A
St. Joseph man arrested on suspicion of drunk driving after a fatal crash on
the Belt Highway in mid-January in which a pregnant woman was killed has
pleaded guilty.

The
Buchanan County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office reports 30-year-old Steven Ayala pleaded guilty to Driving While Intoxicated, causing the death of another. Ayala entered an “open” plea to the Class B felony which comes with a range of punishment of five to 15 years in prison.

St.
Joseph police booked Ayala on a charge of driving drunk and causing the death
of another after the accident in the 1500 block of South Belt Highway. Ayala
crashed head-on into a SUV driven by Savannah Domann, who was pregnant. The
crash killed Domann and her unborn child.

Circuit
Judge Patt Robb has scheduled a sentencing hearing for January 23rd.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642450557784.jpeg" alt="Steven Ayala/Buchanan County Sheriff's Dept. photo" />
 <figcaption>Steven Ayala/Buchanan County Sheriff's Dept. photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA
St. Joseph man arrested on suspicion of drunk driving after a fatal crash on
the Belt Highway in mid-January in which a pregnant woman was killed has
pleaded guilty.The
Buchanan County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office reports 30-year-old Steven Ayala pleaded guilty to Driving While Intoxicated, causing the death of another. Ayala entered an “open” plea to the Class B felony which comes with a range of punishment of five to 15 years in prison.St.
Joseph police booked Ayala on a charge of driving drunk and causing the death
of another after the accident in the 1500 block of South Belt Highway. Ayala
crashed head-on into a SUV driven by Savannah Domann, who was pregnant. The
crash killed Domann and her unborn child.Circuit
Judge Patt Robb has scheduled a sentencing hearing for January 23rd.

St. Joseph man pleads guilty in mid-January crash that killed pregnant woman

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man for an alleged violent crime.

On Sunday, police arrested 52-year-old Marlin R. Thomas, Jr. of Atchison, in the 1200 block South 6th Street, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. He remains in custody on requested charges of domestic battery, bodily harm.&nbsp;

In 2009, Thomas was arrested on allegations of drug distribution and DUI, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670885587826.png" alt="Thomas-photo Atchison&nbsp; County" />
 <figcaption>Thomas-photo Atchison&nbsp; County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man for an alleged violent crime.On Sunday, police arrested 52-year-old Marlin R. Thomas, Jr. of Atchison, in the 1200 block South 6th Street, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. He remains in custody on requested charges of domestic battery, bodily harm.&nbsp;In 2009, Thomas was arrested on allegations of drug distribution and DUI, according to online jail records.

Kansas man jailed for alleged domestic battery

St. Joseph mayor John Josendale says he and the city council are hard at work developing new plans to continue St. Joseph growing.  

Josendale says this plan developed by the council will look at how to improve the city over the next three and a half years. 

"If you look at the way the city is set up and our background, there's a group of people that have put together a 2040 plan with the chamber and everyone involved," Josendale tells host of the KFEQ Hotline Barry Birr. "And it gives you kind of a framework of what to do." 

Josendale says the council will look at that 204o plan to decide what issues are important to each councilmember 

"Whether it be blight, whether it be homelessness, whether it be cleanliness, I mean crime, we have a whole gambit of things that we're looking at," Josendale says. 

Josendale says that will then be put into a plan in which the council will be able to measure how successful they are being with each issue.  

Josendale says while the 2040 plan provides a good roadmap for that, each councilmember has their own vision.  

"That everybody's being heard, that we're listening to what the people are talking about and what they really want, so coming together as a group and putting that in an outline form that gives us something to work towards," Josendale explains. "And it is also a document that as we go through the next three and a half years of our term, we can work with that and/or add and subtract from it as we go." 

Josendale says the strategic plan that himself and the council come up with will act as a good starting point for where things should go over the next three years. 

Josendale says this type of plan helps keep a focus on the overall growth of the city. Josendale uses downtown St. Joseph as a perfect example of that. 

"Now that there's a lot of excitement about the Children's Discovery Center, and then you put on top of that the new hotel, and in the paper, there was a design of the outside of the new hotel, so those things and then you build on them," Josendale says. "And how do you build around that so that you continue to grow the city in a positive way." 

Josendale says with all those things happening downtown he's optimistic about the way things are going and is confident it will continue to positively grow. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670866533144.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Mayor John Josendale on the KFEQ Hotline/ Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Mayor John Josendale on the KFEQ Hotline/ Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post St. Joseph mayor John Josendale says he and the city council are hard at work developing new plans to continue St. Joseph growing. Josendale says this plan developed by the council will look at how to improve the city over the next three and a half years. "If you look at the way the city is set up and our background, there's a group of people that have put together a 2040 plan with the chamber and everyone involved," Josendale tells host of the KFEQ Hotline Barry Birr. "And it gives you kind of a framework of what to do." Josendale says the council will look at that 204o plan to decide what issues are important to each councilmember "Whether it be blight, whether it be homelessness, whether it be cleanliness, I mean crime, we have a whole gambit of things that we're looking at," Josendale says. Josendale says that will then be put into a plan in which the council will be able to measure how successful they are being with each issue. Josendale says while the 2040 plan provides a good roadmap for that, each councilmember has their own vision. "That everybody's being heard, that we're listening to what the people are talking about and what they really want, so coming together as a group and putting that in an outline form that gives us something to work towards," Josendale explains. "And it is also a document that as we go through the next three and a half years of our term, we can work with that and/or add and subtract from it as we go." Josendale says the strategic plan that himself and the council come up with will act as a good starting point for where things should go over the next three years. Josendale says this type of plan helps keep a focus on the overall growth of the city. Josendale uses downtown St. Joseph as a perfect example of that. "Now that there's a lot of excitement about the Children's Discovery Center, and then you put on top of that the new hotel, and in the paper, there was a design of the outside of the new hotel, so those things and then you build on them," Josendale says. "And how do you build around that so that you continue to grow the city in a positive way." Josendale says with all those things happening downtown he's optimistic about the way things are going and is confident it will continue to positively grow.

Mayor Josendale says council focused on St. Joseph growth

Water releases
from Gavins Point Dam upstream on the Missouri River are being lowered as the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers prepares the river for winter.

Chief of Missouri
River Basin Water Management, John Remus, says with the end of the navigation
season on the Missouri River, releases from the Gavins Point Dam are being
lowered to 12,000 cubic feet per second. Remus says drought in the upper
Missouri River Basin cut flows from Gavins Point throughout the summer.

“During the
navigation support season, we were at minimum service or close to minimum
service for all of 2021,” Remus tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “So, we were in a water
conservation mode, providing a little bit less flow support for navigation downstream
of Gavins.”

Remus says the
Corps will closely monitor the flow of the Missouri River this winter, watching
to adjust water flows if ice jams form on the river. Ice jams can lower the
Missouri River level below intake valves used to service municipal water systems.

Remus says the
current flow of 13,000 cubic feet per second will be dropped, until rising
again for the spring and summer navigation season.

“The reservoirs
are drawn down, but there’s still a lot of water in the multiple use carryover
zone or the conservation storage,” according to Remus. “We will be able to
support navigation, probably at a minimum level, come next spring.”

Remus says though
the stubborn drought in the upper Missouri River Basin has reduced flows into
the six upstream Missouri River dams, the system is prepared to handle
lingering drought.

“We’ll see where
Mother Nature takes us next year,” Remus says. “The system is doing what it’s designed
to do and that is provide support to the basin through a long drought.”

Remus says it is
too early to forecast whether the drought will continue and force the Corps to
cut springs releases into the Missouri River. He says that depends on mountain
snowpack this winter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670860350167.jpeg" alt="Gavins Point Dam/file photo" />
 <figcaption>Gavins Point Dam/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostWater releases
from Gavins Point Dam upstream on the Missouri River are being lowered as the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers prepares the river for winter.Chief of Missouri
River Basin Water Management, John Remus, says with the end of the navigation
season on the Missouri River, releases from the Gavins Point Dam are being
lowered to 12,000 cubic feet per second. Remus says drought in the upper
Missouri River Basin cut flows from Gavins Point throughout the summer.“During the
navigation support season, we were at minimum service or close to minimum
service for all of 2021,” Remus tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “So, we were in a water
conservation mode, providing a little bit less flow support for navigation downstream
of Gavins.”Remus says the
Corps will closely monitor the flow of the Missouri River this winter, watching
to adjust water flows if ice jams form on the river. Ice jams can lower the
Missouri River level below intake valves used to service municipal water systems.Remus says the
current flow of 13,000 cubic feet per second will be dropped, until rising
again for the spring and summer navigation season.“The reservoirs
are drawn down, but there’s still a lot of water in the multiple use carryover
zone or the conservation storage,” according to Remus. “We will be able to
support navigation, probably at a minimum level, come next spring.”Remus says though
the stubborn drought in the upper Missouri River Basin has reduced flows into
the six upstream Missouri River dams, the system is prepared to handle
lingering drought.“We’ll see where
Mother Nature takes us next year,” Remus says. “The system is doing what it’s designed
to do and that is provide support to the basin through a long drought.”Remus says it is
too early to forecast whether the drought will continue and force the Corps to
cut springs releases into the Missouri River. He says that depends on mountain
snowpack this winter.

Water releases upstream on the Missouri River being lowered for winter

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man jailed in September for alleged aggravated battery, DUI on new charges.

On Thursday, police arrested 48-year-old&nbsp;Dale E. Myers, Jr. of Topeka, on a Community Corrections detain order, according Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp;

In November, police arrested Myers for an alleged bond violation following his Sept. arrest. He is being held&nbsp; without bond, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670606793145.png" alt="Myers-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Myers-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man jailed in September for alleged aggravated battery, DUI on new charges.On Thursday, police arrested 48-year-old&nbsp;Dale E. Myers, Jr. of Topeka, on a Community Corrections detain order, according Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp; In November, police arrested Myers for an alleged bond violation following his Sept. arrest. He is being held&nbsp; without bond, according to online jail records.

Kansas man jailed for alleged felony probation violation

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Kidney donor and Hays Middle School assistant principal Shauna Zweifel.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oruRTdNgg2U" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Kidney donor and Hays Middle School assistant principal Shauna Zweifel.

🎤 Forward Ever: Kidney donor, Hays assistant principal Shauna Zweifel

Filing for a position on the St. Joseph School Board is open.

The filing period for two open school board seats runs through
December 27th at 5 o’clock.

St. Joseph School Superintendent Gabe Edgar encourages St.
Joseph School District voters to consider running.

“I would like to see a candidate that has a vision for the
school district,” Edgar tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.

Edgar says, at present, the district is concentrating on attendance
and academics.

“What I would like to see is somebody that has a vision that
kind of ties to that,” Edgar says.

A candidate must be at least 24 and a resident of the district
for at least one year. A candidate cannot be behind in taxes, a felon, or a registered
sex offender. All campaign disclosure reports must be filed with the Missouri
Ethics Commission.

Running for school board goes beyond such candidate criteria,
according to Edgar, who says the school board plays a major role in given the
administration direction.

“I think it’s important that school board members understand
the job that they have in front of them and that’s to manage me as a superintendent
of schools, to create policy, and to hold each other accountable for following
policy,” according to Edgar.

Edgar says though being a member of the school board has its challenges,
it can be very rewarding.

“I think it’s important that a board member come in, have an
open mind and that they’re there for the right reasons,” Edgar says. “And then it
can be very rewarding in the end.”

So far, Community Action Partnership Executive Director
Whitney Lanning and firearms safety instructor Shawn Harper have filed.

Meanwhile, the St. Joseph School District issued a statement that it is aware of allegations that inaccurate tax information is included on a candidate's declaration forms. The district says it has notified the state, which will review the matter. If the allegations prove true, the candidate will have the opportunity to make corrects to the declarations forms.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostFiling for a position on the St. Joseph School Board is open.The filing period for two open school board seats runs through
December 27th at 5 o’clock.St. Joseph School Superintendent Gabe Edgar encourages St.
Joseph School District voters to consider running.“I would like to see a candidate that has a vision for the
school district,” Edgar tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.Edgar says, at present, the district is concentrating on attendance
and academics.“What I would like to see is somebody that has a vision that
kind of ties to that,” Edgar says.A candidate must be at least 24 and a resident of the district
for at least one year. A candidate cannot be behind in taxes, a felon, or a registered
sex offender. All campaign disclosure reports must be filed with the Missouri
Ethics Commission.Running for school board goes beyond such candidate criteria,
according to Edgar, who says the school board plays a major role in given the
administration direction.“I think it’s important that school board members understand
the job that they have in front of them and that’s to manage me as a superintendent
of schools, to create policy, and to hold each other accountable for following
policy,” according to Edgar.Edgar says though being a member of the school board has its challenges,
it can be very rewarding.“I think it’s important that a board member come in, have an
open mind and that they’re there for the right reasons,” Edgar says. “And then it
can be very rewarding in the end.”So far, Community Action Partnership Executive Director
Whitney Lanning and firearms safety instructor Shawn Harper have filed.The election will be held April 4th.Meanwhile, the St. Joseph School District issued a statement that it is aware of allegations that inaccurate tax information is included on a candidate's declaration forms. The district says it has notified the state, which will review the matter. If the allegations prove true, the candidate will have the opportunity to make corrects to the declarations forms.

Filing period open to run for St. Joseph School Board

A local church will celebrate the reason for the season by bringing back an annual tradition for its 31st year.  

The Wyatt Park Christian Church Christmas Tableau will begin this evening and tomorrow, running from 6:30 to 8:30 pm both nights 

Co-Chair of the event Michelle Vandevort says members of Wyatt Park call this event the church's gift to the St. Joseph community.  

"So often during the Christmas season people get wrapped up in the presents, and Santa, and all those things, but this truly is putting the real meaning into Christmas," Vandevort tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So, a lot of families really enjoy going out and seeing the lights in town and then driving through and adding that piece of Christmas to their celebration." 

Cars will enter the tableau at the intersection of 27th and Penn Street in St. Joseph.  Narration can be tuned into on a smart device while driving through. 

Vandevort says this year visitors of the tableau will travel along the backside of the church, rather than the outside circle. 

"So, we have a lot more green space and so we're able to add more animals to it," Vandevort says.  

Vandevort hopes this change will provide a more intimate experience 

"Because the scenes we've pulled them in and it's more of like a little snapshot in each one of these scenes," Vandevort explains. 

Vandevort says they see several people that come every year, and many that drive thru for the first time.  To keep it fresh, Vandevort says every couple year’s the church will make some changes. 

"The story is always the same but visually what you see and what you hear, because there's a recording that goes along with it that's brand new this year, so that adds to the excitement of it I think," Vandevort says.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670523569766.jpeg" alt="The Wyatt Park Christian Church Christmas Tableau returns for its 31st year this weekend/ Photo courtesy of Michelle Vandevort" />
 <figcaption>The Wyatt Park Christian Church Christmas Tableau returns for its 31st year this weekend/ Photo courtesy of Michelle Vandevort</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post A local church will celebrate the reason for the season by bringing back an annual tradition for its 31st year. The Wyatt Park Christian Church Christmas Tableau will begin this evening and tomorrow, running from 6:30 to 8:30 pm both nights Co-Chair of the event Michelle Vandevort says members of Wyatt Park call this event the church's gift to the St. Joseph community. "So often during the Christmas season people get wrapped up in the presents, and Santa, and all those things, but this truly is putting the real meaning into Christmas," Vandevort tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So, a lot of families really enjoy going out and seeing the lights in town and then driving through and adding that piece of Christmas to their celebration." Cars will enter the tableau at the intersection of 27th and Penn Street in St. Joseph. Narration can be tuned into on a smart device while driving through. Vandevort says this year visitors of the tableau will travel along the backside of the church, rather than the outside circle. "So, we have a lot more green space and so we're able to add more animals to it," Vandevort says. Vandevort hopes this change will provide a more intimate experience "Because the scenes we've pulled them in and it's more of like a little snapshot in each one of these scenes," Vandevort explains. Vandevort says they see several people that come every year, and many that drive thru for the first time. To keep it fresh, Vandevort says every couple year’s the church will make some changes. "The story is always the same but visually what you see and what you hear, because there's a recording that goes along with it that's brand new this year, so that adds to the excitement of it I think," Vandevort says.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670523624623.jpeg" alt="One of several scenes that visitors will see at the Christmas Tableau at Wyatt Park Christian Church/ Photo courtesy of Michelle Vandevort" />
 <figcaption>One of several scenes that visitors will see at the Christmas Tableau at Wyatt Park Christian Church/ Photo courtesy of Michelle Vandevort</figcaption>
 </figure>

Wyatt Park Christian Church brings its live nativity back for 31st year

Tyler Fenwick made memories to last a lifetime during his six years as the Missouri Western football team's offensive coordinator from 2007-2012.

Not only did the Griffons go a combined 53-18 during that time and average 35.1 points per game in the process, but Fenwick developed lasting relationships with players, alums and community members.

Relationships that would ultimately, a decade later, pave his road back to St. Joseph as the seventh head coach in Missouri Western football history.

He credits his old boss, former Missouri Western head coach Jerry Partridge, for making it possible.

"He gave me the opportunity to run the offense here," Fenwick said Thursday at his introductory press conference at the Griffon Indoor Sports Complex.

"He allowed me to coach his son (quarterback Travis Partridge). We had a lot of success here and a lot of fun and the staff we had here, they're memories you don't forget."

Missouri Western athletic director Andy Carter made the announcement on November 13, one day after the 2022 season ended, that there would be a change in leadership for Griffon football.

Over a span of just 24 days, Carter worked with Russell Wright and Collegiate Consulting to navigate through a field of over 100 candidates who applied.

On Thanksgiving night, Carter narrowed the field from 100 candidates to 11. By the evening of Black Friday, that list was narrowed to seven.

The more he heard from and heard about Tyler Fenwick, the more convinced Carter was that Missouri Western found their guy. Fenwick was announced the Griffons' head coach on December 6.

"A real kicker on the back end of this was that he had been here before," Carter said. "He had seen us have success and had been a part of that success. He's tied into the alums. That wasn't the primary part of this, but that put it over the top for me. The candidate pool was crazy good."

For Fenwick, who coached Southeastern Oklahoma State in the Live United Bowl this past Saturday, the process of accepting the job and getting to his introductory press conference all culminated in less than a week's time.

"It was like, 'Hey, do you want the job? Yes, I want the job. Okay, be here tomorrow, let's get this going,'" Fenwick explained. "We drove up here (Wednesday) night, and lo and behold with three kids, we had to go to Target to make sure we got some pants."

Fenwick has accumulated 10 years of head coaching experience since leaving Missouri Western in 2012. He was the head coach of Division II Missouri S&amp;T in Rolla from 2013-2018.

Taking over a Miners program that had just five winning seasons from 1986-2012, Fenwick led S&amp;T to a 10-2 season in 2018 and took the program to just its second bowl game appearance in history.

That season earned him the honor of Great Lakes Valley Conference Coach of the Year.

In 2019, Fenwick took the head coaching job at Southeastern Oklahoma State - a DII school in the Great American Conference.

After a 1-10 record in '19, and after COVID-19 canceled the 2020 season, a combined 31 starters and second string players&nbsp; stayed and helped Fenwick lead the Savage Storm to a 9-3 finish and a Live United Bowl victory over Emporia State in 2021.

That season earned him the honor of Great American Conference Coach of the Year.

"I've been a head coach now for 10 years," Fenwick said. "Which seems like it's flown by. Doesn't feel like it's been that long. I've been a head coach now at two different institutions. Both great places and both allowed me to be who I am."

Fenwick inherits a Missouri Western team coming off of a 5-6 season in 2022 - the Griffons' first losing season since 2017. He inherits a roster of 93 total players, though numerous Griffons have since entered the transfer portal, including sophomore running back and last year's MIAA Freshman of the Year Brandon Hall.

More over, Missouri Western football hasn't been to the playoffs since&nbsp; 2012 - Fenwick's last year as offensive coordinator. While it's hard to know exactly when the Griffons will get back to that point, Fenwick took this job to fully embrace that challenge, going against a stout MIAA conference.

"I've got to make sure I put the surrounding people around me and have the roster so we can compete with the big dogs in the MIAA," Fenwick said. "It's a tough conference. Every week is a tough week. That's why we get into coaching. That's the challenge and competition of it."

Missouri Western football is a member of perhaps the best DII conference in the nation with top notch facilities. Its campus, 50 minutes north of Kansas City, has been the host of Kansas City Chiefs training camp for over a decade.

The location, revenue, resources and passion are all there. Now, Fenwick hopes to unleash the program's potential, and lead the Griffons back to where they haven't been since he left in 2012 - competing for an MIAA title. Getting into the playoffs. Winning playoff games.

"It's going to come down to building a culture and staff and development system and coaching these guys up to let them be successful," Fenwick said. 

"I can tell you the team we put on the field in September is going to be a physical football team, a fast football team and a disciplined football team. All of those things, that's a process you have to go through."

Carter confirmed that co-offensive coordinator and offensive line coach Patrick St. Louis was retained and helped run the recruiting and day-to-day activities of the program.

Graduate assistants Dalton Franks, Clay Marshall, Bryce Bailey and Ace Ventura also stayed back to help with those things. The shape of the future staff, Carter says, will be up to Fenwick.

"He loves the program and is an alum," Carter said of coach St. Louis. "He's done a fantastic job for us and keeping things on the rails and moving forward and communicating with our recruits and student-athletes. At the end of the day, coach Fenwick will decide who's on staff."

Fenwick had his first team meeting on Thursday afternoon following the press conference.&nbsp;

Fenwick's record as a head coach is 53-48. He was 37-29 at Missouri S&amp;T from 2013-2018, and 16-19 at SEOSU from 2019-2022.

The Savage Storm, like MWSU, played two unofficial games in 2020. One of those was a 12-9 win over Emporia State in the spring of 2021 in a scrimmage.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670535921063.jpeg" alt="MWSU football Tyler Fenwick delivers remarks at his opening press conference at the Griffon Indoor Sports Complex Thursday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>MWSU football Tyler Fenwick delivers remarks at his opening press conference at the Griffon Indoor Sports Complex Thursday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostTyler Fenwick made memories to last a lifetime during his six years as the Missouri Western football team's offensive coordinator from 2007-2012.Not only did the Griffons go a combined 53-18 during that time and average 35.1 points per game in the process, but Fenwick developed lasting relationships with players, alums and community members.Relationships that would ultimately, a decade later, pave his road back to St. Joseph as the seventh head coach in Missouri Western football history.He credits his old boss, former Missouri Western head coach Jerry Partridge, for making it possible."He gave me the opportunity to run the offense here," Fenwick said Thursday at his introductory press conference at the Griffon Indoor Sports Complex."He allowed me to coach his son (quarterback Travis Partridge). We had a lot of success here and a lot of fun and the staff we had here, they're memories you don't forget."Missouri Western athletic director Andy Carter made the announcement on November 13, one day after the 2022 season ended, that there would be a change in leadership for Griffon football.Over a span of just 24 days, Carter worked with Russell Wright and Collegiate Consulting to navigate through a field of over 100 candidates who applied.On Thanksgiving night, Carter narrowed the field from 100 candidates to 11. By the evening of Black Friday, that list was narrowed to seven.The more he heard from and heard about Tyler Fenwick, the more convinced Carter was that Missouri Western found their guy. Fenwick was announced the Griffons' head coach on December 6."A real kicker on the back end of this was that he had been here before," Carter said. "He had seen us have success and had been a part of that success. He's tied into the alums. That wasn't the primary part of this, but that put it over the top for me. The candidate pool was crazy good."For Fenwick, who coached Southeastern Oklahoma State in the Live United Bowl this past Saturday, the process of accepting the job and getting to his introductory press conference all culminated in less than a week's time."It was like, 'Hey, do you want the job? Yes, I want the job. Okay, be here tomorrow, let's get this going,'" Fenwick explained. "We drove up here (Wednesday) night, and lo and behold with three kids, we had to go to Target to make sure we got some pants."Fenwick has accumulated 10 years of head coaching experience since leaving Missouri Western in 2012. He was the head coach of Division II Missouri S&amp;T in Rolla from 2013-2018.Taking over a Miners program that had just five winning seasons from 1986-2012, Fenwick led S&amp;T to a 10-2 season in 2018 and took the program to just its second bowl game appearance in history.That season earned him the honor of Great Lakes Valley Conference Coach of the Year.In 2019, Fenwick took the head coaching job at Southeastern Oklahoma State - a DII school in the Great American Conference.After a 1-10 record in '19, and after COVID-19 canceled the 2020 season, a combined 31 starters and second string players&nbsp; stayed and helped Fenwick lead the Savage Storm to a 9-3 finish and a Live United Bowl victory over Emporia State in 2021.That season earned him the honor of Great American Conference Coach of the Year."I've been a head coach now for 10 years," Fenwick said. "Which seems like it's flown by. Doesn't feel like it's been that long. I've been a head coach now at two different institutions. Both great places and both allowed me to be who I am."Fenwick inherits a Missouri Western team coming off of a 5-6 season in 2022 - the Griffons' first losing season since 2017. He inherits a roster of 93 total players, though numerous Griffons have since entered the transfer portal, including sophomore running back and last year's MIAA Freshman of the Year Brandon Hall.More over, Missouri Western football hasn't been to the playoffs since&nbsp; 2012 - Fenwick's last year as offensive coordinator. While it's hard to know exactly when the Griffons will get back to that point, Fenwick took this job to fully embrace that challenge, going against a stout MIAA conference."I've got to make sure I put the surrounding people around me and have the roster so we can compete with the big dogs in the MIAA," Fenwick said. "It's a tough conference. Every week is a tough week. That's why we get into coaching. That's the challenge and competition of it."Missouri Western football is a member of perhaps the best DII conference in the nation with top notch facilities. Its campus, 50 minutes north of Kansas City, has been the host of Kansas City Chiefs training camp for over a decade.The location, revenue, resources and passion are all there. Now, Fenwick hopes to unleash the program's potential, and lead the Griffons back to where they haven't been since he left in 2012 - competing for an MIAA title. Getting into the playoffs. Winning playoff games."It's going to come down to building a culture and staff and development system and coaching these guys up to let them be successful," Fenwick said. "I can tell you the team we put on the field in September is going to be a physical football team, a fast football team and a disciplined football team. All of those things, that's a process you have to go through."Other news and notesCarter confirmed that co-offensive coordinator and offensive line coach Patrick St. Louis was retained and helped run the recruiting and day-to-day activities of the program.Graduate assistants Dalton Franks, Clay Marshall, Bryce Bailey and Ace Ventura also stayed back to help with those things. The shape of the future staff, Carter says, will be up to Fenwick."He loves the program and is an alum," Carter said of coach St. Louis. "He's done a fantastic job for us and keeping things on the rails and moving forward and communicating with our recruits and student-athletes. At the end of the day, coach Fenwick will decide who's on staff."Fenwick had his first team meeting on Thursday afternoon following the press conference.&nbsp;Fenwick's record as a head coach is 53-48. He was 37-29 at Missouri S&amp;T from 2013-2018, and 16-19 at SEOSU from 2019-2022.The Savage Storm, like MWSU, played two unofficial games in 2020. One of those was a 12-9 win over Emporia State in the spring of 2021 in a scrimmage.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670537661229.jpeg" alt="MWSU athletic director Andy Carter addresses the room at the Griffon Indoor Sports Complex on Thursday before introducing Tyler Fenwick as the Griffons' next head football coach. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>MWSU athletic director Andy Carter addresses the room at the Griffon Indoor Sports Complex on Thursday before introducing Tyler Fenwick as the Griffons' next head football coach. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670537780491.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western president Elizabeth Kennedy delivers remarks Thursday at the Griffon Indoor Sports Complex." />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western president Elizabeth Kennedy delivers remarks Thursday at the Griffon Indoor Sports Complex.</figcaption>
 </figure>AUDIO<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/MWSU-football-coach-Tyler-Fenwick-media-QA---12822-e1rvqc3" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/MWSU-athletic-director-Andy-Carter-media-QA---12822-e1rvqfo" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Fast, physical, disciplined - Tyler Fenwick's vision as MWSU's football coach

A movie filmed in St. Joseph is now available to rent or buy.

Producer Jason Hudson says “Accidental Family” is a showcase
for St. Joseph.

“River Bluff Brewing is a big one. Krug Park, actually,”
Hudson says of the pieces of St. Joseph featured in the movie. “When you watch
it, if you’re from St. Joe you’ll go, ‘Oh my gosh,’ it is a love letter to St.
Joe.”

Hudson has had success in St. Joseph before, producing
“Christmas at the Chateau,” which landed on Showtime. It was filmed at the
Shakespeare Chateau.

Actor Justen Jones calls “Accidental Family” a love letter to
St. Joseph.

“There’s something for everyone,” Jones says. “Even if you don’t
like the story, the fact that there’s so much St. Joe in the movie, makes it
worth the watch right there.”

Jones and Hudson tell host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline they
hope the community enjoys the movie.

“Accidental Family” is the second movie Clear Light has filmed
in St. Joseph. The company also made “Christmas at the Chateau,” which was
centered on the Shakespeare Chateau just off of downtown St. Joseph.

Hudson and Jones encourage everyone from the St. Joseph area
to give “Accidental Family” a look.

“I think you’ll enjoy the movie and you’ll get excited to go,
man, this was made in St. Joe. This is incredible,” Hudson says.

“You just nailed it right there,” Jones follows. “It’s a St.
Joe proud event. So, if you’re proud to be here. If you really want to rally
behind St. Joe, this is still the beginning of great things to come.”

Clear Light Entertainment has plans to produce even more
content in St. Joseph, though future projects are uncertain.

“Accidental Family” had its premiere at the Missouri Theatre
in St. Joseph in August of last year.

You can learn more about “Accidental Family” and other Clear
Light projects by going to its website <a href="http://www.clearlightmovies.com">www.clearlightmovies.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670518087299.jpeg" alt="The cast of Accidental Family at the Missouri Theatre during the movie's premiere/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>The cast of Accidental Family at the Missouri Theatre during the movie's premiere/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA movie filmed in St. Joseph is now available to rent or buy.Producer Jason Hudson says “Accidental Family” is a showcase
for St. Joseph.“River Bluff Brewing is a big one. Krug Park, actually,”
Hudson says of the pieces of St. Joseph featured in the movie. “When you watch
it, if you’re from St. Joe you’ll go, ‘Oh my gosh,’ it is a love letter to St.
Joe.”Hudson has had success in St. Joseph before, producing
“Christmas at the Chateau,” which landed on Showtime. It was filmed at the
Shakespeare Chateau.Actor Justen Jones calls “Accidental Family” a love letter to
St. Joseph.“There’s something for everyone,” Jones says. “Even if you don’t
like the story, the fact that there’s so much St. Joe in the movie, makes it
worth the watch right there.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670518189375.jpeg" alt="Producer Jason Hudson speaks with actor Justen Jones at the premiere of Accidental Family/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Producer Jason Hudson speaks with actor Justen Jones at the premiere of Accidental Family/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>Jones and Hudson tell host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline they
hope the community enjoys the movie.“Accidental Family” is the second movie Clear Light has filmed
in St. Joseph. The company also made “Christmas at the Chateau,” which was
centered on the Shakespeare Chateau just off of downtown St. Joseph.Hudson and Jones encourage everyone from the St. Joseph area
to give “Accidental Family” a look.“I think you’ll enjoy the movie and you’ll get excited to go,
man, this was made in St. Joe. This is incredible,” Hudson says.“You just nailed it right there,” Jones follows. “It’s a St.
Joe proud event. So, if you’re proud to be here. If you really want to rally
behind St. Joe, this is still the beginning of great things to come.”Clear Light Entertainment has plans to produce even more
content in St. Joseph, though future projects are uncertain.“Accidental Family” had its premiere at the Missouri Theatre
in St. Joseph in August of last year.You can learn more about “Accidental Family” and other Clear
Light projects by going to its website <a href="http://www.clearlightmovies.com">www.clearlightmovies.com</a>.

Movie called a love letter to St. Joe now available to the public

A state official from Missouri says a levee project in Holt County shows a relationship shift between the state and the US Army Corps of Engineers. &nbsp;

Director Dru Buntin, with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, says the change in the relationship started when Missouri Governor Mike Parson called for a meeting between the governors of Kansas, Iowa, and Nebraska.&nbsp;

"And really charged all of the state agency staff in all four states to, how do we look at doing something different that's going to reduce these impacts in the future," Buntin tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So that was part of it, the other part was the general assembly appropriated dollars for the state to assist with rebuilding levees that were damaged."&nbsp;

The state covered 75% of the costs to help repair those levees.&nbsp;

Buntin says following the meeting between governors, Parson came back with the goal of focusing on what the state can do to help prevent floods. &nbsp;

Buntin says that renewed focus has only helped in strengthening the relationship with the Corps.&nbsp;

"With the ability to bring some dollars to the table to help land owners, levee districts, local government, look at how can we help you implement something based on your knowledge of how these floods impact you locally, how can the state come in and help you develop a project," Buntin explains. "And that's really the point we're at today."&nbsp;

Buntin says the agreement for the project in Holt County will focus on working to develop projects to help make things better for the next flood event. &nbsp;

Buntin says this project in Holt County is unique. &nbsp;

"Usually, we would have to wait until the entire lower river study is complete before we can develop a project in an area like Holt County," Buntin says. "What the delegation, and what has taken so long, is to be able to move forward in Holt County at the same time we're having those discussions and not wait."&nbsp;

Buntin says that is a great help towards the Holt County community, which was greatly affected by the 2019 flood.&nbsp;

"Because really, when we go out and talk to people that are impacted during these floods, the last thing they want to hear about is a new study that's going to take years," Buntin says.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670517009295.jpeg" alt="Flooding in Craig during the 2019 flood/ File photo" />
 <figcaption>Flooding in Craig during the 2019 flood/ File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;A state official from Missouri says a levee project in Holt County shows a relationship shift between the state and the US Army Corps of Engineers. &nbsp;Director Dru Buntin, with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, says the change in the relationship started when Missouri Governor Mike Parson called for a meeting between the governors of Kansas, Iowa, and Nebraska.&nbsp;"And really charged all of the state agency staff in all four states to, how do we look at doing something different that's going to reduce these impacts in the future," Buntin tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So that was part of it, the other part was the general assembly appropriated dollars for the state to assist with rebuilding levees that were damaged."&nbsp;The state covered 75% of the costs to help repair those levees.&nbsp;Buntin says following the meeting between governors, Parson came back with the goal of focusing on what the state can do to help prevent floods. &nbsp;Buntin says that renewed focus has only helped in strengthening the relationship with the Corps.&nbsp;"With the ability to bring some dollars to the table to help land owners, levee districts, local government, look at how can we help you implement something based on your knowledge of how these floods impact you locally, how can the state come in and help you develop a project," Buntin explains. "And that's really the point we're at today."&nbsp;Buntin says the agreement for the project in Holt County will focus on working to develop projects to help make things better for the next flood event. &nbsp;Buntin says this project in Holt County is unique. &nbsp;"Usually, we would have to wait until the entire lower river study is complete before we can develop a project in an area like Holt County," Buntin says. "What the delegation, and what has taken so long, is to be able to move forward in Holt County at the same time we're having those discussions and not wait."&nbsp;Buntin says that is a great help towards the Holt County community, which was greatly affected by the 2019 flood.&nbsp;"Because really, when we go out and talk to people that are impacted during these floods, the last thing they want to hear about is a new study that's going to take years," Buntin says.&nbsp;

Missouri hopes work on Holt County levee demonstrates improved relationship with Corps

O'FALLON, Mo. (AP) — As of Thursday, it's lawful for adults to possess and use marijuana in Missouri. That doesn't mean you can legally buy it just yet, or use it everywhere.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/82a662ba82bb4c8c9c858b7565ff7f95">Medical marijuana</a>&nbsp;has been legal in the state since a ballot measure passed in 2018, but voters went a step further this November by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-legalization-2022-midterm-elections-c693f5e23e0faf2f39168df6a2f80ab2">approving a constitutional amendment</a>&nbsp;legalizing the drug for anyone 21 or older. The new law makes Missouri the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-health-missouri-marijuana-government-and-politics-9e980221d47993b409629088ad1768bd">21st state to allow recreational use</a>.

The change comes with some confusion. For one thing, dispensaries can't yet sell for recreational use. People will eventually be able to grow their own, but applications to do so won't be taken until next month. And places such as schools and businesses can still prohibit the drug.

John Mueller, co-founder of Greenlight Dispensaries, said the company's 15 Missouri shops are getting calls from people confused about the new law and why they can't yet buy it from the dispensaries.

“I think everybody’s anxious and excited about adult use,” said Mueller, whose company plans to add 300 jobs at cultivation, manufacturing and dispensary locations for the expected uptick in business. “Every dollar we sell is a dollar that doesn’t go to the black market.”

Recreational users are also calling and emailing the Missouri Wild Alchemy dispensary in O’Fallon, owner Jason Crady said — “24-7.”

“There’s a lot of buzz about it," said Crady, who is busy hiring and training staff in preparation for recreational sales.

Existing medical dispensaries will eventually be allowed to sell to recreational users, but the agency hasn't determined when that will be. John Payne, a leader of the campaign to legalize marijuana, said recreational sales will likely begin in February.

The state is expected to issue an additional 144 dispensary licenses by early 2025.

Spokeswoman Lisa Cox of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, which regulates marijuana, said personal cultivation application forms will be available Jan. 7 for people who want to grow a limited amount of their own.

Some places will continue to prohibit lighting up. Among them: the four campuses of the University of Missouri System. The system cited two federal laws — the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act and the Drug-Free Workplace Act — on Wednesday in announcing a continued prohibition of marijuana on campuses and at university-sponsored events. Student violators could face discipline up to expulsion.

Legalization is concerning for some in law enforcement who worry it will mean more impaired drivers.

Kevin Merritt, executive director of the Missouri Sheriffs' Association, said marijuana impairment is more difficult for police to assess because there is nothing comparable to blood-alcohol tests that determine intoxication levels in people who have been drinking.

“Basically, what do they (officers) observe of the vehicle operation?" Merritt said. “What did the officer smell and observe when they got up to the car? What kind of movements, or impaired movements, did he or she see in the operation of the vehicle to make a case that the person is impaired?"

The amendment also requires expungement of criminal records for most people incarcerated or on probation for a misdemeanor marijuana offense, a process expected to be completed by mid-2023.

It's part of a broader move toward decriminalizing low-level marijuana crimes that has gained steam in recent years.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-marijuana-government-and-politics-2d5e3d9e2cfbbbe3ee114536738894a8">President Joe Biden announced in October</a>&nbsp;that he was pardoning thousands of Americans convicted of simple possession under federal law. Kansas City and St. Louis are among jurisdictions that have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/6f09ce3e02c7498d90a97dcd14282517">stopped prosecuting misdemeanor possession</a>.

Dispensaries in Missouri are expecting to see lots of out-of-state buyers. Missouri is bordered by eight states, only one of which — Illinois — allows recreational marijuana sales.

Payne projects that once the program is fully up and running, Missouri will see annual sales of up to $1.3 billion.

Ron Burch, 36, of the southwestern Missouri town of Joplin, already has a medical marijuana card. He knows demand will be strong for recreational pot.

“Looking forward to February, it’s going to be a mad rush to fill all the shelves for the people that are going to be pounding down the doors to buy product,” Burch said.

Larry Stiffelman, who owns a medical dispensary in the eastern Missouri town of St. Clair, said recreational sales will be vital since, due to high taxation, his business is still struggling to make a profit.

“I can tell you that the sales will probably triple or quadruple per store,” Stiffelman said. “So it’s huge as far as the volume of business.”

O'FALLON, Mo. (AP) — As of Thursday, it's lawful for adults to possess and use marijuana in Missouri. That doesn't mean you can legally buy it just yet, or use it everywhere.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/82a662ba82bb4c8c9c858b7565ff7f95">Medical marijuana</a>&nbsp;has been legal in the state since a ballot measure passed in 2018, but voters went a step further this November by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-legalization-2022-midterm-elections-c693f5e23e0faf2f39168df6a2f80ab2">approving a constitutional amendment</a>&nbsp;legalizing the drug for anyone 21 or older. The new law makes Missouri the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-health-missouri-marijuana-government-and-politics-9e980221d47993b409629088ad1768bd">21st state to allow recreational use</a>.The change comes with some confusion. For one thing, dispensaries can't yet sell for recreational use. People will eventually be able to grow their own, but applications to do so won't be taken until next month. And places such as schools and businesses can still prohibit the drug.John Mueller, co-founder of Greenlight Dispensaries, said the company's 15 Missouri shops are getting calls from people confused about the new law and why they can't yet buy it from the dispensaries.“I think everybody’s anxious and excited about adult use,” said Mueller, whose company plans to add 300 jobs at cultivation, manufacturing and dispensary locations for the expected uptick in business. “Every dollar we sell is a dollar that doesn’t go to the black market.”Recreational users are also calling and emailing the Missouri Wild Alchemy dispensary in O’Fallon, owner Jason Crady said — “24-7.”“There’s a lot of buzz about it," said Crady, who is busy hiring and training staff in preparation for recreational sales.Existing medical dispensaries will eventually be allowed to sell to recreational users, but the agency hasn't determined when that will be. John Payne, a leader of the campaign to legalize marijuana, said recreational sales will likely begin in February.The state is expected to issue an additional 144 dispensary licenses by early 2025.Spokeswoman Lisa Cox of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, which regulates marijuana, said personal cultivation application forms will be available Jan. 7 for people who want to grow a limited amount of their own.Some places will continue to prohibit lighting up. Among them: the four campuses of the University of Missouri System. The system cited two federal laws — the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act and the Drug-Free Workplace Act — on Wednesday in announcing a continued prohibition of marijuana on campuses and at university-sponsored events. Student violators could face discipline up to expulsion.Legalization is concerning for some in law enforcement who worry it will mean more impaired drivers.Kevin Merritt, executive director of the Missouri Sheriffs' Association, said marijuana impairment is more difficult for police to assess because there is nothing comparable to blood-alcohol tests that determine intoxication levels in people who have been drinking.“Basically, what do they (officers) observe of the vehicle operation?" Merritt said. “What did the officer smell and observe when they got up to the car? What kind of movements, or impaired movements, did he or she see in the operation of the vehicle to make a case that the person is impaired?"The amendment also requires expungement of criminal records for most people incarcerated or on probation for a misdemeanor marijuana offense, a process expected to be completed by mid-2023.It's part of a broader move toward decriminalizing low-level marijuana crimes that has gained steam in recent years.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-marijuana-government-and-politics-2d5e3d9e2cfbbbe3ee114536738894a8">President Joe Biden announced in October</a>&nbsp;that he was pardoning thousands of Americans convicted of simple possession under federal law. Kansas City and St. Louis are among jurisdictions that have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/6f09ce3e02c7498d90a97dcd14282517">stopped prosecuting misdemeanor possession</a>.Dispensaries in Missouri are expecting to see lots of out-of-state buyers. Missouri is bordered by eight states, only one of which — Illinois — allows recreational marijuana sales.Payne projects that once the program is fully up and running, Missouri will see annual sales of up to $1.3 billion.Ron Burch, 36, of the southwestern Missouri town of Joplin, already has a medical marijuana card. He knows demand will be strong for recreational pot.“Looking forward to February, it’s going to be a mad rush to fill all the shelves for the people that are going to be pounding down the doors to buy product,” Burch said.Larry Stiffelman, who owns a medical dispensary in the eastern Missouri town of St. Clair, said recreational sales will be vital since, due to high taxation, his business is still struggling to make a profit.“I can tell you that the sales will probably triple or quadruple per store,” Stiffelman said. “So it’s huge as far as the volume of business.”

Marijuana now legal in Missouri, but you can't buy it yet

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for an allege violent crime.

On Tuesday, police arrested 29-year-old Takiya L. Bennett of Atchison,&nbsp; on a District Court warrant for domestic battery, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

In 2015, police arrested her for alleged theft, criminal use of a financial card and crimes using a computer, according to online jail records. Since that time, she has been jailed three additional times on requested charges of failure to appear.

She posted bond and is no longer in custody, according to jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670423247935.png" alt="Bennett-photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Bennett-photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for an allege violent crime.On Tuesday, police arrested 29-year-old Takiya L. Bennett of Atchison,&nbsp; on a District Court warrant for domestic battery, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.In 2015, police arrested her for alleged theft, criminal use of a financial card and crimes using a computer, according to online jail records. Since that time, she has been jailed three additional times on requested charges of failure to appear.She posted bond and is no longer in custody, according to jail records.

Kansas woman accused of domestic battery

NODAWAY COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 11:30a.m. Wednesday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Ford Taurus driven by Hannah M. Sturgeon, 20, Maitland, was eastbound on 275th Street at Ivory Road just southeast of Maryville.

The driver failed to negotiate a curve to travel north on Ivory Road.&nbsp; She lost control of the vehicle. It skidded off the road and overturned.

Nodaway County EMS transported Sturgeon and a passenger Alexiana E. Chambers, 22, Maitland to Mosaic in St. Joseph. Chambers was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 11:30a.m. Wednesday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Ford Taurus driven by Hannah M. Sturgeon, 20, Maitland, was eastbound on 275th Street at Ivory Road just southeast of Maryville.The driver failed to negotiate a curve to travel north on Ivory Road.&nbsp; She lost control of the vehicle. It skidded off the road and overturned.Nodaway County EMS transported Sturgeon and a passenger Alexiana E. Chambers, 22, Maitland to Mosaic in St. Joseph. Chambers was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Two hospitalized after car overturns in Nodaway County

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education released its 2022 District Report Card this week. Essentially, statewide and district-by-district data tracking attendance, graduation rate, ACT scores and the like.

The St. Joseph School District received disappointing results in this report, though they’re not alone. In St. Joseph, attendance in the school district declined from 84.3 percent in 2020 to 70.5 percent in 2022.

Ashly McGinnis, assistant superintendent of academic services, points to the pandemic and remote learning as reasons for the attendance drop.

"In 2020, you're looking at that pre-COVID data, because everything shut down," McGinnis said. "In 2021, we didn't have any state assessments and were primarily hybrid and going through COVID protocol at that time. So, 2022, we're really trying to get back to a sense of normal where we are all back in person."

The drop in attendance, McGinnis says, has led to a decline in other figures. For instance, the St. Joseph School District’s four-year graduation rate dropped from 79.6 percent in 2021 to 77.6 percent in 2022.

ACT scores dropped for the first time in four years, going from an average score of 21.6 to 20.5. McGinnis believes all of this turns around as soon as attendance goes back up.

"Attendance is the primary focus, because we cannot educate kids if we do not have them in seats," McGinnis said. "In my opinion, that's where we have to start. We do have plans in place. We've hired eight attendance interventionists so far to assist and engage our families in getting kids to school."

McGinnis says the district already has these protocols in place to help get attendance back up. The attendance rate for November 2022 is 78.2 percent. That's nearly an eight-point climb since the end of last school year, but there's still work to be done.

"We are showing progress," McGinnis noted. "Every building has attendance action plans right now that they are working. So, they're doing home visits, phone calls, letters home. Really, just trying to engage kids and parents to stress to them the importance of coming to school."

St. Joseph’s numbers follow a statewide trend. Attendance in Missouri from 2020 - 2022 dropped from 85.3 percent to 76.2 percent. Statewide ACT scores also dropped from 20.8 to 20.3 since 2021.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629748960438.jpeg" alt="Parents escort children to Lindbergh Elementary School in St. Joseph in August 2021. Stock photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Parents escort children to Lindbergh Elementary School in St. Joseph in August 2021. Stock photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education released its 2022 District Report Card this week. Essentially, statewide and district-by-district data tracking attendance, graduation rate, ACT scores and the like.The St. Joseph School District received disappointing results in this report, though they’re not alone. In St. Joseph, attendance in the school district declined from 84.3 percent in 2020 to 70.5 percent in 2022.Ashly McGinnis, assistant superintendent of academic services, points to the pandemic and remote learning as reasons for the attendance drop."In 2020, you're looking at that pre-COVID data, because everything shut down," McGinnis said. "In 2021, we didn't have any state assessments and were primarily hybrid and going through COVID protocol at that time. So, 2022, we're really trying to get back to a sense of normal where we are all back in person."The drop in attendance, McGinnis says, has led to a decline in other figures. For instance, the St. Joseph School District’s four-year graduation rate dropped from 79.6 percent in 2021 to 77.6 percent in 2022.ACT scores dropped for the first time in four years, going from an average score of 21.6 to 20.5. McGinnis believes all of this turns around as soon as attendance goes back up."Attendance is the primary focus, because we cannot educate kids if we do not have them in seats," McGinnis said. "In my opinion, that's where we have to start. We do have plans in place. We've hired eight attendance interventionists so far to assist and engage our families in getting kids to school."McGinnis says the district already has these protocols in place to help get attendance back up. The attendance rate for November 2022 is 78.2 percent. That's nearly an eight-point climb since the end of last school year, but there's still work to be done."We are showing progress," McGinnis noted. "Every building has attendance action plans right now that they are working. So, they're doing home visits, phone calls, letters home. Really, just trying to engage kids and parents to stress to them the importance of coming to school."St. Joseph’s numbers follow a statewide trend. Attendance in Missouri from 2020 - 2022 dropped from 85.3 percent to 76.2 percent. Statewide ACT scores also dropped from 20.8 to 20.3 since 2021.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph School District hopes to bolster attendance, test scores after recent drop

Eastern Kansas Congressman Jake LaTurner says he plans to
concentrate on issues important to his district during his second term in
Congress.

LaTurner, a Republican, says he wants to secure a seat on the
Appropriations Committee to rein in spending in an effort to fight inflation.
LaTurner also wants to secure the southern border.

Still, there are local issues that he plans to push.

“We’re a big agriculture state. That’s not something that all
states share,” LaTurner tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “And the rural versus urban
fight is something that happens on Capitol Hill and sometimes it breaks party
lines.”

LaTurner says agriculture needs a voice in Congress.

“Agriculture has really been up against it over the last
couple of years. Input costs have gone through the roof. The regulation
involved with the ag sector has been overwhelming. Those are things we need to
focus on,” LaTurner says. “Then, of course, there are specific infrastructure
needs that my district cares about that we’re going to be mindful of.”

LaTurner won his second term to the Second Congressional
District of Congress November 8th. LaTurner represents northeast
Kansas as well as all of eastern Kansas outside the Kansas City, Kansas metro
area.

He served as Kansas state Treasurer prior to running for
Congress two years ago.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostEastern Kansas Congressman Jake LaTurner says he plans to
concentrate on issues important to his district during his second term in
Congress.LaTurner, a Republican, says he wants to secure a seat on the
Appropriations Committee to rein in spending in an effort to fight inflation.
LaTurner also wants to secure the southern border.Still, there are local issues that he plans to push.“We’re a big agriculture state. That’s not something that all
states share,” LaTurner tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “And the rural versus urban
fight is something that happens on Capitol Hill and sometimes it breaks party
lines.”LaTurner says agriculture needs a voice in Congress.“Agriculture has really been up against it over the last
couple of years. Input costs have gone through the roof. The regulation
involved with the ag sector has been overwhelming. Those are things we need to
focus on,” LaTurner says. “Then, of course, there are specific infrastructure
needs that my district cares about that we’re going to be mindful of.”LaTurner won his second term to the Second Congressional
District of Congress November 8th. LaTurner represents northeast
Kansas as well as all of eastern Kansas outside the Kansas City, Kansas metro
area.He served as Kansas state Treasurer prior to running for
Congress two years ago.

Congressman LaTurner wants to concentrate on local issues in 2nd term

Buchanan County Presiding Commissioner Lee Sawyer says the
county financial status is strong going into a new budget year.

The County Commission is working through the budget process,
set to be concluded by the end of January.

Sawyer says strong tax revenue and conservative spending have
led to a strong bottom line.

“Quite honestly, the county’s in really good position. We’ve
got a good amount of money that we’ve been able to keep our powder dry in case
we had some needs that we weren’t expecting and those kinds of thing,” Sawyer
tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. &nbsp;“We’re really in a very strong financial position,
which I’m super proud of that.”

Sawyer says a little bit a luck and a lot of planning have
helped the county end the year strong.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostBuchanan County Presiding Commissioner Lee Sawyer says the
county financial status is strong going into a new budget year.The County Commission is working through the budget process,
set to be concluded by the end of January.Sawyer says strong tax revenue and conservative spending have
led to a strong bottom line.“Quite honestly, the county’s in really good position. We’ve
got a good amount of money that we’ve been able to keep our powder dry in case
we had some needs that we weren’t expecting and those kinds of thing,” Sawyer
tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. &nbsp;“We’re really in a very strong financial position,
which I’m super proud of that.”Sawyer says a little bit a luck and a lot of planning have
helped the county end the year strong.“We’ve been fortunate in some cases and we’ve made some really
good decisions in other cases,” Sawyer says. “And so, I think it’s a combination
of probably, like I said, a little bit of luck and, I think, a series of good
decisions that we’ve made that have really put us in a good financial position
going into 2023.”Sawyer says the county budget has been affected by inflation. The county has had to cope with higher prices, but also has benefited from increased sales tax revenue.Sawyer is wrapping up his tenure as Presiding Commissioner
with Scott Nelson set to take over.Buchanan County has about $49 million annually in
discretionary income.

Local