The following is the complete, unedited report from the Andrew County Health Department for food-serving establishments. This report is collected quarterly.

Food Code violations are broken down into two categories: priority (critical) and core (non-critical). Priority violations are crucial as they are more likely to result in food contamination, illness, or environmental health hazards. Some examples of priority violations include improper food storage temperatures, inadequate cooking, employee hygiene, contaminated equipment and improper chemical usage. On the other hand, core violations involve issues like clean floors, walls, and ceilings, open waste bins, uncovered light bulbs in food preparation areas, and lack of thermometers for temperature control monitoring.

Violations annotated (COS) means the issue was “Corrected on Site” before health inspection was completed.

Avenue City Grocery 18172 Highway 169, Cosby, MO 64436. Routine 10.1.25. Priority: None. Core: Ice bagged on premise not labelled, dust and debris build up on ice baffle, store room freezer missing kick panel (equipment should be in good repair).

Avenue City R-9 Elementary 18069 Highway 169, Cosby, MO 64436. Routine 10.1.25. Priority: None. Core: Floor mats showing signs of distress (should be smooth and easily cleanable).

Brother’s Market Deli 402 E Price Ave, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 10.1.25. Priority: Employees not washing hands between tasks (COS). Core: Dust and debris buildup on facility walls, floors, door seals and equipment, in use utensils not stored properly between uses, wiping cloths not stored in sanitizer.

Cabin Coffee Company 402 E Price Ave, Savannah, MO 64485. 10.16.25. Priority: None. Core: Rags/paper towels used to line shelves in preparation area (contact surfaces should be smooth and cleanable).

Duncan Hills Golf Course 400 E Duncan Dr, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 10.16.25. Priority: None. Core: Accumulated crumbs and residue in kitchen and alternative refrigerators, food prepped and package on site not labelled or dated in storage freezer.

Subway 501A N US Hwy 71, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 10.16.25. Priority: None. Core: Floor mats showing signs of distress (should be smooth and easily cleanable).

Prairie Specialties LLC 2777 State Route P King City, MO 64463. Routine 10.16.25. Violations: None.

Dollar General 19319 Co Rd 281, Helena, MO 64459. Routine 10.16.25. Priority: None. Core: Damaged facility wall in storage bay, dumpster lids open at time of inspection.

Pizza Hut 202 N US Hwy 71, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 10.16.25. Priority: None. Core: Door guard for walk in fridge torn and in disrepair, dirty non-food contact surfaces including vent grates and high contact surfaces, customer lobby benches showing signs of distress.

Harry O’s 105 N 5th St, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 10.17.25. Violations: None.

Savannah R-3: Amazonia Elementary 845 6th St, Amazonia, MO 64421. Routine 10.17.25. Priority: None. Core: Hand sink used for purposes other than handwashing.

Savage Fitness 205 W Main St, Savannah, MO 64485. Opening 10.17.25. Priority: None. Core: Carpet in drink preparation space (walls, floors and ceilings should be covered or made of none absorbent materials). Approved for opening.

VFW Post 12053 53 State Route K, Amazonia, MO 64421. Routine 10.17.25. Priority: None. Core: Unsealed wood used for shelving, cardboard/paper towels used to line counter tops (all surfaces should be smooth, cleanable and made with non-absorptive materials), thermometer missing from cold units (COS), trashcans dirty (attracts pest and can cause lingering odors), cups without handles being used as ingredient scoops, dumpster lids open at the time of inspection.

Andrew County Senior Center 12737 State Hwy E, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 10.21.25. Priority: None. Core: Cardboard used to line shelf in walk in refrigerator. Approval provided for salad bar addition.

Jesse’s Last Stop #1 6101 N Belt Hwy, St Joseph, MO 64506. Routine 10.21.25. Priority: None. Core: Buildup on outside of ice chutes, ice bagged on premises not labelled, dumpster lids open at the time of inspection, damaged cabinets and missing cabinetry, counter edges showing signs of distress (unsealed particle board apparent), rags used to line counter (all surfaces should be smooth, cleanable and made with non-absorptive materials).

Saint Joseph Country Club 50 Ridgeland Rd, Country Club, MO 64505. Routine 10.21.25. Priority: None. Core: Bowls without handles being used as ingredients scoops, no towels or hand dryer available at handwashing sink in dish room, single service items stored on floor in dry storage cellar, mop heads not stored properly between uses (COS), food uncovered with risk of cross-contamination in walk-in, missing ceiling tile in food preparation area (COS).

Community Hall 325 S Holt Fillmore, MO 64449. Routine 11.5.25. Violations: None.

Trex Mart #11 4177 59 Hwy, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 11.5.25. Priority: Asian lady beetle infestation on premise, pest control procedure in affect and presence minimized in food preparation areas. Core: Floor tiles in disrepair, mops not stored properly between uses, non-food contact surfaces not clean to sight and touch (high contact surfaces, accumulated ice in freezers, door tracks and clutter), dumpster lids open at the time of inspection.

Wild Horse Café 110 S 5th St, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 11.14.25. Priority: Loose tobacco and tobacco products stored openly in food preparation space (COS). Core: Mops not stored properly between uses (COS), cloths/foil used to line food contact surfaces, personal items not stored separately from food storage.

Pizza Shoppe 410 Court St. Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 11.14.25. Priority: Unlabeled chemical bottles (COS). Core: Mop sink in disrepair, wall damage in customer lobby, no sanitizer test strips on site.

China House 101 S 4th St, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 11.14.25. Priority: None. Core: Unlabeled food products, unsealed wood used as shelving in refrigerator.

El Rey Papi’s 421 W Main St, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 11.14.25. Priority: Raw meats stored over ready-to-eat foods in reach in fridge and freezers, potentially hazardous cold foods in prep table not being held below 41 degrees. Core: Improper methods used to thaw meats, missing handwashing signage from front handwashing sink, handwashing sink in food kitchen used for purposes other than handwashing, ice scoop not stored properly between uses, food uncovered with risk of cross-contamination on prep table, unsealed particle board used for walls, ceilings and floor in new dry storage room (building materials should be smooth, cleanable and nonabsorbent if they are a surface that can be exposed to splashes or spills).

El Rey Papi’s 421 W Main St, Savannah, MO 64485. Follow Up 11.25.25. Priority: None. Core: Improper thawing methods used to thaw meats (COS), handwashing sink in food kitchen used for purposes other than handwashing (COS), Ice scoops not stored properly between uses (COS), unsealed particle board used for walls, ceilings and floor in new dry storage room.

Dollar General 1605 N US Hwy 71, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 12.2.25. Violations: None.

Dairy Queen 108 S Hwy 71, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 12.2.25. Priority: None. Core: Equipment in disrepair (handle broken on chest freezer).

Brother’s Market Grocery 402 E Price Ave, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 12.2.25. Priority: None. Core: Water damaged ceiling tiles throughout store, build-up on beer cooler walls and around door seals in select spaces, broken door seals on walk-in freezer, towels used to line shelves in bakery.

Ivy Cottage 408 Court St, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 12.23.25. Violations: None.

Gambino’s Pizza 111 S 4th St, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 12.23.25. Priority: Insufficient sanitizer from dish machine (COS). Core: Dirty non-food contact surfaces (inside of microwave in food prep areas), insufficient light in walk-in refrigerator.

The following is the complete, unedited report from the Andrew County Health Department for food-serving establishments. This report is collected quarterly.Food Code violations are broken down into two categories: priority (critical) and core (non-critical). Priority violations are crucial as they are more likely to result in food contamination, illness, or environmental health hazards. Some examples of priority violations include improper food storage temperatures, inadequate cooking, employee hygiene, contaminated equipment and improper chemical usage. On the other hand, core violations involve issues like clean floors, walls, and ceilings, open waste bins, uncovered light bulbs in food preparation areas, and lack of thermometers for temperature control monitoring.Violations annotated (COS) means the issue was “Corrected on Site” before health inspection was completed.Avenue City Grocery 18172 Highway 169, Cosby, MO 64436. Routine 10.1.25. Priority: None. Core: Ice bagged on premise not labelled, dust and debris build up on ice baffle, store room freezer missing kick panel (equipment should be in good repair).Avenue City R-9 Elementary 18069 Highway 169, Cosby, MO 64436. Routine 10.1.25. Priority: None. Core: Floor mats showing signs of distress (should be smooth and easily cleanable).Brother’s Market Deli 402 E Price Ave, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 10.1.25. Priority: Employees not washing hands between tasks (COS). Core: Dust and debris buildup on facility walls, floors, door seals and equipment, in use utensils not stored properly between uses, wiping cloths not stored in sanitizer.Cabin Coffee Company 402 E Price Ave, Savannah, MO 64485. 10.16.25. Priority: None. Core: Rags/paper towels used to line shelves in preparation area (contact surfaces should be smooth and cleanable).Duncan Hills Golf Course 400 E Duncan Dr, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 10.16.25. Priority: None. Core: Accumulated crumbs and residue in kitchen and alternative refrigerators, food prepped and package on site not labelled or dated in storage freezer.Subway 501A N US Hwy 71, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 10.16.25. Priority: None. Core: Floor mats showing signs of distress (should be smooth and easily cleanable).Prairie Specialties LLC 2777 State Route P King City, MO 64463. Routine 10.16.25. Violations: None.Dollar General 19319 Co Rd 281, Helena, MO 64459. Routine 10.16.25. Priority: None. Core: Damaged facility wall in storage bay, dumpster lids open at time of inspection.Pizza Hut 202 N US Hwy 71, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 10.16.25. Priority: None. Core: Door guard for walk in fridge torn and in disrepair, dirty non-food contact surfaces including vent grates and high contact surfaces, customer lobby benches showing signs of distress.Harry O’s 105 N 5th St, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 10.17.25. Violations: None.Savannah R-3: Amazonia Elementary 845 6th St, Amazonia, MO 64421. Routine 10.17.25. Priority: None. Core: Hand sink used for purposes other than handwashing.Savage Fitness 205 W Main St, Savannah, MO 64485. Opening 10.17.25. Priority: None. Core: Carpet in drink preparation space (walls, floors and ceilings should be covered or made of none absorbent materials). Approved for opening.VFW Post 12053 53 State Route K, Amazonia, MO 64421. Routine 10.17.25. Priority: None. Core: Unsealed wood used for shelving, cardboard/paper towels used to line counter tops (all surfaces should be smooth, cleanable and made with non-absorptive materials), thermometer missing from cold units (COS), trashcans dirty (attracts pest and can cause lingering odors), cups without handles being used as ingredient scoops, dumpster lids open at the time of inspection.Andrew County Senior Center 12737 State Hwy E, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 10.21.25. Priority: None. Core: Cardboard used to line shelf in walk in refrigerator. Approval provided for salad bar addition.Jesse’s Last Stop #1 6101 N Belt Hwy, St Joseph, MO 64506. Routine 10.21.25. Priority: None. Core: Buildup on outside of ice chutes, ice bagged on premises not labelled, dumpster lids open at the time of inspection, damaged cabinets and missing cabinetry, counter edges showing signs of distress (unsealed particle board apparent), rags used to line counter (all surfaces should be smooth, cleanable and made with non-absorptive materials).Saint Joseph Country Club 50 Ridgeland Rd, Country Club, MO 64505. Routine 10.21.25. Priority: None. Core: Bowls without handles being used as ingredients scoops, no towels or hand dryer available at handwashing sink in dish room, single service items stored on floor in dry storage cellar, mop heads not stored properly between uses (COS), food uncovered with risk of cross-contamination in walk-in, missing ceiling tile in food preparation area (COS).Community Hall 325 S Holt Fillmore, MO 64449. Routine 11.5.25. Violations: None.Trex Mart #11 4177 59 Hwy, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 11.5.25. Priority: Asian lady beetle infestation on premise, pest control procedure in affect and presence minimized in food preparation areas. Core: Floor tiles in disrepair, mops not stored properly between uses, non-food contact surfaces not clean to sight and touch (high contact surfaces, accumulated ice in freezers, door tracks and clutter), dumpster lids open at the time of inspection.Wild Horse Café 110 S 5th St, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 11.14.25. Priority: Loose tobacco and tobacco products stored openly in food preparation space (COS). Core: Mops not stored properly between uses (COS), cloths/foil used to line food contact surfaces, personal items not stored separately from food storage.Pizza Shoppe 410 Court St. Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 11.14.25. Priority: Unlabeled chemical bottles (COS). Core: Mop sink in disrepair, wall damage in customer lobby, no sanitizer test strips on site.China House 101 S 4th St, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 11.14.25. Priority: None. Core: Unlabeled food products, unsealed wood used as shelving in refrigerator.El Rey Papi’s 421 W Main St, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 11.14.25. Priority: Raw meats stored over ready-to-eat foods in reach in fridge and freezers, potentially hazardous cold foods in prep table not being held below 41 degrees. Core: Improper methods used to thaw meats, missing handwashing signage from front handwashing sink, handwashing sink in food kitchen used for purposes other than handwashing, ice scoop not stored properly between uses, food uncovered with risk of cross-contamination on prep table, unsealed particle board used for walls, ceilings and floor in new dry storage room (building materials should be smooth, cleanable and nonabsorbent if they are a surface that can be exposed to splashes or spills).El Rey Papi’s 421 W Main St, Savannah, MO 64485. Follow Up 11.25.25. Priority: None. Core: Improper thawing methods used to thaw meats (COS), handwashing sink in food kitchen used for purposes other than handwashing (COS), Ice scoops not stored properly between uses (COS), unsealed particle board used for walls, ceilings and floor in new dry storage room.Dollar General 1605 N US Hwy 71, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 12.2.25. Violations: None.Dairy Queen 108 S Hwy 71, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 12.2.25. Priority: None. Core: Equipment in disrepair (handle broken on chest freezer).Brother’s Market Grocery 402 E Price Ave, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 12.2.25. Priority: None. Core: Water damaged ceiling tiles throughout store, build-up on beer cooler walls and around door seals in select spaces, broken door seals on walk-in freezer, towels used to line shelves in bakery.Ivy Cottage 408 Court St, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 12.23.25. Violations: None.Gambino’s Pizza 111 S 4th St, Savannah, MO 64485. Routine 12.23.25. Priority: Insufficient sanitizer from dish machine (COS). Core: Dirty non-food contact surfaces (inside of microwave in food prep areas), insufficient light in walk-in refrigerator.

Andrew County Health Inspections (October-December 2025)

The following are health inspections in Nodaway County. Inspections are released monthly.

Bearcat Lanes-1803 S. Main, Maryville (12-29-25) Noncritical:

City Star #3-623 S. Main, Maryville (12-22-25) Critical:

Nodaway County Senior Center-1210 E. First, Maryville (12-3-25)

Nopal Mexican Restaurant-2717 S. Main, Maryville (12-16-25)

North Nodaway R-VI Elementary School-2016 E. Sixth, Pickering (12-11-25)

North Nodaway R-VI High School-705 E. Barnard, Hopkins (12-11-25)

Northeast Nodaway R-V School District-126 S High School Ave., Ravenwood (12-17-25)

South Nodaway R-IV-209 More House Road, Barnard (12-5-25)

St. Gregory Barbarigo Catholic School-315 S. Davis, Maryville (12-4-25)

The Palms Bar &amp; Grill-424 N. Buchanan, Maryville (12-15-25)

Tuck Point Bar &amp; Grill-121 S. Main, Ravenwood (12-10-25)

West Nodaway R-I School District-17665 U.S. Hwy 136, Burlington Junction (12-16-25)

The following are health inspections in Nodaway County. Inspections are released monthly.Note that COS means corrected on site.Bearcat Lanes-1803 S. Main, Maryville (12-29-25) Noncritical:<ul>
 <li>Air fryer in bar area needs to be cleaned.</li>
 </ul>City Star #3-623 S. Main, Maryville (12-22-25) Critical:<ul>
 <li>Three-bay sink faucet: no spout hose attached, but no anti-siphon device</li>
 </ul>Noncritical:<ul>
 <li>Ice bagged on premises must have store name, address, and phone number.</li><li>Excessive frost in chest freezer</li><li>Missing and stained ceiling tiles in backroom</li><li>Restroom doors propped open</li><li>No covered trash can in women's restroom</li>
 </ul>Nodaway County Senior Center-1210 E. First, Maryville (12-3-25)Critical:<ul>
 <li>Dead bugs beside washer and dryer</li>
 </ul>Noncritical:<ul>
 <li>Torn door gaskets on left-hand door of two-door True freezer, four of the five Hussman cooler reach-in doors, left hand is worse than right on Superior two-door freezer.</li><li>Contact paper on a few shelves in good repair.</li>
 </ul>Nopal Mexican Restaurant-2717 S. Main, Maryville (12-16-25)Critical:<ul>
 <li>Dirty can opener in the back room by one-gallon storage, COS</li><li>Unlabeled spray bottles, COS</li>
 </ul>Noncritical:<ul>
 <li>Excessive frost in upright freezer</li><li>Small prep table has slightly torn gasket in upper corner</li><li>Walk-in cooler door doesn’t latch</li><li>Cardboard on floor by dish room</li><li>Bad threshold to walk-in cooler</li><li>Cover missing on trash can in women’s restroom</li><li>Discussed: padded benches and chairs, cracked and chipped tiles, proper cooking temps, product color</li>
 </ul>North Nodaway R-VI Elementary School-2016 E. Sixth, Pickering (12-11-25)Noncritical:<ul>
 <li>Paper towel dispenser at hand sink not working, COS</li>
 </ul>North Nodaway R-VI High School-705 E. Barnard, Hopkins (12-11-25)No violations.Northeast Nodaway R-V School District-126 S High School Ave., Ravenwood (12-17-25)Critical:<ul>
 <li>Dirty can opener, COS</li>
 </ul>Noncritical:<ul>
 <li>No paper towels at hand sink, COS</li><li>Notes: Discussed date marking and sanitizers</li>
 </ul>South Nodaway R-IV-209 More House Road, Barnard (12-5-25)Critical:<ul>
 <li>Hot food not eld at 135°F or above: hamburger patties – 127°F in warmer</li><li>Cold food not held at 41°F ore below: Iced salad bar – Apple Sauce – 55°F, Pears – 50°F, Mandarin oranges – 67°F</li><li>Notes: Discussed time out of refrigerator, better icing</li>
 </ul>Noncritical:<ul>
 <li>Not all refrigeration units have thermometers.</li><li>Notes: New staff, discussed food handlers training, holding and prep times</li>
 </ul>St. Gregory Barbarigo Catholic School-315 S. Davis, Maryville (12-4-25)Noncritical:<ul>
 <li>Back splash on two-bay sink needs to be re-caulked.</li><li>Notes: Discussed walk-in cooler floor.</li>
 </ul>The Palms Bar &amp; Grill-424 N. Buchanan, Maryville (12-15-25)Critical:<ul>
 <li>Bottle of ginger beer in the ice chest used for drinks at the bar, remove and replace ice</li>
 </ul>Noncritical:<ul>
 <li>No paper towels at bar hand sink</li><li>Bar hand sink faucet dripping badly</li><li>Damaged flooring in walk-in cooler</li><li>Notes: Discussed thermometers</li>
 </ul>Tuck Point Bar &amp; Grill-121 S. Main, Ravenwood (12-10-25)Critical:<ul>
 <li>Mechanical dishwasher not dispensing sanitizer, service rep called</li>
 </ul>Noncritical:<ul>
 <li>Excessive frost in Woods freezer</li><li>Door handle broken/missing on Kenmore upright</li><li>Vent hood needs to be cleaned</li><li>Walls by fryer and grill need to be cleaned</li>
 </ul>West Nodaway R-I School District-17665 U.S. Hwy 136, Burlington Junction (12-16-25)Noncritical:<ul>
 <li>Discussed ceiling tiles in back room, sewer smell</li>
 </ul>

Nodaway County Health Inspections (December 2025)

Influenza cases are on the rise across the country, including Northwest Missouri.

Nearly 9,000 new influenza cases were reported statewide during the last week of 2025. Kansas also saw a rise in cases at the end of the year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported "very high" flu-like activity levels in 30 states, prompting a reminder to take preventive measures.

Clinic supervisor with the St. Joseph Health Department, Kristi Billings, says for the last count in December, there were 568 cases of flu in the area. "We're still getting daily numbers from the end of December, so that number will probably rise from this point forward."

Billings says there are several precautions to take in order to combat the flu. "If you're sick, stay home. Distance yourself from other sick people. Wash your hands thoroughly, and get the flu vaccine to minimize or prevent symptoms."

Nearly 40% of Missouri adults have received their annual flu vaccine, but only about 35% of children age six months - 17 years old have received theirs.

Flu shots are available at the St. Joseph Health Department, Monday - Friday, from 8:00 - 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. The health department is located at&nbsp;904 S. 10th Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767660552159.png" alt="Most recent flu map from the CDC" />
 <figcaption>Most recent flu map from the CDC</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHInfluenza cases are on the rise across the country, including Northwest Missouri.Nearly 9,000 new influenza cases were reported statewide during the last week of 2025. Kansas also saw a rise in cases at the end of the year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported "very high" flu-like activity levels in 30 states, prompting a reminder to take preventive measures.Clinic supervisor with the St. Joseph Health Department, Kristi Billings, says for the last count in December, there were 568 cases of flu in the area. "We're still getting daily numbers from the end of December, so that number will probably rise from this point forward."Billings says there are several precautions to take in order to combat the flu. "If you're sick, stay home. Distance yourself from other sick people. Wash your hands thoroughly, and get the flu vaccine to minimize or prevent symptoms."Nearly 40% of Missouri adults have received their annual flu vaccine, but only about 35% of children age six months - 17 years old have received theirs.Flu shots are available at the St. Joseph Health Department, Monday - Friday, from 8:00 - 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. The health department is located at&nbsp;904 S. 10th Street.

Flu cases are on the rise; area residents encouraged to take precautions

(Radio Iowa) - Senior citizens in Iowa are in line for a new tax break. 

Stacy Engle, a spokeswoman for the Internal Revenue Service, says Iowans who are 65 years old and older can claim an extra deduction this year -- and each year through 2028. The new bonus is in addition to the normal senior standard deduction, bringing eligible individuals another six-thousand dollars, and for a married couple, if both over 65, an additional 12-thousand dollars. 

The new deduction was part of the so-called Big Beautiful Bill that passed Congress in July.

(Radio Iowa) - Senior citizens in Iowa are in line for a new tax break. Stacy Engle, a spokeswoman for the Internal Revenue Service, says Iowans who are 65 years old and older can claim an extra deduction this year -- and each year through 2028. The new bonus is in addition to the normal senior standard deduction, bringing eligible individuals another six-thousand dollars, and for a married couple, if both over 65, an additional 12-thousand dollars. The new deduction was part of the so-called Big Beautiful Bill that passed Congress in July.

IRS: Many Iowa seniors will get an extra tax deduction this season

State Rep. Jeremy Dean should be ordered to stay 50 feet away from the recipient and be denied committee assignments during this year’s session, the Ethics Committee report recommends

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

The Missouri House should order a Democratic lawmaker who sent a “vulgar and sexual” message to a colleague&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-house-democrat-faces-ethics-inquiry-loses-committee-seats-over-obscene-text/">during the September special session</a>&nbsp;to stay at least 50 feet away from her, the Ethics Committee recommended Wednesday.

The committee, with a unanimous vote of its five Republican and five Democratic members during&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/10/29/missouri-house-ethics-hearing-focuses-on-obscene-text-sent-by-democratic-lawmaker/">an Oct. 29 hearing</a>, also recommended that state Rep. Jeremy Dean, a Democrat from Springfield, lose his committee seats, undergo sexual harassment prevention training and have his seat on the House floor and his parking spot moved.

The committee’s report and recommendations were made public for the first time after they were published Wednesday in the&nbsp;<a href="https://documents.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills261/jrnpdf/jrn001.pdf" target="_blank">journal for the opening day</a>&nbsp;of this year’s session.&nbsp;

Ethics Committee Chairman Lane Roberts, a Republican from Joplin, said the recommended punishment is in line with punishments recommended during past actions of the committee. The ethics committee can recommend a range of punishments, including censure and expulsion from the House.

“Our goal here is to make sure that what we do is balanced, and part of that balance is looking back through our history, how we handled such things in the past,” Roberts said.

Dean was given 15 days to object to the sanctions and did not.

In an interview with The Independent, Dean said he did not object because he accepts that the texts were inappropriate. But he added that he thinks the ethics complaint was motivated by politics.

“It seems more to me that the Republicans saw this as an opportunity to bash a Democrat in the news while they knew that they were continuing to get bad press and losing elections across the country,” Dean said. “And so this is an opportunity for them to continue to try and hold on to the state of Missouri when they know things are going downhill for them.”

On Sept. 4, while Dean was engaged in a sit-in on the House floor, he sent a text message to state Reps. Cecelie Wiliams, a Republican from Dittmer, while she was participating in a hearing of the House Elections Committee.

Lawmakers were in special session in response to a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/07/25/trump-white-house-pressing-missouri-republicans-to-redraw-congressional-map/">call from President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;to gerrymander Missouri’s congressional districts to make it likely a Republican could win the 5th District seat held by U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, a Kansas City Democrat.

At the time of the text, the Elections Committee was taking testimony on a proposal to change how majorities are counted for constitutional amendments proposed by initiative petition.

In the text, Dean included a description of an oral sex act with the president and questioned how Republicans could talk while engaged in it. The text message became public when a screenshot of it was shared on social media by former Republican state Rep. Adam Schwadron.

Dean was watching the committee meeting on an online livestream and sent another text after seeing Williams’ reaction, the report states. The report does not describe the content of the second message.

Williams “was shocked by these messages, which were unprofessional and disruptive to the legislative process,” the report states.

House Minority Leader Ashley Aune, a Democrat from Kansas City, removed Dean from his committee assignments and has not placed him on any committees for this year’s session.

Both Dean and Williams testified during the Oct. 29 hearing and Dean admitted sending the text, the report states.

Dean “stated that he recognized that the messages were inappropriate and unprofessional, and that he regretted sending them,” the report states. Dean “denied any intent to disrupt the legislative process, intimidate (Williams), or improperly influence her participation in the committee hearing.”

The Ethics Committee is the only House committee with equal numbers of Republicans and Democrats and a minority member vice chairman. The 10 members all approved the sanctions.

The committee’s unanimous vote shows members thought “the conduct was significantly egregious and that we needed to address it,” Roberts said. “Very serious consequences needed to be commensurate with the conduct, but again, it needed to be balanced with what we’ve historically done, so that we’re not guilty of treating one person differently than another.”

In the interview with The Independent, Dean said he sent the text to Williams because he thought he could joke with her. The are both serving their first terms in the House.

“Since the freshman bus tour, Rep. Williams and I had what I would consider a very good working friendship, and I obviously crossed the line with that text message,” he said. “I totally accept that.”

The biggest lesson learned is “that you’ve got to watch your back,” Dean said. “There are people in this city that you think are your friends, people that you can joke around with, but at the end of the day, a lot of people are here for their own political gain.”

<h2>State Rep. Jeremy Dean should be ordered to stay 50 feet away from the recipient and be denied committee assignments during this year’s session, the Ethics Committee report recommends</h2>BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>The Missouri House should order a Democratic lawmaker who sent a “vulgar and sexual” message to a colleague&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-house-democrat-faces-ethics-inquiry-loses-committee-seats-over-obscene-text/">during the September special session</a>&nbsp;to stay at least 50 feet away from her, the Ethics Committee recommended Wednesday.The committee, with a unanimous vote of its five Republican and five Democratic members during&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/10/29/missouri-house-ethics-hearing-focuses-on-obscene-text-sent-by-democratic-lawmaker/">an Oct. 29 hearing</a>, also recommended that state Rep. Jeremy Dean, a Democrat from Springfield, lose his committee seats, undergo sexual harassment prevention training and have his seat on the House floor and his parking spot moved.The committee’s report and recommendations were made public for the first time after they were published Wednesday in the&nbsp;<a href="https://documents.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills261/jrnpdf/jrn001.pdf" target="_blank">journal for the opening day</a>&nbsp;of this year’s session.&nbsp;Ethics Committee Chairman Lane Roberts, a Republican from Joplin, said the recommended punishment is in line with punishments recommended during past actions of the committee. The ethics committee can recommend a range of punishments, including censure and expulsion from the House.“Our goal here is to make sure that what we do is balanced, and part of that balance is looking back through our history, how we handled such things in the past,” Roberts said.Dean was given 15 days to object to the sanctions and did not.In an interview with The Independent, Dean said he did not object because he accepts that the texts were inappropriate. But he added that he thinks the ethics complaint was motivated by politics.“It seems more to me that the Republicans saw this as an opportunity to bash a Democrat in the news while they knew that they were continuing to get bad press and losing elections across the country,” Dean said. “And so this is an opportunity for them to continue to try and hold on to the state of Missouri when they know things are going downhill for them.”On Sept. 4, while Dean was engaged in a sit-in on the House floor, he sent a text message to state Reps. Cecelie Wiliams, a Republican from Dittmer, while she was participating in a hearing of the House Elections Committee.Lawmakers were in special session in response to a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/07/25/trump-white-house-pressing-missouri-republicans-to-redraw-congressional-map/">call from President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;to gerrymander Missouri’s congressional districts to make it likely a Republican could win the 5th District seat held by U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, a Kansas City Democrat.At the time of the text, the Elections Committee was taking testimony on a proposal to change how majorities are counted for constitutional amendments proposed by initiative petition.In the text, Dean included a description of an oral sex act with the president and questioned how Republicans could talk while engaged in it. The text message became public when a screenshot of it was shared on social media by former Republican state Rep. Adam Schwadron.Dean was watching the committee meeting on an online livestream and sent another text after seeing Williams’ reaction, the report states. The report does not describe the content of the second message.Williams “was shocked by these messages, which were unprofessional and disruptive to the legislative process,” the report states.House Minority Leader Ashley Aune, a Democrat from Kansas City, removed Dean from his committee assignments and has not placed him on any committees for this year’s session.Both Dean and Williams testified during the Oct. 29 hearing and Dean admitted sending the text, the report states.Dean “stated that he recognized that the messages were inappropriate and unprofessional, and that he regretted sending them,” the report states. Dean “denied any intent to disrupt the legislative process, intimidate (Williams), or improperly influence her participation in the committee hearing.”The Ethics Committee is the only House committee with equal numbers of Republicans and Democrats and a minority member vice chairman. The 10 members all approved the sanctions.The committee’s unanimous vote shows members thought “the conduct was significantly egregious and that we needed to address it,” Roberts said. “Very serious consequences needed to be commensurate with the conduct, but again, it needed to be balanced with what we’ve historically done, so that we’re not guilty of treating one person differently than another.”In the interview with The Independent, Dean said he sent the text to Williams because he thought he could joke with her. The are both serving their first terms in the House.“Since the freshman bus tour, Rep. Williams and I had what I would consider a very good working friendship, and I obviously crossed the line with that text message,” he said. “I totally accept that.”The biggest lesson learned is “that you’ve got to watch your back,” Dean said. “There are people in this city that you think are your friends, people that you can joke around with, but at the end of the day, a lot of people are here for their own political gain.”

Bipartisan Mo. House ethics panel seeks sanctions for obscene text sent by Democrat

 The veteran Republican leading tax efforts in the Iowa Senate says it is time to stop "putting band-aids" on the state’s property tax system and pursue a permanent overhaul.

State Sen. Dan Dawson, chairman of the Senate Ways and Means Committee, said the 2026 legislative session beginning Monday offers a rare opportunity for wholesale changes. 

Dawson’s comments come as Gov. Kim Reynolds prepares to release her own reform proposal, likely during her annual condition of the state address next week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764608476480.jpg" alt="coins, currency, investment, insurance, cash, banking, financial, business, money, success, save money concept, save money, savings, stack of money, investment concept, commerce, money background, pen, biro, ballpoint, finance, office, economy, tax, investment, insurance, insurance, insurance, money, money, money, money, money, money background, finance, economy, tax, tax, tax" />
 <figcaption>coins, currency, investment, insurance, cash, banking, financial, business, money, success, save money concept, save money, savings, stack of money, investment concept, commerce, money background, pen, biro, ballpoint, finance, office, economy, tax, investment, insurance, insurance, insurance, money, money, money, money, money, money background, finance, economy, tax, tax, tax</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITH The veteran Republican leading tax efforts in the Iowa Senate says it is time to stop "putting band-aids" on the state’s property tax system and pursue a permanent overhaul.State Sen. Dan Dawson, chairman of the Senate Ways and Means Committee, said the 2026 legislative session beginning Monday offers a rare opportunity for wholesale changes. Dawson’s comments come as Gov. Kim Reynolds prepares to release her own reform proposal, likely during her annual condition of the state address next week.

Iowa Senate tax leader calls for 'wholesale' property tax overhaul

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas felon on drug allegations. 

Just before 1p.m. Wednesday an officer was dispatched to a hotel at 4th and Main in Atchison where a person was on the property who had previously been trespassed from there, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.

The officer located and took into custody 43-year-old Aaron Oberg. During the arrest Oberg was found to be in possession of methamphetamine and marijuana. He was booked into the county jail on requested charges of criminal trespass and possession of methamphetamine and marijuana.&nbsp; He has two previous convictions for theft.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767885533382.png" alt="Oberg photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Oberg photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas felon on drug allegations. Just before 1p.m. Wednesday an officer was dispatched to a hotel at 4th and Main in Atchison where a person was on the property who had previously been trespassed from there, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.The officer located and took into custody 43-year-old Aaron Oberg. During the arrest Oberg was found to be in possession of methamphetamine and marijuana. He was booked into the county jail on requested charges of criminal trespass and possession of methamphetamine and marijuana.&nbsp; He has two previous convictions for theft.

Kansas felon back in jail on new allegations

As Missouri observes National Human Trafficking Prevention Month this January, the Missouri Department of Transportation is calling on residents to join the effort to identify and report exploitation. 

With National Human Trafficking Awareness Day approaching on Sunday, Jan. 11, state officials are highlighting how public vigilance at transit hubs can save lives.

Because MoDOT employees work daily on the state’s highways and at rest areas, they occupy a unique position on the front lines of this crisis. Common locations for trafficking activity include gas stations, convenience stores, hotels, and fast-food establishments. To address this, MoDOT provides specialized training to its workforce to ensure they can recognize the subtle indicators of a trafficking situation and know how to contact the proper authorities.

The urgency of these efforts is underscored by a recent rise in statistics. According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, Missouri identified 272 cases involving 539 victims in 2024, an increase from the 247 cases reported the previous year. This trend reflects a broader national crisis, where nearly 12,000 cases and 22,000 victims were identified within the same 12-month period.

MoDOT Director Ed Hassinger emphasized that the department’s training programs have already proven effective in real-world scenarios. Hassinger noted that there have been multiple instances where employees noticed something was wrong and used their training to call in reports that prevented terrible situations. He challenged the public to take similar initiative by learning the common warning signs of exploitation.

Potential indicators of trafficking include signs of physical abuse, branding tattoos, or an individual wearing clothing that is clearly inappropriate for the weather or their location. Victims may also show specific behavioral cues, such as a lack of eye contact with anyone except their trafficker, body language indicating extreme discomfort, or an inability to speak for themselves. In many cases, the victim will not be in possession of their own money or identification documents.

Authorities urge anyone who suspects someone is being forced into commercial sex, housework, farm work, or any other activity they cannot leave to take immediate action. 

Reports can be made by calling the National Human Trafficking Resource Center hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or by texting BeFree (233733).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1566589245645.jpeg" alt="Missouri Department of Transportation MoDOT Northwest district" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Department of Transportation MoDOT Northwest district</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHAs Missouri observes National Human Trafficking Prevention Month this January, the Missouri Department of Transportation is calling on residents to join the effort to identify and report exploitation. With National Human Trafficking Awareness Day approaching on Sunday, Jan. 11, state officials are highlighting how public vigilance at transit hubs can save lives.Because MoDOT employees work daily on the state’s highways and at rest areas, they occupy a unique position on the front lines of this crisis. Common locations for trafficking activity include gas stations, convenience stores, hotels, and fast-food establishments. To address this, MoDOT provides specialized training to its workforce to ensure they can recognize the subtle indicators of a trafficking situation and know how to contact the proper authorities.The urgency of these efforts is underscored by a recent rise in statistics. According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, Missouri identified 272 cases involving 539 victims in 2024, an increase from the 247 cases reported the previous year. This trend reflects a broader national crisis, where nearly 12,000 cases and 22,000 victims were identified within the same 12-month period.MoDOT Director Ed Hassinger emphasized that the department’s training programs have already proven effective in real-world scenarios. Hassinger noted that there have been multiple instances where employees noticed something was wrong and used their training to call in reports that prevented terrible situations. He challenged the public to take similar initiative by learning the common warning signs of exploitation.Potential indicators of trafficking include signs of physical abuse, branding tattoos, or an individual wearing clothing that is clearly inappropriate for the weather or their location. Victims may also show specific behavioral cues, such as a lack of eye contact with anyone except their trafficker, body language indicating extreme discomfort, or an inability to speak for themselves. In many cases, the victim will not be in possession of their own money or identification documents.Authorities urge anyone who suspects someone is being forced into commercial sex, housework, farm work, or any other activity they cannot leave to take immediate action. Reports can be made by calling the National Human Trafficking Resource Center hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or by texting BeFree (233733).

MoDOT joins fight against human trafficking as Missouri cases rise

BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement&nbsp; investigating alleged vandalism in Brown County have identified two suspects.

Just after 2:30 p.m. December 27, two individuals were caught on surveillance camera vandalizing a vehicle belonging to USD #430 in Everest, according to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant.

The windshield was broken due to rock or objects being intentionally thrown at the vehicle as well as verbage scratched into the paint.&nbsp;

Neither of the juvenile suspects are residents of Brown County. The public had a huge impact on solving the case, according to Merchant.

BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement&nbsp; investigating alleged vandalism in Brown County have identified two suspects.Just after 2:30 p.m. December 27, two individuals were caught on surveillance camera vandalizing a vehicle belonging to USD #430 in Everest, according to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant.The windshield was broken due to rock or objects being intentionally thrown at the vehicle as well as verbage scratched into the paint.&nbsp;Neither of the juvenile suspects are residents of Brown County. The public had a huge impact on solving the case, according to Merchant.

Sheriff: Suspects identified in school district vandalism

A number of area students at the University of Missouri were honored for their accomplishments during the fall semester by earning dean’s list honors through their dedication, perseverance and academic ambition.

Zoey LeeAnne Benedict, Senior, Engineering

Kaylea Abigail Farrell,&nbsp; Sophomore, Agr-Food Nat Resources

Camilla Renae Heller, Sophomore, Health Sciences

 Braydon Reece Dickmeyer, Junior, Agr-Food Nat Resources

Heisman Preston LaFave, Senior, Engineering

&nbsp;Addie Neiderhouse, Sophomore, Agr-Food Nat Resources

Clare Grace Staley, Sophomore, Agr-Food Nat Resources

Trystan Samuel Chadwick, Sophomore, Arts Science

McClane Douglas Johnson, Senior, Agr-Food Nat Resources

Phillip Cooper Herron, Senior, Health Sciences

Tarver Lee Muntz, Junior, Agr-Food Nat Resources

Bannack Richter Skillen, Sophomore, Journalism

Claire Jacqueline Martin, Junior, Arts Science

Lizzie Schlueter, Sophomore, Agr-Food Nat Resources

Abbie Harms, Sophomore, Agr-Food Nat Resources

Tessa Elizabeth Rolf, Senior, Health Sciences

Amy Marie Litherland, Junior, Arts Science

Ella Ruby Bowman, Senior, Agr-Food Nat Resources

McKenzie JoLynne Brandhorst, Senior, Arts Science

Alice Marie Brewka, Freshman, Health Sciences

Abigail Marie Brownfield, Senior, Arts Science

Emma Faith Brownfield, Senior, Arts Science

Matthew Benjamin Byrd, Senior, Arts Science

Lucas Cebulko, Senior, Agr-Food Nat Resources

Tragan Scott Chambers, Senior, Arts Science

Ivan Edward Chatfield, Junior, Agr-Food Nat Resources

Bailey Gayle Colgan, Senior, Education Human Development

Laurel G Dubois, Junior, Education Human Development

Lauren Alyssa Durkin, Junior, Health Sciences

Ella R Fischer, Junior, Agr-Food Nat Resources

Logan Michael Garcia, Junior, Agr-Food Nat Resources

Andrew Reagan Gerstner, Senior, Arts Science

DeMare' Rae-Quan Howard, Sophomore, Arts Science

Clair Elizabeth Jobes, Senior, Arts Science

Sophia Grace Jura, Sophomore, Arts Science

Asher Dean Katakis, Junior, Agr-Food Nat Resources

Sophie Eilzabeth Kirkendoll, Senior, Agr-Food Nat Resources

Aubrey Anna Markt, Junior, Agr-Food Nat Resources

Jacey Ashlyn McCrary, Sophomore, Health Sciences

Connor Edward McPhillips, Freshman, Engineering

Miles Vasily Morris, Senior, Health Sciences

Shadai B Ndamboma, Junior, Agr-Food Nat Resources

Michael Darius Partamian, Junior, Arts Science

Alex Patterson, Sophomore, Agr-Food Nat Resources

Kasey Allyn Perry, Sophomore, Arts Science

Claire Elizabeth Phillips, Senior, Arts Science

Kevin Daniel Poggemiller, Sophomore, Health Sciences

Yaya Quinones-Rivera, Junior, Health Sciences

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758305381450.png" alt="File photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>File photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEA number of area students at the University of Missouri were honored for their accomplishments during the fall semester by earning dean’s list honors through their dedication, perseverance and academic ambition.Andrew CountyCosbyZoey LeeAnne Benedict, Senior, EngineeringCy Carlson,&nbsp; Sophomore, Nursing Caleb W Carlson, Senior, EngineeringKaylea Abigail Farrell,&nbsp; Sophomore, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesCamilla Renae Heller, Sophomore, Health SciencesCountry Club Wesley H Darnell Braydon Reece Dickmeyer, Junior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesHeisman Preston LaFave, Senior, EngineeringHelena&nbsp;Addie Neiderhouse, Sophomore, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesReaClare Grace Staley, Sophomore, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesSavannahTrystan Samuel Chadwick, Sophomore, Arts ScienceMcClane Douglas Johnson, Senior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesAtchison CountyFairfaxTrent Kingery, Junior, EngineeringClayton G Vernon, Sophomore, EngineeringRock PortPhillip Cooper Herron, Senior, Health SciencesTarver Lee Muntz, Junior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesKylie Jo Nuckolls, Senior, Arts ScienceBannack Richter Skillen, Sophomore, JournalismTarkioCole R Anderson, Sophomore, EngineeringSophia Dora Martin, Senior, JournalismClaire Jacqueline Martin, Junior, Arts ScienceLizzie Schlueter, Sophomore, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesWestboroAbbie Harms, Sophomore, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesTessa Elizabeth Rolf, Senior, Health SciencesBuchanan CountyAgencyAmy Marie Litherland, Junior, Arts ScienceGabe Sprake, Freshman, Health SciencesEastonAshlyn Nicole Wood, Junior, Arts ScienceFaucettWill Archer, Sophomore, JournalismSaint JosephIzzy Arnold, Freshman, Arts ScienceMacy Rae Arnold, Freshman, NursingElla Ruby Bowman, Senior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesMcKenzie JoLynne Brandhorst, Senior, Arts ScienceAlice Marie Brewka, Freshman, Health SciencesAbigail Marie Brownfield, Senior, Arts ScienceEmma Faith Brownfield, Senior, Arts ScienceKendall Addison Buntin, Junior, BusinessMatthew Benjamin Byrd, Senior, Arts ScienceEddie Cason, Senior, EngineeringLucas Cebulko, Senior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesTragan Scott Chambers, Senior, Arts ScienceGabby Chapman, Sophomore, NursingIvan Edward Chatfield, Junior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesBailey Gayle Colgan, Senior, Education Human DevelopmentElla Jo Culver, Senior, Arts ScienceAnna Grace Culver, Senior, Arts ScienceJosh Donaldson, Senior, EngineeringAbby Dorsey, Senior, BusinessLaurel G Dubois, Junior, Education Human DevelopmentLauren Alyssa Durkin, Junior, Health SciencesElla R Fischer, Junior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesLogan Michael Garcia, Junior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesAndrew Reagan Gerstner, Senior, Arts ScienceDeMare' Rae-Quan Howard, Sophomore, Arts ScienceReece Joseph Howard, Senior, EngineeringClair Elizabeth Jobes, Senior, Arts ScienceSophia Grace Jura, Sophomore, Arts ScienceJohnny Karr, Sophomore, BusinessAsher Dean Katakis, Junior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesSophie Eilzabeth Kirkendoll, Senior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesAubrey Anna Markt, Junior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesRaychel L McCamy, Sophomore, NursingAshlin R McCamy, Senior, BusinessJacey Ashlyn McCrary, Sophomore, Health SciencesConnor Edward McPhillips, Freshman, EngineeringHadley L Miller, Junior, Health SciencesMiles Vasily Morris, Senior, Health SciencesElle Jane Musser, Junior, NursingShadai B Ndamboma, Junior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesCole Joseph Nelson, Senior, EngineeringEmma K OrthMichael Darius Partamian, Junior, Arts ScienceAlex Patterson, Sophomore, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesJosh Peek,&nbsp; Senior, EngineeringKasey Allyn Perry, Sophomore, Arts ScienceGracie A PhillipsClaire Elizabeth Phillips, Senior, Arts ScienceKevin Daniel Poggemiller, Sophomore, Health SciencesIan Purvis, Senior, EngineeringYaya Quinones-Rivera, Junior, Health SciencesJake Ransom, Sophomore, Arts ScienceIsaac Jacob Rivera, Senior, EngineeringDanica Kaylene Rodriguez, Senior, Health SciencesEmilia Rodriguez Savage, Senior, EngineeringEugenia Rodriguez Savage, Senior, NursingCasey Samantha Ryan, Junior, Health SciencesMia Caroline Scheidler, Sophomore, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesEdmund Campion Schieber, Senior, BusinessEvan C Sinnett, Sophomore, Health SciencesAzariah Suzanne Smith, Junior, BusinessRyan D Soper, Junior, Health SciencesDrake Dean Stagner, Senior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesJohnston Paul Stewart, Sophomore, EngineeringLilly Anne Walker, Junior, Health SciencesHannah Renee Watson, Senior, Health SciencesGeorge Bailey Willoughby, Junior, EngineeringCollin Thomas Wilson, Sophomore, EngineeringAsh Wise, Junior, BusinessLinfei Xie, Sophomore, EngineeringElla C Zweerink, Freshman, Education Human DevelopmentCaldwell CountyBraymerAvery Justine Hendley, Freshman, Health SciencesGage Hutson Swindler, Freshman, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesPoloKarsyn Olivia Bowman, Senior, BusinessClinton CountyCameronAlli Brown, Junior, Health SciencesKayla Marilyn Grimshaw, Senior, JournalismSydney Brooke Lockridge, Junior, Health SciencesJayden Cale McQuitty, Sophomore, Arts ScienceDaltrey V Puls, Sophomore, Arts ScienceThomas Benton Robinson, Senior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesEmersyn Anne Teel, Junior, BusinessClaire Loraine Wenck, Senior, BusinessGowerMacy May Scott, Junior, Health SciencesLogan Connor Taylor, Senior, EngineeringLathropDavid Farr, Junior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesMadeliene Marie Pollard, Sophomore, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesPlattsburgGrant Howitt Clifton, Sophomore, Health SciencesLuke Schroeder, Junior, BusinessJadem Leigh Shoniber, Sophomore, EngineeringTrimbleNate Kershaw, Senior, Arts ScienceBen Kershaw, Senior, Arts ScienceEmma Mae Ochse, Senior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesDaviess CountyGallatinLayton Shane Shubert, Junior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesOlivia Madden Woody, Senior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesJamesportGracen Maun Clark, Senior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesTori Lyn Dustman, Sophomore, Arts ScienceAnderew Robert Huffstutter, Senior, Arts SciencePattonsburgSamuel Allen Coin, Junior, Health SciencesGage Adair Iddings, Junior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesDekalb CountyAmityKatie HyattMaysvilleAuburn Elaine Cole, Senior, Education Human DevelopmentRosanna Danelle Gripka, Senior, Education Human DevelopmentStewartsvilleGavin J Rhode, Junior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesEli Bryant Whitmer, Sophomore, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesGentry CountyAlbanyNorah J Shoush, Freshman, Health SciencesKing CityCarleen Alexis Gilbert, Junior, Education Human DevelopmentTy Carson Mooney, Senior, Health SciencesStanberryLexi Paige Craig, Senior, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesColby David McQuinn, Junior, EngineeringKatelyn M Stoll, Senior, EngineeringHarrison CountyBethanyMorgan Amber Bottcher, Junior, Health SciencesKylee Marie Cannon, Junior, BusinessElla J Findley, Sophomore, Discovery CenterJackson Edward Thomas, Junior, BusinessCainsvilleTrendi Louray Howell, Senior, NursingCarleton David Nash, Sophomore, Education Human DevelopmentEaglevilleDillon Hawke Hartschen, Sophomore, Agr-Food Nat ResourcesGilman CityColton Tate Roy, Senior, BusinessLaina J Ward, Sophomore, Arts ScienceHolt CountyForest CityMadi Kessler, Senior, Arts ScienceMound CityRiley Ann Lewis, Senior, Health SciencesSydney Lyn Meadows, Senior, BusinessReese Kaylyn Miles, Sophomore, NursingTaylor N QuiltyOregonHanna Jo Buckles, Junior, Arts ScienceKatherine Elizabeth Mendenhall, Sophomore, Health SciencesNodaway CountyBurlington JunctionElla D Grace, Sophomore, Education Human DevelopmentMaryvilleJillian Margaret Bagley, Junior, Arts ScienceDrew Burns, Senior, Health SciencesAlana N Crawford, Junior, Health SciencesNyah Lynlea Davis, Sophomore, JournalismEmma K Nolte, Sophomore, BusinessMason Gene Renshaw, Senior, EngineeringTommy Wilson, Sophomore, BusinessSkidmoreSarah G Crowley, Senior, Arts ScienceYou can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Local students honored on 2025 Fall Dean's list at Mizzou

DAVIESS COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 6p.m. Wednesday in Daviess County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Chevy Equinox driven by a 26-year-old Lawson man was southbound on MO 6 at Route DD one mile west of Gallatin. 

The driver failed to stop at the stop sign. A westbound 2007 Chevy Silverado driven by a 38-year-old Union Star man struck the SUV. After impact, both vehicles traveled off the south side of MO 6. The pickup overturned and struck a utility pole and a fence.

The 26-year-old driver was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Stith Funeral Home. Cameron EMS transported the 38-year-old driver to Mosaic Life Care. The 26-year-old was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

DAVIESS COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 6p.m. Wednesday in Daviess County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Chevy Equinox driven by a 26-year-old Lawson man was southbound on MO 6 at Route DD one mile west of Gallatin. The driver failed to stop at the stop sign. A westbound 2007 Chevy Silverado driven by a 38-year-old Union Star man struck the SUV. After impact, both vehicles traveled off the south side of MO 6. The pickup overturned and struck a utility pole and a fence.The 26-year-old driver was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Stith Funeral Home. Cameron EMS transported the 38-year-old driver to Mosaic Life Care. The 26-year-old was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Missouri man killed after pickup, SUV crash

 The Trump administration has granted Iowa a first-of-its-kind waiver, allowing state officials to consolidate several federal education programs into a single block grant, U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon announced Wednesday.

The move gives Iowa officials the authority to determine how to distribute federal funds that were previously earmarked for specific categories, including teacher training, English language learners, after-school programs and student achievement initiatives.

McMahon, who made the announcement in Denison, said the decision aligns with the administration’s broader goal of shifting the responsibility for education from the federal government back to the states.

Iowa is the first state to apply for and receive this type of flexibility. In addition to the block grant, the Department of Education granted the state authority to waive certain federal requirements for career and technical programs in local school districts.

Gov. Kim Reynolds praised the decision, stating that the waiver allows the state to bypass federal mandates and focus resources on Iowa's specific needs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765730935992.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure> The Trump administration has granted Iowa a first-of-its-kind waiver, allowing state officials to consolidate several federal education programs into a single block grant, U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon announced Wednesday.The move gives Iowa officials the authority to determine how to distribute federal funds that were previously earmarked for specific categories, including teacher training, English language learners, after-school programs and student achievement initiatives.McMahon, who made the announcement in Denison, said the decision aligns with the administration’s broader goal of shifting the responsibility for education from the federal government back to the states.Iowa is the first state to apply for and receive this type of flexibility. In addition to the block grant, the Department of Education granted the state authority to waive certain federal requirements for career and technical programs in local school districts.Gov. Kim Reynolds praised the decision, stating that the waiver allows the state to bypass federal mandates and focus resources on Iowa's specific needs.

Trump administration grants Iowa first-in-nation waiver to consolidate federal school funds

The Great Plains Growers Conference returns to return to St. Joseph this week, offering a three-day event dedicated to farming, community, and the stewardship of the land. 

The 2026 conference will be held from Jan. 8–10 on the campus of Missouri Western State University.

The program begins Thursday, Jan. 8, with a series of full-day workshops. These include CSA School, Small Farm Livestock management, and FSMA Training via the Produce Safety Alliance Growers Training Course. The sessions are designed to provide deep dives into foundational agricultural practices and safety regulations.

A highlight of this year’s event is the keynote address by Curtis Millsap, owner of Millsap Farms in Springfield, Missouri. His presentation, titled “Farming as a Sacred Trust: Building Community at the Intersection of Land, Food &amp; People,” will anchor the conference's mission of connecting sustainable agriculture with community well-being.

Following the workshops, Friday and Saturday will feature a diverse array of specialized conference tracks.

Registration for the 2026 conference is currently open. For more information or to sign up, you can contact the Buchanan County Extension at (816) 279-1691.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760734943447.jpg" alt="Image Pixaby" />
 <figcaption>Image Pixaby</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHThe Great Plains Growers Conference returns to return to St. Joseph this week, offering a three-day event dedicated to farming, community, and the stewardship of the land. The 2026 conference will be held from Jan. 8–10 on the campus of Missouri Western State University.The program begins Thursday, Jan. 8, with a series of full-day workshops. These include CSA School, Small Farm Livestock management, and FSMA Training via the Produce Safety Alliance Growers Training Course. The sessions are designed to provide deep dives into foundational agricultural practices and safety regulations.A highlight of this year’s event is the keynote address by Curtis Millsap, owner of Millsap Farms in Springfield, Missouri. His presentation, titled “Farming as a Sacred Trust: Building Community at the Intersection of Land, Food &amp; People,” will anchor the conference's mission of connecting sustainable agriculture with community well-being.Following the workshops, Friday and Saturday will feature a diverse array of specialized conference tracks.<ul>
 <li>Friday, Jan. 9: Sessions will cover Tree Fruit, Vegetable Production, Business Development and Marketing, Diversified Ag Equipment, and the SARE Farmer Forum.</li><li>Saturday, Jan. 10: The focus shifts to Small Fruit, Cut Flowers, Integrated Pest Management, High Tunnel Production, and Organic/Regenerative Agriculture.</li>
 </ul>Registration for the 2026 conference is currently open. For more information or to sign up, you can contact the Buchanan County Extension at (816) 279-1691.

Great Plains Growers Conference returns to St. Joseph with focus on stewardship and community

North Central Missouri College in Trenton is celebrating its centennial through 2026.

It opened, as Trenton Junior College, in 1925.

Centennial celebrations will continue throughout the school year, and there are already 22 stories told on the college's site. NCMC is looking for one hundred by graduation day, May 9th.

Alumni and current students are welcomed to visit <a href="https://www.ncmissouri.edu/centennial/">this site</a>&nbsp;to submit their own stories, memories, and pictures.

The college will also be burying a time capsule May 11th at the Savannah campus, which opened for classes&nbsp; in 2023.

By JIM FARISNorth Central Missouri College in Trenton is celebrating its centennial through 2026.It opened, as Trenton Junior College, in 1925.Centennial celebrations will continue throughout the school year, and there are already 22 stories told on the college's site. NCMC is looking for one hundred by graduation day, May 9th.Alumni and current students are welcomed to visit <a href="https://www.ncmissouri.edu/centennial/">this site</a>&nbsp;to submit their own stories, memories, and pictures.The college will also be burying a time capsule May 11th at the Savannah campus, which opened for classes&nbsp; in 2023.<figure>
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NCMC Highlighting 100 Years of Stories

As the Missouri legislative session begins today at noon, a Republican senator has introduced bills aimed at the Kansas City Chiefs and their impending move to Kansas.

Senator Nick Schroer has introduced three bills targeting the Chiefs after the team announced plans to build a new stadium in Kansas, as well as a new practice facility and a new team headquarters based in Olathe.&nbsp; If lawmakers feel snubbed, after approving a package during a special session in June, the three bills could make it to the floor during the session.

One bill would impose a $50 surcharge on each ticket sold for events hosted by the Chiefs and a 5 % surcharge on sales made within the sports facility during those events.&nbsp; Another would make any lessee of a public facility with a capacity of 60,000 or more liable for the reasonable costs of demolishing the existing facility if it is not left in a condition that is usable for another purpose when the lease ends.

The final bill being introduced from Schroer would deny any professional sports team playing in a facility with a capacity of at least 75,000 people the ability to receive tax credits.&nbsp; It is not known if all three bills will be heard, or debated, during the legislative session.

Despite efforts to keep the team in Missouri, the Chiefs confirmed their move to Kansas City, Kansas for a $3 billion state-of-the-art facility by 2031.&nbsp; The proposed legislation could impact the Chiefs' plans for a new stadium and mixed-use entertainment district.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

By MATT PIKEAs the Missouri legislative session begins today at noon, a Republican senator has introduced bills aimed at the Kansas City Chiefs and their impending move to Kansas.Senator Nick Schroer has introduced three bills targeting the Chiefs after the team announced plans to build a new stadium in Kansas, as well as a new practice facility and a new team headquarters based in Olathe.&nbsp; If lawmakers feel snubbed, after approving a package during a special session in June, the three bills could make it to the floor during the session.One bill would impose a $50 surcharge on each ticket sold for events hosted by the Chiefs and a 5 % surcharge on sales made within the sports facility during those events.&nbsp; Another would make any lessee of a public facility with a capacity of 60,000 or more liable for the reasonable costs of demolishing the existing facility if it is not left in a condition that is usable for another purpose when the lease ends.The final bill being introduced from Schroer would deny any professional sports team playing in a facility with a capacity of at least 75,000 people the ability to receive tax credits.&nbsp; It is not known if all three bills will be heard, or debated, during the legislative session.Despite efforts to keep the team in Missouri, the Chiefs confirmed their move to Kansas City, Kansas for a $3 billion state-of-the-art facility by 2031.&nbsp; The proposed legislation could impact the Chiefs' plans for a new stadium and mixed-use entertainment district.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Missouri lawmaker takes aim at Chiefs move to Kansas with new bills

Missouri State Representative Mike Jones, of Platte County, has introduced legislation to increase penalties for drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763047052915.png" alt=" Buses are lined up at the Kansas City Public Schools bus barn in Kansas City between morning and afternoon routes. School districts have made some progress in addressing the national shortage of school bus drivers, but there still aren’t as many drivers as there were in 2019 (Kevin Hardy/Stateline)." />
 <figcaption> Buses are lined up at the Kansas City Public Schools bus barn in Kansas City between morning and afternoon routes. School districts have made some progress in addressing the national shortage of school bus drivers, but there still aren’t as many drivers as there were in 2019 (Kevin Hardy/Stateline).</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHMissouri State Representative Mike Jones, of Platte County, has introduced legislation to increase penalties for drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses. The proposed bill would raise fines to $500 for first-time offenders, allow for license suspension, and add points to driving records. The legislation aims to address the growing problem of drivers passing stopped school buses with extended stop-arms and flashing lights, with the hope of deterring such dangerous behavior. The director of transportation for Platte County R-3 Schools supports the increased penalties as a necessary deterrent, emphasizing the importance of education and awareness in preventing such violations. The bill is expected to gain traction as the legislative session progresses.The legislative session began Wednesday, Jan. 7 in Jefferson City.