St. Joseph public schools have reinstated a mask mandate, of
sorts.

This time, the district has decided to apply the mandate
building by building with only those buildings with a high number of students
out due to COVID-19 enforcing a mask mandate.

Assistant Superintendent Gabe Edgar says the district realizes
some St. Joseph residents strongly oppose mask mandates, but the school board
needs to do what it thinks is best for the students.

“We’re trying to educate kids. We’re trying to keep kids in
the classroom,” Edgar tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “St. Joseph
public school district has an issue with attendance anyway without even having
quarantines and those types of things. So, we’re fighting a lot of these
things. It’s almost hitting us in the face twice.”

The St. Joseph school board has a subcommittee that reviews
COVID-19 data and advises the full board on what might be the best policy to
keep the coronavirus from spreading.

The board voted in late October to drop the district-wide mask
mandate on a 5-2 vote. It voted 5-2 Monday night to reinstate a mask mandate,
but only in buildings that register a spike in COVID-19 cases.

Buildings will require students, teachers, and staff to wear
masks if the number of positive cases, plus students out due to quarantine
reaches 7%.

Witham, a member of the subcommittee, says the group attempted
to bridge the divide between those opposed to mask mandates and those in favor.

“We felt like going building-by-building it would tackle where
we’re seeing spikes in specific buildings versus just masking everybody,”
Witham says. “We’ve got buildings that aren’t having issues, where vaccination
rates among students are a little bit higher.”

Witham says the group discovered a startling statistic when
reviewing cases numbers after the board dropped the district-wide mask mandate
in late October.

“The sub-committee took the week that we dropped the masks
district-wide as our base line and then collected data for three weeks straight
and the number of quarantines district-wide roughly tripled,” according to
Witham.

Witham says data taken over the last three weeks indicates
that three of the district’s 24 buildings would have required masks under the
new board policy.

The St. Joseph School District has approximately 10,500
students.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638303140773.jpeg" alt="Lindbergh Elementary School/file photo" />
 <figcaption>Lindbergh Elementary School/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph public schools have reinstated a mask mandate, of
sorts.This time, the district has decided to apply the mandate
building by building with only those buildings with a high number of students
out due to COVID-19 enforcing a mask mandate.Assistant Superintendent Gabe Edgar says the district realizes
some St. Joseph residents strongly oppose mask mandates, but the school board
needs to do what it thinks is best for the students.“We’re trying to educate kids. We’re trying to keep kids in
the classroom,” Edgar tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “St. Joseph
public school district has an issue with attendance anyway without even having
quarantines and those types of things. So, we’re fighting a lot of these
things. It’s almost hitting us in the face twice.”The St. Joseph school board has a subcommittee that reviews
COVID-19 data and advises the full board on what might be the best policy to
keep the coronavirus from spreading.The board voted in late October to drop the district-wide mask
mandate on a 5-2 vote. It voted 5-2 Monday night to reinstate a mask mandate,
but only in buildings that register a spike in COVID-19 cases.Buildings will require students, teachers, and staff to wear
masks if the number of positive cases, plus students out due to quarantine
reaches 7%.Witham, a member of the subcommittee, says the group attempted
to bridge the divide between those opposed to mask mandates and those in favor.“We felt like going building-by-building it would tackle where
we’re seeing spikes in specific buildings versus just masking everybody,”
Witham says. “We’ve got buildings that aren’t having issues, where vaccination
rates among students are a little bit higher.”Witham says the group discovered a startling statistic when
reviewing cases numbers after the board dropped the district-wide mask mandate
in late October.“The sub-committee took the week that we dropped the masks
district-wide as our base line and then collected data for three weeks straight
and the number of quarantines district-wide roughly tripled,” according to
Witham.Witham says data taken over the last three weeks indicates
that three of the district’s 24 buildings would have required masks under the
new board policy.The St. Joseph School District has approximately 10,500
students.

St. Joseph schools reimpose mask mandate, with a twist

Habitat for Humanity in St.
Joseph, amid fundraising concerns, has had to work hard to get out of a hole
created by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Executive Director Shay
Homeyer says this year’s fundraising efforts exceeded its goal, but it is still
working hard to get out of the hole from last year.

"Our fundraiser was
great, we met our goal, we actually exceeded it," Homeyer tells KFEQ/St.
Joseph Post. "But we're still trying to dig out of that COVID
pandemic." 

Homeyer says aside from that
hole created by the pandemic, supply chain issues have also limited what
Habitat for Humanity can do.

"Being down on the
fundraising, it takes us from typically doing three homes, down to one,"
Homeyer says. "So, we're just looking for more funding so we can support
what our mission is."

Habitat for Humanity in St.
Joseph has been building homes for the poor for years now.

Homeyer says that to decide
who these homes go to, individuals are reviewed by a selection committee.

"We pre-screen for
people who are of lower income, who might not otherwise be able to afford a
home on their own, and we give these hard-working individuals the opportunity
at home ownership" Homeyer explains. "And typically, these are the people
that are the grout of our community, they're the front-line workers, in retail,
or maybe at a restaurant."

A fundraising deficit isn't
the only thing affecting Habitat for Humanity in St. Joseph. Problems with the supply
chain has also had an impact.

Homeyer says the supply
chain frustrations have prompted Habitat to build a storage facility to house construction
supplies.

She says that right now they
don't have the capacity to store supplies, but with the help of donors to build
this facility, they will.

"Then we would be able
to get truckloads of supplies through Habitat for Humanity International at a
much greater discount, helping our donated dollars go further in the
community," Homeyer says.

Homeyer says having a
storage facility would be an immense help for Habitat.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostHabitat for Humanity in St.
Joseph, amid fundraising concerns, has had to work hard to get out of a hole
created by the COVID-19 pandemic.Executive Director Shay
Homeyer says this year’s fundraising efforts exceeded its goal, but it is still
working hard to get out of the hole from last year."Our fundraiser was
great, we met our goal, we actually exceeded it," Homeyer tells KFEQ/St.
Joseph Post. "But we're still trying to dig out of that COVID
pandemic." Homeyer says aside from that
hole created by the pandemic, supply chain issues have also limited what
Habitat for Humanity can do."Being down on the
fundraising, it takes us from typically doing three homes, down to one,"
Homeyer says. "So, we're just looking for more funding so we can support
what our mission is."Habitat for Humanity in St.
Joseph has been building homes for the poor for years now.Homeyer says that to decide
who these homes go to, individuals are reviewed by a selection committee."We pre-screen for
people who are of lower income, who might not otherwise be able to afford a
home on their own, and we give these hard-working individuals the opportunity
at home ownership" Homeyer explains. "And typically, these are the people
that are the grout of our community, they're the front-line workers, in retail,
or maybe at a restaurant."A fundraising deficit isn't
the only thing affecting Habitat for Humanity in St. Joseph. Problems with the supply
chain has also had an impact.Homeyer says the supply
chain frustrations have prompted Habitat to build a storage facility to house construction
supplies.She says that right now they
don't have the capacity to store supplies, but with the help of donors to build
this facility, they will."Then we would be able
to get truckloads of supplies through Habitat for Humanity International at a
much greater discount, helping our donated dollars go further in the
community," Homeyer says.Homeyer says having a
storage facility would be an immense help for Habitat.

Habitat for Humanity works through fundraising woes to serve St. Joseph

Northern
Missouri Congressman Sam Graves is proposing reforms to Federal Emergency Management
Agency. And it appears he is getting support in Congress.

Graves’
proposal to redefine what FEMA considers a small project has passed out of the
Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and now will be considered by the
full House.

“Right
now, the limit on what’s considered a small project is just way too low,”
Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “And with inflation that’s taken place over the
last decade or so, projects have grown outside of the scope of what the
original intent was.”

Graves’
legislation, entitled the Small Project and Effective Disaster (SPEED) Recovery
Act would increase the threshold of a small project from $35,000 to $1 million.
That definition is important, because small projects do not have to go through
the time-consuming, elaborate process larger projects are subjected to.

Graves
says it is well past time to change the definition.

“And
that was to allow a much speedier process, a much easier process; when it comes
to just small projects, things that communities need when it comes to getting
back on their feet,” according to Graves.

Graves
says he’s not surprised the proposal easily passed through the committee and on
to the full House.

“Natural
disasters touch just about every district out there,” Graves says. “So, many
members have had trouble or struggled with the definition of a small project.
The support for it is overwhelming.”

A
companion piece proposed by Graves would give communities greater access to
federal funds to prepare for disasters. The legislation, called the Resilient
AMERICA Act, would capture unspent grant money and allow communities use it to
not only prepare for disasters, but mitigate their impact. It would double
funding for the FEMA Pre-Disaster Mitigation program. Private non-projects
could apply for the money. A pilot program would test whether money should be
extended to individuals to assist in mitigation measures for homes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638283459374.jpeg" alt="Congressman Sam Graves/file photo" />
 <figcaption>Congressman Sam Graves/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostNorthern
Missouri Congressman Sam Graves is proposing reforms to Federal Emergency Management
Agency. And it appears he is getting support in Congress.Graves’
proposal to redefine what FEMA considers a small project has passed out of the
Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and now will be considered by the
full House.“Right
now, the limit on what’s considered a small project is just way too low,”
Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “And with inflation that’s taken place over the
last decade or so, projects have grown outside of the scope of what the
original intent was.”Graves’
legislation, entitled the Small Project and Effective Disaster (SPEED) Recovery
Act would increase the threshold of a small project from $35,000 to $1 million.
That definition is important, because small projects do not have to go through
the time-consuming, elaborate process larger projects are subjected to.Graves
says it is well past time to change the definition.“And
that was to allow a much speedier process, a much easier process; when it comes
to just small projects, things that communities need when it comes to getting
back on their feet,” according to Graves.Graves
says he’s not surprised the proposal easily passed through the committee and on
to the full House.“Natural
disasters touch just about every district out there,” Graves says. “So, many
members have had trouble or struggled with the definition of a small project.
The support for it is overwhelming.”A
companion piece proposed by Graves would give communities greater access to
federal funds to prepare for disasters. The legislation, called the Resilient
AMERICA Act, would capture unspent grant money and allow communities use it to
not only prepare for disasters, but mitigate their impact. It would double
funding for the FEMA Pre-Disaster Mitigation program. Private non-projects
could apply for the money. A pilot program would test whether money should be
extended to individuals to assist in mitigation measures for homes.

Congressman Graves proposes FEMA reforms

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

On November 27, police arrested Corey L. Spangler, 42, Kansas City, Kansas, in the 900 block South 7th Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Spangler is being held on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia and on a Buchanan County Missouri warrant for probation violation, according to Wilson. He has a previous conviction for aggravated battery in Brown County, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638193898462.png" alt="Spangler-photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Spangler-photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a wanted Kansas felon on new charges after a weekend arrest.On November 27, police arrested Corey L. Spangler, 42, Kansas City, Kansas, in the 900 block South 7th Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.Spangler is being held on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia and on a Buchanan County Missouri warrant for probation violation, according to Wilson. He has a previous conviction for aggravated battery in Brown County, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Suspect wanted in Buchanan Co. jailed in Kansas

A 25-year-old St. Joseph man has been shot and killed outside an
apartment complex in St. Joseph.

St. Joseph police report the shooting took place around four
o’clock Sunday morning outside the Ridge Apartments at 2121 South Riverside
Road in east St. Joseph.

The victim has been identified as Jabin Bullock.

Police are not releasing details. No suspect is in custody.

If you have any information on the shooting you are encouraged
to call the TIPS hotline at (816) 238-TIPS.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA 25-year-old St. Joseph man has been shot and killed outside an
apartment complex in St. Joseph.St. Joseph police report the shooting took place around four
o’clock Sunday morning outside the Ridge Apartments at 2121 South Riverside
Road in east St. Joseph.The victim has been identified as Jabin Bullock.Police are not releasing details. No suspect is in custody.If you have any information on the shooting you are encouraged
to call the TIPS hotline at (816) 238-TIPS.

St. Joseph police identify victim of fatal shooting

St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President Patt Lilly says he
has had a good career in St. Joseph, one of the reasons he plans to stay here
after retiring at the end of the year.

Lilly says he feels a little relieved as retirement draws
closer and is looking forward to stepping away from the day-to-day
responsibilities of the job.

“Looking forward to staying in St. Joseph and finding some way
to continue to be involved in the community whatever that looks like,” Lilly tells
host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “It’s been a great run in St. Joe; a good
career.”

Lilly retires from the Chamber at the end of the year. Senior
Vice President for Membership, Natalie Redmond, has been promoted to take his
place.

Lilly came to St. Joseph in 1990 as city manager in wake of a
rough period for St. Joseph city managers and even the city manager form of
government itself.&nbsp; He says his goal was
to be in the position for five years.

“I figured if I could accomplish only that I would have made
progress,” Lilly says, “but the nice thing is, working with mayors like Glenda
Kelly and Larry Stobbs, we accomplished a lot. And I give them a lot of credit
during that period, not only for getting things done, but for making the
council-manager form of government work in St. Joseph.”

Lilly served as city manager for six years before being
elected as St. Joseph Chamber president in 1996. He left that position to work
with Triumph Foods for seven years, then returning to the Chamber as president.

Lilly hired Redmond in 2005 as vice president for membership,
calling her a unique candidate for the position.

“Most people would perceive that job as being chief party
officer, right? I mean, basically you just do parties and events. Man, that
sounds like a great job. I think that when people applied for the job that’s
what a lot of them brought to the table,” Lilly says. “But Natalie was
different. She actually brought a professional background in event management.”

As Lilly leaves the Chamber, he views the future of economic
development to continue to center on workforce development.

“The truth is those communities that can provide the talent,
can attract the talent, and retain the talent are the ones that are going to
win in the future.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638207938973.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President Patt Lilly/Photo courtesy of St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President Patt Lilly/Photo courtesy of St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President Patt Lilly says he
has had a good career in St. Joseph, one of the reasons he plans to stay here
after retiring at the end of the year.Lilly says he feels a little relieved as retirement draws
closer and is looking forward to stepping away from the day-to-day
responsibilities of the job.“Looking forward to staying in St. Joseph and finding some way
to continue to be involved in the community whatever that looks like,” Lilly tells
host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “It’s been a great run in St. Joe; a good
career.”Lilly retires from the Chamber at the end of the year. Senior
Vice President for Membership, Natalie Redmond, has been promoted to take his
place.Lilly came to St. Joseph in 1990 as city manager in wake of a
rough period for St. Joseph city managers and even the city manager form of
government itself.&nbsp; He says his goal was
to be in the position for five years.“I figured if I could accomplish only that I would have made
progress,” Lilly says, “but the nice thing is, working with mayors like Glenda
Kelly and Larry Stobbs, we accomplished a lot. And I give them a lot of credit
during that period, not only for getting things done, but for making the
council-manager form of government work in St. Joseph.”Lilly served as city manager for six years before being
elected as St. Joseph Chamber president in 1996. He left that position to work
with Triumph Foods for seven years, then returning to the Chamber as president.Lilly hired Redmond in 2005 as vice president for membership,
calling her a unique candidate for the position.“Most people would perceive that job as being chief party
officer, right? I mean, basically you just do parties and events. Man, that
sounds like a great job. I think that when people applied for the job that’s
what a lot of them brought to the table,” Lilly says. “But Natalie was
different. She actually brought a professional background in event management.”As Lilly leaves the Chamber, he views the future of economic
development to continue to center on workforce development.“The truth is those communities that can provide the talent,
can attract the talent, and retain the talent are the ones that are going to
win in the future.”

Chamber CEO Lilly reflects on time in St. Joseph as retirement nears

St. Joseph has hired the Controller for the College of the Ozarks
as the Director of Finance, filling a position that has been vacant for some time.

Laurie Tietjen will begin work at city hall January 3rd.

“Laurie has the knowledge and diverse financial background to
effectively lead the Finance Department,” St. Joseph City Manager Bryan Carter
said in a written statement released by the city. “I look forward to Laurie
joining the organization and working with staff to ensure transparency,
exceptional financial accountability, and continued efforts to increase
technological efficiency.”

Tietjen has been Controller/Internal Control with the College
of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, Missouri since 2013.

Tietjen is a native of Missouri and a graduate of the University
of Missouri, where she received an education degree and a degree in information
science. She also received degrees from Columbia College and Lincoln
University. She is a Certified Public Accountant.

Tietjen will move to St. Joseph with her husband, who works as
a swine veterinarian specialist.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638199046907.jpeg" alt="Laurie Tietjen/Photo courtesy of City of St. Joseph" />
 <figcaption>Laurie Tietjen/Photo courtesy of City of St. Joseph</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph has hired the Controller for the College of the Ozarks
as the Director of Finance, filling a position that has been vacant for some time.Laurie Tietjen will begin work at city hall January 3rd.“Laurie has the knowledge and diverse financial background to
effectively lead the Finance Department,” St. Joseph City Manager Bryan Carter
said in a written statement released by the city. “I look forward to Laurie
joining the organization and working with staff to ensure transparency,
exceptional financial accountability, and continued efforts to increase
technological efficiency.”Tietjen has been Controller/Internal Control with the College
of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, Missouri since 2013.Tietjen is a native of Missouri and a graduate of the University
of Missouri, where she received an education degree and a degree in information
science. She also received degrees from Columbia College and Lincoln
University. She is a Certified Public Accountant.Tietjen will move to St. Joseph with her husband, who works as
a swine veterinarian specialist.She will be paid $127,000 a year.

St. Joseph hires CPA as new Finance Director

A man in his 20s was shot and killed outside an apartment
complex in St. Joseph early Sunday morning.

St. Joseph police report the shooting took place around four o’clock
Sunday morning outside the Ridge Apartments at 2121 South Riverside Road in
east St. Joseph.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA man in his 20s was shot and killed outside an apartment
complex in St. Joseph early Sunday morning.St. Joseph police report the shooting took place around four o’clock
Sunday morning outside the Ridge Apartments at 2121 South Riverside Road in
east St. Joseph.Police are not releasing details. No suspect is in custody.If you have any information on the shooting you are encouraged
to call the TIPS hotline at (816) 238-TIPS.

Young man killed in shooting outside St. Joseph apartments

PLATTE COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Sunday in Platte County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Hyundai driven by Hoi Ka, 46, St. Joseph, was northbound on Interstate 29 at Interstate 435 South.&nbsp;

The driver swerved to avoid slower traffic. The vehicle struck the cable barrier and overturned.

EMS transported two passengers identified as Ah Cho, 50 and a 9-year-old girl both of Kansas City, Kan. to North Kansas City Hospital. The driver was not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

PLATTE COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Sunday in Platte County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Hyundai driven by Hoi Ka, 46, St. Joseph, was northbound on Interstate 29 at Interstate 435 South.&nbsp;The driver swerved to avoid slower traffic. The vehicle struck the cable barrier and overturned.EMS transported two passengers identified as Ah Cho, 50 and a 9-year-old girl both of Kansas City, Kan. to North Kansas City Hospital. The driver was not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Woman, 9-year-old hospitalized after car strikes cable barrier

GRUNDY COUNTY—A Missouri man died in an accident just after 4p.m. Saturday in Grundy County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Harley Davidson driven by Bradley A. Collins, 62,&nbsp; Spickard, was eastbound on Route C at Spickard.

The driver failed to negotiate a curve. The motorcycle traveled across the center line, off the north side of the road, struck an embankment and the driver was ejected. Collins was pronounced dead at at the scene and was transported to Slater Funeral Home in Trenton. He was not wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.&nbsp;

GRUNDY COUNTY—A Missouri man died in an accident just after 4p.m. Saturday in Grundy County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Harley Davidson driven by Bradley A. Collins, 62,&nbsp; Spickard, was eastbound on Route C at Spickard.The driver failed to negotiate a curve. The motorcycle traveled across the center line, off the north side of the road, struck an embankment and the driver was ejected. Collins was pronounced dead at at the scene and was transported to Slater Funeral Home in Trenton. He was not wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.&nbsp;

Grundy Co. man dies after motorcycle crash

Downtown St. Joseph kicks off the Christmas shopping season in
a big way this weekend.

Christy George with the Downtown St. Joseph Association says
the Lighting Ceremony tonight at Coleman Hawkins Park will feature live music,
even fireworks.

“We did fireworks last year and we had so much positive
feedback from it that we definitely are bringing it back again this year,”
George tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.

Film maker Jason Hudson will be involved, saying downtown St.
Joseph is an under-appreciated jewel.

“Fall in love with St. Joe,” Hudson says. “We live in such
beautiful, cute town. It’s like Hallmark crafted a perfect city and we happen
to live in it. It’s called St. Joe.”

Hudson directed “Christmas at the Chateau,” shot on location
in St. Joseph. He says it now is seen all over the world.

Hudson says everyone is invited to the lighting ceremony and
all the Saturdays through December in downtown St. Joseph.

“Each year, kids come from all over, not just St. Joseph, but
Kansas City, Maryville, Savannah, Gower; they’re coming from all over the place,”
according to Hudson. “It’s really fun. We’re actually going to have great
weather this weekend. So, people sing, the lighting ceremony, the fireworks. It
really is made for families.”

Hudson says there is a special Winter Wonderland set erected
for the season.

“We’ve got mountains. We’ve got Christmas trees. We’ve got
lights. We’ll even have elves there this year,” Hudson says. “It’s just a lot
of fun. All the restaurants, the eateries; there’s so much to do. And, I think a
lot of people forget the wonderful food that’s downtown.”

The lighting ceremony tonight begins with live music at 5:30.
Carriage rides actually begin at five o’clock. There will be a Holiday Pop Up
Market, special window displays by downtown merchants who will have specials
for Small Business Saturday.

Santa Claus and the Winter Princess will also be featured on
Saturdays in downtown St. Joseph leading up to Christmas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637941855160.jpeg" alt="Downtown St. Joseph/file photo" />
 <figcaption>Downtown St. Joseph/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostDowntown St. Joseph kicks off the Christmas shopping season in
a big way this weekend.Christy George with the Downtown St. Joseph Association says
the Lighting Ceremony tonight at Coleman Hawkins Park will feature live music,
even fireworks.“We did fireworks last year and we had so much positive
feedback from it that we definitely are bringing it back again this year,”
George tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.Film maker Jason Hudson will be involved, saying downtown St.
Joseph is an under-appreciated jewel.“Fall in love with St. Joe,” Hudson says. “We live in such
beautiful, cute town. It’s like Hallmark crafted a perfect city and we happen
to live in it. It’s called St. Joe.”Hudson directed “Christmas at the Chateau,” shot on location
in St. Joseph. He says it now is seen all over the world.Hudson says everyone is invited to the lighting ceremony and
all the Saturdays through December in downtown St. Joseph.“Each year, kids come from all over, not just St. Joseph, but
Kansas City, Maryville, Savannah, Gower; they’re coming from all over the place,”
according to Hudson. “It’s really fun. We’re actually going to have great
weather this weekend. So, people sing, the lighting ceremony, the fireworks. It
really is made for families.”Hudson says there is a special Winter Wonderland set erected
for the season.“We’ve got mountains. We’ve got Christmas trees. We’ve got
lights. We’ll even have elves there this year,” Hudson says. “It’s just a lot
of fun. All the restaurants, the eateries; there’s so much to do. And, I think a
lot of people forget the wonderful food that’s downtown.”The lighting ceremony tonight begins with live music at 5:30.
Carriage rides actually begin at five o’clock. There will be a Holiday Pop Up
Market, special window displays by downtown merchants who will have specials
for Small Business Saturday.Santa Claus and the Winter Princess will also be featured on
Saturdays in downtown St. Joseph leading up to Christmas.

Downtown St. Joseph hosts Christmas lighting ceremony tonight

Shop St. Joseph encourages local consumers to stay home.

St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce Senior Vice President Natalie
Redmond says participating merchants hand out tickets to shoppers, up to 100
tickets per purchase depending on the amount spent. The winning ticket receives
$10,000.

“So, it’s really designed to be a way to encourage folks to
shop during the holidays and keep those dollars local to support our local economy,”
Redmond tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.

Redmond says the Chamber has watched the program grow over the
years.

“We have seen the program grow significantly since it started,”
Redmond says. “The number of tickets has really grown. The first year we gave
out 40,000 tickets. This last year, we gave out over two million tickets.”

Many retailers count on Black Friday and sales during the Christmas
season to get them into the black for the year. That might be even more
important this year, a year after COVID-19 restrictions and fears kept some
consumers from venturing out.

Redmond says it’s difficult to forecast sales this year.

“You know, it’s hard to tell,” Redmond says. “Consumer
confidence isn’t necessarily back the way that it should be or we would like it
to be, but we sure hope that people will find a way within their comfort level to
shop local. A lot more of our local merchants give unique shopping experiences
where you can pre-order something or order online where that may not have been
a thing prior to the pandemic.”

Redmond says while it’s difficult to predict what type of year
this will be, most St. Joseph retailers feel optimistic with their online
offerings a bit more prominent that usual.

“So, there are definite ways that you can still support local even
if you don’t feel comfortable going into a crowded store,” Redmond says.

Shop St. Joseph will draw the winning ticket on December 20th.

By BRENT MARTIN and TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostShop St. Joseph encourages local consumers to stay home.St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce Senior Vice President Natalie
Redmond says participating merchants hand out tickets to shoppers, up to 100
tickets per purchase depending on the amount spent. The winning ticket receives
$10,000.“So, it’s really designed to be a way to encourage folks to
shop during the holidays and keep those dollars local to support our local economy,”
Redmond tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.Redmond says the Chamber has watched the program grow over the
years.“We have seen the program grow significantly since it started,”
Redmond says. “The number of tickets has really grown. The first year we gave
out 40,000 tickets. This last year, we gave out over two million tickets.”Many retailers count on Black Friday and sales during the Christmas
season to get them into the black for the year. That might be even more
important this year, a year after COVID-19 restrictions and fears kept some
consumers from venturing out.Redmond says it’s difficult to forecast sales this year.“You know, it’s hard to tell,” Redmond says. “Consumer
confidence isn’t necessarily back the way that it should be or we would like it
to be, but we sure hope that people will find a way within their comfort level to
shop local. A lot more of our local merchants give unique shopping experiences
where you can pre-order something or order online where that may not have been
a thing prior to the pandemic.”Redmond says while it’s difficult to predict what type of year
this will be, most St. Joseph retailers feel optimistic with their online
offerings a bit more prominent that usual.“So, there are definite ways that you can still support local even
if you don’t feel comfortable going into a crowded store,” Redmond says.Shop St. Joseph will draw the winning ticket on December 20th.

Shop St. Joseph moves into Black Friday

St.
Joseph health officials report 101 new cases of the coronavirus with Mosaic
Life Care reporting COVID-19 hospitalizations in its system have topped 40.

The
St. Joseph Health Department reports 55 new cases on Tuesday and 46 Wednesday.
The department released its official report early, due to City Hall being closed Thursday and Friday for the Thanksgiving
holiday.

The
department also reported another coronavirus-related death, a man in his 60s.

The
cumulative total of COVID-19 cases in Buchanan County since the pandemic began
has topped 16,000; now at 16,013. Buchanan County has recorded a total of 225
deaths.

The
county coronavirus positivity rate stands at 10.68%.

Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating 44 COVID-19 patients in its system as of Thursday morning; 38 in St.
Joseph and six in Maryville.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt.
Joseph health officials report 101 new cases of the coronavirus with Mosaic
Life Care reporting COVID-19 hospitalizations in its system have topped 40.The
St. Joseph Health Department reports 55 new cases on Tuesday and 46 Wednesday.
The department released its official report early, due to City Hall being closed Thursday and Friday for the Thanksgiving
holiday.The
department also reported another coronavirus-related death, a man in his 60s.The
cumulative total of COVID-19 cases in Buchanan County since the pandemic began
has topped 16,000; now at 16,013. Buchanan County has recorded a total of 225
deaths.The
county coronavirus positivity rate stands at 10.68%.Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating 44 COVID-19 patients in its system as of Thursday morning; 38 in St.
Joseph and six in Maryville.

St. Joseph reports 100+ new COVID-19 cases; hospitalizations top 40

An annual toy drive for needy St. Joseph children and youth wraps up its
20th year on Black Friday at East Hills Shopping Center.

Radio personality Gregg Lynn says the Christmas For Kids Toy
Drive is a little behind this year, but he believes it will end strong. Lynn
says he has been organizing the drive to serve children who wouldn’t have a
merry Christmas otherwise.

“We had a teenage boy, he was about 15 or 16, and he told us
it was the first time he had ever gotten a Christmas present, ever,” Lynn says.
“And after that this was just our mission every year to take care of these
kids. We added kids in foster care the last few years. So, we take care of
wishes for over 100 kids every year.”

The toy drive aims to provide presents to more than 100
children and youth, many from the Noyes Home.

JoeTown 107.5 has been collecting presents and money at
sponsor locations throughout St. Joseph since the first of October. Lynn will
wrap up the toy drive at East Hills, broadcasting from six in the morning until
six in the evening, on KESJ, JoeTown 107.5 FM. Donors can buy
presents, give cash, or sponsor a child. Donations benefit the Noyes Home for
Children, St. Joseph children in foster care, the YWCA, and the Adopt a Family Christmas
Program.

Lynn says the toy drive has changed over the years. The high
point, though, is the party thrown at the Knights of Columbus Hall after the
toy drive wraps up.

“One big party. It’s going to be the first week of December
and we’re going to have all these kids, all the kids from the Noyes Home, all
the kids that are in foster care, all the kids that live at the YWCA shelter,
all at one party with Santa Claus and pizza and games and a choir singing and
that’s probably the high point,” Lynn says. “They get their gifts. Every kid
gets a box with gifts in it and it’s just a ton of fun. &nbsp;From the adult point of view, not a dry eye in
the house.”

Lynn says donations have been coming for more than the past
month and you still have time to donate.

“We start the day after Halloween, but it takes a while to
take care of over 100 kids,” Lynn says “So, we start a little early and it’s
always the last minute, people are rushing around. When they’re just now
starting their Christmas shopping, I’m trying to wrap up ours.”

You can still donate, either at East Hills on Friday or online
through the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GreggLynnRadioShow">Gregg Lynn Radio Show Facebook page</a> or at the <a href="https://www.joetown1075.com/gregg-lynns-christmas-for-kids/">JoeTown 107.5 web
page</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637765874223.jpeg" alt="Donations stack up in the lobby of JoeTown 107.5, gifts for Gregg Linn's Christmas for Kids Toy Drive./Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Donations stack up in the lobby of JoeTown 107.5, gifts for Gregg Linn's Christmas for Kids Toy Drive./Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostAn annual toy drive for needy St. Joseph children and youth wraps up its
20th year on Black Friday at East Hills Shopping Center.Radio personality Gregg Lynn says the Christmas For Kids Toy
Drive is a little behind this year, but he believes it will end strong. Lynn
says he has been organizing the drive to serve children who wouldn’t have a
merry Christmas otherwise.“We had a teenage boy, he was about 15 or 16, and he told us
it was the first time he had ever gotten a Christmas present, ever,” Lynn says.
“And after that this was just our mission every year to take care of these
kids. We added kids in foster care the last few years. So, we take care of
wishes for over 100 kids every year.”The toy drive aims to provide presents to more than 100
children and youth, many from the Noyes Home.JoeTown 107.5 has been collecting presents and money at
sponsor locations throughout St. Joseph since the first of October. Lynn will
wrap up the toy drive at East Hills, broadcasting from six in the morning until
six in the evening, on KESJ, JoeTown 107.5 FM. Donors can buy
presents, give cash, or sponsor a child. Donations benefit the Noyes Home for
Children, St. Joseph children in foster care, the YWCA, and the Adopt a Family Christmas
Program.Lynn says the toy drive has changed over the years. The high
point, though, is the party thrown at the Knights of Columbus Hall after the
toy drive wraps up.“One big party. It’s going to be the first week of December
and we’re going to have all these kids, all the kids from the Noyes Home, all
the kids that are in foster care, all the kids that live at the YWCA shelter,
all at one party with Santa Claus and pizza and games and a choir singing and
that’s probably the high point,” Lynn says. “They get their gifts. Every kid
gets a box with gifts in it and it’s just a ton of fun. &nbsp;From the adult point of view, not a dry eye in
the house.”Lynn says donations have been coming for more than the past
month and you still have time to donate.“We start the day after Halloween, but it takes a while to
take care of over 100 kids,” Lynn says “So, we start a little early and it’s
always the last minute, people are rushing around. When they’re just now
starting their Christmas shopping, I’m trying to wrap up ours.”You can still donate, either at East Hills on Friday or online
through the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GreggLynnRadioShow">Gregg Lynn Radio Show Facebook page</a> or at the <a href="https://www.joetown1075.com/gregg-lynns-christmas-for-kids/">JoeTown 107.5 web
page</a>.

Annual toy drive for needy St. Joseph youth wrapping up; still time to give

Across the United States food costs are continuing to rise as the ongoing supply shortage rages on, and that is going to affect your Thanksgiving meal.

Missouri Farm Bureau President Garrett Hawkins says the American Farm Bureau does a study every year on the staples of the Thanksgiving meal.

Hawkins says as food prices overall are up across the board, when it comes to your Thanksgiving feast, it's going to be that prized turkey that will cost you the most.

"Costs are up across the board when we look at inflationary pressure as well as continued disruptions in the supply chain," Hawkins tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So one part, the major staple of the Thanksgiving meal, the turkey, costs are up which ultimately then impacts the average cost per meal."

This years study by the American Farm Bureau showed that the cost of a Thanksgiving meal for ten people rose 14-percent, or about six dollars and forty one cents a person.

Garrett Hawkins says though that food prices across the board are rising, not just the items needed for the Thanksgiving meal.

Hawkins says one big thing causing the inflation is the ongoing supply chain shortage, but there are also other factors that are playing into the rise in food costs, like the price of fuel.

"As you think about processing and ultimately delivering goods to the supermarket energy is a part of that, and so energy costs are ultimately incorporated into the prices that we are paying at the grocery store as well," Hawkins says. "So there isn't one specific point." 

Hawkins says with those other factors playing into the rise, it's hard to come up with a timeline of when we might see costs return to normal.

As consumers complain everyday about the costs of their food going up, there are some people they might not think about it affecting. 

Missouri Farm Bureau President Garrett Hawkins says that recent inflations are also taking a toll on the farmers and ranchers that produce the items going to the grocery stores.

"We're paying more for everything we touch as well," Hawkins says. "You know agriculture is an energy intensive business, and everything we touch is virtually tied to energy, so as fuel prices go up, so do our input costs." 

Hawkins says farmers and ranchers are seeing rising prices on fertilizer, input costs and costs of farm equipment and parts as they see continued disruptions in the supply chain crisis.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostAcross the United States food costs are continuing to rise as the ongoing supply shortage rages on, and that is going to affect your Thanksgiving meal.Missouri Farm Bureau President Garrett Hawkins says the American Farm Bureau does a study every year on the staples of the Thanksgiving meal.Hawkins says as food prices overall are up across the board, when it comes to your Thanksgiving feast, it's going to be that prized turkey that will cost you the most."Costs are up across the board when we look at inflationary pressure as well as continued disruptions in the supply chain," Hawkins tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So one part, the major staple of the Thanksgiving meal, the turkey, costs are up which ultimately then impacts the average cost per meal."This years study by the American Farm Bureau showed that the cost of a Thanksgiving meal for ten people rose 14-percent, or about six dollars and forty one cents a person.Garrett Hawkins says though that food prices across the board are rising, not just the items needed for the Thanksgiving meal.Hawkins says one big thing causing the inflation is the ongoing supply chain shortage, but there are also other factors that are playing into the rise in food costs, like the price of fuel."As you think about processing and ultimately delivering goods to the supermarket energy is a part of that, and so energy costs are ultimately incorporated into the prices that we are paying at the grocery store as well," Hawkins says. "So there isn't one specific point." Hawkins says with those other factors playing into the rise, it's hard to come up with a timeline of when we might see costs return to normal.As consumers complain everyday about the costs of their food going up, there are some people they might not think about it affecting. Missouri Farm Bureau President Garrett Hawkins says that recent inflations are also taking a toll on the farmers and ranchers that produce the items going to the grocery stores."We're paying more for everything we touch as well," Hawkins says. "You know agriculture is an energy intensive business, and everything we touch is virtually tied to energy, so as fuel prices go up, so do our input costs." Hawkins says farmers and ranchers are seeing rising prices on fertilizer, input costs and costs of farm equipment and parts as they see continued disruptions in the supply chain crisis.

Ongoing supply shortages continue making food costs rise, including your Thanksgiving meal

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a suspect for alleged sex crimes have moved him to a jail in Kansas.

On November 17, U.S. Marshals arrested Cameron J. Johnson, 19, Atchison, in Kansas City Missouri on an Atchison District Court warrant for indecent liberties with a child, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

The U.S. Marshal’s Service had been assisting Atchison Police detectives locating Johnson. Atchison Police had initiated an investigation on October 18 that focused on a victim under the age of 16 which led to the warrant for Johnson. 

He was taken to the Jackson County Missouri jail on November 17, and transported to the Atchison County Jail on Monday. He is being held on a bond set at $75,000, according to Wilson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637681768810.png" alt="Johnson-photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Johnson-photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a suspect for alleged sex crimes have moved him to a jail in Kansas.On November 17, U.S. Marshals arrested Cameron J. Johnson, 19, Atchison, in Kansas City Missouri on an Atchison District Court warrant for indecent liberties with a child, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.The U.S. Marshal’s Service had been assisting Atchison Police detectives locating Johnson. Atchison Police had initiated an investigation on October 18 that focused on a victim under the age of 16 which led to the warrant for Johnson. He was taken to the Jackson County Missouri jail on November 17, and transported to the Atchison County Jail on Monday. He is being held on a bond set at $75,000, according to Wilson.

U.S. Marshals track down Kansas child sex crime suspect

Interim Fire Chief Kenny Cordonnier, who has been Chief of
Fire Prevention the past nine years, has been promoted to Fire Chief, succeeding
Mike Dalsing, who retired this summer.

“Well, it’s a little overwhelming to start with,” Cordonnier
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “I’ve been doing it since June when Chief Dalsing
retired. It kind of briefly puts the weight of the world on your shoulders for
just a bit. There’s a lot of people that expect a lot out of me and I don’t plan
on letting anybody down.”

Cordonnier didn’t even apply for the job. City Manager Bryan
Carter says as the search continued it became apparent Cordonnier checked all
the boxes.

Cordonnier has been with the department for 39 years.

He views this promotion as an opportunity to help the 130
employees of the department develop professionally.

“I don’t know how to say it exactly, but I’m very dedicated to
these guys, the men and women of this department, and I wholeheartedly support
their efforts,” Cordonnier says.

Cordonnier says as Fire Chief he is responsible for the employees
of the department and accountable to the residents of St. Joseph.

“Lead a great bunch of men and women and do the very best you
can for them. And while you’re doing that you have to be responsible with
taxpayer dollars and that’s what this is about.”

More than 30 people applied for the position.

The St. Joseph Fire Department has 130 employees who operate out
of 11 companies at nine fire stations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637697512637.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Fire Chief Kenny Cordonnier/Photo courtesy of the City of St. Joseph" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Fire Chief Kenny Cordonnier/Photo courtesy of the City of St. Joseph</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph has a new Fire Chief.And, he’s a familiar face.Interim Fire Chief Kenny Cordonnier, who has been Chief of
Fire Prevention the past nine years, has been promoted to Fire Chief, succeeding
Mike Dalsing, who retired this summer.Cordonnier says he has a big task ahead.“Well, it’s a little overwhelming to start with,” Cordonnier
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “I’ve been doing it since June when Chief Dalsing
retired. It kind of briefly puts the weight of the world on your shoulders for
just a bit. There’s a lot of people that expect a lot out of me and I don’t plan
on letting anybody down.”Cordonnier didn’t even apply for the job. City Manager Bryan
Carter says as the search continued it became apparent Cordonnier checked all
the boxes.Cordonnier has been with the department for 39 years.He views this promotion as an opportunity to help the 130
employees of the department develop professionally.“I don’t know how to say it exactly, but I’m very dedicated to
these guys, the men and women of this department, and I wholeheartedly support
their efforts,” Cordonnier says.Cordonnier says as Fire Chief he is responsible for the employees
of the department and accountable to the residents of St. Joseph.“Lead a great bunch of men and women and do the very best you
can for them. And while you’re doing that you have to be responsible with
taxpayer dollars and that’s what this is about.”More than 30 people applied for the position.The St. Joseph Fire Department has 130 employees who operate out
of 11 companies at nine fire stations.

St. Joseph names veteran firefighter as new Fire Chief

Thanksgiving is drawing near and food safety is top of mind, not only for people preparing the meal, but also their pets.

Veterinarian Melanie Barnes with Friends of the Animal Shelter says that as you work to prepare your meal this holiday, as your pets wander around the kitchen, you should be sure to keep their safety in mind.

"Thanksgiving is coming up, and if your pets are around in the kitchen like mine are and yours are, just make sure we're keeping their health and safety top of mind," Barnes tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.

Barnes says that salmonella can drastically affect your pets’ health.

"Making sure you're using good hand hygiene and washing your hands before turning around and petting your pet or giving love to your pet, or even giving them a treat," Barnes says.

Barnes adds one other big concern for pets along with salmonella is E coli.

Barnes says that Thanksgiving is filled with those fatty rich foods, like turkey and gravy, and while they aren't truly toxic to pets, they still could have negative effects. 

"Just the rich fatty foods, pets don't break down fatty acids like we do, both cats and dogs and other pets," Barnes explains.  "So that can yield to a lot of GI diseases, upset tummies, things like pancreatitis, which is inflammation of your pancreas," Barnes says.

Inflammation of the pancreas could not only be painful for the pet and cost you lots of money in treatment, in some cases it could also be deadly.

Some foods around your home may not be good for your pets, and others can be very toxic for them.  

Barnes says to be sure to do your own research to know what foods your animals can and cannot have, because you might be surprised by what foods that aren’t appropriate for pets.

"There are numerous ones that you think are not toxic to us, but grapes and raisins are probably one of the top ones that are probably in the house, especially if you have kids because kids love grapes mind you, and they're very easy to roll off of the plate, onto the floor," Barnes says.

Barnes also says as more people try to eat healthy and turn to sugar-free foods, but those foods are not safe for pets, because they contain Xylitol which is toxic to pets.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThanksgiving is drawing near and food safety is top of mind, not only for people preparing the meal, but also their pets.Veterinarian Melanie Barnes with Friends of the Animal Shelter says that as you work to prepare your meal this holiday, as your pets wander around the kitchen, you should be sure to keep their safety in mind."Thanksgiving is coming up, and if your pets are around in the kitchen like mine are and yours are, just make sure we're keeping their health and safety top of mind," Barnes tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.Barnes says that salmonella can drastically affect your pets’ health."Making sure you're using good hand hygiene and washing your hands before turning around and petting your pet or giving love to your pet, or even giving them a treat," Barnes says.Barnes adds one other big concern for pets along with salmonella is E coli.Barnes says that Thanksgiving is filled with those fatty rich foods, like turkey and gravy, and while they aren't truly toxic to pets, they still could have negative effects. "Just the rich fatty foods, pets don't break down fatty acids like we do, both cats and dogs and other pets," Barnes explains. "So that can yield to a lot of GI diseases, upset tummies, things like pancreatitis, which is inflammation of your pancreas," Barnes says.Inflammation of the pancreas could not only be painful for the pet and cost you lots of money in treatment, in some cases it could also be deadly.Some foods around your home may not be good for your pets, and others can be very toxic for them. Barnes says to be sure to do your own research to know what foods your animals can and cannot have, because you might be surprised by what foods that aren’t appropriate for pets."There are numerous ones that you think are not toxic to us, but grapes and raisins are probably one of the top ones that are probably in the house, especially if you have kids because kids love grapes mind you, and they're very easy to roll off of the plate, onto the floor," Barnes says.Barnes also says as more people try to eat healthy and turn to sugar-free foods, but those foods are not safe for pets, because they contain Xylitol which is toxic to pets.

Think about your pets as you prepare this year's Thanksgiving feast

A
measure that would give local communities more flexibility in using federal
block grant funding to expand broadband has passed the House in Washington and
moves to the Senate.

Northern
Missouri Congressman Sam Graves sponsors the E-BRIDGE legislation and has high
hopes it will move through the Senate and onto President Joe Biden’s desk.

“I’m
pretty optimistic that we’re going to finally get this done this year,” Graves
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “It’s a very bipartisan bill.”

E-BRIDGE
would allow local communities to use Economic Development Act funds to extend
Internet access to hard-to-reach households.

“And
it doesn’t create a new government program,” Graves says. “What it does is it
helps communities use existing Economic Development Act funds to build out that
so-called last mile of Internet infrastructure.”

It
has been dubbed the last mile of Internet connection, because of the expense of
expanding broadband to remote locations with few residents.

E-BRIDGE,
according to Graves, eliminates barriers to use federal economic development
dollars to invest in broadband to remote areas, allows for public-private
partnerships to extend Internet connections, provides flexibility in the
procurement process as well as accounting procedures to allow in-kind
contributions to count as matching funds.

Graves
says some communities have been left behind in the current economy, because
they lack a reliable broadband connection.

“Some
of our folks that are in rural areas, it’s very expensive to get good Internet
out to some of those remote areas,” Graves says. “So, this is going to help.”

Graves
is optimistic it can pass the Senate, especially since it is bipartisan
legislation.

“In
the Senate it is more about scheduling time than it is anything else,”
according to Graves. “As long as they have the time to be able to get to it and
there’s so many things that are piling up over in the Senate. If it is brought up,
there’s no doubt in my mind that it’ll pass.”

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA
measure that would give local communities more flexibility in using federal
block grant funding to expand broadband has passed the House in Washington and
moves to the Senate.Northern
Missouri Congressman Sam Graves sponsors the E-BRIDGE legislation and has high
hopes it will move through the Senate and onto President Joe Biden’s desk.“I’m
pretty optimistic that we’re going to finally get this done this year,” Graves
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “It’s a very bipartisan bill.”E-BRIDGE
would allow local communities to use Economic Development Act funds to extend
Internet access to hard-to-reach households.“And
it doesn’t create a new government program,” Graves says. “What it does is it
helps communities use existing Economic Development Act funds to build out that
so-called last mile of Internet infrastructure.”It
has been dubbed the last mile of Internet connection, because of the expense of
expanding broadband to remote locations with few residents.E-BRIDGE,
according to Graves, eliminates barriers to use federal economic development
dollars to invest in broadband to remote areas, allows for public-private
partnerships to extend Internet connections, provides flexibility in the
procurement process as well as accounting procedures to allow in-kind
contributions to count as matching funds.Graves
says some communities have been left behind in the current economy, because
they lack a reliable broadband connection.“Some
of our folks that are in rural areas, it’s very expensive to get good Internet
out to some of those remote areas,” Graves says. “So, this is going to help.”Graves
is optimistic it can pass the Senate, especially since it is bipartisan
legislation.“In
the Senate it is more about scheduling time than it is anything else,”
according to Graves. “As long as they have the time to be able to get to it and
there’s so many things that are piling up over in the Senate. If it is brought up,
there’s no doubt in my mind that it’ll pass.”

Relaxed rules could help expand Internet to hard-to-reach areas

Highway 36 toward downtown St. Joseph reopened shortly after
six o’clock this morning, after being shutdown overnight when a
semi-tractor trailer overturned, blocking both westbound lanes.

A St. Joseph police officer was injured in a related crash
within the hour of the truck overturning.

St. Joseph police report a semi-tractor trailer overturned in
the west-bound lanes of Highway 36 near South 10th Street around
midnight. The wreck blocked both westbound lanes for more than six hours. The
westbound lanes of 36 reopened around 6:20 this morning. The truck driver was
not injured.

About 45 minutes after the truck overturned, a vehicle
traveling west on Highway 36 ran into an occupied St. Joseph police car that
was parked near the 22nd Street exit, emergency lights flashing, to warn
drivers of the wreck. It is not believed the officer was seriously injured, but she was
taken to the hospital for examination.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostHighway 36 toward downtown St. Joseph reopened shortly after
six o’clock this morning, after being shutdown overnight when a
semi-tractor trailer overturned, blocking both westbound lanes.A St. Joseph police officer was injured in a related crash
within the hour of the truck overturning.St. Joseph police report a semi-tractor trailer overturned in
the west-bound lanes of Highway 36 near South 10th Street around
midnight. The wreck blocked both westbound lanes for more than six hours. The
westbound lanes of 36 reopened around 6:20 this morning. The truck driver was
not injured.About 45 minutes after the truck overturned, a vehicle
traveling west on Highway 36 ran into an occupied St. Joseph police car that
was parked near the 22nd Street exit, emergency lights flashing, to warn
drivers of the wreck. It is not believed the officer was seriously injured, but she was
taken to the hospital for examination.The driver of the vehicle was not injured, but was issued a
citation for careless driving.

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