Households spend more money on food as their incomes rise, but the amount spent represents a smaller share of their overall budgets, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. 

When U.S. households were divided into five equal groups by household income, households in the lowest income group had an average after-tax income of $16,337 and spent an average of $5,090 on food, or about $98 a week, in 2022. 

Households in the highest income group, with an average after-tax income of $196,794, spent an average of $15,713 on food, about $302 a week. 

As households gain more disposable income, they often shift to more expensive food options. Food spending as a share of income rose across all income groups in 2022 as food prices increased faster than the overall inflation rate. 

In 2022, food spending represented 31.2 percent of the lowest groups’ income, 13.4 percent of income for the middle group, and 8.0 percent of income for the highest group.

Households spend more money on food as their incomes rise, but the amount spent represents a smaller share of their overall budgets, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. When U.S. households were divided into five equal groups by household income, households in the lowest income group had an average after-tax income of $16,337 and spent an average of $5,090 on food, or about $98 a week, in 2022. Households in the highest income group, with an average after-tax income of $196,794, spent an average of $15,713 on food, about $302 a week. As households gain more disposable income, they often shift to more expensive food options. Food spending as a share of income rose across all income groups in 2022 as food prices increased faster than the overall inflation rate. In 2022, food spending represented 31.2 percent of the lowest groups’ income, 13.4 percent of income for the middle group, and 8.0 percent of income for the highest group.- NAFB

Households that earn less spend a higher share of income on food

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

An appeals court will be asked to take another look at whether a trade association for Missouri casinos can sue a company that puts video games offering cash prizes in convenience stores and other retailers across the state.

The Missouri Gaming Association said in a news release Wednesday that it will appeal the decision that dismissed its claims against Torch Electronics. That same decision, issued Monday by Cole County Circuit Judge Daniel Green, also&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/10/02/judge-tosses-torch-lawsuit-seeking-to-block-missouri-highway-patrol-gambling-investigations/">dismissed the case raised by Torch</a>&nbsp;and convenience store operator Warrenton Oil accusing the Missouri State Highway Patrol of harassing the company by investigating its games.

“Torch Electronics is an illegal competitor and its illegal gaming devices are harming our members,” the gaming association said in its statement.

Chuck Hatfield, the attorney for Torch and the other plaintiffs, said in a text message he will also file an appeal of Green’s decision.&nbsp;

“We look forward to our day in court and a determination that these amusement devices are legal,” Hatfield said.

Torch f<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/02/10/missouri-company-accused-of-illegal-gambling-has-sued-the-state/">iled the lawsuit in early 2021</a>, when it faced&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/judge-rules-e-raffle-machines-must-face-trial-in-missouri-illegal-gambling-case/">felony charges of promoting gambling</a>&nbsp;in a Linn County case. That charge was dropped early this year by a newly elected prosecutor.

In a written decision issued late Monday, Green said that there were other venues, aside from his court, where Torch could raise its objections to the patrol’s investigations.

“(T)he controversy is not ripe and plaintiffs have adequate remedies at law,” Green wrote.

He also ruled he didn’t have the power to grant what Torch wanted.

“(T)he relief sought is outside the jurisdiction of this court in which it is asked to invade/limit the exercise of legitimate police power by the defendant the Missouri State Highway Patrol,” Green wrote.

Green dismissed the case the afternoon before a four-day trial was scheduled to begin. If an appeals court revives the case, it would most likely order Green to conduct the trial rather than rule on any of the substantive issues involved.

Torch and other vendors&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/unregulated-gaming-machines-spreading-throughout-columbia/article_7b6e46ee-bd0c-11e8-b55d-a382c7e78e1c.html">in 2018</a>&nbsp;started placing video games offering cash prizes in retail locations around the state. In court filings, Torch calls the games “amusement devices” and the state and the gaming association call them illegal slot machines.

Torch argues that a “pre-reveal” feature, showing the outcome of the next play, makes its games legal because it allows players to walk away from the game if they would lose money. The company also argues that because the outcomes are not generated randomly the games do not violate state law.

One vendor of the games, Integrity Gaming, was convicted of felony promotion of gambling&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newspressnow.com/news/local_news/gambling-machines-ruled-illegal-in-platte-county/article_a18bda38-fe7a-11ea-8750-9745493d72eb.html">in 2021 in Platte County</a>. The company paid a fine and pulled its machines from the state.&nbsp;

The patrol since 2019 has been investigating complaints and seeking charges in hundreds of cases, usually seizing games made by Torch and other manufacturers as illegal gambling devices. But few prosecutions have been filed and almost none have continued to a final verdict.

The case before Green was seen by many as a way to get a definitive answer on the games’ legality. Efforts by leading lawmakers to clarify the law to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/04/28/defeat-of-gambling-bill-likely-dooms-legislative-push-against-gray-market-machines/">define the games as illegal</a>&nbsp;have failed. The legislative question has become mixed into the debate over sports wagering and authorizing the Missouri Lottery to offer video games that would replace the so-called “gray market” machines.

Taxes on casino profits and the lottery’s net after paying prizes and vendors are used to support education programs. Surplus funds from the state’s portion of a $2 entry fee paid by casinos for every person who enters the gambling floor is used to pay operating costs at state veterans’ nursing homes.

Almost 40 million customers entered casinos during the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2018. Only 28.9 million gamblers entered casinos in the most recent fiscal year, which ended June 30. The average amount lost by each patron has increased by 51% in the same period, keeping casino revenue stable despite the lower numbers and indicating that small-dollar patrons have stopped visiting.

“Torch’s illegal gaming devices take money away from veterans, local cities and education in the form of lost tax revenue and admission fees, and this needs to be stopped,” the gaming association said in announcing the appeal.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696501676282.png" alt="The NCG on this machine’s display means it is a “no-chance gaming” machine that owners contend does not violate Missouri laws against gambling (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>The NCG on this machine’s display means it is a “no-chance gaming” machine that owners contend does not violate Missouri laws against gambling (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>By RUDI KELLER,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>An appeals court will be asked to take another look at whether a trade association for Missouri casinos can sue a company that puts video games offering cash prizes in convenience stores and other retailers across the state.The Missouri Gaming Association said in a news release Wednesday that it will appeal the decision that dismissed its claims against Torch Electronics. That same decision, issued Monday by Cole County Circuit Judge Daniel Green, also&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/10/02/judge-tosses-torch-lawsuit-seeking-to-block-missouri-highway-patrol-gambling-investigations/">dismissed the case raised by Torch</a>&nbsp;and convenience store operator Warrenton Oil accusing the Missouri State Highway Patrol of harassing the company by investigating its games.“Torch Electronics is an illegal competitor and its illegal gaming devices are harming our members,” the gaming association said in its statement.Chuck Hatfield, the attorney for Torch and the other plaintiffs, said in a text message he will also file an appeal of Green’s decision.&nbsp;“We look forward to our day in court and a determination that these amusement devices are legal,” Hatfield said.Torch f<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/02/10/missouri-company-accused-of-illegal-gambling-has-sued-the-state/">iled the lawsuit in early 2021</a>, when it faced&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/judge-rules-e-raffle-machines-must-face-trial-in-missouri-illegal-gambling-case/">felony charges of promoting gambling</a>&nbsp;in a Linn County case. That charge was dropped early this year by a newly elected prosecutor.In a written decision issued late Monday, Green said that there were other venues, aside from his court, where Torch could raise its objections to the patrol’s investigations.“(T)he controversy is not ripe and plaintiffs have adequate remedies at law,” Green wrote.He also ruled he didn’t have the power to grant what Torch wanted.“(T)he relief sought is outside the jurisdiction of this court in which it is asked to invade/limit the exercise of legitimate police power by the defendant the Missouri State Highway Patrol,” Green wrote.Green dismissed the case the afternoon before a four-day trial was scheduled to begin. If an appeals court revives the case, it would most likely order Green to conduct the trial rather than rule on any of the substantive issues involved.Torch and other vendors&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/unregulated-gaming-machines-spreading-throughout-columbia/article_7b6e46ee-bd0c-11e8-b55d-a382c7e78e1c.html">in 2018</a>&nbsp;started placing video games offering cash prizes in retail locations around the state. In court filings, Torch calls the games “amusement devices” and the state and the gaming association call them illegal slot machines.Torch argues that a “pre-reveal” feature, showing the outcome of the next play, makes its games legal because it allows players to walk away from the game if they would lose money. The company also argues that because the outcomes are not generated randomly the games do not violate state law.One vendor of the games, Integrity Gaming, was convicted of felony promotion of gambling&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newspressnow.com/news/local_news/gambling-machines-ruled-illegal-in-platte-county/article_a18bda38-fe7a-11ea-8750-9745493d72eb.html">in 2021 in Platte County</a>. The company paid a fine and pulled its machines from the state.&nbsp;The patrol since 2019 has been investigating complaints and seeking charges in hundreds of cases, usually seizing games made by Torch and other manufacturers as illegal gambling devices. But few prosecutions have been filed and almost none have continued to a final verdict.The case before Green was seen by many as a way to get a definitive answer on the games’ legality. Efforts by leading lawmakers to clarify the law to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/04/28/defeat-of-gambling-bill-likely-dooms-legislative-push-against-gray-market-machines/">define the games as illegal</a>&nbsp;have failed. The legislative question has become mixed into the debate over sports wagering and authorizing the Missouri Lottery to offer video games that would replace the so-called “gray market” machines.Taxes on casino profits and the lottery’s net after paying prizes and vendors are used to support education programs. Surplus funds from the state’s portion of a $2 entry fee paid by casinos for every person who enters the gambling floor is used to pay operating costs at state veterans’ nursing homes.Almost 40 million customers entered casinos during the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2018. Only 28.9 million gamblers entered casinos in the most recent fiscal year, which ended June 30. The average amount lost by each patron has increased by 51% in the same period, keeping casino revenue stable despite the lower numbers and indicating that small-dollar patrons have stopped visiting.“Torch’s illegal gaming devices take money away from veterans, local cities and education in the form of lost tax revenue and admission fees, and this needs to be stopped,” the gaming association said in announcing the appeal.

Casinos plan appeal of ruling in unregulated slot machine lawsuit

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on child sex allegations.&nbsp;

On Tuesday police arrested 24-year-old&nbsp; Jayln C. Cluke of Atchison on a District Court warrant charging him with aggravated criminal sodomy, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

This warrant is the result of a May 2021 police investigation involving a victim under the age of 14. Cluke is being held on a $50,000 bond, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696438270226.png" alt="Cluke photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Cluke photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on child sex allegations.&nbsp;On Tuesday police arrested 24-year-old&nbsp; Jayln C. Cluke of Atchison on a District Court warrant charging him with aggravated criminal sodomy, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.This warrant is the result of a May 2021 police investigation involving a victim under the age of 14. Cluke is being held on a $50,000 bond, according to online jail records.

Kansas man accused of child sex crimes.

A vice president with the Kansas City Federal Reserve says a
tight labor market continues to fuel inflation.

Kansas City Fed Executive Vice President Joseph Gruber says
four factors play the largest role in pushing prices higher in the United
States:&nbsp; energy costs, supply chain
problems, workforce, and rental costs.

Gruber says the lack of workers seems to be the biggest driver
of inflation.

“So, we’ve heard a lot about the tightness of the labor market.
We know that there’s a lot of vacancies relative to the number of unemployed
people,” Gruber tells reporters. “These are things that are making it difficult
for firms to hire the workers they need in order to increase the output that
would help bring prices down.”

Gruber spoke to reporters after delivering remarks at the 2023
Economic Development Summit sponsored by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce
held on the Missouri Western State University campus Wednesday.

Gruber speculates that the September labor report that comes
out Friday will weigh heavily as the Federal Reserve Board of Governors decides
whether to increase interest rates as part of the Fed’s work to rein in
inflation. Gruber does say the Fed will also have to take into account any impact
the current UAW strike against American auto manufacturers might have on the
report.

Everyone anticipated a recession this year, but the economy
kept pushing forward. Gruber says the economy has surprised a lot of forecasters.

“It is interesting that at the end of the last year I think
there was a high expectation that there would be a recession sometime in the
course of 2023,” Gruber says. “And as the economy has proven much more
resilient than people are expecting, I think that recession expectation has
been pushed back.”

Gruber says inflation still plagues the economy. Gruber says
inflation has been fueled by four sources:&nbsp;
energy costs, housing costs, supply chain issues, and the tight labor
market.

Gruber says the economy in the Midwest has been holding its
own.

“If you look at the unemployment rates and the labor market,
for most of the region, unemployment rates are fairly low and labor markets still
remain fairly strong,” Gruber says. “If you look at the consumption GDP data, I
think the region is doing very well.” 

Gruber acknowledges the agricultural economy has been hurt by
the drought.

“So, I think the drought has been difficult, particularly for
the more western parts of our region,” according to Gruber. “We have seen a
decline in farm incomes this year relative to last year. But overall, farm economy
still appears to be fairly healthy.”

Gruber also serves as Director of Research of the Federal
Reserve Bank of Kansas City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696453133824.jpeg" alt="KC Federal Reserve Executive Vice President Joseph Gruber delivers remarks during the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Summit/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>KC Federal Reserve Executive Vice President Joseph Gruber delivers remarks during the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Summit/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA vice president with the Kansas City Federal Reserve says a
tight labor market continues to fuel inflation.Kansas City Fed Executive Vice President Joseph Gruber says
four factors play the largest role in pushing prices higher in the United
States:&nbsp; energy costs, supply chain
problems, workforce, and rental costs.Gruber says the lack of workers seems to be the biggest driver
of inflation.“So, we’ve heard a lot about the tightness of the labor market.
We know that there’s a lot of vacancies relative to the number of unemployed
people,” Gruber tells reporters. “These are things that are making it difficult
for firms to hire the workers they need in order to increase the output that
would help bring prices down.”Gruber spoke to reporters after delivering remarks at the 2023
Economic Development Summit sponsored by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce
held on the Missouri Western State University campus Wednesday.Gruber speculates that the September labor report that comes
out Friday will weigh heavily as the Federal Reserve Board of Governors decides
whether to increase interest rates as part of the Fed’s work to rein in
inflation. Gruber does say the Fed will also have to take into account any impact
the current UAW strike against American auto manufacturers might have on the
report.Everyone anticipated a recession this year, but the economy
kept pushing forward. Gruber says the economy has surprised a lot of forecasters.“It is interesting that at the end of the last year I think
there was a high expectation that there would be a recession sometime in the
course of 2023,” Gruber says. “And as the economy has proven much more
resilient than people are expecting, I think that recession expectation has
been pushed back.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696453241374.jpeg" alt="Gruber speaks to an attendee of the economic summit after his speech/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Gruber speaks to an attendee of the economic summit after his speech/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>Gruber says inflation still plagues the economy. Gruber says
inflation has been fueled by four sources:&nbsp;
energy costs, housing costs, supply chain issues, and the tight labor
market.Gruber says the economy in the Midwest has been holding its
own.“If you look at the unemployment rates and the labor market,
for most of the region, unemployment rates are fairly low and labor markets still
remain fairly strong,” Gruber says. “If you look at the consumption GDP data, I
think the region is doing very well.” Gruber acknowledges the agricultural economy has been hurt by
the drought.“So, I think the drought has been difficult, particularly for
the more western parts of our region,” according to Gruber. “We have seen a
decline in farm incomes this year relative to last year. But overall, farm economy
still appears to be fairly healthy.”Gruber also serves as Director of Research of the Federal
Reserve Bank of Kansas City.<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Kansas-City-Fed-VP-on-the-economy-e2a5trb" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

KC Fed VP tells St. Joseph audience tight labor market fuels inflation

The Dance Arts Center is getting ready to bring Wonderland to the stage in St. Joseph.   

The Dance Arts Center Performing Company is taking audiences into the mystical world of Alice in Wonderland in January.  

Director Marla Heeler says the company started around 2016, first performing The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.  Just last year they took on a bigger hit, bringing The Nutcracker to the Missouri Theatre for the first time in a long time.  

Heeler says the company will often choose the performance before it knows how many performers it will have.  

"So, it's a little bit of a gamble I guess, my production team and I just kind of brainstorm some different ideas that we'd like to do and then figure out what we think we can actually make happen, what resources we have," Heeler tells KFEQ/St. joseph Post. 

Heeler says the company gives students pre professional experience in putting on a full-scale production, from creating costumes, to prop design, to creating their characters. 

"So, it kind of just gives them a whole different perspective of a full show performance of telling a story through dance and not just a dance recital or a dance competition, and so they really have to bring their characters to life more," Heeler explains. "We have kids who they love that more than they love even competing and things like that." 

The company will put on a performance of Alice in Wonderland in January.  This Saturday, the Dance Arts Center will host its fifth annual Coffee Crawl to raise money for the performance.  

Heeler says the event helps raise money for the dance studio, but it's also a way for them to collaborate with downtown businesses. 

"Which we love, and they really enjoy it too," Heeler says. "And we've had great weather, the last two years we've had great weather, the very first year was actually the worst it rained, and it was cold."  

Heeler says they also hand out a themed mug during the event to participants. Heeler says it’s really a wonderful collaboration. 

"With our dancers there and all the shops as well in their character costumes for the show and it kind of helps promote our show, promote downtown businesses, it's just like a win-win for us and for St. Joe," Heeler points out. 

16 downtown businesses will give out Alice in Wonderland themed drinks during the event on Saturday. You can find more information at <a href="https://thedanceartscenter.com/">thedanceartscenter.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696448427075.jpeg" alt="The Dance Arts Center Performing Company will put on a performance of Alice in Wonderland in January. An annual coffee crawl on Saturday will help raise funds to put on the show/ Photo courtesy of the Dance Arts Center Facebook page" />
 <figcaption>The Dance Arts Center Performing Company will put on a performance of Alice in Wonderland in January. An annual coffee crawl on Saturday will help raise funds to put on the show/ Photo courtesy of the Dance Arts Center Facebook page</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The Dance Arts Center is getting ready to bring Wonderland to the stage in St. Joseph. The Dance Arts Center Performing Company is taking audiences into the mystical world of Alice in Wonderland in January. Director Marla Heeler says the company started around 2016, first performing The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Just last year they took on a bigger hit, bringing The Nutcracker to the Missouri Theatre for the first time in a long time. Heeler says the company will often choose the performance before it knows how many performers it will have. "So, it's a little bit of a gamble I guess, my production team and I just kind of brainstorm some different ideas that we'd like to do and then figure out what we think we can actually make happen, what resources we have," Heeler tells KFEQ/St. joseph Post. Heeler says the company gives students pre professional experience in putting on a full-scale production, from creating costumes, to prop design, to creating their characters. "So, it kind of just gives them a whole different perspective of a full show performance of telling a story through dance and not just a dance recital or a dance competition, and so they really have to bring their characters to life more," Heeler explains. "We have kids who they love that more than they love even competing and things like that." The company will put on a performance of Alice in Wonderland in January. This Saturday, the Dance Arts Center will host its fifth annual Coffee Crawl to raise money for the performance. Heeler says the event helps raise money for the dance studio, but it's also a way for them to collaborate with downtown businesses. "Which we love, and they really enjoy it too," Heeler says. "And we've had great weather, the last two years we've had great weather, the very first year was actually the worst it rained, and it was cold." Heeler says they also hand out a themed mug during the event to participants. Heeler says it’s really a wonderful collaboration. "With our dancers there and all the shops as well in their character costumes for the show and it kind of helps promote our show, promote downtown businesses, it's just like a win-win for us and for St. Joe," Heeler points out. 16 downtown businesses will give out Alice in Wonderland themed drinks during the event on Saturday. You can find more information at <a href="https://thedanceartscenter.com/">thedanceartscenter.com</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696448519366.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Transport yourself to Wonderland with St. Joseph's Dance Arts Center Coffee Crawl

Four St. Joseph women, all professionals in their field, hope
to resurrect vacant housing and introduce residents to home buying as they push
the recently formed <a href="https://housingimprovementinitiative.com/">Housing Improvement Initiative</a>.

One of them, Ashley Albers, Vice President of Human Resources
for Nor-Am Cold Storage, says the initiative isn’t just focusing on
rehabilitating houses left vacant, but also educating employees of Nor-Am and
Lifeline Foods on the ins and outs of buying and owning a home, some of whom have
never even thought about owning before.

“And that’s kind of the response we got from our employees
was, I didn’t think that was an option for me. No one in my family has ever
bought a house before. We’ve just always been renters. Is that even an option?”
Albers tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.&nbsp; “That’s been really kind of heartwarming to
talk to people that never thought they had that choice.”

At present, the educational courses are offered to employees
of Nor-Am and Lifeline, but Albers says the group would like to expand the
courses to others.

Albers recalls a conversation she had with someone getting
ready to complete the course.

“One of them said I have my eye on a house over in this
neighborhood. I’m not ready for probably the next six months, but I’m going to
buy a house in the next six to 12 months,” Albers says. “And he had been
renting for seven years and had no idea that he even had that as an option.”

Albers says she along with Sarah Weaver, a commercial real
estate agent, and Lifeline Foods CFO Michelle Clark, and Buchanan County
Auditor Tara Horn began talking last spring about how St. Joseph could expand
short-term rentals for the bicyclists coming to St. Joseph to ride the newly
created River Bluff Trails Park. Albers says the four considered how to get
their hands on some of the dilapidated houses in the city, fix them up, and
create new short-term rental units.

That conversation snowballed and the Housing Improvement
Initiative was formed.

The initiative, a nonprofit, has two main goals. One is to
acquire rundown property with potential and upgrade them for resell. The second
is to educate life-long renters on how they can become home owners. Together those
goals will work to increase the housing stock in St. Joseph as well as get
residents more vested in the community through home ownership.

The group will acquire property through a number of avenues,
including the Buchanan County property tax sale and use of the Missouri
Abandoned Housing Act. It will educate would-be homeowners through an intense
training course that teaches the basics of buying a home as well as the
budgeting needed to keep up with mortgage payments and maintenance.

Weaver tells Birr the group began by surveying what St. Joseph
properties might fit their criteria.

“So, if there are homes in this community that have been
vacant for six year, 10 years, 12 years and they’re not paying their property
taxes, there’s obviously property maintenance that has been deferred, those are
the ones we have identified as properties that we would really like to acquire
and work on putting back onto the tax roll and instilling pride of ownership
back in that neighborhood, too,” Weaver says.

The Housing Improvement Initiative is working with public
officials as well as representatives in the banking, real estate, and insurance
industries.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostFour St. Joseph women, all professionals in their field, hope
to resurrect vacant housing and introduce residents to home buying as they push
the recently formed <a href="https://housingimprovementinitiative.com/">Housing Improvement Initiative</a>.One of them, Ashley Albers, Vice President of Human Resources
for Nor-Am Cold Storage, says the initiative isn’t just focusing on
rehabilitating houses left vacant, but also educating employees of Nor-Am and
Lifeline Foods on the ins and outs of buying and owning a home, some of whom have
never even thought about owning before.“And that’s kind of the response we got from our employees
was, I didn’t think that was an option for me. No one in my family has ever
bought a house before. We’ve just always been renters. Is that even an option?”
Albers tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.&nbsp; “That’s been really kind of heartwarming to
talk to people that never thought they had that choice.”At present, the educational courses are offered to employees
of Nor-Am and Lifeline, but Albers says the group would like to expand the
courses to others.Albers recalls a conversation she had with someone getting
ready to complete the course.“One of them said I have my eye on a house over in this
neighborhood. I’m not ready for probably the next six months, but I’m going to
buy a house in the next six to 12 months,” Albers says. “And he had been
renting for seven years and had no idea that he even had that as an option.”Albers says she along with Sarah Weaver, a commercial real
estate agent, and Lifeline Foods CFO Michelle Clark, and Buchanan County
Auditor Tara Horn began talking last spring about how St. Joseph could expand
short-term rentals for the bicyclists coming to St. Joseph to ride the newly
created River Bluff Trails Park. Albers says the four considered how to get
their hands on some of the dilapidated houses in the city, fix them up, and
create new short-term rental units.That conversation snowballed and the Housing Improvement
Initiative was formed.The initiative, a nonprofit, has two main goals. One is to
acquire rundown property with potential and upgrade them for resell. The second
is to educate life-long renters on how they can become home owners. Together those
goals will work to increase the housing stock in St. Joseph as well as get
residents more vested in the community through home ownership.The group will acquire property through a number of avenues,
including the Buchanan County property tax sale and use of the Missouri
Abandoned Housing Act. It will educate would-be homeowners through an intense
training course that teaches the basics of buying a home as well as the
budgeting needed to keep up with mortgage payments and maintenance.Weaver tells Birr the group began by surveying what St. Joseph
properties might fit their criteria.“So, if there are homes in this community that have been
vacant for six year, 10 years, 12 years and they’re not paying their property
taxes, there’s obviously property maintenance that has been deferred, those are
the ones we have identified as properties that we would really like to acquire
and work on putting back onto the tax roll and instilling pride of ownership
back in that neighborhood, too,” Weaver says.The Housing Improvement Initiative is working with public
officials as well as representatives in the banking, real estate, and insurance
industries.<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Initiative-launched-to-improve-housing-in-St--Joseph-e2a5g03" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

4 women survey St. Joseph housing needs and decide to act

St. Joseph city and park officials are working to combat a growing vandalism problem at the city’s parks.  

District One Councilmember Madison Davis says much of this vandalism can be senseless at times 

"Restrooms, you know they try to break a mirror or rip the sink off the wall or bend the dividers, just silly things," Davis tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "It's just there's I don't think any way to describe it other than senseless and stupid." 

Davis says it's up to everyone to try to help stop the problem 

"Trying to if we see these things or see individuals who are doing these things, trying to call them out and report those things," Davis says. "Not to say that's going to fix every problem." 

Davis says this is not a problem as small as littering 

"We've got to have the education and the sense in our community that it harms us more than anybody," Davis explains. "And I think that's hard to get across to folks at times." 

Davis says the problem is not just contained to city parks, it's also happening at city businesses and homes as well. 

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post St. Joseph city and park officials are working to combat a growing vandalism problem at the city’s parks. District One Councilmember Madison Davis says much of this vandalism can be senseless at times "Restrooms, you know they try to break a mirror or rip the sink off the wall or bend the dividers, just silly things," Davis tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "It's just there's I don't think any way to describe it other than senseless and stupid." Davis says it's up to everyone to try to help stop the problem "Trying to if we see these things or see individuals who are doing these things, trying to call them out and report those things," Davis says. "Not to say that's going to fix every problem." Davis says this is not a problem as small as littering "We've got to have the education and the sense in our community that it harms us more than anybody," Davis explains. "And I think that's hard to get across to folks at times." Davis says the problem is not just contained to city parks, it's also happening at city businesses and homes as well.

Vandalism a growing problem in St. Joseph

Harold Wolle, a Minnesota farmer, officially took over as the new president of the National Corn Growers Association. 

Wolle has several goals in mind, saying that reauthorizing a farm bill that reflects the priorities of corn growers will be a pressing concern. 

He also plans to push for more support of the Next Generation Fuels Act in the House and Senate while making ethanol a go-to biofuel in the aviation sector. 

“My theme as president is ‘Shaping the Future,’ and nothing shapes the future like effective advocacy,” Wolle says. “And no other group does advocacy as well as our state corn grower groups and the NCGA.” Wolle has a lot of experience in many issues important to corn growers. 

He's served on NCGA committees and the organization’s board, including as a board liaison to the National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Advisory Board. He’s also past president of the Minnesota Corn Growers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696433178804.jpeg" alt="Photo of Harold Wolle courtesy of the NCGA" />
 <figcaption>Photo of Harold Wolle courtesy of the NCGA</figcaption>
 </figure>Harold Wolle, a Minnesota farmer, officially took over as the new president of the National Corn Growers Association. Wolle has several goals in mind, saying that reauthorizing a farm bill that reflects the priorities of corn growers will be a pressing concern. He also plans to push for more support of the Next Generation Fuels Act in the House and Senate while making ethanol a go-to biofuel in the aviation sector. “My theme as president is ‘Shaping the Future,’ and nothing shapes the future like effective advocacy,” Wolle says. “And no other group does advocacy as well as our state corn grower groups and the NCGA.” Wolle has a lot of experience in many issues important to corn growers. He's served on NCGA committees and the organization’s board, including as a board liaison to the National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Advisory Board. He’s also past president of the Minnesota Corn Growers.- NAFB

Wolle takes over as new NCGA president

U.S. pork producers tasked the National Pork Producers Council with leading an effort to update the existing swine traceability system. 

NPPC wants swine producers, veterinarians, cull swine and breeding operators, and show pig enthusiasts to comment on the draft standards by October 27. 

“Approximately one million pigs are in transit every day, giving diseases plenty of opportunities to spread,” says Scott Hays, NPPC president and Missouri pork producer. 

“With the growing threat of a foreign animal disease reaching the U.S., the need to address gaps in our existing traceability system is important for our farms and industry.” 

International markets would close immediately if a foreign animal disease were discovered in the U.S. “With $7.7 billion worth of pork being sold to international consumers, we need to assure our trading partners that we can identify disease-free animals and provide products from unaffected farms,” Hays adds. For more information, go to nppc.org/trace.

U.S. pork producers tasked the National Pork Producers Council with leading an effort to update the existing swine traceability system. NPPC wants swine producers, veterinarians, cull swine and breeding operators, and show pig enthusiasts to comment on the draft standards by October 27. “Approximately one million pigs are in transit every day, giving diseases plenty of opportunities to spread,” says Scott Hays, NPPC president and Missouri pork producer. “With the growing threat of a foreign animal disease reaching the U.S., the need to address gaps in our existing traceability system is important for our farms and industry.” International markets would close immediately if a foreign animal disease were discovered in the U.S. “With $7.7 billion worth of pork being sold to international consumers, we need to assure our trading partners that we can identify disease-free animals and provide products from unaffected farms,” Hays adds. For more information, go to nppc.org/trace.- NAFB

NPPC wants input on swine traceability

ATCHISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 12:30a.m. Wednesday in Atchison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Chevy Silverado driven by Owen L. Hobart, 23, Hamburg, Iowa, was southbound on U.S. 59 four miles north of Craig.

The pickup traveled off the road and struck an embankment.&nbsp; Atchison-Holt EMS transported Hobart to Mosaic in St. Joseph. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

ATCHISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 12:30a.m. Wednesday in Atchison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Chevy Silverado driven by Owen L. Hobart, 23, Hamburg, Iowa, was southbound on U.S. 59 four miles north of Craig.The pickup traveled off the road and struck an embankment.&nbsp; Atchison-Holt EMS transported Hobart to Mosaic in St. Joseph. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Man hospitalized in St. Joe after pickup crash

GRUNDY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 1p.m. Tuesday in Grundy County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported an unknown vehicle was westbound on MO 6 in Galt.&nbsp;

The vehicle crossed the center of the road and struck the front left of an eastbound 2006 Dodge pickup driven by Robert D. Spencer, 76, Chillicothe, and fled the crash.

A private vehicle transported Spencer to an area hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

GRUNDY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 1p.m. Tuesday in Grundy County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported an unknown vehicle was westbound on MO 6 in Galt.&nbsp;The vehicle crossed the center of the road and struck the front left of an eastbound 2006 Dodge pickup driven by Robert D. Spencer, 76, Chillicothe, and fled the crash.A private vehicle transported Spencer to an area hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Driver fled crash that hospitalized Missouri man

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with an alleged incident involving an incident with police.

On Monday, police arrested 28-year-old Kinte T. Forrest of Atchison on requested charges of disorderly conduct and interference with law enforcement in the 1100 block Highland Avenue, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp;

In July of 2021, he was jailed for alleged failure to appear, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696345698759.png" alt="Forrest-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Forrest-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with an alleged incident involving an incident with police.On Monday, police arrested 28-year-old Kinte T. Forrest of Atchison on requested charges of disorderly conduct and interference with law enforcement in the 1100 block Highland Avenue, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp;In July of 2021, he was jailed for alleged failure to appear, according to online jail records.

Kanas man jailed after alleged interference with police

A housing shortage hampers workforce development in St.
Joseph.

St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President Natalie Redmond says
there is a paradox to the problem, because she says St. Joseph is an extremely
affordable place to live.

“We do have some challenges around housing,” Redmond says. “I
know we’ve been highlighted recently for a great place to buy a home, but we
have some challenges around housing.&nbsp; Our
rental rates are high, because we just don’t have enough housing available so
that drives your rental costs up.”

St. Joseph has a shortage of housing as well as rentals. That
becomes a problem for the Chamber as it attempts to build the workforce needed
for existing businesses and those it hopes to lure to the city. Members of that
workforce need a place to live.

Simply put, there isn’t enough houses to buy or apartments to
rent.

“When we don’t have houses for the teachers in town and the
nurses and the production workers or the young engineers,” Redmond says,
relating a conversation she recently had. “The chancellor at UMKC when I had a
chance to meet with him as they started this new medical school here for rural
docs, I said what’s the one thing we can do for you? He said find housing; my
doctors don’t want to drive from Kansas City during medical school.”

Redmond calls that interaction “eye opening.”

Redmond says the housing shortage is widespread.

“Young professional coming out of college that wants a rental
home and then you transition into their first starter home that’s affordable.
Then they upgrade, get some raises to a median size home. Then, they have that
retirement home for that senior portion of their life,” Redmond says. “We
really have deficits in each of those categories.”

Redmond says several factors are in play here:&nbsp; inflation driving up construction costs; an
aging population leaving the workforce, but not leaving their homes; too many
dilapidated structures that need work; a lack of homeowner education; and a
lack of a strategic plan for housing.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA housing shortage hampers workforce development in St.
Joseph.St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President Natalie Redmond says
there is a paradox to the problem, because she says St. Joseph is an extremely
affordable place to live.“We do have some challenges around housing,” Redmond says. “I
know we’ve been highlighted recently for a great place to buy a home, but we
have some challenges around housing.&nbsp; Our
rental rates are high, because we just don’t have enough housing available so
that drives your rental costs up.”St. Joseph has a shortage of housing as well as rentals. That
becomes a problem for the Chamber as it attempts to build the workforce needed
for existing businesses and those it hopes to lure to the city. Members of that
workforce need a place to live.Simply put, there isn’t enough houses to buy or apartments to
rent.“When we don’t have houses for the teachers in town and the
nurses and the production workers or the young engineers,” Redmond says,
relating a conversation she recently had. “The chancellor at UMKC when I had a
chance to meet with him as they started this new medical school here for rural
docs, I said what’s the one thing we can do for you? He said find housing; my
doctors don’t want to drive from Kansas City during medical school.”Redmond calls that interaction “eye opening.”Redmond says the housing shortage is widespread.“Young professional coming out of college that wants a rental
home and then you transition into their first starter home that’s affordable.
Then they upgrade, get some raises to a median size home. Then, they have that
retirement home for that senior portion of their life,” Redmond says. “We
really have deficits in each of those categories.”Redmond says several factors are in play here:&nbsp; inflation driving up construction costs; an
aging population leaving the workforce, but not leaving their homes; too many
dilapidated structures that need work; a lack of homeowner education; and a
lack of a strategic plan for housing.

House shortage hampers St. Joseph workforce development

Two companies—Corteva and Bayer—provided more than half the U.S. retail seed sales of corn, soybeans, and cotton in 2018–20, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. 

In recent decades, the U.S. crop seed industry has become more concentrated, with fewer and larger firms dominating seed supply. 

Today, four firms—Bayer, Corteva, ChemChina’s Syngenta Group, and BASF—control the majority of crop seed and agricultural chemical sales. 

In 2015, six firms led global markets for seeds and agricultural chemicals.&nbsp;&nbsp;The concentration can be traced to the expansion of intellectual property rights to private companies for seed improvements in the 1970s and 1980s. 

As biotechnology advanced, companies created genetically modified seed varieties, such as herbicide-tolerant or insect-resistant corn, soybeans, and cotton. 

Mergers occurred between companies that produced and sold pesticides, seed treatments, crop seeds, and seed traits. As a result, the U.S. crop seed sector has become highly integrated with agricultural chemicals and more concentrated.

Two companies—Corteva and Bayer—provided more than half the U.S. retail seed sales of corn, soybeans, and cotton in 2018–20, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. In recent decades, the U.S. crop seed industry has become more concentrated, with fewer and larger firms dominating seed supply. Today, four firms—Bayer, Corteva, ChemChina’s Syngenta Group, and BASF—control the majority of crop seed and agricultural chemical sales. In 2015, six firms led global markets for seeds and agricultural chemicals.&nbsp;&nbsp;The concentration can be traced to the expansion of intellectual property rights to private companies for seed improvements in the 1970s and 1980s. As biotechnology advanced, companies created genetically modified seed varieties, such as herbicide-tolerant or insect-resistant corn, soybeans, and cotton. Mergers occurred between companies that produced and sold pesticides, seed treatments, crop seeds, and seed traits. As a result, the U.S. crop seed sector has become highly integrated with agricultural chemicals and more concentrated.- NAFB

Corteva, Bayer, supply majority corn, cotton and soybean seeds

Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph will provide training for the medic unit of the 139th Airlift Wing as a new partnership begins between the two entities. &nbsp;

One weekend a month Mosaic will be used for training at the hospital with trauma patients. &nbsp;

Mosaic CEO Mike Poore says as a Level 2 trauma center Mosaic will help by offering training to keep the guard up to speed with the latest medical techniques in a hospital. &nbsp;

"So that brings in a lot of different types of trauma that our staff and the staff at the 139th experience and real-world taking care of patients and keeping everybody up to speed," Poore tells reporters. &nbsp;

Poore says every hospital does the same thing as far as training and keeping people up on skills and this is a way to partner with the guard and provide that for them.&nbsp;

Colonel Jason Horn Commander of the Medic group says a big thing in their world is many of the 139ths medics work in the medical environment but not in trauma.&nbsp;

"In the military trauma is the most important, obviously if we're in a conflict or something like that and we're actually assessing patients, it's probably in a trauma environment, and so they need those hands-on skills to be prepared for the future if needed," Horn explains. "And they want to be here, they want to come here, they want to learn, they want to be more proactive."&nbsp;

Horn says on the other hand the partnership will also help Mosaic with free trained help with four to eight service members coming to help once a month.&nbsp;

Horn says this new agreement will provide hands-on training for medics that are at best EMT certified.&nbsp;

"Not necessarily that they're in the middle of it with their hands on, but just visually watching, learning from the ER environment here, from their doctors, their nurses, their nurse practitioners, PA's, whatever," Horn says. "So, anything you can do to help a 20- or 21-year-old EMT is beneficial to our unit, big time."&nbsp;

Horn says the guard has a list of techniques they need to be proficient at so working with Mosaic will allow them to hit those checks and learn.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696345671876.jpeg" alt="Mosaic Life Care CEO Mike Poore (left) and Colonel Jason Horn Commander of the 139th Medical Group (right) talk about a new partnership between the two entities/Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Mosaic Life Care CEO Mike Poore (left) and Colonel Jason Horn Commander of the 139th Medical Group (right) talk about a new partnership between the two entities/Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph will provide training for the medic unit of the 139th Airlift Wing as a new partnership begins between the two entities. &nbsp;One weekend a month Mosaic will be used for training at the hospital with trauma patients. &nbsp;Mosaic CEO Mike Poore says as a Level 2 trauma center Mosaic will help by offering training to keep the guard up to speed with the latest medical techniques in a hospital. &nbsp;"So that brings in a lot of different types of trauma that our staff and the staff at the 139th experience and real-world taking care of patients and keeping everybody up to speed," Poore tells reporters. &nbsp;Poore says every hospital does the same thing as far as training and keeping people up on skills and this is a way to partner with the guard and provide that for them.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696345583934.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Colonel Jason Horn Commander of the Medic group says a big thing in their world is many of the 139ths medics work in the medical environment but not in trauma.&nbsp;"In the military trauma is the most important, obviously if we're in a conflict or something like that and we're actually assessing patients, it's probably in a trauma environment, and so they need those hands-on skills to be prepared for the future if needed," Horn explains. "And they want to be here, they want to come here, they want to learn, they want to be more proactive."&nbsp;Horn says on the other hand the partnership will also help Mosaic with free trained help with four to eight service members coming to help once a month.&nbsp;Horn says this new agreement will provide hands-on training for medics that are at best EMT certified.&nbsp;"Not necessarily that they're in the middle of it with their hands on, but just visually watching, learning from the ER environment here, from their doctors, their nurses, their nurse practitioners, PA's, whatever," Horn says. "So, anything you can do to help a 20- or 21-year-old EMT is beneficial to our unit, big time."&nbsp;Horn says the guard has a list of techniques they need to be proficient at so working with Mosaic will allow them to hit those checks and learn.&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Mosaic-Life-Care-teaming-up-with-the-139th-e2a3smk" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696345823205.jpeg" alt="Mosaic Life Care CEO Mike Poore (left) and Colonel Jason Horn Commander of the 139th Medical Group (right) sign the partnership agreement/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Mosaic Life Care CEO Mike Poore (left) and Colonel Jason Horn Commander of the 139th Medical Group (right) sign the partnership agreement/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>

Mosaic Life Care is teaming up with the 139th Airlift Group for training

By ALLISON KITE,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/09/19/evergy-withdraws-request-to-make-time-of-use-pricing-optional-in-missouri/">Missouri Independent</a>

Missouri regulators approved Evergy’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/09/19/evergy-withdraws-request-to-make-time-of-use-pricing-optional-in-missouri/#:~:text=By%3A%20Allison%20Kite%20%2D%20September%2019%2C%202023%204%3A39%20pm&amp;text=Just%2010%20days%20after%20seeking,its%20request%20with%20state%20regulators.">request to change customers’ default plan</a>&nbsp;days before its mandatory time-of-use pricing goes into effect.

The Missouri Public Service Commission last week approved the Kansas City-based electric utility’s request to change the default selection for customers who fail to select one of the company’s four time-of-use pricing plans.&nbsp;

The commission, which regulates Missouri utilities, ordered Evergy to implement&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.evergy.com/landing/missouri-rate-plans?gad=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw1OmoBhDXARIsAAAYGSHKXYE4AfMJamMhY2Y5BtNbIzI2Z2V6KqihBDCK006W8sLqJEEw0_4aAijpEALw_wcB">time-of-use pricing</a>, which places a premium on electricity used during periods of high demand. The new pricing takes effect this month.&nbsp;

Initially, Evergy would have enrolled customers in the Standard Peak Saver if they didn’t pick another plan. Under that plan, electricity on summer afternoons will be four times the price that it is the rest of the day. But now, the default plan will be closer to Evergy’s traditional pricing with smaller differences between its highest and lowest rates.

The mandatory time-of-use pricing sparked frustration over the summer as Evergy began advertising the new program and instructing customers to select their preferred plan.

Missouri Senate Majority Leader Cindy O’Laughlin, R-Shelbina, accused state regulators of trying to ration power, gouge customers and force a transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. O’Laughlin threatened to take legislative action if the Missouri Public Service Commission didn’t suspend or reverse their order requiring that Evergy’s make time-of-use pricing mandatory.

Evergy said in filings with the Missouri Public Service Commission that it saw blowback on social media where customers accused the company of “trying to spike customer bills to increase profits.”

The power company requested last month to make the pricing program optional, setting off a new round of frustration from customer and environmental advocates who say the program will overwhelmingly benefit customers.&nbsp;

In the filing,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/09/12/evergy-asks-missouri-regulators-to-let-customers-opt-out-of-time-of-use-pricing/">Evergy requested the Missouri Public Service Commission allow it to make the program optional</a>, change the default plan and limit customers’ ability to switch between rate plans.

The company received criticism from the Missouri Office of the Public Counsel, which represents ratepayers in proceedings before the Public Service Commission. In a filing, the Office of the Public Counsel said Evergy had presented two studies that show most customers will either be unaffected or benefit financially from the time-of-use pricing program.&nbsp;

Clean energy advocacy group Renew Missouri said Evergy should work on its marketing and outreach efforts “rather than succumbing to negative Facebook comments by reversing course and attempting to upend a binding commission order.”&nbsp;

Evergy withdrew the requests to make the program optional and restrict customers’ ability to switch plans and left in place the request to change the default pricing mechanism, which regulators approved last week.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687004047927.png" alt=" Evergy headquarters in downtown Topeka, Kansas (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)." />
 <figcaption> Evergy headquarters in downtown Topeka, Kansas (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector).</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALLISON KITE,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/09/19/evergy-withdraws-request-to-make-time-of-use-pricing-optional-in-missouri/">Missouri Independent</a>Missouri regulators approved Evergy’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/09/19/evergy-withdraws-request-to-make-time-of-use-pricing-optional-in-missouri/#:~:text=By%3A%20Allison%20Kite%20%2D%20September%2019%2C%202023%204%3A39%20pm&amp;text=Just%2010%20days%20after%20seeking,its%20request%20with%20state%20regulators.">request to change customers’ default plan</a>&nbsp;days before its mandatory time-of-use pricing goes into effect.The Missouri Public Service Commission last week approved the Kansas City-based electric utility’s request to change the default selection for customers who fail to select one of the company’s four time-of-use pricing plans.&nbsp;The commission, which regulates Missouri utilities, ordered Evergy to implement&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.evergy.com/landing/missouri-rate-plans?gad=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw1OmoBhDXARIsAAAYGSHKXYE4AfMJamMhY2Y5BtNbIzI2Z2V6KqihBDCK006W8sLqJEEw0_4aAijpEALw_wcB">time-of-use pricing</a>, which places a premium on electricity used during periods of high demand. The new pricing takes effect this month.&nbsp;Initially, Evergy would have enrolled customers in the Standard Peak Saver if they didn’t pick another plan. Under that plan, electricity on summer afternoons will be four times the price that it is the rest of the day. But now, the default plan will be closer to Evergy’s traditional pricing with smaller differences between its highest and lowest rates.The mandatory time-of-use pricing sparked frustration over the summer as Evergy began advertising the new program and instructing customers to select their preferred plan.Missouri Senate Majority Leader Cindy O’Laughlin, R-Shelbina, accused state regulators of trying to ration power, gouge customers and force a transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. O’Laughlin threatened to take legislative action if the Missouri Public Service Commission didn’t suspend or reverse their order requiring that Evergy’s make time-of-use pricing mandatory.Evergy said in filings with the Missouri Public Service Commission that it saw blowback on social media where customers accused the company of “trying to spike customer bills to increase profits.”The power company requested last month to make the pricing program optional, setting off a new round of frustration from customer and environmental advocates who say the program will overwhelmingly benefit customers.&nbsp;In the filing,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/09/12/evergy-asks-missouri-regulators-to-let-customers-opt-out-of-time-of-use-pricing/">Evergy requested the Missouri Public Service Commission allow it to make the program optional</a>, change the default plan and limit customers’ ability to switch between rate plans.The company received criticism from the Missouri Office of the Public Counsel, which represents ratepayers in proceedings before the Public Service Commission. In a filing, the Office of the Public Counsel said Evergy had presented two studies that show most customers will either be unaffected or benefit financially from the time-of-use pricing program.&nbsp;Clean energy advocacy group Renew Missouri said Evergy should work on its marketing and outreach efforts “rather than succumbing to negative Facebook comments by reversing course and attempting to upend a binding commission order.”&nbsp;Evergy withdrew the requests to make the program optional and restrict customers’ ability to switch plans and left in place the request to change the default pricing mechanism, which regulators approved last week.&nbsp;

Missouri regulators OK Evergy changing default time-of-use pricing plan

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for an alleged violent weekend incident.

On Sunday, police arrested 31-year-old Shaina D. Burton of Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

She remains jailed on requested charges of assault and criminal damage to property in the 1300 block North 6th Street. Her bond is set at $2500, according to online jail records.&nbsp; Police released no additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696272457647.png" alt="Burton photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Burton photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for an alleged violent weekend incident.On Sunday, police arrested 31-year-old Shaina D. Burton of Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.She remains jailed on requested charges of assault and criminal damage to property in the 1300 block North 6th Street. Her bond is set at $2500, according to online jail records.&nbsp; Police released no additional details.

Kansas woman accused of assault, criminal damage to property

MERCER COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 7:30a.m. Monday in Mercer County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Ford F150 driven by Bryant T. Elder, 34, Princeton, was southbound on U.S. 65 just north of Mercer.

The pickup crossed the center line and struck the passenger side of a northbound&nbsp; 2018 Volvo semi driven by Christoper E. Carr, 57, Chillicothe.&nbsp;

After impact, the pickup traveled into the path of a northbound 2015 Chevy Impala driven by Deann R. Dorsey, 57, Osceola, Iowa, head-on.

The pickup then traveled off the road and rolled.&nbsp;

Dorsey was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Roberson Funeral Home.&nbsp; Mercer County ambulance transported Elder to Harriso County Community Hospital. Flight Flight Eagle then airlifted him to Research Medical Center in Kansas City.&nbsp; Carr was not injured. Dorsey was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

MERCER COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 7:30a.m. Monday in Mercer County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Ford F150 driven by Bryant T. Elder, 34, Princeton, was southbound on U.S. 65 just north of Mercer.The pickup crossed the center line and struck the passenger side of a northbound&nbsp; 2018 Volvo semi driven by Christoper E. Carr, 57, Chillicothe.&nbsp;After impact, the pickup traveled into the path of a northbound 2015 Chevy Impala driven by Deann R. Dorsey, 57, Osceola, Iowa, head-on.The pickup then traveled off the road and rolled.&nbsp;Dorsey was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Roberson Funeral Home.&nbsp; Mercer County ambulance transported Elder to Harriso County Community Hospital. Flight Flight Eagle then airlifted him to Research Medical Center in Kansas City.&nbsp; Carr was not injured. Dorsey was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Woman dead after 3-vehicle NW Missouri head-on crash

The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service released its Grain Stocks report that showed lower numbers for corn and soybeans. 

Old crop corn stocks on hand as of September 1 totaled 1.36 billion bushels, one percent lower than the same time last year. 

Old crop soybeans stored in all positions were down two percent from September 1, 2022, and all wheat stocks were up slightly from a year earlier. 

Of the total corn stocks, 605 million bushels were stored on farms, 19 percent higher than last year. Old crop soybeans stored in all positions on September 1, 2023, totaled 268 million bushels, two percent lower than last year. 

Soybean stocks stored on farms totaled 72 million bushels, up 14 percent from a year ago. All wheat stored in all positions on September 1 totaled 1.78 billion bushels, up slightly from September 1, 2022. On-farm stocks were one percent higher than in 2022.

The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service released its Grain Stocks report that showed lower numbers for corn and soybeans. Old crop corn stocks on hand as of September 1 totaled 1.36 billion bushels, one percent lower than the same time last year. Old crop soybeans stored in all positions were down two percent from September 1, 2022, and all wheat stocks were up slightly from a year earlier. Of the total corn stocks, 605 million bushels were stored on farms, 19 percent higher than last year. Old crop soybeans stored in all positions on September 1, 2023, totaled 268 million bushels, two percent lower than last year. Soybean stocks stored on farms totaled 72 million bushels, up 14 percent from a year ago. All wheat stored in all positions on September 1 totaled 1.78 billion bushels, up slightly from September 1, 2022. On-farm stocks were one percent higher than in 2022.- NAFB

Corn and soybean ending stocks lower in 2023

Lake Contrary is hardly a lake anymore, a fact
that hasn’t gone unnoticed by Buchanan County Presiding Commissioner Scott
Nelson who has heard about the state of the lake from area residents.

“You’re looking a weeds,” Nelson says Lake
Contrary residents have complained to him. “There’re no pontoons. It’s puddle
front property, not lake front property.”

Nelson acknowledges the County Commission has
struggled to decide what to do about Lake Contrary which is overgrown with
weeds without any visible water at the surface.

Nelson says dredging has been suggested as the
obvious recourse.

“Then it’s, okay, now what are you going to do?
How are you going to do it? Who is going to do it?” Nelson asks. “Because there
are many options when it comes to that.”

Nelson says any attempt to restore the lake would
take a long time and a lot of money.

“If we were to start dredging the lake, six foot,
eight foot, whatever. Pick a number,” Nelson says. “It’s three years to do it.
It’s a three-year dredging season to get it done.”

Nelson estimates it would cost between $8 million
and $9 million to dredge Lake Contrary.

Nelson says everyone believes there is a lake
there, somewhere.

“I know that somebody said, you know, if you take
that thing down six to eight feet, you’re going to hit water,” Nelson says. “Well,
that’s about how much silt’s there based on core samples.”

Nelson says he would prefer to take a small part
of Lake Contrary, excavate it, and see just how much silting has taken place.

Nelson says he would like to restore Lake Contrary,
but wants to be careful to do it in the right way.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696258998226.jpeg" alt="Lake Contrary has a beach, but no water/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Lake Contrary has a beach, but no water/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostLake Contrary is hardly a lake anymore, a fact
that hasn’t gone unnoticed by Buchanan County Presiding Commissioner Scott
Nelson who has heard about the state of the lake from area residents.“You’re looking a weeds,” Nelson says Lake
Contrary residents have complained to him. “There’re no pontoons. It’s puddle
front property, not lake front property.”Nelson acknowledges the County Commission has
struggled to decide what to do about Lake Contrary which is overgrown with
weeds without any visible water at the surface.Nelson says dredging has been suggested as the
obvious recourse.“Then it’s, okay, now what are you going to do?
How are you going to do it? Who is going to do it?” Nelson asks. “Because there
are many options when it comes to that.”All expensive options.Nelson says any attempt to restore the lake would
take a long time and a lot of money.“If we were to start dredging the lake, six foot,
eight foot, whatever. Pick a number,” Nelson says. “It’s three years to do it.
It’s a three-year dredging season to get it done.”Nelson estimates it would cost between $8 million
and $9 million to dredge Lake Contrary.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696259084591.jpeg" alt="Lake Contrary, sand and grassland; no water/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Lake Contrary, sand and grassland; no water/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>Nelson says everyone believes there is a lake
there, somewhere.“I know that somebody said, you know, if you take
that thing down six to eight feet, you’re going to hit water,” Nelson says. “Well,
that’s about how much silt’s there based on core samples.”Nelson says he would prefer to take a small part
of Lake Contrary, excavate it, and see just how much silting has taken place.Nelson says he would like to restore Lake Contrary,
but wants to be careful to do it in the right way.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696259250373.jpeg" alt="Lake Contrary Recreation Area/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Lake Contrary Recreation Area/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/What-should-be-done-with-Lake-Contrary-e2a2d8s" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

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