New
cases of COVID-19 continue their steady decline in Buchanan County.

The
St. Joseph Health Department reports 37 new coronavirus cases since last
issuing a report on Thursday; 10 on Friday and 27 total between Saturday and
Monday.

The
Buchanan County COVID positivity rate has dropped nearly three percent, falling
2.94% to 5.02%.

Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating 11 total COVID-19 patients in its system, all
in St. Joseph.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostNew
cases of COVID-19 continue their steady decline in Buchanan County.The
St. Joseph Health Department reports 37 new coronavirus cases since last
issuing a report on Thursday; 10 on Friday and 27 total between Saturday and
Monday.The
Buchanan County COVID positivity rate has dropped nearly three percent, falling
2.94% to 5.02%.Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating 11 total COVID-19 patients in its system, all
in St. Joseph.

COVID-19 cases continue falling in Buchanan County

WORTH COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Monday in&nbsp; Worth County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Chrysler Town and Country driven by Dylan T. Gavigan, 18, Sheridan, was eastbound on Walnut Street just east of MO 246 in Sheridan.

The van began to slide on the ice and snow. It slid off the south side of the road, struck a tree and returned to the road. The van then slid off the north side of the road, struck a sign, a concrete walkway and tree.

Lifeflight transported Gavigan to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph. Nodaway County EMS transported a 13-year-old passenger to Mosaic in Maryville.&nbsp; They were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

WORTH COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Monday in&nbsp; Worth County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Chrysler Town and Country driven by Dylan T. Gavigan, 18, Sheridan, was eastbound on Walnut Street just east of MO 246 in Sheridan.The van began to slide on the ice and snow. It slid off the south side of the road, struck a tree and returned to the road. The van then slid off the north side of the road, struck a sign, a concrete walkway and tree.Lifeflight transported Gavigan to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph. Nodaway County EMS transported a 13-year-old passenger to Mosaic in Maryville.&nbsp; They were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

Missouri teen air-lifted to hospital after violent van crash

ATCHISON COUNTY —For the second time in a year, law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman for an alleged violent crime.

On Saturday, police arrested 19-year-old&nbsp;Kenleigh N. Liggett of Atchison on a District Court warrant on requested charges of domestic battery, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

In March of 2021, police arrested on a requested charge of battery, bodily harm, according to online jail records.&nbsp; She was not longer in custody on Monday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646663835057.png" alt="Liggett-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Liggett-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —For the second time in a year, law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman for an alleged violent crime.On Saturday, police arrested 19-year-old&nbsp;Kenleigh N. Liggett of Atchison on a District Court warrant on requested charges of domestic battery, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.In March of 2021, police arrested on a requested charge of battery, bodily harm, according to online jail records.&nbsp; She was not longer in custody on Monday.

Kansas woman jailed again for alleged violent crime

CLINTON COUNTY—Three people were injured in an accident just before 1p.m. Monday in Clinton County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Dodge passenger SUV driven by Megan D. Ott, 23, Cameron, was northbound on U.S. 69 four miles south of Cameron.

The Dodge struck a northbound 2017 Mazda SUV driven by Shirley E. Munoz, 29, Cameron, in the passenger side.

Cameron Ambulance transported Munoz, a 3-year-old boy and a baby girl from Cameron to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Ott was not injured. All four were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

CLINTON COUNTY—Three people were injured in an accident just before 1p.m. Monday in Clinton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Dodge passenger SUV driven by Megan D. Ott, 23, Cameron, was northbound on U.S. 69 four miles south of Cameron.The Dodge struck a northbound 2017 Mazda SUV driven by Shirley E. Munoz, 29, Cameron, in the passenger side.Cameron Ambulance transported Munoz, a 3-year-old boy and a baby girl from Cameron to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Ott was not injured. All four were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Cameron woman, 2 children injured after 2-vehicle crash

BUCHANAN COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 7a.m. Monday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Jeep SUV driven by Jordan M. Christensen, 25, Maryville, was southbound on Interstate 229 just north of St. Joseph.

The jeep slid off the road and struck a tree head-on.

Buchanan County EMS transported Christensen to Mosaic Life Care. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 7a.m. Monday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Jeep SUV driven by Jordan M. Christensen, 25, Maryville, was southbound on Interstate 229 just north of St. Joseph.The jeep slid off the road and struck a tree head-on.Buchanan County EMS transported Christensen to Mosaic Life Care. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Maryville woman hospitalized after jeep strikes tree head-on

The Missouri United States Bowling Congress Women’s Championship, or MOUSBC championship for short, is going in St. Joseph every weekend through April 3.

The first day of the event was on March 5 and will last five weekends total. Dave Richardson, the Associate Manager of the St. Joseph USBC, says this event draws bowlers from all over the state every year at different Missouri cities.

"Women will come from all over the state of Missouri to participate in this tournament," Richardson said. "They host it in different cities each year and St. Joseph was chosen to be the host this year."

The tournament is a singles, doubles and team championship format and is being held at both Belt Bowl and Revolution Lanes &amp; Fun Center.

"What they'll typically do is come in on Friday evenings and bowl in one of the events on Saturday," Richardson said. "And then the other event on Sunday. So, they just come for a weekend."

About 2,000 bowlers will be attending over the five-weekend event with an estimated economic impact of around $730,000 to Buchanan County.

Richardson says those coming to St. Joseph for this event will be of all different age groups.

"It'll be anywhere from 18 to...I don't know what the highest age is," Richardson said. "I would think there would be some ladies in their 80s or above that come. It's definitely a sport that everyone can participate in."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646686042218.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Missouri United States Bowling Congress Women’s Championship, or MOUSBC championship for short, is going in St. Joseph every weekend through April 3.The first day of the event was on March 5 and will last five weekends total. Dave Richardson, the Associate Manager of the St. Joseph USBC, says this event draws bowlers from all over the state every year at different Missouri cities."Women will come from all over the state of Missouri to participate in this tournament," Richardson said. "They host it in different cities each year and St. Joseph was chosen to be the host this year."The tournament is a singles, doubles and team championship format and is being held at both Belt Bowl and Revolution Lanes &amp; Fun Center."What they'll typically do is come in on Friday evenings and bowl in one of the events on Saturday," Richardson said. "And then the other event on Sunday. So, they just come for a weekend."About 2,000 bowlers will be attending over the five-weekend event with an estimated economic impact of around $730,000 to Buchanan County.Richardson says those coming to St. Joseph for this event will be of all different age groups."It'll be anywhere from 18 to...I don't know what the highest age is," Richardson said. "I would think there would be some ladies in their 80s or above that come. It's definitely a sport that everyone can participate in."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646686068658.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MOUSBC Bowling Championships happening in St. Joseph through April 3 

Drug Enforcement Administration agents want to get across a
message:&nbsp; the scourge of drugs is very
real and not just confined to the big cities.

DEA spokeswoman Emily Murray says the Omaha office traveled to
southeast Nebraska to emphasize the drug problem is no longer just a big city
problem.

“So, unfortunately what we’re seeing is that smaller
communities are truly no more immune to the threat of methamphetamine that the larger
cities,” Murray tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.

Murray spoke with elementary and middle school children in the
Falls City public school district. DEA agents met with the Falls City Police
Department and the Richardson County Sheriff’s Office.

“Certainly, you hear about methamphetamine and fentanyl and
other drugs being abused more commonly or you hear about it more often or
frequently, I guess, in larger cities,” Murray says. “But these small cities,
they’re just not immune to this. It’s certainly a problem that we’re seeing all
across the state, all across the country for that matter.”

Murray, who works in the Omaha office, says methamphetamine
once was produced in meth labs, but when governments cracked down on buying the
ingredients to make it, production shifted to Mexico. She says the precursors
are shipped to Mexico from China and then sold in America.

“Whether that’s walking something across the border, driving
it across the border, flying it across the border,” Murray says. “Obviously,
they’re using our interstate system. They’re mailing drugs. So, the drugs are
just flooding into the nation at an alarming rate.”

Murray says the DEA has seen drug trafficking growing, no
matter where you live.

“The drug threat is not limited to just big cities. Methamphetamine
and fentanyl are certainly being seen in small cities, both in Nebraska and
Missouri and all across the country,” according to Murray. “Nobody is immune
from this threat and we all like to think it can never happen to us, but the drug
threat really is real.”

Murray says the DEA has assembled a coalition of law
enforcement to attack the drug problem in Nebraska, comprised of the DEA, the
FBI, the Nebraska Attorney General’s office, the Nebraska State Patrol, the and
US Attorney’s Office.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostDrug Enforcement Administration agents want to get across a
message:&nbsp; the scourge of drugs is very
real and not just confined to the big cities.DEA spokeswoman Emily Murray says the Omaha office traveled to
southeast Nebraska to emphasize the drug problem is no longer just a big city
problem.“So, unfortunately what we’re seeing is that smaller
communities are truly no more immune to the threat of methamphetamine that the larger
cities,” Murray tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.Murray spoke with elementary and middle school children in the
Falls City public school district. DEA agents met with the Falls City Police
Department and the Richardson County Sheriff’s Office.“Certainly, you hear about methamphetamine and fentanyl and
other drugs being abused more commonly or you hear about it more often or
frequently, I guess, in larger cities,” Murray says. “But these small cities,
they’re just not immune to this. It’s certainly a problem that we’re seeing all
across the state, all across the country for that matter.”Murray, who works in the Omaha office, says methamphetamine
once was produced in meth labs, but when governments cracked down on buying the
ingredients to make it, production shifted to Mexico. She says the precursors
are shipped to Mexico from China and then sold in America.“Whether that’s walking something across the border, driving
it across the border, flying it across the border,” Murray says. “Obviously,
they’re using our interstate system. They’re mailing drugs. So, the drugs are
just flooding into the nation at an alarming rate.”Murray says the DEA has seen drug trafficking growing, no
matter where you live.“The drug threat is not limited to just big cities. Methamphetamine
and fentanyl are certainly being seen in small cities, both in Nebraska and
Missouri and all across the country,” according to Murray. “Nobody is immune
from this threat and we all like to think it can never happen to us, but the drug
threat really is real.”Murray says the DEA has assembled a coalition of law
enforcement to attack the drug problem in Nebraska, comprised of the DEA, the
FBI, the Nebraska Attorney General’s office, the Nebraska State Patrol, the and
US Attorney’s Office.

DEA travels to Falls City, NE to deliver message that drugs aren't just a big city problem

Second Harvest Food Bank helps feed people all across Missouri and Kansas, and to help do that it is currently in the middle of its annual fundraising effort.  

Chief Development Officer for Second Harvest Michelle Fagerstone says the annual fund drive opened at the end of February at the Albrecht Kemper Museum of Art.  

"We had a great attendance and we announced that our goal that we're working towards, that we will hopefully conclude at the end of June, is $715,000," Fagerstone tells Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. 

Fagerstone says the goal is determined by what they budget for the entire year 

"At the start of January, we were $715,000 shy of what we're going to need to conclude our fiscal year," Fagerstone says.  

Fagerstone says a lot of the food bank is funded through grants that they begin writing in January, but it also relies on help from the community.  

Fagerstone says Second Harvest really is stretched right now, feeling the effects of higher grocery prices, fuel for its mobile pantry, and repairs as well.  

She says she would be lying if she said that Second Harvest was not struggling right now.  

"We need everybody to help us as much as they can, and that's why our goal right now is so high," Fagerstone explains. "I can tell you that in the seven years I've been doing this, I've never had an annual fund goal be over $600,000, and this year our annual fund goal is $715,000." 

Fagerstone says though she's optimistic the goal will be met, noting the generosity of not just Buchanan County, but also counties covered in northeast Kansas. 

Fagerstone says most of the food at the food bank is purchased by Second Harvest. 

"We purchase a lot, and that's why we have to have the annual fund campaign," Fagerstone explains. "We purchase about four million dollars' worth of food a year." 

She says most people don't realize how much is spent in a year, but between food donations.  

"And then what we distrubute through government programs, we still purchase approximately four million dollars' worth of food to distribute throughout the service territory every year," Fagerstone says. 

Fagerstone says that each dollar donated to Second Harvest translates into three meals for people. 

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post Second Harvest Food Bank helps feed people all across Missouri and Kansas, and to help do that it is currently in the middle of its annual fundraising effort. Chief Development Officer for Second Harvest Michelle Fagerstone says the annual fund drive opened at the end of February at the Albrecht Kemper Museum of Art. "We had a great attendance and we announced that our goal that we're working towards, that we will hopefully conclude at the end of June, is $715,000," Fagerstone tells Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. Fagerstone says the goal is determined by what they budget for the entire year "At the start of January, we were $715,000 shy of what we're going to need to conclude our fiscal year," Fagerstone says. Fagerstone says a lot of the food bank is funded through grants that they begin writing in January, but it also relies on help from the community. Fagerstone says Second Harvest really is stretched right now, feeling the effects of higher grocery prices, fuel for its mobile pantry, and repairs as well. She says she would be lying if she said that Second Harvest was not struggling right now. "We need everybody to help us as much as they can, and that's why our goal right now is so high," Fagerstone explains. "I can tell you that in the seven years I've been doing this, I've never had an annual fund goal be over $600,000, and this year our annual fund goal is $715,000." Fagerstone says though she's optimistic the goal will be met, noting the generosity of not just Buchanan County, but also counties covered in northeast Kansas. Fagerstone says most of the food at the food bank is purchased by Second Harvest. "We purchase a lot, and that's why we have to have the annual fund campaign," Fagerstone explains. "We purchase about four million dollars' worth of food a year." She says most people don't realize how much is spent in a year, but between food donations. "And then what we distrubute through government programs, we still purchase approximately four million dollars' worth of food to distribute throughout the service territory every year," Fagerstone says. Fagerstone says that each dollar donated to Second Harvest translates into three meals for people.

Second Harvest Food Bank annual fund drive underway

An
unexpected heavy snowstorm has hit the region, causing traveling difficulties
and prompting the St. Joseph School District to cancel classes for Monday.

The
National Weather Service forecast the greater
St. Joseph area to receive three to five inches of snow.

The
snowfall in St. Joseph prompted the St. Joseph School District to cancel
classes for Monday. The cancelation of classes includes all elementary, middle,
and high schools as well as the Virtual Academy, the Hillyard Technical Center,
Webster’s Adult Education classes, and the Early Learning Center. The district
has not yet decided on whether afterschool activities will be canceled.

The
district reports district employees, should refer to the district’s inclement
weather policy, Scenario A,
regarding their work schedule.

Missouri Western State University also closed its St. Joseph campus today, due to the snow. Highland Community College also closed its campus in Highland, Kansas.&nbsp;

North Central Missouri College
and the Ketcham Community Center are closed due to the weather.&nbsp;

The Andrew County Senior Center in Savannah is closed today.

Many schools throughout the region canceled classes today.

Click <a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/closing/#!/">HERE</a> for a full list of school cancelations.

Phase Two of the St. Joseph emergency snow ordinance is in effect. Vehicles must be removed from the emergency snow routes until they are cleared.

The
early March storm began as rain, switched at times to sleet, before turning
into snow. The National Weather Service forecasts a low of 24 overnight with north to
northwest winds of 9-to-15 mph; gusts of up to 28 mph.

Snow
is expected to end Monday morning with sunny skies and a high of 38 for your Monday.

Tuesday’s
high is expected to reach near 50.

This article has been updated since first posted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646622475758.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostAn
unexpected heavy snowstorm has hit the region, causing traveling difficulties
and prompting the St. Joseph School District to cancel classes for Monday.The
National Weather Service forecast the greater
St. Joseph area to receive three to five inches of snow.The
snowfall in St. Joseph prompted the St. Joseph School District to cancel
classes for Monday. The cancelation of classes includes all elementary, middle,
and high schools as well as the Virtual Academy, the Hillyard Technical Center,
Webster’s Adult Education classes, and the Early Learning Center. The district
has not yet decided on whether afterschool activities will be canceled.The
district reports district employees, should refer to the district’s inclement
weather policy, Scenario A,
regarding their work schedule.Savannah R-3 closed school today.Missouri Western State University also closed its St. Joseph campus today, due to the snow. Highland Community College also closed its campus in Highland, Kansas.&nbsp;North Central Missouri College
and the Ketcham Community Center are closed due to the weather.&nbsp;The Andrew County Senior Center in Savannah is closed today.Many schools throughout the region canceled classes today.Click <a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/closing/#!/">HERE</a> for a full list of school cancelations.Phase Two of the St. Joseph emergency snow ordinance is in effect. Vehicles must be removed from the emergency snow routes until they are cleared.The
early March storm began as rain, switched at times to sleet, before turning
into snow. The National Weather Service forecasts a low of 24 overnight with north to
northwest winds of 9-to-15 mph; gusts of up to 28 mph.Snow
is expected to end Monday morning with sunny skies and a high of 38 for your Monday.Tuesday’s
high is expected to reach near 50.This article has been updated since first posted.

March snowstorm snarls traffic, shuts down St. Joseph schools for Monday

BROWN COUNTY—Three people were injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Sunday in Brown County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Chevy Silverado driven by&nbsp; &nbsp;Cesar E Lopez, 41, Hiawatha, was&nbsp;eastbound on Kansas 20 just west of Hazelnut Road. The driver lost control of the pickup in slushy and slick road conditions. 

The pickup slid into the westbound lane and struck a 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander driven by Chad D. Miller, 45, St. Joseph, head-on.

EMS transported Lozez, Miller and a passenger in the Mitsubishi Shelly L. Miller, 46, St. Joseph, to Amberwell. The KHP had incomplete seat belt information.

BROWN COUNTY—Three people were injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Sunday in Brown County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Chevy Silverado driven by&nbsp; &nbsp;Cesar E Lopez, 41, Hiawatha, was&nbsp;eastbound on Kansas 20 just west of Hazelnut Road. The driver lost control of the pickup in slushy and slick road conditions. The pickup slid into the westbound lane and struck a 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander driven by Chad D. Miller, 45, St. Joseph, head-on.EMS transported Lozez, Miller and a passenger in the Mitsubishi Shelly L. Miller, 46, St. Joseph, to Amberwell. The KHP had incomplete seat belt information.

2 from St. Joseph injured after head-on crash

Click <a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/closing/#!/">HERE</a> for full school cancellation list.

Click <a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/closing/#!/">HERE</a> for full school cancellation list.

Full list of snow cancellations

DEKALB COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 1p.m. Saturday in Dekalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Ford F450 pulling a towed unit and driven by Dalton T. Sprohl, 20, Pattonsburg, was westbound on MO 6 at Route J just north of Amity.

The truck began to skid in an attempt to avoid a collision as another vehicle began to pull out in front.&nbsp; The towed unit jackknifed across the center of the road. 

A 2013 Ford Edge driven by a 16-year-old girl from Maysville struck the F450, traveled off the side of the road and overturned.

DeKalb County EMS transported a passenger in the truck Chrystal L. Bessar,&nbsp; 41, Maysville,&nbsp; to Mosaic Life Care. Sprohl and the teen driver were not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 1p.m. Saturday in Dekalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Ford F450 pulling a towed unit and driven by Dalton T. Sprohl, 20, Pattonsburg, was westbound on MO 6 at Route J just north of Amity.The truck began to skid in an attempt to avoid a collision as another vehicle began to pull out in front.&nbsp; The towed unit jackknifed across the center of the road. A 2013 Ford Edge driven by a 16-year-old girl from Maysville struck the F450, traveled off the side of the road and overturned.DeKalb County EMS transported a passenger in the truck Chrystal L. Bessar,&nbsp; 41, Maysville,&nbsp; to Mosaic Life Care. Sprohl and the teen driver were not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Maysville woman injured after SUV, truck crash

BUCHANAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Friday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Kia Optima driven by Deborah L. Eaton, 44, Newton, MS, was northbound on Interstate 29 at U.S. 36. The Kia was slowing for traffic backing up from an earlier accident.

A white SUV rear-ended the Kia and fled the scene. Buchanan County EMS transported to Eaton to Mosaic Life Care. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Friday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Kia Optima driven by Deborah L. Eaton, 44, Newton, MS, was northbound on Interstate 29 at U.S. 36. The Kia was slowing for traffic backing up from an earlier accident.A white SUV rear-ended the Kia and fled the scene. Buchanan County EMS transported to Eaton to Mosaic Life Care. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Woman injured after hit-and-run rear-end crash

St. Joseph Catholic schools will be operated under a new management
alignment.

The St. Joseph Catholic Schools Partnership announced that after
two years of study, the five St. Joseph Catholic Schools will align under one
entity, called St. Joseph Catholic Academy.

“The St. Joseph Catholic Schools Partnership
was formed to facilitate collaboration among the area’s
Catholic schools and ensure a common experience for all students. We have laid an important foundation for that
work with the decision to establish St. Joseph Catholic Academy,” Ann
Lachowitzer, president of the St. Joseph Catholic Schools Partnership, said in
a written statement. “We are excited and inspired by the opportunities that
this new alignment offers to the students, families, teachers and staff of our
St. Joseph Catholic Schools.”

The five schools - St. Gianna Early Childhood
Center, Cathedral School, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School, St. James
Catholic School, and Bishop LeBlond High School – will continue to operate as
individual campuses. A centralized administrative team will include Pastoral
Coordinator Father Christian Malewski, pastor at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish;
St. Joseph Catholic Schools Partnership President Ann Lachowitzer; and Head of
Students Catherine Neumayr. The administrative team will work closely with
Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph Superintendent of Schools Karen Kroh and
Bishop James Johnston.

Catholic Schools Partnerships says the consolidation
of administration will provide several benefits, including Catholic liberal
arts opportunities such as advanced technology, STEAM, foreign languages,
robotics, fine arts, and other diverse electives. The realignment should also
provide expanded professional development opportunities for teachers and staff.

For more information, click <a href="https://stjosephcatholicschools.com/">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646431974637.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph Catholic schools will be operated under a new management
alignment.The St. Joseph Catholic Schools Partnership announced that after
two years of study, the five St. Joseph Catholic Schools will align under one
entity, called St. Joseph Catholic Academy.“The St. Joseph Catholic Schools Partnership
was formed to facilitate collaboration among the area’s
Catholic schools and ensure a common experience for all students. We have laid an important foundation for that
work with the decision to establish St. Joseph Catholic Academy,” Ann
Lachowitzer, president of the St. Joseph Catholic Schools Partnership, said in
a written statement. “We are excited and inspired by the opportunities that
this new alignment offers to the students, families, teachers and staff of our
St. Joseph Catholic Schools.”The five schools - St. Gianna Early Childhood
Center, Cathedral School, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School, St. James
Catholic School, and Bishop LeBlond High School – will continue to operate as
individual campuses. A centralized administrative team will include Pastoral
Coordinator Father Christian Malewski, pastor at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish;
St. Joseph Catholic Schools Partnership President Ann Lachowitzer; and Head of
Students Catherine Neumayr. The administrative team will work closely with
Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph Superintendent of Schools Karen Kroh and
Bishop James Johnston.Catholic Schools Partnerships says the consolidation
of administration will provide several benefits, including Catholic liberal
arts opportunities such as advanced technology, STEAM, foreign languages,
robotics, fine arts, and other diverse electives. The realignment should also
provide expanded professional development opportunities for teachers and staff.For more information, click <a href="https://stjosephcatholicschools.com/">HERE</a>.

St. Joseph Catholic schools realign under new management structure

Governor Mike Parson has appointed the Atchison County Prosecuting Attorney Brett Hurst of Fairfax as Associate Circuit Judge in the Fourth Judicial Circuit.

Hurst replaces Corey Herron who was appointed Circuit Judge. 

Hurst earned a Bachelor of Science in agriculture business management from the University of Missouri—Columbia and a Juris Doctor from Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley School of Law. 

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostGovernor Mike Parson has appointed the Atchison County Prosecuting Attorney Brett Hurst of Fairfax as Associate Circuit Judge in the Fourth Judicial Circuit.Hurst replaces Corey Herron who was appointed Circuit Judge. Hurst earned a Bachelor of Science in agriculture business management from the University of Missouri—Columbia and a Juris Doctor from Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley School of Law.

Governor Parson appoints Hurst Associate Circuit Judge

KANSAS CITY - Missouri Western (21-8) exploded for 27 third quarter points on four made three-pointers, three of them from Jaelyn Haggard, and the Griffons rolled to a 69-55 win over Central Missouri Friday at the MIAA tournament quarterfinals at Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City.

The Griffons, who have now beaten UCM three times this season alone, slogged through a tough second quarter and outscored the Jennies 15-6 in that period to go up 30-18 at halftime.

Missouri Western played tenacious defense, holding UCM (19-11) to 35.1 percent shooting and forcing 20 turnovers, scoring 24 points off of those turnovers. The Griffons had 17 assists to just nine turnovers themselves.

"You know this time of year, obviously a win is huge," Missouri Western coach Candi Whitaker said. "To stay alive and give yourself an opportunity is what you're playing for. I'm really proud of how our team came out. I thought we really guarded, especially in the first three quarters, extremely well."

Leading 38-26 with 4:54 left in the third, Missouri Western made four consecutive threes - two by Haggard, another by Jordan Cunningham and one more from Haggard.&nbsp;

Suddenly, it was 50-26 with 2:52 to go in the third.

"I think shots on our team are contagious," said Haggard, who finished with 12 points. "So, once one falls, I think multiple go. So, I was just kind of feeding off that energy our defensive end was providing, and just letting it fly."

UCM, whose season is likely over after coming into the game ranked No. 9 in the Central Region rankings, hit back a little in the 4th, outscoring the Griffons 23-12 over the final eight minutes, but the game was out of hand by that point, as Western led 57-32 entering the fourth.

Connie Clarke led Missouri Western with 14 points. Mary Fultz had 11 off the bench. Camille Evans scored a season-high nine points, while Corbyn and Jordan Cunningham had eight.

In all, Missouri Western's bench outscored UCM's 30-1.

"We had a lot of contributors," assistant coach Emily Wacker said. "We got to show some of our depth, and that's the kind of thing that I think can help you make a run in the postseason in a tournament where you're playing back-to-back (games)."

Brooke Litrell led UCM with 29 points. Nija Collier logged her 18th double-double of the season with 10 points and 10 rebounds.

Missouri Western, who's likely locked themselves into the NCAA tournament with the victory Friday, moves onto the MIAA tournament semifinals where they'll face No. 1 seed Missouri Southern (23-5) on Saturday at noon.

The Lions, who beat MWSU 71-57 on February 10 in Joplin, have won a remarkable 16 games in a row.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646428004793.jpeg" alt="Jaelyn Haggard (2) celebrates after making four three-pointers, including three in the third quarter, to help Missouri Western to a 69-55 win over Central Missouri in the MIAA tournament quarterfinals. Photo by Matthew Shicks." />
 <figcaption>Jaelyn Haggard (2) celebrates after making four three-pointers, including three in the third quarter, to help Missouri Western to a 69-55 win over Central Missouri in the MIAA tournament quarterfinals. Photo by Matthew Shicks.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostKANSAS CITY - Missouri Western (21-8) exploded for 27 third quarter points on four made three-pointers, three of them from Jaelyn Haggard, and the Griffons rolled to a 69-55 win over Central Missouri Friday at the MIAA tournament quarterfinals at Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City.The Griffons, who have now beaten UCM three times this season alone, slogged through a tough second quarter and outscored the Jennies 15-6 in that period to go up 30-18 at halftime.Missouri Western played tenacious defense, holding UCM (19-11) to 35.1 percent shooting and forcing 20 turnovers, scoring 24 points off of those turnovers. The Griffons had 17 assists to just nine turnovers themselves."You know this time of year, obviously a win is huge," Missouri Western coach Candi Whitaker said. "To stay alive and give yourself an opportunity is what you're playing for. I'm really proud of how our team came out. I thought we really guarded, especially in the first three quarters, extremely well."Leading 38-26 with 4:54 left in the third, Missouri Western made four consecutive threes - two by Haggard, another by Jordan Cunningham and one more from Haggard.&nbsp;Suddenly, it was 50-26 with 2:52 to go in the third."I think shots on our team are contagious," said Haggard, who finished with 12 points. "So, once one falls, I think multiple go. So, I was just kind of feeding off that energy our defensive end was providing, and just letting it fly."UCM, whose season is likely over after coming into the game ranked No. 9 in the Central Region rankings, hit back a little in the 4th, outscoring the Griffons 23-12 over the final eight minutes, but the game was out of hand by that point, as Western led 57-32 entering the fourth.Connie Clarke led Missouri Western with 14 points. Mary Fultz had 11 off the bench. Camille Evans scored a season-high nine points, while Corbyn and Jordan Cunningham had eight.In all, Missouri Western's bench outscored UCM's 30-1."We had a lot of contributors," assistant coach Emily Wacker said. "We got to show some of our depth, and that's the kind of thing that I think can help you make a run in the postseason in a tournament where you're playing back-to-back (games)."Brooke Litrell led UCM with 29 points. Nija Collier logged her 18th double-double of the season with 10 points and 10 rebounds.Missouri Western, who's likely locked themselves into the NCAA tournament with the victory Friday, moves onto the MIAA tournament semifinals where they'll face No. 1 seed Missouri Southern (23-5) on Saturday at noon.The Lions, who beat MWSU 71-57 on February 10 in Joplin, have won a remarkable 16 games in a row.<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/MWSU-vs--UCM-3rd-quarter-highlights---MIAA-tournament-quarterfinals-e1f8i5k" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU offense explodes in third quarter, Griffons beat Jennies in quarterfinals

St. Joseph health officials report the  number of positive cases of COVID-19 has risen slightly since their last report.  

The St. Joseph health department reports 51 positive coronaviurs cases in the latest report, with 12 on Tuesday, 19 on Wednesday and 2o on Thursday. 

Officials also report one new death from coronavirus complications, a man in his 20's.

Mosaic Life Care continues to only see hospitalizations in St. Joseph, reporting 16 positive cases. 

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report the number of positive cases of COVID-19 has risen slightly since their last report. The St. Joseph health department reports 51 positive coronaviurs cases in the latest report, with 12 on Tuesday, 19 on Wednesday and 2o on Thursday. Officials also report one new death from coronavirus complications, a man in his 20's.Mosaic Life Care continues to only see hospitalizations in St. Joseph, reporting 16 positive cases.

Buchanan County sees no big spike, but small rise in positive COVID cases

A new lake is coming to Caldwell County in the future, and an event this weekend will give people a chance to voice what they would like to see at it.&nbsp;

The Little Creek Reservoir Project broke ground in 2021 and is expected to open in the next few years east of Hamilton.&nbsp;

Missouri Department of Conservation spokesman Bill Graham says the department is assisting with the project, and will be helping manage the fish and wildlife at the new lake.&nbsp;

"We'll be there to provide help with fish and wildlife management on this project, it's a 344-acre lake but it's 700 acres overall," Graham tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So, we'll be there to advise and assist with any kind of fish and wildlife management."&nbsp;

Graham says the department will also help the Caldwell County Commission establish native prairie plants. &nbsp;

Graham says establishing these prairie plants around the lake will help give a look at what northwest Missouri used to look like, and says at the event MDC staff will be showing off what they will be doing.&nbsp;

"I know our staff at this meeting is going to have some displays about that, how they will establish the native prairie plants and how they will control any invasive species that come up while those plains are being established," Graham explains. &nbsp;

Graham says this event will allow everyone to voice what they would like to see at the new lake&nbsp;

"It's just a chance for people to say you know when this is done, these are the kinds of things I'd like to do out at this public project," Graham says&nbsp;

The event will take place on Saturday March 5th at the Polo Community Center from 2 to 5pm.&nbsp; Attendees will see exhibits, activities, and opportunities to give input on the project.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;A new lake is coming to Caldwell County in the future, and an event this weekend will give people a chance to voice what they would like to see at it.&nbsp;The Little Creek Reservoir Project broke ground in 2021 and is expected to open in the next few years east of Hamilton.&nbsp;Missouri Department of Conservation spokesman Bill Graham says the department is assisting with the project, and will be helping manage the fish and wildlife at the new lake.&nbsp;"We'll be there to provide help with fish and wildlife management on this project, it's a 344-acre lake but it's 700 acres overall," Graham tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So, we'll be there to advise and assist with any kind of fish and wildlife management."&nbsp;Graham says the department will also help the Caldwell County Commission establish native prairie plants. &nbsp;Graham says establishing these prairie plants around the lake will help give a look at what northwest Missouri used to look like, and says at the event MDC staff will be showing off what they will be doing.&nbsp;"I know our staff at this meeting is going to have some displays about that, how they will establish the native prairie plants and how they will control any invasive species that come up while those plains are being established," Graham explains. &nbsp;Graham says this event will allow everyone to voice what they would like to see at the new lake&nbsp;"It's just a chance for people to say you know when this is done, these are the kinds of things I'd like to do out at this public project," Graham says&nbsp;The event will take place on Saturday March 5th at the Polo Community Center from 2 to 5pm.&nbsp; Attendees will see exhibits, activities, and opportunities to give input on the project.&nbsp;

New lake coming in future to Caldwell County, event this weekend

BUCHANAN COUNTY—A teen was injured in an accident just before 2a.m. Friday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Jeep Wrangler driven by Mason J. Norwood, 18, Bellevue, Nebraska, was northbound on Interstate 29 four miles south of St. Joseph fleeing from law enforcement.

The jeep traveled off the west side of the road, struck the crossover, went airborne, struck the median, rolled and the driver was ejected. Buchanan County EMS transported Norwood to Mosaic Life Care. He was also not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.&nbsp; Authorities have not released details on what prompted the law enforcement pursuit.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593190532467.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUCHANAN COUNTY—A teen was injured in an accident just before 2a.m. Friday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Jeep Wrangler driven by Mason J. Norwood, 18, Bellevue, Nebraska, was northbound on Interstate 29 four miles south of St. Joseph fleeing from law enforcement.The jeep traveled off the west side of the road, struck the crossover, went airborne, struck the median, rolled and the driver was ejected. Buchanan County EMS transported Norwood to Mosaic Life Care. He was also not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.&nbsp; Authorities have not released details on what prompted the law enforcement pursuit.

Teen hospitalized after ejected in crash during police chase

BUCHANAN COUNTY—A St. Joseph man was injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Thursday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Volvo semi driven by Donald D. Sample, 52, St. Joseph, was southbound on Highway VV two miles northwest of Gower.

The semi traveled off the west side of the road, struck a ditch, MODOT sign, returned to the road and overturned.

Tri-County EMS transported Sample to Mosaic Life Care.&nbsp; He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—A St. Joseph man was injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Thursday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Volvo semi driven by Donald D. Sample, 52, St. Joseph, was southbound on Highway VV two miles northwest of Gower.The semi traveled off the west side of the road, struck a ditch, MODOT sign, returned to the road and overturned.Tri-County EMS transported Sample to Mosaic Life Care.&nbsp; He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

St. Joseph man injured after semi strikes MODOT sign, overturns

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect&nbsp; on multiple charges in connection with incidents that occurred in December and January.

On Wednesday, police arrested 35-year-old Delvin A. Debnam, Atchison,&nbsp; on a District Court warrant for aggravated assault, criminal threat, and domestic battery; and a District Court warrant for theft and attempted theft, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

The aggravated assault, criminal threat, and domestic battery charges are in connection to a police investigation on January 11, of a domestic disturbance that had occurred at a residence in the 1500 block Commercial involving a 39-year-old victim that included the victim being struck by fists and threatened with a hammer.

The theft and attempted theft involve incidents that occurred at Walmart, 1920 U.S.73, in Atchison on December 5 and December 24.

In September officers located Debnam at the residence in the 1500 B lock of Commercial Street in Atchison. A 38-year old woman had left the residence. Officers found her several blocks away.

It was determined that a disturbance had occurred at the residence between Debnam and the woman who both reside at the home. During the disturbance Debnam threatened to burn the house down. There was no fire found at the house. However, the investigation determined that Debnam had attempted several times to start a fire in the house, according to Wilson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631541206480.png" alt="Debnam-photo Athison&nbsp; Co." />
 <figcaption>Debnam-photo Athison&nbsp; Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect&nbsp; on multiple charges in connection with incidents that occurred in December and January.On Wednesday, police arrested 35-year-old Delvin A. Debnam, Atchison,&nbsp; on a District Court warrant for aggravated assault, criminal threat, and domestic battery; and a District Court warrant for theft and attempted theft, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.The aggravated assault, criminal threat, and domestic battery charges are in connection to a police investigation on January 11, of a domestic disturbance that had occurred at a residence in the 1500 block Commercial involving a 39-year-old victim that included the victim being struck by fists and threatened with a hammer.The theft and attempted theft involve incidents that occurred at Walmart, 1920 U.S.73, in Atchison on December 5 and December 24.In September officers located Debnam at the residence in the 1500 B lock of Commercial Street in Atchison. A 38-year old woman had left the residence. Officers found her several blocks away.It was determined that a disturbance had occurred at the residence between Debnam and the woman who both reside at the home. During the disturbance Debnam threatened to burn the house down. There was no fire found at the house. However, the investigation determined that Debnam had attempted several times to start a fire in the house, according to Wilson.

Police: Kansas man threatened victim with a hammer

St. Joseph Mayor Bill McMurray delivers his final State of the
City address at the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce Public Affairs Coffee,
presenting a video outlining the challenges and the triumphs of the last four
years.

McMurray notes the city had to work its way through the
coronavirus pandemic and had a city manager quit after only a month on the job,
but also saw some real victories.

“I am so thrilled that the citizens voted not one, not two,
but three taxes to invest in themselves and make St. Joseph a better place,”
McMurray tells reporters after the Chamber event.

McMurray credits preparation prior to the vote for the
victories at the polls.

“Well, I think we had some great citizen’s committees,
starting with the CIP,” McMurray says. “A citizen’s committee made the
recommendations. The CIP has passed every single year, for my gosh, how many
years? Several decades, anyway. People can see the results of their investment.”

St. Joseph voters approved extending the CIP, the Capital
Improvement Program sales tax, the bonds to bridges program, and the city parks
tax.

The victories at the polls goes against the reputation of St.
Joseph as an anti-tax city.

“Anybody that ever wants to put St. Joe down, here are three
instances of the citizens investing in themselves in this great city.”

McMurray exits as new faces come on as city leaders.

There will be a new mayor and some new city council members.
McMurray welcomes the change and encourages more city residents to get
involved.

Challenges kept cropping up over the past four years. The
Missouri River flooded in 2019. The south end got hit with a flash flood that
did extensive damage to residences. The city council hire a city manager only
to see him resign a month into the job. A deadly coronavirus that has taken the
lives of more than 250 Buchanan County residents is in its third year.

McMurray says the bright spots have overcome the tough times.

“My glib response always is, you know, the last four years,
well we’ve had three floods, one pandemic, and four city managers. Other than
that, I’ve been eating bon bons,” he says with a laugh.

McMurray says he, the city council, and the city staff have
accomplished a lot in the last four years and now it is time for someone else to
take the reins.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646340714764.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Mayor Bill McMurray/file photo" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Mayor Bill McMurray/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph Mayor Bill McMurray delivers his final State of the
City address at the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce Public Affairs Coffee,
presenting a video outlining the challenges and the triumphs of the last four
years.McMurray notes the city had to work its way through the
coronavirus pandemic and had a city manager quit after only a month on the job,
but also saw some real victories.“I am so thrilled that the citizens voted not one, not two,
but three taxes to invest in themselves and make St. Joseph a better place,”
McMurray tells reporters after the Chamber event.McMurray credits preparation prior to the vote for the
victories at the polls.“Well, I think we had some great citizen’s committees,
starting with the CIP,” McMurray says. “A citizen’s committee made the
recommendations. The CIP has passed every single year, for my gosh, how many
years? Several decades, anyway. People can see the results of their investment.”St. Joseph voters approved extending the CIP, the Capital
Improvement Program sales tax, the bonds to bridges program, and the city parks
tax.The victories at the polls goes against the reputation of St.
Joseph as an anti-tax city.“Anybody that ever wants to put St. Joe down, here are three
instances of the citizens investing in themselves in this great city.”McMurray exits as new faces come on as city leaders.There will be a new mayor and some new city council members.
McMurray welcomes the change and encourages more city residents to get
involved.Challenges kept cropping up over the past four years. The
Missouri River flooded in 2019. The south end got hit with a flash flood that
did extensive damage to residences. The city council hire a city manager only
to see him resign a month into the job. A deadly coronavirus that has taken the
lives of more than 250 Buchanan County residents is in its third year.McMurray says the bright spots have overcome the tough times.“My glib response always is, you know, the last four years,
well we’ve had three floods, one pandemic, and four city managers. Other than
that, I’ve been eating bon bons,” he says with a laugh.McMurray says he, the city council, and the city staff have
accomplished a lot in the last four years and now it is time for someone else to
take the reins.

St. Joseph Mayor McMurray looks back on success the past four years

Eastern Kansas Congressman Jake LaTurner says President Biden
failed to adequately address the most pressing problem facing the country
during his State of the Union address.

“I thought the president missed a big opportunity to talk
about what Americans are really struggling with right now, which is inflation,”
LaTurner tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.

The first-term Republican lays the blame for inflation at the
feet of Biden and Democrats and faults the president for the solutions he
outlined in his speech to a joint session of Congress.

“I don’t think that he in any meaningful way addressed that problem,
because what’s been causing that is the out-of-control government spending at
the federal level,” LaTurner says.

Turner says the administration is still pushing for more
spending on social programs, which Turner argues will only worsen the problem.

LaTurner faults the Biden Administration for not imposing
stiffer sanctions against Russia and Vladimir Putin for the invasion of
Ukraine. LaTurner calls President Biden’s approach “Swiss cheese sanctions.”
LaTurner says the United States needs to confront Russia in two different manners.

“We need to provide the Ukrainians with lethal weapons to
defend their country and to fight back against Putin and his gang of thugs,”
according to Putin. “Secondly, we have to punish Vladimir Putin and the way to
do that is by stop buying natural gas from him and stop buying oil from him.”

LaTurner says though Republicans and Democrats stand together
on the issue, they differ on how exactly to punish Russia and back Ukraine.

“From my point of view, we need to provide lethal weapons to
the Ukrainians,” LaTurner says. “We should have been doing it for months. The president
turned them down when they asked for it in the past. We should have been doing
it all along, but we need to do it now.&nbsp;
And we need to get it to them immediately. This is an imminent threat.
They are not going to have much time left.”

LaTurner says the United States must lead the West in imposing
even tougher financial sanctions than now in place, such as cutting off all
Russian banks from the international financial system.

LaTurner adds that in the long run, the United States must
revert back to producing its own energy, not relying on Russia or others for
the nation’s energy needs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646334327235.jpeg" alt="Congressman Jake LaTurner/Photo courtesy of Congressman LaTurner office" />
 <figcaption>Congressman Jake LaTurner/Photo courtesy of Congressman LaTurner office</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostEastern Kansas Congressman Jake LaTurner says President Biden
failed to adequately address the most pressing problem facing the country
during his State of the Union address.“I thought the president missed a big opportunity to talk
about what Americans are really struggling with right now, which is inflation,”
LaTurner tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.The first-term Republican lays the blame for inflation at the
feet of Biden and Democrats and faults the president for the solutions he
outlined in his speech to a joint session of Congress.“I don’t think that he in any meaningful way addressed that problem,
because what’s been causing that is the out-of-control government spending at
the federal level,” LaTurner says.Turner says the administration is still pushing for more
spending on social programs, which Turner argues will only worsen the problem.LaTurner faults the Biden Administration for not imposing
stiffer sanctions against Russia and Vladimir Putin for the invasion of
Ukraine. LaTurner calls President Biden’s approach “Swiss cheese sanctions.”
LaTurner says the United States needs to confront Russia in two different manners.“We need to provide the Ukrainians with lethal weapons to
defend their country and to fight back against Putin and his gang of thugs,”
according to Putin. “Secondly, we have to punish Vladimir Putin and the way to
do that is by stop buying natural gas from him and stop buying oil from him.”LaTurner says though Republicans and Democrats stand together
on the issue, they differ on how exactly to punish Russia and back Ukraine.“From my point of view, we need to provide lethal weapons to
the Ukrainians,” LaTurner says. “We should have been doing it for months. The president
turned them down when they asked for it in the past. We should have been doing
it all along, but we need to do it now.&nbsp;
And we need to get it to them immediately. This is an imminent threat.
They are not going to have much time left.”LaTurner says the United States must lead the West in imposing
even tougher financial sanctions than now in place, such as cutting off all
Russian banks from the international financial system.LaTurner adds that in the long run, the United States must
revert back to producing its own energy, not relying on Russia or others for
the nation’s energy needs.

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