The National Corn Growers Association and a broad coalition of national and state agriculture and bioscience organizations sent a letter to the White House on Mexico’s GMO corn ban. 

The groups thanked the Biden administration for beginning technical consultations with Mexico. 

“We support your request for a consultation with Mexico regarding its treatment of agricultural biotechnology and denying the use of certain crop protection tools to provide a framework and timeline to resolve this issue,” the 62 groups wrote. 

“We look forward to these consultations beginning promptly.” They also say Mexico’s GMO corn ban draws a non-science based distinction between corn for food and corn for feed and industrial uses and is inconsistent with USMCA obligations. 

The ag and biotechnology groups reiterated the importance of beginning the legal process to not only resolve the dispute with Mexico but also prevent other countries from following suit. “Send a strong signal on enforcement,” they added.

The National Corn Growers Association and a broad coalition of national and state agriculture and bioscience organizations sent a letter to the White House on Mexico’s GMO corn ban. The groups thanked the Biden administration for beginning technical consultations with Mexico. “We support your request for a consultation with Mexico regarding its treatment of agricultural biotechnology and denying the use of certain crop protection tools to provide a framework and timeline to resolve this issue,” the 62 groups wrote. “We look forward to these consultations beginning promptly.” They also say Mexico’s GMO corn ban draws a non-science based distinction between corn for food and corn for feed and industrial uses and is inconsistent with USMCA obligations. The ag and biotechnology groups reiterated the importance of beginning the legal process to not only resolve the dispute with Mexico but also prevent other countries from following suit. “Send a strong signal on enforcement,” they added.

Bioscience groups call for action on Mexico’s biotech corn ban

A new service to Buchanan County is helping to provide training for caregivers taking care of loved ones or friends at home. &nbsp;

Former Buchanan County Commissioner Lee Sawyer says this service is important in the county because of a lack of training for caregiving at home.&nbsp;

"The main goal is that when people go home from the hospital, if they've had some type of surgery or they've had some other type of situation, you want them to have good care at home and not have to go back into the hospital for that situation," Sawyer explains to host of the KFEQ Hotline Barry Birr. &nbsp;

"And so, that's what a lot of this content and a lot of what Trualta brings is this ability to help people take care of their family members for all kinds of different reasons."&nbsp;

The training is provided at no cost to caregivers thanks to fund from the American Rescue Plan in the county. &nbsp;

Local Trualata Representative Darci Henry says people are being cared for at home longer and living at home with chronic illnesses for long periods of time.&nbsp;

"When you're in the hospital or you're on home health services you're having professionals come in and provide that care to you which is great," Henry says. "But once your discharged from those services and the family kind of takes over as the primary support system, most of those family caregivers are not trained, so this is a way to give professional grade training and support to people who maybe have no experience giving care of any kind."&nbsp;

Since launch in November of last year, Henry says 90 caregivers have been brought on board for training.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Sawyer says the contract with Trualta is for two years, but after that two years there are various ways, the service could be provided.&nbsp;

"It may be something where Buchanan County decides they want to continue to give that service, it may be that a Mosaic or somebody says hey this has been valuable to our patients we would like to continue on," Sawyer points out. "So, there's various ways to keep this funded going forward."&nbsp;

Sawyer says two years is a really good amount of time to get people engaged and see what value the program can bring. &nbsp;

More information can be found about Trualta <a href="https://buchanan.trualta.com/login">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;A new service to Buchanan County is helping to provide training for caregivers taking care of loved ones or friends at home. &nbsp;Former Buchanan County Commissioner Lee Sawyer says this service is important in the county because of a lack of training for caregiving at home.&nbsp;"The main goal is that when people go home from the hospital, if they've had some type of surgery or they've had some other type of situation, you want them to have good care at home and not have to go back into the hospital for that situation," Sawyer explains to host of the KFEQ Hotline Barry Birr. &nbsp;"And so, that's what a lot of this content and a lot of what Trualta brings is this ability to help people take care of their family members for all kinds of different reasons."&nbsp;The training is provided at no cost to caregivers thanks to fund from the American Rescue Plan in the county. &nbsp;Local Trualata Representative Darci Henry says people are being cared for at home longer and living at home with chronic illnesses for long periods of time.&nbsp;"When you're in the hospital or you're on home health services you're having professionals come in and provide that care to you which is great," Henry says. "But once your discharged from those services and the family kind of takes over as the primary support system, most of those family caregivers are not trained, so this is a way to give professional grade training and support to people who maybe have no experience giving care of any kind."&nbsp;Since launch in November of last year, Henry says 90 caregivers have been brought on board for training.&nbsp; &nbsp;Sawyer says the contract with Trualta is for two years, but after that two years there are various ways, the service could be provided.&nbsp;"It may be something where Buchanan County decides they want to continue to give that service, it may be that a Mosaic or somebody says hey this has been valuable to our patients we would like to continue on," Sawyer points out. "So, there's various ways to keep this funded going forward."&nbsp;Sawyer says two years is a really good amount of time to get people engaged and see what value the program can bring. &nbsp;More information can be found about Trualta <a href="https://buchanan.trualta.com/login">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

New service in Buchanan County provides training for at-home health care

BROWN COUNTY —Over the weekend, law enforcement authorities received a number of complaints from concerned&nbsp;residents about a new scam circulating the area, according to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant.

Someone is calling, representing themselves as a lineman for Evergy.&nbsp; Residents are being told that they are two months behind on their bill and if they do not take care of the outstanding balance immediately, their power will be shut off within hours.&nbsp; 

Residents are given a specific dollar amount that it will take to retain their service. They are being instructed to go to the local Dollar General store and purchase a "money pack" and are given instructions on how to respond.

According to Sheriff Merchant, the caller is very convincing and several residents have said they were almost "taken in" by the caller.

The sheriff reminded everyone that calls such as this are a scam.&nbsp; If you receive such a call, hang up immediately.&nbsp; If you feel you have been a victim of this or any other type of scam, notify your local law enforcement at once.

BROWN COUNTY —Over the weekend, law enforcement authorities received a number of complaints from concerned&nbsp;residents about a new scam circulating the area, according to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant.Someone is calling, representing themselves as a lineman for Evergy.&nbsp; Residents are being told that they are two months behind on their bill and if they do not take care of the outstanding balance immediately, their power will be shut off within hours.&nbsp; Residents are given a specific dollar amount that it will take to retain their service. They are being instructed to go to the local Dollar General store and purchase a "money pack" and are given instructions on how to respond. According to Sheriff Merchant, the caller is very convincing and several residents have said they were almost "taken in" by the caller. The sheriff reminded everyone that calls such as this are a scam.&nbsp; If you receive such a call, hang up immediately.&nbsp; If you feel you have been a victim of this or any other type of scam, notify your local law enforcement at once.

Sheriff warns of another phone scam in Kansas

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that producers in counties affected by eligible disaster events can apply for cost-share assistance through the Emergency Grain Storage Facility Assistance Program. 

Farmers in Kentucky, Minnesota, South Dakota, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, North Dakota, and Tennessee are eligible for the program. 

It provides cost-share assistance for constructing new grain storage capacity and drying and handling seeds in order to support the orderly marketing of commodities. 

“Weather events in 2021 and 2022 in several states caused catastrophic losses to grain storage facilities on family farms as well as large commercial grain elevators, leaving stored grain exposed to the elements and affecting storage and commodity marketing options for many producers,” Vilsack says. 

“This new program will provide cost-share assistance to help producers address their on-farm storage capacity needs that are necessary for marketing grain.” Eligible natural disasters occurred from December 1, 2021, to August 1, 2022.

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that producers in counties affected by eligible disaster events can apply for cost-share assistance through the Emergency Grain Storage Facility Assistance Program. Farmers in Kentucky, Minnesota, South Dakota, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, North Dakota, and Tennessee are eligible for the program. It provides cost-share assistance for constructing new grain storage capacity and drying and handling seeds in order to support the orderly marketing of commodities. “Weather events in 2021 and 2022 in several states caused catastrophic losses to grain storage facilities on family farms as well as large commercial grain elevators, leaving stored grain exposed to the elements and affecting storage and commodity marketing options for many producers,” Vilsack says. “This new program will provide cost-share assistance to help producers address their on-farm storage capacity needs that are necessary for marketing grain.” Eligible natural disasters occurred from December 1, 2021, to August 1, 2022.

USDA announces cost-share assistance for grain storage

BUCHANAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 8p.m. Saturday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported 2002 Honda GL 1800 driven by Daniel L. Hawkins, 62, St. Joseph, was northbound on Interstate 29 five miles south of St. Joseph.

Hawkins lost control of the motorcycle. It overturned, began to skid, traveled off the west side of the road and came to rest in the median.

Buchanan County EMS transported Hawkins to Mosaic Life Care. He was not wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 8p.m. Saturday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported 2002 Honda GL 1800 driven by Daniel L. Hawkins, 62, St. Joseph, was northbound on Interstate 29 five miles south of St. Joseph.Hawkins lost control of the motorcycle. It overturned, began to skid, traveled off the west side of the road and came to rest in the median.Buchanan County EMS transported Hawkins to Mosaic Life Care. He was not wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

St. Joseph man injured in motorcycle accident

GRUNDY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Friday in Grundy County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Chevy pickup driven by Tiffany D. Gathercole, 45, Trenton, was northbound on U.S. 65 five miles north of Trenton.

The driver slowed to make a right turn onto Mica Lane and noticed a semi not slowing behind her. The car traveled into a culvert while making the turn. The front passenger side of the pickup struck the culvert. The pickup then traveled up to a residence a short distance from the accident.

A private vehicle transported a 4-year-old female passenger in the pickup to Wright Memorial Hospital. Gathercole was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

GRUNDY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Friday in Grundy County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Chevy pickup driven by Tiffany D. Gathercole, 45, Trenton, was northbound on U.S. 65 five miles north of Trenton.The driver slowed to make a right turn onto Mica Lane and noticed a semi not slowing behind her. The car traveled into a culvert while making the turn. The front passenger side of the pickup struck the culvert. The pickup then traveled up to a residence a short distance from the accident.A private vehicle transported a 4-year-old female passenger in the pickup to Wright Memorial Hospital. Gathercole was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

4-year-old injured after Grundy Co. pickup accident

The American Farm Bureau Federation and CNH Industrial brands Case IH and New Holland signed a memorandum of understanding, allowing farmers and ranchers to repair their equipment. 

The MOU follows a similar agreement Farm Bureau signed with John Deere earlier this year. 

“Farmers and ranchers are more dependent on technology than ever before,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall, “so it’s critical they have access to the tools to keep things running on the farm, so the food supply chain keeps running too.” 

The MOU sets a framework for farmers and independent repair facilities in all 50 states and Puerto Rico to access CNH Industrial brand manuals, tools, product guides, and information to self-diagnose and self-repair machines. 

The MOU respects intellectual property rights and recognizes the need for safety controls and emission systems don’t get altered. CNH and AFBF will meet semiannually to review the agreement to address any concerns.

The American Farm Bureau Federation and CNH Industrial brands Case IH and New Holland signed a memorandum of understanding, allowing farmers and ranchers to repair their equipment. The MOU follows a similar agreement Farm Bureau signed with John Deere earlier this year. “Farmers and ranchers are more dependent on technology than ever before,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall, “so it’s critical they have access to the tools to keep things running on the farm, so the food supply chain keeps running too.” The MOU sets a framework for farmers and independent repair facilities in all 50 states and Puerto Rico to access CNH Industrial brand manuals, tools, product guides, and information to self-diagnose and self-repair machines. The MOU respects intellectual property rights and recognizes the need for safety controls and emission systems don’t get altered. CNH and AFBF will meet semiannually to review the agreement to address any concerns.

Farm Bureau signs MOU on Right to Repair

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says all cattle and calves in the U.S. and Canada combined totaled 101 million head on January 1, 2023, down three percent from January 1 of last year. 

All cows and heifers that have calved inventory totaled 42.9 million head, three percent lower than last year. 

All cattle and calves in the U.S. as of January 1 totaled 89.3 million head, down three percent from 92.1 million last January 1. 

All U.S. cows and heifers that have calved were 38.3 million head, down three percent from last year. All cattle and calves in Canada were at 11.3 million head on January 1, down two percent from the 11.5 million head on January 1, 2022. 

All cows and heifers that have calved inventory was 4.53 million head, two percent lower than last year. All sheep and lambs in the U.S. and Canada totaled 5.87 million head on January 1.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says all cattle and calves in the U.S. and Canada combined totaled 101 million head on January 1, 2023, down three percent from January 1 of last year. All cows and heifers that have calved inventory totaled 42.9 million head, three percent lower than last year. All cattle and calves in the U.S. as of January 1 totaled 89.3 million head, down three percent from 92.1 million last January 1. All U.S. cows and heifers that have calved were 38.3 million head, down three percent from last year. All cattle and calves in Canada were at 11.3 million head on January 1, down two percent from the 11.5 million head on January 1, 2022. All cows and heifers that have calved inventory was 4.53 million head, two percent lower than last year. All sheep and lambs in the U.S. and Canada totaled 5.87 million head on January 1.

Cattle inventories drop in the U.S. and Canada

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Dare2tri executive director Keri Serota.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_mCgRqySF6Q" 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 Dare2tri executive director Keri Serota.

🎤 Forward Ever: Dare2tri executive director Keri Serota

Get out and eat some pancakes this weekend as the St. Joseph host Lions Clubs annual pancake days returns for an astounding 70th year. &nbsp;

President of the Host Lions Club Roger Unruh says all kinds of people come out and get together during the three-day event. &nbsp;

"We have families that come in and take up the deal, we have businesses that come in and they have their sales meeting ahead of time, you know they get them pumped up and then they send them out to the world to go sell everything in the world," Unruh tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "But we have a great group of people that show up and you know every day is a different type."&nbsp;

Pancake days is held at the Army National Guard Armory on North Woodbine Road starting today and running through Sunday. &nbsp;

Unruh says the event will help raise money through ticket sales and a raffle at the event. &nbsp;

"All of that money comes back to us in the form that we give back out and a lot of that money goes directly into the community here in St. Joseph, Missouri," Unruh says. &nbsp;

Another cause the Lions Club provides money towards is sight research.&nbsp;

"CCVI for instance is the Childrens Center for the Visually Impaired in Kansas City, they're a great organization, they start with children that are blind at birth," Unruh explains.&nbsp;

Tickets can be purchased at the door, or by contacting members of the Lions Club you may know. &nbsp;

Pancake days runs from 7am to 7pm today and tomorrow and from 7am to 2pm on Sunday.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Get out and eat some pancakes this weekend as the St. Joseph host Lions Clubs annual pancake days returns for an astounding 70th year. &nbsp;President of the Host Lions Club Roger Unruh says all kinds of people come out and get together during the three-day event. &nbsp;"We have families that come in and take up the deal, we have businesses that come in and they have their sales meeting ahead of time, you know they get them pumped up and then they send them out to the world to go sell everything in the world," Unruh tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "But we have a great group of people that show up and you know every day is a different type."&nbsp;Pancake days is held at the Army National Guard Armory on North Woodbine Road starting today and running through Sunday. &nbsp;Unruh says the event will help raise money through ticket sales and a raffle at the event. &nbsp;"All of that money comes back to us in the form that we give back out and a lot of that money goes directly into the community here in St. Joseph, Missouri," Unruh says. &nbsp;Another cause the Lions Club provides money towards is sight research.&nbsp;"CCVI for instance is the Childrens Center for the Visually Impaired in Kansas City, they're a great organization, they start with children that are blind at birth," Unruh explains.&nbsp;Tickets can be purchased at the door, or by contacting members of the Lions Club you may know. &nbsp;Pancake days runs from 7am to 7pm today and tomorrow and from 7am to 2pm on Sunday.&nbsp;

St. Joseph Lions Clubs celebrate 70 years of flipping pancakes for community

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on new charges after a second arrest in three weeks.

On Wednesday, police arrested 33-year-old Alan M. Kendrick of Atchison, on a Community Corrections detain order and a District Court warrant for violation of a protective order, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

On Feb. 23, police arrested Kendrick&nbsp; in the 800 block River Road on a District Court warrant for criminal damage to property.

Kendrick was jailed for possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia which was found on his person during the warrant arrest.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677166680762.png" alt="Kendrick -photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Kendrick -photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on new charges after a second arrest in three weeks.On Wednesday, police arrested 33-year-old Alan M. Kendrick of Atchison, on a Community Corrections detain order and a District Court warrant for violation of a protective order, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.On Feb. 23, police arrested Kendrick&nbsp; in the 800 block River Road on a District Court warrant for criminal damage to property.Kendrick was jailed for possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia which was found on his person during the warrant arrest.&nbsp;

Kan. man accused of drug possession last month is back in jail

HARRISON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 10a.m. Thursday in. Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2020 International driven by Michael L. Williams, 32, St. Louis, was southbound on Interstate 35 in the city limits of Bethany.

The vehicle traveled off the west side of the road and the driver overcorrected. The vehicle returned to the road and overturned onto the passenger side.

NTA ambulance transported Williams and a passenger identified as a a 5-year-old girl from St. Louis to Harrison County Community Hospital. The girl was not properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

HARRISON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 10a.m. Thursday in. Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2020 International driven by Michael L. Williams, 32, St. Louis, was southbound on Interstate 35 in the city limits of Bethany. The vehicle traveled off the west side of the road and the driver overcorrected. The vehicle returned to the road and overturned onto the passenger side.NTA ambulance transported Williams and a passenger identified as a a 5-year-old girl from St. Louis to Harrison County Community Hospital. The girl was not properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man, 5-year-old injured in crash

An annual conference focused on different ways to provide applied learning opportunities will be hosted at Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph.&nbsp;

Missouri Western is designated as the state’s official applied learning institution which means students are engaged in hands on learning opportunities. &nbsp;

Missouri Western Chief Communication Officer Becky Dunn says the city reaps the benefits of the focus on experiential working.&nbsp;

"Every day, Missouri Western students are in our cities classrooms, healthcare facilities, businesses and more, and they're applying their skills and helping meet the needs of our citizens," Dunn tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. "So, hosting this conference is a great way that we're fulfilling that mission as Missouri's applied learning institution, and this conference is for other educators in higher education who are also working through applied learning methods."&nbsp;

Missouri Western will welcome 17 educators from six different states to the 15th annual Conference on Applied Learning in Higher Education.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Dunn says that applied learning has become a selling point for the university. &nbsp;

"We're really focusing on how we're providing these opportunities for students to take what they're learning in the classroom and put it into practice and we've done this intentionally through our four-day class schedule," Dunn explains. "So, students have Fridays open for extra activities focused on research or working through an actual job or an internship."&nbsp;

Dunn says giving students Friday's off to focus on those opportunities has been a great benefit.&nbsp; The conference will run today through Saturday.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;An annual conference focused on different ways to provide applied learning opportunities will be hosted at Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph.&nbsp;Missouri Western is designated as the state’s official applied learning institution which means students are engaged in hands on learning opportunities. &nbsp;Missouri Western Chief Communication Officer Becky Dunn says the city reaps the benefits of the focus on experiential working.&nbsp;"Every day, Missouri Western students are in our cities classrooms, healthcare facilities, businesses and more, and they're applying their skills and helping meet the needs of our citizens," Dunn tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. "So, hosting this conference is a great way that we're fulfilling that mission as Missouri's applied learning institution, and this conference is for other educators in higher education who are also working through applied learning methods."&nbsp;Missouri Western will welcome 17 educators from six different states to the 15th annual Conference on Applied Learning in Higher Education.&nbsp; &nbsp;Dunn says that applied learning has become a selling point for the university. &nbsp;"We're really focusing on how we're providing these opportunities for students to take what they're learning in the classroom and put it into practice and we've done this intentionally through our four-day class schedule," Dunn explains. "So, students have Fridays open for extra activities focused on research or working through an actual job or an internship."&nbsp;Dunn says giving students Friday's off to focus on those opportunities has been a great benefit.&nbsp; The conference will run today through Saturday.&nbsp;

Missouri Western showcases applied learning in annual conference

The Attorneys General from Nebraska and Iowa have notified Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan of their intent to file suit over year-round E15. 

The filing comes after the agency delayed rulemaking on year-round E15 sales in eight Midwestern states. 

The EPA took over 300 days to issue a proposed rule despite a Clean Air Act requirement to act within 90 days. 

Iowa attorney general Brenna Bird says EPA needs to follow the law and make E15 gasoline available year-round. “With record-high gas prices, consumers deserve relief when paying at the pump,” Bird says. 

“The EPA’s failure to respond on time not only deprives hard-working people of a cheaper, cleaner option, it’s also a violation of the Clean Air Act.” The EPA approved the rule for year-round E15 sales in those states but delayed implementation until 2024. The attorneys also called on the agency to issue an emergency waiver for 2023.

The Attorneys General from Nebraska and Iowa have notified Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan of their intent to file suit over year-round E15. The filing comes after the agency delayed rulemaking on year-round E15 sales in eight Midwestern states. The EPA took over 300 days to issue a proposed rule despite a Clean Air Act requirement to act within 90 days. Iowa attorney general Brenna Bird says EPA needs to follow the law and make E15 gasoline available year-round. “With record-high gas prices, consumers deserve relief when paying at the pump,” Bird says. “The EPA’s failure to respond on time not only deprives hard-working people of a cheaper, cleaner option, it’s also a violation of the Clean Air Act.” The EPA approved the rule for year-round E15 sales in those states but delayed implementation until 2024. The attorneys also called on the agency to issue an emergency waiver for 2023.

Midwest Attorneys General to sue EPA over delayed E15 rule

USDA celebrated the first National Biobased Products Day on Wednesday to highlight the accomplishments of people and organizations working to improve sustainability. 

“By setting aside March 8 as National Biobased Products Day, we honor the 20 years of progress the BioPreferred Program has achieved,” says USDA Rural Development Undersecretary Xochitl Torres Small. 

Congress created the U.S. BioPreferred Program in the 2002 Farm Bill. The program is the federal government’s official advocate and market accelerator for biobased products. 

USDA congratulated the four winners of the BioPreferred Program’s “Excellence in Procurement Award” in 2022 for their respective agencies” environmental impact by using biobased products and championing farmers in rural America. 

Winners include the Department of Energy’s Y-12 National Security Complex in Tennessee, Christina Graves of the Forest Service, Brian McCabe of the National Park Service, and Brooke Siegel with the FBI. To learn more about the BioPreferred Program, go to biopreferred.gov.

USDA celebrated the first National Biobased Products Day on Wednesday to highlight the accomplishments of people and organizations working to improve sustainability. “By setting aside March 8 as National Biobased Products Day, we honor the 20 years of progress the BioPreferred Program has achieved,” says USDA Rural Development Undersecretary Xochitl Torres Small. Congress created the U.S. BioPreferred Program in the 2002 Farm Bill. The program is the federal government’s official advocate and market accelerator for biobased products. USDA congratulated the four winners of the BioPreferred Program’s “Excellence in Procurement Award” in 2022 for their respective agencies” environmental impact by using biobased products and championing farmers in rural America. Winners include the Department of Energy’s Y-12 National Security Complex in Tennessee, Christina Graves of the Forest Service, Brian McCabe of the National Park Service, and Brooke Siegel with the FBI. To learn more about the BioPreferred Program, go to biopreferred.gov.

USDA celebrates first National Biobased Products Day

BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges after a traffic stop.

Just after 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, a sheriff's deputy initiated a traffic stop in the vicinity of U.S. 36 near Goldfinch in Brown County, according to Sheriff John Merchant.

After contact with the driver identified as 38-year-old Andrew Armstrong of Robinson, the deputy discovered that the vehicle registration was expired and Robinson's license was suspended.&nbsp;

The deputy arrested Armstrong on requested charges of Possession of Meth, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Illegal Registration and Drive While Suspended.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678298048492.png" alt="Armstrong-photo Brown Co." />
 <figcaption>Armstrong-photo Brown Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges after a traffic stop.Just after 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, a sheriff's deputy initiated a traffic stop in the vicinity of U.S. 36 near Goldfinch in Brown County, according to Sheriff John Merchant.After contact with the driver identified as 38-year-old Andrew Armstrong of Robinson, the deputy discovered that the vehicle registration was expired and Robinson's license was suspended.&nbsp; The deputy arrested Armstrong on requested charges of Possession of Meth, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Illegal Registration and Drive While Suspended.

Sheriff: Kansas man caught transporting meth

CropLife America applauds the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office for requesting formal technical consultations with the Mexican government under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada agreement. 

The goal of the consultation is to address a long-standing agricultural technology trade issue. 

This announcement enforces Mexico’s trade commitments made in the USMCA and addresses concerns voiced by many in the U.S. ag community, including CLA, regarding the decree’s impact on biotechnology traits and pesticides in Mexico. 

The organization has maintained that Mexico’s regulatory actions regarding biotechnology ignore science- and risk-based regulations and the scientific weight of evidence from regulatory bodies around the world. CLA shares USTR’s concerns and is encouraged by the USTR’s focus on the need for a science-based regulatory approach. 

“We support the administration’s enforcement of a rules-based trading system for agricultural innovation and encourage USTR to also address regulatory delays and barriers that are impacting pesticide registrations in Mexico,” CLA said in a release.

CropLife America applauds the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office for requesting formal technical consultations with the Mexican government under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada agreement. The goal of the consultation is to address a long-standing agricultural technology trade issue. This announcement enforces Mexico’s trade commitments made in the USMCA and addresses concerns voiced by many in the U.S. ag community, including CLA, regarding the decree’s impact on biotechnology traits and pesticides in Mexico. The organization has maintained that Mexico’s regulatory actions regarding biotechnology ignore science- and risk-based regulations and the scientific weight of evidence from regulatory bodies around the world. CLA shares USTR’s concerns and is encouraged by the USTR’s focus on the need for a science-based regulatory approach. “We support the administration’s enforcement of a rules-based trading system for agricultural innovation and encourage USTR to also address regulatory delays and barriers that are impacting pesticide registrations in Mexico,” CLA said in a release.

CropLife America applauds USTR actions

A St. Joseph school official sees some encouraging information
in a pilot performance report issued by the state, even though district
students scored low in several areas.

St. Joseph Director of School Improvement, Kendra Lau, says though
students scored low marks in English, math, and science, they had much stronger
marks under the categories of growth.

“And so, we felt encouraged that our learners were very
competitive to those other learners across the state,” Lau says in an interview
with KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “In other words, our students grew at the same rate
that the other students grew across the state of Missouri. We were not below
that, but we were not above it.”

Lau says this pilot performance report issued by the Missouri
Department of Elementary and Secondary Education displays the coronavirus
pandemic gap that seems to have affected education throughout the nation when
schools shut down due to the virus.

Overall, the St. Joseph School District earned only 75.7
points out of the 128 points possible in the Year 1 Pilot report. The district
earned 46 of the 52 points possible in the category of Continuous Improvement.

St. Joseph public school students earned only half the points
possible in the categories of English Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science.
Students earned 75% of the points possible in Social Studies.

Students scored higher in the category of Academic Achievement
Growth in both English Language Arts and Mathematics.

DESE designated St. Joseph School District students On Track
in Graduation Rate over a seven-year period as well as Graduate Follow-up.

Lau says the score in that last category is significant.

“What it means is that the St. Joseph school graduates are
going to areas after they leave us that are going to lead to gainful employment
in the future,” according to Lau.

Lau sees a dropping attendance rate as a drag on test scores,
pointing out that the St. Joseph School District had a 90% attendance rate in
2019 before the pandemic.

“Now, at the end of last year, we were at 70%,” Lau says.

Lau says though disappointed in the low scores in key subject
areas, the district is pleased to see students scoring higher on academic
growth.

“It shows us that our students do have some gaps in learning,
because of the decreased proficiency,” Lau says. “But it also shows us that despite
the pandemic, our students are achieving growth that is equal to that which
other students across the state are gaining.”

This is a pilot report and Lau says the district hopes to score
better in future Annual Performance Reports.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA St. Joseph school official sees some encouraging information
in a pilot performance report issued by the state, even though district
students scored low in several areas.St. Joseph Director of School Improvement, Kendra Lau, says though
students scored low marks in English, math, and science, they had much stronger
marks under the categories of growth.“And so, we felt encouraged that our learners were very
competitive to those other learners across the state,” Lau says in an interview
with KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “In other words, our students grew at the same rate
that the other students grew across the state of Missouri. We were not below
that, but we were not above it.”Lau says this pilot performance report issued by the Missouri
Department of Elementary and Secondary Education displays the coronavirus
pandemic gap that seems to have affected education throughout the nation when
schools shut down due to the virus.Overall, the St. Joseph School District earned only 75.7
points out of the 128 points possible in the Year 1 Pilot report. The district
earned 46 of the 52 points possible in the category of Continuous Improvement.St. Joseph public school students earned only half the points
possible in the categories of English Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science.
Students earned 75% of the points possible in Social Studies.Students scored higher in the category of Academic Achievement
Growth in both English Language Arts and Mathematics.DESE designated St. Joseph School District students On Track
in Graduation Rate over a seven-year period as well as Graduate Follow-up.Lau says the score in that last category is significant.“What it means is that the St. Joseph school graduates are
going to areas after they leave us that are going to lead to gainful employment
in the future,” according to Lau.Lau sees a dropping attendance rate as a drag on test scores,
pointing out that the St. Joseph School District had a 90% attendance rate in
2019 before the pandemic.“Now, at the end of last year, we were at 70%,” Lau says.Lau says though disappointed in the low scores in key subject
areas, the district is pleased to see students scoring higher on academic
growth.“It shows us that our students do have some gaps in learning,
because of the decreased proficiency,” Lau says. “But it also shows us that despite
the pandemic, our students are achieving growth that is equal to that which
other students across the state are gaining.”This is a pilot report and Lau says the district hopes to score
better in future Annual Performance Reports.

St. Joseph school officials see silver lining in otherwise cloudy report

The updated 2023 calendar year runoff forecast for the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, continues to be below average. 

“Despite some improvements in overall basin conditions, we expect 2023 runoff to remain below average,” says John Remus, chief of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Missouri River Basin Water Management Division. 

“Soil moisture has improved slightly in some areas, but drought conditions still exist across most of the basin.” 

The 2023 calendar year runoff forecast above Sioux City is 21.5 million acre-feet, 84 percent of the average. The runoff forecast is based on current soil moisture conditions, plains snowpack, mountain snowpack, and long-term precipitation and temperature outlooks. 

February runoff in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City was one million acre-feet, 86 percent of a typical year. System storage is currently 46 million acre-feet, 10.1 million below the top of the carryover multiple-use zone.

The updated 2023 calendar year runoff forecast for the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, continues to be below average. “Despite some improvements in overall basin conditions, we expect 2023 runoff to remain below average,” says John Remus, chief of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Missouri River Basin Water Management Division. “Soil moisture has improved slightly in some areas, but drought conditions still exist across most of the basin.” The 2023 calendar year runoff forecast above Sioux City is 21.5 million acre-feet, 84 percent of the average. The runoff forecast is based on current soil moisture conditions, plains snowpack, mountain snowpack, and long-term precipitation and temperature outlooks. February runoff in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City was one million acre-feet, 86 percent of a typical year. System storage is currently 46 million acre-feet, 10.1 million below the top of the carryover multiple-use zone.

Upper Missouri River Basin runoff forecast below average

A longtime dream is now reality for a St. Joseph couple who produced a television show that is now on Amazon Prime Video. &nbsp;

Nathan and Sydney Pinion are the Co-creators, writers, directors, and even actors in their show Dead Legion. &nbsp;

Sydney says being from St. Joseph it was a no brainer to shoot the show here, because there is so much here that gets overlooked.&nbsp;

"We shot at places like Krug Park in the old offices and top of the castle, which I had personally never seen inside before," Sydney tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "Krug Pool in St. Joseph, Missouri, we actually did a scene where we filled the swimming pool with zombies while it was completely drained and empty, we had an overnight shoot there and we filled the pool with zombies."&nbsp;

Aside from being produced locally and filming around the region, the Pinions say much of the talent within the show is also local. &nbsp;

Nathan says living most of their lives here made it easier to have connections within the community that made making the show here easier than elsewhere&nbsp;

"Like we shot a scene for the show at the D&amp;G, over in the concert hall, and stuff like that," Nathan explains. "It's a lot easier to recruit people and find places when your kind of already familiar with it."&nbsp;

Sydney adds onto that saying many of the local St. Joseph places are supportive of the arts&nbsp;

"Even the parks department was just a total blessing to us, they helped us with a lot of stuff that we wouldn't have otherwise been able to get into or to shoot at," Sydney says. &nbsp;

Sydney says for what they had to work with and the budget they were on, which she says wasn't a lot, St. Joseph business owners and the city were very supportive.&nbsp;

"A lot of people just get excited, like when they see that you're out there and you have a cast full of actors and a camera they want to (ask) what are you working on over there and they want to inquire and see what it's about," Sydney points out. "We had a really pretty positive experience with working with this town and the people in it."&nbsp;

In fact, Sydney says the largest hurdle faced during production as the series filmed in 2020 was local lockdowns due to the coronavirus pandemic. &nbsp;

New episodes of the show air every other Friday on Amazon Prime Video; A fifth coming out this Friday, 15 episodes total.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678293668161.jpeg" alt="Dead Legion, a show created by Nathan and Sydney Pinion of St. Joseph, airs on Prime Video/ Photo courtesy of Dead Legion Facebook page" />
 <figcaption>Dead Legion, a show created by Nathan and Sydney Pinion of St. Joseph, airs on Prime Video/ Photo courtesy of Dead Legion Facebook page</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;A longtime dream is now reality for a St. Joseph couple who produced a television show that is now on Amazon Prime Video. &nbsp;Nathan and Sydney Pinion are the Co-creators, writers, directors, and even actors in their show Dead Legion. &nbsp;Sydney says being from St. Joseph it was a no brainer to shoot the show here, because there is so much here that gets overlooked.&nbsp;"We shot at places like Krug Park in the old offices and top of the castle, which I had personally never seen inside before," Sydney tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "Krug Pool in St. Joseph, Missouri, we actually did a scene where we filled the swimming pool with zombies while it was completely drained and empty, we had an overnight shoot there and we filled the pool with zombies."&nbsp;Aside from being produced locally and filming around the region, the Pinions say much of the talent within the show is also local. &nbsp;Nathan says living most of their lives here made it easier to have connections within the community that made making the show here easier than elsewhere&nbsp;"Like we shot a scene for the show at the D&amp;G, over in the concert hall, and stuff like that," Nathan explains. "It's a lot easier to recruit people and find places when your kind of already familiar with it."&nbsp;Sydney adds onto that saying many of the local St. Joseph places are supportive of the arts&nbsp;"Even the parks department was just a total blessing to us, they helped us with a lot of stuff that we wouldn't have otherwise been able to get into or to shoot at," Sydney says. &nbsp;Sydney says for what they had to work with and the budget they were on, which she says wasn't a lot, St. Joseph business owners and the city were very supportive.&nbsp;"A lot of people just get excited, like when they see that you're out there and you have a cast full of actors and a camera they want to (ask) what are you working on over there and they want to inquire and see what it's about," Sydney points out. "We had a really pretty positive experience with working with this town and the people in it."&nbsp;In fact, Sydney says the largest hurdle faced during production as the series filmed in 2020 was local lockdowns due to the coronavirus pandemic. &nbsp;New episodes of the show air every other Friday on Amazon Prime Video; A fifth coming out this Friday, 15 episodes total.&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/FULL-INTERVIEW-Dead-Legion-shot-and-produced-in-St--Joseph-by-Nathan-and-Sydney-Pinion-e202iev" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/382023-Journal--New-zombie-television-show-shot-and-produced-in-St--Joseph-e202ijn" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

Longtime dream for St. Joseph couple comes true on Prime

Eastern
Kansas Congressman Jake LaTurner has seen a big difference between his second
term in Congress compared with his first term in Washington.

LaTurner,
a Republican, found himself in the minority his freshman year. Now in his
second term, LaTurner enjoys the benefits of being in the majority.

“Being
in the majority in the House is night and day difference between being in the minority,”
LaTurner tells St. Joseph Post. “The Republicans are setting the agenda and we
aren’t just talking about the things that we talked about during the election,
we’re actually delivering.”

LaTurner
claims House Republicans have had success cutting the money for the Biden
administration’s plan to hire an additional 87,000 IRS agents, ending the
coronavirus pandemic emergency, and supporting domestic energy production.

LaTurner
returns to serve on the House Oversight Committee and got his wish to serve on
the Appropriations Committee.

“I
think those are two great committees to represent the people of the Kansas 2nd
Congressional District,” according to LaTurner. “But, the bottom line here is
making sure that we don’t have one-party rule in Washington, D.C. has been a
good thing for the American people.”

LaTurner
says the Republican-led Oversight Committee will play a watchdog role over
President Biden, a Democrat, adding the committee can provide oversight without
turning it into a witch hunt.

“When
you find the same party in power in the White House and the House of
Representatives, you don’t get good quality oversight,” LaTurner says. “The
Republicans have been guilty of this in the past as well.”

LaTurner
says an area that needs oversight is the money being sent to Ukraine in its war
with Russia. LaTurner says the United States needs to join with the West to
oppose Russian President Vladimir Putin, but Ukraine must be accountable for
the money it receives, a total of more than $100 billion.

LaTurner
got his wish:&nbsp; he has been appointed to
the House Appropriations Committee. LaTurner, who served as Kansas state
Treasurer prior to being elected to Congress, had requested a seat on
Appropriations.

“Appropriations
decides where the money is spent at the federal level. We all know $32 trillion
in debt is unsustainable,” LaTurner says.

The
federal debt, according to the Treasury Department, is $31.64 trillion.

LaTurner
says Congress must rein in spending.

LaTurner
has been assigned to two subcommittees on the House Appropriations
Committee:&nbsp; the Labor, Health and Human
Services, and Education Subcommittee as well as the State, Foreign Operations,
and Related Programs Subcommittee.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostEastern
Kansas Congressman Jake LaTurner has seen a big difference between his second
term in Congress compared with his first term in Washington.LaTurner,
a Republican, found himself in the minority his freshman year. Now in his
second term, LaTurner enjoys the benefits of being in the majority.“Being
in the majority in the House is night and day difference between being in the minority,”
LaTurner tells St. Joseph Post. “The Republicans are setting the agenda and we
aren’t just talking about the things that we talked about during the election,
we’re actually delivering.”LaTurner
claims House Republicans have had success cutting the money for the Biden
administration’s plan to hire an additional 87,000 IRS agents, ending the
coronavirus pandemic emergency, and supporting domestic energy production.LaTurner
returns to serve on the House Oversight Committee and got his wish to serve on
the Appropriations Committee.“I
think those are two great committees to represent the people of the Kansas 2nd
Congressional District,” according to LaTurner. “But, the bottom line here is
making sure that we don’t have one-party rule in Washington, D.C. has been a
good thing for the American people.”LaTurner
says the Republican-led Oversight Committee will play a watchdog role over
President Biden, a Democrat, adding the committee can provide oversight without
turning it into a witch hunt.“When
you find the same party in power in the White House and the House of
Representatives, you don’t get good quality oversight,” LaTurner says. “The
Republicans have been guilty of this in the past as well.”LaTurner
says an area that needs oversight is the money being sent to Ukraine in its war
with Russia. LaTurner says the United States needs to join with the West to
oppose Russian President Vladimir Putin, but Ukraine must be accountable for
the money it receives, a total of more than $100 billion.LaTurner
got his wish:&nbsp; he has been appointed to
the House Appropriations Committee. LaTurner, who served as Kansas state
Treasurer prior to being elected to Congress, had requested a seat on
Appropriations.“Appropriations
decides where the money is spent at the federal level. We all know $32 trillion
in debt is unsustainable,” LaTurner says.The
federal debt, according to the Treasury Department, is $31.64 trillion.LaTurner
says Congress must rein in spending.LaTurner
has been assigned to two subcommittees on the House Appropriations
Committee:&nbsp; the Labor, Health and Human
Services, and Education Subcommittee as well as the State, Foreign Operations,
and Related Programs Subcommittee.

Congressman LaTurner assigned to two powerful committees

BROWN COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident in rural Brown County, according to a Tuesday morning report from the Brown County Sheriff's office.

Just before 2:30p.m. March 3,Brown County law enforcement dispatch received a 911 call of 2 people who fell from a 45-foot tall roof in the vicinity of 800 and 200th Road, according to Sheriff John Merchant.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Emergency services were notified and both men were transported to Amberwell in Hiawatha.&nbsp; The sheriff's office reported no additional details.

BROWN COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident in rural Brown County, according to a Tuesday morning report from the Brown County Sheriff's office.Just before 2:30p.m. March 3,Brown County law enforcement dispatch received a 911 call of 2 people who fell from a 45-foot tall roof in the vicinity of 800 and 200th Road, according to Sheriff John Merchant.&nbsp;&nbsp;Emergency services were notified and both men were transported to Amberwell in Hiawatha.&nbsp; The sheriff's office reported no additional details.

Sheriff: 2 hospitalized after fall from 45-foot tall roof

St. Joseph Restaurant Week not only helped benefit several local eateries, it also helped raise money for a local non-profit that helps feed people in the region. &nbsp;

This year's partner non-profit during Restaurant Week was Second Harvest Community Food Bank, which serves 19 counties across northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas.&nbsp;

CEO of Second Harvest Chad Higdon says it was a really exciting opportunity to partner with the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce to help promote the event. &nbsp;

"It really created a lot of buzz and energy, we saw a lot of excitement and had the mayor and city council and county commissioners and a lot of others come out and support the event and draw a lot of interest," Higdon tells reporters. "It was just great for us to be a part of that and bring awareness to what we're doing through the event."&nbsp;

Restaurant goers helped raise $1,700 for the Second Harvest Community Food bank throughout the week-long event. &nbsp;

Higdon says there is no restrictions on what that money will help serve within the food bank. &nbsp;

"Because that really gives us flexibility to support whatever it is, senior box distributions, children's initiatives with school pantries, and campus cupboards, some of those kinds of things," Higdon says. "It really gives us more flexibility when the gifts aren't restricted."&nbsp;

Altec industries matched the amount raised by the community to present a $3,400 check to Second Harvest following the conclusion of Restaurant Week.&nbsp;

Higdon says parallel to Restaurant Week serving local restaurants in a time while customers are down, it's the same at Second Harvest. &nbsp;

Higdon says with charitable donations down, and things such as USDA funds and COVID relief gone, there is a lot of pressure on families served.&nbsp;

"Families are struggling, we have pantries reaching out to us to say hey we're not getting as much food as we've been used to with some of those programs that have gone away, long lines," Higdon explains. "So, just trying to do what we can to build momentum and continue to support the agencies that we're working with this is a critical time for us right now."&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678209836796.jpeg" alt="20230228_110830.jpg" />
 <figcaption>20230228_110830.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;St. Joseph Restaurant Week not only helped benefit several local eateries, it also helped raise money for a local non-profit that helps feed people in the region. &nbsp;This year's partner non-profit during Restaurant Week was Second Harvest Community Food Bank, which serves 19 counties across northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas.&nbsp;CEO of Second Harvest Chad Higdon says it was a really exciting opportunity to partner with the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce to help promote the event. &nbsp;"It really created a lot of buzz and energy, we saw a lot of excitement and had the mayor and city council and county commissioners and a lot of others come out and support the event and draw a lot of interest," Higdon tells reporters. "It was just great for us to be a part of that and bring awareness to what we're doing through the event."&nbsp;Restaurant goers helped raise $1,700 for the Second Harvest Community Food bank throughout the week-long event. &nbsp;Higdon says there is no restrictions on what that money will help serve within the food bank. &nbsp;"Because that really gives us flexibility to support whatever it is, senior box distributions, children's initiatives with school pantries, and campus cupboards, some of those kinds of things," Higdon says. "It really gives us more flexibility when the gifts aren't restricted."&nbsp;Altec industries matched the amount raised by the community to present a $3,400 check to Second Harvest following the conclusion of Restaurant Week.&nbsp;Higdon says parallel to Restaurant Week serving local restaurants in a time while customers are down, it's the same at Second Harvest. &nbsp;Higdon says with charitable donations down, and things such as USDA funds and COVID relief gone, there is a lot of pressure on families served.&nbsp;"Families are struggling, we have pantries reaching out to us to say hey we're not getting as much food as we've been used to with some of those programs that have gone away, long lines," Higdon explains. "So, just trying to do what we can to build momentum and continue to support the agencies that we're working with this is a critical time for us right now."&nbsp;

Money raised for Second Harvest comes at crucial time as families struggle

HARRISON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Monday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Ford Free Style driven by a 16-year-old boy from Albany was eastbound on U.S. 136 one mile east of Albany.

The car traveled off the south side of the road and the driver overcorrected. The car then traveled off the north side of the road and struck a ditch.&nbsp;

HARRISON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Monday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Ford Free Style driven by a 16-year-old boy from Albany was eastbound on U.S. 136 one mile east of Albany.The car traveled off the south side of the road and the driver overcorrected. The car then traveled off the north side of the road and struck a ditch.&nbsp; Grand River EMS transported the driver to Mosaic in Albany. A private vehicle transported a passenger Oliva A.&nbsp; Pepin, 18, Albany to Mosaic in Albany. They were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.