ANDREW COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6a.m. Thursday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Chevy Silverado driven by Paul D. Devine, 46, Smithville, was northbound on Interstate 29 one mile south of St. Joseph.

The pickup struck a deer that entered to highway. Andrew County EMS transported a passenger Diane L. Devine, 59, Smithville, to Mosaic Life Care. Paul Devine was not injured. Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6a.m. Thursday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Chevy Silverado driven by Paul D. Devine, 46, Smithville, was northbound on Interstate 29 one mile south of St. Joseph.The pickup struck a deer that entered to highway. Andrew County EMS transported a passenger Diane L. Devine, 59, Smithville, to Mosaic Life Care. Paul Devine was not injured. Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Smithville woman hospitalized after pickup strikes deer

Former Buchanan County assessor&nbsp;Scot Van Meter resigned from his post nearly three months before his term was supposed to end in August.

Van Meter put in his notice and resigned on June 4 to pursue a new career opportunity in Florida. Van Meter had served as the county assessor since 2001. Dean Wilson, who was elected in November, will take over the post on July 6.

Buchanan County presiding commissioner Lee Sawyer says they are grateful for Van Meter's many years of service.

"We wish Scot well and I think he's ready for a new chapter in his career which we totally understand. With Dean (Wilson) coming on board, he has a lot of experience."

Tracy Starks has since been sworn in as the interim assessor and will assist with the transition before Wilson takes over.

Starks serves as the assessor's chief deputy, and has worked in the office since 2010.

"She has really been a go-to person in that office," said Sawyer. "A very logical approach to have her in place during this time."

Sawyer also said Wilson will be a natural fit once he takes over the county assessor role full time.

“It's always kind of good when you have a new set of eyes and ears and potential new approach," Sawyer said. "But, we have some good individuals in that department that know what they're doing."

The assessor’s office also has a couple of open positions to fill. Sawyer says the county will give Wilson the final say once he begins in July.

“We started the search with human resources help," said Sawyer. "So, Dean will be very much a part of that whole process. He'll have the final say in who's going to be hired."

A St. Joseph native, Wilson had been a state-licensed loan originator at Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623346716333.png" alt="Scot Van Meter. Courtesy of Buchanan County." />
 <figcaption>Scot Van Meter. Courtesy of Buchanan County.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostFormer Buchanan County assessor&nbsp;Scot Van Meter resigned from his post nearly three months before his term was supposed to end in August.Van Meter put in his notice and resigned on June 4 to pursue a new career opportunity in Florida. Van Meter had served as the county assessor since 2001. Dean Wilson, who was elected in November, will take over the post on July 6.Buchanan County presiding commissioner Lee Sawyer says they are grateful for Van Meter's many years of service."We wish Scot well and I think he's ready for a new chapter in his career which we totally understand. With Dean (Wilson) coming on board, he has a lot of experience."Tracy Starks has since been sworn in as the interim assessor and will assist with the transition before Wilson takes over.Starks serves as the assessor's chief deputy, and has worked in the office since 2010."She has really been a go-to person in that office," said Sawyer. "A very logical approach to have her in place during this time."Sawyer also said Wilson will be a natural fit once he takes over the county assessor role full time.“It's always kind of good when you have a new set of eyes and ears and potential new approach," Sawyer said. "But, we have some good individuals in that department that know what they're doing."The assessor’s office also has a couple of open positions to fill. Sawyer says the county will give Wilson the final say once he begins in July.“We started the search with human resources help," said Sawyer. "So, Dean will be very much a part of that whole process. He'll have the final say in who's going to be hired."A St. Joseph native, Wilson had been a state-licensed loan originator at Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623347055949.jpeg" alt="Dean Wilson (left)." />
 <figcaption>Dean Wilson (left).</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Buchanan County assessor resigns early, Dean Wilson starting in July

MoDOT is encouraging awareness this week with roadway safety during summer construction season after an accident&nbsp;involving&nbsp;workers&nbsp;occurred&nbsp;earlier this week.&nbsp;

District construction and material engineer Austin Hibler says there was an accident involving a striping crew&nbsp;earlier this week&nbsp;on southbound I-29 north of St. Joseph.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Semitruck hit one of our TMA’s which is&nbsp;a&nbsp;Truck Mounted Attenuator, it’s&nbsp;basically&nbsp;a crash cushion used to&nbsp;shield&nbsp;our&nbsp;trucks and our equipment and our people,&nbsp;and so it’s the first line of defense for our crews,&nbsp;and an&nbsp;inattentive&nbsp;drive struck one of those,” Hibler tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hibler says&nbsp;the traveling public need to watch for all types of work zones on the roadways.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We are seeing an uptick in accidents similar to this but in this district and state wide, with our vehicles getting hit. People who may or&nbsp;may&nbsp;not be paying attention or what not,” says Hibler.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hibler says to slow down when you come-up on a work zone.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Put your phone down and pay attention&nbsp;because&nbsp;you never know when you’re going to come up on&nbsp;some type of work or some type of worker out there on the roadway.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

By WHITNEE ICE&nbsp;By St. Joseph Post&nbsp;MoDOT is encouraging awareness this week with roadway safety during summer construction season after an accident&nbsp;involving&nbsp;workers&nbsp;occurred&nbsp;earlier this week.&nbsp;District construction and material engineer Austin Hibler says there was an accident involving a striping crew&nbsp;earlier this week&nbsp;on southbound I-29 north of St. Joseph.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Semitruck hit one of our TMA’s which is&nbsp;a&nbsp;Truck Mounted Attenuator, it’s&nbsp;basically&nbsp;a crash cushion used to&nbsp;shield&nbsp;our&nbsp;trucks and our equipment and our people,&nbsp;and so it’s the first line of defense for our crews,&nbsp;and an&nbsp;inattentive&nbsp;drive struck one of those,” Hibler tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hibler says&nbsp;the traveling public need to watch for all types of work zones on the roadways.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We are seeing an uptick in accidents similar to this but in this district and state wide, with our vehicles getting hit. People who may or&nbsp;may&nbsp;not be paying attention or what not,” says Hibler.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hibler says to slow down when you come-up on a work zone.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Put your phone down and pay attention&nbsp;because&nbsp;you never know when you’re going to come up on&nbsp;some type of work or some type of worker out there on the roadway.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Summer roadway construction season is underway

A St. Joseph man has been found guilty of child molestation and will now have a July sentencing.

39-year-old Miguel Coreas was found guilty of fourth-degree child molestation Wednesday in front of Division 3 Circuit Court Judge Patrick Robb.

Coreas was arrested last August and was booked at the Buchanan County Jail.

Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Kristina Zeit called eight witnesses to testify during the trial Tuesday, including the victim, who was 16 at the time of the offense.

Sentencing has been scheduled for July 26 at 2 p.m. Coreas faces up to four years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616448330984.jpeg" alt="Coreas." />
 <figcaption>Coreas.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostA St. Joseph man has been found guilty of child molestation and will now have a July sentencing.39-year-old Miguel Coreas was found guilty of fourth-degree child molestation Wednesday in front of Division 3 Circuit Court Judge Patrick Robb.Coreas was arrested last August and was booked at the Buchanan County Jail.Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Kristina Zeit called eight witnesses to testify during the trial Tuesday, including the victim, who was 16 at the time of the offense.Sentencing has been scheduled for July 26 at 2 p.m. Coreas faces up to four years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.

St. Joseph man found guilty of child molestation Wednesday

A spokesperson for the American Cancer Society says the group
is disappointed the Missouri legislature failed to fund Medicaid expansion.

Emily Kalmer with the Cancer Action Network says the
experience of the 36 states that have expanded Medicaid under the Affordable
Care Act is positive, because it leads to earlier diagnoses of cancer.

“We have the research to show that in the fight against cancer
that has made a difference in leading to earlier diagnoses and access to
treatment as well for those cancer patients who need it,” Kalmer tells St.
Joseph Post.

The American Cancer Society, through its public policy arm the
Cancer Action Network, backed the Medicaid expansion ballot issue approved by
voters in August. Kalmer says the legislature should have followed the lead of
the voters and funded Medicaid expansion.

She says the legislature’s refusal to fund expansion surprised
her.

“We were disappointed,” Kalmer says. “Gov. Parson recommended
the funding in the budget in his State of the State (address) and we had every
indication to believe that the legislators would follow through with the will
of the voters and implement the program that over 670,000 Missourians approved.”

In wake of the legislature’s refusal to fund expansion, a lawsuit
has been filed against the General Assembly, attempting to force the body to fund
the extension of the state-run health coverage to Missourians making up to 138%
of the federal poverty rate, approximately 230,000 residents.

It is no secret that the Republican-controlled legislature
doesn’t favor expanding Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act even with the federal
enticement of paying 90% of the cost. Expansion never gained traction in the
legislature, leading advocates to go the initiative petition route. Amendment
Two passed last August with 53% of the vote. Huge majorities in the state’s
urban centers offset widespread opposition in the rural portions of Missouri.

Republican leaders criticize the ballot measure by pointing
out proponents failed to designate a funding source to pay for expansion. They
also point to court rulings that confirm the legislature’s right to control the
state’s purse strings.

Kalmer dismisses the legislature’s justification for not
funding expansion, stating that had all been hashed out during the campaign.

“Our organization supported Amendment Two last August and many
of the arguments that legislators made during the legislative session were
similar to arguments that were made prior to voters voting,” according to
Kalmer. “So, we believe that over 670,000 Missourians who voted for it knew
what they were voting for.”

Kalmer also insists Medicaid expansion makes financial sense.
Gov. Parson budgeted $160 million to expand the Medicaid program in Missouri,
called MO HealthNet. That expenditure would allow the state to draw down approximately
$1 billion in federal funding.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA spokesperson for the American Cancer Society says the group
is disappointed the Missouri legislature failed to fund Medicaid expansion.Emily Kalmer with the Cancer Action Network says the
experience of the 36 states that have expanded Medicaid under the Affordable
Care Act is positive, because it leads to earlier diagnoses of cancer.“We have the research to show that in the fight against cancer
that has made a difference in leading to earlier diagnoses and access to
treatment as well for those cancer patients who need it,” Kalmer tells St.
Joseph Post.The American Cancer Society, through its public policy arm the
Cancer Action Network, backed the Medicaid expansion ballot issue approved by
voters in August. Kalmer says the legislature should have followed the lead of
the voters and funded Medicaid expansion.She says the legislature’s refusal to fund expansion surprised
her.“We were disappointed,” Kalmer says. “Gov. Parson recommended
the funding in the budget in his State of the State (address) and we had every
indication to believe that the legislators would follow through with the will
of the voters and implement the program that over 670,000 Missourians approved.”In wake of the legislature’s refusal to fund expansion, a lawsuit
has been filed against the General Assembly, attempting to force the body to fund
the extension of the state-run health coverage to Missourians making up to 138%
of the federal poverty rate, approximately 230,000 residents.It is no secret that the Republican-controlled legislature
doesn’t favor expanding Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act even with the federal
enticement of paying 90% of the cost. Expansion never gained traction in the
legislature, leading advocates to go the initiative petition route. Amendment
Two passed last August with 53% of the vote. Huge majorities in the state’s
urban centers offset widespread opposition in the rural portions of Missouri.Republican leaders criticize the ballot measure by pointing
out proponents failed to designate a funding source to pay for expansion. They
also point to court rulings that confirm the legislature’s right to control the
state’s purse strings.Kalmer dismisses the legislature’s justification for not
funding expansion, stating that had all been hashed out during the campaign.“Our organization supported Amendment Two last August and many
of the arguments that legislators made during the legislative session were
similar to arguments that were made prior to voters voting,” according to
Kalmer. “So, we believe that over 670,000 Missourians who voted for it knew
what they were voting for.”Kalmer also insists Medicaid expansion makes financial sense.
Gov. Parson budgeted $160 million to expand the Medicaid program in Missouri,
called MO HealthNet. That expenditure would allow the state to draw down approximately
$1 billion in federal funding.The issue now heads to the courts.

American Cancer Society keeps pushing for Medicaid expansion in Missouri

ATCHISON COUNTY—A juvenile was injured in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Tuesday in Atchison.

According to Police Chief Mike Wilson, a 2010 Ford Flex driven by Patricia Presley, Indianola Iowa, struck a bicycle ridden by a 14 year old boy at 6th and U.S. 59 in Atchison.

Investigators learned the northbound bicyclist entered the intersection on a red light and collided with the westbound vehicle. The 14 year old was treated at the scene with minor injuries by EMS but was not transported, according to Wilson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623247494111.png" alt="Photo courtesy Atchison PD" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Atchison PD</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—A juvenile was injured in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Tuesday in Atchison.According to Police Chief Mike Wilson, a 2010 Ford Flex driven by Patricia Presley, Indianola Iowa, struck a bicycle ridden by a 14 year old boy at 6th and U.S. 59 in Atchison.Investigators learned the northbound bicyclist entered the intersection on a red light and collided with the westbound vehicle. The 14 year old was treated at the scene with minor injuries by EMS but was not transported, according to Wilson.

Police: 14-year-old struck by SUV in Atchison

DEKALB COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 3a.m. Wednesday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Ford SUV driven by Christian D. Crossley, 37, Bethany, was westbound on U.S. 36 one mile west of Stewartsville.

The SUV traveled off the south shoulder, impacted the ground and came to rest in the median. EMS transported Crossley to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 3a.m. Wednesday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Ford SUV driven by Christian D. Crossley, 37, Bethany, was westbound on U.S. 36 one mile west of Stewartsville.The SUV traveled off the south shoulder, impacted the ground and came to rest in the median. EMS transported Crossley to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Man from Bethany injured after DeKalb County crash

The St. Joseph School Board&nbsp;is looking to use federal COVID relief&nbsp;funds to pay for long over-due heating and cooling projects&nbsp;in the district.&nbsp;

A St. Louis financial firm,&nbsp;L.J Hart and Company will finance the project and will be reimbursed by the district with federal funding.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Assistant Superintendent of Business and Operations&nbsp;Gabe Edgar says the district hopes to get more federal funding for H-VAC projects throughout the district, but for&nbsp;now current federal funding is getting put towards these specific projects.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The Snyder Electric project that was approved, that’s going to happen right now because of this funding was new H-VAC&nbsp;at Hillard Tech School, new H-VAC for the big spaces at&nbsp;Central&nbsp;High School, Lafayette&nbsp;High School, and Benton High School, and I say big spaces, that means the gymnasiums and auditoriums,” Edgar tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Larry Hart CEO of L.J.&nbsp;Hart&nbsp;says his company is the jumpstart to the funding process of the project since the ESSER funding is not an upfront payment but instead it is a reimbursement to the district.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“You have to pay for the project yourself then the government reimburses you for that expense so we need some money to pay for the first&nbsp;construction cost then they get reimbursed and it’s a revolving program after that,” says Hart.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hart says this is as significant step made by the school board and administration towards improvement of the district.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“This is a very positive, proactive effort on the part of the administration and the board to just start these&nbsp;improvements that have been needed for a long time and without having to have the tax payers pay for them like they would have with the bond issue,” says Hart.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Snyder Electric, Heating, and Cooling will be the company working on the H-VAC systems at the schools.&nbsp;

By WHITNEE ICE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;The St. Joseph School Board&nbsp;is looking to use federal COVID relief&nbsp;funds to pay for long over-due heating and cooling projects&nbsp;in the district.&nbsp;A St. Louis financial firm,&nbsp;L.J Hart and Company will finance the project and will be reimbursed by the district with federal funding.&nbsp;&nbsp;Assistant Superintendent of Business and Operations&nbsp;Gabe Edgar says the district hopes to get more federal funding for H-VAC projects throughout the district, but for&nbsp;now current federal funding is getting put towards these specific projects.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“The Snyder Electric project that was approved, that’s going to happen right now because of this funding was new H-VAC&nbsp;at Hillard Tech School, new H-VAC for the big spaces at&nbsp;Central&nbsp;High School, Lafayette&nbsp;High School, and Benton High School, and I say big spaces, that means the gymnasiums and auditoriums,” Edgar tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;Larry Hart CEO of L.J.&nbsp;Hart&nbsp;says his company is the jumpstart to the funding process of the project since the ESSER funding is not an upfront payment but instead it is a reimbursement to the district.&nbsp;&nbsp;“You have to pay for the project yourself then the government reimburses you for that expense so we need some money to pay for the first&nbsp;construction cost then they get reimbursed and it’s a revolving program after that,” says Hart.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hart says this is as significant step made by the school board and administration towards improvement of the district.&nbsp;&nbsp;“This is a very positive, proactive effort on the part of the administration and the board to just start these&nbsp;improvements that have been needed for a long time and without having to have the tax payers pay for them like they would have with the bond issue,” says Hart.&nbsp;&nbsp;Snyder Electric, Heating, and Cooling will be the company working on the H-VAC systems at the schools.&nbsp;

Improvements coming to aging St. Joseph schools

A recent farming accident in Clinton County that left a three-year-old boy dead last Friday has local officials sharing a message of farm safety.

Authorities say a three-year-old boy was run over by a piece of farm implement near Holt&nbsp; on the evening of June 4. The incident is still under investigation. An <a href="https://www.mealtrain.com/trains/r58v4l?fbclid=IwAR2wBdosrB0cvm3QU7OVwlPswpKITzi_Q4gBJL9klriizOHrabA3xqrZJN8">online fundraiser</a> has since been set up for the family.

St. Joseph Safety and Health Council Executive Director Sheldon Lyon says his organization puts on an annual course called Safety Acres to teach area youth on multiple farm safety practices.

"What we do is we introduce kids to some of the dangers they may not realize," Lyon said. "Whether it's in a grain bin or with large machinery or pickup trucks around the farm. There's a lot of different ways kids can have good intentions, but get into trouble."

The course is put on in both St. Joseph and Maryville. The most recent ones occurred in late April and early May.

Lyon says as wheat and oats harvest gets going in late summer, more people will be on farm equipment and more equipment will be on roads.

"For this time of year, we certainly want to watch for those large pieces of machinery out on the roadway," said Lyon. "Because, they will go from one farm to the other. That means they'll have short stints out on the highways out there, and that means we need to be vigilant and watch for them."

Statistics from the Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health show there were over 250 farm-related incidents resulting in injury in Missouri from 2012-2018. Tractor-related deaths made up 57 percent of those.

Lyon says another common area of accidents on the farm is grain bins.

"The reason for that is children like to get in there and play in the grain and the grain gets crusted," he said. "Or, someone augers some grain out and then we have a death, or sometimes, multiple deaths. So, it's very important for kids to understand that bins are for grain and to be playing in."

Lyon says most farmers in the region and across the country have been in the industry for years and generally follow the proper safety guidelines. But just like in any industry that deals with large equipment, accidents can happen to anyone.

"Farmers have done this for decades and they know what they're doing," Lyon said. "But, sometimes, even the best intentions can equate to a tragedy if we're not careful."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620745642340.jpg" alt="Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostA recent farming accident in Clinton County that left a three-year-old boy dead last Friday has local officials sharing a message of farm safety.Authorities say a three-year-old boy was run over by a piece of farm implement near Holt&nbsp; on the evening of June 4. The incident is still under investigation. An <a href="https://www.mealtrain.com/trains/r58v4l?fbclid=IwAR2wBdosrB0cvm3QU7OVwlPswpKITzi_Q4gBJL9klriizOHrabA3xqrZJN8">online fundraiser</a> has since been set up for the family.St. Joseph Safety and Health Council Executive Director Sheldon Lyon says his organization puts on an annual course called Safety Acres to teach area youth on multiple farm safety practices."What we do is we introduce kids to some of the dangers they may not realize," Lyon said. "Whether it's in a grain bin or with large machinery or pickup trucks around the farm. There's a lot of different ways kids can have good intentions, but get into trouble."The course is put on in both St. Joseph and Maryville. The most recent ones occurred in late April and early May.Lyon says as wheat and oats harvest gets going in late summer, more people will be on farm equipment and more equipment will be on roads."For this time of year, we certainly want to watch for those large pieces of machinery out on the roadway," said Lyon. "Because, they will go from one farm to the other. That means they'll have short stints out on the highways out there, and that means we need to be vigilant and watch for them."Statistics from the Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health show there were over 250 farm-related incidents resulting in injury in Missouri from 2012-2018. Tractor-related deaths made up 57 percent of those.Lyon says another common area of accidents on the farm is grain bins."The reason for that is children like to get in there and play in the grain and the grain gets crusted," he said. "Or, someone augers some grain out and then we have a death, or sometimes, multiple deaths. So, it's very important for kids to understand that bins are for grain and to be playing in."Lyon says most farmers in the region and across the country have been in the industry for years and generally follow the proper safety guidelines. But just like in any industry that deals with large equipment, accidents can happen to anyone."Farmers have done this for decades and they know what they're doing," Lyon said. "But, sometimes, even the best intentions can equate to a tragedy if we're not careful."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Farm safety concerns rise in wake of three-year-old death in Clinton County

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on a weapons violation.

On April 30, police responded to a disturbance in the 700 Block of Parallel, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

It was determined that during the disturbance a 20-year-old man had been in possession of a handgun which police recovered.&nbsp;

On June 7, police arrested Dwayne A. Nixon, 20, Atchison, for possession of a firearm by a felon.&nbsp; An investigation determined that Nixon has a felony conviction in the State of New Jersey, according to Wilson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623175023093.png" alt="Nixon photo Atchison County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Nixon photo Atchison County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on a weapons violation.On April 30, police responded to a disturbance in the 700 Block of Parallel, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.It was determined that during the disturbance a 20-year-old man had been in possession of a handgun which police recovered.&nbsp;On June 7, police arrested Dwayne A. Nixon, 20, Atchison, for possession of a firearm by a felon.&nbsp; An investigation determined that Nixon has a felony conviction in the State of New Jersey, according to Wilson.

Police: Kansas man jailed for weapons violation

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Buchanan County Jail. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. These are courtesy photos. This information is provided by the Buchanan County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The St. Joseph Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information.

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Buchanan County Jail. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. These are courtesy photos. This information is provided by the Buchanan County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The St. Joseph Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170360332.jpeg" alt="ALLEN JASON NON SUPPORT 5000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>ALLEN JASON NON SUPPORT 5000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170372476.jpeg" alt="ALVES JENNINGS REGINA POSS CONT SUBS 7500 BOND" />
 <figcaption>ALVES JENNINGS REGINA POSS CONT SUBS 7500 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170395300.jpeg" alt="BARNETT TRAVIS POSS CONT SUBS NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>BARNETT TRAVIS POSS CONT SUBS NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170408045.jpeg" alt="BOTTORFF MICAH PAROLE VIOL NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>BOTTORFF MICAH PAROLE VIOL NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170422196.jpeg" alt="DAVIS THOMAS REC STOLEN PROP 10000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>DAVIS THOMAS REC STOLEN PROP 10000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170433979.jpeg" alt="ESCOBAR CHRISTOPHER DWR 10000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>ESCOBAR CHRISTOPHER DWR 10000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170460867.jpeg" alt="FLECK GEORGE CARA FORGERY 5000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>FLECK GEORGE CARA FORGERY 5000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170475971.jpeg" alt="FURGESON ARLEY UNL POSS FIREARM 5000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>FURGESON ARLEY UNL POSS FIREARM 5000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170485962.jpeg" alt="GARDINER RONALD FAIL TO REG SEX OFF 5000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>GARDINER RONALD FAIL TO REG SEX OFF 5000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170503547.jpeg" alt="GARDNER WYATT INV MANSLAUGHT 25000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>GARDNER WYATT INV MANSLAUGHT 25000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170522499.jpeg" alt="HICKS CORDELL NON SUPPORT 1000 CASH" />
 <figcaption>HICKS CORDELL NON SUPPORT 1000 CASH</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170536723.jpeg" alt="HUFFER DUSTAN RESISTING NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>HUFFER DUSTAN RESISTING NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170560404.jpeg" alt="JONES DYNELL UNL POSS FIREARM 10000 CASH" />
 <figcaption>JONES DYNELL UNL POSS FIREARM 10000 CASH</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170574468.jpeg" alt="LEWIS DALTON POSS CONT SUBS 10000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>LEWIS DALTON POSS CONT SUBS 10000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170593780.jpeg" alt="MCARTHUR DANIEL PROB VIOL NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>MCARTHUR DANIEL PROB VIOL NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170609651.jpeg" alt="MILLER SHARON NON SUPPORT 1000 CASH" />
 <figcaption>MILLER SHARON NON SUPPORT 1000 CASH</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170626315.jpeg" alt="NEUGEBAUER MICHAEL POSS CONT SUBS 2500 BOND" />
 <figcaption>NEUGEBAUER MICHAEL POSS CONT SUBS 2500 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170661227.jpeg" alt="PIKE JEFFREY PROP DAM 5000 CASH" />
 <figcaption>PIKE JEFFREY PROP DAM 5000 CASH</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170700900.jpeg" alt="RIGA JOSEPH FAIL TO REG SEX OFF 7500 BOND.JPG" />
 <figcaption>RIGA JOSEPH FAIL TO REG SEX OFF 7500 BOND.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170762394.jpeg" alt="ROLLETTE RUSTY RESISITNG 7500 CASH" />
 <figcaption>ROLLETTE RUSTY RESISITNG 7500 CASH</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170778459.jpeg" alt="SMITH RAYMOND REC STOLEN PROP NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>SMITH RAYMOND REC STOLEN PROP NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170792699.jpeg" alt="SOUTHARD TIFFANY DEL CONT SUBS NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>SOUTHARD TIFFANY DEL CONT SUBS NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170805475.jpeg" alt="SUMAN CHARLES UNL POSS FIREARM 7500 CASH" />
 <figcaption>SUMAN CHARLES UNL POSS FIREARM 7500 CASH</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623170817011.jpeg" alt="TALBOTT BRETT STEAL MTR VEH 10000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>TALBOTT BRETT STEAL MTR VEH 10000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure>

Buchanan County Jail Activity (6/03-6/08/21)

Looking for a Job, a new job or a better one? Then you will want to attend the Midland Empire Job fair this Wednesday, June 9th from 9 am to 5 pm. The fair will be located inside the East Hills Shopping Center in the former Charming Charlies location. St Joseph Employers will be in attendance looking for quality new hires. If you are currently unemployed, underemployed, or just looking for a career change you should put it on your calendar and be sure to attend. For more information visit <a href="https://www.midlandempirejobfair.com/">midlandempirejobfair.com</a> for a full list of employers and a map to the event.&nbsp;

Looking for a Job, a new job or a better one? Then you will want to attend the Midland Empire Job fair this Wednesday, June 9th from 9 am to 5 pm. The fair will be located inside the East Hills Shopping Center in the former Charming Charlies location. St Joseph Employers will be in attendance looking for quality new hires. If you are currently unemployed, underemployed, or just looking for a career change you should put it on your calendar and be sure to attend. For more information visit <a href="https://www.midlandempirejobfair.com/">midlandempirejobfair.com</a> for a full list of employers and a map to the event.&nbsp;

St. Joseph health officials report 18 new COVID-19 cases on Monday

A
St. Joseph state representative says a move by the legislature to require
online retailers to collect the state sales tax is more about fairness than
additional state revenue.

Rep.
Bill Falkner, the former St. Joseph mayor, says no one really knows how much
revenue taxing Internet sales will bring into the state. He says he does know,
however, that fairness dictates that the state require online retailers to
collect the sales tax just as it does of traditional retailers.

“We
are the last state to come aboard with Wayfair,” Falkner tells St. Joseph Post.
“I’m glad for our businesses, because we took a step to protect businesses that
are located in our state and I think that’s the biggest takeaway from this
Wayfair bill.”

Wayfair
is named after the U.S. Supreme Court case that opened the door for states to
require online retailers to collect the state sales tax. Though the Supreme
Court decision allowed states to begin collecting the sales tax on Internet
sales, Missouri wrestled with the issue for years before acting this past
session.

Local
governments will be able to reap benefits from the legislation as well. Falkner
points out that under the legislation, local governments will have to approve
ordinances to require collection of the local tax. Both St. Joseph and Buchanan
County have approved the required ordinances.

“We’re
in line to start collecting it when it comes into effect,” Falkner says.

Falkner
says the additional tax revenue, whatever it turns out to be, will help the
state and local governments, but he says more money isn’t really the point of
the legislation.

Falkner
insists the real point is fairness.

“Everybody’s
guessing at the amount,” Falkner says. “I don’t think it’s going to be as much
as what people think, but I think it will help the local businesses compete on
a level playing field.”

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA
St. Joseph state representative says a move by the legislature to require
online retailers to collect the state sales tax is more about fairness than
additional state revenue.Rep.
Bill Falkner, the former St. Joseph mayor, says no one really knows how much
revenue taxing Internet sales will bring into the state. He says he does know,
however, that fairness dictates that the state require online retailers to
collect the sales tax just as it does of traditional retailers.“We
are the last state to come aboard with Wayfair,” Falkner tells St. Joseph Post.
“I’m glad for our businesses, because we took a step to protect businesses that
are located in our state and I think that’s the biggest takeaway from this
Wayfair bill.”Wayfair
is named after the U.S. Supreme Court case that opened the door for states to
require online retailers to collect the state sales tax. Though the Supreme
Court decision allowed states to begin collecting the sales tax on Internet
sales, Missouri wrestled with the issue for years before acting this past
session.Local
governments will be able to reap benefits from the legislation as well. Falkner
points out that under the legislation, local governments will have to approve
ordinances to require collection of the local tax. Both St. Joseph and Buchanan
County have approved the required ordinances.“We’re
in line to start collecting it when it comes into effect,” Falkner says.Falkner
says the additional tax revenue, whatever it turns out to be, will help the
state and local governments, but he says more money isn’t really the point of
the legislation.Falkner
insists the real point is fairness.“Everybody’s
guessing at the amount,” Falkner says. “I don’t think it’s going to be as much
as what people think, but I think it will help the local businesses compete on
a level playing field.”

State Rep. says Wayfair legislation more about fairness than money

CLINTON COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 7p.m. Monday in Clinton County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Dodge Journey driven by Amber S. Gulley, 40, Marceline, was northbound on U.S. 69 three miles east of Lathrop.

The driver stopped at the stop sign at MO 116 then entered the intersection into the path of westbound 2013 Jeep Wrangler driven by Dietra J. Robinson, 52, Polo. The Jeep struck the passenger side of the Journey.

Lathrop fire and rescue transported Gulley to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Robinson was not injured.&nbsp; Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

CLINTON COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 7p.m. Monday in Clinton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Dodge Journey driven by Amber S. Gulley, 40, Marceline, was northbound on U.S. 69 three miles east of Lathrop.The driver stopped at the stop sign at MO 116 then entered the intersection into the path of westbound 2013 Jeep Wrangler driven by Dietra J. Robinson, 52, Polo. The Jeep struck the passenger side of the Journey.Lathrop fire and rescue transported Gulley to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Robinson was not injured.&nbsp; Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash

Missouri's annual Show-Me State Games is ready to make a strong comeback this summer after being forced to cancel last year.

The Show-Me State Games, for years, has partnered with Shelter Insurance to put on the 'Shelter Insurance Torch Run,' a traveling event that makes its way through multiple Missouri cities, promoting the annual state games.

That Torch Run made its final stop in St. Joseph Monday.

State games officials, along with representatives from the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau, Parks and Recreation and several community members gathered at Bartlett Park for a brief torch lighting ceremony and then a quick run around the park with the torch.

Dave Fox, the Show-Me State Games executive director, says the torch lighting ceremony is always a must before the annual games get started.

"That's one thing if you go back to the very early days of the Olympics, there's one common thing and that's a torch," Fox said. "We are an Olympic-style sports festival and I think that's a common denominator between the Olympics many years ago and where we are today."

This marks the 37th year of the Show-Me State Games, which get started June 10-13 in Columbia with the Senior State Games.

The events resume with Week 1 of the state games July 16-18 and Week 2 July 23-25 - also in Columbia.

Needless to say, organizers are excited to be back and hold the in-person event again this year.

"This is the year," said Anna Hargis, a member of the Show-Me State Torch Running Committee. "Let's do this. Let's get back together. Let's hang some medals around some kids' and some seniors' necks as well."

Hargis is also the director of advertising for Shelter Insurance - one of the original sponsors of the state games. Before St. Joseph, she had traveled with the Torch Run Committee over the last few days to St. Louis, Cape Girardeau, Springfield, Joplin, Kansas City and other places.

"I love traveling the state," she said. "St. Joseph is beautiful. What a fun place to visit and to learn about the people here and to come encourage them to compete in the games."

Missourians can register for the games at <a href="https://smsg.org/">smsg.org</a>. They have more than 40 sports to pick from. From pickle ball to powerlifting. From football to fencing.

"We think we have something for everyone," Fox said. "I don't care what your ability or age is, or how good you are at something. We're about getting engaged in an active, healthy lifestyle. We're very fortunate we offer a statewide opportunity to showcase that."

Missouri has seen anywhere from 35,000-40,000 participants at the state games in the past.

While the Show-Me State Games is a statewide event, Fox says St. Joseph legend and former State Games executive director Gary Filbert had a huge influence on the games.

A graduate of Benton, Filbert was Missouri Western's first men's basketball coach and helped form the Missouri Basketball Coaches' Association.

"He has everything with me being here today," Fox said of Filbert. "There's a definitely a connection a long way back. But, we are truly a statewide organization. We'll get participation from all four corners of the state."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623111734776.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph community members ran a lap around Bartlett Park Monday with the Show-Me State&nbsp; State Games ceremonial torch in hand. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph community members ran a lap around Bartlett Park Monday with the Show-Me State&nbsp; State Games ceremonial torch in hand. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri's annual Show-Me State Games is ready to make a strong comeback this summer after being forced to cancel last year.The Show-Me State Games, for years, has partnered with Shelter Insurance to put on the 'Shelter Insurance Torch Run,' a traveling event that makes its way through multiple Missouri cities, promoting the annual state games.That Torch Run made its final stop in St. Joseph Monday.State games officials, along with representatives from the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau, Parks and Recreation and several community members gathered at Bartlett Park for a brief torch lighting ceremony and then a quick run around the park with the torch.Dave Fox, the Show-Me State Games executive director, says the torch lighting ceremony is always a must before the annual games get started."That's one thing if you go back to the very early days of the Olympics, there's one common thing and that's a torch," Fox said. "We are an Olympic-style sports festival and I think that's a common denominator between the Olympics many years ago and where we are today."This marks the 37th year of the Show-Me State Games, which get started June 10-13 in Columbia with the Senior State Games.The events resume with Week 1 of the state games July 16-18 and Week 2 July 23-25 - also in Columbia.Needless to say, organizers are excited to be back and hold the in-person event again this year."This is the year," said Anna Hargis, a member of the Show-Me State Torch Running Committee. "Let's do this. Let's get back together. Let's hang some medals around some kids' and some seniors' necks as well."Hargis is also the director of advertising for Shelter Insurance - one of the original sponsors of the state games. Before St. Joseph, she had traveled with the Torch Run Committee over the last few days to St. Louis, Cape Girardeau, Springfield, Joplin, Kansas City and other places."I love traveling the state," she said. "St. Joseph is beautiful. What a fun place to visit and to learn about the people here and to come encourage them to compete in the games."Missourians can register for the games at <a href="https://smsg.org/">smsg.org</a>. They have more than 40 sports to pick from. From pickle ball to powerlifting. From football to fencing."We think we have something for everyone," Fox said. "I don't care what your ability or age is, or how good you are at something. We're about getting engaged in an active, healthy lifestyle. We're very fortunate we offer a statewide opportunity to showcase that."Missouri has seen anywhere from 35,000-40,000 participants at the state games in the past.While the Show-Me State Games is a statewide event, Fox says St. Joseph legend and former State Games executive director Gary Filbert had a huge influence on the games.A graduate of Benton, Filbert was Missouri Western's first men's basketball coach and helped form the Missouri Basketball Coaches' Association."He has everything with me being here today," Fox said of Filbert. "There's a definitely a connection a long way back. But, we are truly a statewide organization. We'll get participation from all four corners of the state."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post at @StJosephPost.

Show-Me State Games concludes annual Torch Run tour in St. Joseph Monday

HARRISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 5:30p.m. Sunday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Ford Fusion driven by Abeke Abedi, 28, Rockford, IL., was northbound on Interstate 35 three miles south of Eagleville.

The car traveled off the west side of the road into the media and the driver overcorrected. The car returned to the road, traveled off the east side of the road and struck a ditch.

NTA Ambulance transported Abedi to Harrison County Community Hospital in Bethany. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

HARRISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 5:30p.m. Sunday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Ford Fusion driven by Abeke Abedi, 28, Rockford, IL., was northbound on Interstate 35 three miles south of Eagleville.The car traveled off the west side of the road into the media and the driver overcorrected. The car returned to the road, traveled off the east side of the road and struck a ditch.NTA Ambulance transported Abedi to Harrison County Community Hospital in Bethany. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Driver hospitalized after car lands in ditch

NODAWAY COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Sunday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Polaris Ranger driven by William R. Steins, 76, Skidmore, was northbound on Orion Road one mile west of Parnell.&nbsp;

The driver failed to yield at the uncontrolled intersection at 200th Street. An eastbound 2005 Chevy 2500 driven by Krista M. Staples, 19, Parnell, struck the ATV at an angle.

Lifenet transported Steins to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph. Nodaway County EMS transported a passenger on the ATV identified as Harold W. Spire, 62, Maryville, to Mosaic in Maryville. Staples was not injured. The occupants of the ATV were not wearing helmets, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Sunday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Polaris Ranger driven by William R. Steins, 76, Skidmore, was northbound on Orion Road one mile west of Parnell.&nbsp;The driver failed to yield at the uncontrolled intersection at 200th Street. An eastbound 2005 Chevy 2500 driven by Krista M. Staples, 19, Parnell, struck the ATV at an angle.Lifenet transported Steins to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph. Nodaway County EMS transported a passenger on the ATV identified as Harold W. Spire, 62, Maryville, to Mosaic in Maryville. Staples was not injured. The occupants of the ATV were not wearing helmets, according to the MSHP.

2 NW Missouri men injured after pickup strikes ATV

HOLT COUNTY—A Missouri was injured in an accident just after 8:30p.m. Saturday in Holt County.

The Missouri State. Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Joseph L. Rhoades, 39, Mound City, was northbound on MO 111 five miles north of Forest City.

The motorcycle began to skid, crossed the center line, overturned and struck a ditch. A private vehicle transported Rhoades to Fairfax Community Hospital. He was not wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

HOLT COUNTY—A Missouri was injured in an accident just after 8:30p.m. Saturday in Holt County.The Missouri State. Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Joseph L. Rhoades, 39, Mound City, was northbound on MO 111 five miles north of Forest City.The motorcycle began to skid, crossed the center line, overturned and struck a ditch. A private vehicle transported Rhoades to Fairfax Community Hospital. He was not wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

Mound City man hospitalized after motorcycle accident

Missouri voters approved expanding Medicaid under the
provisions of the Affordable Care Act.

Missouri lawmakers refused to fund Medicaid expansion during
the legislative session.

State Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer, a Republican from Parkville who
serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee, justifies his vote against
funding expansion, by stating those who put Medicaid expansion on the ballot in
August failed to include a funding source.

“The Missouri Constitution is very clear that an initiative
petition cannot be used to force an appropriation by the legislature absent a
funding source,” Luetkemeyer tells St. Joseph Post. “And because there was no
funding source that was included in the ballot language, there is no obligation
by the legislature to fund it.”

Missouri voters approved the measure in August by a 53% majority. Voters
in the metropolitan areas of Kansas City and St. Louis overwhelmingly favored
the measure. Voters in rural Missouri overwhelmingly voted against it.

Sen. Dan Hegeman of Cosby, the Republican chair of the
Appropriations Committee, characterizes his vote against expansion as a matter
of standing up for the legislature.

“And I felt compelled to basically stand up for the
legislative branch in defending our right to be able to appropriate funds in
the state of Missouri,” Hegeman tells St. Joseph Post. “Otherwise, we’ll have all sorts of initiative
petitions that come down with the next great idea that requires spending, but
no revenue to go along with it.”

Not every Republican voted against expansion.

Republican St. Joseph state Rep. Bill Falkner says
he voted to fund Medicaid expansion, because his legislative district voted in
favor of the ballot issue.

Still, Falkner understands the resistance to funding expansion.

“It’s fine line, because if the courts rule that the state has
to fund it then another initiative petition, can that be filed with a new
program and they don’t have to have a funding source?” Falkner asks.

Also voting in favor of funding expansion was state Rep.
Brenda Shields, a Republican from St. Joseph, who points out Missouri voters did
approve the ballot measure. Shields also argues Medicaid expansion will more
than pay for itself with a relatively small state expenditure to draw down a
huge federal reimbursement: $126 million in state General Revenue to draw down
$1.9 billion.

“I kind of follow the Missouri Chamber of Commerce belief that
in the end Medicaid expansion will pay for itself,” Shields tells St. Joseph
Post.

Shields expects the legislature to have to pay for expansion,
eventually.

But, Luetkemeyer accuses those who put the issue on the ballot
of being deceptive, purposely choosing not to include a funding source on the
ballot.

“I think the reason they did not is because they knew they
could not pass it if there was a tax associated with the ballot issue,” according
to Luetkemeyer.

A lawsuit has been filed. The issue now rests with the courts.

Luetkemeyer expects the legislature to win a court challenge.

“I think it would be a dramatic act of judicial activism for
any court in Missouri to say that the legislature is required to appropriate
money when the Constitution very clearly says that the appropriation authority rests
with the General Assembly,” Luetkemeyer says.

It’s not a sentiment shared by Shields.

“Brenda Shields ultimately believes that the courts will rule
that we need to fund Medicaid expansion.”

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri voters approved expanding Medicaid under the
provisions of the Affordable Care Act.Missouri lawmakers refused to fund Medicaid expansion during
the legislative session.State Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer, a Republican from Parkville who
serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee, justifies his vote against
funding expansion, by stating those who put Medicaid expansion on the ballot in
August failed to include a funding source.“The Missouri Constitution is very clear that an initiative
petition cannot be used to force an appropriation by the legislature absent a
funding source,” Luetkemeyer tells St. Joseph Post. “And because there was no
funding source that was included in the ballot language, there is no obligation
by the legislature to fund it.”Missouri voters approved the measure in August by a 53% majority. Voters
in the metropolitan areas of Kansas City and St. Louis overwhelmingly favored
the measure. Voters in rural Missouri overwhelmingly voted against it.Sen. Dan Hegeman of Cosby, the Republican chair of the
Appropriations Committee, characterizes his vote against expansion as a matter
of standing up for the legislature.“And I felt compelled to basically stand up for the
legislative branch in defending our right to be able to appropriate funds in
the state of Missouri,” Hegeman tells St. Joseph Post. “Otherwise, we’ll have all sorts of initiative
petitions that come down with the next great idea that requires spending, but
no revenue to go along with it.”Not every Republican voted against expansion.Republican St. Joseph state Rep. Bill Falkner says
he voted to fund Medicaid expansion, because his legislative district voted in
favor of the ballot issue.Still, Falkner understands the resistance to funding expansion.“It’s fine line, because if the courts rule that the state has
to fund it then another initiative petition, can that be filed with a new
program and they don’t have to have a funding source?” Falkner asks.Also voting in favor of funding expansion was state Rep.
Brenda Shields, a Republican from St. Joseph, who points out Missouri voters did
approve the ballot measure. Shields also argues Medicaid expansion will more
than pay for itself with a relatively small state expenditure to draw down a
huge federal reimbursement: $126 million in state General Revenue to draw down
$1.9 billion.“I kind of follow the Missouri Chamber of Commerce belief that
in the end Medicaid expansion will pay for itself,” Shields tells St. Joseph
Post.Shields expects the legislature to have to pay for expansion,
eventually.But, Luetkemeyer accuses those who put the issue on the ballot
of being deceptive, purposely choosing not to include a funding source on the
ballot.“I think the reason they did not is because they knew they
could not pass it if there was a tax associated with the ballot issue,” according
to Luetkemeyer.A lawsuit has been filed. The issue now rests with the courts.Luetkemeyer expects the legislature to win a court challenge.“I think it would be a dramatic act of judicial activism for
any court in Missouri to say that the legislature is required to appropriate
money when the Constitution very clearly says that the appropriation authority rests
with the General Assembly,” Luetkemeyer says.It’s not a sentiment shared by Shields.“Brenda Shields ultimately believes that the courts will rule
that we need to fund Medicaid expansion.”

Though voters approved Medicaid expansion, legislators reject funding

The iconic pink cone of St. Joseph is moving a location to its neighboring college town, Maryville.  

Kris and Kate’s owner Austin Evans, a born and raised local to St. Joseph poses the question, who doesn’t know the pink ice-cream cone?  

“I always thought it was so cool because whether you’re literally two years old and talk or 90, you know what the pink ice-cream cone is, so it’s just so iconic,” Evans tells St. Joseph Post. “I loved it as a kid. As a kid, I use to joke like I want to work here I want to own it someday, like a lot of kids do and I had the opportunity to buy it and jumped all over it. Loved it.”

Evans says he enjoys the energy of Maryville and is looking forward to moving a location to the college town, although there has been some discussion among community members about the building itself.  

“There’s a lot of buzz in Maryville right now about how it's an eyesore and it’s ugly,” says Evans. “We are painting it. It will be painted pink. It will be outfitted just like the cone here in St. Joe. We’ll have really pretty landscaping around. We just had a patio poured; we’ll have nice railings. I mean the whole thing will be very, very nice, so it won’t be an eyesore for long.”  

Evans purchased the ice cream shop and reopened it for the first time in April of 2020, during the heat of the pandemic without a negative impact.  

“The support was incredible, people came out of the woodworks like crazy,” says Evans. “I think people wanted to get out of the house. I think people were excited for Kris and Kates, a St. Joe staple to be opening when it was a sort of sitting with an unsure future and so we had lines like crazy back to the Scooters coffee. It was just, it was wild so. Tons of support and it was really good. Very grateful for the way it all turned out during COVID.” 

The new location for Kris and Kate’s is going to be located in Maryville on the corner of 4th Street and Buchanan Street, behind Bank Midwest. Evans hopes the storefront will be open in mid-July. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622833825398.png" alt="The Evans Family / Photo provided by Austin Evans" />
 <figcaption>The Evans Family / Photo provided by Austin Evans</figcaption>
 </figure>By WHITNEE ICE St. Joseph Post The iconic pink cone of St. Joseph is moving a location to its neighboring college town, Maryville. Kris and Kate’s owner Austin Evans, a born and raised local to St. Joseph poses the question, who doesn’t know the pink ice-cream cone? “I always thought it was so cool because whether you’re literally two years old and talk or 90, you know what the pink ice-cream cone is, so it’s just so iconic,” Evans tells St. Joseph Post. “I loved it as a kid. As a kid, I use to joke like I want to work here I want to own it someday, like a lot of kids do and I had the opportunity to buy it and jumped all over it. Loved it.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622834004047.jpeg" alt="Kris and Kates St. Joseph location / Photo by Whitnee Ice" />
 <figcaption>Kris and Kates St. Joseph location / Photo by Whitnee Ice</figcaption>
 </figure>Evans says he enjoys the energy of Maryville and is looking forward to moving a location to the college town, although there has been some discussion among community members about the building itself. “There’s a lot of buzz in Maryville right now about how it's an eyesore and it’s ugly,” says Evans. “We are painting it. It will be painted pink. It will be outfitted just like the cone here in St. Joe. We’ll have really pretty landscaping around. We just had a patio poured; we’ll have nice railings. I mean the whole thing will be very, very nice, so it won’t be an eyesore for long.” Evans purchased the ice cream shop and reopened it for the first time in April of 2020, during the heat of the pandemic without a negative impact. “The support was incredible, people came out of the woodworks like crazy,” says Evans. “I think people wanted to get out of the house. I think people were excited for Kris and Kates, a St. Joe staple to be opening when it was a sort of sitting with an unsure future and so we had lines like crazy back to the Scooters coffee. It was just, it was wild so. Tons of support and it was really good. Very grateful for the way it all turned out during COVID.” The new location for Kris and Kate’s is going to be located in Maryville on the corner of 4th Street and Buchanan Street, behind Bank Midwest. Evans hopes the storefront will be open in mid-July. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622834030917.jpeg" alt="Kris and Kates St. Joseph location / Photo by Whitnee Ice" />
 <figcaption>Kris and Kates St. Joseph location / Photo by Whitnee Ice</figcaption>
 </figure>

Popular St. Joseph ice cream shop adds a location in Maryville

ATCHISON COUNTY— A Kansas woman was injured in an accident just before 1p.m. Saturday in Atchison.

A 2007 Toyota Cruiser driven by Shelly Hall, Meriden, was backing up from a space in the Walmart parking lot, 1920 U.S. 73, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

The vehicle struck a pedestrian identified as 87-year-old Minnie Frakes.&nbsp;

A private vehicle transported Frakes to a local hospital for an exam, according to Wilson. He reported no additional details early Monday.

ATCHISON COUNTY— A Kansas woman was injured in an accident just before 1p.m. Saturday in Atchison.A 2007 Toyota Cruiser driven by Shelly Hall, Meriden, was backing up from a space in the Walmart parking lot, 1920 U.S. 73, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.The vehicle struck a pedestrian identified as 87-year-old Minnie Frakes.&nbsp;A private vehicle transported Frakes to a local hospital for an exam, according to Wilson. He reported no additional details early Monday..

87-year-old struck by vehicle in parking lot accident

Longtime St. Joseph Stockyards employee Greg Clement has many fond memories of his time with the Stockyards.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622837610898.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of Dionne Bertling" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of Dionne Bertling</figcaption>
 </figure>BY MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostLongtime St. Joseph Stockyards employee Greg Clement has many fond memories of his time with the Stockyards.Clement recalls many memories at the St. Joseph Stockyards, but one of his fondest is how his future as an auctioneer began."My favorite memory was selling feeder pigs to start with and learning how to become an auctioneer." Clement says "I sold feeder pigs for the first three years with the St. Joe Stockyards, the first four actually, didn't draw a dime to do it but I learned to become an auctioneer"But the best memory Clement adds is the day he began working full time."Really the best time I had was in 1987 when Jim Reynolds let me become a full time auctioneer working at the St. Joe Stockyards selling slaughter cattle." Clements saysClement worked at the St Joseph Stockyards for 36 years and says that over the years as agriculture changed from livestock to producing more row crops, he saw his customer base shrink. For instance, Clement says on his drive from his home in Skidmore to Tarkio, he had at least fifteen cattle customers between those two towns, but with the popularity of row crops and the shrinking cattle herds, supply has dimnished."That has shrunk to literally nothing, because about all those guys that had twenty to thirty to forty, fifty head of cows have gone strictly to row crop," Clement says " the shrinking cattle herds across Northwest Missouri, Southwest Iowa, Southeast Nebraska and Northeast Kansas, I mean it's definitely made a difference."Clement can't help but make comparisons to the Kansas City Stockyards which closed in 1991 and the closing of the stockyards in Omaha. Clement points out the stockyards used to employ hundreds. but times changed, the cattle supply shrunk, and the city grew around them."Where Kansas City and St. Joe were originally, they said, built by the stockyards, I think more or less the cities outgrew the stockyards, literally outgrew the stockyards, and instead of a great asset they became a liability." Clement says. The St. Joseph Stockyards have been sold. It held it's last auction on May 19th.