Missouri state Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer of Parkville
has been elected Majority Caucus chair, a leadership position in which he will
help shape the Republican agenda for the upcoming legislative session.

Luetkemeyer served the past two session as
Majority Whip.

“Which basically means keeping people inside the
building whenever we’re having a late-night filibuster and waking up whenever
we get quorum calls at two o’clock in the morning,” Luetkemeyer tells KFEQ/St.
Joseph Post. “So, it wasn’t the most fun job.”

Luetkemeyer, who won re-election earlier this
month, will step into the Majority Caucus chair position held by Sen. Dan
Hegeman of Cosby, who is leaving the legislature due to term limits.

“In this new role, my job is really to lead caucus
meetings,” Luetkemeyer says. “We just had our caucus retreat earlier this week
where we set priorities for the caucus for the upcoming session. I was able to
lead that meeting and I’m excited about this new role.”

Republicans once again control the Missouri
Senate.

But that doesn’t mean there won’t be disagreement
on legislation this upcoming session.

Republicans elected Luetkemeyer during that caucus
retreat in Branson last week, which he says was a fairly quiet meeting.

“I will tell you in past sessions those meetings
have been fairly tense,” according to Luetkemeyer. “There has been a lot of
very impassioned disagreement I guess I would say behind closed doors whenever
we have those caucus meetings.” 

Luetkemeyer says he hopes that is a good sign of
things to come after a rocky session this year in which Republican disagreement
derailed legislation and caused ill will.

“Because, you’re right, the Senate has been
plagued with a lot of infighting within the caucus. But I did not see any
indications of that during the meeting that we just concluded.”

Missouri Republicans will once again attempt to
reform the state initiative petition process in the legislative session that
begins in January. Luetkemeyer points out Amendment Three, which legalized
recreational marijuana, went the initiative route to amend the Missouri
Constitution, rather than just change state law.

“That was a deeply flawed amendment. I mean, it
was 46 pages long,” Luetkemeyer says. “There were all kinds of provisions in
there that are going to create a lot of issues in that industry going forward.
We need to make sure that if we’re doing something as significant as amending
the Missouri Constitution, it’s done through a well thought out, deliberative
process.”

Luetkemeyer says other Republican priorities for
the upcoming session include banning transgender athletes from women’s sports
and keeping Critical Race Theory out of the classroom.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669051237299.jpeg" alt="Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer at the signing of one of his bills with Gov. Mike Parson/Photo courtesy of Gov. Parson's office" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer at the signing of one of his bills with Gov. Mike Parson/Photo courtesy of Gov. Parson's office</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri state Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer of Parkville
has been elected Majority Caucus chair, a leadership position in which he will
help shape the Republican agenda for the upcoming legislative session.Luetkemeyer served the past two session as
Majority Whip.“Which basically means keeping people inside the
building whenever we’re having a late-night filibuster and waking up whenever
we get quorum calls at two o’clock in the morning,” Luetkemeyer tells KFEQ/St.
Joseph Post. “So, it wasn’t the most fun job.”Luetkemeyer, who won re-election earlier this
month, will step into the Majority Caucus chair position held by Sen. Dan
Hegeman of Cosby, who is leaving the legislature due to term limits.“In this new role, my job is really to lead caucus
meetings,” Luetkemeyer says. “We just had our caucus retreat earlier this week
where we set priorities for the caucus for the upcoming session. I was able to
lead that meeting and I’m excited about this new role.”Republicans once again control the Missouri
Senate.But that doesn’t mean there won’t be disagreement
on legislation this upcoming session.Republicans elected Luetkemeyer during that caucus
retreat in Branson last week, which he says was a fairly quiet meeting.“I will tell you in past sessions those meetings
have been fairly tense,” according to Luetkemeyer. “There has been a lot of
very impassioned disagreement I guess I would say behind closed doors whenever
we have those caucus meetings.” Luetkemeyer says he hopes that is a good sign of
things to come after a rocky session this year in which Republican disagreement
derailed legislation and caused ill will.“Because, you’re right, the Senate has been
plagued with a lot of infighting within the caucus. But I did not see any
indications of that during the meeting that we just concluded.”Missouri Republicans will once again attempt to
reform the state initiative petition process in the legislative session that
begins in January. Luetkemeyer points out Amendment Three, which legalized
recreational marijuana, went the initiative route to amend the Missouri
Constitution, rather than just change state law.“That was a deeply flawed amendment. I mean, it
was 46 pages long,” Luetkemeyer says. “There were all kinds of provisions in
there that are going to create a lot of issues in that industry going forward.
We need to make sure that if we’re doing something as significant as amending
the Missouri Constitution, it’s done through a well thought out, deliberative
process.”Luetkemeyer says other Republican priorities for
the upcoming session include banning transgender athletes from women’s sports
and keeping Critical Race Theory out of the classroom.

Sen. Luetkemeyer elected to leadership position in Missouri Senate

With the Thanksgiving season nearing its end, two St. Joseph city parks will light up the Christmas spirit with annual lightings. &nbsp;

St. Joseph City Manager Bryan Carter says the St. Joseph Parks Department has been hard at work getting both Krug and Hyde parks ready for Christmas.

"Getting everything started and going, set to throw the switch at Holiday Park up at Krug Park at 6 o'clock on the Friday after Thanksgiving," Carter tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "And then shortly after that go down and throw the switch at South Pole down at Hyde Park."&nbsp;

Carter says from personal experience he knows how much of a draw Holiday Park is for the St. Joseph community.&nbsp;

"Personally, I have family from a couple hours away that every year makes the trip up here, they don't come up often, but they do come up every year to go through Holiday Park and then the South Pole as well so, it draws people from all around for sure," Carter says.&nbsp;

Once the switch is flipped lights will be lit up at Krug and Hyde through January 2nd from 6 to 10pm every night, weather permitting.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669047640950.jpeg" alt="The switch to light up Holiday Park at Krug Park on the north end of St. Joseph will be flipped this Friday welcoming in people from around the area to see the holiday lights/ Photo courtesy of St. Joseph Parks and Recreation Facebook" />
 <figcaption>The switch to light up Holiday Park at Krug Park on the north end of St. Joseph will be flipped this Friday welcoming in people from around the area to see the holiday lights/ Photo courtesy of St. Joseph Parks and Recreation Facebook</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;With the Thanksgiving season nearing its end, two St. Joseph city parks will light up the Christmas spirit with annual lightings. &nbsp;St. Joseph City Manager Bryan Carter says the St. Joseph Parks Department has been hard at work getting both Krug and Hyde parks ready for Christmas."Getting everything started and going, set to throw the switch at Holiday Park up at Krug Park at 6 o'clock on the Friday after Thanksgiving," Carter tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "And then shortly after that go down and throw the switch at South Pole down at Hyde Park."&nbsp;Carter says from personal experience he knows how much of a draw Holiday Park is for the St. Joseph community.&nbsp;"Personally, I have family from a couple hours away that every year makes the trip up here, they don't come up often, but they do come up every year to go through Holiday Park and then the South Pole as well so, it draws people from all around for sure," Carter says.&nbsp;Once the switch is flipped lights will be lit up at Krug and Hyde through January 2nd from 6 to 10pm every night, weather permitting.&nbsp;

After Thanksgiving, St. Joseph turns on the Christmas lights

A pilot was injured after failing to take off from Rosecrans
Memorial Airport shortly after noon Sunday.

Rosecrans officials report the pilot was the only one on the
privately-owned plane. As the plane began takeoff it ran off the runway and
crashed into a fence.

The pilot was taken to the hospital for treatment.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA pilot was injured after failing to take off from Rosecrans
Memorial Airport shortly after noon Sunday.Rosecrans officials report the pilot was the only one on the
privately-owned plane. As the plane began takeoff it ran off the runway and
crashed into a fence.The pilot was taken to the hospital for treatment.

Pilot injured in failed takeoff from Rosecrans Memorial Airport

ANDREW COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Saturday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Ford F250 driven by David L. Lane, 60, Oregon, Mo., was northbound on Route E one west of Rochester.

The pickup traveled off the east side of the road, struck a utility pole, continued down an embankment and came to rest in a creek.

Andrew County EMS transported passengers in the Ford Damian B. Gillenwater, 41, Oregon, a 12-year-old Oregon boy and a 13-year-old Stewartsville girl to Mosaic Life care. Lane was not injured. Lane and Gillenwater were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Saturday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Ford F250 driven by David L. Lane, 60, Oregon, Mo., was northbound on Route E one west of Rochester.The pickup traveled off the east side of the road, struck a utility pole, continued down an embankment and came to rest in a creek.Andrew County EMS transported passengers in the Ford Damian B. Gillenwater, 41, Oregon, a 12-year-old Oregon boy and a 13-year-old Stewartsville girl to Mosaic Life care. Lane was not injured. Lane and Gillenwater were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man, 2 juveniles injured after pickup crash into creek

CALDWELL COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8p.m. Saturday in Caldwell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Chevy 1500 driven by a 17-year-old Cameron girl was eastbound on Barwick Drive three miles east of Cameron.

The driver attempted to avoid another vehicle entering an intersection. The pickup traveled off the south side of the road and into a&nbsp; ditch.

A private vehicle transported the teen to Cameron Regional Medical Center. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

CALDWELL COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8p.m. Saturday in Caldwell County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Chevy 1500 driven by a 17-year-old Cameron girl was eastbound on Barwick Drive three miles east of Cameron.The driver attempted to avoid another vehicle entering an intersection. The pickup traveled off the south side of the road and into a&nbsp; ditch.A private vehicle transported the teen to Cameron Regional Medical Center. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Cameron teen injured in pickup crash

ANDREW COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 5:30p.m. Saturday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Dodge 2500 driven by Zane A. Evans, 22, Savannah, was southbound on Business 71 six miles south of Savannah.

The Dodge rear-ended a 2022 Chevy Colorado driven by James R. Johnson, 34, St. Joseph, who was slowing to make a left turn.

A private vehicle transported a passenger in the Dodge Hailey N. Coursen, 22, Savannah, to Mosaic Life Care. The drivers were not injured. Coursen was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 5:30p.m. Saturday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Dodge 2500 driven by Zane A. Evans, 22, Savannah, was southbound on Business 71 six miles south of Savannah.The Dodge rear-ended a 2022 Chevy Colorado driven by James R. Johnson, 34, St. Joseph, who was slowing to make a left turn.A private vehicle transported a passenger in the Dodge Hailey N. Coursen, 22, Savannah, to Mosaic Life Care. The drivers were not injured. Coursen was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Savannah woman hospitalized after rear-end crash

St. Joseph police plan to use extra money
approved by voters to not only fill vacancies, but enhance the police
department.

Interim Police Chief Dave Hart says there is
always room for improvement in any organization and the money raised by the
half-cent sales tax will address real needs. 

“What we want to focus on right now is making
this the best department that we can make it, so that we can attract people,”
Hart tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. &nbsp;“That’s the goal. That was the goal of the tax
was to give us the tools to attract people. And now we need to work on the
department to make it a place people want to be and people want to come to us
so that we can get back our staffing levels and get back to doing business the
way we’ve done business in the past.”

Voters overwhelmingly approved the sales tax in
the General Election, giving it 70% support.

The half-cent sales tax is projected to raise $5.5
million a year, allowing the city to raise the annual starting salary of a St.
Joseph police officer to $49,000. It also will provide enough money to pay for 3%
annual raises, in accordance with an agreement reached between city officials
and the local Fraternal Order of Police.

Hart says while the money is important, the department is
seeking those who consider police work a calling.

“To a point it has to be, because of what the job demands,”
Hart says. “If it’s just a job to you, then you’re only going to be here a
couple of years and you’re going to go do something else. It’s very demanding
and we expect a lot of our people and they deliver.”

Hart says to attract the right person, the city
must be more competitive.

“We’ve taken the steps to do that, to make our
pay more competitive, to work on our equipment needs, to make things a lot more
enticing to people,” according to Hart. “We have to do the hard work now of
getting the message out there that this is what we offer, this is the culture that
we offer to people, and we want people to come and be a part of that culture.”

The St. Joseph Police Department has more than 20
vacancies. It is authorized for 138 commissioned officers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668801317801.jpeg" alt="Interim St. Joseph Police Chief Dave Hart/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Interim St. Joseph Police Chief Dave Hart/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph police plan to use extra money
approved by voters to not only fill vacancies, but enhance the police
department.Interim Police Chief Dave Hart says there is
always room for improvement in any organization and the money raised by the
half-cent sales tax will address real needs. “What we want to focus on right now is making
this the best department that we can make it, so that we can attract people,”
Hart tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. &nbsp;“That’s the goal. That was the goal of the tax
was to give us the tools to attract people. And now we need to work on the
department to make it a place people want to be and people want to come to us
so that we can get back our staffing levels and get back to doing business the
way we’ve done business in the past.”Voters overwhelmingly approved the sales tax in
the General Election, giving it 70% support.The half-cent sales tax is projected to raise $5.5
million a year, allowing the city to raise the annual starting salary of a St.
Joseph police officer to $49,000. It also will provide enough money to pay for 3%
annual raises, in accordance with an agreement reached between city officials
and the local Fraternal Order of Police.Hart says while the money is important, the department is
seeking those who consider police work a calling.“To a point it has to be, because of what the job demands,”
Hart says. “If it’s just a job to you, then you’re only going to be here a
couple of years and you’re going to go do something else. It’s very demanding
and we expect a lot of our people and they deliver.”Hart says to attract the right person, the city
must be more competitive.“We’ve taken the steps to do that, to make our
pay more competitive, to work on our equipment needs, to make things a lot more
enticing to people,” according to Hart. “We have to do the hard work now of
getting the message out there that this is what we offer, this is the culture that
we offer to people, and we want people to come and be a part of that culture.”The St. Joseph Police Department has more than 20
vacancies. It is authorized for 138 commissioned officers.

Recruiting to the St. Joseph Police Dept. goes beyond pay

DEKALB COUNTY —Two people died in an accident just after 5:30p.m. Friday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Jeep Cherokee driven by Tonya L. Maize, 52, Union Star, was northbound on Route J at MO 6 one mile north of Amity.

The driver failed to yield at the intersection. An eastbound 2014 Freightliner semi driven by Michael J. Burnett, 46, Maysville, struck the Jeep in the drivers side. After impact, both vehicle traveled down an embankment. The semi overturned and struck a utility pole.

Both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene. DeKalb County EMS transported a 10-year-old Lathrop boy from the Jeep to Mosaic Life Care. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY —Two people died in an accident just after 5:30p.m. Friday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Jeep Cherokee driven by Tonya L. Maize, 52, Union Star, was northbound on Route J at MO 6 one mile north of Amity.The driver failed to yield at the intersection. An eastbound 2014 Freightliner semi driven by Michael J. Burnett, 46, Maysville, struck the Jeep in the drivers side. After impact, both vehicle traveled down an embankment. The semi overturned and struck a utility pole.Both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene. DeKalb County EMS transported a 10-year-old Lathrop boy from the Jeep to Mosaic Life Care. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

2 dead, 10-year-old injured after DeKalb County Jeep, semi crash 

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Five people were injured in an accident just after 12:30 p.m. Friday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Chrysler Pacifica driven by Tracy A. Okansen, 60, Mountain Iron, Minnesota, was southbound on Interstate 29 two miles south of St. Joseph.

The Chrysler rear-ended a 2018 Nissan Murano driven by Diane Slusarski, 70, Duncan, Nebraska.&nbsp; The impact pushed the Nissan into a 2017 Lexus driven by Dennis P. Dunning, 83, Fort Calhoun, Nebraska.

Buchanan County EMS transported Slusarski, a passenger in the Nissan, Dunning and a passenger in the Lexus to Mosaic Life Care. Northland Regional Ambulance District transported Okansen to Mosaic. All five were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Five people were injured in an accident just after 12:30 p.m. Friday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Chrysler Pacifica driven by Tracy A. Okansen, 60, Mountain Iron, Minnesota, was southbound on Interstate 29 two miles south of St. Joseph.The Chrysler rear-ended a 2018 Nissan Murano driven by Diane Slusarski, 70, Duncan, Nebraska.&nbsp; The impact pushed the Nissan into a 2017 Lexus driven by Dennis P. Dunning, 83, Fort Calhoun, Nebraska.Buchanan County EMS transported Slusarski, a passenger in the Nissan, Dunning and a passenger in the Lexus to Mosaic Life Care. Northland Regional Ambulance District transported Okansen to Mosaic. All five were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

5 hospitalized after 3-vehicle Buchanan Co. crash

BUCHANAN COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 12:30p.m. Friday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Subaru Outback driven by Steven A. Smith, 34, St. Joseph, was southbound in the grass median of Interstate 29 at Route DD passing cars.

When the Subaru returned to the road it rear-ended a 2012 Ford Fiesta driven by Zoie Riggs, 21, Raymore.

After impact, both vehicles traveled off the road and struck an embankment. Both drivers were transported to Mosaic Life Care. They were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 12:30p.m. Friday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Subaru Outback driven by Steven A. Smith, 34, St. Joseph, was southbound in the grass median of Interstate 29 at Route DD passing cars.When the Subaru returned to the road it rear-ended a 2012 Ford Fiesta driven by Zoie Riggs, 21, Raymore.After impact, both vehicles traveled off the road and struck an embankment. Both drivers were transported to Mosaic Life Care. They were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

SUV was traveling in the grass median before rear-end crash

By BRENT MARTIN St. Joseph Post

St.
Joseph police have released the identity of the officer involved in the
shooting earlier this week.

The
St. Joseph Police Department reports Patrolman Justin Zamzow, a four-year
veteran of the police force, was the officer who shot and wounded 32-year-old Cody
Calvin. Calvin remains hospitalized in critical condition.

The
department says officers responded to a call that a man was pointing a gun at
several people in the Altec parking lot off Riverside Road late Monday evening.
The department says officers gave numerous orders for Calvin to drop his weapon
and surrender. When Calvin pointed the gun at officers, Zamzow fired and struck
him.

Officers
immediately rendered first aid, according to the department. Emergency crews
rushed Calvin to the hospital.

Zamzow
has been placed on administrative leave in accordance with St. Joseph Police
Department policy while an investigation of the shooting is conducted. The
Missouri State Highway Patrol is conducting the investigation.

By BRENT MARTIN St. Joseph PostSt.
Joseph police have released the identity of the officer involved in the
shooting earlier this week.The
St. Joseph Police Department reports Patrolman Justin Zamzow, a four-year
veteran of the police force, was the officer who shot and wounded 32-year-old Cody
Calvin. Calvin remains hospitalized in critical condition.The
department says officers responded to a call that a man was pointing a gun at
several people in the Altec parking lot off Riverside Road late Monday evening.
The department says officers gave numerous orders for Calvin to drop his weapon
and surrender. When Calvin pointed the gun at officers, Zamzow fired and struck
him.Officers
immediately rendered first aid, according to the department. Emergency crews
rushed Calvin to the hospital.Zamzow
has been placed on administrative leave in accordance with St. Joseph Police
Department policy while an investigation of the shooting is conducted. The
Missouri State Highway Patrol is conducting the investigation.

St. Joseph police release ID of officer involved in Monday shooting

With the cold weather seemingly here to stay for the winter, officials with Community Missions in St. Joseph are opening up cold weather shelters. 

Executive Director Rachael Bittiker says last year the cold weather shelters served 96 different homeless men around St. Joseph. 

And this year, Bittiker says, Community Missions is also opening up the shelter to homeless women

"As far as women goes, we do know that there's a significant need for that for the fact that the women numbers are increasing living on our streets as well," Bittiker tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.

The shelters first opened doors on Wednesday night, welcoming in 12 people to stay out of the cold

"Which is actually really surprising considering that we really didn't advertise too well and that being the first night, and also with us doing the construction of the new cold weather shelter," Bittiker says. 

The cold weather shelter only opens its doors when night temperatures are below 20 degrees.  

Bittiker says while Community Missions does spread the word about the location of the shelter, the biggest source of getting the information spread is word of mouth

"Once individuals know where it's at, once people come and stay, we'll just see it continue to climb more and more just because of word of mouth," Bittiker explains. "They are a community of their own as well and so the word of mouth will probably be the biggest way to communicate."

Bittiker says the cold shelter is open to homeless men and women that have nowhere else to go.

"Individuals that normally in the community you would see sleeping in bus terminals, sleeping or hiding in wooded areas in our community, sleeping on the sidewalk, those that are actually deemed homeless meaning that they have no place to go," Bittiker says.

While construction is happening on a cold shelter, that will help serve 15 more people than Community Missions can currently, the cold shelter is located at First Christian Church at 927 Faraon Street.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostWith the cold weather seemingly here to stay for the winter, officials with Community Missions in St. Joseph are opening up cold weather shelters. Executive Director Rachael Bittiker says last year the cold weather shelters served 96 different homeless men around St. Joseph. And this year, Bittiker says, Community Missions is also opening up the shelter to homeless women"As far as women goes, we do know that there's a significant need for that for the fact that the women numbers are increasing living on our streets as well," Bittiker tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.The shelters first opened doors on Wednesday night, welcoming in 12 people to stay out of the cold"Which is actually really surprising considering that we really didn't advertise too well and that being the first night, and also with us doing the construction of the new cold weather shelter," Bittiker says. The cold weather shelter only opens its doors when night temperatures are below 20 degrees. Bittiker says while Community Missions does spread the word about the location of the shelter, the biggest source of getting the information spread is word of mouth"Once individuals know where it's at, once people come and stay, we'll just see it continue to climb more and more just because of word of mouth," Bittiker explains. "They are a community of their own as well and so the word of mouth will probably be the biggest way to communicate."Bittiker says the cold shelter is open to homeless men and women that have nowhere else to go."Individuals that normally in the community you would see sleeping in bus terminals, sleeping or hiding in wooded areas in our community, sleeping on the sidewalk, those that are actually deemed homeless meaning that they have no place to go," Bittiker says.While construction is happening on a cold shelter, that will help serve 15 more people than Community Missions can currently, the cold shelter is located at First Christian Church at 927 Faraon Street.

Shelters welcome St. Joseph homeless to get out of the bitter cold

DEKALB COUNTY–One person was injured in an accident just after 11:30a.m. Thursday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Diplomat Monaco motorhome driven by James E. Miner, 76, Lucas, Iowa, was southbound on Interstate 35 in Cameron.&nbsp;

The vehicle traveled off the road and struck a ditch. The towed unit became unhitched.&nbsp;

Cameron EMS transported a passenger&nbsp; Paula L. Mason, 67, Lucas, Iowa, to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Miner and Mason were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY–One person was injured in an accident just after 11:30a.m. Thursday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Diplomat Monaco motorhome driven by James E. Miner, 76, Lucas, Iowa, was southbound on Interstate 35 in Cameron.&nbsp;The vehicle traveled off the road and struck a ditch. The towed unit became unhitched.&nbsp;Cameron EMS transported a passenger&nbsp; Paula L. Mason, 67, Lucas, Iowa, to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Miner and Mason were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Woman hospitalized after motorhome accident

As the first snow of the winter fell earlier this week, the Missouri Department of Transportation got to put their preparedness to the test. 

Assistant District Engineer Troy Slagle says though with not that much snow on the road, MoDOT's newer drivers didn't get the time behind the wheel they hoped for in the first event

"Where you're actually having to push snow off the road, so, we'll still have to have those training sessions here in the future at future events," Slagle tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "This storm was really the road temperature was warm enough that a lot didn't accumulate on the road itself, it mainly accumulated on bridges and overpasses."

Slagle says crews have been preparing for the winter weather since October, gathering materials and getting vehicles ready to hit the roads. 

Slagle says for future events, MoDOT crews begin scouting where snow may fall, preparing to send out crews ahead of any snow events

"We start trying to figure out what the best strategy to attack the event to attack the event is and where it's going to hit," Slagle explains. "At about 48 hours out we start having meetings to discuss different strategies that we want to do and keep our eye on the forecast."

Slagle says during those meetings is when they will discuss how many drivers need to be sent to the location where the snow is falling to get roads cleared.

As snow plows with the Missouri Department of Transportation cleared the roads earlier this week, officials say they thankfully avoided any accidents. 

Slagle says no accidents occurred with any MoDOT trucks, mostly because the time the snow fell was late night Monday into early Tuesday morning.

"Most of the event took place after 7pm and kind of ended, you know went through the night, and ended early morning so, not a lot of traffic out there," Slagle says. "So, that's ideal as to have your trucks out there when you don't have a lot of traffic."

Slagle says if you do run into trucks clearing the roads with flashing lights to be careful while passing them, especially on two lane highways, and to decrease your speed and following distance to avoid any accidents.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668709073487.jpeg" alt="Missouri Department of Transportation snowplows were out in force Monday night into Tuesday morning clearing roads following the first snow of the year/ Photo courtesy of MoDOT" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Department of Transportation snowplows were out in force Monday night into Tuesday morning clearing roads following the first snow of the year/ Photo courtesy of MoDOT</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostAs the first snow of the winter fell earlier this week, the Missouri Department of Transportation got to put their preparedness to the test. Assistant District Engineer Troy Slagle says though with not that much snow on the road, MoDOT's newer drivers didn't get the time behind the wheel they hoped for in the first event"Where you're actually having to push snow off the road, so, we'll still have to have those training sessions here in the future at future events," Slagle tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "This storm was really the road temperature was warm enough that a lot didn't accumulate on the road itself, it mainly accumulated on bridges and overpasses."Slagle says crews have been preparing for the winter weather since October, gathering materials and getting vehicles ready to hit the roads. Slagle says for future events, MoDOT crews begin scouting where snow may fall, preparing to send out crews ahead of any snow events"We start trying to figure out what the best strategy to attack the event to attack the event is and where it's going to hit," Slagle explains. "At about 48 hours out we start having meetings to discuss different strategies that we want to do and keep our eye on the forecast."Slagle says during those meetings is when they will discuss how many drivers need to be sent to the location where the snow is falling to get roads cleared.As snow plows with the Missouri Department of Transportation cleared the roads earlier this week, officials say they thankfully avoided any accidents. Slagle says no accidents occurred with any MoDOT trucks, mostly because the time the snow fell was late night Monday into early Tuesday morning."Most of the event took place after 7pm and kind of ended, you know went through the night, and ended early morning so, not a lot of traffic out there," Slagle says. "So, that's ideal as to have your trucks out there when you don't have a lot of traffic."Slagle says if you do run into trucks clearing the roads with flashing lights to be careful while passing them, especially on two lane highways, and to decrease your speed and following distance to avoid any accidents.

It wasn't much of a snow, but MoDOT crews got a taste of what's ahead

BUCHANAN COUNTY —A St. Joseph boy died in an accident just after 4p.m. Wednesday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Kia Forte driven by Alisha A. Martin, 33, St. Joseph, was southbound on U.S. 169 three miles north of Gower.

The car traveled off the east side of the road, struck a telephone pole, overturned and came to rest on its top.

A 5-year-old St. Joseph boy was pronounced dead at the scene. Tri-County ambulance&nbsp; transported Martin to Mosaic Life Care. She and the boy were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY —A St. Joseph boy died in an accident just after 4p.m. Wednesday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Kia Forte driven by Alisha A. Martin, 33, St. Joseph, was southbound on U.S. 169 three miles north of Gower.The car traveled off the east side of the road, struck a telephone pole, overturned and came to rest on its top.A 5-year-old St. Joseph boy was pronounced dead at the scene. Tri-County ambulance&nbsp; transported Martin to Mosaic Life Care. She and the boy were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

5-year-old St. Joseph boy dies after car strikes telephone pole

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

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Kenworth Semi driven by Daniel R. Sullinger, 33, Skidmore, was southbound on Galaxy Road at 240th two miles south of Wilcox. 

The semi and a westbound 2014 Ford passenger vehicle driven by Annette C. Mullins, 60, Skidmore, entered the intersection at the same time and collided.

After impact the Ford came to rest in a pasture off the south side of the road. Nodaway County EMS transported Mullins to Mosaic in Maryville.&nbsp; Sullinger was not injured.&nbsp; Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Wednesday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Kenworth Semi driven by Daniel R. Sullinger, 33, Skidmore, was southbound on Galaxy Road at 240th two miles south of Wilcox. The semi and a westbound 2014 Ford passenger vehicle driven by Annette C. Mullins, 60, Skidmore, entered the intersection at the same time and collided.After impact the Ford came to rest in a pasture off the south side of the road. Nodaway County EMS transported Mullins to Mosaic in Maryville.&nbsp; Sullinger was not injured.&nbsp; Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Nodaway County woman hospitalized after crash with a semi

NODAWAY COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just after 5:30p.m. Wednesday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Chevy passenger vehicle driven by Javier E. Jimenez, 29, Maryville, was westbound on U.S. 71 one mile north of Maryville.&nbsp;

The vehicle traveled into the path of a southbound Nissan passenger vehicle driven by Phillip J. Fick, 68, Maryville. The Nissan struck the Chevy, traveled off the southwest corner of the intersection and struck a stop sign.

Nodaway County EMS transported&nbsp; Fick to Mosaic in Maryville. Jimenez was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just after 5:30p.m. Wednesday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Chevy passenger vehicle driven by Javier E. Jimenez, 29, Maryville, was westbound on U.S. 71 one mile north of Maryville.&nbsp;The vehicle traveled into the path of a southbound Nissan passenger vehicle driven by Phillip J. Fick, 68, Maryville. The Nissan struck the Chevy, traveled off the southwest corner of the intersection and struck a stop sign.Nodaway County EMS transported&nbsp; Fick to Mosaic in Maryville. Jimenez was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Maryville man injured after 2-vehicle crash

A
man shot and wounded by a St. Joseph police officer remains hospitalized and
has been charged with unlawful use of a weapon.

The
St. Joseph Police Department says an officer shot and wounded 32-year-old Cody
Calvin of St. Joseph after he pointed a gun at officers.

Interim
Police Chief Dave Hart says officers responded to the call about an armed man in
the Altec parking lot off Riverside Road.

“Our
officers responded just before midnight on a report of a man threatening the employees
of Altec with a weapon,” Hart tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “Upon officers’
arrival, the subject threatened our officers with the weapon and they were
forced to fire upon the subject. He was struck. None of our officers were
injured. The suspect is currently still at Mosaic being treated.”

Hart
says the officer has been taken off
patrol duty and placed on administrative leave. Hart says that is department protocol
after an officer is involved in a shooting.

Hart
says the Missouri State Highway Patrol has been called in to investigate the
shooting.

“We
want to be transparent with the community and let them know that this is
getting an objective look,” according to Hart. “So, that’s our normal procedure
now. As that progresses forward and as we’re able to release more information,
we’ll absolutely get that out to everyone.”

The
officer who shot Calvin has not yet been identified. The officer is described
as a four-year veteran of the force.

Calvin
was taken to Mosaic Life Care after the shooting, admitted in critical condition.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668621547990.png" alt="Cody Calvin/Photo provided&nbsp; by the St. Joseph Police Dept." />
 <figcaption>Cody Calvin/Photo provided&nbsp; by the St. Joseph Police Dept.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA
man shot and wounded by a St. Joseph police officer remains hospitalized and
has been charged with unlawful use of a weapon.The
St. Joseph Police Department says an officer shot and wounded 32-year-old Cody
Calvin of St. Joseph after he pointed a gun at officers.Interim
Police Chief Dave Hart says officers responded to the call about an armed man in
the Altec parking lot off Riverside Road.“Our
officers responded just before midnight on a report of a man threatening the employees
of Altec with a weapon,” Hart tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “Upon officers’
arrival, the subject threatened our officers with the weapon and they were
forced to fire upon the subject. He was struck. None of our officers were
injured. The suspect is currently still at Mosaic being treated.”Hart
says the officer has been taken off
patrol duty and placed on administrative leave. Hart says that is department protocol
after an officer is involved in a shooting.Hart
says the Missouri State Highway Patrol has been called in to investigate the
shooting.“We
want to be transparent with the community and let them know that this is
getting an objective look,” according to Hart. “So, that’s our normal procedure
now. As that progresses forward and as we’re able to release more information,
we’ll absolutely get that out to everyone.”The
officer who shot Calvin has not yet been identified. The officer is described
as a four-year veteran of the force.Calvin
was taken to Mosaic Life Care after the shooting, admitted in critical condition.

Suspect in Altec shooting remains hospitalized; faces weapons charge

A new agreement has been reached for the Army Corps of Engineers to consider changes to levees along the Missouri River in an effort to avoid the major floods of the past few years.&nbsp;

After the 2019 flood, state officials in Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa worked together to suggest changes to reduce the risk of another major flood.&nbsp;

Corps of Engineers Kansas City District Commander, Colonel Travis Rayfield, says federal law restricts what the Corps of Engineers can do when rebuilding levees broken by floodwaters. &nbsp;

"So, once they're built, when you do a study that will allow us to, in our verbiage we do a study which is really an informal plan, will give us a chance to relook how we've aligned levees and structural solutions," Rayfield tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So, what does that mean? It gives us our first chance to maybe move levees or other physical structures to let the water go through in a better manner."&nbsp;

The study in Holt County will focus on river miles 515 to 45o across the Missouri River from Holt County.&nbsp;

Rayfield, says the new agreement comes in two parts.&nbsp;

"We're looking systematically at the lower 730 miles of the Missouri River," Rayfield says. "That's to see how much water is moving through, where it comes from, and how it goes that's the system plan."&nbsp;

Rayfield says the Corps then works to find spots where the water isn't moving adequately downstream, such as in Holt County.&nbsp;

"In Holt County the water is backing up and levees are breaking, the spinoff authority lets us go and find a structural solution," Rayfield explains. "So, there will be a dance that will be tied together, the system plan gives us the volume and quantity of water that needs to come through, and then these spinoffs will give us the local authority to change how levees are aligned, so that's what's new and what's going on for the Corps of Engineers."&nbsp;

The new spin off study is a cost-share agreement between local Holt County officials, the Army Corps of Engineers, and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.&nbsp;

Rayfield says floods start and end locally, but this partnership is about coming up with solutions all the way up to the federal level.&nbsp;

"What this partnership means is we need solutions for how we want that water to move through in a flood that the local government can support, the state government can support, and the federal government can support," Rayfield says. "And so, really that's what this partnership is about, is understanding what will work in this specific footprint informed by the new data and science we've got from the most recent floods."&nbsp;

The Army Corps of Engineers will factor major floods in 1993, 2011, and 2019 into the study.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668618009268.jpeg" alt="Colonel Travis Rayfield (right) and Dru Buntin, Director of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (middle), sign the formal cost share agreement as an official from the Holt County FSCA looks on/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Colonel Travis Rayfield (right) and Dru Buntin, Director of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (middle), sign the formal cost share agreement as an official from the Holt County FSCA looks on/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostA new agreement has been reached for the Army Corps of Engineers to consider changes to levees along the Missouri River in an effort to avoid the major floods of the past few years.&nbsp;After the 2019 flood, state officials in Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa worked together to suggest changes to reduce the risk of another major flood.&nbsp;Corps of Engineers Kansas City District Commander, Colonel Travis Rayfield, says federal law restricts what the Corps of Engineers can do when rebuilding levees broken by floodwaters. &nbsp;"So, once they're built, when you do a study that will allow us to, in our verbiage we do a study which is really an informal plan, will give us a chance to relook how we've aligned levees and structural solutions," Rayfield tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So, what does that mean? It gives us our first chance to maybe move levees or other physical structures to let the water go through in a better manner."&nbsp;The study in Holt County will focus on river miles 515 to 45o across the Missouri River from Holt County.&nbsp;Rayfield, says the new agreement comes in two parts.&nbsp;"We're looking systematically at the lower 730 miles of the Missouri River," Rayfield says. "That's to see how much water is moving through, where it comes from, and how it goes that's the system plan."&nbsp;Rayfield says the Corps then works to find spots where the water isn't moving adequately downstream, such as in Holt County.&nbsp;"In Holt County the water is backing up and levees are breaking, the spinoff authority lets us go and find a structural solution," Rayfield explains. "So, there will be a dance that will be tied together, the system plan gives us the volume and quantity of water that needs to come through, and then these spinoffs will give us the local authority to change how levees are aligned, so that's what's new and what's going on for the Corps of Engineers."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668617990364.jpeg" alt="Colonel Travis Rayfield with the Army Corps of Engineers Kansas City District speaks to a crowd in Mound City about the new agreement/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Colonel Travis Rayfield with the Army Corps of Engineers Kansas City District speaks to a crowd in Mound City about the new agreement/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>The new spin off study is a cost-share agreement between local Holt County officials, the Army Corps of Engineers, and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.&nbsp;Rayfield says floods start and end locally, but this partnership is about coming up with solutions all the way up to the federal level.&nbsp;"What this partnership means is we need solutions for how we want that water to move through in a flood that the local government can support, the state government can support, and the federal government can support," Rayfield says. "And so, really that's what this partnership is about, is understanding what will work in this specific footprint informed by the new data and science we've got from the most recent floods."&nbsp;The Army Corps of Engineers will factor major floods in 1993, 2011, and 2019 into the study.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668617973309.jpeg" alt="A map shows parts of the levee system along the Missouri River that are washed out or broken/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>A map shows parts of the levee system along the Missouri River that are washed out or broken/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668618379876.jpeg" alt="Following the signing Colonel Rayfield and Dru Buntin spoke to members of the Mound City community/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Following the signing Colonel Rayfield and Dru Buntin spoke to members of the Mound City community/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>

Changes could be coming to how the Corps manages Missouri River levees

Missouri Western State University prizes its work to help
first-generation students.

Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy says Missouri
Western has many first-generation students.

“They’re the first in their family to go to college, to
experience college,” Kennedy tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “College
is not like K though 12. It’s a different experience and we want to make sure
that those students who are coming in who don’t necessarily have the family
support, because no one in their family has done it, that we provide the
support for them to be successful.”

Missouri Western has at least 200 first-generation students in
its freshmen class.

Kennedy says the St. Joseph campus works closely with
first-generation students to help them succeed in the classroom.

“Higher education is to provide people opportunity,” Kennedy
says. “Well, at Missouri Western we want to make sure that our first-generation
students are successful in the opportunities they have to earn a degree and to move
on to a successful career.” 

The efforts by Missouri Western have garnered it national
recognition. Missouri Western is the only university in the state to be honored
by the Center for First-Generation Success; and one of only 53 recognized
nationwide. The Center says the First-gen Forward designation recognizes colleges
that have demonstrated a commitment to advancing the outcomes of
first-generation college students.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University prizes its work to help
first-generation students.Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy says Missouri
Western has many first-generation students.“They’re the first in their family to go to college, to
experience college,” Kennedy tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “College
is not like K though 12. It’s a different experience and we want to make sure
that those students who are coming in who don’t necessarily have the family
support, because no one in their family has done it, that we provide the
support for them to be successful.”Missouri Western has at least 200 first-generation students in
its freshmen class.Kennedy says the St. Joseph campus works closely with
first-generation students to help them succeed in the classroom.“Higher education is to provide people opportunity,” Kennedy
says. “Well, at Missouri Western we want to make sure that our first-generation
students are successful in the opportunities they have to earn a degree and to move
on to a successful career.” The efforts by Missouri Western have garnered it national
recognition. Missouri Western is the only university in the state to be honored
by the Center for First-Generation Success; and one of only 53 recognized
nationwide. The Center says the First-gen Forward designation recognizes colleges
that have demonstrated a commitment to advancing the outcomes of
first-generation college students.

MWSU makes 1st-generation student success a priority

ANDREW COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 7:30a.m. Tuesday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Chevy Silverado driven by Casey W. Burnett, 31, Cameron, was northbound on Interstate 29 four miles north 0f St. Joseph.&nbsp;

The driver lost control on the icy road. The pickup traveled off the south side of the road into the median, overturned, returned to the northbound lanes of the interstate and came to rest on its top.&nbsp;

A northbound 1981 Peterbilt semi driven by Michael P. Gray, 53, St. Joseph, struck several items that came out of the bed of the Silverado.

Buchanan County EMS transported Burnett and a passenger in the pickup James R. Lillard, 36, Cameron, to Mosaic Life Care. Gray was not injured. The occupants of the pickup were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 7:30a.m. Tuesday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Chevy Silverado driven by Casey W. Burnett, 31, Cameron, was northbound on Interstate 29 four miles north 0f St. Joseph.&nbsp;The driver lost control on the icy road. The pickup traveled off the south side of the road into the median, overturned, returned to the northbound lanes of the interstate and came to rest on its top.&nbsp;A northbound 1981 Peterbilt semi driven by Michael P. Gray, 53, St. Joseph, struck several items that came out of the bed of the Silverado.Buchanan County EMS transported Burnett and a passenger in the pickup James R. Lillard, 36, Cameron, to Mosaic Life Care. Gray was not injured. The occupants of the pickup were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

2 hospitalized in St. Joseph after pickup overturns on icy I-29

As the first snow of the winter fell overnight, the Missouri Highway Patrol wants drivers to be aware of how to handle driving on the covered roads. &nbsp;

Seargent Shane Hux with Troop H in St. Joseph says one of the most important steps before you hit the road, is to make sure your entire vehicle is clear of snow.&nbsp;

"Make sure your windshield's clear, all of your windows, people can see your brake lights, your headlights, things like that to make yourself visible and also so you can see as well," Hux tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;

Hux says troopers however will see a large number of vehicles only cleared off just enough for the driver to see where they are going and with head and brake lights still covered up&nbsp;

"People still may be able to see that vehicle during the daytime but at nighttime they cannot, as well as not being able to see the road in front of you for that driver," Hux says.&nbsp;

When out on the road, Hux says, drivers should make sure to decrease their speed and be sure to not use cruise control if the roads are slick. &nbsp;

With the winter weather arriving snow plows will soon be out in full force clearing and treating the roads for drivers. &nbsp;

Hux says many accidents with snowplows happen due to rear end crashes&nbsp;

"A little bit of snow on the ground on the roadways, even if there's a light wind, it's going to be blowing around and when they're plowing snow it's going to be blowing around which could cause a white out condition," Hux explains. "Give yourself plenty of distance behind those trucks, let them do their job and clear the roadway off safely for all the other vehicle traffic out there."&nbsp;

Hux says while it is common practice to follow snowplows while they are clearing the roads, practice safety while passing them but never attempt to pass a snowplow on a two-lane highway. &nbsp;

Hux says drivers should be aware with the cold conditions of melted ice refreezing. &nbsp;

Hux says most instances of refreezing happen on bridges and with the colder temperatures drivers should make sure to not use their cruise control, especially crossing bridges.&nbsp;

"Whenever they come up on an incline and they're vehicle shifts with that cruise control on it causes the vehicle to accelerate and spin out of control on those roadways," Hux points out. "So, do not use your cruise control if you travel across a bridge or if you think it might be freezing outside, drive less than the speed limit, watch your speed."&nbsp;

Hux says drivers should also drive at a safe following distance to avoid sliding into the rear end of other cars and snow plows on the roadways.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;As the first snow of the winter fell overnight, the Missouri Highway Patrol wants drivers to be aware of how to handle driving on the covered roads. &nbsp;Seargent Shane Hux with Troop H in St. Joseph says one of the most important steps before you hit the road, is to make sure your entire vehicle is clear of snow.&nbsp;"Make sure your windshield's clear, all of your windows, people can see your brake lights, your headlights, things like that to make yourself visible and also so you can see as well," Hux tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;Hux says troopers however will see a large number of vehicles only cleared off just enough for the driver to see where they are going and with head and brake lights still covered up&nbsp;"People still may be able to see that vehicle during the daytime but at nighttime they cannot, as well as not being able to see the road in front of you for that driver," Hux says.&nbsp;When out on the road, Hux says, drivers should make sure to decrease their speed and be sure to not use cruise control if the roads are slick. &nbsp;With the winter weather arriving snow plows will soon be out in full force clearing and treating the roads for drivers. &nbsp;Hux says many accidents with snowplows happen due to rear end crashes&nbsp;"A little bit of snow on the ground on the roadways, even if there's a light wind, it's going to be blowing around and when they're plowing snow it's going to be blowing around which could cause a white out condition," Hux explains. "Give yourself plenty of distance behind those trucks, let them do their job and clear the roadway off safely for all the other vehicle traffic out there."&nbsp;Hux says while it is common practice to follow snowplows while they are clearing the roads, practice safety while passing them but never attempt to pass a snowplow on a two-lane highway. &nbsp;Hux says drivers should be aware with the cold conditions of melted ice refreezing. &nbsp;Hux says most instances of refreezing happen on bridges and with the colder temperatures drivers should make sure to not use their cruise control, especially crossing bridges.&nbsp;"Whenever they come up on an incline and they're vehicle shifts with that cruise control on it causes the vehicle to accelerate and spin out of control on those roadways," Hux points out. "So, do not use your cruise control if you travel across a bridge or if you think it might be freezing outside, drive less than the speed limit, watch your speed."&nbsp;Hux says drivers should also drive at a safe following distance to avoid sliding into the rear end of other cars and snow plows on the roadways.&nbsp;

After first snow, Highway Patrol cautions motorists about winter driving

A
32-year-old St. Joseph man is in critical condition after being shot and
wounded during a standoff with St. Joseph police.

The
St. Joseph Police Department reports officers responded to a call shortly before midnight Monday that a man
was pointing a gun at several people in the Altec parking lot off Riverside
Road. The department says officers gave numerous orders for the armed suspect to
drop his weapon and surrender, but he refused. When the suspect pointed the gun at officers,
one officer fired and struck him.

Officers
immediately rendered first aid, according to the department. Emergency crews
rushed the suspect to the hospital, where he is listed in critical condition.

The department reports the officer involved in the shooting is a four-year
veteran of the police department. He will be placed on administrative leave
during the ongoing investigation.

The
Missouri State Highway Patrol was called to the scene and will conduct the
investigation into the shooting, according to the St. Joseph Police Department.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA
32-year-old St. Joseph man is in critical condition after being shot and
wounded during a standoff with St. Joseph police.The
St. Joseph Police Department reports officers responded to a call shortly before midnight Monday that a man
was pointing a gun at several people in the Altec parking lot off Riverside
Road. The department says officers gave numerous orders for the armed suspect to
drop his weapon and surrender, but he refused. When the suspect pointed the gun at officers,
one officer fired and struck him.Officers
immediately rendered first aid, according to the department. Emergency crews
rushed the suspect to the hospital, where he is listed in critical condition.The department reports the officer involved in the shooting is a four-year
veteran of the police department. He will be placed on administrative leave
during the ongoing investigation.The
Missouri State Highway Patrol was called to the scene and will conduct the
investigation into the shooting, according to the St. Joseph Police Department.

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