The St. Joseph Police Department is looking to fill open positions at the department.  

Crime Prevention Officer Jeremy Peters says the department will hold new hire testing tomorrow. 

"We're going to start at 10am at the Remington Nature Center with our written test," Peters tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr.  "The process takes about two hours for the written test and then with a passing score on it we move to our physical agility course at the police shooting range, followed up immediately with an interview panel back at the police department." 

Currently, there are 18 open positions within the department.   

Peters says people selected from the interview panel will be sponsored by the department to attend the Missouri Western Law Enforcement Academy 

"That's about a $6,000 or $7,000 benefit to the people we're hiring, we pay for that academy, they come on board making about $18 an hour while they're going to school," Peters explains.  "Their job at that point is to pass that class, get certified, and land in uniform, once they land in uniform it goes up to about $25 an hour." 

Peters says you can register online for the event, but there will be enough tests for people if you walk in, just get there early 

"You'll want to be there by about 9:45am, that way we can get your information and get you situated, but if you can if you do have time, go onto the website there's a big button on the website that says "join SJPD"," Peters says.  "Navigate through to the job posting and then there's a button that says apply with Indeed, that will let you send a digital application into us, and then we will have your information and be ready for you for the testing period there." 

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The St. Joseph Police Department is looking to fill open positions at the department. Crime Prevention Officer Jeremy Peters says the department will hold new hire testing tomorrow. "We're going to start at 10am at the Remington Nature Center with our written test," Peters tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "The process takes about two hours for the written test and then with a passing score on it we move to our physical agility course at the police shooting range, followed up immediately with an interview panel back at the police department." Currently, there are 18 open positions within the department. Peters says people selected from the interview panel will be sponsored by the department to attend the Missouri Western Law Enforcement Academy "That's about a $6,000 or $7,000 benefit to the people we're hiring, we pay for that academy, they come on board making about $18 an hour while they're going to school," Peters explains. "Their job at that point is to pass that class, get certified, and land in uniform, once they land in uniform it goes up to about $25 an hour." Peters says you can register online for the event, but there will be enough tests for people if you walk in, just get there early "You'll want to be there by about 9:45am, that way we can get your information and get you situated, but if you can if you do have time, go onto the website there's a big button on the website that says "join SJPD"," Peters says. "Navigate through to the job posting and then there's a button that says apply with Indeed, that will let you send a digital application into us, and then we will have your information and be ready for you for the testing period there." You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

St. Joseph Police Department looking to add to the team

The St. Joseph School District feels it is in a better position than it has been in some time in the ongoing battle of students attending school.  

Superintendent Gabe Edgar believes that the early learning program has helped with attendance in the early grades 

"If you go back and you look at historical data, four to five years ago Kindergarten was our worst attendance by far in some buildings," Edgar tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "Kindergarten is a lot better today than it was a year ago, so is first grade." 

Edgar says having those structures in place from an early age helps in terms of attendance. 

Assistant Superintendent of Academic and Education Services Ashley McGinnis says several elementary schools are above 90 percent attendance, with some very close to that mark, with the middle schools shy of that mark as well 

McGinnis says it's the high schools that have seen the most challenge with getting students to come everyday 

"In the past I know we've focused a lot on giving incentives and doing gift card drawings and things of that nature, but what we're finding out is the research shows we really need parents involved and engaged with education to get kids to come to school," McGinnis explains. "So that's been a huge focus this year." 

McGinnis says one factor is trying to get back to normalcy following COVID, something that's taken longer than the district hoped 

"There were patterns and habits created during that time where if a child had a headache or a runny nose that we would just keep them home as a precautionary measure, and getting out of those bad habits and sending kids to school and allowing a nurse to examine the child before they are sent back home," McGinnis says.  "I think getting back into those routines." 

McGinnis says a relationship with the Buchanan County Prosecuting attorney and the juvenile office has been helpful but feels there is a better success rate when building relationships with families. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565308706201.jpeg" alt="sjsd st joseph school district" />
 <figcaption>sjsd st joseph school district</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The St. Joseph School District feels it is in a better position than it has been in some time in the ongoing battle of students attending school. Superintendent Gabe Edgar believes that the early learning program has helped with attendance in the early grades "If you go back and you look at historical data, four to five years ago Kindergarten was our worst attendance by far in some buildings," Edgar tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "Kindergarten is a lot better today than it was a year ago, so is first grade." Edgar says having those structures in place from an early age helps in terms of attendance. Assistant Superintendent of Academic and Education Services Ashley McGinnis says several elementary schools are above 90 percent attendance, with some very close to that mark, with the middle schools shy of that mark as well McGinnis says it's the high schools that have seen the most challenge with getting students to come everyday "In the past I know we've focused a lot on giving incentives and doing gift card drawings and things of that nature, but what we're finding out is the research shows we really need parents involved and engaged with education to get kids to come to school," McGinnis explains. "So that's been a huge focus this year." McGinnis says one factor is trying to get back to normalcy following COVID, something that's taken longer than the district hoped "There were patterns and habits created during that time where if a child had a headache or a runny nose that we would just keep them home as a precautionary measure, and getting out of those bad habits and sending kids to school and allowing a nurse to examine the child before they are sent back home," McGinnis says. "I think getting back into those routines." McGinnis says a relationship with the Buchanan County Prosecuting attorney and the juvenile office has been helpful but feels there is a better success rate when building relationships with families. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

School attendance improving in St. Joseph, but still work to do

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

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Infiniti passenger vehicle driven by a 42-year-old Bethany man was westbound on U.S. 136 two miles west of Bethany.

The driver swerved to miss a deer. The driver overcorrected and the vehicle traveled off the south side of the road, struck a ditch and overturned.

A private vehicle transported the driver to Mosaic in Albany. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

HARRISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 9p.m. Tuesday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Infiniti passenger vehicle driven by a 42-year-old Bethany man was westbound on U.S. 136 two miles west of Bethany.The driver swerved to miss a deer. The driver overcorrected and the vehicle traveled off the south side of the road, struck a ditch and overturned.A private vehicle transported the driver to Mosaic in Albany. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Mo. driver injured after he swerves to miss deer, vehicle overturns

DAVIESS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 2p.m. Tuesday in Daviess County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Chevy 2500 driven by a 52-year-old man from Gallatin was southbound on MO 13 at Route M four and one half miles south of Gallatin.

The driver attempted to turn east onto Rote M and struck a northbound 2005 Ford 500 driven by a 40-year-old woman from Gallatin.&nbsp; The impact pushed the Ford into the front of a 2022 Ford Explorer driven by a 42-year-old woman from Chillicothe, that was stationary on Route M at MO 13.

Daviess County EMS transported a 60-year-old male passenger in the Ford to Liberty Hospital. The drivers were not injured. All four were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

DAVIESS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 2p.m. Tuesday in Daviess County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Chevy 2500 driven by a 52-year-old man from Gallatin was southbound on MO 13 at Route M four and one half miles south of Gallatin.The driver attempted to turn east onto Rote M and struck a northbound 2005 Ford 500 driven by a 40-year-old woman from Gallatin.&nbsp; The impact pushed the Ford into the front of a 2022 Ford Explorer driven by a 42-year-old woman from Chillicothe, that was stationary on Route M at MO 13.Daviess County EMS transported a 60-year-old male passenger in the Ford to Liberty Hospital. The drivers were not injured. All four were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man hospitalized after 3-vehicle crash

That violent, deadly crash that shut down I-29 in extreme
northwest Missouri for hours Sunday morning began as a pursuit by Nebraska law
enforcement.

Three people died, three suffered serious injuries, and a
one-year-old escaped serious injury after the driver fleeing police hit a
bridge abutment and the car caught fire.

The Fremont County, Iowa Sheriff’s Department says a woman hospitalized
in Hamburg reported she and her one-year-old were kidnapped by a 29-year-old
acquaintance, who dropped her off at the hospital, but fled with the child.

Iowa state highway patrol troopers pursued the vehicle as it
drove south on I-29 in the northbound lanes. When the car entered Missouri, it
collided with a northbound car attempting to pass a truck. The pursued car hit
the bridge and caught fire. The other vehicle veered off the road, overturned,
ejected a passenger, and came to rest on its top.

A veteran deputy rescued the one-year-old from the burning
car. The baby was taken to the hospital to be treated for moderate injuries.
Two 18-year-olds from Kearney died in the crash. Another person was flown to
Omaha to be treated for serious injuries.

You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostThat violent, deadly crash that shut down I-29 in extreme
northwest Missouri for hours Sunday morning began as a pursuit by Nebraska law
enforcement.Three people died, three suffered serious injuries, and a
one-year-old escaped serious injury after the driver fleeing police hit a
bridge abutment and the car caught fire.The Fremont County, Iowa Sheriff’s Department says a woman hospitalized
in Hamburg reported she and her one-year-old were kidnapped by a 29-year-old
acquaintance, who dropped her off at the hospital, but fled with the child.Iowa state highway patrol troopers pursued the vehicle as it
drove south on I-29 in the northbound lanes. When the car entered Missouri, it
collided with a northbound car attempting to pass a truck. The pursued car hit
the bridge and caught fire. The other vehicle veered off the road, overturned,
ejected a passenger, and came to rest on its top.A veteran deputy rescued the one-year-old from the burning
car. The baby was taken to the hospital to be treated for moderate injuries.
Two 18-year-olds from Kearney died in the crash. Another person was flown to
Omaha to be treated for serious injuries.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Deadly I-29 crash in extreme NW Missouri began as Nebraska pursuit

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on drug allegations

Just after 11:00p.m. on Monday an officer on patrol in Atchison observed 34-year-old Cinnamon Cash walking in the area of 10th and Main Street, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

&nbsp; She was taken into custody on a Municipal Court warrant for failure to appear in court. She was subsequently found to be in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. She was taken to the County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732022198302.png" alt="Cash photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Cash photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on drug allegationsJust after 11:00p.m. on Monday an officer on patrol in Atchison observed 34-year-old Cinnamon Cash walking in the area of 10th and Main Street, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp; She was taken into custody on a Municipal Court warrant for failure to appear in court. She was subsequently found to be in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. She was taken to the County Jail.

Kan. woman who skipped court caught with methamphetamine

Buchanan County Western District Commissioner Ron Hook had a
longer election watch party than expected.

Hook has won re-election, edging out challenger Everett
Goodard, Jr. by 25 votes after a recount. Hook acknowledges it has been a
stressful week.

“I think it’s more stressful on my family, but you know I like
the outcome,” Hook tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “I’m very humbled by the
outcome. I’m very humbled by the constituents that put their faith in me and
voted for me and got us over the threshold of winning this.”

Initial totals on election night had Hook winning by 23. That
margin, well within one percent, triggered an automatic recount.

After the day-long recount Monday by the Buchanan County Clerk’s
office, Hook, a Democrat, came out on top with 7,869 votes to 7,844 cast for Goddard,
the Republican challenger.

Hook remains one of the few Democrats in the Buchanan County
Courthouse. Hook contends his party affiliation had an effect in the race,
saying he’s disappointed that many Buchanan County voters apparently looked at
the political party after the name rather than the individual on the ballot.

“That’s what’s disappointing,” Hook says. “And I’d feel the
same way whether I lost. It’s just disappointing to know that people go out
there and just vote for a party and not vote for a person.”

Unofficial results released by the Buchanan County Clerk’s
office show Republicans received big majorities from county voters on the 5th.
President-elect Donald Trump won nearly 63% of the vote. U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley,
a Republican, won more than 60% of the Buchanan County vote. Republican Congressman
Sam Graves received more than 65% of the vote. Buchanan County voters favored
Republican gubernatorial candidate, Mike Kehoe, with nearly 64% of the vote.

Hook, who has served as Western District Commissioner since 2009,
barely won re-election to another four-year term over a political newcomer.
Still, win re-election he did, if only by 25 votes.

“This job is a great job for somebody that doesn’t like to sit
around,” according to Hook. “There’s always something going. There’s always
something happening. There’s something different every day. And I’ll tell you
what it’s something that I’ve just cherished, I really have.”

Hook says he enjoys who he works with in the courthouse and
enjoys who works for him in the Western District.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732046000824.jpeg" alt="Buchanan County Western District Commissioner Ron Hook (left) participates in a St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce candidate forum with challenge Everett Goddard, Jr./file photo" />
 <figcaption>Buchanan County Western District Commissioner Ron Hook (left) participates in a St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce candidate forum with challenge Everett Goddard, Jr./file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostBuchanan County Western District Commissioner Ron Hook had a
longer election watch party than expected.It lasted a week.Hook has won re-election, edging out challenger Everett
Goodard, Jr. by 25 votes after a recount. Hook acknowledges it has been a
stressful week.“I think it’s more stressful on my family, but you know I like
the outcome,” Hook tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “I’m very humbled by the
outcome. I’m very humbled by the constituents that put their faith in me and
voted for me and got us over the threshold of winning this.”Initial totals on election night had Hook winning by 23. That
margin, well within one percent, triggered an automatic recount.After the day-long recount Monday by the Buchanan County Clerk’s
office, Hook, a Democrat, came out on top with 7,869 votes to 7,844 cast for Goddard,
the Republican challenger.Hook remains one of the few Democrats in the Buchanan County
Courthouse. Hook contends his party affiliation had an effect in the race,
saying he’s disappointed that many Buchanan County voters apparently looked at
the political party after the name rather than the individual on the ballot.“That’s what’s disappointing,” Hook says. “And I’d feel the
same way whether I lost. It’s just disappointing to know that people go out
there and just vote for a party and not vote for a person.”Unofficial results released by the Buchanan County Clerk’s
office show Republicans received big majorities from county voters on the 5th.
President-elect Donald Trump won nearly 63% of the vote. U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley,
a Republican, won more than 60% of the Buchanan County vote. Republican Congressman
Sam Graves received more than 65% of the vote. Buchanan County voters favored
Republican gubernatorial candidate, Mike Kehoe, with nearly 64% of the vote.Hook, who has served as Western District Commissioner since 2009,
barely won re-election to another four-year term over a political newcomer.
Still, win re-election he did, if only by 25 votes.Hook says he has enjoyed the job.“This job is a great job for somebody that doesn’t like to sit
around,” according to Hook. “There’s always something going. There’s always
something happening. There’s something different every day. And I’ll tell you
what it’s something that I’ve just cherished, I really have.”Hook says he enjoys who he works with in the courthouse and
enjoys who works for him in the Western District.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Commissioner Hook has to wait through recount to celebrate re-election

The Salvation Army in St. Joseph is currently accepting Christmas assistance applications for low-income families.

Major Laura Key, with Salvation Army, says there are some age restrictions. "This is for low-income families who have children, birth to 13 years old."

Key adds that income guidelines must be met in order to qualify for assistance. "If they're on food stamps, they are automatically accepted. But, if they are low income and don't meet that guideline, they can come into our office at 602 Messanie, to pick up an application. At that time, you can take it home and fill it out."

Once the applications are brought back, there is an interview process to make sure everything is filled out correctly and the income guidelines are met.

Key says once the applications are approved, appointment cards will be issued which will have information on when applicants can come in and receive their toys.

Key adds, "We have a big gymnasium and we put the toys and clothes out so parents can shop for their children." 

Key stresses that during the distribution of toys and clothes, only parents are allowed inside. "We do not allow children to come into the building at all on those days."

The Salvation Army has several donation sites around St. Joseph for residents to donate toys and clothes. The distribution dates are December 18th and 19th.

It was noted that senior citizens who qualify will receive a gift voucher for holiday meals.&nbsp;

Low income families can apply for holiday assistance until December 13th.

By RYAN SKAITHSt. Joseph PostThe Salvation Army in St. Joseph is currently accepting Christmas assistance applications for low-income families.Major Laura Key, with Salvation Army, says there are some age restrictions. "This is for low-income families who have children, birth to 13 years old."Key adds that income guidelines must be met in order to qualify for assistance. "If they're on food stamps, they are automatically accepted. But, if they are low income and don't meet that guideline, they can come into our office at 602 Messanie, to pick up an application. At that time, you can take it home and fill it out."Once the applications are brought back, there is an interview process to make sure everything is filled out correctly and the income guidelines are met.Key says once the applications are approved, appointment cards will be issued which will have information on when applicants can come in and receive their toys.Key adds, "We have a big gymnasium and we put the toys and clothes out so parents can shop for their children." Key stresses that during the distribution of toys and clothes, only parents are allowed inside. "We do not allow children to come into the building at all on those days."The Salvation Army has several donation sites around St. Joseph for residents to donate toys and clothes. The distribution dates are December 18th and 19th.It was noted that senior citizens who qualify will receive a gift voucher for holiday meals.&nbsp;Low income families can apply for holiday assistance until December 13th.

St. Joseph Salvation Army accepting Christmas assistance applications

A long-time observer of the Missouri River believes the Army
Corps of Engineers has begun to change how it manages the river now that the
right pressure has been applied.

Tom Waters of Orrick chairs the Missouri Levees and Drainage
District Association. Waters says change began after governors from Missouri,
Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa joined forces in demanding change.

“Since the 2019 flood, when the governors from four states got
together and told the Corps we’ve got to do something different here, what they’ve
been doing isn’t working,” Waters tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.&nbsp; “And so those four governors coming together
and then eight senators from those states talking to the Corps and saying we’ve
got to move in a different direction. I think the Corps has listened.”

Since the four states banned together to ask for change, the
Corps has been concentrating on points along the Missouri River that
recurrently flood, often called choke points along the river. Floodwaters in
2019 spilled out in the same areas they had in 2011 and 1993, causing widespread
damage to property and crops, disrupting transportation along I-29 and other
major roadways; disrupting lives.

Waters credits officials from the four lower Missouri River
states, who set aside regional interests and together asked the Corps of Engineers
to reexamine its management as well as the flood prevention structures on the
river.

“Isn’t that funny how four governors and eight senators can encourage
the Corps to do a little better job of listening?” Waters jokes. “That’s what’s
happening. They’ve really made a real effort to reach out to stakeholders and to
talk to people and try to find ways to do some positive things. So, I’m
encouraged.”

Waters says the Corps has already made changes to the Kansas
City levees and has launched a feasibility study to address problems in Holt
County, where the Corps is considering setbacks and levee changes at a
particularly troublesome area. Feasibility studies also are underway in
Jefferson City and Brunswick, which have both experienced recurrent flooding.

“It’s a slow, slow process as anything is with the government,”
Waters says. “But we’re going to get there, I think, and things look more
positive now than in the 30 years I’ve been dealing with the river.”

Waters says the efforts have spawned real change, not just
superficial action.

“In my mind, we’re moving forward in a direction that we’re
going to see some positive changes. It’s been 30 years since we’ve seen them talk
about building a new levee or improving levees.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732029603091.jpeg" alt="File photo from 2019 Missouri River flood" />
 <figcaption>File photo from 2019 Missouri River flood</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA long-time observer of the Missouri River believes the Army
Corps of Engineers has begun to change how it manages the river now that the
right pressure has been applied.Tom Waters of Orrick chairs the Missouri Levees and Drainage
District Association. Waters says change began after governors from Missouri,
Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa joined forces in demanding change.“Since the 2019 flood, when the governors from four states got
together and told the Corps we’ve got to do something different here, what they’ve
been doing isn’t working,” Waters tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.&nbsp; “And so those four governors coming together
and then eight senators from those states talking to the Corps and saying we’ve
got to move in a different direction. I think the Corps has listened.”Since the four states banned together to ask for change, the
Corps has been concentrating on points along the Missouri River that
recurrently flood, often called choke points along the river. Floodwaters in
2019 spilled out in the same areas they had in 2011 and 1993, causing widespread
damage to property and crops, disrupting transportation along I-29 and other
major roadways; disrupting lives.Waters credits officials from the four lower Missouri River
states, who set aside regional interests and together asked the Corps of Engineers
to reexamine its management as well as the flood prevention structures on the
river.“Isn’t that funny how four governors and eight senators can encourage
the Corps to do a little better job of listening?” Waters jokes. “That’s what’s
happening. They’ve really made a real effort to reach out to stakeholders and to
talk to people and try to find ways to do some positive things. So, I’m
encouraged.”Waters says the Corps has already made changes to the Kansas
City levees and has launched a feasibility study to address problems in Holt
County, where the Corps is considering setbacks and levee changes at a
particularly troublesome area. Feasibility studies also are underway in
Jefferson City and Brunswick, which have both experienced recurrent flooding.“It’s a slow, slow process as anything is with the government,”
Waters says. “But we’re going to get there, I think, and things look more
positive now than in the 30 years I’ve been dealing with the river.”Waters says the efforts have spawned real change, not just
superficial action.“In my mind, we’re moving forward in a direction that we’re
going to see some positive changes. It’s been 30 years since we’ve seen them talk
about building a new levee or improving levees.”You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Real change seems to be coming to management of Missouri River

Western District Buchanan County Commissioner Ron Hook
actually picked up a couple of votes in a recount from Election Day, winning
re-election in a tight race over challenger Everett Goddard, Jr.

The recount conducted by the Buchanan County Clerk’s office,
overseen by the two candidates and nonpartisan observers, found Hook, a
Democrat, received 7,869 votes to 7,844 for Goddard, a
Republican. That is a 25-vote difference.

At the end of election night, Hook had won re-election by 23
votes.

The clerk’s office ran the ballots through the vote-counting
machines a second time during the recount.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostWestern District Buchanan County Commissioner Ron Hook
actually picked up a couple of votes in a recount from Election Day, winning
re-election in a tight race over challenger Everett Goddard, Jr.The recount conducted by the Buchanan County Clerk’s office,
overseen by the two candidates and nonpartisan observers, found Hook, a
Democrat, received 7,869 votes to 7,844 for Goddard, a
Republican. That is a 25-vote difference.At the end of election night, Hook had won re-election by 23
votes.The clerk’s office ran the ballots through the vote-counting
machines a second time during the recount.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Hook wins recount, re-election as Buchanan CO Western District Commissioner

ATCHISON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Monday in Atchison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Toyota Camry driven by a 79-year-old Lawrence, Kansas, man was northbound on Interstate 29 approximately three miles south of Rock Port.

The car rear-ended a 2020 Freightliner semi driven by a 32-year-old from Council Bluffs, Iowa. After impact the Toyota traveled into the driving lane and a 2022 Freightliner semi driven by a 52-year-old woman from Omaha, Nebraska, rear-ended the car and overturned

EMS transported the Toyota driver and driver of the 2022 Freightliner to Nemaha County Hospital.&nbsp; The semi driver was later transferred to Bergan Mercy Hospital. The driver of the 2020 semi was not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

ATCHISON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Monday in Atchison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Toyota Camry driven by a 79-year-old Lawrence, Kansas, man was northbound on Interstate 29 approximately three miles south of Rock Port.The car rear-ended a 2020 Freightliner semi driven by a 32-year-old from Council Bluffs, Iowa. After impact the Toyota traveled into the driving lane and a 2022 Freightliner semi driven by a 52-year-old woman from Omaha, Nebraska, rear-ended the car and overturnedEMS transported the Toyota driver and driver of the 2022 Freightliner to Nemaha County Hospital.&nbsp; The semi driver was later transferred to Bergan Mercy Hospital. The driver of the 2020 semi was not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Two hospitalized after 3-vehicle rear-end crash

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating a car theft have made an arrest.&nbsp;

On Saturday evening a 72-year-old victim reported the theft of her 2011 Ford Focus from the 400 block Mound Street in Atchison by a person known to the victim, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Just after 9:30p.m. Saturday, police recovered the vehicle and a 34-year-old suspect was taken into custody.&nbsp; Mary C. McDonald, 34, Atchison, is being held in the county jail on requested charges of theft.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731942432522.png" alt="McDonald photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>McDonald photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating a car theft have made an arrest.&nbsp;On Saturday evening a 72-year-old victim reported the theft of her 2011 Ford Focus from the 400 block Mound Street in Atchison by a person known to the victim, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.Just after 9:30p.m. Saturday, police recovered the vehicle and a 34-year-old suspect was taken into custody.&nbsp; Mary C. McDonald, 34, Atchison, is being held in the county jail on requested charges of theft.

Kansas woman accused of vehicle theft

St. Joseph Christian's Lexi McDaniel, the top softball recruit in the nation, is continuing her career at a college softball powerhouse.   

The Oklahoma Sooners softball team have won national championships four years in a row, and six out of the last eight, and have yet another number one recruiting class in the country, which includes McDaniel 

McDaniel says it's almost unexplainable of how it feels to know she'll be a part of the run Sooner's softball is on.  

"The feeling, the emotions, just everything about it is so cool and it's just an amazing opportunity that I'm so excited to be a part of," McDaniel tells reporters following her signing. 

McDaniel officially signed her letter of intent on Monday, after announcing her commitment last year. 

McDaniel says what drew her to Oklahoma was the culture 

"All of the people there were fantastic, the coaching staff was absolutely amazing, the girls who are already there just really love the program and buy into the program and I knew that that's the type of people I wanted to put myself around," McDaniel says. "And obviously, they are definitely very good, and it's just super cool that I get to experience this and work to be the best that I can." 

McDaniel is only the second Division One commit in the history of St. Joseph Christian.   

McDaniel has played solely organization softball over her career, with St. Joseph Christian not having a softball team, starting with the Aces organization out of Kansas City. 

Aces head coach Ryan Taylor says he began to see something special in McDaniel in her second year of 14U, beginning to separate herself offensively. 

"Not just within the organization, but throughout the country, to where you're like ok there's something here, right, the swings special and it's not just against a few pitchers it's against some of the kids that people are touting as the best pitchers in the country, not only at her age group but also at older age groups," Taylor explains.  "And you start to see her just really gain traction in that and start her climb." 

McDaniel began working with Aces at 12 years old.  In her career thus far, she has 578 hits, 93 home runs and has scored 461 runs to be the club's all-time leader. 

McDaniel says she'll play wherever legendary Oklahoma coach Patty Gasso needs her to, though she has primary played in the infield, and does not know if she'll play right away.  

She has one tournament left this fall for the Ace's and will play in the spring and summer as well before heading to Norman, Oklahoma to join the Sooners. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731973442427.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Christian's Lexi McDaniel, the top softball recruit in the nation, officially signed her letter of intent to join the Oklahoma Sooners softball team/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Christian's Lexi McDaniel, the top softball recruit in the nation, officially signed her letter of intent to join the Oklahoma Sooners softball team/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post St. Joseph Christian's Lexi McDaniel, the top softball recruit in the nation, is continuing her career at a college softball powerhouse. The Oklahoma Sooners softball team have won national championships four years in a row, and six out of the last eight, and have yet another number one recruiting class in the country, which includes McDaniel McDaniel says it's almost unexplainable of how it feels to know she'll be a part of the run Sooner's softball is on. "The feeling, the emotions, just everything about it is so cool and it's just an amazing opportunity that I'm so excited to be a part of," McDaniel tells reporters following her signing. McDaniel officially signed her letter of intent on Monday, after announcing her commitment last year. McDaniel says what drew her to Oklahoma was the culture "All of the people there were fantastic, the coaching staff was absolutely amazing, the girls who are already there just really love the program and buy into the program and I knew that that's the type of people I wanted to put myself around," McDaniel says. "And obviously, they are definitely very good, and it's just super cool that I get to experience this and work to be the best that I can." McDaniel is only the second Division One commit in the history of St. Joseph Christian. McDaniel has played solely organization softball over her career, with St. Joseph Christian not having a softball team, starting with the Aces organization out of Kansas City. Aces head coach Ryan Taylor says he began to see something special in McDaniel in her second year of 14U, beginning to separate herself offensively. "Not just within the organization, but throughout the country, to where you're like ok there's something here, right, the swings special and it's not just against a few pitchers it's against some of the kids that people are touting as the best pitchers in the country, not only at her age group but also at older age groups," Taylor explains. "And you start to see her just really gain traction in that and start her climb." McDaniel began working with Aces at 12 years old. In her career thus far, she has 578 hits, 93 home runs and has scored 461 runs to be the club's all-time leader. McDaniel says she'll play wherever legendary Oklahoma coach Patty Gasso needs her to, though she has primary played in the infield, and does not know if she'll play right away. She has one tournament left this fall for the Ace's and will play in the spring and summer as well before heading to Norman, Oklahoma to join the Sooners. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

St. Joseph Christian's Lexi McDaniel officially signs to play softball at Oklahoma

Mosaic Life Care Trustee, Serena Naylor, has been named
Trustee of the Year by the Missouri Hospital Association.

The association presented Naylor the award during its annual
convention in Kansas City, honoring her for her service to both Mosaic Life
Care and Mosaic Medical Center-Albany.

“Serena Naylor is a tireless supporter of Mosaic Life Care and
her community of Albany, Mo.,” Jon D. Doolittle, MHA President and CEO, said in
a written statement released by MHA. “She understands the importance of the
hospital to Albany, and as a board leader in both Albany and Mosaic Life Care
in St. Joseph, translates her passion into building value and access to care in
communities throughout northwest Missouri.”

Naylor has served on the Albany hospital board since 2003 when
it was the Northwest Medical Center. She has served as chair since 2013. When
it transitioned to Mosaic, a move she supported, Naylor became chair of the hospital
foundation board. In 2014, Naylor joined the Mosaic Life Care board in St.
Joseph. 

The association says that during her tenure on the board, she
has been influential in supporting and strengthening Mosaic Life Care under her
banner of “keep local care, local.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731959551688.jpeg" alt="Mosaic Life Care Trustee, Serena Naylor, is presented the MHA Trustee of the Year Award by MHA Board Chair, Alan Greimann/Photo courtesy of MHA" />
 <figcaption>Mosaic Life Care Trustee, Serena Naylor, is presented the MHA Trustee of the Year Award by MHA Board Chair, Alan Greimann/Photo courtesy of MHA</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMosaic Life Care Trustee, Serena Naylor, has been named
Trustee of the Year by the Missouri Hospital Association.The association presented Naylor the award during its annual
convention in Kansas City, honoring her for her service to both Mosaic Life
Care and Mosaic Medical Center-Albany.“Serena Naylor is a tireless supporter of Mosaic Life Care and
her community of Albany, Mo.,” Jon D. Doolittle, MHA President and CEO, said in
a written statement released by MHA. “She understands the importance of the
hospital to Albany, and as a board leader in both Albany and Mosaic Life Care
in St. Joseph, translates her passion into building value and access to care in
communities throughout northwest Missouri.”Naylor has served on the Albany hospital board since 2003 when
it was the Northwest Medical Center. She has served as chair since 2013. When
it transitioned to Mosaic, a move she supported, Naylor became chair of the hospital
foundation board. In 2014, Naylor joined the Mosaic Life Care board in St.
Joseph. The association says that during her tenure on the board, she
has been influential in supporting and strengthening Mosaic Life Care under her
banner of “keep local care, local.”You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Mosaic's Naylor named Trustee of the Year by Missouri Hospital Assoc.

ATCHISON COUNTY—Three people died in an accident that occurred just after 7a.m. Sunday in Atchison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Kia Sorento driven by a 29-year-old Bellevue, Nebraska man and a 2023 Chevy Tahoe driven by a Sidney, Iowa man were southbound in the northbound lanes of Interstate 29 six miles north of Watson.

The KIA struck the front of a northbound 2013 Ford Focus driven by an 18-year-old from Kearney, Missouri.

After impact the Kia continued southbound, traveled off the west side of the road, struck a bridge abutment and caught fire. The Ford Focus traveled off the west side of the road, rolled and a passenger was ejected.

A northbound 2024 Volvo semi driven by a 30-year-old man from Ontario, Canada swerved to avoid the crash and struck the southbound 2023 Chevy Tahoe.

The teen driver of the Ford, an 18-year-old passenger in the Ford from Kearney, Missouri and the 29-year-old driver of the Kia were pronounced dead at the scene.

EMS transported a 1-year-old male passenger in the Kia and the driver of the Tahoe to the hospital in Hamburg, Iowa. Lifenet transported an 18-year-old female passenger in the Ford to Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha.&nbsp; &nbsp;The 1-year-old in the Kia and an 18-year-old in Ford were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

ATCHISON COUNTY—Three people died in an accident that occurred just after 7a.m. Sunday in Atchison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Kia Sorento driven by a 29-year-old Bellevue, Nebraska man and a 2023 Chevy Tahoe driven by a Sidney, Iowa man were southbound in the northbound lanes of Interstate 29 six miles north of Watson.The KIA struck the front of a northbound 2013 Ford Focus driven by an 18-year-old from Kearney, Missouri.After impact the Kia continued southbound, traveled off the west side of the road, struck a bridge abutment and caught fire. The Ford Focus traveled off the west side of the road, rolled and a passenger was ejected.A northbound 2024 Volvo semi driven by a 30-year-old man from Ontario, Canada swerved to avoid the crash and struck the southbound 2023 Chevy Tahoe.The teen driver of the Ford, an 18-year-old passenger in the Ford from Kearney, Missouri and the 29-year-old driver of the Kia were pronounced dead at the scene.EMS transported a 1-year-old male passenger in the Kia and the driver of the Tahoe to the hospital in Hamburg, Iowa. Lifenet transported an 18-year-old female passenger in the Ford to Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha.&nbsp; &nbsp;The 1-year-old in the Kia and an 18-year-old in Ford were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.&nbsp;

3 dead after 4-vehicle NW Missouri crash

A new program at Missouri Western State University will help students getting into nursing to make college more affordable.  

The Nursing Scholars of Promise program, a collaboration with Mosaic Life Care, will hope to address the nursing shortage at Mosaic.  

Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy says one of the biggest barriers to get into nursing, is how much it costs 

"Even at Missouri Western, even though our tuition we are committed to keeping it low, we are the fourth lowest in the state, we have revamped our scholarships to be able to provide more students with more funds, but that's a barrier, how am I going to pay for college," Kennedy tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr.  

The program will provide tuition, through the first three years, as well as a career and academic support to students who agree to work for Mosaic Life Care for at least four years after graduation.  

Kennedy says students will have to apply for the program, and it is competitive, but its designed to help in a couple different ways 

"First of all, Mosaic has agreed to pay for two years of tuition and fees, and with what we can do at the University we'll be able to cover at least another year," Kennedy explains. "So that's 75% or three years of a four-year degree in nursing, and what will happen is we will have a mentor that will be working with these students." 

Kennedy says part of the program, by partnering with Mosaic, will allow students to work part time at the hospital, starting out at entry level positions 

"To learn what is a hospital like, what is the organization like," Kennedy says.  "And as they progress through the program and they gain more skills, they'll move to a nurses aid, to a nursing assistant, but all the while working 12 hours a week during the academic year, and if it works out Mosaic has even said they'll offer them part time work in the summer." 

Kennedy says the whole focus of the program is to help provide high level experienced nurses to Mosaic, and keep students in the area, with them already being part of the Mosaic system through the program. 

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731949264537.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy and Mosaic Life Care CEO Mike Poore sign an agreement for the Nursing Scholars of Promise program/ Photo courtesy of Missouri Western on X" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy and Mosaic Life Care CEO Mike Poore sign an agreement for the Nursing Scholars of Promise program/ Photo courtesy of Missouri Western on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post A new program at Missouri Western State University will help students getting into nursing to make college more affordable. The Nursing Scholars of Promise program, a collaboration with Mosaic Life Care, will hope to address the nursing shortage at Mosaic. Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy says one of the biggest barriers to get into nursing, is how much it costs "Even at Missouri Western, even though our tuition we are committed to keeping it low, we are the fourth lowest in the state, we have revamped our scholarships to be able to provide more students with more funds, but that's a barrier, how am I going to pay for college," Kennedy tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. The program will provide tuition, through the first three years, as well as a career and academic support to students who agree to work for Mosaic Life Care for at least four years after graduation. Kennedy says students will have to apply for the program, and it is competitive, but its designed to help in a couple different ways "First of all, Mosaic has agreed to pay for two years of tuition and fees, and with what we can do at the University we'll be able to cover at least another year," Kennedy explains. "So that's 75% or three years of a four-year degree in nursing, and what will happen is we will have a mentor that will be working with these students." Kennedy says part of the program, by partnering with Mosaic, will allow students to work part time at the hospital, starting out at entry level positions "To learn what is a hospital like, what is the organization like," Kennedy says. "And as they progress through the program and they gain more skills, they'll move to a nurses aid, to a nursing assistant, but all the while working 12 hours a week during the academic year, and if it works out Mosaic has even said they'll offer them part time work in the summer." Kennedy says the whole focus of the program is to help provide high level experienced nurses to Mosaic, and keep students in the area, with them already being part of the Mosaic system through the program. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

MWSU and Mosaic team up to make nursing education more affordable

More money has been set aside for a treatment
seen as effective for Missouri military members and first responders suffering
from post-traumatic stress disorder.

State Sen. Rusty Black of Chillicothe
sponsored the legislation setting aside $4.3 million to pay for the treatment.

“And there’s a clinic in north Kansas City
providing this service to veterans, first responders at no cost,” Black tells
KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “It’s about a four-week treatment and it’s been very
successful. Matter of fact, the clinic in north Kansas City – there’s 116
clinics in the world – and they were number one, in the world, with treatment
outcomes for the last two quarters.”

Black has been a champion of the treatment ever
since facing the problem close to home. Black says he and his wife went out of
state to get treatment for their son who returned from an overseas military
mission suffering from PTSD and alcoholism, threatening to take his life.

“This was a form of treatment that we found in
Texas at a facility that made a tremendous amount of difference for our son and
he’s a strong advocate for it,” Black says. “And I believe we’re seeing all
kinds of proof where this is a very good benefit – and it doesn’t mean that
there are not other good treatments – but this is one I sure have my heart and
mind set on.”

Another clinic is opening in Lee’s Summit and plans
call for a mobile unit to be funded to serve rural Missouri.

“We probably can’t start a clinic in every
community, because there’s not enough people to be able to sustain that,” Black
says. “But, if we can start a mobile unit that can move around rural parts of
the state and help veterans and first responders, it’s very valuable.”

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMore money has been set aside for a treatment
seen as effective for Missouri military members and first responders suffering
from post-traumatic stress disorder.State Sen. Rusty Black of Chillicothe
sponsored the legislation setting aside $4.3 million to pay for the treatment.“And there’s a clinic in north Kansas City
providing this service to veterans, first responders at no cost,” Black tells
KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “It’s about a four-week treatment and it’s been very
successful. Matter of fact, the clinic in north Kansas City – there’s 116
clinics in the world – and they were number one, in the world, with treatment
outcomes for the last two quarters.”Black has been a champion of the treatment ever
since facing the problem close to home. Black says he and his wife went out of
state to get treatment for their son who returned from an overseas military
mission suffering from PTSD and alcoholism, threatening to take his life.“This was a form of treatment that we found in
Texas at a facility that made a tremendous amount of difference for our son and
he’s a strong advocate for it,” Black says. “And I believe we’re seeing all
kinds of proof where this is a very good benefit – and it doesn’t mean that
there are not other good treatments – but this is one I sure have my heart and
mind set on.”Another clinic is opening in Lee’s Summit and plans
call for a mobile unit to be funded to serve rural Missouri.“We probably can’t start a clinic in every
community, because there’s not enough people to be able to sustain that,” Black
says. “But, if we can start a mobile unit that can move around rural parts of
the state and help veterans and first responders, it’s very valuable.”You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

More money set aside for PTSD treatment for veterans, 1st responders

BROWN COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 8:30p.m. Sunday in Brown County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Kia Sorento driven by Richard E.&nbsp;Childress, 76, Hiawatha, was eastbound on U.S. 36 approaching Goldfinch Road&nbsp; four and one hald miles east of Fairview.

The SUV traveled off the the roadway to the north, traveled eastbound in the ditch, struck a highway sign, vaulted, rolled and the driver was ejected.

Childress was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Chapel Oaks Funeral Home. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.&nbsp;&nbsp;

BROWN COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 8:30p.m. Sunday in Brown County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Kia Sorento driven by Richard E.&nbsp;Childress, 76, Hiawatha, was eastbound on U.S. 36 approaching Goldfinch Road&nbsp; four and one hald miles east of Fairview.The SUV traveled off the the roadway to the north, traveled eastbound in the ditch, struck a highway sign, vaulted, rolled and the driver was ejected.Childress was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Chapel Oaks Funeral Home. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas man dies after ejected in violent rollover crash

#9 Benedictine breaks records in win over William Woods

The #9 Benedictine Ravens closed out the regular season with a record breaking win over William Woods at NCAC Stadium in Fulton, winning 86-0 and securing a share of the Heart South conference title.&nbsp;

The Ravens set records for single game points as well as rushing yards allowed in the win.&nbsp;&nbsp;The previous record for points was 84 and was set during the 2018 season in a home win over Graceland. The Ravens held the Owls to minus-61 yards rushing, breaking a 24-year-old record previously set at minus-58 yards against Graceland during the 2000 season.

The Ravens jumped out to a 17-0 lead after the first quarter. Harry Balke connected on a pair of field goals – 35 yards and 28 yards – while the Ravens scored 4 points off 2 safeties before Joseph Lagafuiana returned the second free kick for a 98-yard return to make it 17-0.

Benedictine exploded for 41 points in the second quarter and Jackson Dooley went to the air, connecting on 5 touchdown passes to break the Ravens single-season passing record. He connected on a 10-yard pass to Matthew Sanford, a 35-yard pass to Jacob Gathright, and an 8-yard pass to Lagafuiana to tie the record at 33 passing touchdowns. He broke the record on a 46-yard pass to Lagafuiana and then added to his record with a 5-yard pass to Kameron Dover.

Special Teams capped off the first-half scoring after Dylan Witherspoon blocked a punt at the William Woods 30-yard line that found its way to the end zone where it was recovered by Trey Williams for a touchdown to send the Ravens into halftime leading 58-0.

Three more touchdowns put the Ravens on the cusp of the scoring record in the third quarter on a touchdown pass from Kaden Austin to Sanford for 8-yards. That was followed up by a 7-yard rushing touchdown from Jonah Roberts and a 7-yard rushing touchdown from Robbie Sharp to make it 79-0 headed into the fourth quarter.

Austin hit Callahan Huston on a pass that Huston broke loose for 60 yards to give the Ravens the new scoring record and end the scoring for the game.

Dooley finished with 136 yards on 10 of 18 passing with 5 touchdowns while Austin went 3 of 5 with 2 touchdowns. JJ Jackson led the Ravens with 68 yards on 12 carries, followed by Sharp with 56 yards, Xavier Ugorji with 45, Roberts with 32, and Dalton Witherspoon with 34. Lagafuiana finished with 54 yards receiving on 2 catches while Jacob Gathright added 36 yards on 2 catches.

Defensively, Benedictine finished with 5 sacks for a loss of 56 yards, 8 tackles for a loss of 72 yards, four forced fumbles with two fumble recoveries, and 3 interceptions.

The Ravens finished the season 9-2 (5-1 Heart South).&nbsp;The 2024 NAIA Football Championship Selection Show is scheduled for 6 p.m. Sunday where the Ravens will learn their postseason seeding for the FCS.

Big second half helps Missouri Western close out season with victory

The Missouri Western Griffons overcame six turnovers and 10 penalties and scored a 30-16 win over Quincy in the regular season finale at Spratt Memorial Stadium on Saturday.&nbsp;

The scoring got started for Missouri Western on the defensive side of the ball when senior Jaden Brown forced a fumble, allowing junior Kienen Gaskin to scoop and score giving the Griffons an early lead.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Griffons offense struggled to find rhythm early, their first two drives resulting in interceptions, allowing Quincy to take a lead behind a 22 yard field goal from Michael Owens and a four yard rushing score from Teon Dollard, but Missouri Western managed to take the lead back just before the end of the quarter,&nbsp; Branden Berwald connecting with senior Tyler Carey for a 64-yard touchdown - Carey's third touchdown catch of over 60 yards this season.

In the second quarter, a missed field goal, a lost fumble and an interception plagued the offensive attack from Missouri Western, allowing the Hawks to regain the lead with a 24-yard touchdown pass from Drake Davis to Dollard, the lone score of the frame, giving Quincy a 16-14 lead at the halftime break.

Senior Cody Watson added to his historic career by successfully making his program-leading 42nd field goal from 27 yards away to put the Griffons ahead&nbsp; in&nbsp; the opening drive of the second half. Additionally, Watson tied Dustin Strickler for the most extra points (PATs) made in a Griffon uniform, reaching a total of 122, which was also his final try in college.

The Griffons clinched the season finale with a strong performance in the fourth quarter. Junior running back Jayden Williams scoring touchdowns from one yard out on both scoring drives for his first multi-touchdown game of his career.

Missouri Western finished the game with over 504 yards of total offense. Marrell Fountain (92) and Rickie Dunn (91) combined for 183 yards on the ground. Carey added his third 100-yard receiving performance of the season, while senior's Jonas Bennett and Jake Berrey hauled in two catches.

Missouri Western football says goodbye to 18 seniors, who were honored prior to the opening kickoff, as the 2024 season officially came to a close on Saturday afternoon.&nbsp; Griffons finish the season 4-7 (2-7 MIAA).

#23 Tigers suffers defensive collapse late, fall to #21 Gamecocks&nbsp;

COLUMBIA, S.C. -- — South Carolina coach Shane Beamer got a text recently from an SEC rival coach impressed with freshman quarterback LaNorris Sellers.

“You've got ‘Superman’ back there,” the message read, Beamer said.

Sellers may not be the “Man of Steel,” but he's certainly making a major impact for No. 23 South Carolina. And he showed that again on Saturday night with his career-best showing in a 34-30 victory over No. 24 Missouri.

Sellers, a redshirt freshman who took over the starting job from NFL rookie Spencer Rattler, threw for 353 yards and five touchdown passes, the last an inside throw that Raheim Sanders took 15 yards to the end zone with 15 seconds to go as they twice rallied from behind in the fourth quarter.

One play in particular floored Gamecocks defensive tackle Alex Huntley where Sellers twisted out of a sack on the next-to-last scoring drive before hitting tight end Brady Hunt for 11 yards on thrid-and-10. “Did he get sacked?” Huntley recalled saying.

“The second he got out of it, I knew something good was going to happen,” he said.

Sellers has done that more and more the past month after the Gamecocks stood 3-3 after a loss at Alabama on Oct. 12. He's led the way as South Carolina collected wins against Oklahoma (35-9) and ranked teams in Texas A&amp;M (44-20) and Vanderbilt (28-7).

“It's about staying calm, not budging, not flinching,” said Sellers. “Taking one play at a not and not worrying about the outcome.”

That steady approach pulled out a game South Carolina would typically lose.

Twice Missouri took a lead in the final period and twice the Sellers and the Gamecocks answered back with success.

The Gamecocks (7-3, 5-3) have won four straight Southeastern Conference games for the first time since Steve Spurrier was coach in 2012. But it’s now one of Spurrier’s hires with the Gamecocks in Beamer who has South Carolina as the hottest team in the powerhouse conference.

The Tigers (7-3, 3-3) final lead came after Brady Cook’s 37-yard TD pass to Luther Burden III with 1:10 to go for a 30-27 lead.

Sellers, though, was far from done. He hit on passes of 10 and 39 yards to bring the Gamecocks to the Missouri 21. After Sellers’ 7 yard run, he flipped the ball to Sanders who bulled his way across the goal line to send the crowd at Williams-Brice Stadium into a frenzy.

“We were scoring,” said Sanders, nicknamed “Rocket," an Arkansas transfer who's had six of his 11 rushing TDs in the four-game win streak.

Missouri’s last chance ended with Cook was picked off by Jalon Kilgore with 5 seconds left as the Gamecocks beat three consecutive ranked teams for the first time in program history.

Missouri’s Nate Noel ran for 150 yards and a go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter, but it didn’t hold up.

The Tigers had defeated Oklahoma 30-23 last week on an scoop-and-score fumble with 22 seconds left. They nearly pulled out their second straight dramatic victory.

“I just think there's a relentlessness that our team plays with, believes in,” Missouri coach Eli Drinkwitz said. “Just didn't have enough tonight.”

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