DEKALB COUNTY –A woman was injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Thursday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Chevy Equinox driven by Leona C. Umberger, 85, Fairfax, South Dakota, was eastbound on U.S. 36 just east of Taylor Road two miles west of Stewartsville.&nbsp;

The vehicle entered the passing lane, traveled into the median, across the westbound lanes of the highway and struck a tree.

DeKalb-Clinton ambulance transported Umberger to Mosaic Life Care. She was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY –A woman was injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Thursday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Chevy Equinox driven by Leona C. Umberger, 85, Fairfax, South Dakota, was eastbound on U.S. 36 just east of Taylor Road two miles west of Stewartsville.&nbsp;The vehicle entered the passing lane, traveled into the median, across the westbound lanes of the highway and struck a tree.DeKalb-Clinton ambulance transported Umberger to Mosaic Life Care. She was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

85-year-old hospitalized in St. Joe after SUV strikes a tree

HARRISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Thursday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Freightliner semi driven by Robert E. Dunagan, 58, Leander, Texas, was northbound on Interstate 35 five miles north of Pattonsburg.

The driver lost control of the vehicle. It crossed the median, southbound lanes and overturned off the west side of the road.

NTA ambulance transported Dunagan to Liberty Hospital.&nbsp; The MSHP did not report seat belt usage information.

HARRISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Thursday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Freightliner semi driven by Robert E. Dunagan, 58, Leander, Texas, was northbound on Interstate 35 five miles north of Pattonsburg.The driver lost control of the vehicle. It crossed the median, southbound lanes and overturned off the west side of the road.NTA ambulance transported Dunagan to Liberty Hospital.&nbsp; The MSHP did not report seat belt usage information.

Driver hospitalized after semi overturns

HARRISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Thursday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Buick Enclave driven by Thom E. Baker, 70, Kent, IA., was southbound on MO 13 at Route H five miles west of Gilman City.

The Buick traveled into the path of a westbound&nbsp; 2017 Ford F150 driven by Roger C. Fletchall, 58, Sheridan.

NTA ambulance transported Fletchall to Harrison County Community H ospital. Baker was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

HARRISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Thursday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Buick Enclave driven by Thom E. Baker, 70, Kent, IA., was southbound on MO 13 at Route H five miles west of Gilman City.The Buick traveled into the path of a westbound&nbsp; 2017 Ford F150 driven by Roger C. Fletchall, 58, Sheridan.NTA ambulance transported Fletchall to Harrison County Community H ospital. Baker was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Missouri man injured after 2-vehicle crash

Missouri Western softball player and outgoing senior Emma Hoffart was granted a fifth year of eligibility due to COVID-19.

She never imagined that the extra year would include an endorsement deal with a national brand.

The NCAA announced on June 30 that all NCAA athletes are now able to profit off of their own name, image and likeness.

Degree Deodorant got involved,&nbsp;

introducing their #BreakingLimits team - a roster of "inspiring college athletes that push boundaries, move beyond their limits and inspire others."

Degree unveiled the #BreakingLimits roster Wednesday, and Hoffart was included on a list of 14 athletes from various different sports and schools across the nation.

"They did a really good job of encompassing the diversity they were wanting to achieve from this," Hoffart said of the #BreakingLimits team.

Hoffart first heard about Degree's #BreakingLimits campaign from a former Missouri Western baseball player, who had a friend at OpenDorse - a sports technology company that maximizes endorsement value for athletes and is headquartered in Lincoln, Nebraska.

When Hoffart first heard about it, she was sure that her involvement would be prohibited under longtime NCAA rules. Then, she saw the news on social media, and how athletes could now profit off of NIL.

She's now the first athlete in Missouri Western history to sign an endorsement deal.

"Honestly, there's no words to describe it," Hoffart said. "It still doesn't even feel real, because going into Division II athletics, you have a love for your sport and you want to play it well, but you never dream of being recognized for anything at that level. To be able to represent DII at a national level is pretty amazing to me. It's career changing. Life changing. It's a huge deal."

Hoffart says Division II and III athletes getting endorsement deals is especially important, since full-ride athletic scholarships are far less common at the lower level than they are in DI.

"There's a common misconception that every athlete is on a full ride, so they're getting their tuition paid for and that just isn't true," Hoffart explained. "Especially at the DII level. To be spending so much time and effort into your athletics, it takes away from your time to get a full-time job for example."

&nbsp;Each member of Degree's #BreakingLimits team has their own personal story about perseverance and breaking limits through the power of sport, according to the company.

In April, Hoffart <a href="https://www.outsports.com/2021/4/22/22394249/gay-college-softball-emma-hoffart-coming-out">wrote an article for OutSports.com</a> about her experience coming out as gay while growing up in suburban Omaha, how her family came to terms with it and how that's shaped her life.

Between that, and dealing with a hearing disability, OpenDorse and Degree stumbled upon Hoffart's story and signed her for a one-year endorsement deal, which will include the funding of local community projects, content partnerships, social media campaigns and more.

"Together with its student athlete partners, Degree will continue to roll out new initiatives and programming in the weeks and months ahead, focused on supporting those who face the biggest barriers to being active," the company said in a release.

Whether some reads her article on OutSports, or learns of her story through this campaign with Degree, Hoffart hopes that her journey can bring awareness, and deliver a sense of comfort and normalcy, especially to those younger athletes who are going through similar experiences.

"If I were that age and if I were to see something, or read something about someone older than me that I looked up to or admired, and they shared a story that's similar to mine, it would have brought me so much comfort in knowing that I'm not alone," she said. "Just making sure that maybe one day, it won't be that big of a deal to share that kind of a story."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625771886092.jpeg" alt="Emma Hoffart, a fifth-year senior and softball player at Missouri Western, talks about being a part of Degree's #BreakingLimits team - an endorsement deal for student-athletes who have had to overcome adversity. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Emma Hoffart, a fifth-year senior and softball player at Missouri Western, talks about being a part of Degree's #BreakingLimits team - an endorsement deal for student-athletes who have had to overcome adversity. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western softball player and outgoing senior Emma Hoffart was granted a fifth year of eligibility due to COVID-19.She never imagined that the extra year would include an endorsement deal with a national brand.The NCAA announced on June 30 that all NCAA athletes are now able to profit off of their own name, image and likeness.Degree Deodorant got involved,&nbsp;

introducing their #BreakingLimits team - a roster of "inspiring college athletes that push boundaries, move beyond their limits and inspire others."Degree unveiled the #BreakingLimits roster Wednesday, and Hoffart was included on a list of 14 athletes from various different sports and schools across the nation."They did a really good job of encompassing the diversity they were wanting to achieve from this," Hoffart said of the #BreakingLimits team.Hoffart first heard about Degree's #BreakingLimits campaign from a former Missouri Western baseball player, who had a friend at OpenDorse - a sports technology company that maximizes endorsement value for athletes and is headquartered in Lincoln, Nebraska.When Hoffart first heard about it, she was sure that her involvement would be prohibited under longtime NCAA rules. Then, she saw the news on social media, and how athletes could now profit off of NIL.She's now the first athlete in Missouri Western history to sign an endorsement deal."Honestly, there's no words to describe it," Hoffart said. "It still doesn't even feel real, because going into Division II athletics, you have a love for your sport and you want to play it well, but you never dream of being recognized for anything at that level. To be able to represent DII at a national level is pretty amazing to me. It's career changing. Life changing. It's a huge deal."Hoffart says Division II and III athletes getting endorsement deals is especially important, since full-ride athletic scholarships are far less common at the lower level than they are in DI."There's a common misconception that every athlete is on a full ride, so they're getting their tuition paid for and that just isn't true," Hoffart explained. "Especially at the DII level. To be spending so much time and effort into your athletics, it takes away from your time to get a full-time job for example."&nbsp;Each member of Degree's #BreakingLimits team has their own personal story about perseverance and breaking limits through the power of sport, according to the company.In April, Hoffart <a href="https://www.outsports.com/2021/4/22/22394249/gay-college-softball-emma-hoffart-coming-out">wrote an article for OutSports.com</a> about her experience coming out as gay while growing up in suburban Omaha, how her family came to terms with it and how that's shaped her life.Between that, and dealing with a hearing disability, OpenDorse and Degree stumbled upon Hoffart's story and signed her for a one-year endorsement deal, which will include the funding of local community projects, content partnerships, social media campaigns and more."Together with its student athlete partners, Degree will continue to roll out new initiatives and programming in the weeks and months ahead, focused on supporting those who face the biggest barriers to being active," the company said in a release.Whether some reads her article on OutSports, or learns of her story through this campaign with Degree, Hoffart hopes that her journey can bring awareness, and deliver a sense of comfort and normalcy, especially to those younger athletes who are going through similar experiences."If I were that age and if I were to see something, or read something about someone older than me that I looked up to or admired, and they shared a story that's similar to mine, it would have brought me so much comfort in knowing that I'm not alone," she said. "Just making sure that maybe one day, it won't be that big of a deal to share that kind of a story."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625771819965.jpeg" alt="Emma Hoffart. Photo via Griffon Athletics." />
 <figcaption>Emma Hoffart. Photo via Griffon Athletics.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">I’m so excited to be part of <a href="https://twitter.com/Degree?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Degree</a>’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BreakingLimits?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BreakingLimits</a> team! From coping with a hearing disability to the struggles of coming out as a lesbian, I’ve overcome great obstacles that pushed me beyond my limits. As a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DegreePartner?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DegreePartner</a>, I look forward to sharing my full story with you. <a href="https://t.co/a2NPyuc9cy">pic.twitter.com/a2NPyuc9cy</a>&mdash; emma (@emma_hoffart) <a href="https://twitter.com/emma_hoffart/status/1412813596099293187?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div><div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1084066003&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/tommy-rezac" title="KFEQ Radio, St. Joseph Post" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">KFEQ Radio, St. Joseph Post</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/tommy-rezac/missouri-western-softball-player-emma-hoffart" title="Missouri Western softball player Emma Hoffart" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Missouri Western softball player Emma Hoffart</a></div></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Emma Hoffart representing Missouri Western, DII athletes with endorsement deal

A 24-year-old man accused of assaulting his mother has now
been charged in the shooting death of a St. Joseph police dog.

Valdez McDonald has been charged with armed criminal action, accused
of shooting and killing K-9 Max while fleeing from police June 30th.

McDonald already faces a third-degree assault charge. Authorities
accuse him of beating his mother; smashing her head against a wall and hitting
her in the back of the head with a 2x4.

Buchanan County Prosecutor Ron Holliday says the maximum
sentence for the combined charges would be 19 years in prison.

The St. Joseph Police Department reports the Special Response
Team along with several other officers, including K-9 Max, arrived at 5108
Barbra Street late in the evening on June 30th, a residence in which an armed
subject had barricaded himself.

During negotiations, authorities say McDonald fled out of the
back of the residence, armed. He shot K-9 Max during the pursuit. Max was
transported to Kansas City for emergency care, but died of his wounds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625766338329.jpeg" alt="K9 Max/St. Joseph Police Dept. photo" />
 <figcaption>K9 Max/St. Joseph Police Dept. photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA 24-year-old man accused of assaulting his mother has now
been charged in the shooting death of a St. Joseph police dog.Valdez McDonald has been charged with armed criminal action, accused
of shooting and killing K-9 Max while fleeing from police June 30th.McDonald already faces a third-degree assault charge. Authorities
accuse him of beating his mother; smashing her head against a wall and hitting
her in the back of the head with a 2x4.Buchanan County Prosecutor Ron Holliday says the maximum
sentence for the combined charges would be 19 years in prison.The St. Joseph Police Department reports the Special Response
Team along with several other officers, including K-9 Max, arrived at 5108
Barbra Street late in the evening on June 30th, a residence in which an armed
subject had barricaded himself.During negotiations, authorities say McDonald fled out of the
back of the residence, armed. He shot K-9 Max during the pursuit. Max was
transported to Kansas City for emergency care, but died of his wounds.

Man facing domestic assault charge now charged in K9 Max death

A St. Joseph elementary school teacher will spend next week
helping a team of bikers, traveling from Holly, Colorado to St. Louis,
Missouri.

They are biking for a purpose under the organization called
“Biking for Babies.”

St. Francis Xavier Third Grade teacher Erin Sprenger serves on
the support crew, saying those who participate sacrifice as they raise money
for pregnancy resource centers across the country.

“The riders are obviously offering physical sacrifice, riding
100 miles a day through hot, Midwestern summer weather and our support crew, we’re
offering sacrifice, serving the riders and making sure that they have all of
their needs met,” Sprenger tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.

Sprenger says she got interested in the St. Joseph Pregnancy
Resource Center while in college. The centers offer services for pregnant women
free of charge, including the St. Joseph Pregnancy Resource Center.

“We are raising money and awareness for pregnancy resource
centers all across the nation, helping to serve women who are in crisis,
meeting them with love and support,” Sprenger says.

Biking for Babies will field four teams, the largest
participation in the fundraiser’s history. All the teams converge in St. Louis.
The others leave from Green Bay, Wisconsin; Columbus, Ohio; and Natchez,
Mississippi.

Click <a href="https://bikingforbabies.com/">here</a> for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625758145446.jpeg" alt="Photo from Biking for Babies Facebook page" />
 <figcaption>Photo from Biking for Babies Facebook page</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA St. Joseph elementary school teacher will spend next week
helping a team of bikers, traveling from Holly, Colorado to St. Louis,
Missouri.They are biking for a purpose under the organization called
“Biking for Babies.”St. Francis Xavier Third Grade teacher Erin Sprenger serves on
the support crew, saying those who participate sacrifice as they raise money
for pregnancy resource centers across the country.“The riders are obviously offering physical sacrifice, riding
100 miles a day through hot, Midwestern summer weather and our support crew, we’re
offering sacrifice, serving the riders and making sure that they have all of
their needs met,” Sprenger tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.Sprenger says she got interested in the St. Joseph Pregnancy
Resource Center while in college. The centers offer services for pregnant women
free of charge, including the St. Joseph Pregnancy Resource Center.“We are raising money and awareness for pregnancy resource
centers all across the nation, helping to serve women who are in crisis,
meeting them with love and support,” Sprenger says.Biking for Babies will field four teams, the largest
participation in the fundraiser’s history. All the teams converge in St. Louis.
The others leave from Green Bay, Wisconsin; Columbus, Ohio; and Natchez,
Mississippi.Click <a href="https://bikingforbabies.com/">here</a> for more information.

St. Joseph teacher to participate in Biking for Babies

After police K-9 Max was shot and killed last week on Wednesday, the city of St. Joseph has pulled together as a community to remember and honor Max.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Former banker&nbsp;Bob Dempster is helping to raise money,&nbsp;hoping to&nbsp;reach a&nbsp;$20,000&nbsp;goal to pay for a&nbsp;memorial to Max.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Obviously&nbsp;the price of the bronze is expensive, it may not be that expensive, but anything&nbsp;in excess over&nbsp;the&nbsp;cost of the memorial would go to the animal shelter for their purposes,” Dempster tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dempster says the community responded quickly to death of Max.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The city has received&nbsp;thousands of phone calls, what people can do to help and this is just a method to turn those requests into something tangible,” says&nbsp;Dempster.&nbsp;&nbsp;

You can donate to the cause through&nbsp;Max’s obituary on the <a href="https://www.meierhoffer.com/obituaries/Police-K-9-Max?obId=21592816#/obituaryInfo">Meierhoffer&nbsp;Funeral Home &amp; Crematory’s obituary page</a>&nbsp;or through the specific page for Max on the <a href="https://cfnwmo.iphiview.com/cfnwmo/DonorsFundholders/AccountInformation/tabid/495/dispatch/accountselection_id$54698_hash$05fb4f3b5c4ddf3435c515537d0cf747ee942a55/Default.aspx">Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri’s website</a>.&nbsp;

By WHITNEE ICE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;After police K-9 Max was shot and killed last week on Wednesday, the city of St. Joseph has pulled together as a community to remember and honor Max.&nbsp;&nbsp;Former banker&nbsp;Bob Dempster is helping to raise money,&nbsp;hoping to&nbsp;reach a&nbsp;$20,000&nbsp;goal to pay for a&nbsp;memorial to Max.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Obviously&nbsp;the price of the bronze is expensive, it may not be that expensive, but anything&nbsp;in excess over&nbsp;the&nbsp;cost of the memorial would go to the animal shelter for their purposes,” Dempster tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;Dempster says the community responded quickly to death of Max.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The city has received&nbsp;thousands of phone calls, what people can do to help and this is just a method to turn those requests into something tangible,” says&nbsp;Dempster.&nbsp;&nbsp;You can donate to the cause through&nbsp;Max’s obituary on the <a href="https://www.meierhoffer.com/obituaries/Police-K-9-Max?obId=21592816#/obituaryInfo">Meierhoffer&nbsp;Funeral Home &amp; Crematory’s obituary page</a>&nbsp;or through the specific page for Max on the <a href="https://cfnwmo.iphiview.com/cfnwmo/DonorsFundholders/AccountInformation/tabid/495/dispatch/accountselection_id$54698_hash$05fb4f3b5c4ddf3435c515537d0cf747ee942a55/Default.aspx">Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri’s website</a>.&nbsp;

St. Joseph's community rallies around the death of K-9 Max and his memorial

A St. Joseph man in his 40s died of an apparent self-inflicted
gunshot wound after firing into a crowd at America’s Best Value Inn at the
corner of I-29 and Frederick, then crashing his vehicle into a Speedy’s
Convenient Store on Frederick.

St. Joseph police report officers responded to a disturbance at
the motel shortly before 6:30 last night.

Witnesses report the man shot towards others at the motel, but
did not hit anyone. No one else was reported wounded.

Police say the man fled down Frederick, crashing into the Speedy’s
at 4007 Frederick. Emergency crews responded and removed the man from his
vehicle. He was unresponsive. Crews rushed the man to the hospital where a
single gunshot wound was discovered. It appeared to be self-inflicted. He died
of the wound.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA St. Joseph man in his 40s died of an apparent self-inflicted
gunshot wound after firing into a crowd at America’s Best Value Inn at the
corner of I-29 and Frederick, then crashing his vehicle into a Speedy’s
Convenient Store on Frederick.St. Joseph police report officers responded to a disturbance at
the motel shortly before 6:30 last night.Witnesses report the man shot towards others at the motel, but
did not hit anyone. No one else was reported wounded.Police say the man fled down Frederick, crashing into the Speedy’s
at 4007 Frederick. Emergency crews responded and removed the man from his
vehicle. He was unresponsive. Crews rushed the man to the hospital where a
single gunshot wound was discovered. It appeared to be self-inflicted. He died
of the wound.The man has not been identified.The investigation continues.

Man dies of apparent self-inflicted wound after St. Joseph motel shooting

ATCHISON COUNTY, Mo. —A Nebraska woman died in an accident just after 7:30p.m. Wednesday in Atchison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Hyundai Sonata driven Jovannah D. Ross, 38, Omaha, was northbound on Interstate 29 three miles south of Rock Port.

The Hyundai began to slide, crossed the center median and entered the southbound lanes. The passenger side of the Hyundai struck the front of a southbound 2018 Toyota Sienna driven by Emily A. Ptacnik, 34, Omaha.

Ross was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Minter Funeral Chapel in Rock Port.

A private vehicle transported Ptacnik and three children ages, 6, 4 and 2 to Mosaic Life in Care in St. Joseph for treatment of minor injuries. Ross was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

ATCHISON COUNTY, Mo. —A Nebraska woman died in an accident just after 7:30p.m. Wednesday in Atchison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Hyundai Sonata driven Jovannah D. Ross, 38, Omaha, was northbound on Interstate 29 three miles south of Rock Port.The Hyundai began to slide, crossed the center median and entered the southbound lanes. The passenger side of the Hyundai struck the front of a southbound 2018 Toyota Sienna driven by Emily A. Ptacnik, 34, Omaha.Ross was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Minter Funeral Chapel in Rock Port.A private vehicle transported Ptacnik and three children ages, 6, 4 and 2 to Mosaic Life in Care in St. Joseph for treatment of minor injuries. Ross was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Woman killed,  4 hospitalized after Atchison Co. crash

DAVIESS COUNTY —A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 4p.m. Wednesday in Daviess County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix driven by Cynthia M. Ressel, 50, Coffey, was northbound on Interstate 35 just south of Route DD.

The car traveled off the road and struck a tree. Daviess County EMS transported Ressel to Cameron Regional Medical Center. She was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

DAVIESS COUNTY —A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 4p.m. Wednesday in Daviess County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix driven by Cynthia M. Ressel, 50, Coffey, was northbound on Interstate 35 just south of Route DD.The car traveled off the road and struck a tree. Daviess County EMS transported Ressel to Cameron Regional Medical Center. She was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman injured after car strikes a tree

A St. Joseph center that works with those suffering from
Parkinson’s disease will be able to help more area residents now that it is moving
into a new, larger space.

“We have about double the space now, which is going to allow
us to really expand what we’ve been doing and help as many people as we
possibly can,” Executive Director Stephanie Stewart with the Freudenthal Center
for Parkinson’s Disease tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.

The Freudenthal Center is moving from one space in the East
Hills Mall to another as it seeks to help combat the ravages of the disease.

“And the idea really was just to offer them classes so they
can exercise, because we know that people that have Parkinson’s, they really
need to be active,” Stewart explains. “That is a key to their disease
progression and how quickly it progresses.”

Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder caused by a
loss of dopamine. Medication can help increase dopamine levels, according to
the Mayo Clinic website. Exercise also helps keep muscle and joints from
becoming stiff.

The Freudenthal Center offers a variety of exercises with
boxing being one of the most popular, according to Stewart. She says exercise
can slow the often debilitating progress of the disease.

“Many times, they’ll have the shake,” Stewart says. “When
people hear Parkinson’s, they automatically think of the shake, but really not
everybody has that tremor. Most all of them do have some difficulty with
movement, though.”

The new space will provide more boxing stands, a walking track,
tandem cycles, and even ping pong.

“Ping pong is a great hand-eye coordination for folks,”
according to Stewart. “And really, the main thing is we just want to be able to
be prepared to help as many people as we possibly can.”

The Freudenthal Center serves about 25 residents a week now.
Stewart says the expanded space will allow the center to serve even more. There
is no charge for its services. The center runs on donations and fund raisers.
Workers volunteer their time.

She says estimates peg the number of Buchanan County residents
with Parkinson’s disease at between two-and-three thousand.

A grand reopening for the Freudenthal Center for Parkinson’s
Disease at the East Hills Mall is scheduled for July 14th.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625680377532.jpeg" alt="Freudenthal Center for Parkinson's Disease&nbsp; at the East Hills Mall during boxing class/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Freudenthal Center for Parkinson's Disease&nbsp; at the East Hills Mall during boxing class/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA St. Joseph center that works with those suffering from
Parkinson’s disease will be able to help more area residents now that it is moving
into a new, larger space.“We have about double the space now, which is going to allow
us to really expand what we’ve been doing and help as many people as we
possibly can,” Executive Director Stephanie Stewart with the Freudenthal Center
for Parkinson’s Disease tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.The Freudenthal Center is moving from one space in the East
Hills Mall to another as it seeks to help combat the ravages of the disease.“And the idea really was just to offer them classes so they
can exercise, because we know that people that have Parkinson’s, they really
need to be active,” Stewart explains. “That is a key to their disease
progression and how quickly it progresses.”Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder caused by a
loss of dopamine. Medication can help increase dopamine levels, according to
the Mayo Clinic website. Exercise also helps keep muscle and joints from
becoming stiff.The Freudenthal Center offers a variety of exercises with
boxing being one of the most popular, according to Stewart. She says exercise
can slow the often debilitating progress of the disease.“Many times, they’ll have the shake,” Stewart says. “When
people hear Parkinson’s, they automatically think of the shake, but really not
everybody has that tremor. Most all of them do have some difficulty with
movement, though.”The new space will provide more boxing stands, a walking track,
tandem cycles, and even ping pong.“Ping pong is a great hand-eye coordination for folks,”
according to Stewart. “And really, the main thing is we just want to be able to
be prepared to help as many people as we possibly can.”The Freudenthal Center serves about 25 residents a week now.
Stewart says the expanded space will allow the center to serve even more. There
is no charge for its services. The center runs on donations and fund raisers.
Workers volunteer their time.She says estimates peg the number of Buchanan County residents
with Parkinson’s disease at between two-and-three thousand.A grand reopening for the Freudenthal Center for Parkinson’s
Disease at the East Hills Mall is scheduled for July 14th.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625680486760.jpeg" alt="Freudenthal Center donation board/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Freudenthal Center donation board/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>

More with Parkinson's can be served with Freudenthal Center expansion

Trauma cases, organ transplants, and elective surgeries are on the rise and the American Red Cross is calling for blood donations as this causes a severe blood shortage.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Red Cross spokeswoman Angie&nbsp;Springs says we need to ensure that blood is on the shelves.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The American Red Cross is experiencing a severe blood shortage and that goes hand in hand with patients that are fighting cancer, as well as we are seeing an increased tick in demand for patients that need elective surgeries&nbsp;or trauma patients as well,”&nbsp;Springs tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Springs says there are multiple ways to sign up for a time to give blood.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“You can go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/dlp/american-cancer-society.html">givebloodtogivetime.org</a> and that’s going to direct you&nbsp;to the American Red Cross blood donor website. You can also go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcrossblood.org/">redcrossblood.org</a> and schedule your appointment to roll-up your&nbsp;sleeve&nbsp;at a blood drive near you to help those&nbsp;that are specifically battling cancer,” says Springs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Springs says&nbsp;blood is needed now more than ever, especially for cancer patients.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We’re seeing an increased need for blood specifically for cancer patients,” says Springs.&nbsp;“Of course, during the pandemic lots of procedures and even doctor’s visits were postponed and we’re seeing an uptick specifically in those that are needing new blood to fight cancer.”&nbsp;

The Red Cross has distributed roughly 75,000 more blood products than expected in the last several months to meet these needs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Springs says for perspective, about 3% of eligible people donate every year.&nbsp;

By WHITNEE ICE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Trauma cases, organ transplants, and elective surgeries are on the rise and the American Red Cross is calling for blood donations as this causes a severe blood shortage.&nbsp;&nbsp;Red Cross spokeswoman Angie&nbsp;Springs says we need to ensure that blood is on the shelves.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The American Red Cross is experiencing a severe blood shortage and that goes hand in hand with patients that are fighting cancer, as well as we are seeing an increased tick in demand for patients that need elective surgeries&nbsp;or trauma patients as well,”&nbsp;Springs tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;Springs says there are multiple ways to sign up for a time to give blood.&nbsp;&nbsp;“You can go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/dlp/american-cancer-society.html">givebloodtogivetime.org</a> and that’s going to direct you&nbsp;to the American Red Cross blood donor website. You can also go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcrossblood.org/">redcrossblood.org</a> and schedule your appointment to roll-up your&nbsp;sleeve&nbsp;at a blood drive near you to help those&nbsp;that are specifically battling cancer,” says Springs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Springs says&nbsp;blood is needed now more than ever, especially for cancer patients.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We’re seeing an increased need for blood specifically for cancer patients,” says Springs.&nbsp;“Of course, during the pandemic lots of procedures and even doctor’s visits were postponed and we’re seeing an uptick specifically in those that are needing new blood to fight cancer.”&nbsp;The Red Cross has distributed roughly 75,000 more blood products than expected in the last several months to meet these needs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Springs says for perspective, about 3% of eligible people donate every year.&nbsp;

The American Red Cross needs blood on its shelves

St. Joseph health officials report 59 new COVID-19 cases over the Fourth of July weekend, though the number of completed tests was lower due to the holiday.

The county’s seven-day positivity rate is at 11 percent - about a two percent decrease from the week prior.

COVID hospitalizations are up at Mosaic Life Care. There are 32 COVID patients being treated at Mosaic - all at the St. Joseph hospital. That's up from 26 patients reported Sunday.

Mosaic announced last week a change in its visitor policy at the St. Joseph hospital. Only one visitor per patient is being allowed at this time. That policy will remain in place for at least another three weeks.

Vaccination rates are still low in Buchanan County and other parts of northwest Missouri. Just 21.2 percent of the Buchanan County population has initiated vaccination and only 19.3 percent have completed it.

Less than 30 percent of residents in Holt, Andrew, Platte, DeKalb, Worth, Harrison, Daviess and Caldwell counties are fully vaccinated.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report 59 new COVID-19 cases over the Fourth of July weekend, though the number of completed tests was lower due to the holiday.The county’s seven-day positivity rate is at 11 percent - about a two percent decrease from the week prior.COVID hospitalizations are up at Mosaic Life Care. There are 32 COVID patients being treated at Mosaic - all at the St. Joseph hospital. That's up from 26 patients reported Sunday.Mosaic announced last week a change in its visitor policy at the St. Joseph hospital. Only one visitor per patient is being allowed at this time. That policy will remain in place for at least another three weeks.Vaccination rates are still low in Buchanan County and other parts of northwest Missouri. Just 21.2 percent of the Buchanan County population has initiated vaccination and only 19.3 percent have completed it.Less than 30 percent of residents in Holt, Andrew, Platte, DeKalb, Worth, Harrison, Daviess and Caldwell counties are fully vaccinated.

St. Joseph Health Department reports 59 new cases in Buchanan County since Thursday

(AP) - A northwest Missouri man has pleaded not guilty in the death of his 5-month-old son.

Twenty-four year-old Dillon Livingston of Gower is charged with second-degree murder and two counts of child abuse or neglect.

A probable cause statement says first responders were sent to Livingston's home in February after a call about an unresponsive child. Livingston was taking care of his son at the time. A court document says Livingston claimed the boy was injured when he rolled out of a recliner.

In a phone interview with the children’s division in March, Livingston admitted he handled the baby too forcefully when the child became fussy, according to the probable cause statement.

Livingston's next court appearance was scheduled for Sept. 7.

St. Joseph Post(AP) - A northwest Missouri man has pleaded not guilty in the death of his 5-month-old son.Twenty-four year-old Dillon Livingston of Gower is charged with second-degree murder and two counts of child abuse or neglect.He appeared in court Tuesday.A probable cause statement says first responders were sent to Livingston's home in February after a call about an unresponsive child. Livingston was taking care of his son at the time. A court document says Livingston claimed the boy was injured when he rolled out of a recliner.In a phone interview with the children’s division in March, Livingston admitted he handled the baby too forcefully when the child became fussy, according to the probable cause statement.Livingston's next court appearance was scheduled for Sept. 7.

Gower man pleads not guilty in death of 5-month-old son

Federal money, a lot of federal money, is coming to St. Joseph
and Buchanan County.

How it will be spent has yet to be determined.

Both the City of St. Joseph and Buchanan County will reap
millions from Congressional approval of the latest coronavirus relief and
stimulus package.

St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President Patt Lilly notes the
city is expected to receive $39 million with the county set to receive $17 million.

“My hope is that we will look at long-term kind of investment
opportunities in the community that will bear fruit over a longer period of
time,” Lilly tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “I mean, this is going
to be a one-time event. Of course, the money is going to come in in two
different fiscal years. This is going to be a one-time opportunity for both the
city and the county. I thought the city and the county did a nice job early on
in the pandemic with the money they received.”

Lilly suggests that if the city and county combine forces, the
money would have a bigger impact.

“I really hope that the city and county work together,” Lilly
says. “I think when you take those two figures and add them together, it’s a
significant amount. It’s over $50 million. And I think there’s some real
opportunity where they can work together on some things.”

Lilly says the Chamber has some ideas on how the money could
be spent.

“Obviously, from an economic development standpoint, workforce
is a critical issue in our community and we just don’t have enough capacity
particularly on the vocational-technical training. Could there be something
happen there?” Lilly asks. “Could there be something you could do in some of
these older neighborhoods of the community to establish a program that would
allow people to more easily invest in some of these older homes?”

Lilly says, if spent wisely, the money could have a profound
impact on the future of the community.

“It would be nice in 10 years to say, ‘We spent this much
money on this and it’s had this kind of positive outcome for our community,’
versus ‘Well, what did they spend that money on 10 years ago. I don’t
remember.’ You’d hate to find yourself in that kind of situation.”

This latest federal allocation has fewer strings attached and
can be used for infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, even broadband.
The money from Washington will come in two installments over the next two
fiscal years.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostFederal money, a lot of federal money, is coming to St. Joseph
and Buchanan County.How it will be spent has yet to be determined.Both the City of St. Joseph and Buchanan County will reap
millions from Congressional approval of the latest coronavirus relief and
stimulus package.St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President Patt Lilly notes the
city is expected to receive $39 million with the county set to receive $17 million.“My hope is that we will look at long-term kind of investment
opportunities in the community that will bear fruit over a longer period of
time,” Lilly tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “I mean, this is going
to be a one-time event. Of course, the money is going to come in in two
different fiscal years. This is going to be a one-time opportunity for both the
city and the county. I thought the city and the county did a nice job early on
in the pandemic with the money they received.”Lilly suggests that if the city and county combine forces, the
money would have a bigger impact.“I really hope that the city and county work together,” Lilly
says. “I think when you take those two figures and add them together, it’s a
significant amount. It’s over $50 million. And I think there’s some real
opportunity where they can work together on some things.”Lilly says the Chamber has some ideas on how the money could
be spent.“Obviously, from an economic development standpoint, workforce
is a critical issue in our community and we just don’t have enough capacity
particularly on the vocational-technical training. Could there be something
happen there?” Lilly asks. “Could there be something you could do in some of
these older neighborhoods of the community to establish a program that would
allow people to more easily invest in some of these older homes?”Lilly says, if spent wisely, the money could have a profound
impact on the future of the community.“It would be nice in 10 years to say, ‘We spent this much
money on this and it’s had this kind of positive outcome for our community,’
versus ‘Well, what did they spend that money on 10 years ago. I don’t
remember.’ You’d hate to find yourself in that kind of situation.”This latest federal allocation has fewer strings attached and
can be used for infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, even broadband.
The money from Washington will come in two installments over the next two
fiscal years.

How to spend millions of federal dollars being debated at city hall, courthouse

The Missouri State Highway Patrol&nbsp;worked 312 total traffic crashes over the Fourth of July holiday weekend, including 124 injuries and seven fatalities statewide.

Troopers also made 144 DWI arrests and 81 drug arrests over the long weekend.

There 12 boating crashes, including four injuries and one fatality. Troopers made eight BWI arrests and 43 drug arrests. There were no drownings.

There were no fatalities reported in northwest Missouri, according to the State Highway Patrol's Troop H.

Troop H officers, however, investigated 19 traffic crashes, resulting in 11 injuries and zero fatalities in the northwest part of the state over the weekend.

Troopers in northwest Missouri issued 178 citations, 289 warnings and assisted 25 motorists over the Fourth weekend. They also made five DWI arrests and 11 drug arrests.

The statewide numbers are down compared to last Fourth of July. In 2020, 15 people were killed and 671 were injured in Missouri over the Independence Day holiday.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Missouri State Highway Patrol&nbsp;worked 312 total traffic crashes over the Fourth of July holiday weekend, including 124 injuries and seven fatalities statewide.Troopers also made 144 DWI arrests and 81 drug arrests over the long weekend.There 12 boating crashes, including four injuries and one fatality. Troopers made eight BWI arrests and 43 drug arrests. There were no drownings.There were no fatalities reported in northwest Missouri, according to the State Highway Patrol's Troop H.Troop H officers, however, investigated 19 traffic crashes, resulting in 11 injuries and zero fatalities in the northwest part of the state over the weekend.Troopers in northwest Missouri issued 178 citations, 289 warnings and assisted 25 motorists over the Fourth weekend. They also made five DWI arrests and 11 drug arrests.The statewide numbers are down compared to last Fourth of July. In 2020, 15 people were killed and 671 were injured in Missouri over the Independence Day holiday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Troop H announces the results of special operations conducted over the July Fourth holiday weekend. July 2 and July 5 were designated peak travel days in which troopers issued 178 citations, 289 warnings, and assisted 25 motorist.Troopers made 5 DWI arrests and 11 drug arrests. <a href="https://t.co/1hBWwFjAxH">pic.twitter.com/1hBWwFjAxH</a>&mdash; MSHP Troop H (@MSHPTrooperH) <a href="https://twitter.com/MSHPTrooperH/status/1412431394035453963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>

State Highway Patrol Troop H responds to 11 injuries, no fatalities over 4th weekend

The St. Joseph Fire Department battled an early morning fire Tuesday at a local bar on the Belt Highway.

Crews received a call for a structure fire at TNT's Tavern on 2600 North Belt Highway just after 6 a.m. Tuesday.

Officials say alcohol distributors walked in to drop off their delivery when they discovered a small fire around the bar. The damage from the small fire is minimal.&nbsp;

No injuries were reported.&nbsp; The cause of the fire is under investigation. Owners of the bar indicate on social media that foul play is suspected.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625592449986.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>St. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Fire Department battled an early morning fire Tuesday at a local bar on the Belt Highway.Crews received a call for a structure fire at TNT's Tavern on 2600 North Belt Highway just after 6 a.m. Tuesday.Officials say alcohol distributors walked in to drop off their delivery when they discovered a small fire around the bar. The damage from the small fire is minimal.&nbsp;No injuries were reported.&nbsp; The cause of the fire is under investigation. Owners of the bar indicate on social media that foul play is suspected.&nbsp;

St. Joseph fire crews respond to fire at TNT's Tavern Tuesday

COVID-19 hospitalizations jumped in hard-hit southwest
Missouri over the Independence Day holiday weekend, leading to a temporary ventilator shortfall and a public call
for help from respiratory therapists.

Local hospitalizations have
risen slightly.

Coronavirus concerns in
southwest Missouri have increase so much that they have prompted one Missouri
hospital official to say anyone making disparaging remarks about the COVID-19
vaccine should “shut up.”

Health officials in southwest
Missouri worry that deep vaccine resistance has allowed the delta
variant, first identified India, to take hold in the state, straining
hospitals, particularly in the Springfield area.

“If you are making wildly
disparaging comments about the vaccine, and have no public health expertise,
you may be responsible for someone’s death. Shut up,” tweeted Steve Edwards,
who is the CEO of CoxHealth in Springfield.

CoxHealth and the city's other
hospital, Mercy Springfield, were treating 168 COVID-19 patients Friday, up
from 31 on May 24th, before the surge began.

Spokesman Aaron Schekorra with the Springfield-Greene
County Health Department says 36 of the COVID-19 patients were on ventilators.

Erik Frederick, the chief
administrative officer of Mercy Springfield, also turned to Twitter in an
effort to bolster vaccinations, saying vaccinations save lives.

“So if you’re vaccinated there is a
light at the end of a tunnel,” he stated. “If you’re unvaccinated that’s
probably a train.”

Mosaic Life Care has reported a rise in
its system, but only a small increase from 26 COVID-19 patients on Sunday to 32
this morning. All of the coronavirus patients in the Mosaic system are being
treated at the St. Joseph hospital.

The St. Joseph Health Department reports
an increase of 150 cases on Thursday from its last report on Monday, with 55
new cases reported Thursday. The health department did not issue a normal
Monday report, because of the holiday. It is scheduled to issue another report
today.

Buchanan County remains near the bottom
in vaccination rates in Missouri with only 19% of the county population
completing coronavirus vaccinations.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostCOVID-19 hospitalizations jumped in hard-hit southwest
Missouri over the Independence Day holiday weekend, leading to a temporary ventilator shortfall and a public call
for help from respiratory therapists.Local hospitalizations have
risen slightly.Coronavirus concerns in
southwest Missouri have increase so much that they have prompted one Missouri
hospital official to say anyone making disparaging remarks about the COVID-19
vaccine should “shut up.”Health officials in southwest
Missouri worry that deep vaccine resistance has allowed the delta
variant, first identified India, to take hold in the state, straining
hospitals, particularly in the Springfield area.“If you are making wildly
disparaging comments about the vaccine, and have no public health expertise,
you may be responsible for someone’s death. Shut up,” tweeted Steve Edwards,
who is the CEO of CoxHealth in Springfield.CoxHealth and the city's other
hospital, Mercy Springfield, were treating 168 COVID-19 patients Friday, up
from 31 on May 24th, before the surge began.Spokesman Aaron Schekorra with the Springfield-Greene
County Health Department says 36 of the COVID-19 patients were on ventilators.Erik Frederick, the chief
administrative officer of Mercy Springfield, also turned to Twitter in an
effort to bolster vaccinations, saying vaccinations save lives.“So if you’re vaccinated there is a
light at the end of a tunnel,” he stated. “If you’re unvaccinated that’s
probably a train.”Mosaic Life Care has reported a rise in
its system, but only a small increase from 26 COVID-19 patients on Sunday to 32
this morning. All of the coronavirus patients in the Mosaic system are being
treated at the St. Joseph hospital.The St. Joseph Health Department reports
an increase of 150 cases on Thursday from its last report on Monday, with 55
new cases reported Thursday. The health department did not issue a normal
Monday report, because of the holiday. It is scheduled to issue another report
today.Buchanan County remains near the bottom
in vaccination rates in Missouri with only 19% of the county population
completing coronavirus vaccinations.The Associated Press contributed to this report.

COVID-19 worries rise in SW MO; hospitalizations increase locally as well

MERCER COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 10:30p.m. Sunday in Mercer County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Yamaha golf cart driven by Nicholas E. Robbins, 36, Milo, Iowa, was westbound on Atlantic Avenue three miles southwest of Mercer.

The driver lost control of the golf car on loose gravel.&nbsp; The cart overturned ejecting both Robbins and a passenger Danielle J. Robbins, 40, Milo, Iowa.

Mercer County ambulance transported both to Decatur County Hospital in Leon, Iowa.

MERCER COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 10:30p.m. Sunday in Mercer County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Yamaha golf cart driven by Nicholas E. Robbins, 36, Milo, Iowa, was westbound on Atlantic Avenue three miles southwest of Mercer.The driver lost control of the golf car on loose gravel.&nbsp; The cart overturned ejecting both Robbins and a passenger Danielle J. Robbins, 40, Milo, Iowa.Mercer County ambulance transported both to Decatur County Hospital in Leon, Iowa.

2 injured after ejected in golf car accident

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Four people were injured in an accident just after noon Sunday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Chevy Equinox driven by a 17-year-old boy from Gower was southbound on U.S. 169 four miles north of Gower.&nbsp;

The vehicle crossed the center line and struck a northbound&nbsp; 2017 GMC Sierra driven by Curtis W. Falconer, 40, Smithville.

Lifeflight transported the teen driver to Children's Mercy. Buchanan County EMS transported an 11-year-old Gower boy in the Chevy, Falconer and a passenger in the GMC identified as Jeremy J. McAlister, 39, Milan, to Mosaic Life Care. All four were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the&nbsp; MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Four people were injured in an accident just after noon Sunday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Chevy Equinox driven by a 17-year-old boy from Gower was southbound on U.S. 169 four miles north of Gower.&nbsp;The vehicle crossed the center line and struck a northbound&nbsp; 2017 GMC Sierra driven by Curtis W. Falconer, 40, Smithville.Lifeflight transported the teen driver to Children's Mercy. Buchanan County EMS transported an 11-year-old Gower boy in the Chevy, Falconer and a passenger in the GMC identified as Jeremy J. McAlister, 39, Milan, to Mosaic Life Care. All four were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the&nbsp; MSHP.

2 adults, 2 juveniles hospitalized after head-on crash

Missouri Western State University associate history professor
Dominic DeBrincat says the most common misconception he notices about
Independence Day is how easily Americans confuse the Declaration of
Independence with the Constitution.

“A lot of the rights that people believe they hold didn’t come
from the Declaration of Independence,” DeBrincat tells St. Joseph Post. “All
the Declaration of Independence did, on its most superficial level, is declare
an intention to separate from Great Britain, because of Great Britain’s violations
of what Americans were calling their natural rights to life, liberty, and the
pursuit of happiness.”

Unrest among the colonies began in 1763, according to
DeBrincat, when after the French and Indian War, as Great Britain sought to
exert more control over the colonies and their residents. It culminated in the
founders approving the move to break with Great Britain on July 2, 1776 with
the Declaration of Independence formally read to the public on the 4th.

DeBrincat says the Declaration of Independence made a huge
impact and not just on the relationship of the colonists and Great Britain, but
on the world. He says the founders very much intended to send a message to the
world when they fashioned the document.

“And so, it’s a very unique document that expresses the rights
of individuals, but does so in a global announcement that not only invites
people, but as we see for the next, well, two centuries, other countries will
use as their model for revolution and independence.”

While the Declaration of Independence made a statement about
the rights of the colonists, the rights of individuals in general, it also
established a relationship between liberty and responsibility. It established a
republic, DeBrincat says, a republic which works because of the relationship
between the government and its citizens.

“But what is often overlooked today is the importance of our
role in a republic. Not the government’s role, but our role,” DeBrincat says. “And,
if a republic works as they had hoped under the Declaration of Independence; if
a republic is going to work it’s going to work, because we use our independence
and our individual rights to think of the greater good.”

DeBrincat says Americans can become self-centered about their
rights, but the founders thought citizens must exercise their rights for the
greater good to make for a successful republic.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostThis weekend, we pause to celebrate.But, do we know what we are celebrating?Missouri Western State University associate history professor
Dominic DeBrincat says the most common misconception he notices about
Independence Day is how easily Americans confuse the Declaration of
Independence with the Constitution.“A lot of the rights that people believe they hold didn’t come
from the Declaration of Independence,” DeBrincat tells St. Joseph Post. “All
the Declaration of Independence did, on its most superficial level, is declare
an intention to separate from Great Britain, because of Great Britain’s violations
of what Americans were calling their natural rights to life, liberty, and the
pursuit of happiness.”Unrest among the colonies began in 1763, according to
DeBrincat, when after the French and Indian War, as Great Britain sought to
exert more control over the colonies and their residents. It culminated in the
founders approving the move to break with Great Britain on July 2, 1776 with
the Declaration of Independence formally read to the public on the 4th.DeBrincat says the Declaration of Independence made a huge
impact and not just on the relationship of the colonists and Great Britain, but
on the world. He says the founders very much intended to send a message to the
world when they fashioned the document.“And so, it’s a very unique document that expresses the rights
of individuals, but does so in a global announcement that not only invites
people, but as we see for the next, well, two centuries, other countries will
use as their model for revolution and independence.”While the Declaration of Independence made a statement about
the rights of the colonists, the rights of individuals in general, it also
established a relationship between liberty and responsibility. It established a
republic, DeBrincat says, a republic which works because of the relationship
between the government and its citizens.“But what is often overlooked today is the importance of our
role in a republic. Not the government’s role, but our role,” DeBrincat says. “And,
if a republic works as they had hoped under the Declaration of Independence; if
a republic is going to work it’s going to work, because we use our independence
and our individual rights to think of the greater good.”DeBrincat says Americans can become self-centered about their
rights, but the founders thought citizens must exercise their rights for the
greater good to make for a successful republic.

Independence meant more than fireworks to the founders

HARRISON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 3p.m. Saturday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Dodge Dakota driven by Jacob C. Zerbe, 18, Gilman City, was southbound on Route CC five miles north of Melbourne.

The vehicle traveled over the crest of a hill and swerved to avoid a 2015 Dodge Dart driven by&nbsp;&nbsp;Allysa L. Robinson, 23, Liberty, who was attempted to turn around in the road at the bottom of the hill.

The Dakota traveled off the west side of the road and the driver overcorrected. The pickup returned to the road, overturned and the driver was ejected.

NTA ambulance transported Zerbe to Harrison County Community Hospital. A private vehicle transported a 15-year-old girl in the pickup to the same hospital. Robinson was not injured.&nbsp; All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

HARRISON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 3p.m. Saturday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Dodge Dakota driven by Jacob C. Zerbe, 18, Gilman City, was southbound on Route CC five miles north of Melbourne.The vehicle traveled over the crest of a hill and swerved to avoid a 2015 Dodge Dart driven by&nbsp;&nbsp;Allysa L. Robinson, 23, Liberty, who was attempted to turn around in the road at the bottom of the hill.The Dakota traveled off the west side of the road and the driver overcorrected. The pickup returned to the road, overturned and the driver was ejected.NTA ambulance transported Zerbe to Harrison County Community Hospital. A private vehicle transported a 15-year-old girl in the pickup to the same hospital. Robinson was not injured.&nbsp; All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Two Missouri teens injured after pickup overturns

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 10:30 a.m. Saturday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Larry E. Johnson, 65, St. Joseph, was southbound on MO 371 four miles south of Faucett.&nbsp;

The motorcycle crossed the center line and side swiped a northbound 2020 Chevy Silverado driven by&nbsp; Angela R. Mears, 56, Faucett. The motorcycle overturned and both occupants were ejected.

Buchanan County EMS transported Johnson and passenger Krystyna&nbsp; M. Johnson, 49, St. Joseph, to Mosaic Life Care. Mears was not injured. The Johnsons were wearing helmets, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 10:30 a.m. Saturday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Larry E. Johnson, 65, St. Joseph, was southbound on MO 371 four miles south of Faucett.&nbsp;The motorcycle crossed the center line and side swiped a northbound 2020 Chevy Silverado driven by&nbsp; Angela R. Mears, 56, Faucett. The motorcycle overturned and both occupants were ejected.Buchanan County EMS transported Johnson and passenger Krystyna&nbsp; M. Johnson, 49, St. Joseph, to Mosaic Life Care. Mears was not injured. The Johnsons were wearing helmets, according to the MSHP.