Congressman Sam Graves expects to see another economic
stimulus bill, but says any more help to overcome the coronavirus-induced economic
downturn needs to be more focused.

Congress quickly approved a $2 trillion stimulus package to
help an economy laid low by restrictions to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Graves points out there is a limit to what Congress can do, especially
in light of the soaring national debt.

“We’ve already passed several stimulus packages and spent
trillions and trillions of dollars, thrown that right on top of the debt and the
deficit,” Graves tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “That can’t go on
forever, either.”

The Congressional Budget Office reports the federal budget
deficit was $2.7 trillion the first nine months of the 2020 Fiscal Year, $2
trillion more than the deficit recorded during the same time period a year ago.
The national debt is approximately $25 trillion.

Graves does expect Congress to again step in to help an
economy under distress due to coronavirus-imposed restrictions. Graves says any
new federal help might first start with pumping more money into programs
already approved.

“We’re going to have to do some plus-ups, I think, with some
of these stimulus packages that we’ve had and we’ve already done that to an
extent, for instance helping out hospitals that, truly, you take Missouri, a
lot of rural hospitals out there were waiting for this wave that never came. What
was paying their bills is elective surgeries and things like that and those
hospitals were hurting,” Graves says.

Graves wants to see any new stimulus money from Washington to be
more focused. He says it needs to target those who have suffered from the
drastic drop in the economy.

“Will there be another stimulus? I think we’re going to take a
wait and see approach,” Graves says. “Let’s see where we are. The money still
has not been used up.”

Graves does expect Congress to approve more stimulus money by
late summer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594668747061.jpeg" alt="Congressman Sam Graves/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Congressman Sam Graves/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostCongressman Sam Graves expects to see another economic
stimulus bill, but says any more help to overcome the coronavirus-induced economic
downturn needs to be more focused.Congress quickly approved a $2 trillion stimulus package to
help an economy laid low by restrictions to slow the spread of COVID-19.Graves points out there is a limit to what Congress can do, especially
in light of the soaring national debt.“We’ve already passed several stimulus packages and spent
trillions and trillions of dollars, thrown that right on top of the debt and the
deficit,” Graves tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “That can’t go on
forever, either.”The Congressional Budget Office reports the federal budget
deficit was $2.7 trillion the first nine months of the 2020 Fiscal Year, $2
trillion more than the deficit recorded during the same time period a year ago.
The national debt is approximately $25 trillion.Graves does expect Congress to again step in to help an
economy under distress due to coronavirus-imposed restrictions. Graves says any
new federal help might first start with pumping more money into programs
already approved.“We’re going to have to do some plus-ups, I think, with some
of these stimulus packages that we’ve had and we’ve already done that to an
extent, for instance helping out hospitals that, truly, you take Missouri, a
lot of rural hospitals out there were waiting for this wave that never came. What
was paying their bills is elective surgeries and things like that and those
hospitals were hurting,” Graves says.Graves wants to see any new stimulus money from Washington to be
more focused. He says it needs to target those who have suffered from the
drastic drop in the economy.“Will there be another stimulus? I think we’re going to take a
wait and see approach,” Graves says. “Let’s see where we are. The money still
has not been used up.”Graves does expect Congress to approve more stimulus money by
late summer.

Congressman Graves wants changes if Congress approves another stimulus package

DEKALB COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Monday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Ford F250 driven by Trey S. Scoles, 17, Maysville, was southbound on Sharp Road four miles west of Amity.

The driver applied the brakes to the pickup and a passenger identified as Nathan L. Meek, 18, Maysville, fell off the trailer being towed.

DeKalb-Clinton Ambulance transported Meek to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Scoles was not injured and not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Monday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Ford F250 driven by Trey S. Scoles, 17, Maysville, was southbound on Sharp Road four miles west of Amity.The driver applied the brakes to the pickup and a passenger identified as Nathan L. Meek, 18, Maysville, fell off the trailer being towed.DeKalb-Clinton Ambulance transported Meek to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Scoles was not injured and not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Maysville teen hospitalized after fall from trailer 

After a long discussion during a work session on Zoom, the St. Joseph City Council agreed to put a mask mandate in place for larger businesses.

The order goes into effect today and requires that individuals wear a mask in retail stores of 10,000 square feet or more.

Mayor Bill McMurray says when the meeting started on Thursday, four on the councilmembers wanted a mask mandate and five did not. McMurray then suggested requiring masks in businesses of a certain square footage number.

“I thought, you know, most of the complaints I’ve gotten from people, it was because they were in the grocery store and they saw all kinds of people not wearing masks," McMurray says. "We don’t want to single out grocery stores, but we’d like to pick them up along with the other occupancies where people are just kind of afraid to go in or they’re unhappy or uncomfortable being in there.”

The five councilmembers who originally did not want any mask mandate agreed to what the mayor is calling a compromise.&nbsp;McMurray says feedback on the mask mandate seems to be about 70% in favor and 30% against.

“The compromise position, there are some people who like it and there are some people who don’t, it’s a little early to tell,” McMurray says. “I have noticed there are people who are very strongly in one position, one extreme or the other. Wow, this is a tough one.”

McMurray says, while he could have made an emergency order mandating masks, he wanted the support of the council.

“I’d rather have collaboration and consensus, cooperation, support from the council,” McMurray says. “If you want to look at it from a practical standpoint, I could order anything I wanted on an emergency basis and the council could overturn the order by a majority vote. So just thinking purely in terms of numbers, I wanted to make sure the majority of the council supported this. I don’t want to just… issue an order and then at a subsequent council meeting or two have the council negate that order, so I wanted to be sure we were all on the same page.”

The order is in place for 60 days, but the council will continue their weekly work sessions to reevaluate.

"What I'd like to see is getting rid of this virus and returning to normal," McMurray says. "I don't like making requirements that people have to wear masks, but the medical doctors all said this is what you should do. I don't want to abridge anyone's freedoms, especially in this country that's built on freedom, but during an emergency and a pandemic, we have to do something to curtail the spread of this."&nbsp;

Visit the <a href="https://www.stjoemo.info/AlertCenter.aspx?AID=Face-Covering-Declaration-and-Order-134">City of St. Joseph's website</a> for more information on the order.

By SARAH THOMACKSt. Joseph PostAfter a long discussion during a work session on Zoom, the St. Joseph City Council agreed to put a mask mandate in place for larger businesses.The order goes into effect today and requires that individuals wear a mask in retail stores of 10,000 square feet or more.Mayor Bill McMurray says when the meeting started on Thursday, four on the councilmembers wanted a mask mandate and five did not. McMurray then suggested requiring masks in businesses of a certain square footage number.“I thought, you know, most of the complaints I’ve gotten from people, it was because they were in the grocery store and they saw all kinds of people not wearing masks," McMurray says. "We don’t want to single out grocery stores, but we’d like to pick them up along with the other occupancies where people are just kind of afraid to go in or they’re unhappy or uncomfortable being in there.”The five councilmembers who originally did not want any mask mandate agreed to what the mayor is calling a compromise.&nbsp;McMurray says feedback on the mask mandate seems to be about 70% in favor and 30% against.“The compromise position, there are some people who like it and there are some people who don’t, it’s a little early to tell,” McMurray says. “I have noticed there are people who are very strongly in one position, one extreme or the other. Wow, this is a tough one.”McMurray says, while he could have made an emergency order mandating masks, he wanted the support of the council.“I’d rather have collaboration and consensus, cooperation, support from the council,” McMurray says. “If you want to look at it from a practical standpoint, I could order anything I wanted on an emergency basis and the council could overturn the order by a majority vote. So just thinking purely in terms of numbers, I wanted to make sure the majority of the council supported this. I don’t want to just… issue an order and then at a subsequent council meeting or two have the council negate that order, so I wanted to be sure we were all on the same page.”The order is in place for 60 days, but the council will continue their weekly work sessions to reevaluate."What I'd like to see is getting rid of this virus and returning to normal," McMurray says. "I don't like making requirements that people have to wear masks, but the medical doctors all said this is what you should do. I don't want to abridge anyone's freedoms, especially in this country that's built on freedom, but during an emergency and a pandemic, we have to do something to curtail the spread of this."&nbsp;Visit the <a href="https://www.stjoemo.info/AlertCenter.aspx?AID=Face-Covering-Declaration-and-Order-134">City of St. Joseph's website</a> for more information on the order.

St. Joseph Mayor calls current mask mandate a compromise

The tax deadline comes late this year, but it is coming soon.

IRS spokesman Michael Divine says the federal government
postponed the tax deadline after the coronavirus pandemic sent the economy into
a tailspin.

“So, the decision was made to extend the filing deadline,
generally for all taxpayers, who had any kind of filing requirements after
April 1st and moving that out to July 15th,” Divine tells
St. Joseph Post.

If you cannot make the July 15th deadline, you can
file for an extension to October 15th.

Divine says if you owe the federal government and cannot
afford to pay your taxes, file your return anyway.

“It’s always better to file the tax return even if you can’t
pay, because the failure to file penalty is 10 times larger than the failure to
pay penalty,” according to Divine. “So, file the tax return, pay what you can
if you owe, and then work with the IRS to pay that off at a later date.”

While it might be tempting to wait until the last minute to
file, Divine advises to fight that temptation.

“Let’s say that you wait and the power goes out or you lose your
Internet connection and you can’t file that return before the deadline of
midnight on the 15th. It’s technically a late return.”

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostThe tax deadline comes late this year, but it is coming soon.IRS spokesman Michael Divine says the federal government
postponed the tax deadline after the coronavirus pandemic sent the economy into
a tailspin.“So, the decision was made to extend the filing deadline,
generally for all taxpayers, who had any kind of filing requirements after
April 1st and moving that out to July 15th,” Divine tells
St. Joseph Post.If you cannot make the July 15th deadline, you can
file for an extension to October 15th.Divine says if you owe the federal government and cannot
afford to pay your taxes, file your return anyway.“It’s always better to file the tax return even if you can’t
pay, because the failure to file penalty is 10 times larger than the failure to
pay penalty,” according to Divine. “So, file the tax return, pay what you can
if you owe, and then work with the IRS to pay that off at a later date.”While it might be tempting to wait until the last minute to
file, Divine advises to fight that temptation.“Let’s say that you wait and the power goes out or you lose your
Internet connection and you can’t file that return before the deadline of
midnight on the 15th. It’s technically a late return.”

Tax deadline is looming

TOPEKA —Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly is scheduled to announce the state's plan for education in the fall this week.

A press briefing is scheduled for 3 p.m. Wednesday in the Kansas Statehouse.

Kelly will speak with Dr. Lee Norman, Secretary for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, and Dr. Randy Watson, Kansas Commissioner of Education.

Check St. Joseph Post for the latest news on the state's plan for school in the fall.

In Missouri, school districts will be allowed to have students attend every other day and learn remotely on alternating days, helping schools avoid fund penalties related to attendance.

The State Board of Education passed two emergency rules July 7, establishing hybrid instructions models for districts that want them, paving the way for districts to reopen schools.

Deputy Education Commissioner Kari Monsees said the new rules will allow schools to build on the contingency plans they already have for snow days and other short-term school closures.

School districts can either have students attend class every other day or have one group of students attend in the morning and another in the afternoon. By dividing students into two groups to attend class on alternating days and times, it will also help schools maintain adequate social distancing on buses.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594062014716.png" alt="Laura Kelly" />
 <figcaption>Laura Kelly</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly is scheduled to announce the state's plan for education in the fall this week.A press briefing is scheduled for 3 p.m. Wednesday in the Kansas Statehouse.Kelly will speak with Dr. Lee Norman, Secretary for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, and Dr. Randy Watson, Kansas Commissioner of Education.Check St. Joseph Post for the latest news on the state's plan for school in the fall.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1563621832923.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In Missouri, school districts will be allowed to have students attend every other day and learn remotely on alternating days, helping schools avoid fund penalties related to attendance.The State Board of Education passed two emergency rules July 7, establishing hybrid instructions models for districts that want them, paving the way for districts to reopen schools.Deputy Education Commissioner Kari Monsees said the new rules will allow schools to build on the contingency plans they already have for snow days and other short-term school closures.School districts can either have students attend class every other day or have one group of students attend in the morning and another in the afternoon. By dividing students into two groups to attend class on alternating days and times, it will also help schools maintain adequate social distancing on buses.

Kan. Governor will announce state plan for schools this week

An investigation is underway into the death of a Daviess County jail
inmate.

Daviess County was holding the inmate for Livingston County, which announced
the death.

Livingston County Sheriff Steve Cox reports the inmate died Saturday.
The cause of death isn’t known at this time, but the inmate did have health
issues which required medication. The inmate’s name has not been released.

The Daviess County Sheriff’s Office and the Daviess County Coroner are
investigating the death. Video from the jail and other evidence has been
preserved by the jail administration.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostAn investigation is underway into the death of a Daviess County jail
inmate.Daviess County was holding the inmate for Livingston County, which announced
the death.Livingston County Sheriff Steve Cox reports the inmate died Saturday.
The cause of death isn’t known at this time, but the inmate did have health
issues which required medication. The inmate’s name has not been released.The Daviess County Sheriff’s Office and the Daviess County Coroner are
investigating the death. Video from the jail and other evidence has been
preserved by the jail administration.

Investigation underway into Daviess County jail inmate death

GRUNDY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Sunday in Grundy County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Harley Davidson driven by Michael E. McKean, 67, Chillicothe, was westbound on MO 6 three miles west of Trenton.

The motorcycle struck a deer. Grundy County EMS transported McKean to&nbsp; &nbsp;Wright Memorial Hospital. He was wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

GRUNDY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Sunday in Grundy County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Harley Davidson driven by Michael E. McKean, 67, Chillicothe, was westbound on MO 6 three miles west of Trenton.The motorcycle struck a deer. Grundy County EMS transported McKean to&nbsp; &nbsp;Wright Memorial Hospital. He was wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man hospitalized after motorcycle strikes a deer

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 13 – 19.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at&nbsp;<a href="http://traveler.modot.org/map/" target="_blank">http://traveler.modot.org/map/</a>.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There may also be moving operations throughout the region such as pothole patching, mowing, striping, signal work, etc., in addition to the work mentioned below.

Route 48 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project over Agee Creek through mid-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. Traffic will remain head-to-head in the northbound lanes through early August. 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.

U.S. Business Route 71 – Milling from County Road 339 to Savannah, July 13

Route H – Drainage work at County Road 71, July 14

U.S. Route 169 – Drainage work from County Road 355 to Heritage Drive, July 15

Routes AA and Y – Shoulder work, July 13 – 17

Routes B and C – Pothole patching, July 13 – 17

I-29 – Guardrail repairs in preparation for a resurfacing project from south of Route O to the Platte County line. The resurfacing project is scheduled to start in August and run through mid-October.

I-229 – Bridge flushing, July 13 – 16

I-229 and U.S. Route 36 – Pothole patching, July 13 – 16

Route Y – Pothole patching 0.5 miles west of Route 116, July 14. Traffic will be reduced to one lane and flaggers will be in place to guide motorists through the work zone.

Route 116 – Pothole patching 0.5 miles west of Route E, July 15. Traffic will be reduced to one lane and flaggers will be in place to guide motorists through the work zone.

Route 13 – Bridge rehabilitation project over U.S. Route 36 in Hamilton through mid-July. The bridge will remain narrowed until repairs are complete. Westbound U.S. Route 36 will be reduced to one lane under the bridge during daylight hours.

Route Z –&nbsp;CLOSED until further notice&nbsp;from Route C to County Road 217 due to damage caused by a roadway slide

Route C –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement project due to a culvert washout at the Branch of Turkey Creek Bridge through early November

U.S. Route 24 – Resurfacing and shoulder improvement project from approximately 2 miles west of DeWitt to Route 5 in Keytesville through mid-July. Flaggers and a pilot car will direct motorists through the work zone. A 12-foot width restriction is in place.

Route TT – Pothole patching from the Linn County line to Route 139, July 14 – 15

Route E – Pothole patching from Route 139 to Route 11, July 15 – 16

I-35 – Resurfacing project from the Clay County line to just north of Route 116 through August

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

Route H –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for pothole patching from Route 33 to Hughes Road, July 13 – 14, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily

Route H –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for pothole patching from Route A to U.S. Route 69, July 15 – 16, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily

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

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

Route A –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project over the North Fork of Lost Creek through mid-July. 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/dekalb-county-route-north-fork-lost-creek-bridge" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/dekalb-county-route-north-fork-lost-creek-bridge</a>

Route Z –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from Old Havana Trail to 607th Road, July 13, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Route Z –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 570th Road to Route A, July 15, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Route M –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 425th Road to Route UU, July 16, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Route 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 August

Route A –&nbsp;CLOSED until further notice&nbsp;from Route T to Route B due to a culvert washout

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

Route H –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project over Nichols Creek through July. 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.

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

Route T –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project over Easter Creek near Oregon through mid-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 early September. These bridges are included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. A 16-foot width restriction is in place.

Route E –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for the bridge replacement project on I-29, July 13 – 17, 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily

Route TT – Pothole patching from U.S. Route 36 to the Chariton County line, July 13 – 14

U.S. Route 65 – Bridge rehabilitation project over the Grand River through mid-December. This bridge is included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. An 11.5-foot width restriction is in place. More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/livingston-us-route-65-and-route-190-bridge-deck-repairs" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/livingston-us-route-65-and-route-190-bridge-deck-repairs</a>

Route 190 – Bridge rehabilitation project over the Thompson River through late November. 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. More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/livingston-us-route-65-and-route-190-bridge-deck-repairs" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/livingston-us-route-65-and-route-190-bridge-deck-repairs</a>

Route 46 – Resurfacing project from U.S. Route 136 to U.S. Route 169 (Worth County) through mid-July. Flaggers and a pilot car will guide motorists through the work zone. An 11-foot width restriction in place.

Route OO –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for pothole patching from Imperial Road to Route 148, July 13 – 14, 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily

Route H –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for permit work north of 330th Street, July 13 – 18, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily.

Route Y – Pothole patching south of Route A, July 15

Route UU –&nbsp;CLOSED to through traffic&nbsp;for pavement repair from 100th Street to Route 5, July 13 – 14, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily

Route V – Pothole patching from U.S. Route 13 to Plum Trail, July 16

Route PP –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project over East Medicine Creek through 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/sullivan-county-route-pp-east-medicine-creek-bridge" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/sullivan-county-route-pp-east-medicine-creek-bridge</a>

Route 46 – Resurfacing project from U.S. Route 169 to U.S. Route 136 (Nodaway County) through mid-July. Flaggers and a pilot car will guide motorists through the work zone. An 11-foot width restriction in place.

<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 13 – 19.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 mid-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. Traffic will remain head-to-head in the northbound lanes through early August. 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.U.S. Business Route 71 – Milling from County Road 339 to Savannah, July 13Route H – Drainage work at County Road 71, July 14U.S. Route 169 – Drainage work from County Road 355 to Heritage Drive, July 15Atchison CountyRoutes AA and Y – Shoulder work, July 13 – 17Routes B and C – Pothole patching, July 13 – 17Buchanan CountyI-29 – Guardrail repairs in preparation for a resurfacing project from south of Route O to the Platte County line. The resurfacing project is scheduled to start in August and run through mid-October.I-229 – Bridge flushing, July 13 – 16I-229 and U.S. Route 36 – Pothole patching, July 13 – 16Route Y – Pothole patching 0.5 miles west of Route 116, July 14. Traffic will be reduced to one lane and flaggers will be in place to guide motorists through the work zone.Route 116 – Pothole patching 0.5 miles west of Route E, July 15. Traffic will be reduced to one lane and flaggers will be in place to guide motorists through the work zone.Caldwell CountyRoute 13 – Bridge rehabilitation project over U.S. Route 36 in Hamilton through mid-July. The bridge will remain narrowed until repairs are complete. Westbound U.S. Route 36 will be reduced to one lane under the bridge during daylight hours.Carroll CountyRoute Z –&nbsp;CLOSED until further notice&nbsp;from Route C to County Road 217 due to damage caused by a roadway slideRoute C –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement project due to a culvert washout at the Branch of Turkey Creek Bridge through early NovemberChariton CountyU.S. Route 24 – Resurfacing and shoulder improvement project from approximately 2 miles west of DeWitt to Route 5 in Keytesville through mid-July. Flaggers and a pilot car will direct motorists through the work zone. A 12-foot width restriction is in place.Route TT – Pothole patching from the Linn County line to Route 139, July 14 – 15Route E – Pothole patching from Route 139 to Route 11, July 15 – 16Clinton CountyI-35 – Resurfacing project from the Clay County line to just north of Route 116 through AugustI-35 – Resurfacing project from the DeKalb County line to Shoal Creek through early SeptemberRoute H –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for pothole patching from Route 33 to Hughes Road, July 13 – 14, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. dailyRoute H –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for pothole patching from Route A to U.S. Route 69, July 15 – 16, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. dailyDaviess CountyRoute 6 – Resurfacing project from I-35 to the Muddy Creek Bridge east of Trenton (Grundy County) through late AugustI-35 – Resurfacing project from Route C (Exit 78) to U.S. Route 136 (Exit 92, Harrison County) through September. The roadway may be reduced to one lane each direction with crews working around-the-clock.DeKalb CountyRoute A –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project over the North Fork of Lost Creek through mid-July. 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/dekalb-county-route-north-fork-lost-creek-bridge" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/dekalb-county-route-north-fork-lost-creek-bridge</a>Gentry CountyRoute Z –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from Old Havana Trail to 607th Road, July 13, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.Route Z –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 570th Road to Route A, July 15, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.Route M –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 425th Road to Route UU, July 16, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.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 washoutI-35 – Resurfacing project from U.S. Route 136 (Exit 92) to Route C (Exit 78, Daviess County) through September. The roadway may be reduced to one lane each direction with crews working around-the-clock.Holt CountyRoute H –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project over Nichols Creek through July. 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.U.S. Route 159 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project at the Penny Slu Bridge through mid-August.&nbsp;More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/penny-slu-bridge-replacement-and-i-29-overpass-redeck-project" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/penny-slu-bridge-replacement-and-i-29-overpass-redeck-project</a>Route T –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project over Easter Creek near Oregon through mid-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 early September. These bridges are included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. A 16-foot width restriction is in place.Route E –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for the bridge replacement project on I-29, July 13 – 17, 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. dailyLinn CountyRoute FF – Pothole patching, July 13Route TT – Pothole patching from U.S. Route 36 to the Chariton County line, July 13 – 14Livingston CountyU.S. Route 65 – Bridge rehabilitation project over the Grand River through mid-December. This bridge is included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state. An 11.5-foot width restriction is in place. More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.modot.org/livingston-us-route-65-and-route-190-bridge-deck-repairs" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/livingston-us-route-65-and-route-190-bridge-deck-repairs</a>Route 190 – Bridge rehabilitation project over the Thompson River through late November. 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. 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 – Resurfacing project from U.S. Route 136 to U.S. Route 169 (Worth County) through mid-July. Flaggers and a pilot car will guide motorists through the work zone. An 11-foot width restriction in place.Route OO –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for pothole patching from Imperial Road to Route 148, July 13 – 14, 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. dailyRoute H –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for permit work north of 330th Street, July 13 – 18, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily.Route Y – Pothole patching south of Route A, July 15Putnam CountyRoute UU –&nbsp;CLOSED to through traffic&nbsp;for pavement repair from 100th Street to Route 5, July 13 – 14, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. dailyRoute CC – Pothole patching, July 15Route V – Pothole patching from U.S. Route 13 to Plum Trail, July 16Sullivan CountyRoute PP –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project over East Medicine Creek through 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/sullivan-county-route-pp-east-medicine-creek-bridge" target="_blank">https://www.modot.org/sullivan-county-route-pp-east-medicine-creek-bridge</a>Worth CountyRoute 46 – Resurfacing project from U.S. Route 169 to U.S. Route 136 (Nodaway County) through mid-July. Flaggers and a pilot car will guide motorists through the work zone. An 11-foot width restriction in place.

Planned road work for northwest Missouri, July 13 -19

NODAWAY COUNTY—Five people were injured in an accident just before 12:30p.m. Saturday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Toyota Camry driven by Andrea J. Hornbuckle, 40, Hopkins, was northbound on Route FF three miles west of Hopkins.

The car traveled off the east side of the road, returned to the road, crossed the center line, traveled off the west side of the road down an embankment and struck a tree.

Nodaway County ambulance transported Hornbuckle and an 8-year-old&nbsp; boy both of Hopkins to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph.

Nodaway County Ambulance transported passenger Shannon S. Hornbuckle, 37, a 10-year-old boy and a 6-year-old boy, all of Hopkins to Mosaic in Maryville.&nbsp; The 6-year-old was later transferred by air ambulance to Children's Mercy.

The driver and 6-year-old were not wearing seat&nbsp; belts, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY—Five people were injured in an accident just before 12:30p.m. Saturday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Toyota Camry driven by Andrea J. Hornbuckle, 40, Hopkins, was northbound on Route FF three miles west of Hopkins.The car traveled off the east side of the road, returned to the road, crossed the center line, traveled off the west side of the road down an embankment and struck a tree.Nodaway County ambulance transported Hornbuckle and an 8-year-old&nbsp; boy both of Hopkins to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph.Nodaway County Ambulance transported passenger Shannon S. Hornbuckle, 37, a 10-year-old boy and a 6-year-old boy, all of Hopkins to Mosaic in Maryville.&nbsp; The 6-year-old was later transferred by air ambulance to Children's Mercy.The driver and 6-year-old were not wearing seat&nbsp; belts, according to the MSHP.

2 adults, 3 children hospitalized after car strikes tree in Nodaway Co.

After 43 years of decorated service in public safety, R. Keith Wood announced his retirement effective August 3, 2020. 

According to a press release from the City of Maryville, Wood has served as the Maryville Public Safety Director for the last 31 years.

Director Wood joined Maryville Public Safety as Director in 1989. Throughout his career, Wood has earned various honors and professional achievements, including graduating from the FBI National Academy. Under Wood’s leadership, Maryville is consistently ranked on annual lists of Missouri’s safest cities. Recently, Wood has been instrumental in ensuring a new public safety facility was constructed to serve community and staff for decades to come. Keith plans to continue these volunteer efforts with the Maryville Host Lions Club.

“It’s been about the people – staff, citizens, relationship with the community and department – I’ll miss the people the most.” Wood noted.

According to the city's press release, Public Safety Lieutenant Ron Christian has been named Interim Public Safety Director effective August 4, 2020.

A public retirement reception will be held from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. on Monday, August 3rd&nbsp; at the Mozingo Event Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594421317951.jpeg" alt="After 31 years with the Maryville Public Safety Department, R. Keith Wood has announced his retirement. Photo courtesy of the City of Maryville." />
 <figcaption>After 31 years with the Maryville Public Safety Department, R. Keith Wood has announced his retirement. Photo courtesy of the City of Maryville.</figcaption>
 </figure>After 43 years of decorated service in public safety, R. Keith Wood announced his retirement effective August 3, 2020. According to a press release from the City of Maryville, Wood has served as the Maryville Public Safety Director for the last 31 years.Director Wood joined Maryville Public Safety as Director in 1989. Throughout his career, Wood has earned various honors and professional achievements, including graduating from the FBI National Academy. Under Wood’s leadership, Maryville is consistently ranked on annual lists of Missouri’s safest cities. Recently, Wood has been instrumental in ensuring a new public safety facility was constructed to serve community and staff for decades to come. Keith plans to continue these volunteer efforts with the Maryville Host Lions Club.“It’s been about the people – staff, citizens, relationship with the community and department – I’ll miss the people the most.” Wood noted.According to the city's press release, Public Safety Lieutenant Ron Christian has been named Interim Public Safety Director effective August 4, 2020.A public retirement reception will be held from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. on Monday, August 3rd&nbsp; at the Mozingo Event Center.

Maryville Public Safety Director R. Keith Wood announces retirement

The Livingston County Sheriff's Office is holding a contest to give away 10 new bicycles donated by citizens and the LCSO.

According to the Sheriff's Office, the contest is open to any young person who resides in Livingston County. All prizes will be awarded during July 2020.&nbsp;LCSO employees and their families are not eligible to enter the contest.

A boys and girls bicycle for kids ages 2 to 4.

A boys and girls bicycle for kids ages 5 and 6.

To enter please download this page to color&nbsp;<a href="http://livcoso.org/plugins/show_image.php?id=3523" target="_blank">(click here)</a>&nbsp;or pick up a copy at the&nbsp;LCSO&nbsp;of the Law Enforcement K-9 and have your child color the page.&nbsp; You&nbsp;must include&nbsp;your child's name, age and a valid phone number for a parent and turn into the&nbsp;LCSO&nbsp;at 901 Webster or email to Captain Sindy Thomas at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sthomas@livcoso.org" target="_blank">sthomas@livcoso.org</a>&nbsp; Entries must be received&nbsp;by&nbsp;Wednesday, July 15, 2020 at 4 p.m.

A boys and girls bicycle for ages 7 and 8.

A boys and girls bicycle for ages 9 through 12.

To enter the contest have your child draw a picture of something to do with the sheriff's office and write an answer this question:&nbsp; What would you do if you were sheriff or deputy?&nbsp; You must include the child's name, age and valid phone number for a parent and the entry must be received&nbsp;by&nbsp;Wednesday, July 22, 2020 at 4 p.m.&nbsp; You may drop entries off at the&nbsp;LCSO&nbsp;or email to Captain Sindy Thomas as&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sthomas@livcoso.org" target="_blank">sthomas@livcoso.org</a>

A boys and girls bicycle for Livingston County residents ages 13 through 15.

To enter the contest have your child provide up to a 100 word document on "How law enforcement can better help them."&nbsp; Please include your child's name, valid phone number to contact a parent and drop off the entry at the&nbsp;LCSO&nbsp;or email to Captain Sindy Thomas at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sthomas@livcoso.org" target="_blank">sthomas@livcoso.org</a>&nbsp;by 4 p.m. July 29, 2020.

"The bicycles are new and have been donated by some wonderful people and the Livingston County Sheriff's Office to help young people in our county," says Livingston County Sheriff Steve Cox. "Winners are selected by a group of LCSO employees based on the quality and content of the submission.. We look forward to having some fun with this."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594415946405.jpeg" alt="The Livingston County Sheriff's Office is holding a bike giveaway contest. Photo courtesy the LCSO." />
 <figcaption>The Livingston County Sheriff's Office is holding a bike giveaway contest. Photo courtesy the LCSO.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Livingston County Sheriff's Office is holding a contest to give away 10 new bicycles donated by citizens and the LCSO.According to the Sheriff's Office, the contest is open to any young person who resides in Livingston County. All prizes will be awarded during July 2020.&nbsp;LCSO employees and their families are not eligible to enter the contest.To be given away July 17th:A boys and girls bicycle for kids ages 2 to 4.A boys and girls bicycle for kids ages 5 and 6.To enter please download this page to color&nbsp;<a href="http://livcoso.org/plugins/show_image.php?id=3523" target="_blank">(click here)</a>&nbsp;or pick up a copy at the&nbsp;LCSO&nbsp;of the Law Enforcement K-9 and have your child color the page.&nbsp; You&nbsp;must include&nbsp;your child's name, age and a valid phone number for a parent and turn into the&nbsp;LCSO&nbsp;at 901 Webster or email to Captain Sindy Thomas at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sthomas@livcoso.org" target="_blank">sthomas@livcoso.org</a>&nbsp; Entries must be received&nbsp;by&nbsp;Wednesday, July 15, 2020 at 4 p.m.To be given away July 24th:A boys and girls bicycle for ages 7 and 8.A boys and girls bicycle for ages 9 through 12.To enter the contest have your child draw a picture of something to do with the sheriff's office and write an answer this question:&nbsp; What would you do if you were sheriff or deputy?&nbsp; You must include the child's name, age and valid phone number for a parent and the entry must be received&nbsp;by&nbsp;Wednesday, July 22, 2020 at 4 p.m.&nbsp; You may drop entries off at the&nbsp;LCSO&nbsp;or email to Captain Sindy Thomas as&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sthomas@livcoso.org" target="_blank">sthomas@livcoso.org</a>To be given away July 31st:A boys and girls bicycle for Livingston County residents ages 13 through 15.To enter the contest have your child provide up to a 100 word document on "How law enforcement can better help them."&nbsp; Please include your child's name, valid phone number to contact a parent and drop off the entry at the&nbsp;LCSO&nbsp;or email to Captain Sindy Thomas at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sthomas@livcoso.org" target="_blank">sthomas@livcoso.org</a>&nbsp;by 4 p.m. July 29, 2020."The bicycles are new and have been donated by some wonderful people and the Livingston County Sheriff's Office to help young people in our county," says Livingston County Sheriff Steve Cox. "Winners are selected by a group of LCSO employees based on the quality and content of the submission.. We look forward to having some fun with this."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594416122986.jpeg" alt="The Livingston County Sheriff's Office is holding a bike giveaway contest. Photo courtesy the LCSO." />
 <figcaption>The Livingston County Sheriff's Office is holding a bike giveaway contest. Photo courtesy the LCSO.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Livingston Co. Sheriff's Office holding youth bike contest

BUCHANAN COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Friday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Ford F550 driven by Robert S. Vestal, 50,&nbsp; Savannah, was southbound on Interstate 29 just north of downtown St. Joseph.

The driver lost control of the vehicle when a front tire blew out. The truck traveled off the road, struck an embankment and overturned. Vestal and a passenger Tyler N. Kinnison, 23, Maryville, were ejected from the vehicle.

Buchanan County EMS transported them to Mosaic Life Care. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Friday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Ford F550 driven by Robert S. Vestal, 50,&nbsp; Savannah, was southbound on Interstate 29 just north of downtown St. Joseph.The driver lost control of the vehicle when a front tire blew out. The truck traveled off the road, struck an embankment and overturned. Vestal and a passenger Tyler N. Kinnison, 23, Maryville, were ejected from the vehicle.Buchanan County EMS transported them to Mosaic Life Care. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

2 Missouri men hospitalized after ejected when truck overturns

The St. Joseph Health Department on Friday reported a fifth COVID-19 death.

According to the health department, the individual was a man in his 60s. This is the second reported death in Buchanan County this week due to COVID-19.

As of Friday, the Health Department is reporting a total of 961 cases in Buchanan County since counting began. That includes 858 confirmed cases and 103 probable cases.

The St. Joseph Health Department on Friday reported a fifth COVID-19 death.According to the health department, the individual was a man in his 60s. This is the second reported death in Buchanan County this week due to COVID-19.As of Friday, the Health Department is reporting a total of 961 cases in Buchanan County since counting began. That includes 858 confirmed cases and 103 probable cases.

Buchanan Co. records 5th death due to COVID-19

Missouri Western State University Vice
Provost Elizabeth Kennedy has been named interim university president.

The Missouri Western Board of Governors
name Kennedy interim president, effective at the beginning of August.

A nationwide search led to Kennedy being named vice provost.
Kennedy has focused on several aspects of Missouri Western’s strategic plan,
Pathways to Excellence, including strengthening student success, creating new
partnerships and expanding applied learning.

“Elizabeth
has shown great leadership and initiative in the brief time that she has served
as our vice provost,” Board of Governor’s chair Lee Tieman said in a written
statement released by MWSU. “Her commitment to our community and to the success
of our students will be cornerstones of her tenure. We are excited to have Dr.
Kennedy as our interim president and very much appreciate her willingness to
step up and continue to guide the university forward.”

Kennedy came
to the St. Joseph campus after serving as dean of the College of Applied
Science and Technology and interim dean of the College of Health Professions at
the University of Akron. She had been at the University of Akron since 1997,
beginning as an assistant professor of social science.

Missouri
Western Athletic Director Josh Looney will take on additional duties during the
interim with Missouri Western’s external relations and advancement efforts.

President
Matt Wilson announced July 8th he is leaving Missouri Western to
become dean of Temple University Japan. Wilson will remain at the school to assist
in the transition.

The Board
of Governors will announce details on the search for a permanent president at a
later date.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594404496068.jpeg" alt="MWSU Vice Provost Elizabeth Kennedy/MWSU photo" />
 <figcaption>MWSU Vice Provost Elizabeth Kennedy/MWSU photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University Vice
Provost Elizabeth Kennedy has been named interim university president.The Missouri Western Board of Governors
name Kennedy interim president, effective at the beginning of August.A nationwide search led to Kennedy being named vice provost.
Kennedy has focused on several aspects of Missouri Western’s strategic plan,
Pathways to Excellence, including strengthening student success, creating new
partnerships and expanding applied learning.“Elizabeth
has shown great leadership and initiative in the brief time that she has served
as our vice provost,” Board of Governor’s chair Lee Tieman said in a written
statement released by MWSU. “Her commitment to our community and to the success
of our students will be cornerstones of her tenure. We are excited to have Dr.
Kennedy as our interim president and very much appreciate her willingness to
step up and continue to guide the university forward.”Kennedy came
to the St. Joseph campus after serving as dean of the College of Applied
Science and Technology and interim dean of the College of Health Professions at
the University of Akron. She had been at the University of Akron since 1997,
beginning as an assistant professor of social science.Missouri
Western Athletic Director Josh Looney will take on additional duties during the
interim with Missouri Western’s external relations and advancement efforts.President
Matt Wilson announced July 8th he is leaving Missouri Western to
become dean of Temple University Japan. Wilson will remain at the school to assist
in the transition.The Board
of Governors will announce details on the search for a permanent president at a
later date.

Missouri Western names Vice Provost Kennedy interim president

The Soles for Christ program will still be providing shoes for students in need this year, there will just be different steps taken to ensure public safety.

Marketing and Fund Development Director Nichi Seckinger with&nbsp;AFL-CIO Community Services in St. Joseph says the first-come first-served model in past years meant hundreds of people lined up in and around their building. Due to COVID-19, they are working on a different way of getting the shoes to students.

"We're working on figuring out a way to actually go to the students to give them their shoes and we're attempting to set up visitations, essentially, with each of the schools and we're going to go school to school and get them sized and get their shoes to them that way instead," Seckinger says.

The plan is to distribute shoes once school is in session and families who need shoes should communicate with their school.

Seckinger says they did not want to completely cancel the Soles for Christ program this year.

"Especially with the number of families and adults who are experiencing loss of income or have been laid off from their job or lost their job because of the pandemic," Seckinger says. "So we know that there are some people who are especially affected by this and really can use the help this year."

Soles for Christ provides shoes to preschool through 12th grade students in need in Buchanan County, Andrew County and Doniphan County, Kansas.&nbsp;

Seckinger says since there was uncertainty surrounding how to conduct the program this year, the call for donations started a little later than usual.&nbsp;Seckinger reported as of Thursday afternoon, they were approaching 100 donated pairs of shoes and they are hoping to collect at least 1,200 pairs for students in need in the area.&nbsp;

Anyone wanting to donate shoes or funds can drop them off at AFL-CIO at 1203 North 6th Street in St. Joseph. For more information, call (816)&nbsp;364-1131.

by Sarah ThomackSt. Joseph PostThe Soles for Christ program will still be providing shoes for students in need this year, there will just be different steps taken to ensure public safety.Marketing and Fund Development Director Nichi Seckinger with&nbsp;AFL-CIO Community Services in St. Joseph says the first-come first-served model in past years meant hundreds of people lined up in and around their building. Due to COVID-19, they are working on a different way of getting the shoes to students."We're working on figuring out a way to actually go to the students to give them their shoes and we're attempting to set up visitations, essentially, with each of the schools and we're going to go school to school and get them sized and get their shoes to them that way instead," Seckinger says.The plan is to distribute shoes once school is in session and families who need shoes should communicate with their school.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594402335958.jpeg" alt="Soles For Christ shoe distribution in 2016 at AFL-CIO Community Services. Photo by Sarah Thomack." />
 <figcaption>Soles For Christ shoe distribution in 2016 at AFL-CIO Community Services. Photo by Sarah Thomack.</figcaption>
 </figure>Seckinger says they did not want to completely cancel the Soles for Christ program this year."Especially with the number of families and adults who are experiencing loss of income or have been laid off from their job or lost their job because of the pandemic," Seckinger says. "So we know that there are some people who are especially affected by this and really can use the help this year."Soles for Christ provides shoes to preschool through 12th grade students in need in Buchanan County, Andrew County and Doniphan County, Kansas.&nbsp;Seckinger says since there was uncertainty surrounding how to conduct the program this year, the call for donations started a little later than usual.&nbsp;Seckinger reported as of Thursday afternoon, they were approaching 100 donated pairs of shoes and they are hoping to collect at least 1,200 pairs for students in need in the area.&nbsp;Anyone wanting to donate shoes or funds can drop them off at AFL-CIO at 1203 North 6th Street in St. Joseph. For more information, call (816)&nbsp;364-1131.

Soles for Christ changing shoe distribution process this year

State Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer of Parkville is pleased Gov. Mike
Parson has signed his anti-crime measure into law.

Luetkemeyer says Missouri is facing a crime epidemic.

“Kansas City right now is on pace to exceed its all-time
single-year number of homicides. We’ve seen, even last year, Missouri had three
of the top 12 most dangerous cities in the U.S.,” Luetkemeyer tells St. Joseph
Post. “St. Louis was number five. Kansas City number six. Springfield came in
at number 12. And then in 2016, as many of your listeners know, St. Joe
actually saw the 7th largest increase in violent crime of any city
in the country.”

Luetkemeyer says one of the main features of Senate Bill 600
would greatly restrict which convicted felons are eligible for probation.

“Over the last 10 years, about 65% of dangerous felons who are
on probation will commit another felony carrying a sentence of 10 years or more,”
according to Luetkemeyer. “And so, what (SB)600 does at its core is it ends the
catch and release practice that allows violent offenders to be out on the
streets and capable of re-offending.”

The bill has three main provisions. One would enhance the
crime of Armed Criminal Action, which is attached to charges filed against
anyone using a firearm to commit a felony. Another provision would make it much
tougher for someone committing a serious felony to be placed on probation
rather than sent to prison.

The third main provision makes changes to the state RICO and
conspiracy statutes to give prosecutors additional tools to crack down on gang
violence. 

“Because many of the shootings that happen in Kansas City,
many of the violent offenses that happen in Kansas City, are somehow connected
to some broader criminal enterprise, whether that’s drug dealer network, whether
that’s a gang.”

The change is modeled after federal RICO statutes which have
been used successfully against organized crime figures. Luetkemeyer says his
bill updates current state law which prosecutors virtually never used.

“Even though we know, particularly in a lot of urban cores, we
have a lot of issues with drug dealers and gang activity,” Luetkemeyer says.

SB 600 passed on the last day of the coronavirus-shortened
legislative session.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594398251203.jpeg" alt="Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer/Photo courtesy of the Missouri Senate" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer/Photo courtesy of the Missouri Senate</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostState Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer of Parkville is pleased Gov. Mike
Parson has signed his anti-crime measure into law.Luetkemeyer says Missouri is facing a crime epidemic.“Kansas City right now is on pace to exceed its all-time
single-year number of homicides. We’ve seen, even last year, Missouri had three
of the top 12 most dangerous cities in the U.S.,” Luetkemeyer tells St. Joseph
Post. “St. Louis was number five. Kansas City number six. Springfield came in
at number 12. And then in 2016, as many of your listeners know, St. Joe
actually saw the 7th largest increase in violent crime of any city
in the country.”Luetkemeyer says one of the main features of Senate Bill 600
would greatly restrict which convicted felons are eligible for probation.“Over the last 10 years, about 65% of dangerous felons who are
on probation will commit another felony carrying a sentence of 10 years or more,”
according to Luetkemeyer. “And so, what (SB)600 does at its core is it ends the
catch and release practice that allows violent offenders to be out on the
streets and capable of re-offending.”The bill has three main provisions. One would enhance the
crime of Armed Criminal Action, which is attached to charges filed against
anyone using a firearm to commit a felony. Another provision would make it much
tougher for someone committing a serious felony to be placed on probation
rather than sent to prison.The third main provision makes changes to the state RICO and
conspiracy statutes to give prosecutors additional tools to crack down on gang
violence. “Because many of the shootings that happen in Kansas City,
many of the violent offenses that happen in Kansas City, are somehow connected
to some broader criminal enterprise, whether that’s drug dealer network, whether
that’s a gang.”The change is modeled after federal RICO statutes which have
been used successfully against organized crime figures. Luetkemeyer says his
bill updates current state law which prosecutors virtually never used.“Even though we know, particularly in a lot of urban cores, we
have a lot of issues with drug dealers and gang activity,” Luetkemeyer says.SB 600 passed on the last day of the coronavirus-shortened
legislative session.

Sen. Luetkemeyer hopes anti-crime bill makes difference in KC & St. Joe

Buchanan County COVID-19 cases inch toward one thousand with
St. Joseph city health officials reporting 954 total cases since counting began,
852 confirmed with 102 considered probable.

The latest numbers come with the backdrop of Missouri
reporting its highest daily increase in confirmed coronavirus cases. Missouri
health officials reported 795 on Thursday, bringing the total confirmed cases
of the virus in Missouri to 25,999.

Mosaic Life Care has tested 13,733 area residents with 594
testing positive. Ten patients are now hospitalized in St. Joseph. Mosaic is awaiting
results from 219 tests.

Andrew County reports 61 cases; 53 confirmed and eight
probable.

Doniphan County, Kansas reports 27 cases.

Kansas health officials report 17,618
cases with 282 deaths.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostBuchanan County COVID-19 cases inch toward one thousand with
St. Joseph city health officials reporting 954 total cases since counting began,
852 confirmed with 102 considered probable.The latest numbers come with the backdrop of Missouri
reporting its highest daily increase in confirmed coronavirus cases. Missouri
health officials reported 795 on Thursday, bringing the total confirmed cases
of the virus in Missouri to 25,999.Mosaic Life Care has tested 13,733 area residents with 594
testing positive. Ten patients are now hospitalized in St. Joseph. Mosaic is awaiting
results from 219 tests.Andrew County reports 61 cases; 53 confirmed and eight
probable.Doniphan County, Kansas reports 27 cases.Kansas health officials report 17,618
cases with 282 deaths.

Missouri COVID-19 cases spike; Buchanan County edging toward 1K mark

<a href="https://www.usnews.com/topics/author/associated-press"></a>The coronavirus has dealt a shock to the global economy and has had an impact on many retailers.

Bed Bath &amp; Beyond plans to close about 200 stores over the next two years as its sales slid in the first quarter. The chain reported its quarterly sales dropped 49% due to temporary store closures amid the pandemic.

The company has seven locations in Kansas including Manhattan, Wichita, Lawrence, Olathe, Overland Park, Topeka, Shawnee and at&nbsp;5201 N Belt Highway in St Joseph.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594376647839.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;Associated Press<a href="https://www.usnews.com/topics/author/associated-press"></a>The coronavirus has dealt a shock to the global economy and has had an impact on many retailers.Bed Bath &amp; Beyond plans to close about 200 stores over the next two years as its sales slid in the first quarter. The chain reported its quarterly sales dropped 49% due to temporary store closures amid the pandemic.The company has seven locations in Kansas including Manhattan, Wichita, Lawrence, Olathe, Overland Park, Topeka, Shawnee and at&nbsp;5201 N Belt Highway in St Joseph.— The Buckle is seeing improving sales as more of its stores reopen. The fashion retailer said Thursday that sales for the five-week period ended July 4 rose 26.8% from a year ago. Buckle began temporarily closing stores in mid-March. Since then, it's reopened 438 stores. It runs 446 retail stores in 42 states.— Big 5 Sporting Goods is also seeing a resurgence in its business since reopening stores. The sporting goods retailer's same-store sales dropped 28.2% in the first half of the second quarter with stores shuttered, according to preliminary data. However, the metric climbed 15.5% in the second half of the quarter as stores began reopening. For the entire fiscal second quarter, same-store sales declined 4.2% compared with a year earlier.TRAVEL AND LEISURE:— The CEO of Delta Air Lines said Thursday that the surge of coronavirus cases in the Sun Belt and quarantine restrictions in northern states make the airline more cautious about adding flights. Ed Bastian told employees the recovery in air travel “is likely to be lengthy and slow,” and he encouraged them to take buyouts and early retirement to limit the need for furloughs as the airline shrinks. This month, Delta is operating about 30% of the flights it flew last July.— Carnival Corp.'s AIDA Cruises will restart sailings next month. The German cruise line will have three ships making trips: the AIDAperla will be the first to set sail on Aug. 5 from Hamburg; the AIDAmar will depart from Rostock-Warnemünde on Aug. 12 and AIDAblu will leave from Kiel on Aug. 16. Bookings are now available for interested travelers.The first cruises will take place with an adjusted passenger capacity and without calling at another port.— American Airlines and United Airlines are delaying service to Hong Kong over a new requirement to test all crew members for the coronavirus upon arrival. American Airlines planned to resume three flights a week from Dallas-Fort Worth to Hong Kong on Thursday, but has pushed flights back until Aug. 5 citing factors including travel restrictions and entry requirements. A spokesman for United Airlines said it suspended Hong Kong flights through Friday “due to recent changes in testing protocol” and is assessing future service.— Motorcycle maker Harley Davidson will eliminate 700 jobs worldwide as part of a major restructuring plan. The job losses include 500 current employees and 200 unfilled positions. The restructuring will cost about $50 million, including $42 million this quarter.— A shortage of parts from one Mexican state could force Ford to cut production at some U.S. factories, the company said. Several Ford parts-supply companies have factories in the state of Chihuahua, where the government has limited employee attendance to 50% of normal to stem the spread of coronavirus. “With our U.S. plants running at 100%, that is not sustainable,” the company said in a statement. Ford says it doesn’t expect production cuts next week, and it’s continuing to work with government officials.CENTRAL GOVERNMENTS AND BANKS:— Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin held out the possibility Thursday of more help for industries hit hard by the pandemic. “Restaurants, hotels, airlines are clearly going to be areas where they’re going to need more help,” Mnuchin said on CNBC, without providing any details. “We need to keep these airlines when the economy continues to rebound, we need to have air travel.”Congress earmarked $25 billion to help airlines cover their payroll costs through September, but massive layoffs are expected after that. United Airlines sent notices to 36,000 workers this week warning that they could be furloughed in October.Washington set aside another $25 billion for loans to the airlines, and Treasury has reached tentative agreements with 10 carriers for loans, although Mnuchin said many of the airlines won’t need those loans because they will find money on the private capital markets.— Belgium government’s health advisers are recommending making the wearing of face masks in shops mandatory to keep the spread of the coronavirus at its current low level.— Greek authorities say they are ready to reimpose public and travel restrictions next week, warning that safety guidance for COVID-19 is being frequently ignored. Cases in Greece have crept up since restrictions were lifted and international travel resumed in recent weeks.— Wells Fargo is rolling out a new fund that will help provide capital, technical support, and long-term resiliency programs to small businesses, with an emphasis on those that are minority-owned businesses.Wells Fargo will donate about $400 million in processing fees to assist small businesses in need through the Open for Business Fund.

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