Gray Manufacturing is
celebrating 70 years of success in 2022, Gray Manufacturing Company has an
innovative team responsible for manufacturing world-class heavy duty truck
service equipment.

Located in St Joseph, but
serving the world, you can be a part of the team making or selling floor jacks,
vehicle support stands, heavy duty vehicle lifts, and more!

In addition to our family-like work environment, Gray
Manufacturing Company offers competitive pay and excellent benefits including:

<a href="https://grayusa.com/job-openings/">Job Openings – Gray Manufacturing (grayusa.com)</a>

<a href="https://grayusa.com/job-openings/" target="_blank">Job Openings – Gray
 Manufacturing</a>

3501 S. Leonard Rd.
  St. Joseph, MO 64503 800-821-7320. Web Design by SJC Marketing. 3501 S
  Leonard Rd, St Joseph, MO 64503 800-821-7320

Gray Manufacturing is
celebrating 70 years of success in 2022, Gray Manufacturing Company has an
innovative team responsible for manufacturing world-class heavy duty truck
service equipment.Located in St Joseph, but
serving the world, you can be a part of the team making or selling floor jacks,
vehicle support stands, heavy duty vehicle lifts, and more!In addition to our family-like work environment, Gray
Manufacturing Company offers competitive pay and excellent benefits including:<ul>
 <li>Generous
 401k (retirement savings program) with a 50% employer match up to 12%, and
 immediate vesting.</li><li>Affordable
 group benefits--health/dental/vision for less than $11 a week (single
 coverage).</li><li>$520
 annual employer contribution to your Health Savings Account!</li><li>Discretionary
 bonuses twice a year!</li><li>Production
 positions work a 10-hour shift (6AM-4:30PM OR 4:30PM-3AM)
 Monday-Thursday—a 4-day workweek.</li><li>Weekly
 payroll via direct deposit.</li><li>Vacation
 and PTO on day one, and rarely will you work a weekend or a major holiday,
 we like time off too!</li>
 </ul>View our current Job Openings below ...<a href="https://grayusa.com/job-openings/">Job Openings – Gray Manufacturing (grayusa.com)</a><a href="https://grayusa.com/job-openings/" target="_blank">Job Openings – Gray
 Manufacturing</a>3501 S. Leonard Rd.
 St. Joseph, MO 64503 800-821-7320. Web Design by SJC Marketing. 3501 S
 Leonard Rd, St Joseph, MO 64503 800-821-7320grayusa.com

Police: Semi struck gas pump without reporting accident

A Lathrop man has been taken into custody, being held in
connection with the kidnapping and torture of a woman.

The Clinton County Sheriff’s Office reports a woman escaped
after being severely assaulted and tortured over two days.

Clinton County deputies and Missouri State Highway Patrol
troopers responded to Southeast Apache Drive in Lake Arrowhead Saturday morning
after the woman escaped her kidnappers.

Residents of the home refused to answer the door until
negotiations convinced one person to come out. Another, said to be armed and suicidal,
barricaded himself inside.

Clinton County reports James Larson, Junior was arrested when officers found him hiding in a false wall after a five-hour standoff. Larson is
being held on an unrelated no bond probation violation warrant.

The victim is reported to be in guarded, critical condition,
being treated at a nearby hospital.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA Lathrop man has been taken into custody, being held in
connection with the kidnapping and torture of a woman.The Clinton County Sheriff’s Office reports a woman escaped
after being severely assaulted and tortured over two days.Clinton County deputies and Missouri State Highway Patrol
troopers responded to Southeast Apache Drive in Lake Arrowhead Saturday morning
after the woman escaped her kidnappers.Residents of the home refused to answer the door until
negotiations convinced one person to come out. Another, said to be armed and suicidal,
barricaded himself inside.Clinton County reports James Larson, Junior was arrested when officers found him hiding in a false wall after a five-hour standoff. Larson is
being held on an unrelated no bond probation violation warrant.The victim is reported to be in guarded, critical condition,
being treated at a nearby hospital.

Lathrop man arrested after woman, tortured for 2 days, escapes

CALDWELL COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Sunday in Caldwell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 GMC Sierra driven by a 16-year-old girl from Kidder was northbound crossing U.S. 36 and failed to yield. A westbound 2019 Ford Expedition driven by Patricia L. Eggers, 58, Olathe, struck the pickup.

A private vehicle transported the teen driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Eggers and a 16-year-old male passenger in the pickup refused treatment at the scene. The teen passenger was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

CALDWELL COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Sunday in Caldwell County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 GMC Sierra driven by a 16-year-old girl from Kidder was northbound crossing U.S. 36 and failed to yield. A westbound 2019 Ford Expedition driven by Patricia L. Eggers, 58, Olathe, struck the pickup.A private vehicle transported the teen driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Eggers and a 16-year-old male passenger in the pickup refused treatment at the scene. The teen passenger was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

16-year-old injured after pickup, SUV crash

Lafayette High School officials have confirmed the death of a
freshman student.

Additional counselors, social workers, and other staff will be
on hand at the high school in northern St. Joseph Monday following the death of
Elsie Smith.

Smith was pronounced dead at Mosaic Life Care. No cause of
death has been released.

Lafayette High School Principal Ashly McGinnis confirmed the
death in an email sent out to students and families Friday evening.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostLafayette High School officials have confirmed the death of a
freshman student.Additional counselors, social workers, and other staff will be
on hand at the high school in northern St. Joseph Monday following the death of
Elsie Smith.Smith was pronounced dead at Mosaic Life Care. No cause of
death has been released.Lafayette High School Principal Ashly McGinnis confirmed the
death in an email sent out to students and families Friday evening.

Lafayette HS in mourning in wake of student death

Missouri Western State University
Head Softball Coach Joe Yegge has received a public reprimand from the school’s
conference stemming from his ejection during the MIAA Softball Tournament.

The Mid-America Intercollegiate
Athletics Association issued the public reprimand of Yegge on Friday.

“Coach Yegge’s conduct
surrounding an ejection during the MIAA Softball Tournament did not satisfy the
MIAA’s expectation of sportsmanship and game behavior at our conference
championships," MIAA Commissioner Mike Racy said in a written statement
released by the conference.

Yegge also has received a two-game
suspension to be served during the first doubleheader series of the 2023 MIAA
Softball conference schedule.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University
Head Softball Coach Joe Yegge has received a public reprimand from the school’s
conference stemming from his ejection during the MIAA Softball Tournament.The Mid-America Intercollegiate
Athletics Association issued the public reprimand of Yegge on Friday.“Coach Yegge’s conduct
surrounding an ejection during the MIAA Softball Tournament did not satisfy the
MIAA’s expectation of sportsmanship and game behavior at our conference
championships," MIAA Commissioner Mike Racy said in a written statement
released by the conference.Yegge also has received a two-game
suspension to be served during the first doubleheader series of the 2023 MIAA
Softball conference schedule.

MWSU Softball Coach Joe Yegge reprimanded by MIAA

A former respiratory therapist charged in the mysterious death
of a Chillicothe hospital patient 20 years ago has been taken into custody.

The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office reports 41-year-old
Jennifer Anne Hall was arrested Thursday night by Kansas authorities. The
office says extradition proceedings will begin immediately.

Twenty years ago, nine patients at Hedrick Medical Center in
Chillicothe died from unexplained circumstances. The cause of death for each
patient was listed as cardiac collapse.

Prosecutors have charged Hall with first-degree murder in the
death of one of those patients, Fern Franco. Hall was working as a respiratory
therapist at Hedrick at the time of the deaths. Matthew O'Connor, who has represented Hall in the past, says no evidence exists to connect Hall to the deaths.

The case was revived after an analysis of Franco’s tissue samples found morphine and a powerful muscle relaxant used in anesthesia in her system. Neither drug was prescribed or ordered for her by her doctors, investigators said.

Some staff at the hospital&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lawsuits-missouri-eb1f83b41c6749218dc02ecad99a295a">believed Hall was responsible</a>&nbsp;because of her proximity to the stricken patients, her access to deadly pharmaceuticals, and because she notified staff of every patient’s cardiac emergency, according to court documents.

Hall was placed on administrative leave three days after Franco’s death.

The Associated Press contributed to this article.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652474493585.png" alt="Jennifer Hall, 41, was arrested in Johnson County, Kansas, on Thursday evening under the name Jennifer Semaboye, of Overland Park, Kansas-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Jennifer Hall, 41, was arrested in Johnson County, Kansas, on Thursday evening under the name Jennifer Semaboye, of Overland Park, Kansas-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>---------By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA former respiratory therapist charged in the mysterious death
of a Chillicothe hospital patient 20 years ago has been taken into custody.The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office reports 41-year-old
Jennifer Anne Hall was arrested Thursday night by Kansas authorities. The
office says extradition proceedings will begin immediately.Twenty years ago, nine patients at Hedrick Medical Center in
Chillicothe died from unexplained circumstances. The cause of death for each
patient was listed as cardiac collapse.Prosecutors have charged Hall with first-degree murder in the
death of one of those patients, Fern Franco. Hall was working as a respiratory
therapist at Hedrick at the time of the deaths. Matthew O'Connor, who has represented Hall in the past, says no evidence exists to connect Hall to the deaths.The case was revived after an analysis of Franco’s tissue samples found morphine and a powerful muscle relaxant used in anesthesia in her system. Neither drug was prescribed or ordered for her by her doctors, investigators said.Some staff at the hospital&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lawsuits-missouri-eb1f83b41c6749218dc02ecad99a295a">believed Hall was responsible</a>&nbsp;because of her proximity to the stricken patients, her access to deadly pharmaceuticals, and because she notified staff of every patient’s cardiac emergency, according to court documents.Hall was placed on administrative leave three days after Franco’s death.The Associated Press contributed to this article.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652449498878.png" alt="Hall-photo Livingston Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Hall-photo Livingston Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>

Former Chillicothe hospital worker accused in mysterious deaths arrested

Students from North Central Missouri College will have the opportunity to learn on the campus of Missouri Western State University through a new program. &nbsp;

The two universities signed a dual admission agreement today called the Pirates2Griffons pathway program&nbsp;

Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Melissa Mace says the program will allow full time North Central students to learn part time at Missouri Western, as well as enjoy the benefits of university life.&nbsp;

"Pirates2Griffons pathway students will be able to live on this campus in our residence halls, join student organizations, and attend the athletic events while pursuing their associates degree from NCMC," Mace tells a crowd in Missouri Westerns Eder Hall&nbsp;

Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy says with this agreement St. Joseph area students can have the best of both worlds, pursuing education as a Pirate, while living the life of a Griffon.&nbsp;

Dean of Instruction at North Central Mitch Holder says the Pirates to Griffons Pathway program will help meet the diverse needs of students. &nbsp;

"Through this program students throughout our region can now enjoy the university campus experience offered here at Missouri Western while being able to utilize the A+ Scholarship Program and other affordability measures while enjoying wrap around academic services offered by North Central Missouri College," Holder says.&nbsp;

North Central President Lenny Klaver says the relationship with Missouri Western began many months ago.&nbsp; Klaver says this is a win-win for both schools.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652473104599.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western State University President Elizabeth Kennedy (left) and North Central Missouri College President Lenny Klaver (right) sign the dual admission agreement/Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western State University President Elizabeth Kennedy (left) and North Central Missouri College President Lenny Klaver (right) sign the dual admission agreement/Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Students from North Central Missouri College will have the opportunity to learn on the campus of Missouri Western State University through a new program. &nbsp;The two universities signed a dual admission agreement today called the Pirates2Griffons pathway program&nbsp;Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Melissa Mace says the program will allow full time North Central students to learn part time at Missouri Western, as well as enjoy the benefits of university life.&nbsp;"Pirates2Griffons pathway students will be able to live on this campus in our residence halls, join student organizations, and attend the athletic events while pursuing their associates degree from NCMC," Mace tells a crowd in Missouri Westerns Eder Hall&nbsp;Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy says with this agreement St. Joseph area students can have the best of both worlds, pursuing education as a Pirate, while living the life of a Griffon.&nbsp;Dean of Instruction at North Central Mitch Holder says the Pirates to Griffons Pathway program will help meet the diverse needs of students. &nbsp;"Through this program students throughout our region can now enjoy the university campus experience offered here at Missouri Western while being able to utilize the A+ Scholarship Program and other affordability measures while enjoying wrap around academic services offered by North Central Missouri College," Holder says.&nbsp;North Central President Lenny Klaver says the relationship with Missouri Western began many months ago.&nbsp; Klaver says this is a win-win for both schools.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652472512088.jpeg" alt="President Elizabeth Kennedy (at podium) speaks to an onlooking crowd at Eder Hall on the Missouri Western campus/photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>President Elizabeth Kennedy (at podium) speaks to an onlooking crowd at Eder Hall on the Missouri Western campus/photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>

Partnership between Missouri Western and North Central Missouri College brings new opportunities

Political primaries would become a thing of the past and
ranked-choice voting would come to Missouri if voters approve a ballot
initiative in November.

A group that calls itself Better Elections has gathered more
than 300,000 signatures, which is more than enough to make the ballot.
Certification is underway.

Better Elections spokesperson Scott Charton says the proposed
constitutional amendment is aimed at improving Missouri elections.

“And it would give you more choices in elections,” Charton
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “It would provide for better accountability of
officeholders once they’re in office if they lose their way. And it provides
better integrity in elections through some very sensible ballot security measures.”

Under the measure, both Republicans and Democrats would be
placed on the same primary ballot. Voters could rank their choices, one through
four, with the top four vote-getters advancing to the General Election.

Charton says the concept is easier to grasp than many might
think.

“In a ranked-choice election, the goal is that the ultimate
office-holder winner achieves 50% plus one or more of the votes,” according to
Charton. “Why is that important? Well, voters feel ignored now. This makes
candidates go out and campaign for every vote.”

The method isn’t widely used in the United States, but has
been adopted by a few municipalities.

“This is a different idea. It’s a change,” Charton acknowledges.
“Missourians, though, like the idea. When we’ve talked to them in every county
where we’ve gathered signatures, they like the idea of more choices.”

Charton says the change would take power from the political
parties and place it in the hands of the voters.

The security measures in the initiative include testing all
electronic voting machines to certify them secure prior to elections, requiring
a paper trail of individual votes, and including representatives of all
political parties when paper ballots are counted and stored.

It also would require a special election to fill vacancies,
rather than allowing for a gubernatorial appointment.

The group awaits certification for the ballot from the Secretary
of State.

Click <a href="https://betterelectionsmo.org/">here</a> for the Better Elections website.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostPolitical primaries would become a thing of the past and
ranked-choice voting would come to Missouri if voters approve a ballot
initiative in November.A group that calls itself Better Elections has gathered more
than 300,000 signatures, which is more than enough to make the ballot.
Certification is underway.Better Elections spokesperson Scott Charton says the proposed
constitutional amendment is aimed at improving Missouri elections.“And it would give you more choices in elections,” Charton
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “It would provide for better accountability of
officeholders once they’re in office if they lose their way. And it provides
better integrity in elections through some very sensible ballot security measures.”Under the measure, both Republicans and Democrats would be
placed on the same primary ballot. Voters could rank their choices, one through
four, with the top four vote-getters advancing to the General Election.Charton says the concept is easier to grasp than many might
think.“In a ranked-choice election, the goal is that the ultimate
office-holder winner achieves 50% plus one or more of the votes,” according to
Charton. “Why is that important? Well, voters feel ignored now. This makes
candidates go out and campaign for every vote.”The method isn’t widely used in the United States, but has
been adopted by a few municipalities.“This is a different idea. It’s a change,” Charton acknowledges.
“Missourians, though, like the idea. When we’ve talked to them in every county
where we’ve gathered signatures, they like the idea of more choices.”Charton says the change would take power from the political
parties and place it in the hands of the voters.The security measures in the initiative include testing all
electronic voting machines to certify them secure prior to elections, requiring
a paper trail of individual votes, and including representatives of all
political parties when paper ballots are counted and stored.It also would require a special election to fill vacancies,
rather than allowing for a gubernatorial appointment.The group awaits certification for the ballot from the Secretary
of State.Click <a href="https://betterelectionsmo.org/">here</a> for the Better Elections website.

Missouri elections would change drastically under proposal set for November

NODAWAY COUNTY —A St. Joseph man was injured in an accident just before 5a.m. Friday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 International Harvester semi driven by Billy D. Blizzard, 50, St. Joseph, was northbound on U.S. 71 one and one half miles north of Wilcox.

The vehicle traveled off the easts side of the rain covered road. The truck returned to the road, crossed the center line, traveled off the west side of the road and came to rest on the drivers side facing east.

A private vehicle transported Bizzard to Urgent Care in St. Joseph. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY —A St. Joseph man was injured in an accident just before 5a.m. Friday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 International Harvester semi driven by Billy D. Blizzard, 50, St. Joseph, was northbound on U.S. 71 one and one half miles north of Wilcox.The vehicle traveled off the easts side of the rain covered road. The truck returned to the road, crossed the center line, traveled off the west side of the road and came to rest on the drivers side facing east.A private vehicle transported Bizzard to Urgent Care in St. Joseph. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

St. Joseph man injured after semi accident on rain covered road

St. Joseph will become Hollywood tomorrow as the Albrecht Kemper Museum of Art invites you to walk the red carpet at the annual Pot of Gold Gala. &nbsp;

The museum is inviting guests to dress like they are going to a movie premiere or as their favorite movie characters to walk the red carpet on Saturday. &nbsp;

Communications Director Jill Carlson says that as you walk the red carpet into the Gala, you'll experience the paparazzi snapping your photos. &nbsp;

"You may end up on page six or you may, you know, have some sort of fun times with all the photographers," Carlson tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr.&nbsp;

Executive Director Eric Fuson says you could be a local celebrity at least&nbsp;

"You'll definitely show up on our website," he adds to Birr.&nbsp;

Fuson says giving people the chance to dress like a movie premiere or as their favorite movie character gives them some flexibility. &nbsp;

"Of saying, you know I don't have to spend a lot of money to come, I can donate, I can have a fantastic meal, great time, and have a chance at some really cool items," Fuson explains. "You know you can buy a flight over St. Joe so you can fly right over the top of your house at this event, so how often can you do that?" &nbsp;

Carlson says Pot of Gold is one of the museum's biggest fundraisers.&nbsp;

"All of the funds that are raised from this event really help us throughout the year, it's not just happening right now, it's really through the 12 months of the year," Carlson explains.&nbsp;

Fuson says most of the funds for the museums exhibitions comes from its supporters.&nbsp;

"That really understand the value of what we do in this community, because if you think about taking some of that away, gosh St. Joe would be a vastly different place, it's amazing just knowing it's there," Fuson says. &nbsp;

The gala will begin at 5pm on Saturday and tickets are still available.&nbsp; You can find more information <a href="http://albrecht-kemper.org/pog/">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652374638639.jpeg" alt="Dorothy Tietz &amp; Donna Jean Boyer&nbsp; during last year's Pot of Gold Gala and Auction. /photo by Alex Asher" />
 <figcaption>Dorothy Tietz &amp; Donna Jean Boyer&nbsp; during last year's Pot of Gold Gala and Auction. /photo by Alex Asher</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;St. Joseph will become Hollywood tomorrow as the Albrecht Kemper Museum of Art invites you to walk the red carpet at the annual Pot of Gold Gala. &nbsp;The museum is inviting guests to dress like they are going to a movie premiere or as their favorite movie characters to walk the red carpet on Saturday. &nbsp;Communications Director Jill Carlson says that as you walk the red carpet into the Gala, you'll experience the paparazzi snapping your photos. &nbsp;"You may end up on page six or you may, you know, have some sort of fun times with all the photographers," Carlson tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr.&nbsp;Executive Director Eric Fuson says you could be a local celebrity at least&nbsp;"You'll definitely show up on our website," he adds to Birr.&nbsp;Fuson says giving people the chance to dress like a movie premiere or as their favorite movie character gives them some flexibility. &nbsp;"Of saying, you know I don't have to spend a lot of money to come, I can donate, I can have a fantastic meal, great time, and have a chance at some really cool items," Fuson explains. "You know you can buy a flight over St. Joe so you can fly right over the top of your house at this event, so how often can you do that?" &nbsp;Carlson says Pot of Gold is one of the museum's biggest fundraisers.&nbsp;"All of the funds that are raised from this event really help us throughout the year, it's not just happening right now, it's really through the 12 months of the year," Carlson explains.&nbsp;Fuson says most of the funds for the museums exhibitions comes from its supporters.&nbsp;"That really understand the value of what we do in this community, because if you think about taking some of that away, gosh St. Joe would be a vastly different place, it's amazing just knowing it's there," Fuson says. &nbsp;The gala will begin at 5pm on Saturday and tickets are still available.&nbsp; You can find more information <a href="http://albrecht-kemper.org/pog/">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

Hollywood comes to St. Joseph; walk the red carpet at the Albrecht Kemper Saturday

CHILLICOTHE, Mo. (AP) — A man is dead after he doused himself with liquid and set himself on fire after being stopped by police for erratic driving, Chillicothe police said.

Police said in a news release the events began Wednesday evening when people reported a man was approaching businesses south of Chillicothe and asking for a lighter while carrying a container of flammable liquid.

The man was later seen driving erratically in Chillicothe, police said. When officers stopped him, he ran to the back of his repurposed bus.

The man ignored orders to get out of the bus and officers could not see inside because the windows were tinted, police said.

The man poured the liquid on himself and ignited it, then ran toward the officers, who tried to put out the flames, according to the release.

The victim, a 43-year-old man from Dalton, was airlifted to a hospital, but died from his injuries.

Police said the man's intentions aren't known and the investigation is continuing.

CHILLICOTHE, Mo. (AP) — A man is dead after he doused himself with liquid and set himself on fire after being stopped by police for erratic driving, Chillicothe police said.Police said in a news release the events began Wednesday evening when people reported a man was approaching businesses south of Chillicothe and asking for a lighter while carrying a container of flammable liquid.The man was later seen driving erratically in Chillicothe, police said. When officers stopped him, he ran to the back of his repurposed bus.The man ignored orders to get out of the bus and officers could not see inside because the windows were tinted, police said.The man poured the liquid on himself and ignited it, then ran toward the officers, who tried to put out the flames, according to the release.The victim, a 43-year-old man from Dalton, was airlifted to a hospital, but died from his injuries.Police said the man's intentions aren't known and the investigation is continuing.

Police: Man dies after setting himself on fire

During a special meeting on Thursday the St. Joseph School Board held a special meeting to begin the process of selecting its next board member.&nbsp;

A seat on the board was left open after the resignation of Lori Witham.&nbsp;

The list of 10 residents that expressed interest in running for the board seat was narrowed down to five after a majority of the board voted to narrow the field.&nbsp;

Don Crabtree, David Jordan, David Mason, Tom Richmond, and Phil Vandel will be interviewed in-person by the board on Monday starting at 2pm. &nbsp;

Each candidate will have 15 minutes to make a statement and address questions asked by the Board members. The Board will make its final selection following all the interviews and a swearing-in ceremony will take place that afternoon. &nbsp;

The individual selected will serve until the end of the term in April 2023. They will participate in their first Board meeting on May 23.&nbsp;

The meeting is open to the public and will be live streamed on the district’s YouTube channel&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;During a special meeting on Thursday the St. Joseph School Board held a special meeting to begin the process of selecting its next board member.&nbsp;A seat on the board was left open after the resignation of Lori Witham.&nbsp;The list of 10 residents that expressed interest in running for the board seat was narrowed down to five after a majority of the board voted to narrow the field.&nbsp;Don Crabtree, David Jordan, David Mason, Tom Richmond, and Phil Vandel will be interviewed in-person by the board on Monday starting at 2pm. &nbsp;Each candidate will have 15 minutes to make a statement and address questions asked by the Board members. The Board will make its final selection following all the interviews and a swearing-in ceremony will take place that afternoon. &nbsp;The individual selected will serve until the end of the term in April 2023. They will participate in their first Board meeting on May 23.&nbsp;The meeting is open to the public and will be live streamed on the district’s YouTube channel&nbsp;

St. Joseph School Board starts process of selecting next board member

A string of fires near Polo on Tuesday classified as arson are still under investigation by the Caldwell County Sheriff's Office.&nbsp;

One of them claimed the life of a 96-year-old woman. The body of Lorene Fickess was found in the first house fire.&nbsp;

Caldwell County Sheriff Mitch Allen says the suspect's vehicle was spotted in front of all three house fires near Polo.&nbsp;

"Plus, the fact when you have three fires on the same road within a four-mile distance, and there's signs of arson in at least one of the houses, it's pretty obvious that they're all connected," Allen tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post&nbsp;

The vehicle in question spotted at the scene is a black SUV with dark tinted windows driven by a black male. &nbsp;

Allen says his department will continue to question people in the area who had cameras at their homes or may have seen something.&nbsp;

"A lot of times people see something or they know something, they don't know they know something until we talk to them," Allen explains. "So, we're hoping that somebody comes forward or we talk to somebody that may have that piece of the puzzle that puts it all together for us."&nbsp;

The Sheriff's department is asking the public for help in the investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to call 816 586 2681 or the Tips hotline at 816 586 TIPS.&nbsp;

A suspicious fire in Lafayette County is also currently under investigation.&nbsp;

Investigators are working to determine if it is linked with the fires in Caldwell County.&nbsp;

Allen says he's spoken to Lafayette County Sheriff Kerrick Alumbaugh and exchanged information about the case. &nbsp;

"I know that that is arson as well, however there is no evidence that would connect that fire with our fire up here, they're still investigating it down there," Allen says.&nbsp;

Allen adds that he will stay in contact with Alumbaugh to compare notes and see if a link to the fires is found.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;A string of fires near Polo on Tuesday classified as arson are still under investigation by the Caldwell County Sheriff's Office.&nbsp;One of them claimed the life of a 96-year-old woman. The body of Lorene Fickess was found in the first house fire.&nbsp;Caldwell County Sheriff Mitch Allen says the suspect's vehicle was spotted in front of all three house fires near Polo.&nbsp;"Plus, the fact when you have three fires on the same road within a four-mile distance, and there's signs of arson in at least one of the houses, it's pretty obvious that they're all connected," Allen tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post&nbsp;The vehicle in question spotted at the scene is a black SUV with dark tinted windows driven by a black male. &nbsp;Allen says his department will continue to question people in the area who had cameras at their homes or may have seen something.&nbsp;"A lot of times people see something or they know something, they don't know they know something until we talk to them," Allen explains. "So, we're hoping that somebody comes forward or we talk to somebody that may have that piece of the puzzle that puts it all together for us."&nbsp;The Sheriff's department is asking the public for help in the investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to call 816 586 2681 or the Tips hotline at 816 586 TIPS.&nbsp;A suspicious fire in Lafayette County is also currently under investigation.&nbsp;Investigators are working to determine if it is linked with the fires in Caldwell County.&nbsp;Allen says he's spoken to Lafayette County Sheriff Kerrick Alumbaugh and exchanged information about the case. &nbsp;"I know that that is arson as well, however there is no evidence that would connect that fire with our fire up here, they're still investigating it down there," Allen says.&nbsp;Allen adds that he will stay in contact with Alumbaugh to compare notes and see if a link to the fires is found.&nbsp;

Investigation continues on Tuesday fires near Polo, could be connected to Lexington fire

Missouri Western State University stands to benefit from the
state budget approved by the legislature and awaiting Gov. Mike Parson’s signature.

Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy says this
legislative session has been a good one for the university.

“Very grateful for Gov. Parson proposing a 5.4% increase to
our core state appropriations which is really wonderful. That has gone through
the House and the Senate now. That’s been approved,” Kennedy tells host Barry
Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “So that will help our baseline, if you will, in
terms of what the state is giving us. It’s a bigger increase than we got last
year.”

The budget boost comes after a 3% increase last year,
providing Missouri Western with a healthy increase in its state appropriations.
It now awaits Gov. Parson’s signature.

Legislators approved a record $45 billion state budget, swelled
by an influx of federal coronavirus relief and stimulus funding. Lawmakers agreed
to distribute some of the state American Rescue Plan Act funds to state
agencies and colleges with a focus on capital improvement projects.

Missouri Western will use a $5 million appropriation to help
pay for a new Convergence Technology Alliance Center. The center, which will
prepare students for careers as diverse as construction and robotics, is being
built on the St. Joseph campus in cooperation with North Central Missouri
College of Trenton. Its total cost will be approximately $10 million. Kennedy says
the university is reaching out to others, such as Buchanan County, to complete
the financing.

Kennedy says Missouri Western will work with North Central as
well as the Hillyard Technical Center to prepare students for the jobs
available locally and regionally.

“Maybe a business industry has some workers that they’d like
to just upscale a little bit, provide some specialized training to, like I
said, the high school student who did the youth apprenticeship in the school
district and now has moved on to an employer who says, hey, we’d like you to
continue your education,” Kennedy says.

Missouri Western State University is signing a dual admission
agreement with North Central Missouri College. North Central is located in
Trenton, but will soon have a satellite campus in Savannah.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University stands to benefit from the
state budget approved by the legislature and awaiting Gov. Mike Parson’s signature.Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy says this
legislative session has been a good one for the university.“Very grateful for Gov. Parson proposing a 5.4% increase to
our core state appropriations which is really wonderful. That has gone through
the House and the Senate now. That’s been approved,” Kennedy tells host Barry
Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “So that will help our baseline, if you will, in
terms of what the state is giving us. It’s a bigger increase than we got last
year.”The budget boost comes after a 3% increase last year,
providing Missouri Western with a healthy increase in its state appropriations.
It now awaits Gov. Parson’s signature.Legislators approved a record $45 billion state budget, swelled
by an influx of federal coronavirus relief and stimulus funding. Lawmakers agreed
to distribute some of the state American Rescue Plan Act funds to state
agencies and colleges with a focus on capital improvement projects.Missouri Western will use a $5 million appropriation to help
pay for a new Convergence Technology Alliance Center. The center, which will
prepare students for careers as diverse as construction and robotics, is being
built on the St. Joseph campus in cooperation with North Central Missouri
College of Trenton. Its total cost will be approximately $10 million. Kennedy says
the university is reaching out to others, such as Buchanan County, to complete
the financing.Kennedy says Missouri Western will work with North Central as
well as the Hillyard Technical Center to prepare students for the jobs
available locally and regionally.“Maybe a business industry has some workers that they’d like
to just upscale a little bit, provide some specialized training to, like I
said, the high school student who did the youth apprenticeship in the school
district and now has moved on to an employer who says, hey, we’d like you to
continue your education,” Kennedy says.Missouri Western State University is signing a dual admission
agreement with North Central Missouri College. North Central is located in
Trenton, but will soon have a satellite campus in Savannah.

MWSU President Kennedy happy with legislative session

The weather is continuing to warm up which means motorcyclists are beginning to pull out their bikes once again. &nbsp;

Sergeant Shane Hux with Troop H in St. Joseph says the warmer weather does bring an uptick of motorcyclists on the road. &nbsp;

"Especially around the holidays you will see some motorcycle runs where they do like poker runs and things like that, large groups of them, where they get out and just enjoy the nice weather," Hux tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And, most motorcycle enthusiasts are very passionate about it and they enjoy it, so you will see an uptick in motorcycle traffic."&nbsp;

Hux says motorcycles are hard to see while you are out driving. &nbsp;

"So, what I would recommend is you take the extra couple of seconds and look both ways and just be on the lookout for motorcycle traffic," Hux explains.&nbsp;

Hux adds many motorcyclists have the mindset that they can't be seen while riding.&nbsp;

"So, they are normally more of a defensive driver," he says. "So, every time they pull out or see a car merging in front of them, most of them have the mindset that the driver does not see them."&nbsp;

Hux says many motorcyclists will have a headlight on their bikes or wear reflective clothing to make it easier to be seen by other drivers. &nbsp;

Hux says with Missouri's helmet law being repealed, the number of motorcycle riders wearing helmets is about 50-50.&nbsp;

"Whether or not people have a helmet on, the ones that don't that's their option, that's the way that the law is written, and they can definitely do that legally," Hux points out. "But we still see some that are not required to wear a helmet but yet they still choose to do so for their safety."&nbsp;

Riders who choose not to wear a helmet must be at least 26 and are also required to have health insurance.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;The weather is continuing to warm up which means motorcyclists are beginning to pull out their bikes once again. &nbsp;Sergeant Shane Hux with Troop H in St. Joseph says the warmer weather does bring an uptick of motorcyclists on the road. &nbsp;"Especially around the holidays you will see some motorcycle runs where they do like poker runs and things like that, large groups of them, where they get out and just enjoy the nice weather," Hux tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And, most motorcycle enthusiasts are very passionate about it and they enjoy it, so you will see an uptick in motorcycle traffic."&nbsp;Hux says motorcycles are hard to see while you are out driving. &nbsp;"So, what I would recommend is you take the extra couple of seconds and look both ways and just be on the lookout for motorcycle traffic," Hux explains.&nbsp;Hux adds many motorcyclists have the mindset that they can't be seen while riding.&nbsp;"So, they are normally more of a defensive driver," he says. "So, every time they pull out or see a car merging in front of them, most of them have the mindset that the driver does not see them."&nbsp;Hux says many motorcyclists will have a headlight on their bikes or wear reflective clothing to make it easier to be seen by other drivers. &nbsp;Hux says with Missouri's helmet law being repealed, the number of motorcycle riders wearing helmets is about 50-50.&nbsp;"Whether or not people have a helmet on, the ones that don't that's their option, that's the way that the law is written, and they can definitely do that legally," Hux points out. "But we still see some that are not required to wear a helmet but yet they still choose to do so for their safety."&nbsp;Riders who choose not to wear a helmet must be at least 26 and are also required to have health insurance.&nbsp;

Patrol wants motorists to take precautions with hot weather bringing out motorcyclists

A suspected arson fire in Caldwell County has claimed the life
of a 96-year-old woman.

The Caldwell County Sheriff’s Department identified the person
found dead in a burned home near Polo as Lorene Fickess. The department
considers the death a homicide.

The sheriff’s department is investigating three fires. The
first occurred around 8:30 Tuesday morning in rural Polo. Investigators
discovered the body of Fickess inside. Two hours later, firefighters responded
to two other fires on the same road. Both those houses were vacant.
Investigators believe all were related.

The sheriff reports witnesses spotted a dark, four-door,
passenger car, possibly a black Dodge Caliber, near the scene of all three
fires.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA suspected arson fire in Caldwell County has claimed the life
of a 96-year-old woman.The Caldwell County Sheriff’s Department identified the person
found dead in a burned home near Polo as Lorene Fickess. The department
considers the death a homicide.The sheriff’s department is investigating three fires. The
first occurred around 8:30 Tuesday morning in rural Polo. Investigators
discovered the body of Fickess inside. Two hours later, firefighters responded
to two other fires on the same road. Both those houses were vacant.
Investigators believe all were related.The sheriff reports witnesses spotted a dark, four-door,
passenger car, possibly a black Dodge Caliber, near the scene of all three
fires.The Associated Press contributed to this story.

Suspected arson fire in Caldwell County takes life of 96-year-old

Just because it's almost summer doesn't mean the need for blood donations stops.&nbsp;

American Red Cross spokeswoman Angie Springs says as schools are out for summer and families begin to go on vacation, the Red Cross typically sees donations go down. &nbsp;

"So, although we are able to collect blood year-round, have really pushed to make great strides in encouraging blood donors to come out, now that we see our summer months ahead of us, we really need to think of ways that we can get people to still step out," Springs tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post&nbsp;

Springs says the current blood supply directly correlates with the demand as life finally starts to return to somewhat normal.&nbsp;

"We are seeing a lot more demand for blood because elective surgeries are taking place, we're seeing people travel more," she explains. "So, as people are on the roads more, we see an increase in trauma patients due to car accidents, we're seeing people that maybe put off a certain surgery before the pandemic or during the pandemic are now scheduling those."&nbsp;

Springs says currently the blood supply still doesn't meet the demand for blood with all those factors.&nbsp;

Demand for blood continues to grow as we emerge from the coronavirus pandemic and the American Red Cross wants potential donors to know safety is their top priority. &nbsp;

Springs says the Red Crosses safety measures shifted during the pandemic, pushing the message of how safe it is to give blood.&nbsp;

"And it is still safe, as safe today to come out, schedule your appointment, roll up your sleeve, and donate blood," Springs says enthusiastically. "I'm a blood donor myself and when I have been at blood drives, I am very comfortable and confident in how safe that it is to come out and donate blood."&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Just because it's almost summer doesn't mean the need for blood donations stops.&nbsp;American Red Cross spokeswoman Angie Springs says as schools are out for summer and families begin to go on vacation, the Red Cross typically sees donations go down. &nbsp;"So, although we are able to collect blood year-round, have really pushed to make great strides in encouraging blood donors to come out, now that we see our summer months ahead of us, we really need to think of ways that we can get people to still step out," Springs tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Springs says the current blood supply directly correlates with the demand as life finally starts to return to somewhat normal.&nbsp;"We are seeing a lot more demand for blood because elective surgeries are taking place, we're seeing people travel more," she explains. "So, as people are on the roads more, we see an increase in trauma patients due to car accidents, we're seeing people that maybe put off a certain surgery before the pandemic or during the pandemic are now scheduling those."&nbsp;Springs says currently the blood supply still doesn't meet the demand for blood with all those factors.&nbsp;Demand for blood continues to grow as we emerge from the coronavirus pandemic and the American Red Cross wants potential donors to know safety is their top priority. &nbsp;Springs says the Red Crosses safety measures shifted during the pandemic, pushing the message of how safe it is to give blood.&nbsp;"And it is still safe, as safe today to come out, schedule your appointment, roll up your sleeve, and donate blood," Springs says enthusiastically. "I'm a blood donor myself and when I have been at blood drives, I am very comfortable and confident in how safe that it is to come out and donate blood."&nbsp;

Demand for blood doesn't take a summer break

LEAVENWORTH, Kan. (AP) — A Missouri man who authorities said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-shootings-us-news-mo-state-wire-michael-brown-103f9e624e588e7b09809f97f3f3e1f1">fired at least 20 rounds at drivers stopped on a bridge</a>&nbsp;between Missouri and Kansas before a driver hit him with his vehicle entered a plea Wednesday to charges in the case.

Jason Westrem, 39, from Houston Lake, Missouri, pleaded no contest to attempted first-degree murder and two counts of aggravated assault using a deadly weapon, Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson said.

Investigators said traffic was slowed by construction on the Centennial Bridge between Leavenworth, Kansas, and Platte County, Missouri, on May 27, 2020, when Westrem opened fire at the vehicles and construction workers, KMBC-TV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kmbc.com/article/leavenworth-bridge-shooter-pleads-guilty/39968903?utm_campaign=snd-autopilot">reported.</a>

Authorities have not released a possible motive for Westrem’s actions.

Master Sgt. David Royer, a soldier at Fort Leavenworth, stopped the shooting by driving into Westrem and pinning the shooter under his vehicle, investigators said.

After the shooting, Leavenworth Police Chief Patrick Kitchens credited Royer with saving “countless lives.”

One person was injured and several rounds struck vehicles, investigators said.

Thompson said the plea agreement was reached with the consent of people involved in the shooting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590616991045.png" alt="First responders on the scene May 27, 2020- photo courtesy KMBC" />
 <figcaption>First responders on the scene May 27, 2020- photo courtesy KMBC</figcaption>
 </figure>LEAVENWORTH, Kan. (AP) — A Missouri man who authorities said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-shootings-us-news-mo-state-wire-michael-brown-103f9e624e588e7b09809f97f3f3e1f1">fired at least 20 rounds at drivers stopped on a bridge</a>&nbsp;between Missouri and Kansas before a driver hit him with his vehicle entered a plea Wednesday to charges in the case.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652296274451.png" alt="Westrem photo Leavenworth Co." />
 <figcaption>Westrem photo Leavenworth Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Jason Westrem, 39, from Houston Lake, Missouri, pleaded no contest to attempted first-degree murder and two counts of aggravated assault using a deadly weapon, Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson said.Investigators said traffic was slowed by construction on the Centennial Bridge between Leavenworth, Kansas, and Platte County, Missouri, on May 27, 2020, when Westrem opened fire at the vehicles and construction workers, KMBC-TV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kmbc.com/article/leavenworth-bridge-shooter-pleads-guilty/39968903?utm_campaign=snd-autopilot">reported.</a>Authorities have not released a possible motive for Westrem’s actions.Master Sgt. David Royer, a soldier at Fort Leavenworth, stopped the shooting by driving into Westrem and pinning the shooter under his vehicle, investigators said.After the shooting, Leavenworth Police Chief Patrick Kitchens credited Royer with saving “countless lives.”One person was injured and several rounds struck vehicles, investigators said.Thompson said the plea agreement was reached with the consent of people involved in the shooting.

Mo. man enters plea for shootings on the Centennial Bridge

Caldwell County authorities are investigating a series of
three house fires, all considered arson; one fatal.

Caldwell County Sheriff Mitchell Allen, in a news release, says
a fire was reported Tuesday morning around 8:30 near Southwest State Route D
and Southwest Colt Drive in rural Polo. Firefighters located a body inside. The
victim’s identification is being withheld pending the notification of family
members.

Deputies and firefighters responded to two more house fires,
both considered arson, in the next two hours along the same road. Both of those
houses were vacant.

Allen says it appears all three fires were set.

A dark, four-door passenger vehicle, possibly a black Dodge
Caliber, was spotted near the scene.

Fire departments from Polo, Cameron, Lathrop, Hamilton,
Kingston, and Braymer responded to the fires. 

Allen says the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Cameron
Police Department, the Clinton County Sheriff’s Department, the Ray County Sheriff’s
Department, and the Clay County Sheriff’s Department assisted it in the
investigation.

Anyone with information concerning the fires is encouraged to
call the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Department at 816-586-2681.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostCaldwell County authorities are investigating a series of
three house fires, all considered arson; one fatal.Caldwell County Sheriff Mitchell Allen, in a news release, says
a fire was reported Tuesday morning around 8:30 near Southwest State Route D
and Southwest Colt Drive in rural Polo. Firefighters located a body inside. The
victim’s identification is being withheld pending the notification of family
members.Deputies and firefighters responded to two more house fires,
both considered arson, in the next two hours along the same road. Both of those
houses were vacant.Allen says it appears all three fires were set.A dark, four-door passenger vehicle, possibly a black Dodge
Caliber, was spotted near the scene.Fire departments from Polo, Cameron, Lathrop, Hamilton,
Kingston, and Braymer responded to the fires. Allen says the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Cameron
Police Department, the Clinton County Sheriff’s Department, the Ray County Sheriff’s
Department, and the Clay County Sheriff’s Department assisted it in the
investigation.Anyone with information concerning the fires is encouraged to
call the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Department at 816-586-2681.

Caldwell CO investigating arsons, including one that was fatal

Even for some of the best teams and competitors, there are times when that championship seems just out of reach. It takes longer for some than others.

It took Andy Reid until his 21st year as an NFL head coach to win a Super Bowl. It took Dale Earnhardt 20 tries to win a Daytona 500. It took the Chicago Cubs 108 years.

Take the St. Joseph Central Scholar Bowl team. They had been to the state tournament every year from 2014-2021. They finished fourth twice, third last year and second four times before that.

In three of those seven runs, the Indians were one question away from winning it all. But this year, Central finally broke through. In their eighth consecutive year at state, Central defeated Parkway West of St. Louis 430-310 in Columbia to claim the program's first state championship.

Making what once seemed unattainable a reality.

"We've had two runs like the Buffalo Bills in the 90s," Central coach Jeff Carter said, citing the four straight Super Bowl losses by the Bills. "These kids have worked so hard and they are so deserving of winning this state title. It was just exceptionally rewarding to see them come through and get it done this year."

Carter has been the Scholar Bowl coach at Central for 15 years. He's overseen this nearly decade-long run of dominance. He says the formula for success has stayed more-or-less the same through the years.

"Coaching style is we're just going to work and do our best," Carter said. "We've learned the things that work well for our program and our students. We just try to do the best that we can and we will go anywhere and play in any tournament we can find."

Senior captain Frederick Rivas-Giorgi is in his final days of high school. He's going to Yale this fall, where he'll be a pre-med student studying biology. While he certainly looks forward to the future, he's happy his high school career ended with this state championship.

"It's something we've been working on for the better part of a decade," Rivas-Giorgi said. "I've been working on it for pretty much my entire high school career. So, it really is rewarding. I suppose it is a poetic sense of joy that like, 'Oh wow. My senior year, entering a new stage in life, but this high school career can go out with a bang in a sense that after working for four years, we finally did it.'"

The best part is - Central's season is not yet over. The Indians, who are ranked a program-best 46th in the nation right now, are headed to the national tournament in Atlanta over Memorial Day weekend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652265079343.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostEven for some of the best teams and competitors, there are times when that championship seems just out of reach. It takes longer for some than others.It took Andy Reid until his 21st year as an NFL head coach to win a Super Bowl. It took Dale Earnhardt 20 tries to win a Daytona 500. It took the Chicago Cubs 108 years.Take the St. Joseph Central Scholar Bowl team. They had been to the state tournament every year from 2014-2021. They finished fourth twice, third last year and second four times before that.In three of those seven runs, the Indians were one question away from winning it all. But this year, Central finally broke through. In their eighth consecutive year at state, Central defeated Parkway West of St. Louis 430-310 in Columbia to claim the program's first state championship.Making what once seemed unattainable a reality."We've had two runs like the Buffalo Bills in the 90s," Central coach Jeff Carter said, citing the four straight Super Bowl losses by the Bills. "These kids have worked so hard and they are so deserving of winning this state title. It was just exceptionally rewarding to see them come through and get it done this year."Carter has been the Scholar Bowl coach at Central for 15 years. He's overseen this nearly decade-long run of dominance. He says the formula for success has stayed more-or-less the same through the years."Coaching style is we're just going to work and do our best," Carter said. "We've learned the things that work well for our program and our students. We just try to do the best that we can and we will go anywhere and play in any tournament we can find."Senior captain Frederick Rivas-Giorgi is in his final days of high school. He's going to Yale this fall, where he'll be a pre-med student studying biology. While he certainly looks forward to the future, he's happy his high school career ended with this state championship."It's something we've been working on for the better part of a decade," Rivas-Giorgi said. "I've been working on it for pretty much my entire high school career. So, it really is rewarding. I suppose it is a poetic sense of joy that like, 'Oh wow. My senior year, entering a new stage in life, but this high school career can go out with a bang in a sense that after working for four years, we finally did it.'"The best part is - Central's season is not yet over. The Indians, who are ranked a program-best 46th in the nation right now, are headed to the national tournament in Atlanta over Memorial Day weekend.It was a virtual event last year, but Central showed out well, placing 51st out of roughly 250 teams."Usually with high school sports, once your state tournament is done, that's it," Carter said. "Getting to take it to a next level of national competition and proving ourselves against the best of the best. Like, that's even more exciting for us."Rivas-Giorgi says having that momentum of a state title going into nationals certainly helps."Coming hot off of a state win like this, I mean we've been working our tails off," he said. "We've been doing everything possible to do well at state. Now, I think with all of the preparation we're doing, it's going to be great. Everyone feels really good about this tournament. We go in feeling like, 'Yeah, we're among one of the best teams in Missouri. We can absolutely place against the top teams in other states."The accolades for Central Scholar Bowl this season are remarkable. A 79-16 record, eight straight conference and district titles, and seven consecutive top four finishes at state.While this season is nearly over, coach Carter and Rivas-Giorgi both recognize the hard work that went into winning a state title even years prior, and they hope others may come in and help the Indians win even more hardware in the years to come."This is something we've been building toward and working for for 10 years," Carter reiterated. "Just so grateful I've had so many great kids who have worked hard. I wish I could share that with all of them, because they're all champions to me. They've all done the work to earn this. I just couldn't be prouder of the time I've had working with and coaching the Central Scholar Bowl team."<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/St--Joseph-Central-Scholar-Bowl-breaks-through-at-state--heads-for-nationals-e1ick1t" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652267609439.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Central's scholar bowl team members, along with coach Jeff Carter, are&nbsp;Frederick Rivas-Giorgi, Patrick Rivas-Giorgi, Adam Klassen, Caden Turner, Matthew Byrd and Maverick Nabors. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Central's scholar bowl team members, along with coach Jeff Carter, are&nbsp;Frederick Rivas-Giorgi, Patrick Rivas-Giorgi, Adam Klassen, Caden Turner, Matthew Byrd and Maverick Nabors. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652270887157.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.

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