🎥 Tuesdays Around Town: Primary Election

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson said during a visit to Northwest
Missouri State University in Maryville he’s impressed with plans both Northwest
and Missouri Western State University have to reopening during the coronavirus
pandemic.

Parson said he is pleased with preparations both on the Maryville
and St. Joseph campuses.

“Both universities have really stepped up, preparing for this
with a lot of precautionary things. Again, for me, it’s about looking at those
testing numbers. It’s looking about contact tracing. Are you prepared for that?
Are we prepared if you do have an incident where the virus does get on campus,
which more than likely it will before this session is over, and what do you do
with that? It appeared everybody had a good plan for that,” Parson said in a
news conference after he spoke with university administers from both schools.

Parson said he asked administrators about what the state can
do to help with funding and equipment.

Parson expects Congress to provide more help for higher
education in the latest COVID-19 stimulus package.

Returning to the classroom this fall is important, according
to Parson.

“I don’t think you can delay, whether it’s K-though-12 or whether
universities, or community colleges, or training schools. Look, people have got
to go to work. People have still got to make a living out there and we’ve got
to be able to deal with the virus and education at the same time, because
everybody’s going to have to deal with that,” Parson said. “If we let the
education fall behind and we don’t do our part of make sure they keep doing
that we’re just going to get further behind and we’re going to lose in the
competition world when it comes to other states.”

During a question and answer session, Parson said he doesn’t
believe it’s his place to order a statewide mask mandate. Parson said he will
continue to encourage Missourians to wear masks, but won’t mandate it.

“The reason I haven’t mandated that is because every county,
every city is much different in the state,” Parson stated. “There are still
counties out there that don’t have five cases of the coronavirus and then you
go to St. Louis, Kansas City, and other places do.&nbsp; You have to be prepared for that. You just
have to know that. I just don’t feel like it’s my place to mandate a statewide
mask order, especially when the local levels can do that.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596550269180.jpeg" alt="Gov. Mike Parson speaks as Northwest Missouri State University President John Jasinski and Missouri Western State University interim President Elizabeth Kennedy look on/Photo by Todd Weddle, Northwest Missouri State University" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Mike Parson speaks as Northwest Missouri State University President John Jasinski and Missouri Western State University interim President Elizabeth Kennedy look on/Photo by Todd Weddle, Northwest Missouri State University</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Gov. Mike Parson said during a visit to Northwest
Missouri State University in Maryville he’s impressed with plans both Northwest
and Missouri Western State University have to reopening during the coronavirus
pandemic.Parson said he is pleased with preparations both on the Maryville
and St. Joseph campuses.“Both universities have really stepped up, preparing for this
with a lot of precautionary things. Again, for me, it’s about looking at those
testing numbers. It’s looking about contact tracing. Are you prepared for that?
Are we prepared if you do have an incident where the virus does get on campus,
which more than likely it will before this session is over, and what do you do
with that? It appeared everybody had a good plan for that,” Parson said in a
news conference after he spoke with university administers from both schools.Parson said he asked administrators about what the state can
do to help with funding and equipment.Parson expects Congress to provide more help for higher
education in the latest COVID-19 stimulus package.Returning to the classroom this fall is important, according
to Parson.“I don’t think you can delay, whether it’s K-though-12 or whether
universities, or community colleges, or training schools. Look, people have got
to go to work. People have still got to make a living out there and we’ve got
to be able to deal with the virus and education at the same time, because
everybody’s going to have to deal with that,” Parson said. “If we let the
education fall behind and we don’t do our part of make sure they keep doing
that we’re just going to get further behind and we’re going to lose in the
competition world when it comes to other states.”During a question and answer session, Parson said he doesn’t
believe it’s his place to order a statewide mask mandate. Parson said he will
continue to encourage Missourians to wear masks, but won’t mandate it.“The reason I haven’t mandated that is because every county,
every city is much different in the state,” Parson stated. “There are still
counties out there that don’t have five cases of the coronavirus and then you
go to St. Louis, Kansas City, and other places do.&nbsp; You have to be prepared for that. You just
have to know that. I just don’t feel like it’s my place to mandate a statewide
mask order, especially when the local levels can do that.”

Gov. Parson pleased with NWMSU & MWSU COVID-19 preparations

BUCHANAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 10p.m. Monday in&nbsp; Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Power Sportsman Ninja driven by Jerrad W. Poland, 23, St. Joseph, was northbound on Interstate 229 just south of Highland Avenue.

An unknown vehicle struck the rear of the motorcycle. The motorcycle overturned and traveled off the road. Buchanan County EMS transported Poland to Mosaic Life Care. He was wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 10p.m. Monday in&nbsp; Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Power Sportsman Ninja driven by Jerrad W. Poland, 23, St. Joseph, was northbound on Interstate 229 just south of Highland Avenue.An unknown vehicle struck the rear of the motorcycle. The motorcycle overturned and traveled off the road. Buchanan County EMS transported Poland to Mosaic Life Care. He was wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

MSHP: Vehicle rear-ended motorcycle, left scene of crash

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 8p.m. Monday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Ford Flex driven by Kyndria&nbsp; E. Lucas, 27, Savannah, entered Business 71 from a median crossover two miles south of Savannah. 

The vehicle traveled into the path of a northbound 2012 Chevy 3500 driven by Wilson D. Fletcher, 76, St. Joseph.

The Chevy struck the front drivers side of the Ford.

Andrew County EMS transported Lucas to Mosaic.&nbsp; Andrew County EMS treated Fletcher at the scene. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 8p.m. Monday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Ford Flex driven by Kyndria&nbsp; E. Lucas, 27, Savannah, entered Business 71 from a median crossover two miles south of Savannah. The vehicle traveled into the path of a northbound 2012 Chevy 3500 driven by Wilson D. Fletcher, 76, St. Joseph.The Chevy struck the front drivers side of the Ford.Andrew County EMS transported Lucas to Mosaic.&nbsp; Andrew County EMS treated Fletcher at the scene. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Savannah woman hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash

Incumbent Kansas Congressman Steve Watkins faces strong head
winds as he runs for his second term to represent the Second Congressional
District.

Watkins not only has been charged with voter fraud, he faces
two challengers in the Republican primary.

The Shawnee County District Attorney filed voter fraud
charges, three felonies and one misdemeanor, against Watkins just prior to the
first Republican debate sponsored by KSNT.

Watkins, at the outset of the debate, brushed off the charges.

“This is clearly hyper-political. It comes out moments before
our first debate and three weeks before the election,” Watkins told the
audience in mid-July. “I haven’t done anything wrong. As soon as I realized
that I had put my mailing address instead of my physical address we fixed it.
This is very suspicious, seems highly political.”

Prosecutors accuse Watkins of using a UPS store address rather
than his physical address to vote in last year’s General Election. Watkins says
it was a simple mistake which was rectified once brought to his attention.

Republican challenger Jake LaTurner, the Kansas Treasurer,
sees it differently. LaTurner &nbsp;says the
charges combined with a strong Democratic candidate make it unlikely Watkins
can win in the General Election.

“Those are the reasons that he can’t pull it off,” LaTurner
tells St. Joseph Post. “And, listen, all of this stuff that’s going on, I think
voters are ready to turn the page. They want someone that they can count on to
be consistent and to actually stand up and lead on these issues in Washington,
D.C.”

LaTurner says Republicans will lose the seat if Watkins wins the Tuesday primary.

“He has been charged with multiple felonies. He will absolutely
lose this General Election to the Democrat, the mayor of Topeka,” LaTurner
says.

Democrat De La Isla, the mayor of Topeka, is expected to win
the Democratic nomination.

Shawnee County Commissioner Dennis Taylor is also running in
the Republican primary.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostIncumbent Kansas Congressman Steve Watkins faces strong head
winds as he runs for his second term to represent the Second Congressional
District.Watkins not only has been charged with voter fraud, he faces
two challengers in the Republican primary.The Shawnee County District Attorney filed voter fraud
charges, three felonies and one misdemeanor, against Watkins just prior to the
first Republican debate sponsored by KSNT.Watkins, at the outset of the debate, brushed off the charges.“This is clearly hyper-political. It comes out moments before
our first debate and three weeks before the election,” Watkins told the
audience in mid-July. “I haven’t done anything wrong. As soon as I realized
that I had put my mailing address instead of my physical address we fixed it.
This is very suspicious, seems highly political.”Prosecutors accuse Watkins of using a UPS store address rather
than his physical address to vote in last year’s General Election. Watkins says
it was a simple mistake which was rectified once brought to his attention.Republican challenger Jake LaTurner, the Kansas Treasurer,
sees it differently. LaTurner &nbsp;says the
charges combined with a strong Democratic candidate make it unlikely Watkins
can win in the General Election.“Those are the reasons that he can’t pull it off,” LaTurner
tells St. Joseph Post. “And, listen, all of this stuff that’s going on, I think
voters are ready to turn the page. They want someone that they can count on to
be consistent and to actually stand up and lead on these issues in Washington,
D.C.”LaTurner says Republicans will lose the seat if Watkins wins the Tuesday primary.“He has been charged with multiple felonies. He will absolutely
lose this General Election to the Democrat, the mayor of Topeka,” LaTurner
says.Democrat De La Isla, the mayor of Topeka, is expected to win
the Democratic nomination.Shawnee County Commissioner Dennis Taylor is also running in
the Republican primary.

Kansas 2nd District Congressman faces tough path to re-election

Two Republicans are running for 9th District State Representative, hoping to replace Sheila Solon who is leaving because of term limits.

Dean VanSchoiack, a family farmer, auctioneer and real estate broker, says he decided to run as he’s always been interested in politics.

“A lot of people think you just go down, you sit in sessions, you sit in a few hearings and you vote on some bills and that sort of thing,” Van Schoiack tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “There’s a lot more to it than that. You’re an advocate for your people. You’re an advocate for the people of your district when it comes to them dealing with the state and even sometimes the national government.”

Also on the ballot is Tina Goodrick - a farmer's daughter, the wife of a small business owner and mother of three daughters who earned a degree in nursing and business from Missouri Western State University.

“I’m going into politics for the same reason why I was going into nursing in the first place, because I really care about people and I love helping people, that’s a passion of mine, always has been,” Goodrick tells Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “I found out that I can help a lot of people by being a state representative so I think our state could use someone who really cares about the people.”

VanSchoiack says important issues include infrastructure, private property rights and fiscal responsibility.&nbsp;

“Using the dollars that are sent to the state wisely, the best way they can be used. I think we’ve got a lot of waste in government, I think everybody thinks we do," VanSchoiack says. "My first thing to do would be to cut government waste and try to divert some of those funds to roads and to education as well. Every child in Missouri deserves a quality education and it’s the responsibility of the state to pay a good part of that education funding.”

Goodrick says important issues include education, cutting property taxes for those 65 and older and funding infrastructure.

"I do not think that we need to raise our taxes to fix our road issues. We just need to find the waste… get rid of the waste and then we will have the money and make sure it goes to our transportation problems," Goodrick says. "If we take good care of our businesses and keep our schools good and we find that waste, we get the money for our roads, we can bring more people into our state... and get more taxes from gas being bought here."

Karen Planalp is running as an uncontested Democratic candidate for 9th District State Representative.

by SARAH THOMACKSt. Joseph PostTwo Republicans are running for 9th District State Representative, hoping to replace Sheila Solon who is leaving because of term limits.Dean VanSchoiack, a family farmer, auctioneer and real estate broker, says he decided to run as he’s always been interested in politics.“A lot of people think you just go down, you sit in sessions, you sit in a few hearings and you vote on some bills and that sort of thing,” Van Schoiack tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “There’s a lot more to it than that. You’re an advocate for your people. You’re an advocate for the people of your district when it comes to them dealing with the state and even sometimes the national government.”Also on the ballot is Tina Goodrick - a farmer's daughter, the wife of a small business owner and mother of three daughters who earned a degree in nursing and business from Missouri Western State University.“I’m going into politics for the same reason why I was going into nursing in the first place, because I really care about people and I love helping people, that’s a passion of mine, always has been,” Goodrick tells Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “I found out that I can help a lot of people by being a state representative so I think our state could use someone who really cares about the people.”VanSchoiack says important issues include infrastructure, private property rights and fiscal responsibility.&nbsp;“Using the dollars that are sent to the state wisely, the best way they can be used. I think we’ve got a lot of waste in government, I think everybody thinks we do," VanSchoiack says. "My first thing to do would be to cut government waste and try to divert some of those funds to roads and to education as well. Every child in Missouri deserves a quality education and it’s the responsibility of the state to pay a good part of that education funding.”Goodrick says important issues include education, cutting property taxes for those 65 and older and funding infrastructure."I do not think that we need to raise our taxes to fix our road issues. We just need to find the waste… get rid of the waste and then we will have the money and make sure it goes to our transportation problems," Goodrick says. "If we take good care of our businesses and keep our schools good and we find that waste, we get the money for our roads, we can bring more people into our state... and get more taxes from gas being bought here."Karen Planalp is running as an uncontested Democratic candidate for 9th District State Representative.

Two Republican candidates running to replace Solon as state representative

Mosaic Life Care has now tested 18,798 area
residents with 883 testing positive. There are 14 COVID-19 patients
hospitalized in St. Joseph. Mosaic is awaiting results from 37 tests.

Buchanan County is reporting 1,083 total cases of the
coronavirus since the counting began; 953 confirmed and 130 probable.

Andrew County health officials report 93 total cases; 78
confirmed and 15 probable. Andrew County has had one COVID0-19 related death.

Doniphan County, Kansas reports 42 cases.

Missouri reports a total of 51,840 cases, resulting
in 1,253 deaths.

Kansas reports 27,812 cases with 358 deaths.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMosaic Life Care has now tested 18,798 area
residents with 883 testing positive. There are 14 COVID-19 patients
hospitalized in St. Joseph. Mosaic is awaiting results from 37 tests.Buchanan County is reporting 1,083 total cases of the
coronavirus since the counting began; 953 confirmed and 130 probable.Buchanan County has recorded 10 deaths.Andrew County health officials report 93 total cases; 78
confirmed and 15 probable. Andrew County has had one COVID0-19 related death.Doniphan County, Kansas reports 42 cases.Missouri reports a total of 51,840 cases, resulting
in 1,253 deaths.Kansas reports 27,812 cases with 358 deaths.

Mosaic COVID-19 testing nears 19K with 14 hospitalized in St. Joseph

Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett is running for his second
term, challenged in the Republican primary by St. Joseph Police Sergeant Keith
Dudley.

Puett has been with the sheriff’s department for more than 33
years, the last four as sheriff. He has taught at the Law Enforcement Academy
on the Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph for 25 years and
actually had Dudley as a student.

Puett says he has accomplished much during his tenure as
sheriff and is running for a second term, because there remains work to do.

Puett says a restructuring of the Buchanan County jail under
his administration freed up personnel and money.

“We were able to restructure, take some of those deputies,
move deputies out into enforcement positions, restructure some of the job
requirements and so we were able to provide deputies a raise a couple of years
ago,” Puett tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.

Puett says the department has become a leaner, more efficient
agency during his tenure. He says the department is aggressive on crime while treating
everyone with respect.

Dudley says he got into law enforcement in his early 30s as a
second career. After taking a United Way Leadership St. Joseph course, Dudley
decided it was time for him to step forward and do more for the community.

Dudley says recruitment of qualified deputies would be a top
priority.

“When I applied 19 years ago or however long ago it was, we
had about 160 to 200 people who would apply. Now we’re lucky to get 30-35
people,” Dudley tells Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “There’s not a lot of people
out there. Everybody’s trying to get them. You have got to do something to make
your department stand out above the others.”

Pay is important, according to Dudley, but the working
environment can attract the right people. Dudley says he would restructure the
department so that it could free up deputies to help St. Joseph police patrol
crime hot spots.

There is no Democrat running, so the primary will decide who
is the sheriff.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostBuchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett is running for his second
term, challenged in the Republican primary by St. Joseph Police Sergeant Keith
Dudley.Puett has been with the sheriff’s department for more than 33
years, the last four as sheriff. He has taught at the Law Enforcement Academy
on the Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph for 25 years and
actually had Dudley as a student.Puett says he has accomplished much during his tenure as
sheriff and is running for a second term, because there remains work to do.Puett says a restructuring of the Buchanan County jail under
his administration freed up personnel and money.“We were able to restructure, take some of those deputies,
move deputies out into enforcement positions, restructure some of the job
requirements and so we were able to provide deputies a raise a couple of years
ago,” Puett tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.Puett says the department has become a leaner, more efficient
agency during his tenure. He says the department is aggressive on crime while treating
everyone with respect.Dudley says he got into law enforcement in his early 30s as a
second career. After taking a United Way Leadership St. Joseph course, Dudley
decided it was time for him to step forward and do more for the community.Dudley says recruitment of qualified deputies would be a top
priority.“When I applied 19 years ago or however long ago it was, we
had about 160 to 200 people who would apply. Now we’re lucky to get 30-35
people,” Dudley tells Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “There’s not a lot of people
out there. Everybody’s trying to get them. You have got to do something to make
your department stand out above the others.”Pay is important, according to Dudley, but the working
environment can attract the right people. Dudley says he would restructure the
department so that it could free up deputies to help St. Joseph police patrol
crime hot spots.There is no Democrat running, so the primary will decide who
is the sheriff.

Republicans to decide Buchanan County Sheriff race

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Department of Health and Environment Secretary Dr. Lee Norman.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/5g2xt-e57b3a?from=pb6admin&amp;download=1&amp;version=1&amp;vjs=1&amp;auto=0&amp;share=1&amp;download=1&amp;rtl=0&amp;fonts=Helvetica&amp;skin=3&amp;pfauth="></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Department of Health and Environment Secretary Dr. Lee Norman.

🎤Forward Ever: KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman

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. 3 – 9.

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.

Route 48 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project over Agee Creek. The bridge is expected to reopen Aug. 10. 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/andrew-county-route-48-bridge-replacement-over-agee-creek" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/andrew-county-route-48-bridge-replacement-over-agee-creek</a>

Interstate 29 – Bridge replacement project over Hopkins Creek and 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.

Route Y –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from County Road 4 to County Road 7 through Aug. 3 at 4:30 p.m.

U.S. Route 59 – Culvert replacement at County Road 62, Aug. 6, 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The entrance to County Road 62 will be closed while work is ongoing. Flaggers will be in place on U.S. Route 59 to guide motorists through the work zone.

U.S. Route 59 – Roadside work at Route B, Aug. 3

Routes B and C – Pothole patching, Aug. 3 – 7

Route 275 – Drainage work west of Route CC, Aug. 4 – 7

I-29 – Concrete patching in preparation for a resurfacing project from south of Route O to the Platte County line through early August. I-29 will be narrowed to one lane from 6 p.m. to 7 a.m. nightly and some lane closures could remain up around-the-clock. The full resurfacing project is expected to begin Aug. 10 and be completed in mid-October.

Gene Field Road –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for concrete replacement over I-29, Aug. 3 at 7 a.m. through Aug. 4 at 7 a.m.

Route AC –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for concrete replacement over U.S. Route 36, Aug. 4 at 7 a.m. through Aug. 5 at 7 a.m.

Route 752 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;to eastbound traffic&nbsp;for pavement repair from 4th Street to 5th Street, Aug. 4 at 7 a.m. to Aug. 5 at 10 a.m. Traffic will go head-to-head in the westbound lanes and attenuators will guide motorists through the work zone.

Route A – Edge rut repair, Aug. 3 – 4

I-229 and U.S. Route 36 – Pothole patching, Aug. 3 – 6

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 in preparation for a resurfacing project from the Clay County line to just north of Route 116 through August

I-35 – Resurfacing project from the DeKalb County line to Shoal Creek through early September

Route O –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for pothole patching at various locations for, Aug. 3 – 4, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily

Route K –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for pothole patching at various locations from Route NN to Route U, Aug. 4 – 6, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily

Route P –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from Route 129 to Bobcat Lane, Aug. 7, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Route 13 – Scrub seal project from Route 6 to U.S. Route 69 (Harrison County) through Aug. 10. Traffic will be reduced to one lane and flaggers and a pilot car will guide motorists through the work zone.

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

I-35 – Guardrail work in preparation for a resurfacing project from Route C (Exit 78) to U.S. Route 136 (Exit 92, Harrison County) through September. The roadway may be reduced to one lane each direction with crews working around-the-clock.

Route DD – Pothole patching, Aug. 3 – 4

Route V – Pothole patching, Aug. 3 – 6

Route F – Drainage work from Route 6 to Route 190, Aug. 6 – 7

Route O –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from County Road 507 to Route YY, Aug. 5, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Route 6 – Sidewalk and utility work from 4th Street to the Muddy Creek Bridge in Trenton 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

Route 13 – Scrub seal project from U.S. Route 69 to Route 6 (Daviess County) through Aug. 10. Traffic will be reduced to one lane and flaggers and a pilot car will guide motorists through the work zone.

I-35 – Guardrail work in preparation for a resurfacing project from U.S. Route 136 (Exit 92) to Route C (Exit 78, Daviess County) through September. The roadway may be reduced to one lane each direction with crews working around-the-clock.

U.S. Route 159 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project at the Penny Slu Bridge through mid-August.&nbsp;More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/penny-slu-bridge-replacement-and-i-29-overpass-redeck-project" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/penny-slu-bridge-replacement-and-i-29-overpass-redeck-project</a>

Route T –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project over Easter Creek near Oregon through late August. 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.

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. 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. 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 Bridge, west of Route AB. The project to replace all four bridges is expected to continue through early December. This bridge is included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. 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 Y – Pothole patching south of Route A, Aug. 3

Route AH – Pothole patching, Aug. 4 – 5

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

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

Route C –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;pavement repair from Route M to Gentry Worth Road, Aug. 3, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Route C – Scrub seal project from Route M to Gentry Worth Road, Aug. 4

<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. 3 – 9.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 CountyRoute 48 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project over Agee Creek. The bridge is expected to reopen Aug. 10. 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/andrew-county-route-48-bridge-replacement-over-agee-creek" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/andrew-county-route-48-bridge-replacement-over-agee-creek</a>Interstate 29 – Bridge replacement project over Hopkins Creek and 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.Route Y –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from County Road 4 to County Road 7 through Aug. 3 at 4:30 p.m.U.S. Route 59 – Culvert replacement at County Road 62, Aug. 6, 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The entrance to County Road 62 will be closed while work is ongoing. Flaggers will be in place on U.S. Route 59 to guide motorists through the work zone.<div>&nbsp;</div>Atchison CountyU.S. Route 59 – Roadside work at Route B, Aug. 3Routes B and C – Pothole patching, Aug. 3 – 7Route 275 – Drainage work west of Route CC, Aug. 4 – 7<div>&nbsp;</div>Buchanan CountyI-29 – Concrete patching in preparation for a resurfacing project from south of Route O to the Platte County line through early August. I-29 will be narrowed to one lane from 6 p.m. to 7 a.m. nightly and some lane closures could remain up around-the-clock. The full resurfacing project is expected to begin Aug. 10 and be completed in mid-October.Gene Field Road –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for concrete replacement over I-29, Aug. 3 at 7 a.m. through Aug. 4 at 7 a.m.Route AC –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for concrete replacement over U.S. Route 36, Aug. 4 at 7 a.m. through Aug. 5 at 7 a.m.Route 752 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;to eastbound traffic&nbsp;for pavement repair from 4th Street to 5th Street, Aug. 4 at 7 a.m. to Aug. 5 at 10 a.m. Traffic will go head-to-head in the westbound lanes and attenuators will guide motorists through the work zone.Route A – Edge rut repair, Aug. 3 – 4I-229 – Bridge flushing, Aug. 3 – 6I-229 and U.S. Route 36 – Pothole patching, Aug. 3 – 6<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 in preparation for a resurfacing project from the Clay County line to just north of Route 116 through AugustI-35 – Resurfacing project from the DeKalb County line to Shoal Creek through early SeptemberRoute O –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for pothole patching at various locations for, Aug. 3 – 4, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. dailyRoute K –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for pothole patching at various locations from Route NN to Route U, Aug. 4 – 6, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily<div>&nbsp;</div>Chariton CountyRoute P –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from Route 129 to Bobcat Lane, Aug. 7, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.<div>&nbsp;</div>Daviess CountyRoute 13 – Scrub seal project from Route 6 to U.S. Route 69 (Harrison County) through Aug. 10. Traffic will be reduced to one lane and flaggers and a pilot car will guide motorists through the work zone.Route 6 – Resurfacing project from I-35 to the Muddy Creek Bridge east of Trenton (Grundy County) through late AugustI-35 – Guardrail work in preparation for a resurfacing project from Route C (Exit 78) to U.S. Route 136 (Exit 92, Harrison County) through September. The roadway may be reduced to one lane each direction with crews working around-the-clock.Route DD – Pothole patching, Aug. 3 – 4Route V – Pothole patching, Aug. 3 – 6Route C – Pothole patching, Aug. 5Route F – Drainage work from Route 6 to Route 190, Aug. 6 – 7<div>&nbsp;</div>Gentry CountyRoute O –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from County Road 507 to Route YY, Aug. 5, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.<div>&nbsp;</div>Grundy CountyRoute 6 – Sidewalk and utility work from 4th Street to the Muddy Creek Bridge in Trenton 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 washoutRoute 13 – Scrub seal project from U.S. Route 69 to Route 6 (Daviess County) through Aug. 10. Traffic will be reduced to one lane and flaggers and a pilot car will guide motorists through the work zone.I-35 – Guardrail work in preparation for a resurfacing project from U.S. Route 136 (Exit 92) to Route C (Exit 78, Daviess County) through September. The roadway may be reduced to one lane each direction with crews working around-the-clock.<div>&nbsp;</div>Holt CountyU.S. Route 159 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project at the Penny Slu Bridge through mid-August.&nbsp;More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/penny-slu-bridge-replacement-and-i-29-overpass-redeck-project" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/penny-slu-bridge-replacement-and-i-29-overpass-redeck-project</a>Route T –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project over Easter Creek near Oregon through late August. 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.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.<div>&nbsp;</div>Livingston CountyRoute 190 – Bridge rehabilitation project over the Thompson River. 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. 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 Bridge, west of Route AB. The project to replace all four bridges is expected to continue through early December. This bridge is included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. 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 Y – Pothole patching south of Route A, Aug. 3Route AH – Pothole patching, Aug. 4 – 5<div>&nbsp;</div>Sullivan CountyRoute N –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement project 0.2 miles west of Route B near Green City through SeptemberRoute PP –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project over East Medicine Creek through the end of the year. This bridge is included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/sullivan-county-route-pp-east-medicine-creek-bridge" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/sullivan-county-route-pp-east-medicine-creek-bridge</a><div>&nbsp;</div>Worth CountyRoute C –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;pavement repair from Route M to Gentry Worth Road, Aug. 3, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.Route C – Scrub seal project from Route M to Gentry Worth Road, Aug. 4

Planned road work for northwest Missouri, Aug. 3 - 9

United States Senator Roy Blunt is optimistic a compromise can
be reached this week on another economic stimulus package in the battle against
COVID-19 and its impact on the economy.

Blunt, a Republican involved in the negotiations, insists
Senate Republicans and House Democrats are not that far off, even if the Senate
approved a $1 trillion package to counter the House $3 trillion measure.

“We’re never going to outspend Democrats in the House,” Blunt tells
reporters during a weekend stop in St. Joseph. “They put $7 ½ billion for child
care subsidies, I put $15 (billion), they say, maybe we need $40 (billion).
Now, this is the number they thought should be $7 ½ billion 90 days ago. So,
part of this is just politics. It’s election year politics. We’re 90 days from
a presidential election.”

Blunt, after a visit to Mosaic Life Care, tells reporters
there are three sticking points:&nbsp; how
much federal unemployment assistance should be allocated, whether state and
local governments should be provided assistance, and whether COVID-19 liability
protection should be extended for businesses and groups.

An additional $600 weekly federal unemployment check ended at
the end of July. House Democrats included nearly $1 billion of aid to state and
local governments, the Senate did not. Senate Republicans included liability
protections to businesses and groups which reopened during this coronavirus
pandemic, the House did not.

Both and Senate and House include another round of $1,200 stimulus checks.

Some deadline pressure is growing for negotiators. The Senate
is scheduled to leave Washington, D.C. after Friday for its annual August
recess.

Blunt doesn’t see that as a problem though, saying
negotiations over such proposals normally come together in a 72-hour period.

“You just need to decide when that 72 hours is so you can do whatever’s
necessary to finally bring these bills together,” Blunt says. “They’re different
in money, but they’re not different in much else.”

Blunt acknowledges many of his fellow Senate Republicans question
the need for the bill and he says if one is to pass, it will need bipartisan
support.

“So, this will be done by some number of Republicans and enough
Democrats to get to 60 in the Senate,” according to Blunt.

Blunt says though Senate Republicans backed the last $1
trillion-plus package, he expects some to vote against this latest round of
relief.

“Well, I think Senate Republicans are probably reverting back
to a normal pattern where some of my Republican colleagues never vote for
anything that spends money,” Blunt says. “That’s actually a workable strategy
as long as somebody else will vote for what spends money.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596384655274.jpeg" alt="Sen. Roy Blunt speaks with reporters as Mosaic Life Care DEO, Dr. Mark Laney, looks on/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Roy Blunt speaks with reporters as Mosaic Life Care DEO, Dr. Mark Laney, looks on/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostUnited States Senator Roy Blunt is optimistic a compromise can
be reached this week on another economic stimulus package in the battle against
COVID-19 and its impact on the economy.Blunt, a Republican involved in the negotiations, insists
Senate Republicans and House Democrats are not that far off, even if the Senate
approved a $1 trillion package to counter the House $3 trillion measure.“We’re never going to outspend Democrats in the House,” Blunt tells
reporters during a weekend stop in St. Joseph. “They put $7 ½ billion for child
care subsidies, I put $15 (billion), they say, maybe we need $40 (billion).
Now, this is the number they thought should be $7 ½ billion 90 days ago. So,
part of this is just politics. It’s election year politics. We’re 90 days from
a presidential election.”Blunt, after a visit to Mosaic Life Care, tells reporters
there are three sticking points:&nbsp; how
much federal unemployment assistance should be allocated, whether state and
local governments should be provided assistance, and whether COVID-19 liability
protection should be extended for businesses and groups.An additional $600 weekly federal unemployment check ended at
the end of July. House Democrats included nearly $1 billion of aid to state and
local governments, the Senate did not. Senate Republicans included liability
protections to businesses and groups which reopened during this coronavirus
pandemic, the House did not.Both and Senate and House include another round of $1,200 stimulus checks.Some deadline pressure is growing for negotiators. The Senate
is scheduled to leave Washington, D.C. after Friday for its annual August
recess.Blunt doesn’t see that as a problem though, saying
negotiations over such proposals normally come together in a 72-hour period.“You just need to decide when that 72 hours is so you can do whatever’s
necessary to finally bring these bills together,” Blunt says. “They’re different
in money, but they’re not different in much else.”Blunt acknowledges many of his fellow Senate Republicans question
the need for the bill and he says if one is to pass, it will need bipartisan
support.“So, this will be done by some number of Republicans and enough
Democrats to get to 60 in the Senate,” according to Blunt.Blunt says though Senate Republicans backed the last $1
trillion-plus package, he expects some to vote against this latest round of
relief.“Well, I think Senate Republicans are probably reverting back
to a normal pattern where some of my Republican colleagues never vote for
anything that spends money,” Blunt says. “That’s actually a workable strategy
as long as somebody else will vote for what spends money.”

Blunt insists Senate-House not far off in competing stimulus packages

HARRISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 9p.m. Saturday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1997 Chevy Silverado driven by a 14-year-old boy from Mercer was westbound on Route N 2 two miles east of Cainsville.

The pickup traveled off the north side of the road, struck a bridge support located in a creek. The pickup came to rest on its wheels in the creek.

Lifeflight Eagle transported the driver to Blank Children's Hospital in Des Moines. A 16-year-old in the vehicle was not injured. The driver was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

HARRISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 9p.m. Saturday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1997 Chevy Silverado driven by a 14-year-old boy from Mercer was westbound on Route N 2 two miles east of Cainsville.The pickup traveled off the north side of the road, struck a bridge support located in a creek. The pickup came to rest on its wheels in the creek.Lifeflight Eagle transported the driver to Blank Children's Hospital in Des Moines. A 16-year-old in the vehicle was not injured. The driver was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri teen airlifted to hospital after pickup lands in creek  

Four Democrats vie for the party nomination in the Tuesday primary,
each hoping to be the candidate to take on Republican Congressman Sam Graves in
the General Election.

College professor Gena Ross of Platte City contends Graves
complains a lot about how the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages the Missouri
River, but doesn’t do anything about it.

“Business as usual is no longer acceptable,” Ross tells host
Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “It affects everybody. And just to sit there
and not say anything or do anything about it or sweep stuff under the rug; if
the Army Engineer Corps aren’t doing anything about it, stay on them, hold them
accountable and make them do their job.”

Ross says education, health care, and infrastructure are big
issues in this campaign.

Clark County School Board member Charles West, who works for a
Canton construction company, opposes the move to defund the police, though he
asserts there is too much police abuse.

“There does need to be a lot of reform when it comes to that,
but defunding the police, no,” West tells Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “We need to
have our police. That’s our law and order. Even though a lot of things we see
aren’t right, that’s why I think there needs to be some new training coming on.”

West sees four main issues in the campaign:&nbsp; education, infrastructure, health care, and
jobs.

Educator and high school coach Henry Martin of Kansas City
says he chose to run as a Democrat, because the party accepts people as they
are.

“The United States is not a powerful country, because of our
military and because of our freedoms,” Martin tells Birr on the Hotline. “Our
real strength is in our diversity. The diversity of our nation gives us a unique
perspective on the rest of the world.”

Martin, an Army veteran, emphasizes infrastructure, stating
every dollar spent on infrastructure returns a $1.50 to $2.50 to the economy.

Donald Sartain, a former trucker from St. Joseph, has run as a
Republican in the past, but switched parties to run in this race.

“I do largely support President Trump’s agenda,” Sartain tells
Birr during his appearance on the Hotline. “The Republican Party, however, has historically
desired to deplete the working class’ social safety net put in place by very
hard effort.”

Sartain calls himself a conservative-leaning populist.

There is a 5th name on the ballot, but Ramona
Farris suspended her campaign.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostFour Democrats vie for the party nomination in the Tuesday primary,
each hoping to be the candidate to take on Republican Congressman Sam Graves in
the General Election.College professor Gena Ross of Platte City contends Graves
complains a lot about how the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages the Missouri
River, but doesn’t do anything about it.“Business as usual is no longer acceptable,” Ross tells host
Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “It affects everybody. And just to sit there
and not say anything or do anything about it or sweep stuff under the rug; if
the Army Engineer Corps aren’t doing anything about it, stay on them, hold them
accountable and make them do their job.”Ross says education, health care, and infrastructure are big
issues in this campaign.Clark County School Board member Charles West, who works for a
Canton construction company, opposes the move to defund the police, though he
asserts there is too much police abuse.“There does need to be a lot of reform when it comes to that,
but defunding the police, no,” West tells Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “We need to
have our police. That’s our law and order. Even though a lot of things we see
aren’t right, that’s why I think there needs to be some new training coming on.”West sees four main issues in the campaign:&nbsp; education, infrastructure, health care, and
jobs.Educator and high school coach Henry Martin of Kansas City
says he chose to run as a Democrat, because the party accepts people as they
are.“The United States is not a powerful country, because of our
military and because of our freedoms,” Martin tells Birr on the Hotline. “Our
real strength is in our diversity. The diversity of our nation gives us a unique
perspective on the rest of the world.”Martin, an Army veteran, emphasizes infrastructure, stating
every dollar spent on infrastructure returns a $1.50 to $2.50 to the economy.Donald Sartain, a former trucker from St. Joseph, has run as a
Republican in the past, but switched parties to run in this race.“I do largely support President Trump’s agenda,” Sartain tells
Birr during his appearance on the Hotline. “The Republican Party, however, has historically
desired to deplete the working class’ social safety net put in place by very
hard effort.”Sartain calls himself a conservative-leaning populist.There is a 5th name on the ballot, but Ramona
Farris suspended her campaign.

Four Democrats running to challenge Congressman Graves this fall

Due to COVID-19 safety precautions, Pivotal Point Transitional Housing's annual fundraiser is all online this year.

“You can do the same thing and really help our cause,” says Melissa Frakes, Pivotal Point Executive Director. “Obviously, not getting together in September is very unique for us and we’re going to miss seeing people, but we feel this is the safe thing to do and still be able to take care of our people and bring more residents in.”

Frakes says the virtual 'Fall Ball in July' features opportunities to bid on items and to see how your donations help people.

“A hundred dollars is bus passes for a month for a husband and wife or for a mom and her kids. Up to $5,000, you would be sponsoring an apartment, which would help up to four families in a year. So there’s a wide variety of options,” Frakes tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “Honestly, if you can only give $10, (that) times a hundred people is a large donation, so there’s not a donation too small.”&nbsp;

Pivotal Point's 90-day program works to move families from homelessness to self-sufficiency. 

To view silent auction items and participate in the virtual fundraiser through August 2nd, go to <a href="https://e.givesmart.com/events/gsg/">pivotalpointstjoseph.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1568739058939.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>by SARAH THOMACKSt. Joseph PostDue to COVID-19 safety precautions, Pivotal Point Transitional Housing's annual fundraiser is all online this year.“You can do the same thing and really help our cause,” says Melissa Frakes, Pivotal Point Executive Director. “Obviously, not getting together in September is very unique for us and we’re going to miss seeing people, but we feel this is the safe thing to do and still be able to take care of our people and bring more residents in.”Frakes says the virtual 'Fall Ball in July' features opportunities to bid on items and to see how your donations help people.“A hundred dollars is bus passes for a month for a husband and wife or for a mom and her kids. Up to $5,000, you would be sponsoring an apartment, which would help up to four families in a year. So there’s a wide variety of options,” Frakes tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “Honestly, if you can only give $10, (that) times a hundred people is a large donation, so there’s not a donation too small.”&nbsp;Pivotal Point's 90-day program works to move families from homelessness to self-sufficiency. To view silent auction items and participate in the virtual fundraiser through August 2nd, go to <a href="https://e.givesmart.com/events/gsg/">pivotalpointstjoseph.org</a>.

Pivotal Point's annual fundraiser goes virtual this year

Two
northeast Kansas electric cooperatives which serve more than 5,000 customers in eight
counties have announced plans to merge.

Boards
of the Nemaha-Marshall Electric Cooperative Association of Axtell and the
Doniphan Electric Cooperative Association in Troy have approved an October vote
on becoming the new Northeast Kansas Electric Cooperative.

The
plans are subject to review by COOP members and employees prior to the vote.
If meetings cannot be held due to the coronavirus pandemic, the two COOPs plan
to communicate by mail.

In
a news release, the two cooperatives stated that under
the proposed consolidation plan:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A new legal entity will be created and
named Northeast Kansas Electric Cooperative, Inc. (NEKEC).

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; All jobs will be maintained for a
combined workforce of 20.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; There will be no changes in members’
reliable electric service.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Our financial analyses point to
significant potential savings over a 10-year period.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The cooperatives’ Boards of Trustees
will combine initially to oversee the consolidated cooperative.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Offices in both Axtell, KS and Troy,
KS will remain open after this consolidation.&nbsp; It is anticipated both
locations will be needed well into the future.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The combined cooperatives will serve
5000+ customers in eight (8) counties.

Officials with
both cooperatives say consolidation will save money and increase efficiency by
combining purchasing, accounting, and billing as well as sharing equipment, eliminating
duplicate expenses, and enhancing emergency response.

Two-thirds of
the members of both cooperatives must vote for consolidation for the merger to
be approved. The vote will come on the same day in October, yet to be
determined. If approved, consolidation is expected to be completed by January
first.

Nemaha-Marshall
Electric Cooperative General Manager Kathleen O’Brien is slated to serve as the
General Manager of new entity, if approved.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostTwo
northeast Kansas electric cooperatives which serve more than 5,000 customers in eight
counties have announced plans to merge.Boards
of the Nemaha-Marshall Electric Cooperative Association of Axtell and the
Doniphan Electric Cooperative Association in Troy have approved an October vote
on becoming the new Northeast Kansas Electric Cooperative.The
plans are subject to review by COOP members and employees prior to the vote.
If meetings cannot be held due to the coronavirus pandemic, the two COOPs plan
to communicate by mail.In
a news release, the two cooperatives stated that under
the proposed consolidation plan:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A new legal entity will be created and
named Northeast Kansas Electric Cooperative, Inc. (NEKEC).·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; All jobs will be maintained for a
combined workforce of 20.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; There will be no changes in members’
reliable electric service.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Our financial analyses point to
significant potential savings over a 10-year period.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The cooperatives’ Boards of Trustees
will combine initially to oversee the consolidated cooperative.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Offices in both Axtell, KS and Troy,
KS will remain open after this consolidation.&nbsp; It is anticipated both
locations will be needed well into the future.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The combined cooperatives will serve
5000+ customers in eight (8) counties.Officials with
both cooperatives say consolidation will save money and increase efficiency by
combining purchasing, accounting, and billing as well as sharing equipment, eliminating
duplicate expenses, and enhancing emergency response.Two-thirds of
the members of both cooperatives must vote for consolidation for the merger to
be approved. The vote will come on the same day in October, yet to be
determined. If approved, consolidation is expected to be completed by January
first.Nemaha-Marshall
Electric Cooperative General Manager Kathleen O’Brien is slated to serve as the
General Manager of new entity, if approved.

Northeast Kansas electric cooperatives would merge under proposal

CANTON, Mass. (AP) — Dunkin’ Brands Inc. expects to close up to 800 underperforming U.S. stores this year as it tries to shore up its portfolio in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

The company had previously announced the closure of 450 stores within Speedway gas stations. But the company said Thursday it’s targeting an additional 350 stores, most of which are unprofitable. Closing the restaurants would allow their franchisees to reinvest in newer stores in higher-traffic areas, Dunkin’ Chief Financial Officer Katherine Jaspon said during a conference call with investors.

Jaspon said the 800 stores represent 8% of Dunkin’s U.S. footprint but just 2% of its sales.

International franchisees are also assessing their stores and could close 350 low-volume stores abroad by the end of this year, Jaspon added.

Canton, Massachusetts-based Dunkin’ said Thursday its sales dropped 20% in the second quarter to $287 million. Sales at U.S. stores open at least a year dropped 19% from the April-June period a year ago.

Dunkin’ isn’t the only chain targeting low-performing restaurants.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/9ee8458beb6e06ca945138e97b6d5ca1">McDonald’s&nbsp;</a>said earlier this week that it will close 200 U.S. restaurants this year, about half of which are locations inside Walmart stores.

CANTON, Mass. (AP) — Dunkin’ Brands Inc. expects to close up to 800 underperforming U.S. stores this year as it tries to shore up its portfolio in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.The company had previously announced the closure of 450 stores within Speedway gas stations. But the company said Thursday it’s targeting an additional 350 stores, most of which are unprofitable. Closing the restaurants would allow their franchisees to reinvest in newer stores in higher-traffic areas, Dunkin’ Chief Financial Officer Katherine Jaspon said during a conference call with investors.Jaspon said the 800 stores represent 8% of Dunkin’s U.S. footprint but just 2% of its sales.International franchisees are also assessing their stores and could close 350 low-volume stores abroad by the end of this year, Jaspon added.Canton, Massachusetts-based Dunkin’ said Thursday its sales dropped 20% in the second quarter to $287 million. Sales at U.S. stores open at least a year dropped 19% from the April-June period a year ago.Dunkin’ isn’t the only chain targeting low-performing restaurants.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/9ee8458beb6e06ca945138e97b6d5ca1">McDonald’s&nbsp;</a>said earlier this week that it will close 200 U.S. restaurants this year, about half of which are locations inside Walmart stores.

Dunkin' to close 800 US stores as pandemic hurts sales 

BROWN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident after 1:30p.m. Thursday in Brown County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Jeep Wrangler driven by Jack T. Rosa, 17, Hiawatha, was southbound on U.S. 75 and rear-ended a 2017 Ford Fusion driven by Melissa M.&nbsp;Oshin, 33, Bellvue, NE., who had slowed to turn at 260th Road.

The Ford then sideswiped a northbound 2007 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Luis E.&nbsp;Ramos-Olguin, 38, Kansas City.

Debris from the crash hit a southbound 2011 Scion XD driven by Christian P. Shaffer, 17, Hiawatha.

EMS transported Rosa to the hospital in Hiawatha.

Oshin, 2 children in the Ford, Ramos-Olguin and Shaffer were not injured. All six were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

BROWN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident after 1:30p.m. Thursday in Brown County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Jeep Wrangler driven by Jack T. Rosa, 17, Hiawatha, was southbound on U.S. 75 and rear-ended a 2017 Ford Fusion driven by Melissa M.&nbsp;Oshin, 33, Bellvue, NE., who had slowed to turn at 260th Road.The Ford then sideswiped a northbound 2007 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Luis E.&nbsp;Ramos-Olguin, 38, Kansas City.Debris from the crash hit a southbound 2011 Scion XD driven by Christian P. Shaffer, 17, Hiawatha.EMS transported Rosa to the hospital in Hiawatha.Oshin, 2 children in the Ford, Ramos-Olguin and Shaffer were not injured. All six were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

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