Missouri might have legalized recreational marijuana, but it
will remain off limits on the St. Joseph campus of Missouri Western State
University.

“While the state has passed that amendment, Missouri Western
is certainly not going to have any situation like that on campus,” Missouri
Western President Elizabeth Kennedy tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.

Kennedy points out the university bans other legal substances.

“We are an alcohol-free campus and a no-smoking campus, so we
will keep those,” Kennedy says. “One of the things we have to keep in mind, we
have a lot of young adults on our campus. You have to be 21 to able to engage
in recreational marijuana and they’re not.”

Kennedy says the university issued a memo to staff and
students stating marijuana use will not be allowed on campus even though state
law has changed.

“To make sure everyone understands what Missouri Western’s
policies are, what our guidelines are, and to help our own campus police so
they understand what we will be asking them to do and not do and those kinds of
things.”

Kennedy says Missouri Western would risk federal dollars if it
allowed marijuana use on campus.

“We have to remember again, according to federal law, it is
illegal and if you’re receiving federal funds, which we do from Pells (Grants)
and those kinds of things, we would be in jeopardy of losing our ability to get
the federal funding and we’re not going to do that.”

Kennedy adds the university takes substance abuse seriously
and attempts to help students caught in addiction.

“For some of these students, it’s the first time they’re away
from home,” Kennedy says. “There’s a lot of freedom that can come with some
things, but there’s also a lot of responsibility and that’s what we’re really
helping them really develop into, is the responsible adult who understands
those kinds of things.”

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri might have legalized recreational marijuana, but it
will remain off limits on the St. Joseph campus of Missouri Western State
University.“While the state has passed that amendment, Missouri Western
is certainly not going to have any situation like that on campus,” Missouri
Western President Elizabeth Kennedy tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.Kennedy points out the university bans other legal substances.“We are an alcohol-free campus and a no-smoking campus, so we
will keep those,” Kennedy says. “One of the things we have to keep in mind, we
have a lot of young adults on our campus. You have to be 21 to able to engage
in recreational marijuana and they’re not.”Kennedy says the university issued a memo to staff and
students stating marijuana use will not be allowed on campus even though state
law has changed.“To make sure everyone understands what Missouri Western’s
policies are, what our guidelines are, and to help our own campus police so
they understand what we will be asking them to do and not do and those kinds of
things.”Kennedy says Missouri Western would risk federal dollars if it
allowed marijuana use on campus.“We have to remember again, according to federal law, it is
illegal and if you’re receiving federal funds, which we do from Pells (Grants)
and those kinds of things, we would be in jeopardy of losing our ability to get
the federal funding and we’re not going to do that.”Kennedy adds the university takes substance abuse seriously
and attempts to help students caught in addiction.“For some of these students, it’s the first time they’re away
from home,” Kennedy says. “There’s a lot of freedom that can come with some
things, but there’s also a lot of responsibility and that’s what we’re really
helping them really develop into, is the responsible adult who understands
those kinds of things.”

It might be legal in Missouri, but marijuana isn't welcome at Missouri Western

The St. Joseph Sports Commission, in partnership with the Junior League of St. Joseph, announced the creation of the inaugural St. Joseph, Missouri Marathon which will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2023.

The race will feature five different distances for participants to choose from, including a full marathon (26.2 miles), half marathon (13.1 miles), 10K race (6.2 miles), 5K race (3.1 miles) and a relay team element that encompasses the full route. Full marathon participants will have the opportunity to achieve a Boston Marathon qualifying time as the course will be officially certified.

This scenic and challenging race route, which begins and ends behind Civic Center Park in downtown St. Joseph, will take participants from north to south. The route includes numerous St. Joseph landmarks like Krug Park, Hyde Park, Lovers Lane, Ashland Avenue, Pony Express Museum, the Museum Hill Area, all incorporating the 12 miles of the city’s historic parkway system.

Race weekend begins with a Packet Pick-Up Community and Fitness Expo which will be held at Civic Arena on Friday, September 22. On race day, pre and post event activities will be staged in Civic Center Park within easy access to the start and finish line.

“In the continued quest of creating or attracting events that have interest, fit and niche in our community, the establishment of a true, community wide, marathon type of event quickly gained traction among many earlier this year,” said Brett Esely, Director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission.

“The vision for this event not only encompasses our local and regional running community but will be a true tourism event that will potentially attract participants from all over the country. These events are major undertakings with a lot of moving parts, hundreds of volunteers, people working together and is a great way to showcase our community.”

The partnership with Junior League of St. Joseph expands on a decade-long foundation they’ve created with the former Pony Express Run, which included a half marathon and most recently a 5K race.

A portion of the St. Joseph Marathon’s proceeds will benefit Junior League’s initiatives which include; Cinderella’s Closet, Hope Totes, Community Assistance and Literacy Grants along with their support of the United Way of Greater St. Joseph.

Registration and pricing information for the St. Joseph Marathon will be announced and open in mid-January 2023.

Sponsorship and expo booth information will also be available at that time. Volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups will be available in early spring.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671057614710.png" alt="St. Joseph Marathon logo. Courtesy of the St. Joseph Sports Commission and St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau." />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Marathon logo. Courtesy of the St. Joseph Sports Commission and St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Sports Commission, in partnership with the Junior League of St. Joseph, announced the creation of the inaugural St. Joseph, Missouri Marathon which will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2023.The race will feature five different distances for participants to choose from, including a full marathon (26.2 miles), half marathon (13.1 miles), 10K race (6.2 miles), 5K race (3.1 miles) and a relay team element that encompasses the full route. Full marathon participants will have the opportunity to achieve a Boston Marathon qualifying time as the course will be officially certified.This scenic and challenging race route, which begins and ends behind Civic Center Park in downtown St. Joseph, will take participants from north to south. The route includes numerous St. Joseph landmarks like Krug Park, Hyde Park, Lovers Lane, Ashland Avenue, Pony Express Museum, the Museum Hill Area, all incorporating the 12 miles of the city’s historic parkway system.Race weekend begins with a Packet Pick-Up Community and Fitness Expo which will be held at Civic Arena on Friday, September 22. On race day, pre and post event activities will be staged in Civic Center Park within easy access to the start and finish line.“In the continued quest of creating or attracting events that have interest, fit and niche in our community, the establishment of a true, community wide, marathon type of event quickly gained traction among many earlier this year,” said Brett Esely, Director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission.“The vision for this event not only encompasses our local and regional running community but will be a true tourism event that will potentially attract participants from all over the country. These events are major undertakings with a lot of moving parts, hundreds of volunteers, people working together and is a great way to showcase our community.”The partnership with Junior League of St. Joseph expands on a decade-long foundation they’ve created with the former Pony Express Run, which included a half marathon and most recently a 5K race.A portion of the St. Joseph Marathon’s proceeds will benefit Junior League’s initiatives which include; Cinderella’s Closet, Hope Totes, Community Assistance and Literacy Grants along with their support of the United Way of Greater St. Joseph.Registration and pricing information for the St. Joseph Marathon will be announced and open in mid-January 2023.Sponsorship and expo booth information will also be available at that time. Volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups will be available in early spring.

St. Joseph Sports Commission unveils city's first marathon coming in 2023

As of December 8, it’s now lawful for people ages 21 and older in the state of Missouri to possess and use marijuana.

Medical marijuana has been legal in Missouri since 2018, but this past November, voters approved a constitutional amendment, legalizing the drug for anyone 21 or older. Missouri has become the 21st state to legalize recreational marijuana.

The amendment passed by a 53.1 - 46.9 percent margin. Nineteen of Missouri’s 114 counties voted no on the amendment. Buchanan County approved Amendment 3 by a slim, 712 vote margin. Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett says this law brings with it new concerns about impairment - particularly behind the wheel.

"We have to make sure that people remain safe and protected," Puett said on KFEQ's The Hotline. "Just like we restrict driving while intoxicated with alcohol or other activities, it's a concern when we have impaired drivers."

On top of that, there’s a lot to be figured out yet with this new law. For one, dispensaries cannot sell marijuana for recreational use until February 2023.

People will eventually be able to grow it themselves, but applications for that won’t be taken until January 7. Schools and businesses can still prohibit the drug, as it is still illegal at the federal level.

"It's extremely confusing right now," Puett continued. "We want to make sure the (prosecutor's) staff is as up to speed as possible."

The main concern for law enforcement agencies across the state is not only the danger of impairment, but the difficulty in assessing that impairment. Puett says it’s not as cut and dry as when an officer stops someone for drinking and driving.

"With THC, it's going to be a situation where there's going to have to be other information provided to the courts and right now, there's a lot of agencies that are restricting K-9 use, because most working dogs that are in service right now have been trained to sniff drugs, including marijuana."

The people have spoken, and recreational marijuana is legal in Missouri. Studies show the state may bring in $1.3 billion in annual sales once the program is up and running.

There will be a 6% sales tax for recreational marijuana that'll be collected and distributed to a number of organizations in the state through the Veterans, Health and Community Reinvestment Fund.

The amendment also allows people with certain marijuana-related, non-violent offenses to petition for release from incarceration, parole and probation and have their records cleared.

But from a law enforcement standpoint, Puett says there are some difficulties ahead.

"Probably we're going to have a lot of, I hate to say difficulties, but I think it'll be a rough and rocky process to try and figure out. I think some of it will have to be done by case law through the courts."

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

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostAs of December 8, it’s now lawful for people ages 21 and older in the state of Missouri to possess and use marijuana.Medical marijuana has been legal in Missouri since 2018, but this past November, voters approved a constitutional amendment, legalizing the drug for anyone 21 or older. Missouri has become the 21st state to legalize recreational marijuana.The amendment passed by a 53.1 - 46.9 percent margin. Nineteen of Missouri’s 114 counties voted no on the amendment. Buchanan County approved Amendment 3 by a slim, 712 vote margin. Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett says this law brings with it new concerns about impairment - particularly behind the wheel."We have to make sure that people remain safe and protected," Puett said on KFEQ's The Hotline. "Just like we restrict driving while intoxicated with alcohol or other activities, it's a concern when we have impaired drivers."On top of that, there’s a lot to be figured out yet with this new law. For one, dispensaries cannot sell marijuana for recreational use until February 2023.People will eventually be able to grow it themselves, but applications for that won’t be taken until January 7. Schools and businesses can still prohibit the drug, as it is still illegal at the federal level."It's extremely confusing right now," Puett continued. "We want to make sure the (prosecutor's) staff is as up to speed as possible."The main concern for law enforcement agencies across the state is not only the danger of impairment, but the difficulty in assessing that impairment. Puett says it’s not as cut and dry as when an officer stops someone for drinking and driving."With THC, it's going to be a situation where there's going to have to be other information provided to the courts and right now, there's a lot of agencies that are restricting K-9 use, because most working dogs that are in service right now have been trained to sniff drugs, including marijuana."The people have spoken, and recreational marijuana is legal in Missouri. Studies show the state may bring in $1.3 billion in annual sales once the program is up and running.There will be a 6% sales tax for recreational marijuana that'll be collected and distributed to a number of organizations in the state through the Veterans, Health and Community Reinvestment Fund.The amendment also allows people with certain marijuana-related, non-violent offenses to petition for release from incarceration, parole and probation and have their records cleared.But from a law enforcement standpoint, Puett says there are some difficulties ahead."Probably we're going to have a lot of, I hate to say difficulties, but I think it'll be a rough and rocky process to try and figure out. I think some of it will have to be done by case law through the courts."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Buchanan Co. Sheriff foresees challenges with legalization of marijuana

Northern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves sees reason for
optimism as Congress gets set to operate as a divided government once again.

While Republicans took control of the House, the Senate
remains in the hands of the Democrats.

Graves, a Republican, says House Republicans need to begin the
next session of Congress by reaching out to their Democratic colleagues in the
Senate.

“This isn’t the first time that I’ve worked with a Democrat
Senate,” Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “We’ve been in the majority in the
House before with the Democrats in the Senate. We were able to get a lot of
things done when I was chairman of the Small Business Committee.”

Graves, who first won election to Congress in 2000, says he worked well with former Sen. Mary Landrieu, a Democrat
who chaired the Senate Small Business Committee at the time. He says, together,
they were able to draft legislation that cleared both chambers of Congress.

Graves says that by working together, the two chambers should
be able to send President Joe Biden bills he can sign.

“He’s running for re-election as well,” Graves says. “So, he’s
going to be looking at legislation. He’ll be very careful about what he vetoes
and what he doesn’t veto. But with the Senate in Democrat hands, there will be
a lot of compromises that are made and hopefully he’ll be able to see the good
in a lot of this legislation and sign it.”

Graves, who is the senior member of the Missouri Congressional
delegation, says he’s worked in a split government before and has been able to
reach across the political aisle to craft legislation with Democrats.

“That’s one area that I’m very capable of, is being able to
work with the other side and find common ground,” according to Graves. “I’m
cautiously optimistic.&nbsp; I think that we’ll
be able to have a productive couple of years.”

Graves is expected to become chair of the House Transportation
and Infrastructure Committee in the new Congress.

The first session of the 118th Congress convenes on
Tuesday, January 3rd.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671040044813.jpeg" alt="Congressman Sam Graves asks questions during a House committee hearing/Photo courtesy of Congressman Graves' office" />
 <figcaption>Congressman Sam Graves asks questions during a House committee hearing/Photo courtesy of Congressman Graves' office</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostNorthern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves sees reason for
optimism as Congress gets set to operate as a divided government once again.While Republicans took control of the House, the Senate
remains in the hands of the Democrats.Graves, a Republican, says House Republicans need to begin the
next session of Congress by reaching out to their Democratic colleagues in the
Senate.“This isn’t the first time that I’ve worked with a Democrat
Senate,” Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “We’ve been in the majority in the
House before with the Democrats in the Senate. We were able to get a lot of
things done when I was chairman of the Small Business Committee.”Graves, who first won election to Congress in 2000, says he worked well with former Sen. Mary Landrieu, a Democrat
who chaired the Senate Small Business Committee at the time. He says, together,
they were able to draft legislation that cleared both chambers of Congress.Graves says that by working together, the two chambers should
be able to send President Joe Biden bills he can sign.“He’s running for re-election as well,” Graves says. “So, he’s
going to be looking at legislation. He’ll be very careful about what he vetoes
and what he doesn’t veto. But with the Senate in Democrat hands, there will be
a lot of compromises that are made and hopefully he’ll be able to see the good
in a lot of this legislation and sign it.”Graves, who is the senior member of the Missouri Congressional
delegation, says he’s worked in a split government before and has been able to
reach across the political aisle to craft legislation with Democrats.“That’s one area that I’m very capable of, is being able to
work with the other side and find common ground,” according to Graves. “I’m
cautiously optimistic.&nbsp; I think that we’ll
be able to have a productive couple of years.”Graves is expected to become chair of the House Transportation
and Infrastructure Committee in the new Congress.The first session of the 118th Congress convenes on
Tuesday, January 3rd.

Graves sees opportunity in divided government

The Salvation Army in St. Joseph believes everyone should have a happy holiday, and are giving away toys and clothes as part of an annual tradition.&nbsp;

The Salvation Army Toy Shoppe will run today [Wed.] and tomorrow [Thu.] out of the Salvation Army gym, providing applicants in need with toys and clothes for their children. &nbsp;

Major Ronald Key says toys were gathered from donors thanks to the angel tree tags that were around St. Joseph. And now everything is set up and ready to be given away&nbsp;

"Hopefully everybody's applied who needs to apply and those kinds of things, but we'll probably help we're talking 150 kids this year probably," Key tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "They'll pretty much, the last two years because of COVID we had to bag it off ahead of time, this year the parents can actually go around the Toy Shoppe and pick what their children want, so it's a little more personable that way."&nbsp;

Key says people that applied to come to the Toy Shoppe are all in need for one reason or another. &nbsp;

"Maybe they don't have, because of the economy, still maybe affected with COVID, a lot of different things, so it helps us to supply what their children need for Christmas or what they've asked for," Key says. "So, we do the best we can with filling that need and most of our children go home with eight to ten toys and that also includes clothing and stuff like that."&nbsp;

Volunteers are still needed to help at the Toy Shoppe escorting shoppers through all the toys that were donated.&nbsp; Interested people should call the Salvation Army offices to volunteer.&nbsp;

Key says the number of donations this year has been outstanding, and the Salvation Army gym is full and ready to give toys away this year. &nbsp;

"The generosity of the people in St. Joseph who have purchased things for kids they don't know is just wonderful, so we've had organizations that have adopted and provided stuff, local Walmart stores and Sam's Club who have put up angel trees for us, Menards who does an angel tree for us, all of those things have been wonderful," Key proudly says. "So, as far as donations we're doing really well on those."&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;The Salvation Army in St. Joseph believes everyone should have a happy holiday, and are giving away toys and clothes as part of an annual tradition.&nbsp;The Salvation Army Toy Shoppe will run today [Wed.] and tomorrow [Thu.] out of the Salvation Army gym, providing applicants in need with toys and clothes for their children. &nbsp;Major Ronald Key says toys were gathered from donors thanks to the angel tree tags that were around St. Joseph. And now everything is set up and ready to be given away&nbsp;"Hopefully everybody's applied who needs to apply and those kinds of things, but we'll probably help we're talking 150 kids this year probably," Key tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "They'll pretty much, the last two years because of COVID we had to bag it off ahead of time, this year the parents can actually go around the Toy Shoppe and pick what their children want, so it's a little more personable that way."&nbsp;Key says people that applied to come to the Toy Shoppe are all in need for one reason or another. &nbsp;"Maybe they don't have, because of the economy, still maybe affected with COVID, a lot of different things, so it helps us to supply what their children need for Christmas or what they've asked for," Key says. "So, we do the best we can with filling that need and most of our children go home with eight to ten toys and that also includes clothing and stuff like that."&nbsp;Volunteers are still needed to help at the Toy Shoppe escorting shoppers through all the toys that were donated.&nbsp; Interested people should call the Salvation Army offices to volunteer.&nbsp;Key says the number of donations this year has been outstanding, and the Salvation Army gym is full and ready to give toys away this year. &nbsp;"The generosity of the people in St. Joseph who have purchased things for kids they don't know is just wonderful, so we've had organizations that have adopted and provided stuff, local Walmart stores and Sam's Club who have put up angel trees for us, Menards who does an angel tree for us, all of those things have been wonderful," Key proudly says. "So, as far as donations we're doing really well on those."&nbsp;

Salvation Army handing out toys to kids in need

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary in Atchison.

According to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, suspects broke into Luxe Steel Windows and Doors in the 500 block Woodlawn Avenue sometime between midday on Monday and midday on Tuesday. 

They took two 50-inch televisions. Police released no additional details.

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary in Atchison.According to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, suspects broke into Luxe Steel Windows and Doors in the 500 block Woodlawn Avenue sometime between midday on Monday and midday on Tuesday. They took two 50-inch televisions. Police released no additional details.

Suspect took two 50-inch televisions from business

ANDREW COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Tuesday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Chevy&nbsp; Blazer driven by Barbara J. Cronk, 64, Maryville, was northbound in heavy traffic on Interstate 29 three miles north of St. Joseph in the driving lane.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The driver failed to yield to stopped traffic and rear-ended a 2022 Chevy Silverado driven by Jose A. Lallana, 61, Plattsburg.

After impact, the pickup rear-ended a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Madalyn A. Kreek, 19, Oregon, Missouri.

The Jeep then struck the driver's side on the towed unit of a 2021 Chevy Silverado driven by Robert. P. Johnson, 58, Bolivar, and traveled into the passing lane and struck a 2009 Toyota Camry driven by Gabrielle M. Mueller, 19, Maryville.

After impact the Camry traveled across the west side of the road and the drivers side struck a guardrail.&nbsp;

After the 2022 Silverado struck the Jeep, it continued northbound and struck the towed unit of the 2021 Silverado.

Andrew County EMS transported Kronk and Kreek to Mosaic Life Care. A private vehicle later transferred Kreek to Fairfax Community Hospital.&nbsp; There were no other injuries. All five drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Tuesday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Chevy&nbsp; Blazer driven by Barbara J. Cronk, 64, Maryville, was northbound in heavy traffic on Interstate 29 three miles north of St. Joseph in the driving lane.&nbsp;&nbsp;The driver failed to yield to stopped traffic and rear-ended a 2022 Chevy Silverado driven by Jose A. Lallana, 61, Plattsburg.After impact, the pickup rear-ended a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Madalyn A. Kreek, 19, Oregon, Missouri.The Jeep then struck the driver's side on the towed unit of a 2021 Chevy Silverado driven by Robert. P. Johnson, 58, Bolivar, and traveled into the passing lane and struck a 2009 Toyota Camry driven by Gabrielle M. Mueller, 19, Maryville.After impact the Camry traveled across the west side of the road and the drivers side struck a guardrail.&nbsp;After the 2022 Silverado struck the Jeep, it continued northbound and struck the towed unit of the 2021 Silverado.Andrew County EMS transported Kronk and Kreek to Mosaic Life Care. A private vehicle later transferred Kreek to Fairfax Community Hospital.&nbsp; There were no other injuries. All five drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

2 hospitalized after 5-vehicle Andrew County crash

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged violent crime and have a suspect in custody.

On Tuesday, police arrested 21-year-old Janiel A. Casablanca-Villahermosa of Atchison in the 1100 Block of Atchison Street, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

He is being held on a $2500 bond on requested charges of domestic battery; bodily harm.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670956990039.png" alt="Casablanca-photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Casablanca-photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged violent crime and have a suspect in custody.On Tuesday, police arrested 21-year-old Janiel A. Casablanca-Villahermosa of Atchison in the 1100 Block of Atchison Street, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.He is being held on a $2500 bond on requested charges of domestic battery; bodily harm.&nbsp;

21-year-old Kan. man accused of domestic battery

Missouri transportation officials are lifting some regulations to make it easier to transport large loads of hay to drought-stricken central and southern Missouri.&nbsp;

MoDot has announced an extension to permits for over-width hauling through March 1st of next year.&nbsp;

MoDot Project manager DeAnne Richabaugh says this single trip permit will allow for transportation of wide loads of hay.&nbsp;

"Normally a load cannot exceed eight feet six inches, but for those who are hauling double bales we might exceed eight feet, six inches," Richabaugh tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So, for those who have loads that are wider than eight feet six inches, we still require a permit, but we will issue them at no charge."&nbsp;

The permits will only be valid in transporting hay through Missouri. &nbsp;

Richabaugh says these permits allow for loads up to 14 feet wide, and drivers should be aware of this when hitting the road.&nbsp;

"So, drivers just need to be attentive and make sure that if they go to pass one of these loads, they have a clear berth, and just make room, "Richabaugh explains.&nbsp;

The new allowance for travel also allows farmers to haul hay over the holidays and at night.&nbsp;

"So, these loads could be on the highway at any time," Richabaugh says. "At night drivers will see an oversize load sign that's reflective and there will be special clearance lights so other drivers can see the edges and know how wide the load is."&nbsp;

Single trip permits can be acquired by calling MoDot or by going on the MoDot website.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670955425230.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Missouri transportation officials are lifting some regulations to make it easier to transport large loads of hay to drought-stricken central and southern Missouri.&nbsp;MoDot has announced an extension to permits for over-width hauling through March 1st of next year.&nbsp;MoDot Project manager DeAnne Richabaugh says this single trip permit will allow for transportation of wide loads of hay.&nbsp;"Normally a load cannot exceed eight feet six inches, but for those who are hauling double bales we might exceed eight feet, six inches," Richabaugh tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So, for those who have loads that are wider than eight feet six inches, we still require a permit, but we will issue them at no charge."&nbsp;The permits will only be valid in transporting hay through Missouri. &nbsp;Richabaugh says these permits allow for loads up to 14 feet wide, and drivers should be aware of this when hitting the road.&nbsp;"So, drivers just need to be attentive and make sure that if they go to pass one of these loads, they have a clear berth, and just make room, "Richabaugh explains.&nbsp;The new allowance for travel also allows farmers to haul hay over the holidays and at night.&nbsp;"So, these loads could be on the highway at any time," Richabaugh says. "At night drivers will see an oversize load sign that's reflective and there will be special clearance lights so other drivers can see the edges and know how wide the load is."&nbsp;Single trip permits can be acquired by calling MoDot or by going on the MoDot website.Cover image courtesy Pixabay

State lifts rules so large loads of hay can be taken to drought-stricken parts of Missouri

WESTMORELAND&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz on Tuesday announced that $40.5 million will support 33 local and off-system bridge projects across the state. This announcement comes as part of two local bridge improvement programs reshaped to take advantage of new revenue streams generated by the federally approved Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).

“My administration is committed to improving Kansas’ transportation system, including city- and county-owned bridges in need of overdue repairs,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“These bridge programs demonstrate how, by fostering partnerships among all levels of government, we can build a robust, responsive infrastructure system that provides efficient and safe transportation routes and boosts state and local economies.”

The amount awarded by the Kansas Department of Transportation to cities and counties more than doubles and triples local bridge improvement funds available in these programs as part of the existing Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE).

The announcement took place at the Pottawatomie County Law Enforcement Center in Westmoreland, just a few miles from one of the selected bridges.

The KDOT bridge improvement programs include approximately $137.5 million in BIL funds over the next five years.

The&nbsp;Off-System Bridge Program&nbsp;(OSB) has been expanded from $8 million in annual funding to $20.5 million. Twenty-two projects – with awarded funds ranging from $460,000 to $1.4 million – were selected for Federal Fiscal Year 2024. In total for this round, KDOT received 99 OSB applications requesting $83.8 million.

The&nbsp;Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program&nbsp;(KLBIP) has increased from $5 million annually to $20 million. For State Fiscal Year 2023, the 11 selected KLBIP projects will replace 10 deficient bridges and permanently remove seven deficient bridges from the local system. For this round of KLBIP selections, 114 applications were received with requests totaling more than $126 million.

“These local bridges are the lifeblood of many communities,”&nbsp;Secretary Lorenz said.&nbsp;“Most ag loads start in a field, are placed in a truck, and have to cross a county bridge to get to a state highway or rail line.&nbsp;Congratulations&nbsp;to these Kansas communities for partnering with KDOT and securing local matching funds that keep critical bridges open to the public and moving commerce.”

Both the OSB and KLBIP have similar-yet-different bridge eligibility requirements targeted for city and county bridges not on the state highway system and in need of replacement or repair. Funds for both programs are awarded through an application process and, in most cases, require a local contribution. KDOT uses selection criteria that include bridge condition, detour length, inability to carry legal loads, and past project history.

There are approximately 19,300 bridges on Kansas’ local road systems. About 26% – or 5,000 – of those bridges are in poor condition or unable to meet today’s weight and vehicle requirements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670950063249.png" alt="Photos by Becky Goff" />
 <figcaption>Photos by Becky Goff</figcaption>
 </figure>WESTMORELAND&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz on Tuesday announced that $40.5 million will support 33 local and off-system bridge projects across the state. This announcement comes as part of two local bridge improvement programs reshaped to take advantage of new revenue streams generated by the federally approved Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).“My administration is committed to improving Kansas’ transportation system, including city- and county-owned bridges in need of overdue repairs,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“These bridge programs demonstrate how, by fostering partnerships among all levels of government, we can build a robust, responsive infrastructure system that provides efficient and safe transportation routes and boosts state and local economies.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670950106330.png" alt="Photo by Becky Goff" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Becky Goff</figcaption>
 </figure>The amount awarded by the Kansas Department of Transportation to cities and counties more than doubles and triples local bridge improvement funds available in these programs as part of the existing Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE).The announcement took place at the Pottawatomie County Law Enforcement Center in Westmoreland, just a few miles from one of the selected bridges.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWheresBeckyMHK%2Fvideos%2F921155945917960%2F&show_text=true&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="429" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>The KDOT bridge improvement programs include approximately $137.5 million in BIL funds over the next five years.The&nbsp;Off-System Bridge Program&nbsp;(OSB) has been expanded from $8 million in annual funding to $20.5 million. Twenty-two projects – with awarded funds ranging from $460,000 to $1.4 million – were selected for Federal Fiscal Year 2024. In total for this round, KDOT received 99 OSB applications requesting $83.8 million.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670950085913.png" alt="Photo by Becky Goff" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Becky Goff</figcaption>
 </figure>The&nbsp;Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program&nbsp;(KLBIP) has increased from $5 million annually to $20 million. For State Fiscal Year 2023, the 11 selected KLBIP projects will replace 10 deficient bridges and permanently remove seven deficient bridges from the local system. For this round of KLBIP selections, 114 applications were received with requests totaling more than $126 million.“These local bridges are the lifeblood of many communities,”&nbsp;Secretary Lorenz said.&nbsp;“Most ag loads start in a field, are placed in a truck, and have to cross a county bridge to get to a state highway or rail line.&nbsp;Congratulations&nbsp;to these Kansas communities for partnering with KDOT and securing local matching funds that keep critical bridges open to the public and moving commerce.”Both the OSB and KLBIP have similar-yet-different bridge eligibility requirements targeted for city and county bridges not on the state highway system and in need of replacement or repair. Funds for both programs are awarded through an application process and, in most cases, require a local contribution. KDOT uses selection criteria that include bridge condition, detour length, inability to carry legal loads, and past project history.There are approximately 19,300 bridges on Kansas’ local road systems. About 26% – or 5,000 – of those bridges are in poor condition or unable to meet today’s weight and vehicle requirements.

Gov. announces more than $40M for 33 bridge projects across Kansas

A state senator will move, once again, to make it a felony to
shoot and kill a police dog.

Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer of Parkville, who represents both Platte
and Buchanan Counties in the Missouri Senate, ran out of time last session to
move his bill, which he calls Max’s Law in honor of K-9 Max, the St. Joseph police
dog shot and killed in late June of 2021 in the line of duty. Luetkemeyer says
the law would not only help protect animals, but the humans they serve.

“But for these K-9 officers, many times their human partners
would be in harm’s way and at risk of being shot themselves if it weren’t for
these animals,” Luetkemeyer tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “And so, we need to
make sure that we’re protecting them.”

At present, Missouri law makes it only a misdemeanor to kill a
police dog.

Luetkemeyer met with St. Joseph Police Officer Lucas Winder
after the death of Max. Winder asked Luetkemeyer to consider sponsoring
legislation to stiffen the penalty for killing a police dog. Under
Luetkemeyer’s bill, killing a police dog would be a Class D felony which could
come with prison time.

Luetkemeyer says these are not mere dogs.

“It’s a law enforcement officer,” Luetkemeyer says. “These
police dogs, whenever they are trained and brought into the force, I mean
they’re sworn in as K-9 officers. They are police officers. And so, we should
be protecting them as such.”

Luetkemeyer says it surprised him when he learned current
state law considers the killing of a police dog a misdemeanor.

Luetkemeyer says he wants to address the light penalty for
killing a police dog, but also wants to honor Max with his legislation.

“Part of it is passing a law to make sure that we’re
preventing crimes like this from happening in the future,” according to
Luetkemeyer. “In addition, we have a law enforcement K-9 who prompted this
legislation to be filed by me. So, I want to be able to honor Max, to be able
to honor the St. Joseph Police Department, and to be able to honor Officer
Winder by having the legislation bear Max’s name.”

The bill appeared on the verge of passing during the last
legislative session. Luetkemeyer says it cleared the House, which returned the
bill to the Senate for debate. It never came to the floor for debate as time
ran out on the last day of the legislative session.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670954176517.jpeg" alt="Memorial for K-9 Max/file photo" />
 <figcaption>Memorial for K-9 Max/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA state senator will move, once again, to make it a felony to
shoot and kill a police dog.Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer of Parkville, who represents both Platte
and Buchanan Counties in the Missouri Senate, ran out of time last session to
move his bill, which he calls Max’s Law in honor of K-9 Max, the St. Joseph police
dog shot and killed in late June of 2021 in the line of duty. Luetkemeyer says
the law would not only help protect animals, but the humans they serve.“But for these K-9 officers, many times their human partners
would be in harm’s way and at risk of being shot themselves if it weren’t for
these animals,” Luetkemeyer tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “And so, we need to
make sure that we’re protecting them.”At present, Missouri law makes it only a misdemeanor to kill a
police dog.Luetkemeyer met with St. Joseph Police Officer Lucas Winder
after the death of Max. Winder asked Luetkemeyer to consider sponsoring
legislation to stiffen the penalty for killing a police dog. Under
Luetkemeyer’s bill, killing a police dog would be a Class D felony which could
come with prison time.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670954257382.jpeg" alt="K9 Max/file photo" />
 <figcaption>K9 Max/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Luetkemeyer says these are not mere dogs.“It’s a law enforcement officer,” Luetkemeyer says. “These
police dogs, whenever they are trained and brought into the force, I mean
they’re sworn in as K-9 officers. They are police officers. And so, we should
be protecting them as such.”Luetkemeyer says it surprised him when he learned current
state law considers the killing of a police dog a misdemeanor.Luetkemeyer says he wants to address the light penalty for
killing a police dog, but also wants to honor Max with his legislation.“Part of it is passing a law to make sure that we’re
preventing crimes like this from happening in the future,” according to
Luetkemeyer. “In addition, we have a law enforcement K-9 who prompted this
legislation to be filed by me. So, I want to be able to honor Max, to be able
to honor the St. Joseph Police Department, and to be able to honor Officer
Winder by having the legislation bear Max’s name.”The bill appeared on the verge of passing during the last
legislative session. Luetkemeyer says it cleared the House, which returned the
bill to the Senate for debate. It never came to the floor for debate as time
ran out on the last day of the legislative session.

Senator will try, once again, to pass Max's Law

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kansas man jailed for alleged domestic battery

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mayor Josendale says council focused on St. Joseph growth

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Water releases upstream on the Missouri River being lowered for winter

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

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

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

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

Kansas man jailed for alleged felony probation violation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Filing period open to run for St. Joseph School Board

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vandevort hopes this change will provide a more intimate experience 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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