RED OAK, Iowa — Red Oak residents and property owners will have an opportunity to declutter their homes and yards during a city-wide clean-up event taking place Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds gravel parking lot near the white fair building.

The event is being funded by a new $4 monthly fee added to city water bills and is free of charge to residents dropping off trash, furniture, appliances, and various other unwanted items.

During Monday’s City Council meeting, City Administrator Lisa Kotter detailed the traffic route for accessing the drop-off site. Participants will enter at 8th Street near Red Oak High School, follow signage through the high school lot, then travel via Alix Avenue toward the nursing home entrance, ending at the fairgrounds' big gravel lot.

Proof of residency or ownership is required, such as a driver’s license, water bill, or property tax statement, and will be checked near the east end of the high school parking lot.

In addition to general refuse, contractors will handle specific items, including:

Not accepted:
🚫 Household hazardous waste
🚫 Large construction debris

The city is also offering pickup services, primarily for elderly or mobility-limited residents. As of this week, over 50 households have signed up. Volunteers will assist in collecting items and will be identified by bright dashboard signs for easy site access.

RED OAK, Iowa — Red Oak residents and property owners will have an opportunity to declutter their homes and yards during a city-wide clean-up event taking place Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds gravel parking lot near the white fair building.The event is being funded by a new $4 monthly fee added to city water bills and is free of charge to residents dropping off trash, furniture, appliances, and various other unwanted items.During Monday’s City Council meeting, City Administrator Lisa Kotter detailed the traffic route for accessing the drop-off site. Participants will enter at 8th Street near Red Oak High School, follow signage through the high school lot, then travel via Alix Avenue toward the nursing home entrance, ending at the fairgrounds' big gravel lot.Proof of residency or ownership is required, such as a driver’s license, water bill, or property tax statement, and will be checked near the east end of the high school parking lot.In addition to general refuse, contractors will handle specific items, including:<ul>
 <li>Tires
</li><li>E-waste
</li><li>Paint cans (collected and dried out by John Gross)
</li><li>Scrap metal
Kotter noted that scrap from the tornado-damaged street department shop will also be hauled off during the event.
</li>
 </ul>Not accepted:
🚫 Household hazardous waste
🚫 Large construction debrisThe city is also offering pickup services, primarily for elderly or mobility-limited residents. As of this week, over 50 households have signed up. Volunteers will assist in collecting items and will be identified by bright dashboard signs for easy site access.

Red Oak Prepares for City-Wide Clean-Up Event This Weekend

FALLS CITY, Neb. — Falls City Council members gave the green light to multiple street closure requests for upcoming summer events during their meeting Monday evening.

The council approved a request from the Falls City Chamber and Main Street to close the 1500 block of Stone Street on July 12 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. for Lemonade Days. Additional street closures were approved in preparation for the Cobblestone Festival set for August.

In addition to event planning, the council adopted several workplace safety programs as recommended by the city’s Safety Committee, including:

The initiatives aim to improve safety procedures for municipal employees.

FALLS CITY, Neb. — Falls City Council members gave the green light to multiple street closure requests for upcoming summer events during their meeting Monday evening.The council approved a request from the Falls City Chamber and Main Street to close the 1500 block of Stone Street on July 12 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. for Lemonade Days. Additional street closures were approved in preparation for the Cobblestone Festival set for August.Other approved closures include:<ul>
 <li>June 28 — 7th Street between Harlan and Lane Streets, requested by the American Legion Club for a fireworks event.
</li><li>June 27 — 17th Street between Harlan and Lane Streets, requested by First United Methodist Church for an Ice Cream Social and fireworks display.
</li>
 </ul>In addition to event planning, the council adopted several workplace safety programs as recommended by the city’s Safety Committee, including:<ul>
 <li>A Hearing Conservation Program
</li><li>A Lock Out/Tag Out Program
</li><li>A Near Miss Reporting Program
</li>
 </ul>The initiatives aim to improve safety procedures for municipal employees.

Falls City Council Approves Street Closures, Safety Initiatives

NODAWAY COUNTY, Mo. — A Richmond man suffered moderate injuries in a motorcycle crash Saturday afternoon in Nodaway County, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

The accident occurred shortly before 2 p.m. on Route O, near the intersection with Nodaway-Gentry County Road. Authorities report the 44-year-old man was riding a 2024 Harley Davidson motorcycle northbound when he failed to negotiate a curve and veered off the west side of the road. The motorcycle overturned, ejecting the driver, and came to rest on its passenger side.

The driver, who was wearing a helmet, sustained moderate injuries, but refused medical treatment at the scene.

Nodaway and Gentry County sheriff's deputies, Nodaway County EMS, and Ravenwood first responders all assisted at the scene.

NODAWAY COUNTY, Mo. — A Richmond man suffered moderate injuries in a motorcycle crash Saturday afternoon in Nodaway County, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.The accident occurred shortly before 2 p.m. on Route O, near the intersection with Nodaway-Gentry County Road. Authorities report the 44-year-old man was riding a 2024 Harley Davidson motorcycle northbound when he failed to negotiate a curve and veered off the west side of the road. The motorcycle overturned, ejecting the driver, and came to rest on its passenger side.The driver, who was wearing a helmet, sustained moderate injuries, but refused medical treatment at the scene.Nodaway and Gentry County sheriff's deputies, Nodaway County EMS, and Ravenwood first responders all assisted at the scene.

Motorcyclist Injured in Weekend Crash in Nodaway County

FALLS CITY, Neb.&nbsp; — The Falls City Council addressed several key items Monday evening, including the renewal of employee health insurance, upcoming union contract negotiations, and plans for a major energy infrastructure project.

Council members voted to renew the city’s employee health insurance policy with MEDICA. The plan comes with a 6.98% premium increase, bringing the city’s monthly premium to approximately $85,350 for the upcoming year.

In another significant move, the council voted 7-1 to approve a legal services agreement with Woods Aitken LLP for assistance in 2025 union contract negotiations. The firm will represent the city in discussions with the Communications Workers of America, the International Union of Operating Engineers, and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, which represent different departments of city employees.

Attorney Jerry Pigsley will lead the negotiations on behalf of the city at a rate of $355 per hour. The agreement also allows for additional costs related to out-of-pocket expenses and services from other attorneys, paralegals, or legal assistants. Councilman Frank Killingsworth was the only dissenting vote on the matter.

The council also authorized staff to seek qualifications from engineering firms for the Energy Forward Transmission Project. The project includes:

Proposals are due by 5 p.m. Friday, July 15, to Utility Supervisor Trevor Campbell, and will be reviewed by the Board of Public Works.

FALLS CITY, Neb.&nbsp; — The Falls City Council addressed several key items Monday evening, including the renewal of employee health insurance, upcoming union contract negotiations, and plans for a major energy infrastructure project.Council members voted to renew the city’s employee health insurance policy with MEDICA. The plan comes with a 6.98% premium increase, bringing the city’s monthly premium to approximately $85,350 for the upcoming year.In another significant move, the council voted 7-1 to approve a legal services agreement with Woods Aitken LLP for assistance in 2025 union contract negotiations. The firm will represent the city in discussions with the Communications Workers of America, the International Union of Operating Engineers, and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, which represent different departments of city employees.Attorney Jerry Pigsley will lead the negotiations on behalf of the city at a rate of $355 per hour. The agreement also allows for additional costs related to out-of-pocket expenses and services from other attorneys, paralegals, or legal assistants. Councilman Frank Killingsworth was the only dissenting vote on the matter.The council also authorized staff to seek qualifications from engineering firms for the Energy Forward Transmission Project. The project includes:<ul>
 <li>Designing and managing construction of approximately 15 miles of transmission line
</li><li>A new substation with a capacity of up to 50 Mega Volt-Amperes (MVA)
</li><li>Right-of-way procurement services
</li>
 </ul>Proposals are due by 5 p.m. Friday, July 15, to Utility Supervisor Trevor Campbell, and will be reviewed by the Board of Public Works.

Falls City Council Approves Health Insurance Renewal and Prepares for Union Contract Negotiations

The NFL has announced&nbsp; dates for rookies and veterans to report to training camp for the Kansas City Chiefs as well as the rest of the league.&nbsp;

Chiefs rookies and veterans are scheduled to report to Missouri Western on July 21st according to the NFL.&nbsp; The Chiefs are currently in the midst of a three-day mandatory minicamp in Kansas City that wraps up Thursday.

The Chiefs and Missouri Western State University have not officially announced an updated contract for training camp after the current deal expired following last years camp.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723743620442.jpeg" alt="Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes gets ready to take a snap from center Creed Humprey during Training Camp in St. Joseph/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes gets ready to take a snap from center Creed Humprey during Training Camp in St. Joseph/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe NFL has announced&nbsp; dates for rookies and veterans to report to training camp for the Kansas City Chiefs as well as the rest of the league.&nbsp;Chiefs rookies and veterans are scheduled to report to Missouri Western on July 21st according to the NFL.&nbsp; The Chiefs are currently in the midst of a three-day mandatory minicamp in Kansas City that wraps up Thursday.The Chiefs and Missouri Western State University have not officially announced an updated contract for training camp after the current deal expired following last years camp.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

NFL announces report dates for Chiefs rookies and veterans at MWSU

MARYVILLE, Mo. — Campus improvements are underway at Northwest Missouri State University, including the relocation of the Mark Rosewell Tennis Center, part of a larger effort involving Martindale Hall renovations and storm water system updates.

The university’s intercollegiate tennis courts are being relocated from their longtime spot near the Foster Fitness Center to west of Hughes Fieldhouse, adjacent to the Bearcat Soccer Pitch. The move was prompted by planned trenching through the current site later this summer, which made restoration impractical.

Concrete work for the new tennis courts was completed on Monday, with the project on track for an early August completion.

The campus upgrades extend beyond tennis. The throws cage for track and field has also been relocated, consolidating shotput, discus, hammer throw, and javelin into a shared area. The changes reflect a long-term facilities plan developed years ago.

MARYVILLE, Mo. — Campus improvements are underway at Northwest Missouri State University, including the relocation of the Mark Rosewell Tennis Center, part of a larger effort involving Martindale Hall renovations and storm water system updates.The university’s intercollegiate tennis courts are being relocated from their longtime spot near the Foster Fitness Center to west of Hughes Fieldhouse, adjacent to the Bearcat Soccer Pitch. The move was prompted by planned trenching through the current site later this summer, which made restoration impractical.Concrete work for the new tennis courts was completed on Monday, with the project on track for an early August completion.The campus upgrades extend beyond tennis. The throws cage for track and field has also been relocated, consolidating shotput, discus, hammer throw, and javelin into a shared area. The changes reflect a long-term facilities plan developed years ago.

Northwest Missouri State University Moves Forward with Tennis Court Relocation Amid Campus Upgrades

MARYVILLE, Mo. — A new home on South Mulberry Street in Maryville marks a significant milestone for Habitat for Humanity of Nodaway County, as the organization celebrates the completion of its 13th home built since 2004.

The local chapter is part of Habitat for Humanity, a nationwide nonprofit Christian organization that uses volunteer labor, donated materials, and a pay-it-forward financial model to provide affordable housing. Partner families contribute labor toward the build and purchase the homes through zero-interest mortgages, with their payments supporting future projects.

The latest home was awarded to Hilary Steinman, who met the employment and financial criteria required by the organization. She was overcome with emotion when Habitat Board members delivered the news.

The new residence is approximately 1,340 square feet, featuring three bedrooms and two bathrooms. It was constructed in partnership with students from the Northwest Technical School’s building trades program, continuing a collaboration that began in 2020.

To celebrate the project and thank community partners, Habitat for Humanity of Nodaway County is hosting an open house on Saturday, June 21 at 10 a.m.. For more information, visit <a href="http://nodawayhabitat.org">nodawayhabitat.org</a>.

MARYVILLE, Mo. — A new home on South Mulberry Street in Maryville marks a significant milestone for Habitat for Humanity of Nodaway County, as the organization celebrates the completion of its 13th home built since 2004.The local chapter is part of Habitat for Humanity, a nationwide nonprofit Christian organization that uses volunteer labor, donated materials, and a pay-it-forward financial model to provide affordable housing. Partner families contribute labor toward the build and purchase the homes through zero-interest mortgages, with their payments supporting future projects.The latest home was awarded to Hilary Steinman, who met the employment and financial criteria required by the organization. She was overcome with emotion when Habitat Board members delivered the news.The new residence is approximately 1,340 square feet, featuring three bedrooms and two bathrooms. It was constructed in partnership with students from the Northwest Technical School’s building trades program, continuing a collaboration that began in 2020.To celebrate the project and thank community partners, Habitat for Humanity of Nodaway County is hosting an open house on Saturday, June 21 at 10 a.m.. For more information, visit <a href="http://nodawayhabitat.org">nodawayhabitat.org</a>.

Habitat for Humanity of Nodaway County Celebrates 13th Home Build

MARYVILLE, Mo. — The Board of Regents for Northwest Missouri State University is set to convene Wednesday, June 18, for its monthly meeting.

This month’s agenda is relatively light, with most of the session focused on faculty appointments and budget updates. In addition, the board will discuss the naming of the campus tennis facility and the university’s maintenance building.

The meeting will be held at 1 p.m. in the Goppert Foundation Classroom at the Agricultural Learning Center, located on the university’s Campus Farm just north of Maryville along Highway 71.

Board of Regents meetings are open to the public, unless a vote is taken to move into closed session.

MARYVILLE, Mo. — The Board of Regents for Northwest Missouri State University is set to convene Wednesday, June 18, for its monthly meeting.This month’s agenda is relatively light, with most of the session focused on faculty appointments and budget updates. In addition, the board will discuss the naming of the campus tennis facility and the university’s maintenance building.The meeting will be held at 1 p.m. in the Goppert Foundation Classroom at the Agricultural Learning Center, located on the university’s Campus Farm just north of Maryville along Highway 71.Board of Regents meetings are open to the public, unless a vote is taken to move into closed session.

Northwest Missouri State Regents Set to Meet June 18

NEBRASKA CITY, Neb. — Officials in Nebraska City are continuing efforts to address persistent odor issues linked to the local Cargill facility, as community frustrations mount.

During Monday night’s City Council meeting, residents again voiced concerns about strong smells emanating from the plant—particularly during overnight hours.

Mayor Bequette said city officials are working closely with Cargill to implement a three-pronged strategy to reduce the smell:

Cargill is optimistic about identifying a successful odor treatment chemical within two to three weeks.

NEBRASKA CITY, Neb. — Officials in Nebraska City are continuing efforts to address persistent odor issues linked to the local Cargill facility, as community frustrations mount.During Monday night’s City Council meeting, residents again voiced concerns about strong smells emanating from the plant—particularly during overnight hours.<h2>Three-Stage Plan to Address the Odor</h2>Mayor Bequette said city officials are working closely with Cargill to implement a three-pronged strategy to reduce the smell:<ol>
 <li>Immediate Efforts:
The plant is testing odor-neutralizing chemicals to bind the particles causing the smell, while ensuring continued compliance with environmental regulations.</li><li>Short-Term Fixes:
Cargill is working to restore bacterial activity in its digesters and anaerobic lagoons, which were disrupted by previous cleaning processes.</li><li>Long-Term Investment:
Plans are underway to completely redesign the wastewater treatment system, which could cost tens of millions of dollars. The city is hoping for corporate-level investment from Cargill to help fund the improvements.
</li>
 </ol>Cargill is optimistic about identifying a successful odor treatment chemical within two to three weeks.<h2>Additional City Improvements Approved</h2>In other city business:<ul>
 <li>The City Council approved a JEO task order for improvements around City Hall, totaling $45,100.
</li><li>A second JEO task order for engineering services was approved for 5th Corso improvements (between 11th and 19th Streets), costing $161,150.
</li>
 </ul>

Nebraska City Continues to Battle Cargill Odor Issue

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — The Missouri State Highway Patrol has released the results of its 2025 annual school bus inspection program, aimed at ensuring the safety of students across the state. The report was announced by Colonel Michael A. Turner, superintendent of the patrol.

This year, patrol personnel inspected 11,255 school buses statewide, with the following results:

Buses with defective components must be repaired within 10 days. Those placed out of service require repairs and a reinspection by patrol staff before they can transport students again.

A total of 297 school districts earned the Patrol’s Total Fleet Excellence Award for 2025. This designation allows 6,782 buses from these districts to display the Total Fleet Excellence sticker, signifying full compliance with safety standards.

The Highway Patrol emphasizes the importance of ongoing maintenance and collaboration between school districts and state inspectors to keep student transportation safe and reliable.

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — The Missouri State Highway Patrol has released the results of its 2025 annual school bus inspection program, aimed at ensuring the safety of students across the state. The report was announced by Colonel Michael A. Turner, superintendent of the patrol.This year, patrol personnel inspected 11,255 school buses statewide, with the following results:<ul>
 <li>Approved upon initial inspection: 10,144
</li><li>Found defective: 799
</li><li>Placed out-of-service: 312
</li>
 </ul>Buses with defective components must be repaired within 10 days. Those placed out of service require repairs and a reinspection by patrol staff before they can transport students again.A total of 297 school districts earned the Patrol’s Total Fleet Excellence Award for 2025. This designation allows 6,782 buses from these districts to display the Total Fleet Excellence sticker, signifying full compliance with safety standards.<h2>Local District Results</h2><ul>
 <li>Jefferson C-123: 5 buses
60% approved
40% defective
0% out of service

</li><li>60% approved
</li><li>40% defective
</li><li>0% out of service
</li><li>Maryville R-II: 18 buses
83.3% approved
11.1% defective
5.6% out of service

</li><li>83.3% approved
</li><li>11.1% defective
</li><li>5.6% out of service
</li><li>Nodaway-Holt R-VII: 5 buses
100% approved
0% defective/out of service

</li><li>100% approved
</li><li>0% defective/out of service
</li><li>North Nodaway R-VI: 7 buses
57.1% approved
42.9% defective
0% out of service

</li><li>57.1% approved
</li><li>42.9% defective
</li><li>0% out of service
</li><li>Northeast Nodaway R-V: 6 buses
50.0% approved
33.3% defective
16.7% out of service

</li><li>50.0% approved
</li><li>33.3% defective
</li><li>16.7% out of service
</li><li>South Nodaway R-IV: 8 buses
62.5% approved
25.0% defective
12.5% out of service

</li><li>62.5% approved
</li><li>25.0% defective
</li><li>12.5% out of service
</li><li>West Nodaway R-I: 5 buses
60.0% approved
20.0% defective
20.0% out of service

</li><li>60.0% approved
</li><li>20.0% defective
</li><li>20.0% out of service
</li>
 </ul>The Highway Patrol emphasizes the importance of ongoing maintenance and collaboration between school districts and state inspectors to keep student transportation safe and reliable.

Missouri Highway Patrol Releases 2025 School Bus Inspection Results

FALLS CITY, Neb. — The Richardson County Board of Commissioners approved a budget amendment Tuesday after holding a public hearing on a proposed $256,518 increase in the Capital Acquisition Budget. The added funds will support electrical upgrades at the Law Enforcement Center, to be financed through a Nebraska Association of County Officials (NACO) lease-purchase agreement. No public comments were made during the hearing.

Following the hearing, the Board adopted a resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget.

Also during the meeting, commissioners adopted a revised Local Emergency Operations Plan, which had been approved by the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency. Most of the changes to the plan were editorial updates.

Sheriff Rick Hardesty met with the Board to propose wage increases for staff at the Law Enforcement Center, effective July 1, 2025. He also discussed the ongoing law enforcement services agreement between the Sheriff’s Department and the City of Humboldt. Sheriff Hardesty and Commissioner Rick Karas had recently attended a Humboldt City Council meeting, and said a draft of a new agreement is being prepared for city review.

Hardesty also informed the board that Deputy Aitken's patrol vehicle had struck a deer earlier this month.

The Board also heard from Humboldt Mayor Jan Wilhelm, who raised concerns about road and bridge maintenance, particularly the condition of the road leading to the Humboldt Airport.

The next meeting of the Richardson County Commissioners is scheduled for later this month.

FALLS CITY, Neb. — The Richardson County Board of Commissioners approved a budget amendment Tuesday after holding a public hearing on a proposed $256,518 increase in the Capital Acquisition Budget. The added funds will support electrical upgrades at the Law Enforcement Center, to be financed through a Nebraska Association of County Officials (NACO) lease-purchase agreement. No public comments were made during the hearing.Following the hearing, the Board adopted a resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget.Also during the meeting, commissioners adopted a revised Local Emergency Operations Plan, which had been approved by the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency. Most of the changes to the plan were editorial updates.Sheriff Rick Hardesty met with the Board to propose wage increases for staff at the Law Enforcement Center, effective July 1, 2025. He also discussed the ongoing law enforcement services agreement between the Sheriff’s Department and the City of Humboldt. Sheriff Hardesty and Commissioner Rick Karas had recently attended a Humboldt City Council meeting, and said a draft of a new agreement is being prepared for city review.Hardesty also informed the board that Deputy Aitken's patrol vehicle had struck a deer earlier this month.The Board also heard from Humboldt Mayor Jan Wilhelm, who raised concerns about road and bridge maintenance, particularly the condition of the road leading to the Humboldt Airport.In other business:<ul>
 <li>Craig Coonce, a Rulo resident, requested permission to establish a cemetery plot on his land in the Village of Rulo. The Board declined to act on the request, citing a need for more information.
</li><li>The commissioners held a nearly one-hour executive session with Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau and County Attorney Samantha Scheitel to discuss personnel matters.
</li>
 </ul>The next meeting of the Richardson County Commissioners is scheduled for later this month.

Richardson County Commissioners Approve Budget Amendment, Discuss Law Enforcement and Infrastructure

Leaders of the United
States House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee want Congress to
consider an overhaul of the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Committee chair,
Northern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves, has released a “discussion draft”
along with the ranking Democrat on the Committee, Congressman Rick Larsen of
Washington state.

Graves, a
Republican, says the two want to streamline FEMA, especially to help the
victims of disasters receive aid quicker.

“It just shouldn’t
take as long as FEMA does now, the way it’s set up,” Graves tells KFEQ/St.
Joseph Post. “It hasn’t been working for Americans for some time now. And we’ve
been working on FEMA reforms over the years and it just simply hasn’t been enough.
So, this is a big overhaul of the system.”

The proposal would
return FEMA to cabinet-level status, reporting directly to the president. It
would require FEMA to eliminate federal jargon and provide clear notices to
victims. It would give incentives to states to invest in disaster mitigation
efforts.

Graves accuses
FEMA of unfairly distributing disaster aid.

“And it’s almost
like cherry picking,” Graves says. “Some victims don’t get the help that they
need. Some get more help than they need. This is going to make sure that they
treat everybody fairly. This needs to be done once and for all. The system
needs to be overhauled.”

The proposal is
formally called the, “Fixing Emergency Management for Americans Act of 2025. It
would establish a Recovery Task Force to close out 1,000 lingering disaster declarations
dating back to Hurricane Katrina. It would direct FEMA to improve coordination
among federal agencies that respond to disasters.

Graves and Larsen
released what they call a “discussion draft” of the legislation to get feedback
from members of Congress as well as those who work in emergency management.

Graves accuses
FEMA of not only unfairly distributing disaster aid, but, at times, playing
politics with it.

“Depending on your
politics or what signs that you have in your yard shouldn’t have any impact
whatsoever on whether or not you receive assistance or not,” Graves says.

Florida officials
claimed FEMA, during the Biden administration, withheld aid from some Florida
hurricane victims, because they supported then President-elect Trump.

Some in
Washington, D.C. have called for the elimination of FEMA with the money spend
on the federal agency distributed to the states.

Graves says proposes
overhauling FEMA, not eliminating a federal agency to respond to disasters. 

“It’s under my
jurisdiction and I do think that we do need a federal agency,” Graves says.

The proposal also
would remove obstacles that discourage donations from charities, religious
organizations, and the public, to increase private disaster response. It would
also promote more preventative measures.

You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostLeaders of the United
States House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee want Congress to
consider an overhaul of the Federal Emergency Management Agency.Committee chair,
Northern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves, has released a “discussion draft”
along with the ranking Democrat on the Committee, Congressman Rick Larsen of
Washington state.Graves, a
Republican, says the two want to streamline FEMA, especially to help the
victims of disasters receive aid quicker.“It just shouldn’t
take as long as FEMA does now, the way it’s set up,” Graves tells KFEQ/St.
Joseph Post. “It hasn’t been working for Americans for some time now. And we’ve
been working on FEMA reforms over the years and it just simply hasn’t been enough.
So, this is a big overhaul of the system.”The proposal would
return FEMA to cabinet-level status, reporting directly to the president. It
would require FEMA to eliminate federal jargon and provide clear notices to
victims. It would give incentives to states to invest in disaster mitigation
efforts.Graves accuses
FEMA of unfairly distributing disaster aid.“And it’s almost
like cherry picking,” Graves says. “Some victims don’t get the help that they
need. Some get more help than they need. This is going to make sure that they
treat everybody fairly. This needs to be done once and for all. The system
needs to be overhauled.”The proposal is
formally called the, “Fixing Emergency Management for Americans Act of 2025. It
would establish a Recovery Task Force to close out 1,000 lingering disaster declarations
dating back to Hurricane Katrina. It would direct FEMA to improve coordination
among federal agencies that respond to disasters.Graves and Larsen
released what they call a “discussion draft” of the legislation to get feedback
from members of Congress as well as those who work in emergency management.Graves accuses
FEMA of not only unfairly distributing disaster aid, but, at times, playing
politics with it.“Depending on your
politics or what signs that you have in your yard shouldn’t have any impact
whatsoever on whether or not you receive assistance or not,” Graves says.Florida officials
claimed FEMA, during the Biden administration, withheld aid from some Florida
hurricane victims, because they supported then President-elect Trump.Some in
Washington, D.C. have called for the elimination of FEMA with the money spend
on the federal agency distributed to the states.Graves says proposes
overhauling FEMA, not eliminating a federal agency to respond to disasters. “It’s under my
jurisdiction and I do think that we do need a federal agency,” Graves says.The proposal also
would remove obstacles that discourage donations from charities, religious
organizations, and the public, to increase private disaster response. It would
also promote more preventative measures.You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ.

Congressman Graves proposes overhaul of FEMA

MARYVILLE, Mo. — Northwest Missouri State University is closing its Kansas City campus location at the Northland Innovation Campus, marking a strategic shift in how the university serves students in the metro area.

The university has operated from the Northland facility since 2016, helping to fund and design the building to support graduate-level education. However, changing student needs and a post-pandemic landscape have reshaped the university’s focus.

As graduate students shifted to online learning, the physical classroom space in Kansas City became less essential. In response, Northwest pivoted to other priorities including:

These initiatives will continue in Kansas City, even as the university vacates its current space. A smaller leased facility is in the works, and all employees will remain on staff, working from the new location.

The move will result in cost savings, and the furniture from the Northland facility will be repurposed to furnish the Martindale building in Maryville, once renovations are complete.

Though the Northland chapter is closing, Northwest’s presence in Kansas City remains active, with efforts continuing to engage students, educators, and professionals across the metro.

MARYVILLE, Mo. — Northwest Missouri State University is closing its Kansas City campus location at the Northland Innovation Campus, marking a strategic shift in how the university serves students in the metro area.The university has operated from the Northland facility since 2016, helping to fund and design the building to support graduate-level education. However, changing student needs and a post-pandemic landscape have reshaped the university’s focus.As graduate students shifted to online learning, the physical classroom space in Kansas City became less essential. In response, Northwest pivoted to other priorities including:<ul>
 <li>Dual credit courses for metro-area high school students
</li><li>Certificate programs
</li><li>Professional development conferences
</li>
 </ul>These initiatives will continue in Kansas City, even as the university vacates its current space. A smaller leased facility is in the works, and all employees will remain on staff, working from the new location.The move will result in cost savings, and the furniture from the Northland facility will be repurposed to furnish the Martindale building in Maryville, once renovations are complete.Though the Northland chapter is closing, Northwest’s presence in Kansas City remains active, with efforts continuing to engage students, educators, and professionals across the metro.

Northwest Missouri State Adjusts Kansas City Presence, Closes Northland Campus

MARYVILLE, Mo. — Downtown Maryville has received a notable honor, as the nonprofit Main Street America has officially designated the city as an affiliate member of its prestigious network. The recognition places Maryville among more than 350 communities nationwide that are celebrated for their commitment to building strong and vibrant downtowns.

Erin Barnes, President of Main Street America, noted that the organization selects affiliate members based on their dedication to creating thriving, resilient communities. Other communities in the region with this recognition include Trenton and Chillicothe, Missouri; Falls City, Nebraska; and Atchison, Kansas.

Deanna Davison, Director of <a href="https://www.downtownmaryvillemo.com/">Downtown Maryville</a>, says the designation is a powerful advocacy tool, validating the community’s efforts to preserve its historic character while building a vibrant local economy. She credited the volunteers, local businesses, and community partners who have played key roles in downtown improvement initiatives.

Main Street America supports economic revitalization through business promotion, events, aesthetic improvements, and community engagement. In Maryville, these efforts have included:

Two major projects are currently underway:

With this designation, Downtown Maryville is poised to continue growing as a hub of activity, creativity, and local pride. The Main Street America affiliation brings increased visibility, opportunities for funding, and valuable resources to support continued revitalization efforts.

MARYVILLE, Mo. — Downtown Maryville has received a notable honor, as the nonprofit Main Street America has officially designated the city as an affiliate member of its prestigious network. The recognition places Maryville among more than 350 communities nationwide that are celebrated for their commitment to building strong and vibrant downtowns.Erin Barnes, President of Main Street America, noted that the organization selects affiliate members based on their dedication to creating thriving, resilient communities. Other communities in the region with this recognition include Trenton and Chillicothe, Missouri; Falls City, Nebraska; and Atchison, Kansas.Deanna Davison, Director of <a href="https://www.downtownmaryvillemo.com/">Downtown Maryville</a>, says the designation is a powerful advocacy tool, validating the community’s efforts to preserve its historic character while building a vibrant local economy. She credited the volunteers, local businesses, and community partners who have played key roles in downtown improvement initiatives.Main Street America supports economic revitalization through business promotion, events, aesthetic improvements, and community engagement. In Maryville, these efforts have included:<ul>
 <li>“Third Thursday” celebrations
</li><li>The weekly “Downtown Market”
</li><li>Expanded business hours to encourage evening activity
</li><li>Surveys and outreach to align projects with community interests
</li>
 </ul>Two major projects are currently underway:<ul>
 <li>Downtown Pedestrian Alleyway Project – A revitalization of the alley between Bank Midwest and The Pub to create a welcoming pedestrian space with lighting, seating, and landscaping.
</li><li>Downtown Pavilion Project – A large covered structure designed to host events like the Maryville Farmers Market, serving as a central gathering place downtown.
</li>
 </ul>With this designation, Downtown Maryville is poised to continue growing as a hub of activity, creativity, and local pride. The Main Street America affiliation brings increased visibility, opportunities for funding, and valuable resources to support continued revitalization efforts.

Maryville’s Downtown Earns National Recognition as Main Street America Affiliate

MARYVILLE, Mo. — Mosaic Medical Center – Maryville is strengthening its commitment to patient care with the expansion of its respiratory therapy team, now featuring two full-time night shift therapists—a move that’s already making a life-saving difference.

Recently, maternity staff at the hospital shared that a newborn in critical condition was able to receive immediate respiratory support during the night thanks to the additional team members. The presence of on-site respiratory therapists eliminated a potentially dangerous delay, allowing for quick intervention and transfer.

“Life-changing,” is how nurses at the hospital described the impact of the around-the-clock respiratory care. The respiratory therapy team provides vital services across multiple departments, including emergency, surgical, maternity, and routine inpatient care.

In addition to immediate bedside care, Mosaic’s pulmonology services help diagnose and treat a broad range of conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system, including:

Mosaic’s enhanced respiratory care reflects its ongoing dedication to providing timely, expert care for patients of all ages, from newborns in maternity to older adults with chronic lung disease.

You can learn more about the respiratory therapy services at Mosaic Medical Center – Maryville on their <a href="https://www.mymlc.com/Main/Location/maryville-mo/mosaic-medical-center-maryville/main-medical-center/mosaic-respiratory-care-maryville/">website</a>.&nbsp;

MARYVILLE, Mo. — Mosaic Medical Center – Maryville is strengthening its commitment to patient care with the expansion of its respiratory therapy team, now featuring two full-time night shift therapists—a move that’s already making a life-saving difference.Recently, maternity staff at the hospital shared that a newborn in critical condition was able to receive immediate respiratory support during the night thanks to the additional team members. The presence of on-site respiratory therapists eliminated a potentially dangerous delay, allowing for quick intervention and transfer.“Life-changing,” is how nurses at the hospital described the impact of the around-the-clock respiratory care. The respiratory therapy team provides vital services across multiple departments, including emergency, surgical, maternity, and routine inpatient care.In addition to immediate bedside care, Mosaic’s pulmonology services help diagnose and treat a broad range of conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system, including:<ul>
 <li>Asthma and allergic respiratory diseases
</li><li>Sleep apnea and other sleep disorders
</li><li>Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and emphysema
</li><li>Chronic cough and unexplained shortness of breath (dyspnea)
</li><li>Pulmonary hypertension and interstitial lung disease
</li><li>Lung cancer and respiratory infections such as tuberculosis
</li><li>Complex airway stenosis and cystic fibrosis-related conditions
</li><li>Smoking cessation and more
</li>
 </ul>Mosaic’s enhanced respiratory care reflects its ongoing dedication to providing timely, expert care for patients of all ages, from newborns in maternity to older adults with chronic lung disease.You can learn more about the respiratory therapy services at Mosaic Medical Center – Maryville on their <a href="https://www.mymlc.com/Main/Location/maryville-mo/mosaic-medical-center-maryville/main-medical-center/mosaic-respiratory-care-maryville/">website</a>.&nbsp;

Mosaic Maryville Expands Night Shift Respiratory Therapy Services

STANTON, Iowa — Big changes are ahead for students and staff in the Stanton Community School District, as preparations continue for a switch to a four-day school week beginning this fall.

The 2025-26 school calendar, recently approved by the Stanton School Board, features classes Tuesday through Friday, with only four Mondays scheduled for instruction.

To meet instructional requirements, the district will extend the school day by approximately 35 minutes, with most of the additional time added to the end of the day. The adjusted calendar will actually include slightly more instructional time than previous years.

The new school year will begin August 25, and also includes one additional instructional week. While the change came late in the school planning cycle, the district is already seeing benefits when it comes to recruiting staff.

STANTON, Iowa — Big changes are ahead for students and staff in the Stanton Community School District, as preparations continue for a switch to a four-day school week beginning this fall.The 2025-26 school calendar, recently approved by the Stanton School Board, features classes Tuesday through Friday, with only four Mondays scheduled for instruction.To meet instructional requirements, the district will extend the school day by approximately 35 minutes, with most of the additional time added to the end of the day. The adjusted calendar will actually include slightly more instructional time than previous years.The new school year will begin August 25, and also includes one additional instructional week. While the change came late in the school planning cycle, the district is already seeing benefits when it comes to recruiting staff.

Stanton School District Prepares for Switch to Four-Day Week in 2025-26

SHENANDOAH, Iowa — A once-dilapidated home in Shenandoah is now fully renovated and on the market—thanks to three years of dedication by Shenandoah High School students, teachers, and community partners.

The house at 213 West Sheridan Avenue, which was purchased by the Shenandoah School District from the city in 2022 for just $1, served as a hands-on learning project for students in the high school's building trades program. The work was celebrated with an open house earlier this week.

Despite obstacles, the school received vital support from local businesses, volunteers, and city officials, who provided supplies, labor, and expertise.&nbsp;

The school district is accepting sealed bids for the property, with the goal of selling the home at the August Shenandoah School Board meeting.

SHENANDOAH, Iowa — A once-dilapidated home in Shenandoah is now fully renovated and on the market—thanks to three years of dedication by Shenandoah High School students, teachers, and community partners.The house at 213 West Sheridan Avenue, which was purchased by the Shenandoah School District from the city in 2022 for just $1, served as a hands-on learning project for students in the high school's building trades program. The work was celebrated with an open house earlier this week.Despite obstacles, the school received vital support from local businesses, volunteers, and city officials, who provided supplies, labor, and expertise.&nbsp;The school district is accepting sealed bids for the property, with the goal of selling the home at the August Shenandoah School Board meeting.

Shenandoah High Students Complete Rehab Project, Home Now Up for Sale

A graduate from Northwest Missouri State University and a news anchor at KQ2 in St. Joseph, Miss Kansas City Courtney Rowe, has been crowned as Miss Missouri 2025.&nbsp;

Rowe and 20 other women competed for the title Saturday night in Mexico.&nbsp; Her community service initiative is “The Purple Project” Raising Awareness, Saving Lives,” which advocates for victims of domestic violence. Rowe is a survivor of domestic violence.

As winner of the Miss Missouri competition, Rowe will receive a $14,000 scholarship and will go onto Orlando, Florida to compete for the Miss America crown in August.&nbsp; This year was the 55th consecutive year that the Miss Missouri competition was held in mid-Missouri’s Mexico.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750029992510.jpeg" alt="Miss Kansas City Courtney Rowe, a graduate of Northwest Missouri State University and news anchor at KQ2, was crowned 2025 Miss Missouri/ Photo credit Matt Pilger, Missourinet" />
 <figcaption>Miss Kansas City Courtney Rowe, a graduate of Northwest Missouri State University and news anchor at KQ2, was crowned 2025 Miss Missouri/ Photo credit Matt Pilger, Missourinet</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEA graduate from Northwest Missouri State University and a news anchor at KQ2 in St. Joseph, Miss Kansas City Courtney Rowe, has been crowned as Miss Missouri 2025.&nbsp;Rowe and 20 other women competed for the title Saturday night in Mexico.&nbsp; Her community service initiative is “The Purple Project” Raising Awareness, Saving Lives,” which advocates for victims of domestic violence. Rowe is a survivor of domestic violence.As winner of the Miss Missouri competition, Rowe will receive a $14,000 scholarship and will go onto Orlando, Florida to compete for the Miss America crown in August.&nbsp; This year was the 55th consecutive year that the Miss Missouri competition was held in mid-Missouri’s Mexico.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

NWMSU graduate, St. Joseph news personality named Miss Missouri

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">JASON HANCOCK</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

A $1.5 billion stadium funding plan aimed at convincing the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals to stay in Missouri was signed into law Saturday afternoon by Gov. Mike Kehoe shortly before his trip to France on a trade mission.

Kehoe signed two other bills on Saturday: one providing $125 million in aid for communities hit by severe weather and another spending around $200 million on various construction projects across the state.

The bills were the product of a two week special legislative session called by Kehoe last month designed, primarily, to counter an offer by Kansas to fund up to 70% of the construction costs for new stadiums for the Chiefs and Royals if they moved across the state line. That deal expires at the end of the month.

Missouri’s counter offer would allocate state taxes collected from economic activity at Arrowhead and Kauffman to bond payments for renovations at Arrowhead and a new stadium for the Royals in Jackson or Clay counties.

The cost is estimated at close to $1.5 billion over 30 years.

Both teams have expressed interest in leaving Missouri when the lease on their current stadiums expire in 2030.

“We called legislators back to Jefferson City because the stakes were too high to wait,” Kehoe said in an emailed statement announcing he signed the stadium funding deal.

The disaster relief provisions in the legislation address both the devastation of the May 16 tornado in St. Louis and the damages suffered by other Missourians in storms and flooding earlier in the year. The aid was required due to uncertainty about the federal response to the tornado.

Kehoe asked President Donald Trump for a federal disaster declaration for the tornado on May 25 and for April 29 storms in Scott on May 19. The president didn’t officially declare a disaster, opening the door for federal aid,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/trump-allows-fema-aid-for-st-louis-tornado-recovery/">until June 10</a>.

The governor was expected to quickly sign the bills, which passed earlier this week, because he will be in Paris on Monday for his first international trade mission. During Kehoe’s absence, Lt. Gov. David Wasinger will serve as acting governor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748263709817.png" alt="GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Kansas City Chiefs, is pictured on Sat. Feb. 8 (Anna Spoerre/The Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Kansas City Chiefs, is pictured on Sat. Feb. 8 (Anna Spoerre/The Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">JASON HANCOCK</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>A $1.5 billion stadium funding plan aimed at convincing the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals to stay in Missouri was signed into law Saturday afternoon by Gov. Mike Kehoe shortly before his trip to France on a trade mission.Kehoe signed two other bills on Saturday: one providing $125 million in aid for communities hit by severe weather and another spending around $200 million on various construction projects across the state.The bills were the product of a two week special legislative session called by Kehoe last month designed, primarily, to counter an offer by Kansas to fund up to 70% of the construction costs for new stadiums for the Chiefs and Royals if they moved across the state line. That deal expires at the end of the month.Missouri’s counter offer would allocate state taxes collected from economic activity at Arrowhead and Kauffman to bond payments for renovations at Arrowhead and a new stadium for the Royals in Jackson or Clay counties.The cost is estimated at close to $1.5 billion over 30 years.Both teams have expressed interest in leaving Missouri when the lease on their current stadiums expire in 2030.“We called legislators back to Jefferson City because the stakes were too high to wait,” Kehoe said in an emailed statement announcing he signed the stadium funding deal.The disaster relief provisions in the legislation address both the devastation of the May 16 tornado in St. Louis and the damages suffered by other Missourians in storms and flooding earlier in the year. The aid was required due to uncertainty about the federal response to the tornado.Kehoe asked President Donald Trump for a federal disaster declaration for the tornado on May 25 and for April 29 storms in Scott on May 19. The president didn’t officially declare a disaster, opening the door for federal aid,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/trump-allows-fema-aid-for-st-louis-tornado-recovery/">until June 10</a>.The governor was expected to quickly sign the bills, which passed earlier this week, because he will be in Paris on Monday for his first international trade mission. During Kehoe’s absence, Lt. Gov. David Wasinger will serve as acting governor.

Missouri governor signs Kansas City stadium funding, St. Louis disaster aid

HARRISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10p.m. Friday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2025 Peterbilt semi driven by a 57-year-old Monticello, Arkansas man was northbound on Interstate 35 six miles south of Eagleville. The vehicle traveled off the east side of the road and overturned.

Harrison County EMS transported the driver the Mosaic Life Care. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

HARRISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10p.m. Friday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2025 Peterbilt semi driven by a 57-year-old Monticello, Arkansas man was northbound on Interstate 35 six miles south of Eagleville. The vehicle traveled off the east side of the road and overturned.Harrison County EMS transported the driver the Mosaic Life Care. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Driver hospitalized after semi overturns

HARRISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 8a.m. Friday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1997 Dodge Ram driven by a 58-year-old Eagleville man was leaving a business parking lot northbound at Route N.

The. pickup pulled into the path of an eastbound 2005 Scion XB driven by a 66-year-old Eagleville woman.&nbsp; The pickup struck the front passenger side of the Scion.

EMS transported the woman driver to Harrison County Community Hospital. The pickup driver was not injured.&nbsp; Both drivers were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

HARRISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 8a.m. Friday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1997 Dodge Ram driven by a 58-year-old Eagleville man was leaving a business parking lot northbound at Route N.The. pickup pulled into the path of an eastbound 2005 Scion XB driven by a 66-year-old Eagleville woman.&nbsp; The pickup struck the front passenger side of the Scion.EMS transported the woman driver to Harrison County Community Hospital. The pickup driver was not injured.&nbsp; Both drivers were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Missouri man injured after 2-vehicle crash

MARYVILLE, Mo. — The City of Maryville is set to upgrade its lake patrol equipment with the acquisition of a new patrol boat for Mozingo Lake Park.

At this week's city council meeting, members gave first-reading approval for the purchase of a 2025 model boat from Excel Boats, priced at approximately $55,000. The new watercraft will replace the city's aging patrol boat, which Police Chief Mike Stolte says has become unreliable, spending more time in repairs than in active use.

During the summer months, Maryville reassigns two officers to patrol Mozingo Lake and the surrounding area. The officers currently share use of an old patrol boat and jet skis, but both have become outdated, prompting the need for updated equipment.

The purchase will be funded through a designated Mozingo Patrol Fund, along with a $10,000 grant secured by the Maryville Police Department.

MARYVILLE, Mo. — The City of Maryville is set to upgrade its lake patrol equipment with the acquisition of a new patrol boat for Mozingo Lake Park.At this week's city council meeting, members gave first-reading approval for the purchase of a 2025 model boat from Excel Boats, priced at approximately $55,000. The new watercraft will replace the city's aging patrol boat, which Police Chief Mike Stolte says has become unreliable, spending more time in repairs than in active use.During the summer months, Maryville reassigns two officers to patrol Mozingo Lake and the surrounding area. The officers currently share use of an old patrol boat and jet skis, but both have become outdated, prompting the need for updated equipment.The purchase will be funded through a designated Mozingo Patrol Fund, along with a $10,000 grant secured by the Maryville Police Department.

Maryville Moves Forward with Patrol Boat Purchase for Mozingo Lake

FALLS CITY, Neb.&nbsp; — The Falls City Board of Education approved a $168,851 project to resurface the track at Jug Brown Stadium during its regular meeting Monday night, giving a green light to long-anticipated improvements for student-athletes and community users.

Board members also voted to maintain the daily substitute teacher pay rate at $175 for the 2025–26 school year, unchanged from the previous year.

Superintendent Tim Heckenlively informed the board that the Sixpence Board of Trustees approved a continuation grant for Falls City Public Schools totaling $425,856 for the next fiscal year. The grant amount represents a temporary reduction of $129,051 due to a delay in Child Care and Development Fund payments from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Heckenlively noted that if additional funding becomes available, Sixpence may issue an amended award to District 56.

The board also received an update from Transportation Director Tyler Bek, who shared concerns over upcoming federal safety regulations that may prohibit the use of 11-passenger vans. Falls City currently uses these vans for daily student transport and extracurricular travel.

To remain compliant, the district may need to transition to small buses or minivans in the future. Bek reported that the district's eight rural bus routes logged a total of 91,318 miles during the last school year.

The board will continue monitoring transportation policy developments and evaluate vehicle needs to ensure student safety and regulatory compliance.

FALLS CITY, Neb.&nbsp; — The Falls City Board of Education approved a $168,851 project to resurface the track at Jug Brown Stadium during its regular meeting Monday night, giving a green light to long-anticipated improvements for student-athletes and community users.Board members also voted to maintain the daily substitute teacher pay rate at $175 for the 2025–26 school year, unchanged from the previous year.Superintendent Tim Heckenlively informed the board that the Sixpence Board of Trustees approved a continuation grant for Falls City Public Schools totaling $425,856 for the next fiscal year. The grant amount represents a temporary reduction of $129,051 due to a delay in Child Care and Development Fund payments from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Heckenlively noted that if additional funding becomes available, Sixpence may issue an amended award to District 56.The board also received an update from Transportation Director Tyler Bek, who shared concerns over upcoming federal safety regulations that may prohibit the use of 11-passenger vans. Falls City currently uses these vans for daily student transport and extracurricular travel.To remain compliant, the district may need to transition to small buses or minivans in the future. Bek reported that the district's eight rural bus routes logged a total of 91,318 miles during the last school year.The board will continue monitoring transportation policy developments and evaluate vehicle needs to ensure student safety and regulatory compliance.

Falls City School Board Approves Track Resurfacing, Holds Substitute Pay, and Reviews Transportation Shifts

MOUND CITY, Mo. — The Holt County Commission has taken key steps toward enhancing public safety and law enforcement resources by signing off on documents to apply for Missouri Blue Shield Community designation and renegotiate its contract with Laptop Pitstop, the county’s provider of law enforcement computer systems and software.

If approved, the Blue Shield designation would allow Holt County to apply for state grants to purchase new equipment and provide officer training.

The Missouri Blue Shield Community Program, launched under Governor Mike Kehoe’s Safer Missouri initiative, recognizes cities and counties that demonstrate strong support for law enforcement and a clear commitment to public safety. Blue Shield status may also make counties more competitive when seeking future state funding.

The Missouri Department of Public Safety is expected to begin accepting grant applications for FY2026 in July. Holt County officials are optimistic the designation, if granted, will lead to important improvements for local law enforcement capabilities.

In addition to the Blue Shield efforts, commissioners approved a renegotiated agreement with Laptop Pitstop, which manages the county's law enforcement technology infrastructure, ensuring continued access to vital computer systems and software tools used by officers.

MOUND CITY, Mo. — The Holt County Commission has taken key steps toward enhancing public safety and law enforcement resources by signing off on documents to apply for Missouri Blue Shield Community designation and renegotiate its contract with Laptop Pitstop, the county’s provider of law enforcement computer systems and software.If approved, the Blue Shield designation would allow Holt County to apply for state grants to purchase new equipment and provide officer training.The Missouri Blue Shield Community Program, launched under Governor Mike Kehoe’s Safer Missouri initiative, recognizes cities and counties that demonstrate strong support for law enforcement and a clear commitment to public safety. Blue Shield status may also make counties more competitive when seeking future state funding.The Missouri Department of Public Safety is expected to begin accepting grant applications for FY2026 in July. Holt County officials are optimistic the designation, if granted, will lead to important improvements for local law enforcement capabilities.In addition to the Blue Shield efforts, commissioners approved a renegotiated agreement with Laptop Pitstop, which manages the county's law enforcement technology infrastructure, ensuring continued access to vital computer systems and software tools used by officers.

Holt County Pursues Missouri Blue Shield Designation, Renews Law Enforcement Tech Contract

MARYVILLE, Mo. — This year’s Nodaway County Fair will deliver three nights of live entertainment, each offering a unique performance for fairgoers to enjoy from July 10 through July 12.

The fun kicks off on Thursday, July 10, with a performance by Master Magician Keith Leff, who brings over 25 years of magical experience to the stage. Leff is a multiple-time winner of the International Brotherhood of Magicians' Close-Up Magician of the Year Contest and has earned top honors in both close-up and stage magic at the World Magic Expo. Also on Thursday, the Nodaway County Band will entertain the crowd with a variety of musical selections near the main stage.

On Friday, July 11, the spotlight shifts to The Casady Band, a local group known for their high-energy performances and acoustic sets. The band recently performed at the Mozingo Visitors Center Grand Opening and plays hits from legendary artists like Tom Petty, Fleetwood Mac, Bob Dylan, and Toby Keith.

Closing out the fair on Saturday, July 12, is Arena Rock Giants, a Kansas City-based tribute band that brings the sound and spirit of classic rock to life. Their setlist includes crowd favorites from bands like Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, the Rolling Stones, Van Halen, and more.

With something for everyone, the 2025 Nodaway County Fair promises a weekend of magic, music, and memories for the whole community.

MARYVILLE, Mo. — This year’s Nodaway County Fair will deliver three nights of live entertainment, each offering a unique performance for fairgoers to enjoy from July 10 through July 12.The fun kicks off on Thursday, July 10, with a performance by Master Magician Keith Leff, who brings over 25 years of magical experience to the stage. Leff is a multiple-time winner of the International Brotherhood of Magicians' Close-Up Magician of the Year Contest and has earned top honors in both close-up and stage magic at the World Magic Expo. Also on Thursday, the Nodaway County Band will entertain the crowd with a variety of musical selections near the main stage.On Friday, July 11, the spotlight shifts to The Casady Band, a local group known for their high-energy performances and acoustic sets. The band recently performed at the Mozingo Visitors Center Grand Opening and plays hits from legendary artists like Tom Petty, Fleetwood Mac, Bob Dylan, and Toby Keith.Closing out the fair on Saturday, July 12, is Arena Rock Giants, a Kansas City-based tribute band that brings the sound and spirit of classic rock to life. Their setlist includes crowd favorites from bands like Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, the Rolling Stones, Van Halen, and more.With something for everyone, the 2025 Nodaway County Fair promises a weekend of magic, music, and memories for the whole community.