Every family in the AFL-CIO Community Services’ Adopt-A-Family
program were adopted this Christmas, with donors coming through just before Christmas
to adopt the last few families as time ran out.

More than 700 families, representing more than two thousand people,
requested help this holiday season from the organization.

Donors came through after the AFL-CIO Community Services
issued a plea for help earlier in the week. The organization reported only
about 50 families remained to be adopted on Wednesday with enough donations coming
in to adopt the remaining families.

Executive Director Nichi Seckinger says she is grateful, and
relieved, that so many donors came through to help those less fortunate this
year.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostEvery family in the AFL-CIO Community Services’ Adopt-A-Family
program were adopted this Christmas, with donors coming through just before Christmas
to adopt the last few families as time ran out.More than 700 families, representing more than two thousand people,
requested help this holiday season from the organization.Donors came through after the AFL-CIO Community Services
issued a plea for help earlier in the week. The organization reported only
about 50 families remained to be adopted on Wednesday with enough donations coming
in to adopt the remaining families.Executive Director Nichi Seckinger says she is grateful, and
relieved, that so many donors came through to help those less fortunate this
year.

Donors come through, all families chosen in Adopt-A-Family program

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges.

Just after 1p.m. Thursday, police stopped a vehicle in the 600 Block of Fletcher Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Officer arrested 47-year-old&nbsp; Robert J. Ford, 47, Atchison, on a Municipal Court warrant for failure to appear in court. 

He is also being held on a requested charges of&nbsp; possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia which was located during his arrest on the warrant.&nbsp;

According to online jail records, Ford was also jailed on drug accusations in 2015.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640363742774.png" alt="Ford-photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Ford-photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges.Just after 1p.m. Thursday, police stopped a vehicle in the 600 Block of Fletcher Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.Officer arrested 47-year-old&nbsp; Robert J. Ford, 47, Atchison, on a Municipal Court warrant for failure to appear in court. He is also being held on a requested charges of&nbsp; possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia which was located during his arrest on the warrant.&nbsp;According to online jail records, Ford was also jailed on drug accusations in 2015.

Police found meth during Kansas man's warrant arrest

ANDREW COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 2p.m. Saturday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Dodge Charger driven by Tammy R. Hickman, 48, St. Joseph, was southbound on CR 125 four miles north of Rea.

The car traveled off the road and struck a tree. Andrew County EMS transported Hickman to Mosaic Life Care. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 2p.m. Saturday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Dodge Charger driven by Tammy R. Hickman, 48, St. Joseph, was southbound on CR 125 four miles north of Rea.The car traveled off the road and struck a tree. Andrew County EMS transported Hickman to Mosaic Life Care. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

St. Joseph woman hospitalized after Christmas Day crash

BUCHANAN COUNTY —A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just after 9:30a.m. Friday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway patrol reported a 2008 Honda passenger vehicle driven by Jessica L. Yehlie'Rix, 41, Dearborn, Mo., was northbound on Interstate 229 one mile south of St. Joseph.

The driver lost control of the vehicle. It traveled off the road, struck a guard rail and overtuned.&nbsp;

A private vehicle transported Yehlie'Rix to Mosaic Life Care. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY —A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just after 9:30a.m. Friday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway patrol reported a 2008 Honda passenger vehicle driven by Jessica L. Yehlie'Rix, 41, Dearborn, Mo., was northbound on Interstate 229 one mile south of St. Joseph.The driver lost control of the vehicle. It traveled off the road, struck a guard rail and overtuned.&nbsp;A private vehicle transported Yehlie'Rix to Mosaic Life Care. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman hospitalized in St. Joe after car overturns

BROWN COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 1:30a.m. Friday in Brown County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Chevy Suburban driven by Socorro Mercado, 48, West Concord, MN., was southbound on U.S. 75 at the Sac and Fox Truck Stop.

The SUV rear-ended a 2011 Freightliner semi driven by Roy L.&nbsp;Ebarb, 59, Park, City, who&nbsp;was pulling out of a private drive to go southbound on US. 75.

Mercado was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Chapel Oaks in Hiawatha.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ebarb was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

BROWN COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 1:30a.m. Friday in Brown County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Chevy Suburban driven by Socorro Mercado, 48, West Concord, MN., was southbound on U.S. 75 at the Sac and Fox Truck Stop.The SUV rear-ended a 2011 Freightliner semi driven by Roy L.&nbsp;Ebarb, 59, Park, City, who&nbsp;was pulling out of a private drive to go southbound on US. 75.Mercado was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Chapel Oaks in Hiawatha.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ebarb was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Woman dies after SUV rear-ends semi in Brown County

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man for alleged domestic battery.

On Thursday, police arrested 41-year-old Christian E. Longbrake, 41, Atchison, in the 1400 Block of Utility Street, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

He is jailed on requested charges of domestic battery and interference with law enforcement.

According to online jail records, he had a similar arrests in 2006 and in 2018 and also for failure to appear in 2019.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640363111996.png" alt="Longbrake photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Longbrake photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man for alleged domestic battery.On Thursday, police arrested 41-year-old Christian E. Longbrake, 41, Atchison, in the 1400 Block of Utility Street, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.He is jailed on requested charges of domestic battery and interference with law enforcement.According to online jail records, he had a similar arrests in 2006 and in 2018 and also for failure to appear in 2019.

Kan. man jailed again for alleged domestic battery

GRUNDY COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 8a.m. Thursday in Grundy County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1995 Ford pickup driven by Eliezer Santiago, 33, Milan, was westbound on MO 6 in Galt.

The driver lost control on the icy road. The pickup traveled off the road, struck an embankment and a tree.

EMS transported Santiago and a 47-year-old passenger from Puerto Rico to Wright Memorial Hospital. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

GRUNDY COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 8a.m. Thursday in Grundy County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1995 Ford pickup driven by Eliezer Santiago, 33, Milan, was westbound on MO 6 in Galt.The driver lost control on the icy road. The pickup traveled off the road, struck an embankment and a tree.EMS transported Santiago and a 47-year-old passenger from Puerto Rico to Wright Memorial Hospital. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

2 injured after pickup slides on the icy road, strikes a tree

CALDWELL COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Thursday in Caldwell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Brooke S. Henderson, 33, Hamilton, was southbound on Route CC just north of Willis Street in Hamilton.

The vehicle traveled off the road and overturned. Caldwell County Ambulance transported Henderson to Cameron Regional Medical Center. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

CALDWELL COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Thursday in Caldwell County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Brooke S. Henderson, 33, Hamilton, was southbound on Route CC just north of Willis Street in Hamilton.The vehicle traveled off the road and overturned. Caldwell County Ambulance transported Henderson to Cameron Regional Medical Center. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman hospitalized after jeep overturns

CLINTON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30a.m. Thursday in Clinton County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Volkswagen driven by Samuel D. Deleon, 20, Excelsior Springs, was&nbsp; westbound on Route PP three miles east of Holt.

The Volkswagen slid across the center line on a curve and struck an eastbound&nbsp; 2004 Ford Van driven by Robert E. Wilson, 58, Lawson.

Holt EMS transported Deleon to Liberty Hospital. Wilson was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the mSHP.

CLINTON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30a.m. Thursday in Clinton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Volkswagen driven by Samuel D. Deleon, 20, Excelsior Springs, was&nbsp; westbound on Route PP three miles east of Holt.The Volkswagen slid across the center line on a curve and struck an eastbound&nbsp; 2004 Ford Van driven by Robert E. Wilson, 58, Lawson.Holt EMS transported Deleon to Liberty Hospital. Wilson was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the mSHP.

Missouri man injured after 2-vehicle crash

The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce presented this years Shop St. Joseph winner with the $10,000 grand prize check this afternoon.

Brigette Selecman of St. Joseph says she was absolutely shocked when she found the winning ticket.

"I was in disbelief," Selecman tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post "I was by myself because my boyfriend was asleep and I'm looking at the tickets and I'm going uh no, no, and I jumped up and I'm running around the house talking to myself like a crazy person."

Selecman got her lucky ticket while shopping for gift certificates at East Hills Mall for her grandchildren, and says they're the big thing her winnings are going to go towards this Christmas

"I am going to help my granddaughters redo their bedrooms, that's all they wanted for Christmas to redecorate their bedrooms, so that's what we're going to do," Selecman says. "And then maybe take a vacation in the summer time." 

Selecman's daughter, Ashley Selecman-Sill, says that her mom is one of the most selfless people she knows, and that she deserves more than she's going to spend on herself.

"My mom is the most selfless person that I know, so I hope that she really does spend some of this on herself," Selecman-Sill says. "Because my mom would just do anything for the kids, and she deserves more than she's probably going to spend on herself."

The check was presented at the East Hills Shopping Center Customer Service Desk by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce and East Hills general manager Lindsey Davis.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640299320235.jpeg" alt="Shop St. Joe winner Brigitte Selecman (right) and East Hills general manager Lindsey Davis (left) with the $10,000 dollar check/ Photo Courtesy of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce" />
 <figcaption>Shop St. Joe winner Brigitte Selecman (right) and East Hills general manager Lindsey Davis (left) with the $10,000 dollar check/ Photo Courtesy of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce presented this years Shop St. Joseph winner with the $10,000 grand prize check this afternoon.Brigette Selecman of St. Joseph says she was absolutely shocked when she found the winning ticket."I was in disbelief," Selecman tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post "I was by myself because my boyfriend was asleep and I'm looking at the tickets and I'm going uh no, no, and I jumped up and I'm running around the house talking to myself like a crazy person."Selecman got her lucky ticket while shopping for gift certificates at East Hills Mall for her grandchildren, and says they're the big thing her winnings are going to go towards this Christmas"I am going to help my granddaughters redo their bedrooms, that's all they wanted for Christmas to redecorate their bedrooms, so that's what we're going to do," Selecman says. "And then maybe take a vacation in the summer time." Selecman's daughter, Ashley Selecman-Sill, says that her mom is one of the most selfless people she knows, and that she deserves more than she's going to spend on herself."My mom is the most selfless person that I know, so I hope that she really does spend some of this on herself," Selecman-Sill says. "Because my mom would just do anything for the kids, and she deserves more than she's probably going to spend on herself."The check was presented at the East Hills Shopping Center Customer Service Desk by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce and East Hills general manager Lindsey Davis.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640299302867.jpeg" alt="Brigitte Selecman (middle) and her grandchildren/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce" />
 <figcaption>Brigitte Selecman (middle) and her grandchildren/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce</figcaption>
 </figure>

Lucky Shop St. Joe winner presented with Grand Prize

BROWN COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 8a.m. Thursday in Brown County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Ford Explorer driven by Cory Aron Herbers, 28, Horton, was westbound Kansas Highway 20 at King Fisher Road.

The driver lost control on the icy road. The SUV traveled into the ditch and overturned.

EMS transported passengers identified as Carrie Beth&nbsp;Steimel, 46, Horton, to the hospital in Hiawatha and a 6-year-old boy to Children's Mercy.&nbsp;Herbers was not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

BROWN COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 8a.m. Thursday in Brown County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Ford Explorer driven by Cory Aron Herbers, 28, Horton, was westbound Kansas Highway 20 at King Fisher Road.The driver lost control on the icy road. The SUV traveled into the ditch and overturned.EMS transported passengers identified as Carrie Beth&nbsp;Steimel, 46, Horton, to the hospital in Hiawatha and a 6-year-old boy to Children's Mercy.&nbsp;Herbers was not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kan. woman, 6-year-old injured after SUV overturns

GENTRY COUNTY —A Missouri man was injured in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Thursday in Gentry County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 GMC pickup driven by Richard D. Draper, 39, Albany, was eastbound on U.S. 136 two miles east of Albany.

The driver lost control of the vehicle on the frost covered road. The pickup crossed the center line, traveled off the road, struck an embankment and overturned.

Grand River ambulance transported Draper to Mosaic in Albany. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

GENTRY COUNTY —A Missouri man was injured in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Thursday in Gentry County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 GMC pickup driven by Richard D. Draper, 39, Albany, was eastbound on U.S. 136 two miles east of Albany.The driver lost control of the vehicle on the frost covered road. The pickup crossed the center line, traveled off the road, struck an embankment and overturned.Grand River ambulance transported Draper to Mosaic in Albany. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man injured after pickup overturns on frost covered road

Temperatures dropped earlier this week, before beginning to rise to unseasonably warm temperatures.

When they do, the United Way of Greater St. Joseph is ready to help with warming stations across the city to help those less fortunate.

United Way President Kylee Strough says these warming stations are provided by businesses that already typically have their doors open, inviting people to get out of the cold for a bit to warm up.

"So we don't necessarily hear when their seeing an influx in people," Strough tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "What I can say is, our phones are not ringing off the hook with asking where they can go get warm, so to me that's a good sign."

Strough says even last year when COVID hit in March, during the a cold part of the year, they were still fortunate to find people to open their doors, while some businesses simply couldn't. 

"They have limited staffing and don't keep their doors unlocked, or they've put in some measures to protect their staff, clients and customers," Strough explains. "So, while there weren't businesses that were designated warming centers, I think there were other places that people could go spend a little bit of time."

Strough says especially in a time like this in the midst of a pandemic, United Way is grateful to see businesses open their doors to help people stay warm even if they aren't there to conduct business. 

Strough says that right now there are eight warming stations around St. Joseph and one in Savannah. 

But, Strough says there are plans to expand in the facilities to keep people warm, saying that United Way and other community services are working on a plan to open emergency overnight shelters, one for men and one for women, January 4th through the end of February.

"We don't want to see anybody lose life or limb because of the extreme cold temperatures when they occur," Strough says. "And we want to offer shelter that has low barrier to entry, so that you can show up the night of, and be welcomed."

Strough says now the biggest need is finding volunteers willing to stay overnight in those shelters and assist those in need.

You can find out more information about the overnight shelter plan and also volunteer to help <a href="https://www.stjosephunitedway.org/wintershelter">HERE</a>.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph&nbsp;PostTemperatures dropped earlier this week, before beginning to rise to unseasonably warm temperatures.They will drop again.When they do, the United Way of Greater St. Joseph is ready to help with warming stations across the city to help those less fortunate.United Way President Kylee Strough says these warming stations are provided by businesses that already typically have their doors open, inviting people to get out of the cold for a bit to warm up."So we don't necessarily hear when their seeing an influx in people," Strough tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "What I can say is, our phones are not ringing off the hook with asking where they can go get warm, so to me that's a good sign."Strough says even last year when COVID hit in March, during the a cold part of the year, they were still fortunate to find people to open their doors, while some businesses simply couldn't. "They have limited staffing and don't keep their doors unlocked, or they've put in some measures to protect their staff, clients and customers," Strough explains. "So, while there weren't businesses that were designated warming centers, I think there were other places that people could go spend a little bit of time."Strough says especially in a time like this in the midst of a pandemic, United Way is grateful to see businesses open their doors to help people stay warm even if they aren't there to conduct business. Strough says that right now there are eight warming stations around St. Joseph and one in Savannah. But, Strough says there are plans to expand in the facilities to keep people warm, saying that United Way and other community services are working on a plan to open emergency overnight shelters, one for men and one for women, January 4th through the end of February."We don't want to see anybody lose life or limb because of the extreme cold temperatures when they occur," Strough says. "And we want to offer shelter that has low barrier to entry, so that you can show up the night of, and be welcomed."Strough says now the biggest need is finding volunteers willing to stay overnight in those shelters and assist those in need.You can find out more information about the overnight shelter plan and also volunteer to help <a href="https://www.stjosephunitedway.org/wintershelter">HERE</a>.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FUnitedWayofGreaterStJoseph%2Fposts%2F10158117449455810&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="731" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Warming stations open in St. Joseph so people can get out of the cold

What the AFL-CIO
Community Services calls a whirlwind of activity has reduced the number of families
waiting to be adopted this Christmas down to nearly 20.

Officials says
only 22 families remain in the Adopt-A-Family Christmas Program two days before
Christmas. Those families remaining have two to four children in the household
who come in a variety of sizes.

Those who adopt a
family are asked to provide at least one new toy for each child. Additional
presents are at the adopter’s discretion. The estimated cost to adopt one child
is $50 to $75. All adult applicants have been adopted or provided for by
the agency.

The
AFL-CIO Community Services office located at 1203 North 6th Street will
be open 9 am to 6 pm daily until Christmas Eve. If someone would like to adopt,
they can stop by the office, call 816-364-1131, fax 816-364-2304 or email <a href="mailto:adopt@helpmenow.org">adopt@helpmenow.org</a>.

For
more information about the program, visit our website at <a href="http://www.helpmenow.org">www.helpmenow.org</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640266427611.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of the AFL-CIO Community Services" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of the AFL-CIO Community Services</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostWhat the AFL-CIO
Community Services calls a whirlwind of activity has reduced the number of families
waiting to be adopted this Christmas down to nearly 20.Officials says
only 22 families remain in the Adopt-A-Family Christmas Program two days before
Christmas. Those families remaining have two to four children in the household
who come in a variety of sizes.Those who adopt a
family are asked to provide at least one new toy for each child. Additional
presents are at the adopter’s discretion. The estimated cost to adopt one child
is $50 to $75. All adult applicants have been adopted or provided for by
the agency.Monetary donations
are also accepted.The
AFL-CIO Community Services office located at 1203 North 6th Street will
be open 9 am to 6 pm daily until Christmas Eve. If someone would like to adopt,
they can stop by the office, call 816-364-1131, fax 816-364-2304 or email <a href="mailto:adopt@helpmenow.org">adopt@helpmenow.org</a>.For
more information about the program, visit our website at <a href="http://www.helpmenow.org">www.helpmenow.org</a>.&nbsp;

Donors respond; still, nearly 20 families await being adopted this Christmas

Mosaic Life Care Chief
Medical Officer, Dr. Davin Turner, has resigned from Mosaic to become Chief
Executive Officer of Maury Regional Health in Columbia, Tennessee.

Turner, who has been with
Mosaic for 25 years, is moving in large part so he and his wife, Michelle, can
be closer to their oldest daughter who lives in Nashville and Michelle’s
parents, who live in Knoxville.

Turner has filled several
roles at Mosaic. In addition to being Chief Medical Officer of the system, Turner
also serves as president of the St. Joseph Medical Center. He has been the face
of Mosaic during the coronavirus pandemic, serving as the spokesman for the
system, providing updates to the news media on the impact of COVID-19 locally.

Mosaic reports Turner
expects to leave Mosaic in March of next year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640259334355.jpeg" alt="Dr. Davin Turner addresses the news media during a COVID-19 briefing/file photo" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Davin Turner addresses the news media during a COVID-19 briefing/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMosaic Life Care Chief
Medical Officer, Dr. Davin Turner, has resigned from Mosaic to become Chief
Executive Officer of Maury Regional Health in Columbia, Tennessee.Turner, who has been with
Mosaic for 25 years, is moving in large part so he and his wife, Michelle, can
be closer to their oldest daughter who lives in Nashville and Michelle’s
parents, who live in Knoxville.Turner has filled several
roles at Mosaic. In addition to being Chief Medical Officer of the system, Turner
also serves as president of the St. Joseph Medical Center. He has been the face
of Mosaic during the coronavirus pandemic, serving as the spokesman for the
system, providing updates to the news media on the impact of COVID-19 locally.Mosaic reports Turner
expects to leave Mosaic in March of next year.

Chief Medical Officer leaving Mosaic to run Tennessee medical center

Northwest
Missouri continues to be reported as a hot spot for COVID-19, according to
statistics released by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.

The
St. Joseph Health Department reports 139 new coronavirus cases since Monday
with one death, a woman in her 80s. Buchanan County has recorded 238 deaths
since the pandemic began.

The
department issued a report early. It will be closed both today and
tomorrow in observance of the Christmas holiday.

St.
Joseph health officials report 60 new COVID-19 cases on Tuesday and 79 on
Wednesday. The Buchanan County coronavirus positivity rate remains at 10.9%.
Slightly more than 39,000 Buchanan County residents have received at least one
shot of the coronavirus vaccine or 39% of the population.

Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating 66 COVID-19 patients in its system; 59 in St.
Joseph, five in Maryville, and two in Albany.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostNorthwest
Missouri continues to be reported as a hot spot for COVID-19, according to
statistics released by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.The
St. Joseph Health Department reports 139 new coronavirus cases since Monday
with one death, a woman in her 80s. Buchanan County has recorded 238 deaths
since the pandemic began.The
department issued a report early. It will be closed both today and
tomorrow in observance of the Christmas holiday.St.
Joseph health officials report 60 new COVID-19 cases on Tuesday and 79 on
Wednesday. The Buchanan County coronavirus positivity rate remains at 10.9%.
Slightly more than 39,000 Buchanan County residents have received at least one
shot of the coronavirus vaccine or 39% of the population.Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating 66 COVID-19 patients in its system; 59 in St.
Joseph, five in Maryville, and two in Albany.

St. Joseph reports 139 new COVID cases; NW MO remains a hot spot

The grand prize winning ticket has been verified by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce. 

The holder of ticket number 0-2-1-4-1-0-8 came forward to claim the $10,000 grand prize Wednesday evening. 

A check presentation will be held at 3:30 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 23, at the East Hills Shopping Center Customer Service Desk, Belt and Frederick.

The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce says to hold onto your tickets because you could win a second chance prize.&nbsp; You can find that list <a href="https://saintjoseph.com/winner-has-come-forward-second-chance-prizes/">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640223883725.jpeg" alt="Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe grand prize winning ticket has been verified by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce. The holder of ticket number 0-2-1-4-1-0-8 came forward to claim the $10,000 grand prize Wednesday evening. A check presentation will be held at 3:30 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 23, at the East Hills Shopping Center Customer Service Desk, Belt and Frederick.The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce says to hold onto your tickets because you could win a second chance prize.&nbsp; You can find that list <a href="https://saintjoseph.com/winner-has-come-forward-second-chance-prizes/">HERE</a>.

Winner claims $10,000 dollar grand prize in Shop St. Joseph

The winning number for the Shop St. Joseph Holiday Program is:

The shopper with the winning ticket has 24 hours to come forward to claim the $10,000 prize. Shoppers are urged to keep their tickets because if the winner hasn’t come forward by 5 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 23, another number will be announced. This process will continue at 5 p.m. on weekdays until a winner comes forward with the winning ticket.

The winner MUST call the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce at (816) 232-4461 during business hours or (816) 261-3610 after business hours to arrange a time to verify the ticket.&nbsp;He or she MUST come to the Chamber office at 3003 Frederick Ave. before 5 p.m. Thursday to claim the prize.&nbsp;The person with the winning ticket should come to the Chamber to have the ticket verified, not a member of the media. Media members cannot verify a winning ticket.

The winner must be 18 or older. Proof of age, Social Security number, home address and place of employment (if applicable) is required to claim the prize. Chamber of Commerce staff, Chamber officers and their immediate family members (dependents living at the same address) are not eligible to win the grand prize. Participating business owners, managers and employees are eligible to win, with the exception of tickets distributed through their own place of business (including other participating locations).

The winner will be responsible for any applicable taxes.

One winning number per each second-chance prize were also drawn today. Those numbers will be announced&nbsp;after&nbsp;the grand prize ticket has been verified.

Certified public accountants provided oversight of the program. About 2.3 million tickets were distributed this year through the 115 participating merchants. This is up from 59 merchants in 2007.

This is the 15th year for the local holiday shopping program. The program’s goal is to keep holiday spending in the local economy, so sales tax collected goes back into helping St. Joseph and Buchanan County projects. Shop St. Joseph is presented by News-Press NOW.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640213853079.jpeg" alt="Shop St. Joe winning ticket/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Shop St. Joe winning ticket/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>The winning number for the Shop St. Joseph Holiday Program is:<h2>0214108</h2>The shopper with the winning ticket has 24 hours to come forward to claim the $10,000 prize. Shoppers are urged to keep their tickets because if the winner hasn’t come forward by 5 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 23, another number will be announced. This process will continue at 5 p.m. on weekdays until a winner comes forward with the winning ticket.The winner MUST call the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce at (816) 232-4461 during business hours or (816) 261-3610 after business hours to arrange a time to verify the ticket.&nbsp;He or she MUST come to the Chamber office at 3003 Frederick Ave. before 5 p.m. Thursday to claim the prize.&nbsp;The person with the winning ticket should come to the Chamber to have the ticket verified, not a member of the media. Media members cannot verify a winning ticket.The winner must be 18 or older. Proof of age, Social Security number, home address and place of employment (if applicable) is required to claim the prize. Chamber of Commerce staff, Chamber officers and their immediate family members (dependents living at the same address) are not eligible to win the grand prize. Participating business owners, managers and employees are eligible to win, with the exception of tickets distributed through their own place of business (including other participating locations).The winner will be responsible for any applicable taxes.One winning number per each second-chance prize were also drawn today. Those numbers will be announced&nbsp;after&nbsp;the grand prize ticket has been verified.Certified public accountants provided oversight of the program. About 2.3 million tickets were distributed this year through the 115 participating merchants. This is up from 59 merchants in 2007.This is the 15th year for the local holiday shopping program. The program’s goal is to keep holiday spending in the local economy, so sales tax collected goes back into helping St. Joseph and Buchanan County projects. Shop St. Joseph is presented by News-Press NOW.

Grand prize Shop St. Joseph number Is….

Mosaic Life Care reports the Omicron variant of COVID-19 is
present in this area.

It isn’t known yet how widespread this latest variant is.

Mosaic Chief Medical Officer Dr. Davin Turner says the state
discovered traces of the Omicron variant in wastewater samples earlier this
month. Turner says much isn’t known about the Omicron variant, except that it
is easily transmissible.

“However, the severity of illness may not be as great as it is
with Delta,” Turner tells reporters during a news briefing at the St. Joseph
hospital. “However, any one of these variants of COVID, certainly those that
are immunocompromised or at extreme of age, these are very deadly viruses and
that’s what we continue to see.”

Turner says while information about Omicron is limited, one
thing is known for sure.

“One, it’s very transmissible. That we know. It doubles its
penetration every two to three days is what’s being reported,” Turner says. “I
think that’s good data. How ill the patients become is really the biggest
unknown.”

Turner says Mosaic has made a request to the state to send
samples to determine if patients have become infected with the Omicron variant.
At present, the information received comes from the Missouri Department of
Health and Senior Services. The department has been working with the Missouri
Department of Natural Resources and the University of Missouri – Columbia to
test wastewater in Missouri cities. Samples collected on December 8th
from the St. Joseph wastewater treatment plan discovered 2% of the COVID-19
viral strands identified as having mutations associated with Omicron.

Coronavirus vaccinations, especially
the booster available to those who received the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, seem
to be effective against this latest strain says Turner. 

Mosaic had about 320 area residents show
up for its vaccine clinic held at East Hills mall on Monday. Most came for a
booster shot, some came for their second dose of Pfizer or Moderna, with a few
coming for their first dose of the coronavirus vaccine.

Mosaic does report that as of Wednesday it is treating 66
COVID-19 patients in its system; 59 in St. Joseph, five in Maryville, and two
in Albany. Another 16 coronavirus patients have been hospitalized for more than
21 days.

In the midst of battling in the coronavirus pandemic, Mosaic does
report a rise in cases of flu. Turner reports flu cases have been rising in
this region.

“So, it’s very important that everyone take precautions
against the flu,” Turner says. “We had 87 positive cases last week. A few weeks
ago, we were at eight. We went up into the 20s. Now we’re in the 80s. So, flu
is going to be very prominent. Right now, it’s predominantly Influenza A.”

Turner says the widespread use of masks a year ago kept flu
cases in check.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640204415380.jpeg" alt="Mosaic Life Care Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Davin Turner, answers questions during a news conference in St. Joseph/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Mosaic Life Care Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Davin Turner, answers questions during a news conference in St. Joseph/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMosaic Life Care reports the Omicron variant of COVID-19 is
present in this area.It isn’t known yet how widespread this latest variant is.Mosaic Chief Medical Officer Dr. Davin Turner says the state
discovered traces of the Omicron variant in wastewater samples earlier this
month. Turner says much isn’t known about the Omicron variant, except that it
is easily transmissible.“However, the severity of illness may not be as great as it is
with Delta,” Turner tells reporters during a news briefing at the St. Joseph
hospital. “However, any one of these variants of COVID, certainly those that
are immunocompromised or at extreme of age, these are very deadly viruses and
that’s what we continue to see.”Turner says while information about Omicron is limited, one
thing is known for sure.“One, it’s very transmissible. That we know. It doubles its
penetration every two to three days is what’s being reported,” Turner says. “I
think that’s good data. How ill the patients become is really the biggest
unknown.”Turner says Mosaic has made a request to the state to send
samples to determine if patients have become infected with the Omicron variant.
At present, the information received comes from the Missouri Department of
Health and Senior Services. The department has been working with the Missouri
Department of Natural Resources and the University of Missouri – Columbia to
test wastewater in Missouri cities. Samples collected on December 8th
from the St. Joseph wastewater treatment plan discovered 2% of the COVID-19
viral strands identified as having mutations associated with Omicron.Coronavirus vaccinations, especially
the booster available to those who received the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, seem
to be effective against this latest strain says Turner. Mosaic had about 320 area residents show
up for its vaccine clinic held at East Hills mall on Monday. Most came for a
booster shot, some came for their second dose of Pfizer or Moderna, with a few
coming for their first dose of the coronavirus vaccine.Mosaic does report that as of Wednesday it is treating 66
COVID-19 patients in its system; 59 in St. Joseph, five in Maryville, and two
in Albany. Another 16 coronavirus patients have been hospitalized for more than
21 days.In the midst of battling in the coronavirus pandemic, Mosaic does
report a rise in cases of flu. Turner reports flu cases have been rising in
this region.“So, it’s very important that everyone take precautions
against the flu,” Turner says. “We had 87 positive cases last week. A few weeks
ago, we were at eight. We went up into the 20s. Now we’re in the 80s. So, flu
is going to be very prominent. Right now, it’s predominantly Influenza A.”Turner says the widespread use of masks a year ago kept flu
cases in check.

Mosaic reports Omicron variant has arrived here

There are only a few days left until Christmas and AFL-CIO Community Services is looking for more help in its Adopt a Family program.

Executive Director Nicki Seckinger says that there are still quite a few families left to adopt, but the community has come out strong and that number is slowly dwindling down.

"We have 106 families right now that we are still working on, but we do have some pending, and we have about 10 of them that are, I don't want to say in limbo cause we know what's going to happen to them, we've got an adopter that has them waiting and they're probably going to be taking those as well," Seckinger tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So we've broke the under 100 mark at this point."

Seckinger is still hopeful that all families will get adopted, or at the least be able to get something from AFL-CIO's gift store before Christmas.

Seckinger says that the concern level that so many families will go un-adopted has gone down slightly, and it's been encouraging to see how many people are coming in to help the less fortunate

"As busy as we've been today, it motivates us a lot, makes use feel a little bit more secure in the fact that other people are also pretty motivated and concerned and wanting to make sure that things are taken care of," Seckinger says.

Seckinger says aside from coming in and adopting a family, people can also donate money to help fill AFL-CIO's gift store, or help them provide gift cards so families can get things they want.

Seckinger says right now a big concern is not having the funds to provide those gift cards to families to shop at the AFL-CIO gift store. Seckinger says she understands the time crunch and stress that comes this close to Christmas, and says there is an even easier way to assist Adopt a Family

"It's almost easier if they want to make the financial donation so that we can go ahead and just provide those families with gift cards and let them take care of it themselves," Seckinger says. "And just have that assuredness of knowing that things are taken care of for their families."

Seckinger says at a time where AFL-CIO has seen more families than usual needing help this close to Christmas, her and her coworkers have been encouraged by the amount of people stepping up to help.

For more information on how you can help Adopt a Family, you can click <a href="https://helpmenow.org/programs/adopt-a-family/">HERE</a>.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThere are only a few days left until Christmas and AFL-CIO Community Services is looking for more help in its Adopt a Family program.Executive Director Nicki Seckinger says that there are still quite a few families left to adopt, but the community has come out strong and that number is slowly dwindling down."We have 106 families right now that we are still working on, but we do have some pending, and we have about 10 of them that are, I don't want to say in limbo cause we know what's going to happen to them, we've got an adopter that has them waiting and they're probably going to be taking those as well," Seckinger tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So we've broke the under 100 mark at this point."Seckinger is still hopeful that all families will get adopted, or at the least be able to get something from AFL-CIO's gift store before Christmas.Seckinger says that the concern level that so many families will go un-adopted has gone down slightly, and it's been encouraging to see how many people are coming in to help the less fortunate"As busy as we've been today, it motivates us a lot, makes use feel a little bit more secure in the fact that other people are also pretty motivated and concerned and wanting to make sure that things are taken care of," Seckinger says.Seckinger says aside from coming in and adopting a family, people can also donate money to help fill AFL-CIO's gift store, or help them provide gift cards so families can get things they want.Seckinger says right now a big concern is not having the funds to provide those gift cards to families to shop at the AFL-CIO gift store. Seckinger says she understands the time crunch and stress that comes this close to Christmas, and says there is an even easier way to assist Adopt a Family"It's almost easier if they want to make the financial donation so that we can go ahead and just provide those families with gift cards and let them take care of it themselves," Seckinger says. "And just have that assuredness of knowing that things are taken care of for their families."Seckinger says at a time where AFL-CIO has seen more families than usual needing help this close to Christmas, her and her coworkers have been encouraged by the amount of people stepping up to help.For more information on how you can help Adopt a Family, you can click <a href="https://helpmenow.org/programs/adopt-a-family/">HERE</a>.

Only a few days left to help give the gift of Christmas to less fortunate families

The Doniphan County Health Department has begun offering the COVID-19 booster to teenagers that are 16 and older in northeast Kansas.

County Health Director Sheryl Pierce says that while teenagers, and also children, are not more susceptible to the virus, they could have COVID and not even know it

"Children even under the age of 18, they can be like little spreaders, they often don't have a lot of the symptoms, maybe just a little runny nose, maybe just a small headache that morning, and then actually have COVID and they're not aware of it," Pierce tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And then they can spread it to more of the elderly, grandmas and grandpas, aunts and uncles that they're around."

Pierce says the department encourages everyone, but teenagers in particular, to come to the health departments walk in clinics to get the Pfizer booster or their primary shots.

Pierce says when the booster became available in the northeast Kansas county, the demand for the vaccine was high, getting about 15o people coming in every week, but she says that number has started to slow down.

"Our average is about 100 boost every week, and we are seeing the last couple weeks, we are seeing more primary doses given through our health department, so we're very, very, very pleased with that," Pierce says

But Pierce says the department still needs to increase the rate in the county, being substantially lower than both the rate in the United States and in Kansas.

Doniphan County is currently running between 30-35% of residents who have initiated vaccination.

Pierce says the health department will host another pediatric vaccine clinic this Thursday, for children and teenagers aged five to 17 years old.

Pierce says the third pediatric clinic the department held last Tuesday was successful for those that came for booster shots, but the number of new people coming to get the vaccine was underwhelming.

"We were hoping to get quite a few more vaccinated before our Christmas break," Pierce explains. "Because Thanksgiving, we've had a huge increase since Thanksgiving from all the gatherings, and now I'm fearful that we'll have that same thing happen with Christmas vacations."

But Pierce is still hopeful that even with more Christmas vacations coming up, more people will turn up Thursday.

"They know they're kids are going to be off school for a few days, that they'll come and get that vaccine," Pierce says.

The Doniphan County Health Department pediatric vaccine clinic will be held on Thursday from 3-6pm at the Health Department in northeast Kansas.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Doniphan County Health Department has begun offering the COVID-19 booster to teenagers that are 16 and older in northeast Kansas.County Health Director Sheryl Pierce says that while teenagers, and also children, are not more susceptible to the virus, they could have COVID and not even know it"Children even under the age of 18, they can be like little spreaders, they often don't have a lot of the symptoms, maybe just a little runny nose, maybe just a small headache that morning, and then actually have COVID and they're not aware of it," Pierce tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And then they can spread it to more of the elderly, grandmas and grandpas, aunts and uncles that they're around."Pierce says the department encourages everyone, but teenagers in particular, to come to the health departments walk in clinics to get the Pfizer booster or their primary shots.Pierce says when the booster became available in the northeast Kansas county, the demand for the vaccine was high, getting about 15o people coming in every week, but she says that number has started to slow down."Our average is about 100 boost every week, and we are seeing the last couple weeks, we are seeing more primary doses given through our health department, so we're very, very, very pleased with that," Pierce saysBut Pierce says the department still needs to increase the rate in the county, being substantially lower than both the rate in the United States and in Kansas.Doniphan County is currently running between 30-35% of residents who have initiated vaccination.Pierce says the health department will host another pediatric vaccine clinic this Thursday, for children and teenagers aged five to 17 years old.Pierce says the third pediatric clinic the department held last Tuesday was successful for those that came for booster shots, but the number of new people coming to get the vaccine was underwhelming."We were hoping to get quite a few more vaccinated before our Christmas break," Pierce explains. "Because Thanksgiving, we've had a huge increase since Thanksgiving from all the gatherings, and now I'm fearful that we'll have that same thing happen with Christmas vacations."But Pierce is still hopeful that even with more Christmas vacations coming up, more people will turn up Thursday."They know they're kids are going to be off school for a few days, that they'll come and get that vaccine," Pierce says.The Doniphan County Health Department pediatric vaccine clinic will be held on Thursday from 3-6pm at the Health Department in northeast Kansas.

Doniphan County offering COVID-19 booster to 16 and older teens

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

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Ford Ranger driven by Bobbi J. Christo, 39, Shenandoah, IA., was northbound on U.S. 59 three miles north of Tarkio.

The pickup traveled off the east side of the road, returned to the road, traveled off the west side of the road, struck an embankment and rolled.

Atchison-Holt ambulance transported a passenger David A. Ryan, 47, Shenandoah, IA, to the hospital in Shenandoah. Christo was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

ATCHISON COUNTY, Mo.—One person was injured in an accident just before 8p.m. Tuesday in Atchison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Ford Ranger driven by Bobbi J. Christo, 39, Shenandoah, IA., was northbound on U.S. 59 three miles north of Tarkio.The pickup traveled off the east side of the road, returned to the road, traveled off the west side of the road, struck an embankment and rolled.Atchison-Holt ambulance transported a passenger David A. Ryan, 47, Shenandoah, IA, to the hospital in Shenandoah. Christo was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Man hospitalized after pickup rollover accident

St. Joseph school board members have scrapped the
building-by-building COVID policy and have adopted a new policy to fight the
pandemic.

The St. Joseph School Board has voted 6-to-1 for the change
that excludes students and staff from school only if they test positive or display
COVID-19 symptoms.

Superintendent Doug Van Zyl says the change boils down to
keeping the sick from spreading their illness.

“So, if people are sick regardless of if it’s COVID or
something else, we still want people to stay home; don’t bring it to school,”
Van Zyl tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “If you’re not feeling well, keep it away
from everybody else. That’s the biggest thing and we’ll still do the mitigation
strategies that we can.”

The district will continue to have those in schools keep a
safe social distance when possible. School buildings and classrooms will be
cleaned regularly. Vaccinations will be encouraged. Masks will be optional.

The past policy required masks be worn in school buildings in
which 7% of the students and staff had either tested positive for COVID-19 or
had been sent home due to exposure to an infected person.

Van Zyl doesn’t see the new policy more difficult to carry out
than the old policy.

“Well, I don’t know that there’s difficulty or easy in
anything related to COVID,” Van Zyl says. “I think that our challenge has been
having to exclude, or quarantine is a word that a lot of people use, students
that were possibly exposed to somebody where now they’re not having to be
excluded or quarantined.”

Students who have been exposed to an infected person can
continue to come to class unless they test positive or display symptoms.

Van Zyl insists the change wasn’t prompted by a threat from
the Missouri Attorney General to take legal action against the district mask
mandate. Van Zyl says the letter from Attorney General Eric Schmitt didn’t play
any role in the change in policy.

“Because the Attorney General’s letter doesn’t have any sway
over us,” according to Van Zyl. “It didn’t include school districts. As we
visited with our legal counsel and talked to them, it doesn’t apply to us, it
applies more to your health departments and other situations. It doesn’t apply
to school districts.”

Van Zyl says COVID isn’t going away, so the school board is going
to have to figure out ways to deal with it. He says the district hopes people
can be flexible and patient with the district.

“Our goal and desire is to have kids in school and have them
there safely and to stay healthy.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640121441171.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph School Supt. Doug Van Zyl/file photo" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph School Supt. Doug Van Zyl/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph school board members have scrapped the
building-by-building COVID policy and have adopted a new policy to fight the
pandemic.The St. Joseph School Board has voted 6-to-1 for the change
that excludes students and staff from school only if they test positive or display
COVID-19 symptoms.Superintendent Doug Van Zyl says the change boils down to
keeping the sick from spreading their illness.“So, if people are sick regardless of if it’s COVID or
something else, we still want people to stay home; don’t bring it to school,”
Van Zyl tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “If you’re not feeling well, keep it away
from everybody else. That’s the biggest thing and we’ll still do the mitigation
strategies that we can.”The district will continue to have those in schools keep a
safe social distance when possible. School buildings and classrooms will be
cleaned regularly. Vaccinations will be encouraged. Masks will be optional.The past policy required masks be worn in school buildings in
which 7% of the students and staff had either tested positive for COVID-19 or
had been sent home due to exposure to an infected person.Van Zyl doesn’t see the new policy more difficult to carry out
than the old policy.“Well, I don’t know that there’s difficulty or easy in
anything related to COVID,” Van Zyl says. “I think that our challenge has been
having to exclude, or quarantine is a word that a lot of people use, students
that were possibly exposed to somebody where now they’re not having to be
excluded or quarantined.”Students who have been exposed to an infected person can
continue to come to class unless they test positive or display symptoms.Van Zyl insists the change wasn’t prompted by a threat from
the Missouri Attorney General to take legal action against the district mask
mandate. Van Zyl says the letter from Attorney General Eric Schmitt didn’t play
any role in the change in policy.“Because the Attorney General’s letter doesn’t have any sway
over us,” according to Van Zyl. “It didn’t include school districts. As we
visited with our legal counsel and talked to them, it doesn’t apply to us, it
applies more to your health departments and other situations. It doesn’t apply
to school districts.”Van Zyl says COVID isn’t going away, so the school board is going
to have to figure out ways to deal with it. He says the district hopes people
can be flexible and patient with the district.“Our goal and desire is to have kids in school and have them
there safely and to stay healthy.”

St. Joseph schools change COVID-19 policy

The Savannah School District is making some changed to its COVID response plan in the upcoming spring semester.

School District Spokesperson Jess Gillett says the school has been participating in the test to stay program, where a student has to test negative three times, but can still stay on campus so long as they test negative.

Gillett says though that while most of the protocols will stay the same, the biggest change will come in how students can test.

"What we are doing starting second semester, is rather than those students being excluded from school, we are encouraging them to participate in free testing that we have on campus," Gillett tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "We still encourage them to wear a mask, especially when we know that they have been exposed." 

Gillett says the school has been participating in the test to stay program, and the results the district has seen have been positive.

"What we were finding is that a lot of the people who were participating in that were not coming back positive, even though they were exposed at school," Gillett says. "So we felt pretty confident moving forward with this new plan."

And Gillett says that district wide, Savannah is on the right side of things when it comes to COVID.

"We really are in a good place district wide with where we are with COVID," Gillett says.

Gillett says that all year the district has been evaluating its procedures, and they will continue to do so through the next semester.

"If we hit a place where there still is a lot of illness, and there are some COVID concerns, then as kind of has been the theme since COVID started, if we need to pivot and make some changes, we will absolutely do that," Gillett explains.

The new response plan will go into effect when Savannah students return to school on January 4th.&nbsp; You can find out more information <a href="https://www.savannahr3.com/article/613371">HERE</a>.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Savannah School District is making some changed to its COVID response plan in the upcoming spring semester.School District Spokesperson Jess Gillett says the school has been participating in the test to stay program, where a student has to test negative three times, but can still stay on campus so long as they test negative.Gillett says though that while most of the protocols will stay the same, the biggest change will come in how students can test."What we are doing starting second semester, is rather than those students being excluded from school, we are encouraging them to participate in free testing that we have on campus," Gillett tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "We still encourage them to wear a mask, especially when we know that they have been exposed." Gillett says the school has been participating in the test to stay program, and the results the district has seen have been positive."What we were finding is that a lot of the people who were participating in that were not coming back positive, even though they were exposed at school," Gillett says. "So we felt pretty confident moving forward with this new plan."And Gillett says that district wide, Savannah is on the right side of things when it comes to COVID."We really are in a good place district wide with where we are with COVID," Gillett says.Gillett says that all year the district has been evaluating its procedures, and they will continue to do so through the next semester."If we hit a place where there still is a lot of illness, and there are some COVID concerns, then as kind of has been the theme since COVID started, if we need to pivot and make some changes, we will absolutely do that," Gillett explains.The new response plan will go into effect when Savannah students return to school on January 4th.&nbsp; You can find out more information <a href="https://www.savannahr3.com/article/613371">HERE</a>.

Local