ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating the theft of a firearm from a home in Atchison and have made an arrest.

On October 30, a suspect took items from a home in the 1400 Block South 8th Street, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

On Friday, police arrested James A. Yokum, 52, St. Louis Mo., on a District Court warrant for theft. 

He is being held on a $25,000, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675089398901.png" alt="Yokum-photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Yokum-photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating the theft of a firearm from a home in Atchison and have made an arrest.On October 30, a suspect took items from a home in the 1400 Block South 8th Street, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.On Friday, police arrested James A. Yokum, 52, St. Louis Mo., on a District Court warrant for theft. He is being held on a $25,000, according to online jail records.

Missouri man jailed for theft of firearm from Kansas home

A Rockport man has pleaded guilty to selling a lethal dose of fentanyl that resulted in the fatal overdose of an Atchison County man. 

Federal officials report that 23-year-old Quentin Carder pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, which caused the death of another person, and one count of distributing fentanyl and cocaine, which caused the death of another person. 

Carder admitted that he distributed four blue pills that appeared to be 0xycodone, but were counterfeit and contained fentanyl to a person identified in court documents only as "C.L." on June 18,2021. Carder had previously supplied the victim with cocaine. 

In the early hours of June 20th"C.L.," had used one of the pills and later that morning was found in his bedroom unresponsive. He was transported to the hospital and was pronounced dead two days later. 

Carder will serve a minimum of 20 years in federal prison, but could serve up to life.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Byron Black. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the Atchison County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostA Rockport man has pleaded guilty to selling a lethal dose of fentanyl that resulted in the fatal overdose of an Atchison County man. Federal officials report that 23-year-old Quentin Carder pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, which caused the death of another person, and one count of distributing fentanyl and cocaine, which caused the death of another person. Carder admitted that he distributed four blue pills that appeared to be 0xycodone, but were counterfeit and contained fentanyl to a person identified in court documents only as "C.L." on June 18,2021. Carder had previously supplied the victim with cocaine. In the early hours of June 20th"C.L.," had used one of the pills and later that morning was found in his bedroom unresponsive. He was transported to the hospital and was pronounced dead two days later. Carder will serve a minimum of 20 years in federal prison, but could serve up to life.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Byron Black. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the Atchison County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department.

Rockport man pleads guilty to selling lethal dose of fentanyl

The top members of the Senate’s Finance Committee sent a letter to the White House asking the administration to pursue enforcement action against Canada and Mexico under the USMCA. 

Inside Trade says they’re concerned about areas where Canada and Mexico aren’t complying with the agreement’s rules, especially around energy and agriculture. 

Ron Wyden and Mike Crapo, the top Democrat and Republican on the committee, sent the letter saying, “The Office of the USTR must continue pursuing full implementation and, where necessary, robust enforcement of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.” 

They also noted that the pact’s full potential remains unrealized. Wyden and Crapo highlighted the current dispute with Mexico over its policy regarding GMO corn imports, as well as Canadian failure to comply with the rules regarding tariff-rate quotas on dairy products. 

The U.S. recently requested dispute-settlement consultations for a third time regarding Canada’s dairy policy. U.S. and Mexican discussions recently continued last week.

The top members of the Senate’s Finance Committee sent a letter to the White House asking the administration to pursue enforcement action against Canada and Mexico under the USMCA. Inside Trade says they’re concerned about areas where Canada and Mexico aren’t complying with the agreement’s rules, especially around energy and agriculture. Ron Wyden and Mike Crapo, the top Democrat and Republican on the committee, sent the letter saying, “The Office of the USTR must continue pursuing full implementation and, where necessary, robust enforcement of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.” They also noted that the pact’s full potential remains unrealized. Wyden and Crapo highlighted the current dispute with Mexico over its policy regarding GMO corn imports, as well as Canadian failure to comply with the rules regarding tariff-rate quotas on dairy products. The U.S. recently requested dispute-settlement consultations for a third time regarding Canada’s dairy policy. U.S. and Mexican discussions recently continued last week.

Senators ask White House for enforcement actions on USMCA

Late last week, the Department of Energy announced $118 million in funding to help expand U.S. biofuel production. 

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says the funds will undoubtedly accelerate the innovations taking place at U.S. ethanol plants. 

“It will open many new opportunities for low-cost, low-carbon energy,” Skor says. 

She also points out that the president himself has said there will be no achieving the goal of net zero by 2050 without biofuels, and the announcement shows that the DOE is committed to that mission. 

“We are excited to see new technologies scaled up with these funds, particularly the work underway at Marquis, Inc., a Growth Energy member that received $8 million for a project that combines CO2 with low-carbon hydrogen to create a new production stream of extra-low-carbon ethanol.” A project like that will end up slashing carbon emissions by at least 70 percent or more compared to petroleum-based alternatives.

Late last week, the Department of Energy announced $118 million in funding to help expand U.S. biofuel production. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says the funds will undoubtedly accelerate the innovations taking place at U.S. ethanol plants. “It will open many new opportunities for low-cost, low-carbon energy,” Skor says. She also points out that the president himself has said there will be no achieving the goal of net zero by 2050 without biofuels, and the announcement shows that the DOE is committed to that mission. “We are excited to see new technologies scaled up with these funds, particularly the work underway at Marquis, Inc., a Growth Energy member that received $8 million for a project that combines CO2 with low-carbon hydrogen to create a new production stream of extra-low-carbon ethanol.” A project like that will end up slashing carbon emissions by at least 70 percent or more compared to petroleum-based alternatives.

Energy Department allocates $118 million to biofuel projects

A St. Joseph state representative wants to change the
initiative petition process seeking to amend the Missouri state constitution by
channeling it through the General Assembly.

Rep. Bill Falkner is working on language that would funnel proposed
constitutional changes through the legislature before being placed on the
ballot for a vote.

“It would be vetted through the House and through the Senate,”
Falkner tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “We couldn’t change it, can’t vote it down,
but we can dissect it and see what effects it will have in the state and what
we will need to do if it passes.”

Falkner contends Missouri voters didn’t thoroughly understand
every aspect of either the Clean Missouri initiative or the petition that
legalized recreational marijuana on last year’s November ballot. His measure
would only affect those initiative petitions seeking to change the constitution,
not those seeking a change in Missouri statutes.

“My main concern is so everybody knows what we’re voting on,”
according to Falkner.

Falkner is working with the Secretary of State’s office on the
language of his measure.

“My main focus is, let’s make sure we know what’s in the bill
and what consequences there will be on it,” Falkner says. “Then that gives us a
little heads up to know what we may have to do in advance of this going into
effect when it goes to the vote of the people.”

Falkner says that under his measure, the legislature would not
be able to change the language of the amendment. The legislature would
thoroughly study the proposed changes and what they would require if adopted by
voters.

“I just think that it’s important that everybody knows what is
in the bill,” Falkner says. “Both sides play this game. I’m not blaming one
side or the other. But I just think this is a way to stop, take it through the
process that every other bill has to go through.”

Falkner is not proposing a higher threshold to approve changes
to the state constitution, but says other measures seem to be settling on 60%
approval, rather than the present simple majority requirement.

A group, Progress MO, is critical of the legislature moving to
change the initiative petition process, contending the efforts to change the petition
process seek to end majority rule in Missouri.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA St. Joseph state representative wants to change the
initiative petition process seeking to amend the Missouri state constitution by
channeling it through the General Assembly.Rep. Bill Falkner is working on language that would funnel proposed
constitutional changes through the legislature before being placed on the
ballot for a vote.“It would be vetted through the House and through the Senate,”
Falkner tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “We couldn’t change it, can’t vote it down,
but we can dissect it and see what effects it will have in the state and what
we will need to do if it passes.”Falkner contends Missouri voters didn’t thoroughly understand
every aspect of either the Clean Missouri initiative or the petition that
legalized recreational marijuana on last year’s November ballot. His measure
would only affect those initiative petitions seeking to change the constitution,
not those seeking a change in Missouri statutes.“My main concern is so everybody knows what we’re voting on,”
according to Falkner.Falkner is working with the Secretary of State’s office on the
language of his measure.“My main focus is, let’s make sure we know what’s in the bill
and what consequences there will be on it,” Falkner says. “Then that gives us a
little heads up to know what we may have to do in advance of this going into
effect when it goes to the vote of the people.”Falkner says that under his measure, the legislature would not
be able to change the language of the amendment. The legislature would
thoroughly study the proposed changes and what they would require if adopted by
voters.“I just think that it’s important that everybody knows what is
in the bill,” Falkner says. “Both sides play this game. I’m not blaming one
side or the other. But I just think this is a way to stop, take it through the
process that every other bill has to go through.”Falkner is not proposing a higher threshold to approve changes
to the state constitution, but says other measures seem to be settling on 60%
approval, rather than the present simple majority requirement.A group, Progress MO, is critical of the legislature moving to
change the initiative petition process, contending the efforts to change the petition
process seek to end majority rule in Missouri.

St. Joseph rep wants legislature to vet constitutional changes before going on ballot

No place is immune to the dangers of human trafficking, not even a small town like Harrisonville, Missouri. &nbsp;

To illustrate just how pervasive human trafficking is Northwest Missouri State Small Business Development Center director Rebecca Lobina recalls a story told to her by federal officials about a bust in Harrisonville.&nbsp;

Lobina says federal officials got a call from a woman in New England who knew her niece crossed the southern border illegally and somehow wound up in Missouri.&nbsp;

"Harrisonville, Missouri would never think they were having any trafficking, but it's just one of those things that happens because Missouri is right in the middle of the country," Lobina tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "And we have so many highways and interstates crossing across us that it makes it one of the most trafficked areas in the country."&nbsp;

Federal officials rescued the niece and several others and arrested the trafficker.&nbsp;

While the problem of human trafficking continues to grow across the state, many people may not be aware of the signs to look out for. &nbsp;

The Northwest Missouri State University Small Business Development Center will welcome the Department of Homeland security to help teach people.&nbsp;

Lobina says people may not realize the effect that human trafficking has on businesses in the area.&nbsp;

"With some of the events that are coming up it's really even more important to recognize that human trafficking exists, recognize what it is, and recognize some signs to be aware of," Lobina says.&nbsp;

Lobina says events, such as the upcoming NFL Draft in April, will draw more people to the area.&nbsp;

Lobina says with more people purchasing hotels, going to convivence stores, and shopping locally, that could even spread away from Kansas City. &nbsp;

"And that will seep into St. Joseph as well, with the NFL Draft, and so again just all the more reason that the businesses in town need to be aware and the community as a whole need to be aware of what those signs are to look for," Lobina explains. "So that when they see something, they can say something."&nbsp;

An event will be held Tuesday at the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce offices with the Department of Homeland Security from 9:30am to 10:30am.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE'St. Joseph Post&nbsp; No place is immune to the dangers of human trafficking, not even a small town like Harrisonville, Missouri. &nbsp;To illustrate just how pervasive human trafficking is Northwest Missouri State Small Business Development Center director Rebecca Lobina recalls a story told to her by federal officials about a bust in Harrisonville.&nbsp;Lobina says federal officials got a call from a woman in New England who knew her niece crossed the southern border illegally and somehow wound up in Missouri.&nbsp;"Harrisonville, Missouri would never think they were having any trafficking, but it's just one of those things that happens because Missouri is right in the middle of the country," Lobina tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "And we have so many highways and interstates crossing across us that it makes it one of the most trafficked areas in the country."&nbsp;Federal officials rescued the niece and several others and arrested the trafficker.&nbsp;While the problem of human trafficking continues to grow across the state, many people may not be aware of the signs to look out for. &nbsp;The Northwest Missouri State University Small Business Development Center will welcome the Department of Homeland security to help teach people.&nbsp;Lobina says people may not realize the effect that human trafficking has on businesses in the area.&nbsp;"With some of the events that are coming up it's really even more important to recognize that human trafficking exists, recognize what it is, and recognize some signs to be aware of," Lobina says.&nbsp;Lobina says events, such as the upcoming NFL Draft in April, will draw more people to the area.&nbsp;Lobina says with more people purchasing hotels, going to convivence stores, and shopping locally, that could even spread away from Kansas City. &nbsp;"And that will seep into St. Joseph as well, with the NFL Draft, and so again just all the more reason that the businesses in town need to be aware and the community as a whole need to be aware of what those signs are to look for," Lobina explains. "So that when they see something, they can say something."&nbsp;An event will be held Tuesday at the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce offices with the Department of Homeland Security from 9:30am to 10:30am.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675098779457.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Rebecca Lobina" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Rebecca Lobina</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/1302023-Journal--Human-trafficking-is-a-real-problem-and-people-need-to-know-the-signs-e1u7eah" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

Harrisonville bust shows long reach of human trafficking

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Tax season is here and if you are having trouble figuring out those tax forms, InterServ is out to help.&nbsp;

InterServ's Counseling for the Elderly program is currently underway.&nbsp; Appointments are necessary to get assistance. &nbsp;

Director of Volunteer Services Laraine Jones says the program assists those 60 and older with moderate to low income with their taxes. &nbsp;

"By moderate we mean under $60,000 this year," Jones tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And we have trained volunteers that have been through certified IRS training that are available to help people file taxes."&nbsp;

Applications for the Counseling for the Elderly Program at InterServ began earlier this month. Jones says every year the program draws in a lot of people looking for help. &nbsp;

"We probably get phone calls from about, geeze I don't even know, my clerk that actually takes the appointments she probably has 60 phone messages every day, to try to call people back to schedule appointments," Jones says.&nbsp;

You can call InterServ's tax line at 816-558-3240 to leave a message to set up an appointment.&nbsp; Appointments can either be in person or drop offs at the offices.&nbsp;

Over the past three years all tax assistance was done by people dropping forms off at the InterServ offices&nbsp;

Jones says after only that during the pandemic, things are slowly starting to move back to in person, but it’s still more popular to just drop your forms off.&nbsp;

"Dropping them off and letting us process them and we call them in to come and pick up their documents has worked very well the last three years," Jones explains. "So, we're still doing that but there are a few people who want to be seen by a preparer and it's all still by appointment, and if they need to be seen they need to let us know, so still kind of a hybrid situation going on."&nbsp;

InterServ has three different tax assistance programs that run February 1st through April 15th.&nbsp; &nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Tax season is here and if you are having trouble figuring out those tax forms, InterServ is out to help.&nbsp;InterServ's Counseling for the Elderly program is currently underway.&nbsp; Appointments are necessary to get assistance. &nbsp;Director of Volunteer Services Laraine Jones says the program assists those 60 and older with moderate to low income with their taxes. &nbsp;"By moderate we mean under $60,000 this year," Jones tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And we have trained volunteers that have been through certified IRS training that are available to help people file taxes."&nbsp;Applications for the Counseling for the Elderly Program at InterServ began earlier this month. Jones says every year the program draws in a lot of people looking for help. &nbsp;"We probably get phone calls from about, geeze I don't even know, my clerk that actually takes the appointments she probably has 60 phone messages every day, to try to call people back to schedule appointments," Jones says.&nbsp;You can call InterServ's tax line at 816-558-3240 to leave a message to set up an appointment.&nbsp; Appointments can either be in person or drop offs at the offices.&nbsp;Over the past three years all tax assistance was done by people dropping forms off at the InterServ offices&nbsp;Jones says after only that during the pandemic, things are slowly starting to move back to in person, but it’s still more popular to just drop your forms off.&nbsp;"Dropping them off and letting us process them and we call them in to come and pick up their documents has worked very well the last three years," Jones explains. "So, we're still doing that but there are a few people who want to be seen by a preparer and it's all still by appointment, and if they need to be seen they need to let us know, so still kind of a hybrid situation going on."&nbsp;InterServ has three different tax assistance programs that run February 1st through April 15th.&nbsp; &nbsp;

InterServ offering tax help for low to moderate income residents

The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce has started a new initiative in order to help beautify the city.

A 2021 survery conducted by the Chamber shows that 63 percent of St. Joseph residents rate the community's appearance as below average or poor. Because of this, the Chamber announced a new program called 'Adopt-a-Block.'

Chamber president Natalie Redmond says several businesses within the city have already tested out Adopt-a-Block.'

"It's a concept that we tested with Missouri American Water last year," Redmond said on KFEQ's The Hotline. "Missouri American Water partnered with Gray Manufacturing and Cintas and adopted a block. The idea behind the program is you'll adopt the block for a year. Your business, your organization or you as a group of citizens. You'll take that block and give it some love."

Anyone wanting to sign up for 'Adopt-a-Block' can do so online at imaginestjoseph2040.com. 

Redmond says any group, family or business can sign up. The Chamber first announced 'Adopt-a-Block' to the general public at their annual banquet last weekend.

Redmond adds that there's many little things one can do to take care of whatever block they choose to adopt.

"Picking up trash, picking up old shrubs," Redmond noted. "Anything that needs support within that block. The city is happy to provide resources, like dumpsters and different things that you need."

&nbsp;Redmond says this is a simple way to give back to the community.

"There's thing that an average citizen can do," she said. "Beautification of a community is something that anyone can participate in. Even if you adopt a block just one time, we'll take it. If you want to sign up with Beautify St. Joseph, they do monthly cleanups."

The Chamber did a trial run of 'Adopt-a-Block' last year with Missouri American Water, Gray Manufacturing and Cintas.

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

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce has started a new initiative in order to help beautify the city.A 2021 survery conducted by the Chamber shows that 63 percent of St. Joseph residents rate the community's appearance as below average or poor. Because of this, the Chamber announced a new program called 'Adopt-a-Block.'Chamber president Natalie Redmond says several businesses within the city have already tested out Adopt-a-Block.'"It's a concept that we tested with Missouri American Water last year," Redmond said on KFEQ's The Hotline. "Missouri American Water partnered with Gray Manufacturing and Cintas and adopted a block. The idea behind the program is you'll adopt the block for a year. Your business, your organization or you as a group of citizens. You'll take that block and give it some love."Anyone wanting to sign up for 'Adopt-a-Block' can do so online at imaginestjoseph2040.com. Redmond says any group, family or business can sign up. The Chamber first announced 'Adopt-a-Block' to the general public at their annual banquet last weekend.Redmond adds that there's many little things one can do to take care of whatever block they choose to adopt."Picking up trash, picking up old shrubs," Redmond noted. "Anything that needs support within that block. The city is happy to provide resources, like dumpsters and different things that you need."&nbsp;Redmond says this is a simple way to give back to the community."There's thing that an average citizen can do," she said. "Beautification of a community is something that anyone can participate in. Even if you adopt a block just one time, we'll take it. If you want to sign up with Beautify St. Joseph, they do monthly cleanups."The Chamber did a trial run of 'Adopt-a-Block' last year with Missouri American Water, Gray Manufacturing and Cintas.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph Chamber unveils 'Adopt-a-Block' program in beautification effort

Northern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves defends the U.S.
House Republican Caucus in the aftermath of a prolonged and, at times,
contentious election for House Speaker.

It took 15 votes before Republicans joined together and
elected California Congressman Kevin McCarthy Speaker.

Graves says it took so long to elect McCarthy Speaker for a
reason.

“Because we had some changes that needed to be made in the
rules package and to be quite honest with you, it really didn’t take that long,”
Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. &nbsp;“Again,
it took an extra day from what we planned for.”

Graves says some of the rules adopted to appease hardline
conservative Republicans will prove good for the chamber, such as allowing a
single lawmaker to call for the Speaker’s removal.

“That’s an accountability issue,” Graves says. “It also
reinstates something like the Holman Rule, which allows us to vote on
amendments to appropriations bills individually. So that allows us to be able
to cut specific programs or pet projects out of appropriations bills. That is
something that was first put in in 1876 until Speaker Tip O’Neill took it out.
That reinstates that. That’s a good thing.”

Another rule change has become especially relevant of late. It
requires the Speaker to press for budget cuts in any discussion about raising
the debt ceiling. The nation has hit its debt ceiling, but the Treasury
Department says it can keep paying the bills until around June 5th,
when the department says it will no longer be able to use extraordinary
measures to avoid default. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, has stated he will
not negotiate with House Republicans on the issue.

Conservative Republicans also wrangled other
concessions before pledging to vote for McCarthy.

Did McCarthy give up too much to get the Speakership?

“I don’t think so,” Graves says. “I’m a big supporter of Kevin.
I think Kevin is going to do a fantastic job as Speaker. I don’t think that he
gave up too much.&nbsp; I think what we did is
we just made the rules even stronger and better. It will be interesting to see
if the majority were to change again any time in the future if the rules are
kept.”

Other rules adopted during the procedure separate budget bills
and tie any vote to raise the debt ceiling to budget cuts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674834396942.jpeg" alt="Congressman Sam Graves/file photo" />
 <figcaption>Congressman Sam Graves/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostNorthern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves defends the U.S.
House Republican Caucus in the aftermath of a prolonged and, at times,
contentious election for House Speaker.It took 15 votes before Republicans joined together and
elected California Congressman Kevin McCarthy Speaker.Graves says it took so long to elect McCarthy Speaker for a
reason.“Because we had some changes that needed to be made in the
rules package and to be quite honest with you, it really didn’t take that long,”
Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. &nbsp;“Again,
it took an extra day from what we planned for.”Graves says some of the rules adopted to appease hardline
conservative Republicans will prove good for the chamber, such as allowing a
single lawmaker to call for the Speaker’s removal.“That’s an accountability issue,” Graves says. “It also
reinstates something like the Holman Rule, which allows us to vote on
amendments to appropriations bills individually. So that allows us to be able
to cut specific programs or pet projects out of appropriations bills. That is
something that was first put in in 1876 until Speaker Tip O’Neill took it out.
That reinstates that. That’s a good thing.”Another rule change has become especially relevant of late. It
requires the Speaker to press for budget cuts in any discussion about raising
the debt ceiling. The nation has hit its debt ceiling, but the Treasury
Department says it can keep paying the bills until around June 5th,
when the department says it will no longer be able to use extraordinary
measures to avoid default. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, has stated he will
not negotiate with House Republicans on the issue.Conservative Republicans also wrangled other
concessions before pledging to vote for McCarthy.Did McCarthy give up too much to get the Speakership?“I don’t think so,” Graves says. “I’m a big supporter of Kevin.
I think Kevin is going to do a fantastic job as Speaker. I don’t think that he
gave up too much.&nbsp; I think what we did is
we just made the rules even stronger and better. It will be interesting to see
if the majority were to change again any time in the future if the rules are
kept.”Other rules adopted during the procedure separate budget bills
and tie any vote to raise the debt ceiling to budget cuts.

Graves defends US House GOP in prolonged process to elect Speaker McCarthy

Agriculture Deputy Secretary Jewel Bronaugh announced Thursday her intention to step away from her role at USDA. 

Bronaugh says, “It is with mixed emotions that today I am announcing that I will step away from my role as Deputy Secretary in the coming weeks so I can spend more time with my family.” 

President Biden nominated Bronaugh to USDA in January of 2021 and was confirmed by the Senate in May of that year. 

Bronaugh, in 2018 was appointed as the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner. She previously served as the Virginia State Executive Director for the USDA Farm Service Agency during the Obama administration. 

She was the first Black woman to hold the second-in-command position at USDA. Bronaugh thanked Secretary Tom Vilsack for his support, adding, “I now look forward to taking some time off to spend more quality time with my mom, husband and four children."

Agriculture Deputy Secretary Jewel Bronaugh announced Thursday her intention to step away from her role at USDA. Bronaugh says, “It is with mixed emotions that today I am announcing that I will step away from my role as Deputy Secretary in the coming weeks so I can spend more time with my family.” President Biden nominated Bronaugh to USDA in January of 2021 and was confirmed by the Senate in May of that year. Bronaugh, in 2018 was appointed as the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner. She previously served as the Virginia State Executive Director for the USDA Farm Service Agency during the Obama administration. She was the first Black woman to hold the second-in-command position at USDA. Bronaugh thanked Secretary Tom Vilsack for his support, adding, “I now look forward to taking some time off to spend more quality time with my mom, husband and four children."

Agriculture Deputy Secretary Jewel Bronaugh to step down

A
St. Joseph man has been sentenced in federal court for making a bomb threat
against the Social Security office in St. Joseph.

Federal
District Judge Brian Wimes sentenced 32-year-old James Curtman to 18 months in federal
prison without parole.

In
August, Curtman confessed to threatening to blow up the St. Joseph Social
Security office, pleading guilty to one count of influencing a federal officer
by threat.

Federal
prosecutors say Curtman, during a phone appointment in June of 2021, began
cursing and yelling at a Social Security employee. Prosecutors say the employee
attempted to help, but Curtman reverted to demeaning and offensive language and
told the employee he would make a bomb and blow up the building. The employee
placed the call on speaker for a guard to hear and when Curtman continued to
curse, she hung up.

The bomb threat forced the office to close early that day and the next day.

The
employee told investigators she worried about Curtman’s tone of voice, rage,
and close location of his address. She said she was worried he would come to the
Social Security Administration office and commit violence.

Curtman has
a prior conviction for issuing a terrorist threat in August 2020 for using
abusive language when talking by phone to employees of the Department of Social
Services in Rolla.

Curtman
also has a history of threat-related conduct for which he was not criminally
charged, including a threat in May 2017 to blow up U.S. Bank, as well as a
series of misdemeanor convictions for property damage and threatening the
peace.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA
St. Joseph man has been sentenced in federal court for making a bomb threat
against the Social Security office in St. Joseph.Federal
District Judge Brian Wimes sentenced 32-year-old James Curtman to 18 months in federal
prison without parole.In
August, Curtman confessed to threatening to blow up the St. Joseph Social
Security office, pleading guilty to one count of influencing a federal officer
by threat.Federal
prosecutors say Curtman, during a phone appointment in June of 2021, began
cursing and yelling at a Social Security employee. Prosecutors say the employee
attempted to help, but Curtman reverted to demeaning and offensive language and
told the employee he would make a bomb and blow up the building. The employee
placed the call on speaker for a guard to hear and when Curtman continued to
curse, she hung up.The bomb threat forced the office to close early that day and the next day.The
employee told investigators she worried about Curtman’s tone of voice, rage,
and close location of his address. She said she was worried he would come to the
Social Security Administration office and commit violence.Curtman has
a prior conviction for issuing a terrorist threat in August 2020 for using
abusive language when talking by phone to employees of the Department of Social
Services in Rolla.Curtman
also has a history of threat-related conduct for which he was not criminally
charged, including a threat in May 2017 to blow up U.S. Bank, as well as a
series of misdemeanor convictions for property damage and threatening the
peace.

St. Joseph man sentence to prison for threatening to blow up Social Security office

BOONE COUNTY —A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 12:30a.m. Wednesday in Boone County, Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Peterbilt semi driven by Frank K. Bosse, 66, Atchison, Kan., was eastbound on Interstate 70 at Route Z.

The vehicle began to slide on the ice-covered road, traveled off the road into the ditch and overturned. Boone County ambulance transported Bosse to University Medical Center. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

BOONE COUNTY —A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 12:30a.m. Wednesday in Boone County, Missouri.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Peterbilt semi driven by Frank K. Bosse, 66, Atchison, Kan., was eastbound on Interstate 70 at Route Z.The vehicle began to slide on the ice-covered road, traveled off the road into the ditch and overturned. Boone County ambulance transported Bosse to University Medical Center. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Kansas man injured after semi overturns on icy I-70

Four finalists have been identified to become the 11th President of Northwest Missouri State University

The four individuals were identified by a search committee hired by the Board of Regents.

The four finalists are Michael Godard, provost at Southeast Missouri State University, David P. Jones the vice president for student affairs and enrollment management at Minnesota State University Mankato, Kent Porterfield vice provost of student affairs at Gonzaga University, and Lance Tatum the senior vice chancellor for academic affairs and chief academic officer at Troy University.

“The search committee was delighted with the quality of the candidates who interviewed last week, and we are enthusiastic about introducing each finalist to the Northwest community as they make campus visits over the next few weeks,” said John Moore, chair of Northwest’s Presidential Search Committee and serves as chair of the Board of Regents in a press release.

Each of the finalists will visit the Northwest campus in Maryville for interactions with stakeholder groups in addition to town hall-style meetings that are open to all students, employees, alumni, community members and other individuals who may be unable to participate in stakeholder-specific sessions. 

The public forums also will be available via zoom for people who cannot attend in person.  For up to two days after each visit, the Northwest community will have an opportunity to submit their input regarding the finalists by completing a brief, online survey.

More information about the finalists, as well as public forums to ask questions of the candidates <a href="https://www.nwmissouri.edu/media/news/2023/01/26presidentialsearchupdate.htm">HERE</a>.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostFour finalists have been identified to become the 11th President of Northwest Missouri State UniversityThe four individuals were identified by a search committee hired by the Board of Regents.The four finalists are Michael Godard, provost at Southeast Missouri State University, David P. Jones the vice president for student affairs and enrollment management at Minnesota State University Mankato, Kent Porterfield vice provost of student affairs at Gonzaga University, and Lance Tatum the senior vice chancellor for academic affairs and chief academic officer at Troy University.“The search committee was delighted with the quality of the candidates who interviewed last week, and we are enthusiastic about introducing each finalist to the Northwest community as they make campus visits over the next few weeks,” said John Moore, chair of Northwest’s Presidential Search Committee and serves as chair of the Board of Regents in a press release.Each of the finalists will visit the Northwest campus in Maryville for interactions with stakeholder groups in addition to town hall-style meetings that are open to all students, employees, alumni, community members and other individuals who may be unable to participate in stakeholder-specific sessions. The public forums also will be available via zoom for people who cannot attend in person. For up to two days after each visit, the Northwest community will have an opportunity to submit their input regarding the finalists by completing a brief, online survey.More information about the finalists, as well as public forums to ask questions of the candidates <a href="https://www.nwmissouri.edu/media/news/2023/01/26presidentialsearchupdate.htm">HERE</a>.

Four finalists named in search for next NWMSU President

One of St. Joseph's many elementary schools will become an early childhood learning center next school year. &nbsp;

The Board of Education voted unanimously at their January meeting to convert Mark Twain Elementary to early childhood next school year. &nbsp;

Superintendent Gabe Edgar says currently there is a lack of early childhood education in the city.&nbsp;

"We have one facility right now at the old Lake Contrary school, you know it's going great but we face a bigger challenge than that," Edgar tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. "If you look at percentages, about 44% of our students are ready to go to Kindergarten, and on a state average that average is about 65-66%."&nbsp;

Edgar says getting children educated early helps form routine, but also it could help solve major problems in the district, such as attendance.&nbsp;

"Ok, if you learn to come to school at three or four, then you're going to come to school at five right, because you've learned to come to school at three and four," Edgar explains. "And one of our biggest challenges is kindergarten attendance, kindergarten is one of the lowest attended grades that we have in the St. Joseph public school district, and often times is the worst."&nbsp;

Edgar says another goal in the district is with discipline and helping kids early on learn structure and discipline to carry into their school careers.&nbsp;

With the change, St. Joseph will have 13 elementary schools in the next school year. &nbsp;

Edgar says the board was only going to discuss the change during its meeting, with an eventual vote coming in February, but staff from Mark Twain urged them to push the vote.&nbsp;

"Because we received a letter from administration and the staff at Mark Twain that said listen if this is inevitable would you please just go ahead and make the vote so we can plan and get this behind us, and relieve some of the pressure," Edgar says. &nbsp;

School Board President David Foster read that letter during the meeting and the board went on to vote 6-0 for the change.&nbsp;

Students from Mark Twain are expected to be sent to one of five different schools next year, between Coleman, Skaith, Edison, Carden Park, and Parkway schools.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674752032307.png" alt="Mark Twain Elementary School will be converted to an early childhood learning center for next school year/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph School district" />
 <figcaption>Mark Twain Elementary School will be converted to an early childhood learning center for next school year/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph School district</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;One of St. Joseph's many elementary schools will become an early childhood learning center next school year. &nbsp;The Board of Education voted unanimously at their January meeting to convert Mark Twain Elementary to early childhood next school year. &nbsp;Superintendent Gabe Edgar says currently there is a lack of early childhood education in the city.&nbsp;"We have one facility right now at the old Lake Contrary school, you know it's going great but we face a bigger challenge than that," Edgar tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. "If you look at percentages, about 44% of our students are ready to go to Kindergarten, and on a state average that average is about 65-66%."&nbsp;Edgar says getting children educated early helps form routine, but also it could help solve major problems in the district, such as attendance.&nbsp;"Ok, if you learn to come to school at three or four, then you're going to come to school at five right, because you've learned to come to school at three and four," Edgar explains. "And one of our biggest challenges is kindergarten attendance, kindergarten is one of the lowest attended grades that we have in the St. Joseph public school district, and often times is the worst."&nbsp;Edgar says another goal in the district is with discipline and helping kids early on learn structure and discipline to carry into their school careers.&nbsp;With the change, St. Joseph will have 13 elementary schools in the next school year. &nbsp;Edgar says the board was only going to discuss the change during its meeting, with an eventual vote coming in February, but staff from Mark Twain urged them to push the vote.&nbsp;"Because we received a letter from administration and the staff at Mark Twain that said listen if this is inevitable would you please just go ahead and make the vote so we can plan and get this behind us, and relieve some of the pressure," Edgar says. &nbsp;School Board President David Foster read that letter during the meeting and the board went on to vote 6-0 for the change.&nbsp;Students from Mark Twain are expected to be sent to one of five different schools next year, between Coleman, Skaith, Edison, Carden Park, and Parkway schools.&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/1262023-Journal--Mark-Twain-Elementary-to-be-converted-to-early-childhood-education-e1u20j8" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

Mark Twain Elementary to become early childhood education center

A 29-year-old St. Joseph woman suffered serious injuries when
struck by a vehicle while running across the Belt Highway.

St. Joseph police report Alicia Andre was taken to the hospital
after the accident on the Belt, just off Frederick Avenue around midnight.

Police say the vehicle was traveling south on North Belt
Highway when it struck Andre, who was running west across the Belt.

The driver remained on the scene and cooperated with police.
No charges have been filed. The investigation continues.

This article has been updated since first published.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA 29-year-old St. Joseph woman suffered serious injuries when
struck by a vehicle while running across the Belt Highway.St. Joseph police report Alicia Andre was taken to the hospital
after the accident on the Belt, just off Frederick Avenue around midnight.Police say the vehicle was traveling south on North Belt
Highway when it struck Andre, who was running west across the Belt.The driver remained on the scene and cooperated with police.
No charges have been filed. The investigation continues.This article has been updated since first published.

Young woman seriously injured in St. Joseph car-pedestrian accident (UPDATED)

St. Joseph police have identified the man found dead in a car
parked on the side of the road in the 500 block of South 20th Sunday
night.

Police report the victim was 48-year-old Jason Mays of St.
Joseph.

Officers responded to a call about 10:30 Sunday night about a deceased
person located in a vehicle.

The investigation continues. No charges have been filed in the
case.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph police have identified the man found dead in a car
parked on the side of the road in the 500 block of South 20th Sunday
night.Police report the victim was 48-year-old Jason Mays of St.
Joseph.Officers responded to a call about 10:30 Sunday night about a deceased
person located in a vehicle.The investigation continues. No charges have been filed in the
case.

St. Joseph police identify man found dead in car

The leadership of the Senate Agriculture Committee Wednesday announced a set of farm bill hearings. 

Senators Debbie Stabenow and John Boozman will hold the first hearing on February 1, titled. 

"Farm Bill 2023: Trade and Horticulture." The hearings will focus on the trade and horticulture titles of the farm bill. 

The first hearing will include testimony from USDA's Alexis Taylor, Jenny Lester Moffitt, and USAID's Sarah Charles. 

In a joint statement, Stabenow and Boozman say, "This is the first of many hearings the Committee has planned as we gear up for the 2023 Farm Bill," adding, "We are both looking forward to a collaborative process, working with all Senators to deliver a strong Farm Bill." 

The duo announced three other upcoming hearings: February 9 on Commodity Programs, Crop Insurance and Credit, February 16 on Nutrition Programs, and March 1 on Conservation and Forestry Programs. All hearings will be held in the committee’s hearing room.

The leadership of the Senate Agriculture Committee Wednesday announced a set of farm bill hearings. Senators Debbie Stabenow and John Boozman will hold the first hearing on February 1, titled. "Farm Bill 2023: Trade and Horticulture." The hearings will focus on the trade and horticulture titles of the farm bill. The first hearing will include testimony from USDA's Alexis Taylor, Jenny Lester Moffitt, and USAID's Sarah Charles. In a joint statement, Stabenow and Boozman say, "This is the first of many hearings the Committee has planned as we gear up for the 2023 Farm Bill," adding, "We are both looking forward to a collaborative process, working with all Senators to deliver a strong Farm Bill." The duo announced three other upcoming hearings: February 9 on Commodity Programs, Crop Insurance and Credit, February 16 on Nutrition Programs, and March 1 on Conservation and Forestry Programs. All hearings will be held in the committee’s hearing room.

Senate Ag plans hearings on farm bill trade and Horticulture titles

The Consumer Brands Association endorsed a new, bipartisan bill, this week. 

The Safer Highways and Increased Performance for Interstate Trucking Act, or "SHIP IT Act," would boost trucking capacity, improve supply chain efficiency and keep costs down for consumers. 

The SHIP IT Act was introduced by U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson, a South Dakota Republican, and Jim Costa, a California Democrat. 

The legislation aims to address supply chain pinch points by increasing shipping capacity, lessening burdens on truck drivers and providing incentives to recruit and retain new drivers. 

The bill also modernizes the emergency use of certain vehicle waivers, offers workforce grants for truck drivers, simplifies the commercial driver's license process and tackles truck parking concerns. 

Consumer Brands vice president of supply chain Tom Madrecki says, “Ultimately, each step to enhance our supply chains with the latest tools and technologies available will ensure operations run as seamlessly as possible despite future disruptions.”

The Consumer Brands Association endorsed a new, bipartisan bill, this week. The Safer Highways and Increased Performance for Interstate Trucking Act, or "SHIP IT Act," would boost trucking capacity, improve supply chain efficiency and keep costs down for consumers. The SHIP IT Act was introduced by U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson, a South Dakota Republican, and Jim Costa, a California Democrat. The legislation aims to address supply chain pinch points by increasing shipping capacity, lessening burdens on truck drivers and providing incentives to recruit and retain new drivers. The bill also modernizes the emergency use of certain vehicle waivers, offers workforce grants for truck drivers, simplifies the commercial driver's license process and tackles truck parking concerns. Consumer Brands vice president of supply chain Tom Madrecki says, “Ultimately, each step to enhance our supply chains with the latest tools and technologies available will ensure operations run as seamlessly as possible despite future disruptions.”

Consumer Brands Association supports new trucking legislation

St. Joseph city officials welcome the public’s input as they
search for a new police chief.

The St. Joseph City Council hired a national search firm that
specializes in law enforcement.

City Manager Bryan Carter urges residents to go to the City of
St. Joseph website to give their opinion on the police chief search.

“We have a link to that survey out on the <a href="https://www.stjosephmo.gov/">city’s website</a> right
now that just anyone in the community can jump on there and take,” Carter tells
host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “It’s a really important tool that we’re
going to use to develop the candidate profile. So, it’s an important step one of
a multi-step process.”

Public input will be reviewed by the search firm, which will
use community comments in developing its candidate profile. Those comments will
be incorporated in the advertisement for a new chief.

Carter says it is all part of engaging the public in the vetting
process for the next police chief.

“What we want to see in our next police chief and we’ll be
getting some public input a little bit later about which person best matches
that ‘what we want to see’ component,” according to Carter, who adds city
officials will not see who made the comments, only the comments themselves.

Carter says it’s extremely important the city get this hire
right.

“That’s leadership of one of the most important departments,
if not the most important department, that the city has,” according to Carter. “And
we’d like to get that leadership settled. We’re balancing that against having a
good process that gets that community input and that gets quality candidates and
gets the candidates in here.”

Long-time St. Joseph Police Chief Chris Connally retired at
the end of September after serving in the role since 2006. Commander Dave Hart
has stepped in to serve on an interim basis. Hart is not a candidate for the
position.

Click <a href="https://www.stjosephmo.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1759">HERE</a> to take survey.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674743879490.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph city officials welcome the public’s input as they
search for a new police chief.The St. Joseph City Council hired a national search firm that
specializes in law enforcement.City Manager Bryan Carter urges residents to go to the City of
St. Joseph website to give their opinion on the police chief search.“We have a link to that survey out on the <a href="https://www.stjosephmo.gov/">city’s website</a> right
now that just anyone in the community can jump on there and take,” Carter tells
host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “It’s a really important tool that we’re
going to use to develop the candidate profile. So, it’s an important step one of
a multi-step process.”Public input will be reviewed by the search firm, which will
use community comments in developing its candidate profile. Those comments will
be incorporated in the advertisement for a new chief.Carter says it is all part of engaging the public in the vetting
process for the next police chief.“What we want to see in our next police chief and we’ll be
getting some public input a little bit later about which person best matches
that ‘what we want to see’ component,” according to Carter, who adds city
officials will not see who made the comments, only the comments themselves.Carter says it’s extremely important the city get this hire
right.“That’s leadership of one of the most important departments,
if not the most important department, that the city has,” according to Carter. “And
we’d like to get that leadership settled. We’re balancing that against having a
good process that gets that community input and that gets quality candidates and
gets the candidates in here.”Long-time St. Joseph Police Chief Chris Connally retired at
the end of September after serving in the role since 2006. Commander Dave Hart
has stepped in to serve on an interim basis. Hart is not a candidate for the
position.Click <a href="https://www.stjosephmo.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1759">HERE</a> to take survey.

St. Joseph seeks public input in search for new police chief

The National Corn Growers Association praised the Biden administration for issuing an official rejection of a recent proposed compromise from Mexico on biotech corn imports into the country. 

The development came during a meeting between Mexican officials and U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Secretary of Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative’s chief ag negotiator Doug McKalip. 

In a statement that came after the meeting, USTR and USDA said the changes offered by Mexico “are not sufficient and Mexico’s proposed approach, which is not grounded in science, still threatens to disrupt billions of dollars in bilateral agricultural trade, cause serious economic harm to U.S. farmers and Mexican livestock producers, and stifle important innovations needed to help producers respond to pressing climate and food security challenges.” 

NCGA President Tom Haag responded, “This is significant development and good news for corn growers.” Mexico announced in late 2020 a decree banning biotech corn into the country, beginning in early 2024.

The National Corn Growers Association praised the Biden administration for issuing an official rejection of a recent proposed compromise from Mexico on biotech corn imports into the country. The development came during a meeting between Mexican officials and U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Secretary of Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative’s chief ag negotiator Doug McKalip. In a statement that came after the meeting, USTR and USDA said the changes offered by Mexico “are not sufficient and Mexico’s proposed approach, which is not grounded in science, still threatens to disrupt billions of dollars in bilateral agricultural trade, cause serious economic harm to U.S. farmers and Mexican livestock producers, and stifle important innovations needed to help producers respond to pressing climate and food security challenges.” NCGA President Tom Haag responded, “This is significant development and good news for corn growers.” Mexico announced in late 2020 a decree banning biotech corn into the country, beginning in early 2024.

Corn growers praise Biden officials for stance on biotech corn

A tax on recreational marijuana will be on the April ballot after the St. Joseph City Council passed an emergency ordinance.&nbsp;

The emergency ordinance passed unanimously.&nbsp; Initially, the city council wanted to wait and see how regulations played out.&nbsp;

But, Mayor John Josendale says the city council reversed course after seeing nearly 60 other municipalities with the measure on their April ballot. &nbsp;

"In doing that, we sat there and thought well a lot of people are putting it out there, there will be a lot of information about it, so this would probably be the most opportune time to put it out there for the voters to approve the tax to come through," Josendale tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;

A provision in the ballot measure approved by voters gave cities the option to levy the tax.&nbsp; The ordinance calls for a three percent sales tax on marijuana sales.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Josendale says the money brought in from the sales tax will be added to the general fund which will provide flexibility.&nbsp;

"Because this is not earmarked for one particular area, but we may use it for education, you can use it for streets, you could use it for any number of things," Josendale explains. "But I think at this point in time the fact that it's going into the general fund leaves it a little open as to how you can use it."&nbsp;

Josendale says there is still a lot to learn about how legalizing marijuana will impact the city. The measure will be on the April 4th ballot.&nbsp;

Josendale says this tax is important because of the opportunities that it will present, which is why the ballot measure legalizing marijuana had a provision giving the cities the opportunity to add a tax.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;A tax on recreational marijuana will be on the April ballot after the St. Joseph City Council passed an emergency ordinance.&nbsp;The emergency ordinance passed unanimously.&nbsp; Initially, the city council wanted to wait and see how regulations played out.&nbsp;But, Mayor John Josendale says the city council reversed course after seeing nearly 60 other municipalities with the measure on their April ballot. &nbsp;"In doing that, we sat there and thought well a lot of people are putting it out there, there will be a lot of information about it, so this would probably be the most opportune time to put it out there for the voters to approve the tax to come through," Josendale tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;A provision in the ballot measure approved by voters gave cities the option to levy the tax.&nbsp; The ordinance calls for a three percent sales tax on marijuana sales.&nbsp; &nbsp;Josendale says the money brought in from the sales tax will be added to the general fund which will provide flexibility.&nbsp;"Because this is not earmarked for one particular area, but we may use it for education, you can use it for streets, you could use it for any number of things," Josendale explains. "But I think at this point in time the fact that it's going into the general fund leaves it a little open as to how you can use it."&nbsp;Josendale says there is still a lot to learn about how legalizing marijuana will impact the city. The measure will be on the April 4th ballot.&nbsp;Josendale says this tax is important because of the opportunities that it will present, which is why the ballot measure legalizing marijuana had a provision giving the cities the opportunity to add a tax.&nbsp;"So that they would have funds in regards to some of the things they may have to do differently," Josendale says. "With regards to regulating it or dealing with it down the road."&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/1252023-Journal--April-ballot-will-feature-sales-tax-on-recreational-marijuana-after-all-in-St--Joseph-e1u0844" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

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