After providing more than $100 million in free plays to lure customers, FanDuel and Draftkings, the sports books dominating the state market, paid no taxes

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>

Missourians placed more than half-a-billion dollars in bets on sporting events in December but promotional offers offset the taxable profits, leaving less than $1 million to help problem gamblers and public education.

Voters narrowly approved sports betting in November 2024, with a majority of just&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/27/passage-of-missouri-sports-wagering-seems-assured-despite-narrow-margin/">2,691 votes out of almost 3 million cast</a>. The first month’s wagering far&nbsp;<a href="https://sportshandle.com/missouri-sports-betting-could-see-up-to-370m-handle-in-first-month/" target="_blank">exceeded some estimates</a>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mgc.dps.mo.gov/SportsWagering/sw_financials/FY26_SWFinReport/12_Dec/SW%20Monthly%20Financials%201225.pdf" target="_blank">$543 million wagered</a>, more than 99% through online platforms.

The financial report, issued Friday by the Missouri Gaming Commission, showed the impact of provisions in the constitutional amendment allowing companies accepting bets to deduct the cost of promotional and other expenses.&nbsp;

The 16 licensed operators provided customers more than $125 million in free bets and other promotional benefits. As a result, most showed a negative result and deductions exceeded net revenue by $20 million.

The gaming commission received nearly $7.5 million from initial license fees paid for the 16 retail and online licenses. Two companies, DraftKings and Circa Sports, are online-only licenses, while the other 14 are either in casinos, at major sports venues or online platforms partnering with a major sports team.

The net to the state was $521,200, or less than one-one-hundredth of 1% of the total wagered.

“The license-fee total reflects the fact that a majority of the licenses issued at launch are five-year licenses,” Mike Leara, executive director of the gaming commission, said in a news release. “These figures also reflect a market in its early stages, including the impact of significant promotional deductions that are customary during initial rollout.”

The commission anticipates using 9% of the licensing fees for administration, and the remainder will be transferred to the&nbsp;Compulsive Gaming Prevention Fund. Most of that is a one-time infusion of money because the major licenses have a five-year life, Leara said in an interview with The Independent.

The result is encouraging despite the small total for tax revenue, Leara said. The structure of the constitutional amendment meant that small returns are likely during the opening months, he said.

“When we finally get through some of this early start up costs, we’ll see money,” he said.

The promotional offers will diminish and bettors will settle into patterns as the market matures, he said.

“In six months, we’re going to have a better gage of what to expect on the month to month basis, and I think that it will increase these numbers,” Leara said.

State Rep. Dirk Deaton, a Republican from Noel who chairs the House Budget Committee, called the revenue report “sad” and said it was what he expected from an initiative written by the online sports betting companies.

“We might as well have just made them tax free at this point,” Deaton said.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/01/12/st-louis-cardinals-lead-missouris-major-teams-to-launch-initiative-on-sports-betting/">initiative campaign was launched</a>&nbsp;after lawmakers tried for several years, and failed, to write a bill authorizing sports wagering.&nbsp;

“In the General Assembly, we ought to look ourselves in the mirror,” he said. “It’s probably another example of something which we should have figured out and put a better framework in place.”

The tax on the net revenue of sports wagering platforms is 10%, less than half of the 21% tax on net receipts for the state’s 13 licensed casinos. During December, the casinos&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mgc.dps.mo.gov/Casino_Gaming/rb_financials/FY26_FinReport/12_Dec/WEB1225.pdf" target="_blank">paid $36.2 million in taxes</a>&nbsp;on net winnings of $172.4 million.

Leara said he agreed that the low tax revenue is due to lawmakers failing to pass sports wagering legislation.

“This could have been much different,” Leara said. “The tax rate could have been higher and the deductions would have likely, absolutely, been less.”

Under the Missouri Constitution, most tax revenue from gambling is&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=III++++39(d)&amp;bid=31793&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">dedicated to public schools and higher education</a>. Casinos paid $363 million in taxes in the fiscal year that ended June 30 and the Missouri Lottery provided about $337 million.

The 2024 initiative campaign, organized by the state’s professional sports teams and paid for by DraftKings and FanDuel, two of the major online sports books, cost $43 million. An opposition campaign, financed by Caesars Entertainment, owners of three casinos in Missouri, spent $15 million.

During the campaign to pass sports wagering, voters were told it would be a windfall to education, allowing increased teacher pay and other benefits for public schools.&nbsp;

“It doesn’t necessarily match the commercials that got this passed, does it,” said state Sen. Rusty Black, a Republican from Chillicothe who chairs the Senate Appropriations Committee.

Black, who was a teacher before becoming a legislator, said in an interview with The Independent he is not sure when any of the promised benefits for education will be realized.

“Sports gaming will probably provide $100 million to education total, as long as I don’t die in the next 10 years,” Black said.

Only DraftKings, however, won one of the two licenses that went to online platforms that are not linked to one of the state’s casinos or major league sports teams.&nbsp;

DraftKings captured nearly 40% of the market, booking $195 million in bets but showing a negative net result after paying out $163 million in winnings and giving bettors $48.5 million in promotional and other benefits. DraftKings paid no tax and had $16 million in deductions carried over into January.&nbsp;

Circa Sports, the other “untethered” licensee, handled only $1.4 million in wagers and showed $1.3 million in deductions. Circa Sports paid $11,739 in tax.

FanDuel won a license from the Missouri Gaming Commission by partnering with St. Louis City, a Major League Soccer team. FanDuel booked $212 million in wagers but also showed a net negative result, with $166 million paid out in winnings and $53 million in deductions for promotional benefits. The company paid no tax and carries over $7 million in deductions to January.

The $543 million handle shows that the launch of sports betting in Missouri was successful, said Jack Cardetti, spokesman for the Sports Betting Alliance.

“We applaud the Missouri Gaming Commission for its hard work to ensure a smooth and successful launch,” Cardetti said in a prepared statement, “and we’ve received overwhelmingly positive feedback from Missourians who are impressed with the tools and resources available to help them monitor their play, protect their data and provide the security they feel in placing legal, regulated bets, while keeping their dollars in Missouri.”’

In a separate statement, Cardetti said the small return to the state was an expected result of the promotional deductions in the amendment.

“Like in most states, permanent, dedicated tax revenues for education will grow significantly over time after starting small in the initial months of a new sports betting program, due to investing in marketing efforts to migrate bettors out of illegal and unregulated settings toward state-licensed operators,” Cardetti said. “Missouri’s sports betting law anticipated this transition period and required millions in up front licensing fees, with nearly $7.5 million in fees already paid to the state.”

The fiscal estimates for the initiative showed revenue could be as little as nothing or as much as $28.9 million a year.

State Rep. Betsy Fogle, ranking Democrat on the House Budget Committee, said she expected more money, even with the heavy advertising of promotions to lure customers.

“I guess it’s not super surprising to me that we haven’t seen real dollars work their way into our revenue streams yet, and I would anticipate that those would increase as those promotionals have gone away,” she said.

In Kansas, where the tax and deduction allowances are similar to Missouri, operators paid taxes that were&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/25/repub/kansas-legislators-look-for-bigger-payout-from-sportsbooks-with-contracts-set-to-expire/">less than 1% of $2.7 billion</a>&nbsp;in bets in the past fiscal year. Lawmakers in Kansas are considering whether to change the tax structure to capture more of the revenue. A similar move is much harder in Missouri because it would require another statewide vote to change the constitution.&nbsp;

“Because sports wagering was adopted through a voter-approved constitutional amendment, core elements such as the tax structure and allowable deductions cannot simply be adjusted by the General Assembly,” Black said in a statement.

Gambling alone cannot pay for public schools or higher education, Deaton said

“There’s no taxation structure in which that would ever be the case, or could be, unless we just were spending significantly less,” he said.

When education will see any money from sports wagering is uncertain. The amendment included a carve-out, setting aside the first $5 million in annual tax revenue for the Compulsive Gaming Prevention Fund.

Fogle, who said she voted for the amendment because she wanted to place bets, said she doubted during the campaign that education would see any significant benefits.

“I thought it was disingenuous,” Fogle said, “and I recommended people not vote for it because of the promises for education.”

<h2>After providing more than $100 million in free plays to lure customers, FanDuel and Draftkings, the sports books dominating the state market, paid no taxes</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>Missourians placed more than half-a-billion dollars in bets on sporting events in December but promotional offers offset the taxable profits, leaving less than $1 million to help problem gamblers and public education.Voters narrowly approved sports betting in November 2024, with a majority of just&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/27/passage-of-missouri-sports-wagering-seems-assured-despite-narrow-margin/">2,691 votes out of almost 3 million cast</a>. The first month’s wagering far&nbsp;<a href="https://sportshandle.com/missouri-sports-betting-could-see-up-to-370m-handle-in-first-month/" target="_blank">exceeded some estimates</a>&nbsp;with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mgc.dps.mo.gov/SportsWagering/sw_financials/FY26_SWFinReport/12_Dec/SW%20Monthly%20Financials%201225.pdf" target="_blank">$543 million wagered</a>, more than 99% through online platforms.The financial report, issued Friday by the Missouri Gaming Commission, showed the impact of provisions in the constitutional amendment allowing companies accepting bets to deduct the cost of promotional and other expenses.&nbsp;The 16 licensed operators provided customers more than $125 million in free bets and other promotional benefits. As a result, most showed a negative result and deductions exceeded net revenue by $20 million.The gaming commission received nearly $7.5 million from initial license fees paid for the 16 retail and online licenses. Two companies, DraftKings and Circa Sports, are online-only licenses, while the other 14 are either in casinos, at major sports venues or online platforms partnering with a major sports team.The net to the state was $521,200, or less than one-one-hundredth of 1% of the total wagered.“The license-fee total reflects the fact that a majority of the licenses issued at launch are five-year licenses,” Mike Leara, executive director of the gaming commission, said in a news release. “These figures also reflect a market in its early stages, including the impact of significant promotional deductions that are customary during initial rollout.”The commission anticipates using 9% of the licensing fees for administration, and the remainder will be transferred to the&nbsp;Compulsive Gaming Prevention Fund. Most of that is a one-time infusion of money because the major licenses have a five-year life, Leara said in an interview with The Independent.The result is encouraging despite the small total for tax revenue, Leara said. The structure of the constitutional amendment meant that small returns are likely during the opening months, he said.“When we finally get through some of this early start up costs, we’ll see money,” he said.The promotional offers will diminish and bettors will settle into patterns as the market matures, he said.“In six months, we’re going to have a better gage of what to expect on the month to month basis, and I think that it will increase these numbers,” Leara said.State Rep. Dirk Deaton, a Republican from Noel who chairs the House Budget Committee, called the revenue report “sad” and said it was what he expected from an initiative written by the online sports betting companies.“We might as well have just made them tax free at this point,” Deaton said.The&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/01/12/st-louis-cardinals-lead-missouris-major-teams-to-launch-initiative-on-sports-betting/">initiative campaign was launched</a>&nbsp;after lawmakers tried for several years, and failed, to write a bill authorizing sports wagering.&nbsp;“In the General Assembly, we ought to look ourselves in the mirror,” he said. “It’s probably another example of something which we should have figured out and put a better framework in place.”The tax on the net revenue of sports wagering platforms is 10%, less than half of the 21% tax on net receipts for the state’s 13 licensed casinos. During December, the casinos&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mgc.dps.mo.gov/Casino_Gaming/rb_financials/FY26_FinReport/12_Dec/WEB1225.pdf" target="_blank">paid $36.2 million in taxes</a>&nbsp;on net winnings of $172.4 million.Leara said he agreed that the low tax revenue is due to lawmakers failing to pass sports wagering legislation.“This could have been much different,” Leara said. “The tax rate could have been higher and the deductions would have likely, absolutely, been less.”Under the Missouri Constitution, most tax revenue from gambling is&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=III++++39(d)&amp;bid=31793&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">dedicated to public schools and higher education</a>. Casinos paid $363 million in taxes in the fiscal year that ended June 30 and the Missouri Lottery provided about $337 million.The 2024 initiative campaign, organized by the state’s professional sports teams and paid for by DraftKings and FanDuel, two of the major online sports books, cost $43 million. An opposition campaign, financed by Caesars Entertainment, owners of three casinos in Missouri, spent $15 million.During the campaign to pass sports wagering, voters were told it would be a windfall to education, allowing increased teacher pay and other benefits for public schools.&nbsp;“It doesn’t necessarily match the commercials that got this passed, does it,” said state Sen. Rusty Black, a Republican from Chillicothe who chairs the Senate Appropriations Committee.Black, who was a teacher before becoming a legislator, said in an interview with The Independent he is not sure when any of the promised benefits for education will be realized.“Sports gaming will probably provide $100 million to education total, as long as I don’t die in the next 10 years,” Black said.Only DraftKings, however, won one of the two licenses that went to online platforms that are not linked to one of the state’s casinos or major league sports teams.&nbsp;DraftKings captured nearly 40% of the market, booking $195 million in bets but showing a negative net result after paying out $163 million in winnings and giving bettors $48.5 million in promotional and other benefits. DraftKings paid no tax and had $16 million in deductions carried over into January.&nbsp;Circa Sports, the other “untethered” licensee, handled only $1.4 million in wagers and showed $1.3 million in deductions. Circa Sports paid $11,739 in tax.FanDuel won a license from the Missouri Gaming Commission by partnering with St. Louis City, a Major League Soccer team. FanDuel booked $212 million in wagers but also showed a net negative result, with $166 million paid out in winnings and $53 million in deductions for promotional benefits. The company paid no tax and carries over $7 million in deductions to January.The $543 million handle shows that the launch of sports betting in Missouri was successful, said Jack Cardetti, spokesman for the Sports Betting Alliance.“We applaud the Missouri Gaming Commission for its hard work to ensure a smooth and successful launch,” Cardetti said in a prepared statement, “and we’ve received overwhelmingly positive feedback from Missourians who are impressed with the tools and resources available to help them monitor their play, protect their data and provide the security they feel in placing legal, regulated bets, while keeping their dollars in Missouri.”’In a separate statement, Cardetti said the small return to the state was an expected result of the promotional deductions in the amendment.“Like in most states, permanent, dedicated tax revenues for education will grow significantly over time after starting small in the initial months of a new sports betting program, due to investing in marketing efforts to migrate bettors out of illegal and unregulated settings toward state-licensed operators,” Cardetti said. “Missouri’s sports betting law anticipated this transition period and required millions in up front licensing fees, with nearly $7.5 million in fees already paid to the state.”The fiscal estimates for the initiative showed revenue could be as little as nothing or as much as $28.9 million a year.State Rep. Betsy Fogle, ranking Democrat on the House Budget Committee, said she expected more money, even with the heavy advertising of promotions to lure customers.“I guess it’s not super surprising to me that we haven’t seen real dollars work their way into our revenue streams yet, and I would anticipate that those would increase as those promotionals have gone away,” she said.In Kansas, where the tax and deduction allowances are similar to Missouri, operators paid taxes that were&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/25/repub/kansas-legislators-look-for-bigger-payout-from-sportsbooks-with-contracts-set-to-expire/">less than 1% of $2.7 billion</a>&nbsp;in bets in the past fiscal year. Lawmakers in Kansas are considering whether to change the tax structure to capture more of the revenue. A similar move is much harder in Missouri because it would require another statewide vote to change the constitution.&nbsp;“Because sports wagering was adopted through a voter-approved constitutional amendment, core elements such as the tax structure and allowable deductions cannot simply be adjusted by the General Assembly,” Black said in a statement.Gambling alone cannot pay for public schools or higher education, Deaton said“There’s no taxation structure in which that would ever be the case, or could be, unless we just were spending significantly less,” he said.When education will see any money from sports wagering is uncertain. The amendment included a carve-out, setting aside the first $5 million in annual tax revenue for the Compulsive Gaming Prevention Fund.Fogle, who said she voted for the amendment because she wanted to place bets, said she doubted during the campaign that education would see any significant benefits.“I thought it was disingenuous,” Fogle said, “and I recommended people not vote for it because of the promises for education.”

Missouri sports betting tops $543M in first month but deductions leave state with only $521K

Two petitions pertaining to Missouri’s public education system won appeals in cases that began with ‘misleading’ ballot titles

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

Missouri’s Western District Court of Appeals unanimously tossed out part of Secretary of State Denny Hoskins’s ballot language on Thursday for an initiative petition that would bar state funding of private education.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Opinion.PDF?courtCode=WA&amp;di=510766" target="_blank">decision</a>, written by Judge Douglas Thomson, says that Hoskins’s summary statement was “misleading” because of a bullet point that says the petition would “eliminate existing programs that provide direct aid to students with special education needs.” The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Ex.%20A%20-%202026-071%201.PDF?courtCode=19&amp;di=3650864" target="_blank">petition</a>, filed by attorney Duane Martin with public education law firm EdCounsel, expressly allows public aid to private entities to educate students with disabilities.

“The failure to account for the disability exception in bullet point two — and instead state that special education programs would be eliminated — is insufficient and unfair,” Thomson wrote.

Hoskins, presumably, was referring to the state’s voucher program, MOScholars. The program pays for school tuition for students with and without disabilities, though those who need learning accommodations receive priority and an increased scholarship amount.

The petition seeks to dramatically restrict MOScholars by barring the state from funding scholarships for nondisabled students. Martin told The Independent in August that he views state funding of private school vouchers as a threat to public education.

“We’re watching the statewide elected officials from Missouri slowly dismantle public schools, this public school system that Missourians have built,” he said.

The court revised the ballot language to say the petition would “eliminate certain expenditures that provide direct or indirect aid to students for their educational needs by prohibiting the use of public funds for educational services provided by nonpublic schools, except for services provided to disabled students.”

The decision comes a week after the Missouri Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/23/missouri-supreme-court-strikes-down-law-on-ballot-title-cases-special-appeal-power-for-ag/">tossed out a law</a>&nbsp;passed last year that would have allowed Hoskins to rewrite ballot titles three times before a judge could remedy the language.

The Secretary of State’s Office declined to comment, saying it “does not comment on active litigation.”

A second pro-public-education&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Exhibit%20A.PDF?courtCode=19&amp;di=3646146" target="_blank">petition</a>&nbsp;is making its way through the courts, securing a win Thursday over a parent and voucher advocate who sought to intervene in the case.

The Missouri Right to Education Initiative seeks to label education a fundamental right in the State Constitution, charging the government with “maintaining adequate, thorough and uniform high quality free public schools.”

Spencer Toder, who filed the petition, told The Independent that the initiative is not aimed at changing MOScholars.

“Our intent is not to get involved in the voucher dialog,” he said in August. “It is to ensure that no matter if vouchers exist, it doesn’t come at the expense of public school students’ quality of education.”

But the ballot language from Hoskins’s office said the petition would eliminate the voucher program. Toder challenged the summary in Cole County Circuit Court, where Judge Chris Limbaugh ordered Hoskins to rewrite part of the summary twice.

In that case, Becki Uccello intervened as a mother of a disabled student who receives MOScholars funds and an advocate with the American Federation for Children, which pushes for vouchers and similar programs nationwide. She sought to defend Hoskins’s original summary statement.

The initiative, if approved by voters, would be used in court to challenge the voucher program, her attorneys wrote in an appeal of Limbaugh’s decision.

But Uccello had no right to appeal, Toder’s attorney, Heidi Vollet, argued.

The Western District Court of Appeals threw out Uccello’s arguments, saying she lacked standing to defend the Secretary of State’s ballot language.

Private parties only have a right to challenge ballot titles, not defend them, the court said in a unanimous&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Opinion.PDF?courtCode=WA&amp;di=510768" target="_blank">decision</a>&nbsp;written by Judge Gary Witt.

“Since Uccello’s grounds for intervention were to advocate for the same language that was proposed by the secretary initially, and which the secretary was defending on the same grounds, she has not established that she has any defense beyond the secretary, as party defendant,” wrote Witt.

Alix Cossette, an attorney with Stinson LLP who represented Uccello, told The Independent that Thursday’s decision carries ramifications for future ballot title cases.

“This is going to affect how people challenge or defend the secretary’s language,” she said. “If you want to defend what the secretary is doing, you are going to have to let the secretary just do that.”

In a footnote, Witt clarifies that individuals can intervene on ballot title cases when they oppose the secretary’s proposed language, writing: “The rule cannot be that if a petitioner friendly to the secretary’s summary files a specious challenge, a citizen with legitimate complaints as to the fairness and sufficiency of the proposed ballot summary cannot intervene to raise those legitimate challenges.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760837142430.png" alt="Sue Gibson, a volunteer with Respect Missouri Voters, collects signatures during the No Kings demonstration at the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City on Saturday. Respect Missouri Voters is the intiative petition campaign for a constitutional amendment that would make it harder for the General Assembly to overturn citizen-led ballot measures (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>Sue Gibson, a volunteer with Respect Missouri Voters, collects signatures during the No Kings demonstration at the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City on Saturday. Respect Missouri Voters is the intiative petition campaign for a constitutional amendment that would make it harder for the General Assembly to overturn citizen-led ballot measures (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Two petitions pertaining to Missouri’s public education system won appeals in cases that began with ‘misleading’ ballot titles</h2>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ahanshaw/">Annelise Hanshaw</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Missouri’s Western District Court of Appeals unanimously tossed out part of Secretary of State Denny Hoskins’s ballot language on Thursday for an initiative petition that would bar state funding of private education.The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Opinion.PDF?courtCode=WA&amp;di=510766" target="_blank">decision</a>, written by Judge Douglas Thomson, says that Hoskins’s summary statement was “misleading” because of a bullet point that says the petition would “eliminate existing programs that provide direct aid to students with special education needs.” The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Ex.%20A%20-%202026-071%201.PDF?courtCode=19&amp;di=3650864" target="_blank">petition</a>, filed by attorney Duane Martin with public education law firm EdCounsel, expressly allows public aid to private entities to educate students with disabilities.“The failure to account for the disability exception in bullet point two — and instead state that special education programs would be eliminated — is insufficient and unfair,” Thomson wrote.Hoskins, presumably, was referring to the state’s voucher program, MOScholars. The program pays for school tuition for students with and without disabilities, though those who need learning accommodations receive priority and an increased scholarship amount.The petition seeks to dramatically restrict MOScholars by barring the state from funding scholarships for nondisabled students. Martin told The Independent in August that he views state funding of private school vouchers as a threat to public education.“We’re watching the statewide elected officials from Missouri slowly dismantle public schools, this public school system that Missourians have built,” he said.The court revised the ballot language to say the petition would “eliminate certain expenditures that provide direct or indirect aid to students for their educational needs by prohibiting the use of public funds for educational services provided by nonpublic schools, except for services provided to disabled students.”The decision comes a week after the Missouri Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/23/missouri-supreme-court-strikes-down-law-on-ballot-title-cases-special-appeal-power-for-ag/">tossed out a law</a>&nbsp;passed last year that would have allowed Hoskins to rewrite ballot titles three times before a judge could remedy the language.The Secretary of State’s Office declined to comment, saying it “does not comment on active litigation.”<h2>Missouri Right to Education Initiative</h2>A second pro-public-education&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Exhibit%20A.PDF?courtCode=19&amp;di=3646146" target="_blank">petition</a>&nbsp;is making its way through the courts, securing a win Thursday over a parent and voucher advocate who sought to intervene in the case.The Missouri Right to Education Initiative seeks to label education a fundamental right in the State Constitution, charging the government with “maintaining adequate, thorough and uniform high quality free public schools.”Spencer Toder, who filed the petition, told The Independent that the initiative is not aimed at changing MOScholars.“Our intent is not to get involved in the voucher dialog,” he said in August. “It is to ensure that no matter if vouchers exist, it doesn’t come at the expense of public school students’ quality of education.”But the ballot language from Hoskins’s office said the petition would eliminate the voucher program. Toder challenged the summary in Cole County Circuit Court, where Judge Chris Limbaugh ordered Hoskins to rewrite part of the summary twice.In that case, Becki Uccello intervened as a mother of a disabled student who receives MOScholars funds and an advocate with the American Federation for Children, which pushes for vouchers and similar programs nationwide. She sought to defend Hoskins’s original summary statement.The initiative, if approved by voters, would be used in court to challenge the voucher program, her attorneys wrote in an appeal of Limbaugh’s decision.But Uccello had no right to appeal, Toder’s attorney, Heidi Vollet, argued.The Western District Court of Appeals threw out Uccello’s arguments, saying she lacked standing to defend the Secretary of State’s ballot language.Private parties only have a right to challenge ballot titles, not defend them, the court said in a unanimous&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Opinion.PDF?courtCode=WA&amp;di=510768" target="_blank">decision</a>&nbsp;written by Judge Gary Witt.“Since Uccello’s grounds for intervention were to advocate for the same language that was proposed by the secretary initially, and which the secretary was defending on the same grounds, she has not established that she has any defense beyond the secretary, as party defendant,” wrote Witt.Alix Cossette, an attorney with Stinson LLP who represented Uccello, told The Independent that Thursday’s decision carries ramifications for future ballot title cases.“This is going to affect how people challenge or defend the secretary’s language,” she said. “If you want to defend what the secretary is doing, you are going to have to let the secretary just do that.”In a footnote, Witt clarifies that individuals can intervene on ballot title cases when they oppose the secretary’s proposed language, writing: “The rule cannot be that if a petitioner friendly to the secretary’s summary files a specious challenge, a citizen with legitimate complaints as to the fairness and sufficiency of the proposed ballot summary cannot intervene to raise those legitimate challenges.”

Missouri appeals court rejects Secretary of State’s ballot language on private school funding ban

Savannah is a contender for the Missouri Humanities’ "Small Town Showcase," a program highlighting local history and culture through podcasts and short films.

In recognition of the United States’ semiquincentennial in 2026, the population limit for applicant towns has been increased to 25,000.

Savannah is one of 16 Missouri towns up for consideration.

Organizers are discussing potential expansions or modifications to the showcase format, though the series is expected to maintain its current structure and production flow.

The public can vote on the current nominees and listen to stories from previously featured towns at <a href="https://mohumanities.org/small-town-showcase/">mohumanities.org/small-town-showcase.</a>

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768245306368.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHSavannah is a contender for the Missouri Humanities’ "Small Town Showcase," a program highlighting local history and culture through podcasts and short films.In recognition of the United States’ semiquincentennial in 2026, the population limit for applicant towns has been increased to 25,000.Savannah is one of 16 Missouri towns up for consideration.Organizers are discussing potential expansions or modifications to the showcase format, though the series is expected to maintain its current structure and production flow.The public can vote on the current nominees and listen to stories from previously featured towns at <a href="https://mohumanities.org/small-town-showcase/">mohumanities.org/small-town-showcase.</a>

Savannah competes for spot in Missouri Humanities’ Small Town Showcase

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

Maryville High School-1429 S. Munn (1-30-26) Follow-up: No recommendations.

Maryville Middle School-525 W. South Hills Drive (1-30-26) Follow-up: No recommendations.

Casey's #2169-1520 N. Main (1-29-26) Non-Critical:

Daylight Donuts-624 S. Main (1-29-26) Critical:

Casey's #3786-1925 S. Main (1-28-26) Non-Critical:

BreakTime-1517 E 1st (1-28-26) No Recommendations.

Eugene Field Elementary-418 E. 2nd (1-28-26) Critical:

Maryville High School-1429 S. Munn (1-27-26) Critical:

Maryville Middle School-525 W. South Hills Drive (1-27-26) Critical:

Señor Burrito-121 S. Main (1-23-26) Non-Critical:

Simply Siam-314 N. Main (1-22-26) Critical:

Plot Twist Cafe-215 W. 5th (1-20-26) Notes:

Jefferson C-123-37614 US Hwy 136, Conception Junction (1-16-26) No Recommendations.

Dairy Queen-1912 S. Main (1-15-26) Non-Critical:

Nodaway-Holt R-7-318 S. Taylor, Graham (1-14-26) No recommendations.

Kentucky Fried Chicken-1622 S. Main (1-6-26) Non-Critical:

A&amp;G Restaurant-208 N. Main (1-5-26) Non-Critical:

The following are health inspections in Nodaway County. Inspections are released monthly.Note that COS means corrected on site.Maryville High School-1429 S. Munn (1-30-26) Follow-up: No recommendations.Maryville Middle School-525 W. South Hills Drive (1-30-26) Follow-up: No recommendations.Casey's #2169-1520 N. Main (1-29-26) Non-Critical:<ul>
 <li>Dumpsters overflowing, lids unable to close.</li>
 </ul>Daylight Donuts-624 S. Main (1-29-26) Critical:<ul>
 <li>Kolaches, burritos, &amp; sausage sandwiches left in display case too long.</li>
 </ul>Non-Critical:<ul>
 <li>Wooden backsplash needs to be sealed or painted.</li><li>Restroom trash can needs to have a lid.</li>
 </ul>Casey's #3786-1925 S. Main (1-28-26) Non-Critical:<ul>
 <li>Fly strip over dough area- okay to use elsewhere.</li>
 </ul>BreakTime-1517 E 1st (1-28-26) No Recommendations.Eugene Field Elementary-418 E. 2nd (1-28-26) Critical:<ul>
 <li>Open milk coolers not holding milk at 41° or below while open. Limit open time.</li>
 </ul>Maryville High School-1429 S. Munn (1-27-26) Critical:<ul>
 <li>Teacher's salad bar-some items not held at 41° or lower.</li>
 </ul>Non-Critical:<ul>
 <li>Boxes of food on floor in walk-in freezer.</li><li>Microwave Dirty- COS.</li>
 </ul>Maryville Middle School-525 W. South Hills Drive (1-27-26) Critical:<ul>
 <li>Hot food not held at 135° or more.</li><li>Cold food not held at 41° or below.</li>
 </ul>Señor Burrito-121 S. Main (1-23-26) Non-Critical:<ul>
 <li>Bad door gaskets in service line, prep table.</li><li>Aluminum foil lining several kitchen shelves.</li><li>Peeling paint on wall outside men's room.</li><li>Ceiling dusty above 3-door refrigerator and freezer.</li><li>South-side exit door-bad gasket, poor seal.</li>
 </ul>Simply Siam-314 N. Main (1-22-26) Critical:<ul>
 <li>Unlabeled spray bottles.</li>
 </ul>Non-Critical:<ul>
 <li>Flooring in disrepair throughout, extra attention needed to cleaning along edges and under equipment.</li>
 </ul>Plot Twist Cafe-215 W. 5th (1-20-26) Notes:<ul>
 <li>Needs hand washing signage. </li><li>No thermometer in refrigerator.</li><li>Ice maker not yet installed</li><li>Drainage discussed.</li>
 </ul>Jefferson C-123-37614 US Hwy 136, Conception Junction (1-16-26) No Recommendations.Dairy Queen-1912 S. Main (1-15-26) Non-Critical:<ul>
 <li>Food &amp; food items stored on floors- spoons and pineapple topping in storeroom, Chicken tenders and lemonade in walk-in freezer.</li><li>Excessive frost in freezer by grill.</li><li>Vent hood needs cleaning.</li><li>Odors in women's room.</li>
 </ul>Nodaway-Holt R-7-318 S. Taylor, Graham (1-14-26) No recommendations.Kentucky Fried Chicken-1622 S. Main (1-6-26) Non-Critical:<ul>
 <li>Front counter- peeling contact paper.</li><li>Microwaves need cleaning.</li>
 </ul>A&amp;G Restaurant-208 N. Main (1-5-26) Non-Critical:<ul>
 <li>Some ingredient tubs labels worn-off.</li><li>General cleaning needed on walls, around legs of equipment.</li>
 </ul>

Nodaway County Health Inspections (January 2026)

Northwest Missouri State University is expanding its online graduate portfolio with three new programs aimed at addressing critical workforce shortages in Missouri schools and community organizations.

The university is partnering with education technology company Risepoint to launch a graduate certificate in therapeutic recreation, along with district-level certificates for central office/special education directors and central office/superintendents.

The expansion comes as Missouri face significant staffing pressures. According to a recent analysis by the Hunt Institute, 43% of Missouri schools report at least one vacancy in special education, making it the most difficult certification area to staff in the state.

“These programs allow us to extend our impact and strengthen how we serve the communities that rely on Northwest for prepared educators and professionals,” said Greg Haddock, Northwest’s associate provost of graduate, international and online learning.

The university’s School of Education consistently reports full employment for its graduates. By moving these specialized certifications online, Northwest aims to provide flexible pathways for working professionals to transition into leadership and high-need specialist roles.

Fernando Bleichmar, CEO of Risepoint, said the partnership is designed to remove barriers for adult learners.

"Northwest Missouri State has a powerful legacy of impact," Bleichmar said. "We are proud to expand our partnership as the university creates more accessible pathways that support local schools."

All courses in the new programs are taught by Northwest faculty. The university currently maintains a network of more than 80,000 alumni.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1567579590579.jpeg" alt="Northwest Missouri State University logo" />
 <figcaption>Northwest Missouri State University logo</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHNorthwest Missouri State University is expanding its online graduate portfolio with three new programs aimed at addressing critical workforce shortages in Missouri schools and community organizations.The university is partnering with education technology company Risepoint to launch a graduate certificate in therapeutic recreation, along with district-level certificates for central office/special education directors and central office/superintendents.The expansion comes as Missouri face significant staffing pressures. According to a recent analysis by the Hunt Institute, 43% of Missouri schools report at least one vacancy in special education, making it the most difficult certification area to staff in the state.“These programs allow us to extend our impact and strengthen how we serve the communities that rely on Northwest for prepared educators and professionals,” said Greg Haddock, Northwest’s associate provost of graduate, international and online learning.The university’s School of Education consistently reports full employment for its graduates. By moving these specialized certifications online, Northwest aims to provide flexible pathways for working professionals to transition into leadership and high-need specialist roles.Fernando Bleichmar, CEO of Risepoint, said the partnership is designed to remove barriers for adult learners."Northwest Missouri State has a powerful legacy of impact," Bleichmar said. "We are proud to expand our partnership as the university creates more accessible pathways that support local schools."All courses in the new programs are taught by Northwest faculty. The university currently maintains a network of more than 80,000 alumni.

Northwest Missouri State adds three online graduate programs

Missouri gasoline prices have plateaued following a significant winter storm, with the statewide average for regular unleaded fuel holding steady at $2.49 per gallon. 

According to the latest data from AAA, this price reflects a flat trend from the previous week, though it remains a welcome 37 cents lower than the average seen this time last year.

In St. Joseph, local motorists are finding even better relief at the pump, where the average price has dropped to $2.37 per gallon. This is a notable decrease from the $2.71 average residents were paying a year ago, keeping St. Joseph among the most affordable areas in the state for fuel.

By contrast, major metropolitan areas are seeing slightly higher costs. In Kansas City, prices are averaging roughly $2.44, while St. Louis motorists are paying the state’s highest rates at $2.63 per gallon.

Industry experts attribute the recent pause in falling prices to the aftermath of "Winter Storm Fern," which hampered refinery operations and caused a slight uptick in crude oil prices. Despite these disruptions, Missouri continues to boast some of the lowest fuel costs in the country, well below the current national average of $2.87.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736526635178.png" alt="gas fuel pumps unsplash" />
 <figcaption>gas fuel pumps unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHMissouri gasoline prices have plateaued following a significant winter storm, with the statewide average for regular unleaded fuel holding steady at $2.49 per gallon. According to the latest data from AAA, this price reflects a flat trend from the previous week, though it remains a welcome 37 cents lower than the average seen this time last year.In St. Joseph, local motorists are finding even better relief at the pump, where the average price has dropped to $2.37 per gallon. This is a notable decrease from the $2.71 average residents were paying a year ago, keeping St. Joseph among the most affordable areas in the state for fuel.By contrast, major metropolitan areas are seeing slightly higher costs. In Kansas City, prices are averaging roughly $2.44, while St. Louis motorists are paying the state’s highest rates at $2.63 per gallon.Industry experts attribute the recent pause in falling prices to the aftermath of "Winter Storm Fern," which hampered refinery operations and caused a slight uptick in crude oil prices. Despite these disruptions, Missouri continues to boast some of the lowest fuel costs in the country, well below the current national average of $2.87.

Missouri gas prices plateau following winter storm; St. Joseph averages $2.37

A Sinaloa, Mexico, man was sentenced in federal court Tuesday to 20 years in prison without parole for his leadership role in a multi-state fentanyl distribution and money laundering conspiracy, according to the United State's Attorney.

Raymundo Guadalupe Felix-Perez, 34, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark. In addition to his prison term, the judge ordered five years of supervised release and a money judgment of $80,000.

Felix-Perez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute more than 400 grams of fentanyl and conspiracy to commit money laundering. The drug trafficking operation spanned from October 2020 to January 2023.

According to court documents, Felix-Perez began selling "M30" fentanyl pills to a co-conspirator in the Western District of Missouri in late 2020. Even after returning to Mexico prior to his indictment, Felix-Perez continued to coordinate the distribution of fentanyl to associates in Missouri, Iowa, Arizona, and Idaho.

Federal authorities arrested Felix-Perez on June 30, 2024, as he attempted to enter the United States through the Southern District of California.

Felix-Perez was the final defendant to be sentenced in a sweeping investigation that initially charged Troy Lee Palmer and Dallas W. Hughs. Other members of the conspiracy previously sentenced include:

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; Grundy County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office; Trenton, Missouri, Police Department; Northwest Missouri Drug Task Force; U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; Federal Bureau of Investigation;  Buchanan County, Missouri Drug Strike Force; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Mercer County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office; Kansas City, Missouri Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; and the Internal Revenue Service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657637560252.jpeg" alt="According to court documents, Felix-Perez began selling "M30" fentanyl pills to a co-conspirator in the Western District of Missouri in late 2020.-Photo DEA" />
 <figcaption>According to court documents, Felix-Perez began selling "M30" fentanyl pills to a co-conspirator in the Western District of Missouri in late 2020.-Photo DEA</figcaption>
 </figure>A Sinaloa, Mexico, man was sentenced in federal court Tuesday to 20 years in prison without parole for his leadership role in a multi-state fentanyl distribution and money laundering conspiracy, according to the United State's Attorney.Raymundo Guadalupe Felix-Perez, 34, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark. In addition to his prison term, the judge ordered five years of supervised release and a money judgment of $80,000.Felix-Perez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute more than 400 grams of fentanyl and conspiracy to commit money laundering. The drug trafficking operation spanned from October 2020 to January 2023.According to court documents, Felix-Perez began selling "M30" fentanyl pills to a co-conspirator in the Western District of Missouri in late 2020. Even after returning to Mexico prior to his indictment, Felix-Perez continued to coordinate the distribution of fentanyl to associates in Missouri, Iowa, Arizona, and Idaho.Federal authorities arrested Felix-Perez on June 30, 2024, as he attempted to enter the United States through the Southern District of California.Felix-Perez was the final defendant to be sentenced in a sweeping investigation that initially charged Troy Lee Palmer and Dallas W. Hughs. Other members of the conspiracy previously sentenced include:<ul>
 <li>Craig Troester</li><li>Dakota Morris</li><li>Cassidie Bumgarner</li><li>Lucas Coltrain</li><li>Jessica Moody</li><li>Joshua Stramel</li><li>Kaden Bernard</li>
 </ul>The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; Grundy County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office; Trenton, Missouri, Police Department; Northwest Missouri Drug Task Force; U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; Federal Bureau of Investigation; Buchanan County, Missouri Drug Strike Force; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Mercer County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office; Kansas City, Missouri Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; and the Internal Revenue Service.

Mexican man sentenced for multi-state fentanyl, money laundering conspiracy

ATCHISON COUNTY —One&nbsp; person died in an accident just after 10:30p.m. Thursday in Atchison County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Ford F150 driven by Dustin B.&nbsp;Saunders, 32, Troy, was northbound on Kansas 7 Highway just north of 318th. The pickup traveled off&nbsp; the roadway to the right and struck a tree. After impact, the pickup spun around and came to a rest in the East ditch of the highway.

Saunders was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Frontier Forensics. He was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

ATCHISON COUNTY —One&nbsp; person died in an accident just after 10:30p.m. Thursday in Atchison County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Ford F150 driven by Dustin B.&nbsp;Saunders, 32, Troy, was northbound on Kansas 7 Highway just north of 318th. The pickup traveled off&nbsp; the roadway to the right and struck a tree. After impact, the pickup spun around and came to a rest in the East ditch of the highway.Saunders was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Frontier Forensics. He was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after pickup strikes a tree

(Radio Iowa) - Administrators at a southwest Iowa school are promoting literacy in a new way. 

A book vending machine is now installed in the media center at Clarinda's Pre-K-6 Building. Clarinda Elementary Principal Lesley Ehlers says she worked with a local vending company to get the machine donated. It has slots for 20 different books and is inscribed on the side with the district's literacy motto, "Readers are Leaders." Ehlers says the school librarian selected and purchased the books using a grant of 27-hundred-50 dollars from the school's Cardinal Fund. 

Ehlers says they'll start making the books available through the machine to 6th graders this semester, with hopes to expand the machine's availability to other elementary grades in the future.

(Radio Iowa) - Administrators at a southwest Iowa school are promoting literacy in a new way. A book vending machine is now installed in the media center at Clarinda's Pre-K-6 Building. Clarinda Elementary Principal Lesley Ehlers says she worked with a local vending company to get the machine donated. It has slots for 20 different books and is inscribed on the side with the district's literacy motto, "Readers are Leaders." Ehlers says the school librarian selected and purchased the books using a grant of 27-hundred-50 dollars from the school's Cardinal Fund. Ehlers says they'll start making the books available through the machine to 6th graders this semester, with hopes to expand the machine's availability to other elementary grades in the future.

Clarinda school finds novel way to get kids to read

CLINTON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 6a.m. Thursday in Clinton County.&nbsp;

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Toyota Highlander driven by a 22-year-old Lawson man was westbound on Route PP one mile west of U.S. 69 three miles northwest of Lawson.&nbsp; The SUV traveled into the path of a 2022 Freighliner trash truck driven by a 30-year-old Independence, Missouri woman in the eastbound lane. The vehicles collided head-on. The impact pushed the Toyota into the path of a westbound 2017 GMC Sierra van driven by a 26-year-old Lawson man. The van rear-ended the SUV.&nbsp;

The SUV driver was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp; Holt ambulance transported the 30-year-old trash truck driver and her 38-year-old male passenger to Liberty Hospital.&nbsp; The 26-year-old van driver was transported to Truman Medical Center. The MSHP had incomplete seat belt usage details. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

CLINTON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 6a.m. Thursday in Clinton County.&nbsp; The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Toyota Highlander driven by a 22-year-old Lawson man was westbound on Route PP one mile west of U.S. 69 three miles northwest of Lawson.&nbsp; The SUV traveled into the path of a 2022 Freighliner trash truck driven by a 30-year-old Independence, Missouri woman in the eastbound lane. The vehicles collided head-on. The impact pushed the Toyota into the path of a westbound 2017 GMC Sierra van driven by a 26-year-old Lawson man. The van rear-ended the SUV.&nbsp;The SUV driver was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp; Holt ambulance transported the 30-year-old trash truck driver and her 38-year-old male passenger to Liberty Hospital.&nbsp; The 26-year-old van driver was transported to Truman Medical Center. The MSHP had incomplete seat belt usage details. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Missouri man killed after head-on crash with a trash truck

A 43-year old Guatemalan national living in northwest Missouri has pleaded guilty to using another man’s identity for over a decade to live and work in the United States. 

Romeo Perez-Bravo admitted to aggravated identity theft and illegally re-entering the country after a prior felony conviction. He used the stolen identity to obtain jobs in St. Joseph and multiple Missouri-issued identification cards. 

Perez-Bravo faces a mandatory two-year prison sentence for identity theft and up to 10 years for illegal re-entry, with consecutive sentences required. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after a presentence investigation is completed.

A 43-year old Guatemalan national living in northwest Missouri has pleaded guilty to using another man’s identity for over a decade to live and work in the United States. Romeo Perez-Bravo admitted to aggravated identity theft and illegally re-entering the country after a prior felony conviction. He used the stolen identity to obtain jobs in St. Joseph and multiple Missouri-issued identification cards. Perez-Bravo faces a mandatory two-year prison sentence for identity theft and up to 10 years for illegal re-entry, with consecutive sentences required. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after a presentence investigation is completed.

Guatemalan national in NW Missouri pleads guilty to long-term identity theft

ATCHISON COUNTY —The Benedictine sisters in Atchison, Kansas announced they will discontinue active sponsorship of and governing responsibilities over Benedictine College.

In a statement on their website, the Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica, who co-founded Benedictine College more than 50 years ago, said they "discerned a call to focus on their “growing ministries” and care for their “aging community.” The sisters are also continuing to sponsor other local schools."

"We are grateful for the wise women who preceded us and founded Mount St. Scholastica College in 1923 to fulfill our mission to educate women in our Catholic faith and take leadership positions in our society. In 1971, St. Benedict’s College and Mount St. Scholastica College merged and became Benedictine College. The college has continued our legacy of providing a strong academic program and an environment for students to live out their faith."

"We believe that God continues to call our community to educate; to provide spiritual enrichment; and to serve the poor and advocate for them, especially women. Today that call is being manifested through our growing ministries at Keeler Women’s Center and Sophia Spirituality Center. It is also lived out through our care for the sick and elderly in our community and our care for creation."

"We are proud to call ourselves co-founders of Benedictine College, and we will continue to pray for its continued success. Although we are withdrawing from the governing responsibilities related to sponsorship, we will continue to support the college with hospitality at our monastery, collaboration in various college-related programs and activities, and in further developing relationships with students, faculty and staff. We continue to hold our alumni in our hearts and in our prayer as we listen to God’s call."

The school responded saying, 'It is with heavy hearts but with grateful understanding, that we accept the decision of the Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica Monastery to withdraw from the governing responsibilities related to sponsorship of Benedictine College."

"It is not easy to part with an institution that has been so integral to the college’s history for more than a century. The Sisters of the Mount are our courageous co-founders and the authors of some of the most dynamic and impressive chapters in our shared history. Thanks to the sisters, the alumnae that Benedictine College counts as its own include a Nobel Peace Prize laureate in Wangari Maathai; authors, professors, and administrators; generations of inspiring teachers; remarkable musicians and music instructors; and a legacy of leadership in corporal and spiritual works of mercy that has attracted national attention."

":It is impossible to summarize a relationship that has been so rich and multi-dimensional, but the successes of Benedictine College would be unthinkable without the Mount. While the formal, juridical connection between us will end, our close relationship and our friendship in Christ will not. Our message to the Mount St. Scholastica community is this:

"You have prayed and worked side by side with us through wars, pandemics, economic downturns and cultural turmoil as together, with God’s grace, we made this “school in the Lord’s service” a reality in Kansas. You have been our colleagues, our counsellors, our co-workers and our trusted friends, in good times and bad. But above all, you have been our beloved sisters, our family, and nothing will change that. Thank you for your inspiration, and may God bless you on your new chapter."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769722497538.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —The Benedictine sisters in Atchison, Kansas announced they will discontinue active sponsorship of and governing responsibilities over Benedictine College.In a statement on their website, the Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica, who co-founded Benedictine College more than 50 years ago, said they "discerned a call to focus on their “growing ministries” and care for their “aging community.” The sisters are also continuing to sponsor other local schools.""We are grateful for the wise women who preceded us and founded Mount St. Scholastica College in 1923 to fulfill our mission to educate women in our Catholic faith and take leadership positions in our society. In 1971, St. Benedict’s College and Mount St. Scholastica College merged and became Benedictine College. The college has continued our legacy of providing a strong academic program and an environment for students to live out their faith.""We believe that God continues to call our community to educate; to provide spiritual enrichment; and to serve the poor and advocate for them, especially women. Today that call is being manifested through our growing ministries at Keeler Women’s Center and Sophia Spirituality Center. It is also lived out through our care for the sick and elderly in our community and our care for creation.""We are proud to call ourselves co-founders of Benedictine College, and we will continue to pray for its continued success. Although we are withdrawing from the governing responsibilities related to sponsorship, we will continue to support the college with hospitality at our monastery, collaboration in various college-related programs and activities, and in further developing relationships with students, faculty and staff. We continue to hold our alumni in our hearts and in our prayer as we listen to God’s call."The school responded saying, 'It is with heavy hearts but with grateful understanding, that we accept the decision of the Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica Monastery to withdraw from the governing responsibilities related to sponsorship of Benedictine College.""It is not easy to part with an institution that has been so integral to the college’s history for more than a century. The Sisters of the Mount are our courageous co-founders and the authors of some of the most dynamic and impressive chapters in our shared history. Thanks to the sisters, the alumnae that Benedictine College counts as its own include a Nobel Peace Prize laureate in Wangari Maathai; authors, professors, and administrators; generations of inspiring teachers; remarkable musicians and music instructors; and a legacy of leadership in corporal and spiritual works of mercy that has attracted national attention."":It is impossible to summarize a relationship that has been so rich and multi-dimensional, but the successes of Benedictine College would be unthinkable without the Mount. While the formal, juridical connection between us will end, our close relationship and our friendship in Christ will not. Our message to the Mount St. Scholastica community is this:"You have prayed and worked side by side with us through wars, pandemics, economic downturns and cultural turmoil as together, with God’s grace, we made this “school in the Lord’s service” a reality in Kansas. You have been our colleagues, our counsellors, our co-workers and our trusted friends, in good times and bad. But above all, you have been our beloved sisters, our family, and nothing will change that. Thank you for your inspiration, and may God bless you on your new chapter."

Benedictine College, Mount St. Scholastica part ways

Amid several recent fires, the St. Joseph Fire Department has issued a series of safety reminders aimed at preventing home heating fires.

Fire officials noted that while heating is a primary concern during the winter months, cooking incidents remain the leading cause of residential fires. To mitigate these risks, the department recommends that residents always turn off kitchen appliances when leaving the room and keep any combustible items—such as towels, oven mitts, or packaging—well away from active heat sources.

Space heaters and electrical maintenance are also high on the department's priority list. Residents should turn off portable heaters whenever they leave a room or go to sleep. Additionally, the department advises checking all electrical equipment for damaged or frayed cords, which should be replaced immediately to prevent electrical shorts and potential blazes.

The department also emphasized the life-saving importance of early detection. Officials urge every household to ensure that both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are installed and in proper working order, testing them regularly to ensure they can provide an adequate warning in the event of an emergency.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696621093343.jpeg" alt="emergency 911 fire truck pixabay" />
 <figcaption>emergency 911 fire truck pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHAmid several recent fires, the St. Joseph Fire Department has issued a series of safety reminders aimed at preventing home heating fires.Fire officials noted that while heating is a primary concern during the winter months, cooking incidents remain the leading cause of residential fires. To mitigate these risks, the department recommends that residents always turn off kitchen appliances when leaving the room and keep any combustible items—such as towels, oven mitts, or packaging—well away from active heat sources.Space heaters and electrical maintenance are also high on the department's priority list. Residents should turn off portable heaters whenever they leave a room or go to sleep. Additionally, the department advises checking all electrical equipment for damaged or frayed cords, which should be replaced immediately to prevent electrical shorts and potential blazes.The department also emphasized the life-saving importance of early detection. Officials urge every household to ensure that both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are installed and in proper working order, testing them regularly to ensure they can provide an adequate warning in the event of an emergency.

St. Joseph Fire Department issues safety tips

The Missouri Department of Transportation has reopened the Route D Bridge over Shoal Creek in Caldwell County. 

Following a full bridge replacement conducted by Cale Seymour Construction, LLC, the roadway returned to service on Jan. 28.

 The crossing had been closed for construction since March 2025.

<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 SKAITHThe Missouri Department of Transportation has reopened the Route D Bridge over Shoal Creek in Caldwell County. Following a full bridge replacement conducted by Cale Seymour Construction, LLC, the roadway returned to service on Jan. 28. The crossing had been closed for construction since March 2025.

MoDOT reopens Route D Bridge over Shoal Creek following replacement project

Young at Heart Resources, the area agency for aging in northwest Missouri, is launching a program to help make retirement fun, introducing retirees to volunteer opportunities in the region.&nbsp;

The Give 5 Program helps to connect retirees with volunteer opportunities, allowing people to be able to socialize, contribute, and learn new skills as well as be able to share their own lifetime of experiences and meet new people while making a difference in their communities or throughout the region.&nbsp;

Volunteers are currently being recruited in Buchanan, Andrew, Atchison, Holt, Nodaway, and Worth counties for a series of classes that will take place at the Joyce Raye Patterson 50+ Activity Center in St. Joseph.&nbsp; The center is located at 100 S 10th Street.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Four classes will be held throughout March, the first on March 3rd and the final class on March 12th, running from 10am to 2pm each day.&nbsp; A free meal will be provided with each class.&nbsp; At the end of the classes, participants will be able to choose where they would like to volunteer at the end of the two week program.&nbsp; After completing the program, volunteers will give at least five hours or more as a volunteer to officially complete the program.&nbsp;

If you are interested in signing up for the classes, you can contact Young at Heart Resources and the program coordinator Connie Griffith at 660-240-9400.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.)

(By MATT PIKE)Young at Heart Resources, the area agency for aging in northwest Missouri, is launching a program to help make retirement fun, introducing retirees to volunteer opportunities in the region.&nbsp;The Give 5 Program helps to connect retirees with volunteer opportunities, allowing people to be able to socialize, contribute, and learn new skills as well as be able to share their own lifetime of experiences and meet new people while making a difference in their communities or throughout the region.&nbsp;Volunteers are currently being recruited in Buchanan, Andrew, Atchison, Holt, Nodaway, and Worth counties for a series of classes that will take place at the Joyce Raye Patterson 50+ Activity Center in St. Joseph.&nbsp; The center is located at 100 S 10th Street.&nbsp;&nbsp;Four classes will be held throughout March, the first on March 3rd and the final class on March 12th, running from 10am to 2pm each day.&nbsp; A free meal will be provided with each class.&nbsp; At the end of the classes, participants will be able to choose where they would like to volunteer at the end of the two week program.&nbsp; After completing the program, volunteers will give at least five hours or more as a volunteer to officially complete the program.&nbsp;If you are interested in signing up for the classes, you can contact Young at Heart Resources and the program coordinator Connie Griffith at 660-240-9400.&nbsp;&nbsp;(You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.)

Local agency gives retirees volunteer opportunities in northwest Missouri

The North Central Missouri College Foundation has officially opened its General Scholarship Application for the upcoming 2026–2027 academic year. 

Students planning to enroll full-time for the Fall 2026 semester are encouraged to submit their applications through the NCMC website. To receive priority consideration, applicants must submit their materials by Wed., April 1, 2026, at 4:30 p.m.

The foundation has a proven track record of easing the financial burden of higher education. During the previous 2025–2026 academic year, the NCMC Foundation awarded more than $360,000 to over 365 students. These scholarships are made possible by generous donors who are dedicated to making college more accessible for everyone.

The online application is designed for simplicity. By completing just one general application, incoming, returning, and transfer students are automatically matched with every scholarship for which they qualify. Selection criteria vary across different awards but generally include:

Students can apply directly at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncmissouri.edu/foundation/scholarship/">ncmissouri.edu/foundation/scholarship/</a>. Please note that eligibility requires full-time enrollment at any NCMC campus or through their online programs.

Those selected are also invited to attend the annual scholarship reception held each October to celebrate their achievements and connect with the foundation. For any questions regarding the process, contact Kristi Varner, Scholarship Coordinator, at (660) 357-6321 or&nbsp; kvarner@pirates.ncmissouri.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698079440232.jpeg" alt="North Central Missouri College" />
 <figcaption>North Central Missouri College</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHThe North Central Missouri College Foundation has officially opened its General Scholarship Application for the upcoming 2026–2027 academic year. Students planning to enroll full-time for the Fall 2026 semester are encouraged to submit their applications through the NCMC website. To receive priority consideration, applicants must submit their materials by Wed., April 1, 2026, at 4:30 p.m.The foundation has a proven track record of easing the financial burden of higher education. During the previous 2025–2026 academic year, the NCMC Foundation awarded more than $360,000 to over 365 students. These scholarships are made possible by generous donors who are dedicated to making college more accessible for everyone.The online application is designed for simplicity. By completing just one general application, incoming, returning, and transfer students are automatically matched with every scholarship for which they qualify. Selection criteria vary across different awards but generally include:<ul>
 <li>Academic achievement</li><li>Financial need</li><li>Specific career programs or fields of study</li><li>A required personal essay</li>
 </ul>Students can apply directly at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncmissouri.edu/foundation/scholarship/">ncmissouri.edu/foundation/scholarship/</a>. Please note that eligibility requires full-time enrollment at any NCMC campus or through their online programs.Those selected are also invited to attend the annual scholarship reception held each October to celebrate their achievements and connect with the foundation. For any questions regarding the process, contact Kristi Varner, Scholarship Coordinator, at (660) 357-6321 or&nbsp; kvarner@pirates.ncmissouri.edu.

NCMC Foundation opens 2026–2027 scholarship applications

A Dekalb County woman recently claimed a $100,000 top prize from a Missouri Lottery scratch-off ticket after a stroke of luck led her to double-check her results. 

The winning ticket was sold at SBJ Fuels, located at 1202 N. Walnut St. in Cameron.

The windfall was nearly missed, as the player did not initially notice a matching number while scratching the ticket. It was only after she used the Missouri Lottery app to scan the ticket that she realized she had actually won the game’s top prize.

The winner traveled to the Missouri Lottery regional office in Kansas City to officially claim her winnings on Jan. 20.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577042647160.png" alt="Missouri Lottery" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Lottery</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHA Dekalb County woman recently claimed a $100,000 top prize from a Missouri Lottery scratch-off ticket after a stroke of luck led her to double-check her results. The winning ticket was sold at SBJ Fuels, located at 1202 N. Walnut St. in Cameron.The windfall was nearly missed, as the player did not initially notice a matching number while scratching the ticket. It was only after she used the Missouri Lottery app to scan the ticket that she realized she had actually won the game’s top prize.The winner traveled to the Missouri Lottery regional office in Kansas City to officially claim her winnings on Jan. 20.

Cameron gas station sells $100,000 winning Missouri Lottery ticket

Authorities are investigating a fatal residential explosion and fire that occurred Wednesday evening in the 300 block of East Meadow Street in Smithville.

The Platte County Dispatch Center received reports of an explosion and structure fire at approximately 6:20 p.m. Reports indicate Smithville Police officers arrived on the scene within two minutes to find the residence fully engulfed in flames.

Fire crews from the Smithville Area Fire Protection District led the response, supported by mutual aid from the Kearney, Central Platte, Camden Point, and Edgerton-Trimble fire districts. The Northland Regional Ambulance District (NRAD) also provided assistance at the scene.

During the firefighting efforts, crews discovered one deceased individual inside the home. Officials stated that no other victims are believed to be involved at this time.

Utility providers Spire Gas and Evergy were called to the location to manage utility hazards. Firefighters remained on-site to extinguish remaining hot spots and secure the area.

The scene will be turned over to the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office for a formal investigation into the cause of the blast. No further details have been released at this time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769698682800.png" alt="Photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHAuthorities are investigating a fatal residential explosion and fire that occurred Wednesday evening in the 300 block of East Meadow Street in Smithville.The Platte County Dispatch Center received reports of an explosion and structure fire at approximately 6:20 p.m. Reports indicate Smithville Police officers arrived on the scene within two minutes to find the residence fully engulfed in flames.Fire crews from the Smithville Area Fire Protection District led the response, supported by mutual aid from the Kearney, Central Platte, Camden Point, and Edgerton-Trimble fire districts. The Northland Regional Ambulance District (NRAD) also provided assistance at the scene.During the firefighting efforts, crews discovered one deceased individual inside the home. Officials stated that no other victims are believed to be involved at this time.Utility providers Spire Gas and Evergy were called to the location to manage utility hazards. Firefighters remained on-site to extinguish remaining hot spots and secure the area.The scene will be turned over to the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office for a formal investigation into the cause of the blast. No further details have been released at this time.

Fatal house fire reported in Smithville

(Radio Iowa) - Four of the Republican candidates for governor say life begins at conception and they would work to make Iowa abortion law reflect that. 

Adam Steen -- a former member of Governor Reynolds' cabinet -- says abortion will be the number one issue in the race against Rob Sand, the Democratic Party's likely nominee. 

(Radio Iowa) - Four of the Republican candidates for governor say life begins at conception and they would work to make Iowa abortion law reflect that. Adam Steen -- a former member of Governor Reynolds' cabinet -- says abortion will be the number one issue in the race against Rob Sand, the Democratic Party's likely nominee. Zach Lahn, a businessman and farmer, says a candidate's stand on abortion is a foundational issue. Life at conception bills that would ban all abortions in Iowa have been introduced in the Iowa legislature, but have never made it to the governor's desk. Democrats say the bills could make contraceptives and some certain fertility treatments illegal.