Post Staff – Page 352 – St. Joseph Post Archive

Missouri Congresswoman Hartzler discusses 9-11 vote and defense spending bill

Posted on October 6, 2016

Rep. Vicky Hartzler (R-MO) Photo courtesy Missourinet

(Missourinet) – U.S. Rep. Vicky Hartzler (R-Harrisonville) has voted to sustain President Barack Obama’s (D) veto of a 9-11 bill that she says could have unintended consequences involving the military’s security.

The U.S. Congress has voted overwhelmingly to override President Obama’s veto of a bill that allows families of those killed in the September 11 terrorist attacks to sue Saudi Arabia for any role in the plot. Hartzler serves on the House Armed Services Committee. She tells Missourinet her heart goes out to the families of the 9-11 attacks, but that she also shares concerns expressed by Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Joseph Dunford.

“I just really believe that when we start changing our national sovereignty laws, it really could open up other countries to taking on our military, our intelligence officers, in their countries and our diplomatic corps, and hauling them into a foreign court,” Hartzler says.

Hartzler’s district includes Fort Leonard Wood and Whiteman Air Force Base. The vote to override in the Senate was 97 to one and was 348-77 in the House. Hartzler was one of 18 Republicans who voted to sustain the president’s veto. The lone Senate vote to sustain President Obama’s veto came from Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nevada).

Congress will tackle a national defense spending bill when lawmakers return to Washington after November’s general elections, for a lame-duck session. Hartzler is on a committee trying to negotiate differences between the House and Senate regarding the National Defense Authorization Act.

“We want to continue the legacy of 55 years in a row passing the defense bill, which authorizes the spending for all our men and women in uniform and our national security needs,” Hartzler says.

Hartzler says Congress will also address the federal budget, after the November elections.

Hartzler spoke to Missourinet Wednesday at Columbia’s Stephens Lake Park, where she hosted the district’s Youth Leadership Summit. About 200 high school students from across the 24-county district participated.

Hartzler faces Columbia Democrat Dr. Gordon Christensen in November. Dr. Christensen was a whistleblower who testified in the 1990s before three U.S. Congressional committees about what he describes as VA’s attempts to cover-up what he says were 11 to 40 murders of veterans at the Harry Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital in Columbia.

Gun and Knife Show offers gear for damsels in defense

Posted on October 6, 2016

The Gun and Knife Show this weekend will feature vendors focused on gearing women to be “damsels in defense.”

The show will include over 250 tables with multiple vendors focused on women’s self-defense including Be Safe Girl and Damsel in Defense.

St. Joseph Gun and Knife Show Manager Wendy Losson said many protection items such as pepper sprays and tasers will be offered.

“There’s a lot more women out there now that are interested in the guns as well,” Losson said. “You’ll find that a lot of our makers are making guns for women, there’s a lot of conceal and carry items out there for women now. Women love to hunt anymore, I was always an avid hunter myself so it’s enjoyable. Any of the women who are enthusiasts for hunting, this is a great show for them.”

The National Rifle Association will also be at the Gun and Knife Show doing a membership drive for people to learn more about joining, renewing or upgrading memberships. They will also offer information on their programs including training and self-defense.

Gary Benefield with the NRA said one of the fastest growing groups in the NRA is women.

“I think part of it is people, especially the ladies, are becoming more aware of their rights and the dangers out there and what the options are for them to protect themselves,” Benefield said.

The Gun and Knife Show will take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday at the St. Joseph Civic Arena. Admission is $9 for adults, $5 for ages 11-15 and children 10 and under are free.

For more information, click here.

St. Louis County Police Officer killed in line of duty

Posted on October 6, 2016

St. Louis County Police Chief Jon Belmar approaches microphones to give reporters details of a shooting death of Officer Blake Snyder in Clayton, Missouri on October 6, 2016. Belmar says that at 5:04 AM, on October 6, 2016, St. Louis County Police officers responded to a call for a disturbance. Upon officers’ arrival, the suspect of the disturbance opened fire, striking Snyder. A second officer on scene returned fire, striking the suspect. The officer was 33 years old and had served St. Louis County for the past four years. This is the first line of duty death for the St. Louis County Police Department since October 31, 2000. Photo courtesy Missourinet

(Missourinet) – A St. Louis County Police officer has been killed, after being shot early Thursday morning while getting out of his car to respond to a disturbance call in Green Park, a suburb.

Flags in St. Louis County are now at half-mast for 33-year-old officer Blake Snyder. St. Louis County Prosecutor Bob McCulloch has called a news conference for Thursday afternoon at 3 in Clayton, regarding the incident.

Police Chief Jon Belmar spoke to reporters at a Thursday morning news conference, saying another officer witnessed the early-morning incident in Green Park. Belmar says the incident happened at about 5:06 a.m. and that Officer Snyder gave the suspect commands.

“The suspect produced a pistol, and he shot Officer Snyder point-blank,” Chief Belmar told reporters.

Belmar says an assisting officer shot and critically injured the 18-year-old suspect.

Belmar says there was another witness to the shooting.

“That was probably the person who originally called the police department for this. We did recover the suspect’s weapon on the scene. There is certainly more to this investigation,” Belmar says.

Belmar says the officer did not have a dashboard or body camera.

The suspect was reportedly trying to get in the door of a home in Green Park, which is near the South County Mall. That’s when residents called St. Louis County Police.

While Belmar did not share the name of the suspect, he says the Department knows him.

“I do know he has a felony narcotics case. In fact, I know that Officer Snyder is part of that case, I’m not drawing a line here, I’m just saying he was involved in that case also. Beyond that, it’s hard to comment,” Belmar says.

The chief describes the area of the shooting as typically quiet.

Belmar says Snyder leaves behind a wife and a two-year-old son. Belmar also praises Mehlville firefighters and St. Anthony Hospital staff for their efforts to save Snyder.

Food Inspections for September

Posted on October 6, 2016

(Inspections from St. Joseph Health Department reports)

RADISSON HOTEL
Observations
– Cleaning, Frequency and Restrictions -Dirty floor underneath the dishwasher and behind the grill/broiler -Clean walls, floors, ceiling on a regular basis. -Clean floors underneath equipment more frequent

DOMINOS PIZZA
2110 Messanie

In compliance

KENTUCKY FRIED CHICKEN N BELT

Observations
– Equipment, Food-Contact Surfaces, Nonfood-Contact Surfaces, and Utensils. -1. High chairs sides, corrected during inspection
– Nonfood-Contact Surfaces -Nonfood-contact surfaces shall be free of unnecessary ledges, projections, and crevices, and designed and constructed to allow easy cleaning and to facilitate maintenance.
– Repairing -The physical facilities shall be maintained in good repair at all times to insure they are cleanable and not a source of possible contamination

ST JOSEPH HAVEN
610 Olive

Observations
– Manual and Mechanical Warewashing Equipment, Chemical Sanitization Temperature, pH, Concentration, and Hardness* -Sanitizing mechanism in the 3 – compartment sink is not working. The dishwasher is working great -Chlorine 50-100ppm but not >200ppm Quaternary 200ppm but not >400ppm -The sanitizing mechanism must be reset and sanitizer tested before it can be used again. Do not use until it is repaired. Use dishwasher only for the time being.

APPLE MARKET
2300 Mitchell Ave.

Observations
– Manual and Mechanical Warewashing Equipment, Chemical Sanitization Temperature, pH, Concentration, and Hardness* -Sanitizing mechanism in the 3-compartment sink in the meat department is not working -Chlorine 50-100ppm but not >200ppm Quaternary 200ppm but not >400ppm -Repair the sanitizer machine and test the chemical concentration using test strips

ROBIDOUX MIDDLE SCHOOL

In compliance

HYDE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

In compliance

BENTON HIGH SCHOOL

In compliance

PARKWAY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

In compliance

LINDBERGH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

In compliance

LAFAYETTE HIGH SCHOOL

In compliance

LONG JOHN SILVERS
1701 N Belt Hwy

Observations
Controlling Pests.* -Pest control is a must, any sign of pest can signal a possible major problem as pest are know to habor and spread bacteria and virus, and must be dealt with immediately -1. Fax me your last 6 months of pest control reports 816-271-4764
Repairing -The physical facilities shall be maintained in good repair at all times to insure they are cleanable and not a source of possible contamination
Maintaining Premises, Unnecessary Items and Litter -Items that are unnecessary to the operation or maintenance of the establishment such as equipment that is nonfunctional or no longer used; and litter

HOSEA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

In compliance

SPRING GARDEN MIDDLE SCHOOL

In compliance

FIELD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

In compliance

LAKE CONTRARY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

In compliance

TRUMAN MIDDLE SCHOOL

In compliance

PICKETT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

In compliance

SAINT FRANCIS PAROCHIAL SCHOOL

In compliance

CARDEN PARK ELEMENTARY

In compliance

PERSHING ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

In compliance

CATHEDRAL PAROCHIAL SCHOOL

In compliance

SAINT JAMES PAROCHIAL SCHOOL

In compliance

DUNKIN DONUTS

Observations
-Equipment, Food-Contact Surfaces, Nonfood-Contact Surfaces, and Utensils. -Ice machine is dirty -All food contact surfaces and equipment that contacts food must clean, free of debris, and sanitized after each use -Clean and sanitize food contact surfaces of the ice machine daily and all other surfaces weekly
-Cleaning Ventilation Systems, Nuisance and Discharge Prohibition -Dirty air vents in the kitchen -Intake and exhaust air ducts shall be cleaned and filters changed so they are not a source of contamination by dust, dirt, and other materials. If vented to the outside, ventlation systems may not create a public health hazard or nuisance or unlawful discharge -Clean air vents more frequently

ST JOSEPH MUSEUM
1100 Charles

In compliance

SWISS HIGHLANDS 66
3011 N Belt

Observations
– Equipment, Food-Contact Surfaces, Nonfood-Contact Surfaces, and Utensils. -Nonfood-contact surfaces of equipment shall be kept free of an accumulation of dust, dirt, food residue, and other debris.
– Food Labels -Label must display business and address for tracking purposes
– Cleaning, Frequency and Restrictions -Clean walls, floors, ceiling on a regular basis.

TREX MART #10
3508 Pear

Observations
– Intensity of Lighting -Replace with new light that meets require of the code for specific areas -1. Must have light in walk in cooler

TARGET STORE T-1977
5201 N Belt Hwy

In compliance

MITCHELL PARK PLAZA C STORE
1300 S 11th ST.

– System Maintained in Good Repair* -The water heater is leaking around the base -. A plumbing system shall be: (A) Repaired according to law; P and (B) Maintained in good repair.: Repair or replace plumbing. Repairs must be made within 72 hours or as stated -Water heater must be replaced to prevent contamination of clean water. The water heater will be replaced within 7 days as per manager

HILLCREST TRANSITIONAL THRIFT STORE
4826 Frederick Blvd

In compliance

PRONTO CAFE
Observations
– Equipment, Food-Contact Surfaces, Nonfood-Contact Surfaces, and Utensils. -Ice Cream freezer had 2 dead flies in it -Nonfood-contact surfaces of equipment shall be kept free of an accumulation of dust, dirt, food residue, and other debris. -Keep food equipment clean. Freezer must be defrosted to prevent contamination of ice cream

NORTYS BAR & GRILL INC
Observations
– Equipment, Food-Contact Surfaces, Nonfood-Contact Surfaces, and Utensils. -Dirty ice machine dispenser -All food contact surfaces and equipment that contacts food must clean, free of debris, and sanitized after each use -Clean and sanitize ice machine every week
– Washing,Rinsing,Sanitizing Procedures -Incorrect order for cleaning and sanitizing food contact surfaces. Dishes are not rinsed in clear water after washing -Proper order for washing wares in a 3 compartment sink is WASH, RINSE, SANITIZE -Observe all 3 steps in order. Do not skip the rinse step
– Wiping Cloths, Use Limitation -Wiping cloths are stored on the prep cutting board -Keep wiping clothes in sanitizer when not in use -Store wiping cloths in sanitizer buckets to keep off flies in the kitchen
– Repairing -Damaged floor tiles in the bar -The physical facilities shall be maintained in good repair at all times to insure they are cleanable and not a source of possible contamination -Floor must be smooth and easily cleanable. Repair the floor within 30 days

POPS PLACE
238 Illinois

In compliance

SONIC DRIVE IN
5810 Lake Ave.
Observations
– Cleaning, Frequency and Restrictions -Dirty floor underneath the ice bin. Stagnant water between the reach in cooler and 3-compartment sink -Clean walls, floors, ceiling on a regular basis. -Dry wet floors and clean dirty floors to prevent fly infestations
– Cooling, Heating, and Holding Capacities. -Reach in cooler for hot dogs is not maintaining temperature. Ambient air temperature is 54.0 degrees -Equipment for cooling and heating food, and holding cold and hot food, shall be sufficient in number and capacity to provide food temperatures as specified under Chapter 3: Can not be used until repaired or replaced -Repair coolers as soon as they start failing. Temperature must be maintained at 41.0 degree

SONIC DRIVE IN
4303 2A Commonwealth Ct

Observations
Food-Contact Surfaces.* -Metal plates around the ice dispenser that come into contact with ice have developed rough edges -(A)Multiuse food-contact surfaces shall be: (1) Smooth; (2) Free of breaks, open seams, cracks, chips, inclusions, pits, and similar imperfections; (3) Free of sharp internal angles, corners, and crevices; (4) Finished to have smooth welds and joints; and -Food contact surfaces must be smooth and easily cleanable. Replace the metal plates

TACO JOHNS LAKE AVE
6110 Lake Ave.

Observations
– Repairing -A hole in the wall by the restroom -The physical facilities shall be maintained in good repair at all times to insure they are cleanable and not a source of possible contamination -Repair holes in the wall

McDONALDS LAKE AVE
Observations
– Time as a Public Health Control.* -Temperature Control for Safety Food is not timed -Using time as your control for bacterial growth you must have a written proceduce on site as well as providing one to the health authourity. Product must be clearly labeled with time and date, can not hold longer than 4 hours, after using time as your control product used must be discarded -Temperature Control for Safety Food must be timed for 4 hours and discarded at the end of the 4 hour period. Untimed food voluntarily discarded.
– Equipment, Food-Contact Surfaces, Nonfood-Contact Surfaces, and Utensils. -Dirty ice machine -All food contact surfaces and equipment that contacts food must clean, free of debris, and sanitized after each use -Clean and sanitize ice machine every day

BETTYS CAFE
6307 King Hill Ave

In compliance

PINK SALT
614 Francis

Observations
– Repairing -Damaged wall in the kitchen. Baseboard is rotten over time and no longer easily cleanable -The physical facilities shall be maintained in good repair at all times to insure they are cleanable and not a source of possible contamination -Replace wall and baseboard. Cracks and crevices at the wall and floor junction must be covered using a durable material

BARBOSA’S CASTILLO
906 Sylvanie

In compliance

CORBY PLACE SENIOR LIVING
422 Felix

In compliance

BIG BISCUIT
139 N Belt. Hwy

In compliance

BUFFALO WILD WINGS GRILL & BAR
5403 N Belt Hwy, Suite 101

Observations
– Potentially Hazardous Food (Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food), Hot and Cold Holding.* -Foods that require Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food must be maintained at 41F or colder, if not, food must be discarded and denatured

TAQUERIA HUARACHERIA
3830 King Hill
Observations
– Hand Drying Provision. -No paper towels at hand sink -Each hand washing sink or group of adjacent sinks shall be provided with disposable hand towels, dryer, or other acceptable means to dry hands. -You must have paper towels at all times
– Linens and Napkins, Use Limitation -Tortillas stored in a tub between two pieces of linen -Linens and napkins may not be used in contact with food unless they are used to line a container for the service of foods and the linens and napkins are replaced each time the container is refilled for a new consumer, you may not use cloth as barrier to barehand contact, as it can not cleaned in place and can retain possible contaminates -Clean paper towels might be used instead of linen to prevent contamination of food

CHEDDARS CASUAL CAFE
5302 N Belt Hwy

In compliance

CHICK-FIL-A
5303 N Belt Hwy

Observations
-Conditions of Use.* -Manufacturer’s use directions included in labeling, and, for a pesticide, manufacturer’s label instructions that state that use is allowed in a food establishment,
– Equipment, Food-Contact Surfaces, Nonfood-Contact Surfaces, and Utensils. -Nonfood-contact surfaces of equipment shall be kept free of an accumulation of dust, dirt, food residue, and other debris.
– Cleaning, Frequency and Restrictions
– Good Repair and Proper Adjustment -Equipment components such as doors, seals, hinges, fasteners, and kick plates shall be kept intact, tight, and adjusted in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications

BARBOSAS EAST
4804 Frederick Ave

Observations
– Hand Drying Provision. -Each hand washing sink or group of adjacent sinks shall be provided with disposable hand towels, dryer, or other acceptable means to dry hands. -1. By dishwasher

54TH STREET GRILL & BAR
5103 N Belt

Observations
– Food Storage -Must be kept covered except when in use to protect against possible contamination
– System Maintained in Good Repair. -There should be no leaks, clogged/slow drains, properly installed

MI FAMILIA
2420 Frederick

In compliance

THE CAFE
4230 St. Joseph Ave.

Observations
– Potentially Hazardous Food (Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food), Hot and Cold Holding.* -Hot Goulash held at 70.2 degrees on the stove top instead of 135.0 degrees -Foods that require Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food must be maintained at 135F or hotter, if not, food must be discarded and denatured -Hot food must be stored at proper temperature after cooking. Put hot food in the proper hot holding. Alternatively cool down hot food and store in the cooler until you need it

WAFFLE HOUSE
4223 Commonwealth

Observations
– Mechanical Warewashing Equipment, Wash Solution Temperature* -High heat water sanitizer is around 140.0 instead of 180.0 -A) Except as specified in ¶ (B) of this section, in a mechanical operation, the temperature of the fresh hot water sanitizing rinse as it enters the manifold may not be more than 90°C (194°F), or less than: (1) For a stationary rack, single temperature machine, 74°C (165°F); or (2) For all other machines, 82°C (180°F). -Dishwasher using high water temperature for sanitizing must reach 180.0 during the rinse cycle
– Equipment, Food-Contact Surfaces, Nonfood-Contact Surfaces, and Utensils. -Dirty coolers due to food juices dripping and collecting at the bottom. Dead flies in the coolers -Nonfood-contact surfaces of equipment shall be kept free of an accumulation of dust, dirt, food residue, and other debris. -Clean and sanitize coolers during the shifts to prevent contamination of food
– Cleaning, Frequency and Restrictions -Walk in cooler floor is dirty -Clean walls, floors, ceiling on a regular basis. -Clean floors more frequently
– Cooling, Heating, and Holding Capacities. -Walk in cooler is not keeping temperature at 41. 0 degrees or below. Ambient air temperature is 46.0 -Equipment for cooling and heating food, and holding cold and hot food, shall be sufficient in number and capacity to provide food temperatures as specified under Chapter 3: Can not be used until repaired or replaced -Monitor temperature of cooling units throughout the shifts.

TACO BANDIDO
1601 St. Joseph Ave.

Observations
– Repairing -Holes in the dry storage walls -The physical facilities shall be maintained in good repair at all times to insure they are cleanable and not a source of possible contamination -Walls must be repaired to make them smooth and easily cleanable

GREEN HILLS INC #2, GREEN HILLS DELI
3225 N Belt Hwy

Observations
– Equipment, Food-Contact Surfaces, Nonfood-Contact Surfaces, and Utensils. -Nonfood-contact surfaces of equipment shall be kept free of an accumulation of dust, dirt, food residue, and other debris.
– Equipment, Food-Contact Surfaces, Nonfood-Contact Surfaces, and Utensils -Hood vent and filters need to be cleaned to maintain proper air flow and to prevent grease dripping into foods.
– Maintaining Premises, Unnecessary Items and Litter -Items that are unnecessary to the operation or maintenance of the establishment such as equipment that is nonfunctional or no longer used; and litter

BANDANAS BAR B Q
4225 Frederick Ave

Observations
– Cleaning, Frequency and Restrictions -Clean walls, floors, ceiling on a regular basis. -1. Dining room floor is very slick, could be due humidity or grease, maybe both
– Mechanical Ventilation -If necessary to keep rooms free of excessive heat, steam, condensation, vapors, obnoxious odors, smoke, and fumes, mechanical ventilation of sufficient capacity shall be provided -1. May be required to install a vent by walk in coolers or required to move compressor to roof.
– Cooling, Heating, and Holding Capacities. -Equipment for cooling and heating food, and holding cold and hot food, shall be sufficient in number and capacity to provide food temperatures as specified under Chapter 3: Can not be used until repaired or replaced -1.All 3 walk in units are out of required temperature range, needs to addressed ASAP
– System Maintained in Good Repair. -There should be no leaks, clogged/slow drains, properly installed
Infrastructure is quite the challenge at this location, cooling system needs to be updated, as present system is not viable for the long term. Planning on upgrade is needed.

TIGERS DEN
515, 517, 519 Felix

In compliance

SONIC DRIVE IN
502 N Belt Hwy

Observations
– Equipment, Food-Contact Surfaces, Nonfood-Contact Surfaces, and Utensils. -Nonfood-contact surfaces of equipment shall be kept free of an accumulation of dust, dirt, food residue, and other debris.
-Cleaning Ventilation Systems, Nuisance and Discharge Prohibition -Intake and exhaust air ducts shall be cleaned and filters changed so they are not a source of contamination by dust, dirt, and other materials. If vented to the outside, ventlation systems may not create a public health hazard or nuisance or unlawful discharge
– Cleaning, Frequency and Restrictions -Clean walls, floors, ceiling on a regular basis.
-Covering Receptacles -Dumpster must have a tight-fitting lids or doors if kept outside the food establishment for pest control and odors
-Maintaining Refuse Areas and Enclosures -A storage area and enclosure for refuse, recyclables, or returnables shall be maintained free of unnecessary items, litter, and kept clean
– Good Repair and Proper Adjustment -Equipment components such as doors, seals, hinges, fasteners, and kick plates shall be kept intact, tight, and adjusted in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications
-System Maintained in Good Repair. -There should be no leaks, clogged/slow drains, properly installed

HELEN DAVIS STATE SCHOOL
2900 Scott

In compliance

BODE MIDDLE SCHOOL

In compliance

OAK GROVE SCHOOL

In compliance

CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL

In compliance

COLEMAN ELEMENATRY SCHOOL

Observations
-Potentially Hazardous Food (Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food), Hot and Cold Holding.* -Foods that require Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food must be maintained at 41F or colder, if not, food must be discarded and denatured -1. Milk cooler temperature at 43.8 to 45.2 degrees
– Cooling, Heating, and Holding Capacities. -Equipment for cooling and heating food, and holding cold and hot food, shall be sufficient in number and capacity to provide food temperatures as specified under Chapter 3: Can not be used until repaired or replaced -1. Milk cooler not maintaining proper temperature, have it serviced. Temperatures in 43.8, 45 degree range

WEBSTER ADULT EDUCATION & CATERING

In compliance

Gov. releases funds, including $9 million for public schools

Posted on October 6, 2016

Mo. Gov. Jay Nixon (file photo) — Mo. Gov. Jay Nixon
(file photo)

Citing continued growth in Missouri’s economy, Gov. Jay Nixon made $12.1 million available for the current fiscal year budget, including $9 million for local public schools. The State Budget Office said on Tuesday that net general revenue in Missouri had increased 5.8 percent for the month of September.

“Public education has always been a top priority for Missourians, and the continued solid growth of our economy is making it possible to put this funding into our schools,” Gov. Nixon said. “We continue to provide record funding for our classrooms, and I’m pleased to have this money go to our public schools.”

The expenditures made available today include $6 million for the Foundation Formula for K-12 public schools, as well as $3 million for school transportation.

In addition, the Governor released $400,000 for the University of Missouri-Kansas City Neighborhood Initiative. The initiative will continue to train and work with local leaders in Kansas City to revitalize 18 urban neighborhoods.

Gov. Nixon also is providing $1 million for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) around the state to enable them to draw down increased federal funding. FQHCs are community-based organizations that provide comprehensive primary and preventive care, including medical, dental and behavioral health services.

Finally, the funding announced today will provide $1.7 million for the Sullivan County Lake Project to complete land acquisition and leverage significant federal funds and support for the project. The project has been strongly supported by the region’s local voters through sales tax and bond issues in order to ensure a reliable source of water for families and businesses in north-central Missouri.

Manufacturing Day events planned in St. Joe

Posted on October 6, 2016

National Manufacturing Day events are scheduled in St. Joseph on Friday, Oct. 7. The day is set aside to recognize the contributions and advancements that are made possible through manufacturing companies throughout the United States. This year, cities around the nation, including St. Joseph, will host more than 800 events simultaneously to put a new spotlight on careers in the manufacturing sector.

St. Joseph is offering the most Manufacturing Day events in a regional hub for the state of Missouri and is second only to St. Louis in total number of events. More than 300 students will tour various facilities.

As part of the message to students and the community, professionals from Gray Manufacturing, Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc., and Altec Industries are offering personal insights to students considering careers in manufacturing. All three encourage students to take a new look at the variety and in-depth training offered by careers in manufacturing, reminding students that an attitude of learning can open many doors to success.

Kevin Smith, Senior Supervisor at Altec Industries says manufacturing jobs offer employees something different every day, whether it’s running a laser, building a truck from the wheels up or working with robots.

“There are a lot of great jobs out there that don’t require a degree,” Smith said, “but it takes hard work and dedication, not only to your job, but to what you want out of life. This is true no matter where you work. If you are looking for something different every day, manufacturing is your future.”

Mitch Sanders is a Manufacturing Engineer Intern at Gray Manufacturing. Sanders says his produces a wide variety of professional service equipment for the automotive, truck and service vehicle industries. Sanders said students interested in manufacturing work should take advantage of opportunities offered them in high school, such as taking tech classes as an elective.

“In high school, I chose to take a welding class at Hillyard Technical Center as an elective. The training I received there not only covered welding, but skills and processes associated with welding that I would likely run into in a job environment in the industry – such as blueprint reading, metallurgy, non-destructive testing, and many other topics. Today, my job involves designing tooling using 3D modeling software, or working on projects that involve changing our manufacturing processes to increase their efficiency. The beauty of our job is that we are not bound to a desk all day every day.

“As long as you strive to continue learning and expand on your skill set,” Sanders said, “even after you finish the training you receive, you will greatly increase your chance of having a successful career.”

Blake Parker, who works at Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, says a typical workday is made up of tasks including troubleshooting, process improvement and employee development. His advice for students is be patient, position themselves with people from whom they can learn and to embrace change.

“My job is exciting because of the variety of projects and responsibilities,” Parker said. “In any given day, I can spend time working in process improvement, attend meetings, troubleshoot a problem and meet with an employee to talk about development. I encourage students to take a look at all the options manufacturing offers, and to know that many of these positions are not at all ‘dirty,’ but involve a very specific skill set.”

The following manufacturers have scheduled tours or presentation events for Manufacturing Day on Friday, Oct. 7. All events are invitation only:

* Altec Industries – Facility tour and presentation
2106 S Riverside Rd
Saint Joseph, MO 64507
* Gray Manufacturing – Facility tour
3501 S Leonard Rd
Saint Joseph, MO 64503
* Herzog Contracting Corp. – Facility tour and presentation
4801 SE Riverside Terrace
Saint Joseph, MO 64507
* Bluetree Casework – Facility tour and presentation
2201 Messanie St
Saint Joseph, MO 64501
* Van-Am Tool & Engineering, LLC – Facility tour
5025 Easton Road
St. Joseph, Mo. 64507
* Nor-Am Cold Storage – Facility tour
2700 Stockyards Expressway
St. Joseph, Mo. 64501
* Snorkel – Facility tour and presentation
2009 Roseport Road
Elwood, Kan. 66024

(News Release)

Sex offender fugitive arrested in Livingston County

Posted on October 6, 2016October 7, 2016

The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office has been diligently working on a fugitive investigation, and now they are announcing an arrest.

Steven L. Burns, 30, Utica was wanted on a Livingston County warrant for alleged Sex Offender Registry Violation-Probation Violation, warrant was dated September 29, 2016.

As we reported earlier, the LCSO and Probation and Parole recently searched a wooded area near Utica as a GPS tracker bracelet was activated in that area. Officers concluded Burns was no longer there but the GPS device had been removed.

Continuing with the investigation, last evening 2 deputies and 1 CPD officer went to a residence in the 200 block of East Bridge in Chillicothe and located Mr. Burns. Additional investigation continued at the otherwise unoccupied residence and seized methamphetamine drug paraphernalia with residue.

Mr. Burns was transferred to the Daviess Dekalb Regional Jail as bond was denied by the Court.

Gifts & grants boost to K-9 program

Posted on October 6, 2016

Recently the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) received a $5,000.00 donation for it’s K-9 program

The donation came from Chula Farmers Cooperative and CoBank in Greenwood Village, Colorado through their “Sharing Success Program”.

General Manager Dan Murphy and the Chula Farmers Co-op board members made $17,000 in donations to local groups in the community this year to qualify for the program and subsequently applied for the grant with CoBank on behalf of the LCSO and its K-9 project.

The photograph here shows Murphy with Deputy Chris Mueller accepting the “Sharing Success” check for the K-9 Program and the LCSO. Deputy Mueller has been named the K-9 Handler for the LCSO and has done an excellent job working with Sheriff Cox and our community on this project.

Sheriff Steve Cox and the LCSO initially started the K-9 project fund raiser earlier this year and initially planned a 2 year goal to raise the $16,500 of strictly private donations to implement a dual purpose K-9 program for our office. With this generous donation they have approximately $15,200 on hand toward that goal.

A dual-purpose K-9 will be a dog which has been professionally trained to detect certain drugs and to work with a deputy in law enforcement patrol, such as tracking, building searches, officer defense, guarding, and more.

Cox says his office is still accepting donations to complete this goal. You may contribute to the K-9 Program by contacting Sheriff Steve Cox, Deputy Chris Mueller, or Captain Sindy Fitzpatrick at the LCSO, 660-646-0515 or mail to 901 Webster Street, Chillicothe, MO 64601. The Livingston County Clerk is securing all funds until such time our office can move forward with a purchase.

“Again we wish to thank everyone who has helped and/or contributed and a huge THANK YOU to our friends and supporters with Chula Farmers Cooperative, Board Members, Dan Murphy, and the CoBank in Greenwood Village, Colorado,” Cox said.

“Chula Farmers Cooperative and Dan Murphy do many great things for our community, this just happens to be 1 of the many. Their friendship and support are very much appreciated.”

Humane Society of Missouri joins animal rescue efforts ahead of Hurricane Matthew

Posted on October 6, 2016

The Humane Society of Missouri sent an eight-person Disaster Response Team to Georgia to prepare to evacuate animals in shelters along Georgia’s east coast in anticipation of the arrival of Hurricane Matthew later this week.

The trip came at the request of the Atlanta Humane Society.

Capable of transporting more than 200 animals at any one time, the team is equipped with six vehicles and a rescue boat: two climate-controlled animal transport trailers, two animal transport Sprinters and two personnel support vehicles. The professionally trained and experienced team also is prepared to perform post-storm field and swift water animal rescue if necessary.

“We are very proud we can respond quickly and competently to help keep animals safe in light of this impending, large disaster,” said Kathy Warnick, president, Humane Society of Missouri. “Should the need arise, our team also is prepared to rescue animals in all types of situations in the aftermath of the storm. We sincerely thank our donors for supporting all of our efforts to help animals in need.”

Kansas AG joins delegation in Cuba visit

Posted on October 6, 2016

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt last week joined the first delegation of state attorneys general to visit Cuba since the United States reestablished diplomatic relations with that island nation last year.

During three days in Havana, the attorneys general met with representatives of the Cuban attorney general’s office, the ministry of Justice, the Supreme Court and legal organizations.

They also visited the campus of Havana University Law School and held discussions with the dean, faculty members and a student representative.

“Over time, the reopening of Cuba holds great potential for Kansas,” Schmidt said. “After more than half a century of economic isolation, the needs of the country’s 11 million people are tremendous. But the political and social isolation over that same time have taken a heavy toll, and it will be critical to build the broad base of professional relationships that can support the reopening. Legal ties are an important part of that.”

For example, Schmidt said, merely lifting the U.S. embargo at some point in the future will not by itself enable the sort of broad-based trade with Cuba that Kansas exporters desire. It also will be necessary to develop legal interactions that can enforce contracts, satisfy government regulatory requirements, comply with labor rules and resolve disputes in a predictable manner consistent with the rule of law.

“There is a long way to go before U.S. interaction with Cuba resembles what in the 21st century is considered a normal bilateral relationship,” Schmidt said. “The reopening will take many years. But it is starting, and we want to make sure Kansas is engaged in that process from its early days.”

Schmidt’s visit to Cuba was sponsored and paid for by the Conference of Western Attorneys General and not by Kansas tax dollars. Over the past decade, the western attorneys general have established ongoing exchanges with Mexican legal authorities that serve as a forum for discussing trans-border issues of mutual concern such as drug trafficking, human trafficking and other law enforcement matters. Schmidt said he is optimistic similar ties can be established with Cuba.