Fifteen local law enforcement officers were deputized by the U.S. Marshals Service Wednesday as efforts are made to address violent crime in the area.

Buchanan County Sheriff’s Office Drug Strike Force Captain Shawn Collie says the special deputation was the final step in joining with the U.S. Marshals Service to create a violent fugitive task force.

“Police officers and deputies or investigators and detectives (took) the oath as a special deputy with the U.S. Marshals Service, giving local law enforcement, basically, federal arrest authority for fugitives,” Collie says.&nbsp;

Making the partnership official will also provide federal funding for local law enforcement.

“When we have individuals coming from outside the area to St. Joe with different warrants that we can go look for, the Marshals Service provides different funding for overtime, equipment, training, so it’s a huge plus that’s not a burden on the taxpayers of Buchanan County,” Collie says. “With that… people that commit crimes within our area and then they flee from the area, it allows us that working relationship with the Marshals Service who has people throughout the United States…and one phone call and (we'll) be able to work on getting that person into custody.”

An example of the collaboration between local law enforcement and the U.S. Marshals Service was evident recently when the Marshals Service was instrumental in apprehending Te'avion Hawkins in the St. Louis area last week. Acting St. Joseph Chief of Police Eric Protzman says Hawkins <a href="https://www.usmarshals.gov/news/chron/2020/082020a.htm">was arrested in Overland, Missouri,</a> for a shooting in St. Joseph at 30th and Lafayette on August 9th.&nbsp;

“There’s information out on the street that he could be related to some of the other shootings that we’ve had, so we’ve been investigating those,” Protzman says. “There’s been a lot of comments out in the community that he may have been involved in the homicide of that young two-year-old girl. We’re still looking into that information… we can’t confirm whether he was involved in that yet or not.”

Hawkins was transported across the state and is currently in custody in Buchanan County.

“We’ve worked with the marshals many times in the past," Protzman says. "And this (partnership) will enhance our capabilities to get violent criminals off the street when we need to and have the assistance and that cooperation that is so dearly needed in our community, especially with recent tragedies that we’ve had."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598487293576.jpeg" alt="U.S. Marshal for the Western District of Missouri Mark James led the oath of office for the special deputation of 15 local law enforcement officers for a violent fugitive task force. Photo by Sarah Thomack." />
 <figcaption>U.S. Marshal for the Western District of Missouri Mark James led the oath of office for the special deputation of 15 local law enforcement officers for a violent fugitive task force. Photo by Sarah Thomack.</figcaption>
 </figure>by Sarah ThomackSt. Joseph PostFifteen local law enforcement officers were deputized by the U.S. Marshals Service Wednesday as efforts are made to address violent crime in the area.Buchanan County Sheriff’s Office Drug Strike Force Captain Shawn Collie says the special deputation was the final step in joining with the U.S. Marshals Service to create a violent fugitive task force.“Police officers and deputies or investigators and detectives (took) the oath as a special deputy with the U.S. Marshals Service, giving local law enforcement, basically, federal arrest authority for fugitives,” Collie says.&nbsp;Making the partnership official will also provide federal funding for local law enforcement.“When we have individuals coming from outside the area to St. Joe with different warrants that we can go look for, the Marshals Service provides different funding for overtime, equipment, training, so it’s a huge plus that’s not a burden on the taxpayers of Buchanan County,” Collie says. “With that… people that commit crimes within our area and then they flee from the area, it allows us that working relationship with the Marshals Service who has people throughout the United States…and one phone call and (we'll) be able to work on getting that person into custody.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598487397626.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>An example of the collaboration between local law enforcement and the U.S. Marshals Service was evident recently when the Marshals Service was instrumental in apprehending Te'avion Hawkins in the St. Louis area last week. Acting St. Joseph Chief of Police Eric Protzman says Hawkins <a href="https://www.usmarshals.gov/news/chron/2020/082020a.htm">was arrested in Overland, Missouri,</a> for a shooting in St. Joseph at 30th and Lafayette on August 9th.&nbsp;“There’s information out on the street that he could be related to some of the other shootings that we’ve had, so we’ve been investigating those,” Protzman says. “There’s been a lot of comments out in the community that he may have been involved in the homicide of that young two-year-old girl. We’re still looking into that information… we can’t confirm whether he was involved in that yet or not.”Hawkins was transported across the state and is currently in custody in Buchanan County.“We’ve worked with the marshals many times in the past," Protzman says. "And this (partnership) will enhance our capabilities to get violent criminals off the street when we need to and have the assistance and that cooperation that is so dearly needed in our community, especially with recent tragedies that we’ve had."

U.S. Marshals Service deputizes 15 local officers for violent crime task force

Missouri State Board of Education President Charlie Shields
says board members have been impressed with the plans schools have made to
reopen this fall amid a pandemic.

“The thing that we have been impressed with is the local
schools, the school boards and the educators, have been very thoughtful in how
they’re doing this and they’ve spent a lot of time over the summer trying to figure
out how to do this and I think you’re going to see some of them, if not most of
them, be very successful,” Shields tells St. Joseph Post.

Shields says the methods local school districts have adopted
range widely with many rural districts simply going back to the classroom while
a few urban districts opening only online. The majority of Missouri districts
are in between, blending both classroom instruction with virtual learning.

Shields says with most districts are incorporating some online
learning at home, he doesn’t see such so-called virtual learning going away.

“But I think you will not see the genie put back in the bottle
when it comes to virtual learning. I think that’s the thing that’s going to be
here to stay,” Shields says. “I think parents embrace it, I think students
embrace it, and I think some educators embrace it as a great way to teach.”

Shields says school districts across Missouri have taken their
responsibility during the coronavirus pandemic seriously.

“What I have seen from educators and school districts is a lot
of creativity. I think they’ve spent a lot of time in the summer trying to get
ready for this,” Shields says. “I think things obviously can change along the
way, but I think they’ve done a great job. They’re ready. And we’re going to
see it work and I think for the most part we’re going to see them be effective.”

Shields says the Missouri State Board of Education agrees with
the American Academy of Pediatrics that it is very important school children
return to school, not just to further their education, but for their overall
well-being.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri State Board of Education President Charlie Shields
says board members have been impressed with the plans schools have made to
reopen this fall amid a pandemic.“The thing that we have been impressed with is the local
schools, the school boards and the educators, have been very thoughtful in how
they’re doing this and they’ve spent a lot of time over the summer trying to figure
out how to do this and I think you’re going to see some of them, if not most of
them, be very successful,” Shields tells St. Joseph Post.Shields says the methods local school districts have adopted
range widely with many rural districts simply going back to the classroom while
a few urban districts opening only online. The majority of Missouri districts
are in between, blending both classroom instruction with virtual learning.Missouri has 518 school districts.Shields says with most districts are incorporating some online
learning at home, he doesn’t see such so-called virtual learning going away.“But I think you will not see the genie put back in the bottle
when it comes to virtual learning. I think that’s the thing that’s going to be
here to stay,” Shields says. “I think parents embrace it, I think students
embrace it, and I think some educators embrace it as a great way to teach.”Shields says school districts across Missouri have taken their
responsibility during the coronavirus pandemic seriously.“What I have seen from educators and school districts is a lot
of creativity. I think they’ve spent a lot of time in the summer trying to get
ready for this,” Shields says. “I think things obviously can change along the
way, but I think they’ve done a great job. They’re ready. And we’re going to
see it work and I think for the most part we’re going to see them be effective.”Shields says the Missouri State Board of Education agrees with
the American Academy of Pediatrics that it is very important school children
return to school, not just to further their education, but for their overall
well-being.

MO State Education Board President pleased with school preparation

There has been a spike in coronavirus cases in Buchanan County
the last two days, driving the total county cases since counting began to 1,289.

St. Joseph health officials report 24 new cases of COVID-19 on
Tuesday, following a report of 19 new cases on Monday. That is a troubling
trend after new cases had been on the decline since rising last Wednesday to
14. There were only five new cases reported Sunday.

Mosaic Life Care reports hospitalizations have stabilized with
17 COVID-19 patients now being treated at the St. Joseph hospital.

Mosaic has tested 23,194 area residents with 1,164 testing positive. Mosaic is awaiting results from 237 tests.

Andrew County reports 128 total cases of COVID-19; 105
confirmed and 23 probable.

Doniphan County, Kansas reports 58 total cases.

Missouri health officials report 76,636 total cases,
resulting in 1,440 deaths.

Kansas health officials report 38, 401 total cases
and 426 deaths.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostThere has been a spike in coronavirus cases in Buchanan County
the last two days, driving the total county cases since counting began to 1,289.St. Joseph health officials report 24 new cases of COVID-19 on
Tuesday, following a report of 19 new cases on Monday. That is a troubling
trend after new cases had been on the decline since rising last Wednesday to
14. There were only five new cases reported Sunday.Mosaic Life Care reports hospitalizations have stabilized with
17 COVID-19 patients now being treated at the St. Joseph hospital.Mosaic has tested 23,194 area residents with 1,164 testing positive. Mosaic is awaiting results from 237 tests.Andrew County reports 128 total cases of COVID-19; 105
confirmed and 23 probable.Doniphan County, Kansas reports 58 total cases.Missouri health officials report 76,636 total cases,
resulting in 1,440 deaths.Kansas health officials report 38, 401 total cases
and 426 deaths.

New COVID-19 cases continue to rise in Buchanan County

HARRISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 11:30a.m. Tuesday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Ford Ranger driven by John Stegmayer, 83, Martinsville, was westbound on U.S. 69 at Route B in Eagleville.&nbsp;

The pickup traveled into the intersection when it was unsafe to do so. A northbound 2008 Dodge 2500 driven by Leonard J. Stobbe, 66, Eagleville, struck the rear driver side of the Ford.

North Harrison EMS transported Stegmayer to Harrison County Community Hospital. Stobbe was not injured. Stegmayer was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

HARRISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 11:30a.m. Tuesday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Ford Ranger driven by John Stegmayer, 83, Martinsville, was westbound on U.S. 69 at Route B in Eagleville.&nbsp;The pickup traveled into the intersection when it was unsafe to do so. A northbound 2008 Dodge 2500 driven by Leonard J. Stobbe, 66, Eagleville, struck the rear driver side of the Ford.North Harrison EMS transported Stegmayer to Harrison County Community Hospital. Stobbe was not injured. Stegmayer was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash

You have not been able to go to the St. Joseph Symphony, so
the St. Joseph Symphony is coming to you.

St. Joseph Symphony Managing Director Lori McAlister says the
symphony is beginning what it calls its “cozy concerts”.

“As the name implies, it’s an intimate opportunity to
experience some of our symphony players in smaller ensembles,” McAlister tells
host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.

The St. Joseph Symphony has recorded these intimate concerts
at the Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art and will offer them to the public on a
streaming basis for $25, providing the symphony with needed revenue and the
music lover with a recorded live performance.

McAlister says the venture borne out of necessity could spawn
creative ventures for the symphony in the future.

“We will see how people respond, how supportive they are, how
interested people are in purchasing a ticket in a pay-per-view platform,”
McAlister says. “It does, as I said, give us the opportunity to continue to provide
music in a really up-close and personal sort of way.”

Concert cancellations have hit hard the bottom line at the St.
Joseph Symphony. McAlister says the symphony hopes the cozy concerts might help
offset the losses.

McAlister, who just celebrated her first anniversary with the
symphony, admits it’s been a tumultuous year.

“Having the announcement that we were losing our music
director of 11 seasons and beginning that search process, search process number
one in conjunction with Missouri Western and then, of course, search process number
two that began in the spring on our own and then, oh by the way, there’s a
pandemic,” McAlister says. “So, yeah, it has been an interesting year.”

Longtime music director Rico McNeela has left the symphony,
which learned during the search for his replacement that Missouri Western State
University decided to no longer offer the symphony director a position at the
university. McNeela taught classes at Missouri Western, allowing the symphony to
share the cost of his salary with the university.

Find out more about the cozy concerts by clicking <a href="https://saintjosephsymphony.org/">here</a> for the
link to the St. Joseph Symphony website.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598381403689.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostYou have not been able to go to the St. Joseph Symphony, so
the St. Joseph Symphony is coming to you.St. Joseph Symphony Managing Director Lori McAlister says the
symphony is beginning what it calls its “cozy concerts”.“As the name implies, it’s an intimate opportunity to
experience some of our symphony players in smaller ensembles,” McAlister tells
host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.The St. Joseph Symphony has recorded these intimate concerts
at the Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art and will offer them to the public on a
streaming basis for $25, providing the symphony with needed revenue and the
music lover with a recorded live performance.McAlister says the venture borne out of necessity could spawn
creative ventures for the symphony in the future.“We will see how people respond, how supportive they are, how
interested people are in purchasing a ticket in a pay-per-view platform,”
McAlister says. “It does, as I said, give us the opportunity to continue to provide
music in a really up-close and personal sort of way.”Concert cancellations have hit hard the bottom line at the St.
Joseph Symphony. McAlister says the symphony hopes the cozy concerts might help
offset the losses.McAlister, who just celebrated her first anniversary with the
symphony, admits it’s been a tumultuous year.“Having the announcement that we were losing our music
director of 11 seasons and beginning that search process, search process number
one in conjunction with Missouri Western and then, of course, search process number
two that began in the spring on our own and then, oh by the way, there’s a
pandemic,” McAlister says. “So, yeah, it has been an interesting year.”Longtime music director Rico McNeela has left the symphony,
which learned during the search for his replacement that Missouri Western State
University decided to no longer offer the symphony director a position at the
university. McNeela taught classes at Missouri Western, allowing the symphony to
share the cost of his salary with the university.Find out more about the cozy concerts by clicking <a href="https://saintjosephsymphony.org/">here</a> for the
link to the St. Joseph Symphony website.

St. Joseph Symphony to break out by getting up close and personal

St. Joseph school board members voted unanimously Monday to
increase the school tax levy by nine cents.

School Superintendent Doug Van Zyl says state law allows the
school board to make minor adjustments to the school property tax levy without
taking it to the voters.

“With what took place with minimal growth for us last year, it
allowed the board if they chose to, to do a 9-cent increase on their local
levy,” Van Zyl tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.

Van Zyl says the school district has taken several financial
hits over the past year.

“Withholdings from the state of over $2 million with the
unexpected costs of Central High School taking place, we just feel like it’s in
the best interest of the school district and the community for us to be able to
recommend to the board, which they took the recommendation and voted on last
night, to increase that levy by nine cents,” Van Zyl says.

Flooding heavily damaged the Freshman Annex of Central High School,
knocking out 30 of the building’s 80 classrooms, forcing the district to switch
additional students to online learning for the beginning of the school year
which begins next week. Van Zyl says the district has 82 workers working around
the clock to repair the damage at Central.

The levy increase is projected to bring in around one million
dollars in extra revenue for the district.

Van Zyl says the nine-cent increase isn’t the only adjustment
being made to the school district levy.

“And to make matters even more complex, we have the Proposition
C rollbacks,” Van Zyl says. “So, even though you see a total levy, we still
roll back about 52 cents from what our max levy is, because we’re one of I
think three districts in the state that still has that.”

Last year, on the heels of voter approval of the 61-cent
increase in the levy, the school board passed on taking advantage of a possible
three-cent increase to the levy.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph school board members voted unanimously Monday to
increase the school tax levy by nine cents.School Superintendent Doug Van Zyl says state law allows the
school board to make minor adjustments to the school property tax levy without
taking it to the voters.“With what took place with minimal growth for us last year, it
allowed the board if they chose to, to do a 9-cent increase on their local
levy,” Van Zyl tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.Van Zyl says the school district has taken several financial
hits over the past year.“Withholdings from the state of over $2 million with the
unexpected costs of Central High School taking place, we just feel like it’s in
the best interest of the school district and the community for us to be able to
recommend to the board, which they took the recommendation and voted on last
night, to increase that levy by nine cents,” Van Zyl says.Flooding heavily damaged the Freshman Annex of Central High School,
knocking out 30 of the building’s 80 classrooms, forcing the district to switch
additional students to online learning for the beginning of the school year
which begins next week. Van Zyl says the district has 82 workers working around
the clock to repair the damage at Central.The levy increase is projected to bring in around one million
dollars in extra revenue for the district.Van Zyl says the nine-cent increase isn’t the only adjustment
being made to the school district levy.“And to make matters even more complex, we have the Proposition
C rollbacks,” Van Zyl says. “So, even though you see a total levy, we still
roll back about 52 cents from what our max levy is, because we’re one of I
think three districts in the state that still has that.”Last year, on the heels of voter approval of the 61-cent
increase in the levy, the school board passed on taking advantage of a possible
three-cent increase to the levy.

St. Joseph school board approves 9-cent hike to tax levy

By BRENT MARTIN St. Joseph Post

A jump in new cases pushes the total COVID-19 cases in Buchanan
County to 1,265.

St. Joseph health officials report 19 new cases of the
coronavirus on Monday which followed a drop in new cases over the weekend, when five were reported on Sunday and seven on Saturday.

Buchanan County has recorded 10 coronavirus-related deaths.

Mosaic Life Care reports 17 COVID-19 patients are being
treated at the St. Joseph hospital.

Mosaic has tested nearly 23,000 area residents with 1,139 testing positive.

Andrew County health officials report 127 cases, resulting in
two deaths.

Holt County health officials have reported the county’s first coronavirus-related death, a woman in her 70s with underlying medical conditions.
Holt County has recorded 60 cases since the counting began.

Doniphan County, Kansas reports 58 total cases. Brown County reports 53 total cases with Atchison County, Kansas reporting 113.

Missouri health officials report nearly 76,000 cases total with
1,426 deaths.

Kansas no longer has any counties free of reported
coronavirus cases with the first reported cases in Rawlins and Wallace Counties in western Kansas. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment reported Monday that Kansas saw another 1,545 confirmed and probable cases since Friday,
an increase of 4.2%.

 The total in Kansas since the pandemic began is 38,401.

The Associated Press contributed to this article.

By BRENT MARTIN St. Joseph PostA jump in new cases pushes the total COVID-19 cases in Buchanan
County to 1,265.St. Joseph health officials report 19 new cases of the
coronavirus on Monday which followed a drop in new cases over the weekend, when five were reported on Sunday and seven on Saturday.Buchanan County has recorded 10 coronavirus-related deaths.Mosaic Life Care reports 17 COVID-19 patients are being
treated at the St. Joseph hospital.Mosaic has tested nearly 23,000 area residents with 1,139 testing positive.Andrew County health officials report 127 cases, resulting in
two deaths.Holt County health officials have reported the county’s first coronavirus-related death, a woman in her 70s with underlying medical conditions.
Holt County has recorded 60 cases since the counting began.Doniphan County, Kansas reports 58 total cases. Brown County reports 53 total cases with Atchison County, Kansas reporting 113.Missouri health officials report nearly 76,000 cases total with
1,426 deaths.Kansas no longer has any counties free of reported
coronavirus cases with the first reported cases in Rawlins and Wallace Counties in western Kansas. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment reported Monday that Kansas saw another 1,545 confirmed and probable cases since Friday,
an increase of 4.2%. The total in Kansas since the pandemic began is 38,401.The Associated Press contributed to this article.

Spike in new cases drives total Buchanan County COVID-19 cases past 1,200

The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce has launched a campaign in an effort to give a boost to local businesses hit hard by COVID-19.

"Our businesses have been telling us, since people can come out, they're still not - not in the numbers that they had been," says Kristi Bailey, Chamber Director of Communications and Marketing. "So we knew we needed to do something to help encourage people to come back out, to show them the importance of shopping local, what it means to our friends and neighbors that work at these places, the taxes that are paid that go back into the community."&nbsp;

Bailey says the Champions of Commerce campaign goal is to get residents to think of shopping local first. 

"When you think, 'Oh I need to buy a water bottle for school supplies,' that you think about, 'Does a local shop offer that' before you buy it online," Bailey says.

The <a href="https://championsofcommerce.com/">Champions of Commerce website</a> lists carry-out or delivery options for businesses, whether masks are required at a business and more.&nbsp;

Aaron Old, owner of Lanham Music, says being a small business owner always brings about new, unforeseen challenges, with the coronavirus being a big challenge. Old says, on top of that, with the rise of online sales, Lanham competes with music stores around the country.

“So why shop local? The taxes that local businesses pay support local schools, could help pay teacher salaries, upkeep of roads and bridges, parks and public spaces, things that help make a community,” Old says. “Spending money locally keeps jobs local and that money circulates throughout our community. My doctor, my mechanic... my eye doctor, insurance agent, they’re all customers of mine. I live and spend my money here, because when you shop local, the job you may end up saving could be your own."

Old adds that local businesses provide personalized experiences that customers won't get by ordering something online and having a box delivered to their doorstep.

“Last year, one of customers called in a near panic because her daughter had left her rental violin at school and their winter concert was that night, off campus, (and) the school was locked,” Old says. “Because she’d been a loyal customer, we told her we’d loan her a violin for the evening and she was incredibly grateful. By the time she made it to the store, we had that violin tuned and ready to go for her. Those are the kinds of stories that can only happen at local businesses.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information about the shop local campaign, visit <a href="https://championsofcommerce.com/">championsofcommerce.com</a>.&nbsp;

The Buchanan County Commission helped with funding for the campaign and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/EagleCreativeAgency/services/?service_id=2808313039216005">Eagle Creative</a> is the marketing agency involved with the campaign.

by SARAH THOMACKSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce has launched a campaign in an effort to give a boost to local businesses hit hard by COVID-19."Our businesses have been telling us, since people can come out, they're still not - not in the numbers that they had been," says Kristi Bailey, Chamber Director of Communications and Marketing. "So we knew we needed to do something to help encourage people to come back out, to show them the importance of shopping local, what it means to our friends and neighbors that work at these places, the taxes that are paid that go back into the community."&nbsp;Bailey says the Champions of Commerce campaign goal is to get residents to think of shopping local first. "When you think, 'Oh I need to buy a water bottle for school supplies,' that you think about, 'Does a local shop offer that' before you buy it online," Bailey says.The <a href="https://championsofcommerce.com/">Champions of Commerce website</a> lists carry-out or delivery options for businesses, whether masks are required at a business and more.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598310204428.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President and CEO R. Patt Lilly speaks at the launch of the Champions of Commerce campaign on August 24, 2020. Photo by Sarah Thomack." />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President and CEO R. Patt Lilly speaks at the launch of the Champions of Commerce campaign on August 24, 2020. Photo by Sarah Thomack.</figcaption>
 </figure>Aaron Old, owner of Lanham Music, says being a small business owner always brings about new, unforeseen challenges, with the coronavirus being a big challenge. Old says, on top of that, with the rise of online sales, Lanham competes with music stores around the country.“So why shop local? The taxes that local businesses pay support local schools, could help pay teacher salaries, upkeep of roads and bridges, parks and public spaces, things that help make a community,” Old says. “Spending money locally keeps jobs local and that money circulates throughout our community. My doctor, my mechanic... my eye doctor, insurance agent, they’re all customers of mine. I live and spend my money here, because when you shop local, the job you may end up saving could be your own."Old adds that local businesses provide personalized experiences that customers won't get by ordering something online and having a box delivered to their doorstep.“Last year, one of customers called in a near panic because her daughter had left her rental violin at school and their winter concert was that night, off campus, (and) the school was locked,” Old says. “Because she’d been a loyal customer, we told her we’d loan her a violin for the evening and she was incredibly grateful. By the time she made it to the store, we had that violin tuned and ready to go for her. Those are the kinds of stories that can only happen at local businesses.”&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information about the shop local campaign, visit <a href="https://championsofcommerce.com/">championsofcommerce.com</a>.&nbsp;The Buchanan County Commission helped with funding for the campaign and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/EagleCreativeAgency/services/?service_id=2808313039216005">Eagle Creative</a> is the marketing agency involved with the campaign.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598310245908.png" alt="Champions of Commerce campaign logo courtesy of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce." />
 <figcaption>Champions of Commerce campaign logo courtesy of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Chamber launches shop local campaign as businesses recover from COVID-19

Preliminary autopsy results indicate the man involved in a vehicle pursuit last week in Gentry County died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

As previously reported,&nbsp;35-year-old Shiloh D. Smith of St. Joseph was pronounced dead by the Dekalb County Coroner after a pursuit that started in Gentry County ended with Smith's vehicle crashing in Dekalb County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, on Thursday night, the Gentry County Sheriff's Office initiated pursuit with a pickup due to original charges of traffic violations.

Shortly after 11 p.m., it was reported shots were fired from the pickup at a pursuing deputy and the deputy returned fire. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the pursuit continued on multiple roadways in Gentry County and into Dekalb County where the suspect crashed on Missouri 31 at Fairmont Road.

Preliminary autopsy results indicate the man involved in a vehicle pursuit last week in Gentry County died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.As previously reported,&nbsp;35-year-old Shiloh D. Smith of St. Joseph was pronounced dead by the Dekalb County Coroner after a pursuit that started in Gentry County ended with Smith's vehicle crashing in Dekalb County.According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, on Thursday night, the Gentry County Sheriff's Office initiated pursuit with a pickup due to original charges of traffic violations.Shortly after 11 p.m., it was reported shots were fired from the pickup at a pursuing deputy and the deputy returned fire. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the pursuit continued on multiple roadways in Gentry County and into Dekalb County where the suspect crashed on Missouri 31 at Fairmont Road.The investigation is ongoing.

MSHP: Autopsy indicates man involved in pursuit died of self-inflicted gunshot wound

Representatives of the group Clean Missouri are mounting
another campaign, this time to keep the initiative they succeeded in passing
two years ago from changing this November.

Republicans in the Missouri legislature are asking voters to
reconsider the legislative redistricting provisions of the Clean Missouri
initiative.

Clean Missouri spokesman Sean Soendker Nicholson says voters
two years ago approved a proposal making state House and Senate districts more
competitive and he claims the changes pushed by Republicans in the legislature
would create districts which protect incumbents.

“If you as a voter want to be able to pick who your
representative is, if you want there to be consequences when politicians behave
badly, there needs to be some districts where the election in November matters,
where voters can fire their politician and hire a new one,” Soendker Nicholson
tells St. Joseph Post.

Senate Joint Resolution 38, sponsored by state Sen. Dan
Hegeman of Cosby, passed the General Assembly this year and will be on the
ballot as Amendment 3 for voters to decide November 3rd.

Though the proposed amendment to the state constitution makes several
changes to the Clean Missouri initiative approved by voters two years ago, its
main aim is to change the legislative redistricting portion of the initiative.
The Clean Missouri plan authorized the state demographer to redraw Missouri
House and Senate Districts following the latest Census numbers. Republicans in
the legislature have asked voters to take the task away from the state
demographer and give it to commissions within the House and Senate. Republicans
and Democrats would nominate members of the commissions to the governor for
appointment.

Soendker Nicholson says legislative leaders have been
misleading in claiming the portion requiring competitiveness would create badly
distorted legislative districts which might weaken the rural voice.

“So, it doesn’t say every district has to be competitive,”
according to Soendker Nicholson. “It says, overall, the full plan for all of
the House districts, for all of the Senate districts, needs to be fair so that
no party has an unfair advantage.” 

Soendker Nicholson doesn’t see voters approving changes to a
proposal they just approved.

“When voters learn about how politicians are trying to deceive
them with Amendment 3 this year, when they learn about what politicians have
put in the fine print, I feel very confident that this will be rejected and the
mandate from voters for fairness and for independence in the redistricting
process will be heard again,” Soendker Nicholson says.

Clean Missouri recently won a victory in court. A Missouri
judge has thrown out the ballot language approved by Missouri legislators,
claiming the November ballot wording was unjust and insufficient.

Cole County Circuit Judge Pat
Joyce struck down the summary the legislature had written for a November ballot
measure that would undo key parts of the 2018 initiative. She instead replaced
it with a summary suggested by a group opposed to this year's measure. The
state's Republican attorney general has stated he will appeal the ruling.&nbsp;

The 2018 measure made Missouri
the first state to adopt a system in which a nonpartisan demographer would draw
state House and Senate districts based on a mathematical formula designed to
achieve “partisan fairness” and “competitiveness".

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostRepresentatives of the group Clean Missouri are mounting
another campaign, this time to keep the initiative they succeeded in passing
two years ago from changing this November.Republicans in the Missouri legislature are asking voters to
reconsider the legislative redistricting provisions of the Clean Missouri
initiative.Clean Missouri spokesman Sean Soendker Nicholson says voters
two years ago approved a proposal making state House and Senate districts more
competitive and he claims the changes pushed by Republicans in the legislature
would create districts which protect incumbents.“If you as a voter want to be able to pick who your
representative is, if you want there to be consequences when politicians behave
badly, there needs to be some districts where the election in November matters,
where voters can fire their politician and hire a new one,” Soendker Nicholson
tells St. Joseph Post.Senate Joint Resolution 38, sponsored by state Sen. Dan
Hegeman of Cosby, passed the General Assembly this year and will be on the
ballot as Amendment 3 for voters to decide November 3rd.Though the proposed amendment to the state constitution makes several
changes to the Clean Missouri initiative approved by voters two years ago, its
main aim is to change the legislative redistricting portion of the initiative.
The Clean Missouri plan authorized the state demographer to redraw Missouri
House and Senate Districts following the latest Census numbers. Republicans in
the legislature have asked voters to take the task away from the state
demographer and give it to commissions within the House and Senate. Republicans
and Democrats would nominate members of the commissions to the governor for
appointment.Soendker Nicholson says legislative leaders have been
misleading in claiming the portion requiring competitiveness would create badly
distorted legislative districts which might weaken the rural voice.“So, it doesn’t say every district has to be competitive,”
according to Soendker Nicholson. “It says, overall, the full plan for all of
the House districts, for all of the Senate districts, needs to be fair so that
no party has an unfair advantage.” Soendker Nicholson doesn’t see voters approving changes to a
proposal they just approved.“When voters learn about how politicians are trying to deceive
them with Amendment 3 this year, when they learn about what politicians have
put in the fine print, I feel very confident that this will be rejected and the
mandate from voters for fairness and for independence in the redistricting
process will be heard again,” Soendker Nicholson says.Clean Missouri recently won a victory in court. A Missouri
judge has thrown out the ballot language approved by Missouri legislators,
claiming the November ballot wording was unjust and insufficient.Cole County Circuit Judge Pat
Joyce struck down the summary the legislature had written for a November ballot
measure that would undo key parts of the 2018 initiative. She instead replaced
it with a summary suggested by a group opposed to this year's measure. The
state's Republican attorney general has stated he will appeal the ruling.&nbsp;The 2018 measure made Missouri
the first state to adopt a system in which a nonpartisan demographer would draw
state House and Senate districts based on a mathematical formula designed to
achieve “partisan fairness” and “competitiveness".The Associated Press contributed to this story.

Clean Missouri mounts a 2nd campaign:  this time against changes to its initiative

BUCHANAN COUNTY—One person was seriously injured when a car hit a lawn mower Sunday afternoon in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Lincoln MKZ driven by Amy L. Babcock, 31, Stewartsville, was northbound on Route AB three miles east of St. Joseph. The driver attempted to pass a John Deere Lawn mower driven by Carol A. Horton, 69, Easton, as the mower attempted a left turn.

Buchanan County EMS transported Horton to Mosaic Life Care for treatment of serious injuries. Babcock was not injured and was wearing a seatbelt, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—One person was seriously injured when a car hit a lawn mower Sunday afternoon in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Lincoln MKZ driven by Amy L. Babcock, 31, Stewartsville, was northbound on Route AB three miles east of St. Joseph. The driver attempted to pass a John Deere Lawn mower driven by Carol A. Horton, 69, Easton, as the mower attempted a left turn.Buchanan County EMS transported Horton to Mosaic Life Care for treatment of serious injuries. Babcock was not injured and was wearing a seatbelt, according to the MSHP.

Easton woman seriously injured after car hits lawn mower

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 Aug. 24 – 30.

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 January 2021. 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.

I-29 – Concrete replacement northbound at mile marker 62.2, north of Route K, Aug. 24 – 25

U.S. Route 59 – Concrete replacement at U.S. Route 71, Aug. 25

U.S. Route 136 – Drainage work in Rock Port, two blocks west of Route 111, Aug. 24 – 25

U.S. Route 136 – Pothole patching from Rock Port to Tarkio, Aug. 24 – 26

Route 46 – Pothole patching from U.S. Route 59 to Route EE, Aug. 26 – 28

Route E – Shoulder work and striping from U.S. Route 169 to Route 116 through late August. A pilot car and flaggers will guide motorists through the work zone.

I-229 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for bridge maintenance northbound and southbound from Highland Avenue to U.S. Route 36, Aug. 24 – 27. This will be an around-the-clock closure and includes all ramps along this span.

I-229 – Bridge flushing, Aug. 24 – 27

I-229 and U.S. Route 36 – Pothole patching, Aug. 24 – 27

Route Y – Utility work north of the Platte County line, Aug. 24 – 28

Route 371 – Culvert replacement at a field entrance 0.5 miles north of Barnett Road, Aug. 25

Route H – Resurfacing project from Route 371 to U.S. Route 169. Resumes Tuesday, Aug. 25 and continues through late August. A pilot car and flaggers will guide motorists through the work zone.

U.S. Route 59 – Drainage work 0.5 miles north of Halls, Aug. 26

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

I-35 – Guardrail work as part of a resurfacing project from the DeKalb County line to Shoal Creek through early September

Route K –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for pothole patching from Route U to Northwest Prairie View Road, Aug. 24, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

U.S. Route 36 – Concrete replacement from I-35 to Ensign Trace, Aug. 24 – 27. This includes overnight lane closures.

Route M –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for pothole patching from the south city limits of Osborne to Route T, Aug. 25 – 26, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily

Route K –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 296th Street to 278th Street, Aug. 26, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

U.S. Route 24 – Drainage work 0.2 miles west of Shelby Avenue, Aug. 24 – 27

Route M – Pothole patching from Route 11 to Route F, Aug. 24 – 27

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

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

Route 190 – Scrub seal project from the Grundy County line to Route F, Aug. 24. Flaggers and a pilot car will guide motorists around the work zone.

Route V – Pothole patching, Aug. 24 – 25

Route F – Drainage work from Route 6 to Route 190, Aug. 25 – 26

Route V – Scrub seal project from Route 6 to Route 190, Aug. 25 – 26. Flaggers and a pilot car will guide motorists around the work zone.

Route K – Pothole patching, Aug. 25 – 27

Route 190 – Scrub seal project from Route V to U.S. Route 65 (Livingston County), Aug. 27 – 28

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

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

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 Y – Pothole patching from Route T to 1 mile east of Route T, Aug. 24

Route MM – Pothole patching from Route 146 to Route CC, Aug. 25

Route F – Pothole patching from Route W to Route D, Aug. 26

Route T –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a slide repair project near Mill Bluff Road, south of Forest City, through August. 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 and Kimsey Creek through mid-September. 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.&nbsp;A traffic switch will take place on Monday, Aug. 24 to allow the contractor to work on the other half of the bridge. 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. The bridge rehabilitation project is expected to continue through late November. 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.&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. 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 Bridge, 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.&nbsp;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 C – Driveway tube replacement south of Route KK in Elmo, Aug. 24

U.S. Route 71 – Culvert repair northbound 1.5 miles south of Maryville in the driving lane (right lane), Aug. 24 – 27. The passing lane (left lane) will be open to traffic with a 14-foot width restriction.

Routes AF and NN – Pothole patching, Aug. 24 – 28

Route AD –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for shoulder work from 130th Street to 140th Street, Aug. 25, 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Route C – Pothole patching from U.S. Route 71 to Westboro, Aug. 26

U.S. Route 136 – Pothole patching from Route PP to Burlington Junction, Aug. 27

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

Route YY – Pothole patching, Aug. 24 – 26

Route U – Pothole patching from Route W to the Gentry County line, Aug. 24 – 26

<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 Aug. 24 – 30.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 January 2021. 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.I-29 – Concrete replacement northbound at mile marker 62.2, north of Route K, Aug. 24 – 25U.S. Route 59 – Concrete replacement at U.S. Route 71, Aug. 25<div>&nbsp;</div>Atchison CountyU.S. Route 136 – Drainage work in Rock Port, two blocks west of Route 111, Aug. 24 – 25U.S. Route 136 – Pothole patching from Rock Port to Tarkio, Aug. 24 – 26Route 46 – Pothole patching from U.S. Route 59 to Route EE, Aug. 26 – 28<div>&nbsp;</div>Buchanan CountyRoute E – Shoulder work and striping from U.S. Route 169 to Route 116 through late August. A pilot car and flaggers will guide motorists through the work zone.I-229 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for bridge maintenance northbound and southbound from Highland Avenue to U.S. Route 36, Aug. 24 – 27. This will be an around-the-clock closure and includes all ramps along this span.I-229 – Bridge flushing, Aug. 24 – 27I-229 and U.S. Route 36 – Pothole patching, Aug. 24 – 27Route Y – Utility work north of the Platte County line, Aug. 24 – 28Route 371 – Culvert replacement at a field entrance 0.5 miles north of Barnett Road, Aug. 25Route H – Resurfacing project from Route 371 to U.S. Route 169. Resumes Tuesday, Aug. 25 and continues through late August. A pilot car and flaggers will guide motorists through the work zone.U.S. Route 59 – Drainage work 0.5 miles north of Halls, Aug. 26<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>Clinton CountyI-35 – Guardrail work as part of a resurfacing project from the DeKalb County line to Shoal Creek through early SeptemberRoute K –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for pothole patching from Route U to Northwest Prairie View Road, Aug. 24, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.U.S. Route 36 – Concrete replacement from I-35 to Ensign Trace, Aug. 24 – 27. This includes overnight lane closures.Route M –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for pothole patching from the south city limits of Osborne to Route T, Aug. 25 – 26, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. dailyRoute K –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 296th Street to 278th Street, Aug. 26, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.<div>&nbsp;</div>Chariton CountyU.S. Route 24 – Drainage work 0.2 miles west of Shelby Avenue, Aug. 24 – 27Route M – Pothole patching from Route 11 to Route F, Aug. 24 – 27<div>&nbsp;</div>Daviess CountyRoute 6 – Resurfacing project from I-35 to the Muddy Creek Bridge east of Trenton (Grundy County) through late AugustI-35 – Resurfacing project from Route C (Exit 78) to U.S. Route 136 (Exit 92, Harrison County) through SeptemberRoute 190 – Scrub seal project from the Grundy County line to Route F, Aug. 24. Flaggers and a pilot car will guide motorists around the work zone.Route V – Pothole patching, Aug. 24 – 25Route F – Drainage work from Route 6 to Route 190, Aug. 25 – 26Route V – Scrub seal project from Route 6 to Route 190, Aug. 25 – 26. Flaggers and a pilot car will guide motorists around the work zone.Route K – Pothole patching, Aug. 25 – 27Route 190 – Scrub seal project from Route V to U.S. Route 65 (Livingston County), Aug. 27 – 28Route P – Pothole patching, Aug. 28<div>&nbsp;</div>Grundy CountyRoute 6 – Sidewalk and utility work in Trenton from 4th Street to the Muddy Creek Bridge through August. This includes Saturday work.Route 6 – Resurfacing project from the Muddy Creek Bridge east of Trenton to I-35 (Daviess County) through early September<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 Y – Pothole patching from Route T to 1 mile east of Route T, Aug. 24Route MM – Pothole patching from Route 146 to Route CC, Aug. 25Route F – Pothole patching from Route W to Route D, Aug. 26<div>&nbsp;</div>Holt CountyRoute T –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a slide repair project near Mill Bluff Road, south of Forest City, through August. 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 and Kimsey Creek through mid-September. 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>Livingston CountyRoute 190 – Bridge rehabilitation project over the Thompson River.&nbsp;A traffic switch will take place on Monday, Aug. 24 to allow the contractor to work on the other half of the bridge. 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. The bridge rehabilitation project is expected to continue through late November. 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.&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. 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><div>&nbsp;</div>Nodaway CountyRoute 46 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project at the White Cloud Creek Bridge, 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.&nbsp;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 C – Driveway tube replacement south of Route KK in Elmo, Aug. 24U.S. Route 71 – Culvert repair northbound 1.5 miles south of Maryville in the driving lane (right lane), Aug. 24 – 27. The passing lane (left lane) will be open to traffic with a 14-foot width restriction.Routes AF and NN – Pothole patching, Aug. 24 – 28Route AD –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for shoulder work from 130th Street to 140th Street, Aug. 25, 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.Route C – Pothole patching from U.S. Route 71 to Westboro, Aug. 26U.S. Route 136 – Pothole patching from Route PP to Burlington Junction, Aug. 27<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 mid-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>Route YY – Pothole patching, Aug. 24 – 26<div>&nbsp;</div>Worth CountyRoute U – Pothole patching from Route W to the Gentry County line, Aug. 24 – 26

Planned road work for northwest Missouri, Aug. 24 - 30

With about a week left until classes start, the St. Joseph School District is urging parents to get their children registered for classes as soon as possible.

School District Communications Director Eileen&nbsp;Houston-Stewart says, in previous years, students could complete registration on the first day of school, but this year, there's a lot more preparation needed before school starts.

"We're doing social distancing, we're needing to make sure that there's enough masks at the schools, hand sanitizer and all of the things that we need to do to make sure that we're keeping our students and our staff safe," Houston-Stewart says. "And because we're providing transportation and we're only seating two students per seat on the school bus, we need to have a list of every student who is riding the bus, so we can make sure that all of our kids are safe in many other ways than in the past."

Houston-Stewart says students can get registered through the <a href="https://www.sjsd.k12.mo.us/back_to_school">school district's website</a> or by calling their school to make an appointment to register in-person.

"If you haven't registered by the first day of school, there's a good chance that you will not receive bus transportation. So we need to make sure every student is registered," Houston-Stewart says.&nbsp;

If a student who needs bus transportation is registering late, parents or guardians can contact Apple Bus Company at (816) 273-0041 with any questions or to let them know their child will be riding the bus.

by SARAH THOMACKSt. Joseph PostWith about a week left until classes start, the St. Joseph School District is urging parents to get their children registered for classes as soon as possible.School District Communications Director Eileen&nbsp;Houston-Stewart says, in previous years, students could complete registration on the first day of school, but this year, there's a lot more preparation needed before school starts."We're doing social distancing, we're needing to make sure that there's enough masks at the schools, hand sanitizer and all of the things that we need to do to make sure that we're keeping our students and our staff safe," Houston-Stewart says. "And because we're providing transportation and we're only seating two students per seat on the school bus, we need to have a list of every student who is riding the bus, so we can make sure that all of our kids are safe in many other ways than in the past."Houston-Stewart says students can get registered through the <a href="https://www.sjsd.k12.mo.us/back_to_school">school district's website</a> or by calling their school to make an appointment to register in-person."If you haven't registered by the first day of school, there's a good chance that you will not receive bus transportation. So we need to make sure every student is registered," Houston-Stewart says.&nbsp;If a student who needs bus transportation is registering late, parents or guardians can contact Apple Bus Company at (816) 273-0041 with any questions or to let them know their child will be riding the bus.

SJSD urging parents to complete registration for students as soon as possible

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 7:30 p.m. Saturday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Can Am X3 driven by Shianne D. Mauzey, 30, Easton, was traveling southeast on private property on Maulden Creek Road two miles west of Gower.

The UTV overturned and came to rest in a ravine.

Tri-County EMS treated Mauzey at the scene and transported a passenger, Matthew G. Mauzey, 37, Easton, to Mosaic Life Care for treatment of moderate injuries. Both were wearing helmets, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 7:30 p.m. Saturday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Can Am X3 driven by Shianne D. Mauzey, 30, Easton, was traveling southeast on private property on Maulden Creek Road two miles west of Gower.The UTV overturned and came to rest in a ravine.Tri-County EMS treated Mauzey at the scene and transported a passenger, Matthew G. Mauzey, 37, Easton, to Mosaic Life Care for treatment of moderate injuries. Both were wearing helmets, according to the MSHP.

2 injured after UTV accident in Buchanan County

The Noyes Home for Children's annual fundraiser is going virtual this year.

“Normally, it’s a huge event at Civic Arena but this year with COVID, nobody wants to get together with their closest 500-700 friends, so we’re going completely virtual this year,” says Chelsea Howlett, Noyes Home Executive Director.&nbsp;

The ‘Take a Seat’ event will be an online auction this year and Howlett says funds raised up to a certain amount will be matched.

“We had an anonymous donor who was very concerned knowing the effects COVID was having, and that we may not reach our fundraising goal for the year,” Howlett tells Gregg Lynn on Joetown 107.5. “He made a match of dollar-for-dollar up to $250,000, so we are guaranteed to have a great year if our community comes out and supports us.”

The 'Take a Seat: At Home Live Virtual Event'will take place at 7 p.m. Saturday, August 22. For more information, visit <a href="http://noyeshome.org/">noyeshome.org</a>.

To hear the full interview with Noyes Home Executive Director Chelsea Howlett, <a href="https://www.joetown1075.com/show/the-gregg-lynn-radio-show/">click here</a>.

by SARAH THOMACKSt. Joseph PostThe Noyes Home for Children's annual fundraiser is going virtual this year.“Normally, it’s a huge event at Civic Arena but this year with COVID, nobody wants to get together with their closest 500-700 friends, so we’re going completely virtual this year,” says Chelsea Howlett, Noyes Home Executive Director.&nbsp;The ‘Take a Seat’ event will be an online auction this year and Howlett says funds raised up to a certain amount will be matched.“We had an anonymous donor who was very concerned knowing the effects COVID was having, and that we may not reach our fundraising goal for the year,” Howlett tells Gregg Lynn on Joetown 107.5. “He made a match of dollar-for-dollar up to $250,000, so we are guaranteed to have a great year if our community comes out and supports us.”The 'Take a Seat: At Home Live Virtual Event'will take place at 7 p.m. Saturday, August 22. For more information, visit <a href="http://noyeshome.org/">noyeshome.org</a>.To hear the full interview with Noyes Home Executive Director Chelsea Howlett, <a href="https://www.joetown1075.com/show/the-gregg-lynn-radio-show/">click here</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598051786834.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>

Noyes Home for Children fundraiser going virtual 

Second Harvest Community Food Bank received a donation of more than 37,000 servings of ground pork from Missouri Farmers Care's Drive to Feed Kids this week. 

According to a press release from Missouri Farmers Care, in partnership with the Missouri Pork Association, Missouri pig farmers donated 60 hogs for processing under the Pork Partnership. 

Missouri Farmers Care says the donation of 8,120 pounds of ground pork, provides much-needed, high-quality protein for hungry Missourians.

With increased unemployment and the challenges of this year, Feeding America projects the number of Missourians facing food insecurity has increased by 5.3% to 63,700 Missourians, including 20,870 children. "This pork donation from Missouri Farmers Care will allow us to provide quality protein to those in need within our service area," said Second Harvest Communications Coordinator, Blake Haynes. "We are proud to partner with such a community driven organization."

Second Harvest Community Food Bank received a donation of more than 37,000 servings of ground pork from Missouri Farmers Care's Drive to Feed Kids this week. According to a press release from Missouri Farmers Care, in partnership with the Missouri Pork Association, Missouri pig farmers donated 60 hogs for processing under the Pork Partnership. Missouri Farmers Care says the donation of 8,120 pounds of ground pork, provides much-needed, high-quality protein for hungry Missourians.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598047303388.png" alt="Second Harvest Community Food Bank received a donation of more than 37,000 servings of ground pork from Missouri Farmers Care's Drive to Feed Kids. Photo courtesy of Missouri Farmers Care." />
 <figcaption>Second Harvest Community Food Bank received a donation of more than 37,000 servings of ground pork from Missouri Farmers Care's Drive to Feed Kids. Photo courtesy of Missouri Farmers Care.</figcaption>
 </figure>With increased unemployment and the challenges of this year, Feeding America projects the number of Missourians facing food insecurity has increased by 5.3% to 63,700 Missourians, including 20,870 children. "This pork donation from Missouri Farmers Care will allow us to provide quality protein to those in need within our service area," said Second Harvest Communications Coordinator, Blake Haynes. "We are proud to partner with such a community driven organization."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/MOFarmersCare?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MOFarmersCare</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/Mo_Soy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Mo_Soy</a> and Missouri Pork for donating over 8,100 LBs of ground pork! <a href="https://t.co/bVcQJOGfcc">pic.twitter.com/bVcQJOGfcc</a>&mdash; Second Harvest (@Second_Harvest) <a href="https://twitter.com/Second_Harvest/status/1296920643091529732?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Missouri Farmers Care Drive to Feed Kids works to reduce food insecurity across Missouri, in partnership with Feeding Missouri and their network of food banks. Meanwhile, slowdowns driven by coronavirus among major pork processors strained the processing chain in May and June. The Drive to Feed Kids Pork Partnership bridges the gap between Missourians needing a hand up and pork producers who faced a reduction in processing availability. "Since it launched in 2017, the Drive to Feed Kids has focused on addressing food insecurity in children across Missouri," said Don Nikodim, executive director of the Missouri Pork Association. "We're proud to see how our partners across agriculture have again stepped up to address the needs during these challenging times. Missouri agriculture has a track record of coming together to solve problems, and this is one way to help in today's tough situation. We thank pork producers who have donated their hogs so food banks can meet the needs of our neighbors facing hunger."Since the initial pick up on May 26, 2020, the Pork Partnership has distributed a total of 44,410 pounds of ground pork statewide to Missouri's regional food banks. To learn more about Missouri Farmers Care and the 2020 Drive to Feed Kids, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001eOdwFNjKqBbljqowQuLzID6m55JbI4FH2ZCMoyCHA_n9Rd3N6CcYWYzHwqzUjZt8FhW-LmAXBwAt_t1SSnUZapxZjXwp5XP4sZDk35b-twKluVVZxIrlRRMx7kSZe_g8Zl1N42-6vHfzIh2bzE_UnPJoSvKtZvlRrcsHk9NgiqPrG1BPJaRVLmkn3xd0X6xU&amp;c=0H5BMXbli5zfF4S0qNdpIlWO_FrShM0meqX8CCZi3kARkEE-mLfKiw==&amp;ch=hXJSDy-DaKZk6kkPyHKafAwxeQhCbTPMIx7GpYyjKJoxdqpdjM48Lw==" target="_blank">MOFarmersCare.com/drive</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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