Two iconic St. Joseph buildings celebrate 100 years in a few
years, but the celebration ramps up beginning this weekend.

Both the Missouri Theater and City Hall turn 100 in 2027.

Chair of the centennial planning committee, Lori McAlister,
says those two buildings represent more than just two structures.

“It was really a golden era for the city,” McAlister tells
KFEQ/St. Joseph Post in an interview, “as far as optimism for the future,
building, planning, and then of course, the Depression came along and derailed
much of that.”

A pre-centennial celebration gets underway this weekend,
beginning Friday afternoon with the unveiling of the centennial graphics and the
telling of a few historical anecdotes at 4:30 at the 1st Christian
Church.

McAlister says the Missouri Theater and City Hall mean much
more to residents than older, historic buildings.

“Not only are these two buildings significant, but they are
landmarks in our lives,” according to McAlister. “They really represent the
city’s civics and the city’s entertainment over all these many decades.”

They also can be counted as survivors. The two still stand,
escaping the ravages of urban renewal which swept the country and took out so
many historic structures.

“So, the fact that we still have them and the fact that they
are so well cared for and still serving us as they were intended; to me that’s
just a remarkable piece of the story,” McAlister says.

For structures built in 1927, they remain very sound.

“They do not construct buildings like that anymore,” McAlister
says with a chuckle. “To say the least.”

Again, the planning committee unveils centennial graphics
created by Wendy Jane Bantam during a reception at 1st Christian
Church, 927 Faraon Street downtown, beginning at 4:30pm Friday. Historical anecdotes
will be provided by Harrison Hartley.

A writers’ workshop will be held Saturday morning at 9:30 at
the Downtown Public Library with Bantam leading participants on how to let art
inspire their work. Registration is required.

A special free community concert will be held Saturday evening
at the 1st Christian Church featuring Bantam and St. Joseph multi-instrumentalist,
Lory Lacy.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729177453625.jpeg" alt="The Missouri Theater/file photo" />
 <figcaption>The Missouri Theater/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostTwo iconic St. Joseph buildings celebrate 100 years in a few
years, but the celebration ramps up beginning this weekend.Both the Missouri Theater and City Hall turn 100 in 2027.Chair of the centennial planning committee, Lori McAlister,
says those two buildings represent more than just two structures.“It was really a golden era for the city,” McAlister tells
KFEQ/St. Joseph Post in an interview, “as far as optimism for the future,
building, planning, and then of course, the Depression came along and derailed
much of that.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729177515671.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph City Hall/file photo" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph City Hall/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>A pre-centennial celebration gets underway this weekend,
beginning Friday afternoon with the unveiling of the centennial graphics and the
telling of a few historical anecdotes at 4:30 at the 1st Christian
Church.McAlister says the Missouri Theater and City Hall mean much
more to residents than older, historic buildings.“Not only are these two buildings significant, but they are
landmarks in our lives,” according to McAlister. “They really represent the
city’s civics and the city’s entertainment over all these many decades.”They also can be counted as survivors. The two still stand,
escaping the ravages of urban renewal which swept the country and took out so
many historic structures.“So, the fact that we still have them and the fact that they
are so well cared for and still serving us as they were intended; to me that’s
just a remarkable piece of the story,” McAlister says.For structures built in 1927, they remain very sound.“They do not construct buildings like that anymore,” McAlister
says with a chuckle. “To say the least.”Again, the planning committee unveils centennial graphics
created by Wendy Jane Bantam during a reception at 1st Christian
Church, 927 Faraon Street downtown, beginning at 4:30pm Friday. Historical anecdotes
will be provided by Harrison Hartley.A writers’ workshop will be held Saturday morning at 9:30 at
the Downtown Public Library with Bantam leading participants on how to let art
inspire their work. Registration is required.A special free community concert will be held Saturday evening
at the 1st Christian Church featuring Bantam and St. Joseph multi-instrumentalist,
Lory Lacy.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Celebrations ramp up as 2 St. Joseph buildings near milestones

With just over two months to go until the grand opening, the Mosaic Life Care Foundation showed off progress on the future Children's Discovery Center. 

Walking into the Plymouth Building in downtown St. Joseph, it's almost unrecognizable from the past, as Inspire U, the Children's Discovery Center, nears completion.  

Mosaic Life Care Foundation President Julie Gaddie says to see the discovery center now after five and a half years of working towards the opening is exciting. 

"We will be open towards the end of December, and what you see now is about 90% finished," Gaddie tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And so, you're beginning to really see the backdrop of what the experience will be to date when folks come in here towards the end of December."

Gaddie says the progress that's been made on the space in the old Plymouth Building is a credit to the team of designers and construction workers who worked to create the space 

"This space didn't just happen, you don't come into a 50,000 square foot historic building and overnight turn it into something that's going to serve a community for generations," Gaddie says. "It is really through their effort, and their commitment day after day, that has transformed this space into what you see today."

While ground was broken on the project in 2022, the Mosaic Life Care Foundation has been brewing the idea for the museum since 2019.

Gaddie says when people come to the museum is a space of play for children up to 10 years old.  

"What folks are going to experience when they walk through the door is something of a high energy, highly engaging learning environment," Gaddie explains. "A learning environment that's geared not only to helping our youngest children become healthier but thinking about and talking through ways throughout the discovery center for the entire young family to better understand how to improve their health over time." 

The museum is scheduled to have a Grand Opening on December 26th. You can find out more information about InspireU by clicking <a href="https://www.inspireu.com/">HERE</a>.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729115894441.jpeg" alt="Mosaic Life Care Foundation President Julie Gaddie shows off some features of InspireU to St. Joseph residents/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Mosaic Life Care Foundation President Julie Gaddie shows off some features of InspireU to St. Joseph residents/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post With just over two months to go until the grand opening, the Mosaic Life Care Foundation showed off progress on the future Children's Discovery Center. Walking into the Plymouth Building in downtown St. Joseph, it's almost unrecognizable from the past, as Inspire U, the Children's Discovery Center, nears completion. Mosaic Life Care Foundation President Julie Gaddie says to see the discovery center now after five and a half years of working towards the opening is exciting. "We will be open towards the end of December, and what you see now is about 90% finished," Gaddie tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And so, you're beginning to really see the backdrop of what the experience will be to date when folks come in here towards the end of December."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729116056353.jpeg" alt="A group of St. Joseph residents tour InspireU/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>A group of St. Joseph residents tour InspireU/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Gaddie says the progress that's been made on the space in the old Plymouth Building is a credit to the team of designers and construction workers who worked to create the space "This space didn't just happen, you don't come into a 50,000 square foot historic building and overnight turn it into something that's going to serve a community for generations," Gaddie says. "It is really through their effort, and their commitment day after day, that has transformed this space into what you see today."While ground was broken on the project in 2022, the Mosaic Life Care Foundation has been brewing the idea for the museum since 2019.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729116203362.jpeg" alt="The ground floor of InspireU which will open up in late December/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>The ground floor of InspireU which will open up in late December/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Gaddie says when people come to the museum is a space of play for children up to 10 years old. "What folks are going to experience when they walk through the door is something of a high energy, highly engaging learning environment," Gaddie explains. "A learning environment that's geared not only to helping our youngest children become healthier but thinking about and talking through ways throughout the discovery center for the entire young family to better understand how to improve their health over time." The museum is scheduled to have a Grand Opening on December 26th. You can find out more information about InspireU by clicking <a href="https://www.inspireu.com/">HERE</a>. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729116001657.jpeg" alt="An ambulance exhibit at InspireU that features a functioning siren and lights for children/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>An ambulance exhibit at InspireU that features a functioning siren and lights for children/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729116113714.jpeg" alt="A display on the ground floor of InspireU teaching about Hillyard/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>A display on the ground floor of InspireU teaching about Hillyard/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Mosaic Life Care Foundation shows off InspireU ahead of December Grand Opening

The Belt branch of Rolling Hills Library in St. Joseph will distribute Halloween costumes to area children this weekend who may need one.

The library will open 'Uncle Fester's Costume Closet' from&nbsp; 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. this Saturday for children to browse and select a costume.

Library branch manager, Kelly Morris, says the library has been collecting new and gently-used costumes all year. "We accept costume donations all year round. And then a week or two before Halloween, families can come in and browse the closet to see if they can find something that works for them."

While the costume drive is scheduled for Saturday, Morris says there may be some costumes leftover that people can browse on Sunday and Monday. "Saturday is typically when a lot of families come in. In the past couple years, we've had some leftovers after the big day. Families can come in and browse the closet on-demand Sunday and Monday if we have enough costumes left."

Morris notes that children of all ages are welcome but they must be accompanied by an adult. The limit is one costume per child. For more information about library services, visit <a href="https://rhcl.org/">rhcl.org</a>.

The Belt branch of Rolling Hills Library is located at 1904 N. Belt in St. Joseph.

If you wish to donate, drop-off costumes at the library during regular business hours.

By RYAN SKAITHSt. Joseph PostThe Belt branch of Rolling Hills Library in St. Joseph will distribute Halloween costumes to area children this weekend who may need one.The library will open 'Uncle Fester's Costume Closet' from&nbsp; 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. this Saturday for children to browse and select a costume.Library branch manager, Kelly Morris, says the library has been collecting new and gently-used costumes all year. "We accept costume donations all year round. And then a week or two before Halloween, families can come in and browse the closet to see if they can find something that works for them."While the costume drive is scheduled for Saturday, Morris says there may be some costumes leftover that people can browse on Sunday and Monday. "Saturday is typically when a lot of families come in. In the past couple years, we've had some leftovers after the big day. Families can come in and browse the closet on-demand Sunday and Monday if we have enough costumes left."Morris notes that children of all ages are welcome but they must be accompanied by an adult. The limit is one costume per child. For more information about library services, visit <a href="https://rhcl.org/">rhcl.org</a>.The Belt branch of Rolling Hills Library is located at 1904 N. Belt in St. Joseph.If you wish to donate, drop-off costumes at the library during regular business hours.

Rolling Hills Library distributing Halloween costumes this weekend

AFL-CIO Community Services in St. Joseph is beginning preparations for the annual Adopt A Family Christmas program.  

Last year, the agency served 894 families that applied for the program.  And this year, executive director Nichi Seckinger says they are expecting even more.  

Seckinger says last year's number was a pretty high one for the Adopt A Family program. 

"It was a pretty high year for us, in comparison to the prior that was a peak year, we'd kind of been building up to it and that was kind of one of our record setters last year," Seckinger tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  "So, we are anticipating that it's going to be pretty close to the same numbers this year, if not a little bit higher." 

To help deal with the higher demand, Seckinger says the agency is adding some restrictions to who can apply for the program this year.   

Seckinger says applications will be restricted to adults with families and seniors who are actively living on disability. Anyone who applies that does not meet the criteria, will not be put in the program 

"And it's not because we don't want those folks to have Christmas or receive help, it's just in anticipation of the number of families that we are probably going to have in the program we're just worried that we're not going to be able to get all the families that sign up help," Seckinger explains. "Especially since this program is mostly for children, we want to make sure those households with kids are going to be able to get the assistance they need." 

Seckinger says the agency will begin accepting applications in just a couple weeks 

"We have the application online again this year, it will be active on October 28th which is a Monday so about two weeks from now," Seckinger says. "They'll be able to access the application starting Monday the 28th of October on our website at <a href="https://www.helpmenow.org/">helpmenow.org</a>, and then they can also come into the agency obviously and pick up the application and then return it here."

Applications will be accepted through December 6th. 

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post AFL-CIO Community Services in St. Joseph is beginning preparations for the annual Adopt A Family Christmas program. Last year, the agency served 894 families that applied for the program. And this year, executive director Nichi Seckinger says they are expecting even more. Seckinger says last year's number was a pretty high one for the Adopt A Family program. "It was a pretty high year for us, in comparison to the prior that was a peak year, we'd kind of been building up to it and that was kind of one of our record setters last year," Seckinger tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So, we are anticipating that it's going to be pretty close to the same numbers this year, if not a little bit higher." To help deal with the higher demand, Seckinger says the agency is adding some restrictions to who can apply for the program this year. Seckinger says applications will be restricted to adults with families and seniors who are actively living on disability. Anyone who applies that does not meet the criteria, will not be put in the program "And it's not because we don't want those folks to have Christmas or receive help, it's just in anticipation of the number of families that we are probably going to have in the program we're just worried that we're not going to be able to get all the families that sign up help," Seckinger explains. "Especially since this program is mostly for children, we want to make sure those households with kids are going to be able to get the assistance they need." Seckinger says the agency will begin accepting applications in just a couple weeks "We have the application online again this year, it will be active on October 28th which is a Monday so about two weeks from now," Seckinger says. "They'll be able to access the application starting Monday the 28th of October on our website at <a href="https://www.helpmenow.org/">helpmenow.org</a>, and then they can also come into the agency obviously and pick up the application and then return it here." Applications will be accepted through December 6th. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

AFL-CIO Community Services gearing up for Adopt A Family program

With Hurricanes Helene and Milton recently devastating the southeast region of the United States, blood donations are needed to help survivors.&nbsp;

Director of Public Relations for The Community Blood Center, Chelsea Smith, says local residents can help. "Each and everyday in our area, we need to collect about 600 donations. When you account for deferrals and things like that, we need to see anywhere from 600 to 650 people coming in our doors."

Smith says the nationwide need for blood donations is impacting local areas but communities such as St. Joseph, Kansas City and Topeka can assist. "As communities in the southeast focus on recovery, areas like ours that aren't directly impacted by the hurricanes are issuing an urgent need for blood donations so we can meet our demand locally, but also rise to the occasion and send blood to the southeast if we're called upon to do so."

Smith notes The Community Blood Center has already sent about a hundred units of blood the southeast region.

Smith says blood donations will be vital in the days, weeks, and months to come.

The Community Blood Center says blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. To make an appointment to donate blood, visit <a href="https://www.savealifenow.org/">savealifenow.org</a>.

By RYAN SKAITHSt. Joseph PostWith Hurricanes Helene and Milton recently devastating the southeast region of the United States, blood donations are needed to help survivors.&nbsp;Director of Public Relations for The Community Blood Center, Chelsea Smith, says local residents can help. "Each and everyday in our area, we need to collect about 600 donations. When you account for deferrals and things like that, we need to see anywhere from 600 to 650 people coming in our doors."Smith says the nationwide need for blood donations is impacting local areas but communities such as St. Joseph, Kansas City and Topeka can assist. "As communities in the southeast focus on recovery, areas like ours that aren't directly impacted by the hurricanes are issuing an urgent need for blood donations so we can meet our demand locally, but also rise to the occasion and send blood to the southeast if we're called upon to do so."Smith notes The Community Blood Center has already sent about a hundred units of blood the southeast region.Smith says blood donations will be vital in the days, weeks, and months to come.The Community Blood Center says blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. To make an appointment to donate blood, visit <a href="https://www.savealifenow.org/">savealifenow.org</a>.

Local blood donations needed to help hurricane victims in the Southeast

ATCHISON COUNTY, Mo. —One person was injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Tuesday in Atchison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Dodge Charger driven by Daniel J. Irvine, 36, Tarkio, was northbound on U.S. 59 just south of Route C eight miles north of Tarkio.

The car traveled off the west side of the road and struck an embankment. A private vehicle transported Irvine to Fairfax Community Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

ATCHISON COUNTY, Mo. —One person was injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Tuesday in Atchison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Dodge Charger driven by Daniel J. Irvine, 36, Tarkio, was northbound on U.S. 59 just south of Route C eight miles north of Tarkio.The car traveled off the west side of the road and struck an embankment. A private vehicle transported Irvine to Fairfax Community Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man injured after car strikes embankment

Specialty Industries holds its annual employee recognition day
Wednesday afternoon and invites the public to tour its facilities during an
open house.

The official mission of Specialty Industries of St. Joseph is
to provide meaningful work for people with disabilities.

CEO Byron Myers says once his employees learn a task, they
perform it with an eye for detail.

“They may find an error in printing on a box or some kind of a
flaw with packaging that you and I wouldn’t recognize,” Myers tells KFEQ/St.
Joseph Post. “But, because they’re so in tune with details we have had them
catch very small flaws that had slipped by our customers.”

Myers says the company wants to add meaning to the lives of
those it employs.

“By offering employment, that’s one way to do that,” Myers
says. “But we also really try to go out of the way to provide additional
socialization; to get out into the community, to go to a Mustangs game, to go
to a Robidoux Resident Theater musical production, things like that, that a lot
of our folks just wouldn’t otherwise be able to do.”

Specialty Industries will honor Jimmy Smallwood who has worked
there for 50 years as well as Wesley Bird who celebrates 55 years with the company.
Specialty Industries employs approximately 100 workers.

Myers says he hopes the work done at Specialty Industries
brings meaning to its employees’ lives, adding everyone has burdens.

“And our employees have some burdens that they’re carrying through
no fault of their own,” Myers says. “And so, I think anything that we can do to
add quality to their life and help their lives be meaningful, I just think it’s
important; it’s important for all of us to do the best that we can to try to
lift each other up, no matter what our strengths and weaknesses are.”

Myers says the customers of Specialty Industries give the
company high marks. Myers credits the detail its employees bring to their jobs.

The open house and tours take place a two o’clock Wednesday afternoon with a program beginning at 2:30.

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. The
87 workshops in Missouri employ nearly 5,000 people with disabilities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729022860839.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Specialty Industries" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Specialty Industries</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSpecialty Industries holds its annual employee recognition day
Wednesday afternoon and invites the public to tour its facilities during an
open house.The official mission of Specialty Industries of St. Joseph is
to provide meaningful work for people with disabilities.CEO Byron Myers says once his employees learn a task, they
perform it with an eye for detail.“They may find an error in printing on a box or some kind of a
flaw with packaging that you and I wouldn’t recognize,” Myers tells KFEQ/St.
Joseph Post. “But, because they’re so in tune with details we have had them
catch very small flaws that had slipped by our customers.”Myers says the company wants to add meaning to the lives of
those it employs.“By offering employment, that’s one way to do that,” Myers
says. “But we also really try to go out of the way to provide additional
socialization; to get out into the community, to go to a Mustangs game, to go
to a Robidoux Resident Theater musical production, things like that, that a lot
of our folks just wouldn’t otherwise be able to do.”Specialty Industries will honor Jimmy Smallwood who has worked
there for 50 years as well as Wesley Bird who celebrates 55 years with the company.
Specialty Industries employs approximately 100 workers.Myers says he hopes the work done at Specialty Industries
brings meaning to its employees’ lives, adding everyone has burdens.“And our employees have some burdens that they’re carrying through
no fault of their own,” Myers says. “And so, I think anything that we can do to
add quality to their life and help their lives be meaningful, I just think it’s
important; it’s important for all of us to do the best that we can to try to
lift each other up, no matter what our strengths and weaknesses are.”Myers says the customers of Specialty Industries give the
company high marks. Myers credits the detail its employees bring to their jobs.The open house and tours take place a two o’clock Wednesday afternoon with a program beginning at 2:30.October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. The
87 workshops in Missouri employ nearly 5,000 people with disabilities.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Specialty Industries celebrates employees, invites public to open house

After announcing last week, they were beginning to collect coats for an annual distribution event, officials with the Salvation Army in St. Joseph say there is a desperate need as the donation deadline approaches. 

Major Ronald Key says the Army has received enough donations to get through the winter, but he fears it still may not be enough 

"So, we do have coats for kids, adults, we've got coats, but I just don't think it's going to be enough," Key tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So basically, what we need is people, if they want to get rid of a coat maybe they can't wear anymore or they don't wear anymore, we just ask for it gently used and if it has a zipper it zips up if it has buttons it will button up." 

Last year, the Salvation Army distributed 520 coats to those in need. 

Key says he hopes the Army can collect around 600 coats to distribute to those in need. 

"We've been in that 500 range for a while but then we run really short at the end," Key explains. "So, if we could get 600 that would probably help tie us over, or even more than 600, but I think 600 would be a good starting point." 

Key says one of the biggest needs when it comes to donated coats is bigger sizes 

"We don't get a lot of like 5x's, and last year we had people that needed 5x and we just didn't have them," Key says. "We're usually pretty good to about 2x or 3x, but the 4 and 5x we don't have a lot of." 

Key says the Salvation Army is asking for coats to be donated by Friday but will accept donations throughout the winter. The distribution begins on October 21st. 

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post After announcing last week, they were beginning to collect coats for an annual distribution event, officials with the Salvation Army in St. Joseph say there is a desperate need as the donation deadline approaches. Major Ronald Key says the Army has received enough donations to get through the winter, but he fears it still may not be enough "So, we do have coats for kids, adults, we've got coats, but I just don't think it's going to be enough," Key tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So basically, what we need is people, if they want to get rid of a coat maybe they can't wear anymore or they don't wear anymore, we just ask for it gently used and if it has a zipper it zips up if it has buttons it will button up." Last year, the Salvation Army distributed 520 coats to those in need. Key says he hopes the Army can collect around 600 coats to distribute to those in need. "We've been in that 500 range for a while but then we run really short at the end," Key explains. "So, if we could get 600 that would probably help tie us over, or even more than 600, but I think 600 would be a good starting point." Key says one of the biggest needs when it comes to donated coats is bigger sizes "We don't get a lot of like 5x's, and last year we had people that needed 5x and we just didn't have them," Key says. "We're usually pretty good to about 2x or 3x, but the 4 and 5x we don't have a lot of." Key says the Salvation Army is asking for coats to be donated by Friday but will accept donations throughout the winter. The distribution begins on October 21st. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Donations lagging for Salvation Army coat drive

St. Joseph is hosting the My Success Event at the Civic Arena,
bringing approximately 2,000 juniors and seniors downtown, searching for a key
to their future.

The event sponsored by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce
gives high school students hands-on experiences with area businesses to learn
about possible careers, many available to high school graduates with perhaps a
bit of training.

Kristi Bailey with the Chamber says businesses aren’t the only
ones on hand for the students. Colleges and other representatives will be
available.

“You can also talk to technical schools. You can talk to
universities. Unions set up shop there, too,” Bailey says. “So, you can talk to
not only employers, but then talk to places that can help you learn how to get
those jobs. If you need this training or you need this apprenticeship, you can
talk to everyone that you need to at this event.”

The event has grown in popularity over the years, now spanning
two full days. It comes at an opportune time for area businesses as well as the
students, according to Bailey, with many jobs remaining unfilled in the greater
St. Joseph area.

“And so, that’s why training is so important now, because to
get a good job, you really need to know what you want to do and how to get the
training to be able to be successful,” according to Bailey.

More than 70 area business representatives will be on hand
today and tomorrow. It takes a bit more than 50 volunteers to help the Chamber
put on the event.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729007544023.jpeg" alt="The My Success Event at the Civic Arena in downtown St. Joseph/Photo by Travis Dodge" />
 <figcaption>The My Success Event at the Civic Arena in downtown St. Joseph/Photo by Travis Dodge</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph is hosting the My Success Event at the Civic Arena,
bringing approximately 2,000 juniors and seniors downtown, searching for a key
to their future.The event sponsored by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce
gives high school students hands-on experiences with area businesses to learn
about possible careers, many available to high school graduates with perhaps a
bit of training.Kristi Bailey with the Chamber says businesses aren’t the only
ones on hand for the students. Colleges and other representatives will be
available.“You can also talk to technical schools. You can talk to
universities. Unions set up shop there, too,” Bailey says. “So, you can talk to
not only employers, but then talk to places that can help you learn how to get
those jobs. If you need this training or you need this apprenticeship, you can
talk to everyone that you need to at this event.”The event has grown in popularity over the years, now spanning
two full days. It comes at an opportune time for area businesses as well as the
students, according to Bailey, with many jobs remaining unfilled in the greater
St. Joseph area.“And so, that’s why training is so important now, because to
get a good job, you really need to know what you want to do and how to get the
training to be able to be successful,” according to Bailey.More than 70 area business representatives will be on hand
today and tomorrow. It takes a bit more than 50 volunteers to help the Chamber
put on the event.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

My Success brings thousands of students to downtown St. Joseph

DEKALB COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 7a.m. Monday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Chevy Silverado driven by Hunter T. Grimes, 23, Fillmore, was westbound on U.S. 169 at CR 245 in Union Star.

The pickup rear-ended a 2004 Toyota Camry driven by Richard M. Heidle, 41, Union Star, who slowed to turn north into a parking lot.

Grand River EMS transported Grimes to Mosaic in St. Josepn. Heidle was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 7a.m. Monday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Chevy Silverado driven by Hunter T. Grimes, 23, Fillmore, was westbound on U.S. 169 at CR 245 in Union Star.The pickup rear-ended a 2004 Toyota Camry driven by Richard M. Heidle, 41, Union Star, who slowed to turn north into a parking lot.Grand River EMS transported Grimes to Mosaic in St. Josepn. Heidle was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man hospitalized in St. Joe after rear-end crash

ATCHISON COUNTY — Law enforcement arrested a Kansas man on Saturday on multiple allegations.

Just after 4p.m. Saturday, police took 31-year-old Stacey M. Gorman, Jr., of Atchison into custody in the 600 block Kansas Avenue, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp; He remains jailed on on District and Municipal Court warrants for failure to appear in court and requested charges of inference with law enforcement and possession of drug paraphernalia.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728911850726.png" alt="Gorman-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Gorman-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY — Law enforcement arrested a Kansas man on Saturday on multiple allegations.Just after 4p.m. Saturday, police took 31-year-old Stacey M. Gorman, Jr., of Atchison into custody in the 600 block Kansas Avenue, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp; He remains jailed on on District and Municipal Court warrants for failure to appear in court and requested charges of inference with law enforcement and possession of drug paraphernalia.&nbsp;

Kansas man jailed for skipping court, drug possession

Missouri Western State University has taken
advantage of a new state program to help train the next social workers.

The program is called “Grow Your Own.”

Missouri Western Social Work Associate Professor
Jana Frye says this program goes directly to social work students.

“It all goes back to our students. So, this money
comes in to Missouri Western and then we push it back out to our students,” Frye
says. “We literally had students walk out of Missouri Western with their master’s
last year, but also our senior bachelor’s of social work. That money goes toward
paying their tuition and fees.” 

Frye says that grant goes straight to the
students. She says there are other student loan programs as well.

“That all kinds of providers in our community
have tapped into that help pay those student loans that our students have for whatever
amount of time that they’ve been in school. And there are some great programs
out there right now that help social workers pay those back, because we
recognize that we need social workers in the field,” Frye says. “And This is just
one way to give them that help and support.”

Frye says Missouri Western has 19 social work
students who have received money from the “Grow Your Own” program.

The Social Work program at Missouri Western wants
to give students learning experiencing off campus as well. A walk for the
homeless takes place in downtown St. Joseph November 1st. The
Missouri Western Social Work Department will participate in the walk to help
raise awareness of homelessness in the community.

Social Work Program Director Pam Clary says the
event gives students a chance to understand the program in a way they can’t
learn in the classroom.

“We feel in social work, we got to break down
barriers,” Clary says. “So, you can’t get a job if you don’t have ID or you don’t
have a birth certificate. And so, this is one way our program feels like we can
give back to the homeless population.”

The Walk for the Homeless takes place November 1st,
beginning at 4:30 in the afternoon.

Money raised during the walk will help the
homeless obtain identification cards, birth certificates, and transportation,
all needed to land a job and pay for housing.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University has taken
advantage of a new state program to help train the next social workers.The program is called “Grow Your Own.”Missouri Western Social Work Associate Professor
Jana Frye says this program goes directly to social work students.“It all goes back to our students. So, this money
comes in to Missouri Western and then we push it back out to our students,” Frye
says. “We literally had students walk out of Missouri Western with their master’s
last year, but also our senior bachelor’s of social work. That money goes toward
paying their tuition and fees.” Frye says that grant goes straight to the
students. She says there are other student loan programs as well.“That all kinds of providers in our community
have tapped into that help pay those student loans that our students have for whatever
amount of time that they’ve been in school. And there are some great programs
out there right now that help social workers pay those back, because we
recognize that we need social workers in the field,” Frye says. “And This is just
one way to give them that help and support.”Frye says Missouri Western has 19 social work
students who have received money from the “Grow Your Own” program.The Social Work program at Missouri Western wants
to give students learning experiencing off campus as well. A walk for the
homeless takes place in downtown St. Joseph November 1st. The
Missouri Western Social Work Department will participate in the walk to help
raise awareness of homelessness in the community.Social Work Program Director Pam Clary says the
event gives students a chance to understand the program in a way they can’t
learn in the classroom.“We feel in social work, we got to break down
barriers,” Clary says. “So, you can’t get a job if you don’t have ID or you don’t
have a birth certificate. And so, this is one way our program feels like we can
give back to the homeless population.”The Walk for the Homeless takes place November 1st,
beginning at 4:30 in the afternoon.Money raised during the walk will help the
homeless obtain identification cards, birth certificates, and transportation,
all needed to land a job and pay for housing.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU helps social work students pay for college, understand work in the field

With the Gulf Coast being ravaged by Hurricane's Helene and Milton, and the potential of Tropical Storm Nadine looming, the Buchanan County Sheriff's Office is warning of an increase in scam calls. 

Sheriff Bill Puett says this community is full of kind people with big hearts who want to help, but warns that if you do, know where your money is going

"Know where your effort is being put because there are people, and we've talked about a variety of different scams through the year, but any time we see a natural disaster we see an increase in scams and people calling and saying they're with this associaton or that associaton," Puett tells guest host Travis Dodge on the KFEQ Hotline.

Puett says researching and providing that assistance in the best ways is the best advice he can give, and someone asking for money over the phone is usually the biggest red flag.

Puett says this is a very giving community, but Puett says if you want to help make sure you know what you are doing

"That you know that process, that you have checked it and verified it, and of course we also know that there is Christmas and Thanksgiving coming up and there is a time and a season for giving, and we have a great community that gives and gives and gives all the time," Puett explains. 

When omes to scams in general, Puett says do not give out your personal information or click on any sorts of links in emails or on your phone. 

"You initiate and you know where things are going," Puett says. "When somebody calls up and says hey I need to verify your account information, well if you have my account then you should have the information in front of you, I shouldn't have to give you all the numbers and all those things, but people are intimidated because they're threatened."

Puett says to just make sure you protect yourself and research and verify before you donate to hurricane relief, or any sort of donation, to avoid being stolen from.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostWith the Gulf Coast being ravaged by Hurricane's Helene and Milton, and the potential of Tropical Storm Nadine looming, the Buchanan County Sheriff's Office is warning of an increase in scam calls. Sheriff Bill Puett says this community is full of kind people with big hearts who want to help, but warns that if you do, know where your money is going"Know where your effort is being put because there are people, and we've talked about a variety of different scams through the year, but any time we see a natural disaster we see an increase in scams and people calling and saying they're with this associaton or that associaton," Puett tells guest host Travis Dodge on the KFEQ Hotline.Puett says researching and providing that assistance in the best ways is the best advice he can give, and someone asking for money over the phone is usually the biggest red flag.Puett says this is a very giving community, but Puett says if you want to help make sure you know what you are doing"That you know that process, that you have checked it and verified it, and of course we also know that there is Christmas and Thanksgiving coming up and there is a time and a season for giving, and we have a great community that gives and gives and gives all the time," Puett explains. When omes to scams in general, Puett says do not give out your personal information or click on any sorts of links in emails or on your phone. "You initiate and you know where things are going," Puett says. "When somebody calls up and says hey I need to verify your account information, well if you have my account then you should have the information in front of you, I shouldn't have to give you all the numbers and all those things, but people are intimidated because they're threatened."Puett says to just make sure you protect yourself and research and verify before you donate to hurricane relief, or any sort of donation, to avoid being stolen from.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Sherriff Puett warns of scams in wake of hurricanes

Now,
southbound Interstate 29 in the St. Joseph city limits is closed as work on the
Cook Road Bridge nears completion.

The
Missouri Department of Transportation has closed southbound I-29 from I-229 to
US Route 169 as Clarkson Construction finishes painting the renovated Cook Road
Bridge.

The northbound section of the interstate was closed last week.

Southbound
I-29 in St. Joseph is scheduled to be closed from Monday morning through
Friday morning.

Southbound
I-29 traffic will be re-routed at I-229 and can exit either at U.S. Highway 36 or
continue on I-229 to I-29 south of St. Joseph.

Click <a href="https://www.modot.org/interstate-29-bridge-rehabilitation-buchanan">HERE</a> for more on the project.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostNow,
southbound Interstate 29 in the St. Joseph city limits is closed as work on the
Cook Road Bridge nears completion.The
Missouri Department of Transportation has closed southbound I-29 from I-229 to
US Route 169 as Clarkson Construction finishes painting the renovated Cook Road
Bridge.The northbound section of the interstate was closed last week.Southbound
I-29 in St. Joseph is scheduled to be closed from Monday morning through
Friday morning.Southbound
I-29 traffic will be re-routed at I-229 and can exit either at U.S. Highway 36 or
continue on I-229 to I-29 south of St. Joseph.Click <a href="https://www.modot.org/interstate-29-bridge-rehabilitation-buchanan">HERE</a> for more on the project.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Time to switch:  now, southbound I-29 closes as crews paint Cook Road Bridge

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

Of the 24 dispensary licenses selected through the lottery in June, The Independent has identified 14 that are likely connected to groups the state cracked down on previously

David Huckins, a disabled veteran from Leavenworth, Kan., threw his name into the lottery this spring for a chance to win a social-equity marijuana dispensary license in Missouri.

In June, he learned he landed one of 57 microbusiness licenses meant to benefit disadvantaged business owners – including disabled veterans, those with lower incomes and people with non-violent marijuana offenses.&nbsp;

The microbusiness program was part of the&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=XIV%20%20%202&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">constitutional amendment</a>&nbsp;to legalize recreational marijuana that voters passed in 2022.&nbsp;

Huckins was among one of the 24 dispensary licenses and 33 wholesale licenses for cultivation facilities handed out as part of a second lottery held in June —&nbsp; out of more than 2,000 applicants.&nbsp;

But Huckins wasn’t officially in the clear until Thursday afternoon, when he received a notice that he passed the rigorous review process to confirm his eligibility.&nbsp;

“I got a letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs saying that I have a disability rating that qualifies me for the application process,” he said. “This one was a slam dunk for the state, I feel like.”

Huckins was an outlier, with only seven of the 24 dispensary licenses that managed to get certified by the Division of Cannabis Regulation on Thursday afternoon, according to the division’s&nbsp;<a href="https://health.mo.gov/safety/cannabis/pdf/ceo-eligibility-review-results101024.pdf" target="_blank">report</a>.

The other 17 dispensary license winners were deemed ineligible, largely because of “failure to provide adequate documentation” that the licensee met the criteria.&nbsp;

Fifteen of the 33 wholesale licenses needed to create marijuana grow facilities were deemed ineligible as well.

That means less than half — 25 of the 57 licenses — were certified.

That’s a significant decrease from the first round, issued last October, when 37 of the 48 were certified.<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/a-quarter-of-missouri-cannabis-microbusiness-license-winners-deemed-ineligible/">&nbsp;Out of the 11 that weren’t</a>, nine of them were eventually&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/03/27/missouri-revokes-nine-social-equity-cannabis-business-licenses-for-out-of-state-companies/">revoked</a>.

While on the surface it sounds like a problem of technicalities, it could speak to the larger problem of the predatory practices surrounding Missouri’s microbusiness licenses — which the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/04/08/state-warns-social-equity-marijuana-licenses-applicants-of-predatory-practices/">division itself has warned about</a>.

“My first impressions are that most of the licenses that weren’t issued,” Huckins said, “were probably due to people or groups with vast resources that have tried to cheat the system by putting in sometimes hundreds of invalid applications.”

The division declined to provide The Independent with a list of the certified licensees.&nbsp;

However, of the 24 dispensary licenses selected through the lottery in June, The Independent has identified 14 that are likely connected to groups cannabis regulators have cracked down on previously.

The groups include investors from&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/09/23/alleged-predatory-contracts-continue-to-surface-in-missouri-social-equity-marijuana-program/">Arizona</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/10/26/applicants-recruited-on-craigslist-competed-for-missouri-social-equity-cannabis-licenses/">Michigan</a>&nbsp;and within&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/07/26/missouri-cannabis-leader-accused-of-using-predatory-contracts-to-win-social-equity-licenses/">Missouri</a>&nbsp;accused of using disadvantaged people as fronts to gain licenses. The strategy involves recruiting applicants to flood the lottery and increase chances of winning.

The Independent has obtained contracts that these groups have circulated to potential applicants, revealing the investors are aiming to shut out the disadvantaged applicants from most of the profit and control of the business.

Lisa Cox, spokeswoman for the division, said the licensees who weren’t certified today were sent notices of pending revocation.

They will have 30 days to respond to the division’s concerns, “during which licensees may submit records or information demonstrating why the license should not be revoked,” she said.

In the first round, it took about three months after the notices were issued to confirm those being revoked, Cox said.

For Huckins, the entire situation is problematic.&nbsp;

For one, he said, it means less growing facilities that the dispensaries will be able to rely on. But it also impacts the dynamic of the microbusiness marijuana community. Huckins hosts weekly calls among the licensees so they can share knowledge and help each other.

“The general feeling in the community among other people like myself,” who aren’t connected to big investors, he said. “Most of us feel like this is a social-equity program to benefit people that are socially disadvantaged, not a way for millionaires to get richer.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684108752023.png" alt="-Only seven of the 24 dispensary licenses issued in June managed to get certified by the Division of Cannabis Regulation&nbsp;on Thursday afternoon (Rebecca Rivas/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>-Only seven of the 24 dispensary licenses issued in June managed to get certified by the Division of Cannabis Regulation&nbsp;on Thursday afternoon (Rebecca Rivas/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>By REBECCA RIVAS &nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a><h2>Of the 24 dispensary licenses selected through the lottery in June, The Independent has identified 14 that are likely connected to groups the state cracked down on previously</h2>David Huckins, a disabled veteran from Leavenworth, Kan., threw his name into the lottery this spring for a chance to win a social-equity marijuana dispensary license in Missouri.In June, he learned he landed one of 57 microbusiness licenses meant to benefit disadvantaged business owners – including disabled veterans, those with lower incomes and people with non-violent marijuana offenses.&nbsp;The microbusiness program was part of the&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=XIV%20%20%202&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">constitutional amendment</a>&nbsp;to legalize recreational marijuana that voters passed in 2022.&nbsp;Huckins was among one of the 24 dispensary licenses and 33 wholesale licenses for cultivation facilities handed out as part of a second lottery held in June —&nbsp; out of more than 2,000 applicants.&nbsp;But Huckins wasn’t officially in the clear until Thursday afternoon, when he received a notice that he passed the rigorous review process to confirm his eligibility.&nbsp;For him, it wasn’t a surprise.&nbsp;“I got a letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs saying that I have a disability rating that qualifies me for the application process,” he said. “This one was a slam dunk for the state, I feel like.”Huckins was an outlier, with only seven of the 24 dispensary licenses that managed to get certified by the Division of Cannabis Regulation on Thursday afternoon, according to the division’s&nbsp;<a href="https://health.mo.gov/safety/cannabis/pdf/ceo-eligibility-review-results101024.pdf" target="_blank">report</a>.The other 17 dispensary license winners were deemed ineligible, largely because of “failure to provide adequate documentation” that the licensee met the criteria.&nbsp;Fifteen of the 33 wholesale licenses needed to create marijuana grow facilities were deemed ineligible as well.That means less than half — 25 of the 57 licenses — were certified.That’s a significant decrease from the first round, issued last October, when 37 of the 48 were certified.<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/a-quarter-of-missouri-cannabis-microbusiness-license-winners-deemed-ineligible/">&nbsp;Out of the 11 that weren’t</a>, nine of them were eventually&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/03/27/missouri-revokes-nine-social-equity-cannabis-business-licenses-for-out-of-state-companies/">revoked</a>.While on the surface it sounds like a problem of technicalities, it could speak to the larger problem of the predatory practices surrounding Missouri’s microbusiness licenses — which the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/04/08/state-warns-social-equity-marijuana-licenses-applicants-of-predatory-practices/">division itself has warned about</a>.“My first impressions are that most of the licenses that weren’t issued,” Huckins said, “were probably due to people or groups with vast resources that have tried to cheat the system by putting in sometimes hundreds of invalid applications.”The division declined to provide The Independent with a list of the certified licensees.&nbsp;However, of the 24 dispensary licenses selected through the lottery in June, The Independent has identified 14 that are likely connected to groups cannabis regulators have cracked down on previously.The groups include investors from&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/09/23/alleged-predatory-contracts-continue-to-surface-in-missouri-social-equity-marijuana-program/">Arizona</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/10/26/applicants-recruited-on-craigslist-competed-for-missouri-social-equity-cannabis-licenses/">Michigan</a>&nbsp;and within&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/07/26/missouri-cannabis-leader-accused-of-using-predatory-contracts-to-win-social-equity-licenses/">Missouri</a>&nbsp;accused of using disadvantaged people as fronts to gain licenses. The strategy involves recruiting applicants to flood the lottery and increase chances of winning.The Independent has obtained contracts that these groups have circulated to potential applicants, revealing the investors are aiming to shut out the disadvantaged applicants from most of the profit and control of the business.Lisa Cox, spokeswoman for the division, said the licensees who weren’t certified today were sent notices of pending revocation.They will have 30 days to respond to the division’s concerns, “during which licensees may submit records or information demonstrating why the license should not be revoked,” she said.In the first round, it took about three months after the notices were issued to confirm those being revoked, Cox said.For Huckins, the entire situation is problematic.&nbsp;For one, he said, it means less growing facilities that the dispensaries will be able to rely on. But it also impacts the dynamic of the microbusiness marijuana community. Huckins hosts weekly calls among the licensees so they can share knowledge and help each other.“The general feeling in the community among other people like myself,” who aren’t connected to big investors, he said. “Most of us feel like this is a social-equity program to benefit people that are socially disadvantaged, not a way for millionaires to get richer.”&nbsp;

Missouri regulators deny certification for majority of social-equity cannabis license winners

CALDWELL COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 1:30p.m. Sunday in Caldwell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Suzuki 250 Dirt Bike driven by Dustin L. Galloway, 23, Liberty, was eastbound on private property just off Route HH one quarter mile west of Kingston.

The dirt bike struck a bump on the ground and the driver was ejected over the handlebars. Caldwell County EMS transported Galloway to Liberty Hospital. He was wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

CALDWELL COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 1:30p.m. Sunday in Caldwell County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Suzuki 250 Dirt Bike driven by Dustin L. Galloway, 23, Liberty, was eastbound on private property just off Route HH one quarter mile west of Kingston.The dirt bike struck a bump on the ground and the driver was ejected over the handlebars. Caldwell County EMS transported Galloway to Liberty Hospital. He was wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man injured after dirt bike accident

Worker shortages have become a real struggle in the economy
and some worker shortages extend well beyond any financial considerations.

Missouri Western State University believes that is the case in
Social Work and hopes its new master’s program will fill the growing need.

Associate Professor of Social Work, Jana Frye, says Missouri
Western prepares its students to address the physical, emotional, and mental
needs of the populace.

“We work with people from the day they’re born until the day
they die and every day in between,” Frye tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.
“Since COVID has happened and even prior to that, we have really started to
acknowledge people’s issues in this world. We’re starting to recognize that mental
health is significant and that we have to face those facts.”

Missouri Western has had a bachelor’s program in Social Work
on the St. Joseph campus since 1977. The master’s program began a little over a
year ago.

Frye says there are a variety of jobs available for the
graduate of the Social Work program, including in government, non-profits, and
even in the business world.

Social Work Professor, Pam Clary, says the program has
developed and grown over the years in an attempt to address the issues that can
lead to emotional and mental distress.

“We changed the question from what’s wrong with you to what
has happened to you?” Clary says.

Clary says Missouri Western is in a prime position to address
the needs of rural communities, which are too often neglected.

Clary says social workers often work with a team to address
people in crisis.

“Our job is really to look at where can we help them, empower
them, not do the work for them, but to empower them to better their lives,” according
to Clary.

Frye says a social worker seeks to meet the needs of
individuals and families that find themselves in stressful situations.

“As a frontline social worker, because I was in the field for
a long time before I became a professor, and I worked in child welfare,” Frye
says. “So, I worked with foster children, I worked with kids who had been
removed from their home. I also worked with families who were struggling and
just trying to keep their children with them, trying to stay in their homes, trying
to be able to provide food and day care and all of those things that they
needed.”

Missouri Western has received funding from the state to expand
its Social Work program.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostWorker shortages have become a real struggle in the economy
and some worker shortages extend well beyond any financial considerations.Missouri Western State University believes that is the case in
Social Work and hopes its new master’s program will fill the growing need.Associate Professor of Social Work, Jana Frye, says Missouri
Western prepares its students to address the physical, emotional, and mental
needs of the populace.“We work with people from the day they’re born until the day
they die and every day in between,” Frye tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.
“Since COVID has happened and even prior to that, we have really started to
acknowledge people’s issues in this world. We’re starting to recognize that mental
health is significant and that we have to face those facts.”Missouri Western has had a bachelor’s program in Social Work
on the St. Joseph campus since 1977. The master’s program began a little over a
year ago.Frye says there are a variety of jobs available for the
graduate of the Social Work program, including in government, non-profits, and
even in the business world.Social Work Professor, Pam Clary, says the program has
developed and grown over the years in an attempt to address the issues that can
lead to emotional and mental distress.“We changed the question from what’s wrong with you to what
has happened to you?” Clary says.Clary says Missouri Western is in a prime position to address
the needs of rural communities, which are too often neglected.Clary says social workers often work with a team to address
people in crisis.“Our job is really to look at where can we help them, empower
them, not do the work for them, but to empower them to better their lives,” according
to Clary.Frye says a social worker seeks to meet the needs of
individuals and families that find themselves in stressful situations.“As a frontline social worker, because I was in the field for
a long time before I became a professor, and I worked in child welfare,” Frye
says. “So, I worked with foster children, I worked with kids who had been
removed from their home. I also worked with families who were struggling and
just trying to keep their children with them, trying to stay in their homes, trying
to be able to provide food and day care and all of those things that they
needed.”Missouri Western has received funding from the state to expand
its Social Work program.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU Social Work program expands to meet growing need

Tigers bounce back from loss with dominant performance at UMass

The #21 Missouri Tigers didn't look like the same team from just one week ago on the road to UMass on Saturday, dominating their way to a 45-3 victory at&nbsp;Warren McGuirk Alumni Stadium.

The Tigers took just two plays to find the endzone on their first drive of the game, Luther Burden III getting the ball for a 61 yard rushing score.&nbsp; On the next offensive drive it was Marcus Carroll, who got the start with Nate Noel battling back tightness, who found the endzone with a three yard rush.&nbsp;

Carroll found the endzone again in the second quarter, this time a four yard rush, before&nbsp;Jacob Lurie knocked through a 28 yard field goal for UMass's lone points of the game, snapping a streak of 21 unanswered points by the Tigers.&nbsp; Blake Craig hit a field to end the quarter, from 42 yards, sending Missouri to halftime with a 24-3 lead.&nbsp;

The Tiger offense continued rolling in the second half with Carroll breaking a 35 yard rushing touchdown on Mizzou's first offensive drive.&nbsp; On the next drive, they needed just one play for Brady Cook to connect with Joshua Manning for a 63 yard passing score, Manning's first career touchdown.&nbsp;

Cook found tight end Brett Norfleet for the final score of the third quarter, and the game, an eight yard passing touchdown.&nbsp; Following that score, the Tigers put in their backups for the remainder of the game.&nbsp;

Cook was 14 of 19 passing for 219 yards and two touchdowns.&nbsp; Carroll rushed 15 times for 91 yards and three scores.&nbsp; Manning had two catches for 68 yards, most coming on his 63 yard touchdown, while Burden III had five catches for 59 yards.&nbsp;

The Tigers return to SEC play next week, and to the comfort of Faurot Field, as they host the Auburn Tigers.&nbsp; Kickoff time has yet to be determined by the SEC.&nbsp; The game will air on KFEQ.&nbsp;

MWSU back to winning ways topping UCM in offensive shootout

A big second half helped the Missouri Western Griffons overcome an offensive shootout with the Central Missouri Mules, and snap a three game losing skid, winning 38-28 at&nbsp;Audrey J. Walton Stadium in Warrensburg.

The Mules struck first on the opening drive of the game, a seven yard passing touchdown from last year's Harlon Hill trophy winner Zach Zebrowski to Jake Zippe.&nbsp; The Griffons answered with a 49 yard field goal by Cody Watson.&nbsp;

Central Missouri extended their lead to start the second quarter Zebrowski this time throwing a 12 yard touchdown strike to Derrick Rose.&nbsp; Missouri Western drew closer on the ensuing drive thanks to a 50 yard touchdown pass from Branden Berwald to Jonas Bennett, before tying up the game to go into the halftime break with a 31 yard field goal from Watson.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728761599936.jpeg" alt="Missouri running back Marcus Carroll (9) rushes against UMass. Carroll got the start in place of an injured Nate Noel and rushed15 times for 91 yards and three touchdowns/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Football on X" />
 <figcaption>Missouri running back Marcus Carroll (9) rushes against UMass. Carroll got the start in place of an injured Nate Noel and rushed15 times for 91 yards and three touchdowns/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Football on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostTigers bounce back from loss with dominant performance at UMassThe #21 Missouri Tigers didn't look like the same team from just one week ago on the road to UMass on Saturday, dominating their way to a 45-3 victory at&nbsp;Warren McGuirk Alumni Stadium.The Tigers took just two plays to find the endzone on their first drive of the game, Luther Burden III getting the ball for a 61 yard rushing score.&nbsp; On the next offensive drive it was Marcus Carroll, who got the start with Nate Noel battling back tightness, who found the endzone with a three yard rush.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Luther Burden III made it look easy 😮‍💨 <a href="https://t.co/T2jXKerBTd">pic.twitter.com/T2jXKerBTd</a>&mdash; ESPN (@espn) <a href="https://twitter.com/espn/status/1845144724274819458?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Carroll found the endzone again in the second quarter, this time a four yard rush, before&nbsp;Jacob Lurie knocked through a 28 yard field goal for UMass's lone points of the game, snapping a streak of 21 unanswered points by the Tigers.&nbsp; Blake Craig hit a field to end the quarter, from 42 yards, sending Missouri to halftime with a 24-3 lead.&nbsp;The Tiger offense continued rolling in the second half with Carroll breaking a 35 yard rushing touchdown on Mizzou's first offensive drive.&nbsp; On the next drive, they needed just one play for Brady Cook to connect with Joshua Manning for a 63 yard passing score, Manning's first career touchdown.&nbsp;Cook found tight end Brett Norfleet for the final score of the third quarter, and the game, an eight yard passing touchdown.&nbsp; Following that score, the Tigers put in their backups for the remainder of the game.&nbsp;Cook was 14 of 19 passing for 219 yards and two touchdowns.&nbsp; Carroll rushed 15 times for 91 yards and three scores.&nbsp; Manning had two catches for 68 yards, most coming on his 63 yard touchdown, while Burden III had five catches for 59 yards.&nbsp;The Tigers return to SEC play next week, and to the comfort of Faurot Field, as they host the Auburn Tigers.&nbsp; Kickoff time has yet to be determined by the SEC.&nbsp; The game will air on KFEQ.&nbsp;MWSU back to winning ways topping UCM in offensive shootout<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728796978862.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western quarterback Branden Berwald (17) throws a pass during Saturday's matchup with Central Missouri/ Photo courtesy of Cole Weiberg of Missouri Western Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western quarterback Branden Berwald (17) throws a pass during Saturday's matchup with Central Missouri/ Photo courtesy of Cole Weiberg of Missouri Western Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>A big second half helped the Missouri Western Griffons overcome an offensive shootout with the Central Missouri Mules, and snap a three game losing skid, winning 38-28 at&nbsp;Audrey J. Walton Stadium in Warrensburg.The Mules struck first on the opening drive of the game, a seven yard passing touchdown from last year's Harlon Hill trophy winner Zach Zebrowski to Jake Zippe.&nbsp; The Griffons answered with a 49 yard field goal by Cody Watson.&nbsp;Central Missouri extended their lead to start the second quarter Zebrowski this time throwing a 12 yard touchdown strike to Derrick Rose.&nbsp; Missouri Western drew closer on the ensuing drive thanks to a 50 yard touchdown pass from Branden Berwald to Jonas Bennett, before tying up the game to go into the halftime break with a 31 yard field goal from Watson.&nbsp;With the game tied at 14, it didn't take long for the Griffons to take the lead at the start of the second half, needing just one play for Berwald to connect with Tyler Carey on a 68 yard touchdown pass. A 29 yard field goal from Watson pushed Missouri Western ahead further late in the quarter, leading 24-14 heading into the final frame.&nbsp;Starting the fourth quarter, the Mules got within one score on a one yard rushing score Keyon Butler, but the Griffons again extended the lead the very next drive, another touchdown between Berwald and Carey, this time for a 36 yard score. And after Desmond Green intercepted Zebrowski, Berwald found Carey again in the endzone for a 20 yard touchdown pass.&nbsp;Central Missouri attempted to rally late with a touchdown, Zebrowski throwing a 22 yard pass to Hogan Wasson with 4:11 left in the game, but a heavy dose of Griffon ground and pound led by Rickie Dunn and Marrell Fountain put the game on ice, securing Western's first win over Central Missouri in Warrensburg since 2013.Berwald was 21 of 33 passing for 379 yards and four touchdowns with one interception, Berwald was also the leading rusher with 18 carries for 93 yards.&nbsp; Carey (6 catches, 178 yards, 3 TDs) and Bennett (6 catches, 131 yards, 1 TD) were the leading receivers.&nbsp;The Griffon defense forced four turnovers on the afternoon, highlighted by Logan Clark's two-interception game. Kameron Langford led the defense with 10 tackles, while Garrett Watson tallied a sack for MWSU.Missouri Western will be back in St. Joseph for the next three games to close out the season, first starting this week with Homecoming against Nebraska Kearney.&nbsp; Kickoff will be at 2pm.&nbsp; The game will be televised on 38 the Spot.&nbsp;Northwest falls as #13 Central Oklahoma remains undefeated<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728799994271.jpeg" alt="Northwest running back Dominic Myers rushes against UCO/ Photo courtesy of Jon Dykstra of the Maryville Forum" />
 <figcaption>Northwest running back Dominic Myers rushes against UCO/ Photo courtesy of Jon Dykstra of the Maryville Forum</figcaption>
 </figure>A dominant first half by the #13 Central Oklahoma Bronchos was to much to overcome for the Northwest Missouri State Bearcats, falling 48-20 and having a four game winning streak snapped while UCO remained undefeated at&nbsp;Chad Richison Stadium in Edmond, Oklahoma.&nbsp;The Bronchos opened the first quarter by scoring 14 unanswered points, a one yard rushing score by Andrew Carney with 8:32 in the quarter, before quarterback Jett Huff connected with Terrill Davis on a 33 yard touchdown strike near the end of the frame.&nbsp;The Bearcats struck back to start the second quarter however, getting within one score, thanks to a three yard rushing touchdown by quarterback Chris Ruhnke. But UCO pulled even farther away through the remainder of the quarter, a touchdown pass from Huff to Christian Romero of 27 yards, and a 29 yard field goal by Nicky&nbsp;Quevedo putting the Bronchos up 24-7 at the halftime break.&nbsp;Central Oklahoma scored again early on in the second half, another one yard rushing score by Carney.&nbsp; But the Bearcats continued to claw their way in the game, Ruhnke finding Eric Richardson in the seam for a 46 yard touchdown pass.&nbsp; A 33 yard field goal by Noah Guastella was the final score of the quarter with 1:46 left for Northwest.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">3Q ||| 𝐓𝐎𝐔𝐂𝐇𝐃𝐎𝐖𝐍 𝐁𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐒‼️ Ruhnke finds Richardson on the seam for a 46-yard TD. PAT is GOOD. 31-14, UCO. 6:03 to go. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OABAAB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OABAAB</a> <a href="https://t.co/XFime0RgYl">pic.twitter.com/XFime0RgYl</a>&mdash; Northwest Football (@NWBearcat_FB) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWBearcat_FB/status/1845192599218553162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>A 47 yard field goal from Quevedo opened the scoring in the final quarter for the Bronchos, which was answered by Guastella on the next drive for Northwest, a field goal of 35 yards, but that was the last scoring the Bearcats got.&nbsp; Huff threw a 24 yard touchdown to Delso with 3:47 on the clock, and the Central Oklahoma defense scored the final touchdown of the game, a 70 yard fumble recovery touchdown by Dylan&nbsp;Buchheit.Ruhnke was 25 of 48 passing for 309 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions.&nbsp; Dominic Myers was the leading rusher, carrying the ball eight times for 37 yards.&nbsp; Richardson led with five catches for 92 yards and a score.&nbsp;Northwest is back at home for three of the final four games of the season, the first coming Saturday for Homecoming against Central Missouri.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 2pm.&nbsp;#18 Kansas State rebounds from late interception to beat Colorado<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728803392909.jpeg" alt="Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson (2) connected with wide receiver Jayce Brown (1) for two touchdowns in a 31-28 win over Colorado/ Photo courtesy of K State Football on X" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson (2) connected with wide receiver Jayce Brown (1) for two touchdowns in a 31-28 win over Colorado/ Photo courtesy of K State Football on X</figcaption>
 </figure>Avery Johnson rebounded from throwing a near costly late interception to find Jayce Brown on a long touchdown pass, as the #18 Kansas State Wildcats beat Colorado 31-28 at&nbsp;Folsom Field in the early morning hours of Sunday.It was a late kickoff for the Wildcats and Buffaloes, starting at 9:25pm central time on Saturday, where Colorado got on the board first in the game on a 25 yards touchdown pass from Shedeur Sanders to LaJohntay Wester.&nbsp; Johnson, the dual threat quarterback answered near the end of the opening frame, a rushing touchdown of eight yards sending the game to the second quarter tied at 7-7.&nbsp;Neither team scored again however until late in the second quarter with the game nearing halftime, Kansas State putting together an eight play drive that ended with a one yard rushing score by Dylan Edwards, the former Colorado running back, with 1:52 left in the half. The clock ended up winding down and the Buffaloes turned the ball over on downs to end the half, with the Wildcats leading 14-7 at the break.&nbsp;Kansas State opened up the second half putting together a long scoring drive, a whopping 16 play drive that went 81 yards and used up just under eight minutes of clock, Johnson connecting with Brown for the duos first touchdown of the game.&nbsp;Trailing 21-7, Colorado begin to chip their way back into the game, scoring on the next drive on a touchdown pass from Sanders to Will Sheppard of seven yards.&nbsp; Kansas State extended the lead near the end of the quarter though, a 48 yard field goal by Chris Tennant giving the Wildcats a 24-14 lead going into the fourth quarter.&nbsp;The Buffaloes threw an interception on the drive following the field goal, but after forcing a Kansas State punt got within one score on a two yard touchdown run by&nbsp;Isaiah Augustave.&nbsp;On the ensuing Wildcat drive Johnson threw an interception to&nbsp;Colton Hood and the Buffaloes went on to take their first lead of the game since the first quarter, Sanders again finding Wester, this time for an 11 yard passing score.Blocking out the interception, Johnson responded on the next drive, needing just three plays to do so and throwing a dime to Brown for a 50 yard touchdown, giving Kansas State back the lead with 2:14 left in the game. Colorado went on to turn the ball over on downs, and Johnson knelt out the remaining clock.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">On a dime 🤌 <a href="https://t.co/MObnOdZeyi">https://t.co/MObnOdZeyi</a> <a href="https://t.co/QE1JC1cao2">pic.twitter.com/QE1JC1cao2</a>&mdash; K-State Football (@KStateFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB/status/1845341587124953570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Johnson was 15 of 23 passing for 224 yards with two touchdowns and one interception.&nbsp; DJ Giddens rushed 25 times for 182 yards as the leading rusher.&nbsp; Brown caught six passes for 121 yards and the two scores leading all receivers.&nbsp;Kansas State will stay on the road next week, traveling to Morgantown for a matchup with West Virginia.&nbsp; Kickoff will be at 6:30pm.&nbsp;BYE WEEKSAfter a week off the Nebraska Cornhuskers will look to push their win streak to three games in Week 8, traveling on the road to Bloomington for a matchup with Indiana.&nbsp; Kickoff will be at 11am.&nbsp; The game will be televised on FoxKansas is still looking for their first win since the season opener against Lindenwood, and will hope a week off helped get them back on track.&nbsp; The Jayhawks return home in Week 8 to host Houston at Arrowhead Stadium.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 2:30pm.&nbsp; The game is being televised on ESPN+.Prior to their bye week, the Benedictine Ravens&nbsp;moved up a spot on Monday in the latest edition of the NAIA GoRout Top 25 Coaches' Rating.&nbsp;The Ravens, who entered the bye week at 5-1 and 1-0 in the Heart South earned 244 points to move to No. 11 in the rating.&nbsp;&nbsp;Benedictine returns home to take on Missouri Baptist University on Friday at 1 p.m. inside Larry Wilcox Stadium as part of Benedictine's annual Homecoming Week.