ANDREW COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 4p.m. Friday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Kia passenger vehicle driven by Howard L. Smith 34, Rushville, was southbound on U.S. 169 two miles north of St. Joseph.

The Kia rear-ended a 2017 Ford passenger vehicle driven by Cynthia A. Knapp-Nelson, 59, St. Joseph, who was stopped in traffic.

Andrew County EMS transported Smith to Mosaic Life Care. Knapp-Nelson was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 4p.m. Friday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Kia passenger vehicle driven by Howard L. Smith 34, Rushville, was southbound on U.S. 169 two miles north of St. Joseph.The Kia rear-ended a 2017 Ford passenger vehicle driven by Cynthia A. Knapp-Nelson, 59, St. Joseph, who was stopped in traffic.Andrew County EMS transported Smith to Mosaic Life Care. Knapp-Nelson was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Buchanan Co. man injured after rear-end crash

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man in connection with preventing a violent crime.

On Tuesday, police arrested 63-year-old Bruce A. Kimmi, 63, Atchison,&nbsp; on a District Court warrant on a requested charges of knowingly violating a protective order, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp;

Kimmi is being held on a $2500 bond, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665070937831.png" alt="Kimmi-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Kimmi-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man in connection with preventing a violent crime.On Tuesday, police arrested 63-year-old Bruce A. Kimmi, 63, Atchison,&nbsp; on a District Court warrant on a requested charges of knowingly violating a protective order, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp;Kimmi is being held on a $2500 bond, according to online jail records.

Police: Kan. man jailed for allegedly violating protection order

Community Blood Centers in Kansas City and St. Joseph are on standby if blood is needed to help victims of Hurricane Ian, but supplying blood might be difficult. &nbsp;

Spokeswoman Chelsey Smith says the blood supply currently is critically low, and the need for donors is urgent.&nbsp;

"We were able to provide about 180 blood products to blood centers impacted by Hurricane Ian down in the southeast," Smith tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "We are standing by in the event that they do need additional help, however it's not just our blood center, it's blood centers nationally are reaching out to help them."&nbsp;

Smith says the need for blood locally is so urgent, because of a lack of donors that have been coming in, a number that has been dropping the past two years. &nbsp;

Smith says when the initial call came out for donors just ahead of Hurricane Ian hitting Florida, the number of donors did jump slightly.&nbsp;

"But not nearly enough to continue to sustain us continually sending blood to Florida," Smith says. "So, we are helping as much as we can, and like I mentioned are on standby if they ask for more help from us, but we are very limited in our ability to be able to supply blood to them simply because we're not even meeting local need."&nbsp;

Smith says the number of blood donors has continually dropped over the last two years, largely in part due to effects from the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Smith says in 2019 they saw 25,000 donors donating regularly, but now that's not the case.&nbsp; Smith says they are doing everything they can to make donating blood easy&nbsp;

"So, we're hoping that if you're one of those 25,000 that was regularly donating, whether that be a workplace drive or somewhere else and you haven't been back, please know that the need has never been greater than it is right now and we need you to come back," Smith pleads.&nbsp;

Smith says the hope is that the urgent need for blood is not falling on deaf ears, and that people are hearing and understanding how desperate the need is.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Community Blood Centers in Kansas City and St. Joseph are on standby if blood is needed to help victims of Hurricane Ian, but supplying blood might be difficult. &nbsp;Spokeswoman Chelsey Smith says the blood supply currently is critically low, and the need for donors is urgent.&nbsp;"We were able to provide about 180 blood products to blood centers impacted by Hurricane Ian down in the southeast," Smith tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "We are standing by in the event that they do need additional help, however it's not just our blood center, it's blood centers nationally are reaching out to help them."&nbsp;Smith says the need for blood locally is so urgent, because of a lack of donors that have been coming in, a number that has been dropping the past two years. &nbsp;Smith says when the initial call came out for donors just ahead of Hurricane Ian hitting Florida, the number of donors did jump slightly.&nbsp;"But not nearly enough to continue to sustain us continually sending blood to Florida," Smith says. "So, we are helping as much as we can, and like I mentioned are on standby if they ask for more help from us, but we are very limited in our ability to be able to supply blood to them simply because we're not even meeting local need."&nbsp;Smith says the number of blood donors has continually dropped over the last two years, largely in part due to effects from the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;Smith says in 2019 they saw 25,000 donors donating regularly, but now that's not the case.&nbsp; Smith says they are doing everything they can to make donating blood easy&nbsp;"So, we're hoping that if you're one of those 25,000 that was regularly donating, whether that be a workplace drive or somewhere else and you haven't been back, please know that the need has never been greater than it is right now and we need you to come back," Smith pleads.&nbsp;Smith says the hope is that the urgent need for blood is not falling on deaf ears, and that people are hearing and understanding how desperate the need is.&nbsp;

Need for blood donors remains urgent as blood supply is drastically low

Due to waterline repairs in the city of Amazonia, the city has currently been placed under a boil advisory.&nbsp;

The boil advisory is currently only in effect for people within the city limits of Amazonia. The boil order will be in effect until citizens are notified otherwise.

Water for drinking should be boiled for up to three minutes on a rolling boil.  Water that is to be used for bathing, washing, or non drinking is safe to use

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostDue to waterline repairs in the city of Amazonia, the city has currently been placed under a boil advisory.&nbsp;The boil advisory is currently only in effect for people within the city limits of Amazonia. The boil order will be in effect until citizens are notified otherwise.Water for drinking should be boiled for up to three minutes on a rolling boil. Water that is to be used for bathing, washing, or non drinking is safe to use

City of Amazonia placed under boil advisory

A dispute over whether an Idaho couple can build a new home
near a lake close to the U.S. border with Canada could have a huge impact on
agriculture throughout the country.

The dispute has reached the U.S. Supreme Court, which heard
oral arguments this week.

Northern Missouri Congress Sam Graves is watching closely,
because the Supreme Court could strike down or uphold the Environmental
Protection Agency interpretation of the Clean Water Act, which it calls Waters
of the United States.

“It continues to be batted back and forth and it’s going to
hurt farmers,” Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “It’s literally going to
allow the EPA to come onto your property. It’s going to include almost all
property out there, allow the EPA to come onto your property and regulate you.”

During oral arguments, government lawyers sought to assure the
Supreme Court that WOTUS will not affect farmers.

“Some of the folks that support this will tell you that
farmers are exempt and that is absolutely not the case,” Graves claims. “There
is not any provision within this proposal that the Biden administration is
putting up that exempts farmers out of this. That is flat out false.”

WOTUS seeks to expand what waters can be regulated under the
Clean Water Act to include swamps, bogs, and marshes. Opponents contend the EPA
is exceeding the authority it has been granted by Congress which limits the Clean Water Act to navigable waters. The EPA contends it is operating under
the authority of the act and that WOTUS is vital to the environmental health of
the nation’s waterways.

Graves is hopeful the Supreme Court strikes down WOTUS.

“We are hoping for a favorable decision on that,” Graves says.
“I’m glad that finally we’re going to put this to rest once and for all.”

Graves says it appeared the issue was resolved with a
compromise reached during the last administration.

“This started with the Obama administration and the EPA’s
overreach,” according to Graves. “Then, the Trump administration rolled it back
and we came up with a compromise and now the Biden administration is putting
all these, and even further, restrictions back into it. So, it continues to go
back and forth.”

It will be a while before the Supreme Court issues its opinion.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665149368626.jpeg" alt="The Missouri River/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>The Missouri River/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA dispute over whether an Idaho couple can build a new home
near a lake close to the U.S. border with Canada could have a huge impact on
agriculture throughout the country.The dispute has reached the U.S. Supreme Court, which heard
oral arguments this week.Northern Missouri Congress Sam Graves is watching closely,
because the Supreme Court could strike down or uphold the Environmental
Protection Agency interpretation of the Clean Water Act, which it calls Waters
of the United States.“It continues to be batted back and forth and it’s going to
hurt farmers,” Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “It’s literally going to
allow the EPA to come onto your property. It’s going to include almost all
property out there, allow the EPA to come onto your property and regulate you.”During oral arguments, government lawyers sought to assure the
Supreme Court that WOTUS will not affect farmers.Graves, a Republican, doesn’t buy it.“Some of the folks that support this will tell you that
farmers are exempt and that is absolutely not the case,” Graves claims. “There
is not any provision within this proposal that the Biden administration is
putting up that exempts farmers out of this. That is flat out false.”WOTUS seeks to expand what waters can be regulated under the
Clean Water Act to include swamps, bogs, and marshes. Opponents contend the EPA
is exceeding the authority it has been granted by Congress which limits the Clean Water Act to navigable waters. The EPA contends it is operating under
the authority of the act and that WOTUS is vital to the environmental health of
the nation’s waterways.Graves is hopeful the Supreme Court strikes down WOTUS.“We are hoping for a favorable decision on that,” Graves says.
“I’m glad that finally we’re going to put this to rest once and for all.”Graves says it appeared the issue was resolved with a
compromise reached during the last administration.“This started with the Obama administration and the EPA’s
overreach,” according to Graves. “Then, the Trump administration rolled it back
and we came up with a compromise and now the Biden administration is putting
all these, and even further, restrictions back into it. So, it continues to go
back and forth.”It will be a while before the Supreme Court issues its opinion.

Dispute in Idaho could lead to Supreme Court ruling affecting agriculture

A St. Joseph police officer suffered minor injuries in a wreck
while responding to an accident scene.

St. Joseph police say the officer was using his patrol car’s
lights and sirens when the crash occurred around 8:30 Thursday night at the
intersection of Belt Highway and Gene Field Road. The driver and a passenger in the other
car also suffered minor injuries and were taken to the hospital as a precaution.

The earlier accident occurred near the intersection of Belt
Highway and Rochester Road when a motorcyclist crashed into a sport utility vehicle
pulling out of the north McDonald’s parking lot onto the Belt. The motorcyclist
suffered minor injuries, scrapes and bruises to his leg.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA St. Joseph police officer suffered minor injuries in a wreck
while responding to an accident scene.St. Joseph police say the officer was using his patrol car’s
lights and sirens when the crash occurred around 8:30 Thursday night at the
intersection of Belt Highway and Gene Field Road. The driver and a passenger in the other
car also suffered minor injuries and were taken to the hospital as a precaution.The earlier accident occurred near the intersection of Belt
Highway and Rochester Road when a motorcyclist crashed into a sport utility vehicle
pulling out of the north McDonald’s parking lot onto the Belt. The motorcyclist
suffered minor injuries, scrapes and bruises to his leg.

St. Joseph police officer injured in crash

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an Iowa man on allegations after an arrest in Kansas.

On Wednesday, police arrested 34-year-old Samuel G. Pitts, 34, Iowa City, Iowa, on a Nodaway County, Missouri warrant for failure to appear on a charge of non-support, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Pitts remains jailed without bond, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665070449560.png" alt="Pitts-photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Pitts-photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an Iowa man on allegations after an arrest in Kansas.On Wednesday, police arrested 34-year-old Samuel G. Pitts, 34, Iowa City, Iowa, on a Nodaway County, Missouri warrant for failure to appear on a charge of non-support, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.Pitts remains jailed without bond, according to online jail records.

Police in Kan. arrest Iowa man on Nodaway Co. warrant

Doniphan County health officials will hold a drive thru vaccine clinic tomorrow.

Doniphan County Health Director Cheryl Pierce says now is the right time to come and get your flu shot. 

"You want your flu vaccine to not wane until at least until towards the end of February, after Christmas is usually when we're hit hardest by influenza, the regular flu, because people have all got together over Christmas and the holidays," Pierce tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So, that's why we wait until October."

Pierce says by waiting until the end of September or early October to hold this event, people that come and get their shots will have built up immunity by those peak times during flu season. 

Pierce says this is a clinic that has been held almost every year.

"Just because we have a large constituency that loves us doing that drive thru, it's in our alley right behind the health department, October 7th from 9am to 6pm," Pierce explains. "You can go to our website or pick up any of the consent forms at the banks and post offices around our county and have the information pre filled out."

Pierce says having that paperwork pre-filled out will get you through the line quicker as you get your shots. 

Pierce says normally they give out between 300 and 500 shots during the drive thru clinic.

"That's a big bunch, that's about how many flu shots we give each year," Pierce says. "It's kind of an exercise for us too, if we did have to do mass dispensing of medications this would be the way that we do it in the event of any other biological event the health department would have to respond too."

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostDoniphan County health officials will hold a drive thru vaccine clinic tomorrow.Doniphan County Health Director Cheryl Pierce says now is the right time to come and get your flu shot. "You want your flu vaccine to not wane until at least until towards the end of February, after Christmas is usually when we're hit hardest by influenza, the regular flu, because people have all got together over Christmas and the holidays," Pierce tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So, that's why we wait until October."Pierce says by waiting until the end of September or early October to hold this event, people that come and get their shots will have built up immunity by those peak times during flu season. Pierce says this is a clinic that has been held almost every year."Just because we have a large constituency that loves us doing that drive thru, it's in our alley right behind the health department, October 7th from 9am to 6pm," Pierce explains. "You can go to our website or pick up any of the consent forms at the banks and post offices around our county and have the information pre filled out."Pierce says having that paperwork pre-filled out will get you through the line quicker as you get your shots. Pierce says normally they give out between 300 and 500 shots during the drive thru clinic."That's a big bunch, that's about how many flu shots we give each year," Pierce says. "It's kind of an exercise for us too, if we did have to do mass dispensing of medications this would be the way that we do it in the event of any other biological event the health department would have to respond too."

Now is the perfect time to consider getting your flu shot

LIVINGSTON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 10:30p.m. Wednesday in Livingston County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Kenworth semi driven by Jeffrey A. Taylor, 56, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, was westbound on U.S. 36 three miles east of Chillicothe.

The vehicle struck the towed unit of a 1992 International semi driven by Bradley R. Hayen, 21, Chillicothe, that had stalled, lost power, stopped in the road and blocked both lanes of U.S. 36.

Chillicothe EMS transported Taylor and a passenger in the Kenworth Corinna A. Taylor, 52, Chillicothe, to Hedrick Medical Center. Hayen was not injured. Corinna Taylor was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

LIVINGSTON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 10:30p.m. Wednesday in Livingston County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Kenworth semi driven by Jeffrey A. Taylor, 56, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, was westbound on U.S. 36 three miles east of Chillicothe.The vehicle struck the towed unit of a 1992 International semi driven by Bradley R. Hayen, 21, Chillicothe, that had stalled, lost power, stopped in the road and blocked both lanes of U.S. 36.Chillicothe EMS transported Taylor and a passenger in the Kenworth Corinna A. Taylor, 52, Chillicothe, to Hedrick Medical Center. Hayen was not injured. Corinna Taylor was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man, woman injured after semi rear-ends semi's towed unit

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

On Tuesday, police arrested 46-year-old Arthur L. Bryant of Atchison on a District Court warrant for domestic battery, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. He spent time in jail for domestic battery in 2021, according to online jail records.

Police arrested Bryant twice in June of 2022 on requested charges of driving while suspended and an an arrest warrant, according to online jail records

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665018052405.png" alt="Bryant-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Bryant-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man for an alleged violent crime.On Tuesday, police arrested 46-year-old Arthur L. Bryant of Atchison on a District Court warrant for domestic battery, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. He spent time in jail for domestic battery in 2021, according to online jail records.Police arrested Bryant twice in June of 2022 on requested charges of driving while suspended and an an arrest warrant, according to online jail records

Kan. man with a history of crime accused of domestic battery

St. Joseph's Civic Arena will host some high-level sporting events over the next several years. You can now add state volleyball to the list.

The Missouri State High School Activities Association selected Civic Arena to host its volleyball championships beginning in 2025 with the agreement running through 2027.

Director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission Brett Esely says volleyball was an appealing choice, mainly because many teams in northwest Missouri are having postseason success.

"Volleyball caught our eye," Esely said. "Not only because we feel Civic Arena could be a great venue for volleyball, but because we have a lot of area teams competing very well and we'd love for them to compete a little closer to home than they are right now."

The state volleyball championships are currently played in Cape Girardeau and will be through 2024. St. Joseph hasn't hosted a MSHSAA championship event since state softball at Heritage Park in 2008.

Civic Arena is also hosting the MIAA volleyball tournament this November, the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame Holiday Hoops Classic with area high schools in December and the NCAA Division II women's basketball Elite Eight in 2023 and 24.

State volleyball coming to St. Joseph in 2025 coincides well timing-wise with the new Red Lion Hotel, which is projected to be completed in downtown St. Joseph by December 2024.

"No question having a brand new hotel property right across from the arena, folks are going to love that," Esely pointed out. "Being able to park the car and literally never having to start it up again until they leave town. So, we're really excited about that."

Civic will also host two U.S. Olympics Weightlifting trials, the Small College Basketball Hall of Fame Classic, the Hillyard Tip-Off Classic and other regional events in the coming months. Esely says more events are on the way as well.

"We're very excited about what's coming in the near future," he said. "We're excited about what's coming long-term, but we have some other major announcements hopefully just around the corner that I think will only enhance our existing schedule right now."

It's been a busy and impressive 10 or so months for Esely as the director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission - a role that he took on full-time at the start of the year.

Esely says it's an encouraging start, but he encourages the public to do their part - show up to the events.

"These are high-level events and we want to be able to create that great atmosphere," Esely said, "in some cases provide a championship experience, or provide an experience that these student-athletes wouldn't experience much otherwise. So, get out and support these events so we have the opportunity to bring future events of this nature to our community."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664999945220.jpeg" alt="Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph's Civic Arena will host some high-level sporting events over the next several years. You can now add state volleyball to the list.The Missouri State High School Activities Association selected Civic Arena to host its volleyball championships beginning in 2025 with the agreement running through 2027.Director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission Brett Esely says volleyball was an appealing choice, mainly because many teams in northwest Missouri are having postseason success."Volleyball caught our eye," Esely said. "Not only because we feel Civic Arena could be a great venue for volleyball, but because we have a lot of area teams competing very well and we'd love for them to compete a little closer to home than they are right now."The state volleyball championships are currently played in Cape Girardeau and will be through 2024. St. Joseph hasn't hosted a MSHSAA championship event since state softball at Heritage Park in 2008.Civic Arena is also hosting the MIAA volleyball tournament this November, the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame Holiday Hoops Classic with area high schools in December and the NCAA Division II women's basketball Elite Eight in 2023 and 24.State volleyball coming to St. Joseph in 2025 coincides well timing-wise with the new Red Lion Hotel, which is projected to be completed in downtown St. Joseph by December 2024."No question having a brand new hotel property right across from the arena, folks are going to love that," Esely pointed out. "Being able to park the car and literally never having to start it up again until they leave town. So, we're really excited about that."Civic will also host two U.S. Olympics Weightlifting trials, the Small College Basketball Hall of Fame Classic, the Hillyard Tip-Off Classic and other regional events in the coming months. Esely says more events are on the way as well."We're very excited about what's coming in the near future," he said. "We're excited about what's coming long-term, but we have some other major announcements hopefully just around the corner that I think will only enhance our existing schedule right now."It's been a busy and impressive 10 or so months for Esely as the director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission - a role that he took on full-time at the start of the year.Esely says it's an encouraging start, but he encourages the public to do their part - show up to the events."These are high-level events and we want to be able to create that great atmosphere," Esely said, "in some cases provide a championship experience, or provide an experience that these student-athletes wouldn't experience much otherwise. So, get out and support these events so we have the opportunity to bring future events of this nature to our community."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph ready to welcome state volleyball to Civic Arena in 2025

A free flu clinic is being held at the St. Joseph Civic Arena Thursday,
a clinic that will offer both a flu vaccine as well as a vaccine or booster against
COVID-19.

The clinic is free for any adult 18 or older who lives or
works in Buchanan County.

Stephanie Malita with the St. Joseph Health Department points
out the department offered the coronavirus vaccine along with the flu shot last
year and quite a few people took advantage of it.

“Now one thing to note to, if you’re getting the COVID vaccine,
there is a 15-minute monitoring period after the vaccine is done and we’ll have
accommodations for that as well,” Malita tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.

Malita says those going to the Civic Arena for the free flu
clinic should go to the upper-level ticket lobby, because the sidewalk on the
lower level is under construction. &nbsp;Patrons can enter through the south-facing
doors. Likely, the best parking will be the free public lot to the east of the
Civic Arena. Limited street parking will be available.

The clinic opens at 9am Thursday. It will run until noon or
while supplies last.

The St. Joseph Health Department has about 300 doses of influenza
vaccine available. The department administers the quadrivalent flu vaccine,
Flulaval, which is designed to protect against four different flu viruses: two
influenza A viruses and two influenza B viruses. Also on hand will be the
Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines, both the first and second dose as well as the
bi-valent booster.

No appointment is needed. This is a walk-in clinic.

Malita says vaccinations are important to the overall health
of the community.

“These vaccines are critically important to keep the community
as a whole healthy and we recognize that not everyone wants to get the vaccine,
not everybody can get it,” Malita says. “So, it’s important that those of us
who have the ability to get, it doesn’t impose any risk at all, that we’re stepping
up and getting that vaccine.”

Malita says residents are encouraged to bring their health
insurance card or their Medicaid or Medicare card, but no payment will be
required.

“Our vaccine clinics all run free of charge and vaccines that
you receive here at the health department,” Malita says. “We do not charge
anything out of pocket.”

If you want more information, call the St. Joseph Health Department
at 816-271-4725.

The health department office at 904 S. 10th Street will be
closed during the clinic. It will reopen Friday.

Matt Pike contributed to this story.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA free flu clinic is being held at the St. Joseph Civic Arena Thursday,
a clinic that will offer both a flu vaccine as well as a vaccine or booster against
COVID-19.The clinic is free for any adult 18 or older who lives or
works in Buchanan County.Stephanie Malita with the St. Joseph Health Department points
out the department offered the coronavirus vaccine along with the flu shot last
year and quite a few people took advantage of it.“Now one thing to note to, if you’re getting the COVID vaccine,
there is a 15-minute monitoring period after the vaccine is done and we’ll have
accommodations for that as well,” Malita tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.Malita says those going to the Civic Arena for the free flu
clinic should go to the upper-level ticket lobby, because the sidewalk on the
lower level is under construction. &nbsp;Patrons can enter through the south-facing
doors. Likely, the best parking will be the free public lot to the east of the
Civic Arena. Limited street parking will be available.The clinic opens at 9am Thursday. It will run until noon or
while supplies last.The St. Joseph Health Department has about 300 doses of influenza
vaccine available. The department administers the quadrivalent flu vaccine,
Flulaval, which is designed to protect against four different flu viruses: two
influenza A viruses and two influenza B viruses. Also on hand will be the
Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines, both the first and second dose as well as the
bi-valent booster.No appointment is needed. This is a walk-in clinic.Malita says vaccinations are important to the overall health
of the community.“These vaccines are critically important to keep the community
as a whole healthy and we recognize that not everyone wants to get the vaccine,
not everybody can get it,” Malita says. “So, it’s important that those of us
who have the ability to get, it doesn’t impose any risk at all, that we’re stepping
up and getting that vaccine.”Malita says residents are encouraged to bring their health
insurance card or their Medicaid or Medicare card, but no payment will be
required.“Our vaccine clinics all run free of charge and vaccines that
you receive here at the health department,” Malita says. “We do not charge
anything out of pocket.”If you want more information, call the St. Joseph Health Department
at 816-271-4725.The health department office at 904 S. 10th Street will be
closed during the clinic. It will reopen Friday.Matt Pike contributed to this story.

Free flu clinic opens Thursday at St. Joseph Civic Arena; COVID shot also available

Lab research has confirmed a
bat spotted in St. Joseph that bit a woman and her dog tested positive for
rabies.

Humane Educator Aubrey
Silvey says the woman spotted the bat outside her home and then was bitten.

"So, protocol for that
is once the animal is located, if it can be located, it's sent off to the state
lab for testing right away to check for rabies," Silvey tells KFEQ/St.
Joseph Post. "And in this case, it was confirmed that the bat did in fact
have the rabies virus."

Silvey says the dog was also
bitten, but was vaccinated and will be monitored during a quarantine period. 

Silvey reminds people and
pet owners alike how seriously they should treat bites by a wild animal or
unfamiliar animal. Silvey says if you spot a wild animal, or even another pet
that is unfamiliar, you should be very careful about interacting with it. 

"We encourage people,
especially with wildlife, but even domesticated animals like cats or dogs that
you don't know like stray animals, don't go touch them or try to move them on
your own," Silvey says. "Especially if it's a wild animal out in the
middle of the day that's acting different then it would normally act, you don't
want to approach it you would want to call animal control and let us deal with
it."

Silvey says, while this is a
tragic event, it serves as a reminder for people to be aware of rabies, because
people just don't think about it very often. 

"Especially in this
area, but people need to know 59,000 people a year do die from rabies in the
world and, like I said, there's no cure for it so if you get bitten by an
animal and you don't go get those vaccinations and that animal had rabies, 100%
you can't survive," Silvey explains. "So, it is something that people
need to think about, and be conscious of and take seriously."

If you are bitten by a wild
animal or even an unfamiliar pet, it's important to seek medical attention immediately
Silvey says. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664976388295.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Missouri Dept. of Conservation" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Missouri Dept. of Conservation</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostLab research has confirmed a
bat spotted in St. Joseph that bit a woman and her dog tested positive for
rabies.Humane Educator Aubrey
Silvey says the woman spotted the bat outside her home and then was bitten."So, protocol for that
is once the animal is located, if it can be located, it's sent off to the state
lab for testing right away to check for rabies," Silvey tells KFEQ/St.
Joseph Post. "And in this case, it was confirmed that the bat did in fact
have the rabies virus."Silvey says the dog was also
bitten, but was vaccinated and will be monitored during a quarantine period. Silvey reminds people and
pet owners alike how seriously they should treat bites by a wild animal or
unfamiliar animal. Silvey says if you spot a wild animal, or even another pet
that is unfamiliar, you should be very careful about interacting with it. "We encourage people,
especially with wildlife, but even domesticated animals like cats or dogs that
you don't know like stray animals, don't go touch them or try to move them on
your own," Silvey says. "Especially if it's a wild animal out in the
middle of the day that's acting different then it would normally act, you don't
want to approach it you would want to call animal control and let us deal with
it."Silvey says, while this is a
tragic event, it serves as a reminder for people to be aware of rabies, because
people just don't think about it very often. "Especially in this
area, but people need to know 59,000 people a year do die from rabies in the
world and, like I said, there's no cure for it so if you get bitten by an
animal and you don't go get those vaccinations and that animal had rabies, 100%
you can't survive," Silvey explains. "So, it is something that people
need to think about, and be conscious of and take seriously."If you are bitten by a wild
animal or even an unfamiliar pet, it's important to seek medical attention immediately
Silvey says.

Rabies confirmed in bat that bit St. Joseph woman

Plans for a new and improved animal shelter in St. Joseph have been delayed even further. &nbsp;

Six years ago, Friends of the Animal Shelter began seeking a destination for the shelter.&nbsp; The pandemic was the first hurdle as it delayed development. &nbsp;

And now, Friends of the Animal Shelters Melanie Barnes says development is being delayed by the rising cost of materials. &nbsp;

"It's a little scary and all the estimates were pre-COVID so now we're going on shoot, almost three years," Barnes tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "But we had worked with an architect, they had donated their time we were very grateful, and the original costs were approximately $2.5 (million) to renovate this building."&nbsp;

Barnes says because of delays, the building is still currently in its design phase.&nbsp;

"We've had a design phase, but essentially because it's three years old we have to go back and make sure that it's still accurate, we have realized a couple of changes need to happen," Barnes explains. "And so soon we should have that design phase finished and have a realistic estimate of what it's going to cost today."&nbsp;

Barnes says the new space is being designed to be large enough to house more animals as well as provide space for community events. &nbsp;

While the city is providing CIP funds to the project, Barnes points out everything else has been done by Friends of Animal Shelter in agreement with the city.&nbsp;

Barnes says volunteers have done all their fundraising and while they await what the new cost might be, they are ready to spend.&nbsp;

"We've met our goals, we're ready to get into the spend phase process and the first part is the design and getting an estimate but we're not going to let up, whatever number comes back at us" Barnes proudly says. "Hopefully it's something around 2.5 or 3 (million), but whatever number comes back at us we're going to continue, we're going to continue striving, pushing, and fundraising for a new shelter because our pets need it."&nbsp;

Barnes says the new shelter will be designed to hold more pets, with hopes that it won't overflow as often as the current shelter.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664920614669.jpeg" alt="The future home of the new and improved St. Joseph Animal Shelter.&nbsp; Development has been delayed further by rising material costs/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>The future home of the new and improved St. Joseph Animal Shelter.&nbsp; Development has been delayed further by rising material costs/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Plans for a new and improved animal shelter in St. Joseph have been delayed even further. &nbsp;Six years ago, Friends of the Animal Shelter began seeking a destination for the shelter.&nbsp; The pandemic was the first hurdle as it delayed development. &nbsp;And now, Friends of the Animal Shelters Melanie Barnes says development is being delayed by the rising cost of materials. &nbsp;"It's a little scary and all the estimates were pre-COVID so now we're going on shoot, almost three years," Barnes tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "But we had worked with an architect, they had donated their time we were very grateful, and the original costs were approximately $2.5 (million) to renovate this building."&nbsp;Barnes says because of delays, the building is still currently in its design phase.&nbsp;"We've had a design phase, but essentially because it's three years old we have to go back and make sure that it's still accurate, we have realized a couple of changes need to happen," Barnes explains. "And so soon we should have that design phase finished and have a realistic estimate of what it's going to cost today."&nbsp;Barnes says the new space is being designed to be large enough to house more animals as well as provide space for community events. &nbsp;While the city is providing CIP funds to the project, Barnes points out everything else has been done by Friends of Animal Shelter in agreement with the city.&nbsp;Barnes says volunteers have done all their fundraising and while they await what the new cost might be, they are ready to spend.&nbsp;"We've met our goals, we're ready to get into the spend phase process and the first part is the design and getting an estimate but we're not going to let up, whatever number comes back at us" Barnes proudly says. "Hopefully it's something around 2.5 or 3 (million), but whatever number comes back at us we're going to continue, we're going to continue striving, pushing, and fundraising for a new shelter because our pets need it."&nbsp;Barnes says the new shelter will be designed to hold more pets, with hopes that it won't overflow as often as the current shelter.&nbsp;

Rising costs present new hurdle in development of new animal shelter

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri man pleaded guilty Tuesday to a cattle fraud scheme that he tried to cover up by killing two Wisconsin brothers.

The U.S. attorneys office said 28-year-old Garland Nelson, of Braymer, must forfeit more than $215,000 after admitting to mail fraud and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

He entered the plea just days after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-wisconsin-missouri-climate-and-environment-f4f2752edbfc958ba0697117cf77bc54">pleading guilty</a>&nbsp;to two counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of 24-year-old Justin Diemel and 35-year-old Nicholas Diemel, of Shawano County, Wisconsin.

The brothers’ father reported them missing July 21, 2019, after they didn’t return from a visit to Nelson’s farm, where they had gone to collect a $250,000 debt. Nelson was supposed to be caring for cattle for the brothers, according to court records.

The Diemel family sent livestock to Nelson’s farm to be cared for and sold between 2018 and 2019. The animals were neglected and many died. But Nelson charged the family full price, according to court documents.

When the Diemels asked for their money back, Nelson intentionally sent a damaged check to Nicholas Diemel, which prompted the brothers’ visit to his farm.

Prosecutors said Nelson shot the brothers and drove their pickup truck off of his farm. He told authorities he put the men’s bodies in 55-gallon barrels and burned them. Nelson told investigators he dumped the remains on a manure pile and hid the barrels on his property, about 70 miles (110 kilometers) northeast of Kansas City, Missouri.

The remains were later found in Missouri and in a livestock trailer in Lincoln County, Nebraska, that had been purchased in Missouri.

He was sentenced to two life terms without parole for the killings. No sentencing date has been scheduled for the federal charges, but the crimes carry up to three decades behind bars, federal prosecutors said in a news release.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1564610122687.png" alt="Nelson-photo Caldwell County" />
 <figcaption>Nelson-photo Caldwell County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri man pleaded guilty Tuesday to a cattle fraud scheme that he tried to cover up by killing two Wisconsin brothers.The U.S. attorneys office said 28-year-old Garland Nelson, of Braymer, must forfeit more than $215,000 after admitting to mail fraud and being a felon in possession of a firearm.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565280147807.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>He entered the plea just days after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-wisconsin-missouri-climate-and-environment-f4f2752edbfc958ba0697117cf77bc54">pleading guilty</a>&nbsp;to two counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of 24-year-old Justin Diemel and 35-year-old Nicholas Diemel, of Shawano County, Wisconsin.The brothers’ father reported them missing July 21, 2019, after they didn’t return from a visit to Nelson’s farm, where they had gone to collect a $250,000 debt. Nelson was supposed to be caring for cattle for the brothers, according to court records.The Diemel family sent livestock to Nelson’s farm to be cared for and sold between 2018 and 2019. The animals were neglected and many died. But Nelson charged the family full price, according to court documents.When the Diemels asked for their money back, Nelson intentionally sent a damaged check to Nicholas Diemel, which prompted the brothers’ visit to his farm.Prosecutors said Nelson shot the brothers and drove their pickup truck off of his farm. He told authorities he put the men’s bodies in 55-gallon barrels and burned them. Nelson told investigators he dumped the remains on a manure pile and hid the barrels on his property, about 70 miles (110 kilometers) northeast of Kansas City, Missouri.The remains were later found in Missouri and in a livestock trailer in Lincoln County, Nebraska, that had been purchased in Missouri.He was sentenced to two life terms without parole for the killings. No sentencing date has been scheduled for the federal charges, but the crimes carry up to three decades behind bars, federal prosecutors said in a news release.

Missouri man convicted in brothers' deaths admits to fraud

The annual fall festival is back in downtown St. Joseph October 7th through the 9th at the Pony Express Museum and Patee Park.&nbsp;

Museum Executive Director Cindy Daffron says the festival is back for its 26th year. &nbsp;

"It's been a tradition, not just a fundraiser for the museum, but a tradition to kind of bring the community together and families, a time when the fall is kind of a fun time to get out," Daffron tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "We try to make sure that the events there are family related from the petting zoo to the children's tent, but one of the most important things to get all that ready we've got to have some community support."&nbsp;

Daffron is currently asking for volunteers to help with several projects for the festival including carving pumpkins and working at the festival.&nbsp;

Daffron says the pumpkin mountain will be back this year with around 850 to 1,000 pumpkins on display.&nbsp; She says already 850 pumpkins have been distributed to schools.&nbsp;

"Riverside. Bode, Spring Garden, Carden Park for the first time is going to get some this year, so we're kind of excited because most of them are junior high, some of them are the FFA kids and some of them are the art classes," Daffron says. "But you know I think it's something they look forward to because I have many people tell me oh yes my children are all excited because they know what's going to happen at school."&nbsp;

Carved pumpkins from schools will be on display among several pumpkins from area businesses and ones carved by Pumpkinfest volunteers. &nbsp;

People that would like to volunteer to carve pumpkins can do so through Thursday, as well as on Friday from 9am to 2pm, by calling the museum.&nbsp;

Daffron says while there are plenty of events for adults, there is also the children's tents where kids will be able to make buttons and decorate pumpkins&nbsp;

"We'll have it where they make a design and the kids color it, then you go over and then we actually press it and make you your fun little button for the year," Daffron explains. "We also bring in the mini pumpkins, well the mini pumpkins mean you can put a feather on them, you can put glitter on them, you can put jewels on them, you know just make your pumpkin whatever you'd like it to be."&nbsp;

Daffron says there will also be crafts that can be made.&nbsp; Volunteers are still needed for the tent, as well as the Pumpkin Shoppe and to help around the festival. &nbsp;

If you are interested in volunteering, you can contact Daffron at the Pony Express Museum.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664895418045.jpeg" alt="The popular pumpkin mountain is lit up during Pumpkinfest in downtown St. Joseph.&nbsp; Pumpkinfest returns this weekend for its 26th year/ File photo" />
 <figcaption>The popular pumpkin mountain is lit up during Pumpkinfest in downtown St. Joseph.&nbsp; Pumpkinfest returns this weekend for its 26th year/ File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Pumpkinfest is back. &nbsp;The annual fall festival is back in downtown St. Joseph October 7th through the 9th at the Pony Express Museum and Patee Park.&nbsp;Museum Executive Director Cindy Daffron says the festival is back for its 26th year. &nbsp;"It's been a tradition, not just a fundraiser for the museum, but a tradition to kind of bring the community together and families, a time when the fall is kind of a fun time to get out," Daffron tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "We try to make sure that the events there are family related from the petting zoo to the children's tent, but one of the most important things to get all that ready we've got to have some community support."&nbsp;Daffron is currently asking for volunteers to help with several projects for the festival including carving pumpkins and working at the festival.&nbsp;Daffron says the pumpkin mountain will be back this year with around 850 to 1,000 pumpkins on display.&nbsp; She says already 850 pumpkins have been distributed to schools.&nbsp;"Riverside. Bode, Spring Garden, Carden Park for the first time is going to get some this year, so we're kind of excited because most of them are junior high, some of them are the FFA kids and some of them are the art classes," Daffron says. "But you know I think it's something they look forward to because I have many people tell me oh yes my children are all excited because they know what's going to happen at school."&nbsp;Carved pumpkins from schools will be on display among several pumpkins from area businesses and ones carved by Pumpkinfest volunteers. &nbsp;People that would like to volunteer to carve pumpkins can do so through Thursday, as well as on Friday from 9am to 2pm, by calling the museum.&nbsp;Daffron says while there are plenty of events for adults, there is also the children's tents where kids will be able to make buttons and decorate pumpkins&nbsp;"We'll have it where they make a design and the kids color it, then you go over and then we actually press it and make you your fun little button for the year," Daffron explains. "We also bring in the mini pumpkins, well the mini pumpkins mean you can put a feather on them, you can put glitter on them, you can put jewels on them, you know just make your pumpkin whatever you'd like it to be."&nbsp;Daffron says there will also be crafts that can be made.&nbsp; Volunteers are still needed for the tent, as well as the Pumpkin Shoppe and to help around the festival. &nbsp;If you are interested in volunteering, you can contact Daffron at the Pony Express Museum.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664895558169.jpeg" alt="File Photo" />
 <figcaption>File Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>

Feel the Halloween spirit at Pumpkinfest this weekend in St. Joseph

GRUNDY COUNTY—A Missouri man was injured in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Tuesday in&nbsp; Grundy County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Chevrolet Traverse driven by Jennifer N. Shuler, 29, Spickard, was eastbound on Route C three miles west of Spickard.

The SUV rear-ended an Amish buggy driven by Menno M. Hostetler, 36, Spickard.

Hostetler was ejected from the buggy.&nbsp; The vehicle was demolished upon impact.&nbsp; Grundy County EMS transported Hostetler to Wright Memorial Hospital. Shuler was not injured and properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

GRUNDY COUNTY—A Missouri man was injured in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Tuesday in&nbsp; Grundy County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Chevrolet Traverse driven by Jennifer N. Shuler, 29, Spickard, was eastbound on Route C three miles west of Spickard.The SUV rear-ended an Amish buggy driven by Menno M. Hostetler, 36, Spickard.Hostetler was ejected from the buggy.&nbsp; The vehicle was demolished upon impact.&nbsp; Grundy County EMS transported Hostetler to Wright Memorial Hospital. Shuler was not injured and properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Driver hospitalized after SUV rear-ends Amish buggy

Red Cross volunteers from our area are in Florida, helping
with response to the devastation left in the wake of Hurricane Ian.

Executive Director JoAnn Woody with the American Red Cross of
Greater Kansas City and Northwest Missouri says the Red Cross, overall, has around
2,000 volunteers in Florida as well as Puerto Rico with 19 from the Kansas
City, Northwest Missouri chapter.

Woody says the volunteers in Florida face difficulties even
getting to those who need help.

“Roads are blocked. Roads are inaccessible, because of
continuing water or debris over the roads or even just the roads being damaged
so that even response vehicles are having a hard time getting through,” Woody
tells the KFEQ Hotline. “So, it’s a very challenging and a very heartbreaking
situation down there.”

Woody says the Red Cross provides shelter, water, meals, even
basic hygiene products to get storm victims through the initial impact of the
disaster. She says just getting to the victims is the biggest obstacle for
volunteers at present.

Woody says volunteers are faced with responding to one of the
worst hurricanes in recent memory.

“Not just because of the hurricane making landfall,” Woody says.
“That was tragic in itself. But, also because of the size of the damage area.”

The Red Cross had volunteers on the ground before Hurricane
Ian hit southwest Florida, around the Ft. Meyers Area, and moved through the
central part of the state onto South Carolina. Those volunteers won’t be
leaving any time soon.

“With our Red Cross leadership teams, we are anticipating that
Red Cross will have a presence in Florida for this response for months,” Woody
says. “Our planning assumptions are for our teams to be prepared to have some sort
of activity going on in those affected areas possibly through the holidays.”

Volunteers work in teams and those teams rotate in and out,
according to Woody, so that volunteers can get breaks. She says, typically, a
volunteer will work for two weeks before being relieved.

Woody says the best way to help is to donate money. You can go to the <a href="https://www.redcross.org/">Red Cross website</a> or call
1-800-RED-CROSS to make a donation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664678976486.jpeg" alt="Devastation in wake of Hurricane Ian/Photo courtesy of Fort Myers Police" />
 <figcaption>Devastation in wake of Hurricane Ian/Photo courtesy of Fort Myers Police</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostRed Cross volunteers from our area are in Florida, helping
with response to the devastation left in the wake of Hurricane Ian.Executive Director JoAnn Woody with the American Red Cross of
Greater Kansas City and Northwest Missouri says the Red Cross, overall, has around
2,000 volunteers in Florida as well as Puerto Rico with 19 from the Kansas
City, Northwest Missouri chapter.Woody says the volunteers in Florida face difficulties even
getting to those who need help.“Roads are blocked. Roads are inaccessible, because of
continuing water or debris over the roads or even just the roads being damaged
so that even response vehicles are having a hard time getting through,” Woody
tells the KFEQ Hotline. “So, it’s a very challenging and a very heartbreaking
situation down there.”Woody says the Red Cross provides shelter, water, meals, even
basic hygiene products to get storm victims through the initial impact of the
disaster. She says just getting to the victims is the biggest obstacle for
volunteers at present.Woody says volunteers are faced with responding to one of the
worst hurricanes in recent memory.“Not just because of the hurricane making landfall,” Woody says.
“That was tragic in itself. But, also because of the size of the damage area.”The Red Cross had volunteers on the ground before Hurricane
Ian hit southwest Florida, around the Ft. Meyers Area, and moved through the
central part of the state onto South Carolina. Those volunteers won’t be
leaving any time soon.“With our Red Cross leadership teams, we are anticipating that
Red Cross will have a presence in Florida for this response for months,” Woody
says. “Our planning assumptions are for our teams to be prepared to have some sort
of activity going on in those affected areas possibly through the holidays.”Volunteers work in teams and those teams rotate in and out,
according to Woody, so that volunteers can get breaks. She says, typically, a
volunteer will work for two weeks before being relieved.Woody says the best way to help is to donate money. You can go to the <a href="https://www.redcross.org/">Red Cross website</a> or call
1-800-RED-CROSS to make a donation.

Red Cross volunteers on the ground in Florida, responding to Hurricane Ian devastation

A bill that would
expand the definition of a small disaster recovery project has passed Congress
and headed to the president for his signature.

Northern Missouri
Congressman Sam Graves, the ranking Republican on the House Transportation and
Infrastructure Committee, sponsors the measure that should help rural
communities recovering from disasters, such as from the 2019 Missouri River
flood.

“This is a bill I’ve
been working on for some time and what it does is it raises FEMA’s small project
threshold from $139,000 to $1 million and that’s going to cover the majority of
projects, what we call small projects,” Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.

Graves says
several small communities suffering severe disaster damage have to wait for
years to receive federal help to recover. Graves says his bill, called The&nbsp;Small Project
Efficient and Effective Disaster (SPEED)&nbsp;Recovery Act (<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/5641/cosponsors">H.R. 5641</a>) should greatly
speed up the process by reducing the federal regulations required for smaller
projects.

Graves says small
communities will greatly benefit from the change, because small projects will
receive federal approval much sooner.

“It allows them
to move through much quicker,” according to Graves. “The permitting or whatever
the case may be, the approval process, it moves much faster when it’s
considered a small project.”

Graves says the
change will not only help small communities, it will allow FEMA to focus
resources on larger disaster recovery projects.

“Very happy this
is going to happen finally,” Graves says. “We’re going to see some help when it
comes to some of our disasters, flood disasters, in our part of the country.” 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664821121259.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA bill that would
expand the definition of a small disaster recovery project has passed Congress
and headed to the president for his signature.Northern Missouri
Congressman Sam Graves, the ranking Republican on the House Transportation and
Infrastructure Committee, sponsors the measure that should help rural
communities recovering from disasters, such as from the 2019 Missouri River
flood.“This is a bill I’ve
been working on for some time and what it does is it raises FEMA’s small project
threshold from $139,000 to $1 million and that’s going to cover the majority of
projects, what we call small projects,” Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.Graves says
several small communities suffering severe disaster damage have to wait for
years to receive federal help to recover. Graves says his bill, called The&nbsp;Small Project
Efficient and Effective Disaster (SPEED)&nbsp;Recovery Act (<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/5641/cosponsors">H.R. 5641</a>) should greatly
speed up the process by reducing the federal regulations required for smaller
projects.Graves says small
communities will greatly benefit from the change, because small projects will
receive federal approval much sooner.“It allows them
to move through much quicker,” according to Graves. “The permitting or whatever
the case may be, the approval process, it moves much faster when it’s
considered a small project.”Graves says the
change will not only help small communities, it will allow FEMA to focus
resources on larger disaster recovery projects.“Very happy this
is going to happen finally,” Graves says. “We’re going to see some help when it
comes to some of our disasters, flood disasters, in our part of the country.”

Disaster recovery sooner:  the object of a bill awaiting the president's signature

CLINTON COUNTY—A Kansas woman was injured in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Monday in Clinton County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Ford F250 driven by Austen M. Stabe, 29, Kansas City, was northbound on Interstate 35 just north of the Lathrop exit.

The pickup rear-ended a 2019 Hyundai Elantra driven by Aiden F. Chan, 23, Lawrence, Kansas, who was slowing to turn onto the median crossover.

Tri-County ambulance transported Chan to Liberty Hospital. Stabe was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

CLINTON COUNTY—A Kansas woman was injured in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Monday in Clinton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Ford F250 driven by Austen M. Stabe, 29, Kansas City, was northbound on Interstate 35 just north of the Lathrop exit.The pickup rear-ended a 2019 Hyundai Elantra driven by Aiden F. Chan, 23, Lawrence, Kansas, who was slowing to turn onto the median crossover.Tri-County ambulance transported Chan to Liberty Hospital. Stabe was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Kansas woman hospitalized after rear-end crash

Leadership Northwest has partnered with the Northwest Missouri Children's Advocacy Task force for training to help curb the growing problem of child abuse. &nbsp;

Director of the Children's Advocacy Task Force Jackie Cochenour says child sexual abuse is a serious problem, and all you have to do is look at the facts to confirm that&nbsp;

"The facts are about one in ten children will experience child sexual abuse before their 18th birthday and that rate is staggering," Cochenour tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "In my belief and in many other beliefs child sexual abuse is the most prevalent health problem our children face today, and it has the most serious array of consequences."&nbsp;

Cochenour says those consequences not only affect those people as children, but most even carry it into their adult life. &nbsp;

Leadership Northwest and the task force will hold the Stewards of Children training course across northwest Missouri, the first being held at Northwest Missouri State University tomorrow.&nbsp;

Cochenour says while one in ten children suffer from abuse, there is also a large number that won't talk about their abuse.&nbsp; She says that's the biggest reason for this course.&nbsp;

"Because we know it is a huge health crisis that our children are facing, and I also want to make sure that we understand that we have to be all responsible for preventing it and it first starts by understanding that it is a problem," Cochenour explains. "We need to truly change the culture of conversation about abuse and diminish the stigma behind it."&nbsp;

Two other courses will be held through October with one at North Central Missouri College in Trenton on October 11th and one in Cameron at the First Baptist Church on October 25th&nbsp;

You can find more information about the training courses <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/o/northwest-missouri-childrens-advocacy-task-force-39545291793">HERE</a>. Registration is required for the training and can be discounted with the promo code LEADERS10.&nbsp;

Cochenour says she visits school districts across northwest Missouri to do sexual abuse prevention training with developmentally appropriate students between sixth and twelfth grade.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Leadership Northwest has partnered with the Northwest Missouri Children's Advocacy Task force for training to help curb the growing problem of child abuse. &nbsp;Director of the Children's Advocacy Task Force Jackie Cochenour says child sexual abuse is a serious problem, and all you have to do is look at the facts to confirm that&nbsp;"The facts are about one in ten children will experience child sexual abuse before their 18th birthday and that rate is staggering," Cochenour tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "In my belief and in many other beliefs child sexual abuse is the most prevalent health problem our children face today, and it has the most serious array of consequences."&nbsp;Cochenour says those consequences not only affect those people as children, but most even carry it into their adult life. &nbsp;Leadership Northwest and the task force will hold the Stewards of Children training course across northwest Missouri, the first being held at Northwest Missouri State University tomorrow.&nbsp;Cochenour says while one in ten children suffer from abuse, there is also a large number that won't talk about their abuse.&nbsp; She says that's the biggest reason for this course.&nbsp;"Because we know it is a huge health crisis that our children are facing, and I also want to make sure that we understand that we have to be all responsible for preventing it and it first starts by understanding that it is a problem," Cochenour explains. "We need to truly change the culture of conversation about abuse and diminish the stigma behind it."&nbsp;Two other courses will be held through October with one at North Central Missouri College in Trenton on October 11th and one in Cameron at the First Baptist Church on October 25th&nbsp;You can find more information about the training courses <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/o/northwest-missouri-childrens-advocacy-task-force-39545291793">HERE</a>. Registration is required for the training and can be discounted with the promo code LEADERS10.&nbsp;Cochenour says she visits school districts across northwest Missouri to do sexual abuse prevention training with developmentally appropriate students between sixth and twelfth grade.&nbsp;"When we go into those schools, I spend the entire day with the kids and I provide them with the opportunity to let us know if they need help," Cochenour says. "And, when I receive those notecards and when I'm meeting with the counselors that day and we're looking at those individuals who are outcrying or simply saying I need help today, my heart breaks every single time."&nbsp;On the other hand, Cochenour says it also brings her joy because she knows the more it's talked about, the more those kids will get the help that they need.&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/10-03-2022-Journal--Training-Courses-aim-to-curb-growing-child-abuse-problem-e1oo2aq" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Flnwmo%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0351e7nqG7ReRN8MHceDrPukZ7yNfsNyuy1HicCgKzWySAAswubMt33isyPDpFVLcgl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="442" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

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