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

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

Full list of snow closings here

Cold weather moving into the area has
prompted the US Army Corps of Engineers to increase flows upstream on the
Missouri River.

The Corps has issued a statement that it
increased the flows from Gavins Point Dam from 13,000 cubic feet per second to
15,000 at noon Monday. The Corps says the increased flows downstream on the
Missouri River will lessen the chances of ice jams forming. It also will
replace some of the water that forms into ice.

The Corps plans to return winter
discharges at Gavins Point to 13,000 once the possibility of ice forming on the
Missouri River stabilizes.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704800254391.jpeg" alt="Gavins Point Dam/file photo" />
 <figcaption>Gavins Point Dam/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostCold weather moving into the area has
prompted the US Army Corps of Engineers to increase flows upstream on the
Missouri River.The Corps has issued a statement that it
increased the flows from Gavins Point Dam from 13,000 cubic feet per second to
15,000 at noon Monday. The Corps says the increased flows downstream on the
Missouri River will lessen the chances of ice jams forming. It also will
replace some of the water that forms into ice.The Corps plans to return winter
discharges at Gavins Point to 13,000 once the possibility of ice forming on the
Missouri River stabilizes.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Army Corps of Engineers increases flows on MO River to cope with cold weather

The St. Joseph School District has canceled classes for Tuesday as a major winter storm bears down on northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas.

The St. Joseph Catholic Academy and St. Joseph Christian Schools have canceled classes for Tuesday as well. St. Gianna Center will plan on a 9am start at this time, but that may change

The Savannah R-3 School District will be closed on Tuesday as well. There will be no professional development.

Missouri Western State University is closed.

Most school districts in northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas have canceled classes for Tuesday.

For a full list of closings click <a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/closing/#!/">HERE</a>.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph School District has canceled classes for Tuesday as a major winter storm bears down on northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas.The St. Joseph Catholic Academy and St. Joseph Christian Schools have canceled classes for Tuesday as well. St. Gianna Center will plan on a 9am start at this time, but that may changeThe Savannah R-3 School District will be closed on Tuesday as well. There will be no professional development.Missouri Western State University is closed.Most school districts in northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas have canceled classes for Tuesday.For a full list of closings click <a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/closing/#!/">HERE</a>.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph, Savannah schools closed Tuesday due to winter storm

LIVINGSTON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Monday in Livingston County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Ford F150 driven by a 16-year-old Bogard girl was northbound on U.S. 65 eight miles south of Chillicothe.&nbsp;

The pickup traveled into the southbound lane and struck a 2017 Ram 3500 driven by Davie J. Allen, 57, Carrollton, head-on.

A private vehicle transported the teen driver to Carroll County Hospital. Allen was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

LIVINGSTON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Monday in Livingston County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Ford F150 driven by a 16-year-old Bogard girl was northbound on U.S. 65 eight miles south of Chillicothe.&nbsp;The pickup traveled into the southbound lane and struck a 2017 Ram 3500 driven by Davie J. Allen, 57, Carrollton, head-on.A private vehicle transported the teen driver to Carroll County Hospital. Allen was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri teen hospitalized after head-on pickup crash

DAVIESS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 3p.m. Monday in Daviess County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Nissan driven by Anette M. Mathenia, 63, Lake Viking, was northbound on Route DD four miles north of Gallatin.&nbsp;

The driver lost control of the SUV in the snow. The vehicle traveled off the east side of the road and overturned.

Daviess County ambulance transported Mathenia to Cameron Regional Medical Center. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

DAVIESS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 3p.m. Monday in Daviess County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Nissan driven by Anette M. Mathenia, 63, Lake Viking, was northbound on Route DD four miles north of Gallatin.&nbsp;The driver lost control of the SUV in the snow. The vehicle traveled off the east side of the road and overturned.Daviess County ambulance transported Mathenia to Cameron Regional Medical Center. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman injured after SUV overturns in the snow

ATCHISON COUNTY —A woman accused of domestic battery last month is in jail for missing a court appearance.&nbsp;

On Friday, police arrested 20-year-old Alexis L. Ellison, 20, Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

She is being held on a Municipal Court warrant for failure to appear in court. 

On Nov. 26, Ellison was arrested on a requested charge of domestic battery, bodily harm, according to online jail records. She was scheduled for a court appearance on De c. 8.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704725466652.png" alt="Ellison-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Ellison-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —A woman accused of domestic battery last month is in jail for missing a court appearance.&nbsp;On Friday, police arrested 20-year-old Alexis L. Ellison, 20, Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.She is being held on a Municipal Court warrant for failure to appear in court. On Nov. 26, Ellison was arrested on a requested charge of domestic battery, bodily harm, according to online jail records. She was scheduled for a court appearance on De c. 8.

Kan. domestic battery suspect jailed for skipping court

The Missouri State Highway patrol cautions drivers to be cautious during the first major snowstorm of the year. 

Seargent Shane Hux with Troop H in St. Joseph says the key as you get out and travel is to be prepared for the worst. 

"Make sure that you have water in there, nonperishable food, a cell phone charger, we always recommend maintaining at least half a tank of fuel during these type of conditions, and any medications that you may need," Hux tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "Extra blankets, extra coats, hats, gloves, shovel, a bag of kitty litter in your trunk, all of those things will be useful." 

Hux adds if you do find yourself in an accident or off the road, the safest place you can be is staying in your vehicle. 

Hux says with the snow you probably won't be able to travel the speed limit. 

"You're going to have to decrease your speed, increase your following distance," Hux points out. "And don't crowd the snowplows, every year during this time of year we work several motor vehicle crashes involving snowplows where they get rear ended and people pass them whenever they're throwing snow."  

"There's going to be some reduced visibility, I also believe they're calling for some high winds out there." 

Hux adds there may also come a time where travel may not be a possibility.  

"Zero visibility out there, sometimes it's safest just to stay home, and if you are out on the roadways and you get caught in it, you may just have to find the nearest exit where there's facilities and get a hotel room for the night, rather than becoming stranded," Hux says. 

Hux says you can always monitor roadway conditions on the MoDOT traveler information map to see how your route is impacted.  

If you do become stranded during your travel, you can contact *55 to get in contact with your nearest troop headquarters for assistance. 

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The Missouri State Highway patrol cautions drivers to be cautious during the first major snowstorm of the year. Seargent Shane Hux with Troop H in St. Joseph says the key as you get out and travel is to be prepared for the worst. "Make sure that you have water in there, nonperishable food, a cell phone charger, we always recommend maintaining at least half a tank of fuel during these type of conditions, and any medications that you may need," Hux tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "Extra blankets, extra coats, hats, gloves, shovel, a bag of kitty litter in your trunk, all of those things will be useful." Hux adds if you do find yourself in an accident or off the road, the safest place you can be is staying in your vehicle. Hux says with the snow you probably won't be able to travel the speed limit. "You're going to have to decrease your speed, increase your following distance," Hux points out. "And don't crowd the snowplows, every year during this time of year we work several motor vehicle crashes involving snowplows where they get rear ended and people pass them whenever they're throwing snow." "There's going to be some reduced visibility, I also believe they're calling for some high winds out there." Hux adds there may also come a time where travel may not be a possibility. "Zero visibility out there, sometimes it's safest just to stay home, and if you are out on the roadways and you get caught in it, you may just have to find the nearest exit where there's facilities and get a hotel room for the night, rather than becoming stranded," Hux says. Hux says you can always monitor roadway conditions on the MoDOT traveler information map to see how your route is impacted. If you do become stranded during your travel, you can contact *55 to get in contact with your nearest troop headquarters for assistance.

Missouri State Highway Patrol advising caution as area experiences first snowstorm of year

With a new year underway, it's important for business owners to make sure they have an exit strategy prepared. But what is an exit strategy?&nbsp;

Missouri Small Business Development Center director Rebecca Lobina says it's simply a strategic plan to have about leaving or closing your business.&nbsp;

"Whether that is selling it, closing it down and liquidating everything, passing it on to a new generation, giving it to your employees, there's all kinds of different strategies out there," Lobina tells host of the KFEQ Hotline Barry Birr. "But basically, an exit plan is just having a plan in place that shows what you want to happen with your business in the future."&nbsp;

Lobina says it's important to have your exit strategy prepared three to five years before you plan to leave the business, so you can ensure you have everything in place. &nbsp;

"Those are when you want to bring in those resources and make sure that the exit you have planned is going to be executable and turn out the way that you want it to be," Lobina says. "And in the meantime, just make sure that you have a plan in place so that you can work strategically toward &nbsp;

Lobina says that three to five years is critical because the last three years tax returns are what will be looked at to value your business and you want to be sure you have all of that maximized to show value to a potential buyer.&nbsp;

Lobina says there are several different strategies you can put into your exit strategy&nbsp;

"Everything from selling to employees, so there's the employee plans like Hy-Vee, locally owned and operated but employee owned, so the employees each have a little bit of stock in business and so they are actually all owners of the business," Lobina explains. "And so that is one way a business owner can exit is to sell to his employees."&nbsp;

Lobina says other strategies might be selling to an existing partner, liquidating the business, or even being bought by a direct competitor if you've grown enough.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;With a new year underway, it's important for business owners to make sure they have an exit strategy prepared. But what is an exit strategy?&nbsp;Missouri Small Business Development Center director Rebecca Lobina says it's simply a strategic plan to have about leaving or closing your business.&nbsp;"Whether that is selling it, closing it down and liquidating everything, passing it on to a new generation, giving it to your employees, there's all kinds of different strategies out there," Lobina tells host of the KFEQ Hotline Barry Birr. "But basically, an exit plan is just having a plan in place that shows what you want to happen with your business in the future."&nbsp;Lobina says it's important to have your exit strategy prepared three to five years before you plan to leave the business, so you can ensure you have everything in place. &nbsp;"Those are when you want to bring in those resources and make sure that the exit you have planned is going to be executable and turn out the way that you want it to be," Lobina says. "And in the meantime, just make sure that you have a plan in place so that you can work strategically toward &nbsp;Lobina says that three to five years is critical because the last three years tax returns are what will be looked at to value your business and you want to be sure you have all of that maximized to show value to a potential buyer.&nbsp;Lobina says there are several different strategies you can put into your exit strategy&nbsp;"Everything from selling to employees, so there's the employee plans like Hy-Vee, locally owned and operated but employee owned, so the employees each have a little bit of stock in business and so they are actually all owners of the business," Lobina explains. "And so that is one way a business owner can exit is to sell to his employees."&nbsp;Lobina says other strategies might be selling to an existing partner, liquidating the business, or even being bought by a direct competitor if you've grown enough.&nbsp;

Small business owners need to prepare now for exit later

An effort will be made this legislative session
to revise state law that would freeze the property taxes levied against the
home of Missouri’s senior citizens.

The provision was a part of a larger bill by
state Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer, a Republican from Parkville, approved in the
previous legislative session. Luetkemeyer says he will work to clarify the
intent of the legislation.

“There were some issues with the language of the
bill that some of the county commissions around the state have expressed some
concern with and want some clarity on,” Luetkemeyer tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.
“And so I have filed a Senate Bill 190, a quote-unquote clean-up bill, that
helps to address some of those concerns, to make sure that we’re implementing
190 and getting tax relief to Missouri seniors, so we never risk a senior being
taxed out of their home.”

Luetkemeyer’s legislation would allow Missouri
counties to freeze the property taxes on the primary residence of a senior
citizen.

Even supporters of sports betting seem
discouraged that anything will be passed this legislative session in Jefferson
City.

Luetkemeyer points out surrounding states, such
as Kansas, have already approved sports betting, putting Missouri in an
uncompetitive position.

“As a consequence of that, because Missouri’s the
only state really in the Midwest that has not taken any action, we’re seeing
our tax dollars, which are earmarked for educational spending, going from
Missouri over to Kansas subsidizing their schools or, on the St. Louis side of
the state, going over to Illinois, and subsidizing Illinois’ schools,”
according to Luetkemeyer.

Luetkemeyer isn’t optimistic anything will pass
this year. Still, he says legislation is needed not just to reap dividends for
the state, but to provide consumer protections for those placing bets on games.

“We want to make sure it’s a regulated
environment where consumers are protected, no Missourian is getting ripped off,
and we’re keeping our tax dollars here in the state of Missouri.”

The senator does favor changes to the initiative
petition process, especially raising the threshold to pass constitutional
amendments.

“If you look at the Missouri Constitution right
now, it looks closer to a phone book than it does to a constitution, because of
the number of special interest statutes that have been put into the
constitution, because the initiative petition process is so easy in Missouri,”
Luetkemeyer says.

Changes to the initiative petition process have
passed the House, but have stalled in the Senate.

The Missouri legislative session runs through
mid-May.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostAn effort will be made this legislative session
to revise state law that would freeze the property taxes levied against the
home of Missouri’s senior citizens.The provision was a part of a larger bill by
state Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer, a Republican from Parkville, approved in the
previous legislative session. Luetkemeyer says he will work to clarify the
intent of the legislation.“There were some issues with the language of the
bill that some of the county commissions around the state have expressed some
concern with and want some clarity on,” Luetkemeyer tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.
“And so I have filed a Senate Bill 190, a quote-unquote clean-up bill, that
helps to address some of those concerns, to make sure that we’re implementing
190 and getting tax relief to Missouri seniors, so we never risk a senior being
taxed out of their home.”Luetkemeyer’s legislation would allow Missouri
counties to freeze the property taxes on the primary residence of a senior
citizen.Even supporters of sports betting seem
discouraged that anything will be passed this legislative session in Jefferson
City.Luetkemeyer points out surrounding states, such
as Kansas, have already approved sports betting, putting Missouri in an
uncompetitive position.“As a consequence of that, because Missouri’s the
only state really in the Midwest that has not taken any action, we’re seeing
our tax dollars, which are earmarked for educational spending, going from
Missouri over to Kansas subsidizing their schools or, on the St. Louis side of
the state, going over to Illinois, and subsidizing Illinois’ schools,”
according to Luetkemeyer.Luetkemeyer isn’t optimistic anything will pass
this year. Still, he says legislation is needed not just to reap dividends for
the state, but to provide consumer protections for those placing bets on games.“We want to make sure it’s a regulated
environment where consumers are protected, no Missourian is getting ripped off,
and we’re keeping our tax dollars here in the state of Missouri.”The senator does favor changes to the initiative
petition process, especially raising the threshold to pass constitutional
amendments.“If you look at the Missouri Constitution right
now, it looks closer to a phone book than it does to a constitution, because of
the number of special interest statutes that have been put into the
constitution, because the initiative petition process is so easy in Missouri,”
Luetkemeyer says.Changes to the initiative petition process have
passed the House, but have stalled in the Senate.The Missouri legislative session runs through
mid-May.

New session, old issues as Missouri legislators meet in Jefferson City

DAVIESS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 5a.m. Monday in Daviess County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Honda Civic driven by Gage E. Wright, 20, Gallatin, was northbound on 260th Street five miles south of Gallatin.

The car traveled off the right side of the road and struck a ditch.

A private vehicle transported Wright to Cameron Regional Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

DAVIESS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 5a.m. Monday in Daviess County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Honda Civic driven by Gage E. Wright, 20, Gallatin, was northbound on 260th Street five miles south of Gallatin.The car traveled off the right side of the road and struck a ditch.A private vehicle transported Wright to Cameron Regional Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man injured after car strikes a ditch

Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education finds little to no learning loss after switch to four-day school week

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

With more Missouri school districts switching to four-day weeks — including some of the largest — education leaders and state legislators are raising concerns.

Four-day weeks have been an option for Missouri schools since 2011, and now over 30% of the state’s districts have adopted this shortened week — serving around 11% of the state’s students. Many of the districts are in rural parts of the state.

Some state lawmakers, concerned with the shortened schedule, are pushing bills to reign in the practice. And on Tuesday, the State Board of Education will review a study on the four-day school week.

The study concludes that, overall, the four-day schedule had “no statistically significant effect on either academic achievement or building growth.” Academic achievement looks at one year of scores whereas building growth compares students scores over time.

Schools that adopted a four-day school week both before and after the pandemic were included in the study. Data is limited on recent adopters like the Independence School District,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/12/19/4-day-school-week-teacher-shortage/">which made the switch this year</a>, but the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is seeing trends.

Districts that switched before the pandemic were more likely to be rural, whereas districts embracing four-day weeks now are likely to be in towns, have multiracial populations and have more foster students, according to the report.

Jon Turner, an associate professor at Missouri State University who researches the four-day school week, was not surprised that the department found little to no effect on academic achievement.

“It is pretty consistent nationwide,” he told The Independent. “As you protect instructional hours, there is a minimal if any negative academic impact.”

The research he has studied has shown that the four-day week does not diminish academics so long as the instructional hours remain constant. Currently, state law requires 1,044 hours in school.

Three bills have already been filed this legislative session that focus on the length of school weeks, coming from both sides of the aisle.

Sen. Doug Beck, an Affton Democrat, got an amendment approved in the Senate last year that would have required a local vote to authorize a four-day school week. This year, Beck has a bill that would allow towns with fewer than 30,000 residents to adopt a four-day school week by a vote of the school board, as is law now, but larger cities would have to seek voter approval.

“I’ve talked to my colleagues, and they said in the rural area, they didn’t want to have the five-day part,” Beck told The Independent. “This would still allow them to do that. But if you’re in (larger areas), you still could go four days. You just have to get the vote of the people.”

Republican Rep. Aaron McMullen and Democratic Rep. Robert Sauls — both from Independence, where the school district&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/12/19/4-day-school-week-teacher-shortage/">made headlines with its switch to a four-day week</a>&nbsp;— filed similar bills.

McMullen is worried for the families in his city coordinating daycare and other services with an extra day off.

“My main concern is the economic impact that it has on the city,” he told The Independent. “Essentially, we’re giving less services but still charging the same amount of tax.”

Turner said that while there is not a negative academic outcome, the effect on families varies situationally. Schools providing special education are required to keep the hours of intervention specified in students’ individualized learning plan, which is a document that outlines accommodations and goals. But some students receiving these services may miss the fifth day.

“I do believe that we should get involved,” McMullen said. “But we should be able to give the ability for people to actually have the final say on it. We’re trying to empower the people that live in the school district to have the final say on whether or not they should go to four days.”

McMullen’s bill mirrors Beck’s by&nbsp;only requiring a public vote in larger localities.

But Beck’s and Sauls’ bills would provide incentives for districts that choose a five-day week. Districts with at least 175 school days can choose their school year’s start date, an option not available since the 2020-21 school year.

Their legislation also calls for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to pay districts with at least 169 school days a two percent bonus, calculated by the previous year’s state aid, to go toward boosting teacher salaries.

Beck said this provision gets to the heart of the issue: Recruiting and retaining teachers.&nbsp;

“The main reason why we have school districts going four days is not because of children learning better or any study that they’ve done,” he said. “The original thing was they couldn’t keep teachers, and this was to bring teachers in.”

When the Independence School District announced its switch, Superintendent Dale Herl said in an introductory video that the four-day week was to maintain a workforce.

Turner, who also serves on the board of the Missouri Association of Rural Education, told The Independent the four-day week is born from the educator hiring struggles Missouri districts are facing, particularly in rural areas.

“Never when I met any of those superintendents when I said, ‘Why did you do this?’ Not one said we wanted to do this. This was a part of a bigger vision,” he said. “This is a symptom of what schools are having to do to keep educators in classrooms teaching.”

In December, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education told the state board that&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://dese.mo.gov/media/pdf/december-2023-update-educator-preparation">nearly a quarter of student teachers</a>&nbsp;are the teacher of record for their classroom — meaning the class doesn’t have a certified teacher overseeing that student.

Turner said salaries for experienced teachers can vary greatly within a 30-mile radius, incentivizing educators to drive out of their rural town of residence and teach where they are better compensated.

To compete, the rural districts can utilize a four-day school week as an incentive for their workforce to stay.

“You’ve got wealthier, typically suburban, larger school districts that are able to out-compete in the job marketplace for your applicants, so you have this constant turnover in the small rural schools,” Turner said. “That’s what this four-day week is showing is that it is really the only arrow that rural school districts have in their quiver to fight the higher paying salaries.”

School districts on Missouri’s border face competition across state lines, Turner said. Arkansas increased its minimum teacher salary to $50,000 beginning last July.

Missouri lawmakers have proposed hikes to teacher wages&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/07/13/new-law-tackles-missouri-teacher-shortage-by-encouraging-retirees-to-return-to-classroom/">and other benefits</a>, though&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/06/06/lawmakers-lament-failure-of-bills-aimed-at-addressing-missouri-teacher-shortage/">few passed</a>&nbsp;last year.

McMullen, though he didn’t include the teacher-wage incentive in his bill, said he is in favor of increasing teacher pay.

“​​We need to allocate more money to public schools but have that actually go to teacher salaries and not to administration,” he said.

Beck hopes the legislature will discuss issues like teacher wages, like a bill that would increase the base teacher salary. He thinks there is enough interest to get the legislation through, though it may have to be an amendment to a larger bill.

“I truly have some really good bipartisan support on this bill, maybe more on the Republican side,” he said.

McMullen feels similarly, saying it is difficult to pass a standalone bill through the Senate.

“We have a very, very good chance of getting this bill and some aspects passed this year.”

<h2>Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education finds little to no learning loss after switch to four-day school week</h2>By ANNELISE HANSHAW&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>With more Missouri school districts switching to four-day weeks — including some of the largest — education leaders and state legislators are raising concerns.Four-day weeks have been an option for Missouri schools since 2011, and now over 30% of the state’s districts have adopted this shortened week — serving around 11% of the state’s students. Many of the districts are in rural parts of the state.Some state lawmakers, concerned with the shortened schedule, are pushing bills to reign in the practice. And on Tuesday, the State Board of Education will review a study on the four-day school week.The study concludes that, overall, the four-day schedule had “no statistically significant effect on either academic achievement or building growth.” Academic achievement looks at one year of scores whereas building growth compares students scores over time.Schools that adopted a four-day school week both before and after the pandemic were included in the study. Data is limited on recent adopters like the Independence School District,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/12/19/4-day-school-week-teacher-shortage/">which made the switch this year</a>, but the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is seeing trends.Districts that switched before the pandemic were more likely to be rural, whereas districts embracing four-day weeks now are likely to be in towns, have multiracial populations and have more foster students, according to the report.Jon Turner, an associate professor at Missouri State University who researches the four-day school week, was not surprised that the department found little to no effect on academic achievement.“It is pretty consistent nationwide,” he told The Independent. “As you protect instructional hours, there is a minimal if any negative academic impact.”The research he has studied has shown that the four-day week does not diminish academics so long as the instructional hours remain constant. Currently, state law requires 1,044 hours in school.<h2>Legislation</h2>Three bills have already been filed this legislative session that focus on the length of school weeks, coming from both sides of the aisle.Sen. Doug Beck, an Affton Democrat, got an amendment approved in the Senate last year that would have required a local vote to authorize a four-day school week. This year, Beck has a bill that would allow towns with fewer than 30,000 residents to adopt a four-day school week by a vote of the school board, as is law now, but larger cities would have to seek voter approval.“I’ve talked to my colleagues, and they said in the rural area, they didn’t want to have the five-day part,” Beck told The Independent. “This would still allow them to do that. But if you’re in (larger areas), you still could go four days. You just have to get the vote of the people.”Republican Rep. Aaron McMullen and Democratic Rep. Robert Sauls — both from Independence, where the school district&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/12/19/4-day-school-week-teacher-shortage/">made headlines with its switch to a four-day week</a>&nbsp;— filed similar bills.McMullen is worried for the families in his city coordinating daycare and other services with an extra day off.“My main concern is the economic impact that it has on the city,” he told The Independent. “Essentially, we’re giving less services but still charging the same amount of tax.”Turner said that while there is not a negative academic outcome, the effect on families varies situationally. Schools providing special education are required to keep the hours of intervention specified in students’ individualized learning plan, which is a document that outlines accommodations and goals. But some students receiving these services may miss the fifth day.“I do believe that we should get involved,” McMullen said. “But we should be able to give the ability for people to actually have the final say on it. We’re trying to empower the people that live in the school district to have the final say on whether or not they should go to four days.”McMullen’s bill mirrors Beck’s by&nbsp;only requiring a public vote in larger localities.But Beck’s and Sauls’ bills would provide incentives for districts that choose a five-day week. Districts with at least 175 school days can choose their school year’s start date, an option not available since the 2020-21 school year.Their legislation also calls for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to pay districts with at least 169 school days a two percent bonus, calculated by the previous year’s state aid, to go toward boosting teacher salaries.Beck said this provision gets to the heart of the issue: Recruiting and retaining teachers.&nbsp;“The main reason why we have school districts going four days is not because of children learning better or any study that they’ve done,” he said. “The original thing was they couldn’t keep teachers, and this was to bring teachers in.”When the Independence School District announced its switch, Superintendent Dale Herl said in an introductory video that the four-day week was to maintain a workforce.<h2>The cause</h2>Turner, who also serves on the board of the Missouri Association of Rural Education, told The Independent the four-day week is born from the educator hiring struggles Missouri districts are facing, particularly in rural areas.“Never when I met any of those superintendents when I said, ‘Why did you do this?’ Not one said we wanted to do this. This was a part of a bigger vision,” he said. “This is a symptom of what schools are having to do to keep educators in classrooms teaching.”In December, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education told the state board that&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://dese.mo.gov/media/pdf/december-2023-update-educator-preparation">nearly a quarter of student teachers</a>&nbsp;are the teacher of record for their classroom — meaning the class doesn’t have a certified teacher overseeing that student.Turner said salaries for experienced teachers can vary greatly within a 30-mile radius, incentivizing educators to drive out of their rural town of residence and teach where they are better compensated.To compete, the rural districts can utilize a four-day school week as an incentive for their workforce to stay.“You’ve got wealthier, typically suburban, larger school districts that are able to out-compete in the job marketplace for your applicants, so you have this constant turnover in the small rural schools,” Turner said. “That’s what this four-day week is showing is that it is really the only arrow that rural school districts have in their quiver to fight the higher paying salaries.”School districts on Missouri’s border face competition across state lines, Turner said. Arkansas increased its minimum teacher salary to $50,000 beginning last July.Missouri lawmakers have proposed hikes to teacher wages&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/07/13/new-law-tackles-missouri-teacher-shortage-by-encouraging-retirees-to-return-to-classroom/">and other benefits</a>, though&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/06/06/lawmakers-lament-failure-of-bills-aimed-at-addressing-missouri-teacher-shortage/">few passed</a>&nbsp;last year.McMullen, though he didn’t include the teacher-wage incentive in his bill, said he is in favor of increasing teacher pay.“​​We need to allocate more money to public schools but have that actually go to teacher salaries and not to administration,” he said.Beck hopes the legislature will discuss issues like teacher wages, like a bill that would increase the base teacher salary. He thinks there is enough interest to get the legislation through, though it may have to be an amendment to a larger bill.“I truly have some really good bipartisan support on this bill, maybe more on the Republican side,” he said.McMullen feels similarly, saying it is difficult to pass a standalone bill through the Senate.“We have a very, very good chance of getting this bill and some aspects passed this year.”

4-day school week faces scrutiny from Missouri legislature, state education board

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning
for the area. Heavy snow is expected, though the amounts vary widely.

There is a chance of snow mixed with rain today, changing to
snow this afternoon with a high of 35. We could see two to four inches of snow
today.

Snow is forecast overnight, possibly mixed with rain. Snow
could be heavy overnight with three to five inches possible. We should see a
low of 28.

Snow likely tomorrow, mostly in the morning. Temperatures will
be falling tomorrow with the high settling at 25. Gusty winds expected tomorrow
with an addition one to three inches of snow.

The St. Joseph School District is holding classes today, but will release students three hours early today. Staff will be released at 1pm. All students will be fed breakfast and lunch.

There will be no afternoon classes for early childhood students who attend Lake and Mark Twain early learning centers.

St. Joseph Catholic Academy Schools and St. Joseph Christian
Schools have canceled classes today due to the forecast of the pending winter
storm.

Missouri Western State University closed its St. Joseph campus
today in anticipation of the winter storm.

Several other districts have canceled classes. Click <a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/closing/#!/">HERE</a> for a list.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostThe National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning
for the area. Heavy snow is expected, though the amounts vary widely.There is a chance of snow mixed with rain today, changing to
snow this afternoon with a high of 35. We could see two to four inches of snow
today.Snow is forecast overnight, possibly mixed with rain. Snow
could be heavy overnight with three to five inches possible. We should see a
low of 28.Snow likely tomorrow, mostly in the morning. Temperatures will
be falling tomorrow with the high settling at 25. Gusty winds expected tomorrow
with an addition one to three inches of snow.The St. Joseph School District is holding classes today, but will release students three hours early today. Staff will be released at 1pm. All students will be fed breakfast and lunch.There will be no afternoon classes for early childhood students who attend Lake and Mark Twain early learning centers.St. Joseph Catholic Academy Schools and St. Joseph Christian
Schools have canceled classes today due to the forecast of the pending winter
storm.Missouri Western State University closed its St. Joseph campus
today in anticipation of the winter storm.Several other districts have canceled classes. Click <a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/closing/#!/">HERE</a> for a list.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

NWS issues winter storm warning for area - some schools cancel classes

PLATTE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an attempted bank robbery and continue to search for a suspect.

Agents with Federal Bureau of Investigation in Kansas City are searching for a suspect involved in an attempted bank robbery in Platte City, Missouri.

Just before 11a.m.&nbsp; Friday, a suspect entered the Bank of Weston,&nbsp;4001 State Rte 92, Platte City, according to a media release. The suspect demanded cash, threatened staff with a weapon and left without receiving any money. No injuries were reported.

The suspect was described as a man, 5-foot-7, with long hair and a stocky build. He was wearing a black jacket, black pants, black gloves and a medical mask. The suspect fled the bank in a black car westbound on US 92 Highway.&nbsp; Anyone with information on the crime should contact law enforcement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704640104548.png" alt="Security camera images FBI Kansas City" />
 <figcaption>Security camera images FBI Kansas City</figcaption>
 </figure>PLATTE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an attempted bank robbery and continue to search for a suspect.Agents with Federal Bureau of Investigation in Kansas City are searching for a suspect involved in an attempted bank robbery in Platte City, Missouri.Just before 11a.m.&nbsp; Friday, a suspect entered the Bank of Weston,&nbsp;4001 State Rte 92, Platte City, according to a media release. The suspect demanded cash, threatened staff with a weapon and left without receiving any money. No injuries were reported.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704640246023.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The suspect was described as a man, 5-foot-7, with long hair and a stocky build. He was wearing a black jacket, black pants, black gloves and a medical mask. The suspect fled the bank in a black car westbound on US 92 Highway.&nbsp; Anyone with information on the crime should contact law enforcement.

Platte City bank robbery suspect had long hair, wore medical mask

ANDREW COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 10:30a.m. Sunday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1999 Chevy passenger vehicle driven by a 16-year-old Amazonia boy was northbounc on County Road 401 five miles northwest of Amazonia.

The vehicle traveled off the west side of the road, struck a tree, continued and came to rest after striking a second tree.

Andrew County EMS transported the driver to Mosaic Life Care. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 10:30a.m. Sunday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1999 Chevy passenger vehicle driven by a 16-year-old Amazonia boy was northbounc on County Road 401 five miles northwest of Amazonia.The vehicle traveled off the west side of the road, struck a tree, continued and came to rest after striking a second tree.Andrew County EMS transported the driver to Mosaic Life Care. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri teen injured after vehicle strikes trees

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

Employees of the Missouri Department of Transportation expecting big raises thanks to a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/11/01/judge-approves-pay-raise-plan-for-missouri-transportation-agency-workers/">Cole County Circuit Court ruling</a>&nbsp;won’t see the money until this summer or later, if at all.

On Friday, Attorney General Andrew Bailey filed notice he will appeal the ruling issued by Circuit Judge Cotton Walker that the Highways and Transportation Commission has constitutional authority to set pay in the department as it sees fit.

The notice triggers a 90-day calendar for preliminary filings with the Western District Court of Appeals. Once that is complete, the parties will be given a schedule for filing briefs and later, a date for oral arguments will be set.

MoDOT would not comment on the decision to appeal, spokeswoman Linda Horn wrote in an email to The Independent.

In his&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Judgment_FINAL.pdf?courtCode=19&amp;di=2957855">Oct. 31 decision</a>, Walker ruled that ​​Commissioner of Administration Ken Zellers must allow payments approved by the Highways and Transportation Commission “when the request is for a constitutionally authorized purpose and there is sufficient balance in the State Road Fund.”

Walker found that authority in constitutional language that says money in the state road fund shall “<a target="_blank" href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=IV++++30(b)&amp;bid=31847&amp;constit=y">stand appropriated</a>&nbsp;without legislative action.”&nbsp;

The case began in late 2021 when Zellers refused to allow the highways commission to implement a pay raise plan that carried a price tag of $60 million. The highways commission wanted to stem turnover at MoDOT and attract new employees. The “market adjustment” was designed to put 65% of department employees at or above the midpoint in the pay range for their job.

During legislative testimony last month, MoDOT Director Patrick McKenna said the department has started rebuilding its workforce, hiring more new employees than departed in the past year. There are still 500 full-time slots open in its workforce authorized to employ about 5,600.

“Once again MODOT will start this winter several hundred employees short to fight a statewide storm lasting more than one shift,” McKenna said.&nbsp;

Friday was the last day for a notice of appeal. The ruling became final Dec. 19 when Walker rejected a request to change his ruling. In the state’s filing, which likely signals its argument on appeal, Assistant Attorney General Emily Dodge wrote that the judgment did not follow the precedent set in a 1975 Missouri Supreme Court ruling that determined only the legislature can set spending amounts for state agencies.

The only legal use of road fund money absent an appropriation is current payments on bond debt and holding enough cash to make payments due within 12 months, Dodge wrote.

McKenna weathered an initial storm of legislative anger after the lawsuit was filed, including calls for him to be fired. A bill to revise the “stand appropriated” language passed the House last year but stalled in the Senate.&nbsp;

Two bills have been filed for the upcoming session to give lawmakers veto power over MoDOT spending plans.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704585565260.png" alt="Photo Missouri Dept. of Transportation" />
 <figcaption>Photo Missouri Dept. of Transportation</figcaption>
 </figure>By RUDI KELLER,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Employees of the Missouri Department of Transportation expecting big raises thanks to a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/11/01/judge-approves-pay-raise-plan-for-missouri-transportation-agency-workers/">Cole County Circuit Court ruling</a>&nbsp;won’t see the money until this summer or later, if at all.On Friday, Attorney General Andrew Bailey filed notice he will appeal the ruling issued by Circuit Judge Cotton Walker that the Highways and Transportation Commission has constitutional authority to set pay in the department as it sees fit.The notice triggers a 90-day calendar for preliminary filings with the Western District Court of Appeals. Once that is complete, the parties will be given a schedule for filing briefs and later, a date for oral arguments will be set.MoDOT would not comment on the decision to appeal, spokeswoman Linda Horn wrote in an email to The Independent.In his&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Judgment_FINAL.pdf?courtCode=19&amp;di=2957855">Oct. 31 decision</a>, Walker ruled that ​​Commissioner of Administration Ken Zellers must allow payments approved by the Highways and Transportation Commission “when the request is for a constitutionally authorized purpose and there is sufficient balance in the State Road Fund.”Walker found that authority in constitutional language that says money in the state road fund shall “<a target="_blank" href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=IV++++30(b)&amp;bid=31847&amp;constit=y">stand appropriated</a>&nbsp;without legislative action.”&nbsp;The case began in late 2021 when Zellers refused to allow the highways commission to implement a pay raise plan that carried a price tag of $60 million. The highways commission wanted to stem turnover at MoDOT and attract new employees. The “market adjustment” was designed to put 65% of department employees at or above the midpoint in the pay range for their job.During legislative testimony last month, MoDOT Director Patrick McKenna said the department has started rebuilding its workforce, hiring more new employees than departed in the past year. There are still 500 full-time slots open in its workforce authorized to employ about 5,600.“Once again MODOT will start this winter several hundred employees short to fight a statewide storm lasting more than one shift,” McKenna said.&nbsp;Friday was the last day for a notice of appeal. The ruling became final Dec. 19 when Walker rejected a request to change his ruling. In the state’s filing, which likely signals its argument on appeal, Assistant Attorney General Emily Dodge wrote that the judgment did not follow the precedent set in a 1975 Missouri Supreme Court ruling that determined only the legislature can set spending amounts for state agencies.The only legal use of road fund money absent an appropriation is current payments on bond debt and holding enough cash to make payments due within 12 months, Dodge wrote.McKenna weathered an initial storm of legislative anger after the lawsuit was filed, including calls for him to be fired. A bill to revise the “stand appropriated” language passed the House last year but stalled in the Senate.&nbsp;Two bills have been filed for the upcoming session to give lawmakers veto power over MoDOT spending plans.

Appeal delays raises under Missouri highways commission pay plan

CLINTON COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 4p.m. Friday in Clinton County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Chevy Suburban driven by Jason M. Pressley, 45, Kansas City, was southbound Interstate 35 fleeing from emergency vehicles.&nbsp;

The driver exited into the northbound Holt Rest area and struck the towed unit of a 1998 Peterbilt semi driven by Toby L. Polley, 55, Ridgeway.

After impact the SUV traveled down an embankment and struck several trees. EMS transported Pressley and a passenger Kerstyn K, Rust, 24, Kansas City, to North Kansas City Hospital. Polley was not injured. The occupants of the SUV were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.&nbsp;

CLINTON COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 4p.m. Friday in Clinton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Chevy Suburban driven by Jason M. Pressley, 45, Kansas City, was southbound Interstate 35 fleeing from emergency vehicles.&nbsp;The driver exited into the northbound Holt Rest area and struck the towed unit of a 1998 Peterbilt semi driven by Toby L. Polley, 55, Ridgeway.After impact the SUV traveled down an embankment and struck several trees. EMS transported Pressley and a passenger Kerstyn K, Rust, 24, Kansas City, to North Kansas City Hospital. Polley was not injured. The occupants of the SUV were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.&nbsp;

2 hospitalized after SUV crash fleeing emergency vehicles

Missouri Western athletics announced Friday the hiring of&nbsp;Ryan Menley&nbsp;as senior associate athletic director for external relations. Menley previously served as the director of creative content for MWSU athletics from 2010-2022.

Menley will oversee marketing, communications and content in his new role. He'll also serve as the primary contact for the Gold Coat Victory Fund. "The chance to return to Griffon Nation in this particular position is an absolute honor," Menley said in a written statement. "It's a humbling opportunity, especially when you consider the character of the people who came before." "Excited is an understatement," MWSU athletic director Andy Carter said. "Ryan is a gifted and talented storyteller. His ability to communicate and grow the Griffon brand in various ways makes his return to St. Joseph a huge win for us. His love for and dedication to Missouri Western State University and Griffon Athletics makes this homecoming a special one."

Menley returns to Missouri Western after spending the last two years as associate A.D. of external relations at Division I University of Tennessee-Martin.

At UTM, he oversaw sports information, ESPN + broadcasting, creative content and athletics branding. He also served as the coordinator for special events.

A St. Louis native, Menley called St. Joseph home for 20 years and covered Missouri Western athletics that whole time. He was the sports director for KQTV from 2002-2010.

Once he joined MWSU, Menley created the university's&nbsp; athletic video production department from scratch. The "Griffon Sports Insider" brand included in-depth highlights, commercials and features. At the time, the department was one of the first of its kind at the NCAA Division II level.

Menley also oversaw the development of video board production and live broadcasts. He was an adjunct professor in the university's department of communications and a co-advisor for MWSU's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, helping raise thousands of dollars for community service projects.

In the span of seven years, Menley won six National Association of Collegiate Marketing Administrators (NACMA) awards. He was the 2020-21 Service to the University Award winner at Missouri Western and was also the university's SOAR Advisor of the Year that same year.

He was also an Emmy winner during his time at KQ.

"I have a deep appreciation for our history," Menley continued. "Our athletic department and sports teams are riding a wave of momentum in the present. When tied together, it lights the way toward a bright future. Our job in external relations is to engage and ignite. We will communicate by collaboration. We will celebrate our success with passion. And we will tell our collective story with authenticity."

Menley will begin his duties on March 1. He fills a role that was left vacant after Paul Smith stepped down from the associate A.D. of external relations role this past December. Smith held the job for 16 months.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704491823425.jpeg" alt="Ryan Menley returns to the MWSU athletic department after working for the Griffons from 2010-2022. Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Ryan Menley returns to the MWSU athletic department after working for the Griffons from 2010-2022. Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western athletics announced Friday the hiring of&nbsp;Ryan Menley&nbsp;as senior associate athletic director for external relations. Menley previously served as the director of creative content for MWSU athletics from 2010-2022.Menley will oversee marketing, communications and content in his new role. He'll also serve as the primary contact for the Gold Coat Victory Fund. "The chance to return to Griffon Nation in this particular position is an absolute honor," Menley said in a written statement. "It's a humbling opportunity, especially when you consider the character of the people who came before." "Excited is an understatement," MWSU athletic director Andy Carter said. "Ryan is a gifted and talented storyteller. His ability to communicate and grow the Griffon brand in various ways makes his return to St. Joseph a huge win for us. His love for and dedication to Missouri Western State University and Griffon Athletics makes this homecoming a special one."Menley returns to Missouri Western after spending the last two years as associate A.D. of external relations at Division I University of Tennessee-Martin.At UTM, he oversaw sports information, ESPN + broadcasting, creative content and athletics branding. He also served as the coordinator for special events.A St. Louis native, Menley called St. Joseph home for 20 years and covered Missouri Western athletics that whole time. He was the sports director for KQTV from 2002-2010.Once he joined MWSU, Menley created the university's&nbsp; athletic video production department from scratch. The "Griffon Sports Insider" brand included in-depth highlights, commercials and features. At the time, the department was one of the first of its kind at the NCAA Division II level.Menley also oversaw the development of video board production and live broadcasts. He was an adjunct professor in the university's department of communications and a co-advisor for MWSU's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, helping raise thousands of dollars for community service projects.In the span of seven years, Menley won six National Association of Collegiate Marketing Administrators (NACMA) awards. He was the 2020-21 Service to the University Award winner at Missouri Western and was also the university's SOAR Advisor of the Year that same year.He was also an Emmy winner during his time at KQ."I have a deep appreciation for our history," Menley continued. "Our athletic department and sports teams are riding a wave of momentum in the present. When tied together, it lights the way toward a bright future. Our job in external relations is to engage and ignite. We will communicate by collaboration. We will celebrate our success with passion. And we will tell our collective story with authenticity."Menley will begin his duties on March 1. He fills a role that was left vacant after Paul Smith stepped down from the associate A.D. of external relations role this past December. Smith held the job for 16 months.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704492051221.png" alt="Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Ryan Menley returning to MWSU athletics as associate A.D. of external relations

A St. Joseph man has been sentenced to 81 years in prison for
committing statutory sodomy of a juvenile.

The Buchanan County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office reports
44-year-old Dereck Heineman, Sr. had deviate sexual intercourse with a child
under 12-years-old.

Buchanan County Circuit Judge Daniel Kellogg sentenced
Heineman after hearing testimony from the victim’s parents and reviewing a
victim impact statements, as well as hearing arguments from Assistant
Prosecutor Andrew Parmenter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701351041541.jpeg" alt="HEINEMAN photo Buchanan Co." />
 <figcaption>HEINEMAN photo Buchanan Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA St. Joseph man has been sentenced to 81 years in prison for
committing statutory sodomy of a juvenile.The Buchanan County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office reports
44-year-old Dereck Heineman, Sr. had deviate sexual intercourse with a child
under 12-years-old.Buchanan County Circuit Judge Daniel Kellogg sentenced
Heineman after hearing testimony from the victim’s parents and reviewing a
victim impact statements, as well as hearing arguments from Assistant
Prosecutor Andrew Parmenter.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph man sentenced to 81 years for sexual assault of child

A local group is working to provide affordable housing to those searching to become homeowners in St. Joseph.  

Ashley Albers of the Housing Improvement Initiative says the group also provides education for those looking to purchase their first home.  

"Just to help people who are maybe generational renters or who have never thought that owning a home was something that was in the cards for them," Albers tells host of the KFEQ Hotline Barry Birr. "That they can learn what it takes, what the process looks like, what kind of paperwork they need to have together, and just to know what this big scary process really is when it's broken down to them in small chunks." 

Albers says the group finished its first courses last fall and will move into this year hoping to expand courses.  

Sarah Weaver, with the Housing Improvement Initiative, says a big driving factor of the group is making St. Joseph a thriving, robust community, but it is aware that housing is a huge issue. 

"Across the board, pretty much every category that you're looking at there's room to grow and improve in that," Weaver explains. "So, I think just us kind of driving around and seeing the need of how can we revitalize some of these neighborhoods." 

Weaver says the group hopes to change the community by providing affordable housing, working one house at a time to help improve the city.  

Albers says currently the group is constructing two homes, but there are several other projects in the works.  

"We own an empty lot that we're looking at options to putting something onto, there's a slab there now, " Albers says. "And then we also acquired two properties through the tax sale this year, but obviously there's a waiting period before you can do anything with those tax sale properties, so they're kind of like halfers we don't really count them as projects quite yet because we can't really touch them." 

If you know of a house that you believe to be vacant, you can report it to the group on its website housingimprovementinitiative.com 

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post A local group is working to provide affordable housing to those searching to become homeowners in St. Joseph. Ashley Albers of the Housing Improvement Initiative says the group also provides education for those looking to purchase their first home. "Just to help people who are maybe generational renters or who have never thought that owning a home was something that was in the cards for them," Albers tells host of the KFEQ Hotline Barry Birr. "That they can learn what it takes, what the process looks like, what kind of paperwork they need to have together, and just to know what this big scary process really is when it's broken down to them in small chunks." Albers says the group finished its first courses last fall and will move into this year hoping to expand courses. Sarah Weaver, with the Housing Improvement Initiative, says a big driving factor of the group is making St. Joseph a thriving, robust community, but it is aware that housing is a huge issue. "Across the board, pretty much every category that you're looking at there's room to grow and improve in that," Weaver explains. "So, I think just us kind of driving around and seeing the need of how can we revitalize some of these neighborhoods." Weaver says the group hopes to change the community by providing affordable housing, working one house at a time to help improve the city. Albers says currently the group is constructing two homes, but there are several other projects in the works. "We own an empty lot that we're looking at options to putting something onto, there's a slab there now, " Albers says. "And then we also acquired two properties through the tax sale this year, but obviously there's a waiting period before you can do anything with those tax sale properties, so they're kind of like halfers we don't really count them as projects quite yet because we can't really touch them." If you know of a house that you believe to be vacant, you can report it to the group on its website housingimprovementinitiative.com

Group seeks to rehab homes and create first time homeowners

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson says the state economy is strong
and poised to gain even more momentum.

Parson says the economic signs are all positive as the state
legislature begins a new session at the state Capitol in Jefferson City.

“I think our numbers, when you still look at our unemployment
numbers, when you look at our revenues, when you look at the jobs. I think
we’ve created, probably this year (2023) so far, somewhere over 30,000 new
jobs, not replacement jobs, but new jobs; $3 billion in new businesses coming
to our state,” Parson tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post in an interview. “We’re doing
a lot of right things to be able to be recognized anymore where are people
wanting to come here.”

Parson says an investment in infrastructure has been the key.

“And needless to say, I think when you look at I-70, when you
look at the airports, when you look at the river ports, when you look at the
rail, we’re just doing a lot of things that’s never been done before in our
state. And people are starting to notice that,” Parson says. “It’s a good thing
for all parts of the state when those things are happening.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704469891339.jpeg" alt="Gov Mike Parson speaking at St. Joseph City Hall/file photo" />
 <figcaption>Gov Mike Parson speaking at St. Joseph City Hall/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINMissouri Gov. Mike Parson says the state economy is strong
and poised to gain even more momentum.Parson says the economic signs are all positive as the state
legislature begins a new session at the state Capitol in Jefferson City.“I think our numbers, when you still look at our unemployment
numbers, when you look at our revenues, when you look at the jobs. I think
we’ve created, probably this year (2023) so far, somewhere over 30,000 new
jobs, not replacement jobs, but new jobs; $3 billion in new businesses coming
to our state,” Parson tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post in an interview. “We’re doing
a lot of right things to be able to be recognized anymore where are people
wanting to come here.”Parson says an investment in infrastructure has been the key.“And needless to say, I think when you look at I-70, when you
look at the airports, when you look at the river ports, when you look at the
rail, we’re just doing a lot of things that’s never been done before in our
state. And people are starting to notice that,” Parson says. “It’s a good thing
for all parts of the state when those things are happening.”Parson, a Republican, is wrapping his term as governor.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

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