Temperatures remain extremely cold, and at times below freezing, which can threaten the water pipes in your home.  

To help prevent the danger frozen pipes could cause, Missouri American Water is giving residents tips to avoid the disaster that could cause. 

Spokeswoman Christie Barnhart says newer homes don't need to shut off their water if pipes freeze, but if you live in an older home. 

"It might not be a bad idea to shut the water off and then periodically check," Barnhart tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  "Just because if you have older pipes and you know that you do, and that water comes back on and the pipe bursts, obviously that can accumulate in the home very, very quickly." 

Barnhart says there are a few simple steps people can take to help prevent frozen pipes.  

"The first thing, and I actually did this myself before the cold snap, is I went to a home improvement store and basically purchased some inexpensive wrap for my pipes, there are certain areas of my home that are cooler than others and I wrapped those pipes," Barnhart explains.  "And then I started leaving the cabinet doors open so the pipes could get exposed to warmer air in the house." 

Another tip from Missouri American is to let a small trickle flow from the faucet while temperatures are below freezing.  

Barnhart says while homeowners worry how that could impact on their water bills, that is far less expensive than having pipes burst. 

"Not only are you looking at, if your pipes burst, a higher water bill, which we do have a program where after repairs are made your bills can be adjusted," Barnhart says.  "But it's the mess and the inconvenience of not having water, having water standing in your home, water is very damaging to homes if its standing for any period of time." 

Barnhart says letting that water trickle from the faucet is one of the top three things people can do in terms of prevention 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671211286987.jpg" alt="icicles, frozen pipe, frozen" />
 <figcaption>icicles, frozen pipe, frozen</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post Temperatures remain extremely cold, and at times below freezing, which can threaten the water pipes in your home. To help prevent the danger frozen pipes could cause, Missouri American Water is giving residents tips to avoid the disaster that could cause. Spokeswoman Christie Barnhart says newer homes don't need to shut off their water if pipes freeze, but if you live in an older home. "It might not be a bad idea to shut the water off and then periodically check," Barnhart tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "Just because if you have older pipes and you know that you do, and that water comes back on and the pipe bursts, obviously that can accumulate in the home very, very quickly." Barnhart says there are a few simple steps people can take to help prevent frozen pipes. "The first thing, and I actually did this myself before the cold snap, is I went to a home improvement store and basically purchased some inexpensive wrap for my pipes, there are certain areas of my home that are cooler than others and I wrapped those pipes," Barnhart explains. "And then I started leaving the cabinet doors open so the pipes could get exposed to warmer air in the house." Another tip from Missouri American is to let a small trickle flow from the faucet while temperatures are below freezing. Barnhart says while homeowners worry how that could impact on their water bills, that is far less expensive than having pipes burst. "Not only are you looking at, if your pipes burst, a higher water bill, which we do have a program where after repairs are made your bills can be adjusted," Barnhart says. "But it's the mess and the inconvenience of not having water, having water standing in your home, water is very damaging to homes if its standing for any period of time." Barnhart says letting that water trickle from the faucet is one of the top three things people can do in terms of prevention

Simple steps can keep your pipes from freezing

Two St. Joseph
elementary schools welcomed students back today after faulty heating systems forced
the cancelation of classes on Monday.

St. Joseph School Superintendent
Gabe Edgar says issues weren’t confined only to Edison and Eugene Field.

“We actually had
five schools that faced some issues in regards to the heat,” Edgar tells
KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “Fortunately, in three of those, we got to have in-person
classes and unfortunately, two of those we had to cancel.”

Maintenance
personnel were able to get the heat working enough at Central High School,
Robidoux Middle School, and Spring Garden Middle School to hold classes, though
Edgar joked that the buildings were pretty cool to start the day.

Repairs took too
long for Edison and Eugene Field to hold classes. The heat is on today and both
schools are holding classes.

Edgar says that in
each school the heating systems just aren’t equipped to handle such cold days.

“It’s just a unit
that does not work when it gets below 20 degrees,” according to Edgar. “Why
they were put in, I can’t answer that question. But, in April of 2024 you know we
did pass a bond issue and some of those dollars will be put towards that.”

Edgar says that
while it takes no time for the temperature in the school buildings to dropped,
it takes quite a while for the temperature to get back up to a range acceptable
for students to return to class.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736872797454.jpeg" alt="Eugene Field Elementary/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Eugene Field Elementary/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostTwo St. Joseph
elementary schools welcomed students back today after faulty heating systems forced
the cancelation of classes on Monday.St. Joseph School Superintendent
Gabe Edgar says issues weren’t confined only to Edison and Eugene Field.“We actually had
five schools that faced some issues in regards to the heat,” Edgar tells
KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “Fortunately, in three of those, we got to have in-person
classes and unfortunately, two of those we had to cancel.”Maintenance
personnel were able to get the heat working enough at Central High School,
Robidoux Middle School, and Spring Garden Middle School to hold classes, though
Edgar joked that the buildings were pretty cool to start the day.Repairs took too
long for Edison and Eugene Field to hold classes. The heat is on today and both
schools are holding classes.Edgar says that in
each school the heating systems just aren’t equipped to handle such cold days.“It’s just a unit
that does not work when it gets below 20 degrees,” according to Edgar. “Why
they were put in, I can’t answer that question. But, in April of 2024 you know we
did pass a bond issue and some of those dollars will be put towards that.”Edgar says that
while it takes no time for the temperature in the school buildings to dropped,
it takes quite a while for the temperature to get back up to a range acceptable
for students to return to class.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Two St. Joseph elementary schools closed Monday reopen

Missouri is just one of the GOP-dominated states where voters chose to make significant boosts to the minimum wage this year

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/kevinhardy/">KEVIN HARDY</a>&nbsp;

The minimum wage will increase in nearly half the states this year even as the federal wage floor remains stuck at $7.25 per hour.

In many states, the minimum wage is automatically adjusted upward as inflation rises. But voters in several states, including deeply red ones such as Alaska and Missouri, chose in November to significantly increase their minimum wages this year.

Michigan will see its minimum wage jump from $10.33 to $12.48 on Feb. 21 after&nbsp;<a href="https://michiganadvance.com/2024/07/31/minimum-wage-to-increase-after-the-michigan-supreme-court-strikes-down-legislative-maneuver/" target="_blank">the state Supreme Court concluded</a>&nbsp;the legislature subverted residents when it adopted but then significantly amended voter-initiated ballot measures in 2018 to raise the minimum wage and mandate paid sick time.

Michigan’s wage floor is set to rise to $14.97 by 2028 — more than double the federal minimum wage, which has not increased since 2009. That’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/minimum-wage/history/chart" target="_blank">the longest period without a federal increase</a>&nbsp;since Congress first set a minimum wage in 1938.

A total of 30 states and the District of Columbia have set their own minimum wage higher than the federal rate. And 67 localities — including Denver; Flagstaff, Arizona; and Los Angeles — have raised their minimum wage above the state minimum,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.epi.org/minimum-wage-tracker/" target="_blank">according to the Economic Policy Institute</a>, a left-leaning think tank.

Currently, 10 states have a minimum wage of $15 or higher: California, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Washington.

Alaska, Florida, Hawaii, Missouri and Nebraska are on track to reach the $15 benchmark in the coming years. Such movement in red states should prompt Republicans who control Congress and the White House to move the national wage floor, argued Richard von Glahn, the political director at the labor advocacy group Missouri Jobs with Justice.

“We should have Republican legislators looking and seeing what their own voters are telling them and say, ‘You know, maybe they’re on to something here and maybe I should follow their lead,” he said.

Von Glahn led a successful campaign to raise Missouri’s minimum wage from 2024’s rate of $12.30 to $15 per hour next January through a November ballot initiative that also guaranteed sick leave for many workers.

While a tight labor market forces many employers to pay above minimum wage to compete, von Glahn noted many workers still earn at or near the lowest legal rate. The Economic Policy Institute&nbsp;<a href="https://www.epi.org/blog/nearly-half-of-u-s-workers-will-live-in-states-with-at-least-a-15-minimum-wage-by-2027-alaska-and-missouri-became-the-latest-states-to-enact-a-15-minimum-wage/" target="_blank">estimates that more than half a million Missouri workers</a>&nbsp;will see raises as the state’s minimum wage increases.

“That sort of proves the point as to why this is so necessary, why these guardrails are so important,” he said.

For Kaamilya Hobbs, the Missouri law means she can expect at least an extra 31 cents per hour once she returns to work at Arby’s following maternity leave.

This year’s new minimum wage of $13.75 isn’t enough to live comfortably in Kansas City, she said. But every bit helps her afford the basics, such as diapers and baby formula.

“It won’t be a huge difference. But it’ll still be a little bit of something for us,” said Hobbs, 33, who is also an organizer for a group advocating for low-wage workers.

Inflation has significantly eroded the buying power of the stagnant federal minimum wage. Advocates say raising the wage floor helps low-wage workers cover the rising cost of essentials and boosts the economy by putting more money into the pockets of people who are likely to spend it. But many employers, especially retailers and restaurants, counter that raising the minimum wage forces them to cut workers or raise prices.

In December, President-elect Donald Trump said he would consider a national increase in the minimum wage. Trump won 19 of the 20 states — all but New Hampshire — still subject to a $7.25 minimum wage.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/meet-the-press/video/trump-says-he-would-consider-raising-the-federal-minimum-wage-226490437864" target="_blank">In an NBC News interview,</a>&nbsp;he acknowledged the $7.25 rate was “a very low number,” but said raising the minimum wage too much would decrease employment.

“There is a level at which you can do it,” he said, without specifying a number.

Earlier this month, Alaska’s minimum wage went up 18 cents thanks to an automatic inflation-based bump.

But the state’s current $11.91 rate will increase to $13 this July, thanks to the passage of a November ballot measure. Under the measure, the wage will increase to $14 in July 2026 and $15 in July 2027, followed by inflation-adjusted increases starting in 2028.

<a href="https://www.elections.alaska.gov/doc/oep/2024/Ballot%20Measure%201_Eng.pdf" target="_blank">The ballot measure</a>&nbsp;drew fierce opposition from business groups but won approval by 58%-42%. The new law also mandates employers provide up to seven paid sick days per year — a major concern particularly in seasonal industries, including tourism.

Before November’s election, members of the Alaska Cabaret, Hotel, Restaurant and Retailers Association said passage of the ballot measure would result in higher prices and lead to layoffs and reduced hours for workers, said Sarah Oates Harlow, president and chief executive officer of the organization.

The minimum wage hike will particularly hurt smaller businesses, she said, and those with tipped workers such as servers and bartenders. Alaska is among seven states that don’t allow employers to pay tipped employees less than the minimum wage, meaning many of those workers are already making well above the state’s wage floor, she said.

“I guarantee you we will be seeing prices going up across the board,” she said. “Groceries are going to be more expensive. Eating out is going to be more expensive.”

But Mark Robokoff, who owns the pet supply store AK Bark in Anchorage, sees a higher wage floor as good for business. He said the minimum wage increase will put more money into the pockets of his customers.

“It’s not like there’s no benefit to this cost,” Robokoff said.

To attract the best staff, he said, employee wages start at $17 per hour. But he expects to ratchet that figure up as the state’s minimum wage increases.

“That’s why it needed to be a law,” he said. “It only works if we all do it. Then we all get more revenue and pay our employees a little bit more.”

<a href="https://stateline.org/" target="_blank">Stateline</a>&nbsp;is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@stateline.org">info@stateline.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736869731847.png" alt="Kansas City resident Kaamilya Hobbs expects to earn at least an extra 31 cents per hour once she returns to work at Arby’s following maternity leave (Courtesy of the Missouri Workers Center)." />
 <figcaption>Kansas City resident Kaamilya Hobbs expects to earn at least an extra 31 cents per hour once she returns to work at Arby’s following maternity leave (Courtesy of the Missouri Workers Center).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Missouri is just one of the GOP-dominated states where voters chose to make significant boosts to the minimum wage this year</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/kevinhardy/">KEVIN HARDY</a>&nbsp;The minimum wage will increase in nearly half the states this year even as the federal wage floor remains stuck at $7.25 per hour.In many states, the minimum wage is automatically adjusted upward as inflation rises. But voters in several states, including deeply red ones such as Alaska and Missouri, chose in November to significantly increase their minimum wages this year.Michigan will see its minimum wage jump from $10.33 to $12.48 on Feb. 21 after&nbsp;<a href="https://michiganadvance.com/2024/07/31/minimum-wage-to-increase-after-the-michigan-supreme-court-strikes-down-legislative-maneuver/" target="_blank">the state Supreme Court concluded</a>&nbsp;the legislature subverted residents when it adopted but then significantly amended voter-initiated ballot measures in 2018 to raise the minimum wage and mandate paid sick time.Michigan’s wage floor is set to rise to $14.97 by 2028 — more than double the federal minimum wage, which has not increased since 2009. That’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/minimum-wage/history/chart" target="_blank">the longest period without a federal increase</a>&nbsp;since Congress first set a minimum wage in 1938.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736869706612.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A total of 30 states and the District of Columbia have set their own minimum wage higher than the federal rate. And 67 localities — including Denver; Flagstaff, Arizona; and Los Angeles — have raised their minimum wage above the state minimum,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.epi.org/minimum-wage-tracker/" target="_blank">according to the Economic Policy Institute</a>, a left-leaning think tank.Currently, 10 states have a minimum wage of $15 or higher: California, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Washington.Alaska, Florida, Hawaii, Missouri and Nebraska are on track to reach the $15 benchmark in the coming years. Such movement in red states should prompt Republicans who control Congress and the White House to move the national wage floor, argued Richard von Glahn, the political director at the labor advocacy group Missouri Jobs with Justice.“We should have Republican legislators looking and seeing what their own voters are telling them and say, ‘You know, maybe they’re on to something here and maybe I should follow their lead,” he said.Von Glahn led a successful campaign to raise Missouri’s minimum wage from 2024’s rate of $12.30 to $15 per hour next January through a November ballot initiative that also guaranteed sick leave for many workers.While a tight labor market forces many employers to pay above minimum wage to compete, von Glahn noted many workers still earn at or near the lowest legal rate. The Economic Policy Institute&nbsp;<a href="https://www.epi.org/blog/nearly-half-of-u-s-workers-will-live-in-states-with-at-least-a-15-minimum-wage-by-2027-alaska-and-missouri-became-the-latest-states-to-enact-a-15-minimum-wage/" target="_blank">estimates that more than half a million Missouri workers</a>&nbsp;will see raises as the state’s minimum wage increases.“That sort of proves the point as to why this is so necessary, why these guardrails are so important,” he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736869673464.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For Kaamilya Hobbs, the Missouri law means she can expect at least an extra 31 cents per hour once she returns to work at Arby’s following maternity leave.This year’s new minimum wage of $13.75 isn’t enough to live comfortably in Kansas City, she said. But every bit helps her afford the basics, such as diapers and baby formula.“It won’t be a huge difference. But it’ll still be a little bit of something for us,” said Hobbs, 33, who is also an organizer for a group advocating for low-wage workers.Inflation has significantly eroded the buying power of the stagnant federal minimum wage. Advocates say raising the wage floor helps low-wage workers cover the rising cost of essentials and boosts the economy by putting more money into the pockets of people who are likely to spend it. But many employers, especially retailers and restaurants, counter that raising the minimum wage forces them to cut workers or raise prices.In December, President-elect Donald Trump said he would consider a national increase in the minimum wage. Trump won 19 of the 20 states — all but New Hampshire — still subject to a $7.25 minimum wage.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/meet-the-press/video/trump-says-he-would-consider-raising-the-federal-minimum-wage-226490437864" target="_blank">In an NBC News interview,</a>&nbsp;he acknowledged the $7.25 rate was “a very low number,” but said raising the minimum wage too much would decrease employment.“There is a level at which you can do it,” he said, without specifying a number.Earlier this month, Alaska’s minimum wage went up 18 cents thanks to an automatic inflation-based bump.But the state’s current $11.91 rate will increase to $13 this July, thanks to the passage of a November ballot measure. Under the measure, the wage will increase to $14 in July 2026 and $15 in July 2027, followed by inflation-adjusted increases starting in 2028.<a href="https://www.elections.alaska.gov/doc/oep/2024/Ballot%20Measure%201_Eng.pdf" target="_blank">The ballot measure</a>&nbsp;drew fierce opposition from business groups but won approval by 58%-42%. The new law also mandates employers provide up to seven paid sick days per year — a major concern particularly in seasonal industries, including tourism.Before November’s election, members of the Alaska Cabaret, Hotel, Restaurant and Retailers Association said passage of the ballot measure would result in higher prices and lead to layoffs and reduced hours for workers, said Sarah Oates Harlow, president and chief executive officer of the organization.The minimum wage hike will particularly hurt smaller businesses, she said, and those with tipped workers such as servers and bartenders. Alaska is among seven states that don’t allow employers to pay tipped employees less than the minimum wage, meaning many of those workers are already making well above the state’s wage floor, she said.“I guarantee you we will be seeing prices going up across the board,” she said. “Groceries are going to be more expensive. Eating out is going to be more expensive.”But Mark Robokoff, who owns the pet supply store AK Bark in Anchorage, sees a higher wage floor as good for business. He said the minimum wage increase will put more money into the pockets of his customers.“It’s not like there’s no benefit to this cost,” Robokoff said.To attract the best staff, he said, employee wages start at $17 per hour. But he expects to ratchet that figure up as the state’s minimum wage increases.“That’s why it needed to be a law,” he said. “It only works if we all do it. Then we all get more revenue and pay our employees a little bit more.”<a href="https://stateline.org/" target="_blank">Stateline</a>&nbsp;is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@stateline.org">info@stateline.org</a>.

Minimum wages are increasing in nearly half the states this year

Kehoe’s executive orders will position Missouri ‘to assist with immigration enforcement when called upon by President Trump’s administration,’ said Attorney General Andrew Bailey

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

Task forces to arrest people with outstanding warrants and immigration enforcement training for the Missouri State Highway Patrol are among the actions Gov. Mike Kehoe ordered Monday as part of a program to combat crime in Missouri.

Kehoe made controlling crime a centerpiece of his campaign for governor, and he signed the executive orders just minutes after&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/01/13/new-missouri-governor-focuses-on-crime-education-tax-cuts-in-inaugural-address/">taking the oath of office</a>&nbsp;for his four-year term. As he introduced the proposals, he said his package would have two more phases — legislation filed in the General Assembly and proposals he will unveil Jan. 28 when he delivers the annual State of the State address.

Flanked by Attorney General Andrew Bailey, who began his first full term in office Monday, and several top police officials, Kehoe said he wanted to address crime immediately.

“We’ve said for months that we were going to work very hard putting this together,” Kehoe said,“and I just wanted to get some things moving as quickly as we could.”&nbsp;

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sos.mo.gov/library/reference/orders/2025" target="_blank">six orders signed Monday</a>&nbsp;will:

Kehoe, citing demands on his time for post-inauguration activities, declined to answer questions about his actions, leaving those duties to Bailey.

The action on outstanding warrants, Bailey said, is intended to bring 17,600 wanted for felonies people into court.&nbsp;

“No longer will we wait until they are caught in a traffic stop, no longer will wait until they appear,” Bailey said. Now the state will be using its resources to coordinate with the locals to go after these individuals that are fleeing from justice.”

Incoming President Donald Trump has promised an immense crackdown on immigration, including&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/23/trump-promises-mass-deportations-of-undocumented-people-how-would-that-work/">deportation of all undocumented people</a>&nbsp;in the U.S. The two orders dealing with immigration would position Missouri “to assist with immigration enforcement when called upon by President Trump’s administration,” Bailey said.

The state experienced 1,300 fentanyl overdose deaths in 2024 and 1,100 cases of human trafficking, which Bailey said are both tied to undocumented immigrants to the state.

“Being at the crossroads of the nation with an extensive interstate system has made us prone to drug and human trafficking,” Bailey said.

The task force on probation and parole issues will look at whether offenders who should not be released are being set free and how to address personal problems that lead to crime, Bailey said.

During 2023, the most recent year with a full report on&nbsp;<a href="https://doc.mo.gov/media/pdf/offender-profile-fy23" target="_blank">incarcerated and supervised</a>&nbsp;offenders, Missouri had a prison population of 23,595 and more than 52,000 people on probation or parole.

During the year, the department released 2,644 people on probation and 8,050 on parole. The department received 4,811 people who had their probation revoked and another 4,264 who were returned after violating their parole.

“At the end of the day, we need to make sure we’re paroling the right people that are suitable for rehabilitation and are not a risk for recidivism, and not paroling people so quickly that we are we lose the credibility in the criminal justice system because we have a catch and release policy,” Bailey said.

He declined to predict whether the task force would result in more people behind bars.

“What you would find out as you look at incarceration rates across the state of Missouri, both at the local and state level, is that they’ve plummeted in the past few years,” Bailey said. “It’s not about locking everyone up. It’s about locking up the bad guys.”

<h2>Kehoe’s executive orders will position Missouri ‘to assist with immigration enforcement when called upon by President Trump’s administration,’ said Attorney General Andrew Bailey</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Task forces to arrest people with outstanding warrants and immigration enforcement training for the Missouri State Highway Patrol are among the actions Gov. Mike Kehoe ordered Monday as part of a program to combat crime in Missouri.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Securing Missouri’s future begins with public safety. Today, as my first official act as governor, I signed six executive orders and officially launched our comprehensive Safer Missouri public safety initiative. In the coming weeks, months, and years, my administration will be… <a href="https://t.co/bdZjUJWrFP">pic.twitter.com/bdZjUJWrFP</a>&mdash; Governor Mike Kehoe (@GovMikeKehoe) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovMikeKehoe/status/1878934765291667500?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Kehoe made controlling crime a centerpiece of his campaign for governor, and he signed the executive orders just minutes after&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/01/13/new-missouri-governor-focuses-on-crime-education-tax-cuts-in-inaugural-address/">taking the oath of office</a>&nbsp;for his four-year term. As he introduced the proposals, he said his package would have two more phases — legislation filed in the General Assembly and proposals he will unveil Jan. 28 when he delivers the annual State of the State address.Flanked by Attorney General Andrew Bailey, who began his first full term in office Monday, and several top police officials, Kehoe said he wanted to address crime immediately.“We’ve said for months that we were going to work very hard putting this together,” Kehoe said,“and I just wanted to get some things moving as quickly as we could.”&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sos.mo.gov/library/reference/orders/2025" target="_blank">six orders signed Monday</a>&nbsp;will:<ul>
 <li>Authorize the creation of regional teams to serve outstanding arrest warrants in a program called “Operation Relentless Pursuit.”</li><li>Create a “Blue Shield” community recognition program for cities and counties that work to make law enforcement effective through increased budgets and community policing programs, among other criteria.</li><li>Send selected troopers from the Missouri Highway Patrol to federal immigration enforcement training&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ice.gov/identify-and-arrest/287g" target="_blank">under the 287-G program</a>&nbsp;established in 1996.</li><li>Require law enforcement to include the immigration status of individuals in arrest reports for inclusion in the statewide reporting system.</li><li>Shorten the period of time for highway patrol troopers to reach the top of their pay grade to 12 years from 15 years.</li><li>Require the Department of Corrections to assemble a working group to examine rules for probation and parole to allow offenders with drug or other problems to seek treatment while incarcerating people who are repeat or violent offenders.</li>
 </ul>Kehoe, citing demands on his time for post-inauguration activities, declined to answer questions about his actions, leaving those duties to Bailey.The action on outstanding warrants, Bailey said, is intended to bring 17,600 wanted for felonies people into court.&nbsp;“No longer will we wait until they are caught in a traffic stop, no longer will wait until they appear,” Bailey said. Now the state will be using its resources to coordinate with the locals to go after these individuals that are fleeing from justice.”Incoming President Donald Trump has promised an immense crackdown on immigration, including&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/23/trump-promises-mass-deportations-of-undocumented-people-how-would-that-work/">deportation of all undocumented people</a>&nbsp;in the U.S. The two orders dealing with immigration would position Missouri “to assist with immigration enforcement when called upon by President Trump’s administration,” Bailey said.The state experienced 1,300 fentanyl overdose deaths in 2024 and 1,100 cases of human trafficking, which Bailey said are both tied to undocumented immigrants to the state.“Being at the crossroads of the nation with an extensive interstate system has made us prone to drug and human trafficking,” Bailey said.The task force on probation and parole issues will look at whether offenders who should not be released are being set free and how to address personal problems that lead to crime, Bailey said.During 2023, the most recent year with a full report on&nbsp;<a href="https://doc.mo.gov/media/pdf/offender-profile-fy23" target="_blank">incarcerated and supervised</a>&nbsp;offenders, Missouri had a prison population of 23,595 and more than 52,000 people on probation or parole.During the year, the department released 2,644 people on probation and 8,050 on parole. The department received 4,811 people who had their probation revoked and another 4,264 who were returned after violating their parole.“At the end of the day, we need to make sure we’re paroling the right people that are suitable for rehabilitation and are not a risk for recidivism, and not paroling people so quickly that we are we lose the credibility in the criminal justice system because we have a catch and release policy,” Bailey said.He declined to predict whether the task force would result in more people behind bars.“What you would find out as you look at incarceration rates across the state of Missouri, both at the local and state level, is that they’ve plummeted in the past few years,” Bailey said. “It’s not about locking everyone up. It’s about locking up the bad guys.”

Mo. Gov. issues orders to track undocumented migrants, boost trooper pay

St. Joseph Museums is hosting two new events in February, providing a different kind of date night opportunity for Valentines Day.  

Executive Director Sara Wilson says February 8th the Glore Psychiatric Museum will host a night of forensic investigation 

"That is where you can bring your loved one, or your gal pal, or whoever it is you want to spend Valentines Day with and actually get a replica human skull that has suffered some form of trauma, and you get to learn how to be a forensic anthropologist, and study that skull and see how that person became unalived," Wilson tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr.  

The event is part of a series during February titled "Nothing Says Love Like Murder!"  

Wilson says this event is sold out; however, they do plan on hosting another one this spring.  Interested parties can call the St. Joseph Museums offices to get on a waitlist. 

The event series will also feature event on February 14th at the historic St. Joseph’s State Lunatic Asylum No. 2, 

Wilson says the event on Valentines Day will be an interactive game. 

"That is where you will meet nurse Audre Hill, who was an actual nurse at the state hospital, and get to solve the murder of Dr. Harlow Mills, who was a doctor at the state hospital," Wilson explains.  "You'll learn a little about the history of St. Joseph State Hospital and have fun while you do it." 

Wilson says the game is very similar to the board game Clue 

"You get to go throughout the museum and find clues and at the end you'll get to guess who you think was the murderer, and with what weapon, and where at," Wilson says.  "And so, it's very, very fun, you get to play on your cell phones, you get actual physical clues throughout the museum, but you also get videos that you get to watch that will help walk you through the story." 

Tickets to the event are $35 per person or $60 per couple and can be purchased online by clicking <a href="https://www.stjosephmuseum.org/events?fbclid=IwY2xjawHyNwJleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHRCi7B0Gx1ma3R7Uu9lW8iIuFm9OFpxQ9ZF1shpNK3IY27Okb4WlpYX3yA_aem_4YbfDhhC4nEWYcRazfioEw">HERE</a>.

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

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post St. Joseph Museums is hosting two new events in February, providing a different kind of date night opportunity for Valentines Day. Executive Director Sara Wilson says February 8th the Glore Psychiatric Museum will host a night of forensic investigation "That is where you can bring your loved one, or your gal pal, or whoever it is you want to spend Valentines Day with and actually get a replica human skull that has suffered some form of trauma, and you get to learn how to be a forensic anthropologist, and study that skull and see how that person became unalived," Wilson tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. The event is part of a series during February titled "Nothing Says Love Like Murder!" Wilson says this event is sold out; however, they do plan on hosting another one this spring. Interested parties can call the St. Joseph Museums offices to get on a waitlist. The event series will also feature event on February 14th at the historic St. Joseph’s State Lunatic Asylum No. 2, Wilson says the event on Valentines Day will be an interactive game. "That is where you will meet nurse Audre Hill, who was an actual nurse at the state hospital, and get to solve the murder of Dr. Harlow Mills, who was a doctor at the state hospital," Wilson explains. "You'll learn a little about the history of St. Joseph State Hospital and have fun while you do it." Wilson says the game is very similar to the board game Clue "You get to go throughout the museum and find clues and at the end you'll get to guess who you think was the murderer, and with what weapon, and where at," Wilson says. "And so, it's very, very fun, you get to play on your cell phones, you get actual physical clues throughout the museum, but you also get videos that you get to watch that will help walk you through the story." Tickets to the event are $35 per person or $60 per couple and can be purchased online by clicking <a href="https://www.stjosephmuseum.org/events?fbclid=IwY2xjawHyNwJleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHRCi7B0Gx1ma3R7Uu9lW8iIuFm9OFpxQ9ZF1shpNK3IY27Okb4WlpYX3yA_aem_4YbfDhhC4nEWYcRazfioEw">HERE</a>.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgloremuseum%2Fvideos%2F1655038485420909%2F&show_text=true&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="429" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

St. Joseph Museums present 'Nothing Says Love Like Murder' 

St. Joseph has benefitted from the reinstatement
of the state tax credit for making movies in Missouri.

St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau
spokesman, Christian Mengel, says St. Joseph has attempted to be very open to
film production crews.

“Even though that this was a statewide thing, I
don’t think every community really saw it as an actual option or potential for
themselves,” Mengel tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline, “because I think
so many cities and towns, specifically of smaller destinations, when they hear,
oh film tax credit, they probably think oh that means Kansas City and St. Louis
are going to get all this business.”

A production crew wrapped up about three weeks in
both St. Joseph and Savannah for a Christmas-based mystery rom-com that
incorporates a lot of local flavor.

Mengel says the producer took an extra step to make
the film represent the area more accurately.

“They sent the script writer to basically say,
hey, if you’re inspired by anything in particular that fits this location, write
it into the script,” Mengel says. “And so, Savannah and St. Joseph basically kind
of got written into the script on the front end rather than trying to make the
place match what already existed on paper.”

Mengel says producers who read the fine print of
the state tax incentive legislation understand they can get an even bigger tax
break from Missouri if they move outside Kansas City and St. Louis and if they
produce something in an under-served area, such as Savannah.

“It’s considered an under-served community in the
grand scheme of the state,” Mengel says. “Andrew County is not Jackson County
in any listings in that sense. Not only that, when the film makers looked at
Savannah, it’s so much more affordable and accessible and I guess you’d just say
friendly, because you have that small town feel. Where if they’re in Kansas
City, they’re just another movie production that’s just in the area.”

It is a big deal for this area, though, according
to Mengel.

That fine print in the state film tax credit
provides a 5% boost for filming in rural Missouri, 5% extra if the production
office is located in an under-served area, and 5% if the production team hires
local talent.

Mengel estimates 60% of the Christmas rom com was
shot in Savannah with the remaining 40% shot in St. Joseph. The movie has a
working title of “A Christmystery.” Producers now will attempt to sell the film
to streaming services such as Hallmark or Netflix.

The movie shot in December came on the heels of
another production shot in St. Joseph this past summer. It also will be shopped
around to various streaming services.

The Missouri legislature allowed the state film
tax credit to expire. When lawmakers saw movies with a Missouri theme, such as
Ozark, shot in other states, they voted to reinstate the incentive.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph has benefitted from the reinstatement
of the state tax credit for making movies in Missouri.St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau
spokesman, Christian Mengel, says St. Joseph has attempted to be very open to
film production crews.“Even though that this was a statewide thing, I
don’t think every community really saw it as an actual option or potential for
themselves,” Mengel tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline, “because I think
so many cities and towns, specifically of smaller destinations, when they hear,
oh film tax credit, they probably think oh that means Kansas City and St. Louis
are going to get all this business.”A production crew wrapped up about three weeks in
both St. Joseph and Savannah for a Christmas-based mystery rom-com that
incorporates a lot of local flavor.Mengel says the producer took an extra step to make
the film represent the area more accurately.“They sent the script writer to basically say,
hey, if you’re inspired by anything in particular that fits this location, write
it into the script,” Mengel says. “And so, Savannah and St. Joseph basically kind
of got written into the script on the front end rather than trying to make the
place match what already existed on paper.”Mengel says producers who read the fine print of
the state tax incentive legislation understand they can get an even bigger tax
break from Missouri if they move outside Kansas City and St. Louis and if they
produce something in an under-served area, such as Savannah.“It’s considered an under-served community in the
grand scheme of the state,” Mengel says. “Andrew County is not Jackson County
in any listings in that sense. Not only that, when the film makers looked at
Savannah, it’s so much more affordable and accessible and I guess you’d just say
friendly, because you have that small town feel. Where if they’re in Kansas
City, they’re just another movie production that’s just in the area.”It is a big deal for this area, though, according
to Mengel.That fine print in the state film tax credit
provides a 5% boost for filming in rural Missouri, 5% extra if the production
office is located in an under-served area, and 5% if the production team hires
local talent.Mengel estimates 60% of the Christmas rom com was
shot in Savannah with the remaining 40% shot in St. Joseph. The movie has a
working title of “A Christmystery.” Producers now will attempt to sell the film
to streaming services such as Hallmark or Netflix.The movie shot in December came on the heels of
another production shot in St. Joseph this past summer. It also will be shopped
around to various streaming services.The Missouri legislature allowed the state film
tax credit to expire. When lawmakers saw movies with a Missouri theme, such as
Ozark, shot in other states, they voted to reinstate the incentive.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph area benefitting from renewal of state movie tax credit

PLATTE COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a deadly shooting on Interstate 29 north of&nbsp; Kansas City have identified the victim as 50-year-old Dennis Sharkey of Liberty, according to the Platte County Sheriff.

Just after 7p.m. Friday, police were called to the area of southbound Interstate 29 near NW 72nd Street in Kansas City in regard to a vehicle that was observed to have run off the roadway, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

First responders located a vehicle south of NW 72nd Street, off the highway on the southbound side and down an embankment up against a barrier fence on the outer road, NW Prairie View Road.

Officers approached the vehicle and located Sharkey who appeared to have been shot, unresponsive inside the vehicle. Officers rendered aid until EMS arrived and took over. 

EMS transported Sharakey to the hospital for treatment. A short time later the victim was declared deceased at the hospital, according to Becchina. 

Preliminary investigation indicates the shooting likely occurred while Sharkey was traveling southbound at or just north of NW 72nd Street. Detectives and crime scene investigators temporarily closed north of that location to conduct their investigation and searched closely for any potential evidence.&nbsp; The Platte County Sheriff's office is now the lead agency in the investigation.

Detectives ask if anyone was in this area of Interstate 29 around that time and saw anything of note, no matter how small for them to contact Homicide Unit directly at 816-234-5043 or the TIPS hotline at 816-474-TIPS.There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously to the TIPS hotline.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736605549132.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>PLATTE COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a deadly shooting on Interstate 29 north of&nbsp; Kansas City have identified the victim as 50-year-old Dennis Sharkey of Liberty, according to the Platte County Sheriff.Just after 7p.m. Friday, police were called to the area of southbound Interstate 29 near NW 72nd Street in Kansas City in regard to a vehicle that was observed to have run off the roadway, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.First responders located a vehicle south of NW 72nd Street, off the highway on the southbound side and down an embankment up against a barrier fence on the outer road, NW Prairie View Road.Officers approached the vehicle and located Sharkey who appeared to have been shot, unresponsive inside the vehicle. Officers rendered aid until EMS arrived and took over. EMS transported Sharakey to the hospital for treatment. A short time later the victim was declared deceased at the hospital, according to Becchina. Preliminary investigation indicates the shooting likely occurred while Sharkey was traveling southbound at or just north of NW 72nd Street. Detectives and crime scene investigators temporarily closed north of that location to conduct their investigation and searched closely for any potential evidence.&nbsp; The Platte County Sheriff's office is now the lead agency in the investigation.Detectives ask if anyone was in this area of Interstate 29 around that time and saw anything of note, no matter how small for them to contact Homicide Unit directly at 816-234-5043 or the TIPS hotline at 816-474-TIPS.There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously to the TIPS hotline.

Sheriff looking for witnesses to deadly Platte Co. shooting, crash

CLINTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just afater 4:30p.m. Sunday in Clinton County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Nissan Maxima driven by a 16-year-old boy from Holt was westbound on Old Barn Lane two miles northeast of Holt.

As the car approached the intersection, it began to slide. The car entered the intersection at Perren Road and struck the passenger side of a northbound 2018 Nissan Rogue driven by a 55-year-old man from Lathrop.

A private vehicle transported a 14-year-old passenger in the SUV to Cameron Regional Medical Center. The drivers were not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

CLINTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just afater 4:30p.m. Sunday in Clinton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Nissan Maxima driven by a 16-year-old boy from Holt was westbound on Old Barn Lane two miles northeast of Holt.As the car approached the intersection, it began to slide. The car entered the intersection at Perren Road and struck the passenger side of a northbound 2018 Nissan Rogue driven by a 55-year-old man from Lathrop.A private vehicle transported a 14-year-old passenger in the SUV to Cameron Regional Medical Center. The drivers were not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

14-year-old injured after car, SUV crash

BY:&nbsp;ANNELISE HANSHAW <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>

A committee dedicated to the security of the Missouri Capitol convened Thursday to raise concerns ahead of Monday’s inauguration of Gov.-elect Mike Kehoe.

Lawmakers are not only worried about the inauguration ceremony and governor’s ball but also the everyday operations of the Capitol Police.

President Pro Tem of the Missouri Senate Cindy O’Laughlin read a statement on behalf of herself and House Speaker Jon Patterson asking for greater transparency between police and legislative leaders.

“These concerns stem from numerous occasions of threats, including bomb threats, being made against the Missouri State Capitol building without leadership of either legislative body being notified,” O’Laughlin said.

State Sen. Rick Brattin, who was appointed chair of the Joint Committee on Capitol Security Thursday, said the Capitol Police change policies without notice or input to lawmakers.

“People from the General Assembly and the staff have raised concerns and issues that have potentially hampered the capability of members to be efficiently and effectively able to perform and be a part of the solution and security apparatus of this building,” he said.

According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/government-politics/missouri-lawmakers-want-answers-on-security-at-the-capitol/article_dbaf11e6-cddb-11ef-999d-7fb109032ddf.html#tncms-source=login" target="_blank">St. Louis Post-Dispatch</a>, lawmakers have raised questions about opening a second public entryway on the east side of the Capitol. Visitors are screened through a metal detector in one area, but the same scanner is also available in a location more convenient to some parking spaces.

Visitors to the Capitol with a concealed carry permit are allowed to bring firearms into the building but are banned from carrying them into legislative chambers or committee rooms.

The Capitol Police is overseen by the Department of Public Safety. The department’s director, Sandy Karsten, attended the meeting despite having “about a day and a half left in (her) position.”

Capitol Police Chief Kim Schwartze assured lawmakers that the department, police and other law enforcement agencies have coordinated ahead of Monday’s events. The agencies have discussed safety efforts with the Governor’s Office, she said.

“There is a very comprehensive plan, and we’ve been meeting regularly, as well as having a lot of phone calls and a lot of emails,” she told the committee.

The committee closed the meeting to the public to discuss the plan and other concerns, speaking privately for an hour.

Lawmakers have not publicly addressed security concerns&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/01/12/legislators-concerned-with-missouri-capitol-security-as-fbi-warns-of-armed-protests/">since 2021 following the Jan. 6 attack</a>&nbsp;on the U.S. Capitol.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736686121926.jpeg" alt=" The Missouri State Capitol on the first day of the 2025 legislative session Wednesday morning. A stage is being constructed ahead of Monday's inauguration (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> The Missouri State Capitol on the first day of the 2025 legislative session Wednesday morning. A stage is being constructed ahead of Monday's inauguration (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;ANNELISE HANSHAW <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>A committee dedicated to the security of the Missouri Capitol convened Thursday to raise concerns ahead of Monday’s inauguration of Gov.-elect Mike Kehoe.Lawmakers are not only worried about the inauguration ceremony and governor’s ball but also the everyday operations of the Capitol Police.President Pro Tem of the Missouri Senate Cindy O’Laughlin read a statement on behalf of herself and House Speaker Jon Patterson asking for greater transparency between police and legislative leaders.“These concerns stem from numerous occasions of threats, including bomb threats, being made against the Missouri State Capitol building without leadership of either legislative body being notified,” O’Laughlin said.State Sen. Rick Brattin, who was appointed chair of the Joint Committee on Capitol Security Thursday, said the Capitol Police change policies without notice or input to lawmakers.“People from the General Assembly and the staff have raised concerns and issues that have potentially hampered the capability of members to be efficiently and effectively able to perform and be a part of the solution and security apparatus of this building,” he said.According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/government-politics/missouri-lawmakers-want-answers-on-security-at-the-capitol/article_dbaf11e6-cddb-11ef-999d-7fb109032ddf.html#tncms-source=login" target="_blank">St. Louis Post-Dispatch</a>, lawmakers have raised questions about opening a second public entryway on the east side of the Capitol. Visitors are screened through a metal detector in one area, but the same scanner is also available in a location more convenient to some parking spaces.Visitors to the Capitol with a concealed carry permit are allowed to bring firearms into the building but are banned from carrying them into legislative chambers or committee rooms.The Capitol Police is overseen by the Department of Public Safety. The department’s director, Sandy Karsten, attended the meeting despite having “about a day and a half left in (her) position.”Capitol Police Chief Kim Schwartze assured lawmakers that the department, police and other law enforcement agencies have coordinated ahead of Monday’s events. The agencies have discussed safety efforts with the Governor’s Office, she said.“There is a very comprehensive plan, and we’ve been meeting regularly, as well as having a lot of phone calls and a lot of emails,” she told the committee.The committee closed the meeting to the public to discuss the plan and other concerns, speaking privately for an hour.Lawmakers have not publicly addressed security concerns&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/01/12/legislators-concerned-with-missouri-capitol-security-as-fbi-warns-of-armed-protests/">since 2021 following the Jan. 6 attack</a>&nbsp;on the U.S. Capitol.

Missouri lawmakers question Capitol security before upcoming inauguration

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">ANNA SPOERRE</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

Seven years ago,&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=217.151" target="_blank">Missouri banned the shackling of pregnant women in state prisons.&nbsp;</a>

State Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, a Republican from Arnold, is hoping to expand the law this year to include city and county jails.

“Now we have seven years of data that this is a fairly small number of inmates and it is not onerous for (the Department of Corrections) to comply with the law,” Coleman said. “We’re able to help keep women who are incarcerated safer.”

Her bill would outlaw the use of restraints in the third trimester, during labor and for the first 48 hours postpartum “except in extraordinary circumstances.”&nbsp;

“You add an increased risk of falls, and it can be really dangerous for women not to be able to have their hands to catch themselves,” Coleman said. “This should only be done when it’s necessary, and when it’s done you need to document to make sure why it was necessary.”

This would put Missouri jails in line with guidance from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2021/07/reproductive-health-care-for-incarcerated-pregnant-postpartum-and-nonpregnant-individuals" target="_blank">American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists</a>.

Since the shackling ban in state prisons went into effect in 2018, “there haven’t been any reported incidents of a woman in labor trying to harm herself or flee,” said Karen Pojmann, spokesperson for the Missouri Department of Corrections.&nbsp;

The number of pregnant women who are incarcerated in state prisons averages between two and 15 on any given day, Pojmann said. The Missouri Sheriffs’ Association could not immediately be reached regarding data on pregnant women incarcerated in city and county jails.

The legislation would also require all city and county jails to develop intake policies for pregnant women by Jan. 1, 2026, that include mental health evaluations, prenatal vitamins and a nutritious meal plan including an increased calorie intake. It would also prohibit women from being placed in solitary confinement during the first six weeks postpartum, when there’s a greater risk of postpartum depression, and require a female medical professional be present during any prenatal or postpartum medical exams.

While the bill gives jail employees some discretion over the use of handcuffs, it prohibits the use of leg and ankle restraints and only allows wrist restraints to be used if connected in front of the person’s body, rather than behind their back “to protect the offender and the unborn child in the case of a forward fall.”

If a health care provider tells jail staff to remove any shackles, their advice must be followed immediately.

In the case a sheriff or jail employee decides restraints are necessary, they would be required to document the incident in writing within 48 hours and include why they were necessary and what restraints were used.

iza Weiss, founder and director of Missouri Appleseed, a nonprofit that advocates in part for incarcerated women’s health, said she was thrilled to see Coleman file the legislation again.

“She’s had a longstanding interest in and commitment to incarcerated women’s health, and we are supportive of the bill,” Weiss said.&nbsp;

Weiss said that while a few jails including in Boone County, St. Louis County and St. Louis city have implemented policies that mirror the state ban, most cities and counties have not, leaving a need for this legislation.&nbsp;

Coleman started working on the issue&nbsp;several years ago, and while it sawsome movement last year, it ultimately died at the end of the legislative session as part of the comprehensive crime bill.

One possible roadblock, Coleman said, is the GOP push to return the St. Louis Police Department to state control. The idea is vehemently opposed by St. Louis lawmakers, and Coleman said the legislation “has really stifled any significant crime or detention or correctional facility bills.”&nbsp;

“Because any time there’s something that opens that chapter (of state law),” she said, “that conversation tends to bog things down.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736603718513.png" alt=" State Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, R-Arnold, is hoping to ban the shackling of pregnant women in Missouri jails (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> State Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, R-Arnold, is hoping to ban the shackling of pregnant women in Missouri jails (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">ANNA SPOERRE</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Seven years ago,&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=217.151" target="_blank">Missouri banned the shackling of pregnant women in state prisons.&nbsp;</a>State Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, a Republican from Arnold, is hoping to expand the law this year to include city and county jails.“Now we have seven years of data that this is a fairly small number of inmates and it is not onerous for (the Department of Corrections) to comply with the law,” Coleman said. “We’re able to help keep women who are incarcerated safer.”Her bill would outlaw the use of restraints in the third trimester, during labor and for the first 48 hours postpartum “except in extraordinary circumstances.”&nbsp;“You add an increased risk of falls, and it can be really dangerous for women not to be able to have their hands to catch themselves,” Coleman said. “This should only be done when it’s necessary, and when it’s done you need to document to make sure why it was necessary.”This would put Missouri jails in line with guidance from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2021/07/reproductive-health-care-for-incarcerated-pregnant-postpartum-and-nonpregnant-individuals" target="_blank">American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists</a>.Since the shackling ban in state prisons went into effect in 2018, “there haven’t been any reported incidents of a woman in labor trying to harm herself or flee,” said Karen Pojmann, spokesperson for the Missouri Department of Corrections.&nbsp;The number of pregnant women who are incarcerated in state prisons averages between two and 15 on any given day, Pojmann said. The Missouri Sheriffs’ Association could not immediately be reached regarding data on pregnant women incarcerated in city and county jails.The legislation would also require all city and county jails to develop intake policies for pregnant women by Jan. 1, 2026, that include mental health evaluations, prenatal vitamins and a nutritious meal plan including an increased calorie intake. It would also prohibit women from being placed in solitary confinement during the first six weeks postpartum, when there’s a greater risk of postpartum depression, and require a female medical professional be present during any prenatal or postpartum medical exams.While the bill gives jail employees some discretion over the use of handcuffs, it prohibits the use of leg and ankle restraints and only allows wrist restraints to be used if connected in front of the person’s body, rather than behind their back “to protect the offender and the unborn child in the case of a forward fall.”If a health care provider tells jail staff to remove any shackles, their advice must be followed immediately.In the case a sheriff or jail employee decides restraints are necessary, they would be required to document the incident in writing within 48 hours and include why they were necessary and what restraints were used.iza Weiss, founder and director of Missouri Appleseed, a nonprofit that advocates in part for incarcerated women’s health, said she was thrilled to see Coleman file the legislation again.“She’s had a longstanding interest in and commitment to incarcerated women’s health, and we are supportive of the bill,” Weiss said.&nbsp;Weiss said that while a few jails including in Boone County, St. Louis County and St. Louis city have implemented policies that mirror the state ban, most cities and counties have not, leaving a need for this legislation.&nbsp;Coleman started working on the issue&nbsp;several years ago, and while it sawsome movement last year, it ultimately died at the end of the legislative session as part of the comprehensive crime bill.One possible roadblock, Coleman said, is the GOP push to return the St. Louis Police Department to state control. The idea is vehemently opposed by St. Louis lawmakers, and Coleman said the legislation “has really stifled any significant crime or detention or correctional facility bills.”&nbsp;“Because any time there’s something that opens that chapter (of state law),” she said, “that conversation tends to bog things down.”&nbsp;

Missouri senator renews push to ban shackling of pregnant women in city, county jails

Eagle Media announced several key promotions and leadership updates within the Eagle team. These changes reflect the company's commitment to employee ownership and operational excellence in serving&nbsp; communities and customers.

Shannon Wiederholt – Chief Financial Officer &amp; VP of Corporate Operations

Shannon Wiederholt has been promoted to Chief Financial Officer (CFO) while also continuing the role of Vice President of Corporate Operations. Shannon has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership within our accounting team and has been instrumental in overseeing Eagle’s budgeting processes.

In her new role, Shannon will help guide our employee ownership processes, audits, and valuation. She will also oversee our radio/media operations in St Joseph and Maryville, Missouri. Heading into her 15th year with Eagle, Shannon is also a member of the Eagle Board of Directors. She resides in Shawnee, Kansas, with her husband Brandon and their three children.

Olivia Hasenauer – Regional Vice President of Nebraska Media Group

Olivia Hasenauer has been promoted to Regional Vice President of Nebraska Media Group. While continuing her current responsibilities, Olivia will now take on broader leadership roles, contributing to the strategic direction and vision of the company.

Since joining Eagle in 2011, Olivia has played a pivotal role in driving growth across our media markets and spearheading company-wide sales initiatives. A passionate advocate for employee ownership, Olivia lives in Hemingford, Nebraska, with her husband Neil and their two children.

Todd Lynd – Associate Director, Eagle Board of Directors

Todd Lynd, Market Manager for Eagle Media of Hays, will join the Eagle Board of Directors as an Associate Director starting this January. Under Todd’s leadership, Hays Media has become the flagship group of Eagle, showcasing top-performing radio stations and the award-winning Hays Post.

With over 25 years of leadership and a dedication to our 100/0 commitment to success, Todd’s market-level experience will be a valuable addition to the Board. Todd and his wife Chrisi live in Hays, Kansas.

Speed Marriott – New Ventures Group &amp; Training Leadership

Speed Marriott will transition away from a full-time position to focus on supporting Bryan Marriott, President of P1 Learning, in expanding Eagle’s New Ventures Group. P1 Learning is a leading training and educational platform offering innovative programs such as P1 Plus, Rising Above, and the 10 Minute Trainer Network.

Eagle’s Mid America Production division will be restructured and merged into P1 to create high-quality training video production. Speed will continue contributing to Eagle through his involvement in Flight Plan Marketing sessions across our markets. A current member of the Eagle Board of Directors, Speed lives in Shawnee, Kansas, with his wife Cathy.

Matt Althouse - Regional Vice President of Kansas Media Group

Earlier this month, it was announced the Matt Althouse was promoted to Vice President of Kansas Media Group. Matt will oversee Eagle’s Kansas Media operations along with his current leadership role in Hutchinson. Kansas Broadcasters picked Matt for their “Rising Star Award” in 2023 reflecting his success at Eagle Media.

Althouse is looking forward to this new role at Eagle, “As Employee Owners, our commitment is to continually enhance and refine how we deliver news, sports, and entertainment that matters to our communities”.

Matt has two children, and they reside in Hutchinson Kansas.

Eagle Chairman Gary Shorman is excited to make these announcements, “These promotions reflect Eagle’s ongoing commitment to nurturing leadership, fostering growth with employee ownership, and providing the best for our customers and communities.”

Eagle Media announced several key promotions and leadership updates within the Eagle team. These changes reflect the company's commitment to employee ownership and operational excellence in serving&nbsp; communities and customers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736543074917.png" alt="Shannon Wiederholt " />
 <figcaption>Shannon Wiederholt </figcaption>
 </figure>Shannon Wiederholt – Chief Financial Officer &amp; VP of Corporate OperationsShannon Wiederholt has been promoted to Chief Financial Officer (CFO) while also continuing the role of Vice President of Corporate Operations. Shannon has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership within our accounting team and has been instrumental in overseeing Eagle’s budgeting processes.In her new role, Shannon will help guide our employee ownership processes, audits, and valuation. She will also oversee our radio/media operations in St Joseph and Maryville, Missouri. Heading into her 15th year with Eagle, Shannon is also a member of the Eagle Board of Directors. She resides in Shawnee, Kansas, with her husband Brandon and their three children.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736543148352.png" alt="Olivia Hasenauer" />
 <figcaption>Olivia Hasenauer</figcaption>
 </figure>Olivia Hasenauer – Regional Vice President of Nebraska Media GroupOlivia Hasenauer has been promoted to Regional Vice President of Nebraska Media Group. While continuing her current responsibilities, Olivia will now take on broader leadership roles, contributing to the strategic direction and vision of the company.Since joining Eagle in 2011, Olivia has played a pivotal role in driving growth across our media markets and spearheading company-wide sales initiatives. A passionate advocate for employee ownership, Olivia lives in Hemingford, Nebraska, with her husband Neil and their two children.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736543188701.png" alt="Todd Lynd" />
 <figcaption>Todd Lynd</figcaption>
 </figure>Todd Lynd – Associate Director, Eagle Board of DirectorsTodd Lynd, Market Manager for Eagle Media of Hays, will join the Eagle Board of Directors as an Associate Director starting this January. Under Todd’s leadership, Hays Media has become the flagship group of Eagle, showcasing top-performing radio stations and the award-winning Hays Post.With over 25 years of leadership and a dedication to our 100/0 commitment to success, Todd’s market-level experience will be a valuable addition to the Board. Todd and his wife Chrisi live in Hays, Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736543217551.png" alt="Speed Marriott " />
 <figcaption>Speed Marriott </figcaption>
 </figure>Speed Marriott – New Ventures Group &amp; Training LeadershipSpeed Marriott will transition away from a full-time position to focus on supporting Bryan Marriott, President of P1 Learning, in expanding Eagle’s New Ventures Group. P1 Learning is a leading training and educational platform offering innovative programs such as P1 Plus, Rising Above, and the 10 Minute Trainer Network.Eagle’s Mid America Production division will be restructured and merged into P1 to create high-quality training video production. Speed will continue contributing to Eagle through his involvement in Flight Plan Marketing sessions across our markets. A current member of the Eagle Board of Directors, Speed lives in Shawnee, Kansas, with his wife Cathy.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736543278016.png" alt="Matt Althouse " />
 <figcaption>Matt Althouse </figcaption>
 </figure>Matt Althouse - Regional Vice President of Kansas Media GroupEarlier this month, it was announced the Matt Althouse was promoted to Vice President of Kansas Media Group. Matt will oversee Eagle’s Kansas Media operations along with his current leadership role in Hutchinson. Kansas Broadcasters picked Matt for their “Rising Star Award” in 2023 reflecting his success at Eagle Media.Althouse is looking forward to this new role at Eagle, “As Employee Owners, our commitment is to continually enhance and refine how we deliver news, sports, and entertainment that matters to our communities”.Matt has two children, and they reside in Hutchinson Kansas.Eagle Chairman Gary Shorman is excited to make these announcements, “These promotions reflect Eagle’s ongoing commitment to nurturing leadership, fostering growth with employee ownership, and providing the best for our customers and communities.”

Eagle Media announces key promotions to leadership team

Prolific author Milt Toratti, an Army veteran, has helped
veterans tell their stories in 160 books written over the past 69 years.

It took him much longer to help former POW Guy Gruters tell
his.

Toratti says he and Gruters first collaborated in 2008, but
two drafts didn’t work. A third attempt produced “Faith Conquers Through
Courage Tested,” a book about Gruters 5 ½ years in the infamous Hanoi Hilton
where the Viet Cong held &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; U.S.
prisoners during the Vietnam War.

Toratti says Gruters leaned on his Christian faith to make it
through years of torture.

“Guy Gruters actually started to evangelize, because what he
did in there was he said in order to survive I have to forgive my enemy,”
Toratti relates during a visit to the KFEQ Hotline. “And he forgave the
interrogators. He forgave the guards. He forgave them for beating him, because
that was his way of getting salvation and his belief in Christ and it made him
stronger because of that.”

Though the book focuses on the experiences of Gruters in the
Hoa Lo Prison, it touches on the stories of several POWs.

“Like James Stockdale. He became an admiral. He got the
Congressional Medal of Honor along with (George) Bud Day,” Toratti says. “But
James Stockdale tried to commit suicide, because he knew too much. But he didn’t
know how to lie well enough. So, he was going to commit suicide. Well, they
talked him out of that. He tried to commit suicide. He lived. And then, he went
on forward from there. But that’s how gruesome it was.”

Another prisoner in the Hanoi Hilton was John McCain, who
became a United States Senator and ran on the Republican ticket for president.

Faith and camaraderie go them through unimaginable conditions,
according to Toratti. The POWs devised a code of conduct to help them survive.
If the torture brought them to a breaking point, they could confess, but the confession
must be mixed with enough lies to confuse the enemy. The Viet Cong held more
than 600 prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. Toratti says he hopes the
book pays tribute to their sacrifice. &nbsp;

Planning is underway months in advance to welcome Gruters to
St. Joseph during a special ceremony to commemorate the terrorist attacks of
September 11th.

Michael Meierhoffer is leading the effort to bring Gruters to
St. Joseph on September 11th. The event is scheduled to be held at
Wyatt Park Baptist Church. Meierhoffer says the country should pay special
tribute to those imprisoned during the Vietnam War.

“Certainly, they’re at the tip of the spear, because there
were hundreds of thousands of men and women who went to Vietnam,” Meierhoffer
says. “And we can debate all day long whether we should have been there or
shouldn’t, but we were and I can tell you from a Navy perspective and a Navy
flyers perspective there were a lot of things that were done incorrectly. But
we are there and we’re going to celebrate what we can.”

Money raised during the event as well as through sale of the
book will benefit the Cameron Veterans Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736535478533.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostProlific author Milt Toratti, an Army veteran, has helped
veterans tell their stories in 160 books written over the past 69 years.It took him much longer to help former POW Guy Gruters tell
his.Toratti says he and Gruters first collaborated in 2008, but
two drafts didn’t work. A third attempt produced “Faith Conquers Through
Courage Tested,” a book about Gruters 5 ½ years in the infamous Hanoi Hilton
where the Viet Cong held &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; U.S.
prisoners during the Vietnam War.Toratti says Gruters leaned on his Christian faith to make it
through years of torture.“Guy Gruters actually started to evangelize, because what he
did in there was he said in order to survive I have to forgive my enemy,”
Toratti relates during a visit to the KFEQ Hotline. “And he forgave the
interrogators. He forgave the guards. He forgave them for beating him, because
that was his way of getting salvation and his belief in Christ and it made him
stronger because of that.”Though the book focuses on the experiences of Gruters in the
Hoa Lo Prison, it touches on the stories of several POWs.“Like James Stockdale. He became an admiral. He got the
Congressional Medal of Honor along with (George) Bud Day,” Toratti says. “But
James Stockdale tried to commit suicide, because he knew too much. But he didn’t
know how to lie well enough. So, he was going to commit suicide. Well, they
talked him out of that. He tried to commit suicide. He lived. And then, he went
on forward from there. But that’s how gruesome it was.”Another prisoner in the Hanoi Hilton was John McCain, who
became a United States Senator and ran on the Republican ticket for president.Faith and camaraderie go them through unimaginable conditions,
according to Toratti. The POWs devised a code of conduct to help them survive.
If the torture brought them to a breaking point, they could confess, but the confession
must be mixed with enough lies to confuse the enemy. The Viet Cong held more
than 600 prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. Toratti says he hopes the
book pays tribute to their sacrifice. &nbsp;Planning is underway months in advance to welcome Gruters to
St. Joseph during a special ceremony to commemorate the terrorist attacks of
September 11th.Michael Meierhoffer is leading the effort to bring Gruters to
St. Joseph on September 11th. The event is scheduled to be held at
Wyatt Park Baptist Church. Meierhoffer says the country should pay special
tribute to those imprisoned during the Vietnam War.“Certainly, they’re at the tip of the spear, because there
were hundreds of thousands of men and women who went to Vietnam,” Meierhoffer
says. “And we can debate all day long whether we should have been there or
shouldn’t, but we were and I can tell you from a Navy perspective and a Navy
flyers perspective there were a lot of things that were done incorrectly. But
we are there and we’re going to celebrate what we can.”Money raised during the event as well as through sale of the
book will benefit the Cameron Veterans Home.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Latest book from Toratti tells the stories of Vietnam POWs

Click <a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/closing/#!/">HERE</a> for a list of winter weather cancelations.

Click <a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/closing/#!/">HERE</a> for a list of winter weather cancelations.

Winter weather cancelations

The massive snow storm derailed plans to return from the Christmas/New Years holiday for St. Joseph public and Savannah public schools. Both school districts have canceled classes today.

Both will try to begin the new year on Monday.

St. Joseph School District officials decided earlier in the week to cancel classes for the entire week.

The Savannah R3 School District had tried to begin classes on Thursday, but poor road conditions prompted officials to reverse course and cancel classes. Savannah school officials announced on Thursday that due to&nbsp; continued
hazardous road conditions, all Savannah R3 Campuses will be closed Friday, January 10th.

The Savannah school district stated it will monitor the situation this weekend and
re-evaluate on Sunday, but families should be prepared to start school on alternate
bus routes next week. Communication about routes will be sent prior to the
start of school on Monday morning.

St. Joseph Catholic schools and the St. Joseph Christian School returned to classes on Thursday.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostThey will try again on Monday.The massive snow storm derailed plans to return from the Christmas/New Years holiday for St. Joseph public and Savannah public schools. Both school districts have canceled classes today.Both will try to begin the new year on Monday.We will try again on Monday.St. Joseph School District officials decided earlier in the week to cancel classes for the entire week.The Savannah R3 School District had tried to begin classes on Thursday, but poor road conditions prompted officials to reverse course and cancel classes. Savannah school officials announced on Thursday that due to&nbsp; continued
hazardous road conditions, all Savannah R3 Campuses will be closed Friday, January 10th.The Savannah school district stated it will monitor the situation this weekend and
re-evaluate on Sunday, but families should be prepared to start school on alternate
bus routes next week. Communication about routes will be sent prior to the
start of school on Monday morning.St. Joseph Catholic schools and the St. Joseph Christian School returned to classes on Thursday.Snow fell again overnight throughout the Midland Empire, but not much accumulation. The largest snowfall fell south of us with the greater Springfield area and southeast Missouri, such as the city of Cape Girardeau, now under a Winter Storm Warning issued by the National Weather Service, which forecasts anywhere between three and five inches of snow in southern Missouri.Click <a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/closing/#!/">HERE</a> for more winter weather cancelations.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

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