St. Joseph health officials report five new cases of COVID-19, bringing
the Buchanan County total to 10,548.

Buchanan County has recorded 182 coronavirus-related deaths
since the pandemic began.

Andrew County reports one new case on its dashboard. Andrew
County has had 21 coronavirus-related deaths.

Doniphan County, Kansas reports 970 COVID-19 cases.

Mosaic Life Care reports that its COVID-19 patient count is
minimal. Mosaic states on its website it will not report a coronavirus patient count
until it has more than 10 COVID-19 patients in its system.

Missouri health officials report more than half a million cases
of COVID-19 since the pandemic began, with the latest figure pegged at 508,968.
Missouri has recorded a total of 9,005 deaths.

Kansas health officials report 312,591 total coronavirus cases,
resulting in 5,053 deaths.

Meanwhile, Kansas is changing its
strategy for reaching herd immunity from COVID-19 from holding mass
immunization clinics to doctor’s offices and pharmacies give shots. Public
health officials say the change will make getting the shots more convenient for
some people or tap into their existing trust in their doctors to overcome
hesitation about getting vaccinated. 

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report five new cases of COVID-19, bringing
the Buchanan County total to 10,548.Buchanan County has recorded 182 coronavirus-related deaths
since the pandemic began.Andrew County reports one new case on its dashboard. Andrew
County has had 21 coronavirus-related deaths.Doniphan County, Kansas reports 970 COVID-19 cases.Mosaic Life Care reports that its COVID-19 patient count is
minimal. Mosaic states on its website it will not report a coronavirus patient count
until it has more than 10 COVID-19 patients in its system.Missouri health officials report more than half a million cases
of COVID-19 since the pandemic began, with the latest figure pegged at 508,968.
Missouri has recorded a total of 9,005 deaths.Kansas health officials report 312,591 total coronavirus cases,
resulting in 5,053 deaths.Meanwhile, Kansas is changing its
strategy for reaching herd immunity from COVID-19 from holding mass
immunization clinics to doctor’s offices and pharmacies give shots. Public
health officials say the change will make getting the shots more convenient for
some people or tap into their existing trust in their doctors to overcome
hesitation about getting vaccinated.

St. Joseph reports only five new COVID-19 cases

Motorcyclists' safety is being emphasized&nbsp;this month&nbsp;through Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop H&nbsp;Spokesperson&nbsp;Jake Angle&nbsp;says there is an increase in motorcyclists&nbsp;during the warm months including May, June and July.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“During that time frame obviously with more bikes&nbsp;on the roadway, a higher percentage of bikes out there,&nbsp;so obviously we’re going to see more crashes during the warmer months,” Angle tells St.&nbsp;Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Angle&nbsp;says May is the perfect month for Motorcycle Safety Awareness because the warm weather brings out motorcyclists.&nbsp;

“May is that time of the year when obviously the temperatures start warming up&nbsp;and then we all know that when the temperatures warm up, people then&nbsp;enjoy&nbsp;getting out on the roadways on their motorcycles,”&nbsp;says&nbsp;Angle. “That’s their favorite time of the year.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Angle&nbsp;says the risk of injury for motorcyclists is much higher than a vehicular traffic crash.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It’s just critically important that we understand that from a safety aspect motorcyclists have a&nbsp;smaller footprint out there on the roadway,” says Angle. “They're&nbsp;smaller, they’re easier to lose in a blind spot.”&nbsp;

Preliminary 2020 statistics from the Missouri&nbsp;State Highway Patrol indicate that&nbsp;there were 173 crashes involving a motorcycle. In these crashes, 157 people were injured and 11 people were killed.&nbsp;

By WHITNEE ICE&nbsp;&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Motorcyclists' safety is being emphasized&nbsp;this month&nbsp;through Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.&nbsp;&nbsp;Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop H&nbsp;Spokesperson&nbsp;Jake Angle&nbsp;says there is an increase in motorcyclists&nbsp;during the warm months including May, June and July.&nbsp;&nbsp;“During that time frame obviously with more bikes&nbsp;on the roadway, a higher percentage of bikes out there,&nbsp;so obviously we’re going to see more crashes during the warmer months,” Angle tells St.&nbsp;Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;Angle&nbsp;says May is the perfect month for Motorcycle Safety Awareness because the warm weather brings out motorcyclists.&nbsp;“May is that time of the year when obviously the temperatures start warming up&nbsp;and then we all know that when the temperatures warm up, people then&nbsp;enjoy&nbsp;getting out on the roadways on their motorcycles,”&nbsp;says&nbsp;Angle. “That’s their favorite time of the year.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Angle&nbsp;says the risk of injury for motorcyclists is much higher than a vehicular traffic crash.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It’s just critically important that we understand that from a safety aspect motorcyclists have a&nbsp;smaller footprint out there on the roadway,” says Angle. “They're&nbsp;smaller, they’re easier to lose in a blind spot.”&nbsp;Preliminary 2020 statistics from the Missouri&nbsp;State Highway Patrol indicate that&nbsp;there were 173 crashes involving a motorcycle. In these crashes, 157 people were injured and 11 people were killed.&nbsp;

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

ATCHISON COUNTY—were injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Thursday in Atchison County.

 A 2010 Nissan Sentra driven by Jessica Figaniak, Effingham, was northbound in the 1300 Block of U.S. 73 when the vehicle hydroplaned due to heavy rain, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.

The car crossed the median into the southbound lanes and into the path of a southbound 2013 Honda SUV driven by Matthew Greeno of Kansas City Kansas.

EMS transported a passenger in the Nissan Keith Damon, 28,&nbsp; Effingham, to Amberwell&nbsp; for treatment of injuries after the Fire Department used the Jaws of Life to remove a vehicle door so first responders could get him out of the vehicle.

The drivers were not injured.&nbsp; All three occupants were wearing seatbelts, according to Wilson.

ATCHISON COUNTY—were injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Thursday in Atchison County. A 2010 Nissan Sentra driven by Jessica Figaniak, Effingham, was northbound in the 1300 Block of U.S. 73 when the vehicle hydroplaned due to heavy rain, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.The car crossed the median into the southbound lanes and into the path of a southbound 2013 Honda SUV driven by Matthew Greeno of Kansas City Kansas.EMS transported a passenger in the Nissan Keith Damon, 28,&nbsp; Effingham, to Amberwell&nbsp; for treatment of injuries after the Fire Department used the Jaws of Life to remove a vehicle door so first responders could get him out of the vehicle.The drivers were not injured.&nbsp; All three occupants were wearing seatbelts, according to Wilson.

First responders use jaws of life to rescue Kan. man after crash

The Sounds of Summer concert series has brought people to downtown St. Joseph for the past 20 years.

The biggest part of making any concert series so popular for so long is the audience. David Peppard of the Downtown Association Board believes they have built that audience through the years.

"I think we've grown an audience, we have a lot of regulars who make it down there most every week to hear the bands, be a part of the downtown" Peppard says. "They'll walk around, see our businesses, go eat before or after at one of the restaurants and take advantage of what we have downtown that makes us so excited about we have there."

Sounds of Summer has operated in downtown St. Joseph for the last two decades, and has mainly focused on the same genres of music.

"I'd say mainly it's classic rock and we're starting to hit on the 80's classics as well," says Christy George with the Downtown Association Board.  

Peppard says a big reason the audience keeps coming back is the genre of music the bands play.

 "We've tried to experiment a little bit with different types of bands," Peppard explains. "And again, having that kind of steady audience, you know, you bring somebody out that's playing a bunch of music that an audience doesn't really know it doesn't always go over so well. We've had always kind of a country rock aspect to it." 

Sounds of Summer even had some success last year, despite the COVID-19 pandemic.  George says there was some success, but not surprisingly, there was also a slight drop in the audience retention.

"I'd say it was probably about half of what it was," George explains. "The audience kind of shifted every week. It was different people all the time, but everybody did a really good job of staying six feet apart and keeping safe."

The concert series will kick off Friday with the Blue Oyster Culture Club (or B.O.C.C) and will run on Fridays through July 30.

You can find more information, including a schedule of performers <a href="https://downtownstjoemo.com/things-to-do/">HERE</a>

Video provided by the St. Joseph Downtown Association.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621450798430.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of St. Joseph Downtown Association" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of St. Joseph Downtown Association</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Sounds of Summer concert series has brought people to downtown St. Joseph for the past 20 years.The biggest part of making any concert series so popular for so long is the audience. David Peppard of the Downtown Association Board believes they have built that audience through the years."I think we've grown an audience, we have a lot of regulars who make it down there most every week to hear the bands, be a part of the downtown" Peppard says. "They'll walk around, see our businesses, go eat before or after at one of the restaurants and take advantage of what we have downtown that makes us so excited about we have there."Sounds of Summer has operated in downtown St. Joseph for the last two decades, and has mainly focused on the same genres of music."I'd say mainly it's classic rock and we're starting to hit on the 80's classics as well," says Christy George with the Downtown Association Board. Peppard says a big reason the audience keeps coming back is the genre of music the bands play. "We've tried to experiment a little bit with different types of bands," Peppard explains. "And again, having that kind of steady audience, you know, you bring somebody out that's playing a bunch of music that an audience doesn't really know it doesn't always go over so well. We've had always kind of a country rock aspect to it." Sounds of Summer even had some success last year, despite the COVID-19 pandemic. George says there was some success, but not surprisingly, there was also a slight drop in the audience retention."I'd say it was probably about half of what it was," George explains. "The audience kind of shifted every week. It was different people all the time, but everybody did a really good job of staying six feet apart and keeping safe."The concert series will kick off Friday with the Blue Oyster Culture Club (or B.O.C.C) and will run on Fridays through July 30.You can find more information, including a schedule of performers <a href="https://downtownstjoemo.com/things-to-do/">HERE</a><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FStJosephDowntownAssociation%2Fvideos%2F482480592958396%2F&show_text=false&width=476" width="476" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Video provided by the St. Joseph Downtown Association.

Sounds of Summer concert series returning to downtown St. Joseph

The&nbsp;St. Joseph City Council voted unanimously Wednesday in favor of a half cent-sales tax.&nbsp;

A bill sponsored by Mayor Bill McMurray and council member Madison Davis was proposed to the council last week and was taken to a vote at City Hall Wednesday afternoon.

The&nbsp;half-cent sales tax for the&nbsp;St. Joseph park&nbsp;system&nbsp;will be up for a vote this August.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Council member&nbsp;Madison Davis says the city council made the decision&nbsp;to invest in the city and park system.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“What we’ve done today is decided to put on the ballot in August a half-cent sales tax increase&nbsp;that would provide funding for the sole purpose of maintaining our parks projects&nbsp;and improving our parks system,”&nbsp;Davis tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Davis says this tax will revitalize the park system to what it used to be.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Some parks don’t have restrooms that&nbsp;operate&nbsp;so we’re going to take things like that and make it useable again and&nbsp;sometimes at a&nbsp;downtrodden&nbsp;state&nbsp;and make it something that’s viable and everybody can&nbsp;appreciate,” says Davis.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Council member&nbsp;Kent O’Dell says St. Joseph’s parkway system is 26 miles long, which is unheard of in a town this size.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“With 26 miles of parkway just the simple maintenance, just trying to keep up with cutting the grass is a task,” says O’Dell. “Then on top of everything what all other parkways and parks have is the maintenance of everything else that’s involved with it.”&nbsp;

The tax will have a 10-year sunset clause and over that 10-year period, it will generate 50-60 million dollars.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

By WHITNEE ICESt. Joseph PostThe&nbsp;St. Joseph City Council voted unanimously Wednesday in favor of a half cent-sales tax.&nbsp;A bill sponsored by Mayor Bill McMurray and council member Madison Davis was proposed to the council last week and was taken to a vote at City Hall Wednesday afternoon.The&nbsp;half-cent sales tax for the&nbsp;St. Joseph park&nbsp;system&nbsp;will be up for a vote this August.&nbsp;&nbsp;Council member&nbsp;Madison Davis says the city council made the decision&nbsp;to invest in the city and park system.&nbsp;&nbsp;“What we’ve done today is decided to put on the ballot in August a half-cent sales tax increase&nbsp;that would provide funding for the sole purpose of maintaining our parks projects&nbsp;and improving our parks system,”&nbsp;Davis tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Davis says this tax will revitalize the park system to what it used to be.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Some parks don’t have restrooms that&nbsp;operate&nbsp;so we’re going to take things like that and make it useable again and&nbsp;sometimes at a&nbsp;downtrodden&nbsp;state&nbsp;and make it something that’s viable and everybody can&nbsp;appreciate,” says Davis.&nbsp;&nbsp;Council member&nbsp;Kent O’Dell says St. Joseph’s parkway system is 26 miles long, which is unheard of in a town this size.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“With 26 miles of parkway just the simple maintenance, just trying to keep up with cutting the grass is a task,” says O’Dell. “Then on top of everything what all other parkways and parks have is the maintenance of everything else that’s involved with it.”&nbsp;The tax will have a 10-year sunset clause and over that 10-year period, it will generate 50-60 million dollars.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

St. Joseph City Council votes to add a half-cent sales tax to August's ballot

Law enforcement agencies across the country are seeing a continuing trend of staff shortages, and that includes St. Joseph and Buchanan County.

Buchanan County presiding commissioner Lee Sawyer says the sheriff's department is short about 20 staff members - from law enforcement officers to corrections employees and beyond.

"We do have open positions," Sawyer said. "The sheriff's department is working to get those filled, but in some areas like drug strike force, they've been kind of short of help anyway."

St. Joseph Police chief Chris Connally tells KFEQ's The Hotline that their department is also trying to fill 20 or so positions. He points to national rhetoric around policing, including the "Defund the Police" movement that has gained traction since the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis last year.

"It's had a significant impact on the relationship between people and the police," Connally said. "Now, particularly with so many people leaving policing, and many are leaving just because they see what's going on."

Connally says the St. Joseph Police Department is certainly not alone when it comes to staff shortages.&nbsp;

"I was at a police chief's meeting recently and out of 150 police chiefs, I would say all but about three raised their hands when asked about hiring and retention challenges," he said.

In the most recent St. Joseph community survey released in April, safety and security was the top concern among respondents, with 55 percent of respondents naming safety and security as the most important issue facing St. Joseph and Buchanan County.

This comes as St. Joseph has seen a recent uptick in drug-related crimes and overdoses. As of late-March, St. Joseph had seen 110 drug overdoses since the start of 2021 - most of these linked to Fentanyl.

Puett says personnel shortages amongst local law enforcement make it more difficult to respond to these concerns and crimes.

"Our community is concerned with addiction and the drug problems in the community," he said. "That's very obvious. We have drug investigators that are out constantly trying to address these things and they have limited resources."

Sawyer said 83 percent of St. Joseph area residents feel there is a problem with drug addiction, according to the community survey.

"Fifteen percent said they weren't sure and only two percent said there's not a problem," Sawyer said. "So, that's pretty remarkable really."

Chief Connally cited a different survey - one that asked people of various age groups whether or not they believe that law enforcement is an honorable profession.

"Ages 18-24 or 25, only 15 percent of those thought it was an honorable profession" Connally said.

Public perception of policing, coupled with salary concerns, Puett says, are the main reasons why Buchanan County and so many others nationally have trouble recruiting and retaining officers.

"The money is terrible and we don't get paid enough when, and they say, when people hate us," Puett said. "When they hear this national rhetoric of, 'no one wants police. They're bad. They're this, they're that.'"

Puett says the sheriff's office is looking at ways to boost pay and incentives for prospective recruits in order to try and fill some of their vacancies.

He also wants to reassure anyone who's considering a career in law enforcement locally that the St. Joseph and Buchanan County communities have overwhelmingly expressed their support for policing.&nbsp;

In other words, Puett says officers in the local area, for the most part, are not met with "defund the police" rhetoric often seen through social media and mainstream media sources.

"I think our community is unique in a lot of good ways, " Puett said. "I think people around here support law enforcement. I do believe we have a good community and folks who are supporting us. So, people who are interested in getting into law enforcement, I encourage them to contact us, and we'll get them started and get them on their way."

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621451197347.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Police Chief Chris Connally discussed various law enforcement topics and issues on KFEQ's The Hotline with Barry Birr on Wednesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Police Chief Chris Connally discussed various law enforcement topics and issues on KFEQ's The Hotline with Barry Birr on Wednesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostLaw enforcement agencies across the country are seeing a continuing trend of staff shortages, and that includes St. Joseph and Buchanan County.Buchanan County presiding commissioner Lee Sawyer says the sheriff's department is short about 20 staff members - from law enforcement officers to corrections employees and beyond."We do have open positions," Sawyer said. "The sheriff's department is working to get those filled, but in some areas like drug strike force, they've been kind of short of help anyway."St. Joseph Police chief Chris Connally tells KFEQ's The Hotline that their department is also trying to fill 20 or so positions. He points to national rhetoric around policing, including the "Defund the Police" movement that has gained traction since the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis last year."It's had a significant impact on the relationship between people and the police," Connally said. "Now, particularly with so many people leaving policing, and many are leaving just because they see what's going on."Connally says the St. Joseph Police Department is certainly not alone when it comes to staff shortages.&nbsp;"I was at a police chief's meeting recently and out of 150 police chiefs, I would say all but about three raised their hands when asked about hiring and retention challenges," he said.In the most recent St. Joseph community survey released in April, safety and security was the top concern among respondents, with 55 percent of respondents naming safety and security as the most important issue facing St. Joseph and Buchanan County.This comes as St. Joseph has seen a recent uptick in drug-related crimes and overdoses. As of late-March, St. Joseph had seen 110 drug overdoses since the start of 2021 - most of these linked to Fentanyl.Puett says personnel shortages amongst local law enforcement make it more difficult to respond to these concerns and crimes."Our community is concerned with addiction and the drug problems in the community," he said. "That's very obvious. We have drug investigators that are out constantly trying to address these things and they have limited resources."Sawyer said 83 percent of St. Joseph area residents feel there is a problem with drug addiction, according to the community survey."Fifteen percent said they weren't sure and only two percent said there's not a problem," Sawyer said. "So, that's pretty remarkable really."Chief Connally cited a different survey - one that asked people of various age groups whether or not they believe that law enforcement is an honorable profession."Ages 18-24 or 25, only 15 percent of those thought it was an honorable profession" Connally said.Public perception of policing, coupled with salary concerns, Puett says, are the main reasons why Buchanan County and so many others nationally have trouble recruiting and retaining officers."The money is terrible and we don't get paid enough when, and they say, when people hate us," Puett said. "When they hear this national rhetoric of, 'no one wants police. They're bad. They're this, they're that.'"Puett says the sheriff's office is looking at ways to boost pay and incentives for prospective recruits in order to try and fill some of their vacancies.He also wants to reassure anyone who's considering a career in law enforcement locally that the St. Joseph and Buchanan County communities have overwhelmingly expressed their support for policing.&nbsp;In other words, Puett says officers in the local area, for the most part, are not met with "defund the police" rhetoric often seen through social media and mainstream media sources."I think our community is unique in a lot of good ways, " Puett said. "I think people around here support law enforcement. I do believe we have a good community and folks who are supporting us. So, people who are interested in getting into law enforcement, I encourage them to contact us, and we'll get them started and get them on their way."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph, Buchanan County law enforcement address personnel shortages

The American Red Cross and actor James Van Der Beek encourage Americans to make this summer full of life by giving blood.

Springs says you might even&nbsp;recognize James Van&nbsp;Der&nbsp;Beek’s name from a couple of his more popular roles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“He’s really best known for being in Dawson’s Creek and that is something that he is known for as well as Varsity Blue so if you’ve seen those you have seen James Van Der Beek,” Springs tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Springs says the&nbsp;Van Der Beek family became passionate about blood donations and The American Red Cross after James Van&nbsp;Der&nbsp;Beek’s wife had traumatic pregnancy losses and needed blood.&nbsp;

With the theme for this&nbsp;year's&nbsp;blood drive being “Summer full of Life,”&nbsp;Springs says they want to ensure everyone’s safety at&nbsp;the blood drives.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“When you come to a Red Cross blood drive, you’ll be asked to wear a mask the entire time.” says Springs. “We have hand sanitizing stations there of course. We will make sure you are socially distanced.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Springs says&nbsp;the Red Cross tests all of the blood donations for COVID-19 antibodies.&nbsp;

“It doesn’t take a lot of time, it’s simple and you know that potentially if you have those antibodies&nbsp;present that you could go on to help further&nbsp;with this fight against COVID-19,” says Springs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Those who donate during May 28th&nbsp;to June 13th&nbsp;will receive a limited-edition T-shirt, while supplies lasts.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621374338182.jpeg" alt="James Van Der Beek's T-shirt promo / Photo provided by The American Red Cross" />
 <figcaption>James Van Der Beek's T-shirt promo / Photo provided by The American Red Cross</figcaption>
 </figure>By WHITNEE ICE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;The American Red Cross and actor James Van Der Beek encourage Americans to make this summer full of life by giving blood.Springs says you might even&nbsp;recognize James Van&nbsp;Der&nbsp;Beek’s name from a couple of his more popular roles.&nbsp;&nbsp;“He’s really best known for being in Dawson’s Creek and that is something that he is known for as well as Varsity Blue so if you’ve seen those you have seen James Van Der Beek,” Springs tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;Springs says the&nbsp;Van Der Beek family became passionate about blood donations and The American Red Cross after James Van&nbsp;Der&nbsp;Beek’s wife had traumatic pregnancy losses and needed blood.&nbsp;With the theme for this&nbsp;year's&nbsp;blood drive being “Summer full of Life,”&nbsp;Springs says they want to ensure everyone’s safety at&nbsp;the blood drives.&nbsp;&nbsp;“When you come to a Red Cross blood drive, you’ll be asked to wear a mask the entire time.” says Springs. “We have hand sanitizing stations there of course. We will make sure you are socially distanced.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Springs says&nbsp;the Red Cross tests all of the blood donations for COVID-19 antibodies.&nbsp;“It doesn’t take a lot of time, it’s simple and you know that potentially if you have those antibodies&nbsp;present that you could go on to help further&nbsp;with this fight against COVID-19,” says Springs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Those who donate during May 28th&nbsp;to June 13th&nbsp;will receive a limited-edition T-shirt, while supplies lasts.&nbsp;

The American Red Cross and James Van Der Beek gear up for summer blood drives

For ten years, Pivotal Point Transitional Housing in St. Joseph has been helping homeless individuals overcome hard times.

Pivotal Point Executive Director Melissa Frakes says the amount of services they provide is quite extensive.

"What we have found while we have been with Pivotal Point and Hillcrest is that we offer so many more things then people might know," she said on KFEQ's The Hotline.

Frakes says the transitional housing helps people with budgeting as well as life skills that help them get back on their feet.

"Ninety percent of their food needs come from our pantry, which come from the community and we pay for," Frakes says. "They live in a furnished apartment. They do not pay rent while they are with us and they do not pay their utilities." 

While some believe Pivotal Point just hands out this assistance, there are many barriers individuals must overcome to keep their housing, including paying any past due rent and utility bills from places they may have lived before.&nbsp;

From 2016-2021, Pivotal Point has assisted over 350 families, including 362 adults and 418 children.

Frakes says Pivotal Point has made some changes in the last couple years, specifically aimed towards youth.

"We had youth coming to us in late 2016 and early 2017," Frakes explained.&nbsp; "We had two youth from this community that were kind of in high school. One of them actually was still attending, but the other was really struggling to attend and so it started with those two."

While most housing at Pivotal Point is designated for adults, Frakes says there are some big plans coming up in the future for youth.

"We really set aside 2.5 years ago one apartment, and last year, we served seven young adults" Frakes says. "So, we see that need and we have been addressing that in small form."

Frakes says Pivotal Point is planning to build a youth building, and hopes more of those plans will be announced later this year.

Ten years is a long time to do anything, but Frakes says they wouldn't be able to do what they do without the support of the community and the many volunteers who help.

To celebrate their 10-year anniversary,&nbsp;Pivotal Point has some special events coming up to mark the occasion and to also raise money for their cause.

"Coming up really really soon, and part of our ten-year celebration, is our online auction," Frakes says. "So, we are going to do an online auction June 2nd through the 6th."

Some other events coming up include Ladies' Night at Pivotal Point thrift store on June 3 as well as a celebration that's being planned for September 18th. More information will be coming on that in the future.

You can fine more on Pivotal Points at their website <a href="http://pivotalpointstjoseph.org/index.html">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621369613646.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostFor ten years, Pivotal Point Transitional Housing in St. Joseph has been helping homeless individuals overcome hard times.Pivotal Point Executive Director Melissa Frakes says the amount of services they provide is quite extensive."What we have found while we have been with Pivotal Point and Hillcrest is that we offer so many more things then people might know," she said on KFEQ's The Hotline.Frakes says the transitional housing helps people with budgeting as well as life skills that help them get back on their feet."Ninety percent of their food needs come from our pantry, which come from the community and we pay for," Frakes says. "They live in a furnished apartment. They do not pay rent while they are with us and they do not pay their utilities." While some believe Pivotal Point just hands out this assistance, there are many barriers individuals must overcome to keep their housing, including paying any past due rent and utility bills from places they may have lived before.&nbsp;From 2016-2021, Pivotal Point has assisted over 350 families, including 362 adults and 418 children.Frakes says Pivotal Point has made some changes in the last couple years, specifically aimed towards youth."We had youth coming to us in late 2016 and early 2017," Frakes explained.&nbsp; "We had two youth from this community that were kind of in high school. One of them actually was still attending, but the other was really struggling to attend and so it started with those two."While most housing at Pivotal Point is designated for adults, Frakes says there are some big plans coming up in the future for youth."We really set aside 2.5 years ago one apartment, and last year, we served seven young adults" Frakes says. "So, we see that need and we have been addressing that in small form."Frakes says Pivotal Point is planning to build a youth building, and hopes more of those plans will be announced later this year.Ten years is a long time to do anything, but Frakes says they wouldn't be able to do what they do without the support of the community and the many volunteers who help.To celebrate their 10-year anniversary,&nbsp;Pivotal Point has some special events coming up to mark the occasion and to also raise money for their cause."Coming up really really soon, and part of our ten-year celebration, is our online auction," Frakes says. "So, we are going to do an online auction June 2nd through the 6th."Some other events coming up include Ladies' Night at Pivotal Point thrift store on June 3 as well as a celebration that's being planned for September 18th. More information will be coming on that in the future. You can fine more on Pivotal Points at their website <a href="http://pivotalpointstjoseph.org/index.html">HERE</a>.

Pivotal Point in St. Joseph celebrating 10 years of service in 2021

KANSAS CITY —A Missouri farmer accused of attempting to cover up a $215,000 cattle fraud scheme by killing two Wisconsin brothers was indicted Tuesday on a federal mail fraud charge.

Garland Joseph Nelson, 27, is awaiting trial on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michael-brown-us-news-ap-top-news-kansas-city-wisconsin-d979d903133f475f941d1be6a8ce5fe3">state murder and other charges&nbsp;</a>in the deaths of 24-year-old Justin Diemel and 35-year-old Nicholas Diemel, of Shawano County, Wisconsin. The brothers disappeared after visiting Nelson’s farm in July 2019, and their burned remains were later found in Missouri and Nebraska.

The federal charge focuses on the financial deal that brought the brothers to Missouri.

Nelson agreed to feed and pasture cattle belonging to the brothers’ Wisconsin livestock trade and investment business, the indictment says. The arrangement was supposed to end with Nelson, who worked for J4s Farm Enterprises Inc., a business started by his mother, selling the cattle and sending the brothers the proceeds, minus the costs of raising the cattle.

But the U.S. attorney’s office said in a news release that Nelson sold, traded or killed many of the Diemels’ cattle without paying them.

The indictment also alleges that the cattle in Nelson’s care “had high death rates due to underfeeding, neglect, and/or maltreatment.” In one case, he dropped hay bales in a pasture for calves but did not remove the plastic covering, so calves ate the plastic and died.

Throughout the spring of 2019, Nicholas Diemel pressed Nelson for payment. Nelson responded by fraudulently sending the Diemels a bad check for $215,936 while the account had a balance of 21 cents, according to the U.S. attorney’s office. The check had been intentionally torn and damaged so it could not be submitted for payment.

The brothers eventually flew to Kansas City in July 2019, rented a pickup truck and drove to Nelson’s mother’s farm in Braymer. The indictment alleges that Nelson then killed them.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1564610122687.png" alt="Nelson photo Caldwell County" />
 <figcaption>Nelson photo Caldwell County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Missouri farmer accused of attempting to cover up a $215,000 cattle fraud scheme by killing two Wisconsin brothers was indicted Tuesday on a federal mail fraud charge.Garland Joseph Nelson, 27, is awaiting trial on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michael-brown-us-news-ap-top-news-kansas-city-wisconsin-d979d903133f475f941d1be6a8ce5fe3">state murder and other charges&nbsp;</a>in the deaths of 24-year-old Justin Diemel and 35-year-old Nicholas Diemel, of Shawano County, Wisconsin. The brothers disappeared after visiting Nelson’s farm in July 2019, and their burned remains were later found in Missouri and Nebraska.The federal charge focuses on the financial deal that brought the brothers to Missouri.Nelson agreed to feed and pasture cattle belonging to the brothers’ Wisconsin livestock trade and investment business, the indictment says. The arrangement was supposed to end with Nelson, who worked for J4s Farm Enterprises Inc., a business started by his mother, selling the cattle and sending the brothers the proceeds, minus the costs of raising the cattle.But the U.S. attorney’s office said in a news release that Nelson sold, traded or killed many of the Diemels’ cattle without paying them.The indictment also alleges that the cattle in Nelson’s care “had high death rates due to underfeeding, neglect, and/or maltreatment.” In one case, he dropped hay bales in a pasture for calves but did not remove the plastic covering, so calves ate the plastic and died.Throughout the spring of 2019, Nicholas Diemel pressed Nelson for payment. Nelson responded by fraudulently sending the Diemels a bad check for $215,936 while the account had a balance of 21 cents, according to the U.S. attorney’s office. The check had been intentionally torn and damaged so it could not be submitted for payment.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565280147807.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The brothers eventually flew to Kansas City in July 2019, rented a pickup truck and drove to Nelson’s mother’s farm in Braymer. The indictment alleges that Nelson then killed them.

Missouri man charged in brother's deaths accused of fraud

Buchanan County received a huge sum of money from the CARES Act in 2020. Now, the county will get an even bigger allotment in 2021 from the American Rescue Plan.

After getting&nbsp; $10.2 million from the CARES Act, Buchanan County is set to receive another $16.9 million in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan - a $1.9 trillion COVID relief stimulus that passed through Congress earlier this year.

Lee Sawyer, Buchanan County's presiding commissioner, says the county will see its first allotment of that money within a week's time. The first payment will exceed $8 million.

"We will come up with the different programs that we think fit within the guidelines," Sawyer said on KFEQ's The Hotline. "Hopefully, as we did with the CARES Act, we want to affect as many people as we possibly can, and do the types of things that hopefully have some longer-term impacts. That's one of the things from a personal standpoint I'd like to see."

Much like the CARES Act, Rescue Plan funding is intended to help any business, entity or household that has struggled financially as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sawyers says the commissioners are still figuring out how to best allocate this latest round of COVID relief across the county. One such area this funding can go toward, for example, is the Buchanan County Academy, which has an aging ventilation system.

"We have not very good air circulation out there," Sawyer said. "It's an older system. That fits very well with what they've said about, you know, from a health standpoint - improving infrastructure to help with public health."

Sawyer says this funding can also be put toward virus mitigation efforts, like vaccines and PPE, should the need arise.

"We can still put money toward vaccination programs if that was needed," Sawyer said. "Testing, all of those things. PPE purchases for the protective equipment."

The city of St. Joseph has been <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/10be13b9-92a8-4201-87f3-bda72116f7f5">allocated $39.7 million</a> from the American Rescue Plan, and is set to receive its first payment of $19.5 million in the coming days.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605719076983.jpeg" alt="Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBuchanan County received a huge sum of money from the CARES Act in 2020. Now, the county will get an even bigger allotment in 2021 from the American Rescue Plan.After getting&nbsp; $10.2 million from the CARES Act, Buchanan County is set to receive another $16.9 million in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan - a $1.9 trillion COVID relief stimulus that passed through Congress earlier this year.Lee Sawyer, Buchanan County's presiding commissioner, says the county will see its first allotment of that money within a week's time. The first payment will exceed $8 million."We will come up with the different programs that we think fit within the guidelines," Sawyer said on KFEQ's The Hotline. "Hopefully, as we did with the CARES Act, we want to affect as many people as we possibly can, and do the types of things that hopefully have some longer-term impacts. That's one of the things from a personal standpoint I'd like to see."Much like the CARES Act, Rescue Plan funding is intended to help any business, entity or household that has struggled financially as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic.Sawyers says the commissioners are still figuring out how to best allocate this latest round of COVID relief across the county. One such area this funding can go toward, for example, is the Buchanan County Academy, which has an aging ventilation system."We have not very good air circulation out there," Sawyer said. "It's an older system. That fits very well with what they've said about, you know, from a health standpoint - improving infrastructure to help with public health."Sawyer says this funding can also be put toward virus mitigation efforts, like vaccines and PPE, should the need arise."We can still put money toward vaccination programs if that was needed," Sawyer said. "Testing, all of those things. PPE purchases for the protective equipment."The city of St. Joseph has been <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/10be13b9-92a8-4201-87f3-bda72116f7f5">allocated $39.7 million</a> from the American Rescue Plan, and is set to receive its first payment of $19.5 million in the coming days.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Buchanan County could see its first American Rescue Plan payment within the next week

Hy-Vee is dropping its mandatory mask policy for fully-vaccinated shoppers. The grocery store chain made that announcement Tuesday in a written statement.

Hy-Vee's announcement follows several other retailers’ decision to make masks non-mandatory.

Hy-Vee says customers who are not fully vaccinated should still wear masks. Company employees who have not gotten the shot will still have to wear face coverings. 

Hy-Vee will also maintain its Plexiglas barriers at all checkout counters. Social distancing signage will remain in places where lines tend to form. Extra hand sanitizer/cart wipes will remain stationed throughout stores as well. Hy-Vee Pharmacy also have walk-in COVID-19 vaccines available. They're also hosting pop-up vaccination clinics at community events.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583950135186.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hy-Vee is dropping its mandatory mask policy for fully-vaccinated shoppers. The grocery store chain made that announcement Tuesday in a written statement.Hy-Vee's announcement follows several other retailers’ decision to make masks non-mandatory.Hy-Vee says customers who are not fully vaccinated should still wear masks. Company employees who have not gotten the shot will still have to wear face coverings. Hy-Vee will also maintain its Plexiglas barriers at all checkout counters. Social distancing signage will remain in places where lines tend to form. Extra hand sanitizer/cart wipes will remain stationed throughout stores as well. Hy-Vee Pharmacy also have walk-in COVID-19 vaccines available. They're also hosting pop-up vaccination clinics at community events.

Hy-Vee dropping mandatory mask policy for vaccinated shoppers

ATCHISON, Kansas — The chaplain of Benedictine College, the private liberal arts college in Atchison, who admitted an inappropriate relationship with a student is no longer working for the school.

In April Fr. Simon Baker, OSB, the chaplain of Benedictine College, self-disclosed to St. Benedict’s Abbey leadership that he had engaged in inappropriate conduct with an adult, female student at the College, according to a media statement from the school.

Following his disclosure, the Abbey convened its internal review board to investigate. The review board determined that Fr. Simon displayed inappropriate affection and favoritism toward the woman. The board recommended that certain boundaries be placed on Fr. Simon, and that counseling and support be offered to the female involved.

This week, immediately after the Abbey learned that Fr. Simon was not complying with these boundaries, he was removed from ministry. Since his removal, the College has received additional reports that Fr. Simon crossed physical and emotional boundaries in pastoral relationships with other adult women. 

At this point these reports do not involve a minor or any alleged criminal behavior. Benedictine College and St. Benedict’s Abbey are commencing a third-party investigation of these reports. Fr. Simon is prohibited from being present on campus pending the conclusion of the investigation.

The school said they&nbsp; are reaching out to all those who may be affected by these reports and those with information about Fr. Simon pertinent to this investigation, or those affected by this and would like to seek support, should contact the victim’s advocate at 913-426-5769.

The school also apologized to all those affected by Fr. Simon’s inappropriate behavior.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621353048269.png" alt="Fr. Simon Baker -photo courtesy&nbsp;St. Benedict’s Abbey " />
 <figcaption>Fr. Simon Baker -photo courtesy&nbsp;St. Benedict’s Abbey </figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON, Kansas — The chaplain of Benedictine College, the private liberal arts college in Atchison, who admitted an inappropriate relationship with a student is no longer working for the school.In April Fr. Simon Baker, OSB, the chaplain of Benedictine College, self-disclosed to St. Benedict’s Abbey leadership that he had engaged in inappropriate conduct with an adult, female student at the College, according to a media statement from the school.Following his disclosure, the Abbey convened its internal review board to investigate. The review board determined that Fr. Simon displayed inappropriate affection and favoritism toward the woman. The board recommended that certain boundaries be placed on Fr. Simon, and that counseling and support be offered to the female involved.This week, immediately after the Abbey learned that Fr. Simon was not complying with these boundaries, he was removed from ministry. Since his removal, the College has received additional reports that Fr. Simon crossed physical and emotional boundaries in pastoral relationships with other adult women. At this point these reports do not involve a minor or any alleged criminal behavior. Benedictine College and St. Benedict’s Abbey are commencing a third-party investigation of these reports. Fr. Simon is prohibited from being present on campus pending the conclusion of the investigation.The school said they&nbsp; are reaching out to all those who may be affected by these reports and those with information about Fr. Simon pertinent to this investigation, or those affected by this and would like to seek support, should contact the victim’s advocate at 913-426-5769.The school also apologized to all those affected by Fr. Simon’s inappropriate behavior.

Benedictine investigates priest for inappropriate conduct

Underage drinking and driving&nbsp;is&nbsp;on the rise.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Statistics from the Missouri Department of Transportation shows&nbsp;teen fatalities on the roadways are up 63% over this time last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Troop H Public Information Officer Jake Angle&nbsp;says the Highway Patrol's&nbsp;mission hasn’t changed and won’t change.&nbsp;

“We’re not going to stop,” Angle tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;“That’s our mission day in and day out. It’s to&nbsp;make the highways as safe as possible&nbsp;and underage drinking obviously falls under that purview as well.”&nbsp;

Missouri has a Zero Tolerance Law. Anyone under 21 years of age will have their license&nbsp;suspended if they are caught driving with even a trace of alcohol in their system.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Angle says&nbsp;the Zero Tolerance Law specifically&nbsp;targets people under the drinking age.&nbsp;

“If you’re caught driving, operating a motor vehicle with any trace of alcohol in your system, it’s an administrative action&nbsp;through the department of Revenue and you’ll lose your driver's license,” says Angle.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He&nbsp;says&nbsp;the law is clear, and&nbsp;Angle&nbsp;encourages all drivers to follow the laws in place.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“If you’re out there on the road way and I don’t care if&nbsp;you're&nbsp;underage, or if&nbsp;you're&nbsp;of age, if&nbsp;you're&nbsp;impaired and you get behind the wheel,&nbsp;there is a heavy price to pay and we’re put there. Our enforcement’s not going to change,” says Angle. “We will find you. We will arrest you and you will go to jail.”&nbsp;

By WHITNEE ICE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Underage drinking and driving&nbsp;is&nbsp;on the rise.&nbsp;&nbsp;Statistics from the Missouri Department of Transportation shows&nbsp;teen fatalities on the roadways are up 63% over this time last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;Troop H Public Information Officer Jake Angle&nbsp;says the Highway Patrol's&nbsp;mission hasn’t changed and won’t change.&nbsp;“We’re not going to stop,” Angle tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;“That’s our mission day in and day out. It’s to&nbsp;make the highways as safe as possible&nbsp;and underage drinking obviously falls under that purview as well.”&nbsp;Missouri has a Zero Tolerance Law. Anyone under 21 years of age will have their license&nbsp;suspended if they are caught driving with even a trace of alcohol in their system.&nbsp;&nbsp;Angle says&nbsp;the Zero Tolerance Law specifically&nbsp;targets people under the drinking age.&nbsp;“If you’re caught driving, operating a motor vehicle with any trace of alcohol in your system, it’s an administrative action&nbsp;through the department of Revenue and you’ll lose your driver's license,” says Angle.&nbsp;&nbsp;He&nbsp;says&nbsp;the law is clear, and&nbsp;Angle&nbsp;encourages all drivers to follow the laws in place.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“If you’re out there on the road way and I don’t care if&nbsp;you're&nbsp;underage, or if&nbsp;you're&nbsp;of age, if&nbsp;you're&nbsp;impaired and you get behind the wheel,&nbsp;there is a heavy price to pay and we’re put there. Our enforcement’s not going to change,” says Angle. “We will find you. We will arrest you and you will go to jail.”&nbsp;

Missouri has seen an increase in underage impaired drivers

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enrorcement authorities are investigating a woman for a violent attack on a man.

Just after 1p.m. Saturday, police responded to a disturbance at a home in the 500 Block of North 9th Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

A-47 year old man was struck on the head with a metal bar. He was examined at the scene by EMS but was not transported at that time. Officers took 31-year-old Gabrielle A. Cline into custody on requested charges of aggravated battery as well as criminal damage to a door.

A private vehicle later took the victim to the hospital for treatment, according to Wilson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621257445122.png" alt="Cline photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Cline photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enrorcement authorities are investigating a woman for a violent attack on a man.Just after 1p.m. Saturday, police responded to a disturbance at a home in the 500 Block of North 9th Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.A-47 year old man was struck on the head with a metal bar. He was examined at the scene by EMS but was not transported at that time. Officers took 31-year-old Gabrielle A. Cline into custody on requested charges of aggravated battery as well as criminal damage to a door.A private vehicle later took the victim to the hospital for treatment, according to Wilson.

Police: Atchison woman accused of hitting man with metal bar

GENTRY COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 6:30p.m. Saturday in Gentry County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Pontiac Vibe driven by Katherine M. Showers, 59, Oskaloosa, IA., was westbound on U.S. 136 two miles east of Albany.

The vehicle crossed the center line and struck a 2014 Kenworth Daycab driven by Marvin D. Anderson, 49, Gilman City, head-on.

Showers was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Roberson Funeral Home of Bethany. Anderson was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

GENTRY COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 6:30p.m. Saturday in Gentry County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Pontiac Vibe driven by Katherine M. Showers, 59, Oskaloosa, IA., was westbound on U.S. 136 two miles east of Albany.The vehicle crossed the center line and struck a 2014 Kenworth Daycab driven by Marvin D. Anderson, 49, Gilman City, head-on.Showers was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Roberson Funeral Home of Bethany. Anderson was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

MSHP IDs woman who died in head-on crash

DAVIESS COUNTY—Two Missouri teens were injured in an accident just before 10p.m. Saturday in Daviess County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1995 GMC Sierra driven by a 16-year-old boy from Gallatin was northbound on 260th Street.&nbsp;

The driver failed to negotiate a turn at Sunset Avenue. The pickup traveled off the north side of Sunset Avenue, struck an embankment and traveled into a ditch.

A private vehicle transported a 16-year-old female passenger from Gallatin and a 16-year-old male passenger from Pattonsburg to Cameron Regional Medical Center. The driver was not injured.&nbsp; The passengers were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

DAVIESS COUNTY—Two Missouri teens were injured in an accident just before 10p.m. Saturday in Daviess County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1995 GMC Sierra driven by a 16-year-old boy from Gallatin was northbound on 260th Street.&nbsp;The driver failed to negotiate a turn at Sunset Avenue. The pickup traveled off the north side of Sunset Avenue, struck an embankment and traveled into a ditch.A private vehicle transported a 16-year-old female passenger from Gallatin and a 16-year-old male passenger from Pattonsburg to Cameron Regional Medical Center. The driver was not injured.&nbsp; The passengers were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

2 NW Missouri teens injured in pickup crash

Opioid addiction is an ongoing problem in the United States, and one St. Joseph treatment center aims to curb opioid abuse at the local level.

Mark Puckett helped start the St. Kolbe-Puckett Center for Healing after the death of his son as a way to help others avoid the loss he suffered.

The center offers different forms of treatment, including some medically assisted options.

"We offer Suboxone treatment for opioid addiction and Suboxone is a medically assisted treatment," Puckett says. "It allows the individual to come off the opioids and it allows them to function and have a normal life." 

Puckett adds that this treatment has been met with some backlash, however.

"You know, a lot of people will say, 'You know, you're just trading addictions.' That's not true," he said. "I like to tell people, 'Look at it like this - you go to the doctor and you've developed high blood pressure and the doctor says you're going to take this prescription to control your blood pressure.' That's what Suboxone does - it controls that urge." 

The St. Kolbe-Puckett Center opened three years ago and has run completely off of donations. Even if you can't donate, Puckett says word-of-mouth advertising is a great help as well.

"Put the word out about St. Kolbe-Puckett, if you know somebody that is struggling with addiction, tell them to give us a call," Puckett says. "We have peer support specialists there that, even if they are not ready for treatment, that peer support specialist can help guide them down the road they need to go down." 

Services at St. Kolbe-Puckett are free for those who are trying to recover.

The center provides many forms of counseling along with medical treatments to help aid in recovery. For more information on St. Kolbe Puckett, you can find their website <a href="https://www.stkolbepuckett.org/">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621279530121.jpeg" alt="Photo&nbsp; courtesy of St. Kolbe-Puckett Center for Healing" />
 <figcaption>Photo&nbsp; courtesy of St. Kolbe-Puckett Center for Healing</figcaption>
 </figure>BY MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostOpioid addiction is an ongoing problem in the United States, and one St. Joseph treatment center aims to curb opioid abuse at the local level.Mark Puckett helped start the St. Kolbe-Puckett Center for Healing after the death of his son as a way to help others avoid the loss he suffered.The center offers different forms of treatment, including some medically assisted options."We offer Suboxone treatment for opioid addiction and Suboxone is a medically assisted treatment," Puckett says. "It allows the individual to come off the opioids and it allows them to function and have a normal life." Puckett adds that this treatment has been met with some backlash, however."You know, a lot of people will say, 'You know, you're just trading addictions.' That's not true," he said. "I like to tell people, 'Look at it like this - you go to the doctor and you've developed high blood pressure and the doctor says you're going to take this prescription to control your blood pressure.' That's what Suboxone does - it controls that urge." The St. Kolbe-Puckett Center opened three years ago and has run completely off of donations. Even if you can't donate, Puckett says word-of-mouth advertising is a great help as well."Put the word out about St. Kolbe-Puckett, if you know somebody that is struggling with addiction, tell them to give us a call," Puckett says. "We have peer support specialists there that, even if they are not ready for treatment, that peer support specialist can help guide them down the road they need to go down." Services at St. Kolbe-Puckett are free for those who are trying to recover.The center provides many forms of counseling along with medical treatments to help aid in recovery. For more information on St. Kolbe Puckett, you can find their website <a href="https://www.stkolbepuckett.org/">HERE</a>.

St. Kolbe-Puckett Center continues fighting battle against opioid addiction

Rounds of showers and thunderstorms are possible across the region Monday night and several more times this week.

There are continued chances for showers and storms practically every day this week and into the upcoming weekend.

National Weather Service meteorologist Brent Pesel at the Pleasant Hill office says the good news is the severe weather threat this week is low, but some creeks and rivers could swell.

"So we do expect the rivers to rise," he said. "There are a few well south of St. Joseph that have entered into flood stages, but we aren't expecting the Missouri to enter flood stage."

Localized flash flooding is also possible in areas of heavier showers. Additional rainfall will aggravate flooding along area rivers, creeks and streams.

There is a Flood Warning for the Stranger Creek at Easton impacting Atchison and Leavenworth Counties in Kansas through Tuesday morning.

Pesel says the biggest threat is potential flash flooding in area rivers and streams.

"Certainly the smaller creeks and tributaries, especially in urban areas, do respond fairly quickly when it rains," Pesel said. "Especially with larger amounts. All of that water and runoff does eventually end up in the Missouri River.

Major flooding along the Missouri River is not expected over the next few days. The St. Joseph area could see an additional 1-3 inches of rain this week. St. Joseph recorded 0.68 inches on Monday morning, while Pleasant Hill received 2.72 inches.

Pesel also noted that it has been a fairly quiet severe weather season across northwest Missouri and northeastern Kansas so far this spring.

"It has been fairly quiet for us," he said. "May and June are usually very active months for severe weather and definitely our best chances. But, right now it's been fairly quiet and we're pretty happy about that."

Pesel says it's wise to always be prepared for severe weather. Have multiple ways to receive weather alerts and have a preparedness plan in the event of a severe thunderstorm or tornado warning in your area.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621177967075.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostRounds of showers and thunderstorms are possible across the region Monday night and several more times this week.There are continued chances for showers and storms practically every day this week and into the upcoming weekend.National Weather Service meteorologist Brent Pesel at the Pleasant Hill office says the good news is the severe weather threat this week is low, but some creeks and rivers could swell."So we do expect the rivers to rise," he said. "There are a few well south of St. Joseph that have entered into flood stages, but we aren't expecting the Missouri to enter flood stage."Localized flash flooding is also possible in areas of heavier showers. Additional rainfall will aggravate flooding along area rivers, creeks and streams.There is a Flood Warning for the Stranger Creek at Easton impacting Atchison and Leavenworth Counties in Kansas through Tuesday morning.Pesel says the biggest threat is potential flash flooding in area rivers and streams."Certainly the smaller creeks and tributaries, especially in urban areas, do respond fairly quickly when it rains," Pesel said. "Especially with larger amounts. All of that water and runoff does eventually end up in the Missouri River.Major flooding along the Missouri River is not expected over the next few days. The St. Joseph area could see an additional 1-3 inches of rain this week. St. Joseph recorded 0.68 inches on Monday morning, while Pleasant Hill received 2.72 inches.Pesel also noted that it has been a fairly quiet severe weather season across northwest Missouri and northeastern Kansas so far this spring."It has been fairly quiet for us," he said. "May and June are usually very active months for severe weather and definitely our best chances. But, right now it's been fairly quiet and we're pretty happy about that."Pesel says it's wise to always be prepared for severe weather. Have multiple ways to receive weather alerts and have a preparedness plan in the event of a severe thunderstorm or tornado warning in your area.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Here are the estimated 1 &amp; 2 day rainfall totals across the area. Keep in mind that this is an estimated total based on the reports we received &amp; our radar estimate, &amp; may not reflect what exactly fell at your particular location. As always, we appreciate those rainfall reports! <a href="https://t.co/LW30dLyfhx">pic.twitter.com/LW30dLyfhx</a>&mdash; NWS Kansas City (@NWSKansasCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSKansasCity/status/1394321585033547780?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Soggy weather expected for northwest Missouri, eastern Kansas this week

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after a weekend altercation in Atchison.

Shortly after 4p.m. Sunday, officers responded to a disturbance in the 600 block South 5th Street in Atchison involving a subject threatening a 51-year-old victim with a knife, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621257332838.png" alt="Rutledge photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Rutledge photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after a weekend altercation in Atchison.Shortly after 4p.m. Sunday, officers responded to a disturbance in the 600 block South 5th Street in Atchison involving a subject threatening a 51-year-old victim with a knife, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.Officers located 51-year-old Kelley J. Rutledge as he ran from the scene. Police took him into custody and he was booked into the Atchison County Jail on requested charges of aggravated assault. The male victim was not injured, according to Wilson.