Workforce development remains a big need in St. Joseph and a
major focus of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber President Patt Lilly says a lack of skilled workers is
a crying need across the country, not just in northwest Missouri. And Lilly
adds some of that need is filled when laborers notice a little more training
might add quite a bit to their paycheck.

“Maybe a guy working on the manufacturing line, doing a lower-pay
job, decides, you know that welder looks like he does pretty well. He’s got a
new pick-up out in the parking lot. Maybe I’ll learn to be a welder, right?”
Lilly says.

Lilly says a more concerted effort is being pushed by the
Chamber. He says the St. Joseph School District is working with North Central Missouri
College and Missouri Western State University to offer more skill-based
training.

Lilly says the Chamber hopes to help by expanding the
apprenticeship program at Hillyard Technical Center that matches high school
students with local businesses.

“Getting some training and education; that training and education
begins at Hillyard and they go practice that if you well at various entities,”
according to Lilly. “We now have 22 employers in the community that are part of
our apprentice program. It’s the largest in the state.”

Lilly says many St. Joseph businesses could expand, if they
had enough skilled workers. Lilly says the demand for labor has driven up
salaries in the area, making the St. Joseph area the third or fourth
highest-paying community in Missouri.

“Today in St. Joseph there are good jobs available. They go wanting
if you will,” Lilly says. “I think that trend will just continue.”

Lilly says Kansas City and St. Louis lead the state in worker
compensation with St. Joseph and Columbia vying for the third spot.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostWorkforce development remains a big need in St. Joseph and a
major focus of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce.Chamber President Patt Lilly says a lack of skilled workers is
a crying need across the country, not just in northwest Missouri. And Lilly
adds some of that need is filled when laborers notice a little more training
might add quite a bit to their paycheck.“Maybe a guy working on the manufacturing line, doing a lower-pay
job, decides, you know that welder looks like he does pretty well. He’s got a
new pick-up out in the parking lot. Maybe I’ll learn to be a welder, right?”
Lilly says.Lilly says a more concerted effort is being pushed by the
Chamber. He says the St. Joseph School District is working with North Central Missouri
College and Missouri Western State University to offer more skill-based
training.Lilly says the Chamber hopes to help by expanding the
apprenticeship program at Hillyard Technical Center that matches high school
students with local businesses.“Getting some training and education; that training and education
begins at Hillyard and they go practice that if you well at various entities,”
according to Lilly. “We now have 22 employers in the community that are part of
our apprentice program. It’s the largest in the state.”Lilly says many St. Joseph businesses could expand, if they
had enough skilled workers. Lilly says the demand for labor has driven up
salaries in the area, making the St. Joseph area the third or fourth
highest-paying community in Missouri.“Today in St. Joseph there are good jobs available. They go wanting
if you will,” Lilly says. “I think that trend will just continue.”Lilly says Kansas City and St. Louis lead the state in worker
compensation with St. Joseph and Columbia vying for the third spot.

St. Joseph has "Help Wanted" sign out

Missouri Western State University has been seeking candidates to fill their vacant athletic director position since late July.

They’ve narrowed their list down to three candidates.

Each of the three candidates now go before the community this week to make their pitch for the job. The first candidate to speak Monday was  Rachel Burleson, who’s currently the A.D. at Division II Franklin Pierce University in New Hampshire.

She previously served at MIAA schools Missouri Southern as the associate A.D. for compliance and internal operations and at Northwest Missouri State as the assistant softball coach. Burleson says her Interest in the MWSU job is two-fold.

 "Having been a competitor in the same league and having respect for the MIAA," she said, "and just the amount of, just as an outsider looking in, what Missouri Western has to offer. And again, having competed against them and knowing their student-athletes and the student-athletes they bring have been tremendous."

St. Joseph is also closer to home for Burleson after spending five years in New England. Though from Texas, she has relatives in Missouri.

Burleson says  the A.D. job, to her, is more than just wins and losses. She wants to win, but also wants the university to focus on the retention of student athletes.

"Are we giving them the experience they deserve?" Burleson said. "Are we making them feel, for what they give us, which is a tremendous amount of time and effort and intelligent people, are we giving them what they deserve? So, I think it's about the experience and the community aspect and teaching them so we know that when they graduate, they're going to be successful in no matter what career that is."

If hired, Burleson says her job as A.D. would be to hire the right coaches who will recruit the best athletes.

"So, my job is to make sure we have the right people in place to do that," she said. "It's also my job to make sure the community understands our worth and what we give. It's not just about the institution. It's not just about the athletic department, but what can we give to the university and what can we give to the St. Joseph area to make sure they understand our value and what we bring to the area."

The other two candidates, Illinois State's executive associate athletic director for external affairs Dwight Merilatt will speak Tuesday, while South Dakota School of Mines A.D. Joel Lueken will speak Thursday.

These forums take place at the Fulkerson Center from noon - 1 p.m.

Missouri Western's athletic director job was left open by Josh Looney, who left at the end of August to become the A.D. at Division I University of North Alabama.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634003564494.jpeg" alt="Rachel Burleson. Photo by Brent Martin." />
 <figcaption>Rachel Burleson. Photo by Brent Martin.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZAC and BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University has been seeking candidates to fill their vacant athletic director position since late July.They’ve narrowed their list down to three candidates.Each of the three candidates now go before the community this week to make their pitch for the job. The first candidate to speak Monday was Rachel Burleson, who’s currently the A.D. at Division II Franklin Pierce University in New Hampshire.She previously served at MIAA schools Missouri Southern as the associate A.D. for compliance and internal operations and at Northwest Missouri State as the assistant softball coach. Burleson says her Interest in the MWSU job is two-fold. "Having been a competitor in the same league and having respect for the MIAA," she said, "and just the amount of, just as an outsider looking in, what Missouri Western has to offer. And again, having competed against them and knowing their student-athletes and the student-athletes they bring have been tremendous."St. Joseph is also closer to home for Burleson after spending five years in New England. Though from Texas, she has relatives in Missouri.Burleson says the A.D. job, to her, is more than just wins and losses. She wants to win, but also wants the university to focus on the retention of student athletes."Are we giving them the experience they deserve?" Burleson said. "Are we making them feel, for what they give us, which is a tremendous amount of time and effort and intelligent people, are we giving them what they deserve? So, I think it's about the experience and the community aspect and teaching them so we know that when they graduate, they're going to be successful in no matter what career that is."If hired, Burleson says her job as A.D. would be to hire the right coaches who will recruit the best athletes."So, my job is to make sure we have the right people in place to do that," she said. "It's also my job to make sure the community understands our worth and what we give. It's not just about the institution. It's not just about the athletic department, but what can we give to the university and what can we give to the St. Joseph area to make sure they understand our value and what we bring to the area."The other two candidates, Illinois State's executive associate athletic director for external affairs Dwight Merilatt will speak Tuesday, while South Dakota School of Mines A.D. Joel Lueken will speak Thursday.These forums take place at the Fulkerson Center from noon - 1 p.m.Missouri Western's athletic director job was left open by Josh Looney, who left at the end of August to become the A.D. at Division I University of North Alabama.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Franklin Pierce A.D. Rachel Burleson hopes to become MWSU's next A.D.

PLATTE COUNTY—Two men were injured in an accident just after 1p.m. Monday in Platte County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Honda Civic driven by Jason A. Squires, 41, Kansas City, was southbound on Interstate 29 at 112th Street.&nbsp; The driver lost control of the Honda and it struck a&nbsp; southbound 2020 Acura MPV driven by Paul M. Houseman, 54, Parkville. Both vehicles then struck the bridge barrier.

EMS transported Houseman to North Kansas City Hospital. Squires was seeking his own treatment for a minor injury. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

PLATTE COUNTY—Two men were injured in an accident just after 1p.m. Monday in Platte County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Honda Civic driven by Jason A. Squires, 41, Kansas City, was southbound on Interstate 29 at 112th Street.&nbsp; The driver lost control of the Honda and it struck a&nbsp; southbound 2020 Acura MPV driven by Paul M. Houseman, 54, Parkville. Both vehicles then struck the bridge barrier.EMS transported Houseman to North Kansas City Hospital. Squires was seeking his own treatment for a minor injury. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

2 injured after vehicles collide and strike bridge barrier

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple requested charges after a weekend arrest, according to Police Mike Wilson.

On Saturday, police arrested Lance A. Gasper, 36, Atchison, on District Court warrants for failure to appear in court and a Community Corrections detain order for violation of bond conditions. 

He remains in the Atchison County Jail, according to Wilson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633964089440.png" alt="Gaspar photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Gaspar photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple requested charges after a weekend arrest, according to Police Mike Wilson.On Saturday, police arrested Lance A. Gasper, 36, Atchison, on District Court warrants for failure to appear in court and a Community Corrections detain order for violation of bond conditions. He remains in the Atchison County Jail, according to Wilson.

Kansas man jailed for alleged violation of bond conditions

DEKALB COUNTY— A Missouri teen was injured in an accident just after 7a.m. Monday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 GMC SUV driven by a 16-year-old girl from Cameron was southbound on SE Irwin Road five miles northwest of Cameron.

The SUV traveled off the road and overturned in a creek.

A private vehicle transported the teen to Cameron Regional Medical Center. She was wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY— A Missouri teen was injured in an accident just after 7a.m. Monday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 GMC SUV driven by a 16-year-old girl from Cameron was southbound on SE Irwin Road five miles northwest of Cameron.The SUV traveled off the road and overturned in a creek.A private vehicle transported the teen to Cameron Regional Medical Center. She was wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Cameron teen hospitalized after SUV overturns in a creek

St. Joseph holds its annual free flu clinic at the Civic Arena
Tuesday, with a twist.

The St. Joseph Health Department will also be providing free
COVID-19 vaccine shots along with free flu shots from 9-to-noon, while supplies
last.

Buchanan County has seen a steady decline in its COVID-19
positivity rate. Health Department spokeswoman Stephanie Malita cautions though
against reading too much into the decline of the positivity rate to around five
percent.

“That is just reflective of the number of people who are
getting tested,” Malita tells St. Joseph Post. “The numbers within that number of
people who are positive for COVID-19 have gone down, but there are still a good
number of people in our community who are not getting tested that are positive
for COVID-19.”

&nbsp;Still, coronavirus cases
and hospitalizations have finally been trending in the right direction. Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating 15 COVID-19 patients in its system; 14 in St.
Joseph and one in Maryville.

Malita says the coronavirus pandemic last year kept many
people from getting their flu shots. She says the health department hopes that
changes this year.

The health department will be giving Pfizer coronavirus shots,
all three. Any county resident who hasn’t received their first shot can at the
flu clinic. Second shots of Pfizer and the Pfizer booster also will be
available, for free.

A bit more than a third of Buchanan County residents have
received their COVID-19 vaccinations.

Malita says the seven-week downward trend of COVID cases and
hospitalizations should be attributed to a host of reasons.

“Every mitigation layer helps,” Malita says. “So, if we’re maintaining
distance and wearing a mask and being vaccinated and staying home when we don’t
feel well, all those things combined are what’s going to keep that positivity rate
low and keep our community healthy.”

Again, the flu shot and the coronavirus vaccine will be
available for free to Buchanan County residents between nine and noon while
supplies last at the Civic Arena in downtown St. Joseph on Tuesday.

By BRENT MARTIN and MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph holds its annual free flu clinic at the Civic Arena
Tuesday, with a twist.The St. Joseph Health Department will also be providing free
COVID-19 vaccine shots along with free flu shots from 9-to-noon, while supplies
last.Buchanan County has seen a steady decline in its COVID-19
positivity rate. Health Department spokeswoman Stephanie Malita cautions though
against reading too much into the decline of the positivity rate to around five
percent.“That is just reflective of the number of people who are
getting tested,” Malita tells St. Joseph Post. “The numbers within that number of
people who are positive for COVID-19 have gone down, but there are still a good
number of people in our community who are not getting tested that are positive
for COVID-19.”&nbsp;Still, coronavirus cases
and hospitalizations have finally been trending in the right direction. Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating 15 COVID-19 patients in its system; 14 in St.
Joseph and one in Maryville.Malita says the coronavirus pandemic last year kept many
people from getting their flu shots. She says the health department hopes that
changes this year.The health department will be giving Pfizer coronavirus shots,
all three. Any county resident who hasn’t received their first shot can at the
flu clinic. Second shots of Pfizer and the Pfizer booster also will be
available, for free.A bit more than a third of Buchanan County residents have
received their COVID-19 vaccinations.Malita says the seven-week downward trend of COVID cases and
hospitalizations should be attributed to a host of reasons.“Every mitigation layer helps,” Malita says. “So, if we’re maintaining
distance and wearing a mask and being vaccinated and staying home when we don’t
feel well, all those things combined are what’s going to keep that positivity rate
low and keep our community healthy.”Again, the flu shot and the coronavirus vaccine will be
available for free to Buchanan County residents between nine and noon while
supplies last at the Civic Arena in downtown St. Joseph on Tuesday.

St. Joseph to provide free flu, COVID shots at Civic Arena Tuesday

St. Joseph police say a woman drove herself to the Mosaic Life
Care emergency room early this morning, suffering a single gunshot wound
to the leg.

Police say the woman arrived at the ER around 5:18 this
morning with what appears, at least preliminarily, to be a moderate wound.

The woman, who has not been identified, told police she could
not identify the shooter.

Police believe the shooting took place in the 5500 block
of Valley View Drive.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph police say a woman drove herself to the Mosaic Life
Care emergency room early this morning, suffering a single gunshot wound
to the leg.Police say the woman arrived at the ER around 5:18 this
morning with what appears, at least preliminarily, to be a moderate wound.The woman, who has not been identified, told police she could
not identify the shooter.Police believe the shooting took place in the 5500 block
of Valley View Drive.

Woman drives herself to St. Joseph ER with gunshot wound

Northern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves says Congress has
broken with tradition, imperiling the money needed for road construction.

Graves, the top Republican on the House Tansportation and Infrastructure
Committee, points out the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill now stuck in Congress
began as the extension of the transportation bill.

“I have actually supported three surface transportation,
infrastructure bills now that have been signed into law since the beginning,”
Graves tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “All three were under
Republican chairmen. All three were under both Democrat and Republican
presidents and all three were bipartisan bills.”

Graves, who has been in Congress since 2000, says the
transportation bill never topped $400 billion, until this year.

Graves says the House approach in the past was to have the top
Republicans and Democrats on the committee agree to a bill before moving it to
the full House.

“This year, they completely walk away from that process,”
according to Graves. “We had an extraordinarily partisan bill that came out of
the House committee. It was right down party lines and then it went to the
floor of the House and it was right down party lines and, again, the easiest
bill in Washington to get agreement on is highways; traditional infrastructure.”

This bill contains more than 2,500 pages. It covers more than
roads and bridges. It would spend $65 billion on broadband upgrades and $21 billion
on environmental remediation, among other additions to the traditional Surface
Transportation Reauthorization Act.

Even with those additions, even with the vastly increased
price tag, the bill would pass, according to Graves, if passage were not tied to
passage of the larger measure.

“Let’s say the bill came to the floor and it was just strictly
the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill that had all the human infrastructure and
everything in it, too. It would probably pass,” Graves says. “It would get
enough support to pass, but when they tie this $3 ½ or $4 trillion spending
proposal and tax proposal with it, again, it’s holding it hostage.”

Graves says both House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and President Joe
Biden have tied the two bills together and are holding the line on Democrats,
forcing them to accept the bills in tandem.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostNorthern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves says Congress has
broken with tradition, imperiling the money needed for road construction.Graves, the top Republican on the House Tansportation and Infrastructure
Committee, points out the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill now stuck in Congress
began as the extension of the transportation bill.“I have actually supported three surface transportation,
infrastructure bills now that have been signed into law since the beginning,”
Graves tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “All three were under
Republican chairmen. All three were under both Democrat and Republican
presidents and all three were bipartisan bills.”Graves, who has been in Congress since 2000, says the
transportation bill never topped $400 billion, until this year.Graves says the House approach in the past was to have the top
Republicans and Democrats on the committee agree to a bill before moving it to
the full House.“This year, they completely walk away from that process,”
according to Graves. “We had an extraordinarily partisan bill that came out of
the House committee. It was right down party lines and then it went to the
floor of the House and it was right down party lines and, again, the easiest
bill in Washington to get agreement on is highways; traditional infrastructure.”This bill contains more than 2,500 pages. It covers more than
roads and bridges. It would spend $65 billion on broadband upgrades and $21 billion
on environmental remediation, among other additions to the traditional Surface
Transportation Reauthorization Act.Even with those additions, even with the vastly increased
price tag, the bill would pass, according to Graves, if passage were not tied to
passage of the larger measure.“Let’s say the bill came to the floor and it was just strictly
the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill that had all the human infrastructure and
everything in it, too. It would probably pass,” Graves says. “It would get
enough support to pass, but when they tie this $3 ½ or $4 trillion spending
proposal and tax proposal with it, again, it’s holding it hostage.”Graves says both House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and President Joe
Biden have tied the two bills together and are holding the line on Democrats,
forcing them to accept the bills in tandem.

Graves says break with tradition puts road money in jeopardy

Missouri Western State University will interview three finalists for director of athletics, starting Monday.

The finalists include two current NCAA Division II athletic directors and a Division I associate athletic director.&nbsp;Missouri Western is seeking to replace Josh Looney, who left in August to become the A.D. at the DI school University of North Alabama.

Members of the community will have an opportunity to hear from each finalist during brief presentations and open forums from noon to 1 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 11, Tuesday, Oct. 12 and Thursday, Oct. 14 in the&nbsp;Fulkerson Center.

Rachel Burleson is currently the A.D. at NCAA Division II Franklin Pierce University. She previously served at fellow MIAA institutions, Missouri Southern State University, where she was the associate athletic director for compliance and internal operations and Northwest Missouri State University as the assistant softball coach. She has also served as an assistant athletic director at fellow NCAA Division II universities, Western State Colorado University, as external operations and gameday, and Oklahoma Panhandle State University, gameday and internal operations.&nbsp;

Burleson earned a bachelor's degree in exercise and sports science from Tarleton State University, a master's degree in athletic administration from Northwest Missouri State and an MBA at Franklin Pierce.

Currently, Dwight Merilatt serves as the executive associate athletic director for external affairs at NCAA Division I Illinois State University. Previously, Merilatt worked at the University of Evansville from 2007-2015 as associate athletics director for external affairs, then senior associate athletics director for external affairs, serving as the interim director of athletics in the summer of 2014. Prior to his time at Evansville, Merilatt spent six years at Eastern Kentucky University as assistant athletics director for marketing and corporate partnerships and director for development. He has also spent time as athletic development director and executive director of the Rams Athletic Association at West Chester University in Pennsylvania, and as general manager of the Tampa Bay FireStix, a women's professional softball team in Florida. Merilatt received his bachelor's degree in sports management from the University of Kentucky and his master's degree in sports administration from Eastern Kentucky University.&nbsp;

Joel Lueken has served as Athletic Director at NCAA Division II South Dakota Mines since April 2014. Lueken joined William Jewell in 2006 as athletic event management/assistant baseball coach. In 2009 Joel was named assistant athletics director and promoted again in 2012 to associate athletic director. Joel spent six years at Ellsworth Community College in Iowa Falls, Iowa, in various capacities as head baseball coach, admissions recruiter, assistant women’s basketball coach, intramural director, assistant wellness coordinator and student housing assistant. He received an associate degree from Ellsworth Community College, a bachelor’s degree from Ottawa University and a master’s degree from Northwest Missouri State University.&nbsp;

No reservations are required to participate in the community forums. Missouri Western does require the use of face coverings in all indoor public spaces.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624477037495.jpeg" alt="Former Missouri Western athletic director Josh Looney (left) and University president Elizabeth Kennedy (right) discuss the return of Chiefs' training camp earlier this year. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Former Missouri Western athletic director Josh Looney (left) and University president Elizabeth Kennedy (right) discuss the return of Chiefs' training camp earlier this year. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University will interview three finalists for director of athletics, starting Monday.The finalists include two current NCAA Division II athletic directors and a Division I associate athletic director.&nbsp;Missouri Western is seeking to replace Josh Looney, who left in August to become the A.D. at the DI school University of North Alabama.Members of the community will have an opportunity to hear from each finalist during brief presentations and open forums from noon to 1 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 11, Tuesday, Oct. 12 and Thursday, Oct. 14 in the&nbsp;Fulkerson Center.The three finalists are below.<h2>Rachel Burleson - Oct. 11</h2>Rachel Burleson is currently the A.D. at NCAA Division II Franklin Pierce University. She previously served at fellow MIAA institutions, Missouri Southern State University, where she was the associate athletic director for compliance and internal operations and Northwest Missouri State University as the assistant softball coach. She has also served as an assistant athletic director at fellow NCAA Division II universities, Western State Colorado University, as external operations and gameday, and Oklahoma Panhandle State University, gameday and internal operations.&nbsp;Burleson earned a bachelor's degree in exercise and sports science from Tarleton State University, a master's degree in athletic administration from Northwest Missouri State and an MBA at Franklin Pierce.<figure>
 <img src="https://gogriffons.com/images/2021/10/8/Burleson.jpg?width=1000" alt="Rachel Burleson." />
 <figcaption>Rachel Burleson.</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Dwight Merilatt - Oct. 12</h2>Currently, Dwight Merilatt serves as the executive associate athletic director for external affairs at NCAA Division I Illinois State University. Previously, Merilatt worked at the University of Evansville from 2007-2015 as associate athletics director for external affairs, then senior associate athletics director for external affairs, serving as the interim director of athletics in the summer of 2014. Prior to his time at Evansville, Merilatt spent six years at Eastern Kentucky University as assistant athletics director for marketing and corporate partnerships and director for development. He has also spent time as athletic development director and executive director of the Rams Athletic Association at West Chester University in Pennsylvania, and as general manager of the Tampa Bay FireStix, a women's professional softball team in Florida. Merilatt received his bachelor's degree in sports management from the University of Kentucky and his master's degree in sports administration from Eastern Kentucky University.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://gogriffons.com/images/2021/10/8/Dwight_Merilatt_head_shot_71.jpg?width=1000" alt="Dwight Merilatt" />
 <figcaption>Dwight Merilatt</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Joel Lueken - Oct. 14</h2>Joel Lueken has served as Athletic Director at NCAA Division II South Dakota Mines since April 2014. Lueken joined William Jewell in 2006 as athletic event management/assistant baseball coach. In 2009 Joel was named assistant athletics director and promoted again in 2012 to associate athletic director. Joel spent six years at Ellsworth Community College in Iowa Falls, Iowa, in various capacities as head baseball coach, admissions recruiter, assistant women’s basketball coach, intramural director, assistant wellness coordinator and student housing assistant. He received an associate degree from Ellsworth Community College, a bachelor’s degree from Ottawa University and a master’s degree from Northwest Missouri State University.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://gogriffons.com/images/2021/10/8/Lueken_71.jpg?width=1000" alt="Joel Lueken." />
 <figcaption>Joel Lueken.</figcaption>
 </figure>No reservations are required to participate in the community forums. Missouri Western does require the use of face coverings in all indoor public spaces.&nbsp;

Missouri Western to interview three finalists for A.D. job this week

NODAWAY COUNTY—Two Missouri teens were injured in an accident just after 8p.m. Saturday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1997 Chevy 1500 driven by a 17-year-old boy from Maryville was westbound on 280th at Katydid Road two miles southeast of Maryville.

The driver failed to negotiate an intersection. The vehicle crossed Katydid Road, left the road to the west and struck an embankment.

Nodaway County EMS transported two passengers identified as Jordan E. Brady, 18, Maryville, and a 15-year-old female passenger from Kansas City, MO., to Mosaic in Maryville. The driver was not injured. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY—Two Missouri teens were injured in an accident just after 8p.m. Saturday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1997 Chevy 1500 driven by a 17-year-old boy from Maryville was westbound on 280th at Katydid Road two miles southeast of Maryville.The driver failed to negotiate an intersection. The vehicle crossed Katydid Road, left the road to the west and struck an embankment.Nodaway County EMS transported two passengers identified as Jordan E. Brady, 18, Maryville, and a 15-year-old female passenger from Kansas City, MO., to Mosaic in Maryville. The driver was not injured. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

Two Missouri teens injured after Nodaway Co. crash

CALDWELL COUNTY —A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Saturday in Caldwell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Chevy passenger vehicle driven by Rhea W. Rardon, 26, Polo, was southbound and a 2018 Jeep driven by Herman L. Funk, 78, Stanberry, was northbound on MO 13 at MO 116 in Polo.

As the Jeep attempted a left turn the Chevy attempted a right turn and struck the Jeep.

Caldwell County ambulance transported a passenger in the Jeep Sherry M. Funk, 77, Stanberry, to Cameron Regional Medical Center. The drivers were not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

CALDWELL COUNTY —A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Saturday in Caldwell County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Chevy passenger vehicle driven by Rhea W. Rardon, 26, Polo, was southbound and a 2018 Jeep driven by Herman L. Funk, 78, Stanberry, was northbound on MO 13 at MO 116 in Polo.As the Jeep attempted a left turn the Chevy attempted a right turn and struck the Jeep.Caldwell County ambulance transported a passenger in the Jeep Sherry M. Funk, 77, Stanberry, to Cameron Regional Medical Center. The drivers were not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.&nbsp;

NW Missouri woman hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash

NODAWAY COUNTY— A Missouri man was injured in an accident just after 10p.m. Friday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Polaris UTV driven by Adam L. Mattison, 31, Maryville, was&nbsp; southbound on Hawk Road five miles north of Maryville.&nbsp;

The UTV began to overturn, struck a fence and the passenger identified as Phillip L. McGIlley, 60, Maryville, was ejected. Clarinda Air Evac transported McGinley to Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha.&nbsp; Mattison was not injured. They were not wearing helmets, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY— A Missouri man was injured in an accident just after 10p.m. Friday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Polaris UTV driven by Adam L. Mattison, 31, Maryville, was&nbsp; southbound on Hawk Road five miles north of Maryville.&nbsp;The UTV began to overturn, struck a fence and the passenger identified as Phillip L. McGIlley, 60, Maryville, was ejected. Clarinda Air Evac transported McGinley to Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha.&nbsp; Mattison was not injured. They were not wearing helmets, according to the MSHP.

Maryville man airlifted to hospitalized after UTV accident 

ANDREW COUNTY —A Savannah man suffered minor injuries in a rear-end accident on Interstate 229, a mile north of St. Joseph Friday evening.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Chevy Tahoe driven by Brooklyn M. Miller, 19, Wathena, Kan., was southbound on Interstate 229 one mile north of St. Joseph.

The Tahoe rear-ended a 2001 Chevy Silverado driven by Corbin R. Dryer, 21, Savannah, that was stopped in the driving lane due to an earlier accident.

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

ANDREW COUNTY —A Savannah man suffered minor injuries in a rear-end accident on Interstate 229, a mile north of St. Joseph Friday evening.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Chevy Tahoe driven by Brooklyn M. Miller, 19, Wathena, Kan., was southbound on Interstate 229 one mile north of St. Joseph.The Tahoe rear-ended a 2001 Chevy Silverado driven by Corbin R. Dryer, 21, Savannah, that was stopped in the driving lane due to an earlier accident.Andrew County EMS transported Dryer to Mosaic Life Care. Miller was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Savannah man suffers minor injuries in rear-end crash

FAUCETT - It's one of those games you look at on the schedule in the beginning of the season that you know is going to be important. You know it's going to be special.

That's exactly the case this Friday night in Faucett as No. 2 Mid -Buchanan (6-0) hosts No. 5 East Buchanan (6-0) in a battle of unbeaten KCI rivals.

The winner also takes control of their own destiny in terms of the KCI Championship and also who gets the No. 1 seed in the Class 1 District 8 bracket.

It's been a special season for both teams, but second-year head coach Daniel Ritter knows the biggest goals and the biggest games are still out there.

"We know our goals have not been met yet," Ritter told KFEQ , "and they're more at the end of the season. Now, is this a big test for us on Friday? Absolutely, but our goals are beyond that."

East Buchanan is fresh off of a 44-20 win at home over Plattsburg last Friday, having already scored wins over two other tough KCI teams in Hamilton (4-2) and West Platte.

"We were definitely glad to get out of there with a win," Ritter said of the Plattsburg game. "Plattsburg has definitely been competing. They beat North Platte and they almost beat Lawson, so we knew they were a good team for sure."

East Buchanan had a solid season last year in Ritter's first season, going 8-3 and finishing second in the district to none other than Mid-Buchanan.

Of their 51 players on the roster, only 12 are upperclassmen. But seniors Conner Musser, Luke Webb and Cru Conaway, along with juniors Carson White and Adam Stephen-Inges have provided solid leadership on both sides of the ball.

Plus, sophomore Trevor Klein has been among the very best running backs in Class 1 with 680 yards rushing and nearly 1,100 all-purpose yards as the kick return man.

Mid-Buchanan, meanwhile, seeks its fourth straight district title after finishing as state runners-up to Windsor last season. Like the Bulldogs, the Dragons started this season a bit young, losing 12 seniors and several key starters from last year's team.

But with five returning starters on both sides of the ball, and a thirst to prove that they're every bit as good as last year, Mid-Buchanan had an explosive start to the season, outscoring their first five opponents a combined 237-19.

Last week, the Dragons had their biggest test to date, going on the road to face No. 9 Hamilton. Mid-Buchanan got off to a 21-0 start and held on for a 21-19 victory.

While he was happy to get the win, seventh-year head coach Aaron Fritz wants his team to bring that same intensity and explosiveness that they've shown in the first five weeks.

"We cannot quit having great focus and great physicality and we cannot slow down our effort," Fritz said. "All three of those things have to continue for us to be a good football team, and we have to be sure we're doing that non-stop."

The Dragons are led by senior quarterback Rawlins Brant, who has accounted for 1,278 all-purpose yards and 24 all-purpose touchdowns. He also has a team-best five sacks and three fumble recoveries on defense.

Senior Cage Burns has been up front on both sides of the ball, leading the team with 36 tackles.

Even with many new players in new and bigger roles this season, Fritz says his team has never doubted and has never waivered at any point this fall.

"Our kids still believe that we can win every game," Fritz remarked. "I think that's a big deal that even when things change and turnover happens in terms of your program and numbers changing that your kids still believe in your program and are still working hard and I think that's been a big positive for us."

Needless to say, this is a huge game for both teams. Not just for this season, but just overall. Only 11 miles separate the two communities, and everyone knows everyone on either side.

The two schools see each other in every other sport every year. Usually multiple times. Mid-Buchanan has won five of the last six meetings on the gridiron, including twice last year.

East Buchanan had won 10 in a row from 2010-2017. Whatever happens Friday will be remembered for a long time, and will only make those future meetings between Mid-Buchanan and East Buchanan that much more special.

"We're right next to each other and all of these young men know each other," Ritter said. "Their parents know each other. Really, they share a community. It definitely runs deep. It allows all of these people who live in one area to come together and celebrate their teams and their players."

Kickoff in Friday's game is set for 7 p.m. Pregame starts at 6:35 and the game can be heard on KFEQ Radio (680 AM, 95.3 FM) and 680kfeqcom.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633687372821.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostFAUCETT - It's one of those games you look at on the schedule in the beginning of the season that you know is going to be important. You know it's going to be special.That's exactly the case this Friday night in Faucett as No. 2 Mid -Buchanan (6-0) hosts No. 5 East Buchanan (6-0) in a battle of unbeaten KCI rivals.The winner also takes control of their own destiny in terms of the KCI Championship and also who gets the No. 1 seed in the Class 1 District 8 bracket.It's been a special season for both teams, but second-year head coach Daniel Ritter knows the biggest goals and the biggest games are still out there."We know our goals have not been met yet," Ritter told KFEQ , "and they're more at the end of the season. Now, is this a big test for us on Friday? Absolutely, but our goals are beyond that."East Buchanan is fresh off of a 44-20 win at home over Plattsburg last Friday, having already scored wins over two other tough KCI teams in Hamilton (4-2) and West Platte."We were definitely glad to get out of there with a win," Ritter said of the Plattsburg game. "Plattsburg has definitely been competing. They beat North Platte and they almost beat Lawson, so we knew they were a good team for sure."East Buchanan had a solid season last year in Ritter's first season, going 8-3 and finishing second in the district to none other than Mid-Buchanan.Of their 51 players on the roster, only 12 are upperclassmen. But seniors Conner Musser, Luke Webb and Cru Conaway, along with juniors Carson White and Adam Stephen-Inges have provided solid leadership on both sides of the ball.Plus, sophomore Trevor Klein has been among the very best running backs in Class 1 with 680 yards rushing and nearly 1,100 all-purpose yards as the kick return man.Mid-Buchanan, meanwhile, seeks its fourth straight district title after finishing as state runners-up to Windsor last season. Like the Bulldogs, the Dragons started this season a bit young, losing 12 seniors and several key starters from last year's team.But with five returning starters on both sides of the ball, and a thirst to prove that they're every bit as good as last year, Mid-Buchanan had an explosive start to the season, outscoring their first five opponents a combined 237-19.Last week, the Dragons had their biggest test to date, going on the road to face No. 9 Hamilton. Mid-Buchanan got off to a 21-0 start and held on for a 21-19 victory.While he was happy to get the win, seventh-year head coach Aaron Fritz wants his team to bring that same intensity and explosiveness that they've shown in the first five weeks."We cannot quit having great focus and great physicality and we cannot slow down our effort," Fritz said. "All three of those things have to continue for us to be a good football team, and we have to be sure we're doing that non-stop."The Dragons are led by senior quarterback Rawlins Brant, who has accounted for 1,278 all-purpose yards and 24 all-purpose touchdowns. He also has a team-best five sacks and three fumble recoveries on defense.Senior Cage Burns has been up front on both sides of the ball, leading the team with 36 tackles.Even with many new players in new and bigger roles this season, Fritz says his team has never doubted and has never waivered at any point this fall."Our kids still believe that we can win every game," Fritz remarked. "I think that's a big deal that even when things change and turnover happens in terms of your program and numbers changing that your kids still believe in your program and are still working hard and I think that's been a big positive for us."Needless to say, this is a huge game for both teams. Not just for this season, but just overall. Only 11 miles separate the two communities, and everyone knows everyone on either side.The two schools see each other in every other sport every year. Usually multiple times. Mid-Buchanan has won five of the last six meetings on the gridiron, including twice last year.East Buchanan had won 10 in a row from 2010-2017. Whatever happens Friday will be remembered for a long time, and will only make those future meetings between Mid-Buchanan and East Buchanan that much more special."We're right next to each other and all of these young men know each other," Ritter said. "Their parents know each other. Really, they share a community. It definitely runs deep. It allows all of these people who live in one area to come together and celebrate their teams and their players."Kickoff in Friday's game is set for 7 p.m. Pregame starts at 6:35 and the game can be heard on KFEQ Radio (680 AM, 95.3 FM) and 680kfeqcom.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633687416693.jpeg" alt="" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633687450363.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633687483740.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

East Buchanan travels to Mid-Buchanan for top five rivalry showdown

HARRISON COUNTY — A Missouri teen was injured in an accident just before 3:30p.m. Thursday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1996 Dodge 1500 driven by a 17-year-old boy from Bethany was northbound on Jade Road one half mile northwest of Bethany.

The driver failed to negotiate a curve. The pickup traveled off the road, struck an embankment and overturned. NTA ambulance transported the boy to Harrison County Community Hospital.&nbsp; He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

HARRISON COUNTY — A Missouri teen was injured in an accident just before 3:30p.m. Thursday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1996 Dodge 1500 driven by a 17-year-old boy from Bethany was northbound on Jade Road one half mile northwest of Bethany.The driver failed to negotiate a curve. The pickup traveled off the road, struck an embankment and overturned. NTA ambulance transported the boy to Harrison County Community Hospital.&nbsp; He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Bethany teen injured after pickup overturns

Republican Congressman Sam Graves says he’s not surprised
President Joe Biden, a Democrat, is falling in public opinion polls.

Graves, first elected to Congress in 2000, says he’s never
seen a president make so many missteps on so many issues.

“Whether that’s Afghanistan, with spending, with what’s going
on now calling parents domestic terrorists over school board issues; just everything
like that. It’s one misstep after the other and you’re seeing it in the
president’s numbers,” Graves tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “He’s
only been in office since January 20th and he’s just cratering right
now.”

Biden ordered the withdrawal of the U.S. military from
Afghanistan at the end of August. During the chaotic evacuation procedures at
the Kabul airport, terrorists set off suicide bombs that killed 13 U.S. service
members and dozens of civilians. The president has been advocating a $3.5
trillion spending package on a variety of programs in wake of a $1.2 trillion
bipartisan infrastructure bill. U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland has sent
a memo to the FBI stating that a “disturbing spike” in harassment,
intimidation, and threats at local school board meetings should be discourage
and prosecuted, if appropriate.

Recent polling indicates that fewer American approve of
President Biden’s performance than disapprove. A Gallup poll in early September
reported Biden’s approval rating dropped 6% to 43%. A more recent public
opinion poll taken by Quinnipiac University indicates only 38% of Americans
approve of the president’s job performance, while 53% disapprove. A new poll by The Associated Press-NORC
Center for Public Affairs Research provides a less pessimistic assessment, stating 50% of Americans say they approve
of Biden, while 49% disapprove.

Graves says his constituents in northern Missouri worry most
about inflation and the prospect of higher taxes.

“They’re worried about taxes overall,” Graves says “I think
they understand that when you raise taxes $2 ½ trillion it’s going to hit
everybody. You can say all you want to it’s just going to hit the rich, but it’s
going to hit everybody.”

Graves staunchly opposes the $3.5 trillion spending package
being pushed by the president, but knows two people will likely decide whether
it passes or not. Graves says all House Republicans oppose the measure with
Senate Republicans also united in opposition. That leaves the issue in the
hands of moderate Democratic Senators Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Kyrsten
Sinema of Arizona, since the Senate if evenly split at 50-50 with Vice
President Kamala Harris holding the tie-breaking vote.

“The fate of the country and people’s pocketbooks hang in the
balance. That’s a lot of power to put into one or even two individual’s laps.
And I know they’re feeling that pressure as well,” Graves says. “But they
represent states, they may be Democrats, but they still represent states that
are pretty conservative.”

Graves rejects the president’s assertion that the massive
spending bill can be paid for through taxing the rich. Graves insists Congress
would have to raise taxes on everybody to pay for the measure.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostRepublican Congressman Sam Graves says he’s not surprised
President Joe Biden, a Democrat, is falling in public opinion polls.Graves, first elected to Congress in 2000, says he’s never
seen a president make so many missteps on so many issues.“Whether that’s Afghanistan, with spending, with what’s going
on now calling parents domestic terrorists over school board issues; just everything
like that. It’s one misstep after the other and you’re seeing it in the
president’s numbers,” Graves tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “He’s
only been in office since January 20th and he’s just cratering right
now.”Biden ordered the withdrawal of the U.S. military from
Afghanistan at the end of August. During the chaotic evacuation procedures at
the Kabul airport, terrorists set off suicide bombs that killed 13 U.S. service
members and dozens of civilians. The president has been advocating a $3.5
trillion spending package on a variety of programs in wake of a $1.2 trillion
bipartisan infrastructure bill. U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland has sent
a memo to the FBI stating that a “disturbing spike” in harassment,
intimidation, and threats at local school board meetings should be discourage
and prosecuted, if appropriate.Recent polling indicates that fewer American approve of
President Biden’s performance than disapprove. A Gallup poll in early September
reported Biden’s approval rating dropped 6% to 43%. A more recent public
opinion poll taken by Quinnipiac University indicates only 38% of Americans
approve of the president’s job performance, while 53% disapprove. A new poll by The Associated Press-NORC
Center for Public Affairs Research provides a less pessimistic assessment, stating 50% of Americans say they approve
of Biden, while 49% disapprove.Graves says his constituents in northern Missouri worry most
about inflation and the prospect of higher taxes.“They’re worried about taxes overall,” Graves says “I think
they understand that when you raise taxes $2 ½ trillion it’s going to hit
everybody. You can say all you want to it’s just going to hit the rich, but it’s
going to hit everybody.”Graves staunchly opposes the $3.5 trillion spending package
being pushed by the president, but knows two people will likely decide whether
it passes or not. Graves says all House Republicans oppose the measure with
Senate Republicans also united in opposition. That leaves the issue in the
hands of moderate Democratic Senators Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Kyrsten
Sinema of Arizona, since the Senate if evenly split at 50-50 with Vice
President Kamala Harris holding the tie-breaking vote.“The fate of the country and people’s pocketbooks hang in the
balance. That’s a lot of power to put into one or even two individual’s laps.
And I know they’re feeling that pressure as well,” Graves says. “But they
represent states, they may be Democrats, but they still represent states that
are pretty conservative.”Graves rejects the president’s assertion that the massive
spending bill can be paid for through taxing the rich. Graves insists Congress
would have to raise taxes on everybody to pay for the measure.

Graves isn't surprised by President Biden's low poll numbers

BUCHANAN COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 7a.m. Thursday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Jeep Renegade driven by Amy E. Wion, 41, Stewartsville, was westbound on MO 6 at Route B five miles east of St. Joseph.

The driver fell asleep and the jeep traveled off the south side of the road. The vehicle struck a traffic sign, a tree, traveled across a creek and struck several more trees.

Buchanan County EMS transported Wion to Mosaic Life Care. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 7a.m. Thursday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Jeep Renegade driven by Amy E. Wion, 41, Stewartsville, was westbound on MO 6 at Route B five miles east of St. Joseph.The driver fell asleep and the jeep traveled off the south side of the road. The vehicle struck a traffic sign, a tree, traveled across a creek and struck several more trees.Buchanan County EMS transported Wion to Mosaic Life Care. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman seriously injured after she falls asleep driving

After being forced to go virtual last year in the midst of the COVID pandemic, Pumpkinfest will return to in person this year in St. Joseph.

Cindy Daffron Executive Director of the Pony Express Museum says the reaction to being virtual last year was fairly positive, with donors still helping with the virtual pumpkin mountain.

Daffron adds they were also able to do a virtual pumpkin carving, as well as the annual costume contest, which was exciting because of the outstanding reach they found online.

"We had everywhere from Florida, to Texas, to somewhere around Grandview in Kansas City, and it was just exciting we had some local people," Daffron tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "You know, but just how exciting and how far the reach went for people wanting to participate in something we thought kind of more regional, Heartland area, not out of state by any means." 

Daffron says that with this year being the 25th year of the festival there are some special things planned, like a proclamation from the mayor to honor the festival.

But Daffron says that is not all they have planned.

"I also reached out to the fire department, and I'll just be frank, I said is there anyways we can acknowledge and thank all of just not the EMS and the hospital workers, but you know, all those people who went to restaurants, all those people who worked behind the scenes and made Buchanan County a great place to work, the people who came to Buchanan County to work," Daffron explains. "So I've asked them to hoist the flat at 7:45 on Friday night."

Daffron adds the flag will be hoisted also as a sign of respect for those lost during the pandemic, as well as Max the K-9, and all those around the St. Joseph community.

One of the most notable items at every Pumpkinfest is the lit up pumpkin mountain, which was a highlight of the virtual event last year.

Daffron says one of the biggest things about the pumpkin mountain, is that all the carvings done surrounding the sponsor logos, are done by the schools from around the community.

"So there's probably roughly six to eight hundred of those pumpkins that are going to be on there that belong to children, and to us that's what is exciting, because children is our future," Daffron says. "That is where we hope someday they'll be the ones coming and carving and doing the real thing, or helping somebody else put on a festival in the city where they live."

Bode and Riverside schools both took around 200 pumpkins to put towards the pumpkin mountain.

The festival begins at 5pm on Friday with a flag hoisting at 7:45pm. You can find more information about Pumpkinfest <a href="https://www.ponyexpress.org/pumpkinfest-2021">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633554794188.jpeg" alt="One highlight of every PumpkinFest is the giant pumpkin carving mountain.&nbsp; PumpkinFest begins Friday at 5pm/ Photo by Brent Martin." />
 <figcaption>One highlight of every PumpkinFest is the giant pumpkin carving mountain.&nbsp; PumpkinFest begins Friday at 5pm/ Photo by Brent Martin.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostAfter being forced to go virtual last year in the midst of the COVID pandemic, Pumpkinfest will return to in person this year in St. Joseph.Cindy Daffron Executive Director of the Pony Express Museum says the reaction to being virtual last year was fairly positive, with donors still helping with the virtual pumpkin mountain.Daffron adds they were also able to do a virtual pumpkin carving, as well as the annual costume contest, which was exciting because of the outstanding reach they found online."We had everywhere from Florida, to Texas, to somewhere around Grandview in Kansas City, and it was just exciting we had some local people," Daffron tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "You know, but just how exciting and how far the reach went for people wanting to participate in something we thought kind of more regional, Heartland area, not out of state by any means." Daffron says that with this year being the 25th year of the festival there are some special things planned, like a proclamation from the mayor to honor the festival.But Daffron says that is not all they have planned."I also reached out to the fire department, and I'll just be frank, I said is there anyways we can acknowledge and thank all of just not the EMS and the hospital workers, but you know, all those people who went to restaurants, all those people who worked behind the scenes and made Buchanan County a great place to work, the people who came to Buchanan County to work," Daffron explains. "So I've asked them to hoist the flat at 7:45 on Friday night."Daffron adds the flag will be hoisted also as a sign of respect for those lost during the pandemic, as well as Max the K-9, and all those around the St. Joseph community.One of the most notable items at every Pumpkinfest is the lit up pumpkin mountain, which was a highlight of the virtual event last year.Daffron says one of the biggest things about the pumpkin mountain, is that all the carvings done surrounding the sponsor logos, are done by the schools from around the community."So there's probably roughly six to eight hundred of those pumpkins that are going to be on there that belong to children, and to us that's what is exciting, because children is our future," Daffron says. "That is where we hope someday they'll be the ones coming and carving and doing the real thing, or helping somebody else put on a festival in the city where they live."Bode and Riverside schools both took around 200 pumpkins to put towards the pumpkin mountain.The festival begins at 5pm on Friday with a flag hoisting at 7:45pm. You can find more information about Pumpkinfest <a href="https://www.ponyexpress.org/pumpkinfest-2021">HERE</a>.

Pumpkinfest 2021 returns to in person after going virtual last year

ANDREW COUNTY—A&nbsp; Missouri man died in an accident just before 7:30p.m. Wednesday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Chevy Traverse driven by Sharee D. Ellis, 37, Amazonia, was northbound on Route K just north of CR 392 three miles south of Amazonia.

The SUV rear-ended a motorized bicycle driven by Billy R. Mooney, 53, Amazonia. 

After impact, Mooney was ejected from the bicycle and pronounced dead at the scene. Meierhoffer Funeral Home transported him from the scene to their location in St. Joseph. Ellis was not injured and properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY—A&nbsp; Missouri man died in an accident just before 7:30p.m. Wednesday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Chevy Traverse driven by Sharee D. Ellis, 37, Amazonia, was northbound on Route K just north of CR 392 three miles south of Amazonia.The SUV rear-ended a motorized bicycle driven by Billy R. Mooney, 53, Amazonia. After impact, Mooney was ejected from the bicycle and pronounced dead at the scene. Meierhoffer Funeral Home transported him from the scene to their location in St. Joseph. Ellis was not injured and properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Andrew County man dies after SUV rear-ends motorized bicycle

Business man and lifelong St. Joseph resident John Josendale announced his candidacy for St. Joseph mayor at Pronto Cafe on Wednesday.

Josendale worked at Wire Rope and WireCo for more than 47 years, serving as senior vice president and global director of marketing and business development.

It's this business experience, Josendale says, that has taught him to make difficult decisions and work with people from all sorts of backgrounds and beliefs.

"I've negotiated contracts from all over the world," he said. "I've negotiated with all types of people. I think that brings a lot to the table. I have seen what it takes to grow a company and bring a company back from ashes."

Josendale listed several priorities he would address as mayor, including infrastructure, public safety, business development and keeping people in St. Joseph, following the recent decline in census numbers.&nbsp;

He says it starts with better communication and less partisanship.

"I think that's the direction we need to go," Josendale said. "The partisan politics I see today is very disturbing to me. I hate it. I'm proud to say I'm conservative and am proud to move forward with that. But, I just want to work with both sides."

Josendale joins St. Joseph Community Action Partnership Executive Director Whitney Lanning as the second person to announce their candidacy for mayor.

Josendale was asked to compare his campaign and his ideas to hers, but for now, he's only focused on what he can bring to the table.

"I want to run my campaign on my background on my business experience on what I can do different for St. Joe," he said.

Current Mayor Bill McMurray, elected in April 2018, says he is not running for another term. Candidates can pick up petitions at the city clerk’s office, which are due no later than Nov. 23.

Josendale criticized current city leadership for spending too much time debating issues rather than working to get things done. Again, Josendale referenced his business experience - something he believes can help bring welcome changes and stability to city hall.

"I'm running for mayor, because I believe that I can bring my business experience and produce new and better leadership for our city," Josendale said. "I hope people join me in this campaign to move St. Joseph forward."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633596773704.jpeg" alt="John Josendale and his wife, Jennifer, at Pronto Cafe in St. Joseph Wednesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>John Josendale and his wife, Jennifer, at Pronto Cafe in St. Joseph Wednesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBusiness man and lifelong St. Joseph resident John Josendale announced his candidacy for St. Joseph mayor at Pronto Cafe on Wednesday.Josendale worked at Wire Rope and WireCo for more than 47 years, serving as senior vice president and global director of marketing and business development.It's this business experience, Josendale says, that has taught him to make difficult decisions and work with people from all sorts of backgrounds and beliefs."I've negotiated contracts from all over the world," he said. "I've negotiated with all types of people. I think that brings a lot to the table. I have seen what it takes to grow a company and bring a company back from ashes."Josendale listed several priorities he would address as mayor, including infrastructure, public safety, business development and keeping people in St. Joseph, following the recent decline in census numbers.&nbsp;He says it starts with better communication and less partisanship."I think that's the direction we need to go," Josendale said. "The partisan politics I see today is very disturbing to me. I hate it. I'm proud to say I'm conservative and am proud to move forward with that. But, I just want to work with both sides."Josendale joins St. Joseph Community Action Partnership Executive Director Whitney Lanning as the second person to announce their candidacy for mayor.Josendale was asked to compare his campaign and his ideas to hers, but for now, he's only focused on what he can bring to the table."I want to run my campaign on my background on my business experience on what I can do different for St. Joe," he said.Current Mayor Bill McMurray, elected in April 2018, says he is not running for another term. Candidates can pick up petitions at the city clerk’s office, which are due no later than Nov. 23.Josendale criticized current city leadership for spending too much time debating issues rather than working to get things done. Again, Josendale referenced his business experience - something he believes can help bring welcome changes and stability to city hall."I'm running for mayor, because I believe that I can bring my business experience and produce new and better leadership for our city," Josendale said. "I hope people join me in this campaign to move St. Joseph forward."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

John Josendale announces candidacy for St. Joseph mayor

NODAWAY COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Wednesday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Jeep Laredo driven by a 15-year-old boy from Barnard was eastbound and a 2003 Chevy Monte Carlo driven by Eric L. Billings, 43, Barnard, was westbound on 410th Street east of Icon Road five miles west of Bolckow.

Both vehicles were traveling over the center of the roadway. The Jeep came over a hill and struck the front of the Monte Carlo.

Nodaway County EMS transported the drivers to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph. A 13-year-old girl in the Monte Carlo refused treatment. The teen driver in the jeep was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Wednesday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Jeep Laredo driven by a 15-year-old boy from Barnard was eastbound and a 2003 Chevy Monte Carlo driven by Eric L. Billings, 43, Barnard, was westbound on 410th Street east of Icon Road five miles west of Bolckow.Both vehicles were traveling over the center of the roadway. The Jeep came over a hill and struck the front of the Monte Carlo.Nodaway County EMS transported the drivers to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph. A 13-year-old girl in the Monte Carlo refused treatment. The teen driver in the jeep was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

2 drivers hospitalized after Nodaway County crash

BROWN COUNTY —A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Wednesday in Brown County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 International semi driven by Leonardo&nbsp;Rodriguez, 30, Weslaco, Texas, was northbound on U.S. 75 five miles north of Sabetha.

The semi began to pass a 2017 Chevy Silverado driven by Alison L.&nbsp;Mueting, 62, Baileyville, as it slowed to turn into a field entrance. The semi struck the Silverado.

BROWN COUNTY —A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Wednesday in Brown County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 International semi driven by Leonardo&nbsp;Rodriguez, 30, Weslaco, Texas, was northbound on U.S. 75 five miles north of Sabetha.The semi began to pass a 2017 Chevy Silverado driven by Alison L.&nbsp;Mueting, 62, Baileyville, as it slowed to turn into a field entrance. The semi struck the Silverado.EMS transported&nbsp;Mueting to the hospital in Sabetha. Rodriguez was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

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