BROWN COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), the Brown County Sheriff’s Office, and the Horton Police Department are investigating a suspicious death after a man was found dead Tuesday afternoon in rural Horton, Kansas, according to a media release from the KBI.

Just after 4 p.m. Tuesday, the Brown County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from a woman requesting law enforcement assistance at 1435 K-20 Highway, in Horton.

 Upon arrival, Brown County deputies discovered a man’s body in the attic of the home. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The man has been identified as Gene A.&nbsp; Dunlap, 56. Dunlap lived at the residence where he was found. An autopsy is scheduled for Thursday.&nbsp;

BROWN COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), the Brown County Sheriff’s Office, and the Horton Police Department are investigating a suspicious death after a man was found dead Tuesday afternoon in rural Horton, Kansas, according to a media release from the KBI.Just after 4 p.m. Tuesday, the Brown County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from a woman requesting law enforcement assistance at 1435 K-20 Highway, in Horton. Upon arrival, Brown County deputies discovered a man’s body in the attic of the home. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.The man has been identified as Gene A.&nbsp; Dunlap, 56. Dunlap lived at the residence where he was found. An autopsy is scheduled for Thursday.&nbsp;

KBI: Deputies found man's body in attic of Kansas home

St. Joseph Museums is offering a unique opportunity to stay after hours inside a potentially haunted museum. &nbsp;

Glore After Hours will be held on Saturday at the Glore Psychiatric Museum from starting at 7pm.&nbsp;

Group Tours Director Kami Jones says after doing Glore Overnight over the years, they thought of a way they could make that event shorter and more affordable for people. &nbsp;

"We do kind of an abridged tour of the museum for you, take you around and show you everything, and then it's complete lights out," Jones tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "Kathy Parks, who is the head of the Boo Crew out of Kansas City, comes up with her whole team and we break out into separate little groups and go around and do a full paranormal investigation throughout the entire museum and it ends at 1am."&nbsp;

Jones says many people have claimed to have experienced the paranormal within the museum.&nbsp;

"We have had, they've gotten lots of EVP's (Electronic Voice Phenomenon) here, they have gotten a lot of audio and visual things that have happened here," Jones explains. "We've been on several different television shows for our paranormal experiences, if you go on YouTube there's about 5,000 videos of Glore Paranormal that has been done here."&nbsp;

Overall, though, everyone who has attended Overnight at the Glore, has had a blast, Jones says.&nbsp;

"It's just, it's a lot of fun and it's not something you get to do every day," Jones says.&nbsp;

Jones says this will be a different experience from the one given during Overnight at the Glore.&nbsp;

"With the full overnight you get a full tour, you get a little bit more one on one time with going over question and answer of things that actually happened at the hospital and stories from the hospital," Jones explains. "Plus, there's a full catered dinner and breakfast with the overnight and you also get to sleep wherever you want to."&nbsp;

"So, none of those things are included in the shorter version, the shorter version is focused just on the paranormal investigation."&nbsp;

Jones says people that have experienced the longer event have enjoyed such a unique experience. &nbsp;

Tickets are still available in a limited supply for the event and can be purchased online.&nbsp; Jones says they plan to hold another event like this in March at the Wyeth Tootle Mansion.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;St. Joseph Museums is offering a unique opportunity to stay after hours inside a potentially haunted museum. &nbsp;Glore After Hours will be held on Saturday at the Glore Psychiatric Museum from starting at 7pm.&nbsp;Group Tours Director Kami Jones says after doing Glore Overnight over the years, they thought of a way they could make that event shorter and more affordable for people. &nbsp;"We do kind of an abridged tour of the museum for you, take you around and show you everything, and then it's complete lights out," Jones tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "Kathy Parks, who is the head of the Boo Crew out of Kansas City, comes up with her whole team and we break out into separate little groups and go around and do a full paranormal investigation throughout the entire museum and it ends at 1am."&nbsp;Jones says many people have claimed to have experienced the paranormal within the museum.&nbsp;"We have had, they've gotten lots of EVP's (Electronic Voice Phenomenon) here, they have gotten a lot of audio and visual things that have happened here," Jones explains. "We've been on several different television shows for our paranormal experiences, if you go on YouTube there's about 5,000 videos of Glore Paranormal that has been done here."&nbsp;Overall, though, everyone who has attended Overnight at the Glore, has had a blast, Jones says.&nbsp;"It's just, it's a lot of fun and it's not something you get to do every day," Jones says.&nbsp;Jones says this will be a different experience from the one given during Overnight at the Glore.&nbsp;"With the full overnight you get a full tour, you get a little bit more one on one time with going over question and answer of things that actually happened at the hospital and stories from the hospital," Jones explains. "Plus, there's a full catered dinner and breakfast with the overnight and you also get to sleep wherever you want to."&nbsp;"So, none of those things are included in the shorter version, the shorter version is focused just on the paranormal investigation."&nbsp;Jones says people that have experienced the longer event have enjoyed such a unique experience. &nbsp;Tickets are still available in a limited supply for the event and can be purchased online.&nbsp; Jones says they plan to hold another event like this in March at the Wyeth Tootle Mansion.&nbsp;

Stay after hours, you just might experience the paranormal at the Glore Psychiatric Museum

St. Joseph residents were told to avoid the area of 102 North Woodbine road early this morning as the St. Joseph Fire Department handled a structure fire. 

Officials report the call of the large structure fire came in around 4'o clock this morning. 

Officials confirm the building was unoccupied and the fire, which appears to have been on the Optimum property, was caught early enough to be handled properly. 

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph residents were told to avoid the area of 102 North Woodbine road early this morning as the St. Joseph Fire Department handled a structure fire. Officials report the call of the large structure fire came in around 4'o clock this morning. Officials confirm the building was unoccupied and the fire, which appears to have been on the Optimum property, was caught early enough to be handled properly.

Early morning fire causes property damage

St. Joseph Mayor John Josendale sees an attitude change in St.
Joseph.

Josendale says he has heard the old drumbeat that St. Joseph
as a community has a negative attitude.

“Well, you can actually say that about anywhere,” Josendale
tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline, “because anytime you go in to a
location there are going to be pluses and minuses.”

Josendale, who won election in April of last year, perceives a
change in attitude due to several new faces in key leadership roles, from
president of Missouri Western State University, Elizabeth Kennedy, to the work of
Natalie Redmond as the new president of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce.

Josendale also praises the work of City Manager Bryan Carter
and the staff at City Hall, who he says are taking on the challenges facing the
city.

Josendale says St. Joseph doesn’t face any unsolvable
problems.

“There’s always a solution,” according to Josendale. “In some cases,
it may not be the perfect solution to everything, but what you want to try to
do is work through and remember the goal is to do what’s best for the majority
of the people and not necessarily the small group.”

Josendale points to passage of the police sales tax as an
indication of a changing attitude among St. Joseph residents. He says that
signals residents see a problem and seek to address it. Josendale adds it doesn’t
really matter whether perception is reality when it comes to crime.

“The crime rate seemed (high), whether it did or didn’t, I
mean you can look at statistics and people will say one thing, you can look at
the other and say it’s absolutely worse,” Josendale says. “The point is we’ve
got to fix whatever it was that was there, because it wasn’t working. And I
feel like we’ve got a better attitude, we’ve got the right direction moving
forward.”

Josendale says voter approval of the police sales tax gives
the city council the money needed to raise police officer salaries in the fight
against crime.

The St. Joseph Police Department has had trouble filling more
than 20 vacancies on the force.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673447594172.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Mayor John Josendale/file photo" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Mayor John Josendale/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph Mayor John Josendale sees an attitude change in St.
Joseph.Josendale says he has heard the old drumbeat that St. Joseph
as a community has a negative attitude.“Well, you can actually say that about anywhere,” Josendale
tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline, “because anytime you go in to a
location there are going to be pluses and minuses.”Josendale, who won election in April of last year, perceives a
change in attitude due to several new faces in key leadership roles, from
president of Missouri Western State University, Elizabeth Kennedy, to the work of
Natalie Redmond as the new president of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce.Josendale also praises the work of City Manager Bryan Carter
and the staff at City Hall, who he says are taking on the challenges facing the
city.Josendale says St. Joseph doesn’t face any unsolvable
problems.“There’s always a solution,” according to Josendale. “In some cases,
it may not be the perfect solution to everything, but what you want to try to
do is work through and remember the goal is to do what’s best for the majority
of the people and not necessarily the small group.”Josendale points to passage of the police sales tax as an
indication of a changing attitude among St. Joseph residents. He says that
signals residents see a problem and seek to address it. Josendale adds it doesn’t
really matter whether perception is reality when it comes to crime.“The crime rate seemed (high), whether it did or didn’t, I
mean you can look at statistics and people will say one thing, you can look at
the other and say it’s absolutely worse,” Josendale says. “The point is we’ve
got to fix whatever it was that was there, because it wasn’t working. And I
feel like we’ve got a better attitude, we’ve got the right direction moving
forward.”Josendale says voter approval of the police sales tax gives
the city council the money needed to raise police officer salaries in the fight
against crime.The St. Joseph Police Department has had trouble filling more
than 20 vacancies on the force.

St. Joseph Mayor Josendale sees a change in attitude

The Missouri Department of Conservation is seeing a drop in the number of deer hunters. &nbsp;

Deer and Elk Program Leader Jason Isabel says looking at the number of deer hunters he sees that it has dropped tremendously over the last decade. &nbsp;

"If you look back about 10 years ago was our peak number of deer hunters and we're actually down about 41,000 deer hunters from where we were a decade ago,"" Isabel tells Kyle Carroll during his regular visit on the KFEQ Hotline. "And that trend is predicted to continue as the average age of our deer hunters get older and folks just drop out of hunting, and that's not a uniquely Missouri challenge that's something that other states are feeling."&nbsp;

Isabel says with a declining number of hunters it presents a challenge for his department to look at how deer management needs to be handled in the future.&nbsp;

Isabel says while there is a number of older hunters, it is common for people to stop hunting as they get older.&nbsp;

"By the time folks get in their 60's and certainly their 70's they're just not out there as much as they were when they were younger," Isabel explains. "The average hunter was much younger 10 or 20 years ago on average and we're just seeing the age of the average hunter increasing through time."&nbsp;

Isabel says he feels like the department does a good job of recruiting new hunters, but are not doing it at a consistent enough rate to offset the numbers that are being lost.&nbsp;

Isabel says it's challenging to recruit new hunters because of how the times have changed since that generation. &nbsp;

"If you look at where we are now a lot more of an urban population, certainly a big boom in technology and a lot of other ways for people to spend their time other than in the outdoors hunting," Isabel says.&nbsp; "And so, it presents some real challenges as that baby boomer generation ages and we lose those folks to try to figure out how do we engage more folks and get them interested in hunting."&nbsp;

Isabel says it presents a challenge in finding new ways to engage new hunters as that baby boomer generation begins to age out.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;The Missouri Department of Conservation is seeing a drop in the number of deer hunters. &nbsp;Deer and Elk Program Leader Jason Isabel says looking at the number of deer hunters he sees that it has dropped tremendously over the last decade. &nbsp;"If you look back about 10 years ago was our peak number of deer hunters and we're actually down about 41,000 deer hunters from where we were a decade ago,"" Isabel tells Kyle Carroll during his regular visit on the KFEQ Hotline. "And that trend is predicted to continue as the average age of our deer hunters get older and folks just drop out of hunting, and that's not a uniquely Missouri challenge that's something that other states are feeling."&nbsp;Isabel says with a declining number of hunters it presents a challenge for his department to look at how deer management needs to be handled in the future.&nbsp;Isabel says while there is a number of older hunters, it is common for people to stop hunting as they get older.&nbsp;"By the time folks get in their 60's and certainly their 70's they're just not out there as much as they were when they were younger," Isabel explains. "The average hunter was much younger 10 or 20 years ago on average and we're just seeing the age of the average hunter increasing through time."&nbsp;Isabel says he feels like the department does a good job of recruiting new hunters, but are not doing it at a consistent enough rate to offset the numbers that are being lost.&nbsp;Isabel says it's challenging to recruit new hunters because of how the times have changed since that generation. &nbsp;"If you look at where we are now a lot more of an urban population, certainly a big boom in technology and a lot of other ways for people to spend their time other than in the outdoors hunting," Isabel says.&nbsp; "And so, it presents some real challenges as that baby boomer generation ages and we lose those folks to try to figure out how do we engage more folks and get them interested in hunting."&nbsp;Isabel says it presents a challenge in finding new ways to engage new hunters as that baby boomer generation begins to age out.&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/1102023-Journal--Declining-number-of-deer-hunters-presenting-new-challenges-to-MO-Conservation-Department-e1tabet" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

Fewer deer hunters presents new challenges to MO Conservation Department

State Rep. Brenda Shields of St. Joseph wants to make it
easier to get physical therapy.

Shields says her top piece of legislation this year would cut the
regulations associated with receiving physical therapy.

“I am really working on open access for our physical
therapists so individuals can go see a physical therapist without having to
have a written order from a doctor,” Shields tells the Missourinet in an
interview. “Many times you know that you’ve twisted your ankle, you need some
help that a physical therapist (can provide). You have to wait for that doctor’s
appointment until the doctor can see you and then they prescribe physical
therapy.”

Under Shields’ bill, a person could seek up to 10 visits or
three weeks to a physical therapist without a doctor’s referral. The physical
therapist would be required to report to the primary care doctor about care. If
improvement is evident, the physical therapy could continue. If not, the
patient would have to see a doctor.

Shields says this legislation would follow up previous bills
she has sponsored.

“I’ve had a lot of physical therapy in my life and I’m very
passionate,” Shields says. “Two years ago, I passed the occupational therapy
compact which allows occupational therapists to work across state lines.”

Shields says often there is no need to see a physician to be
prescribe physical therapy.

“Because all we want to do is be well,” Shields says. “We just
want to be able to get back to our life and if we’ve sprained our ankle,
twisted our back, thrown out our shoulder that a physical therapist can help us
with, that allows us to quickly be able to return to the life we once had.”

The legislative session in Jefferson City is just now underway.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673362253309.jpeg" alt="Rep. Brenda Shields of St. Joseph/File photo" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Brenda Shields of St. Joseph/File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostState Rep. Brenda Shields of St. Joseph wants to make it
easier to get physical therapy.Shields says her top piece of legislation this year would cut the
regulations associated with receiving physical therapy.“I am really working on open access for our physical
therapists so individuals can go see a physical therapist without having to
have a written order from a doctor,” Shields tells the Missourinet in an
interview. “Many times you know that you’ve twisted your ankle, you need some
help that a physical therapist (can provide). You have to wait for that doctor’s
appointment until the doctor can see you and then they prescribe physical
therapy.”Under Shields’ bill, a person could seek up to 10 visits or
three weeks to a physical therapist without a doctor’s referral. The physical
therapist would be required to report to the primary care doctor about care. If
improvement is evident, the physical therapy could continue. If not, the
patient would have to see a doctor.Shields says this legislation would follow up previous bills
she has sponsored.“I’ve had a lot of physical therapy in my life and I’m very
passionate,” Shields says. “Two years ago, I passed the occupational therapy
compact which allows occupational therapists to work across state lines.”Shields says often there is no need to see a physician to be
prescribe physical therapy.“Because all we want to do is be well,” Shields says. “We just
want to be able to get back to our life and if we’ve sprained our ankle,
twisted our back, thrown out our shoulder that a physical therapist can help us
with, that allows us to quickly be able to return to the life we once had.”The legislative session in Jefferson City is just now underway.

Bill would pave way to physical therapy treatment

ATCHISON COUNTY, Mo.—One person was injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Monday in Atchison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Honda Fit driven by Lillie B. Smith, 74, Neosho, was northbound on Interstate 29 four miles west of Rock Port.

The car traveled off the west shoulder of the road. The driver overcorrected. The car returned to the road, skidded into the west median and overturned.

Atchison-Holt EMS transported Smith to the Nemaha County Hospital. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

ATCHISON COUNTY, Mo.—One person was injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Monday in Atchison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Honda Fit driven by Lillie B. Smith, 74, Neosho, was northbound on Interstate 29 four miles west of Rock Port.The car traveled off the west shoulder of the road. The driver overcorrected. The car returned to the road, skidded into the west median and overturned.Atchison-Holt EMS transported Smith to the Nemaha County Hospital. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman hospitalized after car overturns

ATCHINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new drug charges after a weekend arrest.&nbsp;

Just before 6:30p.m. Saturday, police arrested 24-year-old&nbsp;Austin L. Lurquin of Atchison, in the 1600 block of Main on District and Municipal Court warrants for failure to appear in court, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

He is also facing requested charges of possession of fentanyl after officers found it on his person.&nbsp;

In January of 2022, police arrested him for alleged drug possession, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673273013220.png" alt="Lurquin-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Lurquin-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new drug charges after a weekend arrest.&nbsp;Just before 6:30p.m. Saturday, police arrested 24-year-old&nbsp;Austin L. Lurquin of Atchison, in the 1600 block of Main on District and Municipal Court warrants for failure to appear in court, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.He is also facing requested charges of possession of fentanyl after officers found it on his person.&nbsp;In January of 2022, police arrested him for alleged drug possession, according to online jail records.

Police found fentanyl during arrest and booking of Kan. man

NODAWAY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Monday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Kia Sorrento driven by Donna L. Younglove, 60, Quitman, was southbound on MO 113 one mile north of Quitman.

The vehicle crested a hill and the driver's vision was obscured by the sun. The SUV traveled off the west side of the road, continued back across the center line and off the east side of the road.

Nodaway County EMS transported Younglove to Mosaic in Maryville. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Monday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Kia Sorrento driven by Donna L. Younglove, 60, Quitman, was southbound on MO 113 one mile north of Quitman.The vehicle crested a hill and the driver's vision was obscured by the sun. The SUV traveled off the west side of the road, continued back across the center line and off the east side of the road.Nodaway County EMS transported Younglove to Mosaic in Maryville. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman injured after SUV accident

The city of St. Joseph is still searching for a new police Chief after the retirement of Chris Connally. That search could take its next step tonight.  

Councilmember Madison Davis says during tonight’s council meeting there will be a vote on whether to approve a search firm to assist in hiring a new Police Chief.  

"All candidates would be encouraged to apply, whether it be internal or external, we want to find someone that can be the future of the police department for St. Joseph," Davis tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. "Looking at what we have done that's worked, what we've done that's not worked, and how we can improve law enforcement in St. Joseph." 

Davis says he doesn't feel like the new police chief will face any different challenges than ones already being faced nationwide.  

"In law enforcement I think there's a couple things that may make it more challenging, I think when you look at our poverty rate in St. Joseph currently, I think when you look at our education level in St. Joseph, I think those things can make it difficult at times," Davis says. "But I think those are things other communities may face." 

Davis says he doesn't mind whether the new chief comes internally or externally, he just wants to find the right person for the job. 

"Dedicated to our department, and whether they're internal or external bring in their own fresh ideas, their own experiences that they have in life, and apply them to the position," Davis explains. "And do whatever they can to improve St. Joseph law enforcement and the public perception of safety." 

Commander Dave Hart has been serving as the interim police chief since Connally's retirement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673283793394.jpeg" alt="Former St. Joseph Police Chief Chris Connally.&nbsp; The search for a new police chief has been ongoing since Connally announced his retirement in September/ File photo" />
 <figcaption>Former St. Joseph Police Chief Chris Connally.&nbsp; The search for a new police chief has been ongoing since Connally announced his retirement in September/ File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The city of St. Joseph is still searching for a new police Chief after the retirement of Chris Connally. That search could take its next step tonight. Councilmember Madison Davis says during tonight’s council meeting there will be a vote on whether to approve a search firm to assist in hiring a new Police Chief. "All candidates would be encouraged to apply, whether it be internal or external, we want to find someone that can be the future of the police department for St. Joseph," Davis tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. "Looking at what we have done that's worked, what we've done that's not worked, and how we can improve law enforcement in St. Joseph." Davis says he doesn't feel like the new police chief will face any different challenges than ones already being faced nationwide. "In law enforcement I think there's a couple things that may make it more challenging, I think when you look at our poverty rate in St. Joseph currently, I think when you look at our education level in St. Joseph, I think those things can make it difficult at times," Davis says. "But I think those are things other communities may face." Davis says he doesn't mind whether the new chief comes internally or externally, he just wants to find the right person for the job. "Dedicated to our department, and whether they're internal or external bring in their own fresh ideas, their own experiences that they have in life, and apply them to the position," Davis explains. "And do whatever they can to improve St. Joseph law enforcement and the public perception of safety." Commander Dave Hart has been serving as the interim police chief since Connally's retirement.<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/192023-Journal--St--Joseph-Police-Chief-search-set-to-take-next-step-e1t90nn" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

Council may hire search firm to help in St. Joseph Chief of Police hire

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after an arrest.

Just after 10:30p.m. Friday, police arrested 44-year-old&nbsp;George N. Lewis of Atchison in the 500 block North 9th for fleeing and attempting to elude, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

He is also facing requested charges of driving while suspended, no insurance and reckless driving.&nbsp;

In August, Lewis spent time in custody on requested charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, according to online jail records. He has two previous convictions for burglary, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673273691206.png" alt="Lewis-photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Lewis-photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after an arrest.Just after 10:30p.m. Friday, police arrested 44-year-old&nbsp;George N. Lewis of Atchison in the 500 block North 9th for fleeing and attempting to elude, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.He is also facing requested charges of driving while suspended, no insurance and reckless driving.&nbsp;In August, Lewis spent time in custody on requested charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, according to online jail records. He has two previous convictions for burglary, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kansas felon accused of attempting to flee from police

A St. Joseph man suffered a stabbing wound late Sunday
afternoon.

St. Joseph police are investigating the stabbing after a man
sought help at the Quick Stop Food Store on 2607 Frederick Avenue. The man
showed up at the convenience store around five o’clock Sunday afternoon with a
stab wound to his arm. He was taken to the hospital with what is believed to be
a non-life-threatening wound.

Police believe the victim suffered the wound in a disturbance
in the neighborhood around the store, but have little to go on at this time. No
suspect is in custody. The investigation continues.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA St. Joseph man suffered a stabbing wound late Sunday
afternoon.St. Joseph police are investigating the stabbing after a man
sought help at the Quick Stop Food Store on 2607 Frederick Avenue. The man
showed up at the convenience store around five o’clock Sunday afternoon with a
stab wound to his arm. He was taken to the hospital with what is believed to be
a non-life-threatening wound.Police believe the victim suffered the wound in a disturbance
in the neighborhood around the store, but have little to go on at this time. No
suspect is in custody. The investigation continues.

Man, suffering stab wound, seeks help at St. Joseph convenience store

DEKALB COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 8a.m. Saturday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Chevy Malibu driven by a 16-year-old boy from Amity was northbound on Highway A at Berlin Road four miles north of Fairport.

The car traveled off the road and struck a fence. A private vehicle transported the teen to Cameron Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 8a.m. Saturday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Chevy Malibu driven by a 16-year-old boy from Amity was northbound on Highway A at Berlin Road four miles north of Fairport.The car traveled off the road and struck a fence. A private vehicle transported the teen to Cameron Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri teen hospitalized after car strikes a fence

BROWN COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities  investigating a shooting have identified the suspect as Mark Alan Edmundson, 48, of St Joseph.

Just after 4 p.m. January 2, Brown County dispatch received a call of a possible shooting and battery in the vicinity of US 36 Highway near Timber, according to Sheriff John Merchant.

Deputies responded and located a woman who suffered an apparent gunshot wound to the lower leg.&nbsp; She was transported to Amberwell Hospital in Hiawatha by Town and Country Ambulance where she was treated and released.

It was learned that the suspect later identified as Edmundson had fled the scene before deputies arrived and an Attempt To Locate was immediately issued by Brown County Dispatch to surrounding areas.

A short time later investigators were notified that Edmundson had been located in St Joseph, Missouri and was in custody.

Sheriff Merchant reported on Friday that Edmundson is being held in Buchanan County on charges of Felony Trafficking Dangerous Drugs in the 2nd Degree by the St Joseph Police Department.

During the initial investigation deputies arrested Shane Meggison 55, Hiawatha, on charges of Child Endangerment,&nbsp; Felony, Obstruction, Possession of Meth, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana and&nbsp; No Drug Tax Stamp.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673108328741.png" alt=" Edmundson-photo Buchanan County" />
 <figcaption> Edmundson-photo Buchanan County</figcaption>
 </figure>BROWN COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities investigating a shooting have identified the suspect as Mark Alan Edmundson, 48, of St Joseph.Just after 4 p.m. January 2, Brown County dispatch received a call of a possible shooting and battery in the vicinity of US 36 Highway near Timber, according to Sheriff John Merchant.Deputies responded and located a woman who suffered an apparent gunshot wound to the lower leg.&nbsp; She was transported to Amberwell Hospital in Hiawatha by Town and Country Ambulance where she was treated and released. It was learned that the suspect later identified as Edmundson had fled the scene before deputies arrived and an Attempt To Locate was immediately issued by Brown County Dispatch to surrounding areas. A short time later investigators were notified that Edmundson had been located in St Joseph, Missouri and was in custody.Sheriff Merchant reported on Friday that Edmundson is being held in Buchanan County on charges of Felony Trafficking Dangerous Drugs in the 2nd Degree by the St Joseph Police Department.During the initial investigation deputies arrested Shane Meggison 55, Hiawatha, on charges of Child Endangerment,&nbsp; Felony, Obstruction, Possession of Meth, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana and&nbsp; No Drug Tax Stamp.

Sheriff IDs St. Joseph man as suspect after woman shot in the leg

St. Joseph city councilmembers are aware of a large number of abandoned buildings in the city, including some former retail business buildings along the city’s main commercial road. &nbsp;

Councilmember Madison Davis, in response to a caller on the KFEQ Hotline, says the council is aiming to do something about these buildings.&nbsp;

However, for many of those buildings along Belt Highway, Davis says it's a fine balance between doing something about them and having to deal with property rights. &nbsp;

"We as the city sent at least two or three times a letter to the registered owner of the address asking what their intentions with the property was, if anything what they planned to do," Davis tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "And often times we received little response, if any response."&nbsp;

Davis says there is a process to everything and the council is just as worried about getting things done with these buildings as citizens are. &nbsp;

But Davis says he agrees with many citizens that something needs to be done with those vacant buildings. &nbsp;

"You know, you look at the Kmart structures and I imagine in five or six years it will be the same situation if nothing changes," Davis says. "But it's a delicate balancing act, there's a process for most everything."&nbsp;

Davis says people should take the time to call the property maintenance department and detail the issues with an abandoned home that you may know of, so the city can send an inspector out to get something done about it. &nbsp;

Davis says the needle is moving on solutions of what to do with these buildings.&nbsp;

"When you have four or five hundred abandoned homes, it doesn't make it seem like it's moving, but the needle is moving, it could be moving faster," Davis explains. "But we are making progress, it took us a number of years for it to look like this."&nbsp;

Davis says there are many members of the council that are here now and are working hard to find solutions of how to improve these situations.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673026971035.jpeg" alt="The building that housed Kmart before it closed in 2019 has sat abandoned along the Belt Highway with options being explored of what can be done with it/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>The building that housed Kmart before it closed in 2019 has sat abandoned along the Belt Highway with options being explored of what can be done with it/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;St. Joseph city councilmembers are aware of a large number of abandoned buildings in the city, including some former retail business buildings along the city’s main commercial road. &nbsp;Councilmember Madison Davis, in response to a caller on the KFEQ Hotline, says the council is aiming to do something about these buildings.&nbsp;However, for many of those buildings along Belt Highway, Davis says it's a fine balance between doing something about them and having to deal with property rights. &nbsp;"We as the city sent at least two or three times a letter to the registered owner of the address asking what their intentions with the property was, if anything what they planned to do," Davis tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "And often times we received little response, if any response."&nbsp;Davis says there is a process to everything and the council is just as worried about getting things done with these buildings as citizens are. &nbsp;But Davis says he agrees with many citizens that something needs to be done with those vacant buildings. &nbsp;"You know, you look at the Kmart structures and I imagine in five or six years it will be the same situation if nothing changes," Davis says. "But it's a delicate balancing act, there's a process for most everything."&nbsp;Davis says people should take the time to call the property maintenance department and detail the issues with an abandoned home that you may know of, so the city can send an inspector out to get something done about it. &nbsp;Davis says the needle is moving on solutions of what to do with these buildings.&nbsp;"When you have four or five hundred abandoned homes, it doesn't make it seem like it's moving, but the needle is moving, it could be moving faster," Davis explains. "But we are making progress, it took us a number of years for it to look like this."&nbsp;Davis says there are many members of the council that are here now and are working hard to find solutions of how to improve these situations.&nbsp;

City officials pondering what to do with several abandoned buildings in city

Hawaiian Bros Island Grill has announced it will locate in
St. Joseph this summer.

A marketing consultant announced Hawaiian Bros will locate
at the vacant lot at Belt Highway and Beck Road. A sign has been erected on the
chain link fence at the site. The consultant promised updates, but stated the
restaurant will join the St. Joseph community this summer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672940704384.jpeg" alt="Photos courtesy of Hawaiian Bros" />
 <figcaption>Photos courtesy of Hawaiian Bros</figcaption>
 </figure>Hawaiian Bros Island Grill has announced it will locate in
St. Joseph this summer.A marketing consultant announced Hawaiian Bros will locate
at the vacant lot at Belt Highway and Beck Road. A sign has been erected on the
chain link fence at the site. The consultant promised updates, but stated the
restaurant will join the St. Joseph community this summer.

Hawaiian Bros coming to St. Joseph

Last year felt different from the years during the coronavirus pandemic for the United Way of Greater St. Joseph. &nbsp;

President Kylee Strough says things felt back to normal as services bounced back to how they were prior to 2020.&nbsp;

"We saw a lot of our programming return to things we recognized," Strough tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "For instance, through our profit and education initiative we were able to get career speakers back into classrooms and school settings to share with students about career paths they might want to consider in their educational journey."&nbsp;

Strough says volunteers were also able to get back into schools for reading programs and the United Way was able to relaunch Leadership St. Joseph in person, after being virtual during the pandemic. &nbsp;

After a bounce back of services last year, the United Way of Greater St. Joseph has its eyes on this year, setting some new goals. &nbsp;

This year, Strough says one big goal is helping the homeless population in St. Joseph.&nbsp; Strough says that involves working with several other agencies and the city to formulate a good system. &nbsp;

"So, we're working on making sure that that system is solid and strong, but also that it's evident to those in the community and they know where to turn when they're experiencing homelessness or when they run across somebody who they are concerned about," Strough says. "So, they know where to turn and connect them for assistance."&nbsp;

Strough says another focus this year for United Way will be putting an emphasis on the early care and education realm, focusing on getting kids ready for kindergarten. &nbsp;

Strough says to accomplish these goals it's going to take communication, coordination, and collaboration with other agencies to accomplish these goals.&nbsp;

"We have a limited amount of resources within our community, whether that be money, people, expertise, et cetera," Strough explains. "The better we can be at working together, at sharing our resources, and making sure that we're acting in a coordinated and collaborated method, the stronger our community will be at the end of the day."&nbsp;

Strough says no matter what the topic is that's how things will be approached to achieve the goals of helping the community.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Last year felt different from the years during the coronavirus pandemic for the United Way of Greater St. Joseph. &nbsp;President Kylee Strough says things felt back to normal as services bounced back to how they were prior to 2020.&nbsp;"We saw a lot of our programming return to things we recognized," Strough tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "For instance, through our profit and education initiative we were able to get career speakers back into classrooms and school settings to share with students about career paths they might want to consider in their educational journey."&nbsp;Strough says volunteers were also able to get back into schools for reading programs and the United Way was able to relaunch Leadership St. Joseph in person, after being virtual during the pandemic. &nbsp;After a bounce back of services last year, the United Way of Greater St. Joseph has its eyes on this year, setting some new goals. &nbsp;This year, Strough says one big goal is helping the homeless population in St. Joseph.&nbsp; Strough says that involves working with several other agencies and the city to formulate a good system. &nbsp;"So, we're working on making sure that that system is solid and strong, but also that it's evident to those in the community and they know where to turn when they're experiencing homelessness or when they run across somebody who they are concerned about," Strough says. "So, they know where to turn and connect them for assistance."&nbsp;Strough says another focus this year for United Way will be putting an emphasis on the early care and education realm, focusing on getting kids ready for kindergarten. &nbsp;Strough says to accomplish these goals it's going to take communication, coordination, and collaboration with other agencies to accomplish these goals.&nbsp;"We have a limited amount of resources within our community, whether that be money, people, expertise, et cetera," Strough explains. "The better we can be at working together, at sharing our resources, and making sure that we're acting in a coordinated and collaborated method, the stronger our community will be at the end of the day."&nbsp;Strough says no matter what the topic is that's how things will be approached to achieve the goals of helping the community.&nbsp;

With pandemic in the rearview United Way of Greater St. Joseph looks forward to 2023

BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating a shooting have charged on suspect and have another in custody.

Just after 4p.m. Monday, the Brown County law enforcement dispatch received a call of a possible shooting and battery in the vicinity of U.S. 36 Highway near Timber, according to Sheriff John Merchant.&nbsp; 

Deputies responded and located a woman who suffered an apparent gunshot wound to the lower leg.&nbsp; Town and Country Ambulance transported her&nbsp; to Amberwell Hospital in Hiawatha.

Investigators learned that the suspect had fled the scene before deputies arrived and an Attempt To Locate was immediately issued by Brown County Dispatch to surrounding areas.

A short time later deputies learned the suspect had been located in St Joseph, Missouri and was arrested. His name has not been released.

During the investigation, deputies arrested 55-year-old Shane Meggison&nbsp; on charges of Child Endangerment,&nbsp; Felony Obstruction, Possession of Meth, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana and&nbsp; No Drug Tax Stamp. His bond issued Wednesday is $25,000, according to Merchant.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672861101652.png" alt="Meggison -photo Brown County" />
 <figcaption>Meggison -photo Brown County</figcaption>
 </figure>BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating a shooting have charged on suspect and have another in custody.Just after 4p.m. Monday, the Brown County law enforcement dispatch received a call of a possible shooting and battery in the vicinity of U.S. 36 Highway near Timber, according to Sheriff John Merchant.&nbsp; Deputies responded and located a woman who suffered an apparent gunshot wound to the lower leg.&nbsp; Town and Country Ambulance transported her&nbsp; to Amberwell Hospital in Hiawatha.Investigators learned that the suspect had fled the scene before deputies arrived and an Attempt To Locate was immediately issued by Brown County Dispatch to surrounding areas. A short time later deputies learned the suspect had been located in St Joseph, Missouri and was arrested. His name has not been released.During the investigation, deputies arrested 55-year-old Shane Meggison&nbsp; on charges of Child Endangerment,&nbsp; Felony Obstruction, Possession of Meth, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana and&nbsp; No Drug Tax Stamp. His bond issued Wednesday is $25,000, according to Merchant.

Kansas man charged after woman found with a gunshot wound

BROWN COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 5:30p.m. Wednesday in Brown County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Ford F150 driven by Efrain  Perez-Ordonez, 58, Hood, Texas, was stopped at the stop sign on Eastbound 260th Road at U.S. 75 one half mile east of Sabetha.

The driver failed to yield right of way and entered the intersection. A southbound 2011 Nissan Rogue driven by&nbsp; Rodney G. Sanner, 61, Sabetha, struck the drivers side of the pickup. Both vehicles came to rest in a ditch at the southeast corner of the intersection.

Sanner and a passenger in the Nissan Robin G. Sanner, 53, Sabetha, were pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;Perez-Ordonez was not injured. The KHP had incomplete seat belt usage information.

BROWN COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 5:30p.m. Wednesday in Brown County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Ford F150 driven by Efrain Perez-Ordonez, 58, Hood, Texas, was stopped at the stop sign on Eastbound 260th Road at U.S. 75 one half mile east of Sabetha.The driver failed to yield right of way and entered the intersection. A southbound 2011 Nissan Rogue driven by&nbsp; Rodney G. Sanner, 61, Sabetha, struck the drivers side of the pickup. Both vehicles came to rest in a ditch at the southeast corner of the intersection.Sanner and a passenger in the Nissan Robin G. Sanner, 53, Sabetha, were pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;Perez-Ordonez was not injured. The KHP had incomplete seat belt usage information.

Kansas couple killed after SUV, pickup crash

DEKALB COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30a.m. Wednesday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix driven by Matthew R. Housekneckt, 24, Maysville, was southbound on MO 33 one mile south of Maysville.

The car traveled off the road and struck an embankment. DeKalb-Clinton ambulance transported Housekneckt to Cameron Regional Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30a.m. Wednesday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix driven by Matthew R. Housekneckt, 24, Maysville, was southbound on MO 33 one mile south of Maysville.The car traveled off the road and struck an embankment. DeKalb-Clinton ambulance transported Housekneckt to Cameron Regional Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man injured after car strikes embankment

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal&nbsp; crash have made an arrest.

Just after 2a.m Monday, an&nbsp;officer on patrol observed a 2002 Mini Cooper driven recklessly by 22-year-old Brandon Mann of Atchison at 6th and U.S.59 Highway, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

 The officer attempted to stop the vehicle and it fled north on 4th Street. The officer lost sight of the vehicle but subsequently located the vehicle which had left the road and landed on its top in a residential yard in 900 block North 4th Street.

One passenger identified as&nbsp; Jacey Paris, 20, Atchison, died in the accident, according to Wilson.&nbsp; EMS transported Mann and and two passengers, age 15 and 16, to an area hospital for treatment.

Just before 12:30p.m. Wednesday, Mann&nbsp;turned himself in at the Atchison Police Department to investigators with Kansas Highway Patrol and police.

He was booked on a&nbsp;District Court warrant charging him with murder in the first degree, aggravated battery, aggravated endangerment of a child (2 counts), fleeing and attempting to elude, and reckless driving. He is being held on a bond of $750,000, according to Wilson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672860183672.png" alt="Mann-photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Mann-photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal&nbsp; crash have made an arrest.Just after 2a.m Monday, an&nbsp;officer on patrol observed a 2002 Mini Cooper driven recklessly by 22-year-old Brandon Mann of Atchison at 6th and U.S.59 Highway, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. The officer attempted to stop the vehicle and it fled north on 4th Street. The officer lost sight of the vehicle but subsequently located the vehicle which had left the road and landed on its top in a residential yard in 900 block North 4th Street.One passenger identified as&nbsp; Jacey Paris, 20, Atchison, died in the accident, according to Wilson.&nbsp; EMS transported Mann and and two passengers, age 15 and 16, to an area hospital for treatment.Just before 12:30p.m. Wednesday, Mann&nbsp;turned himself in at the Atchison Police Department to investigators with Kansas Highway Patrol and police.He was booked on a&nbsp;District Court warrant charging him with murder in the first degree, aggravated battery, aggravated endangerment of a child (2 counts), fleeing and attempting to elude, and reckless driving. He is being held on a bond of $750,000, according to Wilson.

Driver in fatal crash turns himself in to KHP investigators

By JASON HANCOCK and RUDI KELLER <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/01/04/new-missouri-house-speaker-says-massive-budget-surplus-should-mean-more-tax-cuts/">Missouri Independent</a>

Missouri’s top lawmaker opened the 
2023 legislative session Wednesday by proclaiming that the state’s 
massive budget surplus should translate into more tax cuts.&nbsp;

House Speaker Dean Plocher, R-Des Peres, noted that Missouri lawmakers approved a <a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-governor-signs-764-million-income-tax-cut-rural-incentives-package/">nearly $800 million tax cut in September</a>.
 But with a projected state budget surplus of $6 billion, Plocher 
believes “there is more room to return money to Missouri taxpayers.”

While his speech Wednesday to the 
Missouri House didn’t delve into details of any tax cut plan, its 
inclusion in his opening day address signals the issue’s importance to 
the new speaker. And speaking to reporters later in the day, Plocher 
said he’s open to multiple ideas to reduce the tax burden on 
Missourians, from income tax cuts to trimming the stales tax to changes 
in personal property tax.&nbsp;

“Reducing our tax burden will make 
Missouri even more competitive to recruit a talented workforce, to build
 prosperous communities, grow small businesses and create more 
opportunities for all,” he said.

In addition to tax cuts, Plocher also vowed to take steps to increase teacher pay.&nbsp;

Since 2010, the minimum starting pay 
for a teacher in Missouri has been $25,000. Lawmakers added $21.8 
million to this year’s budget to fund a grant program to raise base pay 
to $38,000. About 12% of the state’s 70,400 teachers make less than that
 amount, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education estimates.

School districts had to provide 30% 
of the cost to be eligible. If the state mandates a minimum pay, it must
 fund it. Paterson said he’s ready for that commitment.

In October, the Teacher Recruitment and Retention Blue Ribbon Commission made <a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/10/18/commission-recommends-salary-increases-to-address-missouri-teacher-shortage/">raising the minimum salary to $38,000</a> its top recommendation among nine proposals to alleviate the teacher shortage being felt by rural and urban districts alike.

Shortages are particularly acute for 
elementary, early childhood and special education, as well as in 
specific subjects and high-need schools.

“For too long our teachers have been compensated by an out-of-date pay scale. It’s
 a flawed system that rewards time served instead of output and 
innovation,” Plocher said Wednesday. “Teaching is difficult and our 
state needs to reward teachers for success so our children have access, 
both to great teachers and choices for education.”

Beyond increasing teacher pay, 
Plocher hinted at a legislative push to regulate school curriculum, 
saying parents should have a stronger voice as it relates to the 
substance of what is taught to their kids each day.”

Among the bills filed pertaining to 
school curriculum include bans on what is known as “critical race 
theory” and a “Parents Bill of Rights” that would allow parents to 
object to and opt out of&nbsp; “any instructional materials” they find 
objectionable.

In a portion of the speech addressing
 violent crime, Plocher took a shot at local leaders in Kansas City and 
St. Louis — though not by name — in saying that many have “lost trust in
 dysfunctional local governments where some officials refuse to 
prosecute violent offenders.”

“We cannot be bystanders as unchecked
 crime causes the systematic destruction of our proud state,” Plocher 
said. “There is no excuse for inaction.”

House Minority Leader Crystal Quade, D-Springfield, spoke on the 
session’s opening day against a GOP-backed plan to change the initiative
 petition process to make it harder to amend the constitution.

“Any attempt to strip people of their power to propose and enact laws is antithetical to democracy,” Quade said.

She also noted that while major disagreements exist between her party
 and the Republicans —notably over abortion rights and gun safety — 
there are also major areas where they are on the same page, echoing 
Plocher’s call that a priority of the 2023 session should be raising 
teacher pay and improving access to childcare.

“We can agree that boosting&nbsp;teacher pay has to happen,” she said, “and that finding quality and affordable childcare has to be a priority to address our workforce issues and to ensure that our kids start off with the support that they need.”

Both the House and the state Senate kicked off the 2023 legislative session at noon. The session ends at 6 p.m. on May 12.&nbsp;

In a 10-minute speech in the Senate, 
new President Pro Tem Caleb Rowden, R-Columbia, asked members to 
consider their place in history and to reject <a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/05/14/battle-lines-remain-fixed-in-missouri-senate-republican-factional-fights-as-session-ends/">the factional splits</a> that undermined the chamber’s work in 2022.

“We must care more about the policy 
than we do the personality,” Rowden said. “We must work toward retiring 
revenge, and not recycling it. And we must break the cycle of governing 
by fear and half truths.”

The policies he wants the Senate to 
address, Rowden said, would provide more health care coverage to new 
mothers, continue benefit programs as family income increases to provide
 a smooth transition off public assistance, make it harder to amend the 
constitution and overhaul education.

In an interview last month with The 
Independent, Rowden said the ideas he would include in his opening-day 
address reflect “broad consensus” in the Republican caucus.

He asked senators to pass Sen. Elaine Gannon’s bill extending Medicaid services to mothers <a target="_blank" href="https://senate.mo.gov/23info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=44414">for a year after delivery</a>. The coverage currently ends 60 days after a woman gives birth. The bill fell victim to factional fighting last year.

And Rowden said he wants to pass Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman’s bill to <a target="_blank" href="https://senate.mo.gov/23info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=44573">continue benefits when a family’s income rises</a>.

“Being pro-life means standing for Missouri’s vulnerable populations,” Rowden said.

Rowden made changing education a 
two-year project for the Senate. Public schools are struggling with a 
teacher shortage, and a state commission recommended nine steps, 
including <a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/10/18/commission-recommends-salary-increases-to-address-missouri-teacher-shortage/">much higher minimum salaries</a>. Other lawmakers are worried more districts will move to a <a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/12/19/4-day-school-week-teacher-shortage/">four-day week</a>, which will aggravate the issues surrounding child care availability.

The education changes must “redefine” student and school success, Rowden said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672868531548.png" alt="Missouri House Speaker Dean Plocher, R-Des Peres (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications)." />
 <figcaption>Missouri House Speaker Dean Plocher, R-Des Peres (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications).</figcaption>
 </figure>By JASON HANCOCK and RUDI KELLER <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/01/04/new-missouri-house-speaker-says-massive-budget-surplus-should-mean-more-tax-cuts/">Missouri Independent</a>Missouri’s top lawmaker opened the 
2023 legislative session Wednesday by proclaiming that the state’s 
massive budget surplus should translate into more tax cuts.&nbsp;House Speaker Dean Plocher, R-Des Peres, noted that Missouri lawmakers approved a <a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-governor-signs-764-million-income-tax-cut-rural-incentives-package/">nearly $800 million tax cut in September</a>.
 But with a projected state budget surplus of $6 billion, Plocher 
believes “there is more room to return money to Missouri taxpayers.”While his speech Wednesday to the 
Missouri House didn’t delve into details of any tax cut plan, its 
inclusion in his opening day address signals the issue’s importance to 
the new speaker. And speaking to reporters later in the day, Plocher 
said he’s open to multiple ideas to reduce the tax burden on 
Missourians, from income tax cuts to trimming the stales tax to changes 
in personal property tax.&nbsp;“Reducing our tax burden will make 
Missouri even more competitive to recruit a talented workforce, to build
 prosperous communities, grow small businesses and create more 
opportunities for all,” he said.In addition to tax cuts, Plocher also vowed to take steps to increase teacher pay.&nbsp;Since 2010, the minimum starting pay 
for a teacher in Missouri has been $25,000. Lawmakers added $21.8 
million to this year’s budget to fund a grant program to raise base pay 
to $38,000. About 12% of the state’s 70,400 teachers make less than that
 amount, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education estimates.School districts had to provide 30% 
of the cost to be eligible. If the state mandates a minimum pay, it must
 fund it. Paterson said he’s ready for that commitment.In October, the Teacher Recruitment and Retention Blue Ribbon Commission made <a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/10/18/commission-recommends-salary-increases-to-address-missouri-teacher-shortage/">raising the minimum salary to $38,000</a> its top recommendation among nine proposals to alleviate the teacher shortage being felt by rural and urban districts alike.Shortages are particularly acute for 
elementary, early childhood and special education, as well as in 
specific subjects and high-need schools.“For too long our teachers have been compensated by an out-of-date pay scale. It’s
 a flawed system that rewards time served instead of output and 
innovation,” Plocher said Wednesday. “Teaching is difficult and our 
state needs to reward teachers for success so our children have access, 
both to great teachers and choices for education.”Beyond increasing teacher pay, 
Plocher hinted at a legislative push to regulate school curriculum, 
saying parents should have a stronger voice as it relates to the 
substance of what is taught to their kids each day.”Among the bills filed pertaining to 
school curriculum include bans on what is known as “critical race 
theory” and a “Parents Bill of Rights” that would allow parents to 
object to and opt out of&nbsp; “any instructional materials” they find 
objectionable.In a portion of the speech addressing
 violent crime, Plocher took a shot at local leaders in Kansas City and 
St. Louis — though not by name — in saying that many have “lost trust in
 dysfunctional local governments where some officials refuse to 
prosecute violent offenders.”“We cannot be bystanders as unchecked
 crime causes the systematic destruction of our proud state,” Plocher 
said. “There is no excuse for inaction.”House Minority Leader Crystal Quade, D-Springfield, spoke on the 
session’s opening day against a GOP-backed plan to change the initiative
 petition process to make it harder to amend the constitution.“Any attempt to strip people of their power to propose and enact laws is antithetical to democracy,” Quade said.She also noted that while major disagreements exist between her party
 and the Republicans —notably over abortion rights and gun safety — 
there are also major areas where they are on the same page, echoing 
Plocher’s call that a priority of the 2023 session should be raising 
teacher pay and improving access to childcare.“We can agree that boosting&nbsp;teacher pay has to happen,” she said, “and that finding quality and affordable childcare has to be a priority to address our workforce issues and to ensure that our kids start off with the support that they need.”Both the House and the state Senate kicked off the 2023 legislative session at noon. The session ends at 6 p.m. on May 12.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672868620228.png" alt="Sen. Caleb Rowden, R-Columbia, gives a speech after his colleagues unanimously approved his appointment as president pro tem on Jan. 4, 2023 (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>Sen. Caleb Rowden, R-Columbia, gives a speech after his colleagues unanimously approved his appointment as president pro tem on Jan. 4, 2023 (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Missouri Senate</h2>In a 10-minute speech in the Senate, 
new President Pro Tem Caleb Rowden, R-Columbia, asked members to 
consider their place in history and to reject <a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/05/14/battle-lines-remain-fixed-in-missouri-senate-republican-factional-fights-as-session-ends/">the factional splits</a> that undermined the chamber’s work in 2022.“We must care more about the policy 
than we do the personality,” Rowden said. “We must work toward retiring 
revenge, and not recycling it. And we must break the cycle of governing 
by fear and half truths.”The policies he wants the Senate to 
address, Rowden said, would provide more health care coverage to new 
mothers, continue benefit programs as family income increases to provide
 a smooth transition off public assistance, make it harder to amend the 
constitution and overhaul education.In an interview last month with The 
Independent, Rowden said the ideas he would include in his opening-day 
address reflect “broad consensus” in the Republican caucus.He asked senators to pass Sen. Elaine Gannon’s bill extending Medicaid services to mothers <a target="_blank" href="https://senate.mo.gov/23info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=44414">for a year after delivery</a>. The coverage currently ends 60 days after a woman gives birth. The bill fell victim to factional fighting last year.And Rowden said he wants to pass Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman’s bill to <a target="_blank" href="https://senate.mo.gov/23info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=44573">continue benefits when a family’s income rises</a>.“Being pro-life means standing for Missouri’s vulnerable populations,” Rowden said.Rowden made changing education a 
two-year project for the Senate. Public schools are struggling with a 
teacher shortage, and a state commission recommended nine steps, 
including <a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/10/18/commission-recommends-salary-increases-to-address-missouri-teacher-shortage/">much higher minimum salaries</a>. Other lawmakers are worried more districts will move to a <a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/12/19/4-day-school-week-teacher-shortage/">four-day week</a>, which will aggravate the issues surrounding child care availability.The education changes must “redefine” student and school success, Rowden said.“In Missouri, world-class schools 
should be treated and funded like world-class schools,” he said. 
“World-class teachers should be paid like world-class teachers.”Senate Minority Leader John Rizzo, D-Independence, said in a press 
release that Missourians want “commonsense solutions to the problems 
facing our state. People are tired of the extremist rhetoric and chaotic
 partisanship that puts special interests ahead of working families.”Democrats in the Senate will prioritize teacher pay increases, 
solutions to a childcare shortage and expanding access to reproductive 
healthcare.The party is also focused on gun safety, Rizzo said.“Missouri is in the middle of a gun violence epidemic,” he said, “we 
can fix that by giving police the tools they need to stop killers when 
there are clear red flags. Missouri has real problems, and Democrats are
 here to offer real solutions.”

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