On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Jason Sims, Motorcycle Cannonball organizer, about the upcoming event

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cm_Q9p6k63E?si=uFztXVOfOP5pEXoH" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Jason Sims, Motorcycle Cannonball organizer, about the upcoming event

🎤 Forward Ever: Mr. Motorcycle Cannonball, Jason Sims

A new Missouri law will prohibit the use of cell phones while driving starting Monday.  

Seargent Shane Hux with Troop H of the Missouri Highway Patrol says the new Hands-Free law prohibits drivers from holding a cell phone while traveling. 

"So that includes they are unable to write, send, or read any text-based communication or make a phone call without the use of the hands free or voice operated feature or function on their vehicle or hands-free device," Hux tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. 

Hux calls the new law a step in the right direction as accidents and fatalities due to distracted driving continue to rise.  

Hux says that there are even more traffic crashes now than there were 15 to 20 years ago. 

"And why is that? You know our roadways are safer today, our vehicles are safer today, we just have a lot more distractions than we did 15 or 20 years ago, and primarily a lot of that is because of the cell phone usage that people are using," Hux points out. "A lot of people I believe, they consider driving to be an inconvenience for them, driving hasn't changed it's still a full-time job." 

Hux says with the technology that we have now people want information as soon as possible and will go to the internet for that even while behind the wheel. 

Two exceptions to the law will be using it to contact emergency personnel about a problem along the road and also using your phone for navigation.  

Hux says just because navigation is an exception, doesn't mean you should have your phone in your hand 

"There are devices to where you can put your device in stationary, they have little devices that you put into your vents on your car, down by the center console, you can put them on your windshield, so there are devices to where after you get that information set for your GPS you can put it away in a safe place so it's not constantly in your hand," Hux says. "Thats what we're trying to get away from, just so you can stay ten and two on the steering wheel." 

Hux says if you have a passenger traveling with you, they can also be a great navigation tool. 

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post A new Missouri law will prohibit the use of cell phones while driving starting Monday. Seargent Shane Hux with Troop H of the Missouri Highway Patrol says the new Hands-Free law prohibits drivers from holding a cell phone while traveling. "So that includes they are unable to write, send, or read any text-based communication or make a phone call without the use of the hands free or voice operated feature or function on their vehicle or hands-free device," Hux tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. Hux calls the new law a step in the right direction as accidents and fatalities due to distracted driving continue to rise. Hux says that there are even more traffic crashes now than there were 15 to 20 years ago. "And why is that? You know our roadways are safer today, our vehicles are safer today, we just have a lot more distractions than we did 15 or 20 years ago, and primarily a lot of that is because of the cell phone usage that people are using," Hux points out. "A lot of people I believe, they consider driving to be an inconvenience for them, driving hasn't changed it's still a full-time job." Hux says with the technology that we have now people want information as soon as possible and will go to the internet for that even while behind the wheel. Two exceptions to the law will be using it to contact emergency personnel about a problem along the road and also using your phone for navigation. Hux says just because navigation is an exception, doesn't mean you should have your phone in your hand "There are devices to where you can put your device in stationary, they have little devices that you put into your vents on your car, down by the center console, you can put them on your windshield, so there are devices to where after you get that information set for your GPS you can put it away in a safe place so it's not constantly in your hand," Hux says. "Thats what we're trying to get away from, just so you can stay ten and two on the steering wheel." Hux says if you have a passenger traveling with you, they can also be a great navigation tool.

Missouri's new Hands Free Law goes into effect on Monday

ANDREW COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 8a.m. Friday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Ford Escort driven by Doris N. Reasons, 81, St. Joseph, was westbound across Business 71 at Tuscany Lake Driver four miles south of Savannah.

The driver failed to yield to oncoming traffic.&nbsp; &nbsp;A southbound 2019 Toyota Sienna driven by Madison E. Smith, 32, Rosendale, struck the&nbsp; &nbsp;passenger side of the Ford.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Andrew County EMS transported Reasons to Mosaic. Smith was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 8a.m. Friday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Ford Escort driven by Doris N. Reasons, 81, St. Joseph, was westbound across Business 71 at Tuscany Lake Driver four miles south of Savannah.The driver failed to yield to oncoming traffic.&nbsp; &nbsp;A southbound 2019 Toyota Sienna driven by Madison E. Smith, 32, Rosendale, struck the&nbsp; &nbsp;passenger side of the Ford.&nbsp;&nbsp;Andrew County EMS transported Reasons to Mosaic. Smith was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

St. Joe woman hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash

Scientists have discovered a gene in pig DNA that’s needed by the deadly African Swine Fever virus to cause an infection. 

National Hog Farmer says this discovery could be a springboard into the development of pigs resistant to ASF, a swift-acting and severe condition that causes widespread illness and death, leading to steep financial losses for the world’s pork industry. 

The disease has killed more than 200 million pigs worldwide and is a major issue across Asia. 

It also has the potential to cause outbreaks in Europe and America. A team of researchers found that the gene is involved in a pig’s immune system and essential for replication of the ASF virus. 

This finding increases the possibility of changing the gene through gene editing to raise pigs that are resistant to the disease. It could improve how farmers manage the infection for which no vaccine or treatment is currently available.

Scientists have discovered a gene in pig DNA that’s needed by the deadly African Swine Fever virus to cause an infection. National Hog Farmer says this discovery could be a springboard into the development of pigs resistant to ASF, a swift-acting and severe condition that causes widespread illness and death, leading to steep financial losses for the world’s pork industry. The disease has killed more than 200 million pigs worldwide and is a major issue across Asia. It also has the potential to cause outbreaks in Europe and America. A team of researchers found that the gene is involved in a pig’s immune system and essential for replication of the ASF virus. This finding increases the possibility of changing the gene through gene editing to raise pigs that are resistant to the disease. It could improve how farmers manage the infection for which no vaccine or treatment is currently available.- NAFB

Breakthrough in fight against African Swine Fever

National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag testified Thursday before an Environmental Protection Agency panel on the importance of atrazine to corn farmers. 

He says NCGA commends the scientific and risk-based analysis and conclusions of the EPA in this reevaluation of the 11 atrazine studies identified by the 2012 Scientific Advisory Panel calling for further review to assess the effects on aquatic plant communities. 

“NCGA points to conclusions in the white paper that continue to affirm scientific evidence which supports the safe use of atrazine while protecting the vital aquatic plant communities and their related ecosystems,” he says. 

Haag also points out that management of weeds and their resistance to herbicides is a constant challenge for corn farmers. “Access to atrazine puts an important tool in the hands of U.S. corn growers to effectively adopt conservation practices while managing destructive weeds and delivering an abundant and quality crop,” he says.

National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag testified Thursday before an Environmental Protection Agency panel on the importance of atrazine to corn farmers. He says NCGA commends the scientific and risk-based analysis and conclusions of the EPA in this reevaluation of the 11 atrazine studies identified by the 2012 Scientific Advisory Panel calling for further review to assess the effects on aquatic plant communities. “NCGA points to conclusions in the white paper that continue to affirm scientific evidence which supports the safe use of atrazine while protecting the vital aquatic plant communities and their related ecosystems,” he says. Haag also points out that management of weeds and their resistance to herbicides is a constant challenge for corn farmers. “Access to atrazine puts an important tool in the hands of U.S. corn growers to effectively adopt conservation practices while managing destructive weeds and delivering an abundant and quality crop,” he says.- NAFB

NCGA President testifies on the value of Atrazine

MANHATTAN, Kansas — The Kansas Department of Agriculture Division of Animal Health has received notification of multiple confirmed cases of West Nile virus (WNV) in horses across the state over the past few weeks. Confirmed cases have been reported in Barber, Butler, Douglas and Pratt counties.

WNV is a preventable disease, with annual vaccinations that have proven highly effective. All of the confirmed cases of WNV in Kansas were in unvaccinated horses or horses with an unknown vaccination history so were assumed to be unvaccinated. All horse owners should consult with their local veterinarians and make a vaccination plan for their horses.

WNV is a virus that can infect humans, horses, birds and other species. Horses infected with WNV can have symptoms that range from depression, loss of appetite and fever to severe neurologic signs such as incoordination, weakness, inability to rise, and hypersensitivity to touch or sound. WNV can be fatal in horses. If you see symptoms of WNV in your horse, contact your veterinarian immediately.

The virus is carried and transmitted by mosquitoes; it is not directly contagious from horse to horse or from horse to human. WNV is a reportable disease in Kansas, which means veterinarians are required by law to report any confirmed cases to the State Veterinarian.

For more information about West Nile virus or other animal disease issues in Kansas, go to the KDA Division of Animal Health website at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cuYWdyaWN1bHR1cmUua3MuZ292L0FuaW1hbERpc2Vhc2VzP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MjUuODE2NDY4NzEifQ.FCo4Qw0TucbKfZUq3ubBxPAmPXP5DOGDsQ1ugP1UMrs/s/1377891820/br/224810711204-l" target="_blank">agriculture.ks.gov/AnimalDiseases</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575317042852.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kansas — The Kansas Department of Agriculture Division of Animal Health has received notification of multiple confirmed cases of West Nile virus (WNV) in horses across the state over the past few weeks. Confirmed cases have been reported in Barber, Butler, Douglas and Pratt counties.WNV is a preventable disease, with annual vaccinations that have proven highly effective. All of the confirmed cases of WNV in Kansas were in unvaccinated horses or horses with an unknown vaccination history so were assumed to be unvaccinated. All horse owners should consult with their local veterinarians and make a vaccination plan for their horses.WNV is a virus that can infect humans, horses, birds and other species. Horses infected with WNV can have symptoms that range from depression, loss of appetite and fever to severe neurologic signs such as incoordination, weakness, inability to rise, and hypersensitivity to touch or sound. WNV can be fatal in horses. If you see symptoms of WNV in your horse, contact your veterinarian immediately.The virus is carried and transmitted by mosquitoes; it is not directly contagious from horse to horse or from horse to human. WNV is a reportable disease in Kansas, which means veterinarians are required by law to report any confirmed cases to the State Veterinarian.For more information about West Nile virus or other animal disease issues in Kansas, go to the KDA Division of Animal Health website at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cuYWdyaWN1bHR1cmUua3MuZ292L0FuaW1hbERpc2Vhc2VzP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MjUuODE2NDY4NzEifQ.FCo4Qw0TucbKfZUq3ubBxPAmPXP5DOGDsQ1ugP1UMrs/s/1377891820/br/224810711204-l" target="_blank">agriculture.ks.gov/AnimalDiseases</a>.

West Nile Virus confirmed in horses in Kansas

A 72-year-old inmate at the St. Joseph prison has died.

The Missouri Department of Corrections
reports Idalberto Aliaga died of apparent natural causes at the
Western Reception, Diagnostic &amp; Correctional Center in St. Joseph.

Aliaga
had been incarcerated on a charge of murder and armed criminal action since
1993.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA 72-year-old inmate at the St. Joseph prison has died.The Missouri Department of Corrections
reports Idalberto Aliaga died of apparent natural causes at the
Western Reception, Diagnostic &amp; Correctional Center in St. Joseph.Aliaga
had been incarcerated on a charge of murder and armed criminal action since
1993.

St. Joseph prison inmate dies

Keep an eye on your pets during this heat wave.

The National Weather Service expects the Midland Empire to
remain under this heat warning we have experienced all week until late this
evening. The high today throughout northwest Missouri, northeast Kansas, southeast
Nebraska, and southwest Iowa will climb to nearly 100 with a heat index expected
to reach at least 108.

Melanie Barnes with Friends of the St. Joseph Animal Shelter
says the shelter nearly witnessed a tragedy when someone left a dog in a crate
at the shelter’s front door earlier this week.

“If a volunteer hadn’t been going there early to get the dogs
out, I don’t know, I mean that dog very easily could have overheated,” Barnes
tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.

Barnes suggests a little common sense goes a long way during
extremely hot weather.

“This heat is ridiculous. I mean it’s absolutely ridiculous,”
Barnes says. “If you don’t want to be outside, then they don’t want to be
outside. Now, I’m not saying every pet needs to be in an air conditioned, 68-degree
building, but they need to have precautions in place to keep them safe; endless
supplies to water.”

Barnes says pets can make it through this heat if their owners
just provide the basics.

“Shade; obviously we know temps go down in the shade and the
ability to move around and have air to them, because they have to be able to cool
down themselves,” Barnes says. “Pets can acclimate. There are pets outside
right now. Obviously, large animals are outside, but access to water and shade
are critical.”

This heat wave is expected to come to an end late this
evening.

The National Weather Service expects an overnight low of 72 degrees
with a chance of showers and thunderstorms that extends into Saturday. The high
Saturday is expected to be 83, with sunny skies and a high of 83 forecast for
Sunday.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostKeep an eye on your pets during this heat wave.The National Weather Service expects the Midland Empire to
remain under this heat warning we have experienced all week until late this
evening. The high today throughout northwest Missouri, northeast Kansas, southeast
Nebraska, and southwest Iowa will climb to nearly 100 with a heat index expected
to reach at least 108.Melanie Barnes with Friends of the St. Joseph Animal Shelter
says the shelter nearly witnessed a tragedy when someone left a dog in a crate
at the shelter’s front door earlier this week.“If a volunteer hadn’t been going there early to get the dogs
out, I don’t know, I mean that dog very easily could have overheated,” Barnes
tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.Barnes suggests a little common sense goes a long way during
extremely hot weather.“This heat is ridiculous. I mean it’s absolutely ridiculous,”
Barnes says. “If you don’t want to be outside, then they don’t want to be
outside. Now, I’m not saying every pet needs to be in an air conditioned, 68-degree
building, but they need to have precautions in place to keep them safe; endless
supplies to water.”Barnes says pets can make it through this heat if their owners
just provide the basics.“Shade; obviously we know temps go down in the shade and the
ability to move around and have air to them, because they have to be able to cool
down themselves,” Barnes says. “Pets can acclimate. There are pets outside
right now. Obviously, large animals are outside, but access to water and shade
are critical.”This heat wave is expected to come to an end late this
evening.The National Weather Service expects an overnight low of 72 degrees
with a chance of showers and thunderstorms that extends into Saturday. The high
Saturday is expected to be 83, with sunny skies and a high of 83 forecast for
Sunday.

Keep pets safe during these extremely hot days

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — A former U.S. bishop cleared by the Vatican of multiple allegations he sexually abused minors and teenagers, after a review board under his diocese in Wyoming found that allegations against him were credible, has died.

Retired Wyoming Bishop Joseph Hart, of Cheyenne, died Wednesday, according to the Diocese of Cheyenne. He was 91.

Hart long maintained his innocence, denying all allegations of misconduct. In 2021, the Vatican's Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith cleared him of seven accusations of abuse and determined that five others couldn't be proven with certainty.

Two other cases involving boys who were 16 and 17 couldn't be prosecuted because the Catholic Church didn't consider them minors at the time of the alleged abuse. The Vatican decree didn't address another alleged victim.

Hart’s attorney, Thomas Jubin, at the time called some of the allegations “specious,” based on second- and third-hand information and some accusers emphasizing that Hart didn’t physically touch them.

But the Vatican findings disappointed Hart's successor, Wyoming Bishop Steven Biegler, who pointed out that they didn’t mean Hart was innocent, only that a high burden of proof hadn’t been met.

Biegler stood by the findings of a diocese review board appointed after he became bishop that determined six claims were credible. The board included a judge who, as a prosecutor, pursued criminal cases of child sexual abuse.

Hart was a priest in Kansas City, Missouri, for 20 years before moving to Wyoming, where he served as auxiliary and then full bishop from 1976 until his retirement in 2001.

The first known allegations against Hart dated to the early 1960s and were made in the late 1980s. At least six men have come forward in the past several years to say Hart abused them in Wyoming.

Hart’s previous diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph reached court settlements years ago with at least 10 victims. Prosecutors in Wyoming decided in 2020 not to proceed with charging Hart.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692959668846.png" alt="Diocese of Cheyenne" />
 <figcaption>Diocese of Cheyenne</figcaption>
 </figure>CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — A former U.S. bishop cleared by the Vatican of multiple allegations he sexually abused minors and teenagers, after a review board under his diocese in Wyoming found that allegations against him were credible, has died.Retired Wyoming Bishop Joseph Hart, of Cheyenne, died Wednesday, according to the Diocese of Cheyenne. He was 91.Hart long maintained his innocence, denying all allegations of misconduct. In 2021, the Vatican's Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith cleared him of seven accusations of abuse and determined that five others couldn't be proven with certainty.Two other cases involving boys who were 16 and 17 couldn't be prosecuted because the Catholic Church didn't consider them minors at the time of the alleged abuse. The Vatican decree didn't address another alleged victim.Hart’s attorney, Thomas Jubin, at the time called some of the allegations “specious,” based on second- and third-hand information and some accusers emphasizing that Hart didn’t physically touch them.But the Vatican findings disappointed Hart's successor, Wyoming Bishop Steven Biegler, who pointed out that they didn’t mean Hart was innocent, only that a high burden of proof hadn’t been met.Biegler stood by the findings of a diocese review board appointed after he became bishop that determined six claims were credible. The board included a judge who, as a prosecutor, pursued criminal cases of child sexual abuse.Hart was a priest in Kansas City, Missouri, for 20 years before moving to Wyoming, where he served as auxiliary and then full bishop from 1976 until his retirement in 2001.The first known allegations against Hart dated to the early 1960s and were made in the late 1980s. At least six men have come forward in the past several years to say Hart abused them in Wyoming.Hart’s previous diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph reached court settlements years ago with at least 10 victims. Prosecutors in Wyoming decided in 2020 not to proceed with charging Hart.

Former KC-St. Joe Bishop cleared of sex abuse claims has died

CALDWELL COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 2p.m. Thursday in Caldwell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Hyundai Tucson driven by Bailey P. Leduc, 25, New Castle, Indiana, was westbound on U.S. 36 four miles east of Cameron.

The SUV traveled off the road and struck a tree.

Caldwell County EMS transported Leduc and a passenger Kayla D. Ford, 24,&nbsp; New Castle, Indiana, to Liberty Hospital. Both were. properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

CALDWELL COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 2p.m. Thursday in Caldwell County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Hyundai Tucson driven by Bailey P. Leduc, 25, New Castle, Indiana, was westbound on U.S. 36 four miles east of Cameron.The SUV traveled off the road and struck a tree.Caldwell County EMS transported Leduc and a passenger Kayla D. Ford, 24,&nbsp; New Castle, Indiana, to Liberty Hospital. Both were. properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Two injured after SUV strikes a tree

NODAWAY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 9:30a.m. Thursday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Peterbilt semi driven by Raymond A. Morris, 65, Guilford, was northbound on Route KK four miles northwest of Burlington Junction. 

The&nbsp; vehicle was traveling at a slow speed when the driver saw a deer in the road. The driver swerved to the right which caused his trailer to travel off the road. The trailer's load shifted and the vehicle overturned.

A private vehicle transported Morris to Mosaic in Maryville. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 9:30a.m. Thursday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Peterbilt semi driven by Raymond A. Morris, 65, Guilford, was northbound on Route KK four miles northwest of Burlington Junction. The&nbsp; vehicle was traveling at a slow speed when the driver saw a deer in the road. The driver swerved to the right which caused his trailer to travel off the road. The trailer's load shifted and the vehicle overturned.A private vehicle transported Morris to Mosaic in Maryville. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man hospitalized after semi overturns

St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President Natalie Redmond
remembers working hard to get the Kansas City Chiefs to hold their training
camp in St. Joseph.

Now, Redmond works to keep the team here.

Redmond remembers being part of the team to bring the Chiefs
to the Missouri Western State University campus beginning in 2010.

“We use to do a big event down at Arrowhead, St. Joe Day at
Arrowhead, when we were recruiting the Chiefs camp here. So, I’ve been involved
from the beginning,” Redmond tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “It’s
been really, really fun to see it change over the years and evolve and it’s
just really fun to get to celebrate with the Chiefs fans. It’s such a point of
pride for St. Joe, that we get to be part of the Chiefs’ success.”

Redmond says it has proven to be a good partnership.

“We are hoping to continue to host Chiefs camp for a few more
years and we hope to continue to be a part of their success in the future,”
Redmond says.

Redmond says hot temperatures at the start of training camp this
year nearly got in the way of the city’s annual celebration of the Chiefs
coming to St. Joseph.

“The weather has been unpredictable this summer,” Redmond
says. “So, it certainly tried to stop the Red Rally, but we were able to have a
successful Red Rally with probably 4-or-5,000 people. So, it was just a great
way to showcase St. Joseph to Chiefs fans and it’s always great PR for our
community.”

Redmond says it was great to greet the Chiefs after a Super
Bowl win, especially when camp was canceled in St. Joseph due to the COVID
pandemic after the Chiefs’ 2020 Super Bowl win.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692898748467.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President Natalie Redmond
remembers working hard to get the Kansas City Chiefs to hold their training
camp in St. Joseph.Now, Redmond works to keep the team here.Redmond remembers being part of the team to bring the Chiefs
to the Missouri Western State University campus beginning in 2010.“We use to do a big event down at Arrowhead, St. Joe Day at
Arrowhead, when we were recruiting the Chiefs camp here. So, I’ve been involved
from the beginning,” Redmond tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “It’s
been really, really fun to see it change over the years and evolve and it’s
just really fun to get to celebrate with the Chiefs fans. It’s such a point of
pride for St. Joe, that we get to be part of the Chiefs’ success.”Redmond says it has proven to be a good partnership.“We are hoping to continue to host Chiefs camp for a few more
years and we hope to continue to be a part of their success in the future,”
Redmond says.Redmond says hot temperatures at the start of training camp this
year nearly got in the way of the city’s annual celebration of the Chiefs
coming to St. Joseph.“The weather has been unpredictable this summer,” Redmond
says. “So, it certainly tried to stop the Red Rally, but we were able to have a
successful Red Rally with probably 4-or-5,000 people. So, it was just a great
way to showcase St. Joseph to Chiefs fans and it’s always great PR for our
community.”Redmond says it was great to greet the Chiefs after a Super
Bowl win, especially when camp was canceled in St. Joseph due to the COVID
pandemic after the Chiefs’ 2020 Super Bowl win.

St. Joseph Chamber President recalls working to lure Chiefs to St. Joe

St. Joseph police say they have seen a rash of crimes in the
city perpetrated by juveniles.

Juveniles have been taken into custody recently for a fatal
stabbing in late May and a shooting earlier this month. A juvenile also was
among three people taken into custody, accused in an armed home invasion.

St. Joseph Police Captain Jeff Wilson expresses concern about
the trend.

“It’s not just St. Joe,” Wilson tells reporters during a
recent news conference. “This is a nation-wide trend, but we need to bring
attention to it and see what we can do to try to mitigate this and hopefully
turn these juveniles around, help them turn the corner and make them understand
that this is not the right path to choose.”

A 17-year-old has been taken into custody in the stabbing
death of 46-year-old Cory Amen of St. Joseph. The fatal stabbing occurred on
May 28th in the 3000 block of Lafayette Street. Wilson says investigators
had the juvenile as their prime suspect for some time, but waited until they
compiled more evidence before taking him into custody.

A 16-year-old is accused in the early morning shooting on
August 6th outside the Oak Ridge Apartments that left a 27-year-old
critically wounded. The victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds that required
reconstructive surgery. He is hospitalized outside St. Joseph and is expected
to recover. Police have declined to release the victim’s identity.

Also, a 16-year-old is accused, along with two 19-year-olds,
of a home invasion on Mitchell Avenue in early August in which the three
brandished guns while robbing the home owner. 

Wilson says the residents weren’t harmed in that incident.

“Fortunately, no. They weren’t hurt,” Wilson says “They did
experience, again, firearms being put in their faces and demands being made of
them, but they were not hurt.”

Wilson says there is a dangerous commonality in the crimes.

“The commonality is that they’re violent,” Wilson states. “They
are violent crimes.”

St. Joseph Police Captain Jeff Wilson says the rise in
juvenile crime is troubling.

“We’re talking of a span, and there’s multiple other crimes that
we’re investigating at this point in time. I’ll tell you we’re talking of a
span from the 28th of May and the last crime that we’re talking
about occurred on the 13th of this month,” Wilson says. “That’s a
short time frame for this many juveniles to be arrested and again I’ll tell you
that we’re investigating other cases that involve juveniles.”

Wilson says the St. Joseph Police Department is reaching out
to agencies and the St. Joseph School District to get at the root of juvenile
crime and to steer young people away from crime.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692894954692.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Police Captain Jeff Wilson addresses reporters during a recent news conference/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Police Captain Jeff Wilson addresses reporters during a recent news conference/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph police say they have seen a rash of crimes in the
city perpetrated by juveniles.Juveniles have been taken into custody recently for a fatal
stabbing in late May and a shooting earlier this month. A juvenile also was
among three people taken into custody, accused in an armed home invasion.St. Joseph Police Captain Jeff Wilson expresses concern about
the trend.“It’s not just St. Joe,” Wilson tells reporters during a
recent news conference. “This is a nation-wide trend, but we need to bring
attention to it and see what we can do to try to mitigate this and hopefully
turn these juveniles around, help them turn the corner and make them understand
that this is not the right path to choose.”A 17-year-old has been taken into custody in the stabbing
death of 46-year-old Cory Amen of St. Joseph. The fatal stabbing occurred on
May 28th in the 3000 block of Lafayette Street. Wilson says investigators
had the juvenile as their prime suspect for some time, but waited until they
compiled more evidence before taking him into custody.A 16-year-old is accused in the early morning shooting on
August 6th outside the Oak Ridge Apartments that left a 27-year-old
critically wounded. The victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds that required
reconstructive surgery. He is hospitalized outside St. Joseph and is expected
to recover. Police have declined to release the victim’s identity.Also, a 16-year-old is accused, along with two 19-year-olds,
of a home invasion on Mitchell Avenue in early August in which the three
brandished guns while robbing the home owner. Wilson says the residents weren’t harmed in that incident.“Fortunately, no. They weren’t hurt,” Wilson says “They did
experience, again, firearms being put in their faces and demands being made of
them, but they were not hurt.”Wilson says there is a dangerous commonality in the crimes.“The commonality is that they’re violent,” Wilson states. “They
are violent crimes.”St. Joseph Police Captain Jeff Wilson says the rise in
juvenile crime is troubling.“We’re talking of a span, and there’s multiple other crimes that
we’re investigating at this point in time. I’ll tell you we’re talking of a
span from the 28th of May and the last crime that we’re talking
about occurred on the 13th of this month,” Wilson says. “That’s a
short time frame for this many juveniles to be arrested and again I’ll tell you
that we’re investigating other cases that involve juveniles.”Wilson says the St. Joseph Police Department is reaching out
to agencies and the St. Joseph School District to get at the root of juvenile
crime and to steer young people away from crime.

Troubling trend:  St. Joseph sees rise in violent juvenile crime

Growth Energy has filed a motion to intervene in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, supporting the Environmental Protection Agency’s refinery exemptions decision. 

The motion is in response to the Hunt Refining Company's lawsuit seeking to reverse the EPA decision to reject unwarranted Small Refinery Exemptions. 

The motion is just the latest in a series of legal efforts Growth Energy has led to protect the integrity of the Renewable Fuel Standard, which requires oil refiners to blend a specific amount of biofuels into their fuel each year. 

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, " EPA made the right call by following the data, which show there is no economic justification for exempting another oil company from its obligations under the RFS." 

Skor adds, "Past abuse of SREs destroyed demand for billions of gallons of biofuels, undermining our ability to hold down prices at the pump with clean, American renewable fuel.”

Growth Energy has filed a motion to intervene in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, supporting the Environmental Protection Agency’s refinery exemptions decision. The motion is in response to the Hunt Refining Company's lawsuit seeking to reverse the EPA decision to reject unwarranted Small Refinery Exemptions. The motion is just the latest in a series of legal efforts Growth Energy has led to protect the integrity of the Renewable Fuel Standard, which requires oil refiners to blend a specific amount of biofuels into their fuel each year. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, " EPA made the right call by following the data, which show there is no economic justification for exempting another oil company from its obligations under the RFS." Skor adds, "Past abuse of SREs destroyed demand for billions of gallons of biofuels, undermining our ability to hold down prices at the pump with clean, American renewable fuel.”- NAFB

Growth Energy supports EPA Refinery Exemption Decisions

St.
Joseph public schools will release early on Friday.

With
the National Weather Service extending the excessive heat warning from Thursday evening until Friday evening, the school district will extend its early
dismissal schedule, releasing classes two-and-a-half hours early on Friday.

Included
are all elementary, middle, and high schools along with the Hillyard Technical
Center, Webster, and the Early Learning Centers.

The
St. Joseph School District provided this schedule for Friday, August 25th:

High Schools: 7:25am to 12:05pm 
Middle Schools: 7:35am to 12:15pm&nbsp; 
Elementary Schools:&nbsp; Carden Park, Coleman, Edison, Field, Hosea,
Lindbergh, Parkway, and Skaith Elementary: 8:10am to 12:45pm 
Elementary Schools: Ellison, Hyde, Oak Grove, Pershing, and Pickett Elementary:
8:45am to 1:15pm

Early Learning
Centers:&nbsp; Lake Contrary 1:00 p.m. and Mark Twain 12:15 p.m. (Busing will
be provided to and from school for Early Learning students)

District employees will follow the district inclement weather
policy, Scenario C: &nbsp;Suspension of Classes Due to Excessive Heat.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt.
Joseph public schools will release early on Friday.With
the National Weather Service extending the excessive heat warning from Thursday evening until Friday evening, the school district will extend its early
dismissal schedule, releasing classes two-and-a-half hours early on Friday.Included
are all elementary, middle, and high schools along with the Hillyard Technical
Center, Webster, and the Early Learning Centers.School
lunch will be provided.The
St. Joseph School District provided this schedule for Friday, August 25th:High Schools: 7:25am to 12:05pm 
Middle Schools: 7:35am to 12:15pm&nbsp; 
Elementary Schools:&nbsp; Carden Park, Coleman, Edison, Field, Hosea,
Lindbergh, Parkway, and Skaith Elementary: 8:10am to 12:45pm 
Elementary Schools: Ellison, Hyde, Oak Grove, Pershing, and Pickett Elementary:
8:45am to 1:15pmEarly Learning
Centers:&nbsp; Lake Contrary 1:00 p.m. and Mark Twain 12:15 p.m. (Busing will
be provided to and from school for Early Learning students)District employees will follow the district inclement weather
policy, Scenario C: &nbsp;Suspension of Classes Due to Excessive Heat.

St. Joseph public schools to dismiss early on Friday as well

Blue ribbon commission on teacher recruitment tells State Board of Education that educators need professional development opportunities

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

Statewide teacher development programs could curb educator burnout, the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s blue ribbon commission concluded in its latest set of recommendations.

The commission, which is studying teacher recruitment and retention,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://dese.mo.gov/media/pdf/august-2023-consideration-blue-ribbon-commission-recommendations">presented its recommendations</a>&nbsp;to the State Board of Education for review last week after speaking to teachers, administrators and community leaders.

“The teachers who we spoke with during our meeting in May, told us they feel undervalued and overworked and lacked adequate staffing and resources to alleviate the pressures they face,” commission chairman Mark Walker told the board. “They also expressed a desire for comprehensive support and development systems that can contribute to their job satisfaction, their professional growth and overall well being.”

Many of the group’s recommendations require legislative action. Its initial proposal, which sought long-term&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/10/18/commission-recommends-salary-increases-to-address-missouri-teacher-shortage/">funding for teacher pay increases</a>&nbsp;among other improvements, did not make it through the legislative session even with bipartisan support in the House.

Rep. Ed Lewis, R-Moberly, turned the blue ribbon commission’s first report into a large part of his legislative package during the 2023 legislative session.

Lewis’s bills addressing teacher recruitment and retention were merged into one at the committee level and passed the House 145-5. The omnibus bill was&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/06/06/lawmakers-lament-failure-of-bills-aimed-at-addressing-missouri-teacher-shortage/">poised to come up for a Senate vote in the last few weeks</a>&nbsp;of the legislative session, but filibusters and GOP infighting brought the Senate to a stop.

Walker said the commission believed its first round of suggestions were essential, but the group knew teachers’ work environment must also be addressed.

“The first report which we presented last fall focused on immediate short-term and long-term actions DESE and the State Board of legislature could take largely related to teacher compensation,” he said. “However, we also heard during our work last year that while compensation is crucial, teachers also need support for the day to day.”

In a survey of Missouri educators conducted by the commission and the Hunt Institute, 77.3% of teachers reported that “increased flexibility during school hours, including time to develop lessons, collaborate with other teachers, to receive feedback and coaching and to engage in professional learning” would help their career.

The blue ribbon commission suggests DESE study teaching models that place seasoned educators with novices and create leadership opportunities, likely including a two-teachers-per-classroom setup.

Board member Mary Schrag of West Plains said teachers are mentoring others in their free time already, but she believes adding a financial incentive could expand this practice.

The commission suggests collaborating with the legislature to secure grant funding for districts who begin this costly instructional model.

The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://dese.mo.gov/media/pdf/career-ladder-program-guidance-updated-march-2023-1">career ladder program</a>&nbsp;might provide a higher salary for teachers who take on a leadership role. The program typically pays teachers for taking on additional responsibilities, like coaching roles or sponsoring a club, so the commission suggests checking statute to see if this program would apply.

Continuing with a theme of teacher advancement, the blue ribbon commission recommends the creation of a master teaching certificate that provides opportunities in schools and increased pay. Walker said the group thinks this piece is “really, really important.”

Schrag sees a master teaching certificate as a way for teachers to financially advance while staying in their roles.

“We have a lot of educators who really love teaching. But in order to be able to financially progress through the system, a lot of times they are being forced to go into different areas of education,” she said.

The commission also included recommendations for actions administrators could take. It calls on DESE to work with the Missouri School Boards Association and the Missouri Association of School Administrators to develop training for district leaders to promote a positive school culture.

The commission also wants to leverage the Missouri Leadership Development System, a training program for school administrators, to educate all the state’s principals and assistant principals.

Board member Pamela Westbrooks-Hodge said she would like to see more of a focus on student behavior and mental health.

Lucy Berrier Matheson, the Hunt Institute’s deputy director of K-12 initiatives, said behavior is a problem “across the country” returning to the classroom from virtual learning. “I think that is something that everyone is struggling with,” she said.

If schools can add more teachers to the classroom and reduce the ratio of students to teachers, that will help with classroom management, she continued.

“One of these recommendations standing alone probably doesn’t have near the effect or impact on classroom management as a multiplier of these recommendations,” Walker said. “But when you add them all together, it creates a tremendously improved environment.”

Schrag said there is an upcoming meeting to discuss what legislators may be willing to sponsor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692877022309.png" alt="The Missouri State Board of Education listens Aug. 15 to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's blue ribbon commission's latest set of recommendations. (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)" />
 <figcaption>The Missouri State Board of Education listens Aug. 15 to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's blue ribbon commission's latest set of recommendations. (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Blue ribbon commission on teacher recruitment tells State Board of Education that educators need professional development opportunities</h2>By ANNELISE HANSHAW <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/01/30/open-enrollment-missouri-school-choice/">Missouri Independent</a>Statewide teacher development programs could curb educator burnout, the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s blue ribbon commission concluded in its latest set of recommendations.The commission, which is studying teacher recruitment and retention,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://dese.mo.gov/media/pdf/august-2023-consideration-blue-ribbon-commission-recommendations">presented its recommendations</a>&nbsp;to the State Board of Education for review last week after speaking to teachers, administrators and community leaders.“The teachers who we spoke with during our meeting in May, told us they feel undervalued and overworked and lacked adequate staffing and resources to alleviate the pressures they face,” commission chairman Mark Walker told the board. “They also expressed a desire for comprehensive support and development systems that can contribute to their job satisfaction, their professional growth and overall well being.”Many of the group’s recommendations require legislative action. Its initial proposal, which sought long-term&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/10/18/commission-recommends-salary-increases-to-address-missouri-teacher-shortage/">funding for teacher pay increases</a>&nbsp;among other improvements, did not make it through the legislative session even with bipartisan support in the House.Rep. Ed Lewis, R-Moberly, turned the blue ribbon commission’s first report into a large part of his legislative package during the 2023 legislative session.Lewis’s bills addressing teacher recruitment and retention were merged into one at the committee level and passed the House 145-5. The omnibus bill was&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/06/06/lawmakers-lament-failure-of-bills-aimed-at-addressing-missouri-teacher-shortage/">poised to come up for a Senate vote in the last few weeks</a>&nbsp;of the legislative session, but filibusters and GOP infighting brought the Senate to a stop.Walker said the commission believed its first round of suggestions were essential, but the group knew teachers’ work environment must also be addressed.“The first report which we presented last fall focused on immediate short-term and long-term actions DESE and the State Board of legislature could take largely related to teacher compensation,” he said. “However, we also heard during our work last year that while compensation is crucial, teachers also need support for the day to day.”In a survey of Missouri educators conducted by the commission and the Hunt Institute, 77.3% of teachers reported that “increased flexibility during school hours, including time to develop lessons, collaborate with other teachers, to receive feedback and coaching and to engage in professional learning” would help their career.The blue ribbon commission suggests DESE study teaching models that place seasoned educators with novices and create leadership opportunities, likely including a two-teachers-per-classroom setup.Board member Mary Schrag of West Plains said teachers are mentoring others in their free time already, but she believes adding a financial incentive could expand this practice.The commission suggests collaborating with the legislature to secure grant funding for districts who begin this costly instructional model.The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://dese.mo.gov/media/pdf/career-ladder-program-guidance-updated-march-2023-1">career ladder program</a>&nbsp;might provide a higher salary for teachers who take on a leadership role. The program typically pays teachers for taking on additional responsibilities, like coaching roles or sponsoring a club, so the commission suggests checking statute to see if this program would apply.Continuing with a theme of teacher advancement, the blue ribbon commission recommends the creation of a master teaching certificate that provides opportunities in schools and increased pay. Walker said the group thinks this piece is “really, really important.”Schrag sees a master teaching certificate as a way for teachers to financially advance while staying in their roles.“We have a lot of educators who really love teaching. But in order to be able to financially progress through the system, a lot of times they are being forced to go into different areas of education,” she said.The commission also included recommendations for actions administrators could take. It calls on DESE to work with the Missouri School Boards Association and the Missouri Association of School Administrators to develop training for district leaders to promote a positive school culture.The commission also wants to leverage the Missouri Leadership Development System, a training program for school administrators, to educate all the state’s principals and assistant principals.Board member Pamela Westbrooks-Hodge said she would like to see more of a focus on student behavior and mental health.Lucy Berrier Matheson, the Hunt Institute’s deputy director of K-12 initiatives, said behavior is a problem “across the country” returning to the classroom from virtual learning. “I think that is something that everyone is struggling with,” she said.If schools can add more teachers to the classroom and reduce the ratio of students to teachers, that will help with classroom management, she continued.“One of these recommendations standing alone probably doesn’t have near the effect or impact on classroom management as a multiplier of these recommendations,” Walker said. “But when you add them all together, it creates a tremendously improved environment.”Schrag said there is an upcoming meeting to discuss what legislators may be willing to sponsor.

Commission wants more leadership opportunities for Mo. teachers

NODAWAY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m.Wednesday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1999 Ford F350 driven by Judith A. Blay, 77, Villisca, Iowa, was northbound on U.S. 71 just south of 2nd Streed in Clearmont.

The driver attempted a left turn and pulled into the path of a southbound 2012 GMC Terrain driven by Frances A. Baughman, 51, Bradyville, Iowa.

The SUV struck the pickup.&nbsp; Nodaway County EMS transported Bauthman to Clarinda Regional Medical Center. Blay was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m.Wednesday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1999 Ford F350 driven by Judith A. Blay, 77, Villisca, Iowa, was northbound on U.S. 71 just south of 2nd Streed in Clearmont.The driver attempted a left turn and pulled into the path of a southbound 2012 GMC Terrain driven by Frances A. Baughman, 51, Bradyville, Iowa.The SUV struck the pickup.&nbsp; Nodaway County EMS transported Bauthman to Clarinda Regional Medical Center. Blay was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Woman hospitalized after pickup, SUV crash

Missouri US Senator Eric Schmitt visited the 139th Airlift Wing base at Rosecrans Memorial Airport on Wednesday.    

Schmitt met with leadership from the 139th as well as the city of St. Joseph and Buchanan County to learn more about the base and the men and women that serve from it.  

Schmitt says one thing his visit reinforced is seeing in person how much of a community effort goes into the 139th.  

"St. Joe, the men and women who serve here, this is a partnership and it's a model for the rest of the country," Schmitt tells reporters. "And also, the trainings that are done here for militaries all around the world, this is world class, and we want to make sure people around the country when I'm in Washinton we're talking about this, I think it's important to be here firsthand in my first year." 

Schmitt calls the collaboration between the 139th and the city of St. Joseph unparalleled. 

Schmitt also knows how vital the 139th is to the city and says there is no concern of losing the base. 

"I can tell you how respected the 139th is across the board, when I'm in Washington talking about how proud we are of Whiteman Air Force Base, how proud we are of Fort Leonard Wood, and how proud we are of the 139th, its reputation precedes it," Schmitt says. 

Schmitt says that's because of the hard work of the men and women at the base and their willingness to serve. 

"I mean in being ready, I would say there's other places around the country but the 139th is always ready to step up, they're anticipating and they're there to serve, and that's invaluable," Schmitt explains. 

In meetings with leadership Schmitt highlighted the funding for base infrastructure in the National Defense Authorization Act and also engaged with base leadership on other issues critical to the Air National Guard.  

A long running issue in St. Joseph at the 139th is the status of receiving eight C-130J planes to upgrade from the current C-130H models at the base. 

Schmitt says the effort to get the J models is one that Missouri congressional delegation supports fully. 

"I feel a particular obligation to advocate as much as I can being on the Armed Services Committee, so we're going to continue to do it," Schmitt says. "There's more money for Js in this NDA Authorization, which is a good thing, we're going to fight to make sure they find their way here." 

Schmitt highlighted those efforts to the men and women of the 139th during meetings highlighting the fiscal year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692831437413.jpeg" alt="Missouri US Senator Eric Schmitt (left) speaks as Commander of the 139th Colonel John Cluck (right) looks on/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Missouri US Senator Eric Schmitt (left) speaks as Commander of the 139th Colonel John Cluck (right) looks on/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post Missouri US Senator Eric Schmitt visited the 139th Airlift Wing base at Rosecrans Memorial Airport on Wednesday. Schmitt met with leadership from the 139th as well as the city of St. Joseph and Buchanan County to learn more about the base and the men and women that serve from it. Schmitt says one thing his visit reinforced is seeing in person how much of a community effort goes into the 139th. "St. Joe, the men and women who serve here, this is a partnership and it's a model for the rest of the country," Schmitt tells reporters. "And also, the trainings that are done here for militaries all around the world, this is world class, and we want to make sure people around the country when I'm in Washinton we're talking about this, I think it's important to be here firsthand in my first year." Schmitt calls the collaboration between the 139th and the city of St. Joseph unparalleled. Schmitt also knows how vital the 139th is to the city and says there is no concern of losing the base. "I can tell you how respected the 139th is across the board, when I'm in Washington talking about how proud we are of Whiteman Air Force Base, how proud we are of Fort Leonard Wood, and how proud we are of the 139th, its reputation precedes it," Schmitt says. Schmitt says that's because of the hard work of the men and women at the base and their willingness to serve. "I mean in being ready, I would say there's other places around the country but the 139th is always ready to step up, they're anticipating and they're there to serve, and that's invaluable," Schmitt explains. In meetings with leadership Schmitt highlighted the funding for base infrastructure in the National Defense Authorization Act and also engaged with base leadership on other issues critical to the Air National Guard. A long running issue in St. Joseph at the 139th is the status of receiving eight C-130J planes to upgrade from the current C-130H models at the base. Schmitt says the effort to get the J models is one that Missouri congressional delegation supports fully. "I feel a particular obligation to advocate as much as I can being on the Armed Services Committee, so we're going to continue to do it," Schmitt says. "There's more money for Js in this NDA Authorization, which is a good thing, we're going to fight to make sure they find their way here." Schmitt highlighted those efforts to the men and women of the 139th during meetings highlighting the fiscal year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act.

Missouri Senator Eric Schmitt pays a visit to St. Joseph and the 139th Airlift Wing

St. Joseph saw a flood of visitors as the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs visited the city for training camp.  

St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau spokesperson Christian Mengel says museums and restaurants saw massive boosts in visitors during Chiefs training camp. 

"The fans aren't just going to training camp but they're also going somewhere to eat afterwards and then maybe seeing a museum or checking out the arts," Mengel tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "They're staying in town and that's the most important thing that we want to see." 

Mengel says when calculating the economic impact of camp there are many factors to consider. 

"It's hard to measure the exact amount of time someone stays but then you also have to count the Chiefs organization as they're own separate thing in terms of look at how many staff members come or how many staff members work camp and the players they have to eat too," Mengel says. "And so, all that money is in Buchanan County." 

Mengel says that while they still have to do the calculations, they do know the tourism impact in the summer wouldn't be the same without Chiefs Training Camp. 

And Mengel says the CVB sees many people coming back even once camp is complete. 

"There's a lot of people who they come for camp and then they learn what's in the town, and they realize they didn't budget maybe enough of their own time to do everything that they really want to do or everything that they've learned about that they want to do," Mengel explains. "And so, they do have a reason to come back so we do see that repeat visitor which is always great too." 

Mengel says often they'll see people take more information than they might be able to do in one trip because they intend to come back and visit St. Joseph again. 

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post St. Joseph saw a flood of visitors as the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs visited the city for training camp. St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau spokesperson Christian Mengel says museums and restaurants saw massive boosts in visitors during Chiefs training camp. "The fans aren't just going to training camp but they're also going somewhere to eat afterwards and then maybe seeing a museum or checking out the arts," Mengel tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "They're staying in town and that's the most important thing that we want to see." Mengel says when calculating the economic impact of camp there are many factors to consider. "It's hard to measure the exact amount of time someone stays but then you also have to count the Chiefs organization as they're own separate thing in terms of look at how many staff members come or how many staff members work camp and the players they have to eat too," Mengel says. "And so, all that money is in Buchanan County." Mengel says that while they still have to do the calculations, they do know the tourism impact in the summer wouldn't be the same without Chiefs Training Camp. And Mengel says the CVB sees many people coming back even once camp is complete. "There's a lot of people who they come for camp and then they learn what's in the town, and they realize they didn't budget maybe enough of their own time to do everything that they really want to do or everything that they've learned about that they want to do," Mengel explains. "And so, they do have a reason to come back so we do see that repeat visitor which is always great too." Mengel says often they'll see people take more information than they might be able to do in one trip because they intend to come back and visit St. Joseph again.

Chiefs Training Camp brings thousands to St. Joseph

Farmers for Free Trade this week implored all 2024 presidential candidates to prioritize new market access trade agreements to strengthen U.S. agriculture and decrease reliance on China. 

The organization also called on the presidential candidates to hold China accountable in a responsible manner that does not endanger U.S. food and agriculture's largest export market or threaten American farmers with new retaliatory tariffs. 

In a letter, the organization says, "The U.S. needs to again take the lead in negotiating new FTAs with other countries and work to strengthen and reform the rules-based multilateral trading system." 

Such agreements could protect American workers and the environment, help contain China's growing geopolitical influence, and open new export markets for our farmers by meaningfully reducing and eliminating tariffs and non-tariff trade barriers. 

The letter, which comes shortly before the first presidential debate of the 2024 election cycle, was sent to all presidential campaigns.

Farmers for Free Trade this week implored all 2024 presidential candidates to prioritize new market access trade agreements to strengthen U.S. agriculture and decrease reliance on China. The organization also called on the presidential candidates to hold China accountable in a responsible manner that does not endanger U.S. food and agriculture's largest export market or threaten American farmers with new retaliatory tariffs. In a letter, the organization says, "The U.S. needs to again take the lead in negotiating new FTAs with other countries and work to strengthen and reform the rules-based multilateral trading system." Such agreements could protect American workers and the environment, help contain China's growing geopolitical influence, and open new export markets for our farmers by meaningfully reducing and eliminating tariffs and non-tariff trade barriers. The letter, which comes shortly before the first presidential debate of the 2024 election cycle, was sent to all presidential campaigns.- NAFB

Farmers for Free Trade calls on presidential candidates to prioritize trade

ATCHISON —One person was injured in an accident just before 7p.m. Tuesday in Atchison.

A Toyota passenger car driven by Taylor Sloan, 23, Leavenworth, was westbound on Park Street at 6th Street, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

The Toyota collided with a southbound Dodge passenger car driven by Jeanette Weber, 54, Atchison,

EMS transported&nbsp; Weber to Amberwell Hospital for examination. Taylor Sloan was cited for failure to yield. Police reported no additional details.

ATCHISON —One person was injured in an accident just before 7p.m. Tuesday in Atchison.A Toyota passenger car driven by Taylor Sloan, 23, Leavenworth, was westbound on Park Street at 6th Street, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.The Toyota collided with a southbound Dodge passenger car driven by Jeanette Weber, 54, Atchison,EMS transported&nbsp; Weber to Amberwell Hospital for examination. Taylor Sloan was cited for failure to yield. Police reported no additional details.

Kansas woman hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash

A young man died in a house explosion in St. Joseph Tuesday night.

St. Joseph police report a loud explosion occurred in the 1400 block of North 13th Street shortly after eight o’clock last night. Investigators discovered the body of 18-year-old Nathen Scott Taylor, Jr. of St. Joseph in the remains of the house. No one else was
injured.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA young man died in a house explosion in St. Joseph Tuesday night.St. Joseph police report a loud explosion occurred in the 1400 block of North 13th Street shortly after eight o’clock last night. Investigators discovered the body of 18-year-old Nathen Scott Taylor, Jr. of St. Joseph in the remains of the house. No one else was
injured.The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives is on
the scene, investigating the explosion.This story has been updated since first published. The identity of the victim has been added.

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