The local Red Cross has been helping residents in south St. Joseph after flooding last week impacted over a hundred families.

Chris Harmon, Red Cross Regional Disaster Officer for Missouri and Arkansas, says they are working with partner agencies in St. Joseph through the United Way to help families with long term needs.

"What are they going to do, where are they going to go, and each case is unique," Harmon tells St. Joseph Post. "We've been doing outreach that way, we have the shelter open, we've been distributing emergency supplies like clean-up kits for those that just need some resources to clean up their homes, along with gloves, shovels, things like that."

Harmon says the Red Cross has met with about 90 families in that past week to help them with immediate needs.

Anyone needing assistance is encouraged to contact the United Way at (816)&nbsp;364-2381 or the Red Cross at (816) 841-5205.

by SARAH THOMACKSt. Joseph PostThe local Red Cross has been helping residents in south St. Joseph after flooding last week impacted over a hundred families.Chris Harmon, Red Cross Regional Disaster Officer for Missouri and Arkansas, says they are working with partner agencies in St. Joseph through the United Way to help families with long term needs."What are they going to do, where are they going to go, and each case is unique," Harmon tells St. Joseph Post. "We've been doing outreach that way, we have the shelter open, we've been distributing emergency supplies like clean-up kits for those that just need some resources to clean up their homes, along with gloves, shovels, things like that."Harmon says the Red Cross has met with about 90 families in that past week to help them with immediate needs.Anyone needing assistance is encouraged to contact the United Way at (816)&nbsp;364-2381 or the Red Cross at (816) 841-5205.

Red Cross, United Way working to meet short and long term needs of flood victims

JACKSON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 7:30a.m. Thursday in Jackson County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Chrysler 200 driven by Lindal D. Kirdland, 60, Grain Valley, was southbound on Buckner Tarsey Road.

The driver attempted to cross over westbound U.S. 50. A 2019 Chevy Silverado driven by Brian K. Cannon, 51, Kingsville, struck the Chrysler.

Kirkland was pronounced dead at the scene and released to the Jackson County Medical Examiner.

 Cannon was not transported for treatment of minor injuries. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

JACKSON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 7:30a.m. Thursday in Jackson County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Chrysler 200 driven by Lindal D. Kirdland, 60, Grain Valley, was southbound on Buckner Tarsey Road.The driver attempted to cross over westbound U.S. 50. A 2019 Chevy Silverado driven by Brian K. Cannon, 51, Kingsville, struck the Chrysler.Kirkland was pronounced dead at the scene and released to the Jackson County Medical Examiner. Cannon was not transported for treatment of minor injuries. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Grain Valley man dies after 2-vehicle crash

AMAZONIA, Mo. - Emergency roadway repairs have closed a section of southbound Interstate 29 in Andrew County Thursday afternoon. 

After attempts to temporarily repair the roadway, contractors from Capital Paving and Construction, LLC., working with the Missouri Department of Transportation, closed I-29 southbound, just north of Hopkins Creek (near mile marker 59), today until 7 p.m. in order to complete a concrete patch.

The closure is within the work zone of the Hopkins Creek and Route T bridge projects where traffic is being directed head-to-head in the northbound lanes.

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

AMAZONIA, Mo. - Emergency roadway repairs have closed a section of southbound Interstate 29 in Andrew County Thursday afternoon. After attempts to temporarily repair the roadway, contractors from Capital Paving and Construction, LLC., working with the Missouri Department of Transportation, closed I-29 southbound, just north of Hopkins Creek (near mile marker 59), today until 7 p.m. in order to complete a concrete patch.The closure is within the work zone of the Hopkins Creek and Route T bridge projects where traffic is being directed head-to-head in the northbound lanes.During the closure, southbound traffic will be directed onto U.S. Route 59 (Exit 65) east onto U.S. Route 71, then south to reconnect with I-29. Motorists will not be able to access I-29 southbound at Route K/CC (Exit 60) and will need to use an alternate route.

Portion of I-29 closed for emergency repairs this afternoon

The CEO of Second Harvest Community Food Bank shared testimony at a congressional hearing this week on the food bank’s response to the pandemic.

Second Harvest CEO Chad Higdon and others virtually joined the subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management to share about the experiences of vulnerable populations during disasters.

“I was able to provide feedback on what we’re seeing here in Missouri and Kansas," Higdon says. "Also (I) reached out to food banks across the country to get a sense of how it’s been working for them working with FEMA and through other federal programs really to respond to the increased need in demand that we’re seeing across the country.”

Higdon reported that from July 1, 2019, to June 30, 2020, Second Harvest distributed nearly 9.9 million pounds of food through direct service programs and partner agency distributions.&nbsp;Prior to the pandemic, Second Harvest reportedly served an estimated 45,000 individuals identified as food insecure out of a total estimated population of 350,000. The estimated number of food insecure is expected to increase by approximately five percent to an estimated 64,000 individuals as a result of the pandemic.&nbsp;

Higdon says, as part of his testimony, he provided insight on the wide range of federal support as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and how that’s helped the food bank respond to increasing needs.

“What we’re seeing is it really helped us meet the demand with the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, food purchases through Families First and the CARES Act,” Higdon says. “All that’s really supported that increased need and through our work we really do make an effort to understand the need county by county, so no matter who’s struggling, we try to reach them where they are and make sure all of our food that we have available is (getting) to everybody that needs the help right now.”

In talking with food banks from across the country, Higdon says the main thing he heard was confusion on how the reimbursement process through FEMA for emergency food distribution works. That confusion led to some local emergency managers not applying for available funds. His recommendations to the subcommittee referenced that and .&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Just providing state emergency management agencies clarity through the FEMA regions would be helpful and continuance of food purchases, especially shelf-stable," Higdon says. "Our refrigeration capacity and freezer capacity right now is really stressed and so the more shelf-stable product that we can get access to to help us distribute and get out right now would certainly be helpful and then obviously continuance of <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/ce12ec3a-b5e5-45e4-8cf0-7b80376011e8">utilization of the National Guard</a> would really help.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Higdon testified at the congressional hearing at the request of Congressman Sam Graves.&nbsp;

“It was just an honor to be able to provide that perspective and insight that hopefully helps lawmakers with their decision making and ways to always look at improving what the federal government can do specific to this - disaster response,” Higdon says.

To view the full congressional hearing, <a href="https://republicans-transportation.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=404963">click here</a>.

by SARAH THOMACKSt. Joseph PostThe CEO of Second Harvest Community Food Bank shared testimony at a congressional hearing this week on the food bank’s response to the pandemic.Second Harvest CEO Chad Higdon and others virtually joined the subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management to share about the experiences of vulnerable populations during disasters.“I was able to provide feedback on what we’re seeing here in Missouri and Kansas," Higdon says. "Also (I) reached out to food banks across the country to get a sense of how it’s been working for them working with FEMA and through other federal programs really to respond to the increased need in demand that we’re seeing across the country.”Higdon reported that from July 1, 2019, to June 30, 2020, Second Harvest distributed nearly 9.9 million pounds of food through direct service programs and partner agency distributions.&nbsp;Prior to the pandemic, Second Harvest reportedly served an estimated 45,000 individuals identified as food insecure out of a total estimated population of 350,000. The estimated number of food insecure is expected to increase by approximately five percent to an estimated 64,000 individuals as a result of the pandemic.&nbsp;Higdon says, as part of his testimony, he provided insight on the wide range of federal support as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and how that’s helped the food bank respond to increasing needs.“What we’re seeing is it really helped us meet the demand with the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, food purchases through Families First and the CARES Act,” Higdon says. “All that’s really supported that increased need and through our work we really do make an effort to understand the need county by county, so no matter who’s struggling, we try to reach them where they are and make sure all of our food that we have available is (getting) to everybody that needs the help right now.”In talking with food banks from across the country, Higdon says the main thing he heard was confusion on how the reimbursement process through FEMA for emergency food distribution works. That confusion led to some local emergency managers not applying for available funds. His recommendations to the subcommittee referenced that and .&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“Just providing state emergency management agencies clarity through the FEMA regions would be helpful and continuance of food purchases, especially shelf-stable," Higdon says. "Our refrigeration capacity and freezer capacity right now is really stressed and so the more shelf-stable product that we can get access to to help us distribute and get out right now would certainly be helpful and then obviously continuance of <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/ce12ec3a-b5e5-45e4-8cf0-7b80376011e8">utilization of the National Guard</a> would really help.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Higdon testified at the congressional hearing at the request of Congressman Sam Graves.&nbsp;“It was just an honor to be able to provide that perspective and insight that hopefully helps lawmakers with their decision making and ways to always look at improving what the federal government can do specific to this - disaster response,” Higdon says.To view the full congressional hearing, <a href="https://republicans-transportation.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=404963">click here</a>.

Second Harvest CEO testifies at congressional hearing about pandemic experience

St. Joseph school officials say about 2,000 students have enrolled
in the Virtual Academy to learn online from home this year.

Assistant Superintendent for Academic Services, Marlie Williams,
says it was hard to estimate how many of the nearly 11,000 students would opt
for online rather than in-class instruction.

“I don’t think we knew exactly what to anticipate,” Williams
tells St. Joseph Post. “In so many ways, it has not been a normal year and we
weren’t sure.”

About 60% of the students enrolling in online instruction are
elementary students.

Parents have through Friday to decide whether to enroll their
children in the Virtual Academy or traditional classroom instruction.

The St. Joseph School District has announced it is pushing
back the start date to August 31st with May 27th
scheduled as the last day of school.

Williams says a lot of work is being put into preparing for
the new start date.

“We are doing our very best to be as prepared as we possibly
can for the first day of school,” Williams says. “I think that the reality is that
there are going to be a few things that we continue to work through and change
and evolve between this time and the first day of school and even probably
after the first day of school.”

Williams anticipates other children will be enrolled in the
Virtual Academy before the end of Friday.

“Based on what I’m seeing right now, there are certainly
enrollments still coming through for Virtual Academy,” according to Williams. “That
tells me people are still making their decisions and I’ve taken some phone
calls, some emails, and answered questions about the options that parents have.”

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph school officials say about 2,000 students have enrolled
in the Virtual Academy to learn online from home this year.Assistant Superintendent for Academic Services, Marlie Williams,
says it was hard to estimate how many of the nearly 11,000 students would opt
for online rather than in-class instruction.“I don’t think we knew exactly what to anticipate,” Williams
tells St. Joseph Post. “In so many ways, it has not been a normal year and we
weren’t sure.”About 60% of the students enrolling in online instruction are
elementary students.Parents have through Friday to decide whether to enroll their
children in the Virtual Academy or traditional classroom instruction.The St. Joseph School District has announced it is pushing
back the start date to August 31st with May 27th
scheduled as the last day of school.Williams says a lot of work is being put into preparing for
the new start date.“We are doing our very best to be as prepared as we possibly
can for the first day of school,” Williams says. “I think that the reality is that
there are going to be a few things that we continue to work through and change
and evolve between this time and the first day of school and even probably
after the first day of school.”Williams anticipates other children will be enrolled in the
Virtual Academy before the end of Friday.“Based on what I’m seeing right now, there are certainly
enrollments still coming through for Virtual Academy,” according to Williams. “That
tells me people are still making their decisions and I’ve taken some phone
calls, some emails, and answered questions about the options that parents have.”

Deadline for deciding in-class or at-home learning for St. Joseph students approaches

Mosaic Life Care has now tested more than 18,000 area residents
and reports nine COVID-19 patients in the St. Joseph hospital as of Thursday
morning.

Mosaic says of the 18,167 people tested, 844 have tested
positive for the coronavirus. Mosaic is awaiting results from 244 tests.

Buchanan County reports a total of 1,070 cases of the coronavirus
since the counting began; 948 confirmed and 122 probable. Buchanan County has
reported a total of 10 deaths.

Andrew County reports 80 cases while Doniphan County, Kansas
reports 41.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services reports a
total of 46,750 cases since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic. The
state has recorded 1,220 deaths.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment reports 26,870
total cases with 349 deaths.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMosaic Life Care has now tested more than 18,000 area residents
and reports nine COVID-19 patients in the St. Joseph hospital as of Thursday
morning.Mosaic says of the 18,167 people tested, 844 have tested
positive for the coronavirus. Mosaic is awaiting results from 244 tests.Buchanan County reports a total of 1,070 cases of the coronavirus
since the counting began; 948 confirmed and 122 probable. Buchanan County has
reported a total of 10 deaths.Andrew County reports 80 cases while Doniphan County, Kansas
reports 41.The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services reports a
total of 46,750 cases since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic. The
state has recorded 1,220 deaths.The Kansas Department of Health and Environment reports 26,870
total cases with 349 deaths.

Mosaic COVID-19 testing tops 18K with 9 hospitalized in St. Joseph

St. Joseph police caution motorists to drive carefully this
morning due to water over several streets.

The area of Twin Bridges, at southeast 68th Road
and southeast Mitchell Road has been closed, due to water over the roadway. Water is over Messanie Street at the Belt Highway with police reporting eastbound Messanie west of the Belt and westbound Messanie east of the Belt are
closed, due to high water.

Water is covering the westbound lane of southwest state
Highway U and Lakefront Lane.

Police warn motorists not to drive through water over the
roadways.

St. Joseph police caution motorists to drive carefully this
morning due to water over several streets.The area of Twin Bridges, at southeast 68th Road
and southeast Mitchell Road has been closed, due to water over the roadway. Water is over Messanie Street at the Belt Highway with police reporting eastbound Messanie west of the Belt and westbound Messanie east of the Belt are
closed, due to high water.Water is covering the westbound lane of southwest state
Highway U and Lakefront Lane.Police warn motorists not to drive through water over the
roadways.

Storm dump water on St. Joseph, closing some city streets

ATCHISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 3a.m. Thursday in Atchison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Chevy Silverado driven by Austin J. Wallace, 17, Rock Port, was southbound on U.S. 59 just north of Fairfax.

The pickup traveled off the road, over a ditch, became airborne, hit the ditch and rolled.

Atchison-Holt ambulance transported Wallace to Fairfax Medical Center and he was later transported to Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

ATCHISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 3a.m. Thursday in Atchison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Chevy Silverado driven by Austin J. Wallace, 17, Rock Port, was southbound on U.S. 59 just north of Fairfax.The pickup traveled off the road, over a ditch, became airborne, hit the ditch and rolled.Atchison-Holt ambulance transported Wallace to Fairfax Medical Center and he was later transported to Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Teen from Rock Port injured in violent pickup crash

The St. Joseph School District updated its reentry plan, moving the start date for students to August 31st and changing its policy to require masks.

The district says pushing the start date allows for more time for the training of staff for remote learning, for buildings to develop and train on reentry guidelines and procedures and for other preparations.

The district says due to feedback from parents, guardians, and students, the district will be requiring masks or face coverings for all staff, students, visitors, and vendors when in a district facility or using district transportation.&nbsp;

For more details on the updates to the district's reentry plan, <a href="https://www.sjsd.k12.mo.us/news/july_2020/reentry_plan_update">click here</a>.

The St. Joseph School District updated its reentry plan, moving the start date for students to August 31st and changing its policy to require masks.The district says pushing the start date allows for more time for the training of staff for remote learning, for buildings to develop and train on reentry guidelines and procedures and for other preparations.The district says due to feedback from parents, guardians, and students, the district will be requiring masks or face coverings for all staff, students, visitors, and vendors when in a district facility or using district transportation.&nbsp;For more details on the updates to the district's reentry plan, <a href="https://www.sjsd.k12.mo.us/news/july_2020/reentry_plan_update">click here</a>.

SJSD changes start date to August 31st, will require masks

ATCHISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 12:30p.m. Wednesday in Atchison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports a 2000 Dodge 1500 driven by 38-year-old Bobby W. Chaney of Tarkio, was westbound on 209th Street in the South city limits of Tarkio when it began to slide, traveled off the road, and overturned.

The patrol reports 70-year-old Anna Jackson of Tarkio suffered minor injuries in the wreck.

ATCHISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 12:30p.m. Wednesday in Atchison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports a 2000 Dodge 1500 driven by 38-year-old Bobby W. Chaney of Tarkio, was westbound on 209th Street in the South city limits of Tarkio when it began to slide, traveled off the road, and overturned.The patrol reports 70-year-old Anna Jackson of Tarkio suffered minor injuries in the wreck.

Tarkio women suffers minor injure in rollover crash

With less than a week left until the August 4th election, the Missouri State Treasurer, House Budget Chairman and others have been working to inform voters about the cost of Amendment Two.

Amendment Two is a Medicaid expansion initiative.

A “yes” vote for Amendment 2 would adopt Medicaid Expansion for those 19 to 64 years old with an income level at or below 133% of the federal poverty level.&nbsp;

According to Missourinet, House Budget Chairman Cody Smith says the August Medicaid expansion ballot measure is projected to cost $200 million in state general revenue, and $1.8 billion in federal funding each year. He also says it will raise Missouri’s Medicaid rolls from 950,000 to more than 1.2 million participants.

United for Missouri CEO Carl Bearden says there’s only a certain amount of money available in the state from the state taxpayers.

“Amendment 2 is directly competing with every other issue in the state and particularly education, because it is the largest pot that we have,” Bearden tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “Higher Ed generally takes the brunt of those cuts when it comes to things like this… then it would be elementary and secondary education is the next level.”

Bearden adds that 36 other states that have expanded medicaid have seen at least 76% higher costs per person than originally estimated.&nbsp;

“They’re trying to say the federal government will pay for most of this, it’s still going to cost the state 200 - 350 million dollars a year to pay the state’s portion of this and that’s 200 - 350 million dollars a year that has to either come out of education or some other priority program of the state or ask the people to raise taxes.”

<a href="https://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/petitions/2020BallotMeasures">Click here to read the ballot measure</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

by Sarah ThomackSt. Joseph PostWith less than a week left until the August 4th election, the Missouri State Treasurer, House Budget Chairman and others have been working to inform voters about the cost of Amendment Two.Amendment Two is a Medicaid expansion initiative.A “yes” vote for Amendment 2 would adopt Medicaid Expansion for those 19 to 64 years old with an income level at or below 133% of the federal poverty level.&nbsp;According to Missourinet, House Budget Chairman Cody Smith says the August Medicaid expansion ballot measure is projected to cost $200 million in state general revenue, and $1.8 billion in federal funding each year. He also says it will raise Missouri’s Medicaid rolls from 950,000 to more than 1.2 million participants.United for Missouri CEO Carl Bearden says there’s only a certain amount of money available in the state from the state taxpayers.“Amendment 2 is directly competing with every other issue in the state and particularly education, because it is the largest pot that we have,” Bearden tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “Higher Ed generally takes the brunt of those cuts when it comes to things like this… then it would be elementary and secondary education is the next level.”Bearden adds that 36 other states that have expanded medicaid have seen at least 76% higher costs per person than originally estimated.&nbsp;“They’re trying to say the federal government will pay for most of this, it’s still going to cost the state 200 - 350 million dollars a year to pay the state’s portion of this and that’s 200 - 350 million dollars a year that has to either come out of education or some other priority program of the state or ask the people to raise taxes.”<a href="https://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/petitions/2020BallotMeasures">Click here to read the ballot measure</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Opponents of Medicaid Expansion in Missouri talk about the cost

St. Joseph Mayor Bill McMurray issued a Call to Community to help those affected by last week’s flooding:&nbsp;

St. Joseph Mayor Bill McMurray issued a Call to Community to help those affected by last week’s flooding:&nbsp;<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4i3oZI5iE34" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🎥 Mayor issues call to help south St. Joseph residents affected by flooding

Congressman Sam Graves hopes a piece of legislation moving through
Congress will address some of the structural problems which have led to recurring
flooding along the Missouri River.

Graves says the House transportation committee gave bipartisan
approval to his Water Resources Development Act, which he says addresses
several issues.

“It moves us closer to a lower Missouri River flood control
plan,” Graves tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “It allows the Corps
to start construction on flood control projects much quicker than in the past,
particularly in repeatedly flooded communities.”

Graves says the legislation makes protecting communities and
family farms along the Missouri and its tributaries a priority. He says it also
gives communities help in planning and putting in place flood control projects
and speeds up the approval process.

Graves says the Water Resources Development Act is an example of
bipartisan legislation which he insists is still possible even in these
politically polarized times. Graves asserts he might well be a staunchly
conservative Republican, but that doesn’t mean he can’t work with Democrats in
Congress. In fact, Graves, who is running for re-election, says members in
Congress have to work across the political aisle.

“The way you get legislation done is by working with both
sides,” according to Graves. “You come to an agreement and then you move
forward. You can’t get anything done if you just go with a total partisan
agenda.”

Graves says leaders might have made a mistake in shutting down
the country due to concerns about the coronavirus pandemic, adding that isn’t
meant to make light of COVID-19, a virus which has hit home to him.

“My daughter, son-in-law, and my grandkids have COVID right
now and they’re quarantined at home,” Graves says. “I know just how tough this
is, but this isn’t the first time we’ve had a pandemic in the United States and
the United States is a pretty tough country.”

Graves says COVID-19 restrictions hurt independent small
businesses the most, because they didn’t have any corporate money behind them.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostCongressman Sam Graves hopes a piece of legislation moving through
Congress will address some of the structural problems which have led to recurring
flooding along the Missouri River.Graves says the House transportation committee gave bipartisan
approval to his Water Resources Development Act, which he says addresses
several issues.“It moves us closer to a lower Missouri River flood control
plan,” Graves tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “It allows the Corps
to start construction on flood control projects much quicker than in the past,
particularly in repeatedly flooded communities.”Graves says the legislation makes protecting communities and
family farms along the Missouri and its tributaries a priority. He says it also
gives communities help in planning and putting in place flood control projects
and speeds up the approval process.Graves says the Water Resources Development Act is an example of
bipartisan legislation which he insists is still possible even in these
politically polarized times. Graves asserts he might well be a staunchly
conservative Republican, but that doesn’t mean he can’t work with Democrats in
Congress. In fact, Graves, who is running for re-election, says members in
Congress have to work across the political aisle.“The way you get legislation done is by working with both
sides,” according to Graves. “You come to an agreement and then you move
forward. You can’t get anything done if you just go with a total partisan
agenda.”Graves says leaders might have made a mistake in shutting down
the country due to concerns about the coronavirus pandemic, adding that isn’t
meant to make light of COVID-19, a virus which has hit home to him.“My daughter, son-in-law, and my grandkids have COVID right
now and they’re quarantined at home,” Graves says. “I know just how tough this
is, but this isn’t the first time we’ve had a pandemic in the United States and
the United States is a pretty tough country.”Graves says COVID-19 restrictions hurt independent small
businesses the most, because they didn’t have any corporate money behind them.

Congressman Graves moves Missouri River legislation in Congress

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Two new lawsuits allege that the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph covered up abuse by two priests who were known to be sexual predators.

The lawsuits, one filed Tuesday and the other on July 20, were announced by the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests.

One of the priests died while the diocese was in the process of removing him from the priesthood and the other is no longer allowed to present himself as a priest, the diocese said.

The lawsuit filed July 20 alleges the Rev. Darvin Salazar sexually assaulted the victim in the rectory at Holy Cross Catholic Church and then prevented the plaintiff from leaving in July 2018.

The lawsuit says the Kansas City-St. Joseph diocese had reports about Salazar's “sexual predation” from at least five others but failed to remove him from service until after he committed sexual crimes against the plaintiff.

The diocese said all allegations against Salazar were presented to law enforcement, which declined to bring criminal charges.

The second lawsuit, filed Tuesday, alleges former priest John R. Tulipana assaulted a 13-year-old boy several times in 1977 while at Coronation of Our Lady Catholic Church in Grandview.

Tulipana was barred from the ministry in 1994. He died in 2012.

In 2008, the diocese agreed to a $10 million settlement with 47 plaintiffs who alleged sexual abuse by 12 priests, including Tulipana. In 2014, the diocese paid out another $10 million to settle sexual abuse lawsuits of 32 plaintiffs that involved 14 current and former priests — including Tulipana — in cases filed from September 2010 through February 2014.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Two new lawsuits allege that the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph covered up abuse by two priests who were known to be sexual predators.The lawsuits, one filed Tuesday and the other on July 20, were announced by the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests.One of the priests died while the diocese was in the process of removing him from the priesthood and the other is no longer allowed to present himself as a priest, the diocese said.The lawsuit filed July 20 alleges the Rev. Darvin Salazar sexually assaulted the victim in the rectory at Holy Cross Catholic Church and then prevented the plaintiff from leaving in July 2018.The lawsuit says the Kansas City-St. Joseph diocese had reports about Salazar's “sexual predation” from at least five others but failed to remove him from service until after he committed sexual crimes against the plaintiff.The diocese said all allegations against Salazar were presented to law enforcement, which declined to bring criminal charges.The second lawsuit, filed Tuesday, alleges former priest John R. Tulipana assaulted a 13-year-old boy several times in 1977 while at Coronation of Our Lady Catholic Church in Grandview.Tulipana was barred from the ministry in 1994. He died in 2012.In 2008, the diocese agreed to a $10 million settlement with 47 plaintiffs who alleged sexual abuse by 12 priests, including Tulipana. In 2014, the diocese paid out another $10 million to settle sexual abuse lawsuits of 32 plaintiffs that involved 14 current and former priests — including Tulipana — in cases filed from September 2010 through February 2014.

2 new lawsuits filed against Kansas City-St. Joseph Diocese

South St. Joseph residents are still cleaning up and recovering from <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/4cdc0585-4b3a-4396-91a5-dda9bd308834">last week's flooding</a>.

"Some people, one side of their (house) foundation's been caved in, there's just tons of mud and debris, it's just awful," says Kathy Bravo with Evolution United Methodist Church. "We have a couple members in our congregation that have lost everything and so we wanted to try to help them out as well as other flood victims."

The church, along with area United Methodist churches, will be collecting donations this week to distribute to flood victims.

"Sheets, pillows, bedding-type things, towels, cleaning supplies, hygiene items and gift cards," Bravo says. "We don't want to accept money, we'd rather have purchased items and mainly, I think, cleaning supplies is what everybody needs."

Donations can be dropped off between 1 and 5 p.m. Wednesday at Evolution United Methodist Church in St. Joseph. For more information, call (660) 342-6574.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595976151975.jpeg" alt="Clean up operations underway by the City in south St. Joseph. Photo by Brent Martin." />
 <figcaption>Clean up operations underway by the City in south St. Joseph. Photo by Brent Martin.</figcaption>
 </figure>by SARAH THOMACKSt. Joseph PostSouth St. Joseph residents are still cleaning up and recovering from <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/4cdc0585-4b3a-4396-91a5-dda9bd308834">last week's flooding</a>."Some people, one side of their (house) foundation's been caved in, there's just tons of mud and debris, it's just awful," says Kathy Bravo with Evolution United Methodist Church. "We have a couple members in our congregation that have lost everything and so we wanted to try to help them out as well as other flood victims."The church, along with area United Methodist churches, will be collecting donations this week to distribute to flood victims."Sheets, pillows, bedding-type things, towels, cleaning supplies, hygiene items and gift cards," Bravo says. "We don't want to accept money, we'd rather have purchased items and mainly, I think, cleaning supplies is what everybody needs."Donations can be dropped off between 1 and 5 p.m. Wednesday at Evolution United Methodist Church in St. Joseph. For more information, call (660) 342-6574.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595976211191.jpeg" alt="Clean up operations underway by the City in south St. Joseph. Photo by Brent Martin." />
 <figcaption>Clean up operations underway by the City in south St. Joseph. Photo by Brent Martin.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Donations being collected to help St. Joseph families impacted by flooding

DEKALB COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Tuesday in DeKalb&nbsp; County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Ford Focus driven by Alexis D. Ratliff, 24, Cameron, was northbound on Route EE one mile north of Cameron.

The driver failed to yield to a southbound Chevy Tahoe driven by Vicky R. Helms, 64, Cameron, while make a left turn into a residential area. The Chevy struck the Ford.

A private vehicle transported Ratliff to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Cameron EMS transported Helms to Cameron Regional Regional Medical Center. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Tuesday in DeKalb&nbsp; County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Ford Focus driven by Alexis D. Ratliff, 24, Cameron, was northbound on Route EE one mile north of Cameron.The driver failed to yield to a southbound Chevy Tahoe driven by Vicky R. Helms, 64, Cameron, while make a left turn into a residential area. The Chevy struck the Ford.A private vehicle transported Ratliff to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Cameron EMS transported Helms to Cameron Regional Regional Medical Center. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Two Missouri women hospitalized after DeKalb County crash

NODAWAY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 5:30a.m. Tuesday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported 2019 Toyota Corolla driven by Donald S. Sullivan, 79, Conception Junction, was westbound at U.S. 71 at Route M ten miles north of Maryville.

The driver failed to stop at the stop sign at U.S. 71, traveled into the intersection and struck a northbound 2021 Freightliner semi driven by Zachary S. Mills, 29, St. Joseph.

Nodaway County ambulance transported to Sullivan to Mosaic Life Care.&nbsp; Mills was not injured. 

Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 5:30a.m. Tuesday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported 2019 Toyota Corolla driven by Donald S. Sullivan, 79, Conception Junction, was westbound at U.S. 71 at Route M ten miles north of Maryville.The driver failed to stop at the stop sign at U.S. 71, traveled into the intersection and struck a northbound 2021 Freightliner semi driven by Zachary S. Mills, 29, St. Joseph.Nodaway County ambulance transported to Sullivan to Mosaic Life Care.&nbsp; Mills was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man hospitalized after Nodaway Co. crash with semi

An infectious disease specialist emphasizes COVID-19 is far
from over and encourages the public to keep wearing masks, washing hands, and
keeping at a safe distance from others.

Dr. Scott Folk of Mosaic Life Care says the country is still
seeing too many people becoming infected with the coronavirus. Folk adds we
continue to see the death toll mount.

“I think that we could do a little bit better as a country in
terms of protecting ourselves and making sure that we social distance and wash
our hands and wear a mask at every opportunity,” Folk tells reporters. “I think
that’s crucial right now. And I think, like it or not, I think we’re going to
be stuck if you will with that pattern until a vaccine comes along.”

Folk doesn’t expect a vaccine until the first quarter of next
year at the earliest.

Mosaic will be conducting a mass antibody screening of Buchanan
County residents and workers next week. The Buchanan County Commission
allocated $250,000 to Mosaic and the Community Alliance to conduct the antibody
tests. The money comes from the Congressionally approved CARES Act, passed to
ease the economic pain of the coronavirus pandemic and support efforts in
fighting it.

Mosaic hopes to draw blood from about 2,500 volunteers at the
St. Joseph campus. If you are interested in participating, click <a href="https://www.mymlc.com/testing">here</a> for
details.

Folk cautions that even those who test positive for the coronavirus
cannot be confident they will never get the coronavirus again.

“A positive antibody test means that you have been exposed,
but it doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re immune to reinfection,” according
to Folk. “You might be for a short period of time, yes, but we don’t know how
long that period is. It’s simply a way to know if a person has previously been
exposed to COVID.”

The mass testing set for next week will give health officials
a better understanding of how much the coronavirus has spread in the community.

Folk says COVID-19 has fallen into a pattern:&nbsp; 40% of those who test positive display no
symptoms, 40% display mild symptoms, while 15% experience severe symptoms requiring
hospitalization, and 5% require intensive care, including a ventilator.

Folk says both the anti-body testing and the PCR testing, the
nasal swab, give health officials more information to work with.

“The antibody test does not tell exactly when a person had
COVID. It could have been a month or two months or three months ago,” Folk
says. “But the PCR test is more useful as a test in real-time, so to speak, to
tell if a person is actively infected now with COVID.”

Buchanan County now reports 1,047 cases of COVID-19, resulting
in 10 deaths, since counting began.

St. Joseph health officials say there have been a total of 933
confirmed cases with 114 probable cases since counting began.

Mosaic Life Care has tested 17,324 area residents with 810
testing positive. Mosaic reports six patients in the St. Joseph hospital are
being treated for COVID-19. Mosaic is awaiting results from 305 tests as of
Tuesday morning.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595955053031.jpeg" alt="Dr. Scott Folk/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Scott Folk/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostAn infectious disease specialist emphasizes COVID-19 is far
from over and encourages the public to keep wearing masks, washing hands, and
keeping at a safe distance from others.Dr. Scott Folk of Mosaic Life Care says the country is still
seeing too many people becoming infected with the coronavirus. Folk adds we
continue to see the death toll mount.“I think that we could do a little bit better as a country in
terms of protecting ourselves and making sure that we social distance and wash
our hands and wear a mask at every opportunity,” Folk tells reporters. “I think
that’s crucial right now. And I think, like it or not, I think we’re going to
be stuck if you will with that pattern until a vaccine comes along.”Folk doesn’t expect a vaccine until the first quarter of next
year at the earliest.Mosaic will be conducting a mass antibody screening of Buchanan
County residents and workers next week. The Buchanan County Commission
allocated $250,000 to Mosaic and the Community Alliance to conduct the antibody
tests. The money comes from the Congressionally approved CARES Act, passed to
ease the economic pain of the coronavirus pandemic and support efforts in
fighting it.Mosaic hopes to draw blood from about 2,500 volunteers at the
St. Joseph campus. If you are interested in participating, click <a href="https://www.mymlc.com/testing">here</a> for
details.Folk cautions that even those who test positive for the coronavirus
cannot be confident they will never get the coronavirus again.“A positive antibody test means that you have been exposed,
but it doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re immune to reinfection,” according
to Folk. “You might be for a short period of time, yes, but we don’t know how
long that period is. It’s simply a way to know if a person has previously been
exposed to COVID.”The mass testing set for next week will give health officials
a better understanding of how much the coronavirus has spread in the community.Folk says COVID-19 has fallen into a pattern:&nbsp; 40% of those who test positive display no
symptoms, 40% display mild symptoms, while 15% experience severe symptoms requiring
hospitalization, and 5% require intensive care, including a ventilator.Folk says both the anti-body testing and the PCR testing, the
nasal swab, give health officials more information to work with.“The antibody test does not tell exactly when a person had
COVID. It could have been a month or two months or three months ago,” Folk
says. “But the PCR test is more useful as a test in real-time, so to speak, to
tell if a person is actively infected now with COVID.”Buchanan County now reports 1,047 cases of COVID-19, resulting
in 10 deaths, since counting began.St. Joseph health officials say there have been a total of 933
confirmed cases with 114 probable cases since counting began.Mosaic Life Care has tested 17,324 area residents with 810
testing positive. Mosaic reports six patients in the St. Joseph hospital are
being treated for COVID-19. Mosaic is awaiting results from 305 tests as of
Tuesday morning.

Infectious disease expert:  coronavirus pandemic far from over

Buchanan County now reports 1,047 cases of COVID-19,
resulting in 10 deaths.

Mosaic Life Care reports this morning it has now tested 17,324 area residents
with 810 testing positive. Mosaic reports six patients in the St. Joseph
hospital this morning are being treated for COVID-19. Mosaic is awaiting results from 305 tests.

Andrew County health officials report 87 total cases; 73
confirmed and 14 probable.

Doniphan County, Kansas now reports 40 cases.

COVID-19 cases in Missouri have now topped 43,000 since
counting began with 1,201 deaths.

Kansas health officials report a total of 26,172 cases
with 335 deaths.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostBuchanan County now reports 1,047 cases of COVID-19,
resulting in 10 deaths.St. Joseph health officials say there have been a total of 933
confirmed cases with 114 probable cases since counting began.Mosaic Life Care reports this morning it has now tested 17,324 area residents
with 810 testing positive. Mosaic reports six patients in the St. Joseph
hospital this morning are being treated for COVID-19. Mosaic is awaiting results from 305 tests.Andrew County health officials report 87 total cases; 73
confirmed and 14 probable.Doniphan County, Kansas now reports 40 cases.COVID-19 cases in Missouri have now topped 43,000 since
counting began with 1,201 deaths.Kansas health officials report a total of 26,172 cases
with 335 deaths.

Buchanan County now reports slightly more than 1K COVID-19 cases

Missouri Western State University’s nursing program is expanding its capacity in an effort to meet workforce needs in the area.

Nursing Department Chair Dr. Jacklyn Gentry says Missouri is included in the national statistics which show a nursing shortage that could continue until 2030.

“One of the big drivers behind that is that 50% of the nursing workforce is over the age of 50 and quickly nearing retirement,” Gentry says. “So we have to bring younger, newer nurses into the field to continue to care for everyone.”

Dr. Crystal Harris is the Interim Dean of Missouri Western’s College of Science and Health. Harris says Missouri Western communicates with area healthcare employers to determine what future workforce needs are.

“Nursing was number one on the top 25 needs for workers in northwest Missouri and so we wanted to help meet that need.”

Harris says they wanted to expand their nursing program to help meet that need, so they applied for and <a href="https://archive.stjosephpost.com/2019/06/25/missouri-western-receives-grant-to-benefit-nursing-program-and-area-healthcare-workforce/">received an over $500,000 MoExcels grant</a>.

“What we did with that was, we wanted to increase the access, not just for nursing, but for many other programs and we wanted to develop a pipeline for local talent into health careers. Since our mission is applied learning at Missouri Western, we wanted to incorporate applied learning opportunities, and so that’s why our simulation lab was so important,” Harris says. “So we developed capacity through the MoExcels grant, being able to increase classroom sizes, increase our simulation lab spaces, increase access to specific training equipment that would really help us prepare our graduates for the future of nursing and other fields.”

The nursing program will expand from 50 to 60 students per cohort.&nbsp;

The application deadline is August 15th for nursing students to join the spring cohort. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.missouriwestern.edu/nursing/">missouriwestern.edu/nursing</a>.

by SARAH THOMACKSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University’s nursing program is expanding its capacity in an effort to meet workforce needs in the area.Nursing Department Chair Dr. Jacklyn Gentry says Missouri is included in the national statistics which show a nursing shortage that could continue until 2030.“One of the big drivers behind that is that 50% of the nursing workforce is over the age of 50 and quickly nearing retirement,” Gentry says. “So we have to bring younger, newer nurses into the field to continue to care for everyone.”Dr. Crystal Harris is the Interim Dean of Missouri Western’s College of Science and Health. Harris says Missouri Western communicates with area healthcare employers to determine what future workforce needs are.“Nursing was number one on the top 25 needs for workers in northwest Missouri and so we wanted to help meet that need.”Harris says they wanted to expand their nursing program to help meet that need, so they applied for and <a href="https://archive.stjosephpost.com/2019/06/25/missouri-western-receives-grant-to-benefit-nursing-program-and-area-healthcare-workforce/">received an over $500,000 MoExcels grant</a>.“What we did with that was, we wanted to increase the access, not just for nursing, but for many other programs and we wanted to develop a pipeline for local talent into health careers. Since our mission is applied learning at Missouri Western, we wanted to incorporate applied learning opportunities, and so that’s why our simulation lab was so important,” Harris says. “So we developed capacity through the MoExcels grant, being able to increase classroom sizes, increase our simulation lab spaces, increase access to specific training equipment that would really help us prepare our graduates for the future of nursing and other fields.”The nursing program will expand from 50 to 60 students per cohort.&nbsp;The application deadline is August 15th for nursing students to join the spring cohort. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.missouriwestern.edu/nursing/">missouriwestern.edu/nursing</a>.

Missouri Western's nursing program expands capacity

Buchanan County is allocating $250,000 in federal funds to
conduct a massive anti-body testing of county residents to aid in the fight
against COVID-19.

The county is partnering with Mosaic Life Care in the hopes of
testing as many as 2,500 residents.

Mosaic CEO Dr. Mark Laney says the St. Joseph hospital has
been able to handle the number of coronavirus cases coming its way.

“On any given day, right now, there’s probably 200 to 225
patients in the hospital that don’t have COVID,” Laney tells reporters in a
Monday news conference. “Recently, we’ve had 10 patients, but it’s actually
dwindled down, I think we had six this morning and none in the ICU.”

Mosaic and county officials hope the testing gives health
officials a better understanding of the spread of COVID-19 in the area, which
could lead to better strategies to combat the virus.

Buchanan County Presiding Commissioner Lee Sawyer says the
county will allocate funds forwarded to the county from state officials. The
money comes from the CARES Act approved by Congress to respond to the economic
damage caused by the coronavirus pandemic as well as fund various local responses
to COVID-19.

“Buchanan County is very excited to help to fund this process
as part of this CARES Act funding which came through the state actually from
the federal government, through the state, and we have been working very closely
with the state on just how we can spend this money to best impact, to keep our
county healthy and safe,” Sawyer says.

Laney says anti-body testing isn’t done to determine
treatment.

“It’s more of an answer relative to the public health,” Laney
says. “What degree of herd immunity do we as a county have, if any?”

Testing through the drawing of blood will begin next week on
the Mosaic St. Joseph campus. Those interested can sign up through the Mosaic
web site. Registration is set to begin on Tuesday, July 28th, at <a href="http://www.MyMLC.com/testing">www.MyMLC.com/testing</a>.

“This testing is only going to be available to individuals 12
years of age and above and we will not be doing testing on individuals that
have previously tested positive on the nasal swab, PCR test,” Laney says.

As of Monday, Mosaic had tested 17,324 area
residents with 803 testing positive for COVID-19. Mosaic says six patients are
currently being treated at the St. Joseph hospital.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595875731135.jpeg" alt="Mosaic Life Care CEO Dr. Mark Laney addresses a news conference as Buchanan County Presiding Commission Lee Sawyer looks on/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Mosaic Life Care CEO Dr. Mark Laney addresses a news conference as Buchanan County Presiding Commission Lee Sawyer looks on/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostBuchanan County is allocating $250,000 in federal funds to
conduct a massive anti-body testing of county residents to aid in the fight
against COVID-19.The county is partnering with Mosaic Life Care in the hopes of
testing as many as 2,500 residents.Mosaic CEO Dr. Mark Laney says the St. Joseph hospital has
been able to handle the number of coronavirus cases coming its way.“On any given day, right now, there’s probably 200 to 225
patients in the hospital that don’t have COVID,” Laney tells reporters in a
Monday news conference. “Recently, we’ve had 10 patients, but it’s actually
dwindled down, I think we had six this morning and none in the ICU.”Mosaic and county officials hope the testing gives health
officials a better understanding of the spread of COVID-19 in the area, which
could lead to better strategies to combat the virus.Buchanan County Presiding Commissioner Lee Sawyer says the
county will allocate funds forwarded to the county from state officials. The
money comes from the CARES Act approved by Congress to respond to the economic
damage caused by the coronavirus pandemic as well as fund various local responses
to COVID-19.“Buchanan County is very excited to help to fund this process
as part of this CARES Act funding which came through the state actually from
the federal government, through the state, and we have been working very closely
with the state on just how we can spend this money to best impact, to keep our
county healthy and safe,” Sawyer says.Laney says anti-body testing isn’t done to determine
treatment.“It’s more of an answer relative to the public health,” Laney
says. “What degree of herd immunity do we as a county have, if any?”Testing through the drawing of blood will begin next week on
the Mosaic St. Joseph campus. Those interested can sign up through the Mosaic
web site. Registration is set to begin on Tuesday, July 28th, at <a href="http://www.MyMLC.com/testing">www.MyMLC.com/testing</a>.“This testing is only going to be available to individuals 12
years of age and above and we will not be doing testing on individuals that
have previously tested positive on the nasal swab, PCR test,” Laney says.As of Monday, Mosaic had tested 17,324 area
residents with 803 testing positive for COVID-19. Mosaic says six patients are
currently being treated at the St. Joseph hospital.

Massive anti-body COVID-19 testing to be conducted in Buchanan County

Missouri lawmakers regather in Jefferson City today to pick up
legislation which became a priority of the coronavirus-shortened regular
session.

Gov. Mike Parson called the General Assembly into special
session to work further on anti-crime measures.

State Senator Tony Luetkemeyer of Parkville says the governor
has been meeting with local government leaders on the increase in violent crime
in Missouri.

“And one of the things that they talked about is that in many
of their violent cases, particularly homicides, law enforcement is unable to
bring these criminals to justice, because witnesses are intimated from coming
forward to testify out of fear of retribution,” Luetkemeyer tells St. Joseph
Post. “In other words, they’re going to get targeted by the defendant or gang
members, who might harass or try to harm them if they were to come forward and testify.”

Luetkemeyer succeeded in passing his anti-crime bill in the
regular session.

Luetkemeyer says Parson wants more, including a measure to
protect witnesses.

“And, so, much like the federal government has a federal witness
protection program where they can get people out of harm’s way, make them feel comfortable
with testifying, Missouri just doesn’t have those tools right now,” according
to Luetkemeyer. “And, so, whenever the police come forward and talk to somebody
who may have witnesses a violent crime, the first thought in their head is
well, I’m going to get hurt or injured if I try to help the police on this.”

Luetkemeyer says this special session will pick up where that
left off. Luetkemeyer says though several legislators asked the governor to
expand his call, the governor told lawmakers during a conference call he wants them
to concentrate on one issue.

“And he specifically said during that call he’s not interested
in broadening the call of the special session,” according to Luetkemeyer. “He
wants to be narrowly focused on violent crime and making sure that we’re giving
tools to prosecutors and law enforcement to be able to solve some of the
violent crime spikes that we’re seeing in our metro areas.”

Luetkemeyer says lawmakers seem poised to adopt provisions to
protect the witnesses of violent crime and the adjust juvenile criminal
statutes. He says more contentious is the governor’s proposal to lift
restrictions which require St. Louis police officers to live within the city
limits.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595858780718.jpeg" alt="Missouri Capitol in Jefferson City/Photo courtesy of Missouri House" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Capitol in Jefferson City/Photo courtesy of Missouri House</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri lawmakers regather in Jefferson City today to pick up
legislation which became a priority of the coronavirus-shortened regular
session.Gov. Mike Parson called the General Assembly into special
session to work further on anti-crime measures.State Senator Tony Luetkemeyer of Parkville says the governor
has been meeting with local government leaders on the increase in violent crime
in Missouri.“And one of the things that they talked about is that in many
of their violent cases, particularly homicides, law enforcement is unable to
bring these criminals to justice, because witnesses are intimated from coming
forward to testify out of fear of retribution,” Luetkemeyer tells St. Joseph
Post. “In other words, they’re going to get targeted by the defendant or gang
members, who might harass or try to harm them if they were to come forward and testify.”Luetkemeyer succeeded in passing his anti-crime bill in the
regular session.Luetkemeyer says Parson wants more, including a measure to
protect witnesses.“And, so, much like the federal government has a federal witness
protection program where they can get people out of harm’s way, make them feel comfortable
with testifying, Missouri just doesn’t have those tools right now,” according
to Luetkemeyer. “And, so, whenever the police come forward and talk to somebody
who may have witnesses a violent crime, the first thought in their head is
well, I’m going to get hurt or injured if I try to help the police on this.”Luetkemeyer says this special session will pick up where that
left off. Luetkemeyer says though several legislators asked the governor to
expand his call, the governor told lawmakers during a conference call he wants them
to concentrate on one issue.“And he specifically said during that call he’s not interested
in broadening the call of the special session,” according to Luetkemeyer. “He
wants to be narrowly focused on violent crime and making sure that we’re giving
tools to prosecutors and law enforcement to be able to solve some of the
violent crime spikes that we’re seeing in our metro areas.”Luetkemeyer says lawmakers seem poised to adopt provisions to
protect the witnesses of violent crime and the adjust juvenile criminal
statutes. He says more contentious is the governor’s proposal to lift
restrictions which require St. Louis police officers to live within the city
limits.

Missouri special session set to begin this morning at state Capitol

DAVIESS COUNTY—Three people were injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Sunday in Daviess County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Ford 500 driven by Melissa A. Huffman, 53, Des Moines, was northbound on Interstate 35&nbsp; four miles north of Altamont.

The driver lost control of the vehicle. It crossed the median, entered the southbound lanes and struck a 2017 Buick Enclave driven by Bobbi K. Byers, 63, Princeton, head-on.

Cameron EMS transported a 10-year-old girl from Des Moines in the Ford to Children's Mercy. They transported Huffman to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Daviess County EMS transported Byers to Cameron Regional Medical Center. All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

DAVIESS COUNTY—Three people were injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Sunday in Daviess County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Ford 500 driven by Melissa A. Huffman, 53, Des Moines, was northbound on Interstate 35&nbsp; four miles north of Altamont.The driver lost control of the vehicle. It crossed the median, entered the southbound lanes and struck a 2017 Buick Enclave driven by Bobbi K. Byers, 63, Princeton, head-on.Cameron EMS transported a 10-year-old girl from Des Moines in the Ford to Children's Mercy. They transported Huffman to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Daviess County EMS transported Byers to Cameron Regional Medical Center. All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

2 adults, 10-year-old hospitalized after Daviess Co. head-on crash

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 July 27 – Aug. 2.

<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 July 27 – Aug. 2.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.Andrew CountyRoute 48 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project over Agee Creek through early 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. 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, July 27, 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.U.S. Business Route 71 – Drainage work 0.5 miles south of Savannah, July 28U.S. Route 59 – Culvert replacement at County Road 62, July 29, 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.Route T – Pavement repair from 11th Street to 12th Terrace in Savannah, July 30Atchison CountyI-29 – Pothole patching from Route 111 (Exit 107) to Route W (Exit 99), July 27 – 31Route B – Pothole patching, July 27 – 31Routes AA and Y – Shoulder work, July 27 – 31Buchanan 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.Cook Road –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for concrete replacement over I-29, July 27 at 7 a.m. through July 28 at 7 a.m.Gene Field Road –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for concrete replacement over I-29, July 28 at 7 a.m. through July 29 at 7 a.m.Route AC –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for concrete replacement over U.S. Route 36, July 29 at 7 a.m. through July 30 at 7 a.m.Route 116 – Pothole patching 0.5 miles west of Route E, July 27I-229 – Bridge flushing, July 27 – 30I-229 and U.S. Route 36 – Pothole patching, July 27 – 30Route Y – Pothole patching 0.5 miles north of Route 116, July 28Caldwell CountyRoute 13 – Scrub seal project from the Ray County line to Route 6 (Daviess County) through JulyCarroll 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 NovemberChariton CountyRoute 129 – Drainage work from Route HH to U.S. Route 24, July 27 – 30. Flaggers will be in place to guide motorists through the work zone.Clinton CountyI-35 – Resurfacing project from the DeKalb County line to Shoal Creek through early SeptemberDaviess CountyRoute 13 – Scrub seal project from Route 6 to the Caldwell/Ray County line through JulyRoute 6 – Resurfacing project from I-35 to the Muddy Creek Bridge east of Trenton (Grundy County) through late AugustRoute 190 – Pothole patching from Route 6 to the Grundy County line, July 27 – 28Route B – Drainage work 1.5 miles east of Route 13, July 28 – 29Route V – Pothole patching, July 29 – 31DeKalb CountyRoute A –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a scrub seal project from King Road to NW Berlin Road (Gentry County), July 28, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.Route H –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from King Road to Route Z (Gentry County), July 30, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.Gentry CountyRoute A –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a scrub seal project from NW Berlin Road to King Road (DeKalb County), July 28, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.Route M –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 425th Road to Route UU, July 28, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.Route Z –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 570th Road to Route A north, July 29, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.Route H –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from Route Z to King Road (DeKalb County), July 30, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.Route H –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from Isaac Miller Trail to 540th Road, July 31, 7:30 a.m.Grundy CountyRoute 6 – Sidewalk and utility work from 4th Street to the Muddy Creek Bridge in Trenton through July. This includes Saturday work.Route 6 – Resurfacing project from the Muddy Creek Bridge east of Trenton to I-35 (Daviess County) through late AugustHarrison CountyRoute A –&nbsp;CLOSED until further notice&nbsp;from Route T to Route B due to a culvert washoutHolt 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 mid-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.Livingston CountyRoute 190 –&nbsp;CLOSED to non-emergency traffic&nbsp;for a bridge rehabilitation project over the Thompson River from 8 p.m. on July 29 through 3 p.m. on Aug. 1.&nbsp;This bridge is included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. A 10-foot width restriction is in place. The bridge rehabilitation project is expected to continue through late November. More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/livingston-us-route-65-and-route-190-bridge-deck-repairs" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/livingston-us-route-65-and-route-190-bridge-deck-repairs</a>U.S. Route 65 – Bridge rehabilitation project over the Grand River through mid-December.&nbsp;This bridge is included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. An 11.5-foot width restriction is in place. More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/livingston-us-route-65-and-route-190-bridge-deck-repairs" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/livingston-us-route-65-and-route-190-bridge-deck-repairs</a>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.&nbsp;This bridge is included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. 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, July 27 – 28Route H – Pothole patching, July 29Putnam CountyRoutes E and T – Pothole patching, July 27 – 30Sullivan 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>Routes N and T – Pothole patching, July 27 – 29

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