BROWN COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating three suspects on multiple allegations after a drug bust.

Just before 8p.m. June 5, the Brown County Sheriff's Office Drug Task Force&nbsp; initiated a search warrant at 714 Iowa Street in Hiawatha, according to Sheriff John Merchant.

Upon conclusion of the warrant,&nbsp; Peter Carter, 45, Hiawatha was arrested on an outstanding $10,000 Brown County Felony Warrant for Contempt of Court, Aggravated Child Endangerment, Possession of Meth and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.&nbsp;

Patricia McKinney, 35, Hiawatha was arrested on requested charges of Aggravated Child Endangerment, Possession of Meth, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Felony Obstruction.&nbsp;

 Thomas Doyle, 65, Hiawatha was arrested on requested charges of Aggravated Child Endangerment, Possession of Meth an Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.&nbsp; Hiawatha Police assisted with the arrests.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749228407077.png" alt="Carter photo Brown Co." />
 <figcaption>Carter photo Brown Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BROWN COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating three suspects on multiple allegations after a drug bust.Just before 8p.m. June 5, the Brown County Sheriff's Office Drug Task Force&nbsp; initiated a search warrant at 714 Iowa Street in Hiawatha, according to Sheriff John Merchant.Upon conclusion of the warrant,&nbsp; Peter Carter, 45, Hiawatha was arrested on an outstanding $10,000 Brown County Felony Warrant for Contempt of Court, Aggravated Child Endangerment, Possession of Meth and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749228376073.png" alt="McKinney Brown Co." />
 <figcaption>McKinney Brown Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Patricia McKinney, 35, Hiawatha was arrested on requested charges of Aggravated Child Endangerment, Possession of Meth, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Felony Obstruction.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749228441083.png" alt="Doyle photo Brown Co." />
 <figcaption>Doyle photo Brown Co.</figcaption>
 </figure> Thomas Doyle, 65, Hiawatha was arrested on requested charges of Aggravated Child Endangerment, Possession of Meth an Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.&nbsp; Hiawatha Police assisted with the arrests.

Sheriff found meth, marijuana and small children at Kansas home

Just over one week after the Missouri Western State University announced it would discontinue the men's and women's track and field programs, it was announced today the program would be reinstated effective immediately.

The University announced that due to "overwhelming" community support the program would be reinstated.&nbsp; Following the discontinuation of the program, there was much outcry to the University from both the public and students.&nbsp;

"Given the dedication of our student athletes and their success in competition and in the classroom, it was a difficult decision to make," said President Elizabeth Kennedy said in a news release from the University. "I appreciate the supporters who have stepped up to help us create a plan to support the team in the future." 

"This is a great day!" said Athletic Director Andy Carter. "I am grateful that people want to ensure we can provide an outstanding student-athlete experience for Griffon Track and Field."

"The Missouri Western Board of Governors is eager to work with Griffon Track &amp; Field supporters to build the future of this program," said Chair of the Missouri Western Board of Governors Lee Tieman. "It's always a good day when you can do something to directly help our students."

More details will be announced at a later date.

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

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostJust over one week after the Missouri Western State University announced it would discontinue the men's and women's track and field programs, it was announced today the program would be reinstated effective immediately.The University announced that due to "overwhelming" community support the program would be reinstated.&nbsp; Following the discontinuation of the program, there was much outcry to the University from both the public and students.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Reinstated! 🖤💛 Due to “overwhelming” support, MWSU will restore Track &amp; Field, effective immediately. 📰 - <a href="https://t.co/cUS5oQvkm9">https://t.co/cUS5oQvkm9</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OurCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OurCity</a> <a href="https://t.co/8LNNpyKCmu">pic.twitter.com/8LNNpyKCmu</a>&mdash; Missouri Western Athletics (@MWSUGriffons) <a href="https://twitter.com/MWSUGriffons/status/1931437151473791258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>"Given the dedication of our student athletes and their success in competition and in the classroom, it was a difficult decision to make," said President Elizabeth Kennedy said in a news release from the University. "I appreciate the supporters who have stepped up to help us create a plan to support the team in the future." "This is a great day!" said Athletic Director Andy Carter. "I am grateful that people want to ensure we can provide an outstanding student-athlete experience for Griffon Track and Field.""The Missouri Western Board of Governors is eager to work with Griffon Track &amp; Field supporters to build the future of this program," said Chair of the Missouri Western Board of Governors Lee Tieman. "It's always a good day when you can do something to directly help our students."More details will be announced at a later date.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

MWSU reinstating track and field program after community support

A major step
toward reviving Lake Contrary will be taken next week.

The Buchanan
County Commission has authorized the use of a specialized aquatic herbicide to
get rid of the weeds which have overtaken the lake located just outside St.
Joseph.

Western District
Commissioner, Ron Hook, says the vegetation must be removed before the silt
that has settled on the lake can be removed.

“Spray it – the
whole 320 acres of lake – kill it all off and hopefully have a clear lake
bottom to where we can go ahead and do our test plots with the Corps of
Engineers and begin dredging,” Hook says.

Spraying will take
place Monday and Tuesday. A helicopter will be used in the spaying. Area
residents have been notified.

Hook says the
county still needs a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers before it can
dredge the lake. Hook says the Corps wants the county to test a plot before it authorizes
dredging.

Dredging will take
three years at an estimated cost of $6-to-8 million.

Hook says the
county commission isn’t interested in restoring Lake Contrary to its glory
days.

“We’re not trying
to put it back to that,” according to Hook. “We just want it back to where
people can go down locally fish, run a jet ski, do some skiing with a boat,
pontoon around, swim at the beach; just normal, recreational fun.”

Hook says
restoring Lake Contrary will bring back a recreational lake, but also benefit
efforts to reduce Missouri River flooding.

“It’s not only
just for recreation,” Hook says. “It’s for water management and river
management and the protection for the levees.”

DNR has installed
34 relief wells at Lake Contrary to ease pressure on the Missouri River levees.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749227664877.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA major step
toward reviving Lake Contrary will be taken next week.The Buchanan
County Commission has authorized the use of a specialized aquatic herbicide to
get rid of the weeds which have overtaken the lake located just outside St.
Joseph.Western District
Commissioner, Ron Hook, says the vegetation must be removed before the silt
that has settled on the lake can be removed.“Spray it – the
whole 320 acres of lake – kill it all off and hopefully have a clear lake
bottom to where we can go ahead and do our test plots with the Corps of
Engineers and begin dredging,” Hook says.Spraying will take
place Monday and Tuesday. A helicopter will be used in the spaying. Area
residents have been notified.Hook says the
county still needs a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers before it can
dredge the lake. Hook says the Corps wants the county to test a plot before it authorizes
dredging.Dredging will take
three years at an estimated cost of $6-to-8 million.Hook says the
county commission isn’t interested in restoring Lake Contrary to its glory
days.“We’re not trying
to put it back to that,” according to Hook. “We just want it back to where
people can go down locally fish, run a jet ski, do some skiing with a boat,
pontoon around, swim at the beach; just normal, recreational fun.”Hook says
restoring Lake Contrary will bring back a recreational lake, but also benefit
efforts to reduce Missouri River flooding.“It’s not only
just for recreation,” Hook says. “It’s for water management and river
management and the protection for the levees.”DNR has installed
34 relief wells at Lake Contrary to ease pressure on the Missouri River levees.You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

1st step toward reviving Lake Contrary begins next week

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/78TtvrWyW8BN5Un8IJy3GI?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Week in Review

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

Missouri has begun issuing federal food benefits that could reach 475,000 kids this summer.&nbsp;

The first batch of Missouri’s summer food benefits for children was issued on Thursday night, a spokesperson for the Department of Social Services told The Independent Friday. Each eligible child will receive a one-time benefit of $120, loaded onto a card that can be used like a debit card to buy groceries.

The program is designed to help low-income families pay for food during summer months. States pay 50% of the administrative costs and the federal government pays 100% of the benefits.&nbsp;

It’s part of a permanent federal program in its&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-pledges-to-disperse-summer-food-aid-by-end-of-year/#:~:text=By%3A%20Clara%20Bates%20%2D%20September%2026,told%20The%20Independent%20this%20week.">second year of existence</a>&nbsp;called Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer, or SUN Bucks. The program aims to help kids who receive subsidized school meals avoid a summer drop-off in nutrition.

The state in years past has struggled to get the benefits out to cover the summer months.&nbsp;Last year&nbsp;they didn’t begin going out&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-pledges-to-disperse-summer-food-aid-by-end-of-year/#:~:text=By%3A%20Clara%20Bates%20%2D%20September%2026,told%20The%20Independent%20this%20week.">until September,</a>&nbsp;due to technical issues, the state said at the time.&nbsp;

Food security advocates in the state&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/01/02/missouri-opts-into-summer-ebt-federal-food-benefits-program/">were relieved when Missouri opted into the program</a>&nbsp;after weighing factors like technology issues and staffing.

There were&nbsp;<a href="https://westvirginiawatch.com/2025/06/04/summer-ebt-will-help-feed-estimated-165000-west-virginia-children-this-year/" target="_blank">11 Republican-led states that opted not to offer the program this year,</a>&nbsp;and a 12th, Oklahoma, will offer it only to tribal nations.&nbsp;

Most eligible families in Missouri will receive the benefits automatically.&nbsp;

The following groups of kids are&nbsp;<a href="https://mydss.mo.gov/missouri-sun-bucks-faqs" target="_blank">automatically eligible, and their families will not need to apply for benefits:&nbsp;</a>

Those benefits will be issued on an existing card if the family is enrolled in SNAP benefits or temporary assistance, or on a new mailed card if they are not. Families who need a new EBT card can request one<a href="https://mydss.mo.gov/missouri-sun-bucks-faqs" target="_blank">&nbsp;by phone or the ebtEDGE mobile app.</a>

Families who are not automatically eligible must&nbsp;<a href="https://mydss.mo.gov/sunbucks-eligibility" target="_blank">submit an application online by Aug. 31.</a>&nbsp;The state’s&nbsp;<a href="https://mydss.mo.gov/sunbucks-eligibility" target="_blank">eligibility navigator</a>&nbsp;will tell families whether they must apply.

Benefits&nbsp;<a href="https://mydss.mo.gov/missouri-sun-bucks-faqs" target="_blank">will expire</a>&nbsp;122 days after they are issued, regardless of usage, so families must act quickly once the benefits are distributed. They should also keep the cards for next summer’s program, the state’s website advises.

An estimated&nbsp;<a href="https://legacy.www.documentcloud.org/documents/25965661-missouri-fy-2025-mo-s-ebt-pom-approval-letter-signed-41625/" target="_blank">475,000 Missouri kids could receive the benefits,</a>&nbsp;according to a letter to the state from the federal Food and Nutrition Service earlier this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749255074364.png" alt=" Most eligible kids will receive the benefits automatically and won’t need to apply, but those who do need to apply must do so by Aug. 31 (USDA photo)." />
 <figcaption> Most eligible kids will receive the benefits automatically and won’t need to apply, but those who do need to apply must do so by Aug. 31 (USDA photo).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/cbates/">CLARA BATES</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>Missouri has begun issuing federal food benefits that could reach 475,000 kids this summer.&nbsp;The first batch of Missouri’s summer food benefits for children was issued on Thursday night, a spokesperson for the Department of Social Services told The Independent Friday. Each eligible child will receive a one-time benefit of $120, loaded onto a card that can be used like a debit card to buy groceries.The program is designed to help low-income families pay for food during summer months. States pay 50% of the administrative costs and the federal government pays 100% of the benefits.&nbsp;It’s part of a permanent federal program in its&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-pledges-to-disperse-summer-food-aid-by-end-of-year/#:~:text=By%3A%20Clara%20Bates%20%2D%20September%2026,told%20The%20Independent%20this%20week.">second year of existence</a>&nbsp;called Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer, or SUN Bucks. The program aims to help kids who receive subsidized school meals avoid a summer drop-off in nutrition.The state in years past has struggled to get the benefits out to cover the summer months.&nbsp;Last year&nbsp;they didn’t begin going out&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-pledges-to-disperse-summer-food-aid-by-end-of-year/#:~:text=By%3A%20Clara%20Bates%20%2D%20September%2026,told%20The%20Independent%20this%20week.">until September,</a>&nbsp;due to technical issues, the state said at the time.&nbsp;Food security advocates in the state&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/01/02/missouri-opts-into-summer-ebt-federal-food-benefits-program/">were relieved when Missouri opted into the program</a>&nbsp;after weighing factors like technology issues and staffing.There were&nbsp;<a href="https://westvirginiawatch.com/2025/06/04/summer-ebt-will-help-feed-estimated-165000-west-virginia-children-this-year/" target="_blank">11 Republican-led states that opted not to offer the program this year,</a>&nbsp;and a 12th, Oklahoma, will offer it only to tribal nations.&nbsp;Most eligible families in Missouri will receive the benefits automatically.&nbsp;The following groups of kids are&nbsp;<a href="https://mydss.mo.gov/missouri-sun-bucks-faqs" target="_blank">automatically eligible, and their families will not need to apply for benefits:&nbsp;</a><ul>
 <li>Students who are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch during the school year,</li><li>Households already enrolled in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or temporary assistance,</li><li>And children between ages 7 and 17 in foster care, who are experiencing homelessness or are migrants.</li>
 </ul>Those benefits will be issued on an existing card if the family is enrolled in SNAP benefits or temporary assistance, or on a new mailed card if they are not. Families who need a new EBT card can request one<a href="https://mydss.mo.gov/missouri-sun-bucks-faqs" target="_blank">&nbsp;by phone or the ebtEDGE mobile app.</a>Families who are not automatically eligible must&nbsp;<a href="https://mydss.mo.gov/sunbucks-eligibility" target="_blank">submit an application online by Aug. 31.</a>&nbsp;The state’s&nbsp;<a href="https://mydss.mo.gov/sunbucks-eligibility" target="_blank">eligibility navigator</a>&nbsp;will tell families whether they must apply.Benefits&nbsp;<a href="https://mydss.mo.gov/missouri-sun-bucks-faqs" target="_blank">will expire</a>&nbsp;122 days after they are issued, regardless of usage, so families must act quickly once the benefits are distributed. They should also keep the cards for next summer’s program, the state’s website advises.An estimated&nbsp;<a href="https://legacy.www.documentcloud.org/documents/25965661-missouri-fy-2025-mo-s-ebt-pom-approval-letter-signed-41625/" target="_blank">475,000 Missouri kids could receive the benefits,</a>&nbsp;according to a letter to the state from the federal Food and Nutrition Service earlier this year.

Missouri begins issuing summer food aid for kids

The St. Joseph Mustangs scored another big win in MINK league play to stay undefeated in league play, beating the Chillicothe Mudcats 11-4 at Phil Welch Stadium on Friday evening.&nbsp;

The Mustangs started off in dominant fashion too, shutting out the Mudcats through the first five innings.&nbsp; St. Joseph got on the board in the first inning thanks to Benton alum Chris Coy singling into left field, driving in Lafayette alum Brayden Luikart and Dom Felix for a quick 2-0 lead.&nbsp;

Things broke open in the fourth inning as the Mustangs put up four runs, the biggest coming on the first home run of the season in St. Joseph, courtesy of Northwest Missouri State's Parker Griffith, a solo shot to left field.&nbsp; A sacrifice fly by Darius Freeman later in the inning extended the lead more, driving in&nbsp;Tyler Gundelfinger, before Felix singled to left to bring home Logan Miller and Lafayette alum Jayden Little, pushing the lead to 6-0.&nbsp;

Three more runs scored in the fifth inning, first with Little driving in Griffith on an RBI single.&nbsp; Little later scored on a single from Freeman, which also drove in Miller and gave St. Joseph a 9-0 lead at the end of five innings.&nbsp;

Chillicothe found their way onto the scoreboard in the sixth inning with a three run frame, hitting the second home run of the game as&nbsp;Luke DeWitt, who also pitched two innings of relief for the Mudcats, hit a two run home run, scoring&nbsp;John Spoto.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jordi Ventura came across home later in the inning on a groundout by&nbsp;Ethan Murakoshi, cutting the Mustangs lead to 9-3.&nbsp;

But St. Joseph never wavered, adding the final two runs in the seventh inning.&nbsp; Freeman's sacrifice fly scored Miller, for Freeman's fourth RBI of the game.&nbsp; Later in the inning Felix doubled to drive in Luikart for the final Mustangs run.&nbsp; Over the last two games, Freeman has now driven in nine runs, after driving in five on Thursday against Jefferson City.

Murakoshi singled to left field in the eighth inning for the Mudcats, driving in&nbsp;Aiden Baerenklau for the final run of the game.

Aron Harrington got the win for the Mustangs, pitching five shutout innings, striking out six and giving up two hits while walking three.&nbsp; At the plate, Felix was 3-for-4 with three RBI's and a walk.&nbsp; Griffith was 1-for-2 with the home run and two walks, he also stole two bases in the win.&nbsp; Freeman was 1-for-4 with the four RBI's.&nbsp;

The Mustangs have one more home game tomorrow, before they hit the road for the first time on Tuesday.&nbsp; It will be the annual matchup between the St. Joseph Mustangs and the Mustangs alumni on Saturday at Phil Welch Stadium.&nbsp; First pitch is at 7pm, gates open at 5:30.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749274391176.jpeg" alt="Northwest Missouri State's Parker Griffith hit the first Mustangs home run of the year in an 11-4 win over the Chillicothe Mudcats. Griffith was 1-for-2 at the plate with two walks in the win/ Photo courtesy of St. Joseph Mustangs." />
 <figcaption>Northwest Missouri State's Parker Griffith hit the first Mustangs home run of the year in an 11-4 win over the Chillicothe Mudcats. Griffith was 1-for-2 at the plate with two walks in the win/ Photo courtesy of St. Joseph Mustangs.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe St. Joseph Mustangs scored another big win in MINK league play to stay undefeated in league play, beating the Chillicothe Mudcats 11-4 at Phil Welch Stadium on Friday evening.&nbsp;The Mustangs started off in dominant fashion too, shutting out the Mudcats through the first five innings.&nbsp; St. Joseph got on the board in the first inning thanks to Benton alum Chris Coy singling into left field, driving in Lafayette alum Brayden Luikart and Dom Felix for a quick 2-0 lead.&nbsp;Things broke open in the fourth inning as the Mustangs put up four runs, the biggest coming on the first home run of the season in St. Joseph, courtesy of Northwest Missouri State's Parker Griffith, a solo shot to left field.&nbsp; A sacrifice fly by Darius Freeman later in the inning extended the lead more, driving in&nbsp;Tyler Gundelfinger, before Felix singled to left to bring home Logan Miller and Lafayette alum Jayden Little, pushing the lead to 6-0.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Going, going, gone! Parker Griffith hits the Mustangs first home run of the year in the bottom of the fourth! <a href="https://t.co/btwTY9ejYB">pic.twitter.com/btwTY9ejYB</a>&mdash; StJoeMustangs (@theSJmustangs) <a href="https://twitter.com/theSJmustangs/status/1931163015149461571?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Three more runs scored in the fifth inning, first with Little driving in Griffith on an RBI single.&nbsp; Little later scored on a single from Freeman, which also drove in Miller and gave St. Joseph a 9-0 lead at the end of five innings.&nbsp;Chillicothe found their way onto the scoreboard in the sixth inning with a three run frame, hitting the second home run of the game as&nbsp;Luke DeWitt, who also pitched two innings of relief for the Mudcats, hit a two run home run, scoring&nbsp;John Spoto.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jordi Ventura came across home later in the inning on a groundout by&nbsp;Ethan Murakoshi, cutting the Mustangs lead to 9-3.&nbsp;But St. Joseph never wavered, adding the final two runs in the seventh inning.&nbsp; Freeman's sacrifice fly scored Miller, for Freeman's fourth RBI of the game.&nbsp; Later in the inning Felix doubled to drive in Luikart for the final Mustangs run.&nbsp; Over the last two games, Freeman has now driven in nine runs, after driving in five on Thursday against Jefferson City.Murakoshi singled to left field in the eighth inning for the Mudcats, driving in&nbsp;Aiden Baerenklau for the final run of the game.Aron Harrington got the win for the Mustangs, pitching five shutout innings, striking out six and giving up two hits while walking three.&nbsp; At the plate, Felix was 3-for-4 with three RBI's and a walk.&nbsp; Griffith was 1-for-2 with the home run and two walks, he also stole two bases in the win.&nbsp; Freeman was 1-for-4 with the four RBI's.&nbsp;The Mustangs have one more home game tomorrow, before they hit the road for the first time on Tuesday.&nbsp; It will be the annual matchup between the St. Joseph Mustangs and the Mustangs alumni on Saturday at Phil Welch Stadium.&nbsp; First pitch is at 7pm, gates open at 5:30.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Another big win as Mustangs top Chillicothe 11-4

NODAWAY COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 11a.m. Friday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Ford Machs Van driven by a 32-year-old Maryville man was northbound on MO 148 three miles north of Maryville.

The Van rear-ended a 2020 Chevy Silverado driven by a 49-year-old Pickering man who was stopped in traffic attempting to turn west onto County Road 220.

Nodaway County EMS transported both drivers to Mosaic in Maryville. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

NODAWAY COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 11a.m. Friday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Ford Machs Van driven by a 32-year-old Maryville man was northbound on MO 148 three miles north of Maryville.The Van rear-ended a 2020 Chevy Silverado driven by a 49-year-old Pickering man who was stopped in traffic attempting to turn west onto County Road 220.Nodaway County EMS transported both drivers to Mosaic in Maryville. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

2 Mo. men hospitalized after rear-end crash

Northwest Missouri State University’s summer enrollment has topped 5,500 students for the second consecutive year, according to the institution’s summer census.

Northwest's enrollment total for the summer shows 1,910 undergraduate students and 3,592 graduate students, a total of 5,502 students on campus. That number is a 5% decline from a year ago, but the university does report it does still remain consistent with totals over the past five years.

Graduate student enrollment declined by just under 8% (7.6%) this summer. The total of graduate students spiked a year ago to 3,886, which marked the first time in Northwest history that the graduate student total exceeded 3,000 students. Northwest attributes the decline to fewer international students.

Northwest also reports that 83% of undergraduates are enrolled in online only courses, which is common with students being employed or being away from campus on internships, while 70% of graduate students are enrolled in online only courses. 68% that are enrolled are Missouri residents while the international student population this summer declined to 78%.

The number of credit hours that undergraduate students are enrolled in however though has increased, jumping 4.5% to 13,073 credit hours. Overall, Northwest students are enrolled in 32,571 hours this summer.

“It is great to see so many Northwest students engaged in coursework again this summer," Dr. Allison Hoffmann, the University’s associate provost for enrollment management and student success, said in a news release from the University. “Northwest’s summer academic offerings allow students the opportunity to continue progressing toward their degree or credential in a timely manner.”

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

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostNorthwest Missouri State University’s summer enrollment has topped 5,500 students for the second consecutive year, according to the institution’s summer census.Northwest's enrollment total for the summer shows 1,910 undergraduate students and 3,592 graduate students, a total of 5,502 students on campus. That number is a 5% decline from a year ago, but the university does report it does still remain consistent with totals over the past five years.Graduate student enrollment declined by just under 8% (7.6%) this summer. The total of graduate students spiked a year ago to 3,886, which marked the first time in Northwest history that the graduate student total exceeded 3,000 students. Northwest attributes the decline to fewer international students.Northwest also reports that 83% of undergraduates are enrolled in online only courses, which is common with students being employed or being away from campus on internships, while 70% of graduate students are enrolled in online only courses. 68% that are enrolled are Missouri residents while the international student population this summer declined to 78%.The number of credit hours that undergraduate students are enrolled in however though has increased, jumping 4.5% to 13,073 credit hours. Overall, Northwest students are enrolled in 32,571 hours this summer.“It is great to see so many Northwest students engaged in coursework again this summer," Dr. Allison Hoffmann, the University’s associate provost for enrollment management and student success, said in a news release from the University. “Northwest’s summer academic offerings allow students the opportunity to continue progressing toward their degree or credential in a timely manner.”You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

NWMSU summer enrollment tops 5,500 for second consecutive year

The city of St. Joseph will see its sewer rates rise next year by three percent and rise another three percent next year.  

The rise in sewer rates comes after a study was presented to the St. Joseph City Council on sewer rates conducted by Burns &amp; McDonnell.   

District 3 Councilmember Andrew Trout says the rise in rates has to do with safety and federal regulations, such as phosphorus regulations coming in 

"Things that are pollutants and carcinogens and bad things that shouldn't be dumped into the Missouri River, because we're on the river, we have to make a ot of changes over the course of time," Trout says on the KFEQmunnity show.  "And there's a lot of things coming up and there's a lot of things that have recently been put into place to get the water even cleaner, to make sure that it's clean for the river to keep the health of the Missouri River going." 

Trout says it also has to do with the cost-of-living increase, with costing more to buy the chemicals and equipment needed, that made the increase necessary as well.  

Trout calls the proposal a "necessary evil" 

"Nobody wants to raise rates of anything, but it has to happen," Trout explains.  "And most of those dollars going into that increase are for federal requirements that are either new or equipment that has to be replaced to keep up with the standards we currently have." 

Trout says some equipment that needs to be replaced or repaired is already being worked on, but says that nothing starts with thousands anymore, it starts with millions to purchase 

Trout says the study from Burns &amp; McDonnell showed many factors that showed the need for the increase, including equipment that's worn out 

"Equipment that we're having to patch together that's not staying patched as long as it used to stay," Trout says.  "So, a big portion of that is equipment that's failing that needs to be replaced, and some of it's in the process of being replaced now, a piece of it is new federal regulations like the phosphate regulations." 

The city states the rise would help the city keep up with the rising cost of state and federal regulations. 

The Burns &amp; McDonnell study reports the average St. Joseph sewer bill is $65.70 a month while the average bill in Omaha is $60.12 and the average bill in Kansas City is $79.01.

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The city of St. Joseph will see its sewer rates rise next year by three percent and rise another three percent next year. The rise in sewer rates comes after a study was presented to the St. Joseph City Council on sewer rates conducted by Burns &amp; McDonnell. District 3 Councilmember Andrew Trout says the rise in rates has to do with safety and federal regulations, such as phosphorus regulations coming in "Things that are pollutants and carcinogens and bad things that shouldn't be dumped into the Missouri River, because we're on the river, we have to make a ot of changes over the course of time," Trout says on the KFEQmunnity show. "And there's a lot of things coming up and there's a lot of things that have recently been put into place to get the water even cleaner, to make sure that it's clean for the river to keep the health of the Missouri River going." Trout says it also has to do with the cost-of-living increase, with costing more to buy the chemicals and equipment needed, that made the increase necessary as well. Trout calls the proposal a "necessary evil" "Nobody wants to raise rates of anything, but it has to happen," Trout explains. "And most of those dollars going into that increase are for federal requirements that are either new or equipment that has to be replaced to keep up with the standards we currently have." Trout says some equipment that needs to be replaced or repaired is already being worked on, but says that nothing starts with thousands anymore, it starts with millions to purchase Trout says the study from Burns &amp; McDonnell showed many factors that showed the need for the increase, including equipment that's worn out "Equipment that we're having to patch together that's not staying patched as long as it used to stay," Trout says. "So, a big portion of that is equipment that's failing that needs to be replaced, and some of it's in the process of being replaced now, a piece of it is new federal regulations like the phosphate regulations." The city states the rise would help the city keep up with the rising cost of state and federal regulations. The Burns &amp; McDonnell study reports the average St. Joseph sewer bill is $65.70 a month while the average bill in Omaha is $60.12 and the average bill in Kansas City is $79.01.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

St. Joseph Councilmember says sewer rate increase is "necessary evil"

The annual art fair at the Albrecht Kemper Museum of Art in St. Joseph is coming up tomorrow. 

Executive Director Eric Fuson says the event will be out on the lawn of the museum throughout the day tomorrow 

"We've got about 17 artists that are going to be out with all their wears and their creations," Fuson says on the KFEQmunnity show.  "And then we have bands all day, about every hour we've got another band coming on, so we've got a lot of great local talent and a band from Kansas City as well."  

Fuson says the types of music people will hear is a wide variety 

"We kind of do a little bit of everything so, we're going to start off with the Renaissance Brass guys, there's a group from right here in town, some of them are Missouri Western professors and former professors, and they just get together and play," Fuson explains.  "So, they're going to start off with some Renaissance music and then move into some Beatles, all on brass instruments, which is actually amazing and sounds fantastic out there on the patio." 

The first act will take the stage at 10am with performances running until 7pm. Food trucks, like Kona Ice, will also be on hand 

Fuson says artist vendors will also be on hand, with many of them being from around the St. Joseph and Kansas City area.  

"They really are kind of the heart and soul of the art community around (the area), they all create their own work," Fuson says.  "It's a jury thing so we really kind of look and see whose making good stuff, so there's really good things to choose from." 

The event runs from 10am until 8pm tomorrow.  It is free to attend. 

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE The annual art fair at the Albrecht Kemper Museum of Art in St. Joseph is coming up tomorrow. Executive Director Eric Fuson says the event will be out on the lawn of the museum throughout the day tomorrow "We've got about 17 artists that are going to be out with all their wears and their creations," Fuson says on the KFEQmunnity show. "And then we have bands all day, about every hour we've got another band coming on, so we've got a lot of great local talent and a band from Kansas City as well." Fuson says the types of music people will hear is a wide variety "We kind of do a little bit of everything so, we're going to start off with the Renaissance Brass guys, there's a group from right here in town, some of them are Missouri Western professors and former professors, and they just get together and play," Fuson explains. "So, they're going to start off with some Renaissance music and then move into some Beatles, all on brass instruments, which is actually amazing and sounds fantastic out there on the patio." The first act will take the stage at 10am with performances running until 7pm. Food trucks, like Kona Ice, will also be on hand Fuson says artist vendors will also be on hand, with many of them being from around the St. Joseph and Kansas City area. "They really are kind of the heart and soul of the art community around (the area), they all create their own work," Fuson says. "It's a jury thing so we really kind of look and see whose making good stuff, so there's really good things to choose from." The event runs from 10am until 8pm tomorrow. It is free to attend. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Albrecht Kemper hosting Art Fair this weekend in St. Joseph

Dozens of home brewers, a few
microbreweries, and others will be on hand Saturday at the Ales West Beer
Festival in downtown St. Joseph.

The festival gets underway at noon at
Coleman Hawkins Park.

Organizer Billy Campbell says as many as
50 vendors will be on hand. He says what sets this beer festival apart is the
number of home brewers who participate.

“What those home brewers can do on that
scale with the ingredients that go into that beer (is) just amazing,” Campbell
tells KFEQmmunity. “There are home brewed beers that you can have at this
festival that hands down will be on par or better than anything commercial, anything
at a microbrewery.”

The festival features more than beer.
There also will be distilleries and wineries there.

Designated driver tickets will be sold as
well. There will be live music featuring Casey Brett thanks to a partnership
with the St. Joseph Downtown Association.

Campbell says the festival features a
vast variety of drinks.

“There are so many different options that
it’s definitely something that you can enter into,” Campbell says. “For a small
fee for a ticket you can go try one ounce, two ounce, three ounce samples of
something. If you don’t like, you just pour it out. You’re not wasting (anything),
it’s just a little bit. Not all beer is for everybody, but at Ales West,
everybody can find something.”

The money generated by the festival is
donated to various charities in the St. Joseph area.

Click <a href="https://aleswest.com/">HERE</a> for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749230403023.jpeg" alt="Ales West Beer Festival in Saint Joseph/Photo courtesy of Ales Wet" />
 <figcaption>Ales West Beer Festival in Saint Joseph/Photo courtesy of Ales Wet</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostDozens of home brewers, a few
microbreweries, and others will be on hand Saturday at the Ales West Beer
Festival in downtown St. Joseph.The festival gets underway at noon at
Coleman Hawkins Park.Organizer Billy Campbell says as many as
50 vendors will be on hand. He says what sets this beer festival apart is the
number of home brewers who participate.“What those home brewers can do on that
scale with the ingredients that go into that beer (is) just amazing,” Campbell
tells KFEQmmunity. “There are home brewed beers that you can have at this
festival that hands down will be on par or better than anything commercial, anything
at a microbrewery.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749232621898.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Ales West" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Ales West</figcaption>
 </figure>The festival features more than beer.
There also will be distilleries and wineries there.Designated driver tickets will be sold as
well. There will be live music featuring Casey Brett thanks to a partnership
with the St. Joseph Downtown Association.Campbell says the festival features a
vast variety of drinks.“There are so many different options that
it’s definitely something that you can enter into,” Campbell says. “For a small
fee for a ticket you can go try one ounce, two ounce, three ounce samples of
something. If you don’t like, you just pour it out. You’re not wasting (anything),
it’s just a little bit. Not all beer is for everybody, but at Ales West,
everybody can find something.”The money generated by the festival is
donated to various charities in the St. Joseph area.Click <a href="https://aleswest.com/">HERE</a> for more information.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749232675463.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Ales West" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Ales West</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Ales West gets underway Saturday at Coleman Hawkins Park

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph Post<div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/0Wix9vqouZqlxkGkY9vObm?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning News

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/4Vrd927T8dpiajSiAAV5c8?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning Sports

A St. Joseph woman has been charged with
driving drunk, causing a fatal crash last week in Country Club Village.

The Andrew County Prosecuting Attorney’s
office has filed four felony charges against 37-year-old Chelsea Ingino,
including driving while intoxicated resulting in the death of another. Ingino
has also been charged with endangering the welfare of a child, involuntary manslaughter,
and driving while intoxicated resulting in serious in serious physical injury.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported
Ingino was driving south in the northbound passing lane of Business 29 May 27th
and crashed with the vehicle driven by a 35-year-old man, forcing both off the
roadway. The man was pronounced dead at the scene. His name has yet to be
released.

Ingino’s six-year-old daughter was in the vehicle.
Both suffered injuries requiring hospitalization.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA St. Joseph woman has been charged with
driving drunk, causing a fatal crash last week in Country Club Village.The Andrew County Prosecuting Attorney’s
office has filed four felony charges against 37-year-old Chelsea Ingino,
including driving while intoxicated resulting in the death of another. Ingino
has also been charged with endangering the welfare of a child, involuntary manslaughter,
and driving while intoxicated resulting in serious in serious physical injury.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported
Ingino was driving south in the northbound passing lane of Business 29 May 27th
and crashed with the vehicle driven by a 35-year-old man, forcing both off the
roadway. The man was pronounced dead at the scene. His name has yet to be
released.Ingino’s six-year-old daughter was in the vehicle.
Both suffered injuries requiring hospitalization.You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph woman charged with drunk driving in fatal crash

Starting July 1, state employees will arrive unannounced at dispensaries and collect about 50 products a month off the shelves for further testing.

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

State cannabis regulators will begin their first attempt next month to double check the work of licensed testing labs tasked with ensuring the safety of Missouri marijuana products.

Starting July 1, staff with the Division of Cannabis Regulation will arrive unannounced at dispensaries and collect about 50 products a month off the shelves. They’ll take them to the Missouri State Public Health Reference Laboratory to be tested for things like mold, pesticides and a whole range of other things.&nbsp;

Ryan Bernard, the division’s testing and research unit manager, said the unannounced sampling has been in the works for a while as a way to add an extra level of compliance. The division, Bernard said, isn’t expecting to find problems.

“We won’t know until we see the data,” Bernard said. “I have full faith and confidence in our testing licensees that they’re testing according to rule as it’s been outlined.”

However, national testing lab experts told The Independent that&nbsp;Missouri’s regulators might be shocked at the results.

“Shelf testing has not gone well in any state that I know of, especially if it’s just starting,” said Josh Swider,&nbsp;vice chair of the cannabis working group for<a href="https://www.acil.org/" target="_blank">&nbsp;American Council of Independent Laboratories</a>. “It will be very telling very fast.”

Swider pointed to a&nbsp;<a href="https://mjbizdaily.com/arizona-marijuana-regulators-flag-major-testing-lab-for-multiple-violations/" target="_blank">citation in Arizona</a>&nbsp;in April of a cannabis lab, where the state found&nbsp;<a href="https://azcarecheck.azdhs.gov/s/inspection-details?inspectionId=a1Ics00000KAgthEAD&amp;facilityId=0018y000004X7ULAA0" target="_blank">more than a dozen alleged “deficiencies”</a>&nbsp;including problems with the lab’s potency testing and pesticide and microbial detection methods.

Swider called the levels of pesticides on the Arizona products “sickening.”

“But this is what you’re seeing around the country,” said Swider,&nbsp;co-founder and CEO of&nbsp;<a href="https://infinitecal.com/" target="_blank">Infinite Chemical Analysis Labs</a>&nbsp;in San Diego. “Regulators are starting to enforce. They’re realizing an issue that’s been systemic for a long time.”

Other common issue Missouri regulars might also find, he said, are&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/08/21/missouri-cannabis-regulators-target-lab-shopping-in-new-rules/">inflated levels of THC on products</a>.&nbsp;

Regulators previously talked about conducting a “round robin” testing, where the state’s certified testing labs would double check each other’s work under the state’s instruction. Amy Moore, director of the Division of Cannabis Regulation, told lawmakers in 2023 that this additional testing rule was “critical.”&nbsp;

“The challenges in regulating and relying on for-profit cannabis testing labs,” Moore told lawmakers at a 2023 committee hearing, “is one of the most discussed challenges in the national cannabis regulatory community.”

However, the state never ended up getting the process going for a variety of factors, Bernard said, so the unannounced samples will be the regulators first attempt at a testing backstop.

Lawmakers began allocating money for this kind of sampling to be tested at the state laboratory in the fiscal year that began on July 1, 2024 with $3.8 million. Most of it went unspent because the cannabis testing methods were “still in the process of being implemented,” according to state budget documents. Another $2.4 million was allocated for this fiscal year ending on June 30, and it’s unclear how much of it has been spent.

Bernard couldn’t speak on the budget for testing, he said, because the division and state lab budgets are “totally separate.”

“Our operating budget is DCR only,” he said. “State public health labs is theirs.”

The lab will receive another $2.4 million for the fiscal year beginning July 1.&nbsp;

Swider said a standard test at a Missouri cannabis lab costs about $400. With the $2.4 million the lab is allocated to conduct 600 tests a year, it would put that rate at $4,000 a test.&nbsp;

It would take one employee in Swider’s lab to leisurely do 50 tests in a week, he said, but 50 in a day is doable.&nbsp;

Bernard said sampling 50 products out of more than 500,000 product tags is “not even close” to being representative of the market, but he called this a “very much preliminary” start.

Bernard has been working closely with the state public health lab, he said, to build the infrastructure for cannabis testing and they’ve had some “hold ups.”&nbsp;

“[The state lab has] experienced grant-funding delays and and then back orders related to potential tariffs,” he said. “They’ve had equipment failures…so this starting point number will get us to a point where we can start stabilizing the amount they need to purchase compared to the amount that I can sample.”

The goal is to get to a representative sample size as soon as possible, he said.&nbsp;

At an MJ Unpacked cannabis conference in November, concerns were raised among testing experts about the fact that 82% of Missouri’s cannabis testing is conducted at one licensed lab,&nbsp;<a href="https://mogreenway.com/2024/11/21/data-presentation-begets-speculation-regarding-lab-testing/" target="_blank">Greenway Magazine&nbsp;</a>reported. And that lab catches fewer problems with mold compared to other Missouri labs and those across the country.

At the November panel, information obtained through a Sunshine request revealed that the lab referred to as “Lab D” reported a failure rate for Aspergillus—a mold that poses significant health risks— roughly 8 times lower than the national average.

The state’s other labs had a failure rate of 3.3%, which is aligned closely with the national average of 3.8%.&nbsp;

Lab D’s failure rate was just under 0.5%.&nbsp;

The information raised questions about whether the mold was adequately being checked.&nbsp;However, Bernard said those results didn’t raise any alarm for him.&nbsp;

“Everybody’s being held to the same standards as far as testing is concerned and their ISO accreditation,” Bernard said. “Without doing further investigation, I have confidence that the industry is testing appropriately.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696682550411.png" alt="(Rebecca Rivas/The Missouri Independent)" />
 <figcaption>(Rebecca Rivas/The Missouri Independent)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Starting July 1, state employees will arrive unannounced at dispensaries and collect about 50 products a month off the shelves for further testing.</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rebecca-rivas/">REBECCA RIVAS</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>State cannabis regulators will begin their first attempt next month to double check the work of licensed testing labs tasked with ensuring the safety of Missouri marijuana products.Starting July 1, staff with the Division of Cannabis Regulation will arrive unannounced at dispensaries and collect about 50 products a month off the shelves. They’ll take them to the Missouri State Public Health Reference Laboratory to be tested for things like mold, pesticides and a whole range of other things.&nbsp;Ryan Bernard, the division’s testing and research unit manager, said the unannounced sampling has been in the works for a while as a way to add an extra level of compliance. The division, Bernard said, isn’t expecting to find problems.“We won’t know until we see the data,” Bernard said. “I have full faith and confidence in our testing licensees that they’re testing according to rule as it’s been outlined.”However, national testing lab experts told The Independent that&nbsp;Missouri’s regulators might be shocked at the results.“Shelf testing has not gone well in any state that I know of, especially if it’s just starting,” said Josh Swider,&nbsp;vice chair of the cannabis working group for<a href="https://www.acil.org/" target="_blank">&nbsp;American Council of Independent Laboratories</a>. “It will be very telling very fast.”Swider pointed to a&nbsp;<a href="https://mjbizdaily.com/arizona-marijuana-regulators-flag-major-testing-lab-for-multiple-violations/" target="_blank">citation in Arizona</a>&nbsp;in April of a cannabis lab, where the state found&nbsp;<a href="https://azcarecheck.azdhs.gov/s/inspection-details?inspectionId=a1Ics00000KAgthEAD&amp;facilityId=0018y000004X7ULAA0" target="_blank">more than a dozen alleged “deficiencies”</a>&nbsp;including problems with the lab’s potency testing and pesticide and microbial detection methods.Swider called the levels of pesticides on the Arizona products “sickening.”“But this is what you’re seeing around the country,” said Swider,&nbsp;co-founder and CEO of&nbsp;<a href="https://infinitecal.com/" target="_blank">Infinite Chemical Analysis Labs</a>&nbsp;in San Diego. “Regulators are starting to enforce. They’re realizing an issue that’s been systemic for a long time.”Other common issue Missouri regulars might also find, he said, are&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/08/21/missouri-cannabis-regulators-target-lab-shopping-in-new-rules/">inflated levels of THC on products</a>.&nbsp;Regulators previously talked about conducting a “round robin” testing, where the state’s certified testing labs would double check each other’s work under the state’s instruction. Amy Moore, director of the Division of Cannabis Regulation, told lawmakers in 2023 that this additional testing rule was “critical.”&nbsp;“The challenges in regulating and relying on for-profit cannabis testing labs,” Moore told lawmakers at a 2023 committee hearing, “is one of the most discussed challenges in the national cannabis regulatory community.”However, the state never ended up getting the process going for a variety of factors, Bernard said, so the unannounced samples will be the regulators first attempt at a testing backstop.Lawmakers began allocating money for this kind of sampling to be tested at the state laboratory in the fiscal year that began on July 1, 2024 with $3.8 million. Most of it went unspent because the cannabis testing methods were “still in the process of being implemented,” according to state budget documents. Another $2.4 million was allocated for this fiscal year ending on June 30, and it’s unclear how much of it has been spent.Bernard couldn’t speak on the budget for testing, he said, because the division and state lab budgets are “totally separate.”“Our operating budget is DCR only,” he said. “State public health labs is theirs.”The lab will receive another $2.4 million for the fiscal year beginning July 1.&nbsp;Swider said a standard test at a Missouri cannabis lab costs about $400. With the $2.4 million the lab is allocated to conduct 600 tests a year, it would put that rate at $4,000 a test.&nbsp;“That’s not good,” he said.&nbsp;It would take one employee in Swider’s lab to leisurely do 50 tests in a week, he said, but 50 in a day is doable.&nbsp;Bernard said sampling 50 products out of more than 500,000 product tags is “not even close” to being representative of the market, but he called this a “very much preliminary” start.Bernard has been working closely with the state public health lab, he said, to build the infrastructure for cannabis testing and they’ve had some “hold ups.”&nbsp;“[The state lab has] experienced grant-funding delays and and then back orders related to potential tariffs,” he said. “They’ve had equipment failures…so this starting point number will get us to a point where we can start stabilizing the amount they need to purchase compared to the amount that I can sample.”The goal is to get to a representative sample size as soon as possible, he said.&nbsp;At an MJ Unpacked cannabis conference in November, concerns were raised among testing experts about the fact that 82% of Missouri’s cannabis testing is conducted at one licensed lab,&nbsp;<a href="https://mogreenway.com/2024/11/21/data-presentation-begets-speculation-regarding-lab-testing/" target="_blank">Greenway Magazine&nbsp;</a>reported. And that lab catches fewer problems with mold compared to other Missouri labs and those across the country.At the November panel, information obtained through a Sunshine request revealed that the lab referred to as “Lab D” reported a failure rate for Aspergillus—a mold that poses significant health risks— roughly 8 times lower than the national average.The state’s other labs had a failure rate of 3.3%, which is aligned closely with the national average of 3.8%.&nbsp;Lab D’s failure rate was just under 0.5%.&nbsp;The information raised questions about whether the mold was adequately being checked.&nbsp;However, Bernard said those results didn’t raise any alarm for him.&nbsp;“Everybody’s being held to the same standards as far as testing is concerned and their ISO accreditation,” Bernard said. “Without doing further investigation, I have confidence that the industry is testing appropriately.”

Missouri regulators set to expand marijuana testing protocols

ATCHISON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement investigating the abuse of a dog have made an arrest.

In May of&nbsp;2024 police in the city of Atchison conducted an investigation relating to the abuse of a dog following a report made by the Atchison Humane Society, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp; The puppy had sustained injuries that resulted in its death.

On Wednesday, police arrested 28-year-old&nbsp;Taylor R. Bonar, 28, Atchison,&nbsp; on a District Court warrant for cruelty to animals.&nbsp; She is being held on a bond of $2,500, according to Wilson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749129001729.png" alt="Bonar photo Atchison Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Bonar photo Atchison Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement investigating the abuse of a dog have made an arrest.In May of&nbsp;2024 police in the city of Atchison conducted an investigation relating to the abuse of a dog following a report made by the Atchison Humane Society, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp; The puppy had sustained injuries that resulted in its death.On Wednesday, police arrested 28-year-old&nbsp;Taylor R. Bonar, 28, Atchison,&nbsp; on a District Court warrant for cruelty to animals.&nbsp; She is being held on a bond of $2,500, according to Wilson.

Animal cruelty: Kansas woman jailed for death of a dog

St. Joseph's Noah Cameron pitched another gem, but the St. Louis Cardinals hit the Kansas City Royals bullpen hard, and in extra innings the Cardinals took game one of a doubleheader, winning 6-5 in 10 innings at Busch Stadium.&nbsp;

Jonathan India got the Royals started off on the right foot, getting Cameron the lead early and on the first pitch, hitting a leadoff home run into left field to give Kansas City a 1-0 lead.&nbsp; In the bottom half of the inning, Cameron quickly worked through the St. Louis lineup,&nbsp; retiring the first three batters on 12 pitches, striking out Brendan Donovan to end the inning.&nbsp;

Cameron's roughest inning of the game was the second inning, which started with back to back walks, throwing 25 pitches, but still got out unscathed. The Royals extended the lead in the fourth inning behind back to back doubles, the first coming from Salvador Perez, before top prospect Jac Caglianone notched his first major league hit and RBI, driving in Perez with a double down the right field foul line.&nbsp;

Vinnie Pasquantino singled in the fifth inning, scoring Bobby Witt Jr, to push the Royals ahead more, giving Cameron a 3-0 lead, which he exited with after six innings of work as manager Matt Quatraro went to his bullpen, calling on John Schreiber for the seventh inning.&nbsp;

With his six scoreless innings of work, Cameron becomes the 1st pitcher since Fernando Valenzuela (1981) to spin six plus innings pitched with one run or fewer allowed in each of his first five MLB starts.&nbsp; Cameron struck out three and walked two, also giving up just two hits in the start.&nbsp;

St. Louis cut the lead to one against Schreiber in the seventh.&nbsp; Willson Contreras doubled and&nbsp;Iván Herrera singled, putting runners on the corners, before Nolan Arenado grounded into a forceout where the Royals were unable to turn a double play, Contreras scoring and Arenado being safe at first as Herrera was out at second.&nbsp; Yohel Pozo later in the inning hit a sacrifice fly scoring Arenado.&nbsp;

In the eighth, the Cardinals took the lead, against Taylor Clarke who had seemed to find his groove after some rough seasons, Herrera giving the Redbirds the lead on a two run home run to center field driving in Donovan and himself.&nbsp;

Kansas City forced extra innings though against Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley.&nbsp; &nbsp;Michael Massey singled, and was pinch ran for by Nick Loftin, which was followed by a single by Kyle Isbel, moving Loftin to third base.&nbsp; India's deep fly ball to left field scored Loftin to tie the game, and moved Isbel to second base, allowing Helsley to intentionally walk Witt Jr.&nbsp; &nbsp;Maikel Garcia popped out to end the inning.&nbsp;

After St. Louis did nothing in the bottom half of the inning, Garcia started the 10th at second base, and was promptly driven in for the Royals lead by Pasquantino on a single, though the Royals could do no more and Carlos Estévez was brought on to try to earn the save, with Pozo starting the bottom half at second for the Cardinals.&nbsp;

Lars Nootbaar's single&nbsp; moved Pozo to third base, and Pozo later scored in the next at bat, Nootbaar moving to second, on a groundout by Masyn Winn.&nbsp;&nbsp;Estévez intentonally walked Donovan, setting up the force out at any base, but Contreras singled into left field, bringing Nootbaar home for the walk off win.&nbsp;

JoJo Romero earned the win in relief for the Cardinals, improving to 2-3 on the season, pitching one inning and giving up one hit with one unearned run, striking out one.&nbsp;&nbsp;Estévez blew his third save, falling to 2-1, recording just one out, giving up two hits and two runs, just one earned, and walking one.&nbsp;

At the plate, Nootbaar (2-5, 1 R), Contreras (2-4, 1 RBI, 1 R, 1 BB), and Herrera (2-3, 2 RBI, 1 HR, 1 R, 1 BB) led the way for St. Louis.&nbsp; For the Royals, Pasquantino was 4-for-5 with two RBIs, while India (2-4, 2 RBI, 1 HR, 1 R) and Perez (2-5, 1 R) also helped in the loss.&nbsp;

Kansas City and St. Louis wrap up their series in game two of the doubleheader this evening.&nbsp; Cole Ragans (2-3, 4.53 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals, it’ll be Ragans’ first start since May 16, when he allowed four runs to these Cardinals in five innings at Kauffman Stadium.&nbsp; For the Cardinals, Matthew Liberatore (3-4, 3.08 ERA) will start.

First pitch is at 6:45pm.&nbsp; Pregame coverage will begin at 6 for the Royals on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) and at 6:35 for the Cardinals on KY 102 (102.5 FM).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749161359438.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph's Noah Cameron pitched another gem for the Kansas City Royals.&nbsp; In a no decision,&nbsp;Cameron became just the second pitcher in MLB history with 6+ innings and 1 run or fewer in each of first 5 career starts.&nbsp; The Royals lost to the Cardinals 6-5./ Photo courtesy X" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph's Noah Cameron pitched another gem for the Kansas City Royals.&nbsp; In a no decision,&nbsp;Cameron became just the second pitcher in MLB history with 6+ innings and 1 run or fewer in each of first 5 career starts.&nbsp; The Royals lost to the Cardinals 6-5./ Photo courtesy X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph's Noah Cameron pitched another gem, but the St. Louis Cardinals hit the Kansas City Royals bullpen hard, and in extra innings the Cardinals took game one of a doubleheader, winning 6-5 in 10 innings at Busch Stadium.&nbsp;Jonathan India got the Royals started off on the right foot, getting Cameron the lead early and on the first pitch, hitting a leadoff home run into left field to give Kansas City a 1-0 lead.&nbsp; In the bottom half of the inning, Cameron quickly worked through the St. Louis lineup,&nbsp; retiring the first three batters on 12 pitches, striking out Brendan Donovan to end the inning.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Indy leads us off! <a href="https://t.co/7nWyvjCjIi">pic.twitter.com/7nWyvjCjIi</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1930684098038649329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Cameron's roughest inning of the game was the second inning, which started with back to back walks, throwing 25 pitches, but still got out unscathed. The Royals extended the lead in the fourth inning behind back to back doubles, the first coming from Salvador Perez, before top prospect Jac Caglianone notched his first major league hit and RBI, driving in Perez with a double down the right field foul line.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Jac’s on the board! MLB hit No. 1 is an RBI double! <a href="https://t.co/4Afp30GEh5">pic.twitter.com/4Afp30GEh5</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1930695995739746731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Vinnie Pasquantino singled in the fifth inning, scoring Bobby Witt Jr, to push the Royals ahead more, giving Cameron a 3-0 lead, which he exited with after six innings of work as manager Matt Quatraro went to his bullpen, calling on John Schreiber for the seventh inning.&nbsp;With his six scoreless innings of work, Cameron becomes the 1st pitcher since Fernando Valenzuela (1981) to spin six plus innings pitched with one run or fewer allowed in each of his first five MLB starts.&nbsp; Cameron struck out three and walked two, also giving up just two hits in the start.&nbsp;St. Louis cut the lead to one against Schreiber in the seventh.&nbsp; Willson Contreras doubled and&nbsp;Iván Herrera singled, putting runners on the corners, before Nolan Arenado grounded into a forceout where the Royals were unable to turn a double play, Contreras scoring and Arenado being safe at first as Herrera was out at second.&nbsp; Yohel Pozo later in the inning hit a sacrifice fly scoring Arenado.&nbsp;In the eighth, the Cardinals took the lead, against Taylor Clarke who had seemed to find his groove after some rough seasons, Herrera giving the Redbirds the lead on a two run home run to center field driving in Donovan and himself.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">IVAN HERRERA BRINGS THE THUNDER!! 🌩️ <a href="https://t.co/sJdcNRh4yb">pic.twitter.com/sJdcNRh4yb</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1930717216653381882?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Kansas City forced extra innings though against Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley.&nbsp; &nbsp;Michael Massey singled, and was pinch ran for by Nick Loftin, which was followed by a single by Kyle Isbel, moving Loftin to third base.&nbsp; India's deep fly ball to left field scored Loftin to tie the game, and moved Isbel to second base, allowing Helsley to intentionally walk Witt Jr.&nbsp; &nbsp;Maikel Garcia popped out to end the inning.&nbsp;After St. Louis did nothing in the bottom half of the inning, Garcia started the 10th at second base, and was promptly driven in for the Royals lead by Pasquantino on a single, though the Royals could do no more and Carlos Estévez was brought on to try to earn the save, with Pozo starting the bottom half at second for the Cardinals.&nbsp;Lars Nootbaar's single&nbsp; moved Pozo to third base, and Pozo later scored in the next at bat, Nootbaar moving to second, on a groundout by Masyn Winn.&nbsp;&nbsp;Estévez intentonally walked Donovan, setting up the force out at any base, but Contreras singled into left field, bringing Nootbaar home for the walk off win.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">THAT&#39;S A WALK-OFF WINNER!! <a href="https://t.co/SkxAEMJEtk">pic.twitter.com/SkxAEMJEtk</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1930738079146680682?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>JoJo Romero earned the win in relief for the Cardinals, improving to 2-3 on the season, pitching one inning and giving up one hit with one unearned run, striking out one.&nbsp;&nbsp;Estévez blew his third save, falling to 2-1, recording just one out, giving up two hits and two runs, just one earned, and walking one.&nbsp;At the plate, Nootbaar (2-5, 1 R), Contreras (2-4, 1 RBI, 1 R, 1 BB), and Herrera (2-3, 2 RBI, 1 HR, 1 R, 1 BB) led the way for St. Louis.&nbsp; For the Royals, Pasquantino was 4-for-5 with two RBIs, while India (2-4, 2 RBI, 1 HR, 1 R) and Perez (2-5, 1 R) also helped in the loss.&nbsp;Kansas City and St. Louis wrap up their series in game two of the doubleheader this evening.&nbsp; Cole Ragans (2-3, 4.53 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals, it’ll be Ragans’ first start since May 16, when he allowed four runs to these Cardinals in five innings at Kauffman Stadium.&nbsp; For the Cardinals, Matthew Liberatore (3-4, 3.08 ERA) will start.First pitch is at 6:45pm.&nbsp; Pregame coverage will begin at 6 for the Royals on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) and at 6:35 for the Cardinals on KY 102 (102.5 FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Royals can't back Cameron's strong start, fall 6-5 to Cardinals in extras

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/7G0aB0LNXfEYfO2ztfvtfV?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph Post<div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/0X1QtDVVBmd9vBBT6VbYCA?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

The 21st Gregg Lynn Radio-A-Thon broadcast on Joe Town 107.5 - to support Camp Quality is coming up tomorrow. 

Lynn will broadcast live from 6am to 5pm from Sav On Furniture Mart in St. Joseph, raising money for Camp Quality, a camp for children with cancer. 

Lynn says the camp provides a week’s worth of fun activities for the kids. 

"George Richmond, whose passed away since, always told us their goal is to not tell the kids no," Lynn says on the KFEQmunnity show.  "If the kid wants to do something, they're going to do it, if they want to go swimming, if they want to go whatever, fishing, they're going to do it." 

The camp recently moved from its original site at Camp Farwesta near Stewartsville, to a camp near Excelsior Springs.  

Lynn says camp is the biggest expense for the campers 

"Renting the campground and then insurance if you can imagine, hey I want to put a camp on and all these kids have cancer the insurance has just got to be crazy, and so it costs somewhere around $1,500 per camper," Lynn explains. 

Lynn says the Radio A Thon is designed to share the stories of these children, while also sharing just how much fun camp is 

"When you first hear about Camp Quality you think oh my gosh it's a camp with a bunch of kids with cancer and oh my gosh it's going to be so depressing, and it is the exact opposite of that," Lynn says.  "It is like the most fun place you would ever go, and if you get a chance to go out there, if they're having a media day or whatever that's how I first got involved I went out for a media day, you will find out it is the most fun place you would ever spend a couple hours at." 

The Radio A Thon will be broadcast from 6am to 5pm on JoeTown 107.5, with Lynn live from Sav On all day. 

Donations can be made at Sav On, online, or by calling the pledge line. Vogel’s food truck will also be on site during the event for lunch. 

Later this month. Lynn will also host an annual 5k. 

Lynn says the Happy Camper Scamper is another way to raise money for Camp Quality, while also getting some exercise 

"You can run, you can walk, you can take your dog and put your dog in a stroller, we don't care whatever you want to do, and we'll sit there an hour if it's going to take you an hour to walk it I don't care, because it's just a fun day to go out and do something else to raise money for Camp Quality and get out and enjoy the parkway system," Lynn says.  "It's at Bartlett Park and the link to register and get all the info is also at Joetown1075.com." 

The Happy Camper Scamper will be held on June 21st at Bartlett Park in St. Joseph.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

By MATT PIKE The 21st Gregg Lynn Radio-A-Thon broadcast on Joe Town 107.5 - to support Camp Quality is coming up tomorrow. Lynn will broadcast live from 6am to 5pm from Sav On Furniture Mart in St. Joseph, raising money for Camp Quality, a camp for children with cancer. Lynn says the camp provides a week’s worth of fun activities for the kids. "George Richmond, whose passed away since, always told us their goal is to not tell the kids no," Lynn says on the KFEQmunnity show. "If the kid wants to do something, they're going to do it, if they want to go swimming, if they want to go whatever, fishing, they're going to do it." The camp recently moved from its original site at Camp Farwesta near Stewartsville, to a camp near Excelsior Springs. Lynn says camp is the biggest expense for the campers "Renting the campground and then insurance if you can imagine, hey I want to put a camp on and all these kids have cancer the insurance has just got to be crazy, and so it costs somewhere around $1,500 per camper," Lynn explains. Lynn says the Radio A Thon is designed to share the stories of these children, while also sharing just how much fun camp is "When you first hear about Camp Quality you think oh my gosh it's a camp with a bunch of kids with cancer and oh my gosh it's going to be so depressing, and it is the exact opposite of that," Lynn says. "It is like the most fun place you would ever go, and if you get a chance to go out there, if they're having a media day or whatever that's how I first got involved I went out for a media day, you will find out it is the most fun place you would ever spend a couple hours at." The Radio A Thon will be broadcast from 6am to 5pm on JoeTown 107.5, with Lynn live from Sav On all day. Donations can be made at Sav On, online, or by calling the pledge line. Vogel’s food truck will also be on site during the event for lunch. Later this month. Lynn will also host an annual 5k. Lynn says the Happy Camper Scamper is another way to raise money for Camp Quality, while also getting some exercise "You can run, you can walk, you can take your dog and put your dog in a stroller, we don't care whatever you want to do, and we'll sit there an hour if it's going to take you an hour to walk it I don't care, because it's just a fun day to go out and do something else to raise money for Camp Quality and get out and enjoy the parkway system," Lynn says. "It's at Bartlett Park and the link to register and get all the info is also at Joetown1075.com." The Happy Camper Scamper will be held on June 21st at Bartlett Park in St. Joseph.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

21st Gregg Lynn Radio-A-Thon to support Camp Quality on Friday

The state Senate approved the financing plan to renovate Arrowhead Stadium and build a replacement for Kauffman Stadium in the early morning hours Thursday.

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

Gov. Mike Kehoe expanded the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/05/27/missouri-governor-calls-special-session-for-kansas-city-stadiums-st-louis-disaster-funding/">agenda of the special session</a>&nbsp;Wednesday enough to win Missouri Senate passage of bills with money for disaster recovery in St. Louis, changes to property taxes policies and tax incentives to finance new or improved stadiums in Kansas City.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749125517497.png" alt=" State Sen. Kurtis Gregory of Marshall is sponsoring the bill to set aside state tax money to finance new and renovated stadiums for Kansas City sports teams (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> State Sen. Kurtis Gregory of Marshall is sponsoring the bill to set aside state tax money to finance new and renovated stadiums for Kansas City sports teams (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The state Senate approved the financing plan to renovate Arrowhead Stadium and build a replacement for Kauffman Stadium in the early morning hours Thursday.</h2>BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Gov. Mike Kehoe expanded the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/05/27/missouri-governor-calls-special-session-for-kansas-city-stadiums-st-louis-disaster-funding/">agenda of the special session</a>&nbsp;Wednesday enough to win Missouri Senate passage of bills with money for disaster recovery in St. Louis, changes to property taxes policies and tax incentives to finance new or improved stadiums in Kansas City.&nbsp;Initially scheduled to go in at 10 a.m., the Senate finally convened about seven hours later. Talks over what sweeteners Kehoe needed to get his key objective — tax incentives to finance&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/05/13/new-stadium-funding-plan-for-chiefs-royals-clears-missouri-house/">new or renovated stadiums</a>&nbsp;for the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals —- culminated in his revised agenda.“After productive conversations with members of the Missouri General Assembly this week, we are amending our special session call to allow for additional legislation in the areas of disaster relief, tax policy, and budget investments,” Kehoe said in a news release. “We appreciate legislators working together to use this as an opportunity to show up for our communities by acting swiftly to help those in crisis, while also making smart decisions that secure opportunity for the future.”Under the&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=IV++++9&amp;bid=31821&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">constitutional limits</a>&nbsp;on a special session, the governor must “state specifically each matter on which action is deemed necessary.” Any attempt to address an issue not listed in the call for the session can be ruled out of order.The special session began Monday and can continue for up to 60 days. Kehoe is seeking quick action because both teams have offers from Kansas to relocate.The spending bill passed 23-10 in the early morning on Thursday, winning with a coalition of Democrats and Republicans with only Republicans opposed. The bill to finance the stadiums went to the House on a 19-13 vote, with three Democrats joining 10 Republicans in opposition.&nbsp;&nbsp;For several hours the chamber stalled on the stadium bill, working late into the night. The bill includes all the tax provisions necessary to finance the stadiums, plus disaster relief provisions and an expansion of a tax credit program supporting amateur sporting events.Shortly before 1 a.m., the impasse cleared and bill sponsored by state Sen. Kurtis Gregory was given initial approval. Within a few hours, the final votes were held and the Senate adjourned until June 16.For several hours, debate focused on a proposal from state Sen. Joe Nicola, a Republican from Independence, to freeze the maximum increase in annual property tax bills at 5% in some counties.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749125482079.png" alt=" State Sen. Tracy McCreery, a Democrat from Olivette, took a vocal stand Wednesday night opposing state funding for stadiums in Kansas City and St. Louis. She is show during the May 14 session when Republicans used a procedural move to shut down debate on a constitutional amendment to ban abortion (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> State Sen. Tracy McCreery, a Democrat from Olivette, took a vocal stand Wednesday night opposing state funding for stadiums in Kansas City and St. Louis. She is show during the May 14 session when Republicans used a procedural move to shut down debate on a constitutional amendment to ban abortion (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>Then state Sen. Tracy McCreery, a Democrat from Olivette, said she had heard enough.“This discussion that we’ve had the last several hours is just an effort for the governor to try to get a couple of votes out of the Freedom Caucus for the stadium funding scheme,” McCreery said.She said Kehoe agreed to Nicola’s amendment and added it to the call to wear down opposition. Then she blamed Kehoe and Republicans for using a procedural move&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/05/14/missouri-republicans-shut-down-senate-debate-to-pass-abortion-ban-repeal-sick-leave-law/">to shut down debate</a>&nbsp;during the regular session on an abortion ban and repeal of the sick leave law approved by voters in November.Kehoe could have had the stadium plan passed if the procedural move was not used, McCreery said.&nbsp;“Here we are tonight, masquerading that we care about people and the amount of money that they’re paying for things,” McCreery said.&nbsp;Democrats don’t trust Republicans, she said, and the Senate should not trust the House. Until the appropriation bill, which totals $361 million including $175 million in general revenue, passes the House.The House refused to pass a bill with $235 million of the same projects and $282 million of additional spending during the session. House Republican leaders waited for the Senate to adjourn on the last day for passing appropriations before revealing that&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/05/09/missouri-house-republicans-surprise-senate-by-killing-500-million-construction-bill/">the bill would be spiked</a>.&nbsp;“We should not be doing anything until (the spending bill is passed) and over the House, and then the House has to have it on its way to the governor before we should be taking any action on anything else,” McCreery said.The stadium funding plan would allocate state taxes collected from economic activity at Arrowhead and Kauffman to bond payments for renovations at Arrowhead and a new stadium for the Royals in Jackson or Clay counties.The cost is estimated at close to $1.5 billion over 30 years.State Sen. Kurtis Gregory, a Republican from Marshall and sponsor of the stadium bill, said the public support for keeping the Chiefs and Royals in Missouri was both a good economic investment and a good investment in the state’s image.“What’s at stake if those teams go across the state line is over $2 billion of economic activity inside of the state of Missouri, over 13,000 jobs, and we just let the state of Kansas poach the pride and joy of the western side of the state,” Gregory said.The teams must give Kansas an answer by June 30 on an offer to pay 70% of the cost of new stadiums. Missouri’s offer is to cover about half the cost.Some senators have grumbled that the teams should make a commitment to stay in Missouri if the bill is passed. Gregory said their desire to stay should be apparent.“I also contend that the teams want to stay in Missouri, because if they wanted to go to Kansas, I believe they would have already signed on the dotted line to move those teams,” Gregory said.The spending bill was increased because of demands from St. Louis Democrats that Kehoe address the uncertainty over&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/04/st-louis-waits-for-aid-as-fema-response-to-missouri-disasters-is-slowest-in-15-years/">when or whether</a>&nbsp;President Donald Trump will declare a federal disaster for the May 16 St. Louis tornado.That brought a new $100 million appropriation for storm victims in the city of St. Louis. Previously, the disaster provisions in the call — $25 million for the Missouri Housing Trust Fund to be distributed by the Missouri Housing Development Commission and a tax credit for amounts paid as insurance deductibles — were all applied equally to counties included in disaster requests. Kehoe has submitted four storm events this spring, with damage in 37 counties, to Trump for disaster requests. Two have been granted.The magnitude of the St. Louis tornado — a 22-mile path of destruction that cost five Missouri lives and damaged an estimated $1.6 billion in property damage — surpasses all other damage so far in the state.Damage to public property in the two disasters that have been declared is estimated at $52 million.The other new money added to the spending bill settled an issue for state Sen. Stephen Webber, a Democrat from Columbia. A state contribution to the new research reactor at the University of Missouri, which Kehoe cut from $50 million to $25 million to find money for disaster aid, was returned to $50 million.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749125436963.png" alt=" Sen. Mike Moon, R-Ash Grove, speaks in defense of Freedom Caucus members during a May 14, 2024, debate. (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Sen. Mike Moon, R-Ash Grove, speaks in defense of Freedom Caucus members during a May 14, 2024, debate. (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>The only opposition to the spending bill on the floor came from state Sen. Mike Moon, a Republican from Ash Grove, who said the university should tap its $1.4 billion endowment to pay for the reactor.&nbsp;And Moon said he didn’t like the disaster relief funds.“The money that is going to be received by those who were hurt is nowhere near the amount that’s going to cause them to be compensated and fully restored,” Moon said.If the state starts paying to repair property after storms, he said, people will not buy insurance.“I don’t think some of this is the proper function of government,” Moon said. “Compassion, certainly. But unless people take personal responsibility and do the things they should be doing so that we don’t have to, when is this going to end?”The tax change Nicola is trying to enact would cap increases in real property tax bills at 5% every two years, corresponding to the reassessment cycle. Officials in 34 counties would have the option of putting the cap in place through a ballot measure.The proposal is a response to rapid increases in property values and the resulting increase in tax bills. There was no estimate available of the potential cost to local governments. Nicola said there were enough protections to make sure all current revenue is maintained and new voter-approved levies are paid.“Our property tax system in this state, in my opinion, is a disaster,” Nicola said.The amendment is the price of his vote, he told the Senate.“I am a hard no on the stadium tax bill unless we get some solid property tax relief for my people in Jackson County,” Nicola said. “I told the governor of this on Monday I can count on one hand how many of my constituents want me to vote for the stadium.”

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