a community issue and a jail issue combined, and we want to make sure that we're trying to get these folks where they need to be," Puett says. 

Puett says most jails that are housing such patients aren't suited for them, mainly because the staff isn't qualified to deal with these mental health issues.

"A lot of staff in jails, and even prisons, are not trained with psychiatric training obviously that's not their forte or their business," Puett explains. 

Puett says trying to deal with people in crisis and not having the proper training is a big reason why it's important to get these inmates to a proper mental health facility.

You can follow Matt on Twitter at @KfeqMatt or follow St. Joseph Post at @StJosephPost

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostA committee formed by the Missouri Association of Counties is working to find solutions to help get mentally ill people treatment, rather than incarceration. Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett, a member of that committee, says on any given day Missouri jails could be holding 190 to 200 mentally ill inmates as they wait for beds in mental health facilities. "Often times those individuals sit between 8 to 12 months and the issue with that is the staffing in jails are not designed, or do they have the resources, to deal with individuals in mental health crisis," Puett tells host of the KFEQ Hotline Barry Birr. Puett says the committee is working hard to make sure they get people and resources where they need to be to help the mentally ill."Because it is not just a jail issue, it is a community issue and a jail issue combined, and we want to make sure that we're trying to get these folks where they need to be," Puett says. Puett says most jails that are housing such patients aren't suited for them, mainly because the staff isn't qualified to deal with these mental health issues."A lot of staff in jails, and even prisons, are not trained with psychiatric training obviously that's not their forte or their business," Puett explains. Puett says trying to deal with people in crisis and not having the proper training is a big reason why it's important to get these inmates to a proper mental health facility.You can follow Matt on Twitter at @KfeqMatt or follow St. Joseph Post at @StJosephPost<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Too-many-Missouri-jails-house-too-many-mentally-ill-inmates-e25b6ce" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

Too many Missouri jails house too many mentally ill inmates

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a weekend arrest.

Just before&nbsp;6p.m. on Saturday officers were sent to the area of 9th and Unity in Atchison after&nbsp;receiving reports that 20-year-old Raymond Fink was in the area and he was known to have active warrants for his arrest, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

An officer located Fink walking in the area of the 800 block of Mound. Fink ran from officer and a foot pursuit ensued. He was apprehended and taken into custody in the 1000 block North 8th Street.

He remains jailed on requested charges of Criminal damage to property that occurred on April 26th at Walmart in Atchison, a theft that occurred on May 3rd at Walmart, an attempted burglary that occurred on April 26th at a parking lot in the 800 block of Raven,&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property Hill Road where he allegedly did damage to a vehicle while trying to enter it, District Court warrants for failure to appear in court and a Municipal Court warrant for failure to appear in court.

In October, he was jailed on requested charges of battery and failure to appear, according to online jail records.

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a weekend arrest.Just before&nbsp;6p.m. on Saturday officers were sent to the area of 9th and Unity in Atchison after&nbsp;receiving reports that 20-year-old Raymond Fink was in the area and he was known to have active warrants for his arrest, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.An officer located Fink walking in the area of the 800 block of Mound. Fink ran from officer and a foot pursuit ensued. He was apprehended and taken into custody in the 1000 block North 8th Street.He remains jailed on requested charges of Criminal damage to property that occurred on April 26th at Walmart in Atchison, a theft that occurred on May 3rd at Walmart, an attempted burglary that occurred on April 26th at a parking lot in the 800 block of Raven,&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property Hill Road where he allegedly did damage to a vehicle while trying to enter it, District Court warrants for failure to appear in court and a Municipal Court warrant for failure to appear in court.In October, he was jailed on requested charges of battery and failure to appear, according to online jail records.

Police capture wanted suspect after chase

A recent death of a person found inside a storage unit at the Brittany Village Apartments has put a spotlight on a growing homeless problem in St. Joseph.&nbsp;

Interim Police Chief Dave Hart says the department receives feedback regarding homeless issues in the community, but there are no quick and easy answers to solve it.&nbsp;

"Because we're not the only community facing this problem," Hart tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "This has unfortunately become the norm nationally, where you have these huge influxes of homeless individuals in communities for a myriad of reasons."&nbsp;

Hart says the department focuses on enforcement, when necessary, but it relies heavily on partnerships with organizations that provide services to the homeless.&nbsp;

"They do a great job, they work very well with us in finding unique and outside of the box ways to help people and to try and get them out of the situation that they're in," Hart explains. "Where we struggle as a community is the people who refuse services."&nbsp;

Hart says that's when you end up with people camping on the streets or in abandoned structures. &nbsp;

Hart says rather than giving money to those begging on the streets, you should donate to these organizations instead.&nbsp;

"That can get resources to these individuals, when you give to the people directly obviously you have no control over how that money is spent or what's going on, and when you give to these agencies they're able to invest that money in long term solutions to get people away from homelessness instead of continuing with the homeless lifestyle," Hart says.&nbsp;

Hart says you also may never know which people asking for money may be telling the truth, stating some might drive in from other communities only to set up shop and beg from St. Joseph drivers.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;A recent death of a person found inside a storage unit at the Brittany Village Apartments has put a spotlight on a growing homeless problem in St. Joseph.&nbsp;Interim Police Chief Dave Hart says the department receives feedback regarding homeless issues in the community, but there are no quick and easy answers to solve it.&nbsp;"Because we're not the only community facing this problem," Hart tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "This has unfortunately become the norm nationally, where you have these huge influxes of homeless individuals in communities for a myriad of reasons."&nbsp;Hart says the department focuses on enforcement, when necessary, but it relies heavily on partnerships with organizations that provide services to the homeless.&nbsp;"They do a great job, they work very well with us in finding unique and outside of the box ways to help people and to try and get them out of the situation that they're in," Hart explains. "Where we struggle as a community is the people who refuse services."&nbsp;Hart says that's when you end up with people camping on the streets or in abandoned structures. &nbsp;Hart says rather than giving money to those begging on the streets, you should donate to these organizations instead.&nbsp;"That can get resources to these individuals, when you give to the people directly obviously you have no control over how that money is spent or what's going on, and when you give to these agencies they're able to invest that money in long term solutions to get people away from homelessness instead of continuing with the homeless lifestyle," Hart says.&nbsp;Hart says you also may never know which people asking for money may be telling the truth, stating some might drive in from other communities only to set up shop and beg from St. Joseph drivers.&nbsp;You can follow Matt on Twitter at @KfeqMatt or follow St. Joseph Post at @StJosephPost<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Homeless-problem-continuing-to-grow-in-St--Joseph-e2593jj" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

Death at Brittany Village Apartments puts spotlight on growing problem

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman for alleged burglary.

On Saturday, police arrested 22-year-old&nbsp;Ciara L. Swenson of Atchison, on a Buchanan County Missouri warrant for burglary, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

In October 0f 2019, she was jailed on requested charges of heroin or meth distribution, according to online records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685977719906.png" alt="Swenson-photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Swenson-photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman for alleged burglary.On Saturday, police arrested 22-year-old&nbsp;Ciara L. Swenson of Atchison, on a Buchanan County Missouri warrant for burglary, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.In October 0f 2019, she was jailed on requested charges of heroin or meth distribution, according to online records.

Police: Kansas woman jailed for alleged burglary

The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office announced that it is filing a dispute settlement under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement in response to Mexico’s ban on biotech corn for human consumption. 

The National Corn Growers Association has called on the administration to act and praised the development. 

“Mexico’s actions, not based on sound science, have threatened the financial well-being of corn growers and rural communities,” says NCGA President Tom Haag. 

Under the agreement, once a dispute settlement gets filed, a group of objective experts will hear the case and make a final determination based on the commitments of both parties under the free trade agreement. 

Tai says Mexico’s measures are inconsistent with several of its obligations in the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures and Market Access chapters of the agreement. 

“The USMCA was written to ensure that all producers in the three countries have full access to each other’s markets,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. &nbsp;

The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office announced that it is filing a dispute settlement under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement in response to Mexico’s ban on biotech corn for human consumption. The National Corn Growers Association has called on the administration to act and praised the development. “Mexico’s actions, not based on sound science, have threatened the financial well-being of corn growers and rural communities,” says NCGA President Tom Haag. Under the agreement, once a dispute settlement gets filed, a group of objective experts will hear the case and make a final determination based on the commitments of both parties under the free trade agreement. Tai says Mexico’s measures are inconsistent with several of its obligations in the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures and Market Access chapters of the agreement. “The USMCA was written to ensure that all producers in the three countries have full access to each other’s markets,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. &nbsp;- NAFB

USTR to initiate USMCA dispute settlement with Mexico

A bipartisan group of congressional members is asking U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai to prioritize ethanol export competitiveness and address unfair import tariffs Brazil has in place on U.S. ethanol. 

The letter, signed by 21 members, highlighted the importance of biofuel and ethanol production for rural communities throughout the country. 

Recently announced import tariffs by Brazil on American ethanol would negatively impact American agriculture, which previously received duty-free treatment from Brazil. 

“We believe the tariff imbalance is unjustified and puts American ethanol and farmers at risk,” the letter says. “We strongly urge you to prioritize American ethanol export competitiveness in the Brazilian market by addressing these unfair policies.” 

The letter also says should Brazil’s unfair treatment continue, the lawmakers then stand ready to work with Tai to consider measures that protect American farmers and biofuel producers to help counter these unfair trade practices. Brazil’s tariff was reinstated on February 1.

A bipartisan group of congressional members is asking U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai to prioritize ethanol export competitiveness and address unfair import tariffs Brazil has in place on U.S. ethanol. The letter, signed by 21 members, highlighted the importance of biofuel and ethanol production for rural communities throughout the country. Recently announced import tariffs by Brazil on American ethanol would negatively impact American agriculture, which previously received duty-free treatment from Brazil. “We believe the tariff imbalance is unjustified and puts American ethanol and farmers at risk,” the letter says. “We strongly urge you to prioritize American ethanol export competitiveness in the Brazilian market by addressing these unfair policies.” The letter also says should Brazil’s unfair treatment continue, the lawmakers then stand ready to work with Tai to consider measures that protect American farmers and biofuel producers to help counter these unfair trade practices. Brazil’s tariff was reinstated on February 1.- NAFB

Legislators oppose discriminatory Brazilian tariffs on ethanol

Northern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves praises the debt
ceiling deal and defends Speaker Kevin McCarthy against fellow Republicans who
claim it didn’t go far enough.

Graves calls it a good bill and a step in the right direction.

“It’s the largest spending cut in our nation’s history,”
Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “It also rescinds the IRS funding. It makes
work requirements for folks that are receiving welfare. It caps discretionary
spending.”

The deal brokered by McCarthy and Democratic President Joe
Biden cleared the House on a 314-to-117 vote with more Democrats voting for it
than Republicans. It passed the Senate on a 63-36 vote.

Graves says that as for Republican criticism of the deal, it
doesn’t take into account that Republicans control only the House with
Democrats in control of the Senate and the White House.

“If you remember, the president said in the beginning he
absolutely would not negotiate; he’s not going to negotiate,” Graves says. “And
then, here we are with one of the best bills in terms of spending cuts that
this nation has ever seen.”

Graves says now that the debt ceiling negotiations have been
completed, it is time for the House to shape a budget that eliminates even more
spending.

“The fact that we were able to get everything that we were
trying to get I think is a huge win; just an absolute huge win for us. And
we’ll continue down this process,” Graves says. “So, this is just negotiating
the budget. Then we come back with the appropriations bills and will continue
to negotiate further cuts in spending. So, I think it’s a huge win.”

The bill calls for the return of $28 billion in unspent
COVID-related funding, strengthens welfare work requirements, and cuts $80 billion
sought by President Biden to add 20,000 IRS agents.

Graves points out negotiations took defense spending off the
table.

“We have to have a strong defense. We have to continue to have
a strong defense,” Graves says. “And one of the things that the president was
looking to cut dramatically was our defense budget. And it’s vitally important,
particularly given the unrest that’s around the world today, we have to have a
strong defense budget. So, it’s not going to be affected.”

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostNorthern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves praises the debt
ceiling deal and defends Speaker Kevin McCarthy against fellow Republicans who
claim it didn’t go far enough.Graves calls it a good bill and a step in the right direction.“It’s the largest spending cut in our nation’s history,”
Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “It also rescinds the IRS funding. It makes
work requirements for folks that are receiving welfare. It caps discretionary
spending.”The deal brokered by McCarthy and Democratic President Joe
Biden cleared the House on a 314-to-117 vote with more Democrats voting for it
than Republicans. It passed the Senate on a 63-36 vote.Graves says that as for Republican criticism of the deal, it
doesn’t take into account that Republicans control only the House with
Democrats in control of the Senate and the White House.“If you remember, the president said in the beginning he
absolutely would not negotiate; he’s not going to negotiate,” Graves says. “And
then, here we are with one of the best bills in terms of spending cuts that
this nation has ever seen.”Graves says now that the debt ceiling negotiations have been
completed, it is time for the House to shape a budget that eliminates even more
spending.“The fact that we were able to get everything that we were
trying to get I think is a huge win; just an absolute huge win for us. And
we’ll continue down this process,” Graves says. “So, this is just negotiating
the budget. Then we come back with the appropriations bills and will continue
to negotiate further cuts in spending. So, I think it’s a huge win.”The bill calls for the return of $28 billion in unspent
COVID-related funding, strengthens welfare work requirements, and cuts $80 billion
sought by President Biden to add 20,000 IRS agents.Graves points out negotiations took defense spending off the
table.“We have to have a strong defense. We have to continue to have
a strong defense,” Graves says. “And one of the things that the president was
looking to cut dramatically was our defense budget. And it’s vitally important,
particularly given the unrest that’s around the world today, we have to have a
strong defense budget. So, it’s not going to be affected.”You can follow Brent @GBrentKFEQ&nbsp;and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Congressman Graves calls debt ceiling bill a huge win

A St. Joseph man is being treated for a life-threatening wound
after a shooting near Corby Pond.

St. Joseph police report the shooting took place near 22nd
Street and Northeast Parkway late Friday night. Police say officers pulled the
victim over at 36th Street and Frederick Avenue as he was trying to
drive to the hospital. Officers began emergency treatment until Buchanan County
EMS arrived to take him to the hospital.

The victim’s car had two bullet holes in the driver’s side. It
also had a flat tire.

Anyone with information on the shooting is asked to call the St.
Joseph Police Department or the Tips Hotline at (816) 238-TIPS (8477).

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA St. Joseph man is being treated for a life-threatening wound
after a shooting near Corby Pond.St. Joseph police report the shooting took place near 22nd
Street and Northeast Parkway late Friday night. Police say officers pulled the
victim over at 36th Street and Frederick Avenue as he was trying to
drive to the hospital. Officers began emergency treatment until Buchanan County
EMS arrived to take him to the hospital.The victim’s car had two bullet holes in the driver’s side. It
also had a flat tire.The investigation continues.Anyone with information on the shooting is asked to call the St.
Joseph Police Department or the Tips Hotline at (816) 238-TIPS (8477).

St. Joseph man severely wounded in shooting

PLATTE COUNTY—The&nbsp;Platte County Prosecutor’s Office filed charges on Saturday against 50-year-old Phillip J. Frazier in the death of 32-year-old Cody J. Steffen, in Northmoor, Missouri, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.

On Friday Platte County deputies along with officers of the Riverside Police Department responded to reports of a shooting in a strip mall&nbsp; in&nbsp;2400 Block of Vivion Road in Northmoor, Missouri.

The shooting allegedly occurred after Frazier's vehicle struck Steffen's vehicle. Witnesses reported hearing the Steffen ask Frazier for his insurance information. 

Witnesses also reported seeing Frazier pull a handgun from the small of his back and point it at the victim. The gun allegedly still had a holster on it. Frazier allegedly removed the holster from the gun and shot Steffen from only a few inches away.

A Riverside Police officer took Frazier into custody shortly after the shooting.

Prosecutor Eric Zahnd stated, “This is the kind of tragedy that is occurring far too frequently these days. Someone is dead from gunfire after a minor fender bender. Fortunately, thanks to an excellent joint investigation by the Northmoor and Riverside police departments and the Platte County Sheriff’s Office, this defendant was quickly apprehended and charged.”

Frazier has been charged with 2nd Degree Murder and Armed Criminal Action and is currently being held in the Platte County Detention Center without bond.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685845658309.png" alt="Frazier is being held without bond in Platte Co." />
 <figcaption>Frazier is being held without bond in Platte Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>PLATTE COUNTY—The&nbsp;Platte County Prosecutor’s Office filed charges on Saturday against 50-year-old Phillip J. Frazier in the death of 32-year-old Cody J. Steffen, in Northmoor, Missouri, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.On Friday Platte County deputies along with officers of the Riverside Police Department responded to reports of a shooting in a strip mall&nbsp; in&nbsp;2400 Block of Vivion Road in Northmoor, Missouri.The shooting allegedly occurred after Frazier's vehicle struck Steffen's vehicle. Witnesses reported hearing the Steffen ask Frazier for his insurance information. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685799897744.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy Fox4Kansas City" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy Fox4Kansas City</figcaption>
 </figure>Witnesses also reported seeing Frazier pull a handgun from the small of his back and point it at the victim. The gun allegedly still had a holster on it. Frazier allegedly removed the holster from the gun and shot Steffen from only a few inches away.A Riverside Police officer took Frazier into custody shortly after the shooting.Prosecutor Eric Zahnd stated, “This is the kind of tragedy that is occurring far too frequently these days. Someone is dead from gunfire after a minor fender bender. Fortunately, thanks to an excellent joint investigation by the Northmoor and Riverside police departments and the Platte County Sheriff’s Office, this defendant was quickly apprehended and charged.”Frazier has been charged with 2nd Degree Murder and Armed Criminal Action and is currently being held in the Platte County Detention Center without bond.&nbsp;--------

Charges filed in parking lot fender bender killing

HARRISON COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 7:30p.m. Saturday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Mazda 3 driven by Semaj L. Foster, 29, Indianola, Iowa, was northbound on Interstate 35 five miles west of Ridgeway.

The vehicle exited at the 99 mile marker ramp, continued northbound, left the road and struck an embankment.

NTA ambulance transported Foster and a passenger Tamashya L. Foster, 50, Fulton, to&nbsp; Harrison County Community Hospital. The MSHP did not have seat belt usage information.

HARRISON COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 7:30p.m. Saturday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Mazda 3 driven by Semaj L. Foster, 29, Indianola, Iowa, was northbound on Interstate 35 five miles west of Ridgeway.The vehicle exited at the 99 mile marker ramp, continued northbound, left the road and struck an embankment.NTA ambulance transported Foster and a passenger Tamashya L. Foster, 50, Fulton, to&nbsp; Harrison County Community Hospital. The MSHP did not have seat belt usage information.

2 injured after car strikes embankment

LIVINGSTON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 5a.m. Saturday in Livingston County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix driven by Brison R. Hornback, 20, Chilhowee, was northbound on U.S. 65 south of Route H twelve miles from Chillicothe.

The driver attempted to avoid a deer in the road. The car traveled off the left side of the road, struck a ditch and a utility pole.

Livingston County ambulance transported Hornback to Hedrick Medical Center. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

LIVINGSTON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 5a.m. Saturday in Livingston County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix driven by Brison R. Hornback, 20, Chilhowee, was northbound on U.S. 65 south of Route H twelve miles from Chillicothe.The driver attempted to avoid a deer in the road. The car traveled off the left side of the road, struck a ditch and a utility pole.Livingston County ambulance transported Hornback to Hedrick Medical Center. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man hospitalized after car strikes utility pole

FENTON - Bishop LeBlond had trouble getting any offensive attack going against Father Tolton on Friday.

Heck, the Golden Eagles were held without a single shot-on-goal in the match.

Yet, LeBlond was in contention until the end. Junior goalkeeper Maddie Sego was a big reason for that. Despite Sego's 13 saves, LeBlond fell 1-0 against Father Tolton in a Class 1 girls' state semifinal at the World Wide Technology Soccer Park in Fenton on a warm and steamy afternoon.

"I'm super proud of all of my teammates," Sego said. "We gave it our all, we tried our hardest. I think we'll come out of this feeling pretty good."

From the very start, Tolton (17-8-1) kept control of the ball and kept the attack on LeBlond's side of the pitch. The Eagles, though, managed to keep it scoreless through the first 52 minutes of play.

The Trailblazers, who were held scoreless in the first half despite nine shots-on-goal, scored on their first shot attempt of the second half when senior Macie Parmer launched the ball into the air, straight over the middle of the 18-yard box, and high into the back of the net.

The Trailblazers had 14 shots-on-goal through the whole match and also six corner kicks. But with their backs against the wall, Sego and the Golden Eagles defense did all they could to give themselves a chance.

"We could critique a lot of things, but the effort they put in today, you can't take anything away from them there," LeBlond head coach Chad Thompson said. "They struggled quite a bit just getting a passing game going. We played a lot of (goal) clearance and that's hard to control."

Offensively, LeBlond had an early opportunity with their only corner kick of the match coming just 13 minutes into the first half. Tolton had it covered up, though, and no shot came from it.

The Trailblazers kept LeBlond's strikers out of contention the entire time, as Tolton controlled the passes and tempo on offense.

"Father Tolton kept the pressure high on us and kept their team pushed up," Thompson said. "It's hard to transition out of that. Our defense and Maddie Sego had a phenomenal game. That was the best game (Maddie) had of her career this year."

"I was just a wall, I guess," Sego said. "I wasn't going to let anything get by me and I knew my teammates had my side and...yeah."

The conditions weren't ideal either, as afternoon highs touched 90 degrees in Fenton. On artificial turf, that feels like 120-130 degrees Fahrenheit. There were mandatory water breaks in each half.

LeBlond has about 20 or so hours to rest and replenish. The Golden Eagles will face Saxony Lutheran (12-9) for third place on Saturday at 10 a.m.

Given the fact this is LeBlond's first ever Final Four in girls' soccer, and given the fact that the Golden Eagles have five freshmen in their starting lineup, there's nothing this team has to hang their head about after a tough effort on Friday came up a little short.

"We're going to drink plenty of fluids," Thompson said. "We're going to try and have a little fun. See the (Gateway) Arch and walk around a little bit. For the seniors, this is our last 'hoorah' as a team, and we're going to try to go make it memorable and fun."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685734378948.jpeg" alt="Bishop LeBlond goalie Maddie Sego dives to make a save in the second half. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Bishop LeBlond goalie Maddie Sego dives to make a save in the second half. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostFENTON - Bishop LeBlond had trouble getting any offensive attack going against Father Tolton on Friday.Heck, the Golden Eagles were held without a single shot-on-goal in the match.Yet, LeBlond was in contention until the end. Junior goalkeeper Maddie Sego was a big reason for that. Despite Sego's 13 saves, LeBlond fell 1-0 against Father Tolton in a Class 1 girls' state semifinal at the World Wide Technology Soccer Park in Fenton on a warm and steamy afternoon."I'm super proud of all of my teammates," Sego said. "We gave it our all, we tried our hardest. I think we'll come out of this feeling pretty good."From the very start, Tolton (17-8-1) kept control of the ball and kept the attack on LeBlond's side of the pitch. The Eagles, though, managed to keep it scoreless through the first 52 minutes of play.The Trailblazers, who were held scoreless in the first half despite nine shots-on-goal, scored on their first shot attempt of the second half when senior Macie Parmer launched the ball into the air, straight over the middle of the 18-yard box, and high into the back of the net.Tolton led 1-0 with 28:03 remaining.The Trailblazers had 14 shots-on-goal through the whole match and also six corner kicks. But with their backs against the wall, Sego and the Golden Eagles defense did all they could to give themselves a chance."We could critique a lot of things, but the effort they put in today, you can't take anything away from them there," LeBlond head coach Chad Thompson said. "They struggled quite a bit just getting a passing game going. We played a lot of (goal) clearance and that's hard to control."Offensively, LeBlond had an early opportunity with their only corner kick of the match coming just 13 minutes into the first half. Tolton had it covered up, though, and no shot came from it.The Trailblazers kept LeBlond's strikers out of contention the entire time, as Tolton controlled the passes and tempo on offense."Father Tolton kept the pressure high on us and kept their team pushed up," Thompson said. "It's hard to transition out of that. Our defense and Maddie Sego had a phenomenal game. That was the best game (Maddie) had of her career this year.""I was just a wall, I guess," Sego said. "I wasn't going to let anything get by me and I knew my teammates had my side and...yeah."The conditions weren't ideal either, as afternoon highs touched 90 degrees in Fenton. On artificial turf, that feels like 120-130 degrees Fahrenheit. There were mandatory water breaks in each half.LeBlond has about 20 or so hours to rest and replenish. The Golden Eagles will face Saxony Lutheran (12-9) for third place on Saturday at 10 a.m.Given the fact this is LeBlond's first ever Final Four in girls' soccer, and given the fact that the Golden Eagles have five freshmen in their starting lineup, there's nothing this team has to hang their head about after a tough effort on Friday came up a little short."We're going to drink plenty of fluids," Thompson said. "We're going to try and have a little fun. See the (Gateway) Arch and walk around a little bit. For the seniors, this is our last 'hoorah' as a team, and we're going to try to go make it memorable and fun."Pictures<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685736597785.jpeg" alt="Allie Welter." />
 <figcaption>Allie Welter.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685736613943.jpeg" alt="Brensley Fox." />
 <figcaption>Brensley Fox.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685736626827.jpeg" alt="Carly Woods." />
 <figcaption>Carly Woods.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685736642017.jpeg" alt="Emersyn McChristy (left)." />
 <figcaption>Emersyn McChristy (left).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685736656279.jpeg" alt="Kinsley Hazelwood." />
 <figcaption>Kinsley Hazelwood.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685736683890.jpeg" alt="Maddie Sego with a first half save." />
 <figcaption>Maddie Sego with a first half save.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685736702989.jpeg" alt="Murphy King." />
 <figcaption>Murphy King.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685736718363.jpeg" alt="Tatum Studer." />
 <figcaption>Tatum Studer.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

LeBlond falls to Father Tolton in state soccer semifinals, Eagles play for third Saturday

State Rep. Bill Falkner is running for Speaker of the Missouri
House.

Falkner, a Republican from St. Joseph, says he decided to run
for Speaker, because he believes the House can be run differently.

“The only way to change some of these things is to be in that
position,” Falkner tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “It’s a longshot that I will get
this, but a lot of people have asked me aren’t you afraid to lose? And I’ve
said no one likes to lose, but I would feel worse about myself if I thought I
could change things and didn’t try.”

The Speaker is elected by the entire Missouri House of
Representatives at the beginning of the legislative session.

Due to term limits, no one representative serves as Speaker
for very long.

While the Speaker is the top position in the Missouri House of
Representatives, the position has evolved into a powerful one during campaigns.
Falkner says the Speaker now is expected to do more than run the House during
the legislative session.

“Sometimes the Speaker’s role is who can raise a lot of money,
which I don’t really think that should be a requisite, but it is.”

The Missouri legislative session ended May 12th. Legislators
now enter the off season in which they can attend to their non-legislative jobs
and catch up on personal tasks that suffered neglect during the session.

That won’t be the case for Falkner, who will be traveling the
state this summer, campaigning for Speaker.

“I’ll probably be working on that and trying to just talk to
different representatives and try to give them my vision of what change would
look like,” Falkner says.

Falkner won election to the Missouri House in 2018, then won
re-election in 2020 and 2022. The former St. Joseph mayor, Falkner chairs the
House Local Government Committee.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685722029961.jpeg" alt="Rep. Bill Falkner/File photo" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Bill Falkner/File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostState Rep. Bill Falkner is running for Speaker of the Missouri
House.Falkner, a Republican from St. Joseph, says he decided to run
for Speaker, because he believes the House can be run differently.“The only way to change some of these things is to be in that
position,” Falkner tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “It’s a longshot that I will get
this, but a lot of people have asked me aren’t you afraid to lose? And I’ve
said no one likes to lose, but I would feel worse about myself if I thought I
could change things and didn’t try.”The Speaker is elected by the entire Missouri House of
Representatives at the beginning of the legislative session.Due to term limits, no one representative serves as Speaker
for very long.While the Speaker is the top position in the Missouri House of
Representatives, the position has evolved into a powerful one during campaigns.
Falkner says the Speaker now is expected to do more than run the House during
the legislative session.“Sometimes the Speaker’s role is who can raise a lot of money,
which I don’t really think that should be a requisite, but it is.”The Missouri legislative session ended May 12th. Legislators
now enter the off season in which they can attend to their non-legislative jobs
and catch up on personal tasks that suffered neglect during the session.That won’t be the case for Falkner, who will be traveling the
state this summer, campaigning for Speaker.“I’ll probably be working on that and trying to just talk to
different representatives and try to give them my vision of what change would
look like,” Falkner says.Falkner won election to the Missouri House in 2018, then won
re-election in 2020 and 2022. The former St. Joseph mayor, Falkner chairs the
House Local Government Committee.You can follow Brent @GBrentKFEQ&nbsp;and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph Rep. Falkner is running for House Speaker

ATCHISON COUNTY—One person was in an accident just after 8a.m. Friday in Atchison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by Kenneth E. Brion, 18, Fairfax, was westbound on MO 46 9 miles east of Fairfax.

The van crossed the center of the road, traveled off the south side of MO 46, struck a ditch and became airborne. The vehicle continued westbound, struck an embankment, a fence and rolled into a tree and power pole. The van became airborne a second time, struck the ground and came to rest in a field.

A private vehicle transported Brion to to Fairfax Community Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

ATCHISON COUNTY—One person was in an accident just after 8a.m. Friday in Atchison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by Kenneth E. Brion, 18, Fairfax, was westbound on MO 46 9 miles east of Fairfax.The van crossed the center of the road, traveled off the south side of MO 46, struck a ditch and became airborne. The vehicle continued westbound, struck an embankment, a fence and rolled into a tree and power pole. The van became airborne a second time, struck the ground and came to rest in a field.A private vehicle transported Brion to to Fairfax Community Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri teen injured in violent van, rollover accident

A summer concert series in downtown St. Joseph has brought the community together since 2013 and returns this weekend for a tenth year. &nbsp;

Imagine 11 began in 2013 in response to a request for live music in Coleman Hawkins Park. &nbsp;

One of the founders Roger Lenander says the mission of the concert series is to show that St. Joseph is a community that care, encourage and support one another.&nbsp;

"We went that direction rather than saying oh let's become that, but we realized, and through United Way has long been our standard bear with that in indicating how generous we are as a community and other organizations, but that's what we are," Lenander tells host of the KFEQ Hotline Barry Birr. "From north to south to east to west."&nbsp;

Lenander says the concert series isn't just about listening to music but also supporting that mission. &nbsp;

Lenander says several people come to the concerts simply because they know they'll get a quality event.&nbsp;

"It's surprising, we had some that said oh I don't know Sunday I'm really tired and can't do this, but I came out and then said and now I come because this is the best way to kind of chill, end the week, and start the week on Monday," Lenander says.&nbsp;

A variety of musicians will take the stage for 11 weeks every Sunday evening at 6'o clock. &nbsp;

Pastor of First Lutheran and planner Sami Pfalzgraf says the environment on Sunday evenings is just all-around fun.&nbsp; &nbsp;

"We're just out there to have fun, there's no alcohol, it's a free event, and it's really family friendly we love the kids," Pfalzgraf explains. "We have a group of people who come out and dance, and these guys are really phenomenal dancers, and so great if you want to get up and dance, get up and dance, if the kids want to get up and dance go ahead."&nbsp;

Pfalzgraf says the bands range from cover bands to people that do original songs. &nbsp;

The concert series will begin this Sunday and will run until August 9th.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685721379247.jpeg" alt="Crowds gather at Coleman Hawkins Park every Sunday evening during the run of Imagine 11 to hear music and be together as a community/ Photo courtesy of Imagine 11 Facebook page" />
 <figcaption>Crowds gather at Coleman Hawkins Park every Sunday evening during the run of Imagine 11 to hear music and be together as a community/ Photo courtesy of Imagine 11 Facebook page</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;A summer concert series in downtown St. Joseph has brought the community together since 2013 and returns this weekend for a tenth year. &nbsp;Imagine 11 began in 2013 in response to a request for live music in Coleman Hawkins Park. &nbsp;One of the founders Roger Lenander says the mission of the concert series is to show that St. Joseph is a community that care, encourage and support one another.&nbsp;"We went that direction rather than saying oh let's become that, but we realized, and through United Way has long been our standard bear with that in indicating how generous we are as a community and other organizations, but that's what we are," Lenander tells host of the KFEQ Hotline Barry Birr. "From north to south to east to west."&nbsp;Lenander says the concert series isn't just about listening to music but also supporting that mission. &nbsp;Lenander says several people come to the concerts simply because they know they'll get a quality event.&nbsp;"It's surprising, we had some that said oh I don't know Sunday I'm really tired and can't do this, but I came out and then said and now I come because this is the best way to kind of chill, end the week, and start the week on Monday," Lenander says.&nbsp;A variety of musicians will take the stage for 11 weeks every Sunday evening at 6'o clock. &nbsp;Pastor of First Lutheran and planner Sami Pfalzgraf says the environment on Sunday evenings is just all-around fun.&nbsp; &nbsp;"We're just out there to have fun, there's no alcohol, it's a free event, and it's really family friendly we love the kids," Pfalzgraf explains. "We have a group of people who come out and dance, and these guys are really phenomenal dancers, and so great if you want to get up and dance, get up and dance, if the kids want to get up and dance go ahead."&nbsp;Pfalzgraf says the bands range from cover bands to people that do original songs. &nbsp;The concert series will begin this Sunday and will run until August 9th.&nbsp;You can follow Matt on Twitter at @KfeqMatt or follow St. Joseph Post at @StJosephPost<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685721136176.jpeg" alt="Imagine 11 Schedule/ Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Imagine 11 Schedule/ Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>

Imagine 11 kicks off 10th year of downtown concerts this weekend

State Rep. Dean Van Schoaick, a Republican from Savannah,
wants to regulate drones flying over private property.

Van Schoaick has been working on legislation that would
restrict the activities of drones flying overhead. Van Schoaick was able to
push it through the Missouri House, but the measure stalled in the Senate.

“I think that’s going to be a very important thing in the future.
We passed it through the House this year, got it to the Senate. It didn’t get
any traction there,” Van Schoaick tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “I will work with
some senators this next year and see if we can get some traction with that bill
to protect landowners’ rights.”

Van Schoaick says drones shouldn’t be able to fly over private
property, whether a home or a business, without permission.

The Missouri legislative session ended May 12th. Much
legislation died in the last two weeks of the session as state senators mounted
filibusters in the closing days, keeping legislation from coming to the Senate
floor for debate.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostState Rep. Dean Van Schoaick, a Republican from Savannah,
wants to regulate drones flying over private property.Van Schoaick has been working on legislation that would
restrict the activities of drones flying overhead. Van Schoaick was able to
push it through the Missouri House, but the measure stalled in the Senate.“I think that’s going to be a very important thing in the future.
We passed it through the House this year, got it to the Senate. It didn’t get
any traction there,” Van Schoaick tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “I will work with
some senators this next year and see if we can get some traction with that bill
to protect landowners’ rights.”Van Schoaick says drones shouldn’t be able to fly over private
property, whether a home or a business, without permission.The Missouri legislative session ended May 12th. Much
legislation died in the last two weeks of the session as state senators mounted
filibusters in the closing days, keeping legislation from coming to the Senate
floor for debate.You can follow Brent @GBrentKFEQ&nbsp;and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Local state representative wants to restrict the flight of drones

Representatives Michelle Fischbach of Minnesota and Adrian Smith of Nebraska led 62 colleagues in a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai regarding Mexico. 

The House members are calling on Ambassador Tai to fully utilize the tools available under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement to hold Mexico accountable for its commitments. 

They’re asking Tai to proceed with a formal USMCA dispute to address Mexico’s discriminatory policies banning U.S. biotech corn. 

“Now that the thirty-day period for consultations has lapsed without Mexico making any changes, we urge you to take swift enforcement action by initiating a USMCA dispute,” the letter says. 

“Two months have passed since you made strong comments on Mexico during Congressional testimony, and we strongly believe it’s time to take additional steps in the matter.” 

The letter also points out that a lack of action would create a dangerous precedent that promises made under USMCA can be ignored without consequence.

Representatives Michelle Fischbach of Minnesota and Adrian Smith of Nebraska led 62 colleagues in a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai regarding Mexico. The House members are calling on Ambassador Tai to fully utilize the tools available under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement to hold Mexico accountable for its commitments. They’re asking Tai to proceed with a formal USMCA dispute to address Mexico’s discriminatory policies banning U.S. biotech corn. “Now that the thirty-day period for consultations has lapsed without Mexico making any changes, we urge you to take swift enforcement action by initiating a USMCA dispute,” the letter says. “Two months have passed since you made strong comments on Mexico during Congressional testimony, and we strongly believe it’s time to take additional steps in the matter.” The letter also points out that a lack of action would create a dangerous precedent that promises made under USMCA can be ignored without consequence.- NAFB

Reps push USTR for actions on Mexico under the USMCA

A new report from CoBank says grain merchandisers have endured rising costs of storing or carrying grain and oilseed inventories during the past year because of rising interest rates. 

Higher crop prices and rising operating costs like transportation, insurance, fuel, electricity, and labor are also squeezing grain elevators. 

CoBank forecasts the financial cost of carry will reach record highs in the upcoming 2023-2024 crop year for corn, wheat, and soybeans. 

Grain elevators are required to buy and market members’ crops, regardless of whether the economics are favorable. The one thing elevators do control is their local bids. Inverted futures markets further penalize elevators for having to store grains and oilseeds. 

A new report from CoBank says grain merchandisers have endured rising costs of storing or carrying grain and oilseed inventories during the past year because of rising interest rates. Higher crop prices and rising operating costs like transportation, insurance, fuel, electricity, and labor are also squeezing grain elevators. CoBank forecasts the financial cost of carry will reach record highs in the upcoming 2023-2024 crop year for corn, wheat, and soybeans. Grain elevators are required to buy and market members’ crops, regardless of whether the economics are favorable. The one thing elevators do control is their local bids. Inverted futures markets further penalize elevators for having to store grains and oilseeds. If interest rates stay at their current high level and futures markets remain inverted into the new crop year, then many grain cooperatives are expected to lower their bids and widen their basis to cover the high cost of storing commodities.- NAFB