OMAHA, NE. —A 37-year-old Missouri man was sentenced in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for coercion or enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, according to the United State's Attorney's office.

 United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Eric Bland, 37, of Laredo, Missouri&nbsp;to 120 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal prison system. After his release from prison, Bland will serve a 5-year term of supervised release and will be required to register as a sex offender.

In early 2019, a woman working as a prostitute in Nebraska provided law enforcement with a screenshot of a conversation with a potential client. The client, later identified as Bland, asked the woman if she knew any “young skinny little black girls” wanting to make money and offered to pay the woman $50 per year under age 18 if the woman would find him an underage girl to have sex with, or $100 per year under age 18 if the underage girl would have unprotected sex. Law enforcement provided the woman with a phone number to give to Bland. In March 2019, Bland contacted the phone number by text message and engaged in a conversation with an FBI Task Force Officer posing as a fifteen-year-old female. Bland made arrangements to travel from St. Joseph, Missouri, to Omaha for the purposes of engaging in oral sex with the fifteen-year-old girl. Bland arrived in Omaha as scheduled and was arrested by officers.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.projectsafechildhood.gov/" target="_blank">www.projectsafechildhood.gov</a>.

This case was investigated by the Omaha FBI's Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.

OMAHA, NE. —A 37-year-old Missouri man was sentenced in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for coercion or enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, according to the United State's Attorney's office. United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Eric Bland, 37, of Laredo, Missouri&nbsp;to 120 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal prison system. After his release from prison, Bland will serve a 5-year term of supervised release and will be required to register as a sex offender.In early 2019, a woman working as a prostitute in Nebraska provided law enforcement with a screenshot of a conversation with a potential client. The client, later identified as Bland, asked the woman if she knew any “young skinny little black girls” wanting to make money and offered to pay the woman $50 per year under age 18 if the woman would find him an underage girl to have sex with, or $100 per year under age 18 if the underage girl would have unprotected sex. Law enforcement provided the woman with a phone number to give to Bland. In March 2019, Bland contacted the phone number by text message and engaged in a conversation with an FBI Task Force Officer posing as a fifteen-year-old female. Bland made arrangements to travel from St. Joseph, Missouri, to Omaha for the purposes of engaging in oral sex with the fifteen-year-old girl. Bland arrived in Omaha as scheduled and was arrested by officers.This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.projectsafechildhood.gov/" target="_blank">www.projectsafechildhood.gov</a>.This case was investigated by the Omaha FBI's Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.

Missouri man sentenced for child enticement in Nebraska

UPDATE: According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, emergency roadway repairs have forced the contractor to close a section of southbound interstate 29 in Andrew County earlier than expected.

MoDOT closed southbound I-29 just north of Hopkins Creek near mile marker 59 at 3 p.m. instead of 6 p.m. The closure is still expected to be until six o’clock Tuesday morning.

A
section of southbound I-29 near Mound City will close overnight.

The
Missouri Department of Transportation will close southbound I-29 just north of
Hopkins Creek near mile marker 59 beginning this evening, September 14th,
at 6pm. It is scheduled to be closed until six o’clock tomorrow morning.

MoDOT
says a crew from Capital Paving and Construction will be completing emergency
road repairs, making a concrete patch. The closure will occur within the work
zone of the Hopkins Creek and Route T bridge projects.

MoDOT
says during the closure southbound I-29 traffic will be directed onto U.S.
Route 59 (Exit 65) east onto U.S. Route 71, then south to reconnect with I-29.
Motorists will not be able to get onto southbound I-29 at Route K/CC (Exit 60)
and will need to use an alternate route.

The two bridge
projects include the replacement of the north and southbound I-29 bridges over
Hopkins Creek and the rehabilitation of the north and southbound bridges over
Route T. Both are part of Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges
program.

UPDATE: According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, emergency roadway repairs have forced the contractor to close a section of southbound interstate 29 in Andrew County earlier than expected.MoDOT closed southbound I-29 just north of Hopkins Creek near mile marker 59 at 3 p.m. instead of 6 p.m. The closure is still expected to be until six o’clock Tuesday morning.======A
section of southbound I-29 near Mound City will close overnight.The
Missouri Department of Transportation will close southbound I-29 just north of
Hopkins Creek near mile marker 59 beginning this evening, September 14th,
at 6pm. It is scheduled to be closed until six o’clock tomorrow morning.MoDOT
says a crew from Capital Paving and Construction will be completing emergency
road repairs, making a concrete patch. The closure will occur within the work
zone of the Hopkins Creek and Route T bridge projects.MoDOT
says during the closure southbound I-29 traffic will be directed onto U.S.
Route 59 (Exit 65) east onto U.S. Route 71, then south to reconnect with I-29.
Motorists will not be able to get onto southbound I-29 at Route K/CC (Exit 60)
and will need to use an alternate route.The two bridge
projects include the replacement of the north and southbound I-29 bridges over
Hopkins Creek and the rehabilitation of the north and southbound bridges over
Route T. Both are part of Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges
program.

UPDATE: Portion of southbound I-29 closes this afternoon

By ARI LAZARUS Consumer Education Specialist, FTC

A few months ago, we told you that the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act gave some flexibility to federal student loan borrowers. Understanding these options can help you make more informed decisions about <a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2020/04/managing-your-bills-during-covid-19">paying your bills and prioritizing your debts</a>. The benefits <a href="https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/secretary-devos-fully-implements-president-trumps-presidential-memorandum-extending-student-loan-relief-borrowers-through-end-year">have been extended</a> until Dec. 31, 2020.

So, just to recap, what does the CARES Act mean for you if you have a federal student loan?

1. The CARES Act gives <a href="https://studentaid.gov/announcements-events/coronavirus">temporary payment relief</a> to borrowers with qualifying federal student loans. But some federal student loans don’t qualify – for example, older Family Federal Education Loan (FFEL) program loans or Perkins Loans that are owned by the school you attended. Contact your <a href="https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/repayment/servicers#your-servicer">federal loan servicer</a> online or by phone to find out if your loans are eligible.&nbsp;

2. If your federal loans are covered, the U.S. Department of Education has automatically placed your loans into what’s called “administrative forbearance.” That means you can stop making payments on those loans right away, up through Dec. 31, 2020. If your payments automatically come out of your bank account, check if any payments have been processed since March 13, 2020. If they have, you may be able to <a href="https://studentaid.gov/announcements-events/coronavirus#borrower-questions">get a refund</a> as part of administrative forbearance.&nbsp;

3. If you want to keep making payments on your qualifying federal student loan through Dec. 31, the interest rate is now 0%. So any payments you make during the forbearance period may help you pay off your debt faster. If you’re on an income-based repayment program and/or a forgiveness program, you should check out <a href="https://studentaid.gov/announcements-events/coronavirus#borrower-questions">Federal Student Aid's Coronavirus page</a> to see which option makes sense for you.

4. If your federal student loans are in <a href="https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/default#understanding-default">default</a>, the U.S. Department of Education has stopped making collection calls, and sending letters or billing statements through Dec. 31, 2020. And if your federal loans were in default and your employer continues to garnish your wages, you’ll get a refund.&nbsp;

This program only applies to federal student loans. Not sure what kinds of student loans you have? Here are two things you can do to find out:

●Get a complete list of your private and federal student loans by&nbsp;pulling your credit report. (In fact, you can get your report for free&nbsp;every week.)&nbsp;Read through it&nbsp;and find your student loans, taking note of the companies that are your lenders or loan servicers. Compare it to the full list of&nbsp;federal loan servicers found here.

●Confirm which of your loans are federal.&nbsp;Log into FSA&nbsp;or call the Federal Student Aid Information Center (FSAIC) at 1-800-433-3243.

One more thing: you don’t need to hire a company to help you get this student loan payment relief. The program is already in place and there’s nothing you need to do to enroll.

Updated Sept. 14, 2020 with new information about how the CARES Act flexibilities for federal student loan borrowers have been extended until Dec. 31, 2020.&nbsp;

The above information is from the Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information <a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2020/09/if-you-have-federal-student-loans-read?utm_source=govdelivery">blog</a>.

By ARI LAZARUS Consumer Education Specialist, FTCA few months ago, we told you that the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act gave some flexibility to federal student loan borrowers. Understanding these options can help you make more informed decisions about <a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2020/04/managing-your-bills-during-covid-19">paying your bills and prioritizing your debts</a>. The benefits <a href="https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/secretary-devos-fully-implements-president-trumps-presidential-memorandum-extending-student-loan-relief-borrowers-through-end-year">have been extended</a> until Dec. 31, 2020.So, just to recap, what does the CARES Act mean for you if you have a federal student loan?1. The CARES Act gives <a href="https://studentaid.gov/announcements-events/coronavirus">temporary payment relief</a> to borrowers with qualifying federal student loans. But some federal student loans don’t qualify – for example, older Family Federal Education Loan (FFEL) program loans or Perkins Loans that are owned by the school you attended. Contact your <a href="https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/repayment/servicers#your-servicer">federal loan servicer</a> online or by phone to find out if your loans are eligible.&nbsp;2. If your federal loans are covered, the U.S. Department of Education has automatically placed your loans into what’s called “administrative forbearance.” That means you can stop making payments on those loans right away, up through Dec. 31, 2020. If your payments automatically come out of your bank account, check if any payments have been processed since March 13, 2020. If they have, you may be able to <a href="https://studentaid.gov/announcements-events/coronavirus#borrower-questions">get a refund</a> as part of administrative forbearance.&nbsp;3. If you want to keep making payments on your qualifying federal student loan through Dec. 31, the interest rate is now 0%. So any payments you make during the forbearance period may help you pay off your debt faster. If you’re on an income-based repayment program and/or a forgiveness program, you should check out <a href="https://studentaid.gov/announcements-events/coronavirus#borrower-questions">Federal Student Aid's Coronavirus page</a> to see which option makes sense for you.4. If your federal student loans are in <a href="https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/default#understanding-default">default</a>, the U.S. Department of Education has stopped making collection calls, and sending letters or billing statements through Dec. 31, 2020. And if your federal loans were in default and your employer continues to garnish your wages, you’ll get a refund.&nbsp;This program only applies to federal student loans. Not sure what kinds of student loans you have? Here are two things you can do to find out:●Get a complete list of your private and federal student loans by&nbsp;pulling your credit report. (In fact, you can get your report for free&nbsp;every week.)&nbsp;Read through it&nbsp;and find your student loans, taking note of the companies that are your lenders or loan servicers. Compare it to the full list of&nbsp;federal loan servicers found here.●Confirm which of your loans are federal.&nbsp;Log into FSA&nbsp;or call the Federal Student Aid Information Center (FSAIC) at 1-800-433-3243.One more thing: you don’t need to hire a company to help you get this student loan payment relief. The program is already in place and there’s nothing you need to do to enroll.Updated Sept. 14, 2020 with new information about how the CARES Act flexibilities for federal student loan borrowers have been extended until Dec. 31, 2020.&nbsp;The above information is from the Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information <a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2020/09/if-you-have-federal-student-loans-read?utm_source=govdelivery">blog</a>.

If you have federal student loans, read this

Congressman Sam Graves says the St. Joseph Regional Port
Authority doesn’t just benefit the city, it benefits farmers throughout the
region.

Graves says barge traffic gives farmers another transportation
option and one which nearly always is cheaper.

“It’s a huge benefit,” Graves tells reporters during a recent
visit to St. Joseph. “It’s just another opportunity, another transportation
opportunity, for shipping product, both in and out. Any time you can do that it
spurs competition. It allows for cheaper shipping which is good for customers
and consumers all over the country.”

Graves points out the St. Joseph port has had to adapt, not
just with the typically erratic Missouri River, but with flooding and with
changes made by how the Army Corps of Engineers manages the river.

“We’ve seen the port here in St. Joe, it’s adjusted and
shifted and had to do that as a result of navigation issues on the Missouri River
and particularly this far north, but they’ve adapted and adapted well,” according
to Graves. “So, it’s a great asset for St. Joseph.”

Graves says barge traffic often is the cheapest mode of
transportation and, just its availability helps keep the cost of other
transportation modes down.

Graves met with many groups during the Congressional break,
including members of the Coalition to Protect the Missouri River.

The House in Washington, D.C. has approved the Water Resources
Development Act, which includes around $9 million for the Army Corps of
Engineers to shore up flood protection and restore the Missouri River
eco-system. The Senate has yet to act on the legislation. Graves says a
significant aspect of the act is to expand which Missouri River levees damaged
by the 2019 floods are eligible for federal assistance.

“Including non-federal projects as well as federal projects in
there, because it’s a system and if you don’t close those gaps in between the
federal levees, then you obviously don’t have a system that keeps the water
back,” Graves says

A piece in the legislation would end the practice of
establishing complexes to aid in the spawning of the endangered Pallid
Sturgeon. Graves says federal officials have failed to demonstrate the Interception-Rearing
Complexes actually help the Pallid Sturgeon.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostCongressman Sam Graves says the St. Joseph Regional Port
Authority doesn’t just benefit the city, it benefits farmers throughout the
region.Graves says barge traffic gives farmers another transportation
option and one which nearly always is cheaper.“It’s a huge benefit,” Graves tells reporters during a recent
visit to St. Joseph. “It’s just another opportunity, another transportation
opportunity, for shipping product, both in and out. Any time you can do that it
spurs competition. It allows for cheaper shipping which is good for customers
and consumers all over the country.”Graves points out the St. Joseph port has had to adapt, not
just with the typically erratic Missouri River, but with flooding and with
changes made by how the Army Corps of Engineers manages the river.“We’ve seen the port here in St. Joe, it’s adjusted and
shifted and had to do that as a result of navigation issues on the Missouri River
and particularly this far north, but they’ve adapted and adapted well,” according
to Graves. “So, it’s a great asset for St. Joseph.”Graves says barge traffic often is the cheapest mode of
transportation and, just its availability helps keep the cost of other
transportation modes down.Graves met with many groups during the Congressional break,
including members of the Coalition to Protect the Missouri River.The House in Washington, D.C. has approved the Water Resources
Development Act, which includes around $9 million for the Army Corps of
Engineers to shore up flood protection and restore the Missouri River
eco-system. The Senate has yet to act on the legislation. Graves says a
significant aspect of the act is to expand which Missouri River levees damaged
by the 2019 floods are eligible for federal assistance.“Including non-federal projects as well as federal projects in
there, because it’s a system and if you don’t close those gaps in between the
federal levees, then you obviously don’t have a system that keeps the water
back,” Graves saysA piece in the legislation would end the practice of
establishing complexes to aid in the spawning of the endangered Pallid
Sturgeon. Graves says federal officials have failed to demonstrate the Interception-Rearing
Complexes actually help the Pallid Sturgeon.

Port authority reaps benefits for farmers in St. Joseph region

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The following is a list of general highway maintenance and construction work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northwest Missouri region for the week of Sept. 14 – 20.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at&nbsp;<a href="http://traveler.modot.org/map/" target="_blank">http://traveler.modot.org/map/</a>.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region such as pothole patching, mowing, striping, signal work, etc., in addition to the work mentioned below.

Interstate 29 – Bridge replacement project over Hopkins Creek and bridge rehabilitation project over Route T (mile marker 58-60) through spring 2021. The contractor plans&nbsp;CLOSE&nbsp;southbound I-29, just north of Hopkins Creek (near mile marker 59), beginning Monday, Sept. 14, at 6 p.m. through Tuesday, Sept 15 at 6 a.m. A 14-foot width restriction is in place. These bridges are included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state.

Route DD – Permit work from U.S. Route 59 to County Road 361, Sept. 14 – 30

Route U –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for further evaluation of a completed bridge rehabilitation project south of Phelps City.&nbsp;This bridge is included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state.

U.S. Route 136 – Pothole patching from Route M to the Brownville Bridge, Sept. 14 – 18

Route 46 – Pothole patching from U.S. Route 59 to Route EE, Sept. 14 – 18

Route F – Drainage work 1 mile north of Route B, Sept. 14 – 18

I-29 – Resurfacing project from south of Route O to the Platte County line through early September. I-29 will be narrowed to one lane from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. nightly and some lane closures could remain up around-the-clock. The project is expected to be completed in mid-October.

Route E – Striping from U.S. Route 169 to Route 116, Sept. 14 – 18

Route H – Striping from Route 371 to U.S. Route 169, Sept. 14 – 18

U.S. Route 36 –&nbsp;Ramp CLOSED&nbsp;westbound for crash barrel maintenance to southbound Route 759 (Stockyards Expressway), Sept. 15, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Route V – Drainage work from Route JJ to Route 116, Sept. 14 – 18

U.S. Route 36 – Pavement repair in preparation for a resurfacing project through spring 2021. Single-lane closures around the repair sites could remain up around the clock, in order to allow the pavement to cure. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place for the duration of the project.

Route Z –&nbsp;CLOSED until further notice&nbsp;from Route C to County Road 217 due to damage caused by a roadway slide

Route C –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement project at the Branch of Turkey Creek Bridge through early November

Route 5 – Scrub seal project from U.S. Route 24 to the Howard County line, Sept. 14 – 16. Traffic will be reduced to one lane and flaggers and a pilot car will guide motorists through the work zone.

I-35 – Guardrail work as part of a resurfacing project from the Clay County line to just north of Route 116 through mid-September

Route FF –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from Snapp Road to Allen Road, Sept. 14, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Route 129 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from Route NN to Salt Lick Avenue, Sept 15, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Route 129 – Culvert replacement from Route H to U.S. Route 24, Sept. 16

I-35 – Resurfacing project from Route C (Exit 78) to U.S. Route 136 (Exit 92, Harrison County) through September

Route 6 – Resurfacing project from I-35 to the Muddy Creek Bridge east of Trenton (Grundy County) through early October

Route 6 – Scrub seal project from the Thompson Creek Bridge to 4th Street in Trenton (Grundy County), Sept 17 – 28

Route K –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for bridge maintenance from Hope Avenue to Grate Avenue, Sept. 16, 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Route K – Pothole patching from Route P to Route 6, Sept. 14 – 15

U.S. Route 69 – Culvert replacement 0.5 miles south of Route 6, Sept. 17

Route 6 – Drainage work at 140th Street, Sept. 18

Route D –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project over Ervens Branch River, 0.4 miles north of Route W, through early November. This bridge is included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/dekalb-county-route-d-bridge-replacement-over-ervens-branch" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/dekalb-county-route-d-bridge-replacement-over-ervens-branch</a>

Route D –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from Glenwood Drive to Fairmont Drive, Sept. 15, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Route FF – Pothole patching, Sept. 14 – 17

Route U – Pothole patching, Sept. 15 – 18

Route AF – Drainage work at Route B, Sept. 17

Route J – Pothole patching, Sept. 17 – 18

Route 6 – Sidewalk and utility work in Trenton from 4th Street to the Muddy Creek Bridge through mid-September. This includes Saturday work.

Route 6 – Guardrail work for a resurfacing project from the Muddy Creek Bridge east of Trenton to I-35 (Daviess County) through early October

Route 6 – Scrub seal project from 4th Street in Trenton to the Thompson Creek Bridge (Daviess County), Sept 17 – 28

Route A –&nbsp;CLOSED until further notice&nbsp;from Route T to Route B due to a culvert washout

I-35 – Resurfacing project from U.S. Route 136 (Exit 92) to Route C (Exit 78, Daviess County) through September.

Route F – Pothole patching from Route EE to West 130th Avenue, Sept. 14

Route T –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a slide repair project near Mill Bluff Road, south of Forest City, through early October. More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/holt-county-route-t-slide-repair-job" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/holt-county-route-t-slide-repair-job</a>

I-29 – Bridge deck replacement project over Route E through Sept. 14 and Kimsey Creek through late September. The contractor plans to&nbsp;CLOSE&nbsp;southbound I-29 just north of Exit 75 (Oregon) on Thursday, Sept. 17 from 1 a.m. to 5 a.m., in order to pour the new bridge deck. These bridges are included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. A 16-foot width restriction is in place.

Route 190 – Bridge rehabilitation project over the Thompson River through late November. This bridge is included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. A 10-foot width restriction is in place. More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/livingston-us-route-65-and-route-190-bridge-deck-repairs" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/livingston-us-route-65-and-route-190-bridge-deck-repairs</a>

U.S. Route 65 – Bridge rehabilitation project over the Grand River through mid-December. This bridge is included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. An 11.5-foot width restriction is in place. More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/livingston-us-route-65-and-route-190-bridge-deck-repairs" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/livingston-us-route-65-and-route-190-bridge-deck-repairs</a>

Route 46 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project at the White Cloud Creek and Big Slough bridges, east of Route AB, and Stream and Florida Creek bridges, west of Route AB. The project to replace all four bridges is expected to continue through early December. These bridges are included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/route-46-bridge-projects-west-maryville" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/route-46-bridge-projects-west-maryville</a>

Route E –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 110th Street to Route 246, Sept. 18, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Route V – Drainage work at Hawk Road, Sept. 14 – 15

Route V – Drainage work at Fortune Road, Sept. 16

Route N –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement project 0.2 miles west of Route B near Green City through September

Route PP –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project over East Medicine Creek through the end of the year. This bridge is included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/sullivan-county-route-pp-east-medicine-creek-bridge" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/sullivan-county-route-pp-east-medicine-creek-bridge</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592590683992.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The following is a list of general highway maintenance and construction work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northwest Missouri region for the week of Sept. 14 – 20.All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at&nbsp;<a href="http://traveler.modot.org/map/" target="_blank">http://traveler.modot.org/map/</a>.Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region such as pothole patching, mowing, striping, signal work, etc., in addition to the work mentioned below.<div>&nbsp;</div>Andrew CountyInterstate 29 – Bridge replacement project over Hopkins Creek and bridge rehabilitation project over Route T (mile marker 58-60) through spring 2021. The contractor plans&nbsp;CLOSE&nbsp;southbound I-29, just north of Hopkins Creek (near mile marker 59), beginning Monday, Sept. 14, at 6 p.m. through Tuesday, Sept 15 at 6 a.m. A 14-foot width restriction is in place. These bridges are included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state.Route DD – Permit work from U.S. Route 59 to County Road 361, Sept. 14 – 30<div>&nbsp;</div>Atchison CountyRoute U –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for further evaluation of a completed bridge rehabilitation project south of Phelps City.&nbsp;This bridge is included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state.U.S. Route 136 – Pothole patching from Route M to the Brownville Bridge, Sept. 14 – 18Route 46 – Pothole patching from U.S. Route 59 to Route EE, Sept. 14 – 18Route F – Drainage work 1 mile north of Route B, Sept. 14 – 18<div>&nbsp;</div>Buchanan CountyI-29 – Resurfacing project from south of Route O to the Platte County line through early September. I-29 will be narrowed to one lane from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. nightly and some lane closures could remain up around-the-clock. The project is expected to be completed in mid-October.Route E – Striping from U.S. Route 169 to Route 116, Sept. 14 – 18Route H – Striping from Route 371 to U.S. Route 169, Sept. 14 – 18U.S. Route 36 –&nbsp;Ramp CLOSED&nbsp;westbound for crash barrel maintenance to southbound Route 759 (Stockyards Expressway), Sept. 15, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.Route V – Drainage work from Route JJ to Route 116, Sept. 14 – 18<div>&nbsp;</div>Caldwell CountyU.S. Route 36 – Pavement repair in preparation for a resurfacing project through spring 2021. Single-lane closures around the repair sites could remain up around the clock, in order to allow the pavement to cure. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place for the duration of the project.<div>&nbsp;</div>Carroll CountyRoute Z –&nbsp;CLOSED until further notice&nbsp;from Route C to County Road 217 due to damage caused by a roadway slideRoute C –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement project at the Branch of Turkey Creek Bridge through early November<div>&nbsp;</div>Chariton CountyRoute 5 – Scrub seal project from U.S. Route 24 to the Howard County line, Sept. 14 – 16. Traffic will be reduced to one lane and flaggers and a pilot car will guide motorists through the work zone.<div>&nbsp;</div>Clinton CountyI-35 – Guardrail work as part of a resurfacing project from the Clay County line to just north of Route 116 through mid-SeptemberRoute FF –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from Snapp Road to Allen Road, Sept. 14, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.Route 129 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from Route NN to Salt Lick Avenue, Sept 15, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.Route 129 – Culvert replacement from Route H to U.S. Route 24, Sept. 16<div>&nbsp;</div>Daviess CountyI-35 – Resurfacing project from Route C (Exit 78) to U.S. Route 136 (Exit 92, Harrison County) through SeptemberRoute 6 – Resurfacing project from I-35 to the Muddy Creek Bridge east of Trenton (Grundy County) through early OctoberRoute 6 – Scrub seal project from the Thompson Creek Bridge to 4th Street in Trenton (Grundy County), Sept 17 – 28Route K –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for bridge maintenance from Hope Avenue to Grate Avenue, Sept. 16, 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.Route K – Pothole patching from Route P to Route 6, Sept. 14 – 15U.S. Route 69 – Culvert replacement 0.5 miles south of Route 6, Sept. 17Route 6 – Drainage work at 140th Street, Sept. 18<div>&nbsp;</div>DeKalb CountyRoute D –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project over Ervens Branch River, 0.4 miles north of Route W, through early November. This bridge is included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/dekalb-county-route-d-bridge-replacement-over-ervens-branch" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/dekalb-county-route-d-bridge-replacement-over-ervens-branch</a>Route D –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from Glenwood Drive to Fairmont Drive, Sept. 15, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.<div>&nbsp;</div>Gentry CountyRoute FF – Pothole patching, Sept. 14 – 17Route U – Pothole patching, Sept. 15 – 18Route AF – Drainage work at Route B, Sept. 17Route J – Pothole patching, Sept. 17 – 18<div>&nbsp;</div>Grundy CountyRoute 6 – Sidewalk and utility work in Trenton from 4th Street to the Muddy Creek Bridge through mid-September. This includes Saturday work.Route 6 – Guardrail work for a resurfacing project from the Muddy Creek Bridge east of Trenton to I-35 (Daviess County) through early OctoberRoute 6 – Scrub seal project from 4th Street in Trenton to the Thompson Creek Bridge (Daviess County), Sept 17 – 28<div>&nbsp;</div>Harrison CountyRoute A –&nbsp;CLOSED until further notice&nbsp;from Route T to Route B due to a culvert washoutI-35 – Resurfacing project from U.S. Route 136 (Exit 92) to Route C (Exit 78, Daviess County) through September.Route F – Pothole patching from Route EE to West 130th Avenue, Sept. 14Route J – Pothole patching, Sept. 17 – 18<div>&nbsp;</div>Holt CountyRoute T –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a slide repair project near Mill Bluff Road, south of Forest City, through early October. More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/holt-county-route-t-slide-repair-job" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/holt-county-route-t-slide-repair-job</a>I-29 – Bridge deck replacement project over Route E through Sept. 14 and Kimsey Creek through late September. The contractor plans to&nbsp;CLOSE&nbsp;southbound I-29 just north of Exit 75 (Oregon) on Thursday, Sept. 17 from 1 a.m. to 5 a.m., in order to pour the new bridge deck. These bridges are included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. A 16-foot width restriction is in place.<div>&nbsp;</div>Linn CountyU.S. Route 36 – Pavement repair in preparation for a resurfacing project through spring 2021. Single-lane closures around the repair sites could remain up around the clock, in order to allow the pavement to cure. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place for the duration of the project.<div>&nbsp;</div>Livingston CountyRoute 190 – Bridge rehabilitation project over the Thompson River through late November. This bridge is included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. A 10-foot width restriction is in place. More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/livingston-us-route-65-and-route-190-bridge-deck-repairs" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/livingston-us-route-65-and-route-190-bridge-deck-repairs</a>U.S. Route 65 – Bridge rehabilitation project over the Grand River through mid-December. This bridge is included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. An 11.5-foot width restriction is in place. More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/livingston-us-route-65-and-route-190-bridge-deck-repairs" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/livingston-us-route-65-and-route-190-bridge-deck-repairs</a>U.S. Route 36 – Pavement repair in preparation for a resurfacing project through spring 2021. Single-lane closures around the repair sites could remain up around the clock, in order to allow the pavement to cure. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place for the duration of the project.<div>&nbsp;</div>Nodaway CountyRoute 46 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project at the White Cloud Creek and Big Slough bridges, east of Route AB, and Stream and Florida Creek bridges, west of Route AB. The project to replace all four bridges is expected to continue through early December. These bridges are included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/route-46-bridge-projects-west-maryville" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/route-46-bridge-projects-west-maryville</a>Route E –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 110th Street to Route 246, Sept. 18, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.Route V – Drainage work at Hawk Road, Sept. 14 – 15Route V – Drainage work at Fortune Road, Sept. 16<div>&nbsp;</div>Sullivan CountyRoute N –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement project 0.2 miles west of Route B near Green City through SeptemberRoute PP –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project over East Medicine Creek through the end of the year. This bridge is included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/sullivan-county-route-pp-east-medicine-creek-bridge" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/sullivan-county-route-pp-east-medicine-creek-bridge</a>

Planned road work for northwest Missouri, Sept. 14 - 20

DAVIESS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 11p.m. Saturday in Daviess County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1996 GMC Suburban driven by Vernon J. Walker, 48, Des Moines, was northbound on Interstate 35 two miles north of Winston.

The vehicle traveled off the west side of the road. The driver overcorrected and the SUV overturned ejected the passenger Courtney R. Blaine, 34, Des Moines.

Daviess County EMS transported her to Mosaic Life Care. Walker refused Medical treatment. Blaine was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

DAVIESS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 11p.m. Saturday in Daviess County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1996 GMC Suburban driven by Vernon J. Walker, 48, Des Moines, was northbound on Interstate 35 two miles north of Winston.The vehicle traveled off the west side of the road. The driver overcorrected and the SUV overturned ejected the passenger Courtney R. Blaine, 34, Des Moines.Daviess County EMS transported her to Mosaic Life Care. Walker refused Medical treatment. Blaine was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Woman hospitalized after being ejected when SUV overturns

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just after 8p.m. Saturday in Livingston County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Polaris 1000 four-passenger UTV driven by William M. Englert, 56, Ida, Arkansas, was traveling across a field on private property off Livingston County Road 420 four miles south of Chillicothe.

The driver accelerated quickly, turned sharply and the UTV overturned.

EMS transported Englert to Hedrick Medical Center and Lifeflight transferred him to St. Luke's in Kansas City. 

A private vehicle transported Daniel R. Englert, 53, Chillicothe, the driver's brother, to Hedrick Medical Center. 

Livingston County EMS transported a second passenger Jerry R. Ballantyne, 54, Chillicothe, to Hedrick Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries.&nbsp;

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just after 8p.m. Saturday in Livingston County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Polaris 1000 four-passenger UTV driven by William M. Englert, 56, Ida, Arkansas, was traveling across a field on private property off Livingston County Road 420 four miles south of Chillicothe.The driver accelerated quickly, turned sharply and the UTV overturned.EMS transported Englert to Hedrick Medical Center and Lifeflight transferred him to St. Luke's in Kansas City. A private vehicle transported Daniel R. Englert, 53, Chillicothe, the driver's brother, to Hedrick Medical Center. Livingston County EMS transported a second passenger Jerry R. Ballantyne, 54, Chillicothe, to Hedrick Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries.&nbsp;

3 hospitalized after UTV overturns

A campaign that kicked off last week isn’t asking for votes, but is asking residents to help support local organizations.

The United Way of Greater St. Joseph fundraising campaign runs until November 5th.&nbsp;

Campaign Director Renita Neville says because of COVID-19, some things are different this year, including not setting a fundraising goal.

"It was just impossible, with all of the unknowns, to set anything that we felt had any degree of accuracy, so our goal is to raise as much money as we can,” Neville says.&nbsp;

A majority of United Way's campaign each year involves fundraising through workplaces. Neville says with COVID-19 and a lot of people still working from home, many campaign presentations will look different or may be done by the workplaces internally.

Funds raised through the campaign each year help support the United Way's initiatives and partner agencies. Neville says funds also help with needs that arise throughout the year.

"Nobody anticipated 200 homes being displaced in the south side of St. Joe in late July, but because people give, we were able to stand up and take a leadership role in coordinating those efforts and continue to be a very integral part of those recovery efforts that will continue still for months," Neville says.&nbsp;

United Way Campaign Co-Chairs Pat and Terri Modlin are owners of Felix Street Gourmet and Room 108 in downtown St. Joseph.

Terri says, traditionally, being campaign chair includes in-person events and efforts, so they’re finding other ways to showcase the 17 partner agencies of United Way.

“A majority of these agencies, even though their business has changed a little with everything going on, they are still actively working with those who need specialized child care or need mental health services, it may be assistance with paying rent… there’s just so many of these services that we even need more than ever,” Modlin says. “Part of it is just getting the message out, telling our story and why we believe in it, encouraging others to also volunteer, share their story or their support of the organization and then really it’s about putting some money behind that as well.”

This year's United Way campaign theme is "Right here. Right now. You have the power to change the future."

"So the thought being that right here and right now, things are happening because people give," Neville says. "For instance, tonight, 28 women and 18 children will sleep at the YWCA, safe from abusers because people chose to give last fall."&nbsp;

For more information, or to donate, visit the <a href="https://www.stjosephunitedway.org/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&amp;id=1">United Way of Greater St. Joseph's website</a> or call (816)&nbsp;364-2381.

by SARAH THOMACKSt. Joseph PostA campaign that kicked off last week isn’t asking for votes, but is asking residents to help support local organizations.The United Way of Greater St. Joseph fundraising campaign runs until November 5th.&nbsp;Campaign Director Renita Neville says because of COVID-19, some things are different this year, including not setting a fundraising goal."It was just impossible, with all of the unknowns, to set anything that we felt had any degree of accuracy, so our goal is to raise as much money as we can,” Neville says.&nbsp;A majority of United Way's campaign each year involves fundraising through workplaces. Neville says with COVID-19 and a lot of people still working from home, many campaign presentations will look different or may be done by the workplaces internally.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1566235069876.jpeg" alt="United Way building in downtown St. Joseph. Photo by Sarah Thomack." />
 <figcaption>United Way building in downtown St. Joseph. Photo by Sarah Thomack.</figcaption>
 </figure>Funds raised through the campaign each year help support the United Way's initiatives and partner agencies. Neville says funds also help with needs that arise throughout the year."Nobody anticipated 200 homes being displaced in the south side of St. Joe in late July, but because people give, we were able to stand up and take a leadership role in coordinating those efforts and continue to be a very integral part of those recovery efforts that will continue still for months," Neville says.&nbsp;United Way Campaign Co-Chairs Pat and Terri Modlin are owners of Felix Street Gourmet and Room 108 in downtown St. Joseph.Terri says, traditionally, being campaign chair includes in-person events and efforts, so they’re finding other ways to showcase the 17 partner agencies of United Way.“A majority of these agencies, even though their business has changed a little with everything going on, they are still actively working with those who need specialized child care or need mental health services, it may be assistance with paying rent… there’s just so many of these services that we even need more than ever,” Modlin says. “Part of it is just getting the message out, telling our story and why we believe in it, encouraging others to also volunteer, share their story or their support of the organization and then really it’s about putting some money behind that as well.”This year's United Way campaign theme is "Right here. Right now. You have the power to change the future.""So the thought being that right here and right now, things are happening because people give," Neville says. "For instance, tonight, 28 women and 18 children will sleep at the YWCA, safe from abusers because people chose to give last fall."&nbsp;For more information, or to donate, visit the <a href="https://www.stjosephunitedway.org/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&amp;id=1">United Way of Greater St. Joseph's website</a> or call (816)&nbsp;364-2381.

United Way fundraising campaign makes changes due to COVID-19

DAVIESS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 6a.m. Friday in Daviess County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Ford Ranger driven by Ethan A. Ross, 20, Trenton, was northbound on MO 190 seven miles south of Jamesport.

The pickup traveled off the east side of the road, struck a ditch, a mailbox, traveled back across the road and came to rest in the ditch.

Daviess County ambulance transported Ross to Hendrick Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

DAVIESS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 6a.m. Friday in Daviess County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Ford Ranger driven by Ethan A. Ross, 20, Trenton, was northbound on MO 190 seven miles south of Jamesport.The pickup traveled off the east side of the road, struck a ditch, a mailbox, traveled back across the road and came to rest in the ditch.Daviess County ambulance transported Ross to Hendrick Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Man from Trenton hospitalized after pickup strikes mailbox

Senate Democrats in Washington have blocked a slimmed down coronavirus
relief bill and prospects of passing another package of health funding and economic
stimulus seem to be dimming.

Missouri Republican U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley accuses Democrats of
playing politics by keeping the Senate from even considering the $500 billion
dollar package.

“I’m sorry to say that my Democratic colleagues just blocked
it,” Hawley tells the Missourinet. “They blocked it from even coming to the
floor so we could debate it and this is getting to be a pattern now.”

The bill needed 60 votes to advance, but failed on a near
party line 52-47 vote.

Democrats complain the bill falls far short of the needs of
the country in wake of the harm the pandemic has caused the economy and the needs
states and communities have in fighting the virus. House Democrats have been
pushing for a $2 trillion package after earlier passing a $3.4 trillion bill.

Hawley claims presidential politics have taken over.

“My own view is we ought to be focused on working families and
on getting people back to work, getting their jobs back, getting their health
care on the job back,” Hawley says. “But we’ve got to be able to move a bill to
the floor and debate it in order to do any of that.”

Congressman Sam Graves holds out hope another package can win
approval during the short time Congress is back in session before breaking for
the November elections. Graves had hoped face-to-face negotiations would make a
difference.

Graves says he understands farm country interests feel a bit
left out of negotiations ongoing in Washington.

“Well, there are a lot of folks that are feeling left out,”
Graves tells reporters during a stop in St. Joseph. “Agriculture; we’re going
to do some of the plus-ups in some of the programs and we have changed some the
stimulus things we passed in the original CARES Act to now include agriculture.
They will have a component to it as well.”

The ethanol industry has complained about being left out and Graves
says any stimulus for ethanol seems a remote possibility.

“Ethanol? It’s hard to tell at this point to be quite honest
with you when it comes to ethanol and how far we go into energy overall,” Graves
says. “It’s hard to tell at this point.”

Negotiations
between congressional Democrats and Trump administration officials have not
restarted since ending in August.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSenate Democrats in Washington have blocked a slimmed down coronavirus
relief bill and prospects of passing another package of health funding and economic
stimulus seem to be dimming.Missouri Republican U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley accuses Democrats of
playing politics by keeping the Senate from even considering the $500 billion
dollar package.“I’m sorry to say that my Democratic colleagues just blocked
it,” Hawley tells the Missourinet. “They blocked it from even coming to the
floor so we could debate it and this is getting to be a pattern now.”The bill needed 60 votes to advance, but failed on a near
party line 52-47 vote.Democrats complain the bill falls far short of the needs of
the country in wake of the harm the pandemic has caused the economy and the needs
states and communities have in fighting the virus. House Democrats have been
pushing for a $2 trillion package after earlier passing a $3.4 trillion bill.Hawley claims presidential politics have taken over.“My own view is we ought to be focused on working families and
on getting people back to work, getting their jobs back, getting their health
care on the job back,” Hawley says. “But we’ve got to be able to move a bill to
the floor and debate it in order to do any of that.”Congressman Sam Graves holds out hope another package can win
approval during the short time Congress is back in session before breaking for
the November elections. Graves had hoped face-to-face negotiations would make a
difference.Graves says he understands farm country interests feel a bit
left out of negotiations ongoing in Washington.“Well, there are a lot of folks that are feeling left out,”
Graves tells reporters during a stop in St. Joseph. “Agriculture; we’re going
to do some of the plus-ups in some of the programs and we have changed some the
stimulus things we passed in the original CARES Act to now include agriculture.
They will have a component to it as well.”The ethanol industry has complained about being left out and Graves
says any stimulus for ethanol seems a remote possibility.“Ethanol? It’s hard to tell at this point to be quite honest
with you when it comes to ethanol and how far we go into energy overall,” Graves
says. “It’s hard to tell at this point.”Negotiations
between congressional Democrats and Trump administration officials have not
restarted since ending in August.

Hopes for new COVID relief package dim as Senate proposal fails

The Kiwanis Club of St. Joseph is kicking off a new project this weekend as it celebrates its 100th anniversary.

St. Joseph Kiwanis Club President Bobbie Cronk says it's very rewarding being part of an organization that's been around for 100 years.

“We have made a huge difference in our community and we also have adapted over time. We’ve done different projects for the community as we see different needs come out, but all focusing on helping the community, helping children in many different ways,” Cronk tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “We’re part of an international organization as well, so not only does our club have an impact on our local families, but also international efforts.”

The Kiwanis Club of St. Joseph, after speaking with community leaders about what was needed, what would benefit children and families and what was a good fit for what the Club, decided to build a new family/community shelter at Bartlett Park.&nbsp;

"It will be adjacent to the playground," Cronk says. "So families will be able to use the shelter and allow their kids to run over the grass to the playground and not across the street the way the current shelter is positioned. So we were thinking that would be a nice benefit."&nbsp;

Cronk says the shelter will include tables, a grill and a water foundation with a water bottle filling station. 

The ground breaking for the new shelter starts at 10 a.m. Saturday at Bartlett Park and will be livestreamed at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/stjoemokiwanis">facebook.com/stjoemokiwanis</a>.

by SARAH THOMACKSt. Joseph PostThe Kiwanis Club of St. Joseph is kicking off a new project this weekend as it celebrates its 100th anniversary.St. Joseph Kiwanis Club President Bobbie Cronk says it's very rewarding being part of an organization that's been around for 100 years.“We have made a huge difference in our community and we also have adapted over time. We’ve done different projects for the community as we see different needs come out, but all focusing on helping the community, helping children in many different ways,” Cronk tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “We’re part of an international organization as well, so not only does our club have an impact on our local families, but also international efforts.”The Kiwanis Club of St. Joseph, after speaking with community leaders about what was needed, what would benefit children and families and what was a good fit for what the Club, decided to build a new family/community shelter at Bartlett Park.&nbsp;"It will be adjacent to the playground," Cronk says. "So families will be able to use the shelter and allow their kids to run over the grass to the playground and not across the street the way the current shelter is positioned. So we were thinking that would be a nice benefit."&nbsp;Cronk says the shelter will include tables, a grill and a water foundation with a water bottle filling station. The ground breaking for the new shelter starts at 10 a.m. Saturday at Bartlett Park and will be livestreamed at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/stjoemokiwanis">facebook.com/stjoemokiwanis</a>.

St. Joseph Kiwanis Club celebrates 100 years, begins new community project

St. Joseph police officers responded to a shots fired call at
around 1:30 this morning.

St. Joseph police report officers recovered two shell casings
in the 800 block of South 40th Street. Witnesses told officers they
heard two to three shots fired.

It appears no one was wounded. No property damage was
evident.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph police officers responded to a shots fired call at
around 1:30 this morning.St. Joseph police report officers recovered two shell casings
in the 800 block of South 40th Street. Witnesses told officers they
heard two to three shots fired.It appears no one was wounded. No property damage was
evident.

Early morning shooting reported; no one wounded, no property damage

St. Joseph health officials report 29 new cases of COVID-19 in
Buchanan County, bringing the total reported cases since the pandemic began to
1,666.

The number of new cases has fallen since it spiked on Tuesday
when health officials reported 49 new cases, by far the most new cases reported
in the past 14 days. On Wednesday, there were 35 new cases reported.

Mosaic Life Care reports 25 COVID-19 patients at its St.
Joseph hospital, five more than on Thursday.

Mosaic has now tested more than 28,000 area residents with 1,764
testing positive. Mosaic is awaiting results from 334 tests.

Andrew County health officials report 194 total cases; 163
confirmed and 31 probable.

Doniphan County, Kansas continues to report 80 total cases.

Missouri reports 97,591 total cases of the coronavirus, which
has resulted in 1,691 deaths.

Kansas health officials report 47,410 total cases and 495
deaths.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report 29 new cases of COVID-19 in
Buchanan County, bringing the total reported cases since the pandemic began to
1,666.The number of new cases has fallen since it spiked on Tuesday
when health officials reported 49 new cases, by far the most new cases reported
in the past 14 days. On Wednesday, there were 35 new cases reported.Mosaic Life Care reports 25 COVID-19 patients at its St.
Joseph hospital, five more than on Thursday.Mosaic has now tested more than 28,000 area residents with 1,764
testing positive. Mosaic is awaiting results from 334 tests.Andrew County health officials report 194 total cases; 163
confirmed and 31 probable.Doniphan County, Kansas continues to report 80 total cases.Missouri reports 97,591 total cases of the coronavirus, which
has resulted in 1,691 deaths.Kansas health officials report 47,410 total cases and 495
deaths.

Buchanan County reports 29 new cases of COVID-19; 25 people hospitalized

A
section of southbound I-29 near Mound City will close overnight Monday.

The
Missouri Department of Transportation will close southbound I-29 just north of
Hopkins Creek near mile marker 59 beginning Monday, September 14th,
at 6pm. It is scheduled to be closed until six o’clock Tuesday morning.

MoDOT
says a crew from Capital Paving and Construction will be completing emergency road
repairs, making a concrete patch. The closure will occur within the work zone
of the Hopkins Creek and Route T bridge projects.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA
section of southbound I-29 near Mound City will close overnight Monday.The
Missouri Department of Transportation will close southbound I-29 just north of
Hopkins Creek near mile marker 59 beginning Monday, September 14th,
at 6pm. It is scheduled to be closed until six o’clock Tuesday morning.MoDOT
says a crew from Capital Paving and Construction will be completing emergency road
repairs, making a concrete patch. The closure will occur within the work zone
of the Hopkins Creek and Route T bridge projects.MoDOT
says during the closure southbound I-29 traffic will be directed onto U.S.
Route 59 (Exit 65) east onto U.S. Route 71, then south to reconnect with I-29.
Motorists will not be able to get onto southbound I-29 at Route K/CC (Exit 60)
and will need to use an alternate route.The two bridge
projects include the replacement of the north and southbound I-29 bridges over
Hopkins Creek and the rehabilitation of the north and southbound bridges over
Route T. Both are part of Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges
program.

Southbound I-29 near Mound City to close Monday evening

DAVIESS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 11:30p.m. Thursday in Daviess County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Chevy Monte Carlo driven by Melvin B. Greyowl, 88, Stephan, South Dakota, was northbound on MO 13.&nbsp;

The car traveled through the T intersection at the MO 6 Junction in Gallatin, struck a propane tank, traveled down an embankment into trees and struck a large tree.

Daviess County EMS transported Greyowl to Cameron Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the&nbsp; MSHP.

DAVIESS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 11:30p.m. Thursday in Daviess County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Chevy Monte Carlo driven by Melvin B. Greyowl, 88, Stephan, South Dakota, was northbound on MO 13.&nbsp;The car traveled through the T intersection at the MO 6 Junction in Gallatin, struck a propane tank, traveled down an embankment into trees and struck a large tree.Daviess County EMS transported Greyowl to Cameron Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the&nbsp; MSHP.

88-year-old hospitalized after car strikes large tree

Central High School students will head back to campus one week ahead of&nbsp;schedule due to construction crews working around the clock.

According to the St. Joseph School District, students who have signed up for in-person instruction will return to CHS on Monday, Sept. 21.

Environmental checks have been completed and indoor air quality is within safe, normal ranges. Construction is winding down this week and next week SJSD maintenance and technology staffs will be working to put everything in place for the return of CHS staff and students on Sept. 21.

A failure with the school’s HVAC system, air quality issues and water damage in the Freshman Annex forced district officials to temporarily close the Central High School campus.&nbsp;

“The safety and security of students and staff are our highest priorities,” said Superintendent Dr. Doug Van Zyl. “We are pleased with the quality of work on this project and that it will be completed earlier than anticipated.”

It was estimated the project would cost the district approximately $2.5 million, but the final total came in slightly under $2 million.

Central High School students will head back to campus one week ahead of&nbsp;schedule due to construction crews working around the clock.According to the St. Joseph School District, students who have signed up for in-person instruction will return to CHS on Monday, Sept. 21.Environmental checks have been completed and indoor air quality is within safe, normal ranges. Construction is winding down this week and next week SJSD maintenance and technology staffs will be working to put everything in place for the return of CHS staff and students on Sept. 21.A failure with the school’s HVAC system, air quality issues and water damage in the Freshman Annex forced district officials to temporarily close the Central High School campus.&nbsp;“The safety and security of students and staff are our highest priorities,” said Superintendent Dr. Doug Van Zyl. “We are pleased with the quality of work on this project and that it will be completed earlier than anticipated.”It was estimated the project would cost the district approximately $2.5 million, but the final total came in slightly under $2 million.

Central High School to open for in-person classes on Sept. 21st

ANDREW COUNTY —A Nebraska truck driver avoided injury after an accident just before 5:30a.m. Thursday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Kenworth semi driven by William J. Loomis, 43, Cortland, NE., was southbound on U.S. 71 two miles south of Savannah.&nbsp;

The driver fell asleep. The truck traveled off the east side of the road and overturned.&nbsp; Andrew County EMS transported Loomis to Mosaic Life Care. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY —A Nebraska truck driver avoided injury after an accident just before 5:30a.m. Thursday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Kenworth semi driven by William J. Loomis, 43, Cortland, NE., was southbound on U.S. 71 two miles south of Savannah.&nbsp;The driver fell asleep. The truck traveled off the east side of the road and overturned.&nbsp; Andrew County EMS transported Loomis to Mosaic Life Care. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Driver avoids injury after falling asleep at the wheel

The Downtown Branch of the St. Joseph Public Library is temporarily closing due to a staff member being diagnosed with COVID-19.

According to Library Director Mary Beth Revels, the staff member doesn't work directly with patrons, but has had contact with multiple staff members. As a precaution the branch is asking all staff who have been exposed to shelter-in-place for two weeks.

The branch plans to reopen to the public on Friday, September 25. 

Patrons who have items on hold will be contacted to schedule a pick up at another branch until the library is able to reopen.

The Downtown Branch of the St. Joseph Public Library is temporarily closing due to a staff member being diagnosed with COVID-19.According to Library Director Mary Beth Revels, the staff member doesn't work directly with patrons, but has had contact with multiple staff members. As a precaution the branch is asking all staff who have been exposed to shelter-in-place for two weeks.The branch plans to reopen to the public on Friday, September 25. Patrons who have items on hold will be contacted to schedule a pick up at another branch until the library is able to reopen.

Downtown St. Joseph library closing due to COVID-19 exposure

Missouri Western State University hopes preparation leads to a
full semester of classes on the St. Joseph campus.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University hopes preparation leads to a
full semester of classes on the St. Joseph campus.Interim university president Elizabeth Kennedy says the
Missouri Western COVID Response Plan was developed in March and a special
committee headed by an infectious disease specialist has been guiding the
university since it welcomed students back to campus last month.Kennedy says the university is attempting to strike a delicate
balance.“We want to have people that are socially distanced, but not
socially isolated and I think that’s critical for the college student and what he
or she is looking for in terms of a university experience,” Kennedy tells host
Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.Kennedy says the biggest question facing the administration
was how to engage with students even while requiring masks be worn and social
distance be kept. Kennedy says it will take cooperation from faculty, staff,
and students to keep the campus safe and open.“This summer, even in my role as Vice Provost, I heard from a
lot of students that they wanted to come back, they wanted to have that
experience, and so we’re really working hard to make sure that we can keep that
open for everybody,” Kennedy says.Missouri Western has approximately 3,900 students enrolled
this semester, with only 500 solely online. Missouri Western began the semester
August 17th with the hopes of wrapping up classes prior to
Thanksgiving.The university reports 17 active COVID-19 cases as of
Thursday; two on campus and 15 off campus.Kennedy says university administrators are receiving input
from a variety of sources to stay on top of the pandemic.“We’re just monitoring the situation, following the CDC
guidelines, paying attention to what we need to do to keep us as safe and as healthy
as possible,” Kennedy says.Kennedy says Missouri Western, as an applied learning university,
must hold some classes in-person, making work to avoid a COVID outbreak even
more important.

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