The Doniphan County Health Department has seen a spike in positive COVID-19 cases over the past couple weeks, mainly due to an outbreak at a northeast Kansas school.

County Health Director Sheryl Pierce says that the numbers the department have seen have climbed steadily over the last two weeks.

"We've essentially tripled our numbers in the past two weeks, as you notice two weeks ago we had 12 and then last Friday we had 34," Pierce tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "Most of those numbers are coming from an outbreak we have at USD-429 school district, Troy School District." 

Pierce says that the school has seen a few teachers and other staff test positive, but most of the outbreak is in students 18 and under, many of them are asymptomatic.

Many schools in Kansas are also participating in the Stay to Learn program, meaning kids can stay in school if they test negative instead having to quarantine.

Pierce says the department has seen positive cases start to surge over the past couple weeks, this after a lull in cases over the summer.

Pierce adds the health departments biggest concern right now is the number of people still hesitant to get vaccinated.

"I was around the health department in 2009 when we had the H1N1, it was an influenza, somewhat of an outbreak, not like a pandemic, but H1N1 surfaced," Pierce says. "And at that point, parents were pleased, and they about broke down our door to get that vaccine."

Pierce says though she hasn't seen that demand with the COVID vaccine.

The Doniphan County Health Department offers all forms of the COVID vaccine.  The department is hopeful that with the recent Pfizer approval for children ages five to eleven, more people will come get the shot.

Pierce says that the department has already started fielding calls, and has received doses of the vaccine for young children.  She says the department has also begun planning another vaccination event, which it hopes to hold in the coming weeks.

"Now's a pretty good time because we're kind of between sports, I don't believe basketball has started yet, they're practicing but there's no basketball games yet, so that's what we're hoping to do," Pierce says. "And then hopefully the schools will allow us to come in and we can get more takers that way, we want to make getting the vaccine as easy and accessible to these parents and children as we can."

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Doniphan County Health Department has seen a spike in positive COVID-19 cases over the past couple weeks, mainly due to an outbreak at a northeast Kansas school.County Health Director Sheryl Pierce says that the numbers the department have seen have climbed steadily over the last two weeks."We've essentially tripled our numbers in the past two weeks, as you notice two weeks ago we had 12 and then last Friday we had 34," Pierce tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "Most of those numbers are coming from an outbreak we have at USD-429 school district, Troy School District." Pierce says that the school has seen a few teachers and other staff test positive, but most of the outbreak is in students 18 and under, many of them are asymptomatic.Many schools in Kansas are also participating in the Stay to Learn program, meaning kids can stay in school if they test negative instead having to quarantine.Pierce says the department has seen positive cases start to surge over the past couple weeks, this after a lull in cases over the summer.Pierce adds the health departments biggest concern right now is the number of people still hesitant to get vaccinated."I was around the health department in 2009 when we had the H1N1, it was an influenza, somewhat of an outbreak, not like a pandemic, but H1N1 surfaced," Pierce says. "And at that point, parents were pleased, and they about broke down our door to get that vaccine."Pierce says though she hasn't seen that demand with the COVID vaccine.The Doniphan County Health Department offers all forms of the COVID vaccine. The department is hopeful that with the recent Pfizer approval for children ages five to eleven, more people will come get the shot.Pierce says that the department has already started fielding calls, and has received doses of the vaccine for young children. She says the department has also begun planning another vaccination event, which it hopes to hold in the coming weeks."Now's a pretty good time because we're kind of between sports, I don't believe basketball has started yet, they're practicing but there's no basketball games yet, so that's what we're hoping to do," Pierce says. "And then hopefully the schools will allow us to come in and we can get more takers that way, we want to make getting the vaccine as easy and accessible to these parents and children as we can."

COVID outbreak at Troy schools leads to surge in Doniphan County

The search for the next athletic director at Missouri Western State University was paused in late October, and will reopen early next year.

That was the decision by University president Elizabeth Kennedy, after three candidates for the job came to campus, met with the community and interviewed for the job.

In an interview with KFEQ, Kennedy said she and the search committee are looking for the best fit, and they weren't going to hire someone just to fill the position.

"We were looking for the candidate who is the right fit for Missouri Western," Kennedy said. "We weren't going to look at the pool and say, 'Well which one of these is the one we want, but which one is the best for us?' So, I'm not about rushing into something or hiring someone just because we need to."

Kennedy paused the search for now, and the position will reopen in January. The search first opened in late July, when former Missouri Western athletic director Josh Looney announced he was taking the same job at Division I North Alabama.

"Believe it or not, there's a season for athletic director searches and we were a little off cycle," Kennedy said. "So, we'll take a little pause for the holidays, come back after early January, get this fired up again and see what we can do."

The three finalists who were on campus this fall were Franklin Pierce University athletic director Rachel Burleson, Illinois State associate A.D. of external affairs Dwight Merilatt and South Dakota School of Mines A.D. Joel Lueken.

Kennedy described all three as "highly qualified and capable people," but said that none stood out as the right fit for Missouri Western at this time.

The main thing Kennedy is looking for is someone who can engage with the community, and someone with a deep background and understanding of athletics and academics.

"And also somebody who has that polish and can stand in front of just about any crowd you can imagine and just command that," Kennedy said, "and also someone who just has that vision for Missouri Western. So, it is the total package we are looking for."

Theresa Grosbach, who has served as interim A.D. since September, will remain in that role.

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

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe search for the next athletic director at Missouri Western State University was paused in late October, and will reopen early next year.That was the decision by University president Elizabeth Kennedy, after three candidates for the job came to campus, met with the community and interviewed for the job.In an interview with KFEQ, Kennedy said she and the search committee are looking for the best fit, and they weren't going to hire someone just to fill the position."We were looking for the candidate who is the right fit for Missouri Western," Kennedy said. "We weren't going to look at the pool and say, 'Well which one of these is the one we want, but which one is the best for us?' So, I'm not about rushing into something or hiring someone just because we need to."Kennedy paused the search for now, and the position will reopen in January. The search first opened in late July, when former Missouri Western athletic director Josh Looney announced he was taking the same job at Division I North Alabama."Believe it or not, there's a season for athletic director searches and we were a little off cycle," Kennedy said. "So, we'll take a little pause for the holidays, come back after early January, get this fired up again and see what we can do."The three finalists who were on campus this fall were Franklin Pierce University athletic director Rachel Burleson, Illinois State associate A.D. of external affairs Dwight Merilatt and South Dakota School of Mines A.D. Joel Lueken.Kennedy described all three as "highly qualified and capable people," but said that none stood out as the right fit for Missouri Western at this time.The main thing Kennedy is looking for is someone who can engage with the community, and someone with a deep background and understanding of athletics and academics."And also somebody who has that polish and can stand in front of just about any crowd you can imagine and just command that," Kennedy said, "and also someone who just has that vision for Missouri Western. So, it is the total package we are looking for."Theresa Grosbach, who has served as interim A.D. since September, will remain in that role.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU President Kennedy looking for 'total package' in next A.D.

St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President Patt Lilly defends
the use of business tax breaks as a competitive edge to bring jobs to the
community.

“Economic development is a competitive game and most
communities, if not all, play it in some way or another,” Lilly says.

Lilly says St. Joseph typically provides businesses with a
break on personal or real property taxes; normally a 50% cut.

“We use incentives,” Lilly says. “We use incentives to attract
new businesses to the community, like Cereal Ingredients earlier this year. But
we also use incentives to work with our existing companies to help them grow
here.”

Lilly says even though the community might give some tax
revenue away for a period of time, it historically begins reaping the benefits
of landing a new business or watching an existing business expand almost
immediately.

Lilly suggests the opponents of tax giveaways might be a bit
short-sighted.

“And I think you always have to be careful in these kinds of
discussions not to cut your nose off to spite your face,” Lilly says. “Maybe it
makes you feel good, but it’s not going to do much to grow your economy.”

Lilly says tax breaks are given to businesses large enough to
either create additional jobs or to secure jobs already here.

Lilly says he understands some oppose giving tax revenue away,
but he doesn’t believe it’s a black and white issue.

“There’s always a cost to a company in doing a project, whether
it’s an expansion project of an existing business or a new project,” according
to Lilly. “I think, demonstrating as a community that we’re willing to work
with the company to demonstrate that they can be successful in our community is
an important piece to it.”

Lilly says the bottom line is that St. Joseph provides tax
breaks as incentives to provide good jobs for area residents.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President Patt Lilly defends
the use of business tax breaks as a competitive edge to bring jobs to the
community.“Economic development is a competitive game and most
communities, if not all, play it in some way or another,” Lilly says.Lilly says St. Joseph typically provides businesses with a
break on personal or real property taxes; normally a 50% cut.“We use incentives,” Lilly says. “We use incentives to attract
new businesses to the community, like Cereal Ingredients earlier this year. But
we also use incentives to work with our existing companies to help them grow
here.”Lilly says even though the community might give some tax
revenue away for a period of time, it historically begins reaping the benefits
of landing a new business or watching an existing business expand almost
immediately.Lilly suggests the opponents of tax giveaways might be a bit
short-sighted.“And I think you always have to be careful in these kinds of
discussions not to cut your nose off to spite your face,” Lilly says. “Maybe it
makes you feel good, but it’s not going to do much to grow your economy.”Lilly says tax breaks are given to businesses large enough to
either create additional jobs or to secure jobs already here.Lilly says he understands some oppose giving tax revenue away,
but he doesn’t believe it’s a black and white issue.“There’s always a cost to a company in doing a project, whether
it’s an expansion project of an existing business or a new project,” according
to Lilly. “I think, demonstrating as a community that we’re willing to work
with the company to demonstrate that they can be successful in our community is
an important piece to it.”Lilly says the bottom line is that St. Joseph provides tax
breaks as incentives to provide good jobs for area residents.

Chamber president defends tax breaks to lure business to St. Joseph

A groundbreaking ceremony has been held for a 30-bed rehabilitation
hospital to be built in Elwood.

ClearSky, a company that operates rehabilitation centers
throughout rural America, hopes to begin accepting patients next year.

The ClearSky Rehabilitation Hospital of Elwood-St. Joseph will
be located off of U.S. Highway 36 in Elwood, Kansas.

ClearSky executives say there is a shortage of such
facilities, with the closest located 50 miles away. They also say the location will
allow rehab hospital officials to work closely with Mosaic Life Care in St.
Joseph.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636549372805.jpeg" alt="ClearSky groundbreaking in Elwood, Kansas/Photo by Rand Olson" />
 <figcaption>ClearSky groundbreaking in Elwood, Kansas/Photo by Rand Olson</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA groundbreaking ceremony has been held for a 30-bed rehabilitation
hospital to be built in Elwood.ClearSky, a company that operates rehabilitation centers
throughout rural America, hopes to begin accepting patients next year.The ClearSky Rehabilitation Hospital of Elwood-St. Joseph will
be located off of U.S. Highway 36 in Elwood, Kansas.ClearSky executives say there is a shortage of such
facilities, with the closest located 50 miles away. They also say the location will
allow rehab hospital officials to work closely with Mosaic Life Care in St.
Joseph.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636549439527.jpeg" alt="Artist rendition of ClearSky hospital in Elwood/Photo courtesy of ClearSky" />
 <figcaption>Artist rendition of ClearSky hospital in Elwood/Photo courtesy of ClearSky</figcaption>
 </figure>

30-bed rehab hospital to be built in Elwood

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Nine people including 7 juveniles from Rushville were injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Tuesday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1994 GMC Sierra driven by a 15-year-old Atchison boy was westbound on U.S. 59 two miles east of Atchison. The pickup was following a 2001 Dodge Ram van driven by Andrew W. Johnson, 40, Rushville, too closely. The pickup rear-ended the van.

Buchanan County EMS transported Johnson, the teen pickup driver, a passenger in the GMC identified as Matthew D. Peltzer, 50, Rushville, and three juveniles on the van to Mosaic Life Care. 

Private vehicles transported two other juveniles on the van to Mosaic Life Care. A private party transported a 15-year-old boy from the van to Amberwell Hospital in Atchison.&nbsp; Five of the juveniles on the van were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Nine people including 7 juveniles from Rushville were injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Tuesday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1994 GMC Sierra driven by a 15-year-old Atchison boy was westbound on U.S. 59 two miles east of Atchison. The pickup was following a 2001 Dodge Ram van driven by Andrew W. Johnson, 40, Rushville, too closely. The pickup rear-ended the van.Buchanan County EMS transported Johnson, the teen pickup driver, a passenger in the GMC identified as Matthew D. Peltzer, 50, Rushville, and three juveniles on the van to Mosaic Life Care. Private vehicles transported two other juveniles on the van to Mosaic Life Care. A private party transported a 15-year-old boy from the van to Amberwell Hospital in Atchison.&nbsp; Five of the juveniles on the van were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

2 adults, 7 juveniles injured after Buchanan Co. rear-end crash

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a woman on multiple charges after an arrest.&nbsp;

Police officers had been alerted that a 1996 Chrysler mini-van reported stolen to Kansas City Missouri Police was in the Atchison, Kansas area, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Just before 2a.m. Tuesday, officers located the van near 4th and Main in Atchison and it was occupied by 20-year-old&nbsp; Kala Woods of Stover Missouri.

Officers arrested her on requested charges of possession of stolen property.&nbsp;Woods was also accused of criminal damage to property in connection to damage to a vehicle tire following a dispute in the 900 block South 4th that had occurred around 11p.m. Monday, according to Wilson. Woods was taken to the County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636469263291.png" alt="Woods-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Woods-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a woman on multiple charges after an arrest.&nbsp;Police officers had been alerted that a 1996 Chrysler mini-van reported stolen to Kansas City Missouri Police was in the Atchison, Kansas area, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.Just before 2a.m. Tuesday, officers located the van near 4th and Main in Atchison and it was occupied by 20-year-old&nbsp; Kala Woods of Stover Missouri.Officers arrested her on requested charges of possession of stolen property.&nbsp;Woods was also accused of criminal damage to property in connection to damage to a vehicle tire following a dispute in the 900 block South 4th that had occurred around 11p.m. Monday, according to Wilson. Woods was taken to the County Jail.

Police: Missouri woman was driving van reported stolen

A federal appeals court has held up implementation of the
Biden Administration’s requirement that businesses enforce a COVID-19 vaccine
mandate.

The United States 5th Circuit Court of Appeals
granted an emergency stay of the requirement to be enforced by OSHA on businesses
of 100 employees or more. OSHA would require employees get vaccinated or submit
to weekly tests and wear a mask.

Missouri U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt, a Republican, says members of
Congress will likely pursue legal action as well.

“Well, I think it’s a big mistake,” Blunt tells reporters
during a visit to St. Joseph. “I’m supporting the effort that we’ll initiate as
soon as the rule becomes final to try to repeal that rule under the
Congressional Review Act.”

The appellate court acted after Republican attorneys general from
Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Utah filed suit. Several
companies joined in the legal action against the mandate pushed by President
Biden, a Democrat. The lawsuit argues the requirement exceeds the authority of OSHA,
calling it an unconstitutional delegation of power by Congress to the executive
branch.

Attorneys general from 26 states, including Missouri, have
also filed lawsuits, attempting to block the business vaccine requirement.

While Republicans have lined up to oppose the mandate, even Kansas
Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat, cast doubt on the wisdom of issuing it. Kelly
issued a statement saying she doesn’t believe the directive is the correct or
most effective solution for Kansas.

“I think this is a huge misreading of both the American public
and the Missouri public and the federal government’s ability to control these
kinds of things,” Blunt says.

Blunt worries about the impact on the economy.

“I talked to a couple of people this week who run grocery
stores,” Blunt says. “While they’re not for this, they were relieved that at
least it starts January the 4th and gets us through the big holiday
shopping season at grocery stores.”

The White House is urging businesses to abide by the mandate
even as it is challenged in court.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA federal appeals court has held up implementation of the
Biden Administration’s requirement that businesses enforce a COVID-19 vaccine
mandate.The United States 5th Circuit Court of Appeals
granted an emergency stay of the requirement to be enforced by OSHA on businesses
of 100 employees or more. OSHA would require employees get vaccinated or submit
to weekly tests and wear a mask.Missouri U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt, a Republican, says members of
Congress will likely pursue legal action as well.“Well, I think it’s a big mistake,” Blunt tells reporters
during a visit to St. Joseph. “I’m supporting the effort that we’ll initiate as
soon as the rule becomes final to try to repeal that rule under the
Congressional Review Act.”The appellate court acted after Republican attorneys general from
Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Utah filed suit. Several
companies joined in the legal action against the mandate pushed by President
Biden, a Democrat. The lawsuit argues the requirement exceeds the authority of OSHA,
calling it an unconstitutional delegation of power by Congress to the executive
branch.Attorneys general from 26 states, including Missouri, have
also filed lawsuits, attempting to block the business vaccine requirement.While Republicans have lined up to oppose the mandate, even Kansas
Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat, cast doubt on the wisdom of issuing it. Kelly
issued a statement saying she doesn’t believe the directive is the correct or
most effective solution for Kansas.Blunt says Biden is overreaching.“I think this is a huge misreading of both the American public
and the Missouri public and the federal government’s ability to control these
kinds of things,” Blunt says.Blunt worries about the impact on the economy.“I talked to a couple of people this week who run grocery
stores,” Blunt says. “While they’re not for this, they were relieved that at
least it starts January the 4th and gets us through the big holiday
shopping season at grocery stores.”The White House is urging businesses to abide by the mandate
even as it is challenged in court.

Sen. Blunt calls vaccine mandate a big mistake

DAVIESS COUNTY—A Missouri man died in an accident just before 1a.m. Tuesday in Daviess County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1994 Freightliner semi driven by James H. Loyd, 60, Purdin, was westbound on MO 6 in Jamesport.

The truck traveled off the road, struck a driveway, went airborne and struck the ground. The trailer separated from the tractor. The vehicle came to rest in a ditch and caught fire.

Loyd was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Stith Funeral Home. The MSHP did not have seat belt usage information.

DAVIESS COUNTY—A Missouri man died in an accident just before 1a.m. Tuesday in Daviess County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1994 Freightliner semi driven by James H. Loyd, 60, Purdin, was westbound on MO 6 in Jamesport.The truck traveled off the road, struck a driveway, went airborne and struck the ground. The trailer separated from the tractor. The vehicle came to rest in a ditch and caught fire.Loyd was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Stith Funeral Home. The MSHP did not have seat belt usage information.

Missouri man dies after semi crash and fire

St. Joseph police are searching for what they describe as a
person of interest in the shooting and wounding of two people coming out of the
Dollar General store at 17th and Messanie Street Monday morning.

A search for Byron Miller, which included the use of the
police SWAT team, has been unsuccessful so far.

Police report two people suffered non-life-threatening wounds
when shot outside the Dollar General store shortly before 10:30 Monday morning.
Police believe the shooter was waiting in the parking lot for the two to leave
the store and then opened fire. Police identify the victims only as a juvenile
male and a man in his 20s.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph police are searching for what they describe as a
person of interest in the shooting and wounding of two people coming out of the
Dollar General store at 17th and Messanie Street Monday morning.A search for Byron Miller, which included the use of the
police SWAT team, has been unsuccessful so far.Police report two people suffered non-life-threatening wounds
when shot outside the Dollar General store shortly before 10:30 Monday morning.
Police believe the shooter was waiting in the parking lot for the two to leave
the store and then opened fire. Police identify the victims only as a juvenile
male and a man in his 20s.The
investigation continues.

St. Joseph police look for person of interest in Dollar General shooting

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Monday in Livingston County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Ford Escape driven by Daniel A. Landi, 55, Kidder, was westbound on U.S. 36 at Wheeling.

The car traveled off the left side of the road and the driver overcorrected. The car traveled off the right side of the road, struck an embankment, rolled, went airborne and struck the embankment a second time.

Livingston County EMS transported Landi to Hedrick Medical Center. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Monday in Livingston County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Ford Escape driven by Daniel A. Landi, 55, Kidder, was westbound on U.S. 36 at Wheeling.The car traveled off the left side of the road and the driver overcorrected. The car traveled off the right side of the road, struck an embankment, rolled, went airborne and struck the embankment a second time.Livingston County EMS transported Landi to Hedrick Medical Center. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man injured after violent rollover crash 

ANDREW COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 9:30p.m. Monday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Dodge pickup driven by Ladona L. McCauley, 64, Union Star, was northbound on U.S. 169 one mile north of Avenue City.

The driver swerved to avoid a deer and the pickup traveled off the road. A private vehicle transported McCauley and a 9-year-old female passenger to Mosaic Life Care. They were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 9:30p.m. Monday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Dodge pickup driven by Ladona L. McCauley, 64, Union Star, was northbound on U.S. 169 one mile north of Avenue City.The driver swerved to avoid a deer and the pickup traveled off the road. A private vehicle transported McCauley and a 9-year-old female passenger to Mosaic Life Care. They were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Mo. woman, 9-year-old injured after driver swerves to miss a deer

ANDREW COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Monday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1999 Ford Expedition pulling two trailers and driven by Elaine E. Moore, 24, Hiawtha, was northbound on Interstate 229 three miles north of St. Joseph.

The driver lost control of the the SUV. It traveled off the east side of the road, struck the bridge rail and a mile marker sign. The trailers became detached and the SUV traveled down an embankment and overturned.&nbsp;

Andrew County EMS transported Moore and a passenger Jeffrey S. Davis 44, Hiawatha, to Mosaic Life Care. Moore was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Monday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1999 Ford Expedition pulling two trailers and driven by Elaine E. Moore, 24, Hiawtha, was northbound on Interstate 229 three miles north of St. Joseph.The driver lost control of the the SUV. It traveled off the east side of the road, struck the bridge rail and a mile marker sign. The trailers became detached and the SUV traveled down an embankment and overturned.&nbsp;Andrew County EMS transported Moore and a passenger Jeffrey S. Davis 44, Hiawatha, to Mosaic Life Care. Moore was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

2 hospitalized after trailers detach from SUV and it overturns

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a stabbing last month have a suspect in custody.

Shortly after midnight on October 9 police responded to a stabbing that at a residence in the 500 block South 6th Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp;

Aa 31-year-old man had suffered a stab wound during an argument with a suspect who fled the area. EMS transported the victim to the hospital in St. Joseph, according to Wilson.

On Saturday afternoon, police located the suspect identified as 52-year-old David W. Barber in the 300 block Santa Fe in Atchison and took him into custody on a District Court warrant for aggravated battery. During that arrest, officers found he was in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, according to Wilson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636384979230.png" alt="Barber-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Barber-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a stabbing last month have a suspect in custody.Shortly after midnight on October 9 police responded to a stabbing that at a residence in the 500 block South 6th Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp;Aa 31-year-old man had suffered a stab wound during an argument with a suspect who fled the area. EMS transported the victim to the hospital in St. Joseph, according to Wilson.On Saturday afternoon, police located the suspect identified as 52-year-old David W. Barber in the 300 block Santa Fe in Atchison and took him into custody on a District Court warrant for aggravated battery. During that arrest, officers found he was in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, according to Wilson.

Police catch suspect wanted for stabbing at Kansas home

A 28-year-old St. Joseph man has been shot and killed in a
late Friday afternoon confrontation.

The St. Joseph Police Department has identified the victim as
Marcus Allen.

Police report the shooting occurred shortly before five
o’clock on Union Street near 23rd. Paramedics responded to the
shooting and began life-saving measures, but Allen died at the hospital.

No other details have been released by the department. The two
men involved are described as young, in their 20s or early 30s. Police believe
they knew each other.

An investigation into what sparked the shooting continues.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA 28-year-old St. Joseph man has been shot and killed in a
late Friday afternoon confrontation.The St. Joseph Police Department has identified the victim as
Marcus Allen.Police report the shooting occurred shortly before five
o’clock on Union Street near 23rd. Paramedics responded to the
shooting and began life-saving measures, but Allen died at the hospital.No other details have been released by the department. The two
men involved are described as young, in their 20s or early 30s. Police believe
they knew each other.An investigation into what sparked the shooting continues.

Friday shooting victim identified by St. Joseph police

Missouri U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt sees the huge social spending
bill pushed by President Joe Biden as a huge political risk for Democrats.

Blunt, a Republican, says House Democrats will vote for the roughly
$2 trillion social spending and climate change package at their own peril.

“I think about three dozen Democrats should be thinking about whether
they want to be in the Congress or not and what the people they work for think
about this level of spending and the impact it will have on inflation,” Blunt
tells reporters during a recent visit to St. Joseph.

House leaders haven’t been able to get enough support for the
measure to bring it to the floor for a vote, even though it has been pared down
from the original $3.5 trillion price tag.

The House narrowly approved the $1.2 trillion infrastructure
bill passed earlier by the Senate 228-206. It goes to the president for his
signature as Democrats scramble to get the votes needed to advance the bigger
bill.

Blunt objects to provisions added to the massive spending bill
to try to secure the votes needed for passage.

“I think the bigger problem the administration needs to be
dealing with in trying to make it better instead of worse is the impact of
inflation on families and on the economy and there’s no way you can put another
three-and-a-half trillion dollars into the economy and not be driving inflation,”
according to Blunt.

Biden Administration officials place the price tag of the newly
negotiated social spending bill at $1.75 trillion. It includes universal
pre-Kindergarten school for three-and four-year-olds. It would reduce premiums
under the Affordable Care Act, provide an additional year of the monthly child
tax credit payment, and set aside money to combat climate change. Paid family
leave and free community college have been stripped from the bill.

Democrats plan to pay for the expanded programs through a
series of taxes on corporations and the wealthy.

Blunt doesn’t expect the social spending bill to pass the
Senate.

“This bill will not go anywhere in the Senate,” Blunt says. “The
Senate at the end of the day, if there is a package, that package largely will
need to be written by the two senators that have been in disagreement with
moving forward on this, Sen. Sinema and Sen. Manchin.”

The two Democrats, Sen. Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona and Sen. Joe
Manchin of West Virginia, have raised objections to the larger spending bill,
leaving it short of the votes needed to pass an evenly divided Senate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636396183310.jpeg" alt="Sen. Roy Blunt speaks with St. Joseph Mayor Bill McMurray during a recent stop in St. Joseph./Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Roy Blunt speaks with St. Joseph Mayor Bill McMurray during a recent stop in St. Joseph./Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt sees the huge social spending
bill pushed by President Joe Biden as a huge political risk for Democrats.Blunt, a Republican, says House Democrats will vote for the roughly
$2 trillion social spending and climate change package at their own peril.“I think about three dozen Democrats should be thinking about whether
they want to be in the Congress or not and what the people they work for think
about this level of spending and the impact it will have on inflation,” Blunt
tells reporters during a recent visit to St. Joseph.House leaders haven’t been able to get enough support for the
measure to bring it to the floor for a vote, even though it has been pared down
from the original $3.5 trillion price tag.The House narrowly approved the $1.2 trillion infrastructure
bill passed earlier by the Senate 228-206. It goes to the president for his
signature as Democrats scramble to get the votes needed to advance the bigger
bill.Blunt objects to provisions added to the massive spending bill
to try to secure the votes needed for passage.“I think the bigger problem the administration needs to be
dealing with in trying to make it better instead of worse is the impact of
inflation on families and on the economy and there’s no way you can put another
three-and-a-half trillion dollars into the economy and not be driving inflation,”
according to Blunt.Biden Administration officials place the price tag of the newly
negotiated social spending bill at $1.75 trillion. It includes universal
pre-Kindergarten school for three-and four-year-olds. It would reduce premiums
under the Affordable Care Act, provide an additional year of the monthly child
tax credit payment, and set aside money to combat climate change. Paid family
leave and free community college have been stripped from the bill.Democrats plan to pay for the expanded programs through a
series of taxes on corporations and the wealthy.Blunt doesn’t expect the social spending bill to pass the
Senate.“This bill will not go anywhere in the Senate,” Blunt says. “The
Senate at the end of the day, if there is a package, that package largely will
need to be written by the two senators that have been in disagreement with
moving forward on this, Sen. Sinema and Sen. Manchin.”The two Democrats, Sen. Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona and Sen. Joe
Manchin of West Virginia, have raised objections to the larger spending bill,
leaving it short of the votes needed to pass an evenly divided Senate.

Sen. Blunt says Democrats need to weigh the cost of passing massive spending bill

United Way of Greater St. Joseph fell just short of its fundraising goal, but continue to raise money.

United Way President Kylee Strough says that the initial campaign raised $2.3 million, but the United Way isn't done raising money yet.

"We actually have a few workplace campaigns left to do, including the next couple weeks, we'll be in some businesses meeting with their employees because they just didn't have their all staff meetings in September and October, so we'll be there in November, early December," Strough tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So we hope that numbers going to grow a little bit."

The goal of this campaign season was to raise just as much, if not more than last year’s total of $2.4 million, which Strough believes is still achievable with the fundraising United Way still has left.

"We're hoping that 2.4 and, maybe even 2.5, is still achievable, it's really up to those people at this point who say yes to continue to give," Strough says.  "One of the things we will do is we're going to scale back our public ask, so if you see us on social media or things like that, we're not going to be asking people to give that way like we have been for the last two months."

All money raised during this year’s campaign will be streamlined to United Ways 17 partner agencies, as well as into an emergency fund to help around the St. Joseph community.

Strough says that compared to last year, this year’s campaign was much better. United Way Volunteers were able to return to campaigning face to face, but did see some lingering effects of the COVID pandemic when St. Joseph saw a surge earlier this fall.

"We did have a moment of pause early in the campaign as those COVID numbers were spiking, we were watching some corporations kind of recluse back in, either sending people to work from home or no visitors allowed," Strough explains.

But, Strough says after that initial scare, volunteers were able to overcome and exceed last year.

"We had ten times more opportunities and companies that we got to be face-to face at this year, compared to last year," Strough says.

Strough says United Way volunteers had upwards of 120 face-to-face meetings with St. Joseph businesses compared to just around a dozen or so last year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636393269332.jpeg" alt="United Way of Greater St. Joseph President Kylee Strough speaks to attendees at last weeks event/ Photo provided by United Way of Greater St. Joseph" />
 <figcaption>United Way of Greater St. Joseph President Kylee Strough speaks to attendees at last weeks event/ Photo provided by United Way of Greater St. Joseph</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostUnited Way of Greater St. Joseph fell just short of its fundraising goal, but continue to raise money.United Way President Kylee Strough says that the initial campaign raised $2.3 million, but the United Way isn't done raising money yet."We actually have a few workplace campaigns left to do, including the next couple weeks, we'll be in some businesses meeting with their employees because they just didn't have their all staff meetings in September and October, so we'll be there in November, early December," Strough tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So we hope that numbers going to grow a little bit."The goal of this campaign season was to raise just as much, if not more than last year’s total of $2.4 million, which Strough believes is still achievable with the fundraising United Way still has left."We're hoping that 2.4 and, maybe even 2.5, is still achievable, it's really up to those people at this point who say yes to continue to give," Strough says. "One of the things we will do is we're going to scale back our public ask, so if you see us on social media or things like that, we're not going to be asking people to give that way like we have been for the last two months."All money raised during this year’s campaign will be streamlined to United Ways 17 partner agencies, as well as into an emergency fund to help around the St. Joseph community.Strough says that compared to last year, this year’s campaign was much better. United Way Volunteers were able to return to campaigning face to face, but did see some lingering effects of the COVID pandemic when St. Joseph saw a surge earlier this fall."We did have a moment of pause early in the campaign as those COVID numbers were spiking, we were watching some corporations kind of recluse back in, either sending people to work from home or no visitors allowed," Strough explains.But, Strough says after that initial scare, volunteers were able to overcome and exceed last year."We had ten times more opportunities and companies that we got to be face-to face at this year, compared to last year," Strough says.Strough says United Way volunteers had upwards of 120 face-to-face meetings with St. Joseph businesses compared to just around a dozen or so last year.

United Way of Greater St. Joseph campaign might not be wrapped up, yet

One man is dead, another is in custody after a deadly shooting
late Friday afternoon in St. Joseph.

St. Joseph police report the shooting occurred shortly before
five o’clock on Union Street near 23rd. Paramedics responded to the
shooting and began life-saving measures, but the man died at the hospital.

The two men involved are described to be in their 20s or early
30s. No identities have been released. Police believe they knew each other. An investigation into what sparked
the shooting continues.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostOne man is dead, another is in custody after a deadly shooting
late Friday afternoon in St. Joseph.St. Joseph police report the shooting occurred shortly before
five o’clock on Union Street near 23rd. Paramedics responded to the
shooting and began life-saving measures, but the man died at the hospital.The two men involved are described to be in their 20s or early
30s. No identities have been released. Police believe they knew each other. An investigation into what sparked
the shooting continues.

One man dead, one in custody after St. Joseph shooting

HOLT COUNTY —A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Sunday in Holt County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Freightliner semi driven Keaton M. Bassett, 19, Oskaloosa, was southbound on Highway P at Holt 220 two miles south of Bigelow.

The vehicles passenger side tires dropped off the road. The driver overcorrected and the semi overturned.

Atchison-Holt ambulance transported Bassett to Community Medical Center in Falls City, Nebraska. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

HOLT COUNTY —A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Sunday in Holt County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Freightliner semi driven Keaton M. Bassett, 19, Oskaloosa, was southbound on Highway P at Holt 220 two miles south of Bigelow.The vehicles passenger side tires dropped off the road. The driver overcorrected and the semi overturned.Atchison-Holt ambulance transported Bassett to Community Medical Center in Falls City, Nebraska. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

19-year-old driver injured after semi overturns

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after a violent attack on a woman.

At 2:30p.m. September 17, officers responded to a disturbance at a residence in the 1000 block North 10th Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

EMS transported a 36-year-old woman from the scene to the hospital for injuries incurred during the disturbance. 

A 34-year-old suspect had left the area and not located. It was determined that the suspect had struck the victim with his hands and feet and struck the victim in the head with a baseball bat.

On Friday, police arrested Anthony M. Barnhart, 34, Atchison, on a District Court warrant and requested charges of aggravated battery, domestic battery and criminal threat, according to Wilson.

Authorities have arrested Barnhart six times over the past two years, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636138280692.png" alt="Barnhart-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Barnhart-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after a violent attack on a woman.At 2:30p.m. September 17, officers responded to a disturbance at a residence in the 1000 block North 10th Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.EMS transported a 36-year-old woman from the scene to the hospital for injuries incurred during the disturbance. A 34-year-old suspect had left the area and not located. It was determined that the suspect had struck the victim with his hands and feet and struck the victim in the head with a baseball bat.On Friday, police arrested Anthony M. Barnhart, 34, Atchison, on a District Court warrant and requested charges of aggravated battery, domestic battery and criminal threat, according to Wilson.Authorities have arrested Barnhart six times over the past two years, according to online jail records.

Police: Kan. man used baseball bat in violent attack on a woman

CALDWELL COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 11a.m. Sunday in Caldwell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Toyota Camry driven by Timothy F. Heaton, 63, Braymer, was westbound on U.S. 36 six miles east of Cameron.

The driver swerved to avoid another vehicle. The Camry traveled off the road and struck an embankment.

Caldwell County EMS transported to passengers Linda P. Heaton, 57 and William C. Heaton, 36, both of Braymer to Cameron Regional Medical Center. The driver was not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

CALDWELL COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 11a.m. Sunday in Caldwell County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Toyota Camry driven by Timothy F. Heaton, 63, Braymer, was westbound on U.S. 36 six miles east of Cameron.The driver swerved to avoid another vehicle. The Camry traveled off the road and struck an embankment.Caldwell County EMS transported to passengers Linda P. Heaton, 57 and William C. Heaton, 36, both of Braymer to Cameron Regional Medical Center. The driver was not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

2 injured after car travels off road, strikes embankment

St. Joseph residents will gain an hour of sleep on Sunday as the clocks fall back, but there is one more thing they should be aware of as the time changes.

Fire inspector with the St. Joseph fire department Steve Hendrickson says that as the time changes, now is the time to check the smoke alarms in your home.

"Change your clock, change your battery, it ensures you have fresh batteries in there so that the smoke detector can protect you, it's also time to test it to make sure it's still working," Hendrickson tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.

With the cold weather beginning to show up in St. Joseph, the St. Joseph fire department begins to lookout for some common causes of fires.

Fire inspector Steve Hendrickson says that the department often sees problems with vacant homes.

"People getting inside of them to stay warm and starting a small fire then it getting away from them, things like that," Hendrickson says

But besides that, there are other causes of fire the department sees often

"Fireplaces all those, they have chimneys and things on them that need to be checked and serviced properly, because the mortar and stufff like that gets loose in the chimney and that's when you get your floo fires," Hendrickson explains. "And if it hasn't been cleaned of course you've also got the kreosote buildup that can also catch on fire."

Hendrickson says that the best way to prevent a fire in your home, is to simply pay attention.

"If you have a live tree make sure it has plenty of water, things like that, but other than that there's not much, its just like everyday just watching out and making sure if something doesn't look right check it and make sure it's right," Hendrickson explains. "And if you have a question call us and residential will probably come out and check it for you."

Hendrickson says to make sure space heaters, as well as fireplaces and wood stoves, have adequate space between them and anything that can catch fire.

The fire department also urges everyone to check their smoke alarms and change the batteries in them as the time changes on Sunday.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph residents will gain an hour of sleep on Sunday as the clocks fall back, but there is one more thing they should be aware of as the time changes.Fire inspector with the St. Joseph fire department Steve Hendrickson says that as the time changes, now is the time to check the smoke alarms in your home."Change your clock, change your battery, it ensures you have fresh batteries in there so that the smoke detector can protect you, it's also time to test it to make sure it's still working," Hendrickson tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.With the cold weather beginning to show up in St. Joseph, the St. Joseph fire department begins to lookout for some common causes of fires.Fire inspector Steve Hendrickson says that the department often sees problems with vacant homes."People getting inside of them to stay warm and starting a small fire then it getting away from them, things like that," Hendrickson saysBut besides that, there are other causes of fire the department sees often"Fireplaces all those, they have chimneys and things on them that need to be checked and serviced properly, because the mortar and stufff like that gets loose in the chimney and that's when you get your floo fires," Hendrickson explains. "And if it hasn't been cleaned of course you've also got the kreosote buildup that can also catch on fire."Hendrickson says that the best way to prevent a fire in your home, is to simply pay attention."If you have a live tree make sure it has plenty of water, things like that, but other than that there's not much, its just like everyday just watching out and making sure if something doesn't look right check it and make sure it's right," Hendrickson explains. "And if you have a question call us and residential will probably come out and check it for you."Hendrickson says to make sure space heaters, as well as fireplaces and wood stoves, have adequate space between them and anything that can catch fire.The fire department also urges everyone to check their smoke alarms and change the batteries in them as the time changes on Sunday.

St. Joseph Fire Department: "Change your clock, change your smoke alarm batteries"

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves joined 146 of his Republican colleagues in introducing the&nbsp;Illegal Immigrant Payoff Prohibition Act to&nbsp;ban the Biden Administration from making settlement payments to illegal immigrants for claims arising from their illegal entry, according to a media release from the congressman's office.

The legislation comes on the heels of a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/biden-administration-in-talks-to-pay-hundreds-of-millions-to-immigrant-families-separated-at-border-11635447591">bombshell Wall Street Journal exposé</a>&nbsp;that revealed the Biden Administration was mulling over making $450,000 payments to some illegal immigrants. Yesterday, President Biden denied they payments were even being considered, but today a White House spokesperson said the President is “perfectly comfortable” with the payments.

“This bill will put this bad idea to bed once and for all,”&nbsp;Graves said.&nbsp;“We shouldn’t be rewarding illegal immigrants for breaking the law and we certainly shouldn’t be handing them half-million-dollar payments. That’s a slap in the face to working American families and the fallen heroes who have fought and died to protect this country.”

For reference, the median household income in the United States is just $68,703, meaning it would take the average American family more than 6 and a half years to earn the $450,000 the Biden Administration is considering paying some illegal immigrants. That payment amount is also $50,000 more than a servicemember’s next of kin receives under the Servicemembers Group Life Insurance (SGLI) program when a servicemember is killed in action. It&nbsp;<a href="https://www.foxnews.com/politics/reported-biden-plan-illegal-immigrants-millions-surpass-9-11-victims-military-families">could also surpass the payments</a>&nbsp;to made to some families of 9/11 victims.

Graves joined 43 of his colleagues in&nbsp;<a href="https://graves.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/graves-condemns-450000-payments-illegal-immigrants">writing the Biden Administration last week to condemn the plan</a>. You can read their full letter&nbsp;<a href="https://graves.house.gov/sites/graves.house.gov/files/GM%2010.29.21%20Letter%20on%20Illegal%20Immigrant%20Compensation%20FINAL.docx.pdf">here</a>.

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves joined 146 of his Republican colleagues in introducing the&nbsp;Illegal Immigrant Payoff Prohibition Act to&nbsp;ban the Biden Administration from making settlement payments to illegal immigrants for claims arising from their illegal entry, according to a media release from the congressman's office. The legislation comes on the heels of a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/biden-administration-in-talks-to-pay-hundreds-of-millions-to-immigrant-families-separated-at-border-11635447591">bombshell Wall Street Journal exposé</a>&nbsp;that revealed the Biden Administration was mulling over making $450,000 payments to some illegal immigrants. Yesterday, President Biden denied they payments were even being considered, but today a White House spokesperson said the President is “perfectly comfortable” with the payments.“This bill will put this bad idea to bed once and for all,”&nbsp;Graves said.&nbsp;“We shouldn’t be rewarding illegal immigrants for breaking the law and we certainly shouldn’t be handing them half-million-dollar payments. That’s a slap in the face to working American families and the fallen heroes who have fought and died to protect this country.”For reference, the median household income in the United States is just $68,703, meaning it would take the average American family more than 6 and a half years to earn the $450,000 the Biden Administration is considering paying some illegal immigrants. That payment amount is also $50,000 more than a servicemember’s next of kin receives under the Servicemembers Group Life Insurance (SGLI) program when a servicemember is killed in action. It&nbsp;<a href="https://www.foxnews.com/politics/reported-biden-plan-illegal-immigrants-millions-surpass-9-11-victims-military-families">could also surpass the payments</a>&nbsp;to made to some families of 9/11 victims.Graves joined 43 of his colleagues in&nbsp;<a href="https://graves.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/graves-condemns-450000-payments-illegal-immigrants">writing the Biden Administration last week to condemn the plan</a>. You can read their full letter&nbsp;<a href="https://graves.house.gov/sites/graves.house.gov/files/GM%2010.29.21%20Letter%20on%20Illegal%20Immigrant%20Compensation%20FINAL.docx.pdf">here</a>.

Graves bill would stop payments to illegal immigrants

ATCHISON COUNTY— A Kansas woman who has been jailed five times on various requested charges over the past three years is back in jail, according to online jail records.

On Thursday, police arrested 30-year-old Marissa M. Vanwey, 30, Atchison, on requested chartes of theft at the Stop and Go Station, 405 U.S.59, that occurred on October 20, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636124252888.png" alt="Vanwey-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Vanwey-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY— A Kansas woman who has been jailed five times on various requested charges over the past three years is back in jail, according to online jail records.On Thursday, police arrested 30-year-old Marissa M. Vanwey, 30, Atchison, on requested chartes of theft at the Stop and Go Station, 405 U.S.59, that occurred on October 20, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.She remains in custody.

Kan. woman back in jail for alleged theft from convenience store

United States Sen. Roy Blunt proposes federal legislation that
could funnel as much as $20 million to conservation efforts in Missouri.

Blunt, a Republican, has sponsored legislation along with New
Mexico U.S. Sen., Democrat Martin Heinrich, that would send $1.3 billion
generated from environmental penalties to states, territories, and tribes.

“In our state it would be almost totally with private land
owners, doing what we can to maintain the kinds of vegetation, the kinds of
cover, maybe restore the quail population in Missouri that was still a big part
of our hunting when I was growing up,” Blunt tells those gathered for a news
conference at the Missouri River French Bottoms in St. Joseph Friday morning.

The legislation is called the Recovering America’s Wildlife
Act. It would provide funding for wildlife conservation strategies and plans
developed by states, territories, and tribes. The projects are to target the
restoration of species with the greatest conservation need. Local conservation
officials have identified 12,000 species in need of assistance.

Missouri Conservation Department Director Sara Parker Pauley
says the federal funding would help the state improve the habitat of more than
600 species in Missouri, species considered in the greatest conservation need.

“Meaning those populations are in decline,” Pauley says during
the news conference. “We hear about new extinctions all the time. The Fish and
Wildlife Service announced even in the last month another 23 species that they’re
declaring officially extinct.”

Pauley says $20 million would be a game-changer for the state.

“So this critically important funding will allow us here in
Missouri to implement what we call our comprehensive conservation wildlife
strategy,” Pauley says.

Also attending a news conference along the Missouri River was
Missouri Western State University biology professor Mark Mills, who says ultimately
benefiting the environment benefits people.

“Studies have shown that if you can bring in pollinators to
something like a small piece of tallgrass prairie, it benefits surrounding
agriculture,” Mills says. “Those same insects that are pollinating those plants
on the prairie are also pollinating crops.”

This isn’t just about endangered species or bugs, according to
Mills. He sees this as an opportunity to improve the state environment to the
benefit of its residents and as a teaching tool.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636139888015.jpeg" alt="U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt addresses a St. Joseph news conference along side the Missouri River.&nbsp; Missouri Conservation Dept. Director Sara Parker Pauley is to Blunt's right and&nbsp; Missouri Conservation Commission chair Barry Orschlen is to his left./Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt addresses a St. Joseph news conference along side the Missouri River.&nbsp; Missouri Conservation Dept. Director Sara Parker Pauley is to Blunt's right and&nbsp; Missouri Conservation Commission chair Barry Orschlen is to his left./Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostUnited States Sen. Roy Blunt proposes federal legislation that
could funnel as much as $20 million to conservation efforts in Missouri.Blunt, a Republican, has sponsored legislation along with New
Mexico U.S. Sen., Democrat Martin Heinrich, that would send $1.3 billion
generated from environmental penalties to states, territories, and tribes.“In our state it would be almost totally with private land
owners, doing what we can to maintain the kinds of vegetation, the kinds of
cover, maybe restore the quail population in Missouri that was still a big part
of our hunting when I was growing up,” Blunt tells those gathered for a news
conference at the Missouri River French Bottoms in St. Joseph Friday morning.The legislation is called the Recovering America’s Wildlife
Act. It would provide funding for wildlife conservation strategies and plans
developed by states, territories, and tribes. The projects are to target the
restoration of species with the greatest conservation need. Local conservation
officials have identified 12,000 species in need of assistance.Missouri Conservation Department Director Sara Parker Pauley
says the federal funding would help the state improve the habitat of more than
600 species in Missouri, species considered in the greatest conservation need.“Meaning those populations are in decline,” Pauley says during
the news conference. “We hear about new extinctions all the time. The Fish and
Wildlife Service announced even in the last month another 23 species that they’re
declaring officially extinct.”Pauley says $20 million would be a game-changer for the state.“So this critically important funding will allow us here in
Missouri to implement what we call our comprehensive conservation wildlife
strategy,” Pauley says.Also attending a news conference along the Missouri River was
Missouri Western State University biology professor Mark Mills, who says ultimately
benefiting the environment benefits people.“Studies have shown that if you can bring in pollinators to
something like a small piece of tallgrass prairie, it benefits surrounding
agriculture,” Mills says. “Those same insects that are pollinating those plants
on the prairie are also pollinating crops.”This isn’t just about endangered species or bugs, according to
Mills. He sees this as an opportunity to improve the state environment to the
benefit of its residents and as a teaching tool.“So, we’re really excited about this in terms of not just the
benefits to our natural habitats, but the benefits to the people and
especially, in my case, the benefits to the students here in northwest Missouri.”Under the legislation, the money would be distributed by the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service.