A familiar face to education in northwest Missouri is taking over as Dean of the Savannah campus of North Central Missouri College.  

Clarence Green, former interim President and Chief of Police at Northwest Missouri State has been named Dean of the Savannah campus.  

Green says the opportunity at North Central matched up with many of his ideals of working with first generation students and students looking to advance their skills.  

"I have a certificate, which is a law enforcement certification, excited to work with folks who are seeking certifications, skilled up, two-year associate degrees, workforce center, they have a strong student success mission, vision is part of their strategic plan," Green tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "All of those things identified with me and what North Central stands for." 

Green says his immediate goal will be to listen to the people on the ground of the Savannah campus.  

"The faculty, staff, and students, so I can make sure that I'm putting myself, as well as the organization and institution, with the best foot forward to make sure we're continuing to grow them," Green says.  

Another priority for Green will be on campus enrollment 

"We want to make sure that we have a strong student experience, we want to grow North Central in all facets," Green explains. 

Green says the transition from an established campus like Northwest to a newer campus in Savannah is a great opportunity, and one he feels will be easy 

"If you look at that facility and tour that facility, it is world class, first class, it's going to kind of sell itself," Green says. "It's not going to take very much lifting from my standpoint, I just have to be a person who's willing to get out and get into the community and get into anyplace I can just to tell folks about what we're doing there at Savannah, and hopefully they'll come take a look." 

Green will take over for Sue Nichols who has served as the campus director since the Savannah campus was completed.  Green will start his duties July 1st.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715099581798.jpeg" alt="Clarence Green has been named the new Dean of the Savannah campus for North Central Missouri College/ Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Clarence Green has been named the new Dean of the Savannah campus for North Central Missouri College/ Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post A familiar face to education in northwest Missouri is taking over as Dean of the Savannah campus of North Central Missouri College. Clarence Green, former interim President and Chief of Police at Northwest Missouri State has been named Dean of the Savannah campus. Green says the opportunity at North Central matched up with many of his ideals of working with first generation students and students looking to advance their skills. "I have a certificate, which is a law enforcement certification, excited to work with folks who are seeking certifications, skilled up, two-year associate degrees, workforce center, they have a strong student success mission, vision is part of their strategic plan," Green tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "All of those things identified with me and what North Central stands for." Green says his immediate goal will be to listen to the people on the ground of the Savannah campus. "The faculty, staff, and students, so I can make sure that I'm putting myself, as well as the organization and institution, with the best foot forward to make sure we're continuing to grow them," Green says. Another priority for Green will be on campus enrollment "We want to make sure that we have a strong student experience, we want to grow North Central in all facets," Green explains. Green says the transition from an established campus like Northwest to a newer campus in Savannah is a great opportunity, and one he feels will be easy "If you look at that facility and tour that facility, it is world class, first class, it's going to kind of sell itself," Green says. "It's not going to take very much lifting from my standpoint, I just have to be a person who's willing to get out and get into the community and get into anyplace I can just to tell folks about what we're doing there at Savannah, and hopefully they'll come take a look." Green will take over for Sue Nichols who has served as the campus director since the Savannah campus was completed. Green will start his duties July 1st.<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Clarence-Green-named-Dean-of-NCMC--Savannah-e2jc8dv" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Clarence Green takes on new challenge at North Central Missouri College

A meth bust during a traffic stop in Buchanan County resulted
in the seizure of 20 pounds of methamphetamine as well as the arrest of a
37-year-old woman who had a three-month-old baby in the car with her.

Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett reports the Drug Strike
Force worked with the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the St. Joseph Police
Department in making the bust. Puett says K9 Blaize led officers to the
methamphetamine located in the vehicle, approximately 20 pounds worth. The
woman has been taken into custody.

Puett reports the baby was unharmed and has been placed in the
care of the state.

The department has turned the case over to prosecutors.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715087814640.jpeg" alt="Buchanan County Drug Strike Force K9 Blaize sits next to meth seized during traffic stop/Photo courtesy of Buchanan County Sheriff's Dept." />
 <figcaption>Buchanan County Drug Strike Force K9 Blaize sits next to meth seized during traffic stop/Photo courtesy of Buchanan County Sheriff's Dept.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA meth bust during a traffic stop in Buchanan County resulted
in the seizure of 20 pounds of methamphetamine as well as the arrest of a
37-year-old woman who had a three-month-old baby in the car with her.Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett reports the Drug Strike
Force worked with the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the St. Joseph Police
Department in making the bust. Puett says K9 Blaize led officers to the
methamphetamine located in the vehicle, approximately 20 pounds worth. The
woman has been taken into custody.Puett reports the baby was unharmed and has been placed in the
care of the state.The department has turned the case over to prosecutors.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Woman arrested with baby on board during Buchanan CO meth bust

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Fentanyl deaths among Missouri babies, toddlers and teens spiked as child welfare officials struggled to adequately investigate the cases, a state panel found in a newly released report.

Forty-three youth died — 20 of them under the age of 4 — in 2022 alone from the infamously powerful drug, according to a new state report. That reflected an overall doubling of child fentantly deaths, with the spike among the youngest victims even steeper, according to the Missouri Department of Social Services, which convened the panel of social workers, health officials, law enforcement and child advocates.

Called the Fentanyl Case Review Subcommittee, the group's&nbsp;<a href="https://dss.mo.gov/re/pdf/fentanyl-report-may-2024.pdf">report</a>&nbsp;said that child welfare “missed warning signs and left vulnerable children at risk” as fentanyl became a main driver of the U.S. overdose epidemic in recent years.

Children are especially vulnerable to overdosing, as ingesting even small amounts of the opioid’s residue can be fatal.

“The loss of a child to a drug-related incident is a heartbreaking occurrence that should never transpire,” said DSS Director Robert Knodell in a letter included in the report. “It is imperative that we collectively strive for improvement on both a personal and communal level.”

Knodell formed the subcommittee after The Kansas City Star reported late last year in a series titled, “Deadly Dose,” that babies and toddlers in Missouri were dying from fentanyl at an alarming rate.

The group's report also described a lack of substance abuse treatment options, inconsistency in drug testing, gaps in training and inadequate integration between the mental health and child welfare system.

Among the changes the panel is recommending is better debriefing after something goes wrong so policies and practices can be tweaked. The panel also stressed the need to remove children out of environments in which there is a potential for exposure because of how lethal the drug is.

Emily van Schenkhof, executive director of the Children’s Trust Fund, was a part of the subcommittee and told&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article288313460.html">The Star</a>&nbsp;she was surprised by much of what she read in the case reports. The Children’s Trust Fund is the state’s foundation for child abuse prevention.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Fentanyl deaths among Missouri babies, toddlers and teens spiked as child welfare officials struggled to adequately investigate the cases, a state panel found in a newly released report.Forty-three youth died — 20 of them under the age of 4 — in 2022 alone from the infamously powerful drug, according to a new state report. That reflected an overall doubling of child fentantly deaths, with the spike among the youngest victims even steeper, according to the Missouri Department of Social Services, which convened the panel of social workers, health officials, law enforcement and child advocates.Called the Fentanyl Case Review Subcommittee, the group's&nbsp;<a href="https://dss.mo.gov/re/pdf/fentanyl-report-may-2024.pdf">report</a>&nbsp;said that child welfare “missed warning signs and left vulnerable children at risk” as fentanyl became a main driver of the U.S. overdose epidemic in recent years.Children are especially vulnerable to overdosing, as ingesting even small amounts of the opioid’s residue can be fatal.“The loss of a child to a drug-related incident is a heartbreaking occurrence that should never transpire,” said DSS Director Robert Knodell in a letter included in the report. “It is imperative that we collectively strive for improvement on both a personal and communal level.”Knodell formed the subcommittee after The Kansas City Star reported late last year in a series titled, “Deadly Dose,” that babies and toddlers in Missouri were dying from fentanyl at an alarming rate.The group's report also described a lack of substance abuse treatment options, inconsistency in drug testing, gaps in training and inadequate integration between the mental health and child welfare system.Among the changes the panel is recommending is better debriefing after something goes wrong so policies and practices can be tweaked. The panel also stressed the need to remove children out of environments in which there is a potential for exposure because of how lethal the drug is.Emily van Schenkhof, executive director of the Children’s Trust Fund, was a part of the subcommittee and told&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article288313460.html">The Star</a>&nbsp;she was surprised by much of what she read in the case reports. The Children’s Trust Fund is the state’s foundation for child abuse prevention.

Children are dying of fentanyl by the dozens in Missouri. A panel is calling for changes

NODAWAW COUNTY—A Missouri driver was injured and later arrested following an accident that occurred just after 12:30p.m. Monday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Dwmwigi electric tri-cycle driven by Irina V. Younger, 64, Maryville, was westbound on 282nd Street one mile south of Maryville.

The driver attempted to made a right turn on 282nd Street. The vehicle slid overturned and the driver struck the ground.

Law enforcement arrested Younger on requested charges of misdemeanor DWI; prior offender and careless, imprudent driving involving a motor vehicle crash.&nbsp; Nodaway County EMS then transported Younger to Mosaic in Maryville for treatment of moderate injuries. The MSHP report on the crash lists Younger as a woman. The arrest report lists Younger as a man.

NODAWAW COUNTY—A Missouri driver was injured and later arrested following an accident that occurred just after 12:30p.m. Monday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Dwmwigi electric tri-cycle driven by Irina V. Younger, 64, Maryville, was westbound on 282nd Street one mile south of Maryville.The driver attempted to made a right turn on 282nd Street. The vehicle slid overturned and the driver struck the ground.Law enforcement arrested Younger on requested charges of misdemeanor DWI; prior offender and careless, imprudent driving involving a motor vehicle crash.&nbsp; Nodaway County EMS then transported Younger to Mosaic in Maryville for treatment of moderate injuries. The MSHP report on the crash lists Younger as a woman. The arrest report lists Younger as a man.

Driver injured, arrested after electric tricycle crash in Nodaway Co.

A fledgling small business in St. Joseph has
leaned heavily on the expertise of the <a href="https://www.nwmissouri.edu/services/sbdc/">Northwest Missouri State Small Business
Development Center</a>.

Rachel Neil says when she first went to the Small
Business Development Center, she had a lot of questions.

“How am I able to get all of my ideas into a
business and have it thrive? How am I able to market my business? How am I able
to even just jump start this idea?”

The idea Neil has is to start a business called
Heirloom Diaries, in which she helps families preserve family history in a form
that can be passed down from one generation to another.

Neil says the center more than answered her
questions. She came away with the answers she needed to get started.

“I was able to come up with a sales pitch, a
summary, creating milestones, creating budgets,” Neil tells host Barry Birr on
the KFEQ Hotline. “So that was a huge resource.”

Neil says she has toyed with the business model
for quite a while.

“All the way back from college days, I realized
just how important my family’s story was to me,” Neil says. “And I want to be
able to connect others with their family the way I have connected with mine.”

Neil hasn’t established a brick-and-mortar
business, yet, but says that might be coming.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA fledgling small business in St. Joseph has
leaned heavily on the expertise of the <a href="https://www.nwmissouri.edu/services/sbdc/">Northwest Missouri State Small Business
Development Center</a>.Rachel Neil says when she first went to the Small
Business Development Center, she had a lot of questions.“How am I able to get all of my ideas into a
business and have it thrive? How am I able to market my business? How am I able
to even just jump start this idea?”The idea Neil has is to start a business called
Heirloom Diaries, in which she helps families preserve family history in a form
that can be passed down from one generation to another.Neil says the center more than answered her
questions. She came away with the answers she needed to get started.“I was able to come up with a sales pitch, a
summary, creating milestones, creating budgets,” Neil tells host Barry Birr on
the KFEQ Hotline. “So that was a huge resource.”Neil says she has toyed with the business model
for quite a while.“All the way back from college days, I realized
just how important my family’s story was to me,” Neil says. “And I want to be
able to connect others with their family the way I have connected with mine.”Neil hasn’t established a brick-and-mortar
business, yet, but says that might be coming.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

New entrepreneur got big boost from Small Business Development Center

Legendary Oklahoma women's basketball coach Sherri Coales says the growth of women's college basketball is something she believes can be sustained, despite the loss of players like Iowa's Caitlin Clark

Coales spoke at an event hosted by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce. 

Coales says while people watched the product, it wasn't just Clark that they were seeing.

"People were tuning in to see Caitlin (Clark) shoot from the logo, or they were tuning in Angel Reese get a rebound, or they tuned in to see JuJu (Watkins) break somebody's ankles, they were watching for all that but while they were watching for that they saw all these other players who will continue to fuel the collegiate game," Coales tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. 

Coales coached the Sooners for 25 years, winning six Big 12 Championships and reaching the Final Four three times. 

Coale's says there has been a natural explosion of young girls becoming interested in basketball.

"That circle just grows like a ripple, just wider and wider and wider, so there will be an influx of little girls who are putting their hair up in a ponytail and heading to basketball camp this summer, that will continue," Coales says.

Coales says playing sports can be difficult, but difficult things in life breed confidence, and confidence is the root of success. 

"Boys, girls, whatever work you're doing, sports business, parenting, whatever it is confidence is at the root of success of all that," Coales explains. "And sports gives you a trial run and gives you a chance to fail and succeed and figure out how to handle both of them, it's not always fair but neither is life, so you get that experience and you just take what you've been exposed to and it makes you a better human."

Coales retired from coaching in 2021.  In her post coaching career, she's a speaker as well as an author. 

Coales signed copies of her book 'Rooted to Rise' following the St. Joseph event, a book where she tells stories about all the people who impacted her life.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715008399987.jpeg" alt="Sherri Coales speaks to a crowd in St. Joseph during an event hosted by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Sherri Coales speaks to a crowd in St. Joseph during an event hosted by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostLegendary Oklahoma women's basketball coach Sherri Coales says the growth of women's college basketball is something she believes can be sustained, despite the loss of players like Iowa's Caitlin ClarkCoales spoke at an event hosted by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce. Coales says while people watched the product, it wasn't just Clark that they were seeing."People were tuning in to see Caitlin (Clark) shoot from the logo, or they were tuning in Angel Reese get a rebound, or they tuned in to see JuJu (Watkins) break somebody's ankles, they were watching for all that but while they were watching for that they saw all these other players who will continue to fuel the collegiate game," Coales tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. Coales coached the Sooners for 25 years, winning six Big 12 Championships and reaching the Final Four three times. Coale's says there has been a natural explosion of young girls becoming interested in basketball."That circle just grows like a ripple, just wider and wider and wider, so there will be an influx of little girls who are putting their hair up in a ponytail and heading to basketball camp this summer, that will continue," Coales says.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715008539378.jpeg" alt="Sherri Coales speaks to a crowd at the Word of Life Church/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Sherri Coales speaks to a crowd at the Word of Life Church/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Coales says playing sports can be difficult, but difficult things in life breed confidence, and confidence is the root of success. "Boys, girls, whatever work you're doing, sports business, parenting, whatever it is confidence is at the root of success of all that," Coales explains. "And sports gives you a trial run and gives you a chance to fail and succeed and figure out how to handle both of them, it's not always fair but neither is life, so you get that experience and you just take what you've been exposed to and it makes you a better human."Coales retired from coaching in 2021. In her post coaching career, she's a speaker as well as an author. Coales signed copies of her book 'Rooted to Rise' following the St. Joseph event, a book where she tells stories about all the people who impacted her life.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715008499689.jpeg" alt="Sherri Coales signed copies of her book 'Rooted to Rise' after speaking to a crowd at the Word of Life Church/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Sherri Coales signed copies of her book 'Rooted to Rise' after speaking to a crowd at the Word of Life Church/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Former-Oklahoma-coach-believes-womens-sports-popularity-can-be-sustained-e2jak7c" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Veteran women's basketball coach says game will continue to rise post- Clark

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a woman for an alleged violent crime.

On May 3, police arrested 65-year-old Vicki L. Bennett of&nbsp; Atchison in the 1000 Block of South 6th Street, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

She was jailed on a requested charge for domestic battery, physical contact;&nbsp; 2nd within five. years of the first, according to online jail recored.

&nbsp;Bennett met the requirement for the $2500 bond and is not longer in custody.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715004591565.png" alt="Bennett-photo Athchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Bennett-photo Athchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a woman for an alleged violent crime.On May 3, police arrested 65-year-old Vicki L. Bennett of&nbsp; Atchison in the 1000 Block of South 6th Street, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.She was jailed on a requested charge for domestic battery, physical contact;&nbsp; 2nd within five. years of the first, according to online jail recored.&nbsp;Bennett met the requirement for the $2500 bond and is not longer in custody.

Kansas woman accused of domestic battery

HOLT COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Sunday in Holt County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Jason D. Conn, 51, Tarkio, was northbound on Lakeshore Drive in the city limits of Big Lake.

The driver failed to negotiate a curve. The motorcycle traveled off the right side of the road and struck a ditch. Atchison-Holt EMS transported Conn to Mosaic in St. Joseph. He was not wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

HOLT COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Sunday in Holt County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Jason D. Conn, 51, Tarkio, was northbound on Lakeshore Drive in the city limits of Big Lake.The driver failed to negotiate a curve. The motorcycle traveled off the right side of the road and struck a ditch. Atchison-Holt EMS transported Conn to Mosaic in St. Joseph. He was not wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

Mo. man hospitalized in St. Joe after motorcycle accident

BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged drug crimes.

Just before 3:30p.m. May 2, the Brown County Drug Task Force conducted&nbsp;a search warrant at 409 E. 11th Street in Horton, according to Sheriff John Merchant.

Deputies arrested 29-year-old Dylan Thomas of Horton on a Felony Jackson County Probation Violation Warrant and on requested charges through Brown County for Possession of Meth, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Criminal Possession of aWeapon by a Felon.&nbsp; 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714761186739.png" alt="Thomas-photo Brown Co." />
 <figcaption>Thomas-photo Brown Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged drug crimes.Just before 3:30p.m. May 2, the Brown County Drug Task Force conducted&nbsp;a search warrant at 409 E. 11th Street in Horton, according to Sheriff John Merchant.Deputies arrested 29-year-old Dylan Thomas of Horton on a Felony Jackson County Probation Violation Warrant and on requested charges through Brown County for Possession of Meth, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Criminal Possession of aWeapon by a Felon.&nbsp;

Drug task force found Kan. felon with drugs, gun

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

A judge in St. Louis ruled Thursday that local municipalities can stack sales taxes on marijuana dispensaries, the first court ruling on a much-debated issue playing out around the state.&nbsp;

The lawsuit was filed by Robust Missouri 3 LLC. The company saw its Florissant dispensary’s tax rate on cannabis products rise to 14.988% after both the city and St. Louis County approved 3% sales taxes on adult-use marijuana in April 2023.

The constitutional amendment that&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/11/09/missouri-voters-amend-state-constitution-to-legalize-recreational-marijuana/">legalized recreational cannabis sales</a>&nbsp;included a 6% statewide excise tax — but it also authorized “any local government” to charge a sales tax of up to 3%.&nbsp;

At the heart of Robust’s lawsuit is whether the law intended for local governments to be able to impose a maximum of 3% sales combined, or if they can each impose a 3% sales tax.&nbsp;

St. Louis County Circuit Judge Brian May ruled that both governments’ taxes are valid.&nbsp;

In his Thursday order, May stated there is no court precedent on this issue, so he interpreted the intent of the law “as a whole and not in isolated parts.”

While the law allows for recreational marijuana to be legal, he stated it also intended for local governments to be able to “protect public health.”&nbsp;

“If [Robust’s] interpretation were accepted, then a municipality or city would essentially be given carte blanche to ignore any county ordinance or regulation, including those related to public health and safety wholly unrelated to the taxing issue,” May wrote in the ruling.&nbsp;

May pointed to the provision that allows the city to approve placing a dispensary within less than 1,000 feet of any then-existing school.&nbsp;

“…and the county, and other cities in the Ferguson-Florissant School District, would have no say in that decision,” May wrote. “This absurd outcome would directly contradict the stated purpose of the [amendment].”

The ruling is a win for the Missouri Association of Counties, said Steve Hobbs, the association’s executive director. The association has strongly advocated that counties have the ability to do this, he said.

“The bulk of the counties around the state had gone to the voters and asked them to implement this tax,” Hobbs told The Independent on Friday. “And I think every one of them approved of it. I think [the ruling] removes some uncertainty from those counties.”&nbsp;

On the other side, leaders of the marijuana industry have called the effort to collect both taxes an “unconstitutional money grab” that violates the terms of the amendment.

“We know from other states that when legal marijuana is taxed unnecessarily high, it only helps the illicit market,” said Andrew Mullins, executive director Missouri Cannabis Trade Association, in a statement to The Independent Friday, “which deprives Missouri veterans and substance abuse programs of needed revenue.”&nbsp;

Robust Missouri has submitted an appeal on the circuit court’s decision. Another&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/10/17/pair-of-lawsuits-challenge-whether-missouri-counties-can-stack-tax-on-marijuana-sales/">similar case&nbsp;</a>is pending&nbsp;in Buchanan County.

St. Joseph dispensary Vertical Enterprises&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Petition%20for%20Permanent%20Injunction.PDF?courtCode=05&amp;di=3490483">sued Buchanan County Collector Peggy Campbell</a>, arguing that it, too, would be “irreparably harmed” if both taxes were imposed.

A hearing is scheduled in that case for May 16 in the Circuit Court of Buchanan County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692273868300.png" alt="- A Robust Cannabis employee showcases the company’s Black Hole Sun strain at their warehouse in Cuba, Missouri&nbsp;(Rebecca Rivas/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>- A Robust Cannabis employee showcases the company’s Black Hole Sun strain at their warehouse in Cuba, Missouri&nbsp;(Rebecca Rivas/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>By REBECCA RIVAS,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>A judge in St. Louis ruled Thursday that local municipalities can stack sales taxes on marijuana dispensaries, the first court ruling on a much-debated issue playing out around the state.&nbsp;The lawsuit was filed by Robust Missouri 3 LLC. The company saw its Florissant dispensary’s tax rate on cannabis products rise to 14.988% after both the city and St. Louis County approved 3% sales taxes on adult-use marijuana in April 2023.The constitutional amendment that&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/11/09/missouri-voters-amend-state-constitution-to-legalize-recreational-marijuana/">legalized recreational cannabis sales</a>&nbsp;included a 6% statewide excise tax — but it also authorized “any local government” to charge a sales tax of up to 3%.&nbsp;At the heart of Robust’s lawsuit is whether the law intended for local governments to be able to impose a maximum of 3% sales combined, or if they can each impose a 3% sales tax.&nbsp;St. Louis County Circuit Judge Brian May ruled that both governments’ taxes are valid.&nbsp;In his Thursday order, May stated there is no court precedent on this issue, so he interpreted the intent of the law “as a whole and not in isolated parts.”While the law allows for recreational marijuana to be legal, he stated it also intended for local governments to be able to “protect public health.”&nbsp;“If [Robust’s] interpretation were accepted, then a municipality or city would essentially be given carte blanche to ignore any county ordinance or regulation, including those related to public health and safety wholly unrelated to the taxing issue,” May wrote in the ruling.&nbsp;May pointed to the provision that allows the city to approve placing a dispensary within less than 1,000 feet of any then-existing school.&nbsp;“…and the county, and other cities in the Ferguson-Florissant School District, would have no say in that decision,” May wrote. “This absurd outcome would directly contradict the stated purpose of the [amendment].”The ruling is a win for the Missouri Association of Counties, said Steve Hobbs, the association’s executive director. The association has strongly advocated that counties have the ability to do this, he said.“The bulk of the counties around the state had gone to the voters and asked them to implement this tax,” Hobbs told The Independent on Friday. “And I think every one of them approved of it. I think [the ruling] removes some uncertainty from those counties.”&nbsp;On the other side, leaders of the marijuana industry have called the effort to collect both taxes an “unconstitutional money grab” that violates the terms of the amendment.“We know from other states that when legal marijuana is taxed unnecessarily high, it only helps the illicit market,” said Andrew Mullins, executive director Missouri Cannabis Trade Association, in a statement to The Independent Friday, “which deprives Missouri veterans and substance abuse programs of needed revenue.”&nbsp;Robust Missouri has submitted an appeal on the circuit court’s decision. Another&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/10/17/pair-of-lawsuits-challenge-whether-missouri-counties-can-stack-tax-on-marijuana-sales/">similar case&nbsp;</a>is pending&nbsp;in Buchanan County.St. Joseph dispensary Vertical Enterprises&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Petition%20for%20Permanent%20Injunction.PDF?courtCode=05&amp;di=3490483">sued Buchanan County Collector Peggy Campbell</a>, arguing that it, too, would be “irreparably harmed” if both taxes were imposed.A hearing is scheduled in that case for May 16 in the Circuit Court of Buchanan County.

Mo. judge rules local governments can stack sales tax on marijuana

BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.

Just after 5p.m. May 2, the Brown County Sheriff's Office Drug Task Force initiated a search warrant at 1520 2nd Avenue W in Horton, according to Sheriff John Merchant.

Deputies arrested 32-year-old Skylar Pahmahmie of Horton on requested charges of Possession of Meth and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.&nbsp; 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714761668048.png" alt="Pahmahmie-photo Brown Co." />
 <figcaption>Pahmahmie-photo Brown Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.Just after 5p.m. May 2, the Brown County Sheriff's Office Drug Task Force initiated a search warrant at 1520 2nd Avenue W in Horton, according to Sheriff John Merchant.Deputies arrested 32-year-old Skylar Pahmahmie of Horton on requested charges of Possession of Meth and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.&nbsp;

Drug task force makes arrest during search of Kansas home

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

A new political party will appear on Missouri’s ballot this year, the brainchild of a candidate hoping to challenge Republican U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley in November.

Jared Young, an attorney and businessman from Webb City, last year announced he would run as an&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/column/joe-holleman/no-party-us-senate-candidate-jared-young-real-change-won-t-come-from-two-party/article_17aee80c-cb66-11ee-82e7-afb4eeb0d3c4.html">independent candidate</a>&nbsp;in the Senate race. In April, he decided to instead submit signatures to create a new political organization,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.betterpartymo.com/">the Better Party</a>, and invited other candidates to join it.

Under Missouri law, an independent statewide candidate must submit&nbsp;10,000 signatures from registered voters to the Secretary of State’s office. That is the same number required to form a new political party.

Young submitted signatures on April 19, and of 21,587 signatures checked,&nbsp;10,696 were valid, Madison Walker, spokesman for the office, wrote in an email. The results were certified on Wednesday.

Along with Young, the Better Party has nominated Blake Ashby of Ferguson as its candidate for the 1st Congressional District seat currently held by Democratic U.S. Rep. Cori Bush.

Those are the only two candidates the party will field this year. Candidate filings had to be submitted with the petitions, Walker wrote.

Young is campaigning as an alternative to politicians out-of-touch with voters.

“Both parties have become overly obsessed with holding onto or regaining power at all costs,” Young&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fvotejaredyoung.com%2F&amp;h=AT03ff5CjyRVq2kNePJD4scYhX1d6kovrgndJY0mQ6HC1byI955Gk6tQJGl8lsFH36_QuyzkZKWsPwg7xLnCEQh6nqNZsg1G47u9P8FV5zLj0pTYKvS9vugy2wEduGei3nkr2gpmhBrkHdNHq8wU_L0&amp;s=1">wrote on Facebook</a>&nbsp;after the signatures were confirmed. “In their current form, they no longer represent the hopes and beliefs of most Americans.”

According to his first-quarter campaign finance report, Young has raised $364,377 for his campaign and had $110,650 on hand.

Young will be listed fourth on the November ballot for Senate.

Hawley, unopposed for renomination, has raised $7.6 million since January 2023 for his campaign committee and had $5.5 million on hand on March 31. Democrat Lucas Kunce leads a four-person field for the Aug. 6 primary with $7.7 million raised and $3.3 million on hand.

The other Democratic candidates are&nbsp;state Sen. Karla May of St. Louis, December Harmon of Columbia and Mita Biswas of St. Louis.

W.C. Young of Kansas City is unopposed for the Libertarian Party nomination.

If he’s successful at garnering at least 2% of the vote in the November U.S. Senate race, Young’s new party will be able to file candidates without the petition requirement in 2026 and 2028. To stay on the ballot for elections after 2028, the party would again need to meet the 2% threshold in at least one race.

If Ashby receives 2% of the vote in the 1st District race but Young falls short statewide, the Better Party could file candidates for future contests in that district but would have to petition to obtain a statewide ballot line.

Two other minor parties have lost the status as established parties in recent Missouri elections.

The Green Party obtained 2.4% in the 2016 election for lieutenant governor but failed to repeat that in subsequent elections. The Constitution Party obtained 2.1% in the 2018 election for state auditor but failed to repeat that in subsequent elections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714840861198.png" alt=" Jared Young, the Better Party candidate for U.S. Senate in Missouri. (Campaign photo)" />
 <figcaption> Jared Young, the Better Party candidate for U.S. Senate in Missouri. (Campaign photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>By RUDI KELLER,&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>A new political party will appear on Missouri’s ballot this year, the brainchild of a candidate hoping to challenge Republican U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley in November.Jared Young, an attorney and businessman from Webb City, last year announced he would run as an&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/column/joe-holleman/no-party-us-senate-candidate-jared-young-real-change-won-t-come-from-two-party/article_17aee80c-cb66-11ee-82e7-afb4eeb0d3c4.html">independent candidate</a>&nbsp;in the Senate race. In April, he decided to instead submit signatures to create a new political organization,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.betterpartymo.com/">the Better Party</a>, and invited other candidates to join it.Under Missouri law, an independent statewide candidate must submit&nbsp;10,000 signatures from registered voters to the Secretary of State’s office. That is the same number required to form a new political party.Young submitted signatures on April 19, and of 21,587 signatures checked,&nbsp;10,696 were valid, Madison Walker, spokesman for the office, wrote in an email. The results were certified on Wednesday.Along with Young, the Better Party has nominated Blake Ashby of Ferguson as its candidate for the 1st Congressional District seat currently held by Democratic U.S. Rep. Cori Bush.Those are the only two candidates the party will field this year. Candidate filings had to be submitted with the petitions, Walker wrote.Young is campaigning as an alternative to politicians out-of-touch with voters.“Both parties have become overly obsessed with holding onto or regaining power at all costs,” Young&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fvotejaredyoung.com%2F&amp;h=AT03ff5CjyRVq2kNePJD4scYhX1d6kovrgndJY0mQ6HC1byI955Gk6tQJGl8lsFH36_QuyzkZKWsPwg7xLnCEQh6nqNZsg1G47u9P8FV5zLj0pTYKvS9vugy2wEduGei3nkr2gpmhBrkHdNHq8wU_L0&amp;s=1">wrote on Facebook</a>&nbsp;after the signatures were confirmed. “In their current form, they no longer represent the hopes and beliefs of most Americans.”According to his first-quarter campaign finance report, Young has raised $364,377 for his campaign and had $110,650 on hand.Young will be listed fourth on the November ballot for Senate.Hawley, unopposed for renomination, has raised $7.6 million since January 2023 for his campaign committee and had $5.5 million on hand on March 31. Democrat Lucas Kunce leads a four-person field for the Aug. 6 primary with $7.7 million raised and $3.3 million on hand.The other Democratic candidates are&nbsp;state Sen. Karla May of St. Louis, December Harmon of Columbia and Mita Biswas of St. Louis.W.C. Young of Kansas City is unopposed for the Libertarian Party nomination.If he’s successful at garnering at least 2% of the vote in the November U.S. Senate race, Young’s new party will be able to file candidates without the petition requirement in 2026 and 2028. To stay on the ballot for elections after 2028, the party would again need to meet the 2% threshold in at least one race.If Ashby receives 2% of the vote in the 1st District race but Young falls short statewide, the Better Party could file candidates for future contests in that district but would have to petition to obtain a statewide ballot line.Two other minor parties have lost the status as established parties in recent Missouri elections.The Green Party obtained 2.4% in the 2016 election for lieutenant governor but failed to repeat that in subsequent elections. The Constitution Party obtained 2.1% in the 2018 election for state auditor but failed to repeat that in subsequent elections.

Petition drive succeeds in placing new party on Missouri’s Nov. ballot

NODAWAY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 11p.m. Friday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Honda Accord driven by Briley D. Giamalva, 49, Archie, was northbound on U.S. 71 two miles east of Burlington Junction. The car traveled off the west side of the road, struck a field entrance, went airborne and rolled.

Nodaway County EMS transported Giamalva to Mosaic in Maryville. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 11p.m. Friday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Honda Accord driven by Briley D. Giamalva, 49, Archie, was northbound on U.S. 71 two miles east of Burlington Junction. The car traveled off the west side of the road, struck a field entrance, went airborne and rolled.Nodaway County EMS transported Giamalva to Mosaic in Maryville. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman injured after car goes airborne, rolls

ANDREW COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Friday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Yamaha driven by William D. Mason, 26, St. Joseph, was eastbound on County Line Road at 28th Street Terrace in the Country Club city limits.

The motorcycle was following a 2006 Dodge Charger driven by Jasper M. Roberts, 23. Country Club, who was attempting to make a left turn as the motorcycle attempted to pass.

The motorcycle struck the left side of the car and the driver was ejected. Andrew County EMS transported Williams to Mosaic Life Care.&nbsp; Roberts was not injured. Williams was wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Friday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Yamaha driven by William D. Mason, 26, St. Joseph, was eastbound on County Line Road at 28th Street Terrace in the Country Club city limits.The motorcycle was following a 2006 Dodge Charger driven by Jasper M. Roberts, 23. Country Club, who was attempting to make a left turn as the motorcycle attempted to pass.The motorcycle struck the left side of the car and the driver was ejected. Andrew County EMS transported Williams to Mosaic Life Care.&nbsp; Roberts was not injured. Williams was wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

St. Joseph man hospitalized after motorcycle strikes car

ATCHISON COUNTY —A man with a history of crime is back in jail.

On Thursday, police in Atchison&nbsp; arrested 57-year-old Edward D. Puckett of Wathena, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson. 

He was jailed on a Kansas Department of Corrections detain order for parole violation.&nbsp; The Kansas Department of Corrections web site does not list the convictions for Puckett.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714743986375.png" alt="Puckett-photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Puckett-photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —A man with a history of crime is back in jail.On Thursday, police in Atchison&nbsp; arrested 57-year-old Edward D. Puckett of Wathena, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson. He was jailed on a Kansas Department of Corrections detain order for parole violation.&nbsp; The Kansas Department of Corrections web site does not list the convictions for Puckett.

Kansas felon jailed on new allegation

A $3.4 million fund has been established by the Mosaic
Life Care Foundation to support genetic treatment for rare genetic neuromuscular
diseases such as Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a fund that could be used in a St. Joseph case involving newborn twins.

Mosaic Life Care reports it contributed $1.5 million to create the fund after receiving a $1.9 million anonymous
donation. The money is&nbsp; immediately available for the timely delivery of the
gene therapy treatment Zolgensma.

Mosaic states it is also using its governmental, hospital, and
medical connections to secure additional support for the treatment of SMA with
the hope the efforts will help drive down costs.

“Finally, my deepest thanks also
goes out to our network of caregivers who have worked by my side: the nurses,
doctors, staff, government relations representatives, trustees and leaders who
have conducted themselves with integrity to support, love and care for this
issue,” Mosaic Life Care CEO Michael Moore said in a written statement. “At
Mosaic Life Care, every caregiver works with a servant’s heart, and this is one
of the finest examples of that value I have ever witnessed.”

The money could be available for
cases such as that of newborn twins Easton and Eli Reed of St. Joseph,
who have been diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, a genetic disease that
impacts the nervous system.

Nearly $400,000 had been donated
through a GoFundMe page before their parents, Austin and Amanda Reed, suspended
taking donations, stating on Facebook that the family feels more confident the
boys will be able to receive the necessary treatment, which can cost more than $2 million per child. Amanda Reed works at Mosaic, but its employee health
insurance does not cover gene therapy, a rather common exclusion by insurance companies.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714759507875.jpeg" alt="Easton and Eli Reed/Photo from Reed Facebook page" />
 <figcaption>Easton and Eli Reed/Photo from Reed Facebook page</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA $3.4 million fund has been established by the Mosaic
Life Care Foundation to support genetic treatment for rare genetic neuromuscular
diseases such as Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a fund that could be used in a St. Joseph case involving newborn twins.Mosaic Life Care reports it contributed $1.5 million to create the fund after receiving a $1.9 million anonymous
donation. The money is&nbsp; immediately available for the timely delivery of the
gene therapy treatment Zolgensma.Mosaic states it is also using its governmental, hospital, and
medical connections to secure additional support for the treatment of SMA with
the hope the efforts will help drive down costs.“Finally, my deepest thanks also
goes out to our network of caregivers who have worked by my side: the nurses,
doctors, staff, government relations representatives, trustees and leaders who
have conducted themselves with integrity to support, love and care for this
issue,” Mosaic Life Care CEO Michael Moore said in a written statement. “At
Mosaic Life Care, every caregiver works with a servant’s heart, and this is one
of the finest examples of that value I have ever witnessed.”The money could be available for
cases such as that of newborn twins Easton and Eli Reed of St. Joseph,
who have been diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, a genetic disease that
impacts the nervous system.Nearly $400,000 had been donated
through a GoFundMe page before their parents, Austin and Amanda Reed, suspended
taking donations, stating on Facebook that the family feels more confident the
boys will be able to receive the necessary treatment, which can cost more than $2 million per child. Amanda Reed works at Mosaic, but its employee health
insurance does not cover gene therapy, a rather common exclusion by insurance companies.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Mosaic Life Care Foundation creates fund to pay for gene therapy

Festival season will soon be in full swing, and one Missouri town is in line as one of the top hometown festivals in America. The Soybean Festival in Norborne, Missouri finds itself as one of three finalist out of more than 500 entries in the Hometown Throwdown contest put forth by Cenex.

Festival spokesperson, Kyle Durham, says "It really is an entire community effort. From the humble farmer or banker or teacher that gives of their time freely to help put on the festival, because it is a year-round planning process. It's the businesses not only in Norborne but in the greater area that have been so generous with their contributions that allow us to not only survive but thrive in this post covid era."

Norborne's Soybean Festival is more than four decades running and takes place this year August 1st-4th. The other two finalist for the $100,000 prize are The Fall Festival in Roseau, Minnesota and The Musky Festival in Hayward, Wisconsin. You can cast your support with a vote click <a href="https://cenexhometownthrowdown.com/">HERE</a> to go to the website at cenexhometownthrowdown.com

By NATHAN STUEDLESt. Joseph PostFestival season will soon be in full swing, and one Missouri town is in line as one of the top hometown festivals in America. The Soybean Festival in Norborne, Missouri finds itself as one of three finalist out of more than 500 entries in the Hometown Throwdown contest put forth by Cenex.Festival spokesperson, Kyle Durham, says "It really is an entire community effort. From the humble farmer or banker or teacher that gives of their time freely to help put on the festival, because it is a year-round planning process. It's the businesses not only in Norborne but in the greater area that have been so generous with their contributions that allow us to not only survive but thrive in this post covid era."Norborne's Soybean Festival is more than four decades running and takes place this year August 1st-4th. The other two finalist for the $100,000 prize are The Fall Festival in Roseau, Minnesota and The Musky Festival in Hayward, Wisconsin. You can cast your support with a vote click <a href="https://cenexhometownthrowdown.com/">HERE</a> to go to the website at cenexhometownthrowdown.com

Norborne Soybean Festival among America's best festivals

St. Joseph got a big economic boost from hosting the NCAA Division II Women's Elite Eight and National Championship games.   

The Civic Arena in downtown St. Joseph played host to eight teams from across the nation just over a month ago, the event bringing in around $1.4 million in economic impact.  

St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett Esely says a lot of numbers go into making that one big number 

"When you figure those numbers in, attendance, visitors that we know were here, overnight stays, the day trippers, the ticket price, that equates to $1.4 million of the women's basketball national championship in St. Joe for one week," Esely tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr.  

Convention and Visitors Burean Communications Director Christian Mengel says not only did several people go to the games, but they also ate local 

"I saw about 50 people from one school spilling out of Geneo's Pizza, I didn't think they opened that early and I didn't think they were opened on a Monday, but their schools alumni association just chose to rent it out and start the party early and that was on a Monday morning," Mengel says. 

Several fans packed into Civic Arena downtown during the Final Four and Championship matchups. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714752928362.jpeg" alt="Fans packed into Civic Arena downtown for the NCAA Division II Women's championship game/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Sports Commission" />
 <figcaption>Fans packed into Civic Arena downtown for the NCAA Division II Women's championship game/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Sports Commission</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post St. Joseph got a big economic boost from hosting the NCAA Division II Women's Elite Eight and National Championship games. The Civic Arena in downtown St. Joseph played host to eight teams from across the nation just over a month ago, the event bringing in around $1.4 million in economic impact. St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett Esely says a lot of numbers go into making that one big number "When you figure those numbers in, attendance, visitors that we know were here, overnight stays, the day trippers, the ticket price, that equates to $1.4 million of the women's basketball national championship in St. Joe for one week," Esely tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. Convention and Visitors Burean Communications Director Christian Mengel says not only did several people go to the games, but they also ate local "I saw about 50 people from one school spilling out of Geneo's Pizza, I didn't think they opened that early and I didn't think they were opened on a Monday, but their schools alumni association just chose to rent it out and start the party early and that was on a Monday morning," Mengel says. Several fans packed into Civic Arena downtown during the Final Four and Championship matchups. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

NCAA Division II Women's Elite Eight generates $1.4 million in economic impact

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —A Missouri man died in an accident just after 4p.m. Thursday in Livingston County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported 2007 Dodge Ram driven by Joseph P. Anderson, 60, Brookefield, was eastbound on U.S. 36 three miles west of Chillicothe. The pickup experienced a defect, traveled off the right side of the road, struck and traveled on the guardrail.&nbsp; The driver was ejected.

Livingston County ambulance transported Anderson to Hedrick Medrick Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —A Missouri man died in an accident just after 4p.m. Thursday in Livingston County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported 2007 Dodge Ram driven by Joseph P. Anderson, 60, Brookefield, was eastbound on U.S. 36 three miles west of Chillicothe. The pickup experienced a defect, traveled off the right side of the road, struck and traveled on the guardrail.&nbsp; The driver was ejected.Livingston County ambulance transported Anderson to Hedrick Medrick Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Missouri man dies after ejected in pickup crash

CLINTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 10:30a.m. Thursday in Clinton County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Ford F150 driven by Kadin R. Kirkwood, 18, Turney, was westbound on northeast 292nd Street and began to skid. The pickup traveled off the road and struck a tree.

A private vehicle transported Kirkwood to Mosaic. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

CLINTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 10:30a.m. Thursday in Clinton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Ford F150 driven by Kadin R. Kirkwood, 18, Turney, was westbound on northeast 292nd Street and began to skid. The pickup traveled off the road and struck a tree.A private vehicle transported Kirkwood to Mosaic. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Mo. teen injured after pickup strikes trees

DAVIESS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 8a.m. Thursday in Daviess County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Chevy Town and Country driven by Rodney J. Vantellman, 61, Bethany, was northbound on Interstate 35 two miles north of New Pattonsburg.

The van began to hydroplane in heavy rain. The vehicle traveled off the east side of the road&nbsp; and struck trees.

NTA ambulance transported Vantellman to Harrison County Community Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

DAVIESS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 8a.m. Thursday in Daviess County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Chevy Town and Country driven by Rodney J. Vantellman, 61, Bethany, was northbound on Interstate 35 two miles north of New Pattonsburg.The van began to hydroplane in heavy rain. The vehicle traveled off the east side of the road&nbsp; and struck trees.NTA ambulance transported Vantellman to Harrison County Community Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Mo. man hospitalized after crash in heavy rain

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Missouri's professional sports teams on Thursday turned in more than 340,000 voter signatures to put a ballot proposal to legalize sports betting before voters this November.

The campaign had help from Cardinals’ mascot Fredbird, Royals’ Sluggerrr and St. Louis Blues’ mascot Louie. The oversized bird, lion and blue bear waved enthusiastically as they hauled boxes filled with voter signatures to the Missouri Secretary of State's Office in Jefferson City.

Republican Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft now must validate the voter signatures before the proposal officially makes it on the ballot. The campaign needs roughly 180,000 signatures to qualify.

A total of&nbsp;<a href="https://interactives.ap.org/embeds/4DE55/7/">38 states</a>&nbsp;and the District of Columbia now allow some form sports betting, including 30 states and the nation’s capital that allow online wagering.

The Missouri initiative is an attempt to sidestep the Senate, where bills to allow sports betting have repeatedly stalled. Missouri is one of just a dozen states where sports wagering remains illegal more than five years after the U.S. Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/f3fa1f71b8f44378a7e2c51d321b13b4?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">cleared the way</a>&nbsp;for states to adopt it.

Teams in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-betting-missouri-cardinals-chiefs-royals-26b7c94ad2d96ad05c2f4a396ba4e795?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">the coalition</a>&nbsp;include the St. Louis Cardinals, St. Louis Blues, Kansas City Chiefs, the Kansas City Royals, and the Kansas City Current and St. Louis City soccer teams.

The proposed constitutional amendment would allow each of Missouri’s 13 casinos and six professional sports teams to offer onsite and mobile sports betting. Teams would control onsite betting and advertising within 400 yards (366 meters) of their stadiums and arenas. The initiative also would allow two mobile sports betting operators to be licensed directly by the Missouri Gaming Commission.

Under the initiative, at least $5 million annually in licensing fees and taxes would go toward problem gambling programs, with remaining tax revenues going toward elementary, secondary and higher education. If approved by voters, state regulators would have to launch sports betting no later than Dec. 1, 2025.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714691807085.jpeg" alt="Mascots for the Kansas City Royals, St. Louis Blues and St. Louis Cardinals haul boxes of voter signatures collected in order to put a proposal to legalize sports betting on the ballot this year, Thursday, May 2, 2024, outside the Secretary of State's Office in Jefferson City, Mo. (AP Photo/Summer Ballentine)" />
 <figcaption>Mascots for the Kansas City Royals, St. Louis Blues and St. Louis Cardinals haul boxes of voter signatures collected in order to put a proposal to legalize sports betting on the ballot this year, Thursday, May 2, 2024, outside the Secretary of State's Office in Jefferson City, Mo. (AP Photo/Summer Ballentine)</figcaption>
 </figure>JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Missouri's professional sports teams on Thursday turned in more than 340,000 voter signatures to put a ballot proposal to legalize sports betting before voters this November.The campaign had help from Cardinals’ mascot Fredbird, Royals’ Sluggerrr and St. Louis Blues’ mascot Louie. The oversized bird, lion and blue bear waved enthusiastically as they hauled boxes filled with voter signatures to the Missouri Secretary of State's Office in Jefferson City.Republican Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft now must validate the voter signatures before the proposal officially makes it on the ballot. The campaign needs roughly 180,000 signatures to qualify.A total of&nbsp;<a href="https://interactives.ap.org/embeds/4DE55/7/">38 states</a>&nbsp;and the District of Columbia now allow some form sports betting, including 30 states and the nation’s capital that allow online wagering.The Missouri initiative is an attempt to sidestep the Senate, where bills to allow sports betting have repeatedly stalled. Missouri is one of just a dozen states where sports wagering remains illegal more than five years after the U.S. Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/f3fa1f71b8f44378a7e2c51d321b13b4?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">cleared the way</a>&nbsp;for states to adopt it.Teams in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-betting-missouri-cardinals-chiefs-royals-26b7c94ad2d96ad05c2f4a396ba4e795?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">the coalition</a>&nbsp;include the St. Louis Cardinals, St. Louis Blues, Kansas City Chiefs, the Kansas City Royals, and the Kansas City Current and St. Louis City soccer teams.The proposed constitutional amendment would allow each of Missouri’s 13 casinos and six professional sports teams to offer onsite and mobile sports betting. Teams would control onsite betting and advertising within 400 yards (366 meters) of their stadiums and arenas. The initiative also would allow two mobile sports betting operators to be licensed directly by the Missouri Gaming Commission.Under the initiative, at least $5 million annually in licensing fees and taxes would go toward problem gambling programs, with remaining tax revenues going toward elementary, secondary and higher education. If approved by voters, state regulators would have to launch sports betting no later than Dec. 1, 2025.

Campaign to legalize sports betting in Missouri gets help from mascots 

ATCHISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6a.m. Thursday in Atchison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2022 Chevy Express van driven by Richard C. Stitt, 69, Lathrop, was northbound on Interstate 29 thirteen miles north of Rockport.

The driver lost control on the wet roadway. The van traveled off the left side of the road and struck a guardrail.&nbsp;

Atchison-Holt Ambulance transported Stitt to Fairfax Community Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

ATCHISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6a.m. Thursday in Atchison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2022 Chevy Express van driven by Richard C. Stitt, 69, Lathrop, was northbound on Interstate 29 thirteen miles north of Rockport.The driver lost control on the wet roadway. The van traveled off the left side of the road and struck a guardrail.&nbsp;Atchison-Holt Ambulance transported Stitt to Fairfax Community Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Mo. man hospitalized after van strikes guardrail

Boehringer Ingelheim has announced an expansion of its St.
Joseph facility, a cutting-edge research and development laboratory.

Boehringer Vice President, U.S. Global Innovation, Caroline
Belmont, says the new lab will bring innovation to the manufacturing of animal
health products in St. Joseph and through other Boehringer facilities.

“This is really a commitment to innovation and to the future of
this company as a whole across the world,” Belmont tells a group gathered at
Boehringer in St. Joseph. “It really does upgrade what we have, significantly
and it really probably will revolutionize some of the products and the future
and the research and development activities that we are focusing on in the future.”

Boehringer has invested $82 million in the St. Joseph facility
since 2022.

“It’s the only one of its kind in the U.S. and it’s designed
really to streamline the process which transitions products from a research and
development phase to a manufacturing scale,” Belmont says.

Kansas City Animal Health Corridor President, Kimberly Young,
says this expansion only enhances the reputation of the corridor which stretches
from Columbia, Missouri to Manhattan, Kansas.

“This facility underscores BI’s dedication to leading in
research, development, and manufacturing,” Young says.

The state-of-the-art lab will revolutionize the development of
future products, including biotherapeutics.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714679098310.jpeg" alt="Boehringer Ingelheim's Caroline Belmont speaks at the St. Joseph news conference/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Boehringer Ingelheim's Caroline Belmont speaks at the St. Joseph news conference/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostBoehringer Ingelheim has announced an expansion of its St.
Joseph facility, a cutting-edge research and development laboratory.Boehringer Vice President, U.S. Global Innovation, Caroline
Belmont, says the new lab will bring innovation to the manufacturing of animal
health products in St. Joseph and through other Boehringer facilities.“This is really a commitment to innovation and to the future of
this company as a whole across the world,” Belmont tells a group gathered at
Boehringer in St. Joseph. “It really does upgrade what we have, significantly
and it really probably will revolutionize some of the products and the future
and the research and development activities that we are focusing on in the future.”Boehringer has invested $82 million in the St. Joseph facility
since 2022.Belmont calls this lab unique.“It’s the only one of its kind in the U.S. and it’s designed
really to streamline the process which transitions products from a research and
development phase to a manufacturing scale,” Belmont says.Kansas City Animal Health Corridor President, Kimberly Young,
says this expansion only enhances the reputation of the corridor which stretches
from Columbia, Missouri to Manhattan, Kansas.“This facility underscores BI’s dedication to leading in
research, development, and manufacturing,” Young says.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714679164369.jpeg" alt="Belmont shares a laugh prior to the news conference/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Belmont shares a laugh prior to the news conference/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>The state-of-the-art lab will revolutionize the development of
future products, including biotherapeutics.“It’s a new area for us. We’ve got lots of exciting innovation
there,” Belmont says. “So, this facility is going to play a pivotal role in our
future for our innovation organizations and for Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health
as a whole.”Belmont says the St. Joseph plant continues to be a major
player for the company.“The St. Joseph facility is a really crucial hub for our
global animal health industry and for the company and, of course, has that rich
agricultural heritage and extensive livestock farming support that we have here,
too.”Boehringer Ingelheim employs approximately 850 workers at its
St. Joseph facility.<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Boehringer-Ingelheim-expands-e2j7h3f" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Local