PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — The Pretty Prairie USD 311 school district has a new superintendent. The Board of Education announced the selection of Ashley Anderson as the new superintendent. Anderson will begin her new duties with USD 311 on July 1. She replaces Randy Hendrickson who announced his resignation at the end of the 2020- 2021 school year.&nbsp;

Anderson is currently the Curriculum Director in the Savannah Missouri School District near St. Joseph. She is originally from a small town in Chase County near Emporia. She received her Masters and Specialist degrees from Fort HaysState University.&nbsp;

Board President, Sid Graber, says that Anderson emerged from a very thorough search process as the right candidate to lead the School District. “The Board is certain in our choice of Ashley Anderson and confident that under her leadership USD 311 will continue to provide a high-quality education and opportunities for personal growth to Pretty Prairie's youth,” Graber said in a release from the district. Graber noted that community input, including the involvement of stakeholders was a key factor in the success of the superintendent search process.&nbsp;

The committees included teachers and administrators, parents, and community members.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615234842980.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — The Pretty Prairie USD 311 school district has a new superintendent. The Board of Education announced the selection of Ashley Anderson as the new superintendent. Anderson will begin her new duties with USD 311 on July 1. She replaces Randy Hendrickson who announced his resignation at the end of the 2020- 2021 school year.&nbsp;Anderson is currently the Curriculum Director in the Savannah Missouri School District near St. Joseph. She is originally from a small town in Chase County near Emporia. She received her Masters and Specialist degrees from Fort HaysState University.&nbsp;Board President, Sid Graber, says that Anderson emerged from a very thorough search process as the right candidate to lead the School District. “The Board is certain in our choice of Ashley Anderson and confident that under her leadership USD 311 will continue to provide a high-quality education and opportunities for personal growth to Pretty Prairie's youth,” Graber said in a release from the district. Graber noted that community input, including the involvement of stakeholders was a key factor in the success of the superintendent search process.&nbsp;The committees included teachers and administrators, parents, and community members.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Anderson named superintendent in Pretty Prairie USD 311

St. Joseph health officials report just 12 new COVID-19 cases in Buchanan County from over the weekend, with 10 of those being reported Monday.

The case total is now 10,115, but there hasn't been a COVID-related fatality in Buchanan County for about a week, leaving the county's death toll stable at 172.

The county's positivity rate has also fallen to 3.07 percent - down from 4.09 percent the week prior. In addition, over 9,300 Buchanan County residents have gotten their dose of the COVID vaccine.

Mosaic Life Care reports five COVID inpatients in its system. All five of the patients are being treated in the St. Joseph hospital.

Since Friday, Kansas reports 590 new cases and four new fatalities related to COVID. Doniphan County, Kansas reports 948 total cases.

Missouri reports nearly 481,000 total cases and over 8,100 fatalities, with over one million Missourians getting vaccinated.

Over 465,000 Kansans have gotten their first dose of the COVID vaccine so far.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report just 12 new COVID-19 cases in Buchanan County from over the weekend, with 10 of those being reported Monday.The case total is now 10,115, but there hasn't been a COVID-related fatality in Buchanan County for about a week, leaving the county's death toll stable at 172.The county's positivity rate has also fallen to 3.07 percent - down from 4.09 percent the week prior. In addition, over 9,300 Buchanan County residents have gotten their dose of the COVID vaccine.Mosaic Life Care reports five COVID inpatients in its system. All five of the patients are being treated in the St. Joseph hospital.Since Friday, Kansas reports 590 new cases and four new fatalities related to COVID. Doniphan County, Kansas reports 948 total cases.Missouri reports nearly 481,000 total cases and over 8,100 fatalities, with over one million Missourians getting vaccinated.Over 465,000 Kansans have gotten their first dose of the COVID vaccine so far.

COVID cases and positivity rate fall, number of vaccinations go up in Buchanan County

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Buchanan County Jail. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. These are courtesy photos. This information is provided by the Buchanan County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The St. Joseph Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information.

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Buchanan County Jail. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. These are courtesy photos. This information is provided by the Buchanan County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The St. Joseph Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615238146941.jpeg" alt="CALDERA MARGARITA POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE 7500 CASH BOND" />
 <figcaption>CALDERA MARGARITA POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE 7500 CASH BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615238165580.jpeg" alt="CLARK BARRY FUGITIVE FROM OUT OF STATE NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>CLARK BARRY FUGITIVE FROM OUT OF STATE NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615238185204.jpeg" alt="COLLADO JOY RECEIVING STOLEN PROPERTY 1 DAY IN JAIL" />
 <figcaption>COLLADO JOY RECEIVING STOLEN PROPERTY 1 DAY IN JAIL</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615238208934.jpeg" alt="COLLINGS TYLER STEALING NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>COLLINGS TYLER STEALING NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615238244364.jpeg" alt="FITZGERALD ASHLEY STEALING RELATED 3 DAYS IN JAIL" />
 <figcaption>FITZGERALD ASHLEY STEALING RELATED 3 DAYS IN JAIL</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615238263884.jpeg" alt="HENDRIX JUSTIN POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE 7500 CASH BOND" />
 <figcaption>HENDRIX JUSTIN POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE 7500 CASH BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615238279501.jpeg" alt="HUDSON HANNAH PAROLE VIOLATION NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>HUDSON HANNAH PAROLE VIOLATION NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615238296613.jpeg" alt="HUGHES RODERICK FAIL TO REGISTER AS A SEX OFFENDER NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>HUGHES RODERICK FAIL TO REGISTER AS A SEX OFFENDER NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615238327052.jpeg" alt="HUGHES THEODORE NON SUPPORT 5000 BOND" />
 <figcaption>HUGHES THEODORE NON SUPPORT 5000 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615238344348.jpeg" alt="MOLLUS TYLER POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>MOLLUS TYLER POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615238364268.jpeg" alt="MOSER HALSEY DWI PERSISTANT NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>MOSER HALSEY DWI PERSISTANT NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615238768363.jpeg" alt="NICHOLS JOHN NON SUPPORT 1000 CASH BOND" />
 <figcaption>NICHOLS JOHN NON SUPPORT 1000 CASH BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615238786154.jpeg" alt="PETERSON KYLEE STEALING A MTR VEHICLE 5000 CASH BOND" />
 <figcaption>PETERSON KYLEE STEALING A MTR VEHICLE 5000 CASH BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615238803683.jpeg" alt="RANDLE CHRISTOPHER POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE 25000 CASH BOND" />
 <figcaption>RANDLE CHRISTOPHER POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE 25000 CASH BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615238820708.jpeg" alt="ROURKE JOHN FUGITIVE FROM OUT OF STATE NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>ROURKE JOHN FUGITIVE FROM OUT OF STATE NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615238849668.jpeg" alt="SKINNER JAMES NON SUPPORT 2500 BOND" />
 <figcaption>SKINNER JAMES NON SUPPORT 2500 BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615238866044.jpeg" alt="TOWNSEND COURTNEY POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>TOWNSEND COURTNEY POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615238881147.jpeg" alt="WHITE JOSHUA PAROLE VIOLATION NO BOND" />
 <figcaption>WHITE JOSHUA PAROLE VIOLATION NO BOND</figcaption>
 </figure>

Buchanan County Jail Activity (3/02-3/08/21)

A $1.9 trillion spending bill touted by President Joe Biden as
a measure to provide COVID-19 relief and economic stimulus is on the verge of
passing Congress.

Northern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves claims less than 10%
of the bill will target relief or stimulus and he points out an estimated $1 trillion
of relief appropriated by Congress last year has yet to be spent.

“So why are we rushing into another $2 trillion on top of it
and, again, this bill has everything in it, except actual COVID relief?” Graves
asks in an interview with St. Joseph Post. “And it’s very frustrating.”

Graves complains about several provisions in the bill, including
$135 million each for the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment
for the Humanities. The veteran Congressman is also critical of the $12 billion
allocation to foreign aid.

Republicans, including Graves, have been critical of a $112
million appropriation approved by the House for an underground railroad in the
San Francisco district of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Republicans also fought against a $350 billion allocation to
help state and local governments which suffered a drop in tax revenue during
business shutdowns early in the coronavirus pandemic.

Graves contends the local governments don’t need a federal
bailout as much as they need a break in pandemic restrictions.

“If you want to make up the revenue that is lost as a result
of the economic downturn, my idea is just open the economy back up; get people
back out, allow them to go about their normal lives,” Graves says.

Graves doesn’t see a need for another stimulus package after
Congress approved $900 billion in coronavirus relief at the end of last year.

“So why are we piling another two trillion on top of this that
won’t even be spent this year? So, did we need it? Not at this time, we didn’t
and we ultimately may end up being proven that we don’t need it at all,” Graves
says. “If we can get the economy back open, I don’t think that we needed to spend
this.”

Congress approved $600 direct payments to many Americans in
that late 2020 bill when many called for $2,000 checks. This latest version of
relief contains $1,400 checks to residents making less than $75,000 and couples
make $150,000 to make up the difference with an extra $1,400 for each
dependent.

Fellow Republican, eastern Kansas Congressman Jake LaTurner,
contends the bill is a partisan spending spree.

“It’s a $1.9 trillion wish list for Democrat groups,” LaTurner
tells St. Joseph Post. “Less than 9% of it goes to actual COVID health issues.”

The measure does contain $14 billion for research and
development of vaccines. Just short of $50 billion is allocated for testing and
contact tracing. It also includes $7.7 billion to hire 100,000 public health
workers.

LaTurner claims the spending package rewards states controlled
by Democrats who went overboard in pandemic restrictions and saw huge dips in tax
revenue.

LaTurner says another COVID relief bill might be needed, but
he says money already appropriated by Congress should be spent first.

“I think that there is a need for another bill,” LaTurner
says. “I don’t think that that’s where we are today. If you have a trillion
dollars left to go out the door, you should get that money out. You should see
where there is more help needed.”

As for the version nearing passage, LaTurner criticizes the
motive behind the measure.

“This isn’t a COVID bill. This is a Democrat wish list.”

No Republicans voted for it in the House. No Republicans voted
for it in the Senate.

The package squeaked to passage in the Senate on Saturday. It
appears the House will vote on the Senate version Tuesday and send it to
President Biden’s desk.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA $1.9 trillion spending bill touted by President Joe Biden as
a measure to provide COVID-19 relief and economic stimulus is on the verge of
passing Congress.Area Congressmen are not impressed.Northern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves claims less than 10%
of the bill will target relief or stimulus and he points out an estimated $1 trillion
of relief appropriated by Congress last year has yet to be spent.“So why are we rushing into another $2 trillion on top of it
and, again, this bill has everything in it, except actual COVID relief?” Graves
asks in an interview with St. Joseph Post. “And it’s very frustrating.”Graves complains about several provisions in the bill, including
$135 million each for the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment
for the Humanities. The veteran Congressman is also critical of the $12 billion
allocation to foreign aid.Republicans, including Graves, have been critical of a $112
million appropriation approved by the House for an underground railroad in the
San Francisco district of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.Republicans also fought against a $350 billion allocation to
help state and local governments which suffered a drop in tax revenue during
business shutdowns early in the coronavirus pandemic.Graves contends the local governments don’t need a federal
bailout as much as they need a break in pandemic restrictions.“If you want to make up the revenue that is lost as a result
of the economic downturn, my idea is just open the economy back up; get people
back out, allow them to go about their normal lives,” Graves says.Graves doesn’t see a need for another stimulus package after
Congress approved $900 billion in coronavirus relief at the end of last year.“So why are we piling another two trillion on top of this that
won’t even be spent this year? So, did we need it? Not at this time, we didn’t
and we ultimately may end up being proven that we don’t need it at all,” Graves
says. “If we can get the economy back open, I don’t think that we needed to spend
this.”Congress approved $600 direct payments to many Americans in
that late 2020 bill when many called for $2,000 checks. This latest version of
relief contains $1,400 checks to residents making less than $75,000 and couples
make $150,000 to make up the difference with an extra $1,400 for each
dependent.Fellow Republican, eastern Kansas Congressman Jake LaTurner,
contends the bill is a partisan spending spree.“It’s a $1.9 trillion wish list for Democrat groups,” LaTurner
tells St. Joseph Post. “Less than 9% of it goes to actual COVID health issues.”The measure does contain $14 billion for research and
development of vaccines. Just short of $50 billion is allocated for testing and
contact tracing. It also includes $7.7 billion to hire 100,000 public health
workers.LaTurner claims the spending package rewards states controlled
by Democrats who went overboard in pandemic restrictions and saw huge dips in tax
revenue.LaTurner says another COVID relief bill might be needed, but
he says money already appropriated by Congress should be spent first.“I think that there is a need for another bill,” LaTurner
says. “I don’t think that that’s where we are today. If you have a trillion
dollars left to go out the door, you should get that money out. You should see
where there is more help needed.”As for the version nearing passage, LaTurner criticizes the
motive behind the measure.“This isn’t a COVID bill. This is a Democrat wish list.”No Republicans voted for it in the House. No Republicans voted
for it in the Senate.The package squeaked to passage in the Senate on Saturday. It
appears the House will vote on the Senate version Tuesday and send it to
President Biden’s desk.

Area Congressmen criticize $1.9 trillion spending plan on verge of passage

The St. Patrick's Day parade had been an annual St. Joseph staple for 34 years before COVID-19 forced its cancellation in 2020.

One year later, the St. Joseph Ancient Order of Hibernians is moving ahead with plans to hold the 35th annual parade on Saturday, March 13 starting at noon.

St. Joseph AOH member Shane McDonald says the decision to hold a parade this year was not a "slam dunk," but he's optimistic the event can go on safely.

"We thought that since it is an outside event, and we are encouraging masks and social distancing," McDonald said on KFEQ's The Hotline. "Not only from the people along the parade route, but the parade participants as well. We think people are ready to get out and have a good time, and we trust they'll do the socially responsible things."

The parade route will start at Noyes Boulevard and then go north to Frederick Avenue, go west toward downtown and go along Francis Street. It'll then turn south down 8th street and go west down Felix Street, ending at the corner of 5th and Felix - right next to Felix Street Pub and the Tiger's Den.

"The bars will be open, and people will be out," McDonald reiterated. "Please, please be sensible about what you do. We can't encourage that enough."

McDonald expects a little more than half the number of floats that there are normally in the parade, and says anyone interested in having a float in the procession can fill out an entry form at <a href="https://www.stjoeaoh.com/">StJoeAOH.com</a>.

"We encourage people to go to that website, get some more information about the parade and put in a float," McDonald said. "Put it an entry."

While the number of entries are a bit lower than normal right now, McDonald says it's not uncommon for participants to wait until the last minute to see if the weather changes.

"People generally do kind of wait until the last minute to jump in," McDonald said. "And we understand that. That's fine. It's a dicey time of year. It can be great, or it can be nasty. But, we hope the weather holds off for us and people can come out."

Saturday's forecast does call for cloudy skies, a chance of rain and highs in the 50s, with a chance of rain nearly every day this week starting Wednesday.

"It shouldn't deter us much," McDonald said of the rain possibility.

St. Joseph will feature one of the bigger St. Patrick's Day parades in the entire state this year. St. Louis and Kansas City have already called off their St. Patrick's Day festivities this year.

McDonald said the decision was made amongst the Ancient Order of Hibernians within the last 4-5 weeks to have the parade.&nbsp;

St. Joseph is likely the largest city in the state to have a St. Patrick's Day parade this year. The hope now is the weather, and the general public, will cooperate.

"We're hoping for good weather and we're hoping for good crowds," McDonald said. "There will be all kinds of celebrations, as there usually are, after the parade in the local establishments. We encourage and really want people to be socially responsible about their celebrations this year."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615236510316.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph's Patrick's Day parade will resume in 2021 after being canceled in 2020 due to COVID-19. Photo via YouTube." />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph's Patrick's Day parade will resume in 2021 after being canceled in 2020 due to COVID-19. Photo via YouTube.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Patrick's Day parade had been an annual St. Joseph staple for 34 years before COVID-19 forced its cancellation in 2020.One year later, the St. Joseph Ancient Order of Hibernians is moving ahead with plans to hold the 35th annual parade on Saturday, March 13 starting at noon.St. Joseph AOH member Shane McDonald says the decision to hold a parade this year was not a "slam dunk," but he's optimistic the event can go on safely."We thought that since it is an outside event, and we are encouraging masks and social distancing," McDonald said on KFEQ's The Hotline. "Not only from the people along the parade route, but the parade participants as well. We think people are ready to get out and have a good time, and we trust they'll do the socially responsible things."The parade route will start at Noyes Boulevard and then go north to Frederick Avenue, go west toward downtown and go along Francis Street. It'll then turn south down 8th street and go west down Felix Street, ending at the corner of 5th and Felix - right next to Felix Street Pub and the Tiger's Den."The bars will be open, and people will be out," McDonald reiterated. "Please, please be sensible about what you do. We can't encourage that enough."McDonald expects a little more than half the number of floats that there are normally in the parade, and says anyone interested in having a float in the procession can fill out an entry form at <a href="https://www.stjoeaoh.com/">StJoeAOH.com</a>."We encourage people to go to that website, get some more information about the parade and put in a float," McDonald said. "Put it an entry."While the number of entries are a bit lower than normal right now, McDonald says it's not uncommon for participants to wait until the last minute to see if the weather changes."People generally do kind of wait until the last minute to jump in," McDonald said. "And we understand that. That's fine. It's a dicey time of year. It can be great, or it can be nasty. But, we hope the weather holds off for us and people can come out."Saturday's forecast does call for cloudy skies, a chance of rain and highs in the 50s, with a chance of rain nearly every day this week starting Wednesday."It shouldn't deter us much," McDonald said of the rain possibility.St. Joseph will feature one of the bigger St. Patrick's Day parades in the entire state this year. St. Louis and Kansas City have already called off their St. Patrick's Day festivities this year.McDonald said the decision was made amongst the Ancient Order of Hibernians within the last 4-5 weeks to have the parade.&nbsp;St. Joseph is likely the largest city in the state to have a St. Patrick's Day parade this year. The hope now is the weather, and the general public, will cooperate."We're hoping for good weather and we're hoping for good crowds," McDonald said. "There will be all kinds of celebrations, as there usually are, after the parade in the local establishments. We encourage and really want people to be socially responsible about their celebrations this year."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph Ancient Order of Hibernians moving forward with St. Patrick's Day parade

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly says the state is moving quickly to vaccinate
those most vulnerable as well as frontline workers, all in an effort to get
Kansas back to normal.

Kelly says her administration has been methodical in attacking
the coronavirus pandemic.

“Through the vaccine distribution framework, we’ve prioritized
vaccinating our state’s high-critical, high-contact workers and our K-12 school,
staff, and teachers,” Kelly says.

Kelly, a Democrat, has been criticized by legislative Republicans
who contend she has overstepped her authority in responding to the coronavirus
pandemic, arguing she has been too strict in her contract to stop the spread of
COVID-19.

Kelly sees mass vaccinations as the key to lifting coronavirus
pandemic restrictions and putting Kansas back on the road to normal.

“Getting our kids back to school and parents back to work is
an absolutely critical step in revitalizing our economy,” according to Kelly.

Kansas has begun the mass vaccination of meatpacking workers. The
state hopes to administer the first dose of vaccine to 12,000 workers by the
end of the week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614969396563.jpeg" alt="Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly/Photo by Tommy Rezac" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly/Photo by Tommy Rezac</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostKansas Gov. Laura Kelly says the state is moving quickly to vaccinate
those most vulnerable as well as frontline workers, all in an effort to get
Kansas back to normal.Kelly says her administration has been methodical in attacking
the coronavirus pandemic.“Through the vaccine distribution framework, we’ve prioritized
vaccinating our state’s high-critical, high-contact workers and our K-12 school,
staff, and teachers,” Kelly says.Kelly, a Democrat, has been criticized by legislative Republicans
who contend she has overstepped her authority in responding to the coronavirus
pandemic, arguing she has been too strict in her contract to stop the spread of
COVID-19.Kelly sees mass vaccinations as the key to lifting coronavirus
pandemic restrictions and putting Kansas back on the road to normal.“Getting our kids back to school and parents back to work is
an absolutely critical step in revitalizing our economy,” according to Kelly.Kansas has begun the mass vaccination of meatpacking workers. The
state hopes to administer the first dose of vaccine to 12,000 workers by the
end of the week.

Gov. Kelly pleased with Kansas COVID vaccination progress

Temperatures have warmed nicely since February's record cold snap, but Evergy customers have started receiving their abnormally high electric bills.

Evergy's electric rates have not gone up, but most customers used more electricity than normal in the first half of February, as temperatures at times plunged into the 20s below zero.

Evergy spokesperson Maria Lopez reminds customers that the&nbsp;Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, is available for families that earn no more than 135 percent of the federal poverty level.

She reminds people that you needn't be disconnected or past due on bills to qualify.

"That's a common misconception," Lopez said. "Just to get the initial application and initial benefit, you just need to apply. That's it. They do not have to be past due."

Lopez says it can take up to 30 days for LIHEAP applications to be processed. The initial application deadline is March 31.

Once an application is approved, customers can become eligible for the winter crisis fund, or Winter ECIP program, which is for those who have past due bills and have received a disconnection notice.

The winter crisis fund is available for Missourians through May 31, and can provide up to $800 in energy assistance.

Lopez also mentions the Economic Relief Pilot Program (ERPP), which is for people that are current on their Evergy bills, or have some sort of payment arrangement set up. This program can provide a credit for up to $65 for a whole year.

"The income guideline for the ERPP is 200 percent of the current poverty level," Lopez said. "So, a family of four annually, that would be about $53,000 a year you could make and still possibly qualify for this program."

In addition, the Emergency Rental Assistance Program is still available for Missourians who need help paying either rent and/or utility bills.&nbsp;

Information and links for all of these programs are available at <a href="https://www.evergy.com/manage-account/billing/financial-help">Evergy.com/financialassistance</a>.&nbsp;

This past year has brought unprecedented challenges, and the extreme cold last month has added even more financial strain. But overall, Lopez feels confident that Evergy is fully prepared to provide help for any customer who needs it.

"I'm really proud of the work we have done," she said, "and I hope our customers are proud of us, too. Just keeping them in the loop of what resources are available."

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostTemperatures have warmed nicely since February's record cold snap, but Evergy customers have started receiving their abnormally high electric bills.Evergy's electric rates have not gone up, but most customers used more electricity than normal in the first half of February, as temperatures at times plunged into the 20s below zero.Evergy spokesperson Maria Lopez reminds customers that the&nbsp;Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, is available for families that earn no more than 135 percent of the federal poverty level.She reminds people that you needn't be disconnected or past due on bills to qualify."That's a common misconception," Lopez said. "Just to get the initial application and initial benefit, you just need to apply. That's it. They do not have to be past due."Lopez says it can take up to 30 days for LIHEAP applications to be processed. The initial application deadline is March 31.Once an application is approved, customers can become eligible for the winter crisis fund, or Winter ECIP program, which is for those who have past due bills and have received a disconnection notice.The winter crisis fund is available for Missourians through May 31, and can provide up to $800 in energy assistance.Lopez also mentions the Economic Relief Pilot Program (ERPP), which is for people that are current on their Evergy bills, or have some sort of payment arrangement set up. This program can provide a credit for up to $65 for a whole year."The income guideline for the ERPP is 200 percent of the current poverty level," Lopez said. "So, a family of four annually, that would be about $53,000 a year you could make and still possibly qualify for this program."In addition, the Emergency Rental Assistance Program is still available for Missourians who need help paying either rent and/or utility bills.&nbsp;Information and links for all of these programs are available at <a href="https://www.evergy.com/manage-account/billing/financial-help">Evergy.com/financialassistance</a>.&nbsp;This past year has brought unprecedented challenges, and the extreme cold last month has added even more financial strain. But overall, Lopez feels confident that Evergy is fully prepared to provide help for any customer who needs it."I'm really proud of the work we have done," she said, "and I hope our customers are proud of us, too. Just keeping them in the loop of what resources are available."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Evergy encourages customers to use heating assistance as high bills start going out

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the theft of a vehicle from a local car dealer and have made an arrest.

On March 1, a car dealer in Hiawatha reported that a 2020 Ford Escape was taken from their lot, according to, Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Just after 10:30p.m. March 5, an officer spotted a 2020 blue Ford Escape traveling on North 4th Street in Atchison.

&nbsp;Officers stopped the vehicle and took 42-year-old Nicholas Norton into custody. Police took Norton to the county jail on requested charges of possession of stolen property. He has previous convictions for theft and burglary, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614957945319.png" alt="Norton has previous 3 convictions for theft, for burglary and criminal possession of a firearm, according to the Kansas Dept. of Correctons." />
 <figcaption>Norton has previous 3 convictions for theft, for burglary and criminal possession of a firearm, according to the Kansas Dept. of Correctons.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the theft of a vehicle from a local car dealer and have made an arrest.On March 1, a car dealer in Hiawatha reported that a 2020 Ford Escape was taken from their lot, according to, Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.Just after 10:30p.m. March 5, an officer spotted a 2020 blue Ford Escape traveling on North 4th Street in Atchison.&nbsp;Officers stopped the vehicle and took 42-year-old Nicholas Norton into custody. Police took Norton to the county jail on requested charges of possession of stolen property. He has previous convictions for theft and burglary, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Police arrest suspect driving new car stolen from Kan. dealership

Andrew County Health Department is having a vaccine clinic today.&nbsp;

The vaccination clinic will be held today in Harrison County in Bethany from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

This is a first dose event and participants must register before attending. No walk-ins are allowed.

Regional Implementation Team Lead Jayne White says Missouri is receiving the Johnson and Johnson Vaccine.&nbsp;

"The Harrison County event this weekend is Johnson and Johnson." 

The Regional COVID vaccine Implementation Team for Region H has administered nearly 12,000 COVID-vaccinations at mass clinics throughout northwest Missouri.  

By WHITNEE ICESt. Joseph PostAndrew County Health Department is having a vaccine clinic today.&nbsp;The vaccination clinic will be held today in Harrison County in Bethany from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.This is a first dose event and participants must register before attending. No walk-ins are allowed.Regional Implementation Team Lead Jayne White says Missouri is receiving the Johnson and Johnson Vaccine.&nbsp;"The Harrison County event this weekend is Johnson and Johnson." The Regional COVID vaccine Implementation Team for Region H has administered nearly 12,000 COVID-vaccinations at mass clinics throughout northwest Missouri.

Vaccine Clinic in Bethany today

A new superintendent has joined the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph Catholic Schools. 

Dr. Karen Kroh steps in to replace Dr. Dan Peters as he retires from more than a decade with KCSJ Catholic Schools. Kroh has 25 years of experience in all levels of education and has a list of achievements. 

Kroh earned her bachelor’s degree in family and child development and her master’s degree in special education, both from Auburn University. She received a Doctorate in School Leadership from St. Louis University. 

Kroh most recently was the associate superintendent for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas offices of Catholic Schools and help that position since 2004. 

By WHITNEE ICESt. Joseph PostA new superintendent has joined the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph Catholic Schools. Dr. Karen Kroh steps in to replace Dr. Dan Peters as he retires from more than a decade with KCSJ Catholic Schools. Kroh has 25 years of experience in all levels of education and has a list of achievements. Kroh earned her bachelor’s degree in family and child development and her master’s degree in special education, both from Auburn University. She received a Doctorate in School Leadership from St. Louis University. Kroh most recently was the associate superintendent for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas offices of Catholic Schools and help that position since 2004.

KCSJ Catholic schools welcomes new superintendent

InterServ invited Representative Brenda Shields to tour its learning center today as the agency seeks funding for its after-school programs. 

The Missouri After School Network is hoping to build a funding source within the legislature that will support Missouri after-school programs. 

InterServ Director of Youth and Children Services Lea Parker says there was a reason behind InterServ's invitation to Representative Shields's visit. 

"That's in hopes of her going back to the Legislature and introducing a bill to create a pot of money for programs to apply for," Parker tells St. Jospeh Post. 

Parker says a lot of families don't have strong internet connection at home. 

"By allowing the kids to come here, we have mentors that work directly with them and then the kids can get on their zooms with their classroom teacher and then have that help with their homework," says Parker. 

Parker says InterServ helps 15 to 35 students each day. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614981524725.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Rep. Brenda Shields visits InterServ Friday afternoon. Photo by Whitnee Ice." />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Rep. Brenda Shields visits InterServ Friday afternoon. Photo by Whitnee Ice.</figcaption>
 </figure>By WHITNEE ICESt. Joseph PostInterServ invited Representative Brenda Shields to tour its learning center today as the agency seeks funding for its after-school programs. The Missouri After School Network is hoping to build a funding source within the legislature that will support Missouri after-school programs. InterServ Director of Youth and Children Services Lea Parker says there was a reason behind InterServ's invitation to Representative Shields's visit. "That's in hopes of her going back to the Legislature and introducing a bill to create a pot of money for programs to apply for," Parker tells St. Jospeh Post. Parker says a lot of families don't have strong internet connection at home. "By allowing the kids to come here, we have mentors that work directly with them and then the kids can get on their zooms with their classroom teacher and then have that help with their homework," says Parker. Parker says InterServ helps 15 to 35 students each day.

Rep. Shields Visits InterServ as it seeks government funding

The St. Joseph Symphony office located on 8th street was vandalized overnight Thursday, and police are investigating.

An ash tray from a neighboring business two doors down was apparently thrown through the window, and a plush bee was stolen from the window display.

The damage was first discovered by the Symphony's managing director Lori McAlister just after 8 a.m. Friday. The front window has since been boarded up until the glass is replaced.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614982032363.jpeg" alt="Courtesy St. Joseph Symphony Facebook page." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy St. Joseph Symphony Facebook page.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Symphony office located on 8th street was vandalized overnight Thursday, and police are investigating.An ash tray from a neighboring business two doors down was apparently thrown through the window, and a plush bee was stolen from the window display.The damage was first discovered by the Symphony's managing director Lori McAlister just after 8 a.m. Friday. The front window has since been boarded up until the glass is replaced.Police are investigating.

St. Joseph symphony office vandalized, police investigating

A business consultant says too many small businesses have too
little savings.

Regional Director Rebecca Lobina with the Northwest Missouri
State University Small Business Development Center says the top reason for
small businesses to have a savings account is for a rainy day.

“For emergencies that come up that are just unforeseen. So,
that could be anything from, well, an ice storm that ruins your roof and that
wasn’t expected to happen for another decade, right?” Lobina says with a
chuckle on a recent KFEQ Hotline. “Things like that. So, you just have to have
that money in place.”

Lobina says other reasons include saving for large purchases.
She suggests making the federal tax code work in your favor by using the
depreciation tax credit to leverage the financing of large purchases.

Another reason to save is to prepare for expansion.

“That’s one of the big questions I get. How do I know when am
I ready to add another employee or my first employee?” Lobina says. “Well, one
of the things that you should be doing is saving along the way and if you’re
able to save, that in and of itself is a good sign that you can hire an employee,
but it also gives you this bank of money so that you can pay that employee.”

Lobina says savings can help meet the payroll while sales
catch up with the expansion. She says she has been surprised by how many
businesses operate without a savings account. Lobina says the economic downturn triggered by the coronavirus pandemic brought that point painfully home for many small business owners as they found it difficult to survive the government-imposed shutdown, if they survived it at all.

Lobina says the rule of thumb is for a small business to save
about 20% of its net profits.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA business consultant says too many small businesses have too
little savings.Regional Director Rebecca Lobina with the Northwest Missouri
State University Small Business Development Center says the top reason for
small businesses to have a savings account is for a rainy day.“For emergencies that come up that are just unforeseen. So,
that could be anything from, well, an ice storm that ruins your roof and that
wasn’t expected to happen for another decade, right?” Lobina says with a
chuckle on a recent KFEQ Hotline. “Things like that. So, you just have to have
that money in place.”Lobina says other reasons include saving for large purchases.
She suggests making the federal tax code work in your favor by using the
depreciation tax credit to leverage the financing of large purchases.Another reason to save is to prepare for expansion.“That’s one of the big questions I get. How do I know when am
I ready to add another employee or my first employee?” Lobina says. “Well, one
of the things that you should be doing is saving along the way and if you’re
able to save, that in and of itself is a good sign that you can hire an employee,
but it also gives you this bank of money so that you can pay that employee.”Lobina says savings can help meet the payroll while sales
catch up with the expansion. She says she has been surprised by how many
businesses operate without a savings account. Lobina says the economic downturn triggered by the coronavirus pandemic brought that point painfully home for many small business owners as they found it difficult to survive the government-imposed shutdown, if they survived it at all.Lobina says the rule of thumb is for a small business to save
about 20% of its net profits.

Consultant urges business owners to establish savings accounts

WARRENSBURG, Mo. (AP) — A northwest Missouri man charged with killing two Wisconsin brothers has been accused of persuading someone to steal a trailer while he was in jail.

Garland Joseph Nelson, of Braymer, will go on trial April 20 or 21 on a charge of stealing a motor vehicle.

The trial is separate from the capital murder trial he faces next year in the July 2019&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/d979d903133f475f941d1be6a8ce5fe3">deaths of Nicholas and Justin Diemel</a>, of Shawano County, Wisconsin.

Nelson was being held in the Caldwell County jail in the murder case when he coerced someone to retrieve a trailer. Nelson reportedly said he paid $500 for the trailer but police said he never owned it, The St. Joseph News-Press&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newspressnow.com/news/local_news/courts/accused-double-murderer-will-have-april-trial-on-stealing-charge/article_2797994a-7c53-11eb-94b7-e36ac4d0a386.html" target="_blank">reported</a>.

The stealing charged was filed Oct. 30, 2020. Nelson has been jailed in the murder case since July 2019.

Nelson is accused of shooting the Diemel brothers when they visited his farm to discuss a $250,000 cattle deal. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty in the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1564610122687.png" alt="Nelson photo Caldwell County" />
 <figcaption>Nelson photo Caldwell County</figcaption>
 </figure>WARRENSBURG, Mo. (AP) — A northwest Missouri man charged with killing two Wisconsin brothers has been accused of persuading someone to steal a trailer while he was in jail.Garland Joseph Nelson, of Braymer, will go on trial April 20 or 21 on a charge of stealing a motor vehicle.The trial is separate from the capital murder trial he faces next year in the July 2019&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/d979d903133f475f941d1be6a8ce5fe3">deaths of Nicholas and Justin Diemel</a>, of Shawano County, Wisconsin.Nelson was being held in the Caldwell County jail in the murder case when he coerced someone to retrieve a trailer. Nelson reportedly said he paid $500 for the trailer but police said he never owned it, The St. Joseph News-Press&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newspressnow.com/news/local_news/courts/accused-double-murderer-will-have-april-trial-on-stealing-charge/article_2797994a-7c53-11eb-94b7-e36ac4d0a386.html" target="_blank">reported</a>.The stealing charged was filed Oct. 30, 2020. Nelson has been jailed in the murder case since July 2019.Nelson is accused of shooting the Diemel brothers when they visited his farm to discuss a $250,000 cattle deal. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty in the case.

Missouri man accused of killing 2 Wisconsin brothers faces theft trial

GENTRY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 4p.m. Thursday in Gentry County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Jeep Compass driven by Bendi A. Burgin, 53, Albany, was southbound on Route AA two miles south of Ford City.

The jeep traveled off the road due to poor road conditions. The vehicle struck a ditch and overturned. Grand River EMS transported Burgin to Mosaic in Albany. She was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

GENTRY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 4p.m. Thursday in Gentry County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Jeep Compass driven by Bendi A. Burgin, 53, Albany, was southbound on Route AA two miles south of Ford City.The jeep traveled off the road due to poor road conditions. The vehicle struck a ditch and overturned. Grand River EMS transported Burgin to Mosaic in Albany. She was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman hospitalized after jeep overturns

When Christian Konczal came to Missouri Western to help launch an E-sports program in January 2020, he couldn't have known what was coming next.

A global pandemic shut schools and businesses down only two months later. This also meant the suspension of sporting events and activities for a significant period of time.

One activity that was safely able to continue was E-sports.

"Our competitions are fully remote," Konczal said. "We weren't affected in the way that our brothers over on the football or basketball teams were. Their seasons got really thrown out of whack. For ours, it just meant that the end of our league championships weren't in person."

But even last year, as the Griffons' E-sports program was just getting off the ground, they had no team competitions before the pandemic. This marks only the second semester of having varsity teams.

Former Missouri Western president Matt Wilson and Konczal both worked previously at the University Akron. Together, they launched a successful E-sports program for the Zips, and brought that vision to St. Joseph.

"(President Wilson) and the previous administration were very much the impetus behind this idea," Konczal said. "The local community definitely bought into it. They've seen the value, and ever since, we've been showing the value."

The biggest challenge COVID-19 presented to Missouri Western's new E-sports team was, how do you spread the word and recruit members when campus is shut down?

When campus reopened this past fall, Konczal was pleased with the enthusiasm and participation, as the Griffons entered their first semester of varsity competition.

The opening of the Griffon E-sports Arena inside the Blum Union definitely helped with that.

"This is very much meant to be a program to help engage students and give them a reason to stick around and make friends in-person," Konczal said. "Get them out of playing alone in their dorm rooms with their friends back home."

Konczal has about 30 students enrolled in the program this semester. The Griffons are competing in four leagues - Rocket League, League of Legends, Overwatch and Fortnite. They also have two club leagues - Super Smash Bros. and Valorant.

Practice started a week before the current semester began, with competition starting in late February. Konczal said there's a steady stream of students in and out of the arena practicing every day, with each league playing 8-12 matches on a weekly basis.

"During the season, we're all competing to earn our slot in the championship at the end," Konczal said. "That's typically when prize (money) support shakes out and all of that."

The championships can involve the top 12-24 teams from across the country in each league, with the season typically ending when the school year does, or shortly thereafter.

With E-sports still being a new concept on the Missouri Western campus, the team is excited to open their E-sports arena to the entire student body starting Friday, with an introductory ceremony set for Thursday afternoon at 3 p.m.

Konczal hopes the arena will be a place for all Griffon students to enjoy gaming and just overall camaraderie.

"All Missouri Western students, faculty and staff will be able to use this facility for free," Konczal said. "We really want to give a home on campus, and serve 100 percent of the gamers. Over the past few weeks, students have been able to walk through and see the equipment, what the space looks like. The excitement has just been palpable."

The E-Sports Arena also features a broadcasting suite and production room, which will allow students to produce YouTube shows, podcasts and other projects.

While large, in-person gaming tournaments won't happen for Missouri Western this semester, Konczal is just thankful the entire Griffon community will be able to learn more about the E-sports program up close.

"I'm just so excited," he smiled, "just to be able to invite the entire campus into what we're building here. The biggest focus this semester has not only been getting the team up and running, but getting the arena up and running."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614806133815.jpeg" alt="The Griffons' E-sports Arena inside the Blum Student Union is opening up to the entire student body for the first time this Friday, with an introductory ceremony set for Thursday at 3 p.m. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>The Griffons' E-sports Arena inside the Blum Student Union is opening up to the entire student body for the first time this Friday, with an introductory ceremony set for Thursday at 3 p.m. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostWhen Christian Konczal came to Missouri Western to help launch an E-sports program in January 2020, he couldn't have known what was coming next.A global pandemic shut schools and businesses down only two months later. This also meant the suspension of sporting events and activities for a significant period of time.One activity that was safely able to continue was E-sports."Our competitions are fully remote," Konczal said. "We weren't affected in the way that our brothers over on the football or basketball teams were. Their seasons got really thrown out of whack. For ours, it just meant that the end of our league championships weren't in person."But even last year, as the Griffons' E-sports program was just getting off the ground, they had no team competitions before the pandemic. This marks only the second semester of having varsity teams.Former Missouri Western president Matt Wilson and Konczal both worked previously at the University Akron. Together, they launched a successful E-sports program for the Zips, and brought that vision to St. Joseph."(President Wilson) and the previous administration were very much the impetus behind this idea," Konczal said. "The local community definitely bought into it. They've seen the value, and ever since, we've been showing the value."The biggest challenge COVID-19 presented to Missouri Western's new E-sports team was, how do you spread the word and recruit members when campus is shut down?When campus reopened this past fall, Konczal was pleased with the enthusiasm and participation, as the Griffons entered their first semester of varsity competition.The opening of the Griffon E-sports Arena inside the Blum Union definitely helped with that."This is very much meant to be a program to help engage students and give them a reason to stick around and make friends in-person," Konczal said. "Get them out of playing alone in their dorm rooms with their friends back home."Konczal has about 30 students enrolled in the program this semester. The Griffons are competing in four leagues - Rocket League, League of Legends, Overwatch and Fortnite. They also have two club leagues - Super Smash Bros. and Valorant.Practice started a week before the current semester began, with competition starting in late February. Konczal said there's a steady stream of students in and out of the arena practicing every day, with each league playing 8-12 matches on a weekly basis."During the season, we're all competing to earn our slot in the championship at the end," Konczal said. "That's typically when prize (money) support shakes out and all of that."The championships can involve the top 12-24 teams from across the country in each league, with the season typically ending when the school year does, or shortly thereafter.With E-sports still being a new concept on the Missouri Western campus, the team is excited to open their E-sports arena to the entire student body starting Friday, with an introductory ceremony set for Thursday afternoon at 3 p.m.Konczal hopes the arena will be a place for all Griffon students to enjoy gaming and just overall camaraderie."All Missouri Western students, faculty and staff will be able to use this facility for free," Konczal said. "We really want to give a home on campus, and serve 100 percent of the gamers. Over the past few weeks, students have been able to walk through and see the equipment, what the space looks like. The excitement has just been palpable."The E-Sports Arena also features a broadcasting suite and production room, which will allow students to produce YouTube shows, podcasts and other projects.While large, in-person gaming tournaments won't happen for Missouri Western this semester, Konczal is just thankful the entire Griffon community will be able to learn more about the E-sports program up close."I'm just so excited," he smiled, "just to be able to invite the entire campus into what we're building here. The biggest focus this semester has not only been getting the team up and running, but getting the arena up and running."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614806206671.jpeg" alt="Member of the Missouri Western E-sports team takes part in Rocket League practice inside the E-sports arena. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Member of the Missouri Western E-sports team takes part in Rocket League practice inside the E-sports arena. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Missouri Western's second season of E-sports underway, E-sports arena opening up to entire campus

St. Joseph health officials report just seven new cases of COVID-19 Thursday, bringing Buchanan County's case total to 10,095.

For a second straight day, there were no new fatalities in Buchanan County, but 172 residents have died from virus complications since the pandemic began.

Over 8,800 Buchanan County residents have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine so far.

Mosaic Life Care reports five COVID patients in its system Thursday. Four are being treated in St. Joseph, with one in Albany.&nbsp;

Statewide, there have been more than 479,000 reported cases of COVID-19 in Missouri, resulting in more than 8,100 fatalities.

Over 900,000 Missourians have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Missouri has received a shipment of 50,000 doses of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine this week.

In Kansas, Doniphan County reports 942 total cases. Over 400,000 Kansans have received the first dose of the COVID vaccine to date.

Governor Laura Kelly told St. Joseph Post this week that it'll be "awhile" before Kansas finishes Phase 2 of its vaccination plan, and may not enter Phase 3 until sometime in April.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report just seven new cases of COVID-19 Thursday, bringing Buchanan County's case total to 10,095.For a second straight day, there were no new fatalities in Buchanan County, but 172 residents have died from virus complications since the pandemic began.Over 8,800 Buchanan County residents have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine so far.Mosaic Life Care reports five COVID patients in its system Thursday. Four are being treated in St. Joseph, with one in Albany.&nbsp;Statewide, there have been more than 479,000 reported cases of COVID-19 in Missouri, resulting in more than 8,100 fatalities.Over 900,000 Missourians have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Missouri has received a shipment of 50,000 doses of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine this week.In Kansas, Doniphan County reports 942 total cases. Over 400,000 Kansans have received the first dose of the COVID vaccine to date.Governor Laura Kelly told St. Joseph Post this week that it'll be "awhile" before Kansas finishes Phase 2 of its vaccination plan, and may not enter Phase 3 until sometime in April.

Seven new cases of COVID-19 in Buchanan County, Missouri receives Johnson and Johnson vaccine

This past week was Severe Weather Awareness Week for the state of Missouri, as the weather warms up and the severe weather season draws closer.

Tornado siren drills were conducted this week across the area, including one in St. Joseph on Tuesday morning.

National Weather Service meteorologist Brett Williams from the Pleasant Hill office says severe weather preparedness doesn't end with this week, but it serves as a good reminder to prepare for extreme weather.

"It's just a good refresher for the public to be aware of the different severe weather hazards," Williams said, "and how best to make sure they have a plan in place so they know what to do whenever severe weather threatens them or their family."

Williams says having a NOAA weather radio with fresh batteries on hand, along with a tornado warning preparedness plan, is a good place to start.

"Be aware and kind of pay attention to the forecast," he says. "If you know that severe weather is possible on that day, make sure you have heightened awareness and are kind of keeping tabs on things."

Williams says it's also best to get below ground during a severe storm if at all possible.

A drier and warmer-than-normal weather pattern recently has led to lower amounts of runoff and reduced flooding risk along the Missouri River this spring - a welcome site after 2019's catastrophic floods.

Williams says there's no evidence to suggest a more active than normal severe weather season in 2021.

"We are warmer than normal, but weather should be pretty calm for the next several days."

A chance of rain enters the forecast by Wednesday and Thursday of next week, but severe weather is not anticipated.

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">For severe damaging winds, in the majority of cases, the safest place during is indoors and away from windows. When we issue a severe thunderstorm warning, at a minimum, it&#39;s due to 60+mph wind and/or Hail &gt;= 1.00.&quot; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SeverePreparednessWeek2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SeverePreparednessWeek2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/2pPFFCn2HL">pic.twitter.com/2pPFFCn2HL</a>&mdash; NWS Kansas City (@NWSKansasCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSKansasCity/status/1367549716687294464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThis past week was Severe Weather Awareness Week for the state of Missouri, as the weather warms up and the severe weather season draws closer.Tornado siren drills were conducted this week across the area, including one in St. Joseph on Tuesday morning.National Weather Service meteorologist Brett Williams from the Pleasant Hill office says severe weather preparedness doesn't end with this week, but it serves as a good reminder to prepare for extreme weather."It's just a good refresher for the public to be aware of the different severe weather hazards," Williams said, "and how best to make sure they have a plan in place so they know what to do whenever severe weather threatens them or their family."Williams says having a NOAA weather radio with fresh batteries on hand, along with a tornado warning preparedness plan, is a good place to start."Be aware and kind of pay attention to the forecast," he says. "If you know that severe weather is possible on that day, make sure you have heightened awareness and are kind of keeping tabs on things."Williams says it's also best to get below ground during a severe storm if at all possible.A drier and warmer-than-normal weather pattern recently has led to lower amounts of runoff and reduced flooding risk along the Missouri River this spring - a welcome site after 2019's catastrophic floods.Williams says there's no evidence to suggest a more active than normal severe weather season in 2021."We are warmer than normal, but weather should be pretty calm for the next several days."A chance of rain enters the forecast by Wednesday and Thursday of next week, but severe weather is not anticipated.

Severe Weather Awareness Week concludes Friday, severe weather season starting soon

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly is hopeful a measure seeking to
curtail her emergency powers will undergo change during the legislative
process.

Kelly, a Democrat, has been a target of criticism from
Republican legislative leaders who claim she abused her authority in responding
to the coronavirus pandemic. Kelly contends the effort by Republicans in Topeka
will hurt Kansans, not her.

“There’s an absolutely horrendous bill that just came out of
the Senate that really is dangerous for Kansans,” Kelly tells St. Joseph Post. “But,
fortunately, the way the system works, the House will also craft their response
to emergency management and I’m expecting that when it is all said and done, we’ll
come back to something much more workable.”

Kelly says she understands many what to revisit the Emergency
Management Act.

“The pandemic is very different than the kind of emergencies
that were anticipated when the Emergency Management Act was put in place sometime
in the 70s,” according to Kelly. “So, I’m all in favor of reviewing it now that
we know what we know about pandemics, but I think the end result has got to be
something that really does allow the governor to act in the best interest of
Kansas, quickly.”

The Senate version would give the Attorney General and the Legislature
oversight powers during emergencies, something the governor insists would prevent
the decisive action needed during an emergency.

Kelly does say she’s open to a real discussion about revisions
to the act.

“We can deal with all the other stuff later, but you really
cannot tie a governor’s hands like that,” Kelly says. “It’s not safe for
Kansans.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614805687677.jpeg" alt="Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly during a recent visit to Atchison/Photo by Tommy Rezac" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly during a recent visit to Atchison/Photo by Tommy Rezac</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostKansas Gov. Laura Kelly is hopeful a measure seeking to
curtail her emergency powers will undergo change during the legislative
process.Kelly, a Democrat, has been a target of criticism from
Republican legislative leaders who claim she abused her authority in responding
to the coronavirus pandemic. Kelly contends the effort by Republicans in Topeka
will hurt Kansans, not her.“There’s an absolutely horrendous bill that just came out of
the Senate that really is dangerous for Kansans,” Kelly tells St. Joseph Post. “But,
fortunately, the way the system works, the House will also craft their response
to emergency management and I’m expecting that when it is all said and done, we’ll
come back to something much more workable.”Kelly says she understands many what to revisit the Emergency
Management Act.“The pandemic is very different than the kind of emergencies
that were anticipated when the Emergency Management Act was put in place sometime
in the 70s,” according to Kelly. “So, I’m all in favor of reviewing it now that
we know what we know about pandemics, but I think the end result has got to be
something that really does allow the governor to act in the best interest of
Kansas, quickly.”The Senate version would give the Attorney General and the Legislature
oversight powers during emergencies, something the governor insists would prevent
the decisive action needed during an emergency.Kelly does say she’s open to a real discussion about revisions
to the act.“We can deal with all the other stuff later, but you really
cannot tie a governor’s hands like that,” Kelly says. “It’s not safe for
Kansans.”

Gov. Kelly calls Senate bill to curb her emergency powers horrendous

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Driven by pleas from desperate local officials, Kansas legislators on Wednesday quickly created a state low-interest loan program to help cities cover spikes in costs associated with providing heat and electricity to their residents during last month’s intense cold snap.

Lawmakers sent Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/supp_note_sb88_01_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a bill</a>&nbsp;that would allow the state to loan out $100 million of its idle funds immediately to cities that operate their own electric and natural gas utilities, to cover “extraordinary” energy costs last month. Cities would have up to 10 years to pay off the loans.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614869274133.png" alt="“This loan program is very important to our cities,” Kelly said during a Statehouse news conference Wednesday.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>“This loan program is very important to our cities,” Kelly said during a Statehouse news conference Wednesday.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Driven by pleas from desperate local officials, Kansas legislators on Wednesday quickly created a state low-interest loan program to help cities cover spikes in costs associated with providing heat and electricity to their residents during last month’s intense cold snap.Lawmakers sent Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/supp_note_sb88_01_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a bill</a>&nbsp;that would allow the state to loan out $100 million of its idle funds immediately to cities that operate their own electric and natural gas utilities, to cover “extraordinary” energy costs last month. Cities would have up to 10 years to pay off the loans.The bill was introduced Tuesday, had a hearing, cleared a House committee Wednesday morning and passed the House less than two hours later,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210303113520_567345/" target="_blank">124-0.</a>&nbsp;The Senate approved it,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210303155357_970568/" target="_blank">37-1,</a>&nbsp;in the afternoon, and Kelly promised to sign it immediately.“This loan program is very important to our cities,” Kelly said during a Statehouse news conference. “It gives them the immediate relief they need to avoid dire financial decisions while we pursue other, long-term solutions.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613863213415.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://apnews.com/article/www.apnews.com/ca8d4314b7f7d7d763325b79d4963305" target="_blank">Subzero temperatures</a>&nbsp;in mid-February led to a big spike in demand for natural gas, and other problems, such as freezing equipment, made gas hard to obtain, causing prices to jump. That left dozens of cities in Kansas with big energy bills that are coming due, and advocates of the bill said some could face bankruptcy without help.The city of Denison, with about 190 residents 40 miles north of Topeka, has been billed about $241,000 for gas in February, when its bill last year was about $4,100, City Clerk Yvonne Hamer told the House committee&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/committees/ctte_h_financial_institutions_and_rural_developm_1/misc_documents/download_testimony/ctte_h_financial_institutions_and_rural_developm_1_20210303_37_testimony.html" target="_blank">in written testimony.&nbsp;</a>She said that without help, the city will “go under” after 134 years.“Now I am fearful that I will have to close my doors if the city has to pass on the outrageous gas prices which were incurred in February,” Samantha Correll, who purchased the Finer Than A Frog Hair Bar &amp; Grill in Denison, said&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/committees/ctte_h_financial_institutions_and_rural_developm_1/misc_documents/download_testimony/ctte_h_financial_institutions_and_rural_developm_1_20210303_38_testimony.html" target="_blank">in a statement</a>&nbsp;to the committee.Lawmakers were concentrating first on helping cities operating their own utilities because they’ve already received one round of bills from the cold snap and have another round coming due. Kimberly Gencur Svaty, a lobbyist for municipal utilities, said many of those cities tapped out available funds to cover the first round.Fifty-three cities provide natural gas to their residents for heat, and 118 operate their own electric utilities — some of which also use natural gas to generate power. Svaty said within a week, gas prices spiked at as much as 200 times what cities had been paying.She said cities operating their own utilities face “an immediate financial crisis” because Great Depression-era laws aimed at stabilizing their finances greatly limit their ability to borrow money. Without help, she and other supporters said, those cities face imposing huge, short-term increases in customers’ bills, when loans would allow them to “smooth out” the extra costs over time.Svaty also said that if cities can’t pay their gas bills, they risk being excluded from the market, which would leave some of them unable to supply their residents.“This is something you can do right here right now that will literally make a difference in the lives of people in the next week to 10 days,” Svaty said.In Argonia, a town of around 500 people about 50 miles southwest of Wichita, the city expects a bill of more than $500,000 from February when its typical monthly cost is $9,000, according to City Clerk Tara Pierce.“This extreme cost could break us,” she said&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/committees/ctte_h_financial_institutions_and_rural_developm_1/misc_documents/download_testimony/ctte_h_financial_institutions_and_rural_developm_1_20210303_32_testimony.html" target="_blank">in testimony</a>&nbsp;to the House committee.In the House, Democratic Rep. Henry Helgerson, of Wichita, worried that the state would be on the hook if a city defaulted on a loan but voted for the bill.The only no vote in either chamber came from freshman Republican Sen. Alicia Straub, of Ellinwood. She said allowing cities to take out low-interest loans is “acknowledging that somehow the consumer was at fault for this.”“I don’t feel that the consumer is at fault, and I don’t feel that the consumer should have to pay this in any way,” she said.But Chris Komarek, the city administrator in Straub’s central Kansas hometown of 2,100 residents, had urged lawmakers to pass the bill, saying in written testimony that it was “huge to the survival of communities across the state of Kansas.”____

Local