CLINTON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Thursday in Clinton County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Toyota Camry driven by Ledina Dzilic, 31, Kansas City, Mo., was southbound on U.S. 69 at MO 116 three miles east of Lathrop.

The driver stopped at the stop sign and then traveled into the path of an eastbound 2015 Chevy Silverado driven by Tom B. Tangen, 60, Polo.&nbsp; The Silverado struck the passenger side of the Camry.&nbsp;

Tri-County ambulance transported Dzilic and Tangen to Liberty. Hospital. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

CLINTON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Thursday in Clinton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Toyota Camry driven by Ledina Dzilic, 31, Kansas City, Mo., was southbound on U.S. 69 at MO 116 three miles east of Lathrop.The driver stopped at the stop sign and then traveled into the path of an eastbound 2015 Chevy Silverado driven by Tom B. Tangen, 60, Polo.&nbsp; The Silverado struck the passenger side of the Camry.&nbsp;Tri-County ambulance transported Dzilic and Tangen to Liberty. Hospital. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

2 hospitalized after 2-vehicle NW Missouri crash

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man in connection with an incident in Atchison.

On Wednesday, police responded to the 1500 Block of Applegate Drive in Atchison. They arrested 29-year-old James W. Duhon, Rushville Mo, on a requested charge of domestic battery, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

In 2018, Police arrested Duhon on a requested charge of aggravated assault and in 2017 on a requested charge for marijuana possession, according to online jail records. Police have arrested him ten other times, according to jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634215313154.png" alt="Duhon photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Duhon photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man in connection with an incident in Atchison.On Wednesday, police responded to the 1500 Block of Applegate Drive in Atchison. They arrested 29-year-old James W. Duhon, Rushville Mo, on a requested charge of domestic battery, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.In 2018, Police arrested Duhon on a requested charge of aggravated assault and in 2017 on a requested charge for marijuana possession, according to online jail records. Police have arrested him ten other times, according to jail records.

Kan. man with a history of crime jailed for alleged domestic battery

The third and final candidate for the Missouri Western athletic director job met with community members at the Fulkerson Center Thursday afternoon on campus.

Joel Lueken, who's been the athletic director at Division II South Dakota School of Mines since 2014, says the Griffon A.D. job is a premiere DII job to have.

"I think Missouri Western is a flagship institution of Division II," Lueken said. "Having the ability to compete for championships is very intriguing to me. I can't see myself and my family being involved in anything other than collegiate athletics."

Lueken and his wife, Melissa, are both Iowa natives, and the chance to be closer to home is an appealing aspect of having this job.

Lueken says being a member of the prestigious MIAA conference is also part of what makes the Missouri Western job so desirable.

"They compete in what I feel is one of the best, if not the best, conference in the country in the MIAA," he said. "Facilities here are second-to-none. Being fully funded in scholarships helps out a lot. From everything I've seen and heard and witnessed so far, the people are fantastic on campus and fantastic coaches and staff."

Lueken talked a lot Thursday about marketing to the community, and having positive interactions with the campus and the city as a whole. He says there's no reason why Missouri Western should have any less than 7,500 fans at football games.

"If you're running entertaining and lively athletic events and you've got a good product on the field and on the court, people will want to come and watch," Lueken said. "They'll want to be involved. When you're there, you have to captivate the audience. You have to give them what they want. It has to be entertaining."

Lueken spent six years at Ellsworth Community College in Iowa in various capacities, including head baseball coach, admissions recruiter, assistant women’s basketball coach and other duties. He received his bachelor’s degree from Ottawa University and a master’s from Northwest Missouri State.

He points to his track record at School of Mines, an engineering and science institution in Rapid City, as a key reason to why he'd be a good fit to lead and grow Griffon athletics.

"We've increased our attendance, our engagement, our campus engagement, our student attendance," he said. "Things are trending and progressing the right way and that's what I'd like to do here."&nbsp;

Also at Mines, Lueken has increased scholarships by 62 percent and increased ticket revenue by 200 percent. In addition, scholar-athletes have maintained a 3.0 GPA or higher all six semesters and 18 in a row over the last nine years. The Missouri Western A.D. search committee will now meet with University President Elizabeth Kennedy to decide on how to move forward with the A.D. hiring process.

An exact timeline on when Josh Looney's replacement will be announced is not known. Looney left for Division I North Alabama in late August.&nbsp;

The community heard from Franklin Pierce University athletic director <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/148e9cbd-f4d7-4a78-a535-8781da20a68f">Rachel Burleson</a> Monday, and Illinois State executive associate athletic director for external affairs <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/e7118a94-67d6-4661-8cd2-35da85fd1276">Dwight Merilatt</a> on Tuesday.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634241362298.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe third and final candidate for the Missouri Western athletic director job met with community members at the Fulkerson Center Thursday afternoon on campus.Joel Lueken, who's been the athletic director at Division II South Dakota School of Mines since 2014, says the Griffon A.D. job is a premiere DII job to have."I think Missouri Western is a flagship institution of Division II," Lueken said. "Having the ability to compete for championships is very intriguing to me. I can't see myself and my family being involved in anything other than collegiate athletics."Lueken and his wife, Melissa, are both Iowa natives, and the chance to be closer to home is an appealing aspect of having this job.Lueken says being a member of the prestigious MIAA conference is also part of what makes the Missouri Western job so desirable."They compete in what I feel is one of the best, if not the best, conference in the country in the MIAA," he said. "Facilities here are second-to-none. Being fully funded in scholarships helps out a lot. From everything I've seen and heard and witnessed so far, the people are fantastic on campus and fantastic coaches and staff."Lueken talked a lot Thursday about marketing to the community, and having positive interactions with the campus and the city as a whole. He says there's no reason why Missouri Western should have any less than 7,500 fans at football games."If you're running entertaining and lively athletic events and you've got a good product on the field and on the court, people will want to come and watch," Lueken said. "They'll want to be involved. When you're there, you have to captivate the audience. You have to give them what they want. It has to be entertaining."Lueken spent six years at Ellsworth Community College in Iowa in various capacities, including head baseball coach, admissions recruiter, assistant women’s basketball coach and other duties. He received his bachelor’s degree from Ottawa University and a master’s from Northwest Missouri State.He points to his track record at School of Mines, an engineering and science institution in Rapid City, as a key reason to why he'd be a good fit to lead and grow Griffon athletics."We've increased our attendance, our engagement, our campus engagement, our student attendance," he said. "Things are trending and progressing the right way and that's what I'd like to do here."&nbsp;Also at Mines, Lueken has increased scholarships by 62 percent and increased ticket revenue by 200 percent. In addition, scholar-athletes have maintained a 3.0 GPA or higher all six semesters and 18 in a row over the last nine years. The Missouri Western A.D. search committee will now meet with University President Elizabeth Kennedy to decide on how to move forward with the A.D. hiring process.An exact timeline on when Josh Looney's replacement will be announced is not known. Looney left for Division I North Alabama in late August.&nbsp;The community heard from Franklin Pierce University athletic director <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/148e9cbd-f4d7-4a78-a535-8781da20a68f">Rachel Burleson</a> Monday, and Illinois State executive associate athletic director for external affairs <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/e7118a94-67d6-4661-8cd2-35da85fd1276">Dwight Merilatt</a> on Tuesday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634241384932.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

South Dakota School of Mines A.D. Joel Lueken makes his case for MWSU A.D. job

Andrew County authorities are investigating a shooting that occurred in Fillmore this week, and so far, they have few details. The shooting in Fillmore happened just before noon on Tuesday.

Authorities received a call Tuesday morning from a utility worker who was inspecting a water meter shed in Fillmore, when he heard a gunshot and was grazed in the left arm.  He received only minor injuries and required no medical attention.

On his way to the water shed, the utility worker flashed his lights at another driver, who had crossed over into his lane on State Route A.  The worker never saw if that driver turned around, and he's unsure if the incident is even related.

The victim also didn't have much of a vehicle description and never saw the person who fired the shot. The investigation is ongoing.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostAndrew County authorities are investigating a shooting that occurred in Fillmore this week, and so far, they have few details. The shooting in Fillmore happened just before noon on Tuesday.Authorities received a call Tuesday morning from a utility worker who was inspecting a water meter shed in Fillmore, when he heard a gunshot and was grazed in the left arm. He received only minor injuries and required no medical attention.On his way to the water shed, the utility worker flashed his lights at another driver, who had crossed over into his lane on State Route A. The worker never saw if that driver turned around, and he's unsure if the incident is even related.The victim also didn't have much of a vehicle description and never saw the person who fired the shot. The investigation is ongoing.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fandrewcountysheriff%2Fposts%2F4215451841914865&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="226" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Andrew County Sheriff's Office investigating Tuesday shooting

The annual coat drive is underway for the St. Joseph Salvation Army, as it works to hand out coats and other warm weather clothing to those in need. 

Major Ronald Key with the Salvation Army says last year was very successful in handing out not only coats, but mittens, scarves and other warmer clothing during the cold months.

"We gave out almost 400 last year, so we'll take them, you know we give them out all year long not just November and December, but even in the spring because sometimes it's so cold in the spring that people need coats, so we'll continue to give those out," Key tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And it can be more then just coats, it can also be hats, and gloves, and scarves and those kinds of things that people just need to stay warm."

Key says as long as people need warm weather clothing, they will have some available for free.

"They can just come in and what they basically do is come to our office, we give them a voucher to go over to our warehouse, and then they can pick out a coat and it doesn't cost them anything," Key says. 

The Salvation Army continues to look for more donations of hats, scarves, coats and other warm weather clothing.  Key says they will take anything that is lightly worn, clean and ready to wear.

To donate any warm weather clothing, you can bring items to the Salvation Army Warehouse at fifth and Messanie or to the Corps Community Center, both in St. Joseph, from 9am to 4pm.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe annual coat drive is underway for the St. Joseph Salvation Army, as it works to hand out coats and other warm weather clothing to those in need. Major Ronald Key with the Salvation Army says last year was very successful in handing out not only coats, but mittens, scarves and other warmer clothing during the cold months."We gave out almost 400 last year, so we'll take them, you know we give them out all year long not just November and December, but even in the spring because sometimes it's so cold in the spring that people need coats, so we'll continue to give those out," Key tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And it can be more then just coats, it can also be hats, and gloves, and scarves and those kinds of things that people just need to stay warm."Key says as long as people need warm weather clothing, they will have some available for free."They can just come in and what they basically do is come to our office, we give them a voucher to go over to our warehouse, and then they can pick out a coat and it doesn't cost them anything," Key says. The Salvation Army continues to look for more donations of hats, scarves, coats and other warm weather clothing. Key says they will take anything that is lightly worn, clean and ready to wear.To donate any warm weather clothing, you can bring items to the Salvation Army Warehouse at fifth and Messanie or to the Corps Community Center, both in St. Joseph, from 9am to 4pm.

St. Joseph Salvation Army annual coat drive is underway

Deer hunting season is in full swing across Missouri, and the Missouri Department of Conservation is working to 'Share the Harvest'.

Tyler Schwartz with the Conservation Federation of Missouri says that the Share the Harvest program began when a group of hunters came together. 

"Said hey we wanna do something to help out the less fortunate, and that developed a state wide system, you know it's partnered with the Missouri Department of Conservation and Feeding Missouri," Schwartz says. "And so, we've got, it's kind of a three way, certainly prong approach if you will, organizations that are the real driving force behind Share the Harvest."

Prior to the Conservation Federation of Missouri spearheading the program, it was up to the hunter to find and pay for the processor, but the federation has worked with multiple sponsors over the years.

 Schwartz says the sponsors helping work with the processors, helps allow everyone to be a part of something bigger.

"Not everybody has the opportunity to process their own deer and they want to help out, and get a part of the cause," Schwartz says. "And so it's just one of those things Conservation Federation of Missouri is really proud of going on 30 years now that we're able to help connect all those dots and help out people too."

The conservation federation took over the Share the Harvest program in 1992, marking 30 years next year. 

Over the years, hunters through the program have donated 4.4 million pounds of meat.  And now, the program is also in the second year of it's snack stick trial. 

 Schwartz says with the success of Share the Harvest, the program expanded, finding a way to help feed children with snack sticks.

 "It's protein little snack sticks, little jerky sticks, that go into the children's backpacks on weekends," Schwartz says excitedly. "It's truly another just great extension of Share the Harvest." 

The Share the Harvest snack stick bill passed through the Missouri legislature with overwhelming support and was signed by Governor Parsons last year, allowing the federation to distribute these shelf ready snack sticks. 

For more information on the Share the Harvest program you can click <a href="https://mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/deer/share-harvest">HERE</a>.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostDeer hunting season is in full swing across Missouri, and the Missouri Department of Conservation is working to 'Share the Harvest'.Tyler Schwartz with the Conservation Federation of Missouri says that the Share the Harvest program began when a group of hunters came together. "Said hey we wanna do something to help out the less fortunate, and that developed a state wide system, you know it's partnered with the Missouri Department of Conservation and Feeding Missouri," Schwartz says. "And so, we've got, it's kind of a three way, certainly prong approach if you will, organizations that are the real driving force behind Share the Harvest."Prior to the Conservation Federation of Missouri spearheading the program, it was up to the hunter to find and pay for the processor, but the federation has worked with multiple sponsors over the years. Schwartz says the sponsors helping work with the processors, helps allow everyone to be a part of something bigger."Not everybody has the opportunity to process their own deer and they want to help out, and get a part of the cause," Schwartz says. "And so it's just one of those things Conservation Federation of Missouri is really proud of going on 30 years now that we're able to help connect all those dots and help out people too."The conservation federation took over the Share the Harvest program in 1992, marking 30 years next year. Over the years, hunters through the program have donated 4.4 million pounds of meat. And now, the program is also in the second year of it's snack stick trial. Schwartz says with the success of Share the Harvest, the program expanded, finding a way to help feed children with snack sticks. "It's protein little snack sticks, little jerky sticks, that go into the children's backpacks on weekends," Schwartz says excitedly. "It's truly another just great extension of Share the Harvest." The Share the Harvest snack stick bill passed through the Missouri legislature with overwhelming support and was signed by Governor Parsons last year, allowing the federation to distribute these shelf ready snack sticks. For more information on the Share the Harvest program you can click <a href="https://mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/deer/share-harvest">HERE</a>.

Share the Harvest program helps feed hungry Missourians

Missouri Western State University will be reviewing its mask
mandate tomorrow, deciding whether an improvement in COVID-19 numbers is enough
to lift the mandate.

Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy acknowledges the
trend is encouraging.

“Our mask mandate is only for indoor spaces, public spaces,
but it’s sure looking good and I’m sure hopeful we’ll be able to pull that
back,” Kennedy tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.

Kennedy says she is proud of how the St. Joseph campus has
rallied to take precautions against spreading the coronavirus.

“And I’m very, very proud of our students, our faculty, our
staff, everyone who has remained diligent, who follows our protocols, and who
helps us get to this point where we can say, ‘You know what, we’re in a good
spot,’” Kennedy says.

Kennedy says the Missouri Western COVID advisory team will
meet tomorrow to decide if the positive trend in COVID-19 numbers is positive
enough to warrant lifting the requirement that masks be worn indoors.

The Buchanan County positivity rate is below five percent, new
cases have fallen as have hospitalizations. Mosaic Life Care reported treating
only 12 COVID-19 patients in its system as of Wednesday, all in St. Joseph. Kennedy
says the advisory committee will review all the latest data to decide whether
the mask mandate stays in place.

Kennedy admits she’s ready for the masks to come off.

“Trust me, I walk around with a mask around my neck in my own
work and I’ve always got one when I’m on around campus,” Kennedy says. “But I’ve
got to tell you, I’m done with it, and I’m ready to hang it up and put it away
and hopefully this will be for the late time.”

Missouri Western celebrates Homecoming this weekend with
Griffon football hosting Northeastern State at four o’clock Saturday afternoon at
Spratt Stadium. Pregame on KFEQ begins at three.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University will be reviewing its mask
mandate tomorrow, deciding whether an improvement in COVID-19 numbers is enough
to lift the mandate.Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy acknowledges the
trend is encouraging.“Our mask mandate is only for indoor spaces, public spaces,
but it’s sure looking good and I’m sure hopeful we’ll be able to pull that
back,” Kennedy tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.Kennedy says she is proud of how the St. Joseph campus has
rallied to take precautions against spreading the coronavirus.“And I’m very, very proud of our students, our faculty, our
staff, everyone who has remained diligent, who follows our protocols, and who
helps us get to this point where we can say, ‘You know what, we’re in a good
spot,’” Kennedy says.Kennedy says the Missouri Western COVID advisory team will
meet tomorrow to decide if the positive trend in COVID-19 numbers is positive
enough to warrant lifting the requirement that masks be worn indoors.The Buchanan County positivity rate is below five percent, new
cases have fallen as have hospitalizations. Mosaic Life Care reported treating
only 12 COVID-19 patients in its system as of Wednesday, all in St. Joseph. Kennedy
says the advisory committee will review all the latest data to decide whether
the mask mandate stays in place.Kennedy admits she’s ready for the masks to come off.“Trust me, I walk around with a mask around my neck in my own
work and I’ve always got one when I’m on around campus,” Kennedy says. “But I’ve
got to tell you, I’m done with it, and I’m ready to hang it up and put it away
and hopefully this will be for the late time.”Missouri Western celebrates Homecoming this weekend with
Griffon football hosting Northeastern State at four o’clock Saturday afternoon at
Spratt Stadium. Pregame on KFEQ begins at three.

Will Missouri Western lift the mask mandate? Maybe

BUCHANAN COUNTY— One person was injured in an accident just after 8:30a.m. Wednesday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Volvo tractor driven by Robert P. Hamkens, 54, Sioux Falls, SD, was southbound on Interstate 29 just north of MO 6.&nbsp;

The vehicle traveled off the east side of the road, struck the median cables and came to rest on its side. Debris from the crash struck a northbound 2020 Ford Transit 250 driven by Gregory L. Kerns, 50, Stewartsville.&nbsp;

Buchanan County EMS transported Hamkens to Mosaic Life Care. Kerns was not injured.&nbsp; Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY— One person was injured in an accident just after 8:30a.m. Wednesday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Volvo tractor driven by Robert P. Hamkens, 54, Sioux Falls, SD, was southbound on Interstate 29 just north of MO 6.&nbsp;The vehicle traveled off the east side of the road, struck the median cables and came to rest on its side. Debris from the crash struck a northbound 2020 Ford Transit 250 driven by Gregory L. Kerns, 50, Stewartsville.&nbsp;Buchanan County EMS transported Hamkens to Mosaic Life Care. Kerns was not injured.&nbsp; Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

1 hospitalized after crash into median cables on I-29

PARKVILLE, Mo. (AP) — A grand jury has declined to indict a man who shot and killed two other men after a dispute involving about $200 in firewood, Platte County Prosecuting Attorney Eric Zahnd said Wednesday.

Kalob Lawson, 34, of Kimberling City, and Jonathan Lutz, 44, of Kansas City, were shot on Feb. 10 in Parkville.

Lawson and Lutz were paid $200 to deliver a cord of firewood to a Platte County home. As they and another man were unloading the wood, the homeowner left. The men then left without delivering the full cord of wood, Zahnd said.

The homeowner’s 22-year-old son called his father and then chased Lawson and Lutz in his vehicle. Witnesses said Lawson and Lutz eventually stopped and got out of the vehicle, and Lawson was armed with a 9mm handgun, Zahnd said.

After Lawson threatened the son with the gun, the son retrieved a gun from his car and fired several times, Zahnd said. Lawson died at the scene and Lutz died later at a hospital.

The son returned home, called 911 and voluntarily surrendered.

Zahnd said Missouri's “stand your ground" law allows people to use deadly force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to protect themselves against death or serious physical injury.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634155676946.png" alt="Kalob Lawson photo GoFundMe" />
 <figcaption>Kalob Lawson photo GoFundMe</figcaption>
 </figure>PARKVILLE, Mo. (AP) — A grand jury has declined to indict a man who shot and killed two other men after a dispute involving about $200 in firewood, Platte County Prosecuting Attorney Eric Zahnd said Wednesday.Kalob Lawson, 34, of Kimberling City, and Jonathan Lutz, 44, of Kansas City, were shot on Feb. 10 in Parkville.Lawson and Lutz were paid $200 to deliver a cord of firewood to a Platte County home. As they and another man were unloading the wood, the homeowner left. The men then left without delivering the full cord of wood, Zahnd said.The homeowner’s 22-year-old son called his father and then chased Lawson and Lutz in his vehicle. Witnesses said Lawson and Lutz eventually stopped and got out of the vehicle, and Lawson was armed with a 9mm handgun, Zahnd said.After Lawson threatened the son with the gun, the son retrieved a gun from his car and fired several times, Zahnd said. Lawson died at the scene and Lutz died later at a hospital.The son returned home, called 911 and voluntarily surrendered.Zahnd said Missouri's “stand your ground" law allows people to use deadly force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to protect themselves against death or serious physical injury.

Stand your ground: No indictments in 2 deaths after dispute over firewood

A semi-tractor trailer flipped over on its side, backing up
traffic on Interstate 29 near the Frederick Avenue intersection in St. Joseph
for hours this morning.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says the accident resulted
in only moderate injuries, but created a serious traffic jam.

The patrol says the accident occurred just after 8:30 this
morning, shutting down the interstate completely for a time, then down to
one-lane, both northbound and southbound. The patrol reports the traffic
congestion caused other, minor accidents.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA semi-tractor trailer flipped over on its side, backing up
traffic on Interstate 29 near the Frederick Avenue intersection in St. Joseph
for hours this morning.The Missouri State Highway Patrol says the accident resulted
in only moderate injuries, but created a serious traffic jam.The patrol says the accident occurred just after 8:30 this
morning, shutting down the interstate completely for a time, then down to
one-lane, both northbound and southbound. The patrol reports the traffic
congestion caused other, minor accidents.

Truck flips over, backs up traffic on I-29 at St. Joseph for hours

Another finalist for Missouri Western State University
Athletic Director has spoken to supporters on the St. Joseph campus.

Illinois State University Executive Associate Athletic
Director Dwight Merilatt made his pitch during a public forum at the Fulkerson Center today, a day
after Franklin
Pierce Athletic Director Rachel Burleson met with supporters.

Merilatt tells reporters afterward the position is very
attractive.

“First of all, it’s a great institution, a great athletic department,”
Merilatt says. “It’s in a great town and I think it has a great opportunity to continue
to excel and be a big part of this community.”

Merilatt served as Associate Athletics Director for External
Affairs at the University of Evansville from 2007 to 2015 and spent six years
as Eastern Kentucky Assistant Athletics Director for Marketing and Corporate
partnerships.

Illinois State is a much larger, NCAA Division I school, but
Merilatt insists his experience transcends DI, DII, or DIII divisions.

Merilatt says an Athletic Director is an advocate for
student-athletes, coaches, and staff. He says the position also requires
fundraising skills, which he says he has demonstrated during this career.

Merilatt says he spearheads community engagement at Illinois
State, which he describes as aggressive.

“We see that that engagement enables us to get different
people on our campus, which I think is so important that you get everyone from
the community to come to your campus,” Merilatt says. “We try to do that from a
grassroots standpoint. We want to go out. We want to make sure people
understand that Missouri Western is an inviting and great place to be for an
athletic event.”

Merilatt says success in athletics is more than just counting
up the wins.

“Are your student-athletes graduating? Are they having a
great, higher education experience and are they being competitive on the field
or on the court? Those are the three fundamental things, but as I stated today,
my number one goal is to have student-athletes graduate,” Merilatt says.

South Dakota Mines Athletic Director Joel Lueken is scheduled
to meet with supporters Thursday.

Missouri Western is seeking a successor to Josh Looney who
left for a similar position at North Alabama.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634071358663.jpeg" alt="Dwight Merilatt makes a point during his talk with MWSU supporters/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Dwight Merilatt makes a point during his talk with MWSU supporters/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostAnother finalist for Missouri Western State University
Athletic Director has spoken to supporters on the St. Joseph campus.Illinois State University Executive Associate Athletic
Director Dwight Merilatt made his pitch during a public forum at the Fulkerson Center today, a day
after Franklin
Pierce Athletic Director Rachel Burleson met with supporters.Merilatt tells reporters afterward the position is very
attractive.“First of all, it’s a great institution, a great athletic department,”
Merilatt says. “It’s in a great town and I think it has a great opportunity to continue
to excel and be a big part of this community.”Merilatt served as Associate Athletics Director for External
Affairs at the University of Evansville from 2007 to 2015 and spent six years
as Eastern Kentucky Assistant Athletics Director for Marketing and Corporate
partnerships.Illinois State is a much larger, NCAA Division I school, but
Merilatt insists his experience transcends DI, DII, or DIII divisions.Merilatt says an Athletic Director is an advocate for
student-athletes, coaches, and staff. He says the position also requires
fundraising skills, which he says he has demonstrated during this career.Merilatt says he spearheads community engagement at Illinois
State, which he describes as aggressive.“We see that that engagement enables us to get different
people on our campus, which I think is so important that you get everyone from
the community to come to your campus,” Merilatt says. “We try to do that from a
grassroots standpoint. We want to go out. We want to make sure people
understand that Missouri Western is an inviting and great place to be for an
athletic event.”Merilatt says success in athletics is more than just counting
up the wins.“Are your student-athletes graduating? Are they having a
great, higher education experience and are they being competitive on the field
or on the court? Those are the three fundamental things, but as I stated today,
my number one goal is to have student-athletes graduate,” Merilatt says.South Dakota Mines Athletic Director Joel Lueken is scheduled
to meet with supporters Thursday.Missouri Western is seeking a successor to Josh Looney who
left for a similar position at North Alabama.

Another candidate, another pitch for MWSU AD job

ATCHISON COUNTY —The famous Budweiser Clydesdales will make a stop in Atchison, Kansas, on Wednesday, October 13, on the campus of Benedictine College, according to a media release from the school.

The horses will arrive on trailers at approximately 11:00 a.m. and will be unloaded in the Amino Center parking lot. The public is invited to watch the “hitching” process and then a parade, which will include the Raven Regiment Marching Band. The parade is scheduled to start at approximately 12:15 p.m. and will tour the Benedictine College campus, with a photo stop in front of the Haverty Center.

The Budweiser Clydesdales represent strength, quality, heritage and teamwork, and have been a symbol for Anheuser-Busch for over 80 years. A gift from August Busch, Jr. to his father following the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, the Clydesdales made a promotional tour of the East Coast that year, and even delivered the first case of post-Prohibition Budweiser to President Franklin D. Roosevelt at the White House.

There are eight horses driven at any one time, but 10 horses are on each team, or hitch, to provide alternates when needed. Clydesdales are also used as animal actors in television commercials for Budweiser beer, particularly in Super Bowl ads. There are several teams of Clydesdales, housed at various locations around the country, with most of them raised at Grant’s Farm in St. Louis, Missouri, and Warm Springs Ranch in Boonville, Missouri.

To make a team, a Clydesdale must be at least 6 feet tall at the shoulder, weigh between 1,800 and 2,300 pounds, be reddish-brown (bay), have a black mane and tail, have four white stocking feet, and have white on the face.

The largest Clydesdale in the Budweiser stables is called “Jake” and the name “Big Jake” is used for the Anheuser-Busch Ambassador Trophy, given only to the top distributors in the nation. O’Malley Beverage, operated by Benedictine alumnus Kevin O’Malley, Class of ’79, received the “Big Jake” &nbsp;trophy as a wholesaler ambassador after achieving Gold Level status four years in a row from 2017-2020 and finishing as the top wholesaler in America in 2019. It is thanks to Kevin O’Malley and his business accomplishments that the Budweiser Clydesdales are in Atchison.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634052619460.png" alt="Photo courtesy Anheuser-Busch " />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Anheuser-Busch </figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —The famous Budweiser Clydesdales will make a stop in Atchison, Kansas, on Wednesday, October 13, on the campus of Benedictine College, according to a media release from the school.The horses will arrive on trailers at approximately 11:00 a.m. and will be unloaded in the Amino Center parking lot. The public is invited to watch the “hitching” process and then a parade, which will include the Raven Regiment Marching Band. The parade is scheduled to start at approximately 12:15 p.m. and will tour the Benedictine College campus, with a photo stop in front of the Haverty Center.The Budweiser Clydesdales represent strength, quality, heritage and teamwork, and have been a symbol for Anheuser-Busch for over 80 years. A gift from August Busch, Jr. to his father following the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, the Clydesdales made a promotional tour of the East Coast that year, and even delivered the first case of post-Prohibition Budweiser to President Franklin D. Roosevelt at the White House.There are eight horses driven at any one time, but 10 horses are on each team, or hitch, to provide alternates when needed. Clydesdales are also used as animal actors in television commercials for Budweiser beer, particularly in Super Bowl ads. There are several teams of Clydesdales, housed at various locations around the country, with most of them raised at Grant’s Farm in St. Louis, Missouri, and Warm Springs Ranch in Boonville, Missouri.To make a team, a Clydesdale must be at least 6 feet tall at the shoulder, weigh between 1,800 and 2,300 pounds, be reddish-brown (bay), have a black mane and tail, have four white stocking feet, and have white on the face.The largest Clydesdale in the Budweiser stables is called “Jake” and the name “Big Jake” is used for the Anheuser-Busch Ambassador Trophy, given only to the top distributors in the nation. O’Malley Beverage, operated by Benedictine alumnus Kevin O’Malley, Class of ’79, received the “Big Jake” &nbsp;trophy as a wholesaler ambassador after achieving Gold Level status four years in a row from 2017-2020 and finishing as the top wholesaler in America in 2019. It is thanks to Kevin O’Malley and his business accomplishments that the Budweiser Clydesdales are in Atchison.

Parade in Atchison will feature Budweiser Clydesdales 

Workforce development remains a big need in St. Joseph and a
major focus of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber President Patt Lilly says a lack of skilled workers is
a crying need across the country, not just in northwest Missouri. And Lilly
adds some of that need is filled when laborers notice a little more training
might add quite a bit to their paycheck.

“Maybe a guy working on the manufacturing line, doing a lower-pay
job, decides, you know that welder looks like he does pretty well. He’s got a
new pick-up out in the parking lot. Maybe I’ll learn to be a welder, right?”
Lilly says.

Lilly says a more concerted effort is being pushed by the
Chamber. He says the St. Joseph School District is working with North Central Missouri
College and Missouri Western State University to offer more skill-based
training.

Lilly says the Chamber hopes to help by expanding the
apprenticeship program at Hillyard Technical Center that matches high school
students with local businesses.

“Getting some training and education; that training and education
begins at Hillyard and they go practice that if you well at various entities,”
according to Lilly. “We now have 22 employers in the community that are part of
our apprentice program. It’s the largest in the state.”

Lilly says many St. Joseph businesses could expand, if they
had enough skilled workers. Lilly says the demand for labor has driven up
salaries in the area, making the St. Joseph area the third or fourth
highest-paying community in Missouri.

“Today in St. Joseph there are good jobs available. They go wanting
if you will,” Lilly says. “I think that trend will just continue.”

Lilly says Kansas City and St. Louis lead the state in worker
compensation with St. Joseph and Columbia vying for the third spot.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostWorkforce development remains a big need in St. Joseph and a
major focus of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce.Chamber President Patt Lilly says a lack of skilled workers is
a crying need across the country, not just in northwest Missouri. And Lilly
adds some of that need is filled when laborers notice a little more training
might add quite a bit to their paycheck.“Maybe a guy working on the manufacturing line, doing a lower-pay
job, decides, you know that welder looks like he does pretty well. He’s got a
new pick-up out in the parking lot. Maybe I’ll learn to be a welder, right?”
Lilly says.Lilly says a more concerted effort is being pushed by the
Chamber. He says the St. Joseph School District is working with North Central Missouri
College and Missouri Western State University to offer more skill-based
training.Lilly says the Chamber hopes to help by expanding the
apprenticeship program at Hillyard Technical Center that matches high school
students with local businesses.“Getting some training and education; that training and education
begins at Hillyard and they go practice that if you well at various entities,”
according to Lilly. “We now have 22 employers in the community that are part of
our apprentice program. It’s the largest in the state.”Lilly says many St. Joseph businesses could expand, if they
had enough skilled workers. Lilly says the demand for labor has driven up
salaries in the area, making the St. Joseph area the third or fourth
highest-paying community in Missouri.“Today in St. Joseph there are good jobs available. They go wanting
if you will,” Lilly says. “I think that trend will just continue.”Lilly says Kansas City and St. Louis lead the state in worker
compensation with St. Joseph and Columbia vying for the third spot.

St. Joseph has "Help Wanted" sign out

Missouri Western State University has been seeking candidates to fill their vacant athletic director position since late July.

They’ve narrowed their list down to three candidates.

Each of the three candidates now go before the community this week to make their pitch for the job. The first candidate to speak Monday was  Rachel Burleson, who’s currently the A.D. at Division II Franklin Pierce University in New Hampshire.

She previously served at MIAA schools Missouri Southern as the associate A.D. for compliance and internal operations and at Northwest Missouri State as the assistant softball coach. Burleson says her Interest in the MWSU job is two-fold.

 "Having been a competitor in the same league and having respect for the MIAA," she said, "and just the amount of, just as an outsider looking in, what Missouri Western has to offer. And again, having competed against them and knowing their student-athletes and the student-athletes they bring have been tremendous."

St. Joseph is also closer to home for Burleson after spending five years in New England. Though from Texas, she has relatives in Missouri.

Burleson says  the A.D. job, to her, is more than just wins and losses. She wants to win, but also wants the university to focus on the retention of student athletes.

"Are we giving them the experience they deserve?" Burleson said. "Are we making them feel, for what they give us, which is a tremendous amount of time and effort and intelligent people, are we giving them what they deserve? So, I think it's about the experience and the community aspect and teaching them so we know that when they graduate, they're going to be successful in no matter what career that is."

If hired, Burleson says her job as A.D. would be to hire the right coaches who will recruit the best athletes.

"So, my job is to make sure we have the right people in place to do that," she said. "It's also my job to make sure the community understands our worth and what we give. It's not just about the institution. It's not just about the athletic department, but what can we give to the university and what can we give to the St. Joseph area to make sure they understand our value and what we bring to the area."

The other two candidates, Illinois State's executive associate athletic director for external affairs Dwight Merilatt will speak Tuesday, while South Dakota School of Mines A.D. Joel Lueken will speak Thursday.

These forums take place at the Fulkerson Center from noon - 1 p.m.

Missouri Western's athletic director job was left open by Josh Looney, who left at the end of August to become the A.D. at Division I University of North Alabama.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634003564494.jpeg" alt="Rachel Burleson. Photo by Brent Martin." />
 <figcaption>Rachel Burleson. Photo by Brent Martin.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZAC and BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University has been seeking candidates to fill their vacant athletic director position since late July.They’ve narrowed their list down to three candidates.Each of the three candidates now go before the community this week to make their pitch for the job. The first candidate to speak Monday was Rachel Burleson, who’s currently the A.D. at Division II Franklin Pierce University in New Hampshire.She previously served at MIAA schools Missouri Southern as the associate A.D. for compliance and internal operations and at Northwest Missouri State as the assistant softball coach. Burleson says her Interest in the MWSU job is two-fold. "Having been a competitor in the same league and having respect for the MIAA," she said, "and just the amount of, just as an outsider looking in, what Missouri Western has to offer. And again, having competed against them and knowing their student-athletes and the student-athletes they bring have been tremendous."St. Joseph is also closer to home for Burleson after spending five years in New England. Though from Texas, she has relatives in Missouri.Burleson says the A.D. job, to her, is more than just wins and losses. She wants to win, but also wants the university to focus on the retention of student athletes."Are we giving them the experience they deserve?" Burleson said. "Are we making them feel, for what they give us, which is a tremendous amount of time and effort and intelligent people, are we giving them what they deserve? So, I think it's about the experience and the community aspect and teaching them so we know that when they graduate, they're going to be successful in no matter what career that is."If hired, Burleson says her job as A.D. would be to hire the right coaches who will recruit the best athletes."So, my job is to make sure we have the right people in place to do that," she said. "It's also my job to make sure the community understands our worth and what we give. It's not just about the institution. It's not just about the athletic department, but what can we give to the university and what can we give to the St. Joseph area to make sure they understand our value and what we bring to the area."The other two candidates, Illinois State's executive associate athletic director for external affairs Dwight Merilatt will speak Tuesday, while South Dakota School of Mines A.D. Joel Lueken will speak Thursday.These forums take place at the Fulkerson Center from noon - 1 p.m.Missouri Western's athletic director job was left open by Josh Looney, who left at the end of August to become the A.D. at Division I University of North Alabama.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Franklin Pierce A.D. Rachel Burleson hopes to become MWSU's next A.D.

PLATTE COUNTY—Two men were injured in an accident just after 1p.m. Monday in Platte County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Honda Civic driven by Jason A. Squires, 41, Kansas City, was southbound on Interstate 29 at 112th Street.&nbsp; The driver lost control of the Honda and it struck a&nbsp; southbound 2020 Acura MPV driven by Paul M. Houseman, 54, Parkville. Both vehicles then struck the bridge barrier.

EMS transported Houseman to North Kansas City Hospital. Squires was seeking his own treatment for a minor injury. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

PLATTE COUNTY—Two men were injured in an accident just after 1p.m. Monday in Platte County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Honda Civic driven by Jason A. Squires, 41, Kansas City, was southbound on Interstate 29 at 112th Street.&nbsp; The driver lost control of the Honda and it struck a&nbsp; southbound 2020 Acura MPV driven by Paul M. Houseman, 54, Parkville. Both vehicles then struck the bridge barrier.EMS transported Houseman to North Kansas City Hospital. Squires was seeking his own treatment for a minor injury. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

2 injured after vehicles collide and strike bridge barrier

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple requested charges after a weekend arrest, according to Police Mike Wilson.

On Saturday, police arrested Lance A. Gasper, 36, Atchison, on District Court warrants for failure to appear in court and a Community Corrections detain order for violation of bond conditions. 

He remains in the Atchison County Jail, according to Wilson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633964089440.png" alt="Gaspar photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Gaspar photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple requested charges after a weekend arrest, according to Police Mike Wilson.On Saturday, police arrested Lance A. Gasper, 36, Atchison, on District Court warrants for failure to appear in court and a Community Corrections detain order for violation of bond conditions. He remains in the Atchison County Jail, according to Wilson.

Kansas man jailed for alleged violation of bond conditions

DEKALB COUNTY— A Missouri teen was injured in an accident just after 7a.m. Monday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 GMC SUV driven by a 16-year-old girl from Cameron was southbound on SE Irwin Road five miles northwest of Cameron.

The SUV traveled off the road and overturned in a creek.

A private vehicle transported the teen to Cameron Regional Medical Center. She was wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY— A Missouri teen was injured in an accident just after 7a.m. Monday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 GMC SUV driven by a 16-year-old girl from Cameron was southbound on SE Irwin Road five miles northwest of Cameron.The SUV traveled off the road and overturned in a creek.A private vehicle transported the teen to Cameron Regional Medical Center. She was wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Cameron teen hospitalized after SUV overturns in a creek

St. Joseph holds its annual free flu clinic at the Civic Arena
Tuesday, with a twist.

The St. Joseph Health Department will also be providing free
COVID-19 vaccine shots along with free flu shots from 9-to-noon, while supplies
last.

Buchanan County has seen a steady decline in its COVID-19
positivity rate. Health Department spokeswoman Stephanie Malita cautions though
against reading too much into the decline of the positivity rate to around five
percent.

“That is just reflective of the number of people who are
getting tested,” Malita tells St. Joseph Post. “The numbers within that number of
people who are positive for COVID-19 have gone down, but there are still a good
number of people in our community who are not getting tested that are positive
for COVID-19.”

&nbsp;Still, coronavirus cases
and hospitalizations have finally been trending in the right direction. Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating 15 COVID-19 patients in its system; 14 in St.
Joseph and one in Maryville.

Malita says the coronavirus pandemic last year kept many
people from getting their flu shots. She says the health department hopes that
changes this year.

The health department will be giving Pfizer coronavirus shots,
all three. Any county resident who hasn’t received their first shot can at the
flu clinic. Second shots of Pfizer and the Pfizer booster also will be
available, for free.

A bit more than a third of Buchanan County residents have
received their COVID-19 vaccinations.

Malita says the seven-week downward trend of COVID cases and
hospitalizations should be attributed to a host of reasons.

“Every mitigation layer helps,” Malita says. “So, if we’re maintaining
distance and wearing a mask and being vaccinated and staying home when we don’t
feel well, all those things combined are what’s going to keep that positivity rate
low and keep our community healthy.”

Again, the flu shot and the coronavirus vaccine will be
available for free to Buchanan County residents between nine and noon while
supplies last at the Civic Arena in downtown St. Joseph on Tuesday.

By BRENT MARTIN and MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph holds its annual free flu clinic at the Civic Arena
Tuesday, with a twist.The St. Joseph Health Department will also be providing free
COVID-19 vaccine shots along with free flu shots from 9-to-noon, while supplies
last.Buchanan County has seen a steady decline in its COVID-19
positivity rate. Health Department spokeswoman Stephanie Malita cautions though
against reading too much into the decline of the positivity rate to around five
percent.“That is just reflective of the number of people who are
getting tested,” Malita tells St. Joseph Post. “The numbers within that number of
people who are positive for COVID-19 have gone down, but there are still a good
number of people in our community who are not getting tested that are positive
for COVID-19.”&nbsp;Still, coronavirus cases
and hospitalizations have finally been trending in the right direction. Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating 15 COVID-19 patients in its system; 14 in St.
Joseph and one in Maryville.Malita says the coronavirus pandemic last year kept many
people from getting their flu shots. She says the health department hopes that
changes this year.The health department will be giving Pfizer coronavirus shots,
all three. Any county resident who hasn’t received their first shot can at the
flu clinic. Second shots of Pfizer and the Pfizer booster also will be
available, for free.A bit more than a third of Buchanan County residents have
received their COVID-19 vaccinations.Malita says the seven-week downward trend of COVID cases and
hospitalizations should be attributed to a host of reasons.“Every mitigation layer helps,” Malita says. “So, if we’re maintaining
distance and wearing a mask and being vaccinated and staying home when we don’t
feel well, all those things combined are what’s going to keep that positivity rate
low and keep our community healthy.”Again, the flu shot and the coronavirus vaccine will be
available for free to Buchanan County residents between nine and noon while
supplies last at the Civic Arena in downtown St. Joseph on Tuesday.

St. Joseph to provide free flu, COVID shots at Civic Arena Tuesday

St. Joseph police say a woman drove herself to the Mosaic Life
Care emergency room early this morning, suffering a single gunshot wound
to the leg.

Police say the woman arrived at the ER around 5:18 this
morning with what appears, at least preliminarily, to be a moderate wound.

The woman, who has not been identified, told police she could
not identify the shooter.

Police believe the shooting took place in the 5500 block
of Valley View Drive.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph police say a woman drove herself to the Mosaic Life
Care emergency room early this morning, suffering a single gunshot wound
to the leg.Police say the woman arrived at the ER around 5:18 this
morning with what appears, at least preliminarily, to be a moderate wound.The woman, who has not been identified, told police she could
not identify the shooter.Police believe the shooting took place in the 5500 block
of Valley View Drive.

Woman drives herself to St. Joseph ER with gunshot wound

Northern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves says Congress has
broken with tradition, imperiling the money needed for road construction.

Graves, the top Republican on the House Tansportation and Infrastructure
Committee, points out the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill now stuck in Congress
began as the extension of the transportation bill.

“I have actually supported three surface transportation,
infrastructure bills now that have been signed into law since the beginning,”
Graves tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “All three were under
Republican chairmen. All three were under both Democrat and Republican
presidents and all three were bipartisan bills.”

Graves, who has been in Congress since 2000, says the
transportation bill never topped $400 billion, until this year.

Graves says the House approach in the past was to have the top
Republicans and Democrats on the committee agree to a bill before moving it to
the full House.

“This year, they completely walk away from that process,”
according to Graves. “We had an extraordinarily partisan bill that came out of
the House committee. It was right down party lines and then it went to the
floor of the House and it was right down party lines and, again, the easiest
bill in Washington to get agreement on is highways; traditional infrastructure.”

This bill contains more than 2,500 pages. It covers more than
roads and bridges. It would spend $65 billion on broadband upgrades and $21 billion
on environmental remediation, among other additions to the traditional Surface
Transportation Reauthorization Act.

Even with those additions, even with the vastly increased
price tag, the bill would pass, according to Graves, if passage were not tied to
passage of the larger measure.

“Let’s say the bill came to the floor and it was just strictly
the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill that had all the human infrastructure and
everything in it, too. It would probably pass,” Graves says. “It would get
enough support to pass, but when they tie this $3 ½ or $4 trillion spending
proposal and tax proposal with it, again, it’s holding it hostage.”

Graves says both House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and President Joe
Biden have tied the two bills together and are holding the line on Democrats,
forcing them to accept the bills in tandem.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostNorthern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves says Congress has
broken with tradition, imperiling the money needed for road construction.Graves, the top Republican on the House Tansportation and Infrastructure
Committee, points out the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill now stuck in Congress
began as the extension of the transportation bill.“I have actually supported three surface transportation,
infrastructure bills now that have been signed into law since the beginning,”
Graves tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “All three were under
Republican chairmen. All three were under both Democrat and Republican
presidents and all three were bipartisan bills.”Graves, who has been in Congress since 2000, says the
transportation bill never topped $400 billion, until this year.Graves says the House approach in the past was to have the top
Republicans and Democrats on the committee agree to a bill before moving it to
the full House.“This year, they completely walk away from that process,”
according to Graves. “We had an extraordinarily partisan bill that came out of
the House committee. It was right down party lines and then it went to the
floor of the House and it was right down party lines and, again, the easiest
bill in Washington to get agreement on is highways; traditional infrastructure.”This bill contains more than 2,500 pages. It covers more than
roads and bridges. It would spend $65 billion on broadband upgrades and $21 billion
on environmental remediation, among other additions to the traditional Surface
Transportation Reauthorization Act.Even with those additions, even with the vastly increased
price tag, the bill would pass, according to Graves, if passage were not tied to
passage of the larger measure.“Let’s say the bill came to the floor and it was just strictly
the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill that had all the human infrastructure and
everything in it, too. It would probably pass,” Graves says. “It would get
enough support to pass, but when they tie this $3 ½ or $4 trillion spending
proposal and tax proposal with it, again, it’s holding it hostage.”Graves says both House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and President Joe
Biden have tied the two bills together and are holding the line on Democrats,
forcing them to accept the bills in tandem.

Graves says break with tradition puts road money in jeopardy

Missouri Western State University will interview three finalists for director of athletics, starting Monday.

The finalists include two current NCAA Division II athletic directors and a Division I associate athletic director.&nbsp;Missouri Western is seeking to replace Josh Looney, who left in August to become the A.D. at the DI school University of North Alabama.

Members of the community will have an opportunity to hear from each finalist during brief presentations and open forums from noon to 1 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 11, Tuesday, Oct. 12 and Thursday, Oct. 14 in the&nbsp;Fulkerson Center.

Rachel Burleson is currently the A.D. at NCAA Division II Franklin Pierce University. She previously served at fellow MIAA institutions, Missouri Southern State University, where she was the associate athletic director for compliance and internal operations and Northwest Missouri State University as the assistant softball coach. She has also served as an assistant athletic director at fellow NCAA Division II universities, Western State Colorado University, as external operations and gameday, and Oklahoma Panhandle State University, gameday and internal operations.&nbsp;

Burleson earned a bachelor's degree in exercise and sports science from Tarleton State University, a master's degree in athletic administration from Northwest Missouri State and an MBA at Franklin Pierce.

Currently, Dwight Merilatt serves as the executive associate athletic director for external affairs at NCAA Division I Illinois State University. Previously, Merilatt worked at the University of Evansville from 2007-2015 as associate athletics director for external affairs, then senior associate athletics director for external affairs, serving as the interim director of athletics in the summer of 2014. Prior to his time at Evansville, Merilatt spent six years at Eastern Kentucky University as assistant athletics director for marketing and corporate partnerships and director for development. He has also spent time as athletic development director and executive director of the Rams Athletic Association at West Chester University in Pennsylvania, and as general manager of the Tampa Bay FireStix, a women's professional softball team in Florida. Merilatt received his bachelor's degree in sports management from the University of Kentucky and his master's degree in sports administration from Eastern Kentucky University.&nbsp;

Joel Lueken has served as Athletic Director at NCAA Division II South Dakota Mines since April 2014. Lueken joined William Jewell in 2006 as athletic event management/assistant baseball coach. In 2009 Joel was named assistant athletics director and promoted again in 2012 to associate athletic director. Joel spent six years at Ellsworth Community College in Iowa Falls, Iowa, in various capacities as head baseball coach, admissions recruiter, assistant women’s basketball coach, intramural director, assistant wellness coordinator and student housing assistant. He received an associate degree from Ellsworth Community College, a bachelor’s degree from Ottawa University and a master’s degree from Northwest Missouri State University.&nbsp;

No reservations are required to participate in the community forums. Missouri Western does require the use of face coverings in all indoor public spaces.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624477037495.jpeg" alt="Former Missouri Western athletic director Josh Looney (left) and University president Elizabeth Kennedy (right) discuss the return of Chiefs' training camp earlier this year. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Former Missouri Western athletic director Josh Looney (left) and University president Elizabeth Kennedy (right) discuss the return of Chiefs' training camp earlier this year. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University will interview three finalists for director of athletics, starting Monday.The finalists include two current NCAA Division II athletic directors and a Division I associate athletic director.&nbsp;Missouri Western is seeking to replace Josh Looney, who left in August to become the A.D. at the DI school University of North Alabama.Members of the community will have an opportunity to hear from each finalist during brief presentations and open forums from noon to 1 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 11, Tuesday, Oct. 12 and Thursday, Oct. 14 in the&nbsp;Fulkerson Center.The three finalists are below.<h2>Rachel Burleson - Oct. 11</h2>Rachel Burleson is currently the A.D. at NCAA Division II Franklin Pierce University. She previously served at fellow MIAA institutions, Missouri Southern State University, where she was the associate athletic director for compliance and internal operations and Northwest Missouri State University as the assistant softball coach. She has also served as an assistant athletic director at fellow NCAA Division II universities, Western State Colorado University, as external operations and gameday, and Oklahoma Panhandle State University, gameday and internal operations.&nbsp;Burleson earned a bachelor's degree in exercise and sports science from Tarleton State University, a master's degree in athletic administration from Northwest Missouri State and an MBA at Franklin Pierce.<figure>
 <img src="https://gogriffons.com/images/2021/10/8/Burleson.jpg?width=1000" alt="Rachel Burleson." />
 <figcaption>Rachel Burleson.</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Dwight Merilatt - Oct. 12</h2>Currently, Dwight Merilatt serves as the executive associate athletic director for external affairs at NCAA Division I Illinois State University. Previously, Merilatt worked at the University of Evansville from 2007-2015 as associate athletics director for external affairs, then senior associate athletics director for external affairs, serving as the interim director of athletics in the summer of 2014. Prior to his time at Evansville, Merilatt spent six years at Eastern Kentucky University as assistant athletics director for marketing and corporate partnerships and director for development. He has also spent time as athletic development director and executive director of the Rams Athletic Association at West Chester University in Pennsylvania, and as general manager of the Tampa Bay FireStix, a women's professional softball team in Florida. Merilatt received his bachelor's degree in sports management from the University of Kentucky and his master's degree in sports administration from Eastern Kentucky University.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://gogriffons.com/images/2021/10/8/Dwight_Merilatt_head_shot_71.jpg?width=1000" alt="Dwight Merilatt" />
 <figcaption>Dwight Merilatt</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Joel Lueken - Oct. 14</h2>Joel Lueken has served as Athletic Director at NCAA Division II South Dakota Mines since April 2014. Lueken joined William Jewell in 2006 as athletic event management/assistant baseball coach. In 2009 Joel was named assistant athletics director and promoted again in 2012 to associate athletic director. Joel spent six years at Ellsworth Community College in Iowa Falls, Iowa, in various capacities as head baseball coach, admissions recruiter, assistant women’s basketball coach, intramural director, assistant wellness coordinator and student housing assistant. He received an associate degree from Ellsworth Community College, a bachelor’s degree from Ottawa University and a master’s degree from Northwest Missouri State University.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://gogriffons.com/images/2021/10/8/Lueken_71.jpg?width=1000" alt="Joel Lueken." />
 <figcaption>Joel Lueken.</figcaption>
 </figure>No reservations are required to participate in the community forums. Missouri Western does require the use of face coverings in all indoor public spaces.&nbsp;

Missouri Western to interview three finalists for A.D. job this week

NODAWAY COUNTY—Two Missouri teens were injured in an accident just after 8p.m. Saturday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1997 Chevy 1500 driven by a 17-year-old boy from Maryville was westbound on 280th at Katydid Road two miles southeast of Maryville.

The driver failed to negotiate an intersection. The vehicle crossed Katydid Road, left the road to the west and struck an embankment.

Nodaway County EMS transported two passengers identified as Jordan E. Brady, 18, Maryville, and a 15-year-old female passenger from Kansas City, MO., to Mosaic in Maryville. The driver was not injured. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY—Two Missouri teens were injured in an accident just after 8p.m. Saturday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1997 Chevy 1500 driven by a 17-year-old boy from Maryville was westbound on 280th at Katydid Road two miles southeast of Maryville.The driver failed to negotiate an intersection. The vehicle crossed Katydid Road, left the road to the west and struck an embankment.Nodaway County EMS transported two passengers identified as Jordan E. Brady, 18, Maryville, and a 15-year-old female passenger from Kansas City, MO., to Mosaic in Maryville. The driver was not injured. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

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