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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Esely says the nomination form can be filled out online. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

KFEQ Morning Sports

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

KFEQ Morning News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Missouri House backs return to presidential primary

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

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

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

St. Joseph Open Burning canceled for Wednesday

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Agriculture braces for backlash if Trump follows through with tariff threats

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Benton basketball coaches prideful of teams run to championship games

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Largest fundraiser helps raise money for Albrecht Kemper later this month

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

$6M renovation of Wathena fertilizer plant completed

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

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

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

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

St. Joseph Municipal Judge Ted Elo dies

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mo. woman injured after car travels down embankment, overturns

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tannah Buhman appointed Andrew County Circuit Clerk

State approval and
expedited work to prepare a new cell should enable the St. Joseph landfill to
continue uninterrupted operations.

St. Joseph Public
Works Director, Abe Forney, says the city has received approval from the
Missouri Department of Natural Resources to pile trash in Cell #7 470,000 cubic
yards higher.

“So we don’t have
to relocate all of that trash now,” Forney tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. &nbsp;“We can just continue to receive the trash
from the haulers and fill up Cell #7 without bringing over the excess trash
that we had previously piled up to give us more space.”

Forney says contractor
M-Con has nearly completed the digging of Cell #8 and will soon be spreading
clay on the new cell, which will take three to four weeks. Liner and leachate
piping comes next. Then, the city must wait for DNR approval.

“I’m thinking
around July – August timeframe is when it’ll be done.”

Forney says the
twin moves have taken pressure off the landfill.

“If the trash
continues to come in at the rate that it is and we really appreciate all the
trash haulers reducing some of the trash that they’re bringing in,” Forney
says. “And us getting this vertical expansion, we believe that it gives us
enough time to get Cell #8 opened.”

Forney says the
city hopes to learn from this ordeal.

“I really
appreciate everybody’s patience,” Forney says. “We knew that there was a lot of
trash coming in, but we didn’t foresee this circumstance and we got behind the
power curve. I’ll take ownership of it. We screwed up and we’re doing
everything that we can to eliminate the problem.”

Forney says since
the city issued the contract for M-Con to prepare Cell #8, it has shifted city
workers to begin preparation of Cell #9 to ensure it doesn’t run into this
situation again.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostState approval and
expedited work to prepare a new cell should enable the St. Joseph landfill to
continue uninterrupted operations.St. Joseph Public
Works Director, Abe Forney, says the city has received approval from the
Missouri Department of Natural Resources to pile trash in Cell #7 470,000 cubic
yards higher.“So we don’t have
to relocate all of that trash now,” Forney tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. &nbsp;“We can just continue to receive the trash
from the haulers and fill up Cell #7 without bringing over the excess trash
that we had previously piled up to give us more space.”Forney says contractor
M-Con has nearly completed the digging of Cell #8 and will soon be spreading
clay on the new cell, which will take three to four weeks. Liner and leachate
piping comes next. Then, the city must wait for DNR approval.“I’m thinking
around July – August timeframe is when it’ll be done.”Forney says the
twin moves have taken pressure off the landfill.“If the trash
continues to come in at the rate that it is and we really appreciate all the
trash haulers reducing some of the trash that they’re bringing in,” Forney
says. “And us getting this vertical expansion, we believe that it gives us
enough time to get Cell #8 opened.”Forney says the
city hopes to learn from this ordeal.“I really
appreciate everybody’s patience,” Forney says. “We knew that there was a lot of
trash coming in, but we didn’t foresee this circumstance and we got behind the
power curve. I’ll take ownership of it. We screwed up and we’re doing
everything that we can to eliminate the problem.”Forney says since
the city issued the contract for M-Con to prepare Cell #8, it has shifted city
workers to begin preparation of Cell #9 to ensure it doesn’t run into this
situation again.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

State approval, emergency work should give St. Joseph landfill new life

DAVIESS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 9p.m. Monday in Daviess&nbsp; &nbsp;County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Ford Focus driven by a 27-year-old Princeton, Mo., woman was eastbound on MO 6 five miles west of Jamesport.&nbsp; The driver swerved to miss another vehicle. The Ford traveled off the south side of the road and struck an embankment.

Daviess County EMS transported the driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

DAVIESS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 9p.m. Monday in Daviess&nbsp; &nbsp;County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Ford Focus driven by a 27-year-old Princeton, Mo., woman was eastbound on MO 6 five miles west of Jamesport.&nbsp; The driver swerved to miss another vehicle. The Ford traveled off the south side of the road and struck an embankment.Daviess County EMS transported the driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Mo. woman hospitalized after car strikes embankment

ANDREW COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just after 6p.m. Monday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Nissan Kicks driven by a 38-year-old St. Joseph woman was northbound on Route W at U.S. 169. The driver failed to yield to a southbound 2006 Ford F250 driven by a 43-year-old St. Joseph man.

The Ford struck the rear passenger side door of the the Nissan as it crossed U.S. 169.

Andrew County EMS transported both drivers and a 41-year-old female passenger in the pickup to Mosaic Life Care. All three were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

ANDREW COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just after 6p.m. Monday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Nissan Kicks driven by a 38-year-old St. Joseph woman was northbound on Route W at U.S. 169. The driver failed to yield to a southbound 2006 Ford F250 driven by a 43-year-old St. Joseph man.The Ford struck the rear passenger side door of the the Nissan as it crossed U.S. 169.Andrew County EMS transported both drivers and a 41-year-old female passenger in the pickup to Mosaic Life Care. All three were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

3 from St. Joe hospitalized after pickup, SUV crash

The St. Joseph School District has narrowed down a section of land it hopes to purchase south of Highway 36 in order to build a new high school per Proposition 2 that is on the upcoming April 8th ballot.&nbsp;

In a news release, the St. Joseph Board of Education announced it has been evaluating land in the area and now has a more defined potential location and area.&nbsp;

In a press release, the School Board shared more information will be provided as it moves forward with the process.

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

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph School District has narrowed down a section of land it hopes to purchase south of Highway 36 in order to build a new high school per Proposition 2 that is on the upcoming April 8th ballot.&nbsp;In a news release, the St. Joseph Board of Education announced it has been evaluating land in the area and now has a more defined potential location and area.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743468965416.jpeg" alt="The defined location of where the St. Joseph School District is evaluating building the new high school/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph School District" />
 <figcaption>The defined location of where the St. Joseph School District is evaluating building the new high school/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph School District</figcaption>
 </figure>In a press release, the School Board shared more information will be provided as it moves forward with the process.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

SJSD provides update on land planning for new high school

BROWN COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating two Kansas teens on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.

Just before 10:30p.m. March 29, a Brown County Deputy initiated a traffic stop on US 73 Highway near 230 for speeding, according to Sheriff John Merchant.

K-9 Carla was deployed and indicated on the vehicle.&nbsp; Upon conclusion of the interdiction, several firearms were located in the vehicle, one of which was found to be stolen out of Missouri.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Michael Dibble 18 Leavenworth, was arrested on requested charges of Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Stolen Property, Criminal Possession of a Weapon by Felon and Criminal Carrying of Weapons.

A&nbsp; 17-year-old in the vehicle identified as Dewayne Johnson 17 was wanted in Leavenworth County on a juvenile Warrant for Battery.&nbsp; He was transported by a deputy to Leavenworth County detention center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743437054075.png" alt="Dibble -photo Brown County" />
 <figcaption>Dibble -photo Brown County</figcaption>
 </figure>BROWN COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating two Kansas teens on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.Just before 10:30p.m. March 29, a Brown County Deputy initiated a traffic stop on US 73 Highway near 230 for speeding, according to Sheriff John Merchant.K-9 Carla was deployed and indicated on the vehicle.&nbsp; Upon conclusion of the interdiction, several firearms were located in the vehicle, one of which was found to be stolen out of Missouri.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Michael Dibble 18 Leavenworth, was arrested on requested charges of Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Stolen Property, Criminal Possession of a Weapon by Felon and Criminal Carrying of Weapons.A&nbsp; 17-year-old in the vehicle identified as Dewayne Johnson 17 was wanted in Leavenworth County on a juvenile Warrant for Battery.&nbsp; He was transported by a deputy to Leavenworth County detention center.

Sheriff's K9 caught teens with gun stolen from Mo. and drugs

The Pony Express Museum will celebrate 165 years of spreading the history of mail service to the West, by letting people in for free this coming weekend.  

Executive Director Cindy Daffron says to celebrate the anniversary, the entire campus of the museum will open to everyone for free 

"St. Joe is always telling me, you're never open, I can't ever go there, well I'm telling you right now I've got the money collected, it's free days," Daffron tells KFEQ News.  "So the 3rd, the 4th, the 5th, the 6th are all free days into all those facilities, so I'm really hoping people will take advantage of it, if not there's people coming from South Carolina and all kinds of different places, so you need to come and check it out." 

Daffron says on April 4th there will be music in the board room, and you can also pay a visit to Dick and Mignon's Soda Shop 

"You can get a sarsaparilla, you can get a root beer but knock yourself out because I've got a mug and you can also get a root beer float," Daffron explains.  "So those things you pay for, and on the way out you need to get a chocolate bar."  

Daffron encourages everyone to come visit the museum April 3rd through the 6th for free 

"You don't need your wallet, if you want to give a donation that's really fine, but you can come and enjoy our campus," Daffron says.  "Now it's the only time that I know of that I'm going to have everything open, it takes a lot of volunteers folks to pull off all of this getting all of these buildings open, but it's really our pleasure." 

There will also be several other events surrounding the anniversary weekend.  The museum will be open from 9am to 5pm each day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644606840719.jpeg" alt="Pony Express Stables R.JPG" />
 <figcaption>Pony Express Stables R.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The Pony Express Museum will celebrate 165 years of spreading the history of mail service to the West, by letting people in for free this coming weekend. Executive Director Cindy Daffron says to celebrate the anniversary, the entire campus of the museum will open to everyone for free "St. Joe is always telling me, you're never open, I can't ever go there, well I'm telling you right now I've got the money collected, it's free days," Daffron tells KFEQ News. "So the 3rd, the 4th, the 5th, the 6th are all free days into all those facilities, so I'm really hoping people will take advantage of it, if not there's people coming from South Carolina and all kinds of different places, so you need to come and check it out." Daffron says on April 4th there will be music in the board room, and you can also pay a visit to Dick and Mignon's Soda Shop "You can get a sarsaparilla, you can get a root beer but knock yourself out because I've got a mug and you can also get a root beer float," Daffron explains. "So those things you pay for, and on the way out you need to get a chocolate bar." Daffron encourages everyone to come visit the museum April 3rd through the 6th for free "You don't need your wallet, if you want to give a donation that's really fine, but you can come and enjoy our campus," Daffron says. "Now it's the only time that I know of that I'm going to have everything open, it takes a lot of volunteers folks to pull off all of this getting all of these buildings open, but it's really our pleasure." There will also be several other events surrounding the anniversary weekend. The museum will be open from 9am to 5pm each day.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Pony Express Museum opens doors for 165th anniversary for free

Spring brings
warmer weather and warmer weather brings out motorcycle riders.

St. Joseph Police
Chief, Paul Luster, points out the city has already experienced a motorcycle
fatality, one that took the life of a young man earlier this month.

Luster has several
tips for motorists to avoid tragedy.

“One is just that
awareness that they’re back out on the roads and everybody knows motorcycles,
they’re smaller, they’re harder to see than other vehicles, so it’s important
to check those blind spots and be vigilant of that, especially when you’re
changing lanes or when you’re pulling out of that parking lot,” Luster says. “It’s
important to do things like that and just be on the lookout; look twice for the
motorcycles.”

For the riders,
Luster advises staying ever vigilant; being on the alert for drivers who might
be distracted by phones or other devices. He also advises wearing helmets and
other safety clothing.

“I’ve seen a lot
of accidents that could have been worse if that helmet wasn’t on,” Luster says.
“So, I think it’s important that you’re wearing all that protective gear that you
can and that it can be high visibility and all that stuff’s going to ultimately
make you more visible and make you safer when you’re out there riding. If you’re
going to ride a motorcycle, I think it’s very important that you have all the
protective gear that you can on.”

One final piece of
advice should go without saying.

“Always stay
sober. Don’t ever ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It’s hard
enough and dangerous enough; that impairs your reaction time and judgment. That’s
going to really even more so significantly increase that risk of accidents,”
Luster says.&nbsp; “You need to have all your
wits about you when you’re riding a motorcycle.”

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSpring brings
warmer weather and warmer weather brings out motorcycle riders.St. Joseph Police
Chief, Paul Luster, points out the city has already experienced a motorcycle
fatality, one that took the life of a young man earlier this month.Luster has several
tips for motorists to avoid tragedy.“One is just that
awareness that they’re back out on the roads and everybody knows motorcycles,
they’re smaller, they’re harder to see than other vehicles, so it’s important
to check those blind spots and be vigilant of that, especially when you’re
changing lanes or when you’re pulling out of that parking lot,” Luster says. “It’s
important to do things like that and just be on the lookout; look twice for the
motorcycles.”For the riders,
Luster advises staying ever vigilant; being on the alert for drivers who might
be distracted by phones or other devices. He also advises wearing helmets and
other safety clothing.“I’ve seen a lot
of accidents that could have been worse if that helmet wasn’t on,” Luster says.
“So, I think it’s important that you’re wearing all that protective gear that you
can and that it can be high visibility and all that stuff’s going to ultimately
make you more visible and make you safer when you’re out there riding. If you’re
going to ride a motorcycle, I think it’s very important that you have all the
protective gear that you can on.”One final piece of
advice should go without saying.“Always stay
sober. Don’t ever ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It’s hard
enough and dangerous enough; that impairs your reaction time and judgment. That’s
going to really even more so significantly increase that risk of accidents,”
Luster says.&nbsp; “You need to have all your
wits about you when you’re riding a motorcycle.”You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

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