By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/KFEQ-Morning-Sports-442025-e313v0e/a-absb5s6" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning Sports

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph Post<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/KFEQ-Morning-News-442025-e313uv9/a-absb5ql" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning News

ATCHISON COUNTY, Mo.—One person was injured in an accident just before 10p.m.Thursday in Atchison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Toyota Camry driven by a 49-year-old Omaha man was northbound on Interstate 29 at mile marker 105. The car crossed the center of the road and struck a the left side of a northbound 2024 Freightliner semi.&nbsp;

After impact the Toyota traveled off the right side of the road and rolled.&nbsp; EMS transported the driver to Fairfax Community Hospital. The semi driver was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

ATCHISON COUNTY, Mo.—One person was injured in an accident just before 10p.m.Thursday in Atchison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Toyota Camry driven by a 49-year-old Omaha man was northbound on Interstate 29 at mile marker 105. The car crossed the center of the road and struck a the left side of a northbound 2024 Freightliner semi.&nbsp;After impact the Toyota traveled off the right side of the road and rolled.&nbsp; EMS transported the driver to Fairfax Community Hospital. The semi driver was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Driver hospitalized after car strikes semi, overturns

NEMAHA COUNTY&nbsp;– The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office are investigating a murder that occurred Thursday in Seneca, Kansas..

Just before 3p.m., a 911 call was placed reporting shots fired at the Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church rectory at 411 Pioneer St., in Seneca, according to a media release from the KBI.

Deputies from the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office and officers from the Seneca Police Department arrived and discovered Father Arul Carasala, 57, of Seneca, outside the residence suffering from gunshot wounds.

Seneca EMS arrived and transported Father Carasala to the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital. Despite life-saving measures, he died at the hospital from his injuries.

Kansas Highway Patrol troopers responded and helped secure the scene. Shortly after,&nbsp; deputies from the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office and officers from the Seneca Police Department took Gary L. Hermesch, 66, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, into custody. He was booked into the Nemaha County Jail on requested charges of first-degree murder.

NEMAHA COUNTY—&nbsp;Father Arul Carasala, a Catholic priest who served&nbsp; Saints Peter and Paul Parish in Seneca since 2011 was shot and killed on Thursday.

Joseph F. Naumann, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Kansas City, Kansas, announced the death on social media Thursday afternoon,

 "I am heartbroken to share the tragic news of the death of Fr. Arul Carasala, who was fatally shot earlier today.," wrote Naumann.

" This senseless act of violence has left us grieving the loss of a beloved priest, leader, and friend."

The Archbishop described "Fr. Carasala as "a devoted and zealous pastor who faithfully served our Archdiocese for over twenty years, including as dean of the Nemaha-Marshall region. His love for Christ and His Church was evident in how he ministered to his people with great generosity and care. His parishioners, friends, and brother priests will deeply miss him."

"In this time of sorrow, let us entrust Fr. Carasala to the mercy of God and lift up in prayer his family in Cuddapah, India, his parish community at Saints Peter and Paul in Seneca, and all who mourn his passing. Let us also pray for the perpetrator, that God may touch and transform his heart."

" I recognize the pain and shock that such an event brings. In moments like these, we turn to our Lord, who is close to the brokenhearted. As we grieve, may we find strength in our faith and in the hope of Christ’s Resurrection."

The Knights of Columbus were scheduled to lead a Rosary at Saints Peter and Paul Parish in Seneca Thursday evening.&nbsp; Naumann was also going to celebrate a Mass there after the Rosary.&nbsp;

"Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen." Nauman wrote.

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743721682115.png" alt="-Father Arul Carasala-photo courtesy Saints Peter &amp; Paul Parish" />
 <figcaption>-Father Arul Carasala-photo courtesy Saints Peter &amp; Paul Parish</figcaption>
 </figure>NEMAHA COUNTY&nbsp;– The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office are investigating a murder that occurred Thursday in Seneca, Kansas..Just before 3p.m., a 911 call was placed reporting shots fired at the Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church rectory at 411 Pioneer St., in Seneca, according to a media release from the KBI.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743730286838.png" alt="Hermesch photo Nemaha Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Hermesch photo Nemaha Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>Deputies from the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office and officers from the Seneca Police Department arrived and discovered Father Arul Carasala, 57, of Seneca, outside the residence suffering from gunshot wounds.Seneca EMS arrived and transported Father Carasala to the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital. Despite life-saving measures, he died at the hospital from his injuries.Kansas Highway Patrol troopers responded and helped secure the scene. Shortly after,&nbsp; deputies from the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office and officers from the Seneca Police Department took Gary L. Hermesch, 66, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, into custody. He was booked into the Nemaha County Jail on requested charges of first-degree murder.--------------NEMAHA COUNTY—&nbsp;Father Arul Carasala, a Catholic priest who served&nbsp; Saints Peter and Paul Parish in Seneca since 2011 was shot and killed on Thursday.Joseph F. Naumann, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Kansas City, Kansas, announced the death on social media Thursday afternoon, "I am heartbroken to share the tragic news of the death of Fr. Arul Carasala, who was fatally shot earlier today.," wrote Naumann." This senseless act of violence has left us grieving the loss of a beloved priest, leader, and friend."The Archbishop described "Fr. Carasala as "a devoted and zealous pastor who faithfully served our Archdiocese for over twenty years, including as dean of the Nemaha-Marshall region. His love for Christ and His Church was evident in how he ministered to his people with great generosity and care. His parishioners, friends, and brother priests will deeply miss him.""In this time of sorrow, let us entrust Fr. Carasala to the mercy of God and lift up in prayer his family in Cuddapah, India, his parish community at Saints Peter and Paul in Seneca, and all who mourn his passing. Let us also pray for the perpetrator, that God may touch and transform his heart."" I recognize the pain and shock that such an event brings. In moments like these, we turn to our Lord, who is close to the brokenhearted. As we grieve, may we find strength in our faith and in the hope of Christ’s Resurrection."The Knights of Columbus were scheduled to lead a Rosary at Saints Peter and Paul Parish in Seneca Thursday evening.&nbsp; Naumann was also going to celebrate a Mass there after the Rosary.&nbsp;"Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen." Nauman wrote.Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

Suspect arrested in shooting death of priest at parish rectory in Kansas

It has been a
rough ride for investors to say the least.

The Stock Market
has recorded some deep losses since the first of the year.

Eastern Kansas
Congressman Derek Schmidt, a Republican, understands those drops have some
shaken.

“Yeah, it has been
chaotic and that does happen from time to time in the markets. It certainly
happens when the markets are high,” Schmidt tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “It
happens whenever there are significant changes in public policy and that’s what’s
happening right now.”

Yet, Schmidt says
President Trump is looking farther down the road than the latest two-week
roller coaster ride in the Stock Market.

The Dow Jones
flirted with 45,000 in mid-January before dropping nearly 3,000 points since.
The S&amp;P 500 dropped 4.6% in the first quarter, its worst quarter in 2 1/2
years.

Gold, a
traditional haven for those worried about the markets, has hit an all-time high
of more than $3,000 an ounce on the futures market.

And that was
before President Donald Trump announced wide-ranging tariffs after the markets
closed Wednesday. Trump called Wednesday “Liberation Day,” a break away from
the free market approach the president claims has resulted in trade imbalances
unfair to the United States. Trump will impose what he calls reciprocal tariffs
on dozens of countries. The U.S. will also establish a universal 10% tariff
floor.

The tariffs
announced by Trump include a 20% tariff on goods imposed by the European Union
and an additional 34% tariff on goods from China, creating tariffs that will
top 50% on some Chinese goods.

News of the tariffs
sent the markets into a tailspin. The Dow Jones Industrial Average plummeted
more than 1,400 when trading began this morning. The S&amp;P 500 fell 4% with
the Nasdaq Composite off nearly 900 at one point Thursday, down 5%.

Schmidt suggests
investors need to stay calm and let things play out.

“Hunker in if you
have investments. Take the advice of whoever you listen to investment advice on,”
Schmidt says. “My own advice for what it’s worth, and I’m not an investment
advisor, is hunker in and be prepared to ride it out if you’re in a position to
do that.”

Schmidt is
confident the moves by President Trump will benefit the economy, in the long
run.

“In the short
term, there’s some turbulence,” Schmidt concedes. “But if this works out the
way the president and his team believe it will, in the long-term it will bring
us much more predictability and stability and that’ll be good for every
investor and every American.”

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

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostIt has been a
rough ride for investors to say the least.The Stock Market
has recorded some deep losses since the first of the year.Then came the tariffs.Eastern Kansas
Congressman Derek Schmidt, a Republican, understands those drops have some
shaken.“Yeah, it has been
chaotic and that does happen from time to time in the markets. It certainly
happens when the markets are high,” Schmidt tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “It
happens whenever there are significant changes in public policy and that’s what’s
happening right now.”Yet, Schmidt says
President Trump is looking farther down the road than the latest two-week
roller coaster ride in the Stock Market.The Dow Jones
flirted with 45,000 in mid-January before dropping nearly 3,000 points since.
The S&amp;P 500 dropped 4.6% in the first quarter, its worst quarter in 2 1/2
years.Gold, a
traditional haven for those worried about the markets, has hit an all-time high
of more than $3,000 an ounce on the futures market.And that was
before President Donald Trump announced wide-ranging tariffs after the markets
closed Wednesday. Trump called Wednesday “Liberation Day,” a break away from
the free market approach the president claims has resulted in trade imbalances
unfair to the United States. Trump will impose what he calls reciprocal tariffs
on dozens of countries. The U.S. will also establish a universal 10% tariff
floor.The tariffs
announced by Trump include a 20% tariff on goods imposed by the European Union
and an additional 34% tariff on goods from China, creating tariffs that will
top 50% on some Chinese goods.News of the tariffs
sent the markets into a tailspin. The Dow Jones Industrial Average plummeted
more than 1,400 when trading began this morning. The S&amp;P 500 fell 4% with
the Nasdaq Composite off nearly 900 at one point Thursday, down 5%.Schmidt suggests
investors need to stay calm and let things play out.“Hunker in if you
have investments. Take the advice of whoever you listen to investment advice on,”
Schmidt says. “My own advice for what it’s worth, and I’m not an investment
advisor, is hunker in and be prepared to ride it out if you’re in a position to
do that.”Schmidt is
confident the moves by President Trump will benefit the economy, in the long
run.“In the short
term, there’s some turbulence,” Schmidt concedes. “But if this works out the
way the president and his team believe it will, in the long-term it will bring
us much more predictability and stability and that’ll be good for every
investor and every American.”You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Tariffs take toll on Stock Market; Republican Congressman urges patience

Trivia and pizza
will be featured during a fundraiser tonight for the Patee House and
Jesse James Home, featuring a local celebrity.

JoeTown 107.5’s
Gregg Lynn will host the trivia night at Geno’s Pizza in downtown St. Joseph.

It takes 10 bucks
to enter the trivia contest. Additional donations are welcome.

The trivia night
at Geno’s begins at six o’clock. Guests are encouraged to arrive early and grab
a slice of pizza before the games begin.

Click <a href="http://www.ponyexpressjessejames.com/">HERE</a> for
more information on the museums along with information on how to donate and
volunteer.

All proceeds from
the event go directly toward the preservation and upkeep of the Patee House and
Jesse James Home.

Geno’s Pizza &amp;
Pub is located at 809 Francis Street in St Joseph.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743698577566.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostTrivia and pizza
will be featured during a fundraiser tonight for the Patee House and
Jesse James Home, featuring a local celebrity.JoeTown 107.5’s
Gregg Lynn will host the trivia night at Geno’s Pizza in downtown St. Joseph.It takes 10 bucks
to enter the trivia contest. Additional donations are welcome.The trivia night
at Geno’s begins at six o’clock. Guests are encouraged to arrive early and grab
a slice of pizza before the games begin.Click <a href="http://www.ponyexpressjessejames.com/">HERE</a> for
more information on the museums along with information on how to donate and
volunteer.All proceeds from
the event go directly toward the preservation and upkeep of the Patee House and
Jesse James Home.Geno’s Pizza &amp;
Pub is located at 809 Francis Street in St Joseph.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Trivia contest tonight to raise money for Patee House - Jesse James museums

Northwest Missouri
State University will honor the late Dean Hubbard Friday morning with a celebration
of his life.

Hubbard died March
23rd at the age of 85.

Hubbard was
Northwest’s longest-serving president, leading the university from 1984 to
2009.

A celebration of
Hubbard’s life will begin at 10:30 Friday morning the 4th in the
Mary Linn Auditorium at the Ron Huston Center for Performing Arts on the Maryville
campus. Doors open at 9:30am. A slideshow begins at 10. The celebration is open
to the public.

A private family
luncheon is planned prior to a bell ringing ceremony at 1:30pm at the Bell of ’48.
The campus landmark, donated by the class of 1948 and located south of the
Administration Building, is rung to herald Northwest celebrations and to honor
the passing of students, faculty and staff.

In lieu of
flowers, the Hubbard family requests contributions to the Dean and Aleta
Hubbard Scholarship at Northwest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742850179738.jpeg" alt="Dean L. Hubbard/ Photo courtesy of Northwest Missouri State University" />
 <figcaption>Dean L. Hubbard/ Photo courtesy of Northwest Missouri State University</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostNorthwest Missouri
State University will honor the late Dean Hubbard Friday morning with a celebration
of his life.Hubbard died March
23rd at the age of 85.Hubbard was
Northwest’s longest-serving president, leading the university from 1984 to
2009.A celebration of
Hubbard’s life will begin at 10:30 Friday morning the 4th in the
Mary Linn Auditorium at the Ron Huston Center for Performing Arts on the Maryville
campus. Doors open at 9:30am. A slideshow begins at 10. The celebration is open
to the public.A private family
luncheon is planned prior to a bell ringing ceremony at 1:30pm at the Bell of ’48.
The campus landmark, donated by the class of 1948 and located south of the
Administration Building, is rung to herald Northwest celebrations and to honor
the passing of students, faculty and staff.In lieu of
flowers, the Hubbard family requests contributions to the Dean and Aleta
Hubbard Scholarship at Northwest.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Northwest Missouri State to honor President Hubbard Friday

A driver who
allegedly fled an accident in St. Joseph Wednesday evening has been arrested
after crashing about an hour later.

St. Joseph police
report officers responded to a hit-and-run call about 6:30 Wednesday night at
Noyes and Messanie Streets that left one person with minor injuries.

The driver suspected
in the hit-and-run wrecked at North 22nd and Newport Streets around 7:30,
hitting a parked car and a tree, according to police.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA driver who
allegedly fled an accident in St. Joseph Wednesday evening has been arrested
after crashing about an hour later.St. Joseph police
report officers responded to a hit-and-run call about 6:30 Wednesday night at
Noyes and Messanie Streets that left one person with minor injuries.The driver suspected
in the hit-and-run wrecked at North 22nd and Newport Streets around 7:30,
hitting a parked car and a tree, according to police.The driver has
been taken into custody.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Driver sought in St. Joseph hit and run found after crashing an hour later

The deadline to nominate an area athlete, coach, or team for the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame class of 2025 is nearing.  

St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett Eseley says the nomination portal for the Hall of Fame is actually open 365 days a year 

"However, we heavily promote it this time of year because we will, after nominations close, literally about a month later select our class of 2025, we'll announce that publicly late May, early June," Esely tells KFEQ News.  "But it's critical right now, and I know several people are working on nominations, that we receive those by this Friday, April 4th, that is the nomination deadline for consideration in the 2025 class." 

Esely says the nomination form can be filled out online. 

"That form is pretty basic ultimately, we obviously need to know who you're nominating, little bit of background on them, we like to know who the nominator is because if we have any questions we can ask that person," Esely explains.  "But then it's really critical that that nominator puts together as much biographical information as possible." 

Esely says when filling out a nomination form, give more information than you might think is needed, and uses a high school coach as an example 

"Coaches coach in some cases four decades, and so with that portray what that coach has done," Esely says.  "If we're talking about a high school coach, have they won state championships, did they have consecutive winning seasons that stretched 20 plus years, coaches are mentors, they're teachers, they're role models, display those things too, that's important." 

That same form can also be filled out by visiting the Sports Commission offices located at the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648580960759.jpeg" alt="Brett Esely, director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission, announces the first ever St. Joseph Sports Hall of Fame Class in June 2021. Stock photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Brett Esely, director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission, announces the first ever St. Joseph Sports Hall of Fame Class in June 2021. Stock photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The deadline to nominate an area athlete, coach, or team for the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame class of 2025 is nearing. St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett Eseley says the nomination portal for the Hall of Fame is actually open 365 days a year "However, we heavily promote it this time of year because we will, after nominations close, literally about a month later select our class of 2025, we'll announce that publicly late May, early June," Esely tells KFEQ News. "But it's critical right now, and I know several people are working on nominations, that we receive those by this Friday, April 4th, that is the nomination deadline for consideration in the 2025 class." Esely says the nomination form can be filled out online. "That form is pretty basic ultimately, we obviously need to know who you're nominating, little bit of background on them, we like to know who the nominator is because if we have any questions we can ask that person," Esely explains. "But then it's really critical that that nominator puts together as much biographical information as possible." Esely says when filling out a nomination form, give more information than you might think is needed, and uses a high school coach as an example "Coaches coach in some cases four decades, and so with that portray what that coach has done," Esely says. "If we're talking about a high school coach, have they won state championships, did they have consecutive winning seasons that stretched 20 plus years, coaches are mentors, they're teachers, they're role models, display those things too, that's important." That same form can also be filled out by visiting the Sports Commission offices located at the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Nomination deadline nearing for class of 2025 in St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame

The Missouri Department of Transportation is seeking public input on how people get back and forth to their destinations.  

MoDOT Deputy Director Eric Schroeter says the long-range transportation plan helps MoDOT understand people's vision for the transportation system 

"We do this about every five years roughly, and we want to make sure as we're planning projects and working with our planning partners and the elected officials, that we're actually working on a system that builds towards the vision of what Missouri has for the transportation system," Schroeter tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And some of the things people have told us in the past, some of the guiding goals we've used, first they've told us take care of what we have." 

Schroeter says the department wants to make sure it is taking care of and building the transportation system the way Missouri sees it 

"That's where getting everybody's input (is important), everybody is a user of the transportation system, whether you drive or not, the products you buy, the places you go, people who come to you, all of it depends on a transportation system," Schroeter explains.  "So, everybody has an important vision of this, and we want to make sure we're getting it from all of Missouri." 

Schroeter says having data from this survey helps the department when planning out projects 

"What can we do as we're planning out projects to make sure we're using dollars to have a better connection to transit? Or is there a desire in a community to have better access for pedestrians to have a more walkable community? What can we do as we're doing projects to make sure we're doing that?" Schroeter says.  

"So, it's really using this information to make sure as we plan future projects that we're working towards things that communities desire in Missouri." 

The survey can be filled out by visiting the department's website.  Schroeter says the survey is just phase one, and soon MoDOT will hold regional public input sessions to hear more. 

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The Missouri Department of Transportation is seeking public input on how people get back and forth to their destinations. MoDOT Deputy Director Eric Schroeter says the long-range transportation plan helps MoDOT understand people's vision for the transportation system "We do this about every five years roughly, and we want to make sure as we're planning projects and working with our planning partners and the elected officials, that we're actually working on a system that builds towards the vision of what Missouri has for the transportation system," Schroeter tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And some of the things people have told us in the past, some of the guiding goals we've used, first they've told us take care of what we have." Schroeter says the department wants to make sure it is taking care of and building the transportation system the way Missouri sees it "That's where getting everybody's input (is important), everybody is a user of the transportation system, whether you drive or not, the products you buy, the places you go, people who come to you, all of it depends on a transportation system," Schroeter explains. "So, everybody has an important vision of this, and we want to make sure we're getting it from all of Missouri." Schroeter says having data from this survey helps the department when planning out projects "What can we do as we're planning out projects to make sure we're using dollars to have a better connection to transit? Or is there a desire in a community to have better access for pedestrians to have a more walkable community? What can we do as we're doing projects to make sure we're doing that?" Schroeter says. "So, it's really using this information to make sure as we plan future projects that we're working towards things that communities desire in Missouri." The survey can be filled out by visiting the department's website. Schroeter says the survey is just phase one, and soon MoDOT will hold regional public input sessions to hear more. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

MoDOT wants to know how you get from Point A to Point B

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/KFEQ-Morning-Sports-432025-e312c0e/a-abs95b7" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph Post<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/KFEQ-Morning-News-432025-e312bpe/a-abs951v" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/shanelagesse/">SHANE LAGESSE</a>

The Missouri House on Monday advanced legislation that would reinstate state-run presidential preference primaries and extend the no-excuse absentee voting period from two to six weeks.

Supporters of&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB126&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R" target="_blank">House Bill 126</a>&nbsp;cited a widespread positive response to the recently enacted no-excuse voting period as a motivating factor. They also noted negative feedback on the 2024 party-run caucuses, which replaced the state-run primaries after they were eliminated as part of a law passed in 2022.

The no-excuse absentee voting period has been in effect since August 2022 and allows voters to cast their ballot in elections in person or by mail starting two weeks before Election Day.

Supporters of the bill said they hoped that extending the no-excuse voting period would further alleviate stress on election workers and encourage voters to cast their ballot.

The state of Missouri ran March presidential primaries from 2000 until 2020. A 2022 law signed by former Gov. Mike Parson eliminated them. In 2024, the Republican Party held in-person caucuses in Missouri to select their delegates, while Democrats opted for a hybrid caucus with in-person voting and a mail-in ballot.

Low participation in these caucuses, alongside vocal blowback from residents who preferred the state-run primaries, were cited as motivators for reinstating the primaries.

“I believe it’s a lot simpler for our residents of our state going to cast a ballot like they do it in every other way for their preference for the presidential primary,” said state Rep. Brad Banderman, a Republican St. Clair.

Under the bill primaries would be held on the first Tuesday of March during presidential election years. The estimated cost to the state for conducting the primaries is $8 million.

The bill’s supporters also noted that unlike previous years, where the primary results have not been binding to party delegates, both political parties have agreed to adhere to the results for the first ballot at their respective party conventions.

The House needs to approve the legislation one more time before it heads to the Senate.

This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/house-backs-return-to-presidential-primary/article_446ef326-a816-4f23-9049-c2e60bd38f92.html" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730402566267.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/shanelagesse/">SHANE LAGESSE</a>The Missouri House on Monday advanced legislation that would reinstate state-run presidential preference primaries and extend the no-excuse absentee voting period from two to six weeks.Supporters of&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB126&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R" target="_blank">House Bill 126</a>&nbsp;cited a widespread positive response to the recently enacted no-excuse voting period as a motivating factor. They also noted negative feedback on the 2024 party-run caucuses, which replaced the state-run primaries after they were eliminated as part of a law passed in 2022.The no-excuse absentee voting period has been in effect since August 2022 and allows voters to cast their ballot in elections in person or by mail starting two weeks before Election Day.Supporters of the bill said they hoped that extending the no-excuse voting period would further alleviate stress on election workers and encourage voters to cast their ballot.The state of Missouri ran March presidential primaries from 2000 until 2020. A 2022 law signed by former Gov. Mike Parson eliminated them. In 2024, the Republican Party held in-person caucuses in Missouri to select their delegates, while Democrats opted for a hybrid caucus with in-person voting and a mail-in ballot.Low participation in these caucuses, alongside vocal blowback from residents who preferred the state-run primaries, were cited as motivators for reinstating the primaries.“I believe it’s a lot simpler for our residents of our state going to cast a ballot like they do it in every other way for their preference for the presidential primary,” said state Rep. Brad Banderman, a Republican St. Clair.Under the bill primaries would be held on the first Tuesday of March during presidential election years. The estimated cost to the state for conducting the primaries is $8 million.The bill’s supporters also noted that unlike previous years, where the primary results have not been binding to party delegates, both political parties have agreed to adhere to the results for the first ballot at their respective party conventions.The House needs to approve the legislation one more time before it heads to the Senate.This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/house-backs-return-to-presidential-primary/article_446ef326-a816-4f23-9049-c2e60bd38f92.html" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

Missouri House backs return to presidential primary

The St. Joseph Fire Department&nbsp;Fire Battalion Chief has announced that due to wind conditions, open burning for Wednesday has been canceled.&nbsp;

Open burning should resume tomorrow.&nbsp; Burning of&nbsp;only limbs, branches and brush is allowed and it needs to be contained.&nbsp; Open burning is between the hours of&nbsp;8:00am to 6:00pm normally.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Fire Department&nbsp;Fire Battalion Chief has announced that due to wind conditions, open burning for Wednesday has been canceled.&nbsp;Open burning should resume tomorrow.&nbsp; Burning of&nbsp;only limbs, branches and brush is allowed and it needs to be contained.&nbsp; Open burning is between the hours of&nbsp;8:00am to 6:00pm normally.

St. Joseph Open Burning canceled for Wednesday

Members of
Congress who represent agricultural interests brace for impact as they expect
retaliatory tariffs if President Trump follows through with his threats against
U.S. trade partners.

Trump has called
today “Liberation Day,” promising reciprocal tariffs against countries imposing
tariffs on U.S. products.

Northern Missouri
Congressman Sam Graves, a Republican and Trump supporter, claims Trump’s tough
stand has already reaped benefits with Canada and Mexico.

“You know, the
president’s for free trade and I think we all are, free and open trade,” Graves
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “But just by putting this out there we’ve already
got two of our biggest trading partners back at the table and they’re trying to
fix this. I think it’s all going to work out in the end and ultimately, it’s
going to be good for everyone.”

Graves has concerns
about the impact increasing tariffs might have on his 6th
Congressional District, which relies heavily on agriculture.

“You always worry
about that a little bit, but I think we have to see what happens,” Graves says.
“And, obviously, that’s my livelihood – is farming – and, obviously we depend
heavily on exports.”

Again, though, Graves
insists that threatened tariffs brought Canada and Mexico to the negotiating
table.

“But I think just
being tough on this stuff, it’ll bring countries right back to the table,”
Graves says. “And, again, our two biggest trading partners are at the table. I
think it’s all going to work out.”

Less sure is Iowa
U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley, a Republican who worries about retaliation by
countries President Trump targets for increased tariffs.

"It's very apt to be against agricultural products. It
wouldn't be the only products probably that they'd put on a retaliatory tariff,
but at least some," Grassley tells reporters during a conference call,
"and then you'd have to know the financial impact of that before you would
say how much money." 

Agriculture
Secretary Brooke Rollins, during a visit to Iowa, attempted to assure farmers
President Trump is playing the long game, slapping on tariffs to reduce a trade
imbalance that the president believes has hurt the U.S.

"He believes very sincerely that for the long term that
this is the right move for the country, that ultimately the economy will thrive
and all Americans will be better off," Rollins said during her tour of Iowa
farm country, "but we have some, you know, maybe a couple of weeks, maybe
a few months while we're working all of that out."

The trade-related
payments to American farmers during the first Trump administration were spread
over three years. Those payments surpassed $23 billion. Rollins told reporters
the president's next set of tariffs policies are still "to be
determined," but she's begun planning for payments to farmers should the
tariffs impact ag commodities.

President Trump is
adamant that the United States has been shortchanged in trade deals. He calls
this “Liberation Day,” a day when the country fights back against those that
impose tariffs and restrictions on American products. The president plans to
unveil his tariffs and their targets after the Stock Market closes this afternoon.

Trading partners
aren’t waiting. China has already responded with tariffs on U.S. agricultural
goods. The European Union has also announced it will target American beef,
poultry, peanut butter, and bourdon if the U.S. follows through.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMembers of
Congress who represent agricultural interests brace for impact as they expect
retaliatory tariffs if President Trump follows through with his threats against
U.S. trade partners.Trump has called
today “Liberation Day,” promising reciprocal tariffs against countries imposing
tariffs on U.S. products.Northern Missouri
Congressman Sam Graves, a Republican and Trump supporter, claims Trump’s tough
stand has already reaped benefits with Canada and Mexico.“You know, the
president’s for free trade and I think we all are, free and open trade,” Graves
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “But just by putting this out there we’ve already
got two of our biggest trading partners back at the table and they’re trying to
fix this. I think it’s all going to work out in the end and ultimately, it’s
going to be good for everyone.”Graves has concerns
about the impact increasing tariffs might have on his 6th
Congressional District, which relies heavily on agriculture.“You always worry
about that a little bit, but I think we have to see what happens,” Graves says.
“And, obviously, that’s my livelihood – is farming – and, obviously we depend
heavily on exports.”Again, though, Graves
insists that threatened tariffs brought Canada and Mexico to the negotiating
table.“But I think just
being tough on this stuff, it’ll bring countries right back to the table,”
Graves says. “And, again, our two biggest trading partners are at the table. I
think it’s all going to work out.”Less sure is Iowa
U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley, a Republican who worries about retaliation by
countries President Trump targets for increased tariffs."It's very apt to be against agricultural products. It
wouldn't be the only products probably that they'd put on a retaliatory tariff,
but at least some," Grassley tells reporters during a conference call,
"and then you'd have to know the financial impact of that before you would
say how much money." Agriculture
Secretary Brooke Rollins, during a visit to Iowa, attempted to assure farmers
President Trump is playing the long game, slapping on tariffs to reduce a trade
imbalance that the president believes has hurt the U.S."He believes very sincerely that for the long term that
this is the right move for the country, that ultimately the economy will thrive
and all Americans will be better off," Rollins said during her tour of Iowa
farm country, "but we have some, you know, maybe a couple of weeks, maybe
a few months while we're working all of that out."The trade-related
payments to American farmers during the first Trump administration were spread
over three years. Those payments surpassed $23 billion. Rollins told reporters
the president's next set of tariffs policies are still "to be
determined," but she's begun planning for payments to farmers should the
tariffs impact ag commodities.President Trump is
adamant that the United States has been shortchanged in trade deals. He calls
this “Liberation Day,” a day when the country fights back against those that
impose tariffs and restrictions on American products. The president plans to
unveil his tariffs and their targets after the Stock Market closes this afternoon.Trading partners
aren’t waiting. China has already responded with tariffs on U.S. agricultural
goods. The European Union has also announced it will target American beef,
poultry, peanut butter, and bourdon if the U.S. follows through.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Agriculture braces for backlash if Trump follows through with tariff threats

The head coaches of the Benton boys and girls basketball teams look back on a special season for the high school.  

Boys coach Jared Boone says it felt special to get the boys to their first championship since 1941.  

But he says what also felt more special, was getting to share the moment with the girls basketball team, and their coach Chris Michaels 

"You know, for the past four years I've sat and watched this guy to my right (Michaels) do it time and time again, and I'm like man it'd just be fun to get there, I'm trying to be on that court down there with him, not be watching him from the stands," Boone tells KFEQ News. 

Michaels says it was special to share the moment with Boone and the boys, and says the two shared a moment following the semifinal wins  

"You can call it a blackout moment if you want to, I have no idea what we said to each other, I have no idea what we screamed at each other," Michaels says.  "All I know is, boy if someone would have been down there to catch me jump from the stands, I would have jumped out of the stands to go give him a hug." 

Since the second-place finish for both teams at state, the teams have been recognized by the St. Joseph School Board, and most recently the City of St. Joseph.  

Michaels says what hasn't quite fully sunk in just yet is a promise he made to his two graduating seniors as freshman that they would hold up a state title 

"It was a promise not a hope, and I didn't get done with that, that didn't happen for my seniors, so there's two girls that I broke a promise to and the crazy thing is I think they feel the same," Michaels explains.  "I think that they felt like they promised us state championships, and the good thing that I can tell them is they did not let us down at all, they did everything that we asked them to do, and I'd tell them that we didn't let them down either." 

Michaels says he's told people that while he's tired of crying after state championships, he's grateful to be able to. 

Both coaches were also able to take in the moment of being at state, with the southside of St. Joseph taking over Columbia 

Boone says normally before games, he is off in a corner mentally locking himself in, but says this time he really took everything in and looked around 

"Looking up in the stands and seeing the majority of our section covered in Benton red, and even some of the upper sections, it was pretty cool," Boone says.  "I told myself when this happened, I wanted to take everything in, because this is something that doesn't happen all the time, and so I just wanted to not overlook that and have the memories stored in my brain of what it was actually like down there." 

Boone says it meant a lot to be able to do what his team was able to do this year. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743610740345.jpeg" alt="Benton basketball coaches Chris Michaels (left) and Jared Boone (right) joinied the KFEQMunnity show to reflect on the boys and girls basketball trips to the Class 4 state championship games/ Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Benton basketball coaches Chris Michaels (left) and Jared Boone (right) joinied the KFEQMunnity show to reflect on the boys and girls basketball trips to the Class 4 state championship games/ Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The head coaches of the Benton boys and girls basketball teams look back on a special season for the high school. Boys coach Jared Boone says it felt special to get the boys to their first championship since 1941. But he says what also felt more special, was getting to share the moment with the girls basketball team, and their coach Chris Michaels "You know, for the past four years I've sat and watched this guy to my right (Michaels) do it time and time again, and I'm like man it'd just be fun to get there, I'm trying to be on that court down there with him, not be watching him from the stands," Boone tells KFEQ News. Michaels says it was special to share the moment with Boone and the boys, and says the two shared a moment following the semifinal wins "You can call it a blackout moment if you want to, I have no idea what we said to each other, I have no idea what we screamed at each other," Michaels says. "All I know is, boy if someone would have been down there to catch me jump from the stands, I would have jumped out of the stands to go give him a hug." Since the second-place finish for both teams at state, the teams have been recognized by the St. Joseph School Board, and most recently the City of St. Joseph. Michaels says what hasn't quite fully sunk in just yet is a promise he made to his two graduating seniors as freshman that they would hold up a state title "It was a promise not a hope, and I didn't get done with that, that didn't happen for my seniors, so there's two girls that I broke a promise to and the crazy thing is I think they feel the same," Michaels explains. "I think that they felt like they promised us state championships, and the good thing that I can tell them is they did not let us down at all, they did everything that we asked them to do, and I'd tell them that we didn't let them down either." Michaels says he's told people that while he's tired of crying after state championships, he's grateful to be able to. Both coaches were also able to take in the moment of being at state, with the southside of St. Joseph taking over Columbia Boone says normally before games, he is off in a corner mentally locking himself in, but says this time he really took everything in and looked around "Looking up in the stands and seeing the majority of our section covered in Benton red, and even some of the upper sections, it was pretty cool," Boone says. "I told myself when this happened, I wanted to take everything in, because this is something that doesn't happen all the time, and so I just wanted to not overlook that and have the memories stored in my brain of what it was actually like down there." Boone says it meant a lot to be able to do what his team was able to do this year. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743610816392.jpeg" alt="Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Benton basketball coaches prideful of teams run to championship games

The 47th annual Pot of Gold Arts Gala and Auction is coming up at the Albrecht Kemper Museum of Art in St. Joseph.  

Executive Director Eric Fuson says the annual event is one of the museum's biggest fundraisers, held inside the museum.  

"We'll have a pretty elegant dinner," Fuson tells KFEQ News.  "And the whole them around it is going to be kind of espionage, so you think about that James Bond kind of suave side mixed in with a little bit of Austin Powers for fun, so we'll have a little bit of something for everybody, it really is a beautiful night." 

Fuson says the gala is a time when the St. Joseph community really steps up 

"Whether it's a sponsorship from a local business to sponsor the event on its own or whether it's an item, and even artists may donate a piece that we auction off," Fuson explains.  "We take all kinds of things to have a really well-rounded auction." 

Fuson says it's not too late to help sponsor the gala or purchase tickets for the evening 

"We will welcome you with open arms with any time that you'd like to, just let us know if you've got an idea of something you'd like to do," Fuson says.  "Whether it's a cash donation or if you want to come to the evening, we have lots of different levels, if you want to sponsor a table for your business and have a table of eight and you and all your friends come, we can do that as well." 

The event is being held on April 26th.  Tickets can be purchased by visiting the Albrecht Kemper's website.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1566485088591.jpeg" alt="Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art/ File photo" />
 <figcaption>Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art/ File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The 47th annual Pot of Gold Arts Gala and Auction is coming up at the Albrecht Kemper Museum of Art in St. Joseph. Executive Director Eric Fuson says the annual event is one of the museum's biggest fundraisers, held inside the museum. "We'll have a pretty elegant dinner," Fuson tells KFEQ News. "And the whole them around it is going to be kind of espionage, so you think about that James Bond kind of suave side mixed in with a little bit of Austin Powers for fun, so we'll have a little bit of something for everybody, it really is a beautiful night." Fuson says the gala is a time when the St. Joseph community really steps up "Whether it's a sponsorship from a local business to sponsor the event on its own or whether it's an item, and even artists may donate a piece that we auction off," Fuson explains. "We take all kinds of things to have a really well-rounded auction." Fuson says it's not too late to help sponsor the gala or purchase tickets for the evening "We will welcome you with open arms with any time that you'd like to, just let us know if you've got an idea of something you'd like to do," Fuson says. "Whether it's a cash donation or if you want to come to the evening, we have lots of different levels, if you want to sponsor a table for your business and have a table of eight and you and all your friends come, we can do that as well." The event is being held on April 26th. Tickets can be purchased by visiting the Albrecht Kemper's website.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Largest fundraiser helps raise money for Albrecht Kemper later this month

A Swiss chemical
company has announced completion of its renovation of a fertilizer plant in
Wathena, Kansas.

Omya,
a worldwide mineral processing company, says the Wathena plant will allow it to
expand into the Midwest and the Great Plains. Omya says it will produce
fertilizer in Wathena for use in row and specialty crops as well as on lawns.

Omya bought the
Wathena plant in 2022 and made $6 million in renovations to produce specialty
fertilizer products made from limestone, gypsum and dolomitic lime.

The plant’s
director of operations, Olav Bergset praised the effort, calling it an
investment in the community’s future.

“This
revitalization project is a success because a lot of critical upgrades came
together and added up to improve the overall work environment for our employees
and make the facility what Omya’s world-class standards require it to be—a safe
and efficient producer of consistently high-quality products,” Bergset said in
a written statement released by the company.

Omya Kansas plans
additional upgrades to the facility for 2025 as the company continues its
Midwest expansion.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743602276820.jpeg" alt="Omya Kansas Plant/Photo courtesy of Omya" />
 <figcaption>Omya Kansas Plant/Photo courtesy of Omya</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA Swiss chemical
company has announced completion of its renovation of a fertilizer plant in
Wathena, Kansas.Omya,
a worldwide mineral processing company, says the Wathena plant will allow it to
expand into the Midwest and the Great Plains. Omya says it will produce
fertilizer in Wathena for use in row and specialty crops as well as on lawns.Omya bought the
Wathena plant in 2022 and made $6 million in renovations to produce specialty
fertilizer products made from limestone, gypsum and dolomitic lime.The plant’s
director of operations, Olav Bergset praised the effort, calling it an
investment in the community’s future.“This
revitalization project is a success because a lot of critical upgrades came
together and added up to improve the overall work environment for our employees
and make the facility what Omya’s world-class standards require it to be—a safe
and efficient producer of consistently high-quality products,” Bergset said in
a written statement released by the company.Omya Kansas plans
additional upgrades to the facility for 2025 as the company continues its
Midwest expansion.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

$6M renovation of Wathena fertilizer plant completed

St. Joseph
Municipal Judge Theodore “Ted” Elo has died.

St. Joseph city
officials announced Elo died Sunday. Elo, a native of St. Joseph, served for
years as assistant city attorney. He won election as Municipal Judge in the
spring elections of 2022.

Click <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/ea3f89b1-1428-4a10-b4d5-844809ab2ee1">HERE</a> for his obituary.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743601856572.jpeg" alt="Theodore "Ted" Elo/file photo" />
 <figcaption>Theodore "Ted" Elo/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph
Municipal Judge Theodore “Ted” Elo has died.St. Joseph city
officials announced Elo died Sunday. Elo, a native of St. Joseph, served for
years as assistant city attorney. He won election as Municipal Judge in the
spring elections of 2022.Ted Elo was 65.Click <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/ea3f89b1-1428-4a10-b4d5-844809ab2ee1">HERE</a> for his obituary.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph Municipal Judge Ted Elo dies

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

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Honda Civic driven by a 19-year-old Liberty man was southbound on U.S. 169 in Trimble.

The car traveled across the center line and struck a northbound 2008 Chevy Cobalt driven by a 34-year-old Gower man head-on.

Tri-County EMS transported the Gower man to Mosaic Life Care. The teen driver was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

CLINTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Tuesday in Clinton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Honda Civic driven by a 19-year-old Liberty man was southbound on U.S. 169 in Trimble.The car traveled across the center line and struck a northbound 2008 Chevy Cobalt driven by a 34-year-old Gower man head-on.Tri-County EMS transported the Gower man to Mosaic Life Care. The teen driver was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Missouri man hospitalized in St. Joe after head-on crash

CALDWELL COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Tuesday in Caldwell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Ford Edge driven by a 74-year-old Cameron woman was westbound on Route HH one half mile west of Crow Road eight miles southeast of Cameron. The SUV crossed the center line, traveled off the left side of the road, struck two warning signs, continued west down an embankment and overturned.

Caldwell County EMS transported the driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP&gt;

CALDWELL COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Tuesday in Caldwell County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Ford Edge driven by a 74-year-old Cameron woman was westbound on Route HH one half mile west of Crow Road eight miles southeast of Cameron. The SUV crossed the center line, traveled off the left side of the road, struck two warning signs, continued west down an embankment and overturned.Caldwell County EMS transported the driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP&gt;

Mo. woman injured after car travels down embankment, overturns

Members of
Congress from rural districts in Missouri and Kansas have joined forces to
introduce legislation aimed at bringing stability to the energy grid in states
served by the Southwestern Power Administration.

Northern Missouri
Congressman Sam Graves and Congressman Tracey Mann, who represents the largest
Congressional district in Kansas, are co-sponsoring the Southwestern Power
Administration Fund Establishment Act. The Southwestern Power Administration
markets power produced by federal hydropower projects to electric cooperatives
and municipal utilities in Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and
Texas. It is a part of the Energy Department.

“Missouri’s rural
electric cooperatives and municipal utilities have worked with the Southwestern
Power Administration (SWPA) to provide affordable and reliable electricity to
Missouri families for over 80 years,” Congressman Graves said in a written
statement. “But the way SWPA is set up, droughts and other disruptions can
cause rate spikes that are passed on to co-ops and municipalities that have no
choice but to increase electric rates on Missouri families. This common sense
legislation creates a revolving fund to fix that problem—giving SWPA the stable
funding necessary to avoid costly rate spikes, and lower customer rates.”

&nbsp;“For more than eight decades, the Southwestern
Power Administration has allowed rural electric cooperatives and municipal
utilities to provide reliable, affordable energy to Kansans,” Congressman Mann
said in a written statement. “Under the current funding structure, SWPA has not
had the flexibility to make necessary investments into their infrastructure. As
a result, when natural disasters and bad weather limit the Administration’s
ability to produce power, replacement power has to be purchased, and that cost
is absorbed by everyday Kansans. Establishing a revolving fund for SWPA ensures
that they can continue to invest in their infrastructure while providing safe,
reliable, and affordable energy to Kansas families and rural communities like
those in the Big First.”

The Southwestern
Power Administration Fund Establishment Act would give Southwestern Power
authority to establish self-funded financing to provide long-term stability,
helping to mitigate drastic spikes in power rates. 

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMembers of
Congress from rural districts in Missouri and Kansas have joined forces to
introduce legislation aimed at bringing stability to the energy grid in states
served by the Southwestern Power Administration.Northern Missouri
Congressman Sam Graves and Congressman Tracey Mann, who represents the largest
Congressional district in Kansas, are co-sponsoring the Southwestern Power
Administration Fund Establishment Act. The Southwestern Power Administration
markets power produced by federal hydropower projects to electric cooperatives
and municipal utilities in Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and
Texas. It is a part of the Energy Department.“Missouri’s rural
electric cooperatives and municipal utilities have worked with the Southwestern
Power Administration (SWPA) to provide affordable and reliable electricity to
Missouri families for over 80 years,” Congressman Graves said in a written
statement. “But the way SWPA is set up, droughts and other disruptions can
cause rate spikes that are passed on to co-ops and municipalities that have no
choice but to increase electric rates on Missouri families. This common sense
legislation creates a revolving fund to fix that problem—giving SWPA the stable
funding necessary to avoid costly rate spikes, and lower customer rates.”&nbsp;“For more than eight decades, the Southwestern
Power Administration has allowed rural electric cooperatives and municipal
utilities to provide reliable, affordable energy to Kansans,” Congressman Mann
said in a written statement. “Under the current funding structure, SWPA has not
had the flexibility to make necessary investments into their infrastructure. As
a result, when natural disasters and bad weather limit the Administration’s
ability to produce power, replacement power has to be purchased, and that cost
is absorbed by everyday Kansans. Establishing a revolving fund for SWPA ensures
that they can continue to invest in their infrastructure while providing safe,
reliable, and affordable energy to Kansas families and rural communities like
those in the Big First.”The Southwestern
Power Administration Fund Establishment Act would give Southwestern Power
authority to establish self-funded financing to provide long-term stability,
helping to mitigate drastic spikes in power rates. You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MO&KS Congressmen move to stabilize hydro power to rural America

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/KFEQ-Morning-Sports-412025-e30vbv4/a-abs5a0t" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph Post<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/KFEQ-Morning-News-412025-e30vbr1/a-abs59r0" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

Interim Andrew
County Circuit Clerk, Tannah Buhman, no longer has to use “interim” in her
title.

Buhman, who is
from St. Joseph, has been named the Andrew County Circuit Clerk by Gov. Mike
Kehoe.

Buhman had been
appointed on an interim basis by the Presiding Judge after a year as Deputy Court
Clerk.

Buhman previously
worked as a patient care representative for Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph. She
holds certifications as a Certified Nurse Assistant and Certified Medication
Technician.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostInterim Andrew
County Circuit Clerk, Tannah Buhman, no longer has to use “interim” in her
title.Buhman, who is
from St. Joseph, has been named the Andrew County Circuit Clerk by Gov. Mike
Kehoe.Buhman had been
appointed on an interim basis by the Presiding Judge after a year as Deputy Court
Clerk.Buhman previously
worked as a patient care representative for Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph. She
holds certifications as a Certified Nurse Assistant and Certified Medication
Technician.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

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