The city of St. Joseph has been allocated $39.7 million from the American Rescue Plan Act that was approved by Congress earlier this year.

The city council is now deciding how to best allocate this funding to those who need it most.

The council met with city manager Bryan Carter as well as Planning and Community Development Director Clint Thompson in a work session at City Hall Thursday to review the amount and how it will be allocated.

The city will receive this funding in two increments. The first $19.5 million payment will come within days, while the next $19.5 million will come in a year.

Any business, entity or household that has been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic can apply for this funding. St. Joseph mayor Bill McMurray hopes that low-income families and individuals can benefit from this relief funding especially.

"If there's any way we can help some of the poorer families in our community who have been knocked in the head," McMurray said. "First, it was the flood, then it was COVID. If we can help them build a good case in their application with the supporting documentation, I really want to do that."

The city has received funding applications from 18 different entities and businesses from around town. These 18 applicants have requested a combined $13 million. Meanwhile, various departments within the city's government has requested $20 million.

McMurray also pointed out that this money can also be put toward water, sewer and broadband infrastructure within the city.

But, the mayor urges any individual who believes they are eligible for relief funds to get an application in as soon as they can.

"We have a one-page application," he said. "Clint Thompson and our Planning and Community Development Department can get that to somebody if they feel their organization or they individually or a small business needs it. We have some opportunities. It has to be the harmful affect of COVID is where this comes from."

Thompson noted that the city has until the end of 2024 to allocate this $39.7 million amount. The council discussed the idea of forming a five-member citizen's committee comprised of either small business owners and/or people who work for organizations like CAP St. Joe that serve low-income individuals.

This committee will likely be discussed in greater detail at the next council meeting on May 17 and would be put on the agenda as a resolution.

The initial deadline to apply for this American Rescue Plan Funding was April 30. But with half of the $39.7 million coming to the city next year, McMurray urges anyone in need to apply for this money - whether their application is granted this year or next.

"If somebody feels like they would like to apply, get an application from our Planning Community and Development department," McMurray noted. "Get the supporting documentation and get it in there so we can crunch the numbers."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620955932852.jpeg" alt="Members of the St. Joseph City Council listen in on a presentation from Community Planning and Development Director Clint Thompson regarding the city's latest COVID relief funding at a work session at City Hall Thursday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Members of the St. Joseph City Council listen in on a presentation from Community Planning and Development Director Clint Thompson regarding the city's latest COVID relief funding at a work session at City Hall Thursday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe city of St. Joseph has been allocated $39.7 million from the American Rescue Plan Act that was approved by Congress earlier this year.The city council is now deciding how to best allocate this funding to those who need it most.The council met with city manager Bryan Carter as well as Planning and Community Development Director Clint Thompson in a work session at City Hall Thursday to review the amount and how it will be allocated.The city will receive this funding in two increments. The first $19.5 million payment will come within days, while the next $19.5 million will come in a year.Any business, entity or household that has been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic can apply for this funding. St. Joseph mayor Bill McMurray hopes that low-income families and individuals can benefit from this relief funding especially."If there's any way we can help some of the poorer families in our community who have been knocked in the head," McMurray said. "First, it was the flood, then it was COVID. If we can help them build a good case in their application with the supporting documentation, I really want to do that."The city has received funding applications from 18 different entities and businesses from around town. These 18 applicants have requested a combined $13 million. Meanwhile, various departments within the city's government has requested $20 million.McMurray also pointed out that this money can also be put toward water, sewer and broadband infrastructure within the city.But, the mayor urges any individual who believes they are eligible for relief funds to get an application in as soon as they can."We have a one-page application," he said. "Clint Thompson and our Planning and Community Development Department can get that to somebody if they feel their organization or they individually or a small business needs it. We have some opportunities. It has to be the harmful affect of COVID is where this comes from."Thompson noted that the city has until the end of 2024 to allocate this $39.7 million amount. The council discussed the idea of forming a five-member citizen's committee comprised of either small business owners and/or people who work for organizations like CAP St. Joe that serve low-income individuals.This committee will likely be discussed in greater detail at the next council meeting on May 17 and would be put on the agenda as a resolution.The initial deadline to apply for this American Rescue Plan Funding was April 30. But with half of the $39.7 million coming to the city next year, McMurray urges anyone in need to apply for this money - whether their application is granted this year or next."If somebody feels like they would like to apply, get an application from our Planning Community and Development department," McMurray noted. "Get the supporting documentation and get it in there so we can crunch the numbers."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620956040061.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Community Development and Planning Director Clint Thompson addresses the St. Joseph City Council at a Thursday work session. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Community Development and Planning Director Clint Thompson addresses the St. Joseph City Council at a Thursday work session. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph City Council discusses latest COVID relief funding in Thursday work session

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa —&nbsp;Hy-Vee, Inc. announces Thursday that all Hy-Vee pharmacy locations are now administering free COVID-19 vaccines to individuals ages 12 to 15, per the U.S. Food &amp; Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recent approval of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for this age group. Hy-Vee has been offering the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to individuals 16 and older for several weeks.

Minors must have parental or guardian consent in order to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. Hy-Vee asks that a parent or guardian accompany minors to both their first and second dose COVID-19 vaccinations. Individuals can walk in to receive the vaccine, or make an appointment in advance online.

For those who prefer to make a vaccine appointment in advance, they can visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hy-vee.com/covidvaccine" target="_blank">www.hy-vee.com/covidvaccine</a>, select “Find Appointments” and complete the digital vaccine informed consent form and appointment selection. COVID-19 vaccines are free for everyone, regardless of whether they have insurance or Medicare Part B coverage.

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa —&nbsp;Hy-Vee, Inc. announces Thursday that all Hy-Vee pharmacy locations are now administering free COVID-19 vaccines to individuals ages 12 to 15, per the U.S. Food &amp; Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recent approval of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for this age group. Hy-Vee has been offering the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to individuals 16 and older for several weeks.Minors must have parental or guardian consent in order to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. Hy-Vee asks that a parent or guardian accompany minors to both their first and second dose COVID-19 vaccinations. Individuals can walk in to receive the vaccine, or make an appointment in advance online.For those who prefer to make a vaccine appointment in advance, they can visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hy-vee.com/covidvaccine" target="_blank">www.hy-vee.com/covidvaccine</a>, select “Find Appointments” and complete the digital vaccine informed consent form and appointment selection. COVID-19 vaccines are free for everyone, regardless of whether they have insurance or Medicare Part B coverage.

Hy-Vee Pharmacies: Free COVID vaccines for ages 12-15

With the “Defund the Police” movement having police across the country on the defense, local law enforcement teams are seeing the effects of the movement as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sheriff Bill Puett&nbsp;says thankfully our community is unique in how they view law enforcement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I don’t think people around here don’t value law enforcement,” Puett tells&nbsp;host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.&nbsp;“They support law enforcement and&nbsp;you know they do those&nbsp;things;&nbsp;however,&nbsp;we see a national rhetoric that villainizes police.”&nbsp;

Law enforcement officials put their lives on the line every day and that is something Puett doesn’t take lightly.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I ask people every day to go in&nbsp;harm's&nbsp;way to serve their community and that’s not lost on me,” says Puett.&nbsp;“That’s a heavy&nbsp;burden that&nbsp;I&nbsp;carry&nbsp;because&nbsp;I worry about all of our folks&nbsp;every day”&nbsp;

Puett&nbsp;says law enforcement officials are not paid enough for what they go through.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“They’re&nbsp;saying it’s just not worth it,” says Puett. “They’re throwing their hands up and for the pay and how they’re&nbsp;treated and the&nbsp;liability.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

By WHITNEE ICE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;With the “Defund the Police” movement having police across the country on the defense, local law enforcement teams are seeing the effects of the movement as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sheriff Bill Puett&nbsp;says thankfully our community is unique in how they view law enforcement.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I don’t think people around here don’t value law enforcement,” Puett tells&nbsp;host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.&nbsp;“They support law enforcement and&nbsp;you know they do those&nbsp;things;&nbsp;however,&nbsp;we see a national rhetoric that villainizes police.”&nbsp;Law enforcement officials put their lives on the line every day and that is something Puett doesn’t take lightly.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I ask people every day to go in&nbsp;harm's&nbsp;way to serve their community and that’s not lost on me,” says Puett.&nbsp;“That’s a heavy&nbsp;burden that&nbsp;I&nbsp;carry&nbsp;because&nbsp;I worry about all of our folks&nbsp;every day”&nbsp;Puett&nbsp;says law enforcement officials are not paid enough for what they go through.&nbsp;&nbsp;“They’re&nbsp;saying it’s just not worth it,” says Puett. “They’re throwing their hands up and for the pay and how they’re&nbsp;treated and the&nbsp;liability.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

'Defund the Police' has taken its toll on local law enforcement

After meeting yesterday afternoon, the St. Joseph City Council has done away with the Krug Park project proposal and instead is proposing a half-cent sales tax for the&nbsp;St. Joseph park&nbsp;system.&nbsp;&nbsp;

City Council Member Madison Davis says the overall goal is to invest in all of the St. Joseph parks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The Krug Park project in particular kind of made everybody pause and think about the entire city,” Davis tells St. Joseph Post. “Not just myself, not just the council, everybody in the city.”&nbsp;

City Council Member Madison Davis&nbsp;says the goal is to invest in the entire city of St. Joseph.&nbsp;

“I think it’s something that many people will say ‘yes,’” says Davis. “I think it’s something that many people will say ‘it’s something we certainly need,’ I think it’s something that is a small investment in our city where we can see a large impact.”&nbsp;

City Council Member Madison Davis&nbsp;says citizens will have the opportunity to approve specific projects.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We want to be very specific and we want to target several projects that can be done throughout the entire city, so that citizens can identify those as thing they will see&nbsp;as an impact as a result of their approval of a half-cent sales tax increase,” says Davis.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Davis says the half-cent sales tax will have a 10-year sunset clause and over the 10-year period, it will generate 50 to 60 million dollars.&nbsp;

The council takes the proposal to a vote next week. If the council gives the tax proposal preliminary approval, the proposal is set to be on the&nbsp;August 3rd&nbsp;ballot.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620866942012.jpeg" alt="Council Member Madison Davis discusses the proposed sales tax increase / Photo by Whitnee Ice" />
 <figcaption>Council Member Madison Davis discusses the proposed sales tax increase / Photo by Whitnee Ice</figcaption>
 </figure>By WHITNEE ICE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;After meeting yesterday afternoon, the St. Joseph City Council has done away with the Krug Park project proposal and instead is proposing a half-cent sales tax for the&nbsp;St. Joseph park&nbsp;system.&nbsp;&nbsp;City Council Member Madison Davis says the overall goal is to invest in all of the St. Joseph parks.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The Krug Park project in particular kind of made everybody pause and think about the entire city,” Davis tells St. Joseph Post. “Not just myself, not just the council, everybody in the city.”&nbsp;City Council Member Madison Davis&nbsp;says the goal is to invest in the entire city of St. Joseph.&nbsp;“I think it’s something that many people will say ‘yes,’” says Davis. “I think it’s something that many people will say ‘it’s something we certainly need,’ I think it’s something that is a small investment in our city where we can see a large impact.”&nbsp;City Council Member Madison Davis&nbsp;says citizens will have the opportunity to approve specific projects.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We want to be very specific and we want to target several projects that can be done throughout the entire city, so that citizens can identify those as thing they will see&nbsp;as an impact as a result of their approval of a half-cent sales tax increase,” says Davis.&nbsp;&nbsp;Davis says the half-cent sales tax will have a 10-year sunset clause and over the 10-year period, it will generate 50 to 60 million dollars.&nbsp;The council takes the proposal to a vote next week. If the council gives the tax proposal preliminary approval, the proposal is set to be on the&nbsp;August 3rd&nbsp;ballot.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

St. Joseph City Council discuss a newly proposed sales tax for park improvement

A plea deal was accepted and the person behind the wheel in
the drive-by shooting last August that took the life of a two-year-old St.
Joseph girl has been sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Circuit Judge Daniel Kellogg accepted the plea bargain reached
between 21-year-old Te’Avion Hawkins of Platte City and the
Buchanan County Prosecutor’s office. Kellogg sentenced Hawkins to 10 years in
prison during his hearing in a Buchanan County courtroom this afternoon.

Hawkins was the driver of the vehicle last August that pulled
up along side the car in which Raelynn Craig was a passenger. Two passengers in
Hawkins’ car, 21-year-old Marcain Kimbrough-Ballard of St. Joseph and 21-year-old Caimon
Ramone Stillman of St. Joseph, opened fire.&nbsp; They fired
14 shots into the car, wounding two adults and killing Raelynn.

The prosecutor’s office says Hawkins provided the identities
of the two shooters after police tracked down his car and arrested him.

Kimbrough-Ballard was sentenced to 26 years in prison.
Stillman received a 24-year sentence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620850690884.jpeg" alt="Te'Avion Hawkins and his attorney listen as Buchanan County Circuit Judge Daniel Kellogg pronounces sentence./Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Te'Avion Hawkins and his attorney listen as Buchanan County Circuit Judge Daniel Kellogg pronounces sentence./Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA plea deal was accepted and the person behind the wheel in
the drive-by shooting last August that took the life of a two-year-old St.
Joseph girl has been sentenced to 10 years in prison.Circuit Judge Daniel Kellogg accepted the plea bargain reached
between 21-year-old Te’Avion Hawkins of Platte City and the
Buchanan County Prosecutor’s office. Kellogg sentenced Hawkins to 10 years in
prison during his hearing in a Buchanan County courtroom this afternoon.Hawkins was the driver of the vehicle last August that pulled
up along side the car in which Raelynn Craig was a passenger. Two passengers in
Hawkins’ car, 21-year-old Marcain Kimbrough-Ballard of St. Joseph and 21-year-old Caimon
Ramone Stillman of St. Joseph, opened fire.&nbsp; They fired
14 shots into the car, wounding two adults and killing Raelynn.The prosecutor’s office says Hawkins provided the identities
of the two shooters after police tracked down his car and arrested him.Kimbrough-Ballard was sentenced to 26 years in prison.
Stillman received a 24-year sentence.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620850785947.jpeg" alt="Te'Avion Hawkins awaits his sentencing in a Buchanan County courtroom./Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Te'Avion Hawkins awaits his sentencing in a Buchanan County courtroom./Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>

Hawkins sentenced to 10 years in drive-by shooting of 2-year-old St. Joseph girl

Missouri Western State University President Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy experienced her first commencement as president last week. She credits the school's COVID response team for making the in-person event possible.

"We had a reduction in COVID cases in our students," Kennedy said during KFEQ's The Hotline. "Our numbers were always low, but they fell by 85 percent from the fall semester to the spring semester...which allowed us to have a wonderful commencement."

Missouri Western held commencement inside Civic Arena. It was moved from Spratt Stadium to the arena due to the possibility of rain. The University held two separate ceremonies to allow for social distancing, and to allow for all students and guests to take part.

"It's my favorite day of the semester," Kennedy continued. "It represents the culmination of our work, the faculty's work and everyone at the University. We're all part of the Griffon family. It was a beautiful event and I'm quite pleased with how it turned out."

Before the school year started, MWSU assembled a COVID response team comprised of multiple staff members from the science department, as well as marketing and athletics, that met with administration to determine the best path forward.

"We have all of these folks who meet to talk about what are we doing and pay attention to the best practices and following the science," Kennedy said. "Which I think has served us well. There was a time last November where cases were really going up in the city and we saw that on campus, but we were able to mitigate it."

Kennedy says that mitigation effort went beyond mask requirements, social distancing and hand sanitizer stations.

"We kind of closed the doors to outside groups coming to campus," she said. "We minimized how we did activities. We made sure everything was physically distanced, the mask mandate and those kinds of things. So, we were really able to maintain it."

Kennedy says MWSU spent a portion of its CARES Act funding to replace aging air handling and HVAC systems in buildings across campus. Studies have shown that proper air flow and ventilation are key components in slowing the spread of COVID-19&nbsp;

The systems that were replaced were between 25-45 years old, according to Kennedy.

Thanks to these efforts over the last 14 months or so, Kennedy says students and faculty can look forward to a more normal fall semester coming up.

"For fall, we have 85 percent of our classes will have a face-to-face component," she said. "Seventy percent of those will be 100 percent face-to-face in a traditional format. Now, they'll be in the room, but we'll still have some degree of physical distancing and those types of things going on."

Numerous colleges and universities across the country are requiring students to be vaccinated before coming back to school. Kennedy says Missouri Western will not require the vaccine, but rather make the shot more accessible to students.

"We're looking at ways to bring vaccination clinics to campus," Kennedy said. "So, during the summer before the semester starts. Of course, it depends on what vaccine you can get. So, those are questions we have to deal with."

All-in-all, Kennedy strikes an optimistic tone as she gets ready to start her first full school year as the University's president.

"We're open, we're back and we'll be in person," she said. "You will have the collegiate experience that you're looking for and we provide affordable excellence."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614613496364.jpeg" alt="MWSU President Elizabeth Kennedy. Photo by Brent Martin." />
 <figcaption>MWSU President Elizabeth Kennedy. Photo by Brent Martin.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University President Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy experienced her first commencement as president last week. She credits the school's COVID response team for making the in-person event possible."We had a reduction in COVID cases in our students," Kennedy said during KFEQ's The Hotline. "Our numbers were always low, but they fell by 85 percent from the fall semester to the spring semester...which allowed us to have a wonderful commencement."Missouri Western held commencement inside Civic Arena. It was moved from Spratt Stadium to the arena due to the possibility of rain. The University held two separate ceremonies to allow for social distancing, and to allow for all students and guests to take part."It's my favorite day of the semester," Kennedy continued. "It represents the culmination of our work, the faculty's work and everyone at the University. We're all part of the Griffon family. It was a beautiful event and I'm quite pleased with how it turned out."Before the school year started, MWSU assembled a COVID response team comprised of multiple staff members from the science department, as well as marketing and athletics, that met with administration to determine the best path forward."We have all of these folks who meet to talk about what are we doing and pay attention to the best practices and following the science," Kennedy said. "Which I think has served us well. There was a time last November where cases were really going up in the city and we saw that on campus, but we were able to mitigate it."Kennedy says that mitigation effort went beyond mask requirements, social distancing and hand sanitizer stations."We kind of closed the doors to outside groups coming to campus," she said. "We minimized how we did activities. We made sure everything was physically distanced, the mask mandate and those kinds of things. So, we were really able to maintain it."Kennedy says MWSU spent a portion of its CARES Act funding to replace aging air handling and HVAC systems in buildings across campus. Studies have shown that proper air flow and ventilation are key components in slowing the spread of COVID-19&nbsp;The systems that were replaced were between 25-45 years old, according to Kennedy.Thanks to these efforts over the last 14 months or so, Kennedy says students and faculty can look forward to a more normal fall semester coming up."For fall, we have 85 percent of our classes will have a face-to-face component," she said. "Seventy percent of those will be 100 percent face-to-face in a traditional format. Now, they'll be in the room, but we'll still have some degree of physical distancing and those types of things going on."Numerous colleges and universities across the country are requiring students to be vaccinated before coming back to school. Kennedy says Missouri Western will not require the vaccine, but rather make the shot more accessible to students."We're looking at ways to bring vaccination clinics to campus," Kennedy said. "So, during the summer before the semester starts. Of course, it depends on what vaccine you can get. So, those are questions we have to deal with."All-in-all, Kennedy strikes an optimistic tone as she gets ready to start her first full school year as the University's president."We're open, we're back and we'll be in person," she said. "You will have the collegiate experience that you're looking for and we provide affordable excellence."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

President Kennedy - COVID cases on MWSU campus fell by 85 percent in spring

NODAWAY COUNTY—A Missouri man was injured in an accident just after 2:30a.m. Wednesday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Dodge Charger driven by Stephen A. Lomeli, 37, Skidmore, was westbound on U.S. 136 five miles west of Burlington Junction.

The car crossed the center line, traveled off the south side of the road, struck an embankment, rolled and came to rest on its top in the eastbound lanes.

Nodaway County ambulance transported Lomeli to Mosaic in Maryville.&nbsp; He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY—A Missouri man was injured in an accident just after 2:30a.m. Wednesday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Dodge Charger driven by Stephen A. Lomeli, 37, Skidmore, was westbound on U.S. 136 five miles west of Burlington Junction.The car crossed the center line, traveled off the south side of the road, struck an embankment, rolled and came to rest on its top in the eastbound lanes.Nodaway County ambulance transported Lomeli to Mosaic in Maryville.&nbsp; He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man hospitalized after rollover crash

Before there ever is a United Way fund drive, there is an
allocation process.

<a href="https://www.stjosephunitedway.org/">United Way of Greater St. Joseph</a> Community Investment Director
Jodi Bloemker says the United Way is recruiting volunteers to review its 17
member agencies and their funding needs.

“More than 100 community members volunteer on an annual basis
to review the agencies and say this is where we need to invest these dollars to
have impact in the areas of education or health or financial stability, to have
as much impact as we can through these agencies to make our community a better
place,” Bloemker tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.

Bloemker says the process was delayed this year in hopes of
being able to do more of the meetings on a face-to-face basis, rather than
virtual as was the practice during the coronavirus pandemic.

Bloemker says the United Way needs as many as 150 to 180
volunteers to review the requests made by each of its agencies.

“This is not an easy task,” according to Bloemker. “You will
have to make difficult recommendations. We have limited resources and you might
review some agencies where you’re like, I want to give them everything, like
all two million dollars, I want to give our three agencies and it doesn’t work
that way.”

Bloemker says volunteers are the heart and soul to everything
United Way does.

“We have more than a thousand people who typically volunteer
for us in a year,” Bloemker says. “So, we miss our volunteers, very much.
United Way is run by volunteers and we miss our volunteers. So, we’re so
excited to welcome back volunteers, encourage new community members to get
involved with this process.”

She says this is one of the first major tasks the local
chapter of the United Way has taken on since the coronavirus pandemic limited
gatherings, let alone raising money.

The United Way fund drive will begin in September with a
likely goal of raising around $2 million for its member agencies.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620827251613.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostBefore there ever is a United Way fund drive, there is an
allocation process.<a href="https://www.stjosephunitedway.org/">United Way of Greater St. Joseph</a> Community Investment Director
Jodi Bloemker says the United Way is recruiting volunteers to review its 17
member agencies and their funding needs.“More than 100 community members volunteer on an annual basis
to review the agencies and say this is where we need to invest these dollars to
have impact in the areas of education or health or financial stability, to have
as much impact as we can through these agencies to make our community a better
place,” Bloemker tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.Bloemker says the process was delayed this year in hopes of
being able to do more of the meetings on a face-to-face basis, rather than
virtual as was the practice during the coronavirus pandemic.Bloemker says the United Way needs as many as 150 to 180
volunteers to review the requests made by each of its agencies.“This is not an easy task,” according to Bloemker. “You will
have to make difficult recommendations. We have limited resources and you might
review some agencies where you’re like, I want to give them everything, like
all two million dollars, I want to give our three agencies and it doesn’t work
that way.”Bloemker says volunteers are the heart and soul to everything
United Way does.“We have more than a thousand people who typically volunteer
for us in a year,” Bloemker says. “So, we miss our volunteers, very much.
United Way is run by volunteers and we miss our volunteers. So, we’re so
excited to welcome back volunteers, encourage new community members to get
involved with this process.”She says this is one of the first major tasks the local
chapter of the United Way has taken on since the coronavirus pandemic limited
gatherings, let alone raising money.The United Way fund drive will begin in September with a
likely goal of raising around $2 million for its member agencies.

United Way needs volunteers to decide what agencies get what

A defense attorney for a 38-year-old Andrew County man accused
of killing a 10-year-old boy in November says her client has been offered a
deal to plead guilty.

Donald Tipton is accused of killing the boy on November 30th
by striking and strangling him. He also is accused of failing to seek medical
treatment for the boy.

<a href="https://www.savrep.com/articles/murder-suspect-back-in-court-for-brief-hearing/">The Savannah Reporter</a> says the attorney stated during a court
appearance Tuesday she and her client are considering a deal offered by Andrew
County Prosecutor Steven Stevenson. She offered no details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620820256889.png" alt="Tipton photo Andrew County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Tipton photo Andrew County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA defense attorney for a 38-year-old Andrew County man accused
of killing a 10-year-old boy in November says her client has been offered a
deal to plead guilty.Donald Tipton is accused of killing the boy on November 30th
by striking and strangling him. He also is accused of failing to seek medical
treatment for the boy.<a href="https://www.savrep.com/articles/murder-suspect-back-in-court-for-brief-hearing/">The Savannah Reporter</a> says the attorney stated during a court
appearance Tuesday she and her client are considering a deal offered by Andrew
County Prosecutor Steven Stevenson. She offered no details.

Defense attorney says plea offered to Andrew CO man accuse of killing child

HARRISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Tuesday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Freightliner Cascadia driven by Summer C. Cook, 47, Panama Beaach, FL., was southbound on Interstate 35 two miles south of Eagleville.

The semi rear-ended a 2019 Freightliner Cascadia driven by Abubaker M. Abdi, 33, Fridley, MN., that was slowing to come to a stop on the west shoulder.

NTA ambulance transported Cook to Harrison County Community Hospital. Abdi was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.&nbsp;

HARRISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Tuesday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Freightliner Cascadia driven by Summer C. Cook, 47, Panama Beaach, FL., was southbound on Interstate 35 two miles south of Eagleville.The semi rear-ended a 2019 Freightliner Cascadia driven by Abubaker M. Abdi, 33, Fridley, MN., that was slowing to come to a stop on the west shoulder.NTA ambulance transported Cook to Harrison County Community Hospital. Abdi was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.&nbsp;

Driver hospitalized after semi rear-ends another semi

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

Just after 5:30p.m. May 8, officers investigated an incident that occurred in a residence in the 1000 block North 2nd Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

&nbsp;A group of young men were together in the residence when a disturbance began between two of the men. A 19- year-old man was choked and struck in the face with a fist, according to Wilson. A private vehicle&nbsp; &nbsp;transported the victim the hospital where he was treated for injuries and released.

Police arrested 19-year-old Jackson Phillips of Atchison on requested charges of aggravated battery. He is no longer in custody at the Atchison County Jail, according to online records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620751213290.png" alt="Phillips photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Phillips photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged disturbance and have made an arrest.Just after 5:30p.m. May 8, officers investigated an incident that occurred in a residence in the 1000 block North 2nd Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp;A group of young men were together in the residence when a disturbance began between two of the men. A 19- year-old man was choked and struck in the face with a fist, according to Wilson. A private vehicle&nbsp; &nbsp;transported the victim the hospital where he was treated for injuries and released.Police arrested 19-year-old Jackson Phillips of Atchison on requested charges of aggravated battery. He is no longer in custody at the Atchison County Jail, according to online records.

Atchison man jailed after man choked, struck in the face

Northern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves expects Wyoming
Congresswoman Liz Cheney to lose her position as the number three Republican in
the United States House.

“Liz has stumbled on some of the decision she’s obviously
made,” Graves tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.

Graves, a Republican, says Cheney’s highly publicized
criticism of former President Donald Trump and support of his impeachment has
undermined her leadership position among House Republicans. He expects her to
be removed as House conference chair.

“It will be up to the conference to make that decision and I
wish Liz had not gone so far and said some of the things that she does, because
she not only represents her district, but she also has a leadership role,
representing the conference and it’s unfortunate that she chose to do that,”
Graves says.

A sure signal of Cheney’s likely exit from her leadership
position came from the top Republican in the House, Kevin McCarthy, who has now
endorsed New York Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, a Donald Trump loyalist, to
take over as Republican Conference chair.

Graves does expect Republicans to take back the United States
House in 2022.

Graves says the extreme liberal wing of the Democratic Party,
the so-called progressives, are taking the party far to the left, which he
believes is away from the majority of American voters.

“The more progressive, the more far to the left that they go
with this legislation, the better it is for us and my recommendation is get out
of the way,” says Graves.

Graves notes Democrats hold only a 218-to-212 majority in the
United States House with five vacancies; four were held by Democrats. He says
special elections might make the margin even tighter.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostNorthern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves expects Wyoming
Congresswoman Liz Cheney to lose her position as the number three Republican in
the United States House.“Liz has stumbled on some of the decision she’s obviously
made,” Graves tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.Graves, a Republican, says Cheney’s highly publicized
criticism of former President Donald Trump and support of his impeachment has
undermined her leadership position among House Republicans. He expects her to
be removed as House conference chair.“It will be up to the conference to make that decision and I
wish Liz had not gone so far and said some of the things that she does, because
she not only represents her district, but she also has a leadership role,
representing the conference and it’s unfortunate that she chose to do that,”
Graves says.A sure signal of Cheney’s likely exit from her leadership
position came from the top Republican in the House, Kevin McCarthy, who has now
endorsed New York Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, a Donald Trump loyalist, to
take over as Republican Conference chair.A vote likely will be held Wednesday.Graves does expect Republicans to take back the United States
House in 2022.Graves says the extreme liberal wing of the Democratic Party,
the so-called progressives, are taking the party far to the left, which he
believes is away from the majority of American voters.“The more progressive, the more far to the left that they go
with this legislation, the better it is for us and my recommendation is get out
of the way,” says Graves.Graves notes Democrats hold only a 218-to-212 majority in the
United States House with five vacancies; four were held by Democrats. He says
special elections might make the margin even tighter.

Congressman Graves says Liz Cheney is likely to lose leadership post

The St. Joseph Mustangs' are offering two free general admission tickets for all school and medical staff to the Mustangs' opening game on June 2.

Staff can pick up their tickets in advance by visiting the box office at Phil Welch Stadium, Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Staff may also pick up their tickets on their way into the game.

Those eligible include teachers, principals, doctors, nurses, custodial staff, food service and so on. Any sort of identification as such will be accepted to redeem the free offer.

“Our medical staff and schools have gone through so much," said Mustangs general manager Ky Turner. "From taking care of patients, putting themselves at risk, to teaching students virtually and dealing with challenges many of us never could imagine we’d face. This is our little way of saying thank you, for everything they have done. We want to provide a fun, relaxing night at a ballpark and help us kick off summer and baseball returning to Phil Welch Stadium.”

The Mustangs start their season on June 2 by hosting the Des Moines Peak Prospects - the newest team in the MINK League. There will be a post game Fireworks Spectacular that evening as well.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620765303685.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>St. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs' are offering two free general admission tickets for all school and medical staff to the Mustangs' opening game on June 2.Staff can pick up their tickets in advance by visiting the box office at Phil Welch Stadium, Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Staff may also pick up their tickets on their way into the game.Those eligible include teachers, principals, doctors, nurses, custodial staff, food service and so on. Any sort of identification as such will be accepted to redeem the free offer.“Our medical staff and schools have gone through so much," said Mustangs general manager Ky Turner. "From taking care of patients, putting themselves at risk, to teaching students virtually and dealing with challenges many of us never could imagine we’d face. This is our little way of saying thank you, for everything they have done. We want to provide a fun, relaxing night at a ballpark and help us kick off summer and baseball returning to Phil Welch Stadium.”The Mustangs start their season on June 2 by hosting the Des Moines Peak Prospects - the newest team in the MINK League. There will be a post game Fireworks Spectacular that evening as well.

Medical, school staff eligible for free tickets to Mustangs' season opener

Residents in the Clinton County village of Turney are getting the opportunity to participate in a high-speed broadband experiment.

A research team called Project Overcome announced that their first project will focus on the area in and around Turney, thanks to an agreement signed with Wade Farms in nearby Stewartsville.

The project is being made possible by a one-year, $300,000 grant.

Christel Gollnick, a Navigation Team Member for Maximize Northwest Missouri and President of JUPER Communications in Clinton County, says the goal of the experiment is to figure out how to get faster internet speeds to rural patrons.

"Figuring out how to take some of the speeds from a fiber, so a location where fiber is," she said, "and then broadcast that wirelessly using some of the broadband that isn't being used elsewhere and see if we can't get faster speeds to some homes and businesses."&nbsp;

Project Overcome's novel technology, which relies on Radio Frequency over Fiber (RFoF) and intelligent routing to provide wireless access, is dependent on being mounted at a high elevation, which makes the Wade Farm’s grain elevator an ideal point of broadcast.

The goal is to test a wireless method in areas not yet served by fiber infrastructure that can reduce costs and simultaneously expand broadband service.

“It's also to really give some engineers and technology experts and community members who are interested in really improving their broadband situation," Gollnick said, "who really just need some seed money to try out their innovative ideas."

At least 17 million U.S. residents lack the basic Internet access necessary for remote work, online learning and telemedicine.

This inequity became even more critical over the past year due to COVID-19. The goal of Project OVERCOME is to oversee multiple efforts to deploy novel broadband technology solutions to underserved communities.

"Kids are behind and jobs are at stake," Gollnick said. "That's not a good situation for anybody. It really is becoming an equity issue. We need end-of-the-road, high-speed broadband access for everyone."

In addition to the broadband experiment, the Clinton County Initiative is calling on residents to help the Project Overcome team map the coverage in the county, as well as think about other challenges that could be solved by working together.

They invite anyone living and/or working in Clinton County to check their web pages and take a quick survey <a href="https://www.maximizenwmo.org/clinton-county">here</a>.

While the issue of rural broadband access inequities won't be solved overnight, Gollnick says this experiment can be a helpful tool in finding some long-term solutions for Clinton County and northwest Missouri as a whole.

"Our hope at this point is to just simply found out, is it replicable?" she said. "Does it work, does it solve the problem and can we do it at a price point that really makes this a very reasonable and realistic way to solve a problem that's here right now?"

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620763366191.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostResidents in the Clinton County village of Turney are getting the opportunity to participate in a high-speed broadband experiment.A research team called Project Overcome announced that their first project will focus on the area in and around Turney, thanks to an agreement signed with Wade Farms in nearby Stewartsville.The project is being made possible by a one-year, $300,000 grant.Christel Gollnick, a Navigation Team Member for Maximize Northwest Missouri and President of JUPER Communications in Clinton County, says the goal of the experiment is to figure out how to get faster internet speeds to rural patrons."Figuring out how to take some of the speeds from a fiber, so a location where fiber is," she said, "and then broadcast that wirelessly using some of the broadband that isn't being used elsewhere and see if we can't get faster speeds to some homes and businesses."&nbsp;Project Overcome's novel technology, which relies on Radio Frequency over Fiber (RFoF) and intelligent routing to provide wireless access, is dependent on being mounted at a high elevation, which makes the Wade Farm’s grain elevator an ideal point of broadcast.The goal is to test a wireless method in areas not yet served by fiber infrastructure that can reduce costs and simultaneously expand broadband service.“It's also to really give some engineers and technology experts and community members who are interested in really improving their broadband situation," Gollnick said, "who really just need some seed money to try out their innovative ideas."At least 17 million U.S. residents lack the basic Internet access necessary for remote work, online learning and telemedicine.This inequity became even more critical over the past year due to COVID-19. The goal of Project OVERCOME is to oversee multiple efforts to deploy novel broadband technology solutions to underserved communities."Kids are behind and jobs are at stake," Gollnick said. "That's not a good situation for anybody. It really is becoming an equity issue. We need end-of-the-road, high-speed broadband access for everyone."In addition to the broadband experiment, the Clinton County Initiative is calling on residents to help the Project Overcome team map the coverage in the county, as well as think about other challenges that could be solved by working together.They invite anyone living and/or working in Clinton County to check their web pages and take a quick survey <a href="https://www.maximizenwmo.org/clinton-county">here</a>.While the issue of rural broadband access inequities won't be solved overnight, Gollnick says this experiment can be a helpful tool in finding some long-term solutions for Clinton County and northwest Missouri as a whole."Our hope at this point is to just simply found out, is it replicable?" she said. "Does it work, does it solve the problem and can we do it at a price point that really makes this a very reasonable and realistic way to solve a problem that's here right now?"You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

New broadband technology being tested in Clinton County village of Turney

An offender at the Western Missouri Correctional Center in Cameron has died after a physical altercation with another inmate, according to the Missouri Department of Corrections.

The inmate sustained numerous injuries and was transported to a local medical facility, where he later died.

No other details were immediately available. There is an ongoing investigation, and an autopsy will be performed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620756221879.jpeg" alt="Photo via Missouri Department of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Photo via Missouri Department of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>St. Joseph PostAn offender at the Western Missouri Correctional Center in Cameron has died after a physical altercation with another inmate, according to the Missouri Department of Corrections.The altercation happened on April 24.The inmate sustained numerous injuries and was transported to a local medical facility, where he later died.No other details were immediately available. There is an ongoing investigation, and an autopsy will be performed.

Cameron prison inmate dies in altercation with another inmate

<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/prayers-for-jerry-rebecca-porter?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=customer">A GoFundMe page</a> has been set up to help pay the medical
expenses of a St. Joseph couple severely injured in a one-car wreck.

Money is being raised to offset the mounting expenses facing
Jerry and Rebecca Porter. The couple suffered numerous, severe injuries when
their car crashed into a pole off 1710 South Belt Highway Friday night.

St. Joseph police say the car was traveling at a high rate of
speed when the driver lost control, ran off the highway, through private
property, and struck a pole. The pole lodged within inches of both the driver
and the passenger. Emergency crews had to extract the two from the car.

Buchanan County emergency crews rushed the two to Mosaic Life
Care hospital in St. Joseph. Rebecca has since been transferred to KU Medical
in Kansas City, according to the GoFundMe page, which reports Rebecca suffered
a broken vertebrae and sternum. Jerry suffered a broken femur and a brain
injury. The page states he is being treated at the Mosaic ICU.

The GoFundMe page asks that those who cannot donate, pray for
the couple.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620748163225.jpeg" alt="Jerry and Rebecca Porter/Photo from GoFundMe page" />
 <figcaption>Jerry and Rebecca Porter/Photo from GoFundMe page</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph Post<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/prayers-for-jerry-rebecca-porter?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=customer">A GoFundMe page</a> has been set up to help pay the medical
expenses of a St. Joseph couple severely injured in a one-car wreck.Money is being raised to offset the mounting expenses facing
Jerry and Rebecca Porter. The couple suffered numerous, severe injuries when
their car crashed into a pole off 1710 South Belt Highway Friday night.St. Joseph police say the car was traveling at a high rate of
speed when the driver lost control, ran off the highway, through private
property, and struck a pole. The pole lodged within inches of both the driver
and the passenger. Emergency crews had to extract the two from the car.Buchanan County emergency crews rushed the two to Mosaic Life
Care hospital in St. Joseph. Rebecca has since been transferred to KU Medical
in Kansas City, according to the GoFundMe page, which reports Rebecca suffered
a broken vertebrae and sternum. Jerry suffered a broken femur and a brain
injury. The page states he is being treated at the Mosaic ICU.The GoFundMe page asks that those who cannot donate, pray for
the couple.

GoFundMe page set up for St. Joseph couple severely injured in car crash

31 bridges in poor condition and that are weight-restricted in Northern Missouri are being rebuilt over the next two and a half years.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Fixing Access to Rural Missouri Bridge Program also known as FARM Bridge Program is replacing these bridges. The FARM Bridge Program&nbsp;contracted with the Lehman-Wilson Team to rebuild the bridges.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jeff Gander Project Director for the FARM Bridge Program says&nbsp;the bridges being replaced had to meet four different criteria.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“They’re all low volume, but they’re all weight restricted,&nbsp;they’re all narrowed down to one lane,&nbsp;but they carry two-way traffic, they’re all in poor condition and they all sit on timber piling,” Gander tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;

Gander says&nbsp;the&nbsp;Lehman-Wilson Team was contracted&nbsp;for the FARM Bridge Program.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“They will start work on designing these bridges in the very near future and they will actually start construction later this year on a few of them&nbsp;but the whole program has to be completed by October 31st&nbsp;of 2023,” says Gander.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gander says a bridge in Worth County is the oldest bridge they are replacing.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It was built in 1930 and also that same bridge happens to be the smallest bridge, existing bridge, that we are&nbsp;replacing and the existing bridge was 28 feet long,” says Gander.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There are many counties with bridges impacted by the bridge project include: Gentry, Grundy, Harrison, Livingston, and Worth.&nbsp;

By WHITNEE ICE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;31 bridges in poor condition and that are weight-restricted in Northern Missouri are being rebuilt over the next two and a half years.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Fixing Access to Rural Missouri Bridge Program also known as FARM Bridge Program is replacing these bridges. The FARM Bridge Program&nbsp;contracted with the Lehman-Wilson Team to rebuild the bridges.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jeff Gander Project Director for the FARM Bridge Program says&nbsp;the bridges being replaced had to meet four different criteria.&nbsp;&nbsp;“They’re all low volume, but they’re all weight restricted,&nbsp;they’re all narrowed down to one lane,&nbsp;but they carry two-way traffic, they’re all in poor condition and they all sit on timber piling,” Gander tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;Gander says&nbsp;the&nbsp;Lehman-Wilson Team was contracted&nbsp;for the FARM Bridge Program.&nbsp;&nbsp;“They will start work on designing these bridges in the very near future and they will actually start construction later this year on a few of them&nbsp;but the whole program has to be completed by October 31st&nbsp;of 2023,” says Gander.&nbsp;&nbsp;Gander says a bridge in Worth County is the oldest bridge they are replacing.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It was built in 1930 and also that same bridge happens to be the smallest bridge, existing bridge, that we are&nbsp;replacing and the existing bridge was 28 feet long,” says Gander.&nbsp;&nbsp;There are many counties with bridges impacted by the bridge project include: Gentry, Grundy, Harrison, Livingston, and Worth.&nbsp;

Old bridges are to be rebuilt in Northern Missouri

St. Joseph health officials report 23 new cases of COVID-19 in Buchanan County since Friday, including 19 new cases Monday.

 Buchanan County’s case total is now 10,492.

Mosaic Life Care is now reporting 10 COVID-19 inpatients - 9 in St. Joseph and one in Maryville. This is the first time in several weeks that Mosaic is reporting a double-digit amount of COVID patients.

Over 16,800 Buchanan County residents have initiated vaccination with more than 15,100 residents completing it.

The St. Joseph Health Department is holding a second mass vaccination clinic at Civic Arena Tuesday from 9-11 a.m.

 Meanwhile, Over 4,300 people in Andrew County have initiated vaccination. Andrew County has not had a new COVID case since April 19.

In Doniphan County, Kansas, over 1,700 people have gotten their first dose of the vaccine.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report 23 new cases of COVID-19 in Buchanan County since Friday, including 19 new cases Monday. Buchanan County’s case total is now 10,492.Mosaic Life Care is now reporting 10 COVID-19 inpatients - 9 in St. Joseph and one in Maryville. This is the first time in several weeks that Mosaic is reporting a double-digit amount of COVID patients.Over 16,800 Buchanan County residents have initiated vaccination with more than 15,100 residents completing it.The St. Joseph Health Department is holding a second mass vaccination clinic at Civic Arena Tuesday from 9-11 a.m. Meanwhile, Over 4,300 people in Andrew County have initiated vaccination. Andrew County has not had a new COVID case since April 19.In Doniphan County, Kansas, over 1,700 people have gotten their first dose of the vaccine.

Mosaic Life Care reporting increase in COVID-19 patients

DEARBORN - Prior to this semester, it had been nearly 23 years since North Platte High School had hung a state championship banner of any kind.

After sharing in a wrestling state title with Mid-Buchanan in March, North Platte brought home more hardware with a dominant Scholar Bowl season - capped off by a 250-170 win over Greenwood in the Class 2 state championship in Columbia last Thursday.

"After having our season taken away last year, I feel like we were motivated to win and do better this year," said senior team member Shelby Stapleton. "To win state shows our accomplishments and all that we've done this year to get better, and...yeah. It's awesome."

The Panthers finished the season with a 14-1 record - their lone loss coming to East Buchanan on April 5. They reeled off seven consecutive victories after that.

"It was just a great finish to our season," said senior Reece Hinton. "With the last couple seasons and losing at sectionals two years ago, it was nice to come back and make it to state and win."

 They came close to state in 2019 when they won districts, but lost in sectionals. Before that, North Platte Scholar Bowl had finished second at state in 1998 and third in '99.

Prior to 2021, the only other sport to win state at North Platte was football in '98.

"Being one of the first state champions in school history is a huge accomplishment," said senior Jonas Pelot. "It's something we can look back on in our high school careers and just be really proud of."

Shelly Meyer-Day, who's coached Scholar Bowl at North Platte for a decade, could tell early on that this year's group was capable of big things.

"Even freshman year, you knew that this group was going to be special," Meyer-Day said. "That they were going to pretty far, and they're a lot of fun. They have high academic standards for themselves, but they're very social and very capable that way.

"Sometimes, when you get kids that are just so smart, that social part is lacking. With these kids, they've got it all.&nbsp; They are so well-rounded, it's amazing."

While it's not as physically demanding as traditional sports, winning a state title in Scholar Bowl takes a great deal of dedication. The team practiced every morning at 7 a.m. unless there was a match.

Each team member brings a certain strength, or area of expertise, to the table. Pelot is a history enthusiast. Senior and team captain Jakob Scroggins reams information from his school textbooks. Senior Reece Hinton enjoys math and music.

Stapleton enjoys the pop culture and current events questions.

"I know a bunch of random stuff," she said. "I'm more focused on Broadway and musicals and pop culture. The other guys are focused on the actual knowledge stuff. I just know the stuff I watch on the news and everything."

Meyer-Day says the academics and the knowledge are important, but the team enjoys the social aspect of Scholar Bowl just as much.

"It's not just about academics," she said. "It's also about relationships and enjoying your friends and having a good time, too."

North Platte's JV and varsity Scholar Bowl team had a combined 14 members this year. With four senior members graduating this year, including herself, Stapleton hopes the enrollment and the enthusiasm for Scholar Bowl can grow.

"I know there's a bunch of kids excited about it now," Stapleton said. "I have kindergarteners coming up to me saying, 'Oh my gosh I'm so proud of you!' It just made me super happy, and the fact they want to do that and are looking to us as role models makes me happy."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620673373803.jpeg" alt="North Platte's senior members of the 2021 state champion Scholar Bowl team. From left to right: Reece Hinton, Jakob Scroggins, Jonas Pelot and Shelby Stapleton. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>North Platte's senior members of the 2021 state champion Scholar Bowl team. From left to right: Reece Hinton, Jakob Scroggins, Jonas Pelot and Shelby Stapleton. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostDEARBORN - Prior to this semester, it had been nearly 23 years since North Platte High School had hung a state championship banner of any kind.After sharing in a wrestling state title with Mid-Buchanan in March, North Platte brought home more hardware with a dominant Scholar Bowl season - capped off by a 250-170 win over Greenwood in the Class 2 state championship in Columbia last Thursday."After having our season taken away last year, I feel like we were motivated to win and do better this year," said senior team member Shelby Stapleton. "To win state shows our accomplishments and all that we've done this year to get better, and...yeah. It's awesome."The Panthers finished the season with a 14-1 record - their lone loss coming to East Buchanan on April 5. They reeled off seven consecutive victories after that."It was just a great finish to our season," said senior Reece Hinton. "With the last couple seasons and losing at sectionals two years ago, it was nice to come back and make it to state and win." They came close to state in 2019 when they won districts, but lost in sectionals. Before that, North Platte Scholar Bowl had finished second at state in 1998 and third in '99.Prior to 2021, the only other sport to win state at North Platte was football in '98."Being one of the first state champions in school history is a huge accomplishment," said senior Jonas Pelot. "It's something we can look back on in our high school careers and just be really proud of."Shelly Meyer-Day, who's coached Scholar Bowl at North Platte for a decade, could tell early on that this year's group was capable of big things."Even freshman year, you knew that this group was going to be special," Meyer-Day said. "That they were going to pretty far, and they're a lot of fun. They have high academic standards for themselves, but they're very social and very capable that way."Sometimes, when you get kids that are just so smart, that social part is lacking. With these kids, they've got it all.&nbsp; They are so well-rounded, it's amazing."While it's not as physically demanding as traditional sports, winning a state title in Scholar Bowl takes a great deal of dedication. The team practiced every morning at 7 a.m. unless there was a match.Each team member brings a certain strength, or area of expertise, to the table. Pelot is a history enthusiast. Senior and team captain Jakob Scroggins reams information from his school textbooks. Senior Reece Hinton enjoys math and music.Stapleton enjoys the pop culture and current events questions."I know a bunch of random stuff," she said. "I'm more focused on Broadway and musicals and pop culture. The other guys are focused on the actual knowledge stuff. I just know the stuff I watch on the news and everything."Meyer-Day says the academics and the knowledge are important, but the team enjoys the social aspect of Scholar Bowl just as much."It's not just about academics," she said. "It's also about relationships and enjoying your friends and having a good time, too."North Platte's JV and varsity Scholar Bowl team had a combined 14 members this year. With four senior members graduating this year, including herself, Stapleton hopes the enrollment and the enthusiasm for Scholar Bowl can grow.Especially after such a historic run."I know there's a bunch of kids excited about it now," Stapleton said. "I have kindergarteners coming up to me saying, 'Oh my gosh I'm so proud of you!' It just made me super happy, and the fact they want to do that and are looking to us as role models makes me happy."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620676497338.jpeg" alt="The North Platte Scholar Bowl state trophy. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>The North Platte Scholar Bowl state trophy. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620676538208.jpeg" alt="A banner in the main lobby at North Platte High School celebrating the Panthers' sectional championship this season. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>A banner in the main lobby at North Platte High School celebrating the Panthers' sectional championship this season. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">STATE CHAMPIONS!!! North Platte Academic Bowl wins the state championship by a score of 250-170 over Greenwood! PANTHER PROUD!!! <a href="https://t.co/ktRXkmAhiR">pic.twitter.com/ktRXkmAhiR</a>&mdash; North Platte Panthers (@PanthersNorth) <a href="https://twitter.com/PanthersNorth/status/1390390087943442433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

North Platte celebrating first ever Scholar Bowl state championship

The oldest cemetery in St. Joseph was forgotten until a local community member was searching for a lost relative.&nbsp;&nbsp;

King Hill Cemetery is a cemetery in St. Joseph that has been vandalized over the past several decades and is now being renovated thanks to local activist Gary Lewis.&nbsp;&nbsp;

President of the King Hill Cemetery Preservation Corp. Gary Lewis encourages everyone to come on down to the cemetery to help in any way you can&nbsp;on the community wide clean-up day this Saturday, the 15th.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Come on down even if you can't do any kind of labor or do anything, come down and look at the cemetery, come down and talk to us,”&nbsp;Lewis tells&nbsp;St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;“Not only are we putting it back physically together, we’re wanting to put it back historically, so we need stories of your family that’s&nbsp;buried&nbsp;there, we need stories of relatives that you know are&nbsp;buried&nbsp;there, we need stories of friends.”&nbsp;

Lewis says&nbsp;all are&nbsp;welcome&nbsp;to come and work at&nbsp;the event.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“People will be going around looking for pieces of stones,” says Lewis. “We'll&nbsp;be flagging broken stones. We’ll be finding new graves and&nbsp;flagging them.”&nbsp;

Lewis hopes that making this a community event, the cemetery will not be vandalized again.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It’s also more of a community awareness,” says Lewis.&nbsp;“We want people to come up and see exactly the damage&nbsp;that’s been done over the years and then also to take a little more pride&nbsp;in&nbsp;maybe the cemetery once we&nbsp;get it back together to&nbsp;ensure&nbsp;the vandals won’t strike again.”&nbsp;

<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fstjoepost%2Fvideos%2F2834305033457388%2F&show_text=false&width=560" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>By WHITNEE ICE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;The oldest cemetery in St. Joseph was forgotten until a local community member was searching for a lost relative.&nbsp;&nbsp;King Hill Cemetery is a cemetery in St. Joseph that has been vandalized over the past several decades and is now being renovated thanks to local activist Gary Lewis.&nbsp;&nbsp;President of the King Hill Cemetery Preservation Corp. Gary Lewis encourages everyone to come on down to the cemetery to help in any way you can&nbsp;on the community wide clean-up day this Saturday, the 15th.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Come on down even if you can't do any kind of labor or do anything, come down and look at the cemetery, come down and talk to us,”&nbsp;Lewis tells&nbsp;St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;“Not only are we putting it back physically together, we’re wanting to put it back historically, so we need stories of your family that’s&nbsp;buried&nbsp;there, we need stories of relatives that you know are&nbsp;buried&nbsp;there, we need stories of friends.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620659364498.jpeg" alt="King Hill Cemetery / Photo by Whitnee Ice" />
 <figcaption>King Hill Cemetery / Photo by Whitnee Ice</figcaption>
 </figure>Lewis says&nbsp;all are&nbsp;welcome&nbsp;to come and work at&nbsp;the event.&nbsp;&nbsp;“People will be going around looking for pieces of stones,” says Lewis. “We'll&nbsp;be flagging broken stones. We’ll be finding new graves and&nbsp;flagging them.”&nbsp;Lewis hopes that making this a community event, the cemetery will not be vandalized again.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It’s also more of a community awareness,” says Lewis.&nbsp;“We want people to come up and see exactly the damage&nbsp;that’s been done over the years and then also to take a little more pride&nbsp;in&nbsp;maybe the cemetery once we&nbsp;get it back together to&nbsp;ensure&nbsp;the vandals won’t strike again.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620659396359.jpeg" alt="King Hill Cemetery / Photo by Whitnee Ice" />
 <figcaption>King Hill Cemetery / Photo by Whitnee Ice</figcaption>
 </figure>

St. Joseph's oldest cemetery, desecrated by vandals, receiving renewed attention

A
drought in the Upper Missouri River Basin has reduced flows into the Missouri
River downstream.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620656072638.jpeg" alt="Gavins Point Dam/File photo" />
 <figcaption>Gavins Point Dam/File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA
drought in the Upper Missouri River Basin has reduced flows into the Missouri
River downstream.Missouri
River Basin Water Management Chief John Remus with the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers cautions water users along the Missouri River to prepare for lower
river and reservoirs levels.“The
Corps of Engineers understands the importance of the Missouri River in
providing water for irrigation, municipal, and industrial uses throughout the
basin,” Remus tells a conference call. “There will be adequate water in the
reservoirs and in the river reaches to serve all the water supply needs.”Remus
says the Corps usually adds water to the storage in the upper Missouri River
reservoirs during March and April.“We
haven’t added water since the 23rd of March,” Remus says. “What we’re
doing is we’re releasing water and it is not being refilled by the runoff.”Kevin
Grode, an engineer with the Corps says soil conditions upstream along the
Missouri, such as in North Dakota and Montana, are extremely dry, with April
providing little to no relief.“April’s
runoff was 1.3 million acre feet, which was less than 50% average,” Grode
reports. “It was the 8th lowest April in 123 years of record
keeping.”Grode
estimates the runoff into the Missouri River upstream reservoirs will be below
average this summer.“During
May, June, and July, the upper basin forecast, the upper basin runoff is forecast
to be below average due to the slightly below normal mountain snowpack, dry
soil moisture conditions, and extended warm and dry climate outlook,” according
to Grode.The
Corps has been maintaining a release rate from Gavins Point Dam of 28,700 cubic
feet per second. It plans to increase that rate to 29,500 to maintain Missouri
River levels adequate for water supply and navigation.

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