Missouri Western State University will pause for a silent
vigil this morning to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the
terrorist attacks on America.

University President Elizabeth Kennedy says she will gather at
the Marion Clock Tower on the St. Joseph campus Saturday morning, beginning at
7:30am, to pause and remember. Anyone wishing to join the quiet remembrance on
campus is welcome.

“It’s a tragedy that our entire nation wants to remember and
we want to honor all of the individuals who lost their lives that day, who were
so heroic in their efforts to save individuals and just the ongoing efforts even
after the towers had collapsed,” Kennedy says.

The clock tower will ring 20 times at 7:46am, 8:03am, 8:37am,
and 9:03am; the times the highjacked airplanes crashed into the Twin Towers in
New York, the Pentagon in Washington, DC, and crashed in the field near
Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

Kennedy says it’s important to pause and remember.

“Something very simple, but quiet and respectful and giving
people the time to reflect on what that day was,” Kennedy says.

Kennedy says September 11, 2001 was the type of historic day
that holds a special place in a person’s memory; one on which you can remember
what you were doing, where you were, what was going on, and how you felt.

“It will be a good remembrance and opportunity to just reflect
on what that day has meant for our country,” Kennedy says.

One hundred small American flags have been placed throughout
the campus while flags on campus are lowered to half-staff for Patriot’s Day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631297314760.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western State University Marion Clock Tower/file photo" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western State University Marion Clock Tower/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University will pause for a silent
vigil this morning to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the
terrorist attacks on America.University President Elizabeth Kennedy says she will gather at
the Marion Clock Tower on the St. Joseph campus Saturday morning, beginning at
7:30am, to pause and remember. Anyone wishing to join the quiet remembrance on
campus is welcome.“It’s a tragedy that our entire nation wants to remember and
we want to honor all of the individuals who lost their lives that day, who were
so heroic in their efforts to save individuals and just the ongoing efforts even
after the towers had collapsed,” Kennedy says.The clock tower will ring 20 times at 7:46am, 8:03am, 8:37am,
and 9:03am; the times the highjacked airplanes crashed into the Twin Towers in
New York, the Pentagon in Washington, DC, and crashed in the field near
Shanksville, Pennsylvania.Kennedy says it’s important to pause and remember.“Something very simple, but quiet and respectful and giving
people the time to reflect on what that day was,” Kennedy says.Kennedy says September 11, 2001 was the type of historic day
that holds a special place in a person’s memory; one on which you can remember
what you were doing, where you were, what was going on, and how you felt.“It will be a good remembrance and opportunity to just reflect
on what that day has meant for our country,” Kennedy says.One hundred small American flags have been placed throughout
the campus while flags on campus are lowered to half-staff for Patriot’s Day.

Missouri Western to pause and reflect on 9/11 Saturday morning

Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett urges residents to call his
office if they see something suspicious.

And, to not worry about whether it turns out to be nothing.

Puett says a key to fighting crime is alert neighbors who call
when they see something out of the ordinary.

“We would rather respond and find out, well, maybe that’s
their cousin that’s in from Indiana that’s visiting,” Puett tells host Barry
Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “Nobody’s going to be upset about that. It’s real easy
to check and verify, but what we don’t want is we don’t want those items stolen
or somebody victimized.”

Puett urges citizens to report suspicious activity to his
office. And Puett says a little intervention can head off big problems.

“Check on your neighbors,” Puett says. “Make sure everything’s
going well and, again, nobody’s asking you to go intervene, but if can get
information, you can call law enforcement.”

Puett says his office wants to hear from you about suspicious
activity and would rather check out something and have it turn out to be
nothing than to not be alerted to an actual crime.

And, Puett gives an example of a report his office received
that seemed minor at the time.

“The guy was in a stolen car, had stolen plates. I believe he
had drugs, 19 outstanding felony warrants,” Puett says. “And so, a little thing
might turn into be a bigger thing.”

Puett says alert neighbors are the best weapon against theft.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostBuchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett urges residents to call his
office if they see something suspicious.And, to not worry about whether it turns out to be nothing.Puett says a key to fighting crime is alert neighbors who call
when they see something out of the ordinary.“We would rather respond and find out, well, maybe that’s
their cousin that’s in from Indiana that’s visiting,” Puett tells host Barry
Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “Nobody’s going to be upset about that. It’s real easy
to check and verify, but what we don’t want is we don’t want those items stolen
or somebody victimized.”Puett urges citizens to report suspicious activity to his
office. And Puett says a little intervention can head off big problems.“Check on your neighbors,” Puett says. “Make sure everything’s
going well and, again, nobody’s asking you to go intervene, but if can get
information, you can call law enforcement.”Puett says his office wants to hear from you about suspicious
activity and would rather check out something and have it turn out to be
nothing than to not be alerted to an actual crime.And, Puett gives an example of a report his office received
that seemed minor at the time.“The guy was in a stolen car, had stolen plates. I believe he
had drugs, 19 outstanding felony warrants,” Puett says. “And so, a little thing
might turn into be a bigger thing.”Puett says alert neighbors are the best weapon against theft.

Sheriff:  alert neighbors are the best weapon against theft

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged theft in Atchison.

Just after 6p.m police learned a robbery that occurred in the 300 Block of North 13th Street, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Just after 10p.m. police located&nbsp;Darius L. Fleming, 26, Leavenworth,&nbsp;in the 200 block North 4th Street and took him into custody. Officers recovered a cellphone valued at $700 that had been taken. During the arrest Fleming was also found to be in possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia. He remains in the Atchison County Jail, according to online records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631283545327.png" alt="Fleming photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Fleming photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged theft in Atchison.Just after 6p.m police learned a robbery that occurred in the 300 Block of North 13th Street, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.Just after 10p.m. police located&nbsp;Darius L. Fleming, 26, Leavenworth,&nbsp;in the 200 block North 4th Street and took him into custody. Officers recovered a cellphone valued at $700 that had been taken. During the arrest Fleming was also found to be in possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia. He remains in the Atchison County Jail, according to online records.

Police catch Kansas theft suspect, recover stolen phone

St.
Joseph health officials report a bit of an easing of coronavirus trends in
Buchanan County.

St.
Joseph reports 52 new COVID-19 cases since last issuing a formal report, 33 on
Wednesday and 19 on Thursday. The county positivity rate has dropped to 8.17%.

Hospitalization
numbers have fallen as well. Mosaic Life Care reports it is treating 21
COVID-19 patients in its system as of Friday morning, 18 in St. Joseph, one in
Maryville, and two in Albany. That is the same total as the day before, but
down from 28 on Tuesday and considerably down from the beginning of August when
Mosaic reported treating 45 COVID-19 patients in its system.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt.
Joseph health officials report a bit of an easing of coronavirus trends in
Buchanan County.St.
Joseph reports 52 new COVID-19 cases since last issuing a formal report, 33 on
Wednesday and 19 on Thursday. The county positivity rate has dropped to 8.17%.Hospitalization
numbers have fallen as well. Mosaic Life Care reports it is treating 21
COVID-19 patients in its system as of Friday morning, 18 in St. Joseph, one in
Maryville, and two in Albany. That is the same total as the day before, but
down from 28 on Tuesday and considerably down from the beginning of August when
Mosaic reported treating 45 COVID-19 patients in its system.

Buchanan County COVID-19 numbers trending down

As part of a new cannabis certification program, Northwest Missouri State University will holds a virtual Cannabis Career Summit today.

Consultant Zach Carson with Green Flower says with the legalization of cannabis in parts of the country and medical marijuana being legalized in Missouri along with the success of sales, the industry has the potential to turn into one of the biggest job markets in Missouri.

"There's some stats that say the medical cannabis sales in Missouri have exceeded 70 million dollars between October 2020 and July 2021," Carson tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And with the evolution from medical to eventually recreational, it can be one of the biggest job creators in the state."

Carson is well aware of the negative stigma surrounding cannabis and medical marijuana, but expects that to fade away as it legalization becomes more prevalent.

"Cannabis being a drug is sort of washing away and people are getting a lot more used to it, they're becoming a lot more educated, the rumors and the lies about the plant have been sort of debunked now, medical research is growing," Carson explains.

Carson adds it's slightly harder to build the relationships you need to with customers in northwest Missouri due to how spread out everything is across the state.

"The relationships that develop between customers and providers sort of need to be stronger, and the access needs to evolve to present equal opportunity for everyone to get that medicine," Carson says.

Carson, the executive producer of the Cannabis Career Summit, says it was a great opportunity partnering with Northwest and the cannabis certification program to help educate future producers.  Participants in the summit earned a discount towards the cannabis certification program at Northwest.

The Cannabis Career Summit runs from 11 am until 3:45pm Friday.&nbsp;If you want to learn more about how you can access employment opportunities in the cannabis industry, registration is free found <a href="https://www.cannabiscareersummit.com/">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631222926863.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of Zach Carson" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of Zach Carson</figcaption>
 </figure>BY MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostAs part of a new cannabis certification program, Northwest Missouri State University will holds a virtual Cannabis Career Summit today.Consultant Zach Carson with Green Flower says with the legalization of cannabis in parts of the country and medical marijuana being legalized in Missouri along with the success of sales, the industry has the potential to turn into one of the biggest job markets in Missouri."There's some stats that say the medical cannabis sales in Missouri have exceeded 70 million dollars between October 2020 and July 2021," Carson tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And with the evolution from medical to eventually recreational, it can be one of the biggest job creators in the state."Carson is well aware of the negative stigma surrounding cannabis and medical marijuana, but expects that to fade away as it legalization becomes more prevalent."Cannabis being a drug is sort of washing away and people are getting a lot more used to it, they're becoming a lot more educated, the rumors and the lies about the plant have been sort of debunked now, medical research is growing," Carson explains.Carson adds it's slightly harder to build the relationships you need to with customers in northwest Missouri due to how spread out everything is across the state."The relationships that develop between customers and providers sort of need to be stronger, and the access needs to evolve to present equal opportunity for everyone to get that medicine," Carson says.Carson, the executive producer of the Cannabis Career Summit, says it was a great opportunity partnering with Northwest and the cannabis certification program to help educate future producers. Participants in the summit earned a discount towards the cannabis certification program at Northwest.The Cannabis Career Summit runs from 11 am until 3:45pm Friday.&nbsp;If you want to learn more about how you can access employment opportunities in the cannabis industry, registration is free found <a href="https://www.cannabiscareersummit.com/">HERE</a>.

Careers in cannabis industry takes center stage at NWMSU

LIVINGSTON COUNTY— A Missouri teen was injured in an accident just before 8p.m. Thursday in Livingston County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Chrysler passenger vehicle driven by Taylor D. Odell, 26, Chula, was eastbound on Route K one mile east of Chula.

The vehicle struck a 1997 Honda 4-wheel ATV driven by a 17-year-old boy from Chula that had slowed to make a left turn on Livingston Co. Road 251.

According to the MSHP, the ATV driver gave a hand signal ahead of the attempted turn and the Chrysler tried to pass on the left. The impact ejected the teen from the ATV.

Lifeflight Eagle transported the teen to Truman Medical Center. He was not wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP. Odell was properly restrained and not injured.

LIVINGSTON COUNTY— A Missouri teen was injured in an accident just before 8p.m. Thursday in Livingston County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Chrysler passenger vehicle driven by Taylor D. Odell, 26, Chula, was eastbound on Route K one mile east of Chula.The vehicle struck a 1997 Honda 4-wheel ATV driven by a 17-year-old boy from Chula that had slowed to make a left turn on Livingston Co. Road 251.According to the MSHP, the ATV driver gave a hand signal ahead of the attempted turn and the Chrysler tried to pass on the left. The impact ejected the teen from the ATV.Lifeflight Eagle transported the teen to Truman Medical Center. He was not wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP. Odell was properly restrained and not injured.

Mo. teen airlifted to hospital after vehicle strikes ATV

BUCHANAN COUNTY —A St. Joseph woman was injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Thursday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Subaru passenger vehicle driven by Samantha J. Trautman, 30, St. Joseph, was southbound on Interstate 29 just north of U.S. 169.

The Subaru was following too closely and rear-ended a 2002 Ford passenger vehicle driven by Christy N. Bozarth, 37, St. Joseph. Both vehicles came to rest in the median.

A private vehicle transported Bozarth to Mosaic. Trautman was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY —A St. Joseph woman was injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Thursday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Subaru passenger vehicle driven by Samantha J. Trautman, 30, St. Joseph, was southbound on Interstate 29 just north of U.S. 169.The Subaru was following too closely and rear-ended a 2002 Ford passenger vehicle driven by Christy N. Bozarth, 37, St. Joseph. Both vehicles came to rest in the median.A private vehicle transported Bozarth to Mosaic. Trautman was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

St. Joseph woman hospitalized after rear-end crash

WORTH COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 3p.m. Thursday in Worth County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2019 GMC SUV driven by Patricia L. Hunt, 75, Blockton, Iowa, was northbound on Route F seven miles northeast of Sheridan, Missouri.

The driver fell asleep and the SUV struck a ditch and overturned. A private vehicle transported Hunt to the hospital in Ringold County, Iowa. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

WORTH COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 3p.m. Thursday in Worth County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2019 GMC SUV driven by Patricia L. Hunt, 75, Blockton, Iowa, was northbound on Route F seven miles northeast of Sheridan, Missouri.The driver fell asleep and the SUV struck a ditch and overturned. A private vehicle transported Hunt to the hospital in Ringold County, Iowa. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Driver injured after she falls asleep and SUV overturns

ANDREW COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 3p.m. Thursday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Ford SUV driven by Leslie D. Wilmes, 36, Ravenwood, was northbound on U.S. 71 six miles north of Savannah.

The Ford rear-ended the trailer on a 2007 Kenworth semi driven by Triston M. McKay, 22, New Market, Iowa, that was&nbsp; stopped in traffic waiting for a school bus.

Andrew County EMS transported Wilmes to Mosaic Life Care. McKay was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 3p.m. Thursday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Ford SUV driven by Leslie D. Wilmes, 36, Ravenwood, was northbound on U.S. 71 six miles north of Savannah.The Ford rear-ended the trailer on a 2007 Kenworth semi driven by Triston M. McKay, 22, New Market, Iowa, that was&nbsp; stopped in traffic waiting for a school bus.Andrew County EMS transported Wilmes to Mosaic Life Care. McKay was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman injured after SUV rear-ends semi

State officials are changing the hours for the Missouri elder abuse and neglect hotline in an effort to reduce hold times.

Director of the Division of Senior and Disability Services Melanie Highland explains that the hotline hours of operation are changing from its original 7am to midnight.

"We've actually targeted our hours from 7am to 8pm," Highland tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And so, we've shortened that time period because after reviewing the call rates, we've realized that 95% of all of our calls were between the hours of seven and eight."

The change in hours will allow the department to shift more workers to the peak call times, providing more workers during the heavy call times. The department also has an online reporting option which Highland says has been just as effective as the hotline.

Highland says while the number of calls received varies month to month, over the past few months the department has seen a slight increase in calls.

"Obviously it varies month to month, and there can be a lot of different factors that go into the number of calls we get from mandated reporters or otherwise," Highland explains. "We're averaging right now for our phone calls right around 3,500 a month, based on the last two months."

Highland adds, though, that if you don't have time to spend on the phone waiting, or you're a professional that needs to get your report done, she encourages people to use the online option as well for something so serious.

"One of the things obviously we don't want individuals having to wait in queue to reach somebody through our hotline on the phone," Highland says. "So, we actually encourage all our mandated reporters, as well as any other reporter to go to our online system, it's very easy to report." 

Once reported online, a worker will contact the caller if any further information is needed.

State officials encourage residents to call the hotline 1-800-392-0210 or click <a href="https://health.mo.gov/safety/abuse/">here</a> for the online option.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631210493731.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services</figcaption>
 </figure>BY MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostState officials are changing the hours for the Missouri elder abuse and neglect hotline in an effort to reduce hold times.Director of the Division of Senior and Disability Services Melanie Highland explains that the hotline hours of operation are changing from its original 7am to midnight."We've actually targeted our hours from 7am to 8pm," Highland tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And so, we've shortened that time period because after reviewing the call rates, we've realized that 95% of all of our calls were between the hours of seven and eight."The change in hours will allow the department to shift more workers to the peak call times, providing more workers during the heavy call times. The department also has an online reporting option which Highland says has been just as effective as the hotline.Highland says while the number of calls received varies month to month, over the past few months the department has seen a slight increase in calls."Obviously it varies month to month, and there can be a lot of different factors that go into the number of calls we get from mandated reporters or otherwise," Highland explains. "We're averaging right now for our phone calls right around 3,500 a month, based on the last two months."Highland adds, though, that if you don't have time to spend on the phone waiting, or you're a professional that needs to get your report done, she encourages people to use the online option as well for something so serious."One of the things obviously we don't want individuals having to wait in queue to reach somebody through our hotline on the phone," Highland says. "So, we actually encourage all our mandated reporters, as well as any other reporter to go to our online system, it's very easy to report." Once reported online, a worker will contact the caller if any further information is needed.State officials encourage residents to call the hotline 1-800-392-0210 or click <a href="https://health.mo.gov/safety/abuse/">here</a> for the online option. <div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Z_0qZj6hRYQ" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

MO state officials changing service hours for elder neglect and abuse hotline

Missouri US Senator Roy Blunt expects a $1.2 trillion
infrastructure bill to pass Congress even as a second, much larger bill, bogs
down on Capitol Hill.

Blunt, a Republican, says it appears the $3.5 trillion bill
being pushed by Democrats could be in trouble since separated from the more
traditional infrastructure package. 

“Infrastructure is important. People know we need it. People
in our state understand that all of the highways and roads and bridges and broadband
and everything else working together is good for our economy,” Blunt tells
KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.

Blunt claims Americans are less enthusiastic for what
Democrats call human infrastructure, programs such as free pre-school and
community college, expanded Medicare, and other social programs.

Democrats must have everyone onboard to pass it in the Senate
since no Republican has shown support. And, Democrat Joe Manchin of West
Virginia has called on his party to trim the price of the bill considerably.

The Senate is split evenly at 50 Democrats and 50 Republicans.
Democrats hold the tie-breaking vote with Vice President Kamala Harris.

Blunt objects to the plan to pay for the bill:&nbsp; a repeal of the tax cuts approved under
President Donald Trump, which Blunt asserts pumped life into a listless
economy.

“We saw lower levels of economic income going up more
dramatically than higher levels,” according to Blunt. “We saw the lowest
unemployment (rate) in half a century. Lots of good things beginning to happen,
because of the tax decisions that had been made.”

Blunt also questions the price tag. He asserts it is misleading,
because of how the measure is structured.

“Programs that end halfway through or seven years into the 10
years that you’re counting the total spending, then it’s really about a $5
trillion package,” Blunt says. “Money that’s either going to be paid for by
eliminating tax cuts and in some cases raising taxes and in other cases, I
think inflation is something that will be a result of this bill if it’s allowed
to pass.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631129322823.jpeg" alt="U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt/File photo" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt/File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri US Senator Roy Blunt expects a $1.2 trillion
infrastructure bill to pass Congress even as a second, much larger bill, bogs
down on Capitol Hill.Blunt, a Republican, says it appears the $3.5 trillion bill
being pushed by Democrats could be in trouble since separated from the more
traditional infrastructure package. “Infrastructure is important. People know we need it. People
in our state understand that all of the highways and roads and bridges and broadband
and everything else working together is good for our economy,” Blunt tells
KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.Blunt claims Americans are less enthusiastic for what
Democrats call human infrastructure, programs such as free pre-school and
community college, expanded Medicare, and other social programs.Democrats must have everyone onboard to pass it in the Senate
since no Republican has shown support. And, Democrat Joe Manchin of West
Virginia has called on his party to trim the price of the bill considerably.The Senate is split evenly at 50 Democrats and 50 Republicans.
Democrats hold the tie-breaking vote with Vice President Kamala Harris.Blunt objects to the plan to pay for the bill:&nbsp; a repeal of the tax cuts approved under
President Donald Trump, which Blunt asserts pumped life into a listless
economy.“We saw lower levels of economic income going up more
dramatically than higher levels,” according to Blunt. “We saw the lowest
unemployment (rate) in half a century. Lots of good things beginning to happen,
because of the tax decisions that had been made.”Blunt also questions the price tag. He asserts it is misleading,
because of how the measure is structured.“Programs that end halfway through or seven years into the 10
years that you’re counting the total spending, then it’s really about a $5
trillion package,” Blunt says. “Money that’s either going to be paid for by
eliminating tax cuts and in some cases raising taxes and in other cases, I
think inflation is something that will be a result of this bill if it’s allowed
to pass.”

Blunt optimistic smaller infrastructure plan can pass Congress

BUCHANAN COUNTY— A St. Joseph man was injured in an accident just after 5:30p.m. Wednesday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Chevy SUV driven by Brycen T. Mitchell, 38, was northbound on Route JJ at Route V.

The SUV traveled off the right side of the road, began to skid on the gravel and returned to the road.&nbsp; The driver overcorrected and the SUV overturned.

Buchanan County EMS transported Mitchell to Mosaic Life Care. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY— A St. Joseph man was injured in an accident just after 5:30p.m. Wednesday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Chevy SUV driven by Brycen T. Mitchell, 38, was northbound on Route JJ at Route V.The SUV traveled off the right side of the road, began to skid on the gravel and returned to the road.&nbsp; The driver overcorrected and the SUV overturned.Buchanan County EMS transported Mitchell to Mosaic Life Care. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

St. Joseph man injured after SUV overturns

St.
Joseph health officials report 118 new coronavirus cases and three COVID-19
related deaths since last issuing a formal report last week.

The
St. Joseph Health Department reports a man in his 30s, another in his 50s, and
a woman in her 60s died after contracting COVID-19. The department reports 37
new cases on Friday with 81 on Tuesday after no reports being issued over the
Labor Day holiday weekend.

The
Buchanan County positivity rate has dropped by nearly three percentage points
to 8.17%.

Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating 23 total COVID-19 patients in its system as of
Wednesday morning; 19 in St. Joseph and four in Maryville.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt.
Joseph health officials report 118 new coronavirus cases and three COVID-19
related deaths since last issuing a formal report last week.The
St. Joseph Health Department reports a man in his 30s, another in his 50s, and
a woman in her 60s died after contracting COVID-19. The department reports 37
new cases on Friday with 81 on Tuesday after no reports being issued over the
Labor Day holiday weekend.The
Buchanan County positivity rate has dropped by nearly three percentage points
to 8.17%.Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating 23 total COVID-19 patients in its system as of
Wednesday morning; 19 in St. Joseph and four in Maryville.

St. Joseph reports 3 new COVID deaths; county positivity rate drops

St. Joseph Public Libraries is continuing to emphasize the importance of youth reading with a new online program.

Outreach Librarian Crystal Stuck of the St. Joseph Public Libraries says that the COVID pandemic has forced libraries to go virtual with many programs, and that pushed the library to purchase Checkers TV, a television program provided online every week.

"Every week a new episode will be available on our library website, and the videos have different themes." Stuck tells St. Joseph Post.

Stuck adds there are many fun themes ahead. 

"They're going to talk about fire safety, outer space, they're going to have a Halloween week, superheroes, Thanksgiving, so every week just has a different theme," says Stuck.

Stuck says every Sunday a new episode of Checkers TV will go up on the libraries website, and along with the episode will come a handy dandy reading list.

"Accompanying every weeks themed video, we are also providing a book list, so the first week is dinosaurs, so we have a book list of dinosaur books," Stuck explains. "And then you just contact the library, we can pull those, put them on hold for you, and then you come by and pick them up."

The St. Joseph Libraries are currently all curbside pickup, but Stuck says with the COVID numbers in our area beginning to go down it might soon open its doors back up.  

The first week of Checkers TV went up on the libraries website on Sunday, a dinosaur themed episode, Stuck tells St. Joseph Post, but she adds no matter when you start watching, the episodes will always be there.

"It's important to note that if you miss a week, they're all going to still be listed, we'll just build on that webpage and add each episode as they become available," Stuck says. "So if you discover Checkers TV through our website on week 10, you can still go back and catch it all the way back to episode one, so they'll all be there."

Each episode of Checkers TV comes with fun activities as well as the accompanying reading list from the St. Joseph Library. You can find a link to Checkers TV <a href="https://sjpl.lib.mo.us/ctv/">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631049995077.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of St. Joseph Public Library" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of St. Joseph Public Library</figcaption>
 </figure>BY MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph Public Libraries is continuing to emphasize the importance of youth reading with a new online program.Outreach Librarian Crystal Stuck of the St. Joseph Public Libraries says that the COVID pandemic has forced libraries to go virtual with many programs, and that pushed the library to purchase Checkers TV, a television program provided online every week."Every week a new episode will be available on our library website, and the videos have different themes." Stuck tells St. Joseph Post.Stuck adds there are many fun themes ahead. "They're going to talk about fire safety, outer space, they're going to have a Halloween week, superheroes, Thanksgiving, so every week just has a different theme," says Stuck.Stuck says every Sunday a new episode of Checkers TV will go up on the libraries website, and along with the episode will come a handy dandy reading list."Accompanying every weeks themed video, we are also providing a book list, so the first week is dinosaurs, so we have a book list of dinosaur books," Stuck explains. "And then you just contact the library, we can pull those, put them on hold for you, and then you come by and pick them up."The St. Joseph Libraries are currently all curbside pickup, but Stuck says with the COVID numbers in our area beginning to go down it might soon open its doors back up. The first week of Checkers TV went up on the libraries website on Sunday, a dinosaur themed episode, Stuck tells St. Joseph Post, but she adds no matter when you start watching, the episodes will always be there."It's important to note that if you miss a week, they're all going to still be listed, we'll just build on that webpage and add each episode as they become available," Stuck says. "So if you discover Checkers TV through our website on week 10, you can still go back and catch it all the way back to episode one, so they'll all be there."Each episode of Checkers TV comes with fun activities as well as the accompanying reading list from the St. Joseph Library. You can find a link to Checkers TV <a href="https://sjpl.lib.mo.us/ctv/">HERE</a>.

St. Joseph Public Library introduces new online reading program

A growing number of COVID-19 patients in the United States are taking ivermectin, an anti-parasitic drug used in livestock, to try and beat the virus.

Medical experts at the local and national levels are saying this is a dangerous idea.

Dr. Scott Folk, Mosaic Life Care's Director of Infectious Diseases, says the Infectious Diseases Society of America, of which he is a member, has found no evidence to support the idea that ivermectin can effectively treat COVID.

"After reviewing the data on ivermectin," Folk said, "the Infectious Diseases Society of America drew the same conclusion, as did the FDA and the CDC. Namely, that the evidence to support safety and efficacy of ivermectin is very low for both hospitalized patients and outpatients."

Ivermectin has been FDA approved for human use in very specific cases. For instance, it's a safe remedy for headlice and other types of parasitic worms and a skin condition called rosacea.

"To be equally clear," Folk said," ivermectin is not approved by the FDA for either the treatment or the prevention of COVID in humans or animals."

Studies done by the National Institutes of Health last year found that large amount of ivermectin did stop COVID from growing within cells inside a test tube at a lab. However, a large amount of the drug was used in that experiment - an amount too large and too dangerous for human use.

"In order to achieve the blood levels necessary to inhibit COVID-19 virus," Folk said, "the dose have to be up to 100-fold higher than what is approved for human use. That, in turn, can lead to adverse affects and toxicities."

Possible side effects of unauthorized use of ivermectin, especially large doses, are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, low blood pressure, hives, seizures or even death in some cases.

Most people who seek ivermectin for COVID treatment are those who remain skeptical of the available vaccines. Folk says those who take ivermectin often include those who can't afford a trip to the hospital if they fall severely ill with COVID.

Other reasons for use of ivermectin might include attempts to shorten quarantine time, or prevent the transmission of COVID to others. Dr. Folk reiterates - the COVID-19 vaccine is still the best option for defense against the virus.

"Still, the best means of prevention by far is the vaccines," he said. "But, for patients who have not been vaccinated and who get COVID, the best thing they can do at that point would be to seek medical evaluation to see if they would be a candidate for the monoclonal antibody."

Folk is unaware of any specific cases of patients in the local area using ivermectin as a COVID treatment. While the human form is really only obtained with a prescription, the animal form is usually available at farm goods stores.

The animal form of ivermectin has a higher volume of the active ingredient, because it's typically used to treat large animals like horses and cattle.

While there is ongoing research to determine whether or not ivermectin could be a safe treatment of COVID-19, Folk warns that as of now, there is not enough evidence to support the idea that ivermectin is a safe COVID remedy for humans, and taking the drug outside of clinical trial is dangerous.

"You must remember that (ivermectin) is not approved by the FDA for the treatment of prevention of COVID," Folk said. "So, there's no reason to be using ivermectin today for prevention or treatment of COVID."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631054144976.jpeg" alt="Dr. Scott Folk addresses the dangers of taking ivermectin for human treatment of COVID-19. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Dr. Scott Folk addresses the dangers of taking ivermectin for human treatment of COVID-19. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostA growing number of COVID-19 patients in the United States are taking ivermectin, an anti-parasitic drug used in livestock, to try and beat the virus.Medical experts at the local and national levels are saying this is a dangerous idea.Dr. Scott Folk, Mosaic Life Care's Director of Infectious Diseases, says the Infectious Diseases Society of America, of which he is a member, has found no evidence to support the idea that ivermectin can effectively treat COVID."After reviewing the data on ivermectin," Folk said, "the Infectious Diseases Society of America drew the same conclusion, as did the FDA and the CDC. Namely, that the evidence to support safety and efficacy of ivermectin is very low for both hospitalized patients and outpatients."Ivermectin has been FDA approved for human use in very specific cases. For instance, it's a safe remedy for headlice and other types of parasitic worms and a skin condition called rosacea."To be equally clear," Folk said," ivermectin is not approved by the FDA for either the treatment or the prevention of COVID in humans or animals."Studies done by the National Institutes of Health last year found that large amount of ivermectin did stop COVID from growing within cells inside a test tube at a lab. However, a large amount of the drug was used in that experiment - an amount too large and too dangerous for human use."In order to achieve the blood levels necessary to inhibit COVID-19 virus," Folk said, "the dose have to be up to 100-fold higher than what is approved for human use. That, in turn, can lead to adverse affects and toxicities."Possible side effects of unauthorized use of ivermectin, especially large doses, are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, low blood pressure, hives, seizures or even death in some cases.Most people who seek ivermectin for COVID treatment are those who remain skeptical of the available vaccines. Folk says those who take ivermectin often include those who can't afford a trip to the hospital if they fall severely ill with COVID.Other reasons for use of ivermectin might include attempts to shorten quarantine time, or prevent the transmission of COVID to others. Dr. Folk reiterates - the COVID-19 vaccine is still the best option for defense against the virus."Still, the best means of prevention by far is the vaccines," he said. "But, for patients who have not been vaccinated and who get COVID, the best thing they can do at that point would be to seek medical evaluation to see if they would be a candidate for the monoclonal antibody."Folk is unaware of any specific cases of patients in the local area using ivermectin as a COVID treatment. While the human form is really only obtained with a prescription, the animal form is usually available at farm goods stores.The animal form of ivermectin has a higher volume of the active ingredient, because it's typically used to treat large animals like horses and cattle.While there is ongoing research to determine whether or not ivermectin could be a safe treatment of COVID-19, Folk warns that as of now, there is not enough evidence to support the idea that ivermectin is a safe COVID remedy for humans, and taking the drug outside of clinical trial is dangerous."You must remember that (ivermectin) is not approved by the FDA for the treatment of prevention of COVID," Folk said. "So, there's no reason to be using ivermectin today for prevention or treatment of COVID."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Mosaic Infectious Diseases Specialist: Don't take ivermectin to treat COVID

The Missouri State Highway Patrol's Troop H recorded 531 citations or warnings during the Labor Day weekend, but had no fatalities to report.

Troop H ran special operations throughout northwest Missouri over the long weekend in order to combat factors relating to traffic crashes, like distracted or impaired driving.

Troopers investigated 15 crashes resulting in seven injuries. They also made 13 arrests for DWIs, drugs and warrants.&nbsp;

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Missouri State Highway Patrol's Troop H recorded 531 citations or warnings during the Labor Day weekend, but had no fatalities to report.Troop H ran special operations throughout northwest Missouri over the long weekend in order to combat factors relating to traffic crashes, like distracted or impaired driving.Troopers investigated 15 crashes resulting in seven injuries. They also made 13 arrests for DWIs, drugs and warrants.&nbsp;

Missouri State Highway Patrol's Troop H releases Labor Day weekend numbers

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on theft charges after a Friday arrest.

On September 3, police arrested&nbsp;Angel R. Moorshead, 40, Atchison, on a District Court warrant for giving worthless checks, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

She was taken to the county jail and had posted bond over the weekend, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631017783105.png" alt="Moorshead photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Moorshead photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on theft charges after a Friday arrest.On September 3, police arrested&nbsp;Angel R. Moorshead, 40, Atchison, on a District Court warrant for giving worthless checks, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.She was taken to the county jail and had posted bond over the weekend, according to online jail records.

Police: Kan. woman jailed for alleged theft

Patrons of the St. Joseph Museum can now find two pieces from the museums collection online. 

Registrar and collections manager Emily Zeman of the St. Joseph Museum worked alongside former coworker Trevor Tutt to compile two pieces for the Show Me Missouri Digital Exhibit.

Zeman says though that the selection process took some time, and that the two pieces selected, were not the only ones submitted.

"We selected probably around 15 items to send over to them, and when they told us to select items, they wanted us to go by certain categories, so they gave us a big long list of here's a certain category we're looking for," Zeman tells St. Joseph Post.

Zeman says herself and Tutt then went into the system matching each category with a piece that provided the most history. The two pieces selected were The Dueling Pistols and the 1951 Flood Map.

Zeman explains people will find an array of items when they go online to view the exhibit.

"The Show Me Missouri digital exhibit actually has items that came in from a whole bunch of different museums in the state of Missouri, as well as different historical societies," Zeman says. "Those exhibits cover anything from the very start of settlers here, to huge events that have happened in the state of Missouri, to wars that have taken place." 

The two pieces online from the St. Joseph Museum are 'The Dueling Pistols' along with a 1951 Flood Map, displayed alongside many other pieces that Zeman says are all credited to the museum they came from.

Some of the most fun Zeman says she and Tutt had was finding these pieces, and learning the history behind them.

"We sat down together and just collaborated on basically the definition of what we would put with each exhibit, specifically 'The Dueling Pistols', him and I put that information together," Zeman says proudly.

Zeman adds learning more history behind 'The Dueling Pistols' provided a fun experience writing the description of the piece for the two of them.

"And there's some information with 'The Dueling Pistols' that I didn't know, which was a lot of fun being able to find out more on those, and be able to write on those, and be able to write that exhibit label with him.

'The Dueling Pistols' as well as a 1951 Flood Map can be viewed online along with pieces from other museums around Missouri on the Show Me Digital Exhibit located <a href="https://showmemo.org/collections/?cat=14">HERE</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630696170034.png" alt="Photo Courtesy of the St. Joseph Museums Facebook page" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of the St. Joseph Museums Facebook page</figcaption>
 </figure>BY MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostPatrons of the St. Joseph Museum can now find two pieces from the museums collection online. Registrar and collections manager Emily Zeman of the St. Joseph Museum worked alongside former coworker Trevor Tutt to compile two pieces for the Show Me Missouri Digital Exhibit.Zeman says though that the selection process took some time, and that the two pieces selected, were not the only ones submitted."We selected probably around 15 items to send over to them, and when they told us to select items, they wanted us to go by certain categories, so they gave us a big long list of here's a certain category we're looking for," Zeman tells St. Joseph Post.Zeman says herself and Tutt then went into the system matching each category with a piece that provided the most history. The two pieces selected were The Dueling Pistols and the 1951 Flood Map.Zeman explains people will find an array of items when they go online to view the exhibit."The Show Me Missouri digital exhibit actually has items that came in from a whole bunch of different museums in the state of Missouri, as well as different historical societies," Zeman says. "Those exhibits cover anything from the very start of settlers here, to huge events that have happened in the state of Missouri, to wars that have taken place." The two pieces online from the St. Joseph Museum are 'The Dueling Pistols' along with a 1951 Flood Map, displayed alongside many other pieces that Zeman says are all credited to the museum they came from.Some of the most fun Zeman says she and Tutt had was finding these pieces, and learning the history behind them."We sat down together and just collaborated on basically the definition of what we would put with each exhibit, specifically 'The Dueling Pistols', him and I put that information together," Zeman says proudly.Zeman adds learning more history behind 'The Dueling Pistols' provided a fun experience writing the description of the piece for the two of them."And there's some information with 'The Dueling Pistols' that I didn't know, which was a lot of fun being able to find out more on those, and be able to write on those, and be able to write that exhibit label with him.'The Dueling Pistols' as well as a 1951 Flood Map can be viewed online along with pieces from other museums around Missouri on the Show Me Digital Exhibit located <a href="https://showmemo.org/collections/?cat=14">HERE</a>

St. Joseph Museums displaying pieces in Show Me MO digital exhibit

CLINTON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 2p.m. Monday in Clinton County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1994 GMC pickup driven by Charles L. Cox, 85, Cameron, was southbound on U.S 69 four miles south of Cameron.

The pickup struck a 2011 Mercury passenger vehicle driven by Megan J. Davis, 31, Cameron, who was southbound on U.S. 69, pulled onto 326th to make a U-turn and backed out on U.S. 69.

Cameron Ambulance transported Cox to Cameron Regional and Davis to Liberty Hospital.&nbsp; Both were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

CLINTON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 2p.m. Monday in Clinton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1994 GMC pickup driven by Charles L. Cox, 85, Cameron, was southbound on U.S 69 four miles south of Cameron.The pickup struck a 2011 Mercury passenger vehicle driven by Megan J. Davis, 31, Cameron, who was southbound on U.S. 69, pulled onto 326th to make a U-turn and backed out on U.S. 69.Cameron Ambulance transported Cox to Cameron Regional and Davis to Liberty Hospital.&nbsp; Both were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

2 hospitalized after crash during attempted u-turn

BUCHANAN COUNTY — A St. Joseph woman was injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Sunday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Toyota Rav4 driven by Lisa A. Ransom, 52, St. Joseph, was westbound on MO 6 at NE River Ridge Road.&nbsp;

The SUV came over the crest of a hill and the driver swerved to avoid two vehicles in the middle of the road. The Toyota began to skid, traveled off the north side of the road, struck a stop sign, a utility pole and landed in the ditch.

Buchanan County EMS transported Ransom to Mosaic Life Care. She was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY — A St. Joseph woman was injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Sunday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Toyota Rav4 driven by Lisa A. Ransom, 52, St. Joseph, was westbound on MO 6 at NE River Ridge Road.&nbsp;The SUV came over the crest of a hill and the driver swerved to avoid two vehicles in the middle of the road. The Toyota began to skid, traveled off the north side of the road, struck a stop sign, a utility pole and landed in the ditch.Buchanan County EMS transported Ransom to Mosaic Life Care. She was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

St. Joseph woman injured after SUV strikes stop sign, utility pole

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Three people were injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Sunday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Hyundai Tucson driven by Jeremy D. Long, 46, St. Joseph, was eastbound on MO 6 at NE River Ridge Road.

The SUV rear-ended a 2010 Toyota Corolla driven by Karen S. Gibbs, 61, St. Joseph, who was stopped to turn north.

Buchanan County EMS transported Long and passengers in the Toyota Rick Bailey, 63, and Lois Magg, 82, both of St. Joseph to Mosaic Life Care. Gibbs was not injured. All four were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Three people were injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Sunday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Hyundai Tucson driven by Jeremy D. Long, 46, St. Joseph, was eastbound on MO 6 at NE River Ridge Road.The SUV rear-ended a 2010 Toyota Corolla driven by Karen S. Gibbs, 61, St. Joseph, who was stopped to turn north.Buchanan County EMS transported Long and passengers in the Toyota Rick Bailey, 63, and Lois Magg, 82, both of St. Joseph to Mosaic Life Care. Gibbs was not injured. All four were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

3 from St. Joseph hospitalized after rear-end crash

NODAWAY COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 4p.m. Sunday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Ford Explorer driven by Jacob Z. Morgan, 30, Ravenwood, was southbound on Katy Road four miles north of Pickering.

The driver failed to negotiate the curve. The SUV traveled off the west side of the road, returned to the road, left the road a second time and overturned.

Nodaway County EMS transported&nbsp; a passenger Jaden L. Hopkins, 19, Hopkins, to Mosaic in Maryville. Morgan was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 4p.m. Sunday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Ford Explorer driven by Jacob Z. Morgan, 30, Ravenwood, was southbound on Katy Road four miles north of Pickering.The driver failed to negotiate the curve. The SUV traveled off the west side of the road, returned to the road, left the road a second time and overturned.Nodaway County EMS transported&nbsp; a passenger Jaden L. Hopkins, 19, Hopkins, to Mosaic in Maryville. Morgan was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman injured after SUV overturns

HOLT COUNTY — A Missouri teen was injured in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Friday in Holt County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 driven by a 16-year-old Mound City boy was northbound on Interstate 29 eleven miles south of Mound City.

The pickup traveled off the road down an embankment and struck several trees.

Atchison-Holt ambulance transported the teen to Mosaic Life Care. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

HOLT COUNTY — A Missouri teen was injured in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Friday in Holt County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 driven by a 16-year-old Mound City boy was northbound on Interstate 29 eleven miles south of Mound City. The pickup traveled off the road down an embankment and struck several trees.Atchison-Holt ambulance transported the teen to Mosaic Life Care. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Mound City teen hospitalized after pickup crash

Labor Day weekend is upon us and that means roads packed with travelers across Missouri.

Seargent Jake Angle with Troop H in St. Joseph says while the roads last year saw less travelers during the coronavirus pandemic, it's hard to pinpoint if we will see more drivers out this year.

"Whether to put your finger on it will be busier this year, sometimes that is hard to try to predetermine," Angle tells St. Joseph Post. "But, obviously our mission is the same, and that's traffic safety, we're going to be out there in full force, we're going to be conducting operations."

Angle adds that whether the roads are packed or not, troopers will still be out in full force assisting drivers and enforcing highway safety.

Angle says troops will be out enforcing all weekend, but are expecting peak travel times at the beginning and end of the weekend to be the busiest.

"We designate our peak travel days, and you know obviously this year it will probably be Friday and Monday, once again hard to determine when people are going to decide to get out and travel to their labor day holiday plans," Angle says. "That's kind of what we plan on, but obviously we're going to have a presence all weekend." 

Angle says that troopers will be out and about enforcing safe driving, but it isn't all about pulling over drivers going to fast.

"And not just patrolling, you know everybody sees us out there and thinks we're just out there to pull people over, we're out there to assist the public, someone becomes stranded, heaven forbid there's a traffic crash, we're out there to provide that service as well," Angle tells people. "So, we're going to be out there all weekend." 

Angle says that the highway patrol is expecting peak travel times to be on Friday evening and Monday, but that it is hard to predict when people will decide to travel.

BY MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostLabor Day weekend is upon us and that means roads packed with travelers across Missouri.Seargent Jake Angle with Troop H in St. Joseph says while the roads last year saw less travelers during the coronavirus pandemic, it's hard to pinpoint if we will see more drivers out this year."Whether to put your finger on it will be busier this year, sometimes that is hard to try to predetermine," Angle tells St. Joseph Post. "But, obviously our mission is the same, and that's traffic safety, we're going to be out there in full force, we're going to be conducting operations."Angle adds that whether the roads are packed or not, troopers will still be out in full force assisting drivers and enforcing highway safety.Angle says troops will be out enforcing all weekend, but are expecting peak travel times at the beginning and end of the weekend to be the busiest."We designate our peak travel days, and you know obviously this year it will probably be Friday and Monday, once again hard to determine when people are going to decide to get out and travel to their labor day holiday plans," Angle says. "That's kind of what we plan on, but obviously we're going to have a presence all weekend." Angle says that troopers will be out and about enforcing safe driving, but it isn't all about pulling over drivers going to fast."And not just patrolling, you know everybody sees us out there and thinks we're just out there to pull people over, we're out there to assist the public, someone becomes stranded, heaven forbid there's a traffic crash, we're out there to provide that service as well," Angle tells people. "So, we're going to be out there all weekend." Angle says that the highway patrol is expecting peak travel times to be on Friday evening and Monday, but that it is hard to predict when people will decide to travel.

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