Greater St. Joseph United Way officials report they have
raised 2-point-3 Million dollars during this year’s campaign.

That total is short of the amount officials had hoped to
raise, but it could grow as donors continue to submit gifts and workplace
campaigns wrap up.

At the United Way Campaign Celebration Thursday night, Campaign Chair Tom
Richmond announced that to-date the community has pledged $2,300,203 to the Making Life Better campaign for 2022. He expressed
optimism that the total may grow as donors continue to submit gifts and
workplace campaigns wrap up. 

The pledges will help fund programs and services at 17 United Way partner agencies as well as address emergencies that arise in the community.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636110091278.jpeg" alt="Greater St. Joseph United Way campaign celebration at The Metropolitan/Photo by Doug Schmitz" />
 <figcaption>Greater St. Joseph United Way campaign celebration at The Metropolitan/Photo by Doug Schmitz</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostGreater St. Joseph United Way officials report they have
raised 2-point-3 Million dollars during this year’s campaign.That total is short of the amount officials had hoped to
raise, but it could grow as donors continue to submit gifts and workplace
campaigns wrap up.At the United Way Campaign Celebration Thursday night, Campaign Chair Tom
Richmond announced that to-date the community has pledged $2,300,203 to the Making Life Better campaign for 2022. He expressed
optimism that the total may grow as donors continue to submit gifts and
workplace campaigns wrap up. The pledges will help fund programs and services at 17 United Way partner agencies as well as address emergencies that arise in the community.

Greater St. Joseph United Way raises $2.3M

Pending improvements to Rosecrans Memorial Airport could prove
to be a big economic boost for St. Joseph.

The St. Joseph City Council has approved spending $2.5 million
in state funds to design and plan for a $15 million dollar facelift for
Rosecrans.

City council member Madison Davis says the city is working
with state and federal officials to secure the money needed to upgrade
Rosecrans.

“It serves an important place in the region for through
traffic whether it be private aircraft or smaller, charter planes as well as,
as many people have mentioned, the 139th; that is a major partner
here in the St. Joseph area and the entire region,” Davis tells host Barry Birr
on the KFEQ Hotline.

Plans call for a combination of state and federal funding to
construct a new air traffic control tower and terminal at Rosecrans.

Davis says the improvements will provide a better impression
to St. Joseph visitors who fly into the city. Davis says Rosecrans is more than
just the home base of the Air National Guard’s 139th Airlift Wing.

“We have a decent amount of traffic both on the charter and
the Express Flight side, just traffic coming through,” according to Davis. “There’s
maybe some opportunity there, if we’re able to improve our air traffic control
tower and the terminal and the amenities there, that we could see some increase
there.”

Davis says the move of the National Guard 139th
Airlift Wing headquarters from the southern portion of Rosecrans to higher
ground to the north gives the city a unique opportunity. He says the city needs
to consider how best to use the buildings and grounds the 139th is
leaving behind.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636054746892.jpeg" alt="Rosecrans Memorial Airport/file photo" />
 <figcaption>Rosecrans Memorial Airport/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostPending improvements to Rosecrans Memorial Airport could prove
to be a big economic boost for St. Joseph.The St. Joseph City Council has approved spending $2.5 million
in state funds to design and plan for a $15 million dollar facelift for
Rosecrans.City council member Madison Davis says the city is working
with state and federal officials to secure the money needed to upgrade
Rosecrans.“It serves an important place in the region for through
traffic whether it be private aircraft or smaller, charter planes as well as,
as many people have mentioned, the 139th; that is a major partner
here in the St. Joseph area and the entire region,” Davis tells host Barry Birr
on the KFEQ Hotline.Plans call for a combination of state and federal funding to
construct a new air traffic control tower and terminal at Rosecrans.Davis says the improvements will provide a better impression
to St. Joseph visitors who fly into the city. Davis says Rosecrans is more than
just the home base of the Air National Guard’s 139th Airlift Wing.“We have a decent amount of traffic both on the charter and
the Express Flight side, just traffic coming through,” according to Davis. “There’s
maybe some opportunity there, if we’re able to improve our air traffic control
tower and the terminal and the amenities there, that we could see some increase
there.”Davis says the move of the National Guard 139th
Airlift Wing headquarters from the southern portion of Rosecrans to higher
ground to the north gives the city a unique opportunity. He says the city needs
to consider how best to use the buildings and grounds the 139th is
leaving behind.

Rosecrans improvements could give St. Joseph economic boost

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Four people were injured in an accident just before 6:30p.m. Thursday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Kia Forte driven by Isabella M. Fuller, 20, St. Joseph, was eastbound on SE Mason Road one quarter mile southeast of St. Joseph.

The car went airborne at a hill crest, struck the ground, began to slide, traveled off the south side of the road, struck trees and returned partially to the road.

BUCHANAN COUNTY EMS transported Fuller, a 17-year-old and 15-year-old male passengers from St. Joseph to Mosaic Life Care. A private vehicle transported another 15-year-old male passenger from St. Joseph to Mosaic. He was the only person wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Four people were injured in an accident just before 6:30p.m. Thursday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Kia Forte driven by Isabella M. Fuller, 20, St. Joseph, was eastbound on SE Mason Road one quarter mile southeast of St. Joseph.The car went airborne at a hill crest, struck the ground, began to slide, traveled off the south side of the road, struck trees and returned partially to the road.BUCHANAN COUNTY EMS transported Fuller, a 17-year-old and 15-year-old male passengers from St. Joseph to Mosaic Life Care. A private vehicle transported another 15-year-old male passenger from St. Joseph to Mosaic. He was the only person wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Woman, 3 teens from St. Joe injured after car strikes trees

BROWN COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just before 11:30p.m. Thursday in Brown County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Western Star semi driven by Dennis A. Crowley, 52, Scranton, was southbound on U.S 75 just south of 290th Road.

The truck crossed the center line, traveled into the east ditch and struck an embankment.

EMS transported Crowley to the hospital in Sabetha. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

BROWN COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just before 11:30p.m. Thursday in Brown County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Western Star semi driven by Dennis A. Crowley, 52, Scranton, was southbound on U.S 75 just south of 290th Road.The truck crossed the center line, traveled into the east ditch and struck an embankment.EMS transported Crowley to the hospital in Sabetha. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after semi crash

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a registered Kansas sex offender on new charges.

On Wednesday, police arrested 39-year-old Brett A. Johnson, 39, Lansing, on a Kansas Department of Corrections detain order for parole violation, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Johnson has three previous convictions for aggravated indecent liberties with a child. In addition, Johnson has eight previous convictions for theft and burglary and has convictions for aggravated battery, criminal restraint and criminal damage to property, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636036816185.png" alt="Johnson-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Johnson-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a registered Kansas sex offender on new charges.On Wednesday, police arrested 39-year-old Brett A. Johnson, 39, Lansing, on a Kansas Department of Corrections detain order for parole violation, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.Johnson has three previous convictions for aggravated indecent liberties with a child. In addition, Johnson has eight previous convictions for theft and burglary and has convictions for aggravated battery, criminal restraint and criminal damage to property, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

Kan. sex offender with history violent crime jailed for parole violation

The United Way of Greater St. Joseph wraps up its campaign tonight after raising money for the past two months.

United Way kicked off this year’s fundraising campaign in early September, with the goal of raising at least $2.5 million, just slightly more than last year’s total of $2.4 million.

United Way campaign chair Tom Richmond says that this year’s campaign has gone well.

"Really St. Joe is a remarkably generous community, and that's been one of our hallmarks and it's one of the things I like about St. Joe," Richmond tells Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. "And this year again, we're having campaigns throughout the city, we've had a lot of good response."

Last year will always be remembered by the United Way for two things: the coronavirus pandemic and the flooding on the south side of St. Joseph. The pandemic kept United Way volunteers from raising money face-to-face.

Richmond says besides the pandemic, the United Way of Greater St. Joseph also faced the challenges brought on by flooding in St. Joseph’s south end.

"United Way in the midst of that flooding, not as a normal part of our activity, stepped up and acted as the coordinator as people worked to respond, multiple agencies, businesses, individuals, worked to respond to our neighbors, loved our neighbors in the south end," Richmond says

But, Richmond says the south-end flooding is the type of disaster United Way raises money to address.

"The ability to respond to these issues that come up is really, really important," Richmond adds.

United Way of Greater St. Joseph President Kylee Strough says that while about 70% of the funds raised during the annual campaign go to 17 partner agencies around St. Joseph, the rest of the funds are saved for emergencies, such as the COVID pandemic and the flooding in south St. Joseph last year.

"Something that is so important, is that a portion of those campaign dollars are set aside for the unexpected," Strough tells Birr. "And what it means for our community is that, we are able to respond in an instant, we don't have to go out and seek financial support before we start to respond, because the community has trusted us with those dollars."

An event will be held this evening by the United Way of Greater St. Joseph at The Metropolitan to announce this year’s total. The event begins at 5pm.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635973967244.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of United Way of Greater St. Joseph" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of United Way of Greater St. Joseph</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe United Way of Greater St. Joseph wraps up its campaign tonight after raising money for the past two months.United Way kicked off this year’s fundraising campaign in early September, with the goal of raising at least $2.5 million, just slightly more than last year’s total of $2.4 million.United Way campaign chair Tom Richmond says that this year’s campaign has gone well."Really St. Joe is a remarkably generous community, and that's been one of our hallmarks and it's one of the things I like about St. Joe," Richmond tells Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. "And this year again, we're having campaigns throughout the city, we've had a lot of good response."Last year will always be remembered by the United Way for two things: the coronavirus pandemic and the flooding on the south side of St. Joseph. The pandemic kept United Way volunteers from raising money face-to-face.Richmond says besides the pandemic, the United Way of Greater St. Joseph also faced the challenges brought on by flooding in St. Joseph’s south end."United Way in the midst of that flooding, not as a normal part of our activity, stepped up and acted as the coordinator as people worked to respond, multiple agencies, businesses, individuals, worked to respond to our neighbors, loved our neighbors in the south end," Richmond saysBut, Richmond says the south-end flooding is the type of disaster United Way raises money to address."The ability to respond to these issues that come up is really, really important," Richmond adds.United Way of Greater St. Joseph President Kylee Strough says that while about 70% of the funds raised during the annual campaign go to 17 partner agencies around St. Joseph, the rest of the funds are saved for emergencies, such as the COVID pandemic and the flooding in south St. Joseph last year."Something that is so important, is that a portion of those campaign dollars are set aside for the unexpected," Strough tells Birr. "And what it means for our community is that, we are able to respond in an instant, we don't have to go out and seek financial support before we start to respond, because the community has trusted us with those dollars."An event will be held this evening by the United Way of Greater St. Joseph at The Metropolitan to announce this year’s total. The event begins at 5pm.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635974021612.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of United Way of Greater St. Joseph" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of United Way of Greater St. Joseph</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635974054500.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of United Way of Greater St. Joseph" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of United Way of Greater St. Joseph</figcaption>
 </figure>

United Way of Greater St. Joseph fundraising campaign comes to a close

Bonds to Bridges is back on track in St. Joseph, after the
coronavirus pandemic and its after-effects delayed bridge reconstruction.

Work is underway in the south end on the King Hill Bridge that
spans South 2nd Street, the first of four bridges to be replaced in
the first phase of the program.

St. Joseph Public Works Director Andy Clements says the King
Hill Bridge was deteriorating badly.

“It’s a 1927 bridge. It’s restricted to five tons. You don’t really
get a rating much below that, then you have to start closing them. It’s again a
1927 bridge,” Clements tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “There’s a culvert there or bridge
technically at 22nd Street there by Corby Pond that was built in
1915.”

Also being replaced in this first phase of the Bonds to
Bridges project is a bridge at Gene Field and the Northeast Parkway as well as
the 13th Street Bridge.

Voters approved issuing $20 million in General Obligation
bonds in June of 2020. The money will be used to replace eight bridges and
repair two others.

Clements says the city is moving forward with the four bridges
in phase one of the Bonds to Bridges project, even as supplies are short and
prices are high.

“Trying to get the first four out. See what we can do,” Clements
says. “We’re trying not to get all the jobs out at the same time so all of St.
Joe is not torn up at the same time and nobody can get around at all.”

Clements expects to be able to complete replacement of most of
the bridges by the end of next year. Then, the work shifts to smaller projects,
such as installing box culverts.

The coronavirus pandemic had an effect on getting the project
off the ground. It still is having an impact. Four engineering firms hired to
help went into lockdown shortly after voters approved the bonds. Those engineers
still working, worked at home and couldn’t go out on site at the beginning of
the pandemic.

When they finally got out and began the preliminary work prior
to construction, supply chain issues delayed shipment of supplies and costs began
to rise.

Clements says construction firms refused to guarantee their
prices for 30 days, a normal practice pre-pandemic. Reinforcing steel and other
construction material have risen in cost. Costs continue to rise.

“It, in fact, has been significant,” according to Clements. “A
good part is we were careful in our estimating and, so far, we’re still under budget,
but we’re hoping that some of the forecasts that things might be getting worse
before getting better are not true, because at that point we’re going to have
trouble delivering the entire program. But right now we’re doing alright.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635968261666.jpeg" alt="Work underway at King Hill Bridge/Photo by Tommy Rezac" />
 <figcaption>Work underway at King Hill Bridge/Photo by Tommy Rezac</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostBonds to Bridges is back on track in St. Joseph, after the
coronavirus pandemic and its after-effects delayed bridge reconstruction.Work is underway in the south end on the King Hill Bridge that
spans South 2nd Street, the first of four bridges to be replaced in
the first phase of the program.St. Joseph Public Works Director Andy Clements says the King
Hill Bridge was deteriorating badly.“It’s a 1927 bridge. It’s restricted to five tons. You don’t really
get a rating much below that, then you have to start closing them. It’s again a
1927 bridge,” Clements tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “There’s a culvert there or bridge
technically at 22nd Street there by Corby Pond that was built in
1915.”Also being replaced in this first phase of the Bonds to
Bridges project is a bridge at Gene Field and the Northeast Parkway as well as
the 13th Street Bridge.Voters approved issuing $20 million in General Obligation
bonds in June of 2020. The money will be used to replace eight bridges and
repair two others.Clements says the city is moving forward with the four bridges
in phase one of the Bonds to Bridges project, even as supplies are short and
prices are high.“Trying to get the first four out. See what we can do,” Clements
says. “We’re trying not to get all the jobs out at the same time so all of St.
Joe is not torn up at the same time and nobody can get around at all.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635968370030.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac</figcaption>
 </figure>Clements expects to be able to complete replacement of most of
the bridges by the end of next year. Then, the work shifts to smaller projects,
such as installing box culverts.The coronavirus pandemic had an effect on getting the project
off the ground. It still is having an impact. Four engineering firms hired to
help went into lockdown shortly after voters approved the bonds. Those engineers
still working, worked at home and couldn’t go out on site at the beginning of
the pandemic.When they finally got out and began the preliminary work prior
to construction, supply chain issues delayed shipment of supplies and costs began
to rise.Clements says construction firms refused to guarantee their
prices for 30 days, a normal practice pre-pandemic. Reinforcing steel and other
construction material have risen in cost. Costs continue to rise.“It, in fact, has been significant,” according to Clements. “A
good part is we were careful in our estimating and, so far, we’re still under budget,
but we’re hoping that some of the forecasts that things might be getting worse
before getting better are not true, because at that point we’re going to have
trouble delivering the entire program. But right now we’re doing alright.”

Bonds to Bridges back even after the pandemic plays havoc with schedules

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Two Missouri teens were injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Wednesday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Ford Mustang driven by a 17-year-old St. Joseph boy was eastbound on MO 6 at SE 123 Road three miles east of St. Joseph.

The car traveled off the south side of the road, went airborne, struck a sign, traveled down an embankment and overturned.

A private vehicle transported the driver and a 16-year-old male passenger from Stewartsville to Mosaic Life Care.&nbsp; They were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Two Missouri teens were injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Wednesday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Ford Mustang driven by a 17-year-old St. Joseph boy was eastbound on MO 6 at SE 123 Road three miles east of St. Joseph.The car traveled off the south side of the road, went airborne, struck a sign, traveled down an embankment and overturned.A private vehicle transported the driver and a 16-year-old male passenger from Stewartsville to Mosaic Life Care.&nbsp; They were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

2 Missouri teens injured after car goes airborne, overturns

The Savannah Reporter for St. Joseph Post

Elections aren’t over until the
votes are counted, and this time those totals surprised County Clerk Sarah
Miller, who’s the county’s chief election official. The August primary election
turnout had only about 16 percent of the registered voters casting ballots. The
predicted turnout for November’s election was only 8 percent, but in the end 18
percent of registered voters turned out.

Miller announced around 8 p.m. on Nov.
2 that Savannah voters passed the 1-cent sales tax by a wide margin, voting 491
in favor to 211 against.

Dave Vincent, the longtime Savannah
police chief, was pleased to note that 70 percent of the voters supported the sales
tax. That’s similar to the support voters gave to the Buchanan County law
enforcement tax in August, he told The Savannah Reporter.

“I’ve always felt this community
has supported the police and fire,” Vincent said. “This vote continues that
approval, and I’m very thankful.”

City Administrator Bruce Lundy
said, “We’re relieved and thankful voters turned out in support of the fire and
police.”

Savannah plans for most of the
money to be used to purchase fire equipment and increase police salaries.

“It’s not a big bucket of money,”
Lundy said. “The tax won’t go into effect until January, and the city will have
to let it be so it can grow before there is any thought about spending the money.”

On the other hand, the news on
Tuesday for the Savannah R-3 School District wasn’t good. 

The district was seeking a 15-cent
levy increase for 10 years, with funds targeted for building maintenance. The
final vote count was 861 in favor and 889 opposed, so the levy failed.

“I thank everybody that voted and
congratulations to the city on its issue,” R-3 Board President Joe Barbosa said.
“The board respects this outcome. We’re going to the state meeting this
weekend. Maybe that will give the board some inspiration to regroup and look at
our long-term plans.”

Miller told The Savannah Reporter
that the election is estimated to cost about $12,000, with the city and the
school district splitting the cost with each paying $6,000. The county clerk
was extremely pleased with how everything ran so smoothly this time. 

“All the machines worked properly
from the moment the polls opened, and the two deputy county clerks and the
election judges saw to it throughout the day that everything else kept running
smoothly.”

Amongst the spectators waiting for
the results was Dennis Arn. He told The Savannah Reporter he was just curious
to see how the vote was going. He said the district’s decision to add a 10 year
sunset clause made good sense because a lot of people don’t want open-ended
taxes.

The next regularly scheduled
election is April 2023, when at least city and school board races will be on
the ballots.

By MARSHALL WHITEThe Savannah Reporter for St. Joseph PostElections aren’t over until the
votes are counted, and this time those totals surprised County Clerk Sarah
Miller, who’s the county’s chief election official. The August primary election
turnout had only about 16 percent of the registered voters casting ballots. The
predicted turnout for November’s election was only 8 percent, but in the end 18
percent of registered voters turned out.Miller announced around 8 p.m. on Nov.
2 that Savannah voters passed the 1-cent sales tax by a wide margin, voting 491
in favor to 211 against.Dave Vincent, the longtime Savannah
police chief, was pleased to note that 70 percent of the voters supported the sales
tax. That’s similar to the support voters gave to the Buchanan County law
enforcement tax in August, he told The Savannah Reporter.“I’ve always felt this community
has supported the police and fire,” Vincent said. “This vote continues that
approval, and I’m very thankful.”City Administrator Bruce Lundy
said, “We’re relieved and thankful voters turned out in support of the fire and
police.”Savannah plans for most of the
money to be used to purchase fire equipment and increase police salaries.“It’s not a big bucket of money,”
Lundy said. “The tax won’t go into effect until January, and the city will have
to let it be so it can grow before there is any thought about spending the money.”On the other hand, the news on
Tuesday for the Savannah R-3 School District wasn’t good. The district was seeking a 15-cent
levy increase for 10 years, with funds targeted for building maintenance. The
final vote count was 861 in favor and 889 opposed, so the levy failed.“I thank everybody that voted and
congratulations to the city on its issue,” R-3 Board President Joe Barbosa said.
“The board respects this outcome. We’re going to the state meeting this
weekend. Maybe that will give the board some inspiration to regroup and look at
our long-term plans.”Miller told The Savannah Reporter
that the election is estimated to cost about $12,000, with the city and the
school district splitting the cost with each paying $6,000. The county clerk
was extremely pleased with how everything ran so smoothly this time. “All the machines worked properly
from the moment the polls opened, and the two deputy county clerks and the
election judges saw to it throughout the day that everything else kept running
smoothly.”Amongst the spectators waiting for
the results was Dennis Arn. He told The Savannah Reporter he was just curious
to see how the vote was going. He said the district’s decision to add a 10 year
sunset clause made good sense because a lot of people don’t want open-ended
taxes.The next regularly scheduled
election is April 2023, when at least city and school board races will be on
the ballots.

Savannah voters approve one tax hike, reject another

The St. Joseph City Council this week unanimously approved&nbsp;$2.5 million&nbsp;to go toward design and planning for a $15 million project at Rosecrans Memorial Airport - a project that would see the construction of a new terminal and air traffic control tower.

Airport general manager Abraham Forney says state senator Dan Hegeman helped secure this funding at the state level, so that the city and the airport could begin work on this important renovation project.

"The building was built in the 50s," Forney said of Rosecran's terminal building and air traffic control tower. "Senator Hegeman knew it was in dire need of replaced, so he helped us get the project underway, getting $2.5 million from the state."

This project, Forney says, would rebuild the terminal, air traffic control tower and also the snow removal equipment building, which will soon be torn down by the 139th Airlift Wing, which is moving its headquarters <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/10b4f9cb-e2b2-4eca-8446-d482815ebbf9">from the south to the north end</a> of the property at Rosecrans.

"Where our (snow) equipment is right now will go away in the very near future," he explained. "We'll need a new spot to put our snow removal equipment, and this will be the best spot for it."

Rosecrans is also in the process of starting a major runway overhaul project. The St. Joseph City Council <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/6ac62910-d283-4a1d-bed1-e3d2fd6a45fd">passed an emergency ordinance</a> to authorize construction on the runway back in mid-September. Construction on that project is set to begin next fall.

Forney clarified that the runway project is separate from the $15 million terminal and traffic control tower project, and each project gets prioritized by the FAA when state and federal grants are applied for.

"When we have projects (like the runway), they are the highest priority," Forney explained. "Projects like the tower get knocked down on the priority scale, and it's hard to get funding. So, having Senator Hegeman put this money is going to be huge for us."

The $2.5 million that the council just approved will go mostly toward design and planning for the tower and terminal. Forney says the next step is to go to the federal level to apply for funding and raise the rest of the money needed to finish this project.

"We're using that ($2.5 million) for design and getting it shovel ready," Forney said. "So, when we go to the federal government and ask them for some money to replace this tower, then we'll be shovel ready."

Just like the runway project, Forney says this terminal and air traffic control tower project is crucial and also an exciting step toward renovating Rosecrans, which brings in over $200 million annually between the Air National Guard's use of the facility and also the corporations and businesses who use the airport.

"Our tagline is 'it's the global link to the Midwest,'" Forney said. "It really is. We have different nations that fly in at the 139th. We have numerous corporations who fly in and do business in the city of St. Joe."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635964105223.jpeg" alt="Rosecrans Memorial Airport/file photo" />
 <figcaption>Rosecrans Memorial Airport/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph City Council this week unanimously approved&nbsp;$2.5 million&nbsp;to go toward design and planning for a $15 million project at Rosecrans Memorial Airport - a project that would see the construction of a new terminal and air traffic control tower.Airport general manager Abraham Forney says state senator Dan Hegeman helped secure this funding at the state level, so that the city and the airport could begin work on this important renovation project."The building was built in the 50s," Forney said of Rosecran's terminal building and air traffic control tower. "Senator Hegeman knew it was in dire need of replaced, so he helped us get the project underway, getting $2.5 million from the state."This project, Forney says, would rebuild the terminal, air traffic control tower and also the snow removal equipment building, which will soon be torn down by the 139th Airlift Wing, which is moving its headquarters <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/10b4f9cb-e2b2-4eca-8446-d482815ebbf9">from the south to the north end</a> of the property at Rosecrans."Where our (snow) equipment is right now will go away in the very near future," he explained. "We'll need a new spot to put our snow removal equipment, and this will be the best spot for it."Rosecrans is also in the process of starting a major runway overhaul project. The St. Joseph City Council <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/6ac62910-d283-4a1d-bed1-e3d2fd6a45fd">passed an emergency ordinance</a> to authorize construction on the runway back in mid-September. Construction on that project is set to begin next fall.Forney clarified that the runway project is separate from the $15 million terminal and traffic control tower project, and each project gets prioritized by the FAA when state and federal grants are applied for."When we have projects (like the runway), they are the highest priority," Forney explained. "Projects like the tower get knocked down on the priority scale, and it's hard to get funding. So, having Senator Hegeman put this money is going to be huge for us."The $2.5 million that the council just approved will go mostly toward design and planning for the tower and terminal. Forney says the next step is to go to the federal level to apply for funding and raise the rest of the money needed to finish this project."We're using that ($2.5 million) for design and getting it shovel ready," Forney said. "So, when we go to the federal government and ask them for some money to replace this tower, then we'll be shovel ready."Just like the runway project, Forney says this terminal and air traffic control tower project is crucial and also an exciting step toward renovating Rosecrans, which brings in over $200 million annually between the Air National Guard's use of the facility and also the corporations and businesses who use the airport."Our tagline is 'it's the global link to the Midwest,'" Forney said. "It really is. We have different nations that fly in at the 139th. We have numerous corporations who fly in and do business in the city of St. Joe."You can follow&nbsp; Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Rosecrans Memorial Airport secures state funding for terminal, tower project

St. Joseph city officials are working to get more residents
involved in cleaning up and beautifying the city.

City Manager Bryan Carter says there is a grassroots effort
underway.

“On one hand, we have groups that are focused on our parks. On
the other hand, we have just individuals that are really stepping up the effort
to get out and pick up litter and such on streets,” Carter says. “We have a new
committee that’s been formed in the last year and really starting to take hold that’s
just exploring different initiatives, more formal initiatives, that can be
pursued to help with some of that litter and blight cleanup that’s occurring.”

Carter says the city is creating a virtual log on its website
that will allow volunteers or groups of volunteers to record their efforts. It
also will allow efforts to be more coordinated.

Litter has become a problem in parts of the city. City
residents have taken it upon themselves to tackle the problem, street by
street, block by block.

The age and size of St. Joseph makes a difference, according
to Carter.

“We’re an old city and that’s a big part of it,” Carter says. “As
an old city, we have a couple of things that we have to deal with. We have to
deal with the fact that we’re geographically large. Although St. Joe is a city
of about 75,000, we cover a lot of acres. And within those acres, there are
some pockets of town that are just older and, of course, over time deterioration
occurs and certain parts of town have certainly been kept up. There are other
parts that haven’t.”

While many parts of St. Joseph boast beautiful older homes,
some even majestic mansions, others are long past their glory days. Some sections
of the city have deteriorated to the point that once stunning houses have been
abandoned, some falling into ruin.

State legislators responded and approve a bill allowing for
the creation of the St. Joseph Land Bank, modeled after successful programs in
St. Louis and Kansas City. The Land Bank can acquire property, either piecemeal
or collectively, and market it to those interested in tackling a renovation
project of an historic home.

Carter says there’s no easy, magic fix to bringing old,
abandoned homes back to their former glory. He believes the Land Bank is
starting in the right direction.

“Really, almost in an experimental mode now, trying to figure
out what does work, what doesn’t work and how to best to utilize the resources
that they have available to turn some of those older properties around.”

Carter says the Land Bank has acquired three properties and is
looking to acquire more. Those will be marketed to buyers who promise to fix
them up.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635881328392.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph city officials are working to get more residents
involved in cleaning up and beautifying the city.City Manager Bryan Carter says there is a grassroots effort
underway.“On one hand, we have groups that are focused on our parks. On
the other hand, we have just individuals that are really stepping up the effort
to get out and pick up litter and such on streets,” Carter says. “We have a new
committee that’s been formed in the last year and really starting to take hold that’s
just exploring different initiatives, more formal initiatives, that can be
pursued to help with some of that litter and blight cleanup that’s occurring.”Carter says the city is creating a virtual log on its website
that will allow volunteers or groups of volunteers to record their efforts. It
also will allow efforts to be more coordinated.Litter has become a problem in parts of the city. City
residents have taken it upon themselves to tackle the problem, street by
street, block by block.The age and size of St. Joseph makes a difference, according
to Carter.“We’re an old city and that’s a big part of it,” Carter says. “As
an old city, we have a couple of things that we have to deal with. We have to
deal with the fact that we’re geographically large. Although St. Joe is a city
of about 75,000, we cover a lot of acres. And within those acres, there are
some pockets of town that are just older and, of course, over time deterioration
occurs and certain parts of town have certainly been kept up. There are other
parts that haven’t.”Litter isn’t the only problem.While many parts of St. Joseph boast beautiful older homes,
some even majestic mansions, others are long past their glory days. Some sections
of the city have deteriorated to the point that once stunning houses have been
abandoned, some falling into ruin.State legislators responded and approve a bill allowing for
the creation of the St. Joseph Land Bank, modeled after successful programs in
St. Louis and Kansas City. The Land Bank can acquire property, either piecemeal
or collectively, and market it to those interested in tackling a renovation
project of an historic home.Carter says there’s no easy, magic fix to bringing old,
abandoned homes back to their former glory. He believes the Land Bank is
starting in the right direction.“Really, almost in an experimental mode now, trying to figure
out what does work, what doesn’t work and how to best to utilize the resources
that they have available to turn some of those older properties around.”Carter says the Land Bank has acquired three properties and is
looking to acquire more. Those will be marketed to buyers who promise to fix
them up.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635881395470.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>

Several efforts underway to beautify St. Joseph

Savannah voters give overwhelming approval to a one-percent
sales tax increase for the Savannah Police and Fire Departments, but narrowly
reject a 15-cent levy increase for the R-3 School District.

Unofficial results released by the Andrew County Clerk’s
Office show 491 voters cast ballots Tuesday in favor of the one-percent police
and fire tax with only 211 voting against the issue; nearly 70% casting
ballots in favor of the tax hike. The school tax issue was very close.
Unofficial results show 889 voting against the school tax levy with 861 voting
in favor.

Clinton County voters approved a half-cent law enforcement
sales tax increase with 946 voting in favor of the tax increase and 775 voting
against it Tuesday.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSavannah voters give overwhelming approval to a one-percent
sales tax increase for the Savannah Police and Fire Departments, but narrowly
reject a 15-cent levy increase for the R-3 School District.Unofficial results released by the Andrew County Clerk’s
Office show 491 voters cast ballots Tuesday in favor of the one-percent police
and fire tax with only 211 voting against the issue; nearly 70% casting
ballots in favor of the tax hike. The school tax issue was very close.
Unofficial results show 889 voting against the school tax levy with 861 voting
in favor.Clinton County voters approved a half-cent law enforcement
sales tax increase with 946 voting in favor of the tax increase and 775 voting
against it Tuesday.

Savannah voters split on tax issues; Clinton CO approves law enforcement tax

DAVIESS COUNTY — Two people were injured in an accident just after 6p.m. Tuesday in Daviess County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Pontiac Grand Am driven by Rubiluz M. Gordon, 23, Richfield, Minnesota, was southbound on Interstate 35 one mile south of Pattonsburg.

A semi forced the car off the road. The car entered the median and partially overturned. NTA ambulance transported Gordon and a 10-year-old boy to Liberty Hospital. Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

DAVIESS COUNTY — Two people were injured in an accident just after 6p.m. Tuesday in Daviess County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Pontiac Grand Am driven by Rubiluz M. Gordon, 23, Richfield, Minnesota, was southbound on Interstate 35 one mile south of Pattonsburg.A semi forced the car off the road. The car entered the median and partially overturned. NTA ambulance transported Gordon and a 10-year-old boy to Liberty Hospital. Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Woman, 10-year-old boy injured after car forced off highway

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man in connection with an alleged assault on a 79-year-old victim.

Just before 9a.m. Monday, police responded to a disturbance at a home in the 700 Block of North 2nd Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Police&nbsp; determined that during the disturbance property was damaged and a 79-year-old was a victim of battery by a family member.

Police located the 24-year-old family member suspect identified as Alexander Kelley outside the residence. When officers confronted Kelley, he was holding a pipe which he swung at officers as he was being arrested.

Police booked him into jail on requested charges of&nbsp; domestic battery, criminal damage to property, interference with law enforcement, and aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635865943930.png" alt="Kelley photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Kelley photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man in connection with an alleged assault on a 79-year-old victim.Just before 9a.m. Monday, police responded to a disturbance at a home in the 700 Block of North 2nd Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.Police&nbsp; determined that during the disturbance property was damaged and a 79-year-old was a victim of battery by a family member.Police located the 24-year-old family member suspect identified as Alexander Kelley outside the residence. When officers confronted Kelley, he was holding a pipe which he swung at officers as he was being arrested.Police booked him into jail on requested charges of&nbsp; domestic battery, criminal damage to property, interference with law enforcement, and aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer.&nbsp;

Police: Kansas man swung pipe at officer during arrest

DEKALB COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Tuesday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Ford F150 driven by Clinton O. Fry, 31, Pattonsburg, was westbound on Highway E one half mile west of Santa Rosa.

The pickup struck a deer. A private vehicle transported a 6-year-old passenger to Mosaic in Albany. The driver was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Tuesday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Ford F150 driven by Clinton O. Fry, 31, Pattonsburg, was westbound on Highway E one half mile west of Santa Rosa.The pickup struck a deer. A private vehicle transported a 6-year-old passenger to Mosaic in Albany. The driver was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

6-year-old injured after pickup strikes a deer

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

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Chevy Suburban driven by Roberto G. Rosales-Gonzalez, 21, Kansas City, Mo, was northbound on Interstate 29 just north of Union Township.

The SUV traveled off the west side of the road and into the median. The vehicle returned to the road, skidded off east side of the road and the driver was ejected when the vehicle overturned.

Atchison-Holt ambulance transported Rosales-Gonzales to Fairfax Community Hospital. Two passengers in the vehicle refused treatment at the scene.&nbsp; Rosales-Gonzales was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

HOLT COUNTY—A Missouri man was injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Tuesday in Holt County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Chevy Suburban driven by Roberto G. Rosales-Gonzalez, 21, Kansas City, Mo, was northbound on Interstate 29 just north of Union Township.The SUV traveled off the west side of the road and into the median. The vehicle returned to the road, skidded off east side of the road and the driver was ejected when the vehicle overturned.Atchison-Holt ambulance transported Rosales-Gonzales to Fairfax Community Hospital. Two passengers in the vehicle refused treatment at the scene.&nbsp; Rosales-Gonzales was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man hospitalized after ejected when SUV overturns

DEKALB COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 2p.m. Tuesday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 International Semi driven by James R. Blakley, 52, Cowgill, was westbound on U.S. 36 two miles east of Osborn. The semi rear-ended a 2012 Ford F350 driven by Cooper A. O'Connor, 23, Plattsburg, who was slowing to turn into a private drive.

DeKalb-Clinton Ambulance transported Blakley to Cameron Regional Medical Center. O'Connor was not wearing a seat belt but not injured, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 2p.m. Tuesday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 International Semi driven by James R. Blakley, 52, Cowgill, was westbound on U.S. 36 two miles east of Osborn. The semi rear-ended a 2012 Ford F350 driven by Cooper A. O'Connor, 23, Plattsburg, who was slowing to turn into a private drive.DeKalb-Clinton Ambulance transported Blakley to Cameron Regional Medical Center. O'Connor was not wearing a seat belt but not injured, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man injured after semi rear-ends pickup

GENTRY COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 7a.m. Tuesday in Gentry County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Buick Lucerne driven by Charles H. Ochse, 86, Helena, Montana, was eastbound on Pomeroy Street just east of Mill in Darlington.

The driver failed to stop at a stop sign. The vehicle traveled off the road.

Grand River EMS transported Ochse and a passenger Lois P. Ochse, 85, Helena, Montana, to Mosaic in Albany.&nbsp; They were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

GENTRY COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 7a.m. Tuesday in Gentry County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Buick Lucerne driven by Charles H. Ochse, 86, Helena, Montana, was eastbound on Pomeroy Street just east of Mill in Darlington.The driver failed to stop at a stop sign. The vehicle traveled off the road.Grand River EMS transported Ochse and a passenger Lois P. Ochse, 85, Helena, Montana, to Mosaic in Albany.&nbsp; They were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

2 hospitalized after 86-year-old driver missed stop sign

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman with a history of arrests on new allegation.

On Monday, police arrested Sue A. Huber, 62, Atchison, on a requested charge of driving under the influence and leaving the scene of an accident, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

&nbsp;The vehicle Huber was driving was involved in an accident at 7th and Spring Street in Atchison. Police issued notice to appear in court.

According to online jail records, Huber has been jailed nearly a dozen times since 2000. She has previous felony convictions that include identify theft and fraud, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635865697411.png" alt="Huber from a 2019 arrest in Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Huber from a 2019 arrest in Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman with a history of arrests on new allegation.On Monday, police arrested Sue A. Huber, 62, Atchison, on a requested charge of driving under the influence and leaving the scene of an accident, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp;The vehicle Huber was driving was involved in an accident at 7th and Spring Street in Atchison. Police issued notice to appear in court.According to online jail records, Huber has been jailed nearly a dozen times since 2000. She has previous felony convictions that include identify theft and fraud, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

Kan. woman with a history of crime accused in DUI crash

LINN COUNTY —Two northwest Missouri teens were injured in an accident just before 2a.m. Tuesday in Linn County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Mitsubishi Galant driven by a 16-year-old from Chillicothe was westbound on U.S. 36 three miles west of Laclede.

The driver fell asleep and the car traveled off the road. The driver overcorrected and the car struck the guardrail.

Linn County ambulance transported the driver and a 17-year-old passenger to the hospital in Brookfield. Both were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

LINN COUNTY —Two northwest Missouri teens were injured in an accident just before 2a.m. Tuesday in Linn County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Mitsubishi Galant driven by a 16-year-old from Chillicothe was westbound on U.S. 36 three miles west of Laclede.The driver fell asleep and the car traveled off the road. The driver overcorrected and the car struck the guardrail.Linn County ambulance transported the driver and a 17-year-old passenger to the hospital in Brookfield. Both were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

2 northwest Missouri teens injured after driver falls asleep

Brett Esely's long tenure of service to Missouri Western athletics is drawing to a close.

The Griffons' senior associate athletic director for external affairs will work his last full day on campus November 9. After that, he'll have a well-earned, nearly two-month break before taking on a new venture.

"I felt that it was healthy to have a little opportunity to, I've called it a detox I guess," Esely remarked. "I don't know what else to call it. To wrap some things up here and get ready for my next adventure."

In conjunction with Missouri Western State University, Esely announced in late September that he accepted an offer from the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau to become the director of development/director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission.

Esely helped revive the St. Joseph Sports Commission in recent years, becoming chair of their board. He also led efforts to create the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame, which conducted its inaugural induction ceremony on Sept. 19.

"We were hopeful that it would one day turn into an opportunity for someone to lead that every day," Esely said. "That became a little bit of a reality late this summer that if our commission was going to go like this and continue this upward climb, it needed somebody that was able to focus on it on a day-to-day basis."&nbsp;

Esely's last week at Western will be so busy, he might not notice his time is ending there. The Griffon football team has Senior Day Saturday, the Griffon volleyball team has two home matches, and, oh yeah. The Small College Basketball Hall of Fame Classic gets going at Civic Arena.

A two-day men's basketball showcase, featuring eight total teams - five of them ranked in the DII Top 25. Four games will be played Saturday, and four more on Sunday.

"It's business as usual until it's not," Esely said. "It's been the day-to-day grind it's taken to get ready for our games and events, and there's been a lot of them, which is exciting. That's what this time of year is. We enter crossover season, which is exciting and hectic at the same time."

Esely started at Western as a student assistant men's basketball coach in July 2000. He moved into administration in 2003, overseeing NCAA compliance and ticketing before taking on the external affairs role in 2007.

He's done a little of everything in that time, overseeing the athletic department's marketing, advertising, public relations, corporate partnerships and event management.

Esely has led event operations for Chiefs Summer Training Camp, helped run many MIAA conference and NCAA championship events and has served as public address announcer and color commentator on Griffon radio broadcasts.

These last seven months, Esely says, may have been his busiest, but also his most rewarding, as 15 of Missouri Western's 17 sports were in action in March after COVID-19 postponed the MIAA's fall 2020 season.

"We have been on an absolute sprint since March 1," Esely said. "We went from nothing to hoops season to 15 of our 17 sports competing in a span of about three months time. We go into May and get ready for a charity golf classic we have in early June and we hosted an NFL training camp this summer."

It's almost hard to believe Esley's time at Western is ending. In 21 years, his impact on so many sports and programs and events goes beyond comprehension. He will be a hard person to replace.

But whoever comes in after, Esely knows this - he can look back on his time at Missouri Western with great pride in what he and many others built, and also look forward to still working with the Griffons as a part of the St. Joseph Sports Commission.

"It's a very easy sell here," he said, "and I believe that. Doesn't matter what we're talking about. It always starts with our people. It starts with relationships. Like I say, I speak for everyone on our department - I'm proud of what we have here. I'm proud of what we built and am proud of what we're chasing."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635821948969.jpeg" alt="&nbsp; Brett Esely at the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau this past summer, announcing the first ever St. Joseph Sports Hall of Fame class. Photo by Tommy Rezac. " />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; Brett Esely at the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau this past summer, announcing the first ever St. Joseph Sports Hall of Fame class. Photo by Tommy Rezac. </figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBrett Esely's long tenure of service to Missouri Western athletics is drawing to a close.The Griffons' senior associate athletic director for external affairs will work his last full day on campus November 9. After that, he'll have a well-earned, nearly two-month break before taking on a new venture."I felt that it was healthy to have a little opportunity to, I've called it a detox I guess," Esely remarked. "I don't know what else to call it. To wrap some things up here and get ready for my next adventure."In conjunction with Missouri Western State University, Esely announced in late September that he accepted an offer from the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau to become the director of development/director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission.Esely helped revive the St. Joseph Sports Commission in recent years, becoming chair of their board. He also led efforts to create the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame, which conducted its inaugural induction ceremony on Sept. 19."We were hopeful that it would one day turn into an opportunity for someone to lead that every day," Esely said. "That became a little bit of a reality late this summer that if our commission was going to go like this and continue this upward climb, it needed somebody that was able to focus on it on a day-to-day basis."&nbsp;Esely's last week at Western will be so busy, he might not notice his time is ending there. The Griffon football team has Senior Day Saturday, the Griffon volleyball team has two home matches, and, oh yeah. The Small College Basketball Hall of Fame Classic gets going at Civic Arena.A two-day men's basketball showcase, featuring eight total teams - five of them ranked in the DII Top 25. Four games will be played Saturday, and four more on Sunday."It's business as usual until it's not," Esely said. "It's been the day-to-day grind it's taken to get ready for our games and events, and there's been a lot of them, which is exciting. That's what this time of year is. We enter crossover season, which is exciting and hectic at the same time."Esely started at Western as a student assistant men's basketball coach in July 2000. He moved into administration in 2003, overseeing NCAA compliance and ticketing before taking on the external affairs role in 2007.He's done a little of everything in that time, overseeing the athletic department's marketing, advertising, public relations, corporate partnerships and event management.Esely has led event operations for Chiefs Summer Training Camp, helped run many MIAA conference and NCAA championship events and has served as public address announcer and color commentator on Griffon radio broadcasts.These last seven months, Esely says, may have been his busiest, but also his most rewarding, as 15 of Missouri Western's 17 sports were in action in March after COVID-19 postponed the MIAA's fall 2020 season."We have been on an absolute sprint since March 1," Esely said. "We went from nothing to hoops season to 15 of our 17 sports competing in a span of about three months time. We go into May and get ready for a charity golf classic we have in early June and we hosted an NFL training camp this summer."It's almost hard to believe Esley's time at Western is ending. In 21 years, his impact on so many sports and programs and events goes beyond comprehension. He will be a hard person to replace.But whoever comes in after, Esely knows this - he can look back on his time at Missouri Western with great pride in what he and many others built, and also look forward to still working with the Griffons as a part of the St. Joseph Sports Commission."It's a very easy sell here," he said, "and I believe that. Doesn't matter what we're talking about. It always starts with our people. It starts with relationships. Like I say, I speak for everyone on our department - I'm proud of what we have here. I'm proud of what we built and am proud of what we're chasing."<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Missouri-Western-luncheon---November-1--2021-e19l11l" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU's Brett Esely gears up for busy final week, remains grateful for time with Griffons

CLINTON COUNTY—A Missouri man was injured in an accident just before 6:30p.m. Monday in Clinton County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Chevy Silverado driven by David A. Kern, 39, Cameron, was southbound on Highway A one mile south of Cameron.

The driver lost control of the vehicle. It traveled off the road and struck a ditch.

Cameron Ambulance transported Kern to Liberty Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

CLINTON COUNTY—A Missouri man was injured in an accident just before 6:30p.m. Monday in Clinton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Chevy Silverado driven by David A. Kern, 39, Cameron, was southbound on Highway A one mile south of Cameron.The driver lost control of the vehicle. It traveled off the road and struck a ditch.Cameron Ambulance transported Kern to Liberty Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Cameron man injured after pickup accident

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Three people were injured in an accident just before 11:30a.m. Monday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1997 Ford E350 motorhome driven by Alex S. Smith, 25, Helena, Montana, was southbound on the ramp from Interstate 29 to U.S. 36.

The driver failed to negotiate the curve. The motorhome traveled off the road and overturned.

Buchanan County EMS transported Smith and two children, ages 1 and 3, to Mosaic Life Care. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Three people were injured in an accident just before 11:30a.m. Monday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1997 Ford E350 motorhome driven by Alex S. Smith, 25, Helena, Montana, was southbound on the ramp from Interstate 29 to U.S. 36.The driver failed to negotiate the curve. The motorhome traveled off the road and overturned.Buchanan County EMS transported Smith and two children, ages 1 and 3, to Mosaic Life Care. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Woman, 2 children hospitalized after motorhome overturns

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged computer crime and have made an arrest.

On Friday, police arrested 32-year-0ld&nbsp;Tyler D. Chalfant of Atchison. 

He is being held on requested charges of unlawful use of a financial card, computer crimes and theft in connection to the fraudulent use of a financial card at two businesses on October 21, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Chalfant also charged with criminal trespass at 314 Santa Fe in Atchison. He remains in custody. Chafant has has been jailed in Atchison County ten times since 2013, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635784623624.png" alt="Chalfant photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Chalfant photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged computer crime and have made an arrest.On Friday, police arrested 32-year-0ld&nbsp;Tyler D. Chalfant of Atchison. He is being held on requested charges of unlawful use of a financial card, computer crimes and theft in connection to the fraudulent use of a financial card at two businesses on October 21, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.Chalfant also charged with criminal trespass at 314 Santa Fe in Atchison. He remains in custody. Chafant has has been jailed in Atchison County ten times since 2013, according to online jail records.

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