More and more scams are popping up, especially with tax season
in full swing and more coronavirus relief money being discussed in Washington.

Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett urges residents to be
cautious when answering the phone, especially when the person on the other end
states they are calling from the IRS, the Social Security Administration, or
even the Federal Reserve.

“They do not call people,” Puett says. “They do not solicit
money over the phone. They do not want your Social Security number. They have
it. Do not, do not, do not give anybody your personal information over the
phone. Do not give them your credit card, your PIN code, any of that stuff.”

Puett also cautions to be careful about clicking on any links
on the Internet or in emails. He says if you want to check to see if the call
is legitimate, look up a number and call back.

Puett says cons seem to prey on the most conscientious among
us.

“We have people that fall victim to this, because they’re
trying to do the right thing and these scammers, these criminals are very good
at scaring people and that’s what they rely on:&nbsp;
fear and intimidation,” according to Puett.

Tax season always brings out the scam artists.

Puett advises a simple approach to any such calls, pointing
out the IRS has your information. It never solicits personal information over
the phone. Don’t buy the line they’re selling over the phone, Puett advises.

“Please do not provide any personal information like that over
the phone,” Puett says. “The best way to do it is, ‘I’m with the IRS’ click, just
hang up.”

Puett says it will only get worse. With Congress poised to
pass a $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package, residents are sure to get
calls from scam artists trying to steal personal information, claiming it’s
needed to get stimulus checks.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMore and more scams are popping up, especially with tax season
in full swing and more coronavirus relief money being discussed in Washington.Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett urges residents to be
cautious when answering the phone, especially when the person on the other end
states they are calling from the IRS, the Social Security Administration, or
even the Federal Reserve.“They do not call people,” Puett says. “They do not solicit
money over the phone. They do not want your Social Security number. They have
it. Do not, do not, do not give anybody your personal information over the
phone. Do not give them your credit card, your PIN code, any of that stuff.”Puett also cautions to be careful about clicking on any links
on the Internet or in emails. He says if you want to check to see if the call
is legitimate, look up a number and call back.Puett says cons seem to prey on the most conscientious among
us.“We have people that fall victim to this, because they’re
trying to do the right thing and these scammers, these criminals are very good
at scaring people and that’s what they rely on:&nbsp;
fear and intimidation,” according to Puett.Tax season always brings out the scam artists.Puett advises a simple approach to any such calls, pointing
out the IRS has your information. It never solicits personal information over
the phone. Don’t buy the line they’re selling over the phone, Puett advises.“Please do not provide any personal information like that over
the phone,” Puett says. “The best way to do it is, ‘I’m with the IRS’ click, just
hang up.”Puett says it will only get worse. With Congress poised to
pass a $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package, residents are sure to get
calls from scam artists trying to steal personal information, claiming it’s
needed to get stimulus checks.

Watch your wallet:  scam artists are working the area

St. Joseph might have a new high school located at the American Family Insurance Regional Headquarters south of the Missouri Western campus, pending the passing of a 107-Million dollar bond issue on April 6th. 

St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce Presidents Patt Lilly says the American Family Insurance building has been empty for quite some time. 

"It's the original or the older part of the office building has been empty for some time," Lilly tells St. Joseph Post. "We have worked with American Family to pitch that building a couple of times to prospects, there's even been some local interest on a part of several companies to lease office space within the building although the building doesn't lend itself very well to multi-tenant use."

Assistant Superintendent of Business and Operations Gabe Edgar says he wants community members to be open to this new opportunity. 

"You know the new verses the renovation that's definitely been a topic because there's a lot of history in the schools that we have and a lot of people really want to stay with three schools or they just want to renovate what we have," says Edgar. "I think this is a different opportunity. It is a renovation but I wish, and I'm sure you'll be able to see the drawings in the next couple of weeks as they come out but I was simply amazed at to what it looked like after the architect had drawn it up for us." 

Edgar says this plan helps the school district avoid starting from scratch. 

"So you don't have to start from scratch and obviously it was a corporate office and at one time it was built to house 1500 employees, so if you think about 1500 employees to 1500 students and I know it kind of seems far fetched but I really do think, after the drawings come out, people understand well maybe this is not too far fetched," says Edgar. 

Edgar says the district will need to add gyms to the school. The school district is also looking at adding an athletic field to the campus. 

"I do envision sports fields out there. I think what we're looking at is putting a turf football and soccer field," says Edgar. "Now, putting a baseball, softball complex, we haven't gotten to those discussions yet." 

Lilly says this could would well for everyone involved. 

"You know again, I think depending on how all this settles out, I think it could be a win/win for the community and for American Family," says Lilly. 

The school administrators have approval from the St. Joseph School Board to begin negotiations with American Family, but only if the bond issue passes in April. 

By WHITNEE ICESt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph might have a new high school located at the American Family Insurance Regional Headquarters south of the Missouri Western campus, pending the passing of a 107-Million dollar bond issue on April 6th. St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce Presidents Patt Lilly says the American Family Insurance building has been empty for quite some time. "It's the original or the older part of the office building has been empty for some time," Lilly tells St. Joseph Post. "We have worked with American Family to pitch that building a couple of times to prospects, there's even been some local interest on a part of several companies to lease office space within the building although the building doesn't lend itself very well to multi-tenant use."Assistant Superintendent of Business and Operations Gabe Edgar says he wants community members to be open to this new opportunity. "You know the new verses the renovation that's definitely been a topic because there's a lot of history in the schools that we have and a lot of people really want to stay with three schools or they just want to renovate what we have," says Edgar. "I think this is a different opportunity. It is a renovation but I wish, and I'm sure you'll be able to see the drawings in the next couple of weeks as they come out but I was simply amazed at to what it looked like after the architect had drawn it up for us." Edgar says this plan helps the school district avoid starting from scratch. "So you don't have to start from scratch and obviously it was a corporate office and at one time it was built to house 1500 employees, so if you think about 1500 employees to 1500 students and I know it kind of seems far fetched but I really do think, after the drawings come out, people understand well maybe this is not too far fetched," says Edgar. Edgar says the district will need to add gyms to the school. The school district is also looking at adding an athletic field to the campus. "I do envision sports fields out there. I think what we're looking at is putting a turf football and soccer field," says Edgar. "Now, putting a baseball, softball complex, we haven't gotten to those discussions yet." Lilly says this could would well for everyone involved. "You know again, I think depending on how all this settles out, I think it could be a win/win for the community and for American Family," says Lilly. The school administrators have approval from the St. Joseph School Board to begin negotiations with American Family, but only if the bond issue passes in April.

American Family Headquarters may become new St. Joseph School

St. Joseph health officials report just six new cases of COVID-19 in Buchanan County Tuesday and no additional fatalities.

There have been 10,013 total cases and 164 deaths related to the virus in Buchanan County since the pandemic began.

The department also sent a correction in Buchanan County's COVID positivity rate. Instead of the 16.8 percent positivity rate reported Monday, the correct rate in Buchanan County is 5.02 percent - up only slightly from the 4.14 percent reported on Feb. 10.

Mosaic Life Care reports seven COVID-19 patients in its system Tuesday, which is up from just three last Wednesday. All seven of the inpatients are being treated in St. Joseph.

Over 6,900 people in Buchanan County have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Statewide, Missouri reports over 475,000 COVID-19 cases and more than 7,800 deaths.

Over 700,000 Missourians have received the first dose of the vaccine to date.

Doniphan County, Kansas reports 930 total cases. Nearly 340,000 Kansans have gotten the first dose of the vaccine so far, according to the KDHE dashboard.

Statewide, Kansas reports more than 291,000 total cases and over 4,600 total fatalities.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report just six new cases of COVID-19 in Buchanan County Tuesday and no additional fatalities.There have been 10,013 total cases and 164 deaths related to the virus in Buchanan County since the pandemic began.The department also sent a correction in Buchanan County's COVID positivity rate. Instead of the 16.8 percent positivity rate reported Monday, the correct rate in Buchanan County is 5.02 percent - up only slightly from the 4.14 percent reported on Feb. 10.Mosaic Life Care reports seven COVID-19 patients in its system Tuesday, which is up from just three last Wednesday. All seven of the inpatients are being treated in St. Joseph.Over 6,900 people in Buchanan County have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.Statewide, Missouri reports over 475,000 COVID-19 cases and more than 7,800 deaths.Over 700,000 Missourians have received the first dose of the vaccine to date.Doniphan County, Kansas reports 930 total cases. Nearly 340,000 Kansans have gotten the first dose of the vaccine so far, according to the KDHE dashboard.Statewide, Kansas reports more than 291,000 total cases and over 4,600 total fatalities.

St. Joseph health officials report error in COVID positivity rate, new cases remain low

St. Joseph Police Chief Chris Connally says the negative
publicity police have received from last summer has hurt the recruiting and
retention of officers.

Connally says the cry to “defund the police” has been
devastating.

“The damage to the profession has been done,” Connally tells
host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.

The police chief says news coverage of high-profile
police-citizen confrontations has been universally negative.

“We’ve defined a large group by the actions of a few which we
always say is wrong in any other setting,” Connally says. “Largely, it’s been
done in the media. There are fewer and fewer people that want to become police officers.”

The effect, according to Connally, is that it has become
harder and harder for the St. Joseph department to fill vacancies. Connally claims
the negative coverage of police of late has steered many away from the
profession.

“We aren’t getting that many people that are applying. So,
recruitment and retention is a big issue, which, I have to say, if you have
somebody that you think would make a good police officer or is interested,
please have them contact us, because we are recruiting,” Connally says with a
chuckle. “We do need good, solid young officers to come on the department.”

Connally sees the problem has have lasting, wide ranging
effects.

“So, as you get behind and you continue to get behind and you
have trouble hiring people, the impact is exponential, based on the inability
of just being able to hire someone and put them in that job.”

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph Police Chief Chris Connally says the negative
publicity police have received from last summer has hurt the recruiting and
retention of officers.Connally says the cry to “defund the police” has been
devastating.“The damage to the profession has been done,” Connally tells
host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.The police chief says news coverage of high-profile
police-citizen confrontations has been universally negative.“We’ve defined a large group by the actions of a few which we
always say is wrong in any other setting,” Connally says. “Largely, it’s been
done in the media. There are fewer and fewer people that want to become police officers.”The effect, according to Connally, is that it has become
harder and harder for the St. Joseph department to fill vacancies. Connally claims
the negative coverage of police of late has steered many away from the
profession.“We aren’t getting that many people that are applying. So,
recruitment and retention is a big issue, which, I have to say, if you have
somebody that you think would make a good police officer or is interested,
please have them contact us, because we are recruiting,” Connally says with a
chuckle. “We do need good, solid young officers to come on the department.”Connally sees the problem has have lasting, wide ranging
effects.“So, as you get behind and you continue to get behind and you
have trouble hiring people, the impact is exponential, based on the inability
of just being able to hire someone and put them in that job.”

St. Joe Police Chief:  Defund the Police having impact on profession

The city of Stewartsville in DeKalb County will be looking for a new police chief.

Stewartsville City Hall confirmed in a Facebook post Tuesday that Police Chief Andrew Porter has resigned to take "a better job opportunity for his family."

Porter had been Stewartsville's police chief for two years, but had served on the force for a number of years prior to that.

Stewartsville city clerk Megan Foreman says the DeKalb County Sheriff's office will provide law enforcement assistance to Stewartsville in the mean time.

The Stewartsville City Council will discuss the next steps forward for the police department at their next meeting on March 9.

Any Stewartsville resident who needs law enforcement assistance is asked to call the DeKalb County Sheriff's office or 911 if it is an emergency.

You can follow St. Joseph Post on Twitter @StJosephPost.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe city of Stewartsville in DeKalb County will be looking for a new police chief.Stewartsville City Hall confirmed in a Facebook post Tuesday that Police Chief Andrew Porter has resigned to take "a better job opportunity for his family."Porter had been Stewartsville's police chief for two years, but had served on the force for a number of years prior to that.Stewartsville city clerk Megan Foreman says the DeKalb County Sheriff's office will provide law enforcement assistance to Stewartsville in the mean time.The Stewartsville City Council will discuss the next steps forward for the police department at their next meeting on March 9.Any Stewartsville resident who needs law enforcement assistance is asked to call the DeKalb County Sheriff's office or 911 if it is an emergency.<div><div id="fb-root"></div>
<script async defer crossorigin="anonymous" src="https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/sdk.js#xfbml=1&version=v10.0" nonce="V9W6Gju7"></script></div><div><div class="fb-post" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/CityHallStewartsville/posts/4384555091573642" data-width="500" data-show-text="true"><blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/CityHallStewartsville/posts/4384555091573642" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore">I have been getting several calls on our PD so I would like to address it.

Unfortunately, Chief Porter has resigned. He...Posted by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CityHallStewartsville/">City Hall of Stewartsville, Missouri</a> on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/CityHallStewartsville/posts/4384555091573642">Tuesday, February 23, 2021</a></blockquote></div></div>You can follow St. Joseph Post on Twitter @StJosephPost.

Stewartsville Police Chief taking new job, DeKalb County Sheriff to provide aid 

ATCHISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8a.m. Tuesday in Atchison County.

A 2006 Saturn Vue driven by Julie Elias, 62, Atchison, was southbound in the 1300 Block of Unity Street, according to Police Chief Michael Wilson.

The SUV struck the guardrail on the K-7 curve and left the road.&nbsp;&nbsp;EMS transported her to a local hospital for an examination, according to Wilson.&nbsp; He released no additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614096385018.png" alt="Tuesday morning crash photo courtesy Atchison Police" />
 <figcaption>Tuesday morning crash photo courtesy Atchison Police</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8a.m. Tuesday in Atchison County.A 2006 Saturn Vue driven by Julie Elias, 62, Atchison, was southbound in the 1300 Block of Unity Street, according to Police Chief Michael Wilson.The SUV struck the guardrail on the K-7 curve and left the road.&nbsp;&nbsp;EMS transported her to a local hospital for an examination, according to Wilson.&nbsp; He released no additional details.

Police: Woman from Atchison injured in SUV crash

HOLT COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 4p.m. Monday in Holt County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Chevy Suburban driven by Daniel A. Gandara, 25, North Kansas City, was southbound on Interstate 29 five miles south of Mound City.

The SUV traveled off the east side of the road and into the median. The driver overcorrected, the SUV returned to the road, traveled off the west side of the road, went airborne, landed on its wheels on the southbound entrance ramp, traveled off the ramp, traveled up an embankment and struck a tree.

Atchison-Holt Ambulance transported Gandara to Mosaic Life Care. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

HOLT COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 4p.m. Monday in Holt County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Chevy Suburban driven by Daniel A. Gandara, 25, North Kansas City, was southbound on Interstate 29 five miles south of Mound City.The SUV traveled off the east side of the road and into the median. The driver overcorrected, the SUV returned to the road, traveled off the west side of the road, went airborne, landed on its wheels on the southbound entrance ramp, traveled off the ramp, traveled up an embankment and struck a tree.Atchison-Holt Ambulance transported Gandara to Mosaic Life Care. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man hospitalized after violent SUV crash

CALDWELL COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Monday in Caldwell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Saturn SL driven by Jacob N. Gatlin, 19, Braymer, was eastbound on MO 116 at SE Wildlife Road two miles west of Cowgill.

The car traveled off the road, struck a ditch and rolled.&nbsp; Caldwell County EMS transported Gatlin to Hedrick Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

CALDWELL COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Monday in Caldwell County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Saturn SL driven by Jacob N. Gatlin, 19, Braymer, was eastbound on MO 116 at SE Wildlife Road two miles west of Cowgill.The car traveled off the road, struck a ditch and rolled.&nbsp; Caldwell County EMS transported Gatlin to Hedrick Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Missouri teen hospitalized after rollover accident

The St. Joseph School District's Board of Education has given approval for administration to start negotiating with American Family Insurance for the purchase of its Regional Headquarters just south of the Missouri Western campus as the proposed site for a new high school.

St. Joseph Schools superintendent Doug Van Zyl says the community still has the final decision and its the school boards job to help educate the community about their options. 

"Well really what has to take place now is just the negotiation and finalization of the contract and everything is contingent upon the bond passing on April 6th," says Zyl. "If the community passes that then the contact can be fulfilled and we'll be able to move forward. If it doesn't, we have negotiated a contract that won't be able to be fulfilled because the bond won't have passed."

The buildings, located at 4802 Mitchell Avenue in St. Joseph, has been designated as a candidate for sale or lease.

The final agreement is contingent upon the passage of the $107 million bond issue and successful contract negotiations. The bond goes before voters on the April 6 ballot.

The district is in the early stages of negotiations, according to a press release.

The St. Joseph School Board has laid out and approved a proposal <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/e19b2d09-92ed-4db8-8a06-f76be893e90e">to convert Benton and Lafayette</a> High Schools into middle schools, and build one, new high school.

St. Joseph Schools superintendent Doug Van Zyl says the new alignment <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/f9528775-1917-4031-a70b-53a98649f034">would allow the district</a> to create a better feeder system, which would keep classes together from elementary school through middle school and then on to high school.

"I think the biggest thing to know is, I think the board and the administration has tried to listen to what the community has said to be efficient, effective with tax dollars, to utilize the facilities to the best of our ability, and here we have another facility in the community that can meet our needs and rather than not taking advantage of it, we're exploring the opportunity and how it can best benefit us and how it can best benefit the community," says Zyl. 

The $107 million bond issue goes before voters April 6.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611630476447.jpeg" alt="The St. Joseph School District board of education met in late January and approved a $107 million bond issue that goes before voters in April. The bond would mean the construction of a new high school in St. Joseph. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>The St. Joseph School District board of education met in late January and approved a $107 million bond issue that goes before voters in April. The bond would mean the construction of a new high school in St. Joseph. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By WHITNEE ICE and TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph School District's Board of Education has given approval for administration to start negotiating with American Family Insurance for the purchase of its Regional Headquarters just south of the Missouri Western campus as the proposed site for a new high school.St. Joseph Schools superintendent Doug Van Zyl says the community still has the final decision and its the school boards job to help educate the community about their options. "Well really what has to take place now is just the negotiation and finalization of the contract and everything is contingent upon the bond passing on April 6th," says Zyl. "If the community passes that then the contact can be fulfilled and we'll be able to move forward. If it doesn't, we have negotiated a contract that won't be able to be fulfilled because the bond won't have passed."The buildings, located at 4802 Mitchell Avenue in St. Joseph, has been designated as a candidate for sale or lease.The final agreement is contingent upon the passage of the $107 million bond issue and successful contract negotiations. The bond goes before voters on the April 6 ballot.The district is in the early stages of negotiations, according to a press release.The St. Joseph School Board has laid out and approved a proposal <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/e19b2d09-92ed-4db8-8a06-f76be893e90e">to convert Benton and Lafayette</a> High Schools into middle schools, and build one, new high school.St. Joseph Schools superintendent Doug Van Zyl says the new alignment <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/f9528775-1917-4031-a70b-53a98649f034">would allow the district</a> to create a better feeder system, which would keep classes together from elementary school through middle school and then on to high school."I think the biggest thing to know is, I think the board and the administration has tried to listen to what the community has said to be efficient, effective with tax dollars, to utilize the facilities to the best of our ability, and here we have another facility in the community that can meet our needs and rather than not taking advantage of it, we're exploring the opportunity and how it can best benefit us and how it can best benefit the community," says Zyl. The $107 million bond issue goes before voters April 6.

St. Joseph School Board gives OK for administration to start negotiating site for proposed new high school

Buchanan County has exceeded 10,000 total COVID-19 cases since the start of the pandemic.

St. Joseph health officials report 31 new cases of COVID-19 in Buchanan County since Friday, putting the county's case total at 10,007.

There were also two more fatalities in the county since Friday. The victims were a man in his 70s and a woman in her 60s. A total of 164 Buchanan County residents have died from virus complications.

Buchanan County's positivity rate has also shot back up to 16.8 percent - over four times higher than the 4.1 percent rate reported on Feb. 10.

Mosaic Life Care reports just six total COVID-19 patients in its system Monday - a slight increase from the low of three inpatients last Wednesday.

More than 7,000 Buchanan County residents have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Statewide, Missouri reports over 475,000 COVID-19 cases and 7,700 deaths. Over 700,000 Missourians have received the first dose of the vaccine to date.

In Kansas, Doniphan County reports 930 total cases. Nearly 340,000 Kansas residents have gotten the first dose of the vaccine so far, according to the KDHE dashboard.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBuchanan County has exceeded 10,000 total COVID-19 cases since the start of the pandemic.St. Joseph health officials report 31 new cases of COVID-19 in Buchanan County since Friday, putting the county's case total at 10,007.There were also two more fatalities in the county since Friday. The victims were a man in his 70s and a woman in her 60s. A total of 164 Buchanan County residents have died from virus complications.Buchanan County's positivity rate has also shot back up to 16.8 percent - over four times higher than the 4.1 percent rate reported on Feb. 10.Mosaic Life Care reports just six total COVID-19 patients in its system Monday - a slight increase from the low of three inpatients last Wednesday.More than 7,000 Buchanan County residents have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.Statewide, Missouri reports over 475,000 COVID-19 cases and 7,700 deaths. Over 700,000 Missourians have received the first dose of the vaccine to date.In Kansas, Doniphan County reports 930 total cases. Nearly 340,000 Kansas residents have gotten the first dose of the vaccine so far, according to the KDHE dashboard.Statewide, Kansas reports more than 291,000 total cases and over 4,600 total fatalities.

Buchanan County exceeds 10,000 COVID-19 cases, positivity rate shoots back up

St. Joseph Police say an 8-year-old girl was shot and seriously wounded this weekend in an accidental shooting. 

St. Joseph police responded to a shooting late Sunday morning at the Oak Ridge Apartments in the 12-Hundred block of Angelique Street and found the girl suffering from a gunshot wound. 

St. Joseph Police Captain Jeff Wilson says the girl is being treated at Children's Mercy Hospital... 

"Currently it's being investigated as an accidental shooting but there are a lot of circumstances surrounding this investigation that will take days and weeks for the investigators to determine what the actual outcome will be," says Wilson.

Wilson says the girl's condition has improved since Sunday when taken to the hospital.

By WHITNEE ICESt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph Police say an 8-year-old girl was shot and seriously wounded this weekend in an accidental shooting. St. Joseph police responded to a shooting late Sunday morning at the Oak Ridge Apartments in the 12-Hundred block of Angelique Street and found the girl suffering from a gunshot wound. St. Joseph Police Captain Jeff Wilson says the girl is being treated at Children's Mercy Hospital... "Currently it's being investigated as an accidental shooting but there are a lot of circumstances surrounding this investigation that will take days and weeks for the investigators to determine what the actual outcome will be," says Wilson.Wilson says the girl's condition has improved since Sunday when taken to the hospital.

St. Joseph Police say 8 year old wounded in accidental shooting

TROY, KS - The Doniphan County Health Department is set to vaccinate another 200 people this week after experiencing weather-related delays last week.

Doniphan County was supposed to receive a shipment of 200 vaccines on Feb. 17, but the snow and extreme cold foiled those plans.

The week wasn't a complete loss, however. Doniphan County Health Administrator Sheryl Pierce says the department held a vaccine clinic at the Troy Community Center on the morning of Feb. 16, when morning lows were around 20-below zero.

Around 100 people age 65 or older still received their first dose of the vaccine, despite the extreme conditions.

"They came in their wheelchairs and walkers and canes," Pierce said. "Every one of them showed up. I think we only had five people who canceled that day, but we were easily able to get their slots filled."

The clinic that was canceled last Wednesday has been rescheduled to this Thursday, Feb. 25, at the Troy Community Center with appointment times remaining the same.

Kansas is still in Phase 2 of their COVID-19 vaccination plan. This includes anyone over the age of 65, people who work in congregate settings and high-contact critical workers.

Phase 3 will include people ages 16-64 "with severe medical risks" and "other critical workers." Pierce believes this will present challenges in prioritizing who gets a shot first in Doniphan County.

"Everybody thinks they're essential, everybody thinks they're critical," Pierce said. "We've been getting phone calls from many entities that say, 'My boss says I'm critical or I'm essential.'"

Pierce said the biggest frustration continues to be the limited availability of vaccine. She says the Doniphan County Health Department has the plans and people in place to vaccinate up to 500 people per day.

"We've exercised the drive-thru (clinics)," Pierce said. "We've done them practically every year for many years. We just need the vaccine."

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

<div><div id="fb-root"></div>
<script async defer crossorigin="anonymous" src="https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/sdk.js#xfbml=1&version=v9.0" nonce="tKTkXmMZ"></script></div><div><div class="fb-post" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/DoniphanCountyHealthDepartmentHomeHealth/posts/830779904317766" data-width="500" data-show-text="true"><blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/DoniphanCountyHealthDepartmentHomeHealth/posts/830779904317766" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore">This is Doniphan Co. Health Dept. with an important message regarding your upcoming COVID-19 vaccine appointment...Posted by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DoniphanCountyHealthDepartmentHomeHealth/">Doniphan County Health Dept./Home Health</a> on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/DoniphanCountyHealthDepartmentHomeHealth/posts/830779904317766">Wednesday, February 17, 2021</a></blockquote></div></div>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostTROY, KS - The Doniphan County Health Department is set to vaccinate another 200 people this week after experiencing weather-related delays last week.Doniphan County was supposed to receive a shipment of 200 vaccines on Feb. 17, but the snow and extreme cold foiled those plans.The week wasn't a complete loss, however. Doniphan County Health Administrator Sheryl Pierce says the department held a vaccine clinic at the Troy Community Center on the morning of Feb. 16, when morning lows were around 20-below zero.Around 100 people age 65 or older still received their first dose of the vaccine, despite the extreme conditions."They came in their wheelchairs and walkers and canes," Pierce said. "Every one of them showed up. I think we only had five people who canceled that day, but we were easily able to get their slots filled."The clinic that was canceled last Wednesday has been rescheduled to this Thursday, Feb. 25, at the Troy Community Center with appointment times remaining the same.Kansas is still in Phase 2 of their COVID-19 vaccination plan. This includes anyone over the age of 65, people who work in congregate settings and high-contact critical workers.Phase 3 will include people ages 16-64 "with severe medical risks" and "other critical workers." Pierce believes this will present challenges in prioritizing who gets a shot first in Doniphan County."Everybody thinks they're essential, everybody thinks they're critical," Pierce said. "We've been getting phone calls from many entities that say, 'My boss says I'm critical or I'm essential.'"Pierce said the biggest frustration continues to be the limited availability of vaccine. She says the Doniphan County Health Department has the plans and people in place to vaccinate up to 500 people per day."We've exercised the drive-thru (clinics)," Pierce said. "We've done them practically every year for many years. We just need the vaccine."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Doniphan County Health ready to hold vaccine clinic Thursday after delay last week

The identity of a man shot and killed by a Livingston County deputy has been released in an ongoing investigation by the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

34-year-old Timothy D. Frandson, of Marceline, Missouri, was shot after reportedly attacking a deputy while inside a patrol car.

Livingston
County Sheriff Steve Cox&nbsp; said in a news release that a Livingston County Sheriff’s
Deputy shot and killed Frandson after he became violent and attacked
the deputy in his patrol car.

Cox says the deputy fired at least one shot. Frandson was pronounced dead at the scene.

The incident happened on Friday evening shortly before 6:30
p.m. when Chillicothe Dispatch received a call about a one-vehicle accident on
U.S. 36 east of Chillicothe. The deputy arrived on the scene shortly after the
call, and found an unoccupied vehicle.

Foot
tracks were visible in the snow, heading toward timber. Frandson then approached the
deputy and made comments which raised questions about his mental health. The
deputy talked with Frandson, who handed the deputy some type of suspected drug and
personal items.

It
appears the deputy became comfortable enough to invite Frandson to sit with him
in the front seat of his patrol car. As they talked, Frandson turned violent and
attack the deputy, according to the release.

“The assault on the
deputy continued and our officer was forced to pull his duty weapon but the
assault continued and the duty weapon was discharged with at least one round
striking the suspect who was later pronounced dead at the scene," Sherriff&nbsp;Cox said in the release.

The deputy was taken by ambulance to Hedrick
Medical Center in Chillicothe for treatment of injuries sustained in the
attack. He was released from the hospital later on Friday evening.

Cox has requested the Division of Drug and Crime Control to investigate
the shooting.

Chillicothe Police, Missouri State Highway Patrol and Chillicothe
Department of Emergency Services assisted at the scene.&nbsp;

Livingston County Coroner J. Scott Lindley was summoned to the
scene.&nbsp;

By BRENT MARTIN and TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe identity of a man shot and killed by a Livingston County deputy has been released in an ongoing investigation by the Missouri State Highway Patrol.34-year-old Timothy D. Frandson, of Marceline, Missouri, was shot after reportedly attacking a deputy while inside a patrol car.Livingston
County Sheriff Steve Cox&nbsp; said in a news release that a Livingston County Sheriff’s
Deputy shot and killed Frandson after he became violent and attacked
the deputy in his patrol car.Cox says the deputy fired at least one shot. Frandson was pronounced dead at the scene.The incident happened on Friday evening shortly before 6:30
p.m. when Chillicothe Dispatch received a call about a one-vehicle accident on
U.S. 36 east of Chillicothe. The deputy arrived on the scene shortly after the
call, and found an unoccupied vehicle.Foot
tracks were visible in the snow, heading toward timber. Frandson then approached the
deputy and made comments which raised questions about his mental health. The
deputy talked with Frandson, who handed the deputy some type of suspected drug and
personal items.It
appears the deputy became comfortable enough to invite Frandson to sit with him
in the front seat of his patrol car. As they talked, Frandson turned violent and
attack the deputy, according to the release.“The assault on the
deputy continued and our officer was forced to pull his duty weapon but the
assault continued and the duty weapon was discharged with at least one round
striking the suspect who was later pronounced dead at the scene," Sherriff&nbsp;Cox said in the release.The deputy was taken by ambulance to Hedrick
Medical Center in Chillicothe for treatment of injuries sustained in the
attack. He was released from the hospital later on Friday evening.Cox has requested the Division of Drug and Crime Control to investigate
the shooting.Chillicothe Police, Missouri State Highway Patrol and Chillicothe
Department of Emergency Services assisted at the scene.&nbsp;Livingston County Coroner J. Scott Lindley was summoned to the
scene.&nbsp;

Identity of man shot and killed by Livingston County deputy released

A state senator pushing to protect businesses reopening during
the coronavirus pandemic from lawsuits is optimistic the bill will pass.

Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer of Parkville sponsors <a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/21info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=54105525">Senate Bill 51</a>
which would protect businesses, schools, and churches which act in good faith
from lawsuits filed by those who contract COVID-19. Luetkemeyer had to work
with opponents who used a 15-hour filibuster to delay a first-round vote on the
bill.

“We ended up reaching a compromise that I still think is still
very protective of both our frontline health care workers as well as our small
businesses, our schools, and our churches,” Luetkemeyer tells St. Joseph Post. “This
is a piece of legislation that is very much needed in order to make sure that
we could reopen the economy without fear of endless lawsuits shutting small
businesses and schools down.”

The Senate went into a one-week recess due to the severe
winter weather of last week and returns to work in Jefferson City this week.

Luetkemeyer says businesses need the protection in order to
reopen their doors, which in turn reopens the economy.

“What we don’t need is we don’t need a second wave pandemic where
you’ve got a situation where everybody reopens and then all of the sudden, they’re
getting sued and these small businesses which are desperately clinging to stay
alive get put out of business,” Luetkemeyer says. “And that’s what this is
about, encouraging businesses to reopen, encouraging businesses to stay open.”

Luetkemeyer overcame that 15-hour filibuster to win
preliminary approval for this measure. He faces another hurdle, though.

“The one issue that we’re kind of trying to figure out right
now is, we have 24 Republicans in the Missouri Senate, we have an emergency
clause that’s attached to this bill. In order to pass an emergency clause, you actually
need a super majority, a two-thirds vote, which means we need 23 senators to
vote in favor of the emergency clause,” Luetkemeyer says.

Luetkemeyer says the final Senate vote could be delayed until
he is sure he has the votes needed. An emergency clause makes the bill
effective upon the signature of the governor.

If the bill passes the Senate, it moves on to the House. Both
House leadership and Gov. Mike Parson have declared the measure a top priority
of this legislative session.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA state senator pushing to protect businesses reopening during
the coronavirus pandemic from lawsuits is optimistic the bill will pass.Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer of Parkville sponsors <a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/21info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=54105525">Senate Bill 51</a>
which would protect businesses, schools, and churches which act in good faith
from lawsuits filed by those who contract COVID-19. Luetkemeyer had to work
with opponents who used a 15-hour filibuster to delay a first-round vote on the
bill.“We ended up reaching a compromise that I still think is still
very protective of both our frontline health care workers as well as our small
businesses, our schools, and our churches,” Luetkemeyer tells St. Joseph Post. “This
is a piece of legislation that is very much needed in order to make sure that
we could reopen the economy without fear of endless lawsuits shutting small
businesses and schools down.”The Senate went into a one-week recess due to the severe
winter weather of last week and returns to work in Jefferson City this week.Luetkemeyer says businesses need the protection in order to
reopen their doors, which in turn reopens the economy.“What we don’t need is we don’t need a second wave pandemic where
you’ve got a situation where everybody reopens and then all of the sudden, they’re
getting sued and these small businesses which are desperately clinging to stay
alive get put out of business,” Luetkemeyer says. “And that’s what this is
about, encouraging businesses to reopen, encouraging businesses to stay open.”Luetkemeyer overcame that 15-hour filibuster to win
preliminary approval for this measure. He faces another hurdle, though.“The one issue that we’re kind of trying to figure out right
now is, we have 24 Republicans in the Missouri Senate, we have an emergency
clause that’s attached to this bill. In order to pass an emergency clause, you actually
need a super majority, a two-thirds vote, which means we need 23 senators to
vote in favor of the emergency clause,” Luetkemeyer says.Luetkemeyer says the final Senate vote could be delayed until
he is sure he has the votes needed. An emergency clause makes the bill
effective upon the signature of the governor.If the bill passes the Senate, it moves on to the House. Both
House leadership and Gov. Mike Parson have declared the measure a top priority
of this legislative session.

COVID-19 liability protection pending in the Missouri legislature

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities investigating the death of a man following a traffic stop in Jackson County have identified him as 37-year-old Trevar Lamont Johnson of Topeka, according to&nbsp;Sheriff Tim Morse.

Just before 10a.m. Saturday deputies stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation near the Brown County line on U.S. Highway 75. Johnson was a passenger in the vehicle and told a deputy on scene that he had ingested methamphetamine and needed to go to the hospital. 

EMS rushed Johnson to the Holton Community Hospital where he died.

During the traffic stop deputies seized a quantity of methamphetamine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, counterfeit bills, credit cards, and a handgun. They also arrested the driver, Kendra Shaelene Murdock, 37, of Topeka, on requested charges of distribution of methamphetamine, trafficking contraband into a correctional facility, possession of marijuana, possession with intent to distribute drug paraphernalia for illegal use, criminal use of weapons, counterfeiting currency, driving while suspended, and no insurance. Murdock is currently being held in the Jackson County Jail.

As per protocol, Sheriff Morse requested an outside agency to investigate Johnson's death. The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office is in charge of the death investigation.

&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY, Kan.—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of a man following a traffic stop in Jackson County.

Just before 10a.m. Saturday , a Jackson County Sheriff’s deputy stopped a vehicle for a traffic infraction&nbsp;near the Brown County line on U.S. 75 Highway, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

The driver and a passenger from Topeka were detained. The passenger stated he had ingested methamphetamine and requested to go to the hospital. The man was immediately taken to the Holton Community Hospital where he subsequently died, according to Morse.

The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office is in charge of the death investigation, according to Morse.

During the traffic stop, deputies seized a quantity of a substance believed to be methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, counterfeit bills, credit cards, and a handgun.&nbsp; The driver is currently being held in the Jackson County Jail on drug and traffic charges.&nbsp; Authorities have not released the name of the man who died.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613993195063.png" alt="Johnson had previous convictions for aggravated battery, criminal damage to property, battery, criminal restraint, criminal trespass, marijuana distribution and other drug violations, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections. He had been released from prison in September of 2020." />
 <figcaption>Johnson had previous convictions for aggravated battery, criminal damage to property, battery, criminal restraint, criminal trespass, marijuana distribution and other drug violations, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections. He had been released from prison in September of 2020.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities investigating the death of a man following a traffic stop in Jackson County have identified him as 37-year-old Trevar Lamont Johnson of Topeka, according to&nbsp;Sheriff Tim Morse.Just before 10a.m. Saturday deputies stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation near the Brown County line on U.S. Highway 75. Johnson was a passenger in the vehicle and told a deputy on scene that he had ingested methamphetamine and needed to go to the hospital. EMS rushed Johnson to the Holton Community Hospital where he died.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613992746439.png" alt="Murdock" />
 <figcaption>Murdock</figcaption>
 </figure>During the traffic stop deputies seized a quantity of methamphetamine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, counterfeit bills, credit cards, and a handgun. They also arrested the driver, Kendra Shaelene Murdock, 37, of Topeka, on requested charges of distribution of methamphetamine, trafficking contraband into a correctional facility, possession of marijuana, possession with intent to distribute drug paraphernalia for illegal use, criminal use of weapons, counterfeiting currency, driving while suspended, and no insurance. Murdock is currently being held in the Jackson County Jail.As per protocol, Sheriff Morse requested an outside agency to investigate Johnson's death. The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office is in charge of the death investigation.--------------&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY, Kan.—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of a man following a traffic stop in Jackson County.Just before 10a.m. Saturday , a Jackson County Sheriff’s deputy stopped a vehicle for a traffic infraction&nbsp;near the Brown County line on U.S. 75 Highway, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.The driver and a passenger from Topeka were detained. The passenger stated he had ingested methamphetamine and requested to go to the hospital. The man was immediately taken to the Holton Community Hospital where he subsequently died, according to Morse.The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office is in charge of the death investigation, according to Morse.During the traffic stop, deputies seized a quantity of a substance believed to be methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, counterfeit bills, credit cards, and a handgun.&nbsp; The driver is currently being held in the Jackson County Jail on drug and traffic charges.&nbsp; Authorities have not released the name of the man who died.

Driver arrested; sheriff IDs Kan. man who died after traffic stop 

A man has been arrested and charged with drunk driving after
crashing into a power pole and turning off the lights to north St. Joseph for
hours overnight.

St. Joseph police say the driver hit a utility pole near Green
Street and St. Joseph Avenue around 10:30 Sunday night, knocking out an entire power grid, shutting off
power to nearly all of north St. Joseph.

A man has been arrested and charged with drunk driving after
crashing into a power pole and turning off the lights to north St. Joseph for
hours overnight.St. Joseph police say the driver hit a utility pole near Green
Street and St. Joseph Avenue around 10:30 Sunday night, knocking out an entire power grid, shutting off
power to nearly all of north St. Joseph.

Drunk driver hits utility pole, turns out the lights in north St. Joseph

An 8-year-old St. Joseph girl was shot and seriously wounded this
weekend.

St. Joseph police responded to a shooting at the Oak Ridge
Apartments in the 1200 block of Angelique Street Sunday morning and found the girl
suffering from a gunshot wound.

Police report the girl suffered critical injuries and was taken
to Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City.

No information on a suspect has been released by police.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostAn 8-year-old St. Joseph girl was shot and seriously wounded this
weekend.St. Joseph police responded to a shooting at the Oak Ridge
Apartments in the 1200 block of Angelique Street Sunday morning and found the girl
suffering from a gunshot wound.Police report the girl suffered critical injuries and was taken
to Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City.No information on a suspect has been released by police.

8-year-old girl shot and seriously wounded at St. Joseph apartment complex

Northwest Missouri health officials have scheduled a mass vaccination event in Mercer County. 

The two-day event is set for Wednesday and Thursday in Princeton. 

Administrator Andrew Hoffman with the Andrew County Health Department says it will be held at the Smithfield facility in Princeton. 

"It's February 24th and 25th and there should be around a thousand doses per day," Hoffman tells St. Joseph Post. 

Hoffman recommends signing up for Vaccine Navigator to stay up to date with information about mass vaccination clinics. 

"They'll be signed up for our region and anytime one of these mass vaccination events happen in this region they'll receive notification, say for instance there's a mass vaccination event up in Mercer County in Princeton, so they'll get that notification and then and then that will let them know that they can either call that number again or get on that website and actually register and pick out an appointment time for that event," says Hoffman.  

Hoffman says the site might be slow for updates, but he still encourages residents to use it for the best information.

"There's fifteen counties in our region and everybody within the region are eligible to go ahead and sign up for that event as long as they meet the tiers," says Hoffman. "The current tiers are 65 and older or anybody with underlying conditions."

By WHITNEE ICESt. Joseph PostNorthwest Missouri health officials have scheduled a mass vaccination event in Mercer County. The two-day event is set for Wednesday and Thursday in Princeton. Administrator Andrew Hoffman with the Andrew County Health Department says it will be held at the Smithfield facility in Princeton. "It's February 24th and 25th and there should be around a thousand doses per day," Hoffman tells St. Joseph Post. Hoffman recommends signing up for Vaccine Navigator to stay up to date with information about mass vaccination clinics. "They'll be signed up for our region and anytime one of these mass vaccination events happen in this region they'll receive notification, say for instance there's a mass vaccination event up in Mercer County in Princeton, so they'll get that notification and then and then that will let them know that they can either call that number again or get on that website and actually register and pick out an appointment time for that event," says Hoffman. Hoffman says the site might be slow for updates, but he still encourages residents to use it for the best information."There's fifteen counties in our region and everybody within the region are eligible to go ahead and sign up for that event as long as they meet the tiers," says Hoffman. "The current tiers are 65 and older or anybody with underlying conditions."

COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic in Mercer County

Two people have now been arrested in connection with the
murder of Ariel Starcher, whose body was found in a bag alongside Vincent Road
in southern Buchanan County about one year ago.

Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett reports in a news release
that 22-year-old Taylor Stoughton of Willard was arrested in Independence Saturday. The Buchanan County
Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department,
the Lee’s Summit Police Department, and the Independence Police Department.

Puett says citizen tips led to the arrest of 29-year-old Marcus Brooks on
Sunday afternoon by the Independence Police Department. Puett had requested the
public’s help in locating Brooks, known to have lived and frequented the Platte
City area, after the arrest of Stoughton.

The body of Ariel Anne-Rae Starcher of Independence was
discovered when a road crew with the Missouri Department of Transportation
spotted a bag in the ditch of Vincent Road south of Faucett on February 18th
of last year. The road crew became suspicious and called in Buchanan County
Sheriff’s Deputies to investigate. The deputies discovered Starcher’s body in
the bag. Starcher was 21.

Identifications in this article have been updated.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613958601519.jpeg" alt="Taylor&nbsp; Stoughton/Photo courtesy of Buchanan County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Taylor&nbsp; Stoughton/Photo courtesy of Buchanan County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostTwo people have now been arrested in connection with the
murder of Ariel Starcher, whose body was found in a bag alongside Vincent Road
in southern Buchanan County about one year ago.Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett reports in a news release
that 22-year-old Taylor Stoughton of Willard was arrested in Independence Saturday. The Buchanan County
Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department,
the Lee’s Summit Police Department, and the Independence Police Department.Puett says citizen tips led to the arrest of 29-year-old Marcus Brooks on
Sunday afternoon by the Independence Police Department. Puett had requested the
public’s help in locating Brooks, known to have lived and frequented the Platte
City area, after the arrest of Stoughton.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613958668136.jpeg" alt="Marcus Brooks/Photo courtesy of the Buchanan County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Marcus Brooks/Photo courtesy of the Buchanan County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>The body of Ariel Anne-Rae Starcher of Independence was
discovered when a road crew with the Missouri Department of Transportation
spotted a bag in the ditch of Vincent Road south of Faucett on February 18th
of last year. The road crew became suspicious and called in Buchanan County
Sheriff’s Deputies to investigate. The deputies discovered Starcher’s body in
the bag. Starcher was 21.Identifications in this article have been updated.

2nd arrest made in year-old murder case in Buchanan County

Evergy has fielded a number of questions from customers across the region who are wondering how their electric bills will be affected by the extreme cold last week.

Evergy's communications manager Kaley Bohlen confirms that the Kansas City-based power company will not be raising electric rates in the wake of record-cold temperatures.

"But, bills may be higher based on the amount of electricity used during the extremely cold weather," Bohlen said. "So, the cost you see on your bill varies on how much electricity you use."

Evergy conducted controlled blackouts across their service area last week to conserve energy on the strained power grid. Over 60,000 customers experienced these outages last week, as lows plunged into the 20s below zero.

Bohlen says Evergy has several resources and programs available for people who might have difficulty paying a higher-than-usual electric bill.

Evergy has their online <a href="https://www.evergy.com/manage-account/billing/payment-options/average-payment-plan">Average Payment Plan</a>&nbsp;available.

There's also LIHEAP in Missouri and the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) in Kansas to help those struggling to pay utility bills.

The application period for those programs closes March 4.

"We also work with hundreds of social service agencies across our communities to provide budget and bill assistance. So, if you need assistance, you can call 211 to identify local agencies that may be able to help you."

Bohlen says Evergy thanks customers for their patience and for conserving electricity during a difficult stretch of weather.

"That really helped prevent larger, longer outages that we could have faced," she said.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostEvergy has fielded a number of questions from customers across the region who are wondering how their electric bills will be affected by the extreme cold last week.Evergy's communications manager Kaley Bohlen confirms that the Kansas City-based power company will not be raising electric rates in the wake of record-cold temperatures."But, bills may be higher based on the amount of electricity used during the extremely cold weather," Bohlen said. "So, the cost you see on your bill varies on how much electricity you use."Evergy conducted controlled blackouts across their service area last week to conserve energy on the strained power grid. Over 60,000 customers experienced these outages last week, as lows plunged into the 20s below zero.Bohlen says Evergy has several resources and programs available for people who might have difficulty paying a higher-than-usual electric bill.Evergy has their online <a href="https://www.evergy.com/manage-account/billing/payment-options/average-payment-plan">Average Payment Plan</a>&nbsp;available.There's also LIHEAP in Missouri and the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) in Kansas to help those struggling to pay utility bills.The application period for those programs closes March 4."We also work with hundreds of social service agencies across our communities to provide budget and bill assistance. So, if you need assistance, you can call 211 to identify local agencies that may be able to help you."Bohlen says Evergy thanks customers for their patience and for conserving electricity during a difficult stretch of weather."That really helped prevent larger, longer outages that we could have faced," she said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">💡THREAD: Many of you all are asking us about electricity rates increasing next month. There’s a lot of confusion in our comments on social accounts about this, so let us dispel the myths and give you the facts. 1/ <a href="https://t.co/KDlnOw344u">pic.twitter.com/KDlnOw344u</a>&mdash; Evergy (@evergypower) <a href="https://twitter.com/evergypower/status/1362797394115448834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>You can follow St. Joseph Post on Twitter @StJosephPost.

Evergy says bills 'could be higher' after extreme cold, rates not increasing

An arrest has been made in connection with the murder of Ariel
Starcher, whose body was found in a bag alongside Vincent Road in southern Buchanan
County about one year ago.

Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett reports in a news release
that Taylor Stoughton was arrested in Independence. The Buchanan County Sheriff’s
Office was assisted by the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department, the Lee’s
Summit Police Department, and the Independence Police Department.

Puett says his office is also seeking Marcus Brooks in
connection with the case. Brooks is said to live and frequent the Platte City
area.

Anyone who knows the whereabouts of Marcus Brooks should
contact the Criminal Investigations Division at 816-236-8845 or the TIPS
Hotline at 816-238- 8477. 

Puett says the case will be submitted to the Buchanan County
Prosecuting Attorney for review of charges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613866981621.jpeg" alt="Marcus Brooks/Photo courtesy of Buchanan CO Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Marcus Brooks/Photo courtesy of Buchanan CO Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostAn arrest has been made in connection with the murder of Ariel
Starcher, whose body was found in a bag alongside Vincent Road in southern Buchanan
County about one year ago.Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett reports in a news release
that Taylor Stoughton was arrested in Independence. The Buchanan County Sheriff’s
Office was assisted by the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department, the Lee’s
Summit Police Department, and the Independence Police Department.Puett says his office is also seeking Marcus Brooks in
connection with the case. Brooks is said to live and frequent the Platte City
area.The body of Ariel Anne-Rae Starcher of Independence was
discovered when a road crew with the Missouri Department of Transportation
spotted a bag in the ditch of Vincent Road south of Faucett on February 18th
of last year. The road crew became suspicious and called in Buchanan County
Sheriff’s Deputies to investigate. The deputies discovered Starcher’s body in
the bag. Starcher was 21.Anyone who knows the whereabouts of Marcus Brooks should
contact the Criminal Investigations Division at 816-236-8845 or the TIPS
Hotline at 816-238- 8477. Puett says the case will be submitted to the Buchanan County
Prosecuting Attorney for review of charges.

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