MERCER COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 1a.m. Saturday in Mercer County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Chevy Malibu driven by Luka D. Nicholas, 18, Princeton, was westbound on Route AA five miles west of Ravanna.

The car traveled through a T intersection, struck a fence and came to rest in a field.&nbsp;

Mercer County ambulance transported a passenger Maci J. Lisle, 17, Bethany, to Harrison County Community Hospital. A private vehicle transported Nicholas to Wright Memorial Hospital in Trenton.&nbsp; Lisle was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

MERCER COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 1a.m. Saturday in Mercer County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Chevy Malibu driven by Luka D. Nicholas, 18, Princeton, was westbound on Route AA five miles west of Ravanna.The car traveled through a T intersection, struck a fence and came to rest in a field.&nbsp;Mercer County ambulance transported a passenger Maci J. Lisle, 17, Bethany, to Harrison County Community Hospital. A private vehicle transported Nicholas to Wright Memorial Hospital in Trenton.&nbsp; Lisle was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

2 Missouri teens hospitalized after car strikes fence

Bessie Ellison Elementary School, which switched to remote
learning on Friday, will continue with virtual lessons through next week because
of positive and pending COVID-19 cases arising among staff.

Bessie Ellison Principal Kara Anderson notified parents in a
letter the school will not hold classes in the building, but will switch to
remote learning from Monday, December 7th, through Friday, December
11th.

“This decision was made with the best interest of our
students and staff, especially for their health and safety,” Anderson wrote in
the letter. “Teaching and learning will continue during this time of remote
learning.”

Bessie Ellison staff will reach out to parents about the
remote learning plan and expectations, which will resemble the plans put into
place for Friday.

No names of anyone testing positive will be released.

“Our school and the SJSD are currently following guidance
from the Center for Disease Control &amp; Prevention (CDC), Missouri Department
of Health &amp; Senior Services (DHSS), Department of Elementary &amp;
Secondary Education (DESE) as well as local health department guidelines,”
Anderson wrote. “The school has been disinfected repeatedly, and our staff will
continue to clean and disinfect rooms regularly.”

Parents are referred to the St. Joseph School District
<a href="https://www.sjsd.k12.mo.us/covid-19">website</a> for more information. Parents also can call the school office at (816)
671-4120.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607185048476.jpeg" alt="Bessie Eillison Elementary School/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Bessie Eillison Elementary School/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostBessie Ellison Elementary School, which switched to remote
learning on Friday, will continue with virtual lessons through next week because
of positive and pending COVID-19 cases arising among staff.Bessie Ellison Principal Kara Anderson notified parents in a
letter the school will not hold classes in the building, but will switch to
remote learning from Monday, December 7th, through Friday, December
11th.“This decision was made with the best interest of our
students and staff, especially for their health and safety,” Anderson wrote in
the letter. “Teaching and learning will continue during this time of remote
learning.”Bessie Ellison staff will reach out to parents about the
remote learning plan and expectations, which will resemble the plans put into
place for Friday.No names of anyone testing positive will be released.“Our school and the SJSD are currently following guidance
from the Center for Disease Control &amp; Prevention (CDC), Missouri Department
of Health &amp; Senior Services (DHSS), Department of Elementary &amp;
Secondary Education (DESE) as well as local health department guidelines,”
Anderson wrote. “The school has been disinfected repeatedly, and our staff will
continue to clean and disinfect rooms regularly.”Parents are referred to the St. Joseph School District
<a href="https://www.sjsd.k12.mo.us/covid-19">website</a> for more information. Parents also can call the school office at (816)
671-4120.

Bessie Ellison to switch to remote learning next week due to COVID-19 cases

St. Joseph health officials reported 104 new coronavirus cases
on Friday.

The St. Joseph Health Department reports the total COVID-19
cases for Buchanan County since the pandemic began is 6,607, resulting in 86
deaths.

Mosaic Life Care reports it is treating 64 COVID-19 patients
in its system; 55 in St. Joseph, five in Maryville, and four in Albany.

Mosaic has now tested 53,730 area residents with 6,555 testing
positive. Mosaic is awaiting results from 315 tests.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials reported 104 new coronavirus cases
on Friday.The St. Joseph Health Department reports the total COVID-19
cases for Buchanan County since the pandemic began is 6,607, resulting in 86
deaths.Mosaic Life Care reports it is treating 64 COVID-19 patients
in its system; 55 in St. Joseph, five in Maryville, and four in Albany.Mosaic has now tested 53,730 area residents with 6,555 testing
positive. Mosaic is awaiting results from 315 tests.

St. Joseph reports 104 new COVID-19 cases

ATCHISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 8p.m. Friday in Atchison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Ford Ranger driven by Timothy J. Oswald, 39, Fairfax, was southbound on U.S. 59 just north of Fairfax.

The pickup traveled off the road and struck a utility pole.

Atchison-Holt ambulance transported Oswald to Mosaic in Maryville. He&nbsp; was cited for DWI; failure to not driver on the right half of the road and for not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

ATCHISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 8p.m. Friday in Atchison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Ford Ranger driven by Timothy J. Oswald, 39, Fairfax, was southbound on U.S. 59 just north of Fairfax.The pickup traveled off the road and struck a utility pole.Atchison-Holt ambulance transported Oswald to Mosaic in Maryville. He&nbsp; was cited for DWI; failure to not driver on the right half of the road and for not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man hospitalized after alleged DUI crash

NODAWAY COUNTY —Seven people were injured in an accident just before 2p.m. Friday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Ford Escape driven by Juliann S. Cruz, 19, College Springs, IA. was northbound on U.S. 71 at 250th Street just north of Maryville.

The Ford rear-ended a 2009 Dodge Journey driven by Angela M. Meese, 39, Bedford IA.,&nbsp; who was stopped behind a 2017 Ford Explorer driven by Mary E. Metcalf, 68, Maryville, that had stopped to make a left turn.

Nodaway County EMS transported Cruz, Metcalf, Meese and passengers in the Dodge identified as Suzie Meese, 17; Bryant D. Youngs, 17; Aniah Meese, 20 and Anne M. Dunlap, 60, all of Bedford, Iowa, to Mosaic in Maryville. The driver and passengers in the Dodge were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY —Seven people were injured in an accident just before 2p.m. Friday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Ford Escape driven by Juliann S. Cruz, 19, College Springs, IA. was northbound on U.S. 71 at 250th Street just north of Maryville.The Ford rear-ended a 2009 Dodge Journey driven by Angela M. Meese, 39, Bedford IA.,&nbsp; who was stopped behind a 2017 Ford Explorer driven by Mary E. Metcalf, 68, Maryville, that had stopped to make a left turn.Nodaway County EMS transported Cruz, Metcalf, Meese and passengers in the Dodge identified as Suzie Meese, 17; Bryant D. Youngs, 17; Aniah Meese, 20 and Anne M. Dunlap, 60, all of Bedford, Iowa, to Mosaic in Maryville. The driver and passengers in the Dodge were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

7 hospitalized after 3-vehicle Nodaway Co. crash

A St. Joseph city councilmember who sponsors a measure which
would ban smoking inside the St. Jo Frontier Casino says the bill will return
once the council meets in person again.

Councilmember P. J. Kovac never thought the city council
should have excluded the casino when it banned smoking in restaurants and bars
six years ago.

“My thought was if it’s that dangerous for everybody, then why
isn’t it dangerous for the casino?” Kovac tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.
“They have the biggest crowds, probably the most popular venue in town and more
people working under that environment and the worst environment of anybody. And
I couldn’t understand, if it’s that serious, why would you put that many lives
as risk?”

Kovac removed his proposal for consideration Monday after the city
council decided to meet remotely. He argued that it was too important an issue
to be decided during a Zoom meeting when public comment is often limited.

Kovac says he is still pushing for a ban, though the St. Jo
Frontier Casino has made changes to its smoking policy, now relegating smoking
to an area away from the slot machines, next to the restrooms.

“At least they can’t sit there on the machine and smoke for
hours in that one spot,” Kovac says. “If they want to smoke, all they can do is
smoke. It’s still in the casino, but it’s much better than it was with limiting
it to eight people. They can’t sit there and smoke for hours, because they’re
going to get bored. They’re going to smoke a cigarette and go back out there on
the floor.”

Kovac says by withholding the bill until the city council
returns to in-person meetings at city hall, he is waiting until there is a
proper setting for both sides to make their case. Kovac says it is an important
decision for the council.

“Because it’s the only venue in the city, probably anywhere,
that you can smoke,” Kovac says. “The most crowded place in town, the most
popular place in town and you’re putting all these lives at risk. I thought,
well it’s not only the virus there’s really bad effects from second-hand smoke which
I didn’t realize how serious it really was.”

There is no definite time when the city council will begin
meeting in person again.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA St. Joseph city councilmember who sponsors a measure which
would ban smoking inside the St. Jo Frontier Casino says the bill will return
once the council meets in person again.Councilmember P. J. Kovac never thought the city council
should have excluded the casino when it banned smoking in restaurants and bars
six years ago.“My thought was if it’s that dangerous for everybody, then why
isn’t it dangerous for the casino?” Kovac tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.
“They have the biggest crowds, probably the most popular venue in town and more
people working under that environment and the worst environment of anybody. And
I couldn’t understand, if it’s that serious, why would you put that many lives
as risk?”Kovac removed his proposal for consideration Monday after the city
council decided to meet remotely. He argued that it was too important an issue
to be decided during a Zoom meeting when public comment is often limited.Kovac says he is still pushing for a ban, though the St. Jo
Frontier Casino has made changes to its smoking policy, now relegating smoking
to an area away from the slot machines, next to the restrooms.“At least they can’t sit there on the machine and smoke for
hours in that one spot,” Kovac says. “If they want to smoke, all they can do is
smoke. It’s still in the casino, but it’s much better than it was with limiting
it to eight people. They can’t sit there and smoke for hours, because they’re
going to get bored. They’re going to smoke a cigarette and go back out there on
the floor.”Kovac says by withholding the bill until the city council
returns to in-person meetings at city hall, he is waiting until there is a
proper setting for both sides to make their case. Kovac says it is an important
decision for the council.“Because it’s the only venue in the city, probably anywhere,
that you can smoke,” Kovac says. “The most crowded place in town, the most
popular place in town and you’re putting all these lives at risk. I thought,
well it’s not only the virus there’s really bad effects from second-hand smoke which
I didn’t realize how serious it really was.”There is no definite time when the city council will begin
meeting in person again.

Proposed St. Jo Frontier Casino smoking ban to return to city council agenda

Missouri residents can receive a free COVID-19 test Saturday
in St. Joseph.

Another community-wide coronavirus testing event will be held
in the city as the city collaborates with the Missouri Department of Health and
Senior Services to test residents at least seven years old.

St. Joseph Department of Health spokeswoman Stephanie Malita says
tests in the past have gone well.

“The feedback that we have heard of has been very positive.
People are grateful that its free,” Malita tells St. Joseph Post. “Pricing, depending
on your level of insurance coverage, can be a barrier.”

The free drive-through testing will take place at the Aquatic
Park at 402 South Noyes Boulevard in St. Joseph between 8am and 4pm. Tests will
be taken through a nasal swab. Results should be back in 2-to-3 days.

The St. Joseph Health Department recommends registering with
the state beforehand to guarantee a test and make it a faster process. Click
<a href="https://dcphdo02redcap.azurewebsites.net/redcap/surveys/?s=XTLH7FCLD7">here</a> for a link to register.

Malita says the free testing offers a great opportunity for
those worried about the coronavirus.

“If you’re unsure of your exposure level and you just want to
see if you have COVID or if you’re having symptoms that you think might be
allergies or oh, I’ve just got a cold, this is a good opportunity to go ahead
and get tested,” according to Malita.

Test results from the past indicate the growth of the pandemic
locally.

The St. Joseph Health Department says results from the first community
testing event in June showed a .71% positive rate. The positivity rate rose during
an October event to 3.01% and rose again after the November testing event to
19.55%.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri residents can receive a free COVID-19 test Saturday
in St. Joseph.Another community-wide coronavirus testing event will be held
in the city as the city collaborates with the Missouri Department of Health and
Senior Services to test residents at least seven years old.St. Joseph Department of Health spokeswoman Stephanie Malita says
tests in the past have gone well.“The feedback that we have heard of has been very positive.
People are grateful that its free,” Malita tells St. Joseph Post. “Pricing, depending
on your level of insurance coverage, can be a barrier.”The free drive-through testing will take place at the Aquatic
Park at 402 South Noyes Boulevard in St. Joseph between 8am and 4pm. Tests will
be taken through a nasal swab. Results should be back in 2-to-3 days.The St. Joseph Health Department recommends registering with
the state beforehand to guarantee a test and make it a faster process. Click
<a href="https://dcphdo02redcap.azurewebsites.net/redcap/surveys/?s=XTLH7FCLD7">here</a> for a link to register.Malita says the free testing offers a great opportunity for
those worried about the coronavirus.“If you’re unsure of your exposure level and you just want to
see if you have COVID or if you’re having symptoms that you think might be
allergies or oh, I’ve just got a cold, this is a good opportunity to go ahead
and get tested,” according to Malita.Any Missouri resident can get tested.Test results from the past indicate the growth of the pandemic
locally.The St. Joseph Health Department says results from the first community
testing event in June showed a .71% positive rate. The positivity rate rose during
an October event to 3.01% and rose again after the November testing event to
19.55%.

Free COVID-19 testing offered to Missouri residents in St. Joseph Saturday

St.
Joseph health officials report 123 new coronavirus cases on Thursday, also
reporting two additional deaths.

Mosaic
Life Care reports hospitalizations continue to drop.

Health
officials say a man in his 80’s and another in his 90’s, both with underlying health
conditions, died of COVID-19.

Buchanan
County has now recorded 6,503 cases since the pandemic began,
resulting in 86 deaths.

Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treated 60 COVID-19 patients as of Friday morning; 52
in St. Joseph, four in Maryville, and four in Albany. Mosaic reported 58
COVID-19 patients at the St. Joseph hospital on Thursday.

Mosaic
has now tested 53,327 area residents with 6,458 testing
positive. Mosaic is awaiting results from 403 tests.

Andrew
County reports 1,238 cases, resulting in 13 deaths.

Doniphan
County, Kansas reports 534 cases.

Missouri
health officials report 313,421 total cases, resulting in 4,122 deaths.

Kansas
health officials report 162,061 cases with 1,679 deaths.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt.
Joseph health officials report 123 new coronavirus cases on Thursday, also
reporting two additional deaths.Mosaic
Life Care reports hospitalizations continue to drop.Health
officials say a man in his 80’s and another in his 90’s, both with underlying health
conditions, died of COVID-19.Buchanan
County has now recorded 6,503 cases since the pandemic began,
resulting in 86 deaths.Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treated 60 COVID-19 patients as of Friday morning; 52
in St. Joseph, four in Maryville, and four in Albany. Mosaic reported 58
COVID-19 patients at the St. Joseph hospital on Thursday.Mosaic
has now tested 53,327 area residents with 6,458 testing
positive. Mosaic is awaiting results from 403 tests.Andrew
County reports 1,238 cases, resulting in 13 deaths.Doniphan
County, Kansas reports 534 cases.Missouri
health officials report 313,421 total cases, resulting in 4,122 deaths.Kansas
health officials report 162,061 cases with 1,679 deaths.

St. Joseph reports 123 new COVID-19 patients as hospitalizations drop

NODAWAY COUNTY — Four people were injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Thursday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Chevy Suburban driven by Amber T. McClain, 39, Quitman, was southbound on MO 113 just south of Quitman.

The SUV traveled off the road and struck a field entrance and came to rest off the road.

A private vehicle transported McClain and passengers ages 7, 11, and 12, to Mosaic in Maryville. Two of the children were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY — Four people were injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Thursday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Chevy Suburban driven by Amber T. McClain, 39, Quitman, was southbound on MO 113 just south of Quitman.The SUV traveled off the road and struck a field entrance and came to rest off the road.A private vehicle transported McClain and passengers ages 7, 11, and 12, to Mosaic in Maryville. Two of the children were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

NW Missouri woman, 3 children hospitalized after crash

BROWN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Thursday in Brown County.

&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Ford 500 driven by Patricia Anne McKinney, 30, Horton, was southbound in the 1400 Block of Kingfisher. The driver lost control of the vehicle and struck a utility pole.

EMS transported&nbsp;McKinney to the hospital in Hiawatha. The KHP did not report seat belt information.

BROWN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Thursday in Brown County.&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Ford 500 driven by Patricia Anne McKinney, 30, Horton, was southbound in the 1400 Block of Kingfisher. The driver lost control of the vehicle and struck a utility pole.EMS transported&nbsp;McKinney to the hospital in Hiawatha. The KHP did not report seat belt information.

Kan. woman hospitalized after car strikes utility pole

Ellison Elementary School in St. Joseph will move to remote
learning on Friday, due to staff members testing positive for COVID-19.

Whether Ellison continues with off-campus learning depends on
test results of staff members, according to the St. Joseph School District.

School officials say the move is being made in the best
interest of students and staff. Classes will continue at Ellison, only remotely.
Ellison staff will be reaching out to students and parents with the remote
learning plan and expectations.

The St. Joseph School District states it will offer further
communication about the status of Ellison Elementary later.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostEllison Elementary School in St. Joseph will move to remote
learning on Friday, due to staff members testing positive for COVID-19.Whether Ellison continues with off-campus learning depends on
test results of staff members, according to the St. Joseph School District.School officials say the move is being made in the best
interest of students and staff. Classes will continue at Ellison, only remotely.
Ellison staff will be reaching out to students and parents with the remote
learning plan and expectations.The St. Joseph School District states it will offer further
communication about the status of Ellison Elementary later.

COVID-19 cases force Ellison Elementary to go to remote learning

A rise in the number of coronavirus cases has prompted the St.
Joseph Health Department to change its COVID-19 contact tracing protocol.

Stephanie Malita with the department says health officials
have been trying to talk with anyone who had come into close contact with those
testing positive for COVID-19.

“We asked them to review who they had been around for 15
minutes or longer and within six feet or less whether they were wearing a mask
or not,” Malita tells St. Joseph Post.

That contact tracing has become more and more of a burden with
the recent rise in coronavirus numbers. The 14-day average in Buchanan County
has nearly doubled in the past month, from 45 to 82.

Malita says the St. Joseph Health Department has used up to
eight staff members to reach out to those who have been in close contact with
anyone testing positive for COVID-19. They can no longer keep up with the
demands of contact tracing with the increase in daily numbers rising so
dramatically. The highest number of positive tests reported in the last two
weeks was 121 on the 24th of November just before Thanksgiving with
the lowest being the 38 cases reported on Monday. The department reported Buchanan
County had 107 new cases on Wednesday.

Now, the department is asking those infected to contact those with
whom they came into close contact.

“If somebody’s home and isolating like they should be, we’re
hopeful that they’ll be able to take the time to make those calls,” Malita
says.

If a person tests positive for COVID-19 they are asked to
quarantine for at least 10 days.

Malita says the change in contact tracing protocol is in line
with changes suggested by the Centers for Disease Control and the Missouri
Department of Health.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA rise in the number of coronavirus cases has prompted the St.
Joseph Health Department to change its COVID-19 contact tracing protocol.Stephanie Malita with the department says health officials
have been trying to talk with anyone who had come into close contact with those
testing positive for COVID-19.“We asked them to review who they had been around for 15
minutes or longer and within six feet or less whether they were wearing a mask
or not,” Malita tells St. Joseph Post.That contact tracing has become more and more of a burden with
the recent rise in coronavirus numbers. The 14-day average in Buchanan County
has nearly doubled in the past month, from 45 to 82.Malita says the St. Joseph Health Department has used up to
eight staff members to reach out to those who have been in close contact with
anyone testing positive for COVID-19. They can no longer keep up with the
demands of contact tracing with the increase in daily numbers rising so
dramatically. The highest number of positive tests reported in the last two
weeks was 121 on the 24th of November just before Thanksgiving with
the lowest being the 38 cases reported on Monday. The department reported Buchanan
County had 107 new cases on Wednesday.Now, the department is asking those infected to contact those with
whom they came into close contact.“If somebody’s home and isolating like they should be, we’re
hopeful that they’ll be able to take the time to make those calls,” Malita
says.If a person tests positive for COVID-19 they are asked to
quarantine for at least 10 days.Malita says the change in contact tracing protocol is in line
with changes suggested by the Centers for Disease Control and the Missouri
Department of Health.

Rising COVID-19 numbers forces change in St. Joseph contact tracing

BUCHANAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 6a.m. Thursday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Cadillac SRX driven by Mitchell C. Berndt, 19, Excelsior Springs, was northbound on Interstate 29 one mile north of Faucett.

The driver attempted to avoid another vehicle. He overcorrected and the SUV traveled down an embankment and struck several trees.&nbsp; Berndt was properly restrained at the time of the accident and refused treatment at the scene, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 6a.m. Thursday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Cadillac SRX driven by Mitchell C. Berndt, 19, Excelsior Springs, was northbound on Interstate 29 one mile north of Faucett.The driver attempted to avoid another vehicle. He overcorrected and the SUV traveled down an embankment and struck several trees.&nbsp; Berndt was properly restrained at the time of the accident and refused treatment at the scene, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man refused treatment after SUV travels down embankment

St. Joseph health officials report 107 new coronavirus cases in
Buchanan County even as hospitalizations dropped in St. Joseph.

The St. Joseph Health Department reports an additional death,
a woman in her 90’s with underlying health conditions.

Buchanan County has now recorded 6,380 cases resulting in 84
deaths.

Mosaic Life Care reports it is treating 66 COVID-19 patients
in its system as of Thursday morning; 58 in St. Joseph, four in Maryville, and four in Albany.

Mosaic reported 86 total COVID-19 cases in its system Monday
with 74 patients in St. Joseph.

Mosaic has tested 52,913 area residents with 6,358 testing positive.

Andrew County reports 1,238 total COVID-19 cases with 13
deaths.

Doniphan County, Kansas reports 534 total cases.

Missouri reports a total of 305,370 cases, resulting in 4,043
deaths.

Kansas reports 162,061 with 1,679 deaths.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report 107 new coronavirus cases in
Buchanan County even as hospitalizations dropped in St. Joseph.The St. Joseph Health Department reports an additional death,
a woman in her 90’s with underlying health conditions.Buchanan County has now recorded 6,380 cases resulting in 84
deaths.Mosaic Life Care reports it is treating 66 COVID-19 patients
in its system as of Thursday morning; 58 in St. Joseph, four in Maryville, and four in Albany.Mosaic reported 86 total COVID-19 cases in its system Monday
with 74 patients in St. Joseph.Mosaic has tested 52,913 area residents with 6,358 testing positive.Andrew County reports 1,238 total COVID-19 cases with 13
deaths.Doniphan County, Kansas reports 534 total cases.Missouri reports a total of 305,370 cases, resulting in 4,043
deaths.Kansas reports 162,061 with 1,679 deaths.

St. Joseph reports 107 new COVID-19 cases as hospitalizations drop

Federal
officials would be prevented from making homeowners refund disaster assistance
mistakenly given them under a bill passing the House in Washington.

Northern
Missouri Congressman Sam Graves sponsors the measure which came as a response
to an incident in northwest Missouri.

“So,
what we basically said is that if FEMA makes a mistake like this they can’t
come and claw the money back, as long as there is no fraud involved. If it was
a mistake on FEMA’s part then they can’t do that,” Graves tells St. Joseph
Post. “This amounted to $12,000. That’s not a lot of money to FEMA, but it’s a
tremendous amount of money to an individual, particularly after the money had
been spent rebuilding their home.”

Graves
says the Holt County resident lost the family home in the 2019 flood. The
Federal Emergency Management Agency granted the homeowner $12,000 in FEMA
Individual Assistance funds. Later, the agency determined the homeowner didn’t qualify
for the money and demanded it be repaid.

Graves
says others have been caught in the crosshairs of FEMA; asked to refund disaster
assistance given them by FEMA after the agency determined they really weren’t
eligible. The legislation allows the disaster victim to keep the money. It also
requires FEMA report to Congress how many times that happens and what it is
doing to prevent it.

Graves
says efforts to get back disaster assistance once awarded can put the homeowner
in a real bind.

“This
was FEMA’s fault and so they need to be held accountable for it and the fact of
the matter is the money was used and it was used for exactly the purpose that FEMA
originally laid it out for and, in my opinion, they shouldn’t be penalized as a
result,” Graves says.

The
Preventing Disaster Revictimization Act would require FEMA waive the debt of
someone who received federal assistance by mistake, as long as applicant sought
the assistance in good faith and no fraud was involved. The Congressman’s office
claims that under current law, FEMA can demand repayment weeks, months, even
years later.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606931490158.jpeg" alt="Submerged house in 2019 flood/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Submerged house in 2019 flood/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostFederal
officials would be prevented from making homeowners refund disaster assistance
mistakenly given them under a bill passing the House in Washington.Northern
Missouri Congressman Sam Graves sponsors the measure which came as a response
to an incident in northwest Missouri.“So,
what we basically said is that if FEMA makes a mistake like this they can’t
come and claw the money back, as long as there is no fraud involved. If it was
a mistake on FEMA’s part then they can’t do that,” Graves tells St. Joseph
Post. “This amounted to $12,000. That’s not a lot of money to FEMA, but it’s a
tremendous amount of money to an individual, particularly after the money had
been spent rebuilding their home.”Graves
says the Holt County resident lost the family home in the 2019 flood. The
Federal Emergency Management Agency granted the homeowner $12,000 in FEMA
Individual Assistance funds. Later, the agency determined the homeowner didn’t qualify
for the money and demanded it be repaid.Graves
says others have been caught in the crosshairs of FEMA; asked to refund disaster
assistance given them by FEMA after the agency determined they really weren’t
eligible. The legislation allows the disaster victim to keep the money. It also
requires FEMA report to Congress how many times that happens and what it is
doing to prevent it.Graves
says efforts to get back disaster assistance once awarded can put the homeowner
in a real bind.“This
was FEMA’s fault and so they need to be held accountable for it and the fact of
the matter is the money was used and it was used for exactly the purpose that FEMA
originally laid it out for and, in my opinion, they shouldn’t be penalized as a
result,” Graves says.The
Preventing Disaster Revictimization Act would require FEMA waive the debt of
someone who received federal assistance by mistake, as long as applicant sought
the assistance in good faith and no fraud was involved. The Congressman’s office
claims that under current law, FEMA can demand repayment weeks, months, even
years later.

Bill would block FEMA from seeking refund of assistance given by mistake

A St. Joseph city councilmember hopes a new hiking and biking
trail on the bluffs of the Missouri River will attract tourists to the city.

Councilmember Madison Davis is pleased the council has entered
into a contract with Nomad Trails Development and Ideker to create a multi-use
trail along the bluff ridge above the Missouri River in north St. Joseph.

“Many people would remember that as the park that’s not a
park,” Davis says. “It had the WPA ruins built there many, many years ago and were
never really ever able to be utilized by the citizens.”

Once completed, there will be bike trails off the main hiking
trail.

The new trail is located between I-229 and Waterworks Road,
north of Highland Avenue. The River Bluff Bike Trail Project contract is not to
exceed $1.55 million.

Plans call for creation of an approximately 10,000-foot recreational
bicycle and hiking trail with as much as 20,000 feet specifically devoted to a
mountain bike trail.

The Missouri River bluffs hiking and biking trail will pass by
the remnants of two old, WPA structures and a farmstead, opening public land
mostly cut off from the public.

“Areas that are public property, that don’t get used very much,
where you could for a low cost generate tourism dollars off of it,” Davis says.
“There are several places that have done studies (about) spending for trails of
this type and they are saying on an annual basis you (will) get twice as much
back as what you’ve put into it in the beginning.”

Davis says turning a long-neglected piece of public property
into a tourist attraction isn’t a far-fetched idea. He says several studies
outline the attraction of hiking and biking trails, bringing enthusiasts to a
city where they spend money for lodging and meals.

And Davis adds, it’s a low risk investment.

“We’ve never gotten any use out of it beyond people being able
to walk and hike up there currently,” according to Davis. “To be able to
develop it so it can generate tourism dollars is the idea.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606929149128.jpeg" alt="Work is underway to outline the Missouri River bluffs trail in St. Joseph/Photo courtesy of&nbsp;&nbsp;Nomad Trails Development, LLC. " />
 <figcaption>Work is underway to outline the Missouri River bluffs trail in St. Joseph/Photo courtesy of&nbsp;&nbsp;Nomad Trails Development, LLC. </figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA St. Joseph city councilmember hopes a new hiking and biking
trail on the bluffs of the Missouri River will attract tourists to the city.Councilmember Madison Davis is pleased the council has entered
into a contract with Nomad Trails Development and Ideker to create a multi-use
trail along the bluff ridge above the Missouri River in north St. Joseph.“Many people would remember that as the park that’s not a
park,” Davis says. “It had the WPA ruins built there many, many years ago and were
never really ever able to be utilized by the citizens.”Once completed, there will be bike trails off the main hiking
trail.The new trail is located between I-229 and Waterworks Road,
north of Highland Avenue. The River Bluff Bike Trail Project contract is not to
exceed $1.55 million.Plans call for creation of an approximately 10,000-foot recreational
bicycle and hiking trail with as much as 20,000 feet specifically devoted to a
mountain bike trail.The Missouri River bluffs hiking and biking trail will pass by
the remnants of two old, WPA structures and a farmstead, opening public land
mostly cut off from the public.“Areas that are public property, that don’t get used very much,
where you could for a low cost generate tourism dollars off of it,” Davis says.
“There are several places that have done studies (about) spending for trails of
this type and they are saying on an annual basis you (will) get twice as much
back as what you’ve put into it in the beginning.”Davis says turning a long-neglected piece of public property
into a tourist attraction isn’t a far-fetched idea. He says several studies
outline the attraction of hiking and biking trails, bringing enthusiasts to a
city where they spend money for lodging and meals.And Davis adds, it’s a low risk investment.“We’ve never gotten any use out of it beyond people being able
to walk and hike up there currently,” according to Davis. “To be able to
develop it so it can generate tourism dollars is the idea.”

Hiking and biking as a key to more foot traffic in St. Joseph

New COVID-19 cases in Buchanan County jumped back up after falling
for a few days in a row, hospitalizations have fallen.

The St. Joseph Health Department reported 121 new coronavirus
cases in Buchanan County on Tuesday after reporting 38 on Monday and 49 on
Sunday.

St. Joseph health officials also reported another death:&nbsp; a man in his 70’s with underlying health
conditions.

Buchanan County now has recorded 6,273 cases since
the pandemic began resulting in 83 deaths.

Mosaic Life Care reports another drop in hospitalizations with
67 COVID-19 patients in its system as of Wednesday morning; 60 in St. Joseph, four
in Maryville, and three in Albany. Mosaic had been treating 80 COVID-19
patients as of Tuesday morning.

Mosaic has now tested 52,218 residents with 6,242 testing positive.
Mosaic is awaiting results from 596 tests.

Andrew County has recorded 1,238 total cases with 13
deaths.

Doniphan County, Kansas has reported 516 total cases.

Missouri health officials report the total coronavirus cases
in the state is 3102,691 with 4,006 deaths.

Kansas health officials report 157,446 total cases resulting in 1,560 deaths.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostNew COVID-19 cases in Buchanan County jumped back up after falling
for a few days in a row, hospitalizations have fallen.The St. Joseph Health Department reported 121 new coronavirus
cases in Buchanan County on Tuesday after reporting 38 on Monday and 49 on
Sunday.St. Joseph health officials also reported another death:&nbsp; a man in his 70’s with underlying health
conditions.Buchanan County now has recorded 6,273 cases since
the pandemic began resulting in 83 deaths.Mosaic Life Care reports another drop in hospitalizations with
67 COVID-19 patients in its system as of Wednesday morning; 60 in St. Joseph, four
in Maryville, and three in Albany. Mosaic had been treating 80 COVID-19
patients as of Tuesday morning.Mosaic has now tested 52,218 residents with 6,242 testing positive.
Mosaic is awaiting results from 596 tests.Andrew County has recorded 1,238 total cases with 13
deaths.Doniphan County, Kansas has reported 516 total cases.Missouri health officials report the total coronavirus cases
in the state is 3102,691 with 4,006 deaths.Kansas health officials report 157,446 total cases resulting in 1,560 deaths.

New COVID-19 cases back up in Buchanan County; hospitalizations down

HARRISON COUNTY—Three people were injured in an accident just after 2p.m. Tuesday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Volkswagen Jetta driven by Craynes K. McGinley, 31, Newton, IA., was southbound on Interstate 35 five miles north of Eagleville.&nbsp;

The vehicle crossed the centerline and struck a northbound 2019 Ford F550 driven by Randy C. Allen, 32, Oklahoma, City, Ok., nearly head-on.

North Harrison EMS transported McGinley to Decatur County Hospital. Decatur County EMS transported Allen and a passenger in the Ford Joshua M. Thompson, 35, Perry, OK., to Harrison County Community Hospital. Thompson was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

HARRISON COUNTY—Three people were injured in an accident just after 2p.m. Tuesday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Volkswagen Jetta driven by Craynes K. McGinley, 31, Newton, IA., was southbound on Interstate 35 five miles north of Eagleville.&nbsp;The vehicle crossed the centerline and struck a northbound 2019 Ford F550 driven by Randy C. Allen, 32, Oklahoma, City, Ok., nearly head-on.North Harrison EMS transported McGinley to Decatur County Hospital. Decatur County EMS transported Allen and a passenger in the Ford Joshua M. Thompson, 35, Perry, OK., to Harrison County Community Hospital. Thompson was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

3 hospitalized after near head-on NW Missouri crash

The Salvation Army is in desperate need of more bell ringers.

Major Ron Key of the Salvation Army says that the number of volunteers this year has been lower due to the pandemic.

"Some volunteer groups that we had chose not to ring this year for COVID, just out of concern," Key points out. "And then there's some other volunteer groups that instead of taking a whole day, maybe they take less of a time, so we're not covering places all day sometimes."

Key adds that due to the pandemic, the number of donations has also dropped about twenty percent so far, because there is less foot traffic at the stores in town.

"So, with less foot traffic comes less chance of getting a donation," Key says. "I will say that places that we are at, when we are at them, the people are generous in giving, it's just not as many people that are walking by. So, that's why we're offering other ways for people to donate to us to make it easier for them and safer for them."

Though the Salvation Army is currently looking for bell ringers, Key says there are other ways to give. 

"There are several ways we're offering to people just out of safety or whatever," Key says. "On our signs at the bell ringing spots there's a way they can pay with Google pay or Apple pay, so all you have to do is just click on that and it will ask them how much they want to give."

Key also says that you can access the Salvation Army's registry at Walmart to donate either toys or money. 

You can also send a check or money to the Salvation Army's office with your donation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606856190847.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph City Councilmember&nbsp; Marty Novak and wife Rose Mary ring bells for the Salvation Army/Photo Courtesy of the Salvation Army" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph City Councilmember&nbsp; Marty Novak and wife Rose Mary ring bells for the Salvation Army/Photo Courtesy of the Salvation Army</figcaption>
 </figure>BY MATT PIKEST. JOSEPH POSTThe Salvation Army is in desperate need of more bell ringers.Major Ron Key of the Salvation Army says that the number of volunteers this year has been lower due to the pandemic."Some volunteer groups that we had chose not to ring this year for COVID, just out of concern," Key points out. "And then there's some other volunteer groups that instead of taking a whole day, maybe they take less of a time, so we're not covering places all day sometimes."Key adds that due to the pandemic, the number of donations has also dropped about twenty percent so far, because there is less foot traffic at the stores in town."So, with less foot traffic comes less chance of getting a donation," Key says. "I will say that places that we are at, when we are at them, the people are generous in giving, it's just not as many people that are walking by. So, that's why we're offering other ways for people to donate to us to make it easier for them and safer for them."Though the Salvation Army is currently looking for bell ringers, Key says there are other ways to give. "There are several ways we're offering to people just out of safety or whatever," Key says. "On our signs at the bell ringing spots there's a way they can pay with Google pay or Apple pay, so all you have to do is just click on that and it will ask them how much they want to give."Key also says that you can access the Salvation Army's registry at Walmart to donate either toys or money. You can also send a check or money to the Salvation Army's office with your donation.

Salvation Army looking for more volunteer bell ringers

<div>Here’s the latest booking activity from the Platte County Jail. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. This information is provided by the Platte County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The St Joseph Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information.</div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606854604704.jpeg" alt="RYAN MILLER - BURGLARY 2ND DEGREE - 10000 BOND " />
 <figcaption>RYAN MILLER - BURGLARY 2ND DEGREE - 10000 BOND </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606854668522.jpeg" alt="PHILIP KRUEGER - DWI ALCOHOL PERSISTENT OFFENDER - NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>PHILIP KRUEGER - DWI ALCOHOL PERSISTENT OFFENDER - NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606854787597.jpeg" alt="THEODORE THOMAS - ASSAULT 2ND DEGREE - 25000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>THEODORE THOMAS - ASSAULT 2ND DEGREE - 25000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606854830744.jpeg" alt="MARKIS MESAROS - TAMPERING WITH MOTOR VEHICLE 1ST DEG - 100000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>MARKIS MESAROS - TAMPERING WITH MOTOR VEHICLE 1ST DEG - 100000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606854875245.jpeg" alt="SHAWN OBRIEN - ASSAULT 3RD DEG - NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>SHAWN OBRIEN - ASSAULT 3RD DEG - NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606854917811.jpeg" alt="ROBERT CLINE - POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE- 10000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>ROBERT CLINE - POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE- 10000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606854954904.jpeg" alt="DEONDRE JACKSON - RESISTING ARREST - NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>DEONDRE JACKSON - RESISTING ARREST - NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606855013479.jpeg" alt="JEROME BURK - BURGLARY 1ST DEG - 15000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>JEROME BURK - BURGLARY 1ST DEG - 15000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606855055016.jpeg" alt="MICHAEL ELLMAKER - DWI - NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>MICHAEL ELLMAKER - DWI - NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606855091056.jpeg" alt="MELISSA HERRING - UNLAWFUL POSSESSION - NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>MELISSA HERRING - UNLAWFUL POSSESSION - NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606855142635.jpeg" alt="PEDRO ESTEBAN - TAMPERING WITH MOTOR VEHICLE 1ST DEG - 25000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>PEDRO ESTEBAN - TAMPERING WITH MOTOR VEHICLE 1ST DEG - 25000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606855184761.jpeg" alt="MATTINA MARSHALL - RESISTING OR INTERFERING WITH ARREST - 500 BOND" />
 <figcaption>MATTINA MARSHALL - RESISTING OR INTERFERING WITH ARREST - 500 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606855232110.jpeg" alt="LACY MANN - TAMPERING WITH MOTOR VEHICLE 1ST DEG - 50000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>LACY MANN - TAMPERING WITH MOTOR VEHICLE 1ST DEG - 50000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606855275365.jpeg" alt="JOSHUA JONES - RESISTING OR INTERFERING WITH ARREST - 500 BOND" />
 <figcaption>JOSHUA JONES - RESISTING OR INTERFERING WITH ARREST - 500 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606855313259.jpeg" alt="GABRIEL MADDIX - 24 INVESTIGATIVE HOLD - NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>GABRIEL MADDIX - 24 INVESTIGATIVE HOLD - NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure>

Platte County Jail Activity (11/04-11/30/2020)

St. Joseph city councilmembers met virtually on Monday, once
again deciding to meet remotely rather than at city hall, due to the
coronavirus pandemic.

St. Joseph Mayor Bill McMurray says a recent rise in COVID-19
cases convinced the city council to use technology to meet this evening.

“Given the numbers, we felt that it would be better if we did
it via Zoom rather than in person and do our part to combat the community spread
of the virus,” McMurray tells St. Joseph Post.

McMurray says meeting remotely serves two purposes. One, it
protects councilmembers, staff, and the public from any possibility of
spreading the coronavirus during a meeting. Two, it emphasizes one of the steps
needed to keep down the spread of the virus:&nbsp;
not holding large gatherings.

“Certainly, in the council chamber, even with the numbers restricted
we still have a large gathering there and with people who are asymptomatic being
in the population, we really want to err on the side of caution here and go to
a Zoom meeting,” McMurray says.

The St. Joseph City Council earlier began meeting remotely as
the COVID-19 numbers began to rise in the area. It resumed meeting at city hall
once the cases began to fall. With cases on the rise again, the council has
returned to virtual meetings.

McMurray says those who defy the mask mandate and fail to maintain
recommended social distance and wash their hands thoroughly put others at risk
of contracting the coronavirus.

“The experts seem to suggest, not just nationally but our
local physician leadership at Mosaic, says these are the things that are going
to lead to pretty serious community spread,” according to McMurray.

McMurray says the city just needs to keep up with the
precautions a few more months and, then, he hopes a vaccine will be widely
distributed enough to ease restrictions locally and throughout the nation.

During the virtual meeting Monday, the councilmember who filed
a bill to ban smoking at the St. Jo Frontier Casino withdrew the measure. He
says he plans to bring it back when the council resumes meeting in person.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph city councilmembers met virtually on Monday, once
again deciding to meet remotely rather than at city hall, due to the
coronavirus pandemic.St. Joseph Mayor Bill McMurray says a recent rise in COVID-19
cases convinced the city council to use technology to meet this evening.“Given the numbers, we felt that it would be better if we did
it via Zoom rather than in person and do our part to combat the community spread
of the virus,” McMurray tells St. Joseph Post.McMurray says meeting remotely serves two purposes. One, it
protects councilmembers, staff, and the public from any possibility of
spreading the coronavirus during a meeting. Two, it emphasizes one of the steps
needed to keep down the spread of the virus:&nbsp;
not holding large gatherings.“Certainly, in the council chamber, even with the numbers restricted
we still have a large gathering there and with people who are asymptomatic being
in the population, we really want to err on the side of caution here and go to
a Zoom meeting,” McMurray says.The St. Joseph City Council earlier began meeting remotely as
the COVID-19 numbers began to rise in the area. It resumed meeting at city hall
once the cases began to fall. With cases on the rise again, the council has
returned to virtual meetings.McMurray says those who defy the mask mandate and fail to maintain
recommended social distance and wash their hands thoroughly put others at risk
of contracting the coronavirus.“The experts seem to suggest, not just nationally but our
local physician leadership at Mosaic, says these are the things that are going
to lead to pretty serious community spread,” according to McMurray.McMurray says the city just needs to keep up with the
precautions a few more months and, then, he hopes a vaccine will be widely
distributed enough to ease restrictions locally and throughout the nation.During the virtual meeting Monday, the councilmember who filed
a bill to ban smoking at the St. Jo Frontier Casino withdrew the measure. He
says he plans to bring it back when the council resumes meeting in person.

COVID-19 concerns prompt St. Joseph council to meet remotely

There
is a lot of information to digest from the latest coronavirus numbers released
by the St. Joseph Health Department.

The
department reports 253 new cases since its last report, which was issued on
Wednesday, prior to the Thanksgiving holiday. No new cases were reported on Thanksgiving
Day. There were 106 new cases reported on Friday with numbers falling afterward:&nbsp; 60 on Saturday, 49 on Sunday, and 38 on
Monday.

Five
coronavirus-related deaths have been reported since Wednesday:&nbsp; a man in his 80’s,
two women in their 80’s, one woman in her 70’s, and one woman in her 60’s. All
had underlying health conditions.

Buchanan
County has now recorded 6,152 cases of COVID-19 since the
pandemic began with 82 deaths. St. Joseph health officials report the number of women testing positive for the coronavirus has now exceeded the number of men for the first time since
counting began; 3,078 women to 3,073 men.

Mosaic
Life Care reports 80 COVID-19 patients in its system as of Tuesday morning; 69
in St. Joseph, seven in Maryville, and four in Albany.

Mosaic
has tested 52,218 area residents with 6,191 testing positive. Mosaic is awaiting
results from 430 tests.

Andrew
County reports 1,207 total cases with 13 deaths.

Doniphan
County, Kansas reports 516 total cases.

Missouri
health officials report 299,762 total cases, resulting in
3,829 deaths.

Kansas
health officials report 157,446 total cases with 1,560
deaths.

The article has been updated with the latest numbers from Mosaic.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostThere
is a lot of information to digest from the latest coronavirus numbers released
by the St. Joseph Health Department.The
department reports 253 new cases since its last report, which was issued on
Wednesday, prior to the Thanksgiving holiday. No new cases were reported on Thanksgiving
Day. There were 106 new cases reported on Friday with numbers falling afterward:&nbsp; 60 on Saturday, 49 on Sunday, and 38 on
Monday.Five
coronavirus-related deaths have been reported since Wednesday:&nbsp; a man in his 80’s,
two women in their 80’s, one woman in her 70’s, and one woman in her 60’s. All
had underlying health conditions.Buchanan
County has now recorded 6,152 cases of COVID-19 since the
pandemic began with 82 deaths. St. Joseph health officials report the number of women testing positive for the coronavirus has now exceeded the number of men for the first time since
counting began; 3,078 women to 3,073 men.Mosaic
Life Care reports 80 COVID-19 patients in its system as of Tuesday morning; 69
in St. Joseph, seven in Maryville, and four in Albany.Mosaic
has tested 52,218 area residents with 6,191 testing positive. Mosaic is awaiting
results from 430 tests.Andrew
County reports 1,207 total cases with 13 deaths.Doniphan
County, Kansas reports 516 total cases.Missouri
health officials report 299,762 total cases, resulting in
3,829 deaths.Kansas
health officials report 157,446 total cases with 1,560
deaths.The article has been updated with the latest numbers from Mosaic.

Good and bad in latest Buchanan County COVID-19 report

Two teen-agers were injured in a hit and run wreck in St.
Joseph last night.

St. Joseph police report the crash left an 18-year-old woman
who was a passenger unconscious. She has been hospitalized with moderate to
serious injuries. The 17-year-old woman driving the car that was struck suffered
minor injuries.

The crash occurred in the 19-Hundred block of Messanie Street
shortly before 10 o’clock last night.

Police say they have located the car which fled the scene.
They are working to identify the driver.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostTwo teen-agers were injured in a hit and run wreck in St.
Joseph last night.St. Joseph police report the crash left an 18-year-old woman
who was a passenger unconscious. She has been hospitalized with moderate to
serious injuries. The 17-year-old woman driving the car that was struck suffered
minor injuries.The crash occurred in the 19-Hundred block of Messanie Street
shortly before 10 o’clock last night.Police say they have located the car which fled the scene.
They are working to identify the driver.

Two teens injured in hit-and-run crash in St. Joseph

ANDREW COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 10p.m. Monday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Ford Focus driven by Donald C. Sipes, 28, Savannah, was northbound on Interstate 29 three miles north of St. Joseph.&nbsp; The car traveled off the east side of County Road 352, returned to the road and traveled off the west side, struck a building and a tractor trailer in the parking lot.

Andrew County EMS transported Sipes and a passenger Breanna A. Hostetler, 25, Maryville, to Mosaic Life Care. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 10p.m. Monday in Andrew County. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Ford Focus driven by Donald C. Sipes, 28, Savannah, was northbound on Interstate 29 three miles north of St. Joseph.&nbsp; The car traveled off the east side of County Road 352, returned to the road and traveled off the west side, struck a building and a tractor trailer in the parking lot.Andrew County EMS transported Sipes and a passenger Breanna A. Hostetler, 25, Maryville, to Mosaic Life Care. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

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