Petitions are now being circulated for potential St. Joseph
City Council candidates.

St. Joseph City Manager Bryan Carter says petitions can be
turned into the City Clerk’s office from October 19th through
November 23rd.

“So, it’s overall going to be around a 60-day process where
they can begin pulling petitions and then get those petitions submitted to the
City Clerk,” Clark says.

Candidates for mayor and one of the four at-large seats on the
St. Joseph City Council must gather at least 250 signatures from qualified
voters. Candidates for the four district seats must gather at least 75
signatures.

At present, 16 candidates have picked up petitions from the
City Clerk’s office, four for mayor. Mayor Bill McMurray is not running for
re-election. Seven residents have taken out petitions for at-large seats with
four circulating petitions for three of the four district seats.

Once all petitions have been turned into the City Clerk’s
office, the Buchanan County Clerk’s office will work with the city to confirm
candidate eligibility and verify petition signatures.

“Start getting a ballot set up for a primary election that
will happen in February and then from that primary election we’ll have the
slate of candidates narrowed down to a slate that will be selected next April,”
Carter says.

The St. Joseph City Council just recently approved a
redistricting plan for the four council districts. The city council after the
next election will have four at-large and four district council members, plus
the mayor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632337473801.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph City Hall/file photo" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph City Hall/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostPetitions are now being circulated for potential St. Joseph
City Council candidates.St. Joseph City Manager Bryan Carter says petitions can be
turned into the City Clerk’s office from October 19th through
November 23rd.“So, it’s overall going to be around a 60-day process where
they can begin pulling petitions and then get those petitions submitted to the
City Clerk,” Clark says.Candidates for mayor and one of the four at-large seats on the
St. Joseph City Council must gather at least 250 signatures from qualified
voters. Candidates for the four district seats must gather at least 75
signatures.At present, 16 candidates have picked up petitions from the
City Clerk’s office, four for mayor. Mayor Bill McMurray is not running for
re-election. Seven residents have taken out petitions for at-large seats with
four circulating petitions for three of the four district seats.Once all petitions have been turned into the City Clerk’s
office, the Buchanan County Clerk’s office will work with the city to confirm
candidate eligibility and verify petition signatures.“Start getting a ballot set up for a primary election that
will happen in February and then from that primary election we’ll have the
slate of candidates narrowed down to a slate that will be selected next April,”
Carter says.The St. Joseph City Council just recently approved a
redistricting plan for the four council districts. The city council after the
next election will have four at-large and four district council members, plus
the mayor.

Petitions circulating for St. Joseph mayor, city council

The Missouri Department of Transportation has talked about alternatives to the I-229 double-decker bridge in St. Joseph for years now.

Those talks have gained momentum over the last three years, and have really been progressing in 2021.

Marty Liles, the district engineer for MoDOT Northwest, says these discussions have ramped up in recent years as the double-decker bridge continues to age and more maintenance is needed.

"The double-decker bridge is really getting to that point where it's going to need some repairs and some major ones," Liles said. "So, why we did an environmental study is to really start looking at what is the best solution for that double-decker in the future?"

MoDOT has been conducting an environmental study for the last year-and-a-half, looking at reasonable alternatives to the bridge, talking with the public and consulting with state and local officials on how to best move forward.

MoDOT held a public meeting at the Remington Nature Center last year to get input from the general public on what alternatives to the double-decker bridge would look like.

What started as 20 alternative ideas has been narrowed down to three. Those top three alternatives have taken various ideas from other proposals.

All three ideas would have the double-decker bridge removed. One proposal would put&nbsp;a two or four-lane road at grade in the same location as the bridge - between the railroad tracks and the Missouri River.

A second option would have a four-lane arterial constructed at grade in the same location as the bridge, with the exception of a section between Messanie Street and Francis Street. This would also include the addition of a traffic signal at the intersection of 2nd and Felix rather than a roundabout.

The third option would have a scenic, at-grade, four-lane parkway built from McArthur Drive on the north end to a new bridge that connects to Duncan Street on the south end. The parkway would be in the same location as the existing double-decker bridge.

The option of keeping and maintaining the current bridge, Liles said, is still on the table. But, its upkeep would be costly and time consuming.

"In order to rehab that bridge, it's going to take a considerable amount of money," Liles said. "Eventually, this thing is going to have to have some major repairs done to it, and that's just to carry it along for another 20-25 years. But, you're looking at pry anywhere from $50-60 million just to carry this along."

Liles says that harsh Missouri winters, along with added moisture from being close to the river, doesn't help the situation with the double-decker bridge maintenance.

"The salts and stuff are not good on our bridges any way," Liles said. "It rusts our steels and it gets into our reinforcing steels and stuff like that. So, with it being as long as it is and being close to the river, we have to put more salts on it any way."

The double-decker bridge, built between 1977-1986, is 1.1 miles long and has about 17,000 cars on it daily. Liles says the alternatives to that bridge not only keep that high traffic volume flowing through that area, but could also drive more traffic into downtown and maybe even lead to more development.

"Some of these alternatives allows for the traffic movement that is still there," he said. "It also allows for some potential economic development and economic drivers. Even some revitalization of the downtown."

What started as 19 alternatives was narrowed down to five in August and now three in September. Liles says MoDOT hopes to have their top alternative choice by the end of 2021.

"Probably some time between now and the end of the year, we want to come up with what we call a 'preferred alternative,'" he said. "We want to present that to the public. We want to talk with our Federal Highway Administration, make sure we're on the same page and kind of wrap this environmental study up."

Construction timeline and cost hasn't even been thought about yet. That'll be a whole separate process after the final alternative is decided on and approved. MoDOT will be responsible for coming with the funding, whatever is decided.

While the idea of revitalizing downtown St. Joseph is a big potential gain from this project, MoDOT wants to be sure their alternatives are environmentally friendly, fiscally responsible and don't cause too many&nbsp; structures to be relocated.

Whether the current double-decker is kept, or an alternative is built, Liles says they want to keep the purpose of that section of I-229 the same.

"Its function of that double-decker is, really, moving people from the north end of St. Joe to the south end of St. Joe."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632344060351.jpeg" alt="Photo by Brent Martin." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Brent Martin.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Missouri Department of Transportation has talked about alternatives to the I-229 double-decker bridge in St. Joseph for years now.Those talks have gained momentum over the last three years, and have really been progressing in 2021.Marty Liles, the district engineer for MoDOT Northwest, says these discussions have ramped up in recent years as the double-decker bridge continues to age and more maintenance is needed."The double-decker bridge is really getting to that point where it's going to need some repairs and some major ones," Liles said. "So, why we did an environmental study is to really start looking at what is the best solution for that double-decker in the future?"MoDOT has been conducting an environmental study for the last year-and-a-half, looking at reasonable alternatives to the bridge, talking with the public and consulting with state and local officials on how to best move forward.MoDOT held a public meeting at the Remington Nature Center last year to get input from the general public on what alternatives to the double-decker bridge would look like.What started as 20 alternative ideas has been narrowed down to three. Those top three alternatives have taken various ideas from other proposals.All three ideas would have the double-decker bridge removed. One proposal would put&nbsp;a two or four-lane road at grade in the same location as the bridge - between the railroad tracks and the Missouri River.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632342464775.jpeg" alt="Option 1." />
 <figcaption>Option 1.</figcaption>
 </figure>A second option would have a four-lane arterial constructed at grade in the same location as the bridge, with the exception of a section between Messanie Street and Francis Street. This would also include the addition of a traffic signal at the intersection of 2nd and Felix rather than a roundabout.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632342493379.jpeg" alt="Option 2." />
 <figcaption>Option 2.</figcaption>
 </figure>The third option would have a scenic, at-grade, four-lane parkway built from McArthur Drive on the north end to a new bridge that connects to Duncan Street on the south end. The parkway would be in the same location as the existing double-decker bridge.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632342289422.jpeg" alt="Option 3." />
 <figcaption>Option 3.</figcaption>
 </figure>The option of keeping and maintaining the current bridge, Liles said, is still on the table. But, its upkeep would be costly and time consuming."In order to rehab that bridge, it's going to take a considerable amount of money," Liles said. "Eventually, this thing is going to have to have some major repairs done to it, and that's just to carry it along for another 20-25 years. But, you're looking at pry anywhere from $50-60 million just to carry this along."Liles says that harsh Missouri winters, along with added moisture from being close to the river, doesn't help the situation with the double-decker bridge maintenance."The salts and stuff are not good on our bridges any way," Liles said. "It rusts our steels and it gets into our reinforcing steels and stuff like that. So, with it being as long as it is and being close to the river, we have to put more salts on it any way."The double-decker bridge, built between 1977-1986, is 1.1 miles long and has about 17,000 cars on it daily. Liles says the alternatives to that bridge not only keep that high traffic volume flowing through that area, but could also drive more traffic into downtown and maybe even lead to more development."Some of these alternatives allows for the traffic movement that is still there," he said. "It also allows for some potential economic development and economic drivers. Even some revitalization of the downtown."What started as 19 alternatives was narrowed down to five in August and now three in September. Liles says MoDOT hopes to have their top alternative choice by the end of 2021."Probably some time between now and the end of the year, we want to come up with what we call a 'preferred alternative,'" he said. "We want to present that to the public. We want to talk with our Federal Highway Administration, make sure we're on the same page and kind of wrap this environmental study up."Construction timeline and cost hasn't even been thought about yet. That'll be a whole separate process after the final alternative is decided on and approved. MoDOT will be responsible for coming with the funding, whatever is decided.While the idea of revitalizing downtown St. Joseph is a big potential gain from this project, MoDOT wants to be sure their alternatives are environmentally friendly, fiscally responsible and don't cause too many&nbsp; structures to be relocated.Whether the current double-decker is kept, or an alternative is built, Liles says they want to keep the purpose of that section of I-229 the same."Its function of that double-decker is, really, moving people from the north end of St. Joe to the south end of St. Joe."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632344268016.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MoDOT Northwest zeroes in on three I-229 double-decker bridge alternative ideas

BUCHANAN COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Wednesday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2003 GMC Sierra driven by a 16-year-old boy from Agency was northbound on Route A. 

The pickup rear-ended a 2017 Chevy Impala driven by Doris J. Bunton, 80, St. Joseph, who was stopped on Route A. The impact pushed the Impala into the rear of 2017 Ford Taurus driven by Darren L. Dicke, 60, St. Joseph, who was also stopped on Route A.&nbsp;

Buchanan County EMS transported Bunton to Mosaic. A private vehicle transported the 16-year-old to Mosaic. Dicke was not injured. Bunton was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Wednesday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2003 GMC Sierra driven by a 16-year-old boy from Agency was northbound on Route A. The pickup rear-ended a 2017 Chevy Impala driven by Doris J. Bunton, 80, St. Joseph, who was stopped on Route A. The impact pushed the Impala into the rear of 2017 Ford Taurus driven by Darren L. Dicke, 60, St. Joseph, who was also stopped on Route A.&nbsp;Buchanan County EMS transported Bunton to Mosaic. A private vehicle transported the 16-year-old to Mosaic. Dicke was not injured. Bunton was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Teen, 80-year-old injured after 3-vehicle rear-end crash

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Three. people were injured in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Wednesday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 GMC Sierra driven by Jason M. Waddell, 38, St. Joseph, turned left onto State Route T into the path of a 2005 Acura TL driven by Austin L. Matthews, 22, St. Joseph.

The Acura struck the pickup and the pickup overturned.

Buchanan County EMS transported Matthews, Waddell and a passenger in the Acura Tyrone D. Page, 48, St. Joseph, to Mosaic Life Care. All three were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Three. people were injured in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Wednesday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 GMC Sierra driven by Jason M. Waddell, 38, St. Joseph, turned left onto State Route T into the path of a 2005 Acura TL driven by Austin L. Matthews, 22, St. Joseph.The Acura struck the pickup and the pickup overturned.Buchanan County EMS transported Matthews, Waddell and a passenger in the Acura Tyrone D. Page, 48, St. Joseph, to Mosaic Life Care. All three were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

3 from St. Joe hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after an arrest.

Early Wednesday, police arrested Melissa L. Pospisil, 36, Atchison, was arrested on Wednesday on a Kansas Department of Corrections warrant for parole violation, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Pospisil has four previous convictions that involve drugs use or possession, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632316817556.png" alt=" Pospisil was listed as an absconder on the Kansas Dept. of Corrections web site" />
 <figcaption> Pospisil was listed as an absconder on the Kansas Dept. of Corrections web site</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after an arrest.Early Wednesday, police arrested Melissa L. Pospisil, 36, Atchison, was arrested on Wednesday on a Kansas Department of Corrections warrant for parole violation, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.Pospisil has four previous convictions that involve drugs use or possession, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Police arrest Kansas felon for alleged parole violation

Due to a multitude of data entry errors at the state level, the COVID-19 vaccination rate is actually much higher in Buchanan County than what had been previously reported.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services discovered errors and missing information in COVID-19 vaccination records. About 147,000 records were updated to correct the county of residence. About 23,000 of those records were associated with Buchanan County.

That means the percent of Buchanan County residents who are fully vaccinated is actually 35.3 percent - way more than the roughly 22 percent that had been previously reported. That also means over 38 percent of Buchanan County residents have initiated vaccination.

 Examples of errors included missing county, incorrect county, misspelling or using the word ‘saint’ instead of the 'St.' abbreviation.

The city of St. Louis also saw a large increase in its COVID vaccination rate because of these errors.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593555447561.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostDue to a multitude of data entry errors at the state level, the COVID-19 vaccination rate is actually much higher in Buchanan County than what had been previously reported.The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services discovered errors and missing information in COVID-19 vaccination records. About 147,000 records were updated to correct the county of residence. About 23,000 of those records were associated with Buchanan County.That means the percent of Buchanan County residents who are fully vaccinated is actually 35.3 percent - way more than the roughly 22 percent that had been previously reported. That also means over 38 percent of Buchanan County residents have initiated vaccination. Examples of errors included missing county, incorrect county, misspelling or using the word ‘saint’ instead of the 'St.' abbreviation.The city of St. Louis also saw a large increase in its COVID vaccination rate because of these errors.

Buchanan County vaccination rate now much higher due to state data entry errors

The 139th Airlift Wing at the Rosecrans Air National Guard Base in St. Joseph has been expanding northward for some time.

The base has been expanding north for the last couple of years, moving to land that was undamaged by the flood of 1993.

In recent weeks and months, the expansion project has reached some major goals. Most notably, a nearly $5.9 million communications building - a 15,000 square foot facility that just opened in late August.

"We realized that having a state-of-the-art communications building was paramount to the success of the base moving north," said Colonel John Cluck, Commander of the 139th Airlift Wing. "We jokingly consider it our largest weapons system. The communications and computer network it supports are almost as vital to this wing as the C-130s we fly."

Another large piece of the expansion project, a new C-130 flight simulator, is already being built. Construction for that, Col. Cluck says, began last October.

"Expect to be in that building in about a year-and-a-half from now," he said. "A building as complicated as that, it's not easily built. But, a year or two, or year-and-a-half. Some time line like that."

Once the flight simulator is ready, the next big item for the 139th Airlift Wing is a new aircraft parking apron. Cluck says getting this large, airplane parking lot built will be key, as that will open the door for some other structures to be built.

"That's a pretty big project," Cluck said of the apron. "Once we get that built, we can start parking the aircraft up there, and we'll go after things such as our hangars and our maintenance shops and things like that."

Members of the 139th are also pleased to see a major <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/6ac62910-d283-4a1d-bed1-e3d2fd6a45fd">overhaul of the Rosecrans Memorial Airport runway</a> coming soon. The St. Joseph City Council passed an emergency ordinance to authorize major repairs on it.

While the runway project is not officially part of the 139th's northward expansion, it's a welcome sight nonetheless, says Cluck.

"It shows how much we are supported by our local politicians," Cluck remarked," and from our local area as a whole. If we didn't a viable run way on this airfield, eventually we couldn't continue to exist."

The design and construction of the runway will total more than $42 million. The Air National Guard will pay for 70 percent of the project.

A federal grant from the FAA will cover the other 30 percent. The city of St. Joseph only has to pay for 10 percent of that FAA grant.

"When we get that runway in here, we're for a long time," Cluck said. "We want to continue to serve not only our nation, but also our locals as they serve us. So, we're glad to be here and be a part of that."

The 139th Airlift has been building and looking northward for a couple of years now. Not only are they better protected from future flooding on the Missouri River, but they also have more ample space to build the things they need.

The flight simulator, once completed, will be the Airlift's seventh building at the base. They've added a security forces building, a medical detachment, air traffic control, a firehouse and even a running track.

The communication building project also included a storm water drainage effort, adding a basin and culvert, which cost around $2.8 million.

Col. Cluck credits the city of St. Joseph for leasing the 139th Airlift Wing enough land to make this continuing expansion possible.

"The city was accommodating enough to give us a piece of blank ground that, I call it our 'blank canvas,'" Cluck said. "We can paint it however we want. They've been very accommodating to us and in that process, we have a whole master planned laid out where every building will go and accommodate what we need heading into the 21st century."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632252020493.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of the 139th Airlift Wing" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of the 139th Airlift Wing</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe 139th Airlift Wing at the Rosecrans Air National Guard Base in St. Joseph has been expanding northward for some time.The base has been expanding north for the last couple of years, moving to land that was undamaged by the flood of 1993.In recent weeks and months, the expansion project has reached some major goals. Most notably, a nearly $5.9 million communications building - a 15,000 square foot facility that just opened in late August."We realized that having a state-of-the-art communications building was paramount to the success of the base moving north," said Colonel John Cluck, Commander of the 139th Airlift Wing. "We jokingly consider it our largest weapons system. The communications and computer network it supports are almost as vital to this wing as the C-130s we fly."Another large piece of the expansion project, a new C-130 flight simulator, is already being built. Construction for that, Col. Cluck says, began last October."Expect to be in that building in about a year-and-a-half from now," he said. "A building as complicated as that, it's not easily built. But, a year or two, or year-and-a-half. Some time line like that."Once the flight simulator is ready, the next big item for the 139th Airlift Wing is a new aircraft parking apron. Cluck says getting this large, airplane parking lot built will be key, as that will open the door for some other structures to be built."That's a pretty big project," Cluck said of the apron. "Once we get that built, we can start parking the aircraft up there, and we'll go after things such as our hangars and our maintenance shops and things like that."Members of the 139th are also pleased to see a major <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/6ac62910-d283-4a1d-bed1-e3d2fd6a45fd">overhaul of the Rosecrans Memorial Airport runway</a> coming soon. The St. Joseph City Council passed an emergency ordinance to authorize major repairs on it.While the runway project is not officially part of the 139th's northward expansion, it's a welcome sight nonetheless, says Cluck."It shows how much we are supported by our local politicians," Cluck remarked," and from our local area as a whole. If we didn't a viable run way on this airfield, eventually we couldn't continue to exist."The design and construction of the runway will total more than $42 million. The Air National Guard will pay for 70 percent of the project.A federal grant from the FAA will cover the other 30 percent. The city of St. Joseph only has to pay for 10 percent of that FAA grant."When we get that runway in here, we're for a long time," Cluck said. "We want to continue to serve not only our nation, but also our locals as they serve us. So, we're glad to be here and be a part of that."The 139th Airlift has been building and looking northward for a couple of years now. Not only are they better protected from future flooding on the Missouri River, but they also have more ample space to build the things they need.The flight simulator, once completed, will be the Airlift's seventh building at the base. They've added a security forces building, a medical detachment, air traffic control, a firehouse and even a running track.The communication building project also included a storm water drainage effort, adding a basin and culvert, which cost around $2.8 million.Col. Cluck credits the city of St. Joseph for leasing the 139th Airlift Wing enough land to make this continuing expansion possible."The city was accommodating enough to give us a piece of blank ground that, I call it our 'blank canvas,'" Cluck said. "We can paint it however we want. They've been very accommodating to us and in that process, we have a whole master planned laid out where every building will go and accommodate what we need heading into the 21st century."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632254903459.jpeg" alt="Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

139th Airlift Wing excited to see big progress on northward expansion project

BUCHANAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after noon Tuesday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 GMC 1500 driven by William J. Reisa, 77, Greenwood, IN., was southbound on Interstate 29 just south of the downtown St. Joseph exit.

The driver lost control of the the pickup. It traveled off the west side of the road and struck a tree.

Buchanan County EMS transported Reisa to Mosaic Life Care.&nbsp; He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after noon Tuesday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 GMC 1500 driven by William J. Reisa, 77, Greenwood, IN., was southbound on Interstate 29 just south of the downtown St. Joseph exit.The driver lost control of the the pickup. It traveled off the west side of the road and struck a tree.Buchanan County EMS transported Reisa to Mosaic Life Care.&nbsp; He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Driver hospitalized after pickup strikes a tree

HARRISON COUNTY—A Missouri man was injured in an accident just before 11:30a.m. Tuesday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Toyota Camry driven by Michael L. Salmon, 60, Pattonsburg, was northbound on U.S. 69 in the city limits of Bethany.

The driver attempted to turn west on Route W.&nbsp; A southbound 2015 GMC Terrain driven by Wayne E. Bryant, 75, Bethany, struck the Camry.

NTA Ambulance transported Salmon to Harrison County Community Hospital. Bryant was not injured. Salmon was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

HARRISON COUNTY—A Missouri man was injured in an accident just before 11:30a.m. Tuesday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Toyota Camry driven by Michael L. Salmon, 60, Pattonsburg, was northbound on U.S. 69 in the city limits of Bethany.The driver attempted to turn west on Route W.&nbsp; A southbound 2015 GMC Terrain driven by Wayne E. Bryant, 75, Bethany, struck the Camry.NTA Ambulance transported Salmon to Harrison County Community Hospital. Bryant was not injured. Salmon was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man injured after 2-vehicle crash

MERCER COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 10:30a.m. Tuesday in Mercer County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Chevy Spark driven by Diana L. Miller, 74, Spickard, was westbound on Route E seven miles southeast of Princeton.

The car crossed the center line while attempting a left turn. An eastbound 2009 Ford F350 driven by Jeffrey L. Siemer, 54, Princeton, struck the Chevy head-on.

Life Flight Eagle transported Miller to Truman Medical Center. Siemer was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

MERCER COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 10:30a.m. Tuesday in Mercer County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Chevy Spark driven by Diana L. Miller, 74, Spickard, was westbound on Route E seven miles southeast of Princeton.The car crossed the center line while attempting a left turn. An eastbound 2009 Ford F350 driven by Jeffrey L. Siemer, 54, Princeton, struck the Chevy head-on.Life Flight Eagle transported Miller to Truman Medical Center. Siemer was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman airlifted to hospital after head-on crash

A St. Joseph man
has been charged with involuntary manslaughter, accused of driving drunk and
running an intersection, killing a motorcyclist Sunday afternoon.

The Buchanan
County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office has charged 57-year-old Roberto Ayala in
the death of the motorcyclist, identified only as D.S. in the charging
statement.

Ayala has been
charged with the class C felony of involuntary manslaughter in the first
degree.

The probable cause
statement filed by the St. Joseph Police Department states Ayala was driving in
the 1000 block of South 16th Street early Sunday afternoon when he
failed to yield at the intersection with Lafayette Street. The motorcyclist, riding
west on Lafayette, struck the passenger side of the vehicle. The motorcyclist
was pronounced dead at the Mosaic Life Care hospital.

Police report Ayala
had a preliminary blood alcohol content of .164%. His blood was drawn at the
hospital for further analysis.

According to
police, Ayala was driving with a revoked driver’s license and had had a prior
arrest of driving with a revoked license. Ayala has also been convicted on DWI
twice before, according to police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587250570882.jpeg" alt="Roberto Ayala -photo Buchanan Co." />
 <figcaption>Roberto Ayala -photo Buchanan Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA St. Joseph man
has been charged with involuntary manslaughter, accused of driving drunk and
running an intersection, killing a motorcyclist Sunday afternoon.The Buchanan
County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office has charged 57-year-old Roberto Ayala in
the death of the motorcyclist, identified only as D.S. in the charging
statement.Ayala has been
charged with the class C felony of involuntary manslaughter in the first
degree.The probable cause
statement filed by the St. Joseph Police Department states Ayala was driving in
the 1000 block of South 16th Street early Sunday afternoon when he
failed to yield at the intersection with Lafayette Street. The motorcyclist, riding
west on Lafayette, struck the passenger side of the vehicle. The motorcyclist
was pronounced dead at the Mosaic Life Care hospital.Police report Ayala
had a preliminary blood alcohol content of .164%. His blood was drawn at the
hospital for further analysis.According to
police, Ayala was driving with a revoked driver’s license and had had a prior
arrest of driving with a revoked license. Ayala has also been convicted on DWI
twice before, according to police.

St. Joseph man charged with manslaughter in fatal Sunday motorcycle crash

A proposal being pushed by the Biden Administration that banks
report all transactions of more than $600 and keep tabs on accounts above that
threshold is strongly opposed by the Missouri Bankers Association.

Executive Vice President of Member Services Jackson Hataway
says the IRS claims the proposal would catch the wealthiest Americans
attempting to move money around outside of the tax system.

“And the reality is our federal agencies do not use data that
well as it is now,” Hataway tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “So, what in the world
would lead us to believe that a landslide of more data from millions of Americans
is suddenly going to make our tax policy more effective? The ones and zeroes
don’t add up. The math doesn’t make sense.”

Hataway says the $600-dollar threshold would affect the vast
majority of bank customers.

“Basically, affects every consumer at every bank,” according
to Hataway. “There will certainly be those who have underneath the $600
threshold, but the vast majority of accounts will be subject to this kind of
regulation and intrusive action from the government.”

Hataway says the federal government at present requires banks
to report transactions of more than $10,000 under the Currency Transaction
Report (CTR). This proposal greatly expands that requirement, lowering the
threshold to transactions exceeding $600.

The proposal was attached to the $3.5 trillion reconciliation
bill, but removed. The MBA expects it to resurface in another form.

Hataway calls the proposal a breach of privacy.

“While we can appreciate the objective goal of trying to track
down more revenues from people who are dodging the tax system, this methodology
for doing it is unproven, it’s unsound, and honestly in a world of data
breaches, where we see the IRS and other agencies constantly dealing with cyber
struggles, the thought of all of our account information flowing into an entity
that can’t keep data secure, should reasonably be something that we’re all deeply
concerned about,” Hataway says.

The proposal seems to have flown under the radar for a while,
but Hataway says more and more banks report customers have started complaining
about the proposal. The MBA is encouraging Missourians to contact members of Congress
and voice opposition to the proposal.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA proposal being pushed by the Biden Administration that banks
report all transactions of more than $600 and keep tabs on accounts above that
threshold is strongly opposed by the Missouri Bankers Association.Executive Vice President of Member Services Jackson Hataway
says the IRS claims the proposal would catch the wealthiest Americans
attempting to move money around outside of the tax system.“And the reality is our federal agencies do not use data that
well as it is now,” Hataway tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “So, what in the world
would lead us to believe that a landslide of more data from millions of Americans
is suddenly going to make our tax policy more effective? The ones and zeroes
don’t add up. The math doesn’t make sense.”Hataway says the $600-dollar threshold would affect the vast
majority of bank customers.“Basically, affects every consumer at every bank,” according
to Hataway. “There will certainly be those who have underneath the $600
threshold, but the vast majority of accounts will be subject to this kind of
regulation and intrusive action from the government.”Hataway says the federal government at present requires banks
to report transactions of more than $10,000 under the Currency Transaction
Report (CTR). This proposal greatly expands that requirement, lowering the
threshold to transactions exceeding $600.The proposal was attached to the $3.5 trillion reconciliation
bill, but removed. The MBA expects it to resurface in another form.Hataway calls the proposal a breach of privacy.“While we can appreciate the objective goal of trying to track
down more revenues from people who are dodging the tax system, this methodology
for doing it is unproven, it’s unsound, and honestly in a world of data
breaches, where we see the IRS and other agencies constantly dealing with cyber
struggles, the thought of all of our account information flowing into an entity
that can’t keep data secure, should reasonably be something that we’re all deeply
concerned about,” Hataway says.The proposal seems to have flown under the radar for a while,
but Hataway says more and more banks report customers have started complaining
about the proposal. The MBA is encouraging Missourians to contact members of Congress
and voice opposition to the proposal.

Missouri bankers object to new proposal to track $600 cash transactions

St.
Joseph health officials report 84 new coronavirus cases since last issuing a
formal report on Thursday.

The
St. Joseph Health Department reports 27 new COVID-19 cases on Friday with 57
over the weekend, plus Monday.

Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating 24 total COVID-19 patients in its system; 22
in St. Joseph and two in Maryville.

The
health department reports the Buchanan County positivity rate has edged up
slightly to 7.58%.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt.
Joseph health officials report 84 new coronavirus cases since last issuing a
formal report on Thursday.The
St. Joseph Health Department reports 27 new COVID-19 cases on Friday with 57
over the weekend, plus Monday.Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating 24 total COVID-19 patients in its system; 22
in St. Joseph and two in Maryville.The
health department reports the Buchanan County positivity rate has edged up
slightly to 7.58%.

St. Joseph records 84 new COVID cases since last report

DAVIESS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after noon Monday in Daviess County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Chevy Trailblazer driven by Jason E. Benedict, 37, Gallatin, was westbound on MO 6 two miles west&nbsp; of Altamont.

The driver attempted to avoid a crash ahead, crossed into eastbound traffic and stuck a 2019 Ford Ranger driven by Tina M. Danner, 50, Lathrop.

After the crash the Ford traveled off the road, into a ditch and struck some trees. Daviess County EMS transported Danner to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Benedict was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

DAVIESS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after noon Monday in Daviess County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Chevy Trailblazer driven by Jason E. Benedict, 37, Gallatin, was westbound on MO 6 two miles west&nbsp; of Altamont.The driver attempted to avoid a crash ahead, crossed into eastbound traffic and stuck a 2019 Ford Ranger driven by Tina M. Danner, 50, Lathrop.After the crash the Ford traveled off the road, into a ditch and struck some trees. Daviess County EMS transported Danner to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Benedict was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman injured after 2-vehicle Daviess Co. crash

Training for future and current law enforcement officers has
had to change in the post-George Floyd world.

Commander Joseph King with the Law Enforcement Academy at
Missouri Western State University says officers are taught to respond to
potential emergency situations and ignore suspicions the suspect might be
faking it.

“The first duty and obligation we have is life preservation
safety and then we worry about criminal investigations,” King tells KFEQ/St.
Joseph Post. “And if you can prioritize that in your mind, you will always deal
with the potential emergency first. And then when that person is either
feigning or faking an illness, you respond appropriately, based on what that
is.”

Floyd, a black man, died after a white Minneapolis police officer
refused to remove his knee from his neck even though Floyd said he couldn’t
breathe. Eighteen-year police veteran Derek Chauvin has been sentenced to
22-and-a-half years in prison for the murder of Floyd. Three other former
Minneapolis police officers will stand trail on charges of aiding and abetting
in Floyd’s murder.

The death of Floyd is one of a handful of high-profile
in-custody deaths that spawned the Black Lives Matter movement and calls to defund
the police.

King says the new cadets have adapted to the new world of
scrutiny better than might be expected and better than many veterans, because
they have grown up in a world of cameras and cell phones. Although King points
out he began his career in wake of the beating of Rodney King by four Los
Angeles police officers, perhaps the first beating of an African American
suspect that captured nationwide interest and spawned widespread riots.

King says cadets are taught that person in their custody is
their responsibility and they must always respond to a potential medical
emergency, no matter the circumstances.

“But if you always respond to verify that first, rarely will
it serve your wrong, and rarely will you have a community that is angry or
frustrated, because of your response,” according to King.

King says he discusses the George Floyd case with cadets,
pointing out that though a suspect might be breathing, he might not be getting
adequate oxygen. Floyd died after the officer placed a knee on his neck for
more than nine minutes, cutting off his air flow.

The officer continued to restrain Floyd even after Floyd dried
out that he couldn’t breathe.

King adds cadets also need to know the public is watching,
often with a cell phone in hand.

“What we’re trying to preach here, on camera and off camera,
is about professionalism and ethical performance,” King says. “If you perform
right and you always do it right every time, you’re very confident when you go
to court. You tell people you did it this way and this is why.”

King says he also teaches cadets to block out the political
rhetoric that has spawned the “defund the police” movement. He says they are
taught to focus on serving the public, not taking the bait of political
opponents.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632165355197.jpeg" alt="Law Enforcement Academy Commander Joseph King/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Law Enforcement Academy Commander Joseph King/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostTraining for future and current law enforcement officers has
had to change in the post-George Floyd world.Commander Joseph King with the Law Enforcement Academy at
Missouri Western State University says officers are taught to respond to
potential emergency situations and ignore suspicions the suspect might be
faking it.“The first duty and obligation we have is life preservation
safety and then we worry about criminal investigations,” King tells KFEQ/St.
Joseph Post. “And if you can prioritize that in your mind, you will always deal
with the potential emergency first. And then when that person is either
feigning or faking an illness, you respond appropriately, based on what that
is.”Floyd, a black man, died after a white Minneapolis police officer
refused to remove his knee from his neck even though Floyd said he couldn’t
breathe. Eighteen-year police veteran Derek Chauvin has been sentenced to
22-and-a-half years in prison for the murder of Floyd. Three other former
Minneapolis police officers will stand trail on charges of aiding and abetting
in Floyd’s murder.The death of Floyd is one of a handful of high-profile
in-custody deaths that spawned the Black Lives Matter movement and calls to defund
the police.King says the new cadets have adapted to the new world of
scrutiny better than might be expected and better than many veterans, because
they have grown up in a world of cameras and cell phones. Although King points
out he began his career in wake of the beating of Rodney King by four Los
Angeles police officers, perhaps the first beating of an African American
suspect that captured nationwide interest and spawned widespread riots.King says cadets are taught that person in their custody is
their responsibility and they must always respond to a potential medical
emergency, no matter the circumstances.“But if you always respond to verify that first, rarely will
it serve your wrong, and rarely will you have a community that is angry or
frustrated, because of your response,” according to King.King says he discusses the George Floyd case with cadets,
pointing out that though a suspect might be breathing, he might not be getting
adequate oxygen. Floyd died after the officer placed a knee on his neck for
more than nine minutes, cutting off his air flow.The officer continued to restrain Floyd even after Floyd dried
out that he couldn’t breathe.King adds cadets also need to know the public is watching,
often with a cell phone in hand.“What we’re trying to preach here, on camera and off camera,
is about professionalism and ethical performance,” King says. “If you perform
right and you always do it right every time, you’re very confident when you go
to court. You tell people you did it this way and this is why.”King says he also teaches cadets to block out the political
rhetoric that has spawned the “defund the police” movement. He says they are
taught to focus on serving the public, not taking the bait of political
opponents.

Training at Law Enforcement Academy changes post-George Floyd

St. Joseph public libraries have reopened after
closing due to the rebound in the coronavirus pandemic.

Time in the various libraries will be limited,
though. Library patrons will only be allowed in the building for half an hour each
day. Those who want an extended computer session can schedule an appointment at
the Downtown and East Hills libraries.

Those older than five are
being asked to wear masks when in the libraires. The mask request will be in
place until the St. Joseph Health Department reports confirmed COVID-19 cases
drop below 10 per day on average for seven days. Call
232-8151 to schedule an appointment Downtown and 236-2136 at East Hills.

The East Hills Library is open Monday –
Thursday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Downtown Library is open Monday,
Wednesday, Friday &amp; Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday
from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The Carnegie Library is open Monday
through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The Washington Park Library is open
Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday
from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Anyone
who needs an extended computer session can schedule an appointment to use a
computer for a longer period of time at the Downtown and East Hills libraries.&nbsp; Call 232-8151 to schedule an appointment
Downtown and 236-2136 at East Hills.

Contactless
library service will continue for any patrons who would like to use the
service.&nbsp; To use contactless library
service call the preferred branch, email <a href="mailto:notices@sjpl.lib.mo.us">notices@sjpl.lib.mo.us</a>,
or place holds through the online catalog to request materials.&nbsp; East Hills: 236-2136, Downtown: 232-7729,
Carnegie: 238-0526, Washington Park: 232-2052.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph public libraries have reopened after
closing due to the rebound in the coronavirus pandemic.Time in the various libraries will be limited,
though. Library patrons will only be allowed in the building for half an hour each
day. Those who want an extended computer session can schedule an appointment at
the Downtown and East Hills libraries.Those older than five are
being asked to wear masks when in the libraires. The mask request will be in
place until the St. Joseph Health Department reports confirmed COVID-19 cases
drop below 10 per day on average for seven days. Call
232-8151 to schedule an appointment Downtown and 236-2136 at East Hills.The East Hills Library is open Monday –
Thursday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.The Downtown Library is open Monday,
Wednesday, Friday &amp; Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday
from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.The Carnegie Library is open Monday
through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.The Washington Park Library is open
Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday
from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.Anyone
who needs an extended computer session can schedule an appointment to use a
computer for a longer period of time at the Downtown and East Hills libraries.&nbsp; Call 232-8151 to schedule an appointment
Downtown and 236-2136 at East Hills.Contactless
library service will continue for any patrons who would like to use the
service.&nbsp; To use contactless library
service call the preferred branch, email <a href="mailto:notices@sjpl.lib.mo.us">notices@sjpl.lib.mo.us</a>,
or place holds through the online catalog to request materials.&nbsp; East Hills: 236-2136, Downtown: 232-7729,
Carnegie: 238-0526, Washington Park: 232-2052.

St. Joseph public libraries reopen

The President and CEO of Specialty Industries of St. Joseph,
Byron Myers, has been elected to the Missouri Association of Sheltered Workshop
Managers state board.

“It
is a wonderful opportunity that I was proud to accept,” Myers said in a written
statement.&nbsp; “When a local resident is
part of a state board, it’s not only good for their organization…it’s good for
our city and our community has much to share.”

Myers’
term runs for three years. He will represent the 12-county area of northwest
Missouri, including the city of St. Joseph.

Parents
and advocates created the association in the 1960’s to represent 90 businesses
and more than 5,000 employees dedicated to dedicated to providing employment,
work skill training, socialization, and advocacy for Missourians with a
disability.

Specialty
Industries employs around 100 persons with a disability. It has been in
business in St. Joseph for more than 50 years. Specialty Industries ships
products across the country and into Canada and recently had a job that was
destined for Australia.

Myers
joined Specialty Industries two years ago after extensive time working with disabled
citizens through the Missouri Department of Mental Health.&nbsp; He and his family have been lifelong
residents of St. Joseph.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632153092797.jpeg" alt="Specialty Industries of St. Joseph/Photo courtesy of Specialty Industries" />
 <figcaption>Specialty Industries of St. Joseph/Photo courtesy of Specialty Industries</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostThe President and CEO of Specialty Industries of St. Joseph,
Byron Myers, has been elected to the Missouri Association of Sheltered Workshop
Managers state board.“It
is a wonderful opportunity that I was proud to accept,” Myers said in a written
statement.&nbsp; “When a local resident is
part of a state board, it’s not only good for their organization…it’s good for
our city and our community has much to share.”Myers’
term runs for three years. He will represent the 12-county area of northwest
Missouri, including the city of St. Joseph.Parents
and advocates created the association in the 1960’s to represent 90 businesses
and more than 5,000 employees dedicated to dedicated to providing employment,
work skill training, socialization, and advocacy for Missourians with a
disability.Specialty
Industries employs around 100 persons with a disability. It has been in
business in St. Joseph for more than 50 years. Specialty Industries ships
products across the country and into Canada and recently had a job that was
destined for Australia.Myers
joined Specialty Industries two years ago after extensive time working with disabled
citizens through the Missouri Department of Mental Health.&nbsp; He and his family have been lifelong
residents of St. Joseph.

Specialty Industries' CEO elected to Missouri state board

A motorcyclist died in a crash Sunday afternoon in St. Joseph.

St. Joseph police say the motorcycle was headed west on Lafayette Street around two o’clock Sunday afternoon near the
intersection with 16th&nbsp; Street when a car pulled into the intersection and
the motorcyclist ran into the passenger side of the vehicle.

The motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the hospital. The driver of the car
suffered minor injuries. No names have been released.

The article has been updated to correct errors in the initial version. We regret the errors.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA motorcyclist died in a crash Sunday afternoon in St. Joseph.St. Joseph police say the motorcycle was headed west on Lafayette Street around two o’clock Sunday afternoon near the
intersection with 16th&nbsp; Street when a car pulled into the intersection and
the motorcyclist ran into the passenger side of the vehicle.The motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the hospital. The driver of the car
suffered minor injuries. No names have been released.The investigation continues.The article has been updated to correct errors in the initial version. We regret the errors.

Motorcyclist dies in St. Joseph crash Sunday

Two juvenile boys have been taken into custody in a shooting early
Friday evening that left a man in his late 20s with what police call a
non-life-threatening gunshot wound.

St. Joseph police say the shooting took place in the
5500 block of Pryor Avenue after five o’clock Friday evening. A conflict
with several people escalated into a shooting with the man being shot once in
his abdomen. He was taken to the Mosaic Life Care St. Joseph hospital.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostTwo juvenile boys have been taken into custody in a shooting early
Friday evening that left a man in his late 20s with what police call a
non-life-threatening gunshot wound.St. Joseph police say the shooting took place in the
5500 block of Pryor Avenue after five o’clock Friday evening. A conflict
with several people escalated into a shooting with the man being shot once in
his abdomen. He was taken to the Mosaic Life Care St. Joseph hospital.No identities have been released.The investigation continues.

Two juveniles apprehended in St. Joseph shooting

The first ever St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame Class was officially inducted at an enshrinement ceremony at Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center Sunday.

The class is comprised of 10 individuals, one team and a Special Olympics Athlete of the Year.

Officially created last November, the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame recognizes individuals, families and teams that have made a significant impact on sports history in Buchanan County.

The inductees were carefully selected from a large pool of candidates by the St. Joseph Sports Commission, led by chairman Brett Esely.

To be eligible for selection, the individual must have been born in Buchanan County, must have made their sports career or accomplished their feat in Buchanan County or must be contributing to sports in Buchanan County at the present time.

The class includes Lafayette High School graduate and legendary Kansas State football coach Bill Snyder, Benton graduate, Nebraska football legend and former Carolina Panther Mike Rucker, MLB veteran and Central alum Byron Browne, along with two-time Olympic team weightlifter and Benton alum Wes Barnett.

"I want to thank my friends, my family and my teammates," Barnett said. "Really the city of St. Joseph who has always been behind me and supporting me along the way."

Snyder, who retired from coaching at Kansas State in the 2018 season, is also a College Football Hall of Fame inductee. Of all of the accolades and honors Snyder has accumulated over his historic and illustrious career, he says being honored by his hometown this way is the best award he's ever received.

He especially thanks his mother, Marionetta, who raised him in a one-room St. Joseph apartment.

"St. Joe has been so prominent in my life," Snyder said. "I was born here and raised here. And I think about, as you do, people who are truly special in your life. I think it's so neat that you're having this (Hall of Fame). I look at this wonderful group of people here and congratulate each and every one of you."

Also included is Charlie Burri, Missouri Western’s First Athletic Director, Newt Hillyard, the Founder of the Hillyard Companies, Julius Hochman, Father of Boys' Baseball in St. Joseph, two-time Olympic gymnastics medalist Terin Humphrey, Naismith National Basketball Hall of Fame Coach Henry Iba and softball pioneer Cheri Kempf.

"There's a lot of value in celebrating folks from St. Joseph who have made an incredible impact in sports," said Kempf, who was a 1980 state softball champion at Mid-Buchanan and three-sport athlete at Missouri Western. "Brett (Esely), thanks for hanging in there with me and getting all of the details locked up. And the (selection) committee, I celebrate you. You have a great future in front of you."

The team chosen for the 2021 Hall of Fame Class was the&nbsp;Meierhoffer/St. Jo Frontier Casino Fast Pitch Softball Team from 1997-2003 - a team that won four national titles during that time.

The Special Olympics Athlete of the Year included in the class is Mike Grossman, who medaled in track and field during the 1999 special Olympics.

The Sports Commission had 25 total nominees for its inaugural class. The inductees were selected by an anonymous selection committee.

Every class will include a maximum of 10 individual inductees, and those who aren't inducted are automatically put into a pool of consideration for the next five years.

Anyone can nominate an athlete or team for the St. Joseph Sports Hall of Fame by getting in contact with the St. Joseph Sports Commission.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632101347640.jpeg" alt="Benton graduate, Nebraska football legend and NFL Pro Bowler&nbsp; Mike Rucker speaks during the first ever St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony at the Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center on Sunday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Benton graduate, Nebraska football legend and NFL Pro Bowler&nbsp; Mike Rucker speaks during the first ever St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony at the Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center on Sunday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe first ever St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame Class was officially inducted at an enshrinement ceremony at Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center Sunday.The class is comprised of 10 individuals, one team and a Special Olympics Athlete of the Year.Officially created last November, the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame recognizes individuals, families and teams that have made a significant impact on sports history in Buchanan County.The inductees were carefully selected from a large pool of candidates by the St. Joseph Sports Commission, led by chairman Brett Esely.To be eligible for selection, the individual must have been born in Buchanan County, must have made their sports career or accomplished their feat in Buchanan County or must be contributing to sports in Buchanan County at the present time.The class includes Lafayette High School graduate and legendary Kansas State football coach Bill Snyder, Benton graduate, Nebraska football legend and former Carolina Panther Mike Rucker, MLB veteran and Central alum Byron Browne, along with two-time Olympic team weightlifter and Benton alum Wes Barnett."I want to thank my friends, my family and my teammates," Barnett said. "Really the city of St. Joseph who has always been behind me and supporting me along the way."Snyder, who retired from coaching at Kansas State in the 2018 season, is also a College Football Hall of Fame inductee. Of all of the accolades and honors Snyder has accumulated over his historic and illustrious career, he says being honored by his hometown this way is the best award he's ever received.He especially thanks his mother, Marionetta, who raised him in a one-room St. Joseph apartment."St. Joe has been so prominent in my life," Snyder said. "I was born here and raised here. And I think about, as you do, people who are truly special in your life. I think it's so neat that you're having this (Hall of Fame). I look at this wonderful group of people here and congratulate each and every one of you."Also included is Charlie Burri, Missouri Western’s First Athletic Director, Newt Hillyard, the Founder of the Hillyard Companies, Julius Hochman, Father of Boys' Baseball in St. Joseph, two-time Olympic gymnastics medalist Terin Humphrey, Naismith National Basketball Hall of Fame Coach Henry Iba and softball pioneer Cheri Kempf."There's a lot of value in celebrating folks from St. Joseph who have made an incredible impact in sports," said Kempf, who was a 1980 state softball champion at Mid-Buchanan and three-sport athlete at Missouri Western. "Brett (Esely), thanks for hanging in there with me and getting all of the details locked up. And the (selection) committee, I celebrate you. You have a great future in front of you."The team chosen for the 2021 Hall of Fame Class was the&nbsp;Meierhoffer/St. Jo Frontier Casino Fast Pitch Softball Team from 1997-2003 - a team that won four national titles during that time.The Special Olympics Athlete of the Year included in the class is Mike Grossman, who medaled in track and field during the 1999 special Olympics.The Sports Commission had 25 total nominees for its inaugural class. The inductees were selected by an anonymous selection committee.Every class will include a maximum of 10 individual inductees, and those who aren't inducted are automatically put into a pool of consideration for the next five years.Anyone can nominate an athlete or team for the St. Joseph Sports Hall of Fame by getting in contact with the St. Joseph Sports Commission.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632105035485.jpeg" alt="Mike Grossman." />
 <figcaption>Mike Grossman.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632105052336.jpeg" alt="Cheri Kempf." />
 <figcaption>Cheri Kempf.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632101160751.jpeg" alt="Bill Snyder with St. Joseph Sports Commission chairman Brett Esely." />
 <figcaption>Bill Snyder with St. Joseph Sports Commission chairman Brett Esely.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632105130408.jpeg" alt="Terin Humphrey." />
 <figcaption>Terin Humphrey.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632105154784.jpeg" alt="Wes Barnett." />
 <figcaption>Wes Barnett.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632105168852.jpeg" alt="Bryron Browne." />
 <figcaption>Bryron Browne.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632105192851.jpeg" alt="Charlie Burri." />
 <figcaption>Charlie Burri.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632105230821.jpeg" alt="Meierhoffer/St. Joseph Casino Fastpitch Softball Team being recognized." />
 <figcaption>Meierhoffer/St. Joseph Casino Fastpitch Softball Team being recognized.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Inaugural St. Joseph Area Sports of Hall of Fame Class inducted Sunday

MERCER COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 11:30p.m. Saturday in Mercer County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Hyundai Accent driven by Linda M. Conlon, 76, Lineville, IA., was southbound on U.S. 65 in Princeton.

The vehicle traveled through the intersection at High Street, continued off the east side of the road, struck a ditch, an embankment and a building.

Mercer County EMS transported Conlon to the Wayne County Hospital. The MSHP did not have seat belt usage information.

MERCER COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 11:30p.m. Saturday in Mercer County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Hyundai Accent driven by Linda M. Conlon, 76, Lineville, IA., was southbound on U.S. 65 in Princeton.The vehicle traveled through the intersection at High Street, continued off the east side of the road, struck a ditch, an embankment and a building.Mercer County EMS transported Conlon to the Wayne County Hospital. The MSHP did not have seat belt usage information.

Woman hospitalized after car crash into building 

GENTRY COUNTY—A Missouri man was injured in an accident just after 12:30a.m. Saturday in Gentry County.

The Missouri Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Acura driven by by Jesse W.&nbsp; Chitwood, 28, King City, was southbound on Route AA one mile south of Ford City.

GENTRY COUNTY—A Missouri man was injured in an accident just after 12:30a.m. Saturday in Gentry County.The Missouri Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Acura driven by by Jesse W.&nbsp; Chitwood, 28, King City, was southbound on Route AA one mile south of Ford City.The vehicle traveled off the west side of the road, struck an embankment, went airborne, rolled and the driver was ejected.Grand River Ambulance transported Chitwood to Mosaic in St. Joseph. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Local