Megan Tilk



Bikers ride for babies
by Megan Tilk
Sunday, Sept. 21, 2008

What started as 387 bikers in 2004 grew to the 603 bikers who rode through St. Joseph Saturday. The annual March of Dimes Bikers for Babies ride began at St. Joe Harley-Davidson at noon and ended 65 miles later at Terrible’s St. Jo Frontier Casino.

Left to die, she fought to live
by Megan Tilk
Sunday, Sept. 21, 2008

FAUCETT, Mo. —The 19-year-old’s beaming green eyes and giant smile almost hide the scar that stands as a reminder of a night that could have ended her life.
Kimberly Dejonge was living what seemed a normal life. Residing in Atchison, Kan., and working as a convenience store clerk, she never thought she would fall victim to a criminal.
The night of June 19, she was working at the Stop-N-Go in Winthrop, Mo., when a man entered the store, slit her throat and stabbed her multiple times. The man robbed the store then took off, leaving Ms. Dejonge to die.

Popcorn, movie nights featured at Buchanan County Jail
by Megan Tilk
Saturday, Sept. 20, 2008

After cutting inmates’ desserts from their jailhouse menus in an effort to save money, Buchanan County Sheriff Mike Strong is now offering popcorn and movie nights.

Fuel-saving tactics cut costs, add risks
by Megan Tilk
Friday, Sept. 19, 2008

In an effort to conserve gas and their wallets, some motorists are risking their lives.
Sgt. Sheldon Lyon with the Missouri State Highway Patrol recently was made aware of a new driving tactic and, after a little research, has decided to speak out about a possible growing trend.

The view from the top rung
by Megan Tilk
Sunday, Sept. 14, 2008

With a little more than a week at the top rung of the St. Joseph Fire Department’s ladder, new Fire Chief Mike Dalsing is settling in.

Gas prices rise as Ike hits Gulf Coast
by Megan Tilk
Sunday, Sept. 14, 2008

Less than 24 hours after Hurricane Ike made landfall in Galveston, Texas, the effects on fuel prices could be felt throughout St. Joseph.

Statistics show spike in assaults
by Megan Tilk
Saturday, Sept. 13, 2008

A sharp increase in one area of crime has left St. Joseph Police Department officers scratching their heads.

Accident kills teen, injures his brother
by Megan Tilk
Thursday, Sept. 11, 2008

WINTHROP, Mo. — A highway wreck ended the life of a 19-year-old from Overland Park, Kan., Wednesday evening.

Short, sweet and to the point
by Megan Tilk
Monday, Sept. 8, 2008

The St. Joseph Police Department vehicles are in the process of getting a makeover. Where the words “Protection, Service, Partnership” once were, now simply states “Police.” Cmdr. Larry Smith said due to the deteriorating condition of the graphics on many of the police cars, the department decided to get new ones.

Blues Festival off to a cool start
by Megan Tilk
Saturday, Sept. 6, 2008

The second annual Bikes and Blues Festival got off to a slow start Friday night but organizers expect it to pick up the pace today.
The event kicked off in front of a small crowd at 6 p.m. to the soul-soothing sounds of Dan Bliss.
“I think it got off to a little bit of a slow start but we’re picking up,” said Mark Sheehan, president of the Coleman Hawkins Jazz Society.

Skateboards nixed on streets, again
by Megan Tilk
Thursday, Sept. 4, 2008

A heavy rain that blanketed St. Joseph for the better part of two days kept skateboarders indoors — more effectively than a city law.

Hidden treasures abound
by Megan Tilk
Sunday, Aug. 31, 2008

SPARKS, Kan. — Nestled deeply between tall corn fields located about 25 miles just northwest of St. Joseph, the unincorporated town of Sparks has one of the state’s hidden gems.

Trail Watch picking up speed
by Megan Tilk
Saturday, Aug. 30, 2008

Armed with pepper spray, a cell phone and a golf cart, volunteers for the Trail Watch Program patrol the bike and walking trails of St. Joseph. This year marks the fourth year for the program, and after two much needed donations the program continues to pick up speed.
The driving force to launch the program happened four years ago when a woman was assaulted while jogging on the Parkway System.
The program started with three vehicles but after some equipment malfunctions volunteers were only able to use two. Luckily for St. Joseph Police Department, Sgt. Greg Gilpin, who coordinates the program, an anonymous donor and the St. Joseph Health Department decided to help out.

Highway honors fallen deputy
by Megan Tilk
Friday, Aug. 29, 2008

After just more than a year after their loss, the Cook family got recognition.
Following the passing of Senate Bill 753, and with the support of Sen. Charlie Shields, R-St.Joseph, a portion of Belt Highway will now be known as the Deputy Charles M. Cook Memorial Highway.
Mr. Cook died from injuries he suffered in an on-duty wreck while in pursuit of a reported erratically driven motorcycle on June 23, 2007. St. Joseph Police Department records revealed that Mr. Cook’s brother-in-law — Aaron Smullin, 18, of St. Joseph — was a passenger participating in a citizen ride-along when the early morning wreck occurred.

Police Department to undergo assessment
by Megan Tilk
Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2008

In just a few days, the St. Joseph Police Department will undergo a strict inspection. Members of the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies Inc. (CALEA) will assess the department based on four basic areas of standards: policy and procedures, administration, operations and support services.

Music fans pack into park on festival's second day
by Megan Tilk
Sunday, Aug. 17, 2008

Hundreds of country music fans packed Civic Center Park on Saturday, some even several hours before the concerts began. Rising country music stars Kellie Pickler and Ashton Shepard performed in front of a tightly packed Trails West! crowd. The concert didn’t start until 7:30 p.m., but people were saving their perfect spots hours beforehand.

New E911 update has tentative date
by Megan Tilk
Saturday, Aug. 16, 2008

After a few manufacturer delays, the new 911 communications center should be up and running in October.

Men charged with molestation out on bond
by Megan Tilk
Saturday, Aug. 16, 2008

Three men charged with child molestation are now out on bond.

Carter resigns position with Sheriff’s Department
by Megan Tilk
Friday, Aug. 15, 2008

Just one week after going head to head against his boss for a chance to become Buchanan County sheriff, Brian Carter called it quits. The former evening shift supervisor in the corrections department has worked for the Sheriff’s Department since 2000. He now plans to leave law enforcement behind after he turned in a letter of resignation on Wednesday. “I decided it would be in my best interests to pursue another career path,” Mr. Carter said.

Patrol, police gear up for back-to-school traffic increase
by Megan Tilk
Friday, Aug. 15, 2008

It is about back-to-school time around the nation and students aren’t the only ones gearing up. The Missouri State Highway Patrol and the St. Joseph Police Department have spent the past few days preparing for the increase in traffic and pedestrians. The Highway Patrol said that in 2007 the most accidents involving drivers under the age of 21 occurred between the hours of 3 and 4 p.m., when schools are typically letting students out for the day. More than 450 children were injured in crashes involving pedestrians.

Citizens take action
by Megan Tilk
Monday, Aug. 11, 2008

Armed with radar guns, several citizens in St. Joseph now have their sights set on speeders.
Citizens who are concerned with speeders in their area can do something about it with the help of Sgt. Bill McCammon of the St. Joseph Police Department.
Wednesday night, two St. Joseph residents did just that. Danielle Hunt and Jim Korell with the Central Neighborhood Watch Group spent just more than an hour in the back of a sport utility vehicle armed with a pen, paper and a Police Department-issued radar gun.

On the scene in 9 minutes flat — or less
by Megan Tilk
Sunday, Aug. 10, 2008

Vickie Pickett remembers a day when waiting for an ambulance could sometimes seem like forever. Now, sometimes they arrive before she’s ready for them. Ms. Pickett is a night medic at the Vintage Garden South assisted living center. She joined Vintage Garden South three years ago and remembers waiting several minutes with her elderly patients before an ambulance would arrive. “I just called one not too long ago, and they were here before I had the paperwork ready for them,” Ms. Pickett said.

Fire chief candidates take heat during interviews
by Megan Tilk
Friday, Aug. 8, 2008

Braving the flames of a fire may have seemed easier than the intense day of tours and forums the five candidates for St. Joseph Fire Department chief went through Thursday.

Strong, Higdon win sheriff primary races
by Megan Tilk
Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2008

There was only one silent moment in Sheriff Mike Strong’s night Tuesday — one long enough to take in a breath before the cheers, shouts and celebration began. With celebration headquarters set up at Barbosa’s Castillo restaurant, Mr. Strong and his slew of supporters had their eyes glued to either a television or laptop for about an hour after the polls closed at 7 p.m. Tuesday. The result — Mr. Strong won the Democratic spot for Buchanan County sheriff against Ron Fisher, a marshal in the courthouse, by just 366 votes.

Night of fun to support police
by Megan Tilk
Monday, Aug. 4, 2008

Police officers deal with all kinds of people and situations that often times go unnoticed. The Central Neighborhood Watch Group, along with Sherwood Neighborhood Association, plans to change that.
On Tuesday from 7 to 8 p.m., the organizations will hold an event in conjunction with National Night Out. National Night Out is America’s night out against crime and is designed for communities to support local law enforcement. The event will be held at Sherwood Park located at 29th and Edmond streets.

Give ’Em Hell Harris hits St. Joseph
by Megan Tilk
Sunday, Aug. 3, 2008

With a tour named after his childhood hero, Harry Truman, Democratic candidate for Missouri attorney general Jeff Harris made a stop in St. Joseph on Saturday.

Taking care of good ol’ Fido
by Megan Tilk
Saturday, Aug. 2, 2008

Summer, the season for grabbing a shovel of a different kind and heading out to the garden. But if you’re a pet owner, those chemicals used for luscious roses or a weed-free lawn could hurt or even kill good ol’ Fido.

Sheriff Strong runs for re-election on his record
by Megan Tilk
Friday, Aug. 1, 2008

When it comes to running a sheriff’s department, Mike Strong has the know how. The Benton High School graduate and St. Joseph native has been Buchanan County’s sheriff for almost four years. Mr. Strong is up for re-election in the Aug. 5 primary against fellow Democratic candidate Ron Fisher. “It was always my intent to run again,” Mr. Strong said in regards to a possible re-election.

Getting by with what they have
by Megan Tilk
Saturday, July 26, 2008

The Buchanan County Drug Strike Force’s excitement was short lived following news of a $297,000 grant at the beginning of the month.
Capt. Mike Donaldson knew the grant was less than it used to be, but he hoped the federal government would help keep that Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Grant alive.
The grant awarded $5.5 million to law enforcement agencies throughout the state this year. While Mr. Donaldson said Congress could restore the justice grant, the federal government left it in limbo.

Carter targets budget in run for sheriff
by Megan Tilk
Friday, July 25, 2008

Campaigning with young enthusiasm, management experience and a strict plan of attack, Brian Carter, a Republican candidate for Buchanan County sheriff, is preparing for the Aug. 5 primary election. The Missouri Western State University criminal justice department graduate hails from Bethany, Mo., and has worked for Buchanan County since early 2000. Mr. Carter, an evening shift supervisor in corrections for the Buchanan County Sheriff’s Department, said he’s had intentions of running for sheriff ever since he started in law enforcement.

Deputy says he believes disciplinary action was politically motivated
by Megan Tilk
Monday, July 21, 2008

A Buchanan County Republican candidate for sheriff has decided to speak out about disciplinary action taken against him related to a vehicle pursuit.

Battalion chief pens book on history
by Megan Tilk
Monday, July 21, 2008

After 14 years of fighting fires, Battalion Chief John Q. Nelson decided to put down the hose and pick up a pen.

No cell phones allowed at pool
by Megan Tilk
Monday, July 21, 2008

Cell phones are everywhere these days. Just don’t try to use one at the Maryville Aquatic Center (MAC). This summer marks the third summer the MAC has placed a ban on all cell phones. “It’s nothing that has happened to us up here, but in the aquatic industry, there has been discussion about it for a while,” MAC Supervisor Shelly Hersh said.

Atchison does it up big
by Megan Tilk
Sunday, July 20, 2008

Thousands of people flowed through Atchison, Kan., over the weekend. Some from hundreds of miles away.

Scooter drivers need to keep it legal
by Megan Tilk
Saturday, July 19, 2008

In a society influenced by high gas prices many are turning to scooters as a new means of travel.
Scooters, like all other vehicles, come with a set of laws. But the St. Joseph Police Department says those laws aren’t being recognized by scooter riders.
Along with national and state regulations, the city of St. Joseph has several sections of laws written specifically for scooters and mopeds.

Fisher’s campaign 34 years in the making
by Megan Tilk
Friday, July 18, 2008

Ron Fisher has known for most of his 34-year career that he would some day campaign to be Buchanan County sheriff. The St. Joseph native knew when he was a 21-year-old St. Joseph Police Department officer that he wanted to lead the county’s law enforcement officers. But he never anticipated such a tough race. “I filed with two minutes to go because I knew how hard an incumbent is to beat,” Mr. Fisher said.

Contributions count in race for sheriff
by Megan Tilk
Thursday, July 17, 2008

As two Republican and two Democratic candidates for Buchanan County sheriff compete for votes, they also make a dash for cash.

A little rain can't stop the rock
by Megan Tilk
Sunday, July 13, 2008

With a rock wall for climbing and a miniature firetruck rolling along the block, The St. Joseph Fire Museum hosted its third annual Rock and Roll Saturday.

Higdon runs for sheriff on stewardship, values platforms
by Megan Tilk
Friday, July 11, 2008

With more than 29 years of experience, strong moral values and some of the biggest signs in town, Republican candidate for Buchanan County sheriff Galen Higdon hopes he has what it takes. The St. Joseph native knew at a young age that law enforcement was in his future. His father was a St. Joseph Police Department officer. After 29 years patrolling the county roads Mr. Higdon, a current sergeant with the patrol division, noticed a change in the direction the department was heading and thought he could do a better job. Mr. Higdon made his decision to run for office two weeks before filing for the position began.

New system will help locate 911 cell phone callers
by Megan Tilk
Thursday, July 10, 2008

Her job involves everything from livestock on the loose, wrecks, drunken falls and shots fired. No matter what the event, Joan Clayton relies on her communications system to help her locate exactly where a 911 phone call is coming from. Ms. Clayton has worked in St. Joseph and Buchanan County’s 911 communications center for 23 years and soon, for the first time, she will be able to determine the location of an individual placing a call from a cell phone.

Foundations strive to assist blind locals
by Megan Tilk
Sunday, July 6, 2008

Music could be heard throughout much of Downtown on Saturday as seven different bands filled Civic Center Park with sound. All seven bands were playing for a good cause.

2-vehicle wreck causes 2nd accident when righted SUV rolls down hill
by Megan Tilk
Sunday, July 6, 2008

What started as a two-vehicle accident Saturday afternoon at the intersection of North Third Street and East Highland Avenue ended up as two separate accidents.

Patrol out in force for holiday weekend
by Megan Tilk
Friday, July 4, 2008

The official holiday weekend began at 6 p.m. Thursday, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol is using all available officers on the roadways to help deter accidents.
Last year, two people were killed and 230 were injured across the state during the Fourth of July weekend. Troopers also arrested 50 people for driving while intoxicated.
The Highway Patrol will be using Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort) as a way to be visible and reduce accidents when traffic is at the highest count, said Troop H Sgt. Sheldon Lyon. The operation means additional officers during the holiday.

Vehicle smashes into building
by Megan Tilk
Thursday, July 3, 2008

A wreck that occurred during the noon hour sent a vehicle through the front doors of a Downtown building Wednesday. Leigh Violett, 32, of St. Joseph, was eastbound on Felix Street when the Kia she was driving was struck by a Volkswagen driven by Erin Mead, 21, also of St. Joseph. Ms. Mead was southbound on Seventh Street when she failed to stop at a stop sign, causing the accident, said St. Joseph Police Department Sgt. Bill McCammon.

What goes up usually comes down
by Megan Tilk
Wednesday, July 2, 2008

The official start of fireworks season — yes, there is a season, according to the city of St. Joseph — began on June 20. Since then, the St. Joseph police and fire departments have repeatedly responded to calls regarding fireworks.

Man, 29, arrested in fatal accident
by Megan Tilk
Wednesday, July 2, 2008

A St. Joseph man was arrested Tuesday for leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident that killed a 10-year-old boy. Michael Burgess, 29, surrendered himself at the Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop H headquarters alongside his attorney Tuesday afternoon, said Sgt. Sheldon Lyon. The accident occurred Friday on U.S. Highway 59, two miles south of St. Joseph. Mr. Burgess allegedly was traveling south when he struck the rear of another southbound vehicle. That vehicle overturned several times, coming to rest on its wheels on the west side of the roadway. Mr. Burgess then fled the scene, according to the Highway Patrol report.

Watchful neighbors can help deter crime
by Megan Tilk
Tuesday, July 1, 2008

Knowing your neighbor could be the difference between being robbed and keeping your things.

Police program offers protection tips
by Megan Tilk
Monday, June 30, 2008

On average, a burglar will only spend 60 to 90 seconds entering a home. Improperly secured doors and windows are the burglars’ easiest routes to their prize.

Brown says farewell
by Megan Tilk
Sunday, June 29, 2008

Teary-eyed firefighters hugged the man who gave them a chance. After 38 years with the St. Joseph Fire Department, Fire Chief Jack Brown is retiring.

No injuries in train derailment in Atchison
by Megan Tilk
Saturday, June 28, 2008

ATCHISON, Kan. — A train heading westbound through Atchison derailed at the U.S. Highway 59 and Fourth Street intersection at 5:55 p.m. Friday.